The haunted Bride

I am here ____________________________________ Link to Available Episodes Scroll down for episode 2 •Episode 3 •Episode 4 •Episode 5 Episode 6&7 Episode 8-12 Episode 13-15 •Episode 16 •Episode 17-19 Episode 20-last ep __________________________________________ [b]SEASON TWO[/b] •Episode 1 •Episode 2-4 Episode 5

About time... I can't wait for the next episode

Episode 2 You must be the famous Elena…’ One of the masked men rumbled. Her heart missed a beat at the mention of her name. How had the robber come to know her name? ‘Please release my father. You can take anything you want. Just don’t hurt us, we are good people.’ Her voice cracked as tears began to rush from her eyes The man who’d spoken scoffed, ‘You insult us. Do you think we are robbers?’ He asked mockingly. Before Elena could think of the right retort, he pulled off his mask and pointed a gun at her. ‘Well…well, you are more beautiful physically than in pictures.’ ‘Your brother is going to like her very much.’ The second man who stood next to him laughed. Elena bit her lower lip, to prevent herself from screaming at these men. She could see an animalistic glint in their eyes, and it terrified her. Who was the other man they were talking about? ‘I haven’t done anything wrong. Please release my father,’ Elena begged. ‘Even the good book reminds us to take an eye for an eye. Did you think you will have peace, after smearing my brother’s name with your lies and cheap desire for fame?’ The first man asked. Still, she was lost. ‘I don’t understand. I don’t know what you’re talking about,’ she stuttered. ‘You don’t have to. But after this, you’ll learn to confirm your sources before publishing lies.’ He turned towards the other two and snapped his fingers. It didn’t take long, before the men stepped forward and covered Elena’s face with a black bag. Her dad’s effort to stop the men was futile, as they pushed him on the floor and dragged Elena out of the house. She fought for air. Her screams were swallowed by the darkness and thickness of the bag. She was engulfed in a kind of fear that she had never felt before. And she began to wonder where she had gone wrong. One thing was certain, she had offended someone very powerful and he had come for her. *** The white bungalow was a pearl of the night. It glowed like a fine jewel in a hopeless place. The, ‘white house,’ as it was popularly called had been named one of the finest bungalows in Nigeria. It wasn’t just about the painting, but the sophistication in design. The house had fifty rooms. The roof was erected in a pyramidal shape, which added another kind of beauty to the structure. Chandeliers dropped from the frontage of the house, and to the sides of the building; blue and yellow chandeliers. Their lights clashed sometimes, but their gleam made the house very beautiful. A man sat on the veranda, staring at the black gate that enclosed the building. A scowl settled on his face as he looked on. He wore a cashmere sweater that was red in color. It rhymed with his chocolate complexion and his light brown eyes. The man was Aniekan Umo, and he had been sitting outside for an hour, since he learned of the news by the blogger who almost smeared his name. ‘Are you still thinking about the blogger?’ Ada Elechi, his lawyer asked. Aniekan had been home, working on a new game as usual. His lawyer’s visit had come as a surprise to him; he sensed that everything wasn’t alright. From the tight corners of her mouth, he was able to discern that there was a problem. That was when he realized that someone had accused him of intellectual property theft and plagiarism. Ada’s visit was followed by a myriad of calls from his business partners, friends who cared and those who worked with him. It took a lot of convincing to make them believe that he hadn’t stolen someone’s idea when he’d created Luciferon. ‘No, I’m wondering where Ese is. I told him not to step out of this house. We both know he is out of control when he is angry.’ Aniekan briefly glanced down at the face of his golden watch which ticked very fast. When the news had come, his younger brother, Ese; had been very upset and he had vowed to track the blogger and make her pay for what she had done. Aniekan was angry no doubt, how could one person try to ruin all his efforts? All his life, he had dreamt of being the biggest thing that ever happened to the game world. He was just close to taking the title on a global platform when the blogger had come up with the lies. ‘Ese would be fine. He is not our problem right now. We need to talk about the blogger’. Ada quickly powered her phone, and ran her eyes over the documents she had screen-shot. She had found the name of the blogger and everything else that she needed to know. Aniekan shrugged. ‘I hate this blogger for what she has done. What if my business partners and friends didn’t trust me? Her accusations can ruin my career if I wasn’t an honest person.’ Immediately he and Ada had come across the fake news, Ada had quickly gone on all social media platforms to explain what really happened between Aniekan and Kate Haley. ‘She thought she was being smart. People like her want to become rich overnight. She knows that you are a billionaire; she probably thought you were guilty…’ Ada trailed off as she stumbled on a detail that would prove useful. Aniekan laughed, ‘Are you saying if I were guilty that she would’ve blackmailed me’? He had heard of bloggers publishing untrue stories about people. He never knew the gravity of their offence, and he never knew he would be a victim. Ada nodded, and raised her eyes to meet him. They were filled with mischief. ‘Our darling blogger would be the King’s In-law very soon. I think she can afford to pay the damages I have in mind.’ Without wasting time, Ada fetched the brown briefcase that was next to her. She opened it, and retrieved a pen and some papers. She was one of the smartest lawyers in town, and Aniekan hadn’t made a mistake of hiring her. ‘What are you doing’? He wondered what his lawyer was up to. ‘Making us more money’, Ada smiled and began to scribble on the white sheets. Aniekan wasn’t satisfied with her answer, ‘Can you explain that better? And what King are you talking about’? Ada gritted her teeth, irked by his disturbance, but he was still her boss and she had to explain things to him. ‘The blogger’s name is Elena Benjamin. She is twenty four years old and in her final year. One of her sisters is in a serious relationship with the King of Lagos. And we both know that Oba Adeyemi Lasisi is one of the most powerful kings in Africa. I want Elena to pay for what she has done to you. If you were guilty, you would’ve lost everything tonight. I want her to pay for the damage she has caused in the amount of fifty million naira. At least, someone in her class should be able to afford that’. Ada winked and focused on what she had been writing. Aniekan scoffed, he hadn’t thought along those lines. He didn’t even know much about the blogger except now. Well, Ada had never led him astray, so he would stand by her decision to make the blogger pay

Please continue.... This is gonna be a long ride

@fb-mhizlilygold where went u?

is this how the Benjamin's girl are going to find their respectives love?? through illegal abduction?... because I know for sure that's Elena love route

@ryder I've been busy with school stuff

nice start.....

hmm truly this might be the way fate has decided to lead her to her ♥ desire

keep the story going.....

Oh @fb-mhizlilygold eyaa, Hope its not that stressful?

hmm fire on

who else is 'sawing what am saw'

Elena is single..Aniekan is also single

@Ryder a little bit tho but I thank God sha

ride on

Episode 3 Don’t you think the money is too much? She is a student like you said. Let us make it a million, her family would help her pay and she would learn a big lesson from there’. Aniekan suggested. Ada couldn’t believe her ears. ‘Please don’t tell me you’re growing soft. What happened to the ambitious man in you? This is your opportunity to make more money. This money could go into the new game you’re designing. I don’t care how she would raise this cash, but she is paying. The King should help her.’ Aniekan remained silent; he decided not to argue with her. There was just one problem with this; he was an acquainted with the royal family, and he didn’t want to be involved in any fracas with them. But Ada was his lawyer; she knew what was best for him and his Game technology company. He watched her from the corner of his eyes as she wrote down the terms of payment. Aniekan noticed something strange on Ada’s left hand; it was a silvery bracelet. Tears rose to his eyes as he remembered the woman he once loved. Imaobong. ‘Are you alright’? Ada had wanted to ask him a question, but the despair she found in his eyes, discouraged her. Aniekan held back the tears and nodded, ‘I’m fine’. Though it had been three years since she died, the wounds from her untimely departure were still fresh. And it made him afraid, that he may never find love again. ‘I’ll need your signature on this, before typing it’. Ada moved swiftly towards him and offered him a pen, which he collected. It didn’t take long before he penned down his signature. Ada’s heart raced as she stared at Aniekan’s signature. Once Elena paid the money, her plans would begin. It wouldn’t take long before the Game village and applications that Aniekan had created would become hers. ‘I will get some sleep now, I feel tired.’ Aniekan stifled a yawn. He had spent hours before the laptop, designing and creating. The stress was getting to him, and he needed to rest. Ada agreed, she knew how hard Aniekan worked. He deserved some rest. He was about rising to his feet, when the high gate opened, allowing in a black highlander with three hefty men; of which he only recognized one. ‘Ese’? Aniekan rose up and advanced towards the vehicle. The men that accompanied his brother were obviously thugs. This troubled Aniekan greatly. What if Ese had done something stupid? What if he had killed the blogger? Ese was taller than his elder brother. He was light skinned, with dark eyes which were very unfriendly. All his life, he had lived beneath the glory of his elder brother. He had walked in Aniekan’s shadow, and it was starting to get to him. ‘Relax bro, I didn’t hurt anyone’. Ese threw his gloved hands upwards. ‘Then why are you wearing gloves? You only cover your finger prints if you’ve hurt someone’. Aniekan was displeased. But Ese ignored him. He had plans to overthrow his brother, and take up all of the Game Village. He was only buying Aniekan’s trust for the mean time. Ese shrugged, ‘You’re the only brother that I have. I could kill anyone that tries to harm you in any way. But I didn’t. I brought the fool home, so she could be taught a proper lesson in journalism’. After he had said this, he snapped his fingers. It didn’t take long, before the other men ran towards the back of the vehicle. They bundled Elena out of the car, and led her towards Aniekan. ‘I present to you! A gift’, Ese sniggered, and his men joined him. Aniekan’s features remained taut; he didn’t find the situation funny. He ignored his brother’s wicked laughter and moved towards the blogger whose face had been covered by a black bag. Elena had cried all through her journey. Her tears stemmed mostly from fear. Fear of the unknown. She didn’t know the people she had offended, and she had no idea where they were taking her. The laughter of Ese and his men irritated her. There was another man present, and though she couldn’t see his face, his voice had a soothing effect on her nerves. He didn’t sound evil like Ese. He sounded controlled and responsible. As he drew nearer to her, she could feel it. He wore a very powerful and expensive masculine scent. ‘Wait’! Ada dropped the papers she held and rushed to join the men. She couldn’t wait to see the face of the fool who would make her very rich. Aniekan paused in his steps, ‘What’? He wondered why the lawyer had stopped him. ‘Let me do the honors’, Ada exchanged a knowing look with Ese, before pulling off the black bag that cloaked Elena’s face from their view. They all remained quiet once her face was revealed. The laughter died. Everyone stared at her in awe…was it awe or fear? Elena licked her lips and scanned the faces of the people around her. Something wasn’t right here. The only people who didn’t share this facial expression were Ese and his thugs. They had already seen her face. Ada’s hands trembled as she looked into Elena’s eyes, but she forced it steady. She had to control herself. There was something evil about this girl, a mystery surrounded her. Elena’s eyes locked with the dark man who shared a resemblance with Ese. That was the billionaire! Aniekan Umo. Her heart skipped a million times as she looked into his handsome face. He was finer in person, than in magazines. Slowly, the excitement of seeing the billionaire faded, as she remembered the article she’d written about him. He had ordered those thugs to kidnap her. Elena’s heart sank as she remembered her old father at home. Nobody knew where she was, and anything could happen to her right here. ‘Why are you all staring at her like she fell from the sky’? Ese scowled. He didn’t see anything special about this blogger. He had only brought her to please his brother, but from the look on Aniekan’s face, he wasn’t pleased. Aniekan’s frown deepened as he scanned her delicate features. She was young. Ada had been right about her age. She had short dark hair which matched her round face. It was her slender form and her clear eyes that attracted him. She looked innocent; untainted and untouched. She reminded him of doves. It took Aniekan great strength to resist the beauty of her eyes. He quickly reminded him that she had almost ruined his life. This wasn’t the time to admire her. She was devilish and mischievous, and she would pay for everything she had done. ‘Thank you for bringing her here’, Aniekan appreciated his brother. ‘You’re welcome, I could lay down my life for you bro’. Ese advanced towards Aniekan and patted him on the arm. ‘You know I mean that right’? ‘Sure I do’. Aniekan nodded. He knew his brother loved him very much; he only wished Ese could work hard and chase his dreams.Ada didn’t like Elena. There was something strange and scary about her, though her pretty face covered it. She was determined to milk her dry. Who knows, maybe Elena was trying to scare her off with some diabolical means.

Uhmmmn

hmmmm

i see things that i am not permitted to say

FIRE ON!

Continue

Ada and your brother have something up their sleeves.....

hmm una feelings for each other go soon develop.....

hmm does Elena really have dark powers really surrounding her?????

Episode 4 da scoffed, there was nothing like magic. ‘Welcome to the white house, Elena Benjamin. It is time for you to pay your debt.’ Ada announced in a cheerful voice. Elena was still in a kneeling position. She didn’t know wether to respond or rise. ‘I don’t know who supplied you with that defaming information about my client, Aniekan Umo. But whoever told you that he stole Kate Haley’s ideas wanted to put you in trouble’. Ada began. Elena remained calm, she was a hundred percent sure that Aniekan was guilty. How could two video games share so much similarity but with the same names? ‘I did what I thought was best. It appears your client is not an honest man’. Elena gingered up. Even though she was in captivity, she had a sharp tongue and she loved to speak the truth. One of Ese’s men moved to hit her for speaking, but Aniekan stopped him. ‘Let her run her mouth, she doesn’t know what she has gotten herself and her family into’. He crossed his arms over his chest and watched her face interestingly. Elena’s heart raced at the mention of, “family,” what had her family got to do with this? ‘Look, I am sorry for exposing you like that. But if you want to do anything, keep my family out of it. They didn’t write that article. I did’. She pressed a shaky hand against her chest. She imagined these thugs returning to the house to harm her father. What if they found a way to hurt her sisters and the men they were in love with? Though Cassie and Eno were on vacation, Aniekan could still reach them. He was powerful and wealthy. Elena closed her eyes and cursed within her. She had walked into the devil’s trap without realizing it. She should never have published that article without protecting herself. ‘You’ll have to excuse me Ms. Benjamin. I have something interesting, that I’d like for you to read’. Ada waved at everyone, before returning to the veranda where her briefcase was. Elena’s lips quivered. Her eyes were bright with tears. She hadn’t planned for things to go this way. ‘Look, I am sorry. I should never have written that article. But once you release me, I’ll delete everything’. She begged. Aniekan was amazed by her naivety. ‘So you think wiping your stupid blog would solve the problem? Your post went viral. I almost lost the trust of my business partners and friends. Those who believed in me almost doubted me. I am sorry Elena, but there is nothing you can do to fix this’. Just in time, Ada returned with a green bulletin, which she handed over to Elena. ‘Read that carefully. I am sure you will understand’. At first Elena was hesitant, but she realized Ada hadn’t asked her. It was a command. With shaky hands, she flipped open the first page. It had the words, “Memorandum of Understanding between Game Village and Amor”. Elena felt a chill run down her spine as she realized that Aniekan was innocent of what she had accused him of. His Game tech company, Game Village had been designing game applications for Amor, which belonged to Kate Haley. One of the terms of agreement, was that Game village could use some of the game ideas to design a new app after three years. Amor utilized the games designed by Game village for just a year and a half. And when all the profit was made, they relinquished all rights to the games. Elena hadn’t known about this agreement. The similarities between Lord Slayers and Luciferon now made sense. Apparently, Aniekan had designed Lord Slayers for Kate Haley; and when the three years had passed, he converted it to his own game; Luciferon. Tears gushed out from her eyes. She found it difficult to breathe as a hard lump blocked her nostrils and her throat. Elena was schooled in journalism. She knew the consequence of Libel. ‘I see, you understand the pains you have caused my client. You will pay fifty million for the damages. But if you insist we go to the court, I shall make it hundred.’ Elena thought she hadn’t heard the lady right. ‘What’? Her lips shook in fear. ‘Fifty million or you spend some time in prison. You are pretty girl. I am sure some guards and inmates would find you very pleasing at night’. Ada added. This was followed by a macabre laughter that flowed from her lips. Unknown to them, a figure watched the whole scene from the fifteenth window in the pearly bungalow. Elvis was entrapped in the softness of her welcoming arms. Never in his life, had he felt such pleasure from a woman’s laps. The princess was a wilding in bed. She knew how to turn a man on; and how to make him surrender. Her soft lips met with his’ as his hands roamed her supple body. Tayo and Elvis knew they were attracted to each other, right from their first meeting. The Princess couldn’t get Elvis out of her mind, after then. Her nights were filled with sex dreams and wild imaginations of her and Elvis being together. There was something special about the thug, as she hadn’t been attracted to a man in such a fiery intensity for a very long time. Elvis was more attracted to her personality than her body. Princess Tayo was ambitious. She was his female version, and he found that intriguing. The first time he set his eyes on her, he didn’t see a princess. He saw a fearless woman, who could walk into a den of lions and wriggle her way out. Even her brother, the King, knew this. Though she had outsmarted them and taken a good portion of the vermillion for the Royal house; a move that would have unleashed Elvis’ anger upon them, but she came up with another idea. She knew how to trade. And she was smart. Tayo shivered as his tongue encircled her ear. She relished his gentle touches and the way he made love. Elvis knew the right places to touch. His hands were magic, and they were suited for her body. ‘You are so beautiful…you’re always beautiful’, he mumbled as his other hand cupped her creamy breasts. He gave her mounds a light squeeze, before his hands proceeded to the valley of her belly which he considered very sexy. Tayo had an athletic build. Apart from the time she spent on archaeological sites, she also worked out. Her skin was toned and smooth. And he had a thing for dark skinned women. ‘Please stop with the torture, I need to feel your strength inside of me’. Tayo bit her lip and begged for more. Elvis always subdued her in bed. She liked being dominated by him. He laughed and pulled his hands away from her, ‘Really? I want you to beg’. He dropped a kiss on her forehead. It wasn’t a lustful kiss. It was short and innocent. And it made her feel special.

Elena I guess that man is going to be u hubby too

Ada you and your pretence, one day it would be known by Aniekan.....

Elena you should have done thorough investigation before posting on your blog that Aniekan stole another person's game idea.....

Hmm na way Ada and Ese you guys plans will be unveil by Elena

Who was the guy watching them (Elena, Ada Ese and His thugs, Aniekan) from Afar?

I can't wait for thier evil plan to be discover

Episode 5 He grabbed her writhe body and tossed her on the bed. Elvis pulled off her panties hurriedly. He didn’t need to ask if she was wet for him. The clean scent of her juice had already wafted into his nostrils. She was ready for him. He guarded his rod into her narrow entrance, and she accepted him in a glide. It didn’t take long before his ride to pleasure begun. ‘A…rh…’ Tayo clawed his back as she moaned. He drove his rod madly into her, and each penetration was better than the previous. He was driving her crazy, and this made her wonder if she could stay a week without meeting him. It didn’t take long before Elvis exploded and spilled his seed into her. A warm sensation filled her belly as he came. A second after, her thighs began to jerk, in response to her own fulfillment. ‘You’re so good’, she ran a tongue over his ears. But Elvis remained quiet. Everything he had done was for purpose. The princess had humiliated him once, it was his turn. With a frown on his face, he mumbled, ‘So what’s the name of that blogger’? Tayo chuckled, ‘Why are you so interested anyway’? Her brows furrowed. ‘I am not interested. I just have a strong desire to know’. Tayo shrugged, ‘she shares the same surname with you, one Elena or something’. Tayo clamped her legs together and decided to climb off the bed. Elvis gritted his teeth. His youngest sibling was into blogging, and she was a very curious person. Elena almost uncovered the group he now headed, and that would’ve placed her in danger, if Sam had not willing confessed to Eno. ‘Elena’? Elvis jumped off bed. Now that his other siblings, Eno and Cassie were out of the country, he had to find a way to get Elena out of this mess. Now Tayo knew that Elvis had just two sisters- Cassie and Eno. But she had no idea that there was a third. ‘You know her’? Tayo noticed he looked troubled. ‘That’s not none of your business’. He scowled and covered himself with his robe. Tayo raised a brow, surprised at his tone, ‘Are you seeing your period or what’? She scoffed. ‘Get the fuck out of here. You are the one that is a toy. I have great power over you, and I will always wield you to my desires. It was nice knowing you, princess. But as you walk out of that door, remember that you are my toy’. Elvis lazily strolled towards the door and opened it. Tayo’s heart missed a beat, as she realized she had been played. ‘So you just fucked me for your ego’? She laughed, but the sound was strange to her ears. No man had ever addressed her like this. ‘No, I just showed you that I am your owner, and you are my toy’. Elvis smiled. ‘I am not your toy’! Tayo screamed angrily. How could he say this to her, after what they had just shared? Elvis shrugged, ‘You wouldn’t be upset if it weren’t true’. With the last energy she could draw in, she grabbed her bag and walked towards the door in shame. ‘You have not seen the last of me Elvis. I’ll make you pay for this humiliation and name calling’. ‘You’re so cheap. I bet you can sleep with anything in trousers.’ This was his reply, before he pushed her out of the room and shut the door after she was gone. Elvis cringed at what he had done. He knew deep down that he’d messed up. But this wasn’t the time for reflection. He had to contact Elena before it was too late to save her. The old man had just managed to drag himself from the floor some hours after Elena had been taken away. Mr. Benjamin’s limbs felt weak, and his wrists were bruised from the rough hands of the thugs that had kidnapped his daughter. Elena was in trouble, and he had to find a way to help her. ‘Oh no, where do I even begin’? His voice shook as he stared at the clock. Her sisters were out of the country, there was no one he could share this terrible news with. He had to wait for the morning, so he could report the matter to the nearest police station. Although Elena was wrong in publishing news which the billionaire’s brother claimed was false, they had no right to take her like a common thief. He was still pondering on the next line of action, when the doorbell rang. His heart was startled. Who would pay him such a visit at such an odd hour? The first thought that entered into his mind was that the ruffians had released his daughter. ‘Elena is back.’ He murmured, before rushing to answer the door. He hadn’t been expecting anyone, so he had to be right. Elena had returned home. Mr. Benjamin pulled back the door, and it parted gently. A wave of fresh air hit his face as he stared at the six boxes just outside the door. They were definitely expensive, and had airport tags on them. Could Cassie have returned from her trip with the King? ‘Cassandra’? He stepped outside of the house, closing the door behind gently. He didn’t go far when a sweet smelling perfume with a familiar scent wafted into his nostrils. He bit his lip and quickly moved backwards. No, it couldn’t be her. He dreaded her return. He wasn’t ready to face her, after all she had done to him. Just in time, Tamar Benjamin paid off the taxi that had brought her and stepped into the Benjamin compound. Her eyes sparkled as she recalled the beauty of the home she had left behind. From the pictures that had surfaced online, King Yemi had fallen in love with Cassie. This mad it safe for her return. ‘Home sweet home,’ Tamar smiled and continued to advance towards the mansion. Something strange had hit her the first time she’d dropped her luggage. The house was abnormally quiet, and it seemed empty. Although it was past midnight, her daughters were nocturnal beings. Cassie did most of her designs when others were asleep; while Elena did her writing in the deepest and darkest hour of the night. And she usually saw light from their room, but tonight was different. Everywhere, except the frontage of the house was swallowed up in darkness. She knew very well that Cassie was not in the country, but her lastborn had to be home. ‘So you came back’? A croaky and weak sound permeated her thoughts and made her look up. Tamar’s eyes almost popped out of their sockets as she stared at the man she had married; her greatest regret. Mr. Benjamin didn’t wait for her to come any closer; he got down from the veranda and advanced towards her. He was seething in anger, as he remembered all the cruel things Tamar had done to him. ‘What are you doing here?’ He fired. Tamar could see that he was angry, but that wasn’t her concern. ‘I should be asking you that Benjamin. What are you doing in my house? Where are my children’? Tamar clutched to her bag tightly.

@Ryder you will fine out soon Sit tight

@ryder you will find out soon Sit tight

@vikkychidi94 of course Love am a Keen follower of this story

continue

Following

Tamar you should be ashamed

Episode 6 She hadn’t set eyes on Benjamin for a very long while. He had grown older and leaner, but he still had the good looks. Only that he had a lot of grey hairs. The man scoffed, ‘This house and all the properties you own belong to me. You stole my designs and sold them off. With the money you got, you bought all these for yourself’. He scoffed and moved closer to where she stood. Tamar was still a very attractive woman. She seemed to age anticlockwise. Her fair skin was smooth under the moonlight, and her lips were reddish and inviting. If she weren’t a devil, they would have still been together. ‘Did you think I had forgotten your betrayal? I told your daughters all about it. I heard about the atrocities you committed. You are despicable and you aren’t wanted here. Go back to Jamaica’. Mr. Benjamin waved a finger across her face. Tamar chuckled, ‘Is that supposed to scare me? I did everything to get poverty and lack out of their paths. I hope you know that Cassandra is happy with the king and they are getting married. I will find a suitable man for Elena, while you fold your lazy arms and watch’. She hissed and continued walking towards the house. Her words stung his ego. She had spat on his pride. How could she forget his designs that she had sold off? ‘Cassandra’s love for the king does not justify what you did to her. First, you tried to sell Eno off, and when it didn’t work, you gave Cassandra. I guess you came home to prepare for the wedding’. He scoffed, Tamar had not changed one bit. Tamar shrugged, ‘That wouldn’t be bad, would it? It is bad enough that you have turned my daughters against me. I now understand why they didn’t reach out all those months, while I was in Jamaica. You were the one cooking up lies and selling it to them’. Mr. Benjamin closed his eyes as a wave of fury hit him. He didn’t want to argue with her tonight. He still had a daughter to protect, and if he was able to save Elena from the trouble she’d gotten herself in; he would get her as far away as possible from her mother. Tamar climbed the veranda hurriedly, while dragging two boxes in. She knew that her daughters were angry with her, but she had come home for reconciliation. ‘I’m home Elena! Mummy is home’. Tamar announced excitedly as she stared at the staircase, hoping that Elena would rush down and hug her. After waiting for ten minutes, there was no sign of Elena. Her heart began to hit faster against her chest, hoping that Elena wasn’t still mad at her. ‘She’s gone’. Mr. Benjamin rolled in the other boxes and shut the door. Tamar swallowed, she didn’t want to talk to him but she missed her children. ‘Gone where’? She fiddled with her fingers. It took him courage to take his eyes off her supple backside. Tamar wore jean that clung to her firm hips, and a blue sneaker. She had a black sweater on as the weather was very cold. Her hair was packed into a bun, and it reminded him of the first time he’d seen her. ‘Some men walked in here and took her away. Our daughter is in trouble’. He explained as gently as possible. Tamar’s heart leapt at the mention of trouble, ‘I don’t understand. How could you let them take her away? What was her offence’? Tamar was infuriated by the men’s actions, and Benjamin’s subtle attitude. ‘She wrote an article about a tech billionaire. It seems it was false and it was character damaging. I tried, believe me. I just mustered courage to rise on my feet not too long ago’. Benjamin rolled up his sleeves so she could see the red markings on his wrist. Tamar could blame him for the kidnap, but he had to show her that he tried. ‘No…no, we have to find her’. Tamar’s voice was broken and coarse. She sank into the nearest chair to her. Her eyes were watery as she thought of her sweet little Elena. She had failed as a mother. She had failed to protect her daughter when she needed her most. ‘Why didn’t she confirm before putting the article up’? Tamar sobbed. Mr. Benjamin shrugged, ‘You shouldn’t ask me that now. That girl works so hard for her age. She was simply trying to inform people about what she thought was right’ . Though Tamar seemed broken by the news, he didn’t trust her. She had already made up her mind to sell their daughter off, but he would outsmart her. ‘What do we do now? We can just let them take her’. Tamar wailed. ‘We cannot start a search by this time of the night. You know how dangerous the city is. Seven people were attacked by cultists last week. It’s a miracle you came home safely. We’ll report to the police at first light’. Tamar scoffed, ‘You have always been a weakling Benjamin. Some men kidnapped your daughter, and you’re telling me about safety. What safety? I will not wait for first light. I’m going out of the house and I’ll find her myself’. She wiped her face and rose to her feet. ‘You can insult me as much as you like, I don’t care Tamar. You never loved your children. You are only interested in finding Elena, just to pitch her up with the next man available’. Mr. Benjamin ignored her rants. Tamar’s blood boiled as he said those words, ‘You are a fool Benjamin! I regret the day I set my eyes on you’. He chuckled and ran his eyes over her body, ‘You are the fool Tamar. You have always been a fool. Did you think I loved you? I only married you because of your beauty, but you’re faded now. You’re like a leaf in dry season’. He didn’t wait for her response, but from the look in her brown eyes, she was deeply hurt. Blood crept up her cheeks as she watched him leave; the man she had married had never spoken such words to her. So, Benjamin never loved her? No, she couldn’t let him get away with this. ‘Get out of my house before I raise an alarm’. She called to him, but he kept on rising with the steps. She quickly grabbed a glass and made ready to launch it close to him, when the door flew wide open and a masked man walked in. Mr. Benjamin froze on the staircase as he heard Tamar scream. The moment he spun on his heel, he found a masked man with a gun. ‘Don’t move,’ the man pointed a gun at him. Mr. Benjamin obeyed, and stood still. He watched in focus, as the stranger peeled off the mask and dropped the gun on the floor. To their surprise, it was their son Elvis. They had not seen him for many years. ‘I can’t believe you two are still fighting’. Elvis grabbed the gun and put it in his pocket. His parents didn’t utter a word. They stared at him in surprise, like they had seen a ghost. ‘I didn’t come here for a reunion. Elena is in trouble. I have been trying to reach her, but I couldn’t. This is the reason I came home. Tell me everything that happened.’

let the show begin,wlcm home trouble woman

Episode 7 Elena was quickly dragged by the lawyer into an empty room, where she would stay for the night. Ada meant business, and she wanted to make a lot of money off Elena. ‘You’ll stay here for tonight. When morning comes, we’ll find a way to reach your family’. Ada smiled, and moved to shut the door. The reins that bound her hand were still intact, but her legs were free. She could move without restraint. Elena ran her eyes over the poorly lit room. It was dusty, and old. It seemed no one had inhabited this part of the house for a very long time. There wasn’t any bed for her to sleep in. There was just a table with a spoilt lamp upon it. Beneath the lamp, cobwebs built and empire. The room reeked of dirt, and little particles floated in the air. ‘I can’t stay here. I am not a thief. Fine, I wrote something untrue about him, but it isn’t enough to keep me here’. Elena battled with the ropes on her wrists. How could they be this unjust to her? First, they had taken her out of her home without her lawyer, and now this? Ada scoffed, ‘you have nerve…don’t you understand what you have done? You don’t have a choice here Elena Benjamin. The minute you wrote false news about my client, the right to freedom was taken away from you’. Elena couldn’t believe her ears. ‘If you really think my sin is that great, why do you insist I pay fifty million? Why not take me to court? I know what you’re trying to do. You are just a greedy and hungry lady. You want to use me’. Elena could see clearly for the first time since she came into the white house. Ada was a snake. Aniekan didn’t need this sort of money. He was made! Again, her strong will and fearlessness reminded Ada of the woman that haunted her dreams. She hated Elena more after her statement. ‘Let’s see how you will ever get out of here’. She didn’t give Elena time to reply before shutting the wooden door. Tears soaked Elena’s face as she stared at the room. Her lips trembled as she wept. If only she knew things would turn out this way, she wouldn’t have written the article. ‘I need to get out of this place. I need to find my way out’. She whispered and looked around the room. To her disappointment, there was no opening for any escape. The only person that could help her was Elvis, but she had no way to call for her brother’s help. Elena was quite sure that Ada didn’t have any plans to release her anytime soon. ‘Why do you have a frown on your face darling’? Ese’s eyes glowed with lust as Ada strolled towards the end of the corridor. They had been in a liaison from the moment she’d become his brother’s lawyer. He had fallen in love with Ada because she shared his ambitious mindset. They had always plan on how best to milk Aniekan of his billions, but they had never been a way. Elena’s case was an opening, and they would use her smartly to achieve their aims. ‘I don’t like that girl’. Ada gave Ese the key to the room. ‘Why? Did she insult you’? He frowned. Ada shook her head, ‘She was able to read me. She knows that I am interested in the money I’ll get from her. I have a bad feeling about that fool. She reminds me of…’ Ada bit her lip. Speaking of the woman who haunted her dreams wasn’t good. She couldn’t bring up terrible memories now. She had to think of more ways to get Aniekan’s money. ‘Of who?’ Ese searched her eyes. ‘Never mind, where is Aniekan now?’ Ada pulled away from him and started towards the end of the corridor. ‘He should be in his room’, Ese replied, wondering what troubled his darling. She nodded, ‘I must talk to him about Elena. He cannot pardon her. We need that money and more’. Ese totally agreed with her. All his life, he had walked in Aniekan’s shadow. It was time to step out of it and start his business. As the betrayers marched out of the corridor, the lonely figure that occupied this wing of the house stepped out of the dark. She watched them with keen interest, and sensed that they were plotting against the man she once loved.

family reunion father, mother and son

hmmmm getting interesting

@vikkychidi94 now I understand, she is the former Bride or the "to-be" Bride of Aniekan, Maybe she is dead or not dead. I was kind of wondering hw this story was titled "The Haunted Bride" myabe she will make Elena marry Aniekan if she really is a ghost

Well at least someone knew about their (Ese and Ada) treacherous plans

I do not like the way u addressed Tayo

thank God someone is thy to assist u an that man

Episode 8 Elena was a beautiful person inside out. He made this assumption after reading five pieces from her. It was a pity that she had written something damaging about him. But it was something he could forgive. Aniekan felt pity for her. He didn’t know much about her family background, but she didn’t look like someone from a wealthy home. All he could see was a struggling young lady in her early twenties, fighting so hard to do something with her life. He was sure that Elena had learned her lesson. But he wouldn’t be the one to destroy her life. Right there, something stirred within him to help her out of this situation. Although Elena had almost ruined his life, he would forgive her and let her go. However, if she failed to abide by the ethics of publishing, fate would teach her a lesson but not by his hands. Aniekan was still staring at the striking photograph, when he heard a rap on his door. The only person he was expecting was Idara, his cook. Aniekan had asked her to make him a cup of green tea so he could sleep. ‘Come in, the door is open.’ It was the strange quiet which filled the room after the door had closed that made him turn. Idara always came in with greetings on her lips. This was someone else. ‘You are not sleeping’, Ada observed from where she stood. Swiftly, Aniekan turned off the computer and faced her. He couldn’t let his lawyer know about his little research about Elena Benjamin. ‘Um, I couldn’t. Is there a problem’? This was the first time the lawyer was entering his room, and it shocked him greatly. Though Ada had a room in his house, she’d never visited him here before. Ada clenched her fist and glanced at his room, ‘It’s warm and cozy in here. You have a beautiful place Aniekan’. She smiled as she fed her eyes with the intricate designs on the wall. He shrugged, ‘I try.’ She pulled in a deep breath, ‘I have kept the girl in a safe place where she would not be able to escape. You will not release her until her family pays the fifty million naira that she owes you. This is your opportunity to teach other bloggers and journalists a lesson. No one would ever tarnish your image’. Aniekan said nothing as she spoke, he carefully observed her. Before now, Ada had handled some cases he had with clients and investors. But never in his life, had he seen her so enthusiastic about a case. What was so special about this matter? ‘What if I don’t want her to pay the money? You told me that she was a student. Her family isn’t wealthy. Even if they were, they don’t owe me a thing. My score is with Elena and she cannot pay for what she did’. At first, Ada felt he was bluffing. But when he didn’t say more, she realized Aniekan had changed his mind. This would ruin all of the plans she had with Ese and she couldn’t let this happen. ‘Are you changing your mind? You cannot do that Aniekan. We have gone knee deep into this river, there is no going back’. She couldn’t believe her ears. This was the reason she preferred his brother. Ese was a viper. He was strong and ambitious, where Aniekan was a weakling. Aniekan’s brows were raised at her tone, ‘Yes I can change my mind. Elena almost ruined my brand, but she didn’t. Instead of paying fifty million, she would write series of apology letters and advertise my games on her blog. That is fair’. He felt this was okay for everybody. ‘Fuck, you don’t even understand do you’? Ada could see that his mind was made up, but it was her duty to put him back on line wherever he derailed. He felt insulted that she would speak to him in such a condescending manner. ‘What don’t I understand’? Aniekan was starting to get upset. ‘See Aniekan…’ she moved closer to the table he leaned upon. ‘Even if we release Elena, she could sue us for kidnapping her and she has proof. Her father can bear witness that Ese and his men took her involuntarily from the house. If those facts are established, you could be the one to pay damages or go to jail. Your brand would be affected, and you could lose everything. It gets worse when she tells people that we locked up your house. We cannot let Elena go until she pays. You should have a re-think. That girl is evil, I can’t even look into her eyes. There is something strange about her, and we have to work fast’. Aniekan’s face paled as he realized Ada was being truthful. She was being protective and concerned. Though Elena had angelic features, he wasn’t in her heart to know what she planned. What if she sued him for kidnapping? ‘I understand your fears Ada, but isn’t there another way to settle this? I don’t need fifty million naira. My games are downloaded every minute. I make a hundred thousand every day. I don’t want her money’. Ada hated his reaction, ‘Why don’t you imagine losing all that followership? This is Nigeria, and if a celebrity is indicted in a crime, that celebrity is doomed. Just look at what is happening to R. Kelly. Imagine being hated by the same people who praised you for your genius game creations’. She sighed and closed her eyes. Well, she had done her part and she had faith that Aniekan would abide by her. He had never gone against her counsel, tonight wouldn’t be the first. ‘I must go now. Once morning comes, I’ll contact her family. Don’t be afraid, I got this’. She tapped him on the shoulder and swirled round, Ada was confident that she would get this money. Aniekan said nothing to her, he only weighed his options. Obviously, he had just few hours to decide what he would do to Elena Benjamin. Ada was right about Elena turning against him, but what if the lawyer was wrong? What if Elena was different? Her eyes flamed with anger and unrest as she marched out of the room. She failed to see the figure that approached with a tray and a teacup. This made the collision inevitable; the hot tea and the cup both crashed to pieces. ‘I-I am sorry Ma’, Idara stuttered as she realized what had happened. ‘Utter fool’! Ada restrained the urge to slap her because of Aniekan’s presence. Another person she abhorred was the foolish cook. Ada had her plans of sending her out of the white house soon. The time wasn’t ripe. Idara bowed her head and glared at the broken pieces, until the lawyer was gone. Only then did she release the breath she held, for the woman terrified her greatly. There wasn’t a night for the Benjamins, as they had been awake thinking of the best way to rescue Elena from her captor. One fact was established; Aniekan Umo was behind Elena’s disappearance and they had to find a way to save her. Elvis wasn’t comfortable around his parents. Their incessant quarrels had been the reason he’d left home in the first place. His mother was violent and toxic. She dominated his father, and he couldn’t get out of her grip for many years. Tamar was relieved as she heard a cock crow, and the chirping of morning birds. It was time to get back one of her children. The absence of Elena quenched the joy she was supposed to feel on seeing Elvis; the son she had lost for many years. ‘We must hurry. We have to leave for his house’. Tamar rose to her feet. She staggered a bit from not sleeping at all. She hadn’t taken rest after her return to the country. How could she, when her daughter was in trouble? Mr. Benjamin stared after her. How could Tamar not show concern about their son who’d just returned home? He bit the down the urge to call her bad behavior. He wasn’t in the mood to trade words with her. They had fought enough before the arrival of Elvis. ‘I am sorry that we failed to ask about your wellbeing. After I saw your name in the newspapers indicted in a drug crime, I thought all hope was lost. We all thought that you were rotting in a foreign facility’. Mr. Benjamin was delighted to see his son.

Episode 9 Tayo dropped the phone and struggled to reach her bedside fridge. She needed to drink some water badly. After opening a bottle, she emptied the cold water into her mouth and then grabbed the phone again. Slowly, the memories of the night returned; detail after detail. Tayo remembered it all. She remembered the passionate kiss they’d shared and how his hands brought her comfort and pleasure. Only one memory stuck. She quickly tapped the search engine of her phone and typed in the names that haunted her dreams. Tayo vividly remembered the name of the blogger and how Elvis had reacted. He knew her from somewhere, and Elena was extremely beautiful that it made her jealous. Was he seeing the blogger? Angrily Tayo tossed her phone aside. The network was very poor and she had no patience. ‘Elena,’ she bit her lip as she called the name. Elvis was hiding something from her and it seemed she had just found his little mistress. Elvis was cheating with this blogger. That was the only reason he’d reacted that way. Revenge was on her mind. She wouldn’t give Elvis another chance to hurt her. He had tossed her aside without conscience; she would equally deal with him without second thoughts. Only that, she wouldn’t hurt him directly. ‘I know what to do. I’ll make him pay’. She pulled in a deep breath and dialed Aniekan’s number. She hadn’t made contact with Aniekan for six months now. The last time they’d met was at a charity fundraiser in Abuja.The princess needed his help, and she knew he wouldn’t turn her down. Ada had told Ese everything she’d discussed with his brother. Aniekan wanted to ruin her plans of becoming rich, but she wouldn’t let him. ‘If I don’t pressure him to see that this way is the best, he’ll let us all down’. She stroked Ese’s face. They were in the bathroom together. They secretly spent time together in the white house, to avoid Aniekan knowing about their relationship. Ese’s eyes burned in anger, ‘why would he want to forgive her? I told you we should kill him, but you said we should be patient. My brother is a weakling. I can’t believe he would jeopardize our plans’. Ada pulled Ese closer to her and pinned her lips on his left nipple, ‘my darling, you are impatient. You don’t with a battle on impulse. Victory takes years of planning and plotting. Your brother thinks he is smart, but in his wisdom lies great folly. I will not let him ruin this one. I promise’. Ese remained calm. Her words always had a cooling effect on him. ‘He stole everything that ever mattered to me. He stole Imaobong. He took away our parents’ attention. I want him to pay for it’. Ada understood what her man felt. She’d never liked Imaobong from the start. The bitch had Aniekan wrapped over her little fingers, but she was gone now. Only that, Ada was haunted by the dead woman in her dreams. ‘Look at me Ese,’ she cupped his fleshy face between her chubby palms. ‘I took care of Imaobong, didn’t I? Trust me baby, we’ll clip your brother’s wings and make a lot of money for ourselves’. A smug overtook Ese’s features as he stared deeply into the eyes of the woman he now loved. Ada had taken away all his pain and frustration. In place of those negative emotions, she had discovered his true potential. Ada had helped him channel his pain into hatred for his brother. He couldn’t wait to destroy Aniekan. ‘How is the girl? What plans do you have for her’? He asked. ‘She’s still locked in that dirty room. I contacted her family this morning. They should be here soon. I’ll send Idara to give her some food and clean clothes’. Ada replied. Ese nodded in satisfaction. His eyes ran over her naked body. He enjoyed having sex in the shower. He couldn’t miss this opportunity to pleasure himself. When he pressed her closer to his body, Ada quickly pulled back. ‘Do you hear that’? ‘What’? He asked with a frown. Ada gently moved towards the bathroom window and peeped through. Two people had just walked into the white house. She was quite sure they were Elena’s parents, because the woman shared a strong resemblance with Elena. ‘I have to go and meet them. They’re here’. Ada rushed out of the bathroom in excitement. Gloom clouded his handsome face as he glared at the people that had just walked into his house. They had to be Elena’s parents. This meant only one thing; Ada had flaunted his orders. She had gone ahead with her plans of causing Elena to pay for her crime against him. Aniekan hated it when he was undermined. For a reason, which he was unaware of, Ada felt he could be controlled. ‘No one takes decisions for me’. Aniekan peeled himself from the window and moved towards his wardrobe. He wasn’t interested in getting fifty million from a girl who was trying to survive. Elena seemed like a good person to him, and he was ready to trust his guts on his feeling. She shared so many similarities with his Imaobong; who was a writer too. He grabbed a black shirt and jean trousers and marched out of the room without his phone. He hadn’t touched the device since morning, and he wasn’t interested in anything else but Elena. All night, he’d thought about her and wondered if listening to Ada was the best. He’d gotten his answer, and he would act upon it. ‘Good morning sir’. Idara greeted. She had made a light breakfast for the lady that was locked in the forbidden room. ‘Morning, where is Elena’s room’? Aniekan asked. Idara knew the only person that would bear the name was the lady. ‘Um…’ she pressed her lips together, not knowing what to answer. ‘Don’t waste my time! Where is she’? Aniekan barked. Idara’s hands jittered, ‘I…I was about taking breakfast to the room where she is being chained. It is the forbidden room’. At first, Aniekan thought he hadn’t heard well. Only one room was forbidden in the white house; it was Imaobong’s room. And after her death, he had banned anyone from going there. The place was filled with dust and dirt; broken pieces of mirror and furniture lay scattered. He had destroyed those things in a fit of rage. Aniekan had been so angry and lost when Imaobong had died. Why would anyone keep Elena in such a harsh condition? ‘The forbidden room, who kept her there’? He asked in a calm voice. Idara stepped away from him. His eyes flamed with indignation. She had never seen her master this enraged. ‘The lawyer,’ Idara whispered. Then Aniekan did the unthinkable. He moved closer to the cook and collected the tray from her. ‘I’ll serve Elena myself, now be on your way’. ‘Thank you sir’, she scurried away. Aniekan seethed with anger as he marched towards the forbidden room with the tray in his hands. So, Ada had lied to him about Elena’s accommodation. She had been so sweet and convincing; Ada had assured him that Elena was well taken care of. Sorry for the late updates I was sick 2 episodes as compensation Thank you

Thanks for the updates,...the story is getting more interesting

Sorry

hope u are better now? this ada is an evil doer

Episode 10 He couldn’t believe what Idara had just told him. If this information was correct, it would’ve revealed a hidden character of Ada he was yet to notice. As he moved towards the forbidden room, he almost bumped into Ese. ‘Good morning to you’, Ese stared at the tray in Aniekan’s hand. He wondered where his brother was headed. Aniekan ignored his greeting. He wasn’t in the mood to talk to anybody. All he wanted was to find Elena and apologize for the way his lawyer had treated her. He was going to release Elena, and he didn’t care if she would sue him for kidnapping after that. He was a good person, and Imaobong had always told him that kindness was a seed. The kinder you were, the greater the tree of your blessing would grow. As he neared the entrance of the dark corridor, something strange within him made him aware of another human presence. The hairs on his nape arose as he stepped into the corridor, leading to the forbidden room. The place had been dead for years, but it felt alive. Aniekan pulled a deep breath and quickly turned back. It seemed he had heard some footsteps. ‘Is anybody there’? He called to the dark, but there was no response. He reminded himself that there was no other person on this wing of the bungalow. He had to find Elena and get her out. Unknown to him, his instincts had reported correctly. A figure cloaked in black hid behind an old cupboard and watched as he moved towards the room that was once her own. When he stopped in front of the door, he fought so hard with the memories of Imaobong. Tears welled up in his eyes as he remembered the angel of his heart. ‘I miss you so much. I miss you everyday’. His heart cried out for her soul, but she was gone. She was dead to the world and there was nothing he could do to bring her back. Though he had all the money in the world, he was a miserable man. With great effort, he wiped his face and kicked open the door. At first, there was resistance, but when he kicked harder; the door gave way. And he stood face to face with Elena Benjamin. Elvis had refused to join them to meet Aniekan’s lawyer. He preferred to wait for them inside the car. He knew a man like Aniekan would have cameras all over his house, and he didn’t want to appear on any. He was now the new mask of the Knights of Robin Hood. For a man to remain a true leader of the knighthood, he had to hide in the shadows. Tamar and Mr. Benjamin had no choice but to go into the white house alone. At first, Tamar had been distracted by the incredible beauty of the billionaire’s house. But the minute she spotted the stone faced lawyer who came out to meet them with a briefcase, all her admiration fled. ‘Here she comes, the viper that wants to suck my child’s blood’. Tamar gritted her teeth. Mr. Benjamin heard what she said, but he composed himself, knowing that emotions would run high in this meeting. All he wanted to know was if his daughter was safe. He couldn’t wait to take her home with him. ‘Good morning Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin. I welcome you to the white house’. Ada wore her sweetest smile as she stretched out her hand for handshakes. Tamar hissed loudly, ‘I hope you aren’t expecting me to take that poisonous hand of yours. Where is my daughter’? Mr. Benjamin knew he had to step in, else Tamar would get all emotional and ruin things. He quickly moved closer to her and reminded her of the need to be quiet. ‘I know you love your daughter. I love her twice as much. Compose yourself, and let’s know exactly the kind of people we’re dealing with’. The faint smell of her cherry perfume distracted his mind, and just as he moved away from her, he noticed her diamond earrings. Mr. Benjamin was immediately curious. Where did Tamar get money to buy herself diamond earrings? Did she have a man? Was she dating? An uncomfortable heaviness settled upon him as he realized he was jealous. ‘If you think I’ll fold my arms and let my daughter be ill- treated by this people, I won’t’. Tamar fired back. Ada smiled and watched them closely. She was already in love with Tamar and the flamboyant way she was dressed. Definitely, they could afford fifty million. ‘Well, I don’t have time for corners, so let’s go straight to the point. My client may not join us on this first meeting, because he is a very busy man. But he and I have come up with an agreement…’ Ada paused and fetched a document from her briefcase, while Elena’s parents exchanged glances. It wasn’t long before Ese joined the meeting with his fierce looking men. Mr. Benjamin recognized him at once. ‘You know him’? Tamar observed the fear in her ex husband’s eyes. ‘Yes, he was the one that took Elena’. He whispered. Ada flashed a smile and offered Mr. Benjamin the document, ‘you must be wondering how I got your phone number and how Ese hot your address. We live in a digital era. Anything is possible’. Ada moved over to where Ese stood and rubbed her palms together; she was giving them space to absorb what they were reading. ‘I can hardly wait for them to pay that money, before we proceed to our next plan’. Ese stared at Ada, who was obviously delighted at the turn out of things. Ada said nothing, her smile only grew wider. It was the sternness in Tamar’s voice that changed everything. ‘I hope the content of this paper was written under some alcoholic influence’. Tamar began, but Mr. Benjamin grabbed the paper and hushed her. ‘I understand that my daughter did something wrong. But you cannot ask her to pay fifty million naira. Elena is just a student. She is struggling hard to finish her school. She made just one mistake, you need to bury this and move on’. He tried to make the lawyer see reason with him. Ada’s face had changed. The smile was gone and in its place was a scowl. ‘I don’t care about your daughter’s financial capacity. This was the reason you both were invited’. Reach 1.5m People On The Davina Diaries Marketplace. Advertise For Just N5000 Elena had been asleep for hours. Her delicate body was still adjusting to the pain on her wrists and ankles and the newness of her environment. She was tired and afraid. This was the first time she would be sleeping in a dark and strange room. She’d dreamt of a woman in black dress strolling into her room. The woman had sad eyes, and the rest of her face was covered with black cloth. She had come to warn Elena about the white house. It wasn’t a good place to be. “You are not safe here. Go home,” those were the last words she remembered, before a pair of strong hands jerked her from sleep. Elena’s eyes roamed wildly as awoke. The room seemed brighter, and she could see it clearer. She slowly realized that she had slept for a very long time and morning had come. ‘Elena’? Aniekan called to her gently. He’d found her sleeping and hadn’t wanted to disturb her at first. He was lost in the admiration of her sleeping form. She wore a content smile on her pretty face as she smiled. And her short hair gave her this babyish look, which also reminded him of Imaobong. Aniekan cursed himself for not being able to let go of the past. Imaobong was gone, and he had to move on. The sound of his voice erased the sleepiness she was still feeling. She recognized Aniekan immediately. Tears sprang up in her eyes as she remembered what had gotten her here in the first place. ‘Please…release me. I promise never to write anything about you or your Game village’. Elena’s lips trembled as she begged. They had chained her like a dog, and treated her like a common criminal. She wouldn’t last long in this sort of living arrangement.

Episode 11 Please sir, I know you’re not a wicked person. I was quick to judge you. I just thought I was doing the right thing’. Elena paused. Her strength was failing her. She had lost energy from crying and wailing throughout the night. Aniekan was moved by her tears. People made mistakes, and this was the reason he would give her another chance. He had been trying to get Ada to think along the same lines, but she was bent on doing what pleased her. ‘Stop crying Elena’, he moved closer to her and raised her chin with his hands. Her glistering eyes met with his and he found it difficult to look away. Elena’s heart raced as she searched the dark eyes of the tech billionaire. A strange impartation filled her system. Though her strength was gone, a new surge of energy and hope filled her. What was he doing to her? Why were his eyes so powerful? ‘I am sorry’. Aniekan released her face and rose to his feet. Something about Elena attracted him, and he didn’t like whatever that was. ‘I brought you food and water. I am sorry about the way you were treated, I had no idea’. He untied the ropes that bound her and made her sit on the least dusty spot in the room. After which he offered her the tray. Elena continued to search him with her eyes, in a bid to read him. Why was he so kind to her? She had almost destroyed his reputation, yet he was offering her breakfast and soothing words? The thought of them being alone in the room scared her. What if this man had plans of taking advantage of her? ‘I am not hungry. Thanks for the food’. She pushed the tray away and quickly rose to her feet. ‘You’re not hungry? Why’? Aniekan could’ve sworn Elena was famished. Why was she refusing breakfast? He pinned her down with his powerful gaze, and she had nowhere to hide her thoughts. Aniekan noticed she was afraid, but of what? Elena watched as the corners of his mouth tweaked with a puckish smile. She noticed the tiny depressions on his cheeks; he had dimples. And he had this sexy look whenever he smiled. She felt guilty for admiring him. How could she admire someone that had the power to lock her up in here forever? ‘You think I would rape you’? Aniekan laughed. Elena was embarrassed by his question and the fact that he could read her mind. Was she that transparent? ‘Look, you’re just a kid Elena. I would never do something like that to anyone. And you’re way below my league, in age. I date people older or two years younger’. Elena didn’t like the way he addressed her, ‘I am not a kid’. Aniekan shrugged, ‘If that’s what you think. Now I came here to talk about what happened. I know you are sorry for what you did, and from what I gathered about you; you don’t have the means to pay fifty million’. He paused and watched her face, seeking to know her reaction. Elena couldn’t look into his eyes. She was fascinated by their darkness and gloominess. There was mystery in those eyes. She found it difficult to read him. ‘I want to make you an offer’. Aniekan covered the distance between them, so they were almost face to face. Elena couldn’t breathe as he moved next to her. His perfume was very masculine and powerful. It quenched the scent of dust in the room and it made her anxious. What did she smell like? Was her morning breath bad? What did he think of her looks? ‘Won’t you say anything’? He raised a brow. Elena shook her head. She couldn’t risk him perceiving a bad smell from her. ‘Well, instead of paying fifty million Naira. I want you to work for me and under pay. You’re a good writer, I read some of your pieces. I plan on getting a new creative writer for my newest game, “Demon Hall.” I’d like to have you on the team’. At first, she thought he was messing with her mind. Why would he make her such a wonderful offer after all she had done to him? ‘I don’t understand…’ Elena was forced to speak. She couldn’t believe this. ‘I know it is too much for you to take. But you are going to work for me and you’ll apologize online and in all media platforms’. He added. Tears splashed on her cheeks as she stared at Aniekan Umo. How could one man be this good? Getting a spot as a creative writer in Game Village was a huge deal. So many people dreamt of such a connection, but here she was. ‘Why are you being so nice to me? What do you want from me’? Elena asked in a shaky voice. This was too good to be true. He couldn’t hold himself back. He grabbed her small hands. ‘I don’t know what orientation you have. But I don’t want anything from you. You were desperate to make it, and that was the reason you tried to pull me down. I want you to make it doing something better than writing gossip. I am offering you an opportunity to better your life. You can take it or you leave it’. Elena’s eyes feasted on his face. She searched the deepest parts of her thoughts. Was he being truthful? Was he up to something? Satisfied with her scrutiny, ‘I’ll take it’. ‘Good. But you must live in the white house; I can’t have my workers coming to work late’. Aniekan released her hands immediately. Elena wasn’t comfortable with the last part. She wasn’t comfortable living with her new boss under his roof. Besides, the dream she had earlier, flashed in her mind. There was something strange about this house, and she didn’t want to be a part of it. ‘I cannot live with you sir. I…I prefer working from home’. He sighed, ‘You don’t have a choice Elena. You either take this job and what follows or you pay the fifty million’. Tayo had tried severally to reach Aniekan, but he wasn’t taking her calls. She had decided then to pay the white house a visit. She felt guilty for not reaching out to Aniekan for this long. Now she was going to ask for his help. ‘I can hardly wait’. She gritted her teeth as she got into the car. She would put Elvis and his little girlfriend to shame. She had it all planned out. Tayo hoped that Aniekan would take her advice and deal mercilessly with the blogger that had tarnished his image. The princess knew how soft hearted Aniekan was. In fact, her brother had told her one time that he had become very emotional after the death of his fiancée. Aniekan had the heart to forgive those who offended him. But she would make sure the blogger wasn’t forgiven. That would be her own way of paying Elvis back for what he did to her. After thirty minutes of driving, she finally reached the white house. The princess noticed the black jeep that was parked outside in the most awkward manner; cars were hardly allowed to park outside the white bungalow. And what annoyed her more was that the driver was directly in front of the gate. ‘Come on, get the hell out of my way’! Tayo honked. From her position, she clearly saw someone in the car, but what was taking this person so long to get his car out of the way? ‘Why are people so clumsy’? Tayo quickly turned off the engine and jumped out of her car.

good Tayo go and meet Elvis Benjamin maybe things will be clearer for you?

Next

that Ada is a snake,i pray u should talk to Elena to understand the whole thing

Next dear

Episode 13 Tears gathered in her eyes as she realized she would have hurt an innocent girl for her faulty assumption. Elena was just like any other random person who made mistakes. She couldn’t be crucified for what she had done to Aniekan, even though the consequences of her post would’ve been lethal to his reputation. But knowing Aniekan very well, he would have gotten over it. Elvis was equally stunned by her pronouncement. Everything within him melted, and he also felt horrible for the way he’d treated her the last time they met. ‘Tayo…’ he collected her arms gently, this time she didn’t resist him. The princess quickly blinked away the tears that had gathered in her eyes. She couldn’t let him see her. ‘Look at me…’ Elvis understood the way he felt, but he could never mock her for what had happened. Her jealousy meant only one thing; she was attracted to him, even though she would deny it. Tayo refused to look at his face. ‘I am also sorry for the way I treated you. You hurt my pride. I know I am not good for you. I am from the gutter, Tayo, but I am not ashamed of my background. From the day I was born, I have been fighting for existence. You know who I am. You know that I am thug. I accept that I am not fit for a princess, but I never wanted us to end things on a bad note. I am sorry for what I did. You aren’t a toy. You are a queen…’ Tayo was touched by his words. They elated her spirit, and chased all the doubts she had away. ‘What if I didn’t find you here? I would’ve made your sister’s life a living hell. I don’t usually do this. I don’t get jealous or mad at a guy for cheating. I just…’ Tayo pulled her hand away and turned her back against him. She was denying her true feelings. Elvis wasn’t the first man she’d been intimate with. But he was the first to evoke her amorous side. ‘You love me Tayo, but for reasons known to you, you’re not ready to pursue what you feel. I respect this. You will end up with someone from your class; a prince or a Governor’s son. I am attracted to you too. There’s no shame in love’. Tayo closed her eyes to prevent more tears from rushing down her cheeks. Elvis was right about everything. He wasn’t from her class, and her brother would never sanction the union. The only thing that could work between them was friendship and she was willing to consider this. ‘Can we be friends then’? She knew this would be difficult, but she was willing to try. Elvis smiled, he was learning new things about her every day. ‘I don’t know if I can take my eyes of your beautiful face, but I am willing to try’. His response tickled her, and this made her laugh. ‘I am so sorry for trying to ruin your sister’s life. To make amends for the way I have treated and spoken to you in the past, I will walk in there and talk to Aniekan to drop all the charges against her’. Elvis was stunned at her new behavior. ‘Are you for real’? He also considered her entrance, as a good way to escape from his parents. He would give the princess a written note for them, but he couldn’t hang around the white house, longer than he’d already done. Tayo shrugged, ‘try me.’ Elena knew she was in no place to argue with the billionaire. She had almost messed up his life, yet he had forgiven her. This singular act of kindness was one that she could never forget. ‘Thank you’, she whispered after eating the sandwiches he’d brought for her. ‘You’re welcome. You must come along now’. Aniekan reached for her hand and helped her to her feet. Elena was hesitant, ‘where are you taking me’? He shrugged,’ just so you know, your parents are already here. They came to negotiate with my lawyer, but we need to tell them about this new development’. Elena was surprised. She guessed her mother had returned from her travels. She couldn’t wait to see her father, whom Ese’s thugs had harassed. She was free at last, but her freedom came with a price. As they marched out of the dusty room into the dark corridor, Elena wondered what living in the white house would be like. Already, she was conscious about Aniekan around her, and she couldn’t explain what that feeling was. She also thought about the arrogant lawyer, and Aniekan’s brother, Ese. How was she going to live in a house with two people that didn’t like her? These and many more thoughts ran through her head as they walked through the corridor. Aniekan was also thinking. But he wasn’t thinking about the job he’d offered Elena. He still felt that strangeness of being watched by someone. If he wasn’t with her, he would’ve turned around to see if someone or something was stalking him. He decided to start a conversation with Elena to ease the tension he felt. ‘Where did you get the idea that I copied Kate Haley’s work’? He was a bit curious to know the source of her false story about him. If not for the darkness, Elena’s blush wouldn’t have appeared unnoticed by him, because she still felt embarrassed by what had taken place. ‘I love video games. I play a lot of games after a stressful day in school. Games help me relax, and take my mind off harsh realities’. She explained. It was her love for games that had drawn her to Luciferon. That was the moment she realized that Aniekan’s game shared a lot of similarities with Kate Hayley’s. ‘So, did you like it? Luciferon I mean…’ Aniekan smiled in the dark. He was interested in Elena; she wasn’t the boring type. And it seemed they had a lot of things in common. Elena smiled, ‘of course I did. I never knew you were the original producer. You are incredible’. Elena said. Luciferon was a very challenging game for her. It was highly creative, and the picture quality was topnotch. His insides rumbled at the sound of her praise. He’d been appreciated by a lot of fans and business partners for his creativity, but he’d never felt this satisfied and happy. ‘Well, I originally wrote the game plot for Haley. I didn’t have enough money to turn it into a game then. I was still learning how to climb the ropes’. He replied. Elena sighed, ‘now you’re made. I’d love to be like you one day. I am really sorry for what I did. I thought I was doing the right thing, but I almost ruined your career and credibility’. Though Aniekan had forgiven her, she still felt bad for what she did. He hadn’t planned for this, but an overwhelming desire to hold her hands and reassure her of his forgiveness possessed him. Aniekan quickly searched for her hands in the dark. Elena’s tummy rumbled in anxiety as she felt his warm hands on her left wrist. What was he doing? ‘I have forgiven you Elena. We all make mistakes, but the most important thing is to learn from our mistakes’. His words made her feel better, but she knew deep down that it would take more than just the warmth of his hands and beautiful words to totally absolve her from what she did. ‘Why are you being so nice to me sir’? Elena asked. ‘Don’t call me sir. My name is Aniekan’. He was irritated by her formal tone. Elena felt slightly uncomfortable with his preference, but she couldn’t do anything to upset him now. He’d given her a second chance to make things right, and she was going to take it. ‘I don’t have any reason to be nice to you’.

Episode 14 Elena hadn’t seen this coming, but he released her hand like something that bugged him, once they reached the end of the corridor. Something about his action didn’t sit well with her. Elena hated being treated like she didn’t matter. ‘Hurry, we don’t have time to waste’. Aniekan beckoned to her as he led the way towards the garden, where the meeting was being held. The cook was seeing the lady who’d been locked by Ada for the first time under daylight. She held her breath as she watched Elena walked past her. How could two people share this sort of resemblance? Idara placed a shaky hand against her chest as the memories of that horrible night replayed in her mind. If only the boss knew that his lawyer was evil, he would be more careful of that woman. Together, Ada and Ese had conspired to harm her mistress. And they almost succeeded. She cast one look at the dark corridor. Idara was the only one who knew the secret that lurked in that part of the white house. ‘I have to see her. I must tell her everything that is happening’. She grabbed the tray of apples that she held, and advanced towards the forbidden wing of the white house. ‘You greedy pig! If you planned to enrich yourself through my child, you’ve failed. We will not pay a kobo. If you really mean business, we go to court’. Tamar insisted. Anger welled up within her as she stared at Aniekan’s lawyer. The woman definitely had something up her sleeves. Ada gritted her teeth angrily, she hadn’t seen this coming. She didn’t know Elena’s parents would be this troublesome. If she had envisaged this barrier, she would’ve asked Ese and his men to destroy them. No one could stand between her and the goals she wanted to achieve. ‘Court? I am doing you a favor Madam. If we go to court, Elena could be sentenced for many years. You should be grateful for this offer’. Ada replied, but Tamar wouldn’t hear her out. Tamar could smell a fraud from a far distance. She was an ambitious woman herself, and she had tried to use her daughters to change her social class. Ada had tried to sound responsible, and genuinely interested in her client’s affair, but she wasn’t a good pretender. ‘Oh come off it! You are just a baby lawyer, who feels she can use backdoor tricks to intimidate I and my family. The highest I can pay for this problem is Five hundred thousand. If your client cannot accept, then he should forget about it’. Mr. Benjamin was tired of arguing with the women; he simply remained quiet and adulated the ambience of the white house. Ada was infuriated by Tamar’s insults. ‘I will show you what it means to be a baby lawyer’! Ada quickly moved to where Ese stood. She had to give him a new set of instructions. Already, Ese knew that the deal wasn’t going on well and it angered him too. But he hadn’t interfered. It was Ada’s part, and she needed independence to deliver her best. He always handled the dirty part of business. He was patient for his turn. ‘Go and add more locks to that room. Elena Benjamin is not leaving the white house today’. Ada carefully instructed Ese. Tamar had dared her; she would prove to the woman that no one spoke to Ada Elechi anyhow they pleased. Just on time, Aniekan strolled into the garden with Elena closely behind. ‘Elena’! Tamar was the first to notice her. She quickly rushed towards her daughter in excitement. Ada’s heart leapt as she realized Aniekan had found the girl. She wasn’t comfortable with the scowl on his face. She knew exactly why he wore such a look. She had maltreated Elena, and he had caught her off-guard. Slowly, Ada dropped the papers on the large table and stared at the duo. ‘Good morning Aniekan’, she forced a smile. ‘Good morning Ada. I trust you are having a nice time with the Benjamins’. Aniekan returned her fake smile. Ada nodded quickly, ‘they have refused to pay the fifty million’. She reported immediately. Elena had been mad with her mother for what she’d done to Eno and Cassie. She had always planned to snub Tamar and ignore her for weeks until she was genuinely sorry for her actions. But Elena couldn’t hold onto her grudges any longer. Being away from her family, and losing the power of choice for a night, had taught her to cherish the shortest moment they had with each other. ‘I can’t believe you’re here mom’, Elena sobbed and buried her face on her mother’s chest. Soon, her father joined them. He was also happy to see that his daughter was in good shape. ‘Elvis came home to break the news in detail to us’. Mr. Benjamin whispered. On hearing her brother’s name, Elena stopped sobbing and looked up. ‘Elvis? How…’ she paused as she realized that news travelled really fast. ‘Your brother came with us; I should get him from the car’. Tamar suggested. Elena grabbed her by the shoulder and stared into her father’s eyes at the same time. ‘There is something I must tell you two’. Aniekan’s mind was far, even though he was sitting beside his lawyer who offered him the details of meeting. He could her voice, but he couldn’t understand the words. Aniekan’s eyes were pitched at the spot where Elena was meeting with her family. She was crying! He couldn’t believe a night away from home could affect her that much. It was such a beautiful scene to see her family together again. A part of him felt bad that he had allowed Ese to keep her in the white house. ‘She is not paying the fifty million’. Aniekan raised a hand in the air. With all the strength left in him, he peeled his eyes from Elena and her lovely family and stared at his lawyer. Ada laughed, ‘I don’t understand’. Aniekan exhaled slowly, ‘you locked her up in the forbidden wing. I forgive you for that. But I cannot forgive your lies and pretence. Elena is a hardworking lady and I will give her a chance to prove herself to me, instead of crucifying her’. Ada was enraged by Aniekan’s words. How could he take a decision without consulting her? ‘You don’t have to understand. I am offering Elena a job in Game Village. She would live in this house and work for a year or as long as she wants. I don’t care about your opinion on this matter’. Aniekan was about to say more when the gate was opened, and princess Tayo walked in majestically. He was shocked to see her in the white house. He hadn’t seen Tayo for a very long time. All eyes focused on the princess as she marched to where the Benjamins stood. Tayo’s eyes grew icier as she noticed Tamar, the greedy pig. ‘Elvis asked me to send you this note. He had to leave urgently’. Tayo offered the paper to them. Tamar’s arrogance disappeared, the minute she recognized the princess. She was suddenly filled with shame for all she’d done. Elena observed her the silent exchange between her mother and the striking black beauty, whom she had seen before. ‘Where did our son go’? Mr. Benjamin asked. Tayo raised her shoulders, ‘I don’t know, but he doesn’t want you to look for him’. With this, she strolled over to the table where Aniekan sat with his lawyer. ‘Who is that woman and why did she look at you that way’? Elena asked her mother in a whisper. Tamar was too embarrassed to tell her daughter the truth. ‘We can talk about her later. What did you want to tell us’? Elena closed her eyes and pulled in some air. She didn’t know how her parents would react to this news. But she was happy about the job offer. It was better than paying fifty million. ‘He doesn’t want me to pay fifty million. Instead, I’ll work in his company for a year to prove my repentance. How does that sound’? Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin exchanged glances, because it was too good to be true. The moment she reached the table, Aniekan was already up on his feet. He bowed his head in honor of her royalty. Tayo noticed a taller guy who was definitely Aniekan’s younger brother. He stood far away and under a palm tree. His eyes were cold and unfriendly, but she wasn’t afraid of him. She noticed the light skinned woman in suit who shared the table with Aniekan. For some reason, Tayo didn’t like this woman. Tayo noticed the woman’s face was flushed, and she wore a deep frown. ‘You may leave now’. Aniekan snapped his fingers. ‘Are you sure you’re taking the right decision about Elena’? Ada clenched her jaw as she stared at him. ‘I have, thanks’, Aniekan nodded. Angrily, Ada gathered all the papers into her briefcase and hurried out of the garden, leaving the table for Aniekan and the princess.

first step fail... u guys (Ese and Ada) should know that it is a bad omen

Episode 15 Whoa, that one is a dragon’. Tayo felt Ada was being insolent to Aniekan. ‘Well, when things don’t go your way, it could transform you to a dragon’. Aniekan smiled. He was still trying to figure out why Tayo had visited him. He was closer to her brother, the King. Tayo was just an acquaintance. ‘I know you’re surprised to see me here. I would go straight to the point. I heard about Elena Benjamin and what she did to you. I know what I am about to ask is huge, but you have to help me Aniekan’. ‘Help you’? He wasn’t following. ‘Please don’t sue her’. Tayo begged. For Tayo to “beg,” for a favor meant Elena was special to her. It made him curious. ‘Why? What is she to you’? He asked calmly. Tayo smiled, ‘you’re a very smart man, I must say but this matter isn’t about me. I just want you to do me a favor. You may need my help sometime’. Aniekan shrugged, ‘I changed my mind about suing her. I offered her a job instead. Trust me princess, I am not that heartless. ‘ ‘You did’? Tayo couldn’t believe her ears. She got up and moved over to where he sat so she could hug him. Aniekan thought he had enough of the appreciation. It wasn’t long before Elena’s parents moved over to where he sat and began to shower him with blessings. All through their prayers, his eyes were fixed on Elena’s. He noticed she was shy, but he found it difficult to take his eyes off her. A week after had passed since Aniekan had taken the decision of hiring Elena without consulting her. Ada couldn’t believe that her plans to getting richer by millions had been jeopardized by Aniekan. In a few days, Elena was going to return to the white house with her belongings; this would mark her appointment as a worker in the Games Village. ‘What’s on your mind? You’ve been very quiet darling’. Ese glared at Ada’s naked back from where he lay. He was also upset about his brother’s decision, but he didn’t know what else to do. Ese noticed that Ada had become more withdrawn and quiet since Elena’s release. He knew she wasn’t happy about Aniekan’s decision, so was he. Ada had tried logging into the Games Village website for some information, but she wasn’t able to. She felt frustrated after being automatically logged out twice. ‘I give up. I am tired of working with your brother’. Ada slammed the table with her palms and quickly pushed the laptop away. Ese sighed and rolled out of bed to meet her. ‘Are you giving up on our plans already’? His hands caressed her delicate shoulders. Ada closed her eyes, as she re-imagined how humiliated she had felt when Aniekan had announced the news of Elena’s recruitment to Games Village. ‘He has started keeping secrets from me. I no longer control his decisions and movements. That is not a good thing, Ese’. Ada released the breath she held, and slowly opened her eyes. Before now, Aniekan always consulted her before taking any major life decision or professional decision. Why had he suddenly changed at the sight of Elena? ‘I told you that girl was no good. She has dark powers and she is clouding his judgment. Now that he has hired her and invited her to live here with us, her presence would make things more difficult’. She reached out for Ese’s comforting hands. Ese lowered his lips and pressed it against her bare skin. ‘I’ve been waiting all these while for you to come up with a new plan. Obviously, you don’t have one. You feel defeated. You feel our plans to conquer my brother and take over his company would never materialize…’ Ada was skeptical their plans would ever come to pass. ‘Look Ese, let us be real. Aniekan’s move has put us in a very bad place. What if he knows about our relationship? What if he knows we are plotting against him? He didn’t have the courtesy to tell me of his plans; we don’t know what his next move is. He could get me fired tomorrow and get a new lawyer. You don’t understand how deep in shit we are’. Ada complained. But Ese understood. He had been very shocked at his brother’s decision, but he wasn’t the type to give up hope easily. ‘I have a new plan, one that would benefit us more than the former plan’. He released her shoulders and pulled the computer towards himself. Ada scoffed; she had always been the one with the ideas, while Ese did the dirty work. ‘What do you have in mind’? She couldn’t think of any smart plan that Ese would come up with. Killing Aniekan at this point was meaningless. He may have written a new will that wouldn’t have his brother’s name on it. They were sitting on a time bomb. They had to be careful. Like Ada who’d tried to log in, Ese’s password was declined. ‘What sort of shit is this’? Ese frowned. ‘I experienced the same thing. Do you think Aniekan has blocked us from assessing the Games Village site’? Ada asked in a shaky voice. Ese scratched his head and glared at the site, ‘I don’t know. But I have a plan, you should hear it’. Ada decided to distract her mind with this new plan of Ese’s. Currently, she was lost on how to handle Aniekan. Maybe this plan would help out. ‘We both know he has been working on a new game. Demon Hall would be the biggest game the world has ever seen. It would secure his title as the best game creator in history, and this would come with a lot of profits. Already, investors are interested in the game, and multinational companies are willing to partner with this brand’. Ese paused and watched Ada’s face closely. It seemed she didn’t understand where he was going. Ada knew of Demon Hall, it was the next biggest thing after Luciferon. ‘How do we come in here? I can no longer tell your brother’s next move, what part would we play here’? Ese smiled and continued, ‘Demon Hall would be released in a few weeks. If we can steal the prototype of the game, we can sell it off to rival game companies…’ Without waste of time, Ese moved over to the laptop and typed in some words. ‘I did my research and I have found several Asian Video Game specialists who will be interested in buying Demon Hall. All we have to do is steal the prototype and you will write some papers stating me as the original owner. We sell it successfully, get our money and flee the country’. Ese was sure that this plan would work. Ada was impressed by this new plan. As he spoke, she envisioned it with her mind. ‘You’re so smart my darling, but there is just one problem’. ‘And what is that baby’? Ese lowered himself, until their faces were close. ‘How do we get the prototype without raising dust? And after we’ve fled the country, what do with you with your brother? He would haunt us for the rest of our lives.’ She searched his eyes for answers as she spoke. Ese had figured all her questions before now. ‘You are his lawyer, and I his brother. We have to be closer to Aniekan like never before. Concerning what we’ll do after we’ve sold the prototype, I’ll handle him once we have gotten our hands on it’. ‘How will you handle him’? Ada had to be sure what he planned would play out. ‘Don’t worry; we will not stain our hands this time around. I know of a hit man’. Ada was thrilled by this splendid strategy; she had never encountered a plan so brilliant. ‘Come here darling, you deserve some good loving tonight’. She pulled Ese closer to her, in readiness for a kiss. Their lips were about to be united in one move, when a loud knock startled the lovers. They pulled apart immediately. ‘Are you expecting anyone’? Ese’s eyes were fixed to the door. If his brother had come to see Ada, he needed to hide somewhere. Aniekan could never get wind of their affair. Ada rose to her feet and grabbed her nightgown from the bed. ‘No, I am not expecting anyone’. She replied and moved towards the door to take a peek. When she pulled the door backwards, she was surprised to see the clumsy cook. ‘What are you doing here’? Ada fired at the girl. Idara was shaken by the harshness in her voice, and from the little she had heard from eavesdropping. ‘I…you ordered for a croissant and a cup of coffee’. She presented a silvery tray containing freshly baked rolls. Ada recalled giving the order, what she didn’t understand is why it took the cook so long to get it done. ‘You’re such a snail, give me that’! Ada grabbed the tray forcefully and shut the door to the girl’s face. ‘Who was that’? Ese noticed the tray in Ada’s hands. The delicious aroma of the snacks drew him closer to her. ‘Idara. We should get a new cook soon’. Ada fetched a roll and chewed on it. Ese shrugged, ‘why? Her meals are delicious’. ‘I have a bad feeling about her. She has been in the white house too long. I shall find a way to convince Aniekan to fire her’. To be continued…

I'm enjoying the story

next pls.

She will be the one to expose you guys

I love this story

Episode 16 His head was spinning from not having enough sleep these few days. He had given himself an ultimatum of three works, to finalize his work on Demon Hall. Most of his employees knew how determined he was when deadlines were involved. Aniekan had made up his mind to finish all the work on Demon Hall, but his time was limited. Fatigued, he pushed the laptop aside and pulled out the phone from his pocket. He had run out of ideas, and he needed to speak to someone from the creative department in Games Village to help him out. Apart from the tiredness he felt, Aniekan sensed a deep hole inside of him. There was a part of him that was missing, and he hadn’t felt this way for a long time since the death of Imaobong. He couldn’t just put a finger around this feeling of loneliness. Slowly, he realized why the void was there. ‘Come off it, she’s just girl’. He muttered. He’d gotten the answer! The absence of Elena was the reason he felt empty. Though he hadn’t spent much time with her, the few minutes they had together a week ago, at the forbidden wing of the house had been interesting. He noticed she’d been a bit withdrawn, or was she afraid of him? Aniekan anticipated her arrival. He couldn’t wait to set eyes on the beauty again… There was something about her eyes, they possessed innocence. She seemed like a good person, and that was the reason he’d helped her in the first place. Aniekan couldn’t hold back his thoughts anymore. He needed to see her or talk to her. He just needed to know that Elena was okay. He quickly tapped his phone. He had collected her phone number, and he guessed she was on Whatsapp. Though he was officially her boss now, he didn’t mind reaching out to her on a personal level. He just couldn’t sleep without a word from her. The seamless silence he enjoyed was broken by a rap on his door. ‘Who’s there’? A frown wrinkled his forehead. ‘It’s me sir…’ Idara stuttered. She had heard the conversation between Ada and Ese. It terrified her and brought back painful memories of what they had done to her mistress. She needed to warn Aniekan about those two and expose their plans. ‘Come in’. The frown quickly dissipated. He’d thought Ada had come to speak to him or persuade him to change his mind about Elena. He was done with taking advice from a dishonest lawyer. He was still angry with her, for the way she had treated Elena. He was still contemplating on the best action to take. One thing was certain; Ada would pay for her lies and cruelty. Although Elena hadn’t been innocent, she didn’t deserve such a horrible treatment from Ada. ‘Good evening sir’, Idara marched into the room on wobbly legs. ‘Evening, can I help you’? Aniekan asked without looking away from the phone. He didn’t remember asking her to prepare something special for him. Her visit was a surprise, but he guessed she had something important to say. Tears stung her to quietness. She found it difficult to utter another word as she weighed the consequences of what she was about to confess. What if Aniekan doubted her? She had no evidence that Ada and Ese were bad people. That would only get her into trouble. ‘I am sure you didn’t come all the way from your wing to stay silent’? Aniekan was uncomfortable with her presence. She was the only domestic staff that had visited his bedroom. He didn’t want that closeness. Idara quickly brushed the tears from her eyes, ‘I just wanted to tell you that…’ she swallowed, ‘I’ll be going to the market tomorrow and I’ll need some money’. He now understood why she had come, ‘you should’ve come earlier. I don’t have cash on me right now, but I could arrange something in the morning’. Idara nodded and bent her knees, ‘thank you sir, and goodnight’. Aniekan muttered a response, ‘goodnight. One more thing, prepare the fifth room. We’ll have a new guest; she’ll be staying with us for a while.’ ‘Alright sir, that wouldn’t be a problem’. Idara cast one glance at Aniekan’s back before leaving the room. She knew very well that Elena Benjamin was the guest. Idara was unhappy about this arrangement. Nobody was safe in the white house, as long as Ada and Ese were there. She needed to talk to someone. Idara needed the help of her mistress. ‘She’s online’, a boyish smile curved his lips. He quickly typed a message and waited for a reply. He couldn’t wait for Elena to move into the white house. At first, her mother had been skeptical about Aniekan’s offer. Tamar was uncomfortable with the people that lived in the white house. There was Ese, Aniekan’s rough looking brother. And there was Ada, the lawyer whom she referred to as “Ogbanje”. Tamar saw Elena’s release as a chance to escape from Aniekan’s claws forever. She had been prepared to find a way for Elena to join her older sister in the U.S.A. Fleeing Nigeria or getting married to a wealthy man were the only options for Elena. But, Mr. Benjamin didn’t accept his ex’s ideas. From the first time the old man had seen Aniekan, he’d liked him instantly. Mr. Benjamin sensed that the young billionaire was a straightforward and trustworthy person. He wouldn’t do anything to harm their daughter in any way. If he had any evil plans towards Elena, he would never have released her. This was his way of helping Elena to achieve her dreams. “Elena!” Elena had been on her bed, thinking about her relocation and what her new experiences would be like in the white house. She thought about Aniekan, and how handsome he was. His kindness and gentleness in the way he’d acted towards her really touched her. All men weren’t scum, some were different. She had seen genuine care and concern in his eyes, she was sure of this. Aniekan wasn’t as tough like a typical Nigerian boss would be. He was easygoing and friendly. But there was one thing she didn’t like about him, and that was an impression she intended to correct. For reasons known to him, he saw her as a child and that was demeaning. She was twenty three years old going to twenty four! From Wikipedia’s record of him, he was nine years older than she was. That didn’t place him on a position of higher maturity. To her, age was just a number. Most times, people felt she was older because of the wisdom and boldness that flowed from her. Tamar had announced to Elena as her wisest child, in the presence of her siblings. Everyone in her family respected her, and held her in high esteem. Why was Aniekan different? He had insinuated she was a child twice at the white house. ‘I hope he gets over his older guy ego’. Elena sighed and dragged herself from the bed, so she could heed her mother’s call. ‘Yes mother’! Elena quickly grabbed her android and rushed towards the living room. She had noticed the strange behavior of her parents. Elena had caught her father checking her mother’s hips out. He’d been so lost in adoration, that when their eyes finally met, Elena looked away in embarrassment. To be continued…

interesting,u we meet Elvis thy too

Ada u are a lawyer not the woman of that house ,u can't be taking decision always

Those guys (Benjamin and Tamar) will reconcile maybe

Episode 17 Usually, his presence would have irked Tamar to the bone, but she had been every quiet. Elena had also caught her mother, staring absently into her father’s eyes. Were they having sex? Were they getting back together? ‘That would be great’. Elena chuckled as she descended the stairs. She knew her mother wanted to give her an extra round of advice, on the way she would live peacefully at the white house. Tamar spoke to her everyday concerning this matter. Her mother wasn’t comfortable with the lawyer. She saw something evil in the woman, even though Elena was yet to tell them how Ada locked her up in an old room. “Elena!” Tamar’s voice grew louder. She was in the kitchen, making a smoothie with aloe-vera and cucumber. And she wanted Elena to have some. ‘I am almost there’! Elena shouted back. Just as she was about to land on the last case, her phone beeped thrice; she had three messages. She quickly raised the phone closer to her face, and tapped on the message icon. It was Aniekan! Elena couldn’t believe he’d texted her after many days he got her number. ‘He sent me three messages’. She held her breath and glued her eyes to the phone. ANIEKAN: Hello? ANIEKAN: Hello? ANIEKAN: Hello? Are you sleeping? I just wanted to see if you’re okay, smallie. Elena rolled her eyes at the last word. She didn’t like being called, “smallie.” ELENA: Good evening sir. ANIEKAN: I told you to drop that. ELENA: Hmm, I am good. Thank you. ANIEKAN: My name isn’t that difficult or you could go for muffin. Fifteen minutes had passed since she called upon her daughter, but Elena had failed to show up. Tamar grabbed a glass of the green juice and decided to stroll towards Elena’s room. To her greatest surprise, Elena was in the living room. And she had a complacent smile on her face. Her eyes glowed as her fingers worked on the phone. Tamar noticed that her daughter was blushing. Due to her absence, she didn’t know much about Elena’s love life. But from the look of things, Elena had a man who knew the right buttons to press. ‘I hope he is a rich guy. You know I love the best for my children’. Tamar dropped a glass on the centre table and balanced in a cushion chair. Her mother’s sharp voice made her heart skip. She’d been caught off-guard. From the look of things, Aniekan was flirting with her. Why would you want an employee to call you “muffin?” He was definitely flirting! And for some strange reason, Elena liked it. She liked him. ‘I don’t understand mom’, she quickly turned off her phone and stared at Tamar’s questioning eyes. Tamar pointed at the glass on the table, ‘you should drink that, it helps to detoxify. Detoxification is good for soon-to-be brides. I hear one of the benefits is easy conception’. Tamar winked. Elena scoffed and decided to ignore the woman. She was still mad that her mother had tried to sell off Eno and Cassandra, but she had to get over it. Tamar may be materialistic, but she loved her dearly and wanted the best for her. ‘I don’t have a man if that’s what you’re asking. I am in my early twenties, and I am working towards great achievements and a solid career in writing’. Tamar rolled her eyes, ‘you’re such a bad liar honey. Of all my daughters, I see myself in you. You are very hard working. But that shouldn’t stop you from finding love. Hold onto that man you are chatting with, I have a feeling he is a good guy’. Elena smiled and grabbed the glass. ‘I don’t have a boyfriend mother’, Elena insisted. While they were both arguing, her father strolled in from his bedroom. Mr. Benjamin had found it difficult to sleep; thoughts of his honeymoon consumed his mind. He remembered how beautiful a bride Tamar was. They had been very young, happy and full of dreams. But she changed after two years, and that was when his life became a living hell. His reflection made him wonder where he had gone wrong. ‘What are you two bickering about’? he settled in a chair close to Elena. ‘Your daughter here has a boyfriend, but she doesn’t want to admit’. Tamar flashed her teeth in a smile. She was starting to loosen up in his presence. Sometimes, her own actions confused her. Why was she drawn to the same man she’d despised? Elena blushed, ‘I don’t have a man mom’! Mr. Benjamin believed her. He’d lived with Elena for months, and he could tell when she was being truthful or when she was trying to hide something. ‘She doesn’t have a man Tamar, but I know someone who could be interested in her’. He winked. Elena’s heart skipped when her father said this. ‘Who? Tell me’. Tamar quickly rushed to his side and sat next to him. ‘Bribe me’. Mr. Benjamin’s eyes twinkled wickedly as he stared into Tamar’s lovely eyes. Elena adored the scene before her. She suddenly realized that she had missed growing up in a home with two parents. It wouldn’t hurt to have such an experience even now she was older. Elena wished they could work things out and get married again. ‘Nah, I don’t do bribes. Whatever you two are hiding, I’ll discover’. Tamar dusted her palms and returned to her chair. Mr. Benjamin and Elena began to laugh. Unknown to Elena, her father knew about Aniekan’s interest in her. He had seen it written all over the billionaire’s face. This was the reason he didn’t try to stop Elena from returning to the white house. Elena was also attracted to Aniekan. He was giving them a chance to find their paths in the world to love ‘So when last did you hear from Elvis?’ Elena quickly switched the topic. Before now, she had spoken to her elder brother about his concern for her. She appreciated Elvis for coming home to tell their parents about what had happened. But he had warned her not to tell them anything about his location. He would remain in the shadows to keep his family safe, and Elena understood why. Elvis didn’t need to tell her that he was in some brotherhood. She was smart and had figured it out by herself. She just needed to make her parents believe that Elvis was living a normal life. ‘He called me twice after your release. It seems your brother isn’t prepared to come home’. Tamar chipped in, and Elena shrugged. ‘Your mother is right, Elvis doesn’t want to be a part of us and we should respect that. Let us give him time. He will come around when he is ready’. Elena sighed and glanced at their happy faces. She was going to miss the Benjamin mansion and everything in it. ‘I’ll miss you mom and dad’. Her voice cracked. “We’ll miss you too darling’. Her parents chorused.

Episode 18 He’d awoken earlier than everyone else in the house; today was going to be a busy day at the office. He would hold a meeting with the creative department and some business partners who showed interest in sponsoring Demon Hall. Aniekan glanced through his wardrobe after taking a shower. He was excited this morning, he felt like he was sixteen again. In a few minutes, Elena would come to the white house with all of her belongings. He couldn’t wait to meet her again. ‘Nope’, he ran his fingers across his myriad of suits. He was tired of being formal. To hell with formalities, he was going to appear differently today. Quickly, Aniekan grabbed a pair of jean and a deep blue polo shirt that complemented his skin tone. When he was done with his dressing, he rushed out of the room to have his breakfast. His eyes moved straight to the clock as he stepped into the dining hall. This was 7:30 and she wasn’t still here ‘Are you expecting someone’? Ada’s voice interrupted his thoughts. At first, Aniekan had wanted to ignore her, but he decided to act cool. For Elena’s sake, he was willing to compromise. He didn’t want her coming to a house where warmth was lacking. He wanted her to be very comfortable. ‘Elena should be here soon. She resumes today’. He pulled a chair back and settled in. ‘You did a good thing by hiring her. I did a background check on her, her works are very creative and she likes the fantasy genre. A fantasy writer would help with the creative part of the games’. Ada began. She unwrapped the neatly folded napkin that was close to her and placed it on her laps. It was time for everyone in the white house to have breakfast. She would use this opportunity to find her way back to Aniekan. She couldn’t let him toss her aside like she was some toy. Aniekan almost choked on piece of fried yam he chewed. Did his lawyer just sanction his decision? Ada never agreed with him on many issues. If she didn’t criticize, she would ask him to do things her way. What had changed? ‘I don’t understand. You seemed pretty mad at her for what she did. And you were fixed on the fifty million. You even locked her up in that room’. He dropped the mug and grabbed a serviette. Ada swallowed and dropped the fork she held. ‘Look, I am sorry Aniekan. I never meant to hurt her. I was just upset that someone would try to ruin all that you built. I wanted her to pay so badly for it. But I am over it now; whatever makes you happy is my priority’. A few minutes later, Ese joined them on the table. ‘Good morning brother’. He wore a forced smile as he strode into the dining hall. ‘Morning Ese, Aniekan greeted. He noticed that his brother’s eyes were reddish and swollen. It seemed Ese didn’t get enough sleep. ‘You look tired, I hope you’re good’. Aniekan grabbed a fork, ready to have a taste of the fries. Ese bit his lip and stole a glance at Ada, who was busy picking at her yam pieces. ‘I was very busy last night’, Ese replied. ‘It is a good thing to work hard’. Aniekan knew Ese was very lazy and lacked innovation. This was the reason; he hadn’t offered his brother any significant position in Games Village. The room fell silent as everyone focused on the meal before them. While Aniekan’s immersed himself in culinary enjoyment, Ada and Ese kept exchanging glares with each other. After six rounds of sex, they had rehearsed their lines over and over again. They had planned everything from beginning to the end, it was impossible for Aniekan to come out of this alive. ‘Brother’? Ese made a sound with his throat. ‘Yes’? Aniekan didn’t like people bothering him when he was having a delicious meal. ‘Are you still launching Demon Hall in two weeks time’? Ese asked. They needed to get a wind of Aniekan’s plan; it was the easiest way to deal with him. Aniekan wasn’t in the mood to discuss work. Elena was yet to arrive, and that got him worried. Had she played him? What if she failed to show up? Already, she had fulfilled one end of the deal, by circulating apology letters to sixty blogs and two national newspapers. But that wasn’t the end. He wanted her to work with him; he wanted to see Elena again. ‘I am sorry Ese, but I am not in the mood to talk about work’. Aniekan rinsed his mouth with a glass of water, and walked out of the dining hall. He decided to get some fresh air in the garden. Something didn’t feel right about Ese’s interest in Demon Hall. Ese was always indifferent about his games, all he wanted was cash to hang out with his friends. ‘Why? You always talk about work brother’. Ese glared at Aniekan’s face. He hoped what Ada had told him wasn’t right. If Aniekan knew they were plotting against him, they would find themselves in a very big mess. ‘I don’t have time for this Ese. I’ll see you later’. Aniekan marched out of the house. A gust of fresh breeze rustled his dark hair as he arrived in the garden. This was his relaxation spot, and he enjoyed spending some time alone with his thoughts. He quickly pulled his phone out of his pocket and was about dialing Elena’s number, when the gate was opened. She strolled into the white house in a majestic gait. He likened her to a queen who had come to claim new territory. And royalty suited her; the navy blue trouser suit she wore made her creamy skin brighter. It clung to her slender body, and revealed a little portion of her cleavage. Aniekan found it difficult to look away, he was a boob guy but smartness was a greater advantage. Elena wasn’t a beauty without brains, she was all in one. The phone fell out of his palms as he rose up to receive her. Elena rolled her box closely behind as she moved towards Aniekan, whom she first spotted the minute she stepped in. She’d kissed and hugged her parents more than five times. Though they acted like they would miss her, Elena had a feeling they were just pretending. Something wasn’t right with those two. They were still attracted to each other. Aniekan’s looks were striking. It would take a strong willed woman to avoid looking at him twice. But she quickly reminded herself that nothing could ever happen between her and Aniekan. Though he’d called her “smallie,” and “muffin,” those names didn’t change anything. Aniekan was now her boss, and she had to keep her distance from him. ‘What took you so long’? Aniekan smiled as she reached the spot where he stayed. Elena ignored his smile; she wouldn’t let her guard down. ‘I am sorry sir. I got caught up in traffic’. Aniekan noticed the scowl on her face; it seemed she was in a bad mood and wanted to be left alone. ‘Welcome. Go inside and meet my cook, Idara. She will show you to your room. If you ever need anything, just ask her or you come to me first. I give you thirty minutes before we leave for Games Village’. He walked past her like breeze; he didn’t cast a second glance her way. Something had changed in Elena, and it made him wonder if she was truly happy to work with him. Well, he would monitor her closely for two weeks, and if she still retained her gloomy countenance; he would let her come to work from her own house. ‘Finally’, Elena sighed and ran her eyes over the enormous bungalow. In her mind, she had set a boundary in her relationship with Aniekan. Now she had to find a way to keep her distance from the lawyer and Aniekan’s mean brother. Today would be her first day at work, and she wanted everything to turn out perfectly. To be continued…

Yeah yeah whatever you guys do, you will still end up together

i can see both of u love each an u are pretending

Episode 19 Ada had been peeping at Aniekan from the window; she had noticed a fire in his eyes, the moment Elena had stepped into the white house. That little witch already had Aniekan hooked. Ada hissed and pulled herself from the window. ‘What is it’? Ese dropped the fork he held and rushed to meet her. ‘Elena is here’. Ada chewed her food thoughtfully. She was not a fool. She wasn’t new to the white house neither was she new to Aniekan’s life. Imaobong’s death had ripped him apart, but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t notice a beautiful woman if he saw one. Three years was enough for anyone to find healing and closure. Ada guessed that Aniekan had. It all made sense to her now. Things were falling into the right places, the puzzle had been solved. ‘Of course, we were all expecting her’. Ese watched as the girl pulled her box out of the garden. ‘Your brother is in love with her. I now understand why he was so interested in the same woman that wanted to tarnish his image. I told you this girl was bad luck. We must find a way to get rid of her, else she would draw Aniekan to herself and control him. Already, her charms are working. If we do not act fast, we’ll lose’. Ada hadn’t been comfortable around Elena from the first meeting. First, she shared a resemblance with Imaobong, and now, Aniekan was fascinated by her. ‘Whoa, slow down baby. What are you talking about? My brother swore never to love another woman the way he loved Imaobong. Besides, people don’t fall in love in weeks. Love doesn’t just happen’. Ese scoffed. He wasn’t convinced by Ada’s argument. Ada was appalled by Ese’s words, but she tried not to show it. ‘You don’t understand! Women have sharper eyes than men. This girl is trouble, Ese. We must get rid of her’. Ada whispered. ‘If Aniekan is interested in Elena as you think, it could just be infatuation. I don’t see that nitwit as a threat. She is foolish and naïve. Her presence wouldn’t affect our plan in anyway. You are just scared o, because she looks like Imaobong. And I am tired of going down this road with you. We set Imaobong’s car on fire and we fed her poison for days. She is dead and gone’! Ese had to deal with Ada’s incessant nightmares and screaming. She grew more paranoid everyday and it irritated him. Even the mention of her name made her ill, ‘you don’t understand my fears Ese. Sometimes, I feel there is another presence in this house. I feel someone’s eyes watching me from a corner, but when I turn around, there’s no one’. Ese grabbed her by the shoulders, ‘that is because there is no one. Everything you feel is all in your head. Now, get rid of your fears and let’s focus. My brother is not ready to involve me in Demon Hall. You should try to get information out of him’. ‘And if I fail’? Ada asked. ‘We would have no choice but to find a way to reach the prototype’. ‘Good morning’. Elena whispered to the lawyer and Ese who stood by a window facing the garden. They had a guilty look on their faces. It seemed they had been talking about her. Ada faked a smile and rushed towards Elena, ‘Hi Elena, I hope you are good. You look so beautiful in that suit. Welcome to the white house’. Ada stretched out a hand for a shake. Ese couldn’t pretend to like Elena, he barely looked at her. He wasn’t much of a pretender, only when it came to his brother. ‘Thank you Barrister’. Elena responded and quickly took her hand. Elena realized that her mother had been right about the lawyer. Ada’s smile exuded evil and mischief; it didn’t reach her eyes. Elena could tell that her presence bothered Ada. She guessed her grudge was still about the fifty million naira. Ada released her hand slowly, ‘I hope you’ll put in your best in Games Village. I hear you are creative. Aniekan has told me so much about you. I am sorry I treated you that way Elena, I totally misjudged you. I am very protective when it comes to my clients. Aniekan is more like the brother I never had’. Elena could see through her lies, and her desperation to be accepted; but she wouldn’t have any of it. ‘I am sorry for the fake news I put up, but I have tendered my apologies and he has accepted. I must go now, he gave me only thirty minutes to get ready for work’. Elena strolled away from the duo, without looking back, even though she had no idea where she was going. ‘What do you think you’re doing Ada’? Ese scoffed. ‘I am going to buy my way into that little bitch’s heart. I noticed how her eyes brightened when I mentioned Aniekan. She likes him too! We would tear them apart’. ‘What makes you think she didn’t see through your charade?’ Ese had been watching the exchange calmly. He noticed that Elena’s eyes held a touch of cynicism. She knew Ada was playing her. ‘She saw nothing. She totally believes me’. Ada replied stubbornly. ‘Have you forgotten how you chained her to a chair in an old room? Who forgets that? Don’t beat up yourself honey; Elena can never be on your side. We need to find that prototype before the end of today’. These were his last words, before he strolled out of the living room. Ada pondered on Ese’s words. She realized that she had made a fool of herself before Elena. There was only one way to end this, and she wouldn’t let Ese know about her plan. ‘The battle line is drawn’. Idara had been peeping at the lovers before the entrance of Elena. Whatever little chance she had, she always eavesdropped on Ada and Ese. Her job was to report all of their plans to her mistress. She couldn’t hear much from where she hid, but from the look on Ada’s face, Elena wasn’t safe in the white house. ‘I need to get closer to her, before Ada does. She needs to be protected’. Idara thought. Elena blew some air from her lips and glanced around the dining hall. The cook that was to give her directives was nowhere to be found. Elena didn’t like the turnout of things. This was the only thing that would make her talk to Ada again. The moment she turned around and advanced towards the window, she noticed that Ada and Elvis were gone. It was as at that point that she noticed the window opened directly into the garden. It seemed they were spying on her. ‘Good morning Ma’, Idara popped out of her hiding place. From what she had observed from afar, Elena wasn’t rude. She would be a better person than the lawyer who gave her orders like she were a slave. She needed to find a way to get closer to Elena that was the only way to save every good person that resided in the white house.

I pray thy shouldn't harm Elena

What is happening in that house

Episode 20 Elena spun round at the sound of the soft voice. ‘Good morning’? She stared at the girl with questioning eyes. Idara was definitely a teenager; maybe seventeen or eighteen. She had small eyes and thick lips. It was her friendly smile that caught Elena’s attention. ‘You’re welcome, I’ve been expecting you’. Idara stared at the box Elena carried. Elena laughed, ‘really? You should call me Elena. I am not comfortable with “Ma”’. Idara had a feeling she would say that. She had noticed the grimace on Elena’s face when she’d addressed her formally. She was already comfortable around Elena; all she needed was more time. ‘Can I show you to your room now’? Idara asked. ‘Yes, I don’t have much time’. Elena quickly checked her wristwatch. She had just ten minutes left from the time Aniekan had given to her. She couldn’t test his patience on her first day at work, neither could she leave a bad impression at the Games Village. Idara walked briskly and led her towards the master wing of the white house; before Elena, only her boss had occupied this wing. For him to share it with Elena was significant. Idara wasn’t sure of it, but she had a feeling Aniekan liked Elena in a special way. She couldn’t let whatever feeling he had to go further. First, she had to tell him the secret; after which he could go ahead in pursuing Elena. All she needed was time, before Ada and Elvis’ evil plans sabotaged her good plan. ‘This house is so big’. Elena’s eyes glowed like a child’s who had seen a great wonder. All her life, she had never come across such a big house. She now understood why the media nicknamed Aniekan Umo’s home as the “white house.” Everything about the house was magnificent. The designs and colors weren’t just intricate; they were exceptional. The white house had been established for a king; Aniekan Umo was that king. And his abode suited him well. ‘Wait, till I show you to the other wings’. Idara smiled. ‘Other wings’? Elena rolled her eyes. She couldn’t believe there were other wings in the bungalow. ‘There are four wings; this is the main wing. There is the kitchen wing, the garden wing and…’, Idara bit her lip. She had almost spilled important information to Elena. Though Elena would become part of the white house, she was just a new born. She wasn’t ready to learn of the tragedy that had taken place three years back. Elena noticed Idara’s action. Obviously, she had wanted to say something extra, but she’d suddenly choked on her own words. It made Elena wonder if the girl was scared of her. Or maybe there was something Idara didn’t want her to know. ‘You only mentioned three wings. What about the fourth’? Elena pressed on. Idara felt her brows being drenched in sweat. She didn’t want to ruin this first meeting with Elena; but she didn’t want to lose her job either. Definitely, Aniekan wouldn’t be pleased if she shared such delicate information about her former mistress. It wasn’t in her place to share the news. ‘Um, I think you should hurry back to the boss. He is a very punctual person and he gets angry if someone wastes his time’. Idara had to find a way to distract Elena from asking more questions about the wing she’d refused to mention. This was her best shot at it, and she hoped that it would work. Elena lifted a mocking brow. Idara wasn’t smart. Elena felt Idara wanted to get rid of her, so she wouldn’t answer the question about the wings in the white house. But she was also right about Aniekan and punctuality. While going through his online profile, she had come across something like that. One of Aniekan’s turnoffs was not keeping to time and she didn’t want to be in his black book. ‘I’ll help unpack your box, if you want me to. The room has already been cleaned out. Everything is perfect’. Idara continued. From the look on Elena’s face, her sweet words were doing magic. Elena chuckled, ‘you little imp! You think you are wise eh? I am only leaving, because I don’t want to be late. But the moment I return, I am getting all that hidden information from you. Cheers’! Elena grabbed her bag tightly and waved Idara goodbye. Idara felt guilty for keeping the truth from Elena, but it was what any right thinking person would do. How could she tell Elena about the forbidden wing? First, that was the room Elena had been held captive by Ada? The forbidden wing held a lot of painful memories to most people living and working in the white house; Elena had no business knowing about the place. Idara was determined to keep that secret away from her. She could only tell her about the forbidden wing, when the time was ripe. ‘Bye Ma’, Idara pushed a smile and waved. She waited until Elena’s figure had disappeared, before she parted the door to the room and moved in with the box. It hadn’t been up to six hours, since their daughter left them for the white house, but Tamar and her ex husband were already feeling lonely. All their children were grown, and had moved out of the house. This was a new reality for them, especially Tamar, who’d never been alone before. After their divorce, she had kept her children and done the job of raising them alone. Due to her hatred for their father, she limited their visits to his house to once in a month. But Tamar noticed that the kids all preferred Benjamin to her. A sad smile roused the corner of her lips as she glared at the pictures on the wall of her room. There were pictures of her four children- Eno, Cassandra, Elvis and Elena. They were no longer children now, they were all grown. For the first time, Tamar felt different about staying in the mansion all by herself. She was empty and lonely; was this how she would live the rest of her life? All the servants she had were gone. Fear gripped her, as she imagined ending her days in such a lonely manner. She considered returning to Jamaica to be with her sister, but while in the Caribbean country, she’d noticed that her sister wasn’t comfortable with her visit. Where would she go then? ‘I sure as hell won’t stay in this house’. Tamar folded her arms across her chest. She was about stepping into the bathroom, to prepare herself for some grocery shopping, when she heard a knock on her door. There was just one person in the mansion, Benjamin. ‘Tamar’? Mr. Benjamin rapped the door twice and called her on the third. Now that his last daughter had begun a new life, he had no business staying in the mansion again. Tamar couldn’t find her voice. Her feelings towards her ex husband had changed. She became more self conscious around him; and she had a new found admiration for his physique. She no longer hated him like she did in the past. Perhaps, she had discovered that life wasn’t about money. Of what good would the big mansion she built be to her now she was feeling lonely? Tamar slowly realized that she had ruined the family with her own hands. Her insatiable appetite for material things had pushed her daughters away from her. It had driven Elvis, her only son to the wild. It had pushed their father away. With shaky lips, she admitted her faults over the years, ‘what have I done? I have been treading the wrong path. I have destroyed my life with my own hands’.

oh u just realized ba?

so u should know, Mr. Benjamin is wants to leave the mansion for you

cont...

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Episode 21 ‘Tamar, are you in there’? Mr. Benjamin pressed his ears against the door. He couldn’t walk into the room without knocking. What if she was indecent? He pulled in a sharp breath and waited, while contemplating on the next action to take. Now that Elena was away, he had no business staying under the same roof with Tamar. Though he’d been mad at her for treating him cruelly all these years, he had decided to let the grudges go. He was content with the way his kids turned out. Eno was happy with the man she chose for herself. The last time he spoke to Cassandra on phone, she’d sounded so relaxed and fulfilled. Elena was out of the trouble she’d gotten herself in. One thing was certain; she would end up with the tech billionaire. Mr. Benjamin had seen this from day one. Elvis, the long lost sheep of the family had returned. Though he wasn’t interested in forming a bond with the rest of the family, his interest in Elena’s matter counted for something. Mr. Benjamin was a happy man. It was time to move on and start over. ‘I came to tell you that I am leaving. Now that Elena is gone, it is appropriate for me to return to my house’. He bellowed. Tamar froze on hearing this. No, she couldn’t stay alone in the mansion. The thought of having Benjamin around made things easier for her. But if he walked out on her, like the rest of the family, how would she survive? She grabbed a light blue robe and slid her arms through. Quickly, Tamar rushed to the door and opened it. She had made a mistake by divorcing Benjamin in the first place; she wished she could turn back the hands of time. ‘You weren’t sleeping’. Benjamin noticed her eyes were alert. Why then had she ignored his calls? Tamar found it difficult to speak. Shame washed over her as she remembered the unkind way she had treated this man. She had betrayed him, and sold all of his cloth designs to an African Textile industry. And they had made a lot of money from it. Will Benjamin ever forgive her? ‘I…I wasn’t’, she stuttered. Benjamin noticed she wasn’t her bright or troublesome self. He had been with Tamar enough to notice when she wasn’t happy. This time, her eyes didn’t only portray sadness, but immense fear. What he didn’t know was what she feared. He also noticed the clean scent that emanated from her body. Whatever deodorant she used had a certain effect on him. It sent lewd images of them making love to his mind. He’d dreams of being with Tamar intimately some days back. The truth was that, he wasn’t leaving the mansion because his purpose had been served. He was running away from a romantic awakening. He had always loved Tamar all these years, even when she despised him. He couldn’t remain in that spot any longer. Tamar was a wealthy woman; she was still very young and beautiful. He guessed she was seeing someone. He couldn’t remain a victim; he had to stay far away from her. And his resolution would begin right there. Although he knew she was in a bad mood, he decided not to care. ‘Like I said, I am leaving’. He didn’t utter any word in return; he grabbed his box firmly and made for the stairs without looking back. Tamar watched him calmly, her teeth jittered. Her hands trembled as she watched him walk out of her life. Was this what she really wanted, a life of loneliness and regret? ‘He would never forgive me for all I have done’. Her mind whispered. Tears rushed down on her cheeks as Benjamin stepped on the last case. She found it difficult to control her emotions. She quickly rushed towards him and called out sternly. ‘Benjamin, please don’t go’! At first, he thought he hadn’t heard well, so he continued moving towards the door. ‘Please…’ Tamar descended the stairs after him. Her stubborn pride had taken her nowhere. She needed to apologize, and submit herself to him. The second call was firmer than the first. He paused the minute he reached the door. Mr. Benjamin could hear her sobbing; and the sound of her weeping broke the last resolve he had. Clearly, something was bothering Tamar and he couldn’t leave her in that state. He dropped his box gently on the floor and turned around. When he did, he couldn’t believe his eyes. Tamar was on her knees crying. ‘Tamar’? His brows furrowed. ‘Look, I know what I am asking is too much. It sounds ridiculous, even to my own ears. I have wronged you Benjamin. I have committed a great crime against you. I despised your love and promises. I abandoned our marriage when love was what we needed most. I tried to turn our children against you. I have been a terrible mother. Please forgive me for all the pain I have caused you. I need you Benjamin. My priorities in life were misguided. I have come to see the light and I want you to forgive me for starters’. Tears poured out from the corners of her eyes. Tamar’s heart was broken and contrite. Her words were sincere and straightforward. She wished Benjamin would grant her another chance at love and life. He couldn’t believe his ears. Tamar hardly apologized to anyone. Why would she want his forgiveness now? He realized that he wasn’t even mad at her, for all the things she confessed. He always loved Tamar deep down. ‘Why are you apologizing now’? He lowered his eyes, and fixed them on hers. He needed to see if she was trying to lure him into a trap. Tamar sniffed in some air, ‘I don’t have an agenda Benjamin. I saw the way you cared about our daughter. You are a good man. I was foolish’. It didn’t take a minute before he knew of certain that she was truly sorry. One of the things he liked about Tamar was his ability to see through her. The only people she could deceive were her children but not him. He knew her like the lines on his palms. ‘Okay, I forgive you Tamar. It hurts me sometimes when I remember how you betrayed me and sold off my designs, but I am over that. We both have made beautiful children; we should forgive each other and move on’.

Last episode He moved closer to where she knelt and grabbed her arms. ‘I forgive you darling. It’s not going to be easy, but I am willing to walk down that road’. He helped her up her feet. Tamar blushed; did he just use a pet name for her? Was he trying to send a message across? ‘Thank you, I can’t believe you’d forgive me so easily’. She flung her arms around his neck without thinking. The man laughed; he couldn’t believe his forgiveness meant this much to her. Still, he was convinced that Tamar had an agenda though not negative. The feel of her soft breasts sent a shiver down his spine. He had not been with another woman since the divorce. He had remained celibate all these years. Tamar loved the feel of his hard chest against hers. She loved the musky scent of his cologne; it smelt of tobacco and rosewood. She licked her lips nervously, and wondered what it would be like if they got together again. Since her divorce, she had not invited any other man to her bed. Benjamin was her first, and she hoped he would be her last. ‘Um, I have to go now. We’ll keep in touch, alright’? Benjamin pulled away from her quickly. He couldn’t risk a hard-on. She could never know he still had feelings for her. Tamar’s smile was faint. Yes, he had forgiven her, but she wanted more. ‘Benjamin…’ she threw caution to the wind. Even if he humiliated and rejected her, she didn’t care. But she was willing to try. The man paused and glared into her eyes. The deep wells of her brown eyes were enchanting and had a strong pull on him. He couldn’t look away. In her eyes, sadness no longer dwelt. Instead, he found something that amazed him; desire. ‘Please don’t go. Stay with me in our house. I built this house with the money I got from the designs. I will change my name to yours on the paper. I’ll do anything you want’. Tears gathered in her eyes again. He was stunned at this new revelation. He knew it! Tamar wanted something from him. ‘Why do you want us to live together? We’re no longer husband and wife, remember’? He tried to crack a joke, but she didn’t laugh. Tamar exhaled slowly and closed the space between them. She was risking her honor and pride, but it was worth the risk. ‘I am attracted to you. I may have despised you, but since you left, no man has ever shared my bed’. She watched as his pupils dilated in surprise. ‘You haven’t’? Mr. Benjamin couldn’t believe his ears. Well, assumption was a bad thing. ‘No, how about you? I am sorry I asked’. She blushed. ‘No, it’s fine. I have never been with another Tamar…’ he took a step and grabbed her fingers. It was time for his confession. For some reason, she felt thrilled by his words. How could a man keep away from other women for so many years? Benjamin was a man of virtue and valor. All she prayed for was a second chance. ‘I have never stopped loving you. Sometimes, I wondered if you’d cast a spell on me, because even when you hurt me the most, I found myself praying for you and the kids’. His eyes bored into hers, reaching to the depth of her soul. A tear scurried down her cheeks. This was true love in its undiluted form. ‘Please, just one chance to make up for all the things I did. If I fail to honor and love you, please you can walk away without looking back’. Tamar was about falling on her knees, but he fastened his grip on her fingers. ‘I forgive you Tamar. The truth is that I have been dreaming about you these few days. You awakened my desire and I thought running away could solve it’. ‘You did’? Tamar was surprised. Apparently, she wasn’t the only one that was in love. ‘Yes, but enough of that now; I want to show you what you mean to me. Together, we will love and grow older. We would sit by the fireside with our grandchildren and tell them stories of light, our life, and our love’. Tamar was caught up in her miracle to utter a word. It didn’t take long before Mr. Benjamin cupped her face between his palms and planted a deep kiss on her lips; one that she enjoyed. It was only a matter of time, before the lovers would let the passion that drove them to rule in the amorous atmosphere. The fire of love was never quenched; the burning coals had been safely hidden for a destined time. As Elena stepped into the corridor in the main wing, she noticed a movement. At first, she thought she hadn’t seen clearly. But as she moved closer, the figure dressed in black was realer. A strange sensation filled her bones. Goosebumps covered a great part of her skin as she saw the figure. Something about it wasn’t right. It scared Elena. ‘Hello’? Elena paused, hoping her mind was playing tricks on her. The figure didn’t respond. Slowly, it began to float towards the end of the corridor. ‘Hello, wait, who are you’? Elena rushed towards the figure. She hadn’t gone far, when she heard her name from behind. The moment she swirled round, the figure vanished and she was left with Aniekan. He had been searching everywhere for her. ‘Are you alright? You look like you have seen a ghost’. Aniekan noticed how pale her face was. Elena wasn’t sure about what she had seen. But she knew she had been brought into the white house for a purpose. ‘Do you believe in ghosts’? Elena blurted out. Aniekan scoffed, why would she even ask him that? ‘Personally, I don’t. But I hear that spirits of people who were wrongly killed could come back to haunt those that killed them’. He shrugged. Elena nodded and fell behind him as they both moved towards the car, but deep down, she knew that her mind wasn’t playing tricks on her. There was a higher presence in the white house; she would find the source of that presence. WATCH OUT FOR PART TWO.

Yeah with an Eagle eyes

Tamar and Benjamin well done

thank God you know

it should be soon,I can't wait to start part two

Hmm what a come back by the two lovers

Elena u have just seen your new boss girlfriend who everyone believes is dead but only the cook knows.....

Hmm can't wait for the next part....

Please be fast about the second part oo

Episode 1 Share this on WhatsApp The story continues… Elena couldn’t shake off the feeling of the mysterious presence that she had felt back at the white house. Something was definitely not right about the figure she had seen; she was quite sure that she wasn’t hallucinating. There had been a figure! It was cloaked in a black dress, but she couldn’t see its face. “You don’t look focused. Snap out of whatever you’re thinking, I am introducing you to some important board members of the Gamed Village.” Aniekan noticed the faraway look in her eyes. From the moment he’d met her by the corridor, he had sensed Elena was troubled. But he couldn’t interfere. Already he harbored some feelings for her, and he felt this wasn’t right. Elena was staying with him in the White House because she couldn’t pay in cash for almost ruining his brand. Attempting or considering a romantic relationship with her wasn’t an honorable thing to do; and he was a man of honor. Besides, Elena was far younger than he was. Though he’d considered these factors, it wasn’t that easy to keep his eyes away from her distracting beauty. “I am focused,” Elena mumbled as she got into the car, after him. She’d noticed a change in Aniekan, after spending some time in the White House. At first, he had been very friendly and playful, but he was different now. He seemed reserved and far-off. Was he avoiding her? Was she irascible? Was there a character that she exhibited that put him off? Normally, Elena wouldn’t bother herself with what people thought; but this wasn’t any person. Aniekan was a tech-billionaire. And a man she was crushing on! Yes, she had finally admitted it. She had a crush on Aniekan, and it started from the day that Ese and his thugs, had arrested her. He said nothing. He cast a glance at her taut chin and wondered if he had said anything to upset her. Well, he had to treat her that way. Maybe being harsh would make her hate him; maybe her hatred would kill the feelings that grew every day. Once he started the car, Elena quickly pulled out a book to keep herself busy during the ride. Since her blog, “Reflections,” was taken down because of her libelous piece on Aniekan, she hadn’t written or researched for a long time. Her fingers itched to hold a pen and scribble down some ideas. Her nails yearned for the keys of her laptop. Elena sighed and flipped a page open, “I miss writing…” she muttered under her breath, but loud enough, for Aniekan to hear her. He stole glances from her occasionally. Although she was quite young, Elena knew what she wanted in life. She was determined and hard working. It hurt him to know that she had been having financial troubles in school. He felt like prying into her family, but he refrained from doing so. Elena was a good person. He felt it. He would do everything within his power, to help her. “At what age did you start writing?” He smiled. For a second, Elena thought she had heard his voice in her head. Truth was, she wasn’t really focusing on the book. All she could think of, was Aniekan’s seductive perfume. He smelt really nice. And the light blue shirt that he wore, flattered his rich dark complexion. “Um…” Elena shut the book and raised her eyes to meet him. Her heart jolted, like thunder had struck it. Everything in her went still as she stared into the well of his dark eyes. A powerful force pulled her in, and she could feel his connection too. Whenever she opened her mouth to speak, no words came out. Her mind was blank. Her thoughts had been consumed by thoughts of him. She couldn’t think straight. Aniekan noticed the fiery attraction they shared. Her eyes radiated pure desire, and it scared him. He felt like pulling her soft and tiny body into his arms. He wanted to hug her and kiss her hair. He would also tell her how beautiful she was. But everything was all in his head. He could never be with someone like Elena. Quickly, Aniekan pulled his eyes off her pretty face, and stared back at the road. When he did this, Elena blushed. She could tell immediately, that he had seen the passion she felt for him. She was embarrassed! “I started writing from fifteen…” she stuttered, but he cut in. “Save it, I need you to focus now. We are almost there. Everyone is waiting for us.” First, she didn’t like the way Aniekan had spoken to her. Why had he dismissed her like a little kid? And why was everyone waiting for them? “You didn’t have to be rude, you know,” Elena snapped at him when they approached the massive blue building, which represented the office that Aniekan had created; the Games Village. Her eyes popped in awe as Aniekan drove past a tall gate and parked in a special lot, assigned for him. All her life, she had only seen buildings like this in movies. It had more than fifty floors. And the shade of blue with which it was painted, stood out. The building glowed like a sapphire in the dark. “I wasn’t rude. When you grow up, you’ll learn not to take things too personally.” These were his last words to her, before he stepped down from the car, and walked away. Elena ground her teeth in irritation. It seemed Aniekan was deliberately being petty. She was determined not to let his annoying words stick to her. She quickly reminded herself that she was only here, because of the crime she had committed. If she had reviewed her news source more carefully, she wouldn’t be in the front of his car, wondering what she had done to offend him. “Lord help me,” Elena sighed and got out. She didn’t know how long she would stay at the White House. But she couldn’t run away. Her mother had not been very comfortable with her stay in the White House, but she had managed to convince the woman that Aniekan was a good person. Now, she didn’t know what to believe anymore. Elena grabbed her bag carefully and trailed behind Aniekan, who was seven steps ahead of her. She noticed how men and women bowed as he walked past. They worshipped him like a god. She also noticed how warmly Aniekan received the greetings. He always smiled or nodded his head, or responded in kind. He was full of grace. He wasn’t such a bad guy. His workers loved him. The way he chuckled and laughed loudly with them, made her feel bad. Why couldn’t he treat her the same way? Determined to avoid Aniekan, and enjoy her stay at the Games Village and the White House, Elena pulled in a deep breath. She would prove to Aniekan that her crush on him couldn’t break her or give him the right to treat her anyhow. “I can do this,” she breathed. Aniekan had been conversing with one of his partners. Though Aniekan was the face of Games Village, and the designer of many video games, he had partners who bought shares from his company, when he had first started. They were the ones that supported his dreams. They believed in him, when others didn’t. He was deeply grateful for their financial support. Today was an important day in Games Village. Aniekan was going to unveil the trailer of Demon Hall, so that all the members of the board and workers from each department would have a glimpse of what he had been working on. His partners couldn’t be left out on important days like this. “It’s been a very long time Aniekan. I only remembered that I haven’t seen you this year after reading the news of your supposed idea theft. I must say, it was an interesting read. Whoever penned that down was paid to destroy your image.” Aniekan’s partner laughed. Aniekan himself couldn’t resist the urge to share in the laughter. He was only worried that Elena could be close. He knew he had hurt her this morning by being harsh and inconsiderate. He wanted to be far from her, but he didn’t want Elena to hate or resent him. “Nah, she wasn’t paid. She is a very sweet and down to earth person.” Aniekan replied with a smile. “You seem to have met her already,” Seun smirked. He and Aniekan had been friends for a very long time. Aniekan was about answering, when he noticed a sparkle in Seun’s eyes. He followed the direction of his partner’s gaze, and found it on the fair skinned lady that approached. Elena. To be continued…

Episode 2 A thorn of jealousy pricked his flesh immediately. Aniekan knew that Seun wasn’t in a serious relationship. Right from their days in the University, girls were easily drawn to Seun. Aniekan was quite sure that Elena wouldn’t be an exception to Seun’s charms. “And here I was thinking that Beyonce Knowles was the most beautiful woman in the world…” the words fell from Seun’s lips. Just in time, Elena reached where both men stood. She’d noted the other man that stood with Aniekan. He was an attractive brown skinned man. His eyes seemed kind, and he was flashing a smile her way. Elena had wanted to ignore him and move on, but she quickly remembered that this was her first time in the Games Village, and she wasn’t sure of where to go. She paused and moved towards the men. Though Aniekan had gotten her upset, the truth was this: he was still her boss. The only way to get over his constant bad -mouthing was to avoid him completely. “Good morning sir,” Elena grinned. “Sir?”Seun chuckled. “My angel, you don’t need to call me that. You just made me feel old.” With this, Seun did the unthinkable. He moved towards Elena and grabbed her left hand. “Call me Seun,” he caressed her fingers, while Aniekan watched angrily. How could Seun attempt to flirt with Elena right before his eyes? Elena felt her skin tingle, but in a good way. Though Seun was handsome, she wasn’t attracted to him like that; she saw him as a funny and friendly person. She wished Aniekan could be this way with her. Their relationship with each other, would’ve improved. “What should I call you then?” Elena asked in a soft voice. Aniekan bit his lip. He quickly pulled out a phone from his pocket. He couldn’t look Elena in the eyes, without her knowing that he equally felt something. She could never know that he was jealous. Aniekan was determined to push Elena out of his mind. The last time that he felt so strongly about a woman ended up in a disaster. Imaobong’s death had shattered him. “Baby Boo,” Seun winked and Elena’s crackling laughter filled the air. The sound of her voice seemed to calm his fears. Her laughter reminded him of Imaobong’s laughter; soothing and sweet. No matter how hard he tried to keep Elena away from his mind, she always came back. Aniekan decided that he had enough of their flirtatious behavior. “Um, see you inside then. The board meeting should begin in a few minutes.” Aniekan tapped his friend on the shoulder and walked away. Seun was too engrossed in flirting with this beauty, to notice his friend’s absence. Elena was the only one who noticed it. She wasn’t sure, but Elena had seen a wave of anger over Aniekan’s features. It bothered her. Had she done anything to upset him again? Every moment that she spent around him, Elena learned new things about Aniekan. “Why are you off so soon? You didn’t introduce us properly,” Seun scoffed. He was surprised at his friend’s attitude. Aniekan shrugged, “You two are getting along fine. I’ll see you inside.” When Aniekan was far away, Seun winked. “It seems your boyfriend is jealous.” Elena laughed, well, she didn’t find his assumption offensive. It was hilarious, because Aniekan didn’t even like her like that. He had made it obvious that she was a kid. Besides, he was too busy working on his new game. “Okay, I don’t know where your head is, but Aniekan isn’t my boyfriend. I happen to be…” Elena bit her lip. She didn’t know this man very well, so it was wrong to discuss deeper things with him. Seun waved her fears off, he sensed her reluctance to continue the conversation. And he knew exactly why. Any sane person wouldn’t divulge personal information to someone they hardly knew. “Well, it’s not every blogger that writes slanderous news about him that he will bring into the white house.” Seun winked. Seun wanted her to know that he was aware of the role she played, in almost ruining Aniekan’s career with her piece. A small smile curled the corners of her mouth, Elena had a feeling that he had a close relationship with Aniekan. “We should go in. Today is my first day at Games Village and I don’t want to be late. My boss wouldn’t like that.” Elena smiled. She didn’t know anything about the stranger, but she liked him. Seun was easy going, and friendlier than Aniekan had ever been. He knew she was trying to avoid him. He smiled and pulled her gently. “My name is SeunLare. You don’t have to be afraid of me. I don’t bite. I and your boss have been friends for a very long time.” He saw the need to introduce himself properly. That explained it now. Elena thought that his name was familiar. “SeunLare…that’s a nice name; do you work here?” She inquired. Seun had wanted to tell her the truth; he wasn’t working at Games Village. He was just a silent partner. But now that she asked, he could start working with Aniekan. Elena was a very beautiful lady, and he had a penchant for pretty things. “Um, yes. I work here.” He answered boldly and a bit swiftly. Maybe if he had said it slowly, Elena would have sensed his lies. She shrugged, “I am Elena Benjamin. I guess you already know what landed me here. Aniekan wants to give me a job.” She paused there, no one could know that her working at Games Village was a sort of punishment, for the article that she had written against him. The pair decided to stroll towards the conference hall, where all important meetings were being held. “How long have you been working here?” Elena asked softly. He sighed and tightened his grip on her hand. “As long as the beginning,” he said. They continued walking, this time quietly. Elena felt safe with Seun; she had found herself a new friend. He was going to show her the ropes. All she wanted was efficient results in all the duties she would be given. Aniekan had been gracious to let her go without paying the price for her carelessness. She would try her best for his company. READ ALSO: Davina Diaries Fiction: The Haunted Bride Final Episode They were at the entrance of the hall, when a slender brown skinned lady approached them. She wore a silky yellow skirt, which was very short and obviously inappropriate for the meeting. Her long black hair flowed to the middle of her back. She had sparkling golden eyes with long lashes and her lip wear emphasized the thickness of her lips. Elena couldn’t deny the attractiveness of the slender woman. But she wasn’t comfortable with the way the indecently dressed lady, eyed her. If looks could kill, Ms. Short Skirt would have sent her to hell. Elena ran a mental check and wondered if she had met this woman before. Satisfied that she hadn’t met her, Elena’s fears were calm. It baffled her that one would stare at a stranger with such meanness. “Good morning Mr. Lare, I was wondering why you hadn’t showed up for the meeting. I now see what delayed you…” the lady ran her eyes over the creamy skinned beauty that she saw as a competition. Regina had always admired SeunLare. Right from the day he had walked into the reception hall, and requested a meeting with her boss, Aniekan Umoh, Regina had fallen in love with him. He was a very attractive man, and he had cash. Such men were classy. And she found it difficult to resist his charming nature. To be continued…

interesting

Episode 3 Regina had tried severally to get close to Seun, but he had a way of pushing her away. At first, she had thought he was engaged or in a serious relationship, but after doing some research, Regina had concluded that Seun didn’t feel the same for her. And she had no option, but to stay away from him. Seun was her boss’ best friend, and she couldn’t risk Aniekan finding out about her advances towards Seun. Seeing this incredibly attractive lady’s hands, securely tucked in Seun’s, made her jealous. Who the hell was she? “Oh, I didn’t know that you had been promoted to Chief Security Officer,” Seun’s eyes twinkled with laughter. He could smell the jealousy from Regina. It was raw. It was peppery. It was spicy. And he found it amusing, because he had no amorous business with Elena, at least not yet. Regina stiffened as she watched him laugh. Elena found Seun’s statement very funny, but she bit her lip. This lady didn’t like her, laughing at Seun’s joke would make things worse. Elena didn’t know anyone here. She had come to make friends, and not enemies. She wanted a perfect and healthy working environment, so she could give out her best. “You shouldn’t rejoice too soon, I could arrest you for coming late.” Regina hissed loudly, with this, she walked right past them without looking back. Elena released the hot breath that she had been holding. “Christ! Is this how hot Games Village is?” Elena shook her head. She didn’t know how long that she would last. She needed to get into people’s good books, so they could stand with her, against toxic people like Ms. Short Skirt. Seun had sensed Elena’s discomfort. He released her hand as they marched into the hall, side by side. “You need to be stronger Elena. I am surprised that a girl, like you could write such a powerful piece about Aniekan but you found it difficult to look Regina in the eyes.” Okay, Ms. Short Skirt’s name was Regina. Elena was curious. Who was she? And what role did she play in Games Village? “It’s my first time in here, you cannot blame me. I need to be modest, submissive and polite. I need to observe those I will be working with, and those I should carefully avoid.” Elena replied with boldness. She want afraid of Ms. Short Skirt or her likes. She just wanted to observe such people for a while. Seun loved what he heard. He had a strong feeling that Elena wasn’t as soft as her eyes portrayed. She had a fiery spirit. She was strong. She wouldn’t let anyone manipulate or control her. “So, who is this Regina and where does she work?” Elena replied. Her eyes ran over the massive hall, which had over five hundred chairs. Again, she felt intimidated. The caliber of men and women that had already occupied front and middle seat, made it clear, that she was underdressed for this meeting. “Regina is your boss’ secretary. You’ll be seeing her a lot around here. One advice, don’t let her smell that you are weak.” Elena swallowed and nodded. The seats were maroon in color, and the material they were made out of, seemed very soft and comfortable. There was an enormous screen on the wall; Elena guessed it was useful for presentations. Before the screen, was a glassy podium, upon which a laptop was placed. The elevated platform would be meant for the speaker or speakers. The wind freezing wind from the air conditioner blew towards where she stood, and she felt slightly cold. Her chest fluttered, her tummy rumbled, as she remembered the figure that she had seen at the White House. Aniekan had been conversing with some board members when he had noticed some murmuring. He raised his head, and found Seun and Elena walking into the hall together. He tried to shake off the jealousy that he had felt away, but the emotion tugged at his sleeves. Elena seemed relaxed and comfortable with Seun. This wasn’t a problem. What if Seun grew to like her? And what if Elena liked Seun back in return? Why am I even thinking about that? Aniekan felt like punching himself in the face. He had seen the look of desire in Elena’s eyes, back in the car. He imagined her, staring at his best friend in the same manner. “Concentrate,” he mumbled to himself as he mounted the glassy podium. Elena was old enough to do whatever that she wanted with her life. That was totally her business. He still had good plans for her. Though he hadn’t discussed it with her, Aniekan felt Elena would be a good creative writer. Already, he had gone through some articles that she had written on her blog. Elena was good. And he was going to need her services. “Good morning all!” He sucked in a deep breath and firmly placed his hands on the glassy material. At once, the murmuring ended and all those who were outside, rushed in. The boss was in control. Everyone surrendered to his authority. “As you all know, Demon Hall is the biggest game that I will ever design. It takes me a month or two to design a game; but Demon Hall took more than that. I have been working on this game for two years now….”he paused and watched the eager faces of his listeners. They seemed please, and curious to see the unveiling of this special game. “I created Demon Hall out of nothing. The inspiration to design such a powerful game, came after I had lost someone very important. But with this game, I could distract my mind. I felt in control in my life. I could gather the pieces back.” Just in time, his eyes clashed with Elena’s eyes. She seemed to pity him, like she felt bad about the person he lost. Aniekan blinked and looked away. He couldn’t let anyone in. No one could ever understand what Imaobong had meant to him. “Demon Hall is about the different realms and spiritual planes that exist. Humans were once controlled by demons; but as the world evolves, they have been able to solve their own problems, without the help of supernatural powers. Here lies the problem, the demons derive their powers from the allegiance and worship of their followers. Without humans, they will be nothing! There is a clash between demons and the strongest of humans. Who will emerge conqueror?” When he was done talking, the lights on the extra large screen came alive. And the rest of the bulbs in the hall were turned off. While the room remained dark, the screen grew brighter. The intro of the game was a soft alto voice that rendered classical music in Nordic. Her voice was perfect. It was as gentle as the morning breeze, and as mysterious as the cry of the owl bird. Her voice was as eerie as the images that followed. A huge grotesque figure with a long and silver blade stood in the middle of the screen. It tapped the blade thrice on the floor. “I am Qhan! Maker of rain! King of the Moon and Sunny realms. I will destroy the humans!” Qhan fixed the silver blade on the ground and roared in a deep voice. His roar was disastrous, to the demon realms and the human world; as the earth where he stood, began to shake. TO BE CONTINUED…

still observing

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Sorry wrong updated

Episode 4 However, for every demon power, was a superhuman that could turn that dark power around. All of a sudden, the screen was filled with glowing red and orange monarch butterflies. They filled everywhere. They swam towards Qhan. The only human that was courageous enough, to stand against this powerful demon, was Riovo. His mother had been a demon, while his father was human. “I am Riovo! Slayer of demons! Lord of the human realm. I will destroy Qhan!” These were his last words, before the trailer came to an end. And the illumination that took control of the screen vanished. The lights in the room came on. And when Aniekan could see the faces of the people that he had been talking to, he noticed that they were all up on their feet. They offered him a thunderous round of clapping and cheering. “Thank you, thank you…” Aniekan smiled. He always loved his team of writers and designers. They worked hand in hand, so he couldn’t take the credit alone. “I want to use this opportunity to thank all the writers, designers, video creators and editors and everyone who made this game special.” The clapping continued, and was spiced with whistling. When the applause died down, Aniekan pulled in a deep breath. He had already discussed, hiring a new writer for a subtheme of Demon Hall. He was going to give Elena the chance to shine. The game she would be working on, would be “Demon Hall 2.” At first, the board members didn’t want to agree, after realizing that she had been the same blogger that had almost ruined his career. He had tried to convince them, but they still wouldn’t budge. He decided to give Elena the opportunity by his veto power at the Chief Managing Officer, it was left for her to make a name for herself , and prove to all those who didn’t believe in her, that they were wrong. “Already, hundred Asian Toy companies have pre-ordered for Demon Hall1. As part of a marketing strategy, and a way to make more money for us all…” he paused as the crowd chuckled. “I’d like to start another video game, which will drop some months after Demon Hall 1. It is going to be a different storyline, but still on battles between the human and demon realms. It will be Demon Hall 2. Although the Federal Government of Nigeria have ignored our young and growing population, I will not follow that path. Demon Hall2 is going to be run by the young population of Games Village, and under the leadership of an experienced writer, who will provide us with an interesting plot…” Everyone was shocked at his announcement. Elena shifted uncomfortably in her chair, as she noticed that Aniekan was looking her direction. Definitely, he couldn’t offer her such a delicate and important position. She had almost destroyed everything that he had built! “Why do I have a feeling that you are that young writer?” Seun whispered to her ears. Elena quickly pulled away, “I cannot be. I am sure there are many young and talented writers in here.” She was about to say more, when Aniekan bellowed her name. It seemed the whole world dropped at her feet. Was he joking? Elena found it difficult to breathe. She had never imagined this sort of luck. Writing a plot for the tech-billionaire seemed unreal. A man like Aniekan had enough money to hire the best writers for the job. She wasn’t good enough! “Remember what I told you. To survive in Games Village, you must always stand up for yourself. The longer you wait in that chair, the swifter people would see that you doubt your own self.” Seun could tell that Elena was too shocked to move. Seun’s words had a way to work on her psyche. Elena nodded and rose to her feet. Tears stung her eyes as she stared at the podium. Aniekan was smiling at her! He looked so handsome… Focus! She reminded herself as she marched majestically towards the podium. Many of the workers were surprised to see her. They assumed that Elena was as good as Aniekan had informed them. They had no problem welcoming a new member to the board. All but one was happy… Regina’s golden eyes were filled with envy and rage. How could Aniekan skip her and pick Elena? Though she worked temporarily as his secretary, she had playfully told Aniekan about her writing and drawing skills. But he had ignored her! “Fool, I will make sure you don’t last long in here…” Ada had been in her office working on some files for a client who wanted to sue an N.G.O for not renewing his contract, as they promised. Since her fallout with Aniekan, she had decided to focus on other rich clients. Aniekan had grown above her, she could no longer control him. But she wouldn’t give up so easily. All she wanted was to get Elena out of the picture, just like she had done to Imaobong. Maybe then, he would understand that there is no lawyer as perfect as she was. “Mr. Bankole, are you sure about this?” She tossed a light blue bulletin in front of her client. If she decided to take this case, she would sue the N.G.O for a hundred million naira, nothing less. This money would cover up for the loss she’d incurred when Aniekan had refused to sue Elena. The bald headed man nodded. “If I weren’t sure about suing them, I wouldn’t be in your office…” he nodded. Ada settled in the chair and clasped her hands together, in readiness to tell him everything that they needed to win the case. She was about starting when the opening of the door, rudely interrupted her. Her brows knotted in a frown. She wasn’t expecting anyone, and her secretary knew better than to let anyone in, while she was having an important meeting. The frown on her face softened as she noticed that it wasn’t an ordinary person. Ese had come to see her. And from the look on his face, things weren’t okay. “Mr. Bankole, I am very sorry but we will have to meet in a very private place.” Ada rose to her feet. The older man was baffled, “This is your office, it is supposed to be private.” The man was disappointed; he was desperate to win this case. Ada smiled, “The walls have ears. I will text you an address for our next meeting. I want you to think carefully about what you want. Once I take on this case, there will not be any turning back.” The man shrugged, Ada was one of the best lawyers in the country. It wasn’t a secret that she also worked for the tech-billionaire. She dealt with high profile clients. This was the reason that he trusted her. “I’ll see you some other time then,” Mr. Bankole rose to his feet and walked out of the office, almost bumping into a rough looking man, who somehow looked familiar. When the man was gone, Ada rushed and shut the door. “What are you doing here dear? You know better than to show up unannounced! That man is one of my wealthy clients. I can milk a hundred million from him. Don’t spoil this.” She playfully waved her middle finger across his face. Even though Ese knew that Ada was joking with him, he wasn’t in the mood. It was his turn to frown. “Have you come up with a concrete plan yet?” Ese asked in a calm but deadly voice. Ada could recognize the tone in his voice. He was enraged by something. She moved slightly away from him, knowing his tendency to become violent, whenever he was angry. Still afraid that he may pick something and hit her, Ada moved to a table at the far corner of her office, where she usually had her breakfast. She grabbed a kettle and poured some hot water into a mug. She would have some tea to relax her, while listening to her boyfriend. “Did you hear me?” Ese followed her to the table. As gently as possible, Ada placed the ceramic kettle on the table and abandoned the orange mug altogether. Her hands shivered. Her breathing slowed. “What plan are you talking about?” Ada asked. Ese scoffed, “So you don’t even know about it? Don’t tell me Aniekan hasn’t contacted you in the past few hours. The news is everywhere. The papers and magazines and blogs are carrying it. You’re supposed to know everything about him!” Ada didn’t like the fact that he was raising his voice on her. She hated being subjugated or treated like scum. “Okay, I know you tend to get violent when you’re upset, but don’t yell at me.

Elena make me proud

Ese and Ada will eventually kill each other

Episode 5 “Okay, I know you tend to get violent when you’re upset, but don’t yell at me. I don’t know what you’re talking about!” She fired back. He bit his lip and ran his deadly eyes over her fragile frame. He felt like hitting that body against the wall and clutching his fingers around her throat. But he controlled his reckless urge. Ada was an asset to him. Never in his life, had he found a woman who matched his passion and love for many things. She was a special woman, and he couldn’t do anything to hurt her. It was with her help, who he intended to pull down the one who had taken everything away from him, Aniekan. “I went to see Aniekan today at the office. You know our plan, to get the prototype of Demon Hall and sell it off. I noticed there was a meeting at Games Village, right before my eyes, he elected Elena Benjamin to be the lead writer for Demon Hall2.” Ada’s eyes dilated in surprised, “I don’t understand…” she rose to her feet and fixed her eyes on Ese. “I don’t need to repeat myself. I told you to let me kill that stupid girl at once, but you insisted that we take things slow. Her presence in Aniekan’s life would only complicate our plan! He wants to design another game, and from the look that I’d seen on his face, he is in love with Elena. Demon Hall2 could be a bigger deal than the first game. We need to act fast.” Ada rammed her fingers against the wooded table. Her fingers cracked and blood flowed across her pale white flesh. Aniekan had never taken a decision without asking her advice. Why had things suddenly changed? “He always consulted me, before making any business move. From the time he accepted partners with some people and firms, Aniekan always let me in. That lowlife bitch intends to destroy the relationship I have with your brother.” Ada was broken and hurt. Was Aniekan going to fire her? Did he have another lawyer already? Ese could feel her pain. He felt betrayed as well, as there was a time, Aniekan used to tell him everything. “So what do we do? I say we kill her fast. That would bring him back to his senses.” Ese was bent on destroying Elena Benjamin. Ada pressed her lips together and glared at her bloodied fist. The pain stung her deeply. She had bled because of Elena. The blogger was going to pay for this bloodshed. “No, I insist that we take thing slowly…” Ada sighed. A puckish smile ate up her face, and it confused Ese. There was nothing amusing about what was happening. Why was she smiling? Ada sensed his bafflement. “Don’t worry darling, I will handle it. I want you to play it cool. We will handle Elena first, and then you will handle Aniekan all by yourself. Save your energy for the day that we will need it.” And she had a feeling that the day they will conquer all was very near. Ese took her advice. She would let Ada handle things her own way, for now. But if she failed, he would step in. “If we take her out too fast, it could raise suspicion. I want her death to be natural.” Ada moved to the other table, where she usually shared with her clients and fetched her bag. She unzipped the leather material and pulled out a vial which contained a reddish powder. Confidently, she marched back to the other table, and dropped it in front of Ese. “What is this?” Ese eyed the vial impatiently. Ada winked, “Open it.” He was hesitant, but he decided to listen to her. Slowly, he pulled the cap of the vial. A sweet smelling flavor filled his nostrils. The reddish substance smelt like a mix of apples and cherries. “What’s this?” He asked again. “Some call it “Silent Venom,” while others call it, “Cherry Powder.” The name doesn’t matter, as long as it serves its purpose in the body of the victim. I will sink this into Elena’s blood. When I am done with her, people will think that she contacted a venereal disease.” Ada carried the vial slowly to her nostrils and sniffed it. “That’s a good plan. I will keep an eye on her always.” Ese reassured Ada of his support. “I will get close to her. She may know something about the prototype. But this doesn’t mean you should give up the search. We have to get our hands on the original game design. We will make it ours.” Ese nodded in agreement. Ada was about to tell him more about what she thought was best, especially the fact that Idara’s presence would bring difficulty into their plans when her phone buzzed. “Let me get that, it could be important.” She took the call at third ring. It was her client, Mr. Bankole. “Good afternoon sir…” she waited for him to speak. “I am sorry to disturb you Ada, but I think I forgot one of my phones in your office. Can you send someone to bring it over?” He asked politely. Ada ran her eyes over the side of the table where the man sat. Indeed, he had forgotten his Samsung S9 in her office. She moved over to his side and grabbed the device at once. She would send her secretary to deliver the note to him. “I will do that sir. I have seen the phone.” When she was finished with the call, she returned to Ese. “Who was that?” He made himself tea. “Mr. Bankole. He has been my client for many years. He works with the Little Hannah Foundation. They plan to drop him this year, without renewing his contract.” Ese remembered the steely eyes of the man that Ada spoke of. Normally, he had no business trying to read people. But he didn’t like a thing about Mr. Bankole. “Just be careful with him. My spirit doesn’t trust him.” Ese replied, and Ada chuckled. “Since when did you become a mind reader?” She teased. “I am not a mind reader. Just be careful Ada.” Elena had cried at the conference hall, when Aniekan had asked her to climb the podium with him. It was unbelievable! She had read stories of people who met celebrities, and their lives were touched. One that came to mind, was Jumoke, the bread seller who’d photo-bombed TY Bello’s photo session. She was the bread seller in this case, and Aniekan was her TY Bello. She didn’t need a soothsayer to explain to her what was going on. Definitely, he had better writers, but he had chosen her for a purpose. He was giving her a platform to start. He was giving her an opportunity to glow. She couldn’t mess up. He was testing her. The people had clapped her. After the meeting, the older members of the boards had congratulated her, and advised her to be very serious with her new responsibility. Some asked her to follow Aniekan’s footsteps. After the meeting, a short guy was asked by Aniekan to direct Elena to her office. “You are new here. You are very lucky that the boss chose you…” the guy ignited a conversation. Elena had missed Seun in the hall. He hadn’t told her which department he was working with. Now that this guy had started a conversation, maybe she would use this opportunity to find out more about Seun, because from the way she had seen it, he was trying to avoid some questions. But he had no problem, prying into her life.

interesting,show them what u get

Episode 6 “I am very lucky indeed.” Elena smile at the man. “Call me CJ, the full name is Chijioke, but I prefer it short.” He returned her smile. “It came as a surprise to me. I never expected that he would put me in charge of such a delicate work. He is a very good and merciful man.” Elena continued. CJ rolled his eyes, “Of course he is darling, considering what you tried to do to his career.” When he said this, the smile on Elena’s face faded. Everyone recognized her as the blogger that almost brought down Games Village. It was going to be tough making friends around here, because they were all loyal to their boss. CJ noticed that she had gone quiet, “If you’re going to roll back into your shell, when someone says something that you do not like, I think it is not too late to resign. Be tough!” He stopped by the reception, before the boss’ office. Elena knew that the guy hadn’t meant to hurt her. Seun had advised her to be tough as well, but she found it hard. For starters, she had actually written something bad about this same man that was giving her an opportunity to shine. She was guilty as accused. How was she supposed to deny what had actually happened? “It’s not that easy,” Elena whispered. “Well, you have to try; seeing that you will be sharing the same office with the boss and you will get to see Regina every day. Good luck.” He patted her on the shoulder twice, before walking away. “Hey! Wait!” Elena bellowed, but CJ wouldn’t stop moving. Aniekan had given him strict orders, and he was acting on them. Her heart began to thumb against her chest. She imagined what staying in the same office with Aniekan was going to be like. They couldn’t even stand each other! Or, he couldn’t even stand her! “No, I am the head of the writing team for Demon Hall2. I think I deserve my privacy.” Elena scratched her chin. She was about returning to the conference hall when she felt another presence. As she turned, Elena met a pair of cold looking golden eyeballs. They belonged to Regina, Ms. Short Skirt. But this time, Elena wasn’t bothered about her deadly looks. She was the least perturbed. All she wanted was her own office! “You must have been excellent with your sex styles.” Regina spat out bitterly. She believed Elena was having an affair with the boss. There wasn’t anywhere in hell that she had gotten that position on merit. Elena wasn’t a fool. Regina was insinuating a liaison between her and Aniekan. Elena felt like walking closer to the counter and landing a hot slap on Regina’s cheeks. Her mother’s fighting spirit was in her. But she wouldn’t do that. Violence was for the weak, and she was strong. “I guess that is how you welcome people around here,” Elena smiled at her. And this made the young receptionist very uncomfortable. She had expected Elena to fire back or say something nasty, so they could have a real brawl. Regina scoffed, “You’re trying to play Ms. Too-Goody shoes, but they don’t fit. You’re not better than me in anything. You’re just a hungry blogger who fucked her way down here.” Elena bit her lip. How long was she going to cope with this deluded personality? “Ms. Short Skirt…” Elena walked straight to the counter and stared into Regina’s eyes. “I know you are a real bitch around here, but I don’t remember having any personal issues with you. So you’re going to do me a favor and yourself as well, stay out of my path.” Regina kissed her teeth, “You don’t get to dish out threats. I serve them. I will make you regret everyday in Games Village. Your likes aren’t wanted around here.” Elena felt hurt by that statement, but she was careful not to show it. “If we’d met before now, I’d think that I slept with one of your boyfriends. You’re full of bile. Goodbye girl!” Before Elena peeled herself from the counter, she’d noticed a look of genuine hurt in Regina’s eyes. Wait, did I really have a thing to do with her boyfriend or I look familiar? As Elena walked away, she pondered on Regina’s expression. Was Aniekan having an affair with her? Maybe that could explain her jealousy. Elena wasn’t convinced about it. But there was someone else that came to mind. And Regina’s hatred had begun when she had stepped into the building, hand in hand with Seun. “Whoa, Ms. Short Skirt has a crush on Mr. Lare.” Elena knew her weakness now. She would use it against her. Elena noticed that the conference hall was void of people. And it made her wonder where Aniekan had gone. “I could start working on a plot now. I’d go home after.” Elena shrugged and returned to the office that CJ had taken her. She ignored Regina’s angry face and marched into Aniekan’s well embellished office. A sense of fulfillment washed over him as he stared out the car window. He had achieved something great by placing Elena at the top. The girl was extremely hard working, and he had faith in her. After the board meeting, Seun had suggested that they hung out. The two friends hadn’t sat out for a long time. Aniekan smiled as they both reminisced their school days. Seun had been a chick magnet; he had this charming aura about him that made him highly irresistible to women. “You’re thinking about her aren’t you?” Seun was the one driving. He noticed the “lost,” look in Aniekan’s eyes. The last time he spotted that amorous glow in the billionaire’s eyes was when he had been in a relationship with Imaobong. Those days were the best days of Aniekan’s life. But after Imaobong’s demise, everything had changed. Aniekan had withdrawn himself from people. He had caged his smiles and his loud laughter. He had become a stranger, even to his own self. “Who?” Aniekan pulled his eyes away from the dirty streets and fixed them on the mirage ahead. “Elena Benjamin, your cute blogger.” Seun replied. He could read Aniekan like a book. He didn’t wait for Aniekan to respond, “You know I lied to her, that I work in your company. I wanted you to give me a job, so I could get to spend time with such a beautiful lady every day.” Seun winked, and burst into laughter when Aniekan fired him a cold stare. His friend was smitten! “Were you trying to get me jealous this morning, by flirting with her in my presence?” Aniekan hadn’t wanted to talk about this. But since Seun had set the ball rolling, there was nothing more to hide. Seun shrugged, “Nope, I noticed you liked her, from the way your eyes strayed to our spot in the conference room. Besides, it will take a strong willed man a lot of energy to resist a beautiful and intelligent woman like Elena.” Aniekan was relieved to hear this. He had thought that Seun had interest in Elena, and that had made him feel bad. He couldn’t deny what he felt for her, but… To be continued…

that's interesting

Episode 7 and 8 “Sorry to burst your bubble, I don’t like her like that. I just see her as a younger sister.” He couldn’t let Elena or anyone else know about his feelings. He planned to kill his emotions and have a very formal relationship with her. Somehow, Seun didn’t believe it. “If you think that’s best, no problem. I will be working with your writing team for Demon Hall2,” Seun winked. He wouldn’t allow Elena know that he was a partner with Aniekan; he enjoyed her company and couldn’t wait to see her again. Aniekan struggled to get rid of the clump in his chest. He found it difficult to breathe as Seun kept going on and on about Elena. “Can we talk about something else please?” Aniekan snapped at his friend. “Oh, I didn’t know talking about her offended you. I am sorry bro.” “Now, what do you want us to talk about?” Apart from Elena’s case, there was something else that bothered him. Seun was a very trustworthy person, and he could share his burden. “I think my brother is up to something.” Aniekan started. Seun had never flowed well with Ese. Aniekan’s older brother was an irresponsible man who wanted to live the rest of his life on his younger brother’s money; instead of making his own. “What did he do?” Seun asked. “He asked me about the prototype of Demon Hall1 but in a very tricky manner. I think he is up to something. I just don’t know what.” “Hmm,” Seun didn’t have what to say yet, but he advised his friend to hide the prototype where no one would be able to reach it. Aniekan knew that hiding the chip that contained the prototype wouldn’t be easy. But one thing was certain; it was time to get the chip out of the White House. Seun had an old uncle who lived in the outskirt of town. Uncle George was an old widower who lived a very quiet life. Apart from the contracts he got with a foundation, he didn’t have much going on in his life. “What’s special about an old man who lives in the outskirt of town? This chip means everything, not just to me, but all the partners involved. If I fall, we’re all going to sink.” Aniekan wasn’t comfortable about handing his chip over to some reclusive old person. Seun brought the car to a stop, as they reached a fast-food where they would have some lunch. “Uncle George actually lives in an underground house. No one knows that he is staying here. You need to trust me on this one.” After waiting aimlessly for four hours in the office, with no drop of inspiration, Elena had decided to return to the White House on her own. Luckily for her, CJ was going her way, so he had dropped her off. She closed her eyes and pulled in sufficient quantity of clean air as she marched confidently towards the white building. Her fortune had changed overnight. Maybe it was time for her to write more fake stories about public figures. The thought of doing this, amused her. She greeted the gateman and marched straight into the mansion. The car, with which Aniekan had driven her to work, wasn’t parked. He wasn’t at home. Elena wondered where he had gone to. Well, she had to mind her business now. Aniekan had bestowed upon her a great responsibility. Her pictures were splashed all over social media, and she had a feeling that mainstream media had carried the news. Her angelic face, wrinkled into a frown as she noticed Ese storming out of the house. She had a strong aversion towards Aniekan’s brother and the inconsiderate lawyer, who had treated her like a prisoner. Now that Aniekan had forgiven her, she would carefully avoid those two. She walked past Ese without a word of greeting and this irked the huge man. “Elena!” He followed her behind, and quickly grabbed her wrist. Elena scoffed and pulled back with all of her strength. “Don’t you ever put your filthy hands on me! You are a beast!” She yelled at him. Ese gritted his teeth angrily, “I don’t know what spell that you have cast on my brother, but you will be disgraced out of this house. You do not belong here. You’re just an opportunistic schemer.” Elena smiled; she wasn’t scared of his frame at all. “It seems someone learned new words from the dictionary.” She mimicked him, “You’re just an opportunistic schemer.” Ese felt humiliated. The only thing that stopped him from ending this girl, once and for all, was Ada’s advice. “I do not blame you at all. If Aniekan had listened to his lawyer, you wouldn’t be scavenging in this house.” Elena scoffed, “Well, if scavenging is such a crime, what are you still doing in your brother’s house?” After dropping the bomb, she walked away briskly. She knew she had struck Ese, where it will hurt most. She was tired of people pushing her to the wall. She was tired of people telling her that she didn’t deserve the position that she was given. Fine, she had made a mistake by writing that article, but she had learned a great lesson and she was never going to repeat the mistake. She had risen above it. One thing was for sure, if Ese and Ada wouldn’t let her live in peace, she would return to her home and work from there. “Bullies everywhere…” she sighed and closed her eyes. Remember, that this was still her first time in the white house, so she had lost her way. Elena noticed that she had gone into a wrong direction, when she observed how quiet and how dark this wing of the house was. Also unknown to her, was the fact that Idara, the housekeeper, had witnessed her little exchanged with Ese. Her boldness had terrified Idara, who knew the wicked things that Ese and Ada were capable of. “I need to warn her. I have to give her a clue somehow. She must be careful…” Idara had whispered from her hiding place. Elena sighed and leaned against the wall. She was exhausted from the day’s activities. She decided to sit still in the dark for a few minutes. Solitude was her own way of detoxing, whenever the negative energy got too much. Tears stung her eyes as she recalled every negative word that someone had spoken to her. Everything had started with Aniekan. For some reason, he still saw her as a budding child. How could that even be? Most guys that she had come across praised her for her wisdom and maturity. Aniekan was different. He saw a child in her, and that image he had, hurt her more than anything. A soft wind travelled through the dark hallway. Elena couldn’t explain it, but she felt a dress, brushing past her thigh. She didn’t react. She sat still and kept her eyes closed. She had to see the end of this. She was a hundred percent sure, that she wasn’t hallucinating. She allowed the tears to run down her chin. She felt better as each strand rolled across. She felt lighter after each sob. When she was ready to leave for her room, she heard a female voice, very loud and clear.

Episode 9 The voice said, “Do not cry, just be watchful!” At once Elena’s eyes cracked open and she jumped to her feet. Something was definitely wrong. “Is somebody there?” Elena quickly pulled out her phone and turned on the light. But there was no one. She only felt the coolness of the evening breeze. As the figure that she had once seen in the morning, had faded into the darkness. The hairs on her back were erect, in wonder and in fear. She didn’t need someone to tell her that it was time to run. Ghosts weren’t real, but she was starting to believe in their existence. Elena almost hit Idara, who carried a tray of steaming goat pepper soup. The lawyer had requested for her lunch. “Are you alright Madam?” Idara stiffened, as she noticed that Elena was coming out of the forbidden wing. Elena’s mouth felt dry. Surely, anyone who heard her experience would think that she was crazy. “Yes, yes,” Elena nodded. But deep down, she knew that someone was in the darkness with her. Though she felt afraid, she was determined to discover the truth that lay in the dark hallway. A sad smile danced on Idara’s lips, as she watched Elena leave for her room. She had to warn the new mistress, before they got to her, like they did, her first mistress. After spending some time with his best friend, Aniekan had returned home very late, but not before trying Elena’s number and checking the Games Village for her. He felt like a douche bag for leaving her behind. He should have sent someone to take her back home. The White House was as quiet as the night. The fire from the golden bulbs that hung on the mansion sparked with great intensity. As he strolled out from his car, Aniekan ran his eyes over his watch. “11.PM,” he sighed and rolled his eyes. Well, he couldn’t blame himself for spending so much time with his best friend, whom he hadn’t seen in a long while. Seun was the only friend that he could trust with the prototype. Already, Ese was acting funny, and he needed to heed to his inner voice. Aniekan didn’t trust his brother completely. Right from childhood, Ese had always been the irresponsible one; this was the reason that their parents had preferred him. He had fixed a date with Seun. Together, they would drive to the outskirt of Lagos, in search of Mr. George Bankole, the uncle to Seun; who owned and underground house. The only sound that disturbed the silence that he enjoyed was that of running water. Aniekan paused and stared at the fountain; silver strands of clean water gushed from the openings like they were being chased by something. He pulled in a deep breath and marched into the house. All he could think of now was Elena. He was in a confused state. He liked her, yet something within him fought against that likeness. Elena was a nice person; he just found it difficult to own up what he was feeling inside. He was about leaving for his room, when he decided to check up on her. “I am just checking up on her, nothing else.” He murmured. Her room was located at the same wing as his’. He walked slowly and paused at her door. Aniekan’s heartbeat increased as he stared at the metallic door that separated him from her. What would Elena think of his visit? Would she be pleased to see him? Would she think that he had an ulterior motive? All these thoughts clashed with his strong desire to see her face one more time. It was weekend, so she may probably leave to see her family. Though she was living with him, he couldn’t control her or cage her. She still had her freedom. But her job at the Games Village was binding. He missed her. He missed the warmth in her clear brown eyes, and her girlish smile. He missed seeing the locks of soft hair that fell at the sight of her face. “Elena,” he tapped the door with his fist. He waited patiently for a response, but there wasn’t any. Was she sleeping? Was she ignoring him? He raised his feet and dropped it on the door a second time; the tap was harder and more desperate. It almost split his flesh. “I do not mean to disturb you, I just wanted to…” Aniekan paused, his tongue was tied. He was about leaving when a thought crossed his mind. Maybe Elena was too busy to hear his knock. He knew what he was about doing wasn’t right, but he had no evil intention. He grabbed the door handle and twisted it to the left. The door gave way at once, and ushered him an invite, with an annoying noise. Calmness returned to him. The pounding in his chest subsided, and was replaced with a feeling of comfort. He felt at home. The sight of her angelic figure on the spring flowers themed bedcover was enough to make him feel happy. Elena wore a light blue night gown. It was lacy and slightly revealing. Her soft and creamy white breasts sprawled from a V opening and settled on the bed. Her long legs were crossed against each other. Aniekan noticed that she had slept off, leaving her laptop on and a jotter with some pens by the edge of the bed. “Careless girl,” he smiled. He could guess that she had started working on a plot for Demon Hall2. Curiously, he walked over to the edge of her bed and sat on it. He loved the smell of her room. He also noticed that she had rearranged the way things were. Well, the feminine touch was always unique. There was something magical about the presence of women. Aniekan turned off the computer first, before folding it and placing it on his lap. Next were the jotter, and the pens. He flipped the first page open and found a literary piece, which seemed like a poem. “The End of the Blue River,” by Elena Benjamin, “Interesting,” he marveled at her poetic prowess. He kept running his eyes and fingers through different pages until he found the one he could relate to and hoped to see. “Iralia: Demon Hall2,” The first sentence that followed the title startled him. Was this purely a plot or was she immersing her own experience into the story? “Iralia is a powerful female Angel. She falls in love with an older Angel, who wants nothing to do with her because of her age. But He soon needs Iralia’s help.” Okay, this couldn’t be about his relationship with her. He knew he had made it obvious that he was far older than she was. He was about taking the next page, when she rolled over her belly and mumbled some words that he couldn’t understand. He rose to his feet and decided that it was time to leave. He dropped the items that he had taken from her bed on her reading table. A smile curled on his lips as he stared at her smiling face. He couldn’t help but wonder what she was dreaming about. He found it difficult to resist the urge to kiss her in her sleep. Aniekan strolled towards the bed, and lowered his lips on her forehead. “Goodnight darling,” he whispered into her ears. Satisfied that Elena was alright, he strolled out of her room, while gently closing the door behind. As he marched towards his room, he noticed that two of the bulbs that lighted the path had gone off. Aniekan quickly pulled out his phone, so he could see better, as his vision at night was far from excellent. It was a wonder that he could drive back home at such a later hour. After perusing at the cookies that popped on his phone screen, Aniekan raised his head up. A cold chill ran down his spine as he noticed a black figure staring at him through a hood. The eyes of the figure were black, almost lifeless. And they seemed very familiar. His blood froze, at the sight of such mystery. “Who are you and how did you get in here?” Aniekan began to wonder if someone had followed him back to the house. But how was this even possible? The figure didn’t move. It didn’t utter a word. It just glared directly at the tech-billionaire. “Did you not hear me? You better start talking, before I call security!” Though his voice was sharp and stern, his heart raced. He was afraid. His hands were shivering. When the figure was done glaring at the owner of the house, it spun on its heel and began to walk.

u we believe Elena when she tell u her own side of the story

comments reserved

Episode 10 Hey! You cannot just come into my house and roam about!” Aniekan pushed away his fears and decided to chase after the intruder. But as he ran, he noticed that he was growing weaker, and weaker. He seemed that a heavy burden had been placed upon his shoulders, that he found it difficult to walk. The figure floated away into the darkness that lay ahead. Once it was out of sight, the bulbs began to work again. And Aniekan’s strength returned. When he stared at the corridor, he noticed that the door at the end was tightly locked. And the two windows weren’t open. Only two things came into his mind; he was either having a nervous breakdown, or he had just seen a… “No, that isn’t possible. Ghosts aren’t real. Once a person is dead, they are dead forever and cannot come back to life.” He reassured himself with these words. Quickly, he spun on his heel and walked back to the entrance of the White House. He needed to wake the security officers up. Maybe the thief had a special place of entrance and exit. He had to tell everyone in the house! Aniekan hadn’t gone far, when he’d spotted another figure in the kitchen. He exhaled sharply, when he noticed that his brother Efe was the one. Efe who had a terrible nightmare had woken up to make himself a cup of chocolate drink, so he could sleep better. While sipping from the cup, he sensed that someone was watching him. His fighting instincts came up immediately. When he turned around, he noticed that his brother had returned. “You,” Efe dropped the cup on the table slab and turned his full attention on his younger brother. He didn’t anyone to tell him that Aniekan wasn’t alright. He knew his brother inside out. He could tell when Aniekan was hiding something from him; when he was worried and when he was troubled. The look in his brother’s eyes wasn’t that of the aforementioned. Aniekan was afraid. “Are you alright? You look like you have just watched “Annabel,” Ese chuckled and grabbed his cup again. The horror movie was one of Ada’s favorite. She loved horrors, but he had never found anything scary or intriguing about the demonic looking doll. Aniekan’s lips shivered. He found it difficult to speak. Telling his brother or anyone else that he had seen a figure in black was senseless. What would they think of him? “I am fine.” He decided to play tough. Aniekan walked towards the array of glasses on a large tray and picked one. He would drink water to calm his nerves. Ese emptied the delicious brown content in his cup. “You are good at many things, but not cover up.” “What is that supposed to mean?” Aniekan gritted his teeth as he pulled open the fridge. “Talk to me bro, why do you look so afraid?”Ese wouldn’t let it go. He needed to be very close to his brother right now; he had to try everything to lay his hands on the prototype. Aniekan closed his eyes and tried to push out the image of the steely black eyes that had stared at him at the dead of the night. “I saw something,” he was done being tough. He was going to tell his brother alone. “What did you see?” Ese arched a brow. “It seems there is an intruder in the house. Did you hear any footsteps or notice any strange movement when you came into the kitchen?” Aniekan twisted his question, so he wouldn’t sound crazy. Ese hadn’t noticed anything. “Nope, what happened? I doubt if there is an intruder in our home. Maybe the maid or Elena was having a midnight tour or sleepwalking.” Aniekan shook his head. He couldn’t believe any of the things his brother had suggested. No one has sleepwalked. “Elena is sleeping, I just came out of her room and…” he swallowed. “What?” Ese’s heart jolted. So that little bitch had her brother eating from her snaky fingers. He had to report the situation to Ada. “I know this may sound crazy, or maybe I was imagining something. But the minute I stepped out Elena’s room, the lights leading to my room went off. And I saw a dark figure that vanished right before my eyes. I felt cold all over.” Ese felt another jolt, this one was lighter. Ada had mentioned something similar earlier, but he hadn’t believed her. He hadn’t taken it seriously, because he didn’t believe in the existence of supernatural beings. But now that Aniekan mentioned something similar, it worried him. “You need to breathe, I don’t think you saw a ghost. Maybe someone is trying to play tricks on us. Ada had mentioned something like this.” Ese replied. “Why would someone play such a prank? Who could it be?” Aniekan rubbed his chin thoughtfully. Ese wasn’t making any sense. Elena was asleep. Ada was asleep. Ese quickly remembered his discussion with Ada at her office. If they were going to kill Aniekan and poison Elena, they needed the maid out of the mansion. Maybe this was the opportunity to frame her. “Why don’t we watch and see?” Ese winked. He couldn’t wait to share his devious plan to get Idara out of the house. It would work like magic! Aniekan thought that he had seen a glint of mischief in Ese’s eyes. What did his brother mean by his statement? Well, he had enough for one day. He needed to rest very well and prepare for the meeting he would have with Seun’s uncle. “I must sleep now bro, see you in the morning,” Ese smiled. Aniekan returned the smile, “Goodnight bro.” “Goodnight.” Even while his brother had been with him in the kitchen, Aniekan felt that someone was watching him. He just couldn’t shake that feeling off. He didn’t have an explanation to this. He hadn’t taken any alcoholic drink while hanging out with Seun, so what could have been the cause of this paranoia? When Ese had returned to the room, he noticed that Ada wasn’t on the bed. She had gone to the bathroom to ease herself. He sank into the bed joyously. Finally, they will both have the opportunity to execute their plans. Idara’s presence made things difficult for them. “Where did you go?” Ada yawned as she stepped out of the bathroom. She wasn’t wearing any clothes. Her waists beads danced with each step, and the sight of the peachy pearls, pleased her lover very much. He explained that he was finding it difficult to sleep. “I had to make myself a cup of chocolate,” he shifted to accommodate her, as she climbed into bed. “You’re smiling,” Ada noticed the light in his eyes. “Yes baby, I have finally found the perfect way to get that maid out of the house.” Ada was curious, “Tell me.” “While having my drink, my brother walked into the room with a startled expression. His face was white as a sheet. He looked terrified, like had just seen the devil!” Ada rolled her eyes, she didn’t have the patience for his hyperbole. “Come on darling, go straight to the point.” Ese laughed and tickled her. “You know I wonder what having the White House and all of his companies would feel like. Soon, our dreams would come to life.” He deliberately delayed in telling her what happened. Ada frowned, “I have to catch enough sleep. My client, Mr. Bankole has made up his mind. We’re suing the N.G.O that refused to honor his contract.” “Okay, my brother had been in Elena’s room all these while. When he stepped out of her room, he claimed that the lights that illuminated the corridor went off, and he came across a black figure. The fool thinks that he saw a ghost. Can you believe that?” Ese laughed.

Episode 11 Ada didn’t find it funny. A chill travelled down her nape as she recalled what she felt earlier. When she had shared it, Ese hadn’t believed her. “Oh come on babe, don’t tell me you believe he saw a ghost!” He guffawed. Ada sighed, “I don’t know what your brother saw, but I am sure of what I felt earlier. Something isn’t right in this house. We should lay our hands on that prototype and move out, as soon as we can.” Ese frowned, “I told you this story so that you could see the good part in it. I managed to convince Aniekan that someone was playing a prank on all of us. I intend to use this opportunity to frame Idara.” She hadn’t been comfortable with his annoying laughter while he’d been sharing the story, but now that she thought about the good side, she nodded in agreement. “You’re such a genius my love…how come I never thought about this?” “Trust me honey, I will bring my brother to his knees. You need to get closer to Elena. I have a feeling that she knows where the prototype is.” Ese pulled Ada into his arms and caressed her naked back. Anger coursed through Ada. “The fool intends to rule over your brother. She isn’t even a month old in the White House, and he is already sleeping with her! We need to work faster. I will get to her, first thing in the morning!” Ese was aroused by the determination that he’d ignited in her. “I trust you baby, you can do anything.” His hands travelled further, until he found the sweep of her hips. Elena had drifted off to dreamland, while trying to work on a plot for Demon Hall2. She had fallen into the hands of a deep sleep, which carried her spirit to a land of love, peace and wonder. She’d woken up to the sound of a loud pounding on her door. “Geez!” She covered her mouth with her hands as her eyes went straight to the wall clock. It was 10.A.M. Elena jumped out of bed and rushed to the door. She had overslept! Sweat trickled down her brows as she imagined all the time that she had lost, while sleeping and having a dream of winning an award for Demon Hall2. When she opened the door, she found Idara standing with a tray of Akara and a plate of milky custard. “Go away,” Elena smiled. The aroma of the delicious combination had her forgetting her target for the night. How could one resist such a delectable breakfast on a Saturday morning? The maid smiled, “Good morning Ma. I trust that you slept well.” Elena parted the door to let her in, “My name is Elena. If you cannot call me that, then forget it.” Elena wasn’t comfortable with the formality. She just wanted to be addressed by her first name. Idara smiled. She wanted to win Elena over to her side, before it was too late. Anytime she remembered Ada’s conversation with Ese, the fear that consumed her, was indescribable. She had been silent the first time, but she couldn’t let them hurt Elena in any way. “I am sorry Elena,” Idara dropped the tray on a table. Elena rolled her eyes, “You see, I feel better now, how was your night?” Idara nodded, “I slept well…” Elena was about saying something else, when she noticed that her laptop and her jotter were on the table. That was strange. She didn’t remember keeping her writing materials on the table. She was a hundred percent sure of this. “Um, did someone come into my room?” Her voice was low, but Idara could hear her. Elena had lingered in the kitchen, hoping that Aniekan would return early. She had been waiting in the kitchen area with her laptop, pretending to be busy but deep down, she had desired his presence. When Aniekan hadn’t showed up after three hours of aimless waiting, she had retired to her room, knowing that he wouldn’t return home. “Did you notice anything?” Idara’s voice was jittery. She hoped that Ada and her evil boyfriend hadn’t come into the room, to harm Elena in anyway. Elena didn’t know what to make out of it. Maybe she had dropped her laptop on the table. “It’s nothing.” She sighed. Her eyes fell on a beautiful necklace on the maid’s neck. It was a golden chain, with a pendant of a black bird. Some people would find it eerie, but the artistic eyes of Elena found it beautiful. “You have a beautiful necklace, where did you get it from?” Her hands touched the sigil on the necklace. Idara saw this as an opportunity to warn Elena. “Um, my former mistress gave it to me. She was a very nice person, just like you…” Idara stuttered. Elena pulled away from the necklace and settled into a chair. She laughed. “What makes you think that I am a nice person?” Elena rolled her eyes. People like Regina at the office, wouldn’t say the same about her. “You and my former mistress share a lot of things in common. For starters, you look alike.” Idara winked. Elena dropped the fork and looked into the maid’s eyes, “You keep saying your “mistress,” who is this person?” The moment to spill the beans had come. Idara was about telling Elena all that she needed to know about Aniekan and the White House, when the door creaked. Both ladies turned their attention towards the door. Ada stood at the entrance with a bright smile, which could deceive the devil himself. Idara wasn’t comfortable with Ada’s presence, but she knew that it was time for her to leave. “I must go now,” Idara patted Elena on the shoulder. But not before lowering her lips towards Elena’s delicate ears, as if to kiss her. Elena was even amazed at this show of affection, but when she felt Idara’s soft lips against her ears, she knew that the girl was sending her a coded message. “Please, be careful.” Ada hadn’t noticed that Idara had whispered something to Elena, but she was happy to see her leave. “Good morning Ma,” Idara bowed her head. Ada ignored her greeting completely, and stepped into the room. Her visit came as a surprise to Elena. What was Ada doing in her room? She had a bottle of wine and two glasses in her hands. What was this about? “I know that you may be surprised by my visit. But I assure you that I have come for peace and not war.” Ada started sweetly. Elena scoffed, “I am happy that you know that I am surprised. Who wouldn’t?” Ada flashed a friendly smile, “Look, I am sorry for the way that I treated you. I just needed some money urgently and you played into my hands. I acknowledge my mistakes. I should never have locked you in that room or encouraged Ese to treat you and your dad like that. But I had a need Elena. My mother was down with kidney problems and she needed surgery in Germany. I couldn’t afford that. I just had to find a way…I am sorry.” Now that Ada mentioned it, the pain of that night flashed through Elena’s mind. Ada had been very cruel to her, and she had been bent on destroying her life. But looking at the lawyer now, Elena didn’t see her as a very bad person. People committed crimes for different reasons. Ada had only wanted to save her mother’s life. She felt touched by the story.

u are so touch by her fake story abi

Episode 12 “Why didn’t you tell Aniekan about it? He would’ve helped you like he helped me.” Elena sympathized with her. Ada sighed, “I don’t know how much you know about Aniekan, but he loves to help people. He has helped me out of financial troubles many times. I am just tired of asking for help. I don’t want to take him for granted…” her voice broke and a tear rushed down her cheek. Elena’s eyes were cloudy. She had hated the lawyer without knowing the reason why she had acted so desperately. She couldn’t stand someone crying. “I am so sorry Ada. I was just hurt…” Elena blinked away the tears that gathered in her eyes. “Please forgive me Elena. I messed up big time. But since we now live in the White House together, we have to be friends. I don’t want us to be enemies.” Elena offered her a weak smile. She was tired of having enemies as well. Joy filled her heart as she stared at the peace offering in Ada’s hands. The only person that still got on her nerves was Ese. It would take a longer time before she got over is arrogance and sense of entitlement. “I guess that’s for me,” Elena pointed at the bottle of rose. “Of course, but I already opened it before coming. I didn’t want to stress you. We’ll drink together.” Ada raised a glass. Elena clapped lightly, “yay!” She also collected a glass, while waiting for Ada to empty the contents into her glass. She accepted Ada’s apology without thinking twice about Idara’s warning. The fruity scent of the red wine killed any reservations that she had, about starting a Saturday morning with a glass of wine. “What’s in that?” Elena licked her lips. Ada was confused and a bit bothered by her question, as she poured the wine into the glasses. “I don’t understand your question.” She forced a smile. “The wine smells lovely. It reminds me of red apples.” Elena raised the glass close to her lips. Ada sighed with relief as she realized that Elena’s question had been borne out of innocence. “Um, it is made of cherries and apples. It is very sweet.” Ada hesitated. She didn’t drink from her glass, but pretended to admired Elena’s room. On the other hand, Elena had emptied the contents of her glass. She held the glass out, “Can I have more?” Ada nodded, “Oh sure, you can keep the bottle too.” She was about pouring wine into Elena’s glass, when her phone buzzed. Ada pulled the device hurriedly, knowing that whoever was calling or texting, had provided her with an escape route. She glanced at the screen and noted the text message from Mr. Bankole. They would meet later at a coffee shop to discuss the case. “Um, I have to leave urgently. I have an important meeting with a client.” Elena collected the bottle and thanked Ada for the wine. “I hope we can hang out sometime,” she waved Ada goodbye. “Yes darling, we will hang out. We are not friends.” Ada responded. Once Ada was out of the room, Elena poured more wine into her glass. She was about sipping, when she felt a presence in her room. The wine glass fell from her hands and shattered on the marble floor. Elena had felt this before; a nagging feeling of being watched. She ignored the broken glass pieces on the floor and turned around. Just in time, she spotted a figure in black running from the entrance of her room. With all the strength in her body, Elena began to run after the dark figure. “Hey! Wait!” She chased the floating figure. Though the figure seemed faster than she was, Elena wasn’t perturbed. She had to find out the truth for herself. She had to be certain that she wasn’t crazy. He was tempted to visit her room another time, but he distracted his mind with some morning news. It was almost 11.A.M and Elena hadn’t woken up yet. He was a bit worried. Was she okay? Why was she still sleeping for this long? Aniekan kept staring at his golden watch. He had a meeting with Seun later today. But he wouldn’t leave the house, until he’d seen Elena’s face. “Going somewhere?” Ese swaggered into the living room and joined his brother on the long couch. He had already laid down his plans that would kick Idara out of the house. All that remained, was the ripe opportunity to expose her. Aniekan shrugged, “Today is Saturday. I’d love to hang out.” Ese’s ears itched, “You don’t usually hang out, do you have a girlfriend?” He blurted out. First, the question surprised Aniekan, and he also found it intrusive. Ese never cared about his personal business. Why was he so interested now? “Nope. I am meeting with Seun. We have some important things that we are working on.” Ese knew Seun; he didn’t like his brother’s business partner. Seun didn’t like him as well, so the feeling was mutual. “I have warned you to stop hanging out with that Yoruba guy. He’s going to betray you someday. You need to share more with me. I am your brother, but he is just a friend. Friendship is a fleeting relationship, but brotherhood is forever.” Aniekan sensed desperation in Ese’s voice. His reserved brother, who rarely had time for his personal affairs, was suddenly all over him. Again, Aniekan was convinced that Ese was up to something. He couldn’t keep up with the conversation anymore. The faster he got the chip that contained the prototype out of the house, the better for him. No other person could trace its location. Aniekan grabbed the remote and turned off the television. “See you later bro,” he patted Ese’s shoulder. “Alright,” Ese whispered. He watched angrily as his brother strolled out of the living room. He was an experienced street man. He knew when someone suspected him. Somehow, he had given himself away and Aniekan sensed his interest in the prototype. Ese could bet on his life, that whoever Aniekan was going to visit knew something about the prototype. Quickly, he pulled out his car key and rushed out of the living room. He would follow his brother and see what he was up to. As he rushed out of the room, he crashed into the maid. “Get out of my way bitch!” He pushed Idara roughly on the floor. The girl rose up immediately. The fire in Ese’s eyes was dangerous. He was up to something. Idara noticed that Ada, Ese and Aniekan weren’t in the house. Maybe this was the right time for her to speak with Elena. She was about leaving for Elena’s room, when she heard a soft music playing; it resonated from the forbidden wing. Idara stiffened. Her mistress always played the music, when she thought that everyone was away from the White House. Well, everyone connected to her was out; but Elena was around. She couldn’t let Elena see her! No one could see her yet, until it was time

is she still alive??

I Hope There Is Nothing dangerous In the Wine

when will idara open up.

Episode 13 The coffee shop that her client had chosen for the meeting was scanty and private. She liked the place. As she waited for him to arrive, Ada pulled out some files that she had been working on, and placed them on the table. She hadn’t spoken a word to Aniekan, since he made Elena Benjamin the head of the writing team for Demon Hall2. Aniekan was going to realize that he was nothing without her. But before that happened, it would be too late for him. He would regret ever pushing her out of his decisions. “Would you like some coffee Madam?” A waitress came to her. Ada ran her eyes lazily over the girl, “What flavors do you serve?” She asked. “We have Black, creamy, espresso and Americano.” The waitress replied with a polite smile. “Get me a creamy, but with some ice.” Ada winked. It hadn’t been long before Mr. Bankole arrived, the man wore a black suit as always. Before he reached the table, Ada noted something that she had never considered in his files. And she was disappointed at her carelessness. She was his lawyer, yet, she had never noticed that this man was single! She had never seen Mr. Bankole with his family, so she assumed he was a private person or maybe he was separated or something. As she fed her eyes with the details from his files, she was utterly amazed, that a man of his age could be single. “Good morning Ada,” The old man smiled and pulled a chair backwards. Ada rose to greet him, “Welcome sir. I hope you had a pleasant night rest.” Mr. Bankole shrugged, “I was, before my nephew called me at the middle of the night. I struggle with insomnia, so the little sleep that I get is very important. After his call, I couldn’t sleep again; so I spent the night watching a soap opera.” Ada laughed heartily. The man could tell a story for hours, and no one would get bored. He had a good sense of humor. She needed to be closer to her client, so they could pursue this case together. “You live alone?” She ran her eyes across his face. “Yup. I haven’t been married before, and I don’t have kids.” Mr. Bankole replied. And from the sound of his voice, he had no regrets. Before his lawyer could ask further questions, he quickly thanked her for sending someone to deliver the phone that he had forgotten at her office. Ada noted that the man had a sharp memory and he was a polite person. “It wasn’t a big deal sir. I try to treat all my clients with respect.” Unknown to her, Mr. Bankole’s phone had a permanent voice recorder that was always on. The phone had collected all that she had discussed with Ese in her office. And the man had carefully played the recording over and over again. The conversation between Ese and his lawyer, brought to light so many things. Before stepping out of the office, Mr. Bankole had almost bumped into a young man, who had a striking resemblance to someone that duped him many years back. After listening to their conversation, he did a little internet research. From the results of his search, Eseabasi Umoh’s profile matched “James Agwadike,” the young man that had tricked him into buying an apartment that wasn’t his.’ Mr. Bankole had just gained employment with the Little Hannah Foundation; he had to relocate from the East. Finding quality and comfortable accommodation had been a problem. But his hopes had been reinforced when he had been introduced to an agent, by one of his old friends, who turned out to be a fake as well. After transferring half a million to Ese’s bank account, the young man had blocked him. The old man then realized that the house he had been shown belonged to a popular real estate business man. Listening to the recording pleased him greatly. He had realized that his lawyer, Ada, wasn’t such a good person. She worked hand in hand with Ese and they were plotting the downfall of someone he couldn’t trace. One thing that he had sensed from their conversation was that, the subject that was being discussed was a close person, whom they both knew and related with. Mr. Bankole also noticed the repetition of a word that he didn’t understand, “Prototype.” “I am interested in working with you. I trust you Ada. I know that we will win this case.” He broke the icy silence between them. He would stick to Ada, until he found a way to deal with Ese for what he had done. Mr. Bankole wasn’t a troublesome man. But all who sinned against him, always paid their debts. Ese wasn’t going to be spared from his rod of justice. Ada pulled out a pen and began to ask the old man some questions. “When did you start working with the Little Hannah Foundation?” “My application letter was accepted and I was given an appointment on the 7th of June, 2010.” Ada caressed the tip of her pen, “That was five years ago.” “Yes,” he nodded. “So during these five years that you worked for them, did you give in your best? Did you receive any official query? Did you have problems with anyone?” She was trying to build a case here. Ada knew that winning a case against an N.G.O wasn’t going to be easy. They were going to come up with lies and blackmail, to silent her client. But she wasn’t deterred. This case would make her fifty something million richer, she couldn’t miss this opportunity. The man had served the organization well. He hadn’t experienced any fracas at his job, he had even received an award as the best worker two years back. He explained this to her. She dropped the pen and clasped her hands together, “You are good at your job. You were awarded for your hard work, why would they not renew your contract as promised?” As she searched for an angle, Mr. Bankole’s phone rang, disrupting the meeting. “I have to take this, it’s my nephew again,” he raised a finger into the air and apologized. “Good morning Uncle. I am sorry to disturb you this early, but I am heading towards your house. Remember my friend that I told you about? I came with him. Please, you have to help him. Your house is the safest place for the prototype, because not many people know about its location.” The man had been ready to tell is annoying nephew off, but at the mention of “Prototype,” he ended the call sharply. This was more than a coincidence. “Are you alright?” Ada was taken aback, by her client’s sudden rising. “I am fine. I am sorry that I must leave now. We’ll see again!” “But Mr. Bankole we haven’t discussed properly. If I must be your lawyer, you have to give me deeper things to work with. You can’t just work out on me at every meeting that we have.” Ada was irritated by his carefree attitude about the case. She wasn’t a magician. To win a case, a lawyer needed the minutest of details, but from the look of things, this man wasn’t ready to cooperate. Mr. Bankole smiled, understanding her fears. “You don’t have to worry your sweet head about that. I will find time for us to meet. We both know that this case would fetch us a lot of money. Be patient with me.” He winked at her and rushed out of the building. He had to see the end of this. Ada grabbed the mug and sipped her coffee hurriedly. She had other important matters to handle. And as she swallowed her drink, she went over the conversation that she had with her client, Mr. Bankole. Ada sensed a difference in the old man’s attitude. He seemed friendlier and happier. “I wonder what has ticked his clock.” She scoffed. When she was through with her drink, she pulled out her phone and dialed Ese’s number. Ada was having a good day, knowing that one of her enemies would drop dead very soon, and without a single trace to her. Ese took the call at second ring, “Hey babe,” he sounded nervous. “Are you alright?” Ada asked calmly. “Yep, I think I found the prototype. I will call you once I am done here.” “You found it? Geez, this is unbelievable!” Ada let out a yell, but when she realized she was in a public place, she quickly placed her hands over her mouth. She couldn’t believe finding the prototype would be this easy. “I am getting closer to the location. I need to hang up now, see you later.” Ada rose to her feet and gathered her things. She couldn’t wait! It was just a matter of time, before they laid their hands on Aniekan’s Demon Hall1. They would sell it to a foreign company and flee the country. To be continued…

this isnt eazy now.

God punish the two of you

Episode 14 Like his friend Seun had said, George lived in an arid land. There wasn’t any sight of a house since the past thirty minutes that he’d been driving. Aniekan felt that this was the perfect place to keep the prototype; no one would ever trace it to Seun’s uncle’s underground house. “You like what you see?” Seun noticed that his friend was quiet. Aniekan chuckled, “This better be good and safe. I worked so hard at designing this game. My brother or anyone for that matter would not do anything to stop me.” Seun nodded, “You are right. You worked hard for it, you deserve all of the benefits that will come. I trust Uncle George with all my life. He is an honorable man. If this chip gets into the wrong hands, you are free to sue me.” Aniekan rolled his eyes and snorted, “Sue you? I don’t think I can afford many lawyers.” After he’d said this, both men burst out with laughter. The guffaw diminished as Seun drove towards an area with a rusty old tank. Aniekan watched his friend drive around the tank three times with keen interest and curiosity. He’d wanted to ask Seun why he had done that, but his eagerness waned. He had to keep the prototype safe, before anyone else got to it. Seun took off his seatbelt and pulled out his phone. He had called his uncle an hour ago; he hoped that the old man was home now. “What is it?” Aniekan noticed the frown on Seun’s forehead. “He isn’t taking the call. It seems that he isn’t around.” Seun pushed the car door farther and got out. He hated disappointments. He couldn’t let Aniekan down, after raising his hopes. Aniekan got out of the car as well. A wave of fresh breeze kissed his face, and he took in the drugging fragrance of the arid land. From where he stood, he could see stunted looking trees and patches of dry grasses. Aniekan thought that Seun’s uncle was a very weird man. “Why does your uncle prefer living far away from people?” He couldn’t keep his thoughts to himself anymore. Seun’s shoulders fell; he was confused as his friend. “I’ve never really asked him. He has always been the odd one out in our family.” As both men were conversing, the old man pushed open the metallic lid, which covered the tunnel which served an entrance to his underground house upwards. The cylindrical lid fell next to the rusty old tank. Aniekan was the first to notice the bronze-like lid. He saw the old man waving at them both. George had a little resemblance with Seun. They had the same piercing eyes. “I think your uncle is around,” Aniekan spun around and faced the old man. “Aha! You both had to cut short the meeting I had with my lawyer…” George climbed out of the pit and smacked his bony hands against each other. “Uncle George!” Seun exclaimed. Aniekan couldn’t miss the excitement in his best friend’s voice. It seemed that these two hadn’t seen each other for a very long time. They hugged like old friends who had been separated for many years. George’s wrinkles straightened a bit as he smiled. He was pleased to meet his nephew whom he loved so much. Of all his nephews and nieces, Seun was the one that took after him in industry. The rest were small minded bigots like their parents. “Boy, how do you do?” George pulled the young man into his arms for a hug. Seun smiled, “You know that I am fine. I don’t need to ask you the same, because you’re glowing.” The old man guffawed heartily. If only his nephew knew that he was about being fired. “I am pleased to see you…” George trailed off, and glared at Seun’s friend. The man seemed younger than Seun. He had brooding eyes and the sides of his face were covered with overgrown beards. George couldn’t place the face in his head, but the face was not a new one. Aniekan could feel the old man scrutinize him. There wasn’t time for modesty. He quickly rushed towards George and bowed his head slightly. “Good day Sir, I am Seun’s friend and I am pleased to meet you.” Aniekan quickly introduced himself. “Aha! Aniekan Umoh, your face now makes sense to me. You’re highly welcome. I hope you do not have a problem with underground houses, because we are about to go in.” Uncle George winked. Aniekan flashed his set of sparkling teeth. The old man’s nature was bubbly and cheerful. He wished to be this way when he was Uncle George’s age. It also surprised Aniekan that the old man recognized who he was. Well, being a celebrity wasn’t easy. You couldn’t hide, even in the darkest of rooms. As George led the way, he tried to connect the dots from the voice recording that he had listened on. Seun’s friend was the famous tech-billionaire-one of the youngest and wealthiest men in Africa, just like his nephew, Seun. While working with the Little Hannah Foundation, Aniekan had donated thirty million naira for the purchase of sanitary cups for less privileged women. He was a good man. The act of charity could only come from a thoughtful and kind hearted person. He had to find a way to connect the dots. He had heard rumors of Ada being Aniekan’s personal lawyer, he had to confirm this. Even if she was, she had no right to work against her client. George’s personal interest was the man who had defrauded him many years back. He needed to find out how connected that fraudster was to Aniekan. George climbed in first, and the friends followed. Once Aniekan was sure that George was out of earshot, he tapped his friend on the shoulder. “Your uncle is funny and weird at the same time,” he whispered. Seun smirked, “It’s better we see his funny side now. He talks to his rabbits. Who does that?” Both friends giggled all the way, until they reached the base of the house. They found themselves in a well furnished living room. The walls were covered with the founding fathers of many disciplines. Their faces were ash and grim. Well, they weren’t surprised; Uncle George was not the typical Nigerian uncle. The floor was covered with shiny red tiles. There was a table in the middle of the room. And it was stacked with plenty of books and papers, some of which sprawled to the ground. “Make yourselves comfortable; let me get you something to drink.” George wiped the sweat that poured on his brow. “It seems you were looking for something?” Seun pointed at the papers and books. “Mind your business boy, what can I get you two to drink?” Uncle George carefully avoided the question. He couldn’t tell his nephew about his loss of job. He didn’t want any assistance and pity. Seun thought the old man was being secretive. Well, whatever Uncle George was hiding was personal. He decided not to bother the old man anymore. “I am sorry Uncle, but we are in a hurry. We just stopped to drop something with you. Do you remember what we discussed over the phone?” Seun asked. George remembered, but he needed more. He wanted details and something that he could work with.

Hmm

Episode 15 “You mentioned a prototype?” George moved closer and settled into a chair. He had to listen carefully and properly. Aniekan Umoh seemed like a good person. If his snaky lawyer was up to some mischief, he would be left with no option but to expose her. Seun cast a look of, “tell him yourself,” at Aniekan, who quickly understood. Aniekan cleared his throat and pulled out a chip from his pocket. It was very tiny yet visible. It was protected in a little glass casing which had a label that read: “Demon Hall2.” “I design games for a living…” “I know that part,” Uncle George winked. The old man had one of Aniekan’s games in his computer and he played it whenever he was stressed. “I have Luciferon, Glacierbreakers and Surulere on my computer.” He said. Aniekan was awed, humbled and impressed that a man like George took interest in his games. It spoke a lot about what he did. He was touching lives across age groups. Now that he knew that old people could play games, his next line of action, would be to design games that would suit their age group. “I am surprised, that is good to know. I will always keep you in mind, while designing my next games.” It pleased George to hear that, but it would please him more to find out how Ese was connected to Ada and whom they had been plotting against. “Please go on about the prototype.” George urged him on. Aniekan nodded and shifted in his chair. “There is a game that I have been working on for some years now, Demon Hall1. It is a big deal and it would pull in a lot of cash and investments to my company. Everything is in here…” Aniekan raised the chip up. “With my permission and readiness, it would be distributed to worldwide gaming centers, toy companies and online game streaming sides. I just have one problem.” He paused. Seun’s eyes met with his uncle’s, but he quickly looked away. He’d wanted Aniekan to state the purpose of their visit by himself. “What could that be?” George waited for the young man to speak. “I…I think someone is after the prototype. And if this chip gets into the wrong hands, all my effort would be ruined, because I do not know what plans this person has for my game. This is why I have come. I know that I am supposed to keep this in the bank or with a law firm, but I don’t trust anybody now. I have to fight this on my own.” Speaking of lawyers… Mr. George felt this was the best time to make some subtle inquiries. “So you want me to keep this prototype in my underground house? What makes you think that I cannot sell your game to those who want it? I could make a huge profit and flee the state.” Aniekan had thought of that possibility, but achieving success involved risks and he wanted Demon Hall1 to be successful. “I have been friends with Seun for a very long time. I trust him with my life, even more than my family. If Seun believes in you, I also believe that you are a man of integrity and purpose. You are an honorable man.” Seun confirmed his friend’s assertions with a nod. George smiled sweetly, “I must say that you are a good talker. What other talents do you have apart from designing fun filled games and having a convincing tongue?” The room was saturated with different notes of laughter. When silence returned, the old man cleared his throat. It was time for seriousness. It was time for honesty. “I would love to be a part of your success story, but I cannot keep something so delicate and precious in my care without knowing your reason for wanting to hide it, in the first place.” Aniekan thought that the old man’s argument was valid. Only a simpleton and a naïve person would have accepted the prototype without questioning its foundation. “Please be very honest with me, and you will have to append your signature to a paper, stating that you want me to keep it.” Seun’s lips parted in a devious and silent laugh; knowing how smart and pragmatic that his uncle was. “Sure, that wouldn’t be a problem.” Again, Aniekan was pleased by the old man’s conduct. “Before then, you have to answer two questions. Is this acceptable?” George quickly peeled a clean sheet of paper and folded it on his lap. “What are your questions please?” Aniekan waited for the old man to speak. “Who is your Lawyer? And who is after the prototype?” At first, Aniekan had expected tougher and more personal questions. The old man’s inquiry seemed unrelated and inconsequential to the existence of the prototype. He didn’t have a choice. He couldn’t ignore the question. “Barrister Adaugo Elechi is my official legal representative. For the prototype, I feel many people want it.” Aniekan couldn’t expose his brother to a total stranger. But he wasn’t an awesome liar; George had spotted his unwillingness and hesitation for the second question. However, he had confirmed one thing; they both shared the same lawyer. “Please I want you to be honest with me. Keeping this prototype could endanger my life, especially if the people looking for it are dangerous. I need to know what I am up against.” Seun understood why Aniekan wasn’t quick to answer the second question. “I will help him answer that. We suspect his older brother, EseabasiUmoh. But we do not have proof yet, it is just a hunch.” “I see,” George caressed his chin. He had gotten the answers that he sought. He would find a way to avenge the criminal for defrauding him. Ese had followed his brother’s car to a barren land. At first, it confused him. Why would Ese park his car in the middle of nowhere? But when he approached the rusty tank and found a metallic ring on the ground. Ese smiled with satisfaction, for he had found his brother’s hiding place. “So the fool thought he could hide the prototype from me?” In a swift move, Ese pulled out a gun from his pocket. Elena’s feet hurt as she chased after the dark figure. It seemed to float. It moved faster than Elena, but she wouldn’t be deterred. She had to be sure that she wasn’t going crazy or having a mental breakdown. When Elena stepped into the hallway, leading to the forbidden room, she was slowed down by darkness. But she didn’t stop running. She still felt the eerie presence in the corridor. She continued to run, until she burst into an area with dim light. She had been locked in one of the rooms by Aniekan’s lawyer, on her first night. She remembered it clearly now. When a little light had pierced through the hallway, Elena noticed that the black figure was nowhere to be found. “Shit!” Elena yelled in a loud voice. “I lost it!” She panted like one who was being chased by a masquerade. Her feet hurt. Her mouth felt dry. Her lips shivered. Sweat covered her face. Elena was exhausted from running, she was afraid that something was wrong with her. If there had really been a figure, she would have seen it, touched it and spoken to it. Something was misleading her mind. Something triggered hallucination within her, and she had to discover the truth. A tear ran down her cheek as she imagined a life of isolation. Yes, people who suffered mental illness, even in the mildest forms, were usually shunned by their own family. She couldn’t believe having delusions would happen to her, at such a young age. She placed her hands against her face and sobbed. “I am going crazy!” When she was done with her morning cry, she rose to her feet and decided to go to work. She would have to talk to someone about this problem that she faced, because it was eating her up from the inside. The first person that came to her mind was Ada. Ada had proven herself to be a good friend; she was going to tell someone about this problem that she was passing through. Elena was about leaving the forbidden wing, when she heard soft music playing in the background. At first, she tried to shake it off, as another trick that her mind was playing on her. But when the song continued to play, she had no choice but to trace the origin of such a familiar and sweet tone. “Where is this song coming from?” Elena forced her eyes shut and searched the deepest places in her mind.

hmm elena believes in devil

Episode 16 When her eyes opened, she moved to the third door in the hallway. This was the room where she had been held hostage. When she pushed the door open, she found the oddest sight. She hadn’t noticed the piano that was placed strategically in the room. It was a huge piano, and out of its speakers, emanated beautiful melody. Elena was certain that she wasn’t imagining this. But how could an old piano play itself? She walked towards the object and ran her fingers across its keys, hoping to stop the music that played, but her keys didn’t affect the original melody in anywhere. The tears on her face dried up. A smile split her lovely face into two. And as she sang the words of the song, she forgot about her fears and unhappiness. When she was tired of listening, she decided it was time to leave the house. Elena found it difficult to move away from the spot. It felt like her feet were being glued to the spot, and someone was sitting on them. Strangeness, she had never experienced this. A gentle breeze swept through the room, and the thick veil of dust was startled. Elena began to cough. As she struggled to leave the place that she stood, she noticed an object that wasn’t on the piano when she had stepped into the room. Just when her eyes caught sight of the photo album, the piano stopped playing. It was only then that she was able to move. Elena knew for certain that her mind was twisted or warped by any mental problem. It was difficult for her to pronounce the words out of her lips. But deep down, she felt the presence of one who had died unjustly. The White House was haunted. She steadied her hands and grabbed the photo album. On her way out, she found the housekeeper who regarded her with a frightened expression. “Are you alright Ma?” Idara was visibly shaken. She had sensed the presence of the spirit, and it had scared her. Her former mistress only appeared to her, but when she began to show interest in Elena, it bothered her greatly. Elena had a feeling that Idara knew all that went on in the mansion. “Am I not supposed to be?” Elena’s tone was sarcastic. She had to do a research on clairvoyance. She was not crazy. All she needed was an explanation. “Where did you get that?” Idara’s eyes went wide as she sighted her former mistress’ favorite item. “This room, is there any problem?” Elena eyed the girl suspiciously. “No, not at all…” Idara laughed dryly, Elena didn’t join her. “Did you see anyone, um, I mean, anything?” Idara asked. Her question not only solidified Elena’s suspicion, it made her better, knowing that she was mentally sound. “I am leaving for work now. It seems that we have a lot to discuss.” After her brief meeting with Mr. Bankole, Ada had decided to return home, where she would wait for Ese’s return. It seemed he had something interesting to share with her. Meanwhile, Ada knew that no one would be at the White house at that moment, except for the stupid maid, whom she planned to get rid of. Ada understood what Ese had in plan for Idara and she would help him execute it. The maid had no place in the White House; she was a stumbling block to her plans. For now, Ada was certain that Elena was out of the way. It was just a matter of weeks before her death. A smile played on her lips as she drove into the mansion. As expected, Aniekan’s car was not available and she was quite sure that Elena was gone. Gently, Ada pulled out her briefcase and strolled out of the car. She noticed the gateman was whistling, she rarely spoke to the man. Maybe she could ask him a few questions about Aniekan and Elena to be sure that she was alone. “Welcome Madam,” he greeted with a grin. “Ibrahim, how you dey today?” She switched to pidgin. Ibrahim’s lips widened, surprised that the “madam lawyer,” was speaking to him. The day was certainly a good one. “Is anyone at home?” Ada asked in a friendly voice. “Not at all, Idara just left for the market. She dropped her key with me.” The gateman tapped his pocket twice. This was it. She had to find a way to get into Idara’s room. She would find a black dress from her room and plant it there. When Ese returned, they would both tell Aniekan that Idara had been the one that roamed around the White House at night. Aniekan would get upset, and they will manage to convince her that she was also a thief. Perfect idea! Ada couldn’t wait. It was going to be awesome. “Um, Ibrahim, you no say you be my friend. Forget say I no yan with you, but e get wetin you go do for me.” Again, she dropped her classy act and switched to pidgin. The gateman’s eyes lighted with fire, “Aha! I talk am! I know sey madam get something for im cupboard.” He chuckled. Ada sighed, she had been playing dirty too long. She knew just what Ibrahim would need to cooperate with her. She quickly dipped a hand into her pocket and pulled out a wrap of money. “I want the key to Idara’s room. If you not tell her or anyone else for that matter, more money shall be added to this.” The gateman was astonished. He had expected something more demanding. Handing over the maid’s keys wasn’t a difficult task for some Naira notes. “But you go need to return am quick. She fit no stay long for market.” Ibrahim hurriedly pulled out the bunch from his pocket, while giving her a warning. Ada nodded in understanding, “Um, I will do as you have said. Just keep watch for me.” She walked closer to him and handed over the wrap. He snatched it from her hands without hesitation. In return, he handed her the keys. The trade by barter was established. Immediately she got the keys, Ada rushed towards the building and moved to the wing where she shared with Ese. First, she would plant the black dress and some of her items, which she would use to accuse Idara. After which, she would find a way to sneak into Aniekan’s room. Maybe she would find the prototype stashed somewhere. Ese wasn’t a keen observer like she was. He was careless. But she would take her time and search every nook and cranny of the house.

Episode 17 Elena had decided to go simple. She wore a multicolored Palazzo and a milky sequin blouse which revealed the pale white skin of her chest, almost leading to her cleavage. She was distressed by what she had seen earlier. At a point, Elena doubted her own thoughts. What if her experience wasn’t real? What if her hallucinations started because she was the writer of Demon Hall2? Demon Hall games had little to do with reality, but a lot to do with a fictional underworld. What if her mind was playing games on her? “But I already sensed a strange presence before Aniekan appointed me as Lead writer,” she murmured as she got out of the cab. How could an age long piano play itself and produce such sweet melody? There was no one else in the room with her, but she could feel a great sadness that covered the room like a thick veil. Elena pushed away her doubts, and replaced them with faith. She wasn’t crazy. She had seen a dark figure, and from the look on Idara’s face, she knew something about it. Researching a bit about the underworld would not only help her write better for Demon Hall2, it would help her understand the experiences that she was going through. She felt her phone beep. Elena ignored the beeping until she got into the elevator. When she pulled the device out, she noticed it was a text message from her mother, Tamar Benjamin. Elena felt a bit guilty. She smacked her forehead lightly with her slim fingers. Since she moved in with Aniekan, she had forgotten everything about her family. Okay, she didn’t forget them. How could she forget her kindhearted father and her melodramatic mother? Hell no, she hadn’t forgotten them. She had just become overwhelm by her latest experiences. First, Aniekan had appointed her as a lead writer, and now she was seeing things that weren’t there. The text message read: I love you baby. I and your father are so proud of your achievements. You should drop by on my birthday; your father intends to throw me a big party. Elena smiled and pressed a hand against her chest. Tears stung her eyes as she read the message a second time. From the look of it, her parents were in good terms. Well, it surprised her a bit. But as she pondered on the possibility of them getting back together, everything became clearer to her. She blushed as she remembered her father checking out her mother’s backside. Those two still had the spark between them, but they were stubborn. They were unyielding to the rhythm of love. Once the elevator stopped at her floor, she got out and ran her fingers hurriedly over the keys. I love you too momma. I promise to visit on your birthday. I am sorry that I haven’t dropped by the mansion, it is not easy with me here. Mr. Aniekan has just appointed me as the Lead Writer for Demon Hall2(you may not understand this) but I will stop by soon. I love you! While typing, Elena had failed to see the figure that approached. It was the harsh tone of Regina that alerted her, and her phone quickly tumbled from her hands. “Come on, don’t tell me that you are blind as well as stupid!” Regina gritted her teeth. Elena had wanted to apologize for almost bumping into her, but seeing that the rude secretary was unrepentant, she withheld her apology. “It takes a blind and stupid person to recognize one.” Elena lowered herself and picked up her phone. She flashed Regina a very sweet smile and continued towards the office. Regina was stunned by the girl’s confidence. Normally, when she attacked people for two or three days, they always reacted by cowering before her or avoiding her totally. But with Elena, it was different. The girl wasn’t even angry by her rudeness. She wasn’t even bothered by it! Regina couldn’t help it. She quickly turned round and stared at Elena’s back. It seemed that she had found her match for the first time. One person had to bend, else Games Village would be on fire! Determined to break Elena, Regina followed her right to the boss’ office, where she was destined to stay. Elena could smell the rudeness of Regina’s heels. Even in her sleep, she would recognize the bitch. Elena had come across people like Regina before, and from what she observed, there was a hollow in them. You see, violence, rudeness and all forms of toxicity were a reflection of a person’s inner struggles. Something was definitely wrong with Regina. And if she didn’t keep off, Elena vowed to give her the most ruthless form of verbal attack. “Hey! You don’t just talk to people the way you want. I understand that you are sleeping with the boss! But you have to apologize for bumping into me.” Regina rudely dragged Elena by the shoulder. Elena sucked in enough breath that would last her. She had to put Regina in her place. She was about spinning on her heels and facing the troublemaker, when she heard a loud sound! Regina had slipped and fallen on the marble floor, and she was bleeding from a side of her mouth. After tapping Elena on the shoulder, Regina couldn’t explain what followed next. She saw a dark figure looming over Elena, and before she could say anything or scream, the light skinned woman in black, pushed her to the ground. It had happened like a flash of lightning. “Geez, oh my God,” Elena threw her bag on the floor and moved towards Regina. A tear ran down her cheeks, “I am sorry Regina. I didn’t mean for this to happen. You shouldn’t have pushed me. I am sorry…” Regina straightened and wiped the blood from her cracked lips. The fall had not been too serious. With the salty taste of blood on her tongue, Regina decided that she had learned a lesson. Something eerie had happened, something that she couldn’t share with anyone. Who would even believe her? But she was certain of one thing; Elena Benjamin was more than what met the eyes. “Say something to me Regina, speak to me…” Elena fell on her knees and begged. She didn’t like Regina much, but she wasn’t happy that the secretary had fallen. What if she had broken a knee? Regina shuddered as the face of the angry woman in black played back. It was definitely xanax; the drug that she was hooked on since her mother died. Regina had been devastated by her mother’s mysterious demise that she had vowed to find the killer. Find the killer, did she? No, but she was able to discover what ailment had taken her mother’s life prematurely, after the postmortem. She swallowed the pills everyday to pull through the day. She was an addict, but no one knew her secret. One of the side effects of long term use was delusions. “You didn’t push me, there’s no need to apologize,” Regina replied in a calm voice. “I…I thought I did,” Elena wiped her tears. Regina scoffed, the girl was even crying! The thought of hating on someone as innocent and sweet as Elena made her feel guilty. She was blinded by her desperation for Seun, the desire to be relevant in Games Village and the pain that turned her emotions to ice. “I am the one that is supposed to apologize.” Regina rarely did this, but she couldn’t go against someone like Elena. Not many people would have cared about her bleeding, but Elena softened at the sight of her humiliation. Elena’s chest fluttered. Was Regina apologizing? “I…I know I have been an ass to you, but I was just jealous that Seun liked you and the boss liked you as well. You just got everyone’s attention, even CJ has been going on and on about your pretty face. I am sorry.” Regina winced, as a sharp pain hit her ankle. “Seun?” Elena was startled. She had sensed that Regina had a thing for Seun, from the way the secretary had eyed them both on her first day. Elena shook her head, “I am not into Seun. I don’t even like him like that. He doesn’t like me like that. I swear, and as for CJ…I don’t even know what to say.” Regina raised a finger into the air and smiled, “I was stupid. I don’t need you to explain yourself, because you haven’t wronged me in any way. It’s just that. I really liked Seun, but he doesn’t feel the same about me. He thinks that I am after his money. Don’t get me wrong, I like money, but I love his personality more.” Elena couldn’t believe Regina had thought her and Seun were together. She moved closer to Regina and collected her hands. “Look at me,” Elena started, Regina obeyed. “If you have been this toxic to everyone around, that could explain why Seun doesn’t want to be with you; you are a very beautiful and classy woman. I am sure Seun knows this. Maybe if you are nicer to people, he could have a change of mind.”

hmm do ur's be4 its late

the hunted brideis a very interesting story. Thanks for taking out time to write this. The challenge here is that the story is yet to be completed. I have been constantly checking on it since episode 17 was posted which was on June 24th. Can you please complete the story? And if it's already completed, can I get a link? Thanks.

The Haunted Bride Season 2 Episode 18 Regina scoffed, “Nah, I don’t want to be nice. Mean Old Regina is best for Games Village. I make the place come alive!” She winked. Elena shrugged, “But if you really liked Seun, you can adjust for him.” While Elena was speaking, Regina caught the scent of her breath. Her heart almost stopped. “I am sorry, but have you had any drink from someone today?” Regina held her breath. Elena released her hands, and ran her fingers through her hair. “Um, yes, someone brought me an expensive wine.” Speaking of Ada, Elena felt like the day was a good one for her. All her haters were coming closer, and she was willing to forgive them. “No…No…” Regina struggled to rise to her feet. When she eventually did, she blocked the tears that blurred her eyes from a clear vision. No one could see her cry. But the memories of the last moments that she had shared with her late mother flashed in her mind, as the scent of Elena’s breath grew stronger. She remembered all of it. Regina remembered the little vial that the mortuary attendant had presented to her. It was the cause of her mother’s death, cherry powder. “Are you alright?” Elena rushed towards Regina’s side. “Who gave you the wine?” Tried to control her voice, she couldn’t let Elena know what she was thinking. But the scent of the cherry powder on her breath was unmistakable. Elena was confused. She didn’t see the importance of this question, but she answered anyway. “Um, Ada…” Elena scratched her chin. Regina blinked the tears away, it didn’t matter who’d given her the wine. What happened was finding an antidote, because Elena had been poisoned. She grabbed a large black dress from her wardrobe and scrutinized it. It was old. She hadn’t worn the cloth for a very long time. “This will do,” Ada sniffed the dress. She moved towards her table and grabbed two perfume bottles, which she intended to plant in Idara’s room. Once she was satisfied with her outcomes, Ada held them tightly against her chest, and marched out of the room. But not without the bag that she carried. The house was quiet. This was the first time that she would be spending time alone at the White House. She wasn’t a fan of serene areas. But she loved being alone today. It was her time to push the plans she had with Ese, forward. Ada marched confidently towards the wing where Idara stayed, she paused and turned around. That eerie feeling that made the hairs on her back to stand had returned. Ada pulled in a deep breath and bit her lip; she tried to shake the feeling off. For all she knew, she had been stressed out the past week, maybe this was the reason for her paranoia. It was purely stress induced anxiety, and nothing more. Convinced that there wasn’t anyone in the room, she held her head high and straightened her shoulders. The time to set Idara up was now or never. Slowly, she inserted the bunch that Ibrahim had instructed her to, into the keyhole. Effortlessly, the door creaked open. “Finally, the bitch is going to leave,” Ada ran her eyes over the poorly furnished room, which was only befitting of a maid like Idara. She couldn’t wait to see the girl out of the house. Ada was about to step into the room when her ears itched. She ignored the itchiness of her lobes, but when the irascible feeling moved to her eardrums, she quickly inserted her fingers into her ears and scratched them. It didn’t take long before the itching stopped. Soon, the air was filled with the sweetest and rarest melody that she had ever heard. A heaviness replaced the serenity that she once enjoyed. Though the rooms were empty, though no one was with her, Ada could swear that there were many people in the White House. A strong and consuming fear fell over her, and she found breathing difficult. Hot droplets of perspiration zig-zagged down her face. In a rush, Ada threw the black dress and the items that she had carried along and rushed out of the room. Someone somewhere was watching her. Though she couldn’t see the person, she could feel it. “No, no…” Ada threw the kids on the floor and rushed towards the exit door. The more she ran, the louder the mysterious music played. Her feet were heavy, and her steps were slow. It seemed that she was being dragged by a force that was more powerful than she was. Tears stung her eyes. Fear engulfed her mind. If only she could see the sunlight, and get a touch of the cool breeze, she would have a rethink about everything; because there was a strange battle going on. Ada didn’t believe in spiritual things, but she strongly believed that Idara was evil. Why hadn’t she felt so afraid or heard the music while she had been in her own room? She had to fight for her life. They could still execute their plans without sending Idara away. She had settled this in her heart. With a loud thud, Ada fell on her knees. She thought that crawling would be easy. Her finger nails caressed the shiny marble floor as she tried to reach the exit. But she failed to move again. Ada’s mouth fell open as she noticed a powerful wind that had rushed into the White House. The curtains were intoxicated. They followed the waves of the wind, and spiraled to her rhythms. The glasses and bottles at the cellar were taken midair, by a nonexistent hand that she couldn’t see. “No, this isn’t happening! This isn’t real!” Ada sobbed. Something was happening to her. What was going on? She covered the sides of her face with her hands. Just when she thought that she had seen it all, the glasses and bottles dropped from midair and smashed on the floor. Tears rolled on her cheeks. Ada knew she sounded crazy, but maybe ghost stories were true. “You are a fucking coward! You do not terrify me, show yourself you demon!” She cried and spat on the floor. As if the mysterious force had been waiting for this opportunity, the turbulent wind fled the room and calmness was once again restored. Ada’s lips parted as she tried to take in deep breaths; hoping that she would never have such a weird experience again. But she was wrong. The being that she had challenged, had come to pay her a visit. A horrible odor filled the air. It smelt of rotten garbage and stagnant water. She wrinkled her nose and tried to rise to her feet, but she couldn’t. It seemed that she had been pinned to the ground. She first saw the greenish nails, with a scary pigmentation. Her heart jumped. When her head was fully raised, Ada came face to face with the woman that she had murdered in cold blood, with the help of Ese. “No!!!” Ada screamed in a loud voice. She was definitely dreaming or imagining. Goosebumps spread all over her skin, as she felt cold all over. Her eyes were glued to the figure’s dead eyeballs. The figure in black grinned, showing a set of yellow teeth. “Please…please…go away” Ada pleaded. She couldn’t bear this torture anymore. “Please, Imaobong, I am begging you. Please do not kill me, forgive me for what I did,” she began to sob. Her head was bowed. And her shoulders jerked back and forth and she cried. Due to her posture, she failed to notice that the figure in black had melted into the atmosphere when it had sensed an intruder. To be continued…

@jummybabe @coolval22.com @marcus Victoria

I love this story! 10x for d update

The Haunted Bride Season 2 Episode 19 Ada had never felt this broken and remorseful. All the scenes of her plots with Ese played back. They had conspired and killed Imaobong, because she had been in control of the White House. Aniekan had loved her with everything in him, and he was set to marry her. If he had done that, Ese would have become totally irrelevant to him, and that would keep her at the losing end. So, Ada had come up with the idea of killing Imaobong, while Ese carried out the act. The intruder had returned from his stalking activity. Ese had returned his gun and decided to share his discovery with Ada. He planned to pay the dweller of the underground house a special visit. He could swear with his life that the prototype was there. On his return, he had sighted Ada’s classic Peugeot. He got down from the car and rushed inside, while ignoring the cheerful greeting of the gateman. At first, he had thought that Ada was talking to someone, but when he moved towards the kitchen area, where her voice emanated from, he couldn’t see anyone! “Imaobong please…” she continued to beg while pounding her fists on the floor. “Ada?” Ese swallowed. What in god’s name had come over her? Why would Ada do something like this, knowing that it could get them into trouble? What if someone else had walked in? Ada’s mind had drifted. She was torn between her mind and reality. She didn’t notice Ese’s entrance. Tears sprouted in her eyes, and hurried down her cheeks in a rush. She had murdered someone and she was planning to do it again! “Ada!” He lowered himself and grabbed her with his skeletal fingers. Maybe it was his strong grip, or the violent way with which he shook her, but Ada quickly snapped back to reality. She tried to twirl out of his grip, but he was firmer, stronger. “Let go of me!” Ada fought hard for freedom. “I won’t, until you give me a valid explanation to your stupid behavior.” Ese fired at her. She licked her lips and looked away from him. “You don’t get to call me names. I wasn’t exhibiting a stupid behavior. I know what I saw. I am not stupid! I am not crazy!” She tried to kick his legs, but he was smarter, he dodged her kick. “What is wrong with you Ada? I came back home to report my findings to you, and you’re not even stable.” He moved closer to her, so he could sniff her breath. Ada scoffed, “You don’t even trust me. You think I am high.” He released her at once, “What did you want me to think with your strange behavior?” Ese was still mad at her, but he decided to let it go. They had more important issues to discuss. “Ese…I think Aniekan was right about the black figure. I think this house is haunted.” Ada’s voice broke, and the tears that had stopped began to flow again. Her interruption angered him, “Don’t tell me you believe in my brother’s fictitious tale? There is no ghost in this house! Get that sick thought out of your mind. We have more important things to do.” For the first time, Ada noticed how selfish Ese was. She had just been traumatized by a visit from Imaobong’s ghost. He didn’t care about her experience. He didn’t ask questions. All what he was willing to talk about was the prototype. “I saw her! I saw Imaobong!” Ada couldn’t keep it in anymore. Ese scoffed, “Imaobong is dead and buried. I killed her myself. I am certain of it. your fears are your imaginations. She would never return to hurt us again or take away what rightfully belongs to us again.” He moved closer and grabbed her shoulders; his tight grip was followed by a violent shaking of her body. “Don’t even think of crossing me. We are in this together. I am this close to the prototype…get your act together!” He continued to shake her. Tears spiraled down her cheeks. She felt awful that the man she loved didn’t understand what she was going through. He disbelieved her. But her conviction was firm; she had seen Imaobong. “You don’t get to tell me what to do! Who came up with these plans?” Ada mustered her energy and pushed Ese with all the strength that her fears left in her. The powerful push moved him backwards, it surprised him as well. Ese was enraged. He had never seen Ada behaving like this. “I warn you Ada, do not get me angry.” She licked her lips, “You do not understand because you didn’t see the ghost! I know what I saw. There is something going on in this house. I am moving out, before our deeds come to light. I am no longer interested in the prototype. You can run that on your own.” She didn’t wait for him to reply. Ada rushed back towards Idara’s room. She had to pack those things and leave without a trace. One thing was certain, the White House, would no longer be her place of abode. “You can only run, but you wouldn’t hide. I will find you Ada!” Ese gritted his teeth angrily. How could his partner in crime just sign out without any reasonable explanation? The thought of Ada seeing a ghost amused him, and he began to laugh hysterically. When the silence had vanished from his veins, Ese smacked his hands together. Well, Ada had helped him get this far, but he was determined to get the prototype and kill his brother. He would accomplish two goals with one stone. The thought of visiting the underground house energized him. He caressed the .47 in his pocket. He would wait for a few days before striking. It was only a matter of time… Aniekan showed gratitude to Uncle George who had agreed to keep the prototype in the underground house. He later left for the Games Village, while Seun stayed back with his uncle. A wicked smile split his face into two, as he drove into the tall building that housed many offices. Aniekan sensed that Seun’s uncle had not trusted him completely. So he had left a device that could record voices and trap a few images. The chip that he had given to George Bankole wasn’t the prototype. It was an advanced form of a voice/image recorder. He wasn’t that stupid to drop his prototype with a total stranger. The prototype was hidden in a very safe place that no one knew about. Aniekan had deliberately dropped the chip at the underground house, to see if his brother or anyone else was tracking him. “Genius,” he chuckled and tapped his fingers on the steering wheel. He pulled a twin chip which looked very much like the one he had given Seun’s uncle, out of his pocket. Whatever was being said would be recorded and transmitted to this chip. All he needed was his laptop, where he would insert the chip and read its contents. He got out of the car excitedly. Now that he had solved the problem of the prototype, he couldn’t wait to set his eyes on Elena Benjamin. That teenage boy feeling returned to his chest as he stepped into the building. He remembered her angelic face as she slept. He remembered her smooth skin and the flowery scent of her perfume. How long would he fight back what he felt for Elena? To Be Continue...

@royalgold @joan @jummybabe @marcusvictoria @coolval

...

I dey come...lemme read 4rm beginning

very interesting

U are wc back. Ride on

Let me go back to the beginning.

The Haunted Bride Season 2 Episode 20 Aniekan closed his eyes briefly and inhaled. From the first time that he had seen her, a seed of affection had been planted within him, but he was fighting that growth. He was manipulating his emotions and that wasn’t healthy for anyone, even for him. Elena wasn’t a child. She was very mature in her thinking and her ways, but he just used her age as an excuse to discredit her. Deep down, he knew that he wouldn’t go long without falling for her charms. Something had to be done. “Something has to be done,” he whispered and climbed the stairs that would lead to the elevator. After her encounter with Regina, she had distracted herself by reading a material about ghosts and unwanted spirits online. Elena was certain that something mysterious was going on in the White House, but she wouldn’t tell anyone about it. From the article, there were good ghosts and deadly ghosts. She paused and caressed her chin; what sort of ghost was the black figure? Elena tossed the phone on her lap and leaned back on the chair. Her mind was a treasure keep of memories. At first, she had wanted to ponder on her experience at the White House, but the flashes of her encounter with Regina replayed. Elena wasn’t a fool. She was highly observant and sensitive to people’s actions and statements. She had noticed the fear in Regina’s eyes when she had asked about the wine that she drank. Why had she behaved like that? Why had she asked? Elena decided that she had more important things to do than think about the secretary, whom she was now friends with. She straightened on the chair and continued reading the material that she had downloaded. The black figure hadn’t harmed her in any way, so Elena didn’t consider it evil. She pulled out her jotter, and began to scribble some questions. This would help her to find the answers that she needed. 1- Did anyone die in the White House? 2- Was this person living there? 3- What relationship did this person have with the indwellers? 4- How did she die? She was about constructing the fifth question when the door flew open, and her secret admirer walked in majestically. Her heart stopped. Time stopped. Their eyes met together. Her chest burned, in yearning for his affection and attention. Aniekan knew it would be difficult to control his feelings. He had to make a decision; to love her or to push her away. But he couldn’t do that now; the pull in her seductive eyes was powerful. It could bring any man to his knees. It was the entrance of the secretary and the bellowing of her noisy heels that interrupted the special moment that these two were having. Regina knew that Elena was poisoned, and she had gone home immediately for the antidote, which the mortuary attendant had given to her, after the post mortem. He had done that, thinking that she had also been poisoned like her mother. But he hadn’t. She was safe. Thankfully, she hadn’t thrown the vial away. It will serve a purpose now. “Um, welcome,” Elena smiled. “Good day Sir,” Regina bowed her head. She was hesitant to move, as she had not expected to see Aniekan. Aniekan nodded to both greetings and moved out of the office. He couldn’t face the women now. He couldn’t even stay in the room with Elena! What had he been thinking when he’d asked Elena to share an office with him? Elena blushed as she stared at his muscled back. She ran a tongue over her lips and drummed her fingers on the table. She liked Aniekan. She really did… Regina cleared her throat and sauntered towards her table. “What is that?” Elena rolled her eyes. She knew that the secretary deliberately cleared her throat. Regina shook her head, “Nothing.” She dropped the vial before Elena and instructed her to pour three drops of the black liquid three times in her meal for five days. “What is this?” Elena grabbed the vial and ran her eyes over it. Though she had reconciled with Regina, she didn’t trust her completely. What if it was poison? Regina could read her thoughts in her voice. Elena didn’t have faith in her. She was suspicious of her action. At first, she hadn’t wanted to open up about her mother’s demise, but she had to. She didn’t blame Elena for suspecting her. A stranger didn’t just walk up to you with a vial, accompanied with instructions. She had to explain this… But what if she explained and Elena still didn’t believe her? That would be a waste of explanation. Regina decided to leave her mother out of it. “Do you wonder why I asked about the food or drink that you had this morning and who ministered it to you?” Elena ran her fingers over the bottle. She nodded. She remembered. The vial didn’t have any label. The blackness of the liquid stood out. “I’ve been thinking about it,” she admitted. Regina sighed, “I won’t say more. But I’d like you to ask around for ‘cherry powder,’ when you are done, you’ll know what to do.” Elena didn’t call her back. She simply watched as the secretary marched out of the office, but she didn’t call her back. Regina’s words reechoed in her brain. So she quickly dropped the vial and took her phone. But no matter how much she searched for ‘cherry powder,’ she couldn’t find anything related to that name. In her confusion, she smacked her hands on the table and her middle finger bent. “No…ouch!” Elena groaned in pain. Just then, Aniekan returned to the office. He was shocked to see her in pains. Her eyes mirrored every sensation that went through her body. He rushed towards her side, “what’s wrong?” He placed one hand on her shoulder, and the other on the table. The soft touch of his hands seemed to have a magical effect on her body, because the pain from the broken finger ebbed away slowly. It seemed like nothing had happened when he was gone. She pressed her lips together, “Um, I think I broke my finger…” “Let me see,” he removed his hand from her shoulder and grabbed her right wrist. He examined the five fingers on her hand, until he found the one that was broken. Aniekan bit his lip, he wanted to laugh. “What is funny?” Elena had noticed the fire in his eyes. “Nothing,” he quickly shook his head. But she knew it was something, so she asked again, “You don’t have to lie.” He dropped her hand gently on the table and looked into her eyes. “I thought you were strong, but you were groaning in pain for a little finger pain.” He chuckled. Elena smiled, “What if I break your finger and let you feel the “little finger pain,” with me?” She snorted and rolled her eyes. Elena was happy to see him laugh. It made him very handsome. And she felt more relaxed around him, in that state. He grabbed her hand again, “I can fix it, it is just a dislocation, but it would be painful.” He warned. Elena accepted, “Just make it quick.” She gritted her teeth and waited for the sharp pain that would follow. Aniekan was about straightening the bone, when a piece of memory flashed through his mind. He had been in this situation with Imaobong before. They had been playing and tossing pillows at one another, before she broke her index finger. She had cried like a baby and he had cajoled her to sleep. While she had travelled to dreamland, he’d carefully worked on her finger. When Imaobong had woken up, she was shocked that the pain was gone. “Aniekan?” Elena whispered his name. She noticed he was staring at her finger too much. He seemed trapped and lost in another world. What was on his mind? To be continued

@royalgold @joan @jummybabe @queenprecious1 @coolval @sweet @henrymary

The Haunted Bride Season 2 Episode 21 The softness of her voice brought him back to reality, “I am sorry. I was just thinking…” he smiled softly at her. Everything about Elena reminded him of his Imaobong. But he quickly reminded himself that she was long gone. His best friend had been right, he had mourned his love for too long. Maybe it was time to open up his heart to someone else. Elena swallowed, she knew it wasn’t her business, but she was desperate to be close to him. “What are you thinking about?” She waited. Aniekan had been running his fingers over the bone that was displaced. He paused and looked into her eyes. Elena liked him naturally. And it had nothing to do with his fame or his money. He was sure of it. Was it right to encourage the chemistry between them? He didn’t want it to come off as exploitation. Elena could see the secret battle that he was fighting in his eyes. He was attracted to her, but for some reason, he was fighting it. He was pulling back. This hurt her more than anything. “Someone,” Aniekan whispered. She was tempted to ask who, but she remained silent. Obviously, Aniekan wasn’t interested in her, there was no point being curious about him. She felt hurt that he wasn’t even willing to try. Elena pulled her hands away from his’ and rose to her feet. “You know what? I can handle this pain. I will find someone else to do it for me.” She grabbed her things from the table and rushed out of the office, leaving Aniekan wondering where he had gone wrong. She seemed upset about something, but he couldn’t put his fingers around it. “Hey! Wait!” He tried to call her back, but she had already walked through the door. “Shit!” Aniekan kissed his teeth. Regina walked in just in time, with a tray of coffee. “Your coffee is ready sir,” she flashed a sweet smile. “Coffee be damned!” Aniekan swore under his breath, but loud enough for Regina to hear. Regina knew what was going on. The fire brewing between Elena and her boss wasn’t hidden. It was obvious. “I think you should tell her about your feelings. You will be less angry and you will drink less coffee too.” Regina winked, dropped the tray and rushed out of the office, before Aniekan could offer a retort. He wasn’t angry. He just stared at the coffee and shook his head. First, Seun had encouraged him to pursue his feelings, and now Regina? Was God speaking through him through the people around? Was it right to ignore what his heart was saying? He didn’t just like her. Elena’s hardworking nature had gained his admiration. She had passion for everything that she laid her hands on. “I think I love her.” Now, this wasn’t about the physical and behavioral characteristics that she shared with Imaobong. Elena was a woman on her own. She was unique. She stood out. She was fiery and dangerous. And he loved that. He pulled out his car key from the pocket. He knew that she would be heading for home. Aniekan was determined to find her. Tears burned her cheeks as she strolled out of Games Village. She walked as fast as her legs carried her, while ignoring the stinging pain from the dislocated finger. Elena was rewarded for her suffering when a taxi stopped right in front of her. She told the man her direction and they agreed on a fair price. She was about entering the car when Aniekan pulled over. He jumped out of his car and stopped her abruptly. Quickly, he pulled out some naira notes and thanked the taxi driver for his troubles. “I am sorry Sir, but she doesn’t really need a taxi now. Thanks for your help.” He flashed the old man a polite smile. The man’s face beamed with excitement as he collected the money. Elena sighed and rolled her eyes. Once the taxi was gone, she turned and faced him. “What do you think you are doing? Are you trying to show me that you have money or what?” She barked at him. Aniekan remained calm. A smile played on her lips as he watched her angry face. He said nothing. Elena was further angered when she noticed the mischievous streak in his eyes. What was he laughing about? She had her answer soon. “You’re so beautiful when you are angry. I should get you angry more times. Nothing beats the fire in your eyes or the beauty of your face when you are angry.” He laughed. Blood welled up in her cheeks. She felt shy as he issued such a sweet compliment. “You don’t have to be shy about it. You are a lovely personality and I am sorry if I hurt you with anything that I said in there.” He moved closer to her and collected her hands. Elena was touched by his simplicity. He hadn’t done anything bad, yet he was apologizing. She felt bad for acting impulsively. Maybe he was right to see her as a child. “I…I am sorry. I just don’t know…” She lied. She had gotten upset because she sensed what was true. Aniekan adored her, but he didn’t want to be with her. He pulled in a deep breath, “I know this isn’t the time or the place, but I don’t want you to think that I am like other men. I do not exploit women. I respect women a lot. But I cannot fight what I feel much longer…” He searched here yes, hoping that she would understand. The only thing that Elena could read from his statement was that he didn’t want to be with her. Her shoulders sagged. She felt like pulling out of his grip another time. This time, she would take a taxi to the Benjamin Mansion and not to the White House. But she was wrong. She had read his statement wrong. Aniekan loved her. He had feelings for her, and he was ready to admit them, no matter what it would cost him. Sensing her angst, he released her hands. Whenever Elena was calm, he would pour out his heart to her. “Are you ready to go home?” He asked in a firm voice. “Yes,” she nodded. “Fine, I will work with your finger.” He answered. Elena sensed a switch in his mood. She didn’t need a prophet to tell her that she had gotten him upset by her childish sulking. She was wrong to act this way. If Aniekan didn’t like her enough to be with her, she couldn’t force it. Love wasn’t forced. Love was freedom. The moment they had reached the White House, Idara came rushing towards them with a piece of paper in her hand. From the look on her face, Elena and Aniekan could sense her distress. Something had gone wrong. “Good afternoon, welcome,” her lips shivered as she greeted them. Elena’s eyes were too focused on her expression to answer the greeting. But Aniekan did answer. “Um, are you alright?” He asked as he shut the door. Idara paused. She pulled in a deep breath and tried to stop her hands from shaking. What she had discovered wasn’t something that would pose danger to anyone, it was just surprising… “I have something to tell you,” she began. “What happened Idara?” Elena ran her eyes over the White House, she tried to see if anything was out of place. But everything was fine. The cars were complete. Water still poured from the gargoyle. The gateman was at his post. Idara smacked her lips together, and offered Aniekan the letter. “I…I found it in the kitchen. I think she left it in a place where it can easily be seen. I had gone to the market for some shopping, but on my return, I met her absence.” “Whose absence?” Elena tried to catch up with Idara’s report. Aniekan’s keen eyes sharply picked the words of the letter. He could see why Idara was shocked. “Ada is gone.” He folded the letter and gritted his teeth. The letter was vague. It didn’t portray her intent. Why had she just walked out on him without any explanation? Aniekan felt Ada was upset with him for ignoring her these few weeks. He shrugged, well she deserved it. She had wanted to treat Elena unjustly and he hadn’t agreed to that. Elena’s predicament had revealed her true nature. “Gone? I don’t understand that…” Elena laughed. It sounded strange. How could someone who had seemed so calm and peaceful leave? She hadn’t shown any signs of discomfort. “Did she say why?” Elena swallowed. Aniekan shook his head, “no, but I think I may know why. I am not interested.” He was about leaving for his room, when his elder brother stormed out of the house furiously. To be continued ....

@royalgold @joan @jummybabe @queenprecious1 @coolval @sweet @henrymary

.,

The Haunted Bride Season 2 Episode 22 After the heated argument with his lover, he had stepped out of the house to purchase some cigarettes, only to return to an empty room. Ada had packed her belongings and fled! She had meant it when she had told him that she was no longer interested in their alliance against Aniekan. He couldn’t believe Ada was this cowardly. How could she just pack her things and flee the house because of some ghost? No, he couldn’t believe it. Maybe she had a different plan. Maybe she had already laid her hands on something that would lead her to the prototype. This was the reason for her reluctance to work with him. Ada had found a way to procure the prototype and she planned to take all the proceeds for herself. She had betrayed him. And the sad thing was that, he hadn’t seen this coming. Ese was hurt and angry. For her betrayal, he would never forgive her. He swore to find the prototype before Ada laid her hands upon it. “Your stupid lawyer has packed out of the house!” He bellowed. Aniekan could sense the fury, even from his voice. And it made him wonder why Ese was so upset with Ada’s exit. It seemed that it was more of a personal matter to his brother. Aniekan had never suspected those two. Although Ada and Ese were cordial in their relationship, he had no reason to be suspicious. “I can’t believe it. She didn’t even leave a clue behind.” Aniekan threw his hands into the air. Without thinking, Ese blurted out. “She claims that the White House is haunted and she had seen a figure in black. She also claimed that she heard a piano playing her favorite song at the forbidden wing.” It was after the words came out, that he understood the implication of his announcement. The fiery anger turned to a thoughtful calm. He had to leave the scene before his brother asked what Ada was doing at the Forbidden wing in the first place. “Erm, I have to go out urgently. I’ll see you when I am back.” But he wasn’t fast enough, “A black figure?” Aniekan’s mouth fell open. The memory of the black figure he had seen at midnight played back. What if there was a ghost floating around the house? “No,” he quickly dismissed the possibility. He believed ghosts existed, but it was just hard to think one would stay in his house. If someone else had seen the black figure, then something was going on. Elena’s heart pounded fast against her chest. She and Idara exchanged glances. Elena remembered what she had seen earlier. How could she and Ada have the same experience? Certainly, the house was haunted. She couldn’t wait to speak privately to Idara after now. “You believe her? You think she really saw a ghost?” Ese chuckled. “What do you want me to believe? This explains her sudden and unreasonable departure. What was she even doing at the forbidden wing?” Aniekan held his breath. He respected Imaobong, even to her death, and he had asked everyone to keep off that wing. As it held painful memories for him. Ese didn’t know what to answer, so he simply stared at the ground. “You will have to find Ada and ask her that. I don’t know what she was doing there either. But one thing is for sure, there are no ghosts. And the White House is not a haunted place.” With these words, he strolled towards his car. Aniekan rubbed his chin thoughtfully as he watched is brother’s car rolling out of the gate. What if Ada had truly seen this black figure? Was there a ghost? Or was someone trying to play tricks on the people living in the house? He sighed and decided to dwell on more pressing matters. He will not be distracted by Ada’s impulsive behavior. He had to protect his prototype. He needed to find out what was going on with Mr. George Bankole. He had to listen in… Aniekan had to know if his brother was the only person after the prototype. “I’ll see you later Elena, just don’t stress that finger. I’ll apply some balm and ointment in a few hours.” Elena pressed her lips together and nodded, “No problem. Thank you.” She was no longer mad at him. She had found something else that filled the void within her. From her mini research, Elena had learned a few things about roaming spirits. Ghosts that appeared to more than one person had a strong message to share. She had to find the answers. She needed the truth. Elena had a feeling that something grave had taken place at the White House; something that she wasn’t aware of. She decided to keep all of her questions for later. But she was curious about this one. “Why did Ese call that part of the White House, the Forbidden Wing?” Idara froze; she had known that the time for the truth to surface was coming. Her former mistress had returned to avenge her enemies. It was time for the man that she loved to know the truth. But the only person she could confide in was Elena. Thankfully, Ada was out of the house. So she had just one enemy to think about. “Meet me at the kitchen at midnight, when everyone is asleep. I will tell you all that you need to know.” Idara replied. Aniekan had fallen asleep the moment that he had stepped into his bedroom. He had fallen into a very deep sleep, and he had been plagued with series of dreams of the woman that he had first loved. The dreams were about the time that he had spent with her; their travels and outings together. The one that stood out was the last picnic they’d. He had a business meeting with some foreign investors in Italy. He had carried her along. On one of the evenings, they had a picnic on a famous Italian beach. It had been a very romantic outing. It was at that outing, that he was certain they were meant to be together, and forever. However, his joy and certainty was short-lived. After their return, Imaobong had been involved in a ghastly motor accident that had claimed her life. Weeks before that, she had complained about stomach upset and lethargy. She had even mentioned something about being poisoned. But he had been too busy with his work to listen to her. He had lost her forever. Aniekan was roused from sleep by cry of his alarm. His eyes fluttered, in trying to adjust with the dim light of the room. The sun had faded. Evening had come. He had slept for six hours! Tears blurred his vision, but he managed to wipe them off his cheeks. The time for sorrow was ended. Since the day that Elena had written something false about him, his life had not remained the same. On that night that Ese had bundled her to the White House, along her father, Aniekan Umoh had seen his late lover in Elena’s innocent eyes. “I love her,” he whispered, as if he was afraid of owning his emotions. What was not to love about Elena? She manifested angelic attributes. She was hard working and kind hearted. He had caught her interacting on very casual terms with the maid. This was something that his lawyer and brother, found very difficult to do. Aniekan pulled his phone from the mini cupboard next to his bed, and where his bedside lamp was. He checked his call-log and emails. He had no calls or messages. Everything was in place. He rose to his feet and locked his door. It was time to listen to the recording device that he had disguised as the prototype. He had to be sure of whom he was dealing with. If Ese had ulterior motives, he would push his brother out of his life for good. He moved towards his wardrobe and pulled out a plastic bag. If someone was desperate for the prototype, they wouldn’t even think of looking into the bag, because it contained his underwear. He pulled out a singlet, and stared hardly at it. He needed to be sure that the prototype was intact. He had sewn the microchip into his underwear. No one could ever find it, except he told the person of the location. Satisfied, he returned the singlet into the plastic bag and returned to the bed. From the pocket of his jean, he pulled out a microchip; which was also the twin chip that he had given to Seun’s uncle. He rushed towards his reading table and turned on his computer. To be continued