In The Name Of Papa

In The Name Of Papa #11

And here we are at the end of the marathon πŸ™Β 

This episode is looong. It was two episodes initially, and I had planned to put the other up tomorrow, but splitting it would have broken the story in a wrong place.

So relish this.

Drop a comment those of you that have been waiting for the marathon to end before commenting. Share, tell your friends. Have a good day.

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Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor…

-Ecclesiastes 4

β€œI feel strongly in my spirit that that man is not good for you. But I may be wrong. I may just be wrong. The only way to find out is to pray, and also fast. You don’t want a destiny destroyer in your life. God has created you for greater things, my dear. Greater things.”

Adonijah had invited Tara to his office for a talk a couple of days after putting a wedge between her and Morris. She had sat in a visitor’s chair with a heart weighed down by his words. She loved Morris and was feeling sore for the way he had been treated the last time they were together. Yet, Adonijah’s words were as important to her as God’s.

β€œYou need a destiny changer. A new man. A man to push you up, not bring you down. You and Morris are not spiritually aligned, I’m afraid. So, starting from tomorrow, the 29th, fast and pray for three days. On the 2nd of January, come and see me. I’ll have a word from God for you.”

Even as her heart broke, Tara did as instructed, and when she revisited him on the second day of 2017, Adonijah told her that God didn’t tell him any differently about Morris.

β€œAnd usually, when he is silent on issues like this…” Adonijah made a clicking sound to show seriousness as he shook his head. β€œIt’s because he already gave his word.”

He went on to present examples of couples that had failed to listen when God spoke through him about their situations and were now either separated or divorced.

β€œAnd the ones who listened have happy marriages today. You don’t joke with these things, my dear. You don’t. You don’t. Not at all. But keep on praying for guidance. Meanwhile, register yourself at the church’s dating website. It is strictly for church workers and since you are one, your application would be processed in a couple of days. There are eligible, spirit-filled bachelors there. I promise you that once you register, you’ll be getting requests left, right and center.”

Predictably, Tara obeyed his instructions again, and just as he said, she got a healthy number of friend requests in one day. However, the dating app was structured in such a way that she could only respond to one request in a period of three months. This was to curb any sort of loose behavior.

And thus, she picked Wesley. She had always been curious about him before that time. She had thought that their first date would answer her questions about him but she found herself getting even more curious. He didn’t seem like an open person but he would liven up once anything that had to do with God came up in a discussion. On every occasion he made it clear that he loved God. He enjoyed being generous too; he was aspiring to be like Bishop Adonijah who was charitable to a lot of church members.

β€œI never really have the time to help people because of my business. I’m hoping that the woman I marry will make it her duty to find a way to use my money for benevolence.”

Tara had almost gushed at his words. She liked men with big hearts. Wesley was one. Morris, on the other hand, was always saving up money for the future.

There were more dates with Wesley. Lunch affairs in expensive restaurants. The occasional movie. They were both discreet about it. Tara’s reason was that she was yet to break up with Morris. She didn’t want him catching her with someone else. For Wesley, he was protecting what they had from public scrutiny.

β€œYou know how church people are. They see us together or you in my car and they start concluding that we’re being inappropriate.”

And again, he had repeated those precise words to her just yesterday when he explained that she couldn’t sit with him in his car to his mother’s church. The woman had invited them. It was Tara’s first meeting with her.

Tara had left the house before Alice got set for church, informing her as she stepped out, that she was worshipping at a friend’s church. Since the evening of pizza and peppered chicken, their interaction had been strained. Tara hadn’t apologized for her rudeness, and thus, Alice had withdrawn her warmth.

There was a Taxify cab waiting outside the house that Wesley had sent to Tara. It conveyed her to his mother’s church, one of those old time religion settings where women were not allowed to wear trousers and jewelry. Tara hadn’t gotten the memo but was lucky to have a shawl with which she used over her hair. She took off her jewelry as well as Wesley stood outside the building, waiting, but pretending not to be connected to her. When she went into the church, she was taken to the left flank where women sat, separated from the men.

The service was long and boring and Tara found herself nodding off a few times. At the close of it, she was forced to ride with Wesley’s mother in her car. It could have been a lovely ride between two women but the older woman sent Tara into interrogation, in the same manner Adonijah had harassed Morris, so that by the time they arrived at the woman’s home, Tara was ready to make a run for it. She wasn’t sure she could take anymore badgering. Nevertheless, she managed through lunch, which was another piece of hell. And just as she had not defended Morris, Wesley sat at the table in silence as his mother pieced her apart.

When Tara finally kissed the early evening air, she was at the edge of tears. Wesley offered an apology for his mother’s behavior but Tara was too angry to take it.

β€œJust drive me home,” she retorted. The response she got from Wesley was a regretful smile and a darting away of his eyes. β€œWhat? You’re not taking me home?”

β€œI’ll call you a cab.”

β€œForget it!”

She began to walk away. He called her back but she trudged on. It was starting to rain and she had expected that any well-meaning human being would rush to get his car to ease her journey, but Wesley didn’t. Tara stood at a bus stop for a while before she found a bus heading her way. She got home, soaked and shivering, and with a good mind for a hot shower, but the happy voices of Tara and Wemimo dulled her mood further. She changed clothes, packed a small bag and headed to her grandmother’s.

Hours later, she was calm, after listening to Wesley plead over the phone.

β€œCan I come and see you tomorrow morning?” he asked.

β€œBecause I brought you here once you think you can just show up anytime you feel like?”

β€œYour grandma likes me.”

β€œThat’s more than you can say for your mom.”

He skirted her comment. β€œSo I can’t come and see you?”

β€œNo.”

He made a whiney noise. They didn’t speak much after that. She ended the conversation and went to sleep. She wasn’t surprised that he had kept his threat to visit when the morning came. What surprised her, however, was that he was now taking her to his house.

β€œWhy?”

β€œSo that you’ll know where I live and come over any time you feel like.”

β€œWhy would I want to come over any time I feel like? Isn’t that against the dating codes on the website?”

β€œSo the church’s dating site now dictates how I should live my life?”

β€œBut you clicked on the terms of agreement…”

β€œEl-oh-el, Tara. You make me laugh sometimes. Relax, baby, I’m not going to rape you if that’s what you’re afraid of. I’m just getting you familiar with the environment that would become yours when you eventually bear my name, which would be soon. Hopefully.”

He looked at her with a smile. She looked away. His hand rested on hers. She didn’t pull back.

β€œMy mom likes you, by the way. She’s given me the go-ahead to marry you.”

β€œBut she was harsh to me.”

β€œYou’ll soon find out that my mom is a lot like me. We love to surprise people with unpredictable behavior.”

Tara stared out, playing with the tresses of her braids at the same time.

β€œWe’ve been going steady for two months now,” Wesley reminded her. β€œDon’t you think it’s time we presented ourselves to the marriage board?”

β€œWhat’s the rush? Even the site recommends at least a six-month dating period.”

β€œAnd I find a fault in that. Anything can happen within six months.”

β€œLike what?”

β€œLike a brother having his way with a sister and dumping her afterwards. And…I’m not referring to you and me. I just meant generally.”

β€œWell, a rushed engagement can’t stop that sort of thing from happening. It can even happen in a day.”

His hand remained on hers. It was beginning to stroke her thumb and by inclusion, her thigh.

His car slowed down in front of a tall, black gate and he took his hand away to honk his horn. The gate slid open. He drove into a large compound that was bereft of trees but surrounded by beautifully-tended shrubs.

β€œMy humble abode.”

Tara gave the compound a sweep. There was nothing humble about the place. The house looked like one of those typical houses in Nollywood movies assigned to rich characters, with huge pillars at the verandah and marble steps that led to the front door.

β€œCome, let me give you a tour.”

Tara stepped down after him and let him take her hand. He guided her into another Nollywood setting of leather furniture, long, heavy drapes and floors that echoed when one walked on them.

He took her around the house, giving her an explanation as to why each room was built the way it was. He was proud of himself, telling her how he had been involved in the architectural and structural details of the house.

β€œAnd finally, this is my bedroom! Ta-da!”

He flung open the door of a room that was too large for comfort. The bed was huge, but even with its size, the room made it look small.

β€œI admit that I went a little overboard here but I plan to have a small parlor setting in that corner,” he pointed to his left where there was an unused space, facing a door that led to a balcony. β€œIt’s going to have table, chairs and all. What do you think?”

β€œGood.”

Tara was leaning on the wall beside the door. She had no plan to venture further in. She was suddenly hungry.

β€œHave you eaten?” he asked, catching her hunger waves.

β€œNo.”

β€œLet’s go downstairs and have the person in the kitchen make you something.”

He turned towards the door but stopped, and without asking her, landed his lips on hers. Tara pushed away on impulse, but he repeated his actions, persisting, going slower and gentler. She weakened this time and kissed back. Things began to heat up, Wesley’s breathing intensified. Tara soon felt his hand going for her bum.

She broke free and gave him a push. β€œStop.”

His lips left hers but he didn’t move away. β€œI’ve always longed to do that,” he whispered. β€œYou’re beautiful, Tara.”

β€œI’m hungry too.”

β€œOf course.”

Downstairs, they had breakfast and sat for an hour more, talking. They had a flow she and Morris used to have in the early days of their relationship which his work and hustle had robbed them of. Wesley brought back those days, with a surprisingly talkative side of him.

β€œWhy are you always so serious and spiritual in church?” she asked when he had taken a break to refill her glass of juice.

β€œAren’t you the same? You hardly ever talk to anyone.”

β€œI’m naturally quiet. What’s your reason for having a double personality?”

β€œMe? Double personality.” His head was thrown back in loud laughter. β€œBaby, you don’t think the four walls of the church follow us everywhere, do you? That would be so naΓ―ve.”

β€œWhat are you saying?”

β€œJesus put it aptly in that popular Caesar and God quote. And we all know that when you’re in Rome, you do as the Romans do. Right now, we’re in Vegas.”

β€œHuh?”

β€œThat’s what I call my house.”

β€œOh.” His house looked nothing like Vegas, but she wasn’t going to be the one to tell him.

Tara read the time on her phone. β€œI have to leave.”

Wesley made a crying sound. β€œI actually took the day off for you, Tara.” He pouted. β€œThink maybe you could do the same for me?”

β€œI did.”

β€œPlease, stay.”

Tara thought about for a bit. Maybe it wasn’t such a bad idea to hang with Wesley for the day.

β€œOkay.”

β€œLet’s go out. I have a surprise for you.”

They drove to the Ikeja mall and she picked clothes and shoes that fit into two shopping bags but cost more than she could ever afford. When they returned to his house, he gave her access to his bedroom where she showered and changed. He specifically asked her to dress in a particular outfit he picked for her, something she would never have the guts to wear in public. It was a short, red party dress that gave off a plunging neck line and an open back. He also begged her to go heavy on her makeup. When she asked his reasons, he gave an honest reply, one she couldn’t fault.

β€œAs a born-again Christian, you have things you really want but you have to deny yourself of, just to stay chaste. Is it bad that I love fair ladies in skimpy clothes and heels?”

β€œNo. But it’s bad to use them as your guinea pigs.”

β€œI’m not guinea-pigging you. I’m just… I want to see if the picture fits, because if you become my wife, you’ll be doing a lot of that for me.”

β€œWhat if I don’t become your wife?”

β€œTara, just go in there and come down looking like a million dollars.”

β€œI’m doing it out of gratitude ni. Nothing more.”

She went up, showered, changed and headed downstairs dressed like his fantasy. His sleepy eyes ogled her for a long stretch, and when he got the chance to hold her, he didn’t let go. He kissed her again, with ravenous sensuousness. If anyone had walked into the house, they would have caught him pinning her to the wall, his hands seconds away from ravaging her body.

But he didn’t touch her. He pulled away and rested his back on the wall beside her as she tried to push down her dress and tug up the neckline at the same time.

β€œYou’re going to dump me after this,” he said.

β€œNo.”

β€œYou’re going to stay away from me?”

β€œI will.”

β€œSeriously?”

β€œI’m not coming to this house again.”

β€œMarry me, Tara.”

β€œWhat?”

β€œMarry me.”

β€œJust so you can kiss me more?”

β€œNo. I’m so scared to lose you. You left your ex for me. I’m afraid some other guy will do the same to me.”

The mention of Morris took Tara to a place of guilt. She moved away from the wall and faced Wesley. β€œWhat do you take me for? You think I jump from one man to another? I left Moore because our destinies were not aligning!”

β€œAre our destinies aligning?” Wesley asked.

β€œWe’ll see. We both have to hear from God before we proceed.”

β€œWill what happened right nowβ€”the whole kissing thingβ€”be a determinant?”

β€œNo.” She tugged the dress down. β€œI…wanted it too.”

β€œMe, I want more o.”

β€œWesley?!”

β€œForget I said anything. Just go upstairs and change, let me call you a cab.”

β€œA cab? Again?”

β€œIf I pull up outside your house and Pastor Alice sees me…”

β€œYou’re right.”

Tara hurried upstairs, and forgetting that she wasn’t in her house, she left the door open as she undressed. Midway, she felt like she was being watched. She turned around and saw no one. When she dressed into something decent, she returned to the living room where Wesley was waiting. He had his serious face on as stood waited by the front door.

She went to him. β€œThank you for the gifts and for hosting me.”

β€œTara, I’m sorry for my unbridled behavior earlier, kissing you…”

She stopped him with a kiss of her own. It was something she had never done before. It left her feeling different and in control. β€œAs I said, I wanted it too.”

β€œBut we have to stop.”

β€œWe have to.”

β€œAn Uber is waiting outside.”

She moved, he caught her waist and held her in a hug. β€œBye, baby.”

On her way home, she couldn’t help but think about his change in personality. One would never imagine him having a side that was that expressive. He was real, poles apart from Morris who had hardly made moves on her. From the moment she told him on the onset of their relationship that she planned to remain a virgin until marriage, he never touched her inappropriately. The behavior had bothered her. She had expected he would try to persuade her to have sex with him a few times. It was what normal men did. But she could tell now that Morris hadn’t been normal, having spent time with Wesley who made her feel feminine and desirable.

Still, caution appealed to her to be wary of him. She longed to speak to Alice about everything, but she was scared of being judged. She would talk to Wemimo too, but she was sure Wemimo would give her wrong counsel and still take her case to Alice. It was best to keep things a secret.

†††

Leye had postponed the appointment twice, under the guise that he was busy. Twice, his assistant, Ify, had turned Asher away.

β€œHe’ll be here again by seven,” she had said the second time, feeling bad for lying to the boy.

β€œWhy did you do that?” Leye asked.

β€œDo what?”

β€œInvite him here again?”

β€œHe invited himself. Daddy, you should see his eyes. He’s so cute–”

β€œWhen I give instructions, I expect them to be obeyed. I said tomorrow, not this evening.”

β€œI’m sorry, sir. But do you mind if I ask who he is? He seems so bent on seeing you?”

β€œHe’s just an orphan who needs my help,” lied Leye, feeling awful for doing so. His lies were mounting by the minute. β€œI need to be alone,” he told Ify who nodded and made her exit from his home office.

An unconsumed glass of Irish cream was waiting. He drank some of it and continued with the movie he was watching on his laptop. He hadn’t been able to pray or read his bible all day. If Love was home, he would have spent the entire morning and afternoon with her as a distraction. But she had traveled to Abeokuta and would be there for three days. He was alone, and with a conscience that wouldn’t let him rest for being dishonest to his brother.

Three hours later, Ify was in his office again, announcing that Asher was waiting.

β€œThis is your fault,” Leye accused, picking his phone off the table.

β€œDaddy, you’re still angry?”

β€œYes. And will you stop calling me β€˜daddy’? I didn’t give birth to you.”

He hated the daddy term and would always remind his congregation that he enjoyed simply being called Pastor Leye. But no one listened, not even Ify who knew him more than the rest.

He stepped out to the living room. Asher was waiting, standing, head bowed over his phone. Leye watched him, unnoticed. He had longed for this moment, to have him in his home, to connect with him, elder brother to younger brother, to fill in for all the years missed.

Guilt had been his companion of years. During the period when he was trying for a baby with Diane, he had believed that God was punishing him for his compliance in keeping Asher away from his parents. Many times, he was tempted to reveal the truth to everyone. But he always chickened out.

Now, here he was, given the chance again, not by his own doing, but by some divine activity, and yet, he was too cowardly to take it.

β€œGood evening, sir.”

Asher had caught him staring. He moved towards him.

β€œHello Asher.”

As they stood close to each other, he could see that they bore no resemblance. Asher had taken after their father’s slightly-fair complexion. The height was there but the face was all Phoebe’s. And the eyes, as Ify had noted, were charming. Even Love had described them as adorable the night before.

Folding up his sleeves, Leye pointed Asher in the direction of a sofa.

β€œThank you.”

β€œSo, why are you here, Asher? I’ve called Imaan and she claims she didn’t send you over. What’s this visit about?”

Asher pushed forward on his seat.

β€œFirst of all, congratulations on your graduation,” Leye said. β€œImaan told me.”

β€œThank you, sir.”

β€œSo, go ahead.”

Asher pushed forward even more. β€œI… How do I even say this?”

He paused. The anxiety on his face was thick.

β€œGo on.”

The boy swallowed. β€œEm… sir, I have reason to suspect that you are my father.”

Leye felt his pulse speed up.

β€œSorry? I didn’t get that.”

β€œI think you’re my biological father.”

β€œMe?”

β€œYes, sir…”

β€œWhat have you been drinking?” Leye asked in a low growl.

β€œSir, all my life as an orphan, living in an orphanage with other orphans, I have been treated specially, taken care of by this unknown benefactor. I was put in the best private schools and then flown abroad to study, all done by this person who chooses to remain anonymous.”

β€œAnd that’s odd to you, why? You’ve not heard of people anonymously adopting orphans but never taking them home?”

β€œWhy me alone? And why spend so much on me?”

β€œBecause the anonymous person can.”

β€œPastor Leye, if you are my dad, please, just tell me.”

The desperation in his voice didn’t let Leye maintain his frown. β€œI am not your father.”

β€œThen why was it that I always got a package after every visit you made. It became so bad that Imaan would not show them to me because of the other kids. She would wait until someone donated and then she’d hand the package to me. Still, I would know it was specially meant for me. This happened after every time you visited.”

Leye laughed in a tone that was alien to him. β€œYour suspicions are bogus, boy. Get this nonsense out of your head. I am not your father. Now, think about this… I was married for years without kids and my first wife died, leaving me childless. And you are how old?”

β€œAlmost twenty-three.”

β€œTwenty-three. And I am forty-three. This means that if I were your father, I would have had you when I was twenty. And at twenty, I wasn’t married. In fact, I was not into God then, which could translate into a wayward lifestyle, which if a kid came out of, I would not be ashamed to admit that it was mine. But according to you, I had you and dumped you in an orphanage and continued living my life, yet showering you with generosity while I was struggling to have kids, when I could have simply brought you home and cared for you as my son. Does that make sense to you?”

Asher shut his eyes, torture visible on his face. β€œNo, sir.”

β€œSo, you see how outrageous you sound?”

But it was Leye who felt outrageous. He felt like the devil himself. He could see the boy’s heart breaking and he hated himself for being responsible for his pain.

β€œI’m so sorry, sir,” Asher murmured, looking around to mask his pain. β€œI saw you at the orphanage a lot and I felt it odd that you would play with the other children and not me. And then one day, it hit me that you were simply avoiding me because of personal reasons.”

β€œHow?” Leye laughed again, but in a tone he was familiar with. It was the sort of laughter that carried pain. β€œI didn’t particularly avoid you, and if I did, I am sorry.”

Asher bent his head, nodding bravely. But he crumbled, letting his disappointment take him.

β€œHey…” Leye reached out to him, hand on his knee. β€œChin up and count your blessings. Many of your mates didn’t have the type of special treatment you got. See the person that has been generous to you as the face of God. You have a good education and the world is at your feet. Go and be victorious. You’re more than a conqueror in Christ Jesus, no matter your status.”

Asher looked at him. β€œI’ve admired you from afar, hoping you were the one. I wouldn’t have cared that you abandoned me; I just wanted to hear that we share the same DNA. I want so much to be your son.”

For a man who had never had kids of his own, Asher’s words broke Leye. He itched to give the boy a comforting hug but his heavy bones wouldn’t move.

β€œI’m sorry, Asher.” He withdrew his hand.

When the young man left, he took Leye’s peace with him. He strapped on a pair of trainers, dressed into his jogging attire and hit the quiet streets of his neighborhood, listening to Jesus Culture.

An hour’s run rested his body but his mind was still bereft of peace. He had a shower afterwards and called his wife to confess his misdoing.

β€œIt’s okay, Jeremiah. You’ve tried. I think it’s time we let Papa handle his mess.”

β€œPapa is not the problem here…”

β€œI know. Phoebe is. She will be handled by me, but I need time to study her and know how best to approach her. Easter is around the corner. I suggest we wait until after it’s gone, and then we can let all the cats out of their bags.”

Leye agreed with his wife.

β€œI miss you,” she told him.

β€œSame here.”

β€œIt’s so quiet and cold in this house. The rooms are haunted by Ako’s essence.”

β€œSell the house.”

β€œI can’t. As much as I feel betrayed by what he did, I don’t think it’d be right to erase him just like that. Ako wasn’t a bad person.”

β€œDo you want me to come over?” Leye asked.

β€œDo I want you to come over?” Love repeated in a drawl. β€œNo, I’m good.”

β€œOkay, ma.”

Two and half hours later, he was standing at her door in Abeokuta.

β€œJeremiah?” she called with an indulgent smile. β€œI told you I was good.”

β€œThere’s no way I’m leaving my wife alone in a house that is haunted by her ex’s ghost.”

She laughed, putting her arms around his neck. After sharing a short kiss, he confessed, β€œActually, I’m not doing good. I feel like an ass for what I did to Asher.”

She dragged him into the house and to the guestroom where she was holed up. They lay facing each other, hands held, talking and laughing into the night.

Leye’s peace was restored, but only until morning came.

Days and weeks went by with his conscience haunting him. When it became too much to bear, he put a call across to Imaan to enquire about Asher’s wellbeing.

β€œWhat do you expect? He’s heartbroken. He won’t leave his room.”

β€œI just need a little more time, Imaan.”

She sighed. He could hear the tiredness in her tone.

β€œI’m sorry for the unnecessary pressure I’m making you go through.”

β€œIt’s fine, son.”

β€œTruly sorry.”

When he was done with the call, he remained where he sat, which was on the staircase of his house. His eyes were watching over Shade’s little boys who were playing with water guns. He hated the mess they were making but Love had scolded him a short while ago when he tried to stop them from playing. Hence, he just watched.

The Omotoshos had been invited by Papa for the Easter celebration. Shade and Ayo had come with their husbands and children, but Big Mommy had flown down alone. Her children were with their father on a visit to his hometown in Niger State.

Leye was glad to be with family. His sisters had burst on the scene two days ago, and wasting no time doting on him as they always did, competing with each other over who could pamper him more. It was the same type of love they showed their father. Asher wouldn’t have been treated less.

β€œA kobo for your thoughts, Egbon.”

Shade sat beside him and rested her head on his shoulder.

β€œI’m just watching the boys,” he responded in Yoruba.

Shade switched as well. β€œI can’t wait to hear the good news.”

β€œWhat good news?”

Her eyes fell on Love who had just emerged from the kitchen with a treat for the boys.

β€œWe’ll get pregnant soon.”

β€œAmen.” She linked her arm with his. β€œI miss mommy. Every time a festive season comes, I always imagine her being around. She would have been up and doing, making sure everyone is okay, just like our wife is doing.”

And as if Love knew she had just been mentioned, she looked up and blessed them with a smile before making towards the kitchen.

β€œMommy would have loved her.”

β€œYeah.”

β€œBut daddy is a strong man. I can’t imagine myself being alone all these years, not having anyone. And let’s not even talk about sex.”

Leye gave his baby sister a side glance.

β€œNo man can live without sex. Do you think daddy…?”

β€œStop. How do you even imagine these things?” Leye laughed.

Shade had always been the open one amongst them. She had a certain naivety in her that age hadn’t been able to do away with. She could speak, without censor, about any topic that dropped into her mind, even though it would embarrass those around her. She was Leye’s favorite.

β€œI think Alice would make a good wife.”

β€œAlice? Wife? To whom?”

β€œDaddy. He already proposed to her.”

Leye gave Shade a full stare. She gasped and put her hand over her mouth.

β€œOh no. You weren’t supposed to know.”

β€œHe proposed to her?”

β€œDid I say that?” Shade sprang up. β€œForget I said anything.”

She hurried down the stairs, disappearing to the kitchen as Love emerged from it.

β€œI’m ready,” Love announced. β€œIt’s a few minutes to twelve.”

Leye stood up and followed his wife out of the house. Their destination was Papa’s residence.

†††

Adonijah came home, grouching. He clumped through the living room without acknowledging the greeting of his middle child and her friends who were having lunch. He burst into his bedroom and flung his key in the air. It landed on the floor, making a clatter. His wife turned but he didn’t acknowledge her presence, or he would have seen that she had a different appearance on her.

β€œWhy are there millenials littered all over my parlor?”

The woman rolled her eyes at him before replying, β€œYour daughter invited her friends over. I gave them lunch and drinks.”

β€œWhy?”

β€œBecause it’s Easter and we’re in the spirit of being gracious.”

β€œWhy didn’t she follow her younger ones to the teen boot camp?”

β€œShe is twenty-one, Aloy.”

β€œSo that’s why she feels she can bring all her friends to be eating all our food and drinking mineral? Today is Saturday. Easter rice is for Sunday.”

β€œDon’t be ridiculous, Aloy. Let them enjoy themselves.”

The man went about undressing, throwing his clothes to the floor. He then collapsed on the bed, picked the television remote control and turned it on.

β€œWhat’s wrong?” Maggie asked.

He hissed. β€œI thought you’d be there acting like you didn’t know I needed you.”

Maggie faced him. β€œOya talk.”

β€œHe called for a meeting in his house.”

Maggie gave her eyes a second roll. β€œI’m assuming β€˜he’ is Papa?”

β€œWho else?!”

β€œYou’re obsessed with that man.”

β€œCan you imagine that he invited a select few to the meeting, and I was not invited?! I don’t even know who and who but I’ve called some of the leaders and they are not aware of this meeting as well!”

β€œWho told you about it?”

β€œAdindu. I was at the church to do some things and I saw him there. I asked him to help me but he said he couldn’t because he was running late for the meeting at George’s house. I said what meeting? He said the one that he called the leaders to nau. I said me I didn’t know about any meeting o. That was how I made a few phone calls and discovered that my people were not invited.”

β€œYour people?” Maggie knew what he was talking about but she enjoyed seeing him riled up.

β€œMy loyalists. The same leaders I groomed to be faithful to George. He didn’t invite any of them.”

β€œInteresting,” Maggie said, but she wasn’t really interested. She had just gone from her natural locks back to relaxed hair and her husband had not acknowledged the change. Two days ago, he had showed her documents as proof of ownership for a house in her father’s name. Gratitude from her came with sex and a new look. She wasn’t upset that he didn’t notice; she knew he would soon.

β€œThey’re plotting something, and plotting it without me! Without me, Maggie! Me, Adonijah, who left everything in Abeokuta to follow his dreams, to help build BCC, to support him with my blood and sweat! And he does this to me?!”

β€œCome now, darling.” Maggie climbed the bed and began stroking his arm. β€œDon’t let it bother you.”

β€œI should not let it bother me?! How can you say that?!”

β€œWell, you’re plotting behind his back as well. I don’t see you inviting him to your tea parties.”

He pushed her hand away. β€œYou are no use to me, Maggie. In short, ever since I became burdened with this need to make a name for myself in BCC, you’ve been there, like a lizard, watching from the fence, nodding but not helping. Whose side are you on, anyway?”

β€œYours, my husband.”

β€œI hear you.” He gave her his back. She moved closer and spooned him.

β€œI’m with you, all the way, Aloy. I will support you, but please, remember that you’re going against God’s anointed.”

β€œAbegi! I’m anointed too! And don’t bring spirituality into this matter. This is about power, about me being shortchanged. You know that.”

β€œI know. And I’m not arguing with you. I’m saying just be careful.”

β€œLeave me.” He shook her off but she held him tighter as he kept grumbling. Her magic eventually worked its way into him and he went calm.

β€œYour hair is nice, by the way,” he mumbled.

β€œThank you, baby.”

β€œWhat’s the style called?”

β€œI don’t know. Alice did it.”

He stiffened. β€œYou’re not on my side.”

Maggie smiled. β€œI love you, my general overseer.”

†††

Ten of them were at the table, Papa inclusive. Alice was also present, seated beside him.

Leye and Love had made their appearance some thirty minutes ago, and found the duo speaking in whispers, lips to ears, eyes smiling into each other’s. The sight had confirmed Shade’s words. Not that he had doubted; he had merely hoped it wasn’t true.

Now, as they waited for Papa to tell them why he had called for the meeting, he caught Alice’s eyes. But she looked elsewhere.

Leye switched his attention to the people at the table, instead. Asides himself, Love, Alice and Papa, the rest were also leaders in the church. Adindu and three others made up key members of the senate at BCC headquarters. The other two were Pastor Obi and his wife, Pastor Blessing, a young couple heading the Ikeja branch of the ministry which was almost as big as the one on the Island. From what Leye could ascertain, everyone present was loyal to the old man.

β€œGood afternoon, all,” Papa greeted. There was a chorused response. β€œI’m sure you’re wondering why you have been invited here. Well, don’t worry, I won’t waste your time with long talk. In front of you are confidential files. I will save myself the stress of speaking too much since I would be ministering tomorrow. I need to preserve my voice. Anyways, do yourselves a favor and open the files before you.”

A crinkling of papers was heard as Papa’s guests flipped open their files. He fell silent and waited. Soon, perplexed stares were set on him. Leye and Love were the only ones not caught unawares by the content found in the files. Even Alice had been kept in the dark.

β€œSir, is this real?” Pastor Obi whispered as if afraid to voice his thoughts. β€œBishop A?”

β€œI can’t believe this,” another said.

β€œYou’d better,” Papa replied. β€œAdonijah, like Judas Iscariot, has been helping himself with the bountiful funds God has blessed us with in BCC.”

β€œJesus is Lord!” Pastor Blessing snapped her fingers more than a few times. β€œGod have mercy! Look at the numbers. This is too much!”

Leye had always found Pastor Blessing herself a little too much with her expressions, and with the way she pronounced certain words to exaggerate their impact.

β€œThis is really tew much. Jehovah!”

β€œHe has been doing this for years, using Sister Priscilla Momoh, because I gave him the power to demand for funds anytime he so desired to. But three years ago, specifically, they began working together, and if God had not prospered us immensely, they would have bled all our accounts dry.”

The table maintained the shock that had fallen over everyone. And as if for effect, ominous music filtered in from the living room where Ayo’s daughter was watching a movie.

β€œI have known of Aloy’s nefarious ways before now, but it took my darling daughter-in-law here to show me the depth of his betrayal. I had no idea it had gone this far. I will not speak much about the issue until I have a proper investigation done by an independent audit firm. When I am through with it, I will waste no time in acting on the results gotten. Until then, it behooves me to make major changes in the way BCC is run. I have reason to believe that Adonijah has some grand plan that will bring the ministry to ruin…”

β€œBut Papa, you two are friends,” a shaken Adindu said. β€œYou’re very close. You always talk about how no one had your back but him when you began this ministry. How could he do this to you?”

β€œDidn’t the bible tell you how desperately wicked the heart of man can be? Trust me, you’re not as disappointed as I am. But moving on!” Papa picked his reading glasses off the table. β€œThings are going to change around here. In fact, everything is going to change. BCC will be restructured and a new constitution implemented. We will separate the spiritual from business.”

A few brows cocked up.

β€œYes, I said that. Pastors will continue to be pastors and concentrate on the spiritual wellbeing of the ministry and its members, while a new management system would be established to see to the affairs of the church. We would invest our earnings in businesses that will bring back returns. Please, flip your files to their back covers.”

Papa’s guests did as directed, and found that the back covers of the files, turned upside-down, presented a set of pages that gave explicit details of Papa’s proposal for the new model of BCC. It was a revised version of Love’s initial scheme. Nothing much was changed.

β€œThat is a list of the businesses we would embark on. All of them, legal and lucrative, with the proclivity to blow in a short while and even in the long run.” He took a short pause. β€œI called you here because I trust you. Not with my life, maybe, but I trust you enough to know that should anything happen to me tomorrow…”

β€œGod forbid!” Pastor Blessing exclaimed. Papa smiled.

β€œShould anything happen to me, according to God’s will, you’ll keep this fire burning. You’ll do so because you love God and you love this ministry. And this is why, as your documents will tell you, you have all been given a chance to be shareholders in the businesses we would establish. Every one of you will have the chance to invest and get returns for your investment through the years, as the businesses grow. A certain percentage would be owned by the church, of course, because we have to finance God’s work. But we would all be stakeholders. So, I’m going to let you go home and ponder on this. There is no compulsion. The only obligation you have here is to keep everything you have heard and seen in this meeting to yourselves. Can you promise me that?”

He got a general response.

β€œYou’ll leave the files too. For the sake of privacy. If anyone asks what this meeting was about, decline to speak.”

β€œBut Bishop A will suspect something is going on,” Alice pointed out.

β€œThat’s the plan. Just flow with it. I’ll send you PDF versions of the files only when you agree to the terms via a mutually-signed contract with lawyers present. Things must be done transparently from now on. Are we all on the same page? Any objections or questions?”

A smallish man leaned forward. He was the resident pastor, married to a nosy wife. He had been with the church for fifteen years.

β€œYou seemed to have stepped down from the post of general overseer, sir, although you haven’t made it official yet. It’s all speculation that you’d be making Pastor Leye the new G.O. But I’d like to ask that you clarify the air on this issue.”

Papa smiled; a smile only he understood. β€œMake sure none of you misses church tomorrow. I will shock everyone and even you too. But know that my intentions are well-calculated, for the good of the ministry. Pastor Obi?”

β€œYes, sir?”

β€œWe’re still having a combined service with our brethren from Ikeja tomorrow, right?”

β€œYes, sir.”

β€œGood. Your new general overseer shall be ordained then. No one should miss it.”

As he had begun the meeting, he ended it, leaving them perplexed. As the small crowd dispersed, Papa called Love into his kitchen.

β€œA glass of wine?” he asked, uncorking a vintage bottle of white wine.

β€œYes, sir.”

Love took out two glasses and waited. She observed him. She was beginning to like him more than she used to. The meeting had dispelled all unfavorable views she had of him. She had known he would look into her allegations after her last visit, but she hadn’t expected he would take it far and even go ahead as to consider her proposal for the new management system for the church. She was elated, itching to give him a hug to show her gratitude.

He poured wine into both glasses.

β€œI want to make a toast,” he said.

β€œTo what?”

β€œTo you.”

She picked her glass.

β€œBut I’d rather thank you for opening my eyes and shaking me out of my place of comfort.”

β€œIt’s nothing, Papa. I’m the one who is grateful for having my ambition taken into consideration.”

They laughed.

β€œI’d always known about Aloy’s activities, as I stated earlier, but like Jesus commended the shrewd manager in the bible, I saw his acts as noble. He was generous to the poor, meeting the needs of the underprivileged in the congregation. What would the loss of a few millions do to hurt us?”

β€œBut the truth was that he was buying their allegiance. Just like the shrewd manager.”

β€œI didn’t see that part. You opened my eyes to it, young lady. Thank you.”

Love smiled and put her glass of wine to her lips, but Papa frowned suddenly and stopped her. He took the glass from her.

β€œYou’re pregnant,” he stated, his face showing vagueness.

β€œI’m pregnant?”

β€œI just saw it. You’re pregnant, Loveth. Please, no more alcohol. Go and do a test.”

She chuckled. β€œOkay, Doctor Papa. But how do you see these things? I hear you have almost a hundred percent accuracy. All the time.”

β€œIt’s a gift. When I first discovered it, it was scary. I had nightmares, saw things no one saw. But I never wished it away. My mentor told me to pray that God teaches me to hone it, according to his will. And I did. So, I’d say my spirit is a little more sensitive and in tune with the supernatural. Sometimes, it’s just a sense. And trust me, I’ve been wrong. A lot. Especially when I rely on the arm of flesh. For instance, I was wrong about you in the beginning.”

β€œHow so?”

β€œI told Leye you had darkness and doom around you.”

β€œBut I don’t?”

β€œI don’t see it anymore. I guess love prevailed.”

β€œI prevailed.”

She beamed like a little girl.

β€œLoveth?”

β€œYes, Papa.”

β€œSee me as your father. Come to me any time you have a problem. If your husband needs scolding, come and tell me and I’ll handle him. Let’s not be strangers anymore. You’re one of mine now and I’ll give you the same treatment I give my daughters.”

β€œReally?”

β€œYes.”

β€œThank you, Papa.” A wide smile stretched her face.

β€œYou want a hug?”

She nodded and he reached out to her with a warm embrace which left her emotional. β€œDid your father ever hug you?”

Love couldn’t speak. She shook her head.

β€œWell, I have many of this to go around, sweetheart.”

Papa let go but held her hands. β€œOne more thing. Whoever I ordain tomorrow as the general overseer, don’t let it bother you. You are in charge of everything in BCC.”

β€œMe?”

β€œYes, you. And you’re answerable to no one except God, me and your husband.”

β€œThank you, sir.”

β€œYour enemies will come for you without mercy. Never be shaken. I’m holding the fort for you.”

β€œYes, Papa.”

They heard a sound and turned to see Leye at the door.

β€œEnjoy your day, sweetheart.”

Love got another hug before she left. She was silent on their way home. Leye was as well. But he spoke first, just as they approached their gate.

β€œWhat’s with the mood? You got everything you wanted, plus a couple of warm hugs. You should be smiling.”

Love slowed down in front of the pedestrian gate. She looked at Leye.

β€œYour father is about to make Adonijah the general overseer.”

β€œAdonijah? He told you that?”

β€œNo. But I know. And I know the game he’s playing but I’m scared, Jeremiah, that it might backfire.”

Leye held her hand. β€œCome on. Let’s go in and have lunch. Leave church politics for a while, abeg.”

Β©Sally@moskedapages

Sally

Author. Screenwriter. Blogger

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97 Comments

  1. ola says:

    Awwww..so a wonderful marathon
    And as d saying goes one good marathon deserves another…lol
    Grt job sally

    1. Sally says:

      Hahaha! This your saying…from which tribe?

  2. Jumes says:

    Sally i am loving Love and Papa d more. Leye should come clean with Asher abeg. Tara tread softly. Adonijah hmmm, i don’t even know what to say about him but he is hideous. I think Phoebe deserves to meet her son. I’m sha in love with this story.
    Sally, wehdone.

  3. molly says:

    Sally this is just absolutely beautiful

  4. Scribbledheartbeat says:

    And the ghen ghen is about to begin… I love every bit of it??
    I just pray the whole plan doesn’t back fire too…

    You are the bestest Madam Sally

  5. Zainab says:

    Oo I love this series. It makes me feel all types of ways.
    I like that Maggie woman for Adonijah, she has a good handle on him.
    Papa Papa I have no words for you until after the service.
    Yay we have a bebe in the womb. Leye should tell Papa about his son oo before things go awry.
    Sally please like Ola said, one good marathon really does deserve another. You didn’t let us know when we are to have you back though.

  6. Nnenna says:

    Love this but hate break in transmission.

  7. Bola says:

    You almost gave me a heart attack.
    This is way too splendid, thanks for making my weekend interesting.
    God bless you and yours

  8. Olori Ade says:

    Thanks Sally for the marathon, u r d real MVP……I dnt want wicked Adonijah to b the General Overseer of BCC?

  9. hacolyte says:

    I’m just short of words, u re da tyme bomb Sally dat is abt to explode gbooah.
    I hoped Papa plan’s wud not backfired n blown back in his face.
    Pst Leye shd beta hasten up in letting Asher knows who he is b4 he did sumtin drastic n papa too dwarves to know dat he had anoda son somwhr else.
    Dis is d beginning of Pst Love n her can of worm coz whoever is named as d general ovaseer will opposes her every move n find a way of opening all Pst Love sealed doors.
    Asher just be patient n wait small b4 u did sumfin stupid.
    Nice one but Sally, hw can I shared it on WordPress, please.

  10. An Amazing Story Teller….More Grace

  11. Brownie says:

    Ms Saaaalllllllyyyyyyyyy! I have lots of hugs for you too. You’re. ..THE bomb!

  12. Sally you left me speechless

    I pray papa`s plan doesn’t backfire. I have this feeling it will.
    Tara keep fooling ursef oo.

    Thank u Sally I love u plentyβ€œ

  13. cally says:

    I am happy Tara will get what is coming to her. Wesley will deal with her. And for Papa,the man is street o, he has street sense.Bishop A no go know Wetin jam am. Sally thanks a lot

  14. wow!please let it not be bishop A o Sally, I take God beg u pleeeaase.

  15. Ahhh lemme face the story!! Bishop adonijah didn’t come to play! I pray this doesnt backfire. . Hmmmn love will have Alot of hate around her.. Hmmmn

    As I was reading!! Sally u are amazing!! U know u just finished seeing game of thrones season 1-6 . U and the writer of that series are so alike.. U know Aw to cut through Diff situation of each of the characters’ life and yet join them seamlessly to form a whole piece

    Wooow seriously
    I’m in awe!! ???????

  16. bi says:

    Sally boo ????? #churchdrama #churchpolictics #churchlove #churchgames #churchsecretes #truthgivesmorelight #sallyweloveyou @sallywesaythankyousomuch????

    1. Sally says:

      Lovely hasgtags. Permission to use on Instagram ?

      1. bi says:

        You funny sha oo, permission ke, you give us permission to read?, pls go ahead and use, blushing here Thanks

  17. Just Dotun says:

    Sally is my woman crush any day any time. thats all i will say.

    1. Sally says:

      I’m blushing badly here, darling ????

  18. Mariam says:

    Ghen! Ghen!! For a moment I thought Love was going to be the new GO. That Wesley gives me the creeps and I suspect he is acting out Bishop A’s script. I can’t wait for the continuation. Thank you Sally and have a fabulous week!!!!!! Lots of love ❀️❀️???

    1. Sally says:

      *hugs
      My love to your babies

  19. Eunice says:

    Am also scared it might backfire. Thank you Sally.

    1. Sally says:

      You’re welcome, hun

  20. Zeeniey says:

    I love you sal

    1. Sally says:

      Love you too
      ?

  21. Ola says:

    Honestly you’re an I’m incredibly awesome writer,I really did not want the episode to end…..
    Even though papa’s plans are great,something tells me it would backfire…….looking forward to the next episode

    1. Sally says:

      Looking forward to having you here again. Thanks!

  22. slimshawty says:

    I wish Papa wee just surprise every1 and ordain sm1 no one even thought oof in dat church but dt someone shouldn’t b Bishop A (d devil) Jez a wish Sally. Pastor Leye shld tell papa abt Asher quickly so dt he will knw how 2plan everything so it won’t backfire on his head. Thank u Madam Sally

    1. Sally says:

      Bless you too, babe

  23. modupe says:

    now i have to say this ” i love maggie, ” … that woman is so not okay, she knows what she want, play u on too…..
    then this church politics enh…..ooohhhhmyyyygoosshhhhh..

    sally, na u biko

    1. Sally says:

      *kisses
      Have a great week ahead!

  24. vyrussbeatz says:

    wow.. am so perplexed. This is too much of a great read.

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks plenty
      ???

  25. Dupe says:

    Awwwww, this suspense is killing o and the marathon is over, papa is such a sweet scheming papa, Bishop A deserves what is coming for him. Thumbs up Ms Sally, you are the best.

    1. Sally says:

      Love you too, Dupe
      ?

  26. Tolu says:

    What word could be used for Papa?
    Papa is one of those kinda man that will use You to do You.
    This is a masterminded piece. Congratulations in advance to Leye and Love. Bless your soul Sally

    1. Sally says:

      I love your description of Papa. ???

  27. tedypine says:

    Sally. Sally, sometimes I’m pissed at you when you don’t drop any posts on Saturdays especially after you wet our appetites. Then you you do a marathon post and all sins are forgiven. Mind blowing. I love the characters. The title tho is a bit controversial. I don’t understand if Love*the who* is the enemy or Love *a word* is the enemy. I’m sure I’ll find out soon. I’ll wait till the end of the series and then drop comments to clarify some issues *in my opinion* about church leadership. Not all church leaders have skeleton in their wardrobes. There are true and faithful men of God who love God with all their hearts.

    1. Sally says:

      Don’t be pissed at me too much, dear. Na work dey keep me from doing some things here.
      Thanks for reading.
      I’ll wait to have your thoughts at the end of the series, but based on what you said, above, I’d like you to know that the story is in no way saying that all men of God have issues. Not at all. It is telling you, rather, that all men of God are humans and humans are flawed. No one is perfect. Even the greatest men who walked with God fell. It’s simple human nature. But God lifts everyone up, even though some choose to wallow in the mud, eg Adonijah. Papa fell but was redeemed.
      No one is sinless. That a pastor does not tell his congregation his weaknesses doesn’t mean he’s perfect.
      You also seem to miss the fact that Leye is upright. He has nothing huge to hide except Asher. And this is for noble reasons.
      This story has no aim at painting pastors or Christianity in a bad light. It is reminding everyone to look only to God for salvation.
      And in the end, when stripped from its hidden messages, LYE is simply what it is – a story.
      Bless you!

      1. Akua says:

        Wow! This was some episode. . Great job Sally. Why do have this feeling it might not be Bishop A who will be named as General Overseer? Papa is like strategic chess player moving his pawn where he goes for the kill. I am happy for Leye and Love. Feeling very sad for Asher who just wants to belong. Leye please get him out of his misery.
        Sally, thanks for this marathon episodes but I hope we done have to wait like forever ooo.

  28. wumi says:

    marathon of life… just that you have wet our appetite and it’s too sweet not to ask for an extra this evening before you disappear again.
    i know men like Adonijah, power at all cost no matter whose horse is gored. That Wesley guy is creepy. i like the fact that papa is acting on evidence but don’t like the way Leye discharged Asher.

    1. Sally says:

      And I like that you enjoyed it.
      Thank you, Wumi

  29. Made says:

    Leye biko come clean to Asher na!

    Things are about to get even more interesting…?

    1. Sally says:

      They are o.
      Thanks for reading!

  30. wumi says:

    madam Sally, please don’t toy too much with Asher’s mind and situation. i want to see him being accepted by Leye and the Omotosho’s family, he looks like a cool dude. whoever is the g. o of bcc is calculated by papa.

    1. Sally says:

      Okay, dear. I’ll keep darling Asher away from danger
      Have a lovely evening

  31. Aum says:

    Lovely Marathon, but like Oliver Twist I want more. Tnx Sally keep up d good work. BTW this is my first time commenting, may God bless the work if ur hands

    1. Sally says:

      I’m tolling the welcome bell for you. Glad to have you here, Aum. You’re most welcome

  32. CHINNY says:

    Sally sweetheart. Thank you o. Was a wonderful read.

    Adonijah #mba I refuse to say anything.

    I Sidon dey watch yeye Tara and Wesley ‘the creep’. She better go back to Morre. Who Pentecostalism epp?

    1. Sally says:

      ???? Chinny, you no get chill

  33. Ndyana says:

    Wonderful piece.sally I bless God for you as you have taken the burden in my mouth and is now in a novel. Good job. Please don’t keep us waiting for a long time…. Will be so happy if I wake up to see a new episode . Thanks… Let the marathon continues

    1. Sally says:

      Lolz. Maybe your prayers would be answered. Maybe…

  34. adebayo says:

    Sally nooooooooooooo. I want another another….. mhen! I’m so loving this series….
    sally you are the bestest

    1. Sally says:

      See me grinning.
      Thanks, Adebayo

  35. Tamara says:

    Thanks Sally,for the marathon. You’re the best!

    Meanwhile,can someone please slap some sense into Tara?That Wesley boy is no good…too double-faced.

    As for Adonijah…I can’t wait to see Love frustrate him.She’s a perfect match for him.Go get him,girl!

    1. Sally says:

      Bless you, Tamara.
      Thank you!

  36. Deola says:

    Jeez!!! Adonijah as general overseer? No. This suspense is gangster mean. Mehn I luv Love even though she is over ambitious and the fact that papa is cool with her now. There is something weird about Wesley, Tara has to be careful and should talk to Alice. I can’t wait for d next episode ma’am

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks muchos, Deola.

  37. Your Message thanx Sally for the marathon, God bless the work of your hand

    1. Sally says:

      Amen, my dear. Bless you always

  38. Salllyyyyyy??

    I beg you pleaseeeee don’t disappear for too long again! Pleeeeeaasseee! Heyyyy father! This episode slayed me!!

  39. Simplygold says:

    β€œThis is really tew much. Jehovah!” I have test the word “tew” on my lips….sally u’re simply amazing… God bless your hustle. Please no make Bishop A d GO, Abe, biko, joo

  40. wumi says:

    i see papa’s point if Adonijah is made the G. O, he won’t have access to fund and power. he will just be a figure head, that way Adonijah gets what he wants as G. O but with all the pomp and pageantry removed, he will willingly step down.
    ambition is good but should not be achieved at other people’s detriment. Adonijah’s is simply self-centered. His wife is another thing, wetin your husband dey do wey him dey build duplexes? wives should questions their husbands about their source of income and not just sit to enjoy alone. if it backfires, you and your children will partake of it.

  41. Kemi says:

    I am loving the thrill! Sally you are a good gift.

    What is with Tara though, she should have some sense.

  42. Olajumoke Jeremiah says:

    A real marathon. One hour straight of reading, even with my sleepy eyes and my rambunctious son. I thoroughly gbadun all the episode 8,9,10 and 11.

    I dont wanna start analyzing biko. The episodes are fantastic Sally.

    Weldone ma

  43. Sarah says:

    Ororo dey your head sally??thanks for this exciting and scintillating marathon. My book heart keeps falling in love with you more and more.
    Let Adonijah even become G.O sef so that he would realise that with great power comes great problems. For every cunny fox, there’s a wiser and more cunny tortoise. I detest all his character stands for and I’m reserving all my joy for when i will read with great glee the story of his crumbling to nothingness.
    As for tara; biko recieve sense, you mumu child.
    I like the description of Asher’s character. I do hope for his sake everything works out well when the truth about his parentage is revealed, and may he find the love and acceptance he has been deprived of all these years from the omotoso family.

    Sally you will be sorely missed during this your hiatus. But we know you have a life too and need time for yourself. We are also comforted in the fact that you will return with more mind blowing episodes. Oya chop ???.

  44. Sally thanks for making my weekend………. I just love the way you write, mehnn u r too much.

  45. Jk says:

    What if papa surprise everyone and make Alice GO.

    Ha hahaha ha. Not possible.

    1. Bimz says:

      I was seriously thinking this before Love expressed her suspicion.

  46. uche says:

    Tiri boza for aunty sally!! You’re good for my insomnia I swear. This story is CAPTIVATING!!! Madam you’ve outdone yourself, well done

  47. Bimz says:

    First of all, Salz thanks for the marathon. You’re the bestest!!! *kisses*
    On that note, papa George wan play deadly game paaa. I hope it doesn’t backfire too.
    My Loveth is preggos. Yaaay! Hopefully Leye receives the news warmly.
    Tara yen ni ti Γ¨ foolish gan sha. I put her matter for one side for now.
    For some reason, I like Wemi o. Realest babe.
    Asher’s life is about to change. Not long now.
    Wesley, like his mentor na correct chameleon. He reminds me of Pst John (Lola’s hubby) in Jumoke’s ‘Girls’ series. Too bad Tara is too gullible and would fall victim
    Adonijah! Brace up! This game is about to be lit!
    Thanks again Salz, until next time. Counting down already

  48. Carah says:

    Sally, I love you loads! Thanks for this!!

  49. Glowing Kosnie says:

    Oh my!!! And just like that the #LYEMarathon comes to an end but like Oliver Twist i’m ‘hungrying’ for more!!!

    Sally like I will always say, I can’t imagine what goes on in that pretty head of yours cos I would love to live there to savour all these interesting, intriguing, educational and entertaining pieces you churn out always…

    You’re simply the Best!!! Girl… more and more Grace Dearie!!! But please am pleading don’t keep us hanging on the cliff for long

    Thanks Babes!!!

    Sweet Pa pls can you adopt me too????

  50. Oluwatofunmi says:

    Hmmmmm

    I’m really loving Leye…I was actually wary about him in the beginning but with every episode, I am drawn into him the more. Love has always being my no. 1 babe and I respect and love her more with each episode.

    I have forgiven Papa now and I may just believe in he and Alice.

    Adonijah….whatever mehn! He is just a snake.

    Tara. Tara. Tara. She should collect advise from Wemimo and Alice and stop being religiously stupid! I don’t trust Wesley or who knows, he may just sincerely like her and sexually attracted to her. Abi how can you really like somebody and not be sexually attracted to the person, ehn Morris? Even if you don’t fully express it abi Morris has been collecting it from somewhere?

    Tara should please open up and not let religious naivety destroy her.

    Sally, you killed this one yet again….**salute!

  51. Themhydahyoh says:

    This must continue oo. I cant but finish reading it all. Papa! Papa!! Papa!!! How many times did I call you? Consider yourself a master planner who knows how to plan. This is really worth gluing to. Thanks Sally

  52. Debby says:

    It’s an awesome read, loving the way every xter is unfolding. What I don’t get is how some pple can be this gullible ‘Tara’ . Thanks ma’am for this series, its epic

  53. cleo says:

    My top 5 favorite writers in Nigeria:
    1. Sally
    2. Sally
    3. Sally
    4. Sally
    5. Others.
    This is all awesome. And the marathon was wonderful.
    I feel very sorry for Tara. I mean how can you no know what you want. Sadly alot of church girls are like that. Giving their life to another to pilot. Very sad.
    Seems like Papa will be the only contender that Loveth has. I mean, he didnt raise that church for nothing. I feel he will beat Loveth to her game. But again, this is Sally. So fingers crossed.
    Who needs enemies when there is Bishop Adonijah. None at all.
    the suspense men. It was tew much.
    Weldone Sally

  54. datoks says:

    Whoa Sally, thank you. U ‘re such a darling. J think love is right about the General oversea, and am scared Sally do another marathon soon o

  55. Tosin says:

    I enojoyed every episode of this marathon. Thanks Sally. I hope Asher is accepted into the family sooner or later. I cant wait to see the game Papa wants to play. May Tara receive sense , haba, is Bishop A God that he should dictate what you do? Am vexing with her seriously.

  56. Rosemary says:

    hmmmm…..and the plot thickens. thanks Sally for this marathon. I had a great read as always. the title ‘love, your enemy’ always have me thinking. I can’t wait for tomorrow’s service in BCC! Sally Sally baddest writer, I’m loyal. more wisdom dear.

  57. Toyenlon says:

    Wow! What a wonderful marathon read. I enjoyed it, welldone Sally.

  58. Rikitava says:

    If want this story to continue in a book say Aye….I can’t wait. SALLY!!!!!! I can’t handle the waiting o. I’m shaking rn. I’m so excited and apprehensive at the same time. What is Papa doing? Chai! Asher ??? love nd Leye ?? Alice o…..she wnt be mama again ? OMG!

  59. Turban Girl says:

    Was that a teaser at the end? Would it really be Bishop A?? A whole lot is about to happen, excited about the explosion. Is Papa truly accepting Love, or it is a charade??? Bishop is a goat in human clothes, but I like the side he has with Maggie, it shows he is human after all. Sally, you too much

  60. Seye says:

    I thoroughly enjoyed the marathon. It made my weekend o, gave me an early start.
    I like the progression too. God bless you Sally.
    This serial is an expository one showing how ‘interesting’ people can be despite their ‘churchiness’. The surge in seeking Pastor’s approval for potential partners has destroyed the joy many should have enjoyed in marriage. From all indications, Wesley has loads to hide and I pity Tara.
    Why postpone the evil day? At this stage, it’s best that Leye finds a way to let Asher in before his mind is twisted by Bishop Adonijah or whatever/whoever.
    I absolutely like Papa and Love bonding. If they can put aside mutual distrust, it would be of benefit.
    Maggie is the voice of reason calling Adonijah back from the path of destruction that he’s bent on traveling on. The saying “he who the gods want to kill, first they make mad” is sorta applying to him. His ambition will so push him that he’ll walk right into a pit.
    Good work Sally. Thank you for the marathon, thank you for LYE

  61. Biola says:

    Great Marathon Madam Sally. Love you plenty

  62. chinel says:

    Thank you Aunty Sally..

  63. Folakemi says:

    Am so loving this buh am scared abt Adonijah
    Anyways thanks madam sally

  64. Temidayo says:

    OMG!!! This marathon was just too sweet felt like it shouldn’t end…
    Tara shld better leave that weirdo Wesley I smell danger
    Bishop A doesn’t knw wat will hit him soon..
    Papa and all his calculations I jst pray he calculates well ooo….don’t I just love leye and love…but really leye needs to tell papa abt as her b4 kasala will burst…
    In all it was a good piece thnx Sally for making my lunch break it was fantastic having lunch and reading the last episode of the marathon today

  65. Anuoluwa says:

    ma’am ma’am ma’am…..you are just too talented!! I enjoyed it all through. you are all shades of talent for writing(lolz) thanks.

  66. Iyanu says:

    Aunt sally you are such a darling ?❀️? Thanks for the marathon ???? omg I love the way papa is playing this game but this bishopA tho he’s only a bishop by mouth ? Waiting anxiously for the next episode ☺️

  67. Ifeanyi Onochie says:

    Adonijah and his wife sha. Such a humorous couple; the husband’s just like a kid. LOL. Whoa! I didn’t see that twist at the end, if Love’s premonition is true about the General Overseer position!

  68. Funmilola Adekola says:

    Sally don’t you just rock. I’m stunned to a no comment mode.

  69. Kemi says:

    Sally, have i told you lately that i love you. You are soooo talented and such an awesome writer. I thank God for His gifting on your behalf.
    So, to the story, this Adonijah reminds me of Haman in the bible.
    But Papa Omotoso sef, how does he want to play this out. He shouldnt allow Adonijah be the Leader jor.
    But I trust Love, she is capable and I hope Leye will not resent his Father more. As for Asher, i sympathize with him……..the feeling of not belonging to anyone.
    I said it that this Wesley is bad business. Sally, biko use this to turn things around for Tara, let her catch small sense and go back to Morris because this Wesley is a useless sombori.
    Looking forward to the next episode like

  70. Essence cj says:

    Seems I’m gonna love pastor love anyway. She had such a terrible childhood, imagine I almost reached out to give her a hug too. This marathon made me do a monthly subscription after I already vowed mtn was doing me wayo with their data. Sally daalu u’re too cool joor.

  71. AOS says:

    I pity Tara already. Bishop A, GO…..hmmm, this thing called power is strong oh.
    Thank you Sally, this is a wonderful read.

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