CASSANDRA
Episode 25
‘’come on Cassandra dear. This isn’t the right way to display your anger?’’ I stammered, trying my best to make her have a rethink. She sighed and continued with what she was doing, leaving me with no choice than to reach forward and grab her from behind.
‘’I’m so sorry about last night. I’m really sorry. I promise to make it up for you. Just relax please.’’ I pleaded desperately. She shook herself off me, grabbed her bag and faced me defiantly.
‘’I’m leaving . my mind is made. I owe you no explanation, no nothing’’ she breathed and headed to my sitting room while I ran after her like a terrified child. Of course I was extremely terrified and scared. I have never experienced such attitude from a woman in my entire life. I just didn’t know what to do or how to pacify her.
Her body language clearly showed that she was very serious with what she was doing.
‘’Cassandra my love. Don’t leave me in such manner. You are breaking my heart. Please just calm down and let’s talk things through. I beg of you’’ I desperately pleaded as she grabbed the knob of the exit door. She hesitated for some seconds, giving me the opportunity to get closer and hold her bag.
‘’this isn’t the way a responsible and well mannered lady like you should act. I’m very close to being your husband. I can even start the marriage rites from tomorrow if you permit me. Why are so being so uptight and unforgiving?. Is it a crime to love. Is it a crime to love you so unconditionally?. You are taking this too far’’ I pleaded one last time. She stared at me for some seconds, for the first time appearing a bit indecisive.
I couldn’t believe the whole scene was real. It was very shameful and disheartening seeing a big boy like me begging like a street tout. That was exactly how low love brought me, yet the girl before me was still unforgiving and indecisive.
‘’just calm down Dave. Allow me to go and think thinks through. You will hear from me tonight or tomorrow morning’’ she finally muttered before disappearing unceremoniously, leaving me so uncertain of the future.
‘’oh Cassandra’’ I moaned as I dragged myself to my room with a very broken spirit. I just didn’t know what to think or believe. Cassandra’s action clearly showed that she was yet to fall in love me .
‘’supposing she is in love with me, she wouldn’t have reacted this way’’ I reasoned with regret as I remembered Nora.
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I was busy comparing Cassandra with Nora when my eyes fell on a Nokia phone lying on the floor. The phone instantly got my attention because it wasn’t mine, neither have I seen Cassandra with it. I curiously picked it up and examined it.
The phone was switched off and with little effort I switched it on , checking the files in it which soon led me to the picture gallery. I saw Cassandra pictures which instantly settled my doubts as I came to the conclusion that she must have dropped the phone when she was packing her things when we were arguing. But instead of dropping the phone, I continued checking the pictures in it and soon got to the pictures that shocked me.
I saw pictures of Cassandra in numerous bad postures with different guys and the more I went through the pictures, the more angry I got.
There was no unclad picture in the phone but then the way and indiscriminate manner she posed with guys in the pictures, clearly showed that she wasn’t the saint she was claiming to be. There wasn’t any doubt in my mind anymore that all my sister told me was true. Cassandra was definitely living a double life.
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I just didn’t know how to take the things I saw her do with guys in the pictures. Perhaps supposing I passed through the university it wouldn’t have been a new thing to me. But I never attended a university and the pictures really were so horrible and disgusting to be discarded easily.
I picked up my phone and called Chinedu, inviting him over to my house but unfortunately he told me that he was engaged that morning and promised to show up in the evening.
I had no choice than to wallow in self misery. I couldn’t even go out nor do anything. My heart was just so bitter and heavy. It really was by God’s grace that I was able to survive till when Chinedu showed up by 5pm.
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I wasted no time in showing my friend the pictures. He smiled as he went through the files and when he was done, gave me back the phone which I switched off and threw in my pocket.
‘’so what do you think?’’ I asked with a heavy mind, but before he could answer, the door bell rang, leaving us with no choice than to suspend the discussion while I headed to the door to check who rang the bell.
It turned out to be no other person than Cassandra.
Episode 26
‘’Cassandra’’ I breathed with great surprise, staring at the girl before me with disbelief. Of course she was the last person i was expecting to see that day. I couldn’t imagine what made her come back.
‘’Yes I changed my mind. I’m back’’ she said with a smile while studying me with her eyes as she waited for me to let her in.
‘’so what’s up, seems like you are not happy to see me or what?. You look so tensed?’’ she asked as I made way for her to enter the sitting room. I forced out a smile saying nothing.
‘’hmmmm I don’t understand you’’ she murmured, freezing with surprise as she saw Chinedu who quickly stood up with a smile.
‘’wow I’m really glad to see you, welcome’’ Chinedu greeted politely, leaving a smile on her face before facing me.
‘’I have to go brother. We will continue our discussion tomorrow’’ he said, shook hands with me and left, leaving Cassandra and I all alone.
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I stared at Cassandra for some seconds, not knowing what to say to her. A part of me wanted me to confront her over the pictures in her phone while another part of me kicked against it. But the surprising thing of it all was that I still felt something for her. The pictures I saw never affected my feelings greatly, all it did was just to create a little doubt in my heart. A doubt which a well made explanation could easily erase .
‘’what’s up with you?. You are acting so strange. Are you not happy to see me?’’ Cassandra asked again, breaking my thoughts. I silently fetched a glass of water which I drank before sitting beside her.
‘’Cassandra my love. I do love you very much. I’m very willing to do a lot more for you and In return I need your full love, support, respect and faithfulness. I know I’m no saint but my conscience is very clear when it comes to you. I expect the same from you. Tell me, do you love me with all your heart?’’ I asked curiously, expecting an honest answer from her. My heart pounded furiously in expectation and fear. Yes I really needed an honest answer from her but I equally was scared of hearing a negative reply.
She breathed deeply, leaving her eyes on me for some seconds before looking down.
‘’you want an honest answer?’’ she asked, leaving me very nervous with the question.
‘’love isn’t a one day thing. It’s a continuous process. Yes I like you. Yes I’m slowly growing fond of you. Yes my feelings for you are developing strongly. Yes I wont do anything to hurt you. Yes I can do unimaginable things for you. I don’t know If all these put together can be termed love. Maybe it Is, Maybe it isn’t. Love is really something I’m still to get a clear definition of.’’ She muttered, taking me aback with her answer. I really wasn’t expecting an answer like that and I must confess, I really was confused and relieved at the same time.
‘’well I’m glad you feel something for me’’ I breathed, fetching out her phone from my pocket. Her eyes instantly fell on it, growing dim with surprise.
‘’I picked your phone and saw pictures I never expected to see’’ I muttered with great pain.
‘’pictures?. What did you see?’’ she asked, acting surprised. I switched on the phone, opened the picture gallery and showed her the pictures one after the other.
‘’so what do you have to say?’’ I asked when we got to the last picture. She shook her head and laughed coldly.
‘’I cant believe you acting like a little boy. What’s wrong with the pictures huh?. The first picture was taken in a friend’s birthday party. Yes a guy was carrying me in the picture but that’s students life. It was just a picture pose and nothing more. The second picture where a guy was spoon-feeding me was taken in a hostel party organized for new students. The last four pictures were taken when we did our departmental award night in a hotel. I’m really so annoyed right now. I cant believe you went through my phone just to search for my pictures. You see that’s something I’m scared of in this relationship. I don’t think we are even compatible. Your reasoning and mine is not the same. I guess you have already concluded in your mind that I’m a cheat. So there is no need staying here or explaining anything’’ she fired angrily, grabbed her phone and bag , stood up and headed to the door.
I couldn’t believe my ears, i couldn’t believe the things I just heard her say.
In her anger she threw out her mind and said how she really felt about me but instead of taking a clue from it, I blamed myself instead. I felt I was wrong to judge her with mere pictures which never really portrayed anything indecent in respect with our modern day society. My heart was really heavy with regret and I couldn’t afford letting her leave the second time.
‘’’I’m sorry my love. I’m really sorry for judging you wrongly’’ I quickly apologized, stopping her with my words. She turned and faced me, searching my eyes as if she really wasn’t just sure of my words.
There wasn’t any doubt she was scared of losing me and I felt it was a great attribute of love.
”My love’’ I breathed once again as we hugged each other tightly.
Episode 27
‘’I’m also very sorry for being very harsh on you. I really should cut off my tongue’’ Cassandra apologized quickly, holding me tightly and looking into my eyes as if she wanted to kiss me.
It really was one of the few emotional or should I say romantic moments we ever shared. I felt so happy, so fulfilled, and so accomplished having her melting in my arms. Her actions were very pure and convincing. I had great urge to kiss her deeply. I had great urge to make love to her there and then, but I held myself. I controlled my emotions and simply held her strongly.
‘’I really felt bad when I left in the morning. I made a very bad judgement call’’ she confessed while I breathed deeply, nodding in agreement.
‘’yes dear you made a very bad judgment call but it’s all in the past. Let’s forget about it. Cassandra my love’’ I said with all my heart. She smiled and nodded with great smile on her face.
‘’you are a very nice person. Really’’ she muttered, tipping my ego with her words.
‘’so how about we go out for a wonderful dinner?. Let’s go to a quiet place downtown, where we can eat and enjoy the evening weather’’ I offered. Her eyes shone with great delight.
‘’wow that sounds cool. Who am I to reject such wondrous offer?’’ she breathed , caressing my face with her hands.
‘’we leave by 7pm, so you have enough time to do your thing’’ I added sweetly.
I soon left her smiling and headed to my room to rest and clear my head before the evening outing. There was nothing I wanted more than getting married to Cassandra.
Oh my Cassandra, so gracious, so charming, so beautiful and very educated.
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By 7:30pm that fateful evening, we were well settled by the poolside of ‘’All Seasons Hotel’’ . The environment really was so cool and serene. Cassandra was very impressed and happy which equally left a great smile on my face because I love seeing her happy.
‘’being here with you makes me very happy. You are really God sent to me’’ I said sweetly, reaching for her hand across the table. She blushed and looked down. I laughed at her behavior.
‘’’sometimes you act like an experienced adult and sometimes you act like a little child’’ I said playfully, drawing out a curious glance from her.
‘’so how am I acting now?’’ she asked with a smile, but before I could answer, my eyes fell on a man and a lady making their way to a table. The lady was no other person than Nora and the gentleman with her looked quite healthy, rich and sophisticated. I couldn’t believe my eyes. I couldn’t believe seeing my Nora with another guy. It was something I never expected to see and I hate to admit that I felt my heart shrink.
I really cant explain that feeling but then it was just as if I wasn’t in control of my mind anymore. I kept staring at her, ignoring Cassandra who quickly noticed what was going on.
‘’isn’t that lady your neighbor?’’ i heard her ask.
‘’yes yes yes’’ I breathed, forcing out a smile as I desperately tried to suppress my feelings. I couldn’t help but wonder if Nora was really moving on with another man, carrying my baby in her stomach. I wasn’t supposed to be concerned but yes I was concerned.
‘’there is something I have been wanting to ask. Please don’t misinterpret my question but as a woman there are some things we do see with our inner mind’’ Cassandra said softly, studying me.
‘’that lady over there is your neighbor right?’’ she asked once again while I nodded in agreement.
‘’I noticed something the day you introduced me to her but I kept my feelings to myself. Now tell me, have you guys dated before or is she just a neighbor to you?’’ she slowly asked, leaving me a bit speechless with her question.
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I drew back and stared pointedly at her, quickly running some calculations in my head. I really needed to tell her the truth about Nora and my baby. It was something I had to do sooner or later but considering the situation at hand, I was very very scared.
Just like Coolval wrote in one of his stories, ‘’sometimes a well crafted lie is hundred times better than a well said truth.’’
I considered keeping my relationship with Nora away from her for the time being. I opted giving a not too honest reply to my Cassandra.
Episode 28
‘’no nothing my dear. It’s just that i’m very surprised to see her. She packed out of her apartment yesterday and I thought she left town’’ I answered while Cassandra shrugged, saying nothing else.
The rest of the dinner really was uneventful with me thinking only of Nora. I desperately tried to get her out of my head but couldn’t. It was just by luck that Cassandra failed to notice my absentmindedness and if she did notice never made it look obvious.
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Hours later
‘’can you stay a week with me?’’ I asked Cassandra as we retired to my bed for a good night sleep. She shook her head quickly,.
‘’no I cant be away from school for so long. Don’t you want me to graduate?’’ she answered softly.
‘’My dear it’s just that I do want to spend much more time with you but you are right, your education comes first’’ I answered with resignation.
‘’I will stay with you till Tuesday . hope that’s cool with you??’’ she suddenly asked, leaving a smile on my face.
‘’yea that’s cool. Thanks’’ I breathed happily,.
‘’I hope you still remember that my birthday is coming up in two weeks time?’’ she suddenly asked, touching my chest. I scratched my head as I instantly remembered. Yes she really has been singing it in my ears for the past few weeks and it was something I promised to celebrate for her.
‘’I have to start on time to make the planning and preparations. I will have to arrange for a good cake, do a little shopping and equally pay for a good venue. You know this is something I haven’t done for the past ten years’’ she pushed on.
”my budget is within thirty to fifty thousand Naira” she added softly.
‘’ I believe forty thousand Naira will be enough. That’s the amount i mapped out for it’’ I answered, leaving her overwhelmed with joy. I really was ready to do anything for my Cassandra only if she remains loyal, respectful and loving.
However what she did next extremely surprised me. Cassandra climbed over me without a single word, without me even asking for it, bent and kissed me softly. I stared at her with disbelief, seizing my breathe as i waited for her next move.
”you deserve all the good things in the world. you are such a nice person. you have done so much for me. You changed my life. I appreciate it all” she breathed, bent and pressed her boobs on my chest.
Oh i suddenly saw myself in heaven. i saw myself among angels as the breeze of pleasure blew my entire body.
”call my name” she demanded softly.
”Cassandra my love” i breathed,
”again” she demanded, tasting my mouth, jaw, cheeks and entire face with her tongue. she licked me dry like a giant dog. It was so wondrous, so passionate and so awesome. I haven’t experienced anything like it before.
”oh my Cassandra” i breathed again and again as she worked on my body with great attention.
”so what do you want from me right now?” she demanded swiftly, opening my shirt and feeling my b-----s with her hands.
”please let’s make love. let’s have a night of passion. let’s take our relationship to the next level” i stammered with quick breathe. she kept quiet for a wile before taking off her night wear.
”i hope you still have a condom?” she demanded curiously.
”oh yes yes” i quickly answered. She climbed down from my body , sat on the bed and smiled at me.
”go get ready because tonight is Going to be hot” she slowly muttered, surprising me a great deal; with her words. i couldn’t believe my ears. i couldn’t make out what was in her mind. It was just so unbelievable. I never imagined Cassandra giving herself to me in such manner.
My love for her multiplied a thousand times over.
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”thank you Cassandra” i stammered as i slowly penetrated my queen via the popular d----e style. It just looked as if i was dreaming. It just looked so unreal. I was finally in control of her mind, body and soul. So i reasoned.
”thank you God” i breathed over and over as i rode her swiftly, taking my time to take her to the extreme with my superb moves.
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An hour later, we fell beside each other, totally spent and exhausted.The love i had for her this time around was way more than what i felt for her in the past. This new love was so strong that i could even starve myself for a week just to provide all her needs and make her happy.
”there isn’t any need starving you of sex anymore since the vow i made to God has been broken already” she breathed as she played with my chest.
”i really wish there is something i can do to compensate you for it. I really will do anything and I’m serous about it” I said with all sincerity.
”what if there is really something i know you can do?” she suddenly added, placing her head on my chest and leaving me wondering what her next demand could be.
As for the sex. I totally enjoyed every bit of it and what i felt now was very much stronger than what i felt for her in the past.
Episode 29
‘’my dear let’s just sleep. There is nothing in my head right now than to sleep’’ Cassandra breathed deeply. I smiled and kissed her with satisfaction.
‘’very well then. Lets sleep’’ I said softly, closing my eyes with great happiness and satisfaction. I slept with a very happy and relaxed mind.
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I woke up the next morning to hear my door bell ringing. I lazily yawned as I got up from the bed, wondering who could be at my door so early in the day.
‘’who could it be?’’ I wondered as I made my way to the sitting room, using the opportunity to take a quick glance at my wall clock. The time read 9:20AM.
On opening the door I was shocked to see the same man I saw with Nora the previous day, looking down at me. I stared at him with disbelief , wondering if I was dreaming or not. He definitely was the last person I expected to see that Sunday morning. I just was so surprised that I couldn’t even say a word to him. Instead I weighed him with my eyes.
The gentleman was much more taller than I was. The manner and way in which he carried himself, clearly told me that he was very rich. Yes very , very rich. I just was so stunned and surprised seeing him at my door step.
‘’good morning sir. I’m so sorry for disturbing you so early in the day. Actually I came into town last night and will be traveling this evening, that’s the reason I came so early in order to meet you at home’’ he explained swiftly while I stared at him with a look of suspicion because he was yet to introduce himself.
‘’by the way,my name is Charles and I’m Nora’s cousin’’ he quickly introduced himself. I nodded , urging him to go on.
‘’well there are some things I wish to discuss with you concerning Nora and it definitely has to do with her pregnancy and it’s very serious’’ he added when he noticed that I wasn’t eager in letting him into my apartment. But as I heard the reason for his visit, I instantly grew nervous because Cassandra was in my apartment.
‘’listen mister. You cant just show up in a guy’s house so early in the day without even a phone call or invitation to discuss such issue. I’m very busy right now and we cant discuss here. Give me your card or phone number. I will call you around 12pm so that we can meet and discuss somewhere else. Hope you are cool with it?’’ I asked guardedly. He gave me a suspicious look before shrugging and fetching a business card which he gave to me.
‘’call me. Please this is important’’ he said and left.
I returned to my room , looking very worried and a bit scared. I couldn’t imagine what the gentleman wanted to discuss with me. There wasn’t any doubt that a guy like him was the type who enjoyed legal issues.
As i opened the door leading to my room, I overheard Cassandra speaking on phone, but then she was already in the process of rounding up the call and all i was able to hear were the words ”GOOD BYE DEAREST”.
However i never paid any serious attention to it because even though the words appeared affectionate in meaning, it could still be used on anyone. Moreover i was still in shock or should i say nervous over the unexpected visit Nora’s cousin just gave me.
‘’of course I thought so. He is a lawyer. How bad can things get?’’ I wondered as I read the words written in the complimentary card i was given.
‘’hope everything is okay?’’ Cassandra asked curiously as I entered the room with a grave look. I forced out a smile, hiding my fear and pretending that all was well. But then no matter how hard I tried to appear calm, fear still showed all over me. I was filled with great suspense over what Nora was planning with her cousin.
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Hours Later
2pm saw me at the exact spot Cassandra and I spent the previous evening. I was back again at ‘’All Seasons Hotel’’ but this time around, it wasn’t for pleasure but for something I just couldn’t fathom.
You guys cant imagine how loud my heart pounded as I made my way to the young man who really insisted I show up at the hotel when I called him as i promised by 12pm.
The tone he used on me, really made me abandon Cassandra and rush over to see him. There wasn’t any doubt he could be my future nightmare.
‘’I guess you already know that I’m a lawyer but not only a lawyer but also a human right activist. You had an affair with my cousin, got her pregnant and then felt because you are in Nigeria that you can abandon her to her fate. Right?’’ he quickly asked, studying me with his intelligent eyes while I closed my fist like a guy getting ready for a fight.
Episode 30
‘’anyway relax bro, I’m not here to fight you, rather I’m here to discuss things with you’’ the young lawyer suddenly added, forcing out a smile that made me relax a bit. Nevertheless I still stared at him suspiciously, wondering the type of game he was trying to play with me.
‘’before I continue , you should know that Nora has no hand in this meeting. She clearly kicked against it but I had to force her into giving me your details. Nora means a lot to me. I’m much more than a cousin to her. Her problems are equally mine and I wont take it kindly with anyone hurting or causing harm to her happiness’’ he said calmly, stopping to see if his words were registering. I kept my eyes on him, not blinking even for a second.
‘’I was with Nora yesterday and believe me, she is just a shadow of herself. She is suffering in silence. Her heart is totally broken, thanks to you. Seriously I’m very unhappy with you. I’m not here right now as a lawyer but as someone who wants his sister’s happiness. Why are you doing this to her?. Don’t tell me you don’t love her please. I know it’s about the new girl in your life. Yes she told me everything about Cassandra and i came to the conclusion that you probably abandoned her because you felt she doesn’t deserve a man like you. You felt her level in society doesn’t meet up to your taste?’’ he went on and on, throwing me around with his words. I never said a word until he was done.
‘’you know at first I thought all you wanted to do was to threaten me but I’m happy you are matured enough to know that things don’t work that way. You see Nora and I were never in a relationship. Yes we were close to each other but as neighbors and nothing else. It was unfortunate that a night of careless abandon ended the way it did. I never denied her pregnancy. I even offered to assist but no she wont hear of it. Nora wants us to be together as a couple and nothing else, something that can never happen because I’m in love with someone else. I’m so sorry for being so plain and honest with you’’ I muttered seriously. The young lawyer stared at me silently. The look on his face clearly showed that he was disappointed with my reply.
‘’Nora is a great woman, no doubt. She will make a good wife and mother but I don’t feel strongly or feel the way I feel for Cassandra towards her. You got to understand please’’ I begged desperately.
‘’how are you sure the love Cassandra has for you is greater than that of Nora’s?. have you tested Cassandra for once?. You see one thing we guys don’t know is that it Is better to move on with a woman whose love is greater than ours than moving on with a woman whose love is way much lower than ours. Think of it bro. Think of it. Nora needs you , here is her new house address’’ he said softly, fetched a pen and a piece of paper from his pocket and wrote than Nora’s new address which he gave to me.
‘’I want us to be friends and the only way it can happen is by you getting back to Nora. I have many ways to go around things but I pray this issue ends well between us’’ he said with a cold smile, shook hands with me and got up, leaving me with my imaginations.
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I had great urge to drive over to Nora’s new apartment to surprise her with a visit but after thinking about it for some minutes I decided to go home instead. I just couldn’t imagine how my Cassandra was feeling after being left alone on a Sunday when we were supposed to be together.
I hurriedly drove home, forming an apology In my mind as I drove. My Cassandra was someone I couldn’t afford to hurt and I kept checking my watch as I cursed and speed home.
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On getting to my compound, I spotted Cassandra in front of the gate seriously arguing with a young man whose dressing portrayed as a rough person or should i say a rough student. The young man was on black jean trouser, black top and a black face cap, also probably in his mid twenties.
Quickly parking my car, I rushed forward to see what was happening. I drew back Cassandra and stared at her with great worry.
‘’whats happening my dear?, what going on?’’ I asked but she couldn’t answer, instead nervously looked down.
‘’so you are the guy huh?. You are the old man deceiving my Cassandra?’’ the young man suddenly barked, drawing out a pen-knife from his pocket as he advanced towards me murderously.
Episode 31
As the young man advanced towards me with a knife in his hand, I stared at him fearfully, very unsure if he was actually going to use the weapon on me or not. I really felt like a cornered rat and the last thing on my mind was running away like a scared chicken.
I bravely stood my ground while deep inside I was shaking with fear. Of course I didn’t know the guy. I didn’t know what he was capable of doing, but I couldn’t just run away from a young boy like him. Luckily Cassandra quickly came in between us and pushed the troublesome guy backwards.
‘’whats wrong with you Edwin ?. you just pulled a knife for my friend. Have you gone nuts?. Do you think we can resolve this with fighting?’’ she barked at the guy who bit his lips as he exchanged glances with Cassandra and i.
Cassandra’s words kind of had a good effect on him because he instantly pocketed the knife and tried to close in on me again while Cassandra pushed him backwards.
‘’seriously you are going nuts. How dare you show up here just to embarrass me?’’ she barked at the guy who really was behaving as if he was under the influence of drugs.
‘’so he is the guy right? ‘’ the silly boy asked, roughly pushing Cassandra sideways as he closed in on me one more time with great strength. I really wasn’t expecting such move and so was caught unawares.
Closing in on me, he grabbed my shirt by the collar.
‘’you took my girl from me because you have money right?. You will pay for this. You got to pay. I easily found you guys and that’s the same way I will easily deal with you’’ he threatened as saliva flew from his mouth and designed my face, getting me very angry.
Without warning, I hit his crouch with my right knee, sending a great wave of pain across his body. As he tried to regain his composure I gave him three supper punches on the face , sending him backwards while Cassandra screamed and held me as concerned neighbors ran towards us.
‘’this isn’t over. I see you can fight old man. I’m coming back for a rematch’’ he threatened, wiped out blood from his nose and quickly disappeared down the street before my neighbors could understand what was happening.
‘’’Mr David are you okay?. Who is that guy. What happened?’’ my neighbors asked curiously.
‘’he is a street tout. I guess he is under the influence of drugs’’ I stammered, totally shaken and scared. The silly boy threatened he was coming back and I definitely knew if actually he was coming like he threatened that he wont be coming alone. He surely would be coming with a truck load of gangsters.
‘’we got to talk’’ I seriously said to Cassandra as we headed to my apartment while she nodded in agreement.
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‘’my friendship with Edwin is rather a weird one. You see when I was in my 2nd year in school, I was being disturbed by a redhead cultist who wouldn’t take no for an answer. It got so bad that I was sacred of going to school because of running into him. Edwin was my neighbor. He equally belonged to a cult group, but his own group hardly terrorized anyone. I had to reach out to him for protection which he gladly offered by confronting the guy and telling him that ” I’m his girlfriend”. The guy backed out eventually and I showed my gratitude to Edwin by sharing my food most times with him. There was even the month he ate all his meals in my room but unfortunately he soon became obsessed with me and wont let me have my privacy anymore. I soon moved into another hostel but yet he wont let me be, always embarrassing my friends and stalking me. I really don’t know if he is still mentally sound. You need to see the type and size of weed these guys smoke. I’m still in shock how he found me here. I’m really ashamed and embarrassed’’ she breathed, covering her eyes with her hands while I stared at her speechlessly.
I really didn’t know what to think, nor believe. Of course I felt there were some details in the story which she didn’t share with me. But what could I do?. I still loved her. I still wanted to be with her. I still wanted to support her.
‘’I’m so sorry. I think I will leave tomorrow. I don’t want him to come back and harm you. Very early tomorrow, I leave for my school’’ she added solemnly, throwing a curious look at me as she awaited my response.
Episode 32
‘’you are not going anywhere tomorrow. We will stick with the original plan and on Tuesday I will accompany you to your hostel’’ I said seriously, leaving her a bit shocked with my decision.
‘’is it really necessary accompanying me to my hostel?. What if you run into Edwin there?’’ she asked breathlessly. I smiled and breathed deeply.
‘’my worry isn’t about Edwin but about you. I pray you are not lying to me’’ I muttered, shocking her one more time with my statement. She said nothing else, instead shrugged and forced out a smile.
”but seriously you need to put an end to your friendship with that rascal. I really feel disgusted right now” i added with a serious look.
”yes i promise to do just that. I will try my best to shun him seriously even though i know it won’t be easy. You really got to understand my situation. I’m really disturbed over this issue. Just take a moment to put yourself in my situation and see how it feels to be embarrassed by such a guy” she added slowly, tears quickly appearing in her eyes. I instantly felt sorry for her but kept my feelings to myself.
Seriously I never knew dating a campus girl could be so difficult and troublesome. But still my feelings for Cassandra remained the same. I had many reasons to doubt her sincerity in some issues but then i believed everyone has a dirty secret or past covered somewhere. What mattered to me the most was that she chose being with me and that counted a lot, moreover i had nothing against her to make me doubt the success of our relationship. She visits at will, performs her duties without being forced and equally was very obedient and calculative .
In order to gain more knowledge on how to follow my relationship with my dear Cassandra and equally learn more about campus life, I used almost all my Monday night reading stories on coolval’s forum as I desperately searched for a story relating to my problems while Cassandra spent almost all night watching TV.
———————————
Finally, Tuesday arrived with a very cold weather. We all quickly prepared for the journey ahead. Yes I was nervous and excited at the same time. I really didn’t know how the journey would end but I was optimistic things would go well.
I gave Cassandra the money I promised for her birthday before we left my house and yes It was a long drive to her school.
The time was 12:15pm when we got to Cassandra’s hostel. A very well structured giant building which stood out in the midst of other houses.
‘’wow this house is so cool’’ I stammered with a smile as we walked in, quickly remembering the rich lifestyle my sister told me about Cassandra.
‘’you know I really wasn’t expecting you to follow me to my room” I suddenly heard her complain as we entered the compound, but before I could say something, my eyes fell on three young guys who were smoking weed at the extreme end of the large compound, among them was Edwin.
I instantly had the urge to head back to my car as i stared at them but Cassandra quickly held my hand tightly.
”you have nothing to worry about. Trust me” she said, flashing a quick smile at me but i couldn’t help but notice that she equally was very nervous.
Episode 33
”Edwin really isn’t much of a violent person. I don’t think he will do anything stupid” she added softly, tightening her grip on my hand.
‘’lets go to your room. He dare not try any nonsense with me’’ I answered with a strong voice as we slowly made our way into the compound.
Luckily it appeared as if we weren’t noticed by Edwin and his gang who were so preoccupied with the weed they were smoking. Because we walked right into the hostel without any of them confronting us or even looking up but instead of being relaxed I became more worried because I greatly suspected that they merely pretended not to notice us due to reasons best known to them ..
‘’I pray they also pretend not to see me when I leave’’ I prayed inwardly while Cassandra flashed me a smile as she stopped in front of a door.
‘’here we are. Hope you are now satisfied?’’ she asked as she unlocked the door, revealing a well furnished room which looked more like a hotel room than a student’s room.
A sharp 17 inches television set stood by the corner, surrounded by a home theater system, fridge and a tall standing fan. Her rug, mattress and curtain were all of the highest quality and I couldn’t help but gasp as I walked in. I never expected to see so much in her room.
‘’don’t tell me your parents bought all these for you?’’ I asked curiously. She smiled and shook her head.
‘’not actually but yes most of the things here were bought with my parents money. Just that things have now changed in my family’’ she answered, frowning as she added the last statement.
‘’well at least I have seen where you live and I’m really satisfied’’ I added with a smile while she looked up at me curiously.
‘’so is there anything else you want to say to me?’’ she asked , drawing close to hold my hands. I shook my head and breathed deeply.
‘’no dear but I have to get going. I have things to do in the shop’’ I answered. She rolled her eyes.
‘’thanks for everything. Thanks for coming into my life. You are the best’’ she said softly, igniting my emotions with the sweet words. I hugged her tightly for some seconds before heading back to my car with a happy mind.
—————————
On getting close to my car, I spotted Edwin sitting on the bonnet. At first my heart froze but I summoned up courage and walked to the car.
‘’finally you are here in my school. You are in my territory flaunting my girl. Tell me what really do you want me to do? ‘’ he said insolently, jumping down from the car bonnet. I scoffed and stared back at him, biting my lips with anger. He laughed and brought out a locally made pistol which he pointed to my mouth.
‘’’you know what I want you to do. I want you to back away. Stay away from my Cassandra or else you will see the bad side of me’’ I threatened seriously, eying the gun.
It really wasn’t as if i was ready to fight him nor willing to be shot at but as a guy i bravely faced him because i knew standing up to him was the only way to get him scared and probably make him back away from Cassandra.
‘’oh I’m scared’’ he shouted and laughed.
‘’you are not the first to play games with me over Cassandra. Mr man please I won’t beg you again. Respect your old age and stay away from my woman.i wont mind spilling your blood to prove my point’’ he said seriously.
‘’really?. Fine lets watch and see’’ I answered as I opened my car door.
‘’you have a sister right?. Don’t let her pay for what she knows nothing about’’ he added with a cold smile, freezing me with his threat. I felt like stabbing him that moment. I felt like choking life out of the little boy but I held myself because I knew all he wanted was to provoke me so that his friends could join in the fight.
‘’you have made your point. I get it. You are a killer. Kudos’’ I smiled , entered my car and zoomed off.
Yes I was nervous and scared. Yes I was afraid of my sister’s safety but I just couldn’t let go of my Cassandra for the little kid. Every man has a duty to fight and protect his woman and letting go of Cassandra was the last thing on my mind.
————
Hours Later
just few kilometers to my shop , my phone rang and it was Cassandra calling.
”hi hope you are okay?” i asked,
‘’No I’m not okay. He has taken all the money. Edwin just took all the money you gave me. I’m finished. My birthday’’ she cried over the phone, leaving me totally speechless.
‘’whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat!’’ I roared.
Episode 25
‘’come on Cassandra dear. This isn’t the right way to display your anger?’’ I stammered, trying my best to make her have a rethink. She sighed and continued with what she was doing, leaving me with no choice than to reach forward and grab her from behind.
‘’I’m so sorry about last night. I’m really sorry. I promise to make it up for you. Just relax please.’’ I pleaded desperately. She shook herself off me, grabbed her bag and faced me defiantly.
‘’I’m leaving . my mind is made. I owe you no explanation, no nothing’’ she breathed and headed to my sitting room while I ran after her like a terrified child. Of course I was extremely terrified and scared. I have never experienced such attitude from a woman in my entire life. I just didn’t know what to do or how to pacify her.
Her body language clearly showed that she was very serious with what she was doing.
‘’Cassandra my love. Don’t leave me in such manner. You are breaking my heart. Please just calm down and let’s talk things through. I beg of you’’ I desperately pleaded as she grabbed the knob of the exit door. She hesitated for some seconds, giving me the opportunity to get closer and hold her bag.
‘’this isn’t the way a responsible and well mannered lady like you should act. I’m very close to being your husband. I can even start the marriage rites from tomorrow if you permit me. Why are so being so uptight and unforgiving?. Is it a crime to love. Is it a crime to love you so unconditionally?. You are taking this too far’’ I pleaded one last time. She stared at me for some seconds, for the first time appearing a bit indecisive.
I couldn’t believe the whole scene was real. It was very shameful and disheartening seeing a big boy like me begging like a street tout. That was exactly how low love brought me, yet the girl before me was still unforgiving and indecisive.
‘’just calm down Dave. Allow me to go and think thinks through. You will hear from me tonight or tomorrow morning’’ she finally muttered before disappearing unceremoniously, leaving me so uncertain of the future.
‘’oh Cassandra’’ I moaned as I dragged myself to my room with a very broken spirit. I just didn’t know what to think or believe. Cassandra’s action clearly showed that she was yet to fall in love me .
‘’supposing she is in love with me, she wouldn’t have reacted this way’’ I reasoned with regret as I remembered Nora.
———————————
I was busy comparing Cassandra with Nora when my eyes fell on a Nokia phone lying on the floor. The phone instantly got my attention because it wasn’t mine, neither have I seen Cassandra with it. I curiously picked it up and examined it.
The phone was switched off and with little effort I switched it on , checking the files in it which soon led me to the picture gallery. I saw Cassandra pictures which instantly settled my doubts as I came to the conclusion that she must have dropped the phone when she was packing her things when we were arguing. But instead of dropping the phone, I continued checking the pictures in it and soon got to the pictures that shocked me.
I saw pictures of Cassandra in numerous bad postures with different guys and the more I went through the pictures, the more angry I got.
There was no unclad picture in the phone but then the way and indiscriminate manner she posed with guys in the pictures, clearly showed that she wasn’t the saint she was claiming to be. There wasn’t any doubt in my mind anymore that all my sister told me was true. Cassandra was definitely living a double life.
—————————–
I just didn’t know how to take the things I saw her do with guys in the pictures. Perhaps supposing I passed through the university it wouldn’t have been a new thing to me. But I never attended a university and the pictures really were so horrible and disgusting to be discarded easily.
I picked up my phone and called Chinedu, inviting him over to my house but unfortunately he told me that he was engaged that morning and promised to show up in the evening.
I had no choice than to wallow in self misery. I couldn’t even go out nor do anything. My heart was just so bitter and heavy. It really was by God’s grace that I was able to survive till when Chinedu showed up by 5pm.
——————–
I wasted no time in showing my friend the pictures. He smiled as he went through the files and when he was done, gave me back the phone which I switched off and threw in my pocket.
‘’so what do you think?’’ I asked with a heavy mind, but before he could answer, the door bell rang, leaving us with no choice than to suspend the discussion while I headed to the door to check who rang the bell.
It turned out to be no other person than Cassandra.
Episode 26
‘’Cassandra’’ I breathed with great surprise, staring at the girl before me with disbelief. Of course she was the last person i was expecting to see that day. I couldn’t imagine what made her come back.
‘’Yes I changed my mind. I’m back’’ she said with a smile while studying me with her eyes as she waited for me to let her in.
‘’so what’s up, seems like you are not happy to see me or what?. You look so tensed?’’ she asked as I made way for her to enter the sitting room. I forced out a smile saying nothing.
‘’hmmmm I don’t understand you’’ she murmured, freezing with surprise as she saw Chinedu who quickly stood up with a smile.
‘’wow I’m really glad to see you, welcome’’ Chinedu greeted politely, leaving a smile on her face before facing me.
‘’I have to go brother. We will continue our discussion tomorrow’’ he said, shook hands with me and left, leaving Cassandra and I all alone.
——————————–
I stared at Cassandra for some seconds, not knowing what to say to her. A part of me wanted me to confront her over the pictures in her phone while another part of me kicked against it. But the surprising thing of it all was that I still felt something for her. The pictures I saw never affected my feelings greatly, all it did was just to create a little doubt in my heart. A doubt which a well made explanation could easily erase .
‘’what’s up with you?. You are acting so strange. Are you not happy to see me?’’ Cassandra asked again, breaking my thoughts. I silently fetched a glass of water which I drank before sitting beside her.
‘’Cassandra my love. I do love you very much. I’m very willing to do a lot more for you and In return I need your full love, support, respect and faithfulness. I know I’m no saint but my conscience is very clear when it comes to you. I expect the same from you. Tell me, do you love me with all your heart?’’ I asked curiously, expecting an honest answer from her. My heart pounded furiously in expectation and fear. Yes I really needed an honest answer from her but I equally was scared of hearing a negative reply.
She breathed deeply, leaving her eyes on me for some seconds before looking down.
‘’you want an honest answer?’’ she asked, leaving me very nervous with the question.
‘’love isn’t a one day thing. It’s a continuous process. Yes I like you. Yes I’m slowly growing fond of you. Yes my feelings for you are developing strongly. Yes I wont do anything to hurt you. Yes I can do unimaginable things for you. I don’t know If all these put together can be termed love. Maybe it Is, Maybe it isn’t. Love is really something I’m still to get a clear definition of.’’ She muttered, taking me aback with her answer. I really wasn’t expecting an answer like that and I must confess, I really was confused and relieved at the same time.
‘’well I’m glad you feel something for me’’ I breathed, fetching out her phone from my pocket. Her eyes instantly fell on it, growing dim with surprise.
‘’I picked your phone and saw pictures I never expected to see’’ I muttered with great pain.
‘’pictures?. What did you see?’’ she asked, acting surprised. I switched on the phone, opened the picture gallery and showed her the pictures one after the other.
‘’so what do you have to say?’’ I asked when we got to the last picture. She shook her head and laughed coldly.
‘’I cant believe you acting like a little boy. What’s wrong with the pictures huh?. The first picture was taken in a friend’s birthday party. Yes a guy was carrying me in the picture but that’s students life. It was just a picture pose and nothing more. The second picture where a guy was spoon-feeding me was taken in a hostel party organized for new students. The last four pictures were taken when we did our departmental award night in a hotel. I’m really so annoyed right now. I cant believe you went through my phone just to search for my pictures. You see that’s something I’m scared of in this relationship. I don’t think we are even compatible. Your reasoning and mine is not the same. I guess you have already concluded in your mind that I’m a cheat. So there is no need staying here or explaining anything’’ she fired angrily, grabbed her phone and bag , stood up and headed to the door.
I couldn’t believe my ears, i couldn’t believe the things I just heard her say.
In her anger she threw out her mind and said how she really felt about me but instead of taking a clue from it, I blamed myself instead. I felt I was wrong to judge her with mere pictures which never really portrayed anything indecent in respect with our modern day society. My heart was really heavy with regret and I couldn’t afford letting her leave the second time.
‘’’I’m sorry my love. I’m really sorry for judging you wrongly’’ I quickly apologized, stopping her with my words. She turned and faced me, searching my eyes as if she really wasn’t just sure of my words.
There wasn’t any doubt she was scared of losing me and I felt it was a great attribute of love.
”My love’’ I breathed once again as we hugged each other tightly.
Episode 27
‘’I’m also very sorry for being very harsh on you. I really should cut off my tongue’’ Cassandra apologized quickly, holding me tightly and looking into my eyes as if she wanted to kiss me.
It really was one of the few emotional or should I say romantic moments we ever shared. I felt so happy, so fulfilled, and so accomplished having her melting in my arms. Her actions were very pure and convincing. I had great urge to kiss her deeply. I had great urge to make love to her there and then, but I held myself. I controlled my emotions and simply held her strongly.
‘’I really felt bad when I left in the morning. I made a very bad judgement call’’ she confessed while I breathed deeply, nodding in agreement.
‘’yes dear you made a very bad judgment call but it’s all in the past. Let’s forget about it. Cassandra my love’’ I said with all my heart. She smiled and nodded with great smile on her face.
‘’you are a very nice person. Really’’ she muttered, tipping my ego with her words.
‘’so how about we go out for a wonderful dinner?. Let’s go to a quiet place downtown, where we can eat and enjoy the evening weather’’ I offered. Her eyes shone with great delight.
‘’wow that sounds cool. Who am I to reject such wondrous offer?’’ she breathed , caressing my face with her hands.
‘’we leave by 7pm, so you have enough time to do your thing’’ I added sweetly.
I soon left her smiling and headed to my room to rest and clear my head before the evening outing. There was nothing I wanted more than getting married to Cassandra.
Oh my Cassandra, so gracious, so charming, so beautiful and very educated.
————————–
By 7:30pm that fateful evening, we were well settled by the poolside of ‘’All Seasons Hotel’’ . The environment really was so cool and serene. Cassandra was very impressed and happy which equally left a great smile on my face because I love seeing her happy.
‘’being here with you makes me very happy. You are really God sent to me’’ I said sweetly, reaching for her hand across the table. She blushed and looked down. I laughed at her behavior.
‘’’sometimes you act like an experienced adult and sometimes you act like a little child’’ I said playfully, drawing out a curious glance from her.
‘’so how am I acting now?’’ she asked with a smile, but before I could answer, my eyes fell on a man and a lady making their way to a table. The lady was no other person than Nora and the gentleman with her looked quite healthy, rich and sophisticated. I couldn’t believe my eyes. I couldn’t believe seeing my Nora with another guy. It was something I never expected to see and I hate to admit that I felt my heart shrink.
I really cant explain that feeling but then it was just as if I wasn’t in control of my mind anymore. I kept staring at her, ignoring Cassandra who quickly noticed what was going on.
‘’isn’t that lady your neighbor?’’ i heard her ask.
‘’yes yes yes’’ I breathed, forcing out a smile as I desperately tried to suppress my feelings. I couldn’t help but wonder if Nora was really moving on with another man, carrying my baby in her stomach. I wasn’t supposed to be concerned but yes I was concerned.
‘’there is something I have been wanting to ask. Please don’t misinterpret my question but as a woman there are some things we do see with our inner mind’’ Cassandra said softly, studying me.
‘’that lady over there is your neighbor right?’’ she asked once again while I nodded in agreement.
‘’I noticed something the day you introduced me to her but I kept my feelings to myself. Now tell me, have you guys dated before or is she just a neighbor to you?’’ she slowly asked, leaving me a bit speechless with her question.
——————————————–
I drew back and stared pointedly at her, quickly running some calculations in my head. I really needed to tell her the truth about Nora and my baby. It was something I had to do sooner or later but considering the situation at hand, I was very very scared.
Just like Coolval wrote in one of his stories, ‘’sometimes a well crafted lie is hundred times better than a well said truth.’’
I considered keeping my relationship with Nora away from her for the time being. I opted giving a not too honest reply to my Cassandra.
Episode 28
‘’no nothing my dear. It’s just that i’m very surprised to see her. She packed out of her apartment yesterday and I thought she left town’’ I answered while Cassandra shrugged, saying nothing else.
The rest of the dinner really was uneventful with me thinking only of Nora. I desperately tried to get her out of my head but couldn’t. It was just by luck that Cassandra failed to notice my absentmindedness and if she did notice never made it look obvious.
——————
Hours later
‘’can you stay a week with me?’’ I asked Cassandra as we retired to my bed for a good night sleep. She shook her head quickly,.
‘’no I cant be away from school for so long. Don’t you want me to graduate?’’ she answered softly.
‘’My dear it’s just that I do want to spend much more time with you but you are right, your education comes first’’ I answered with resignation.
‘’I will stay with you till Tuesday . hope that’s cool with you??’’ she suddenly asked, leaving a smile on my face.
‘’yea that’s cool. Thanks’’ I breathed happily,.
‘’I hope you still remember that my birthday is coming up in two weeks time?’’ she suddenly asked, touching my chest. I scratched my head as I instantly remembered. Yes she really has been singing it in my ears for the past few weeks and it was something I promised to celebrate for her.
‘’I have to start on time to make the planning and preparations. I will have to arrange for a good cake, do a little shopping and equally pay for a good venue. You know this is something I haven’t done for the past ten years’’ she pushed on.
”my budget is within thirty to fifty thousand Naira” she added softly.
‘’ I believe forty thousand Naira will be enough. That’s the amount i mapped out for it’’ I answered, leaving her overwhelmed with joy. I really was ready to do anything for my Cassandra only if she remains loyal, respectful and loving.
However what she did next extremely surprised me. Cassandra climbed over me without a single word, without me even asking for it, bent and kissed me softly. I stared at her with disbelief, seizing my breathe as i waited for her next move.
”you deserve all the good things in the world. you are such a nice person. you have done so much for me. You changed my life. I appreciate it all” she breathed, bent and pressed her boobs on my chest.
Oh i suddenly saw myself in heaven. i saw myself among angels as the breeze of pleasure blew my entire body.
”call my name” she demanded softly.
”Cassandra my love” i breathed,
”again” she demanded, tasting my mouth, jaw, cheeks and entire face with her tongue. she licked me dry like a giant dog. It was so wondrous, so passionate and so awesome. I haven’t experienced anything like it before.
”oh my Cassandra” i breathed again and again as she worked on my body with great attention.
”so what do you want from me right now?” she demanded swiftly, opening my shirt and feeling my b-----s with her hands.
”please let’s make love. let’s have a night of passion. let’s take our relationship to the next level” i stammered with quick breathe. she kept quiet for a wile before taking off her night wear.
”i hope you still have a condom?” she demanded curiously.
”oh yes yes” i quickly answered. She climbed down from my body , sat on the bed and smiled at me.
”go get ready because tonight is Going to be hot” she slowly muttered, surprising me a great deal; with her words. i couldn’t believe my ears. i couldn’t make out what was in her mind. It was just so unbelievable. I never imagined Cassandra giving herself to me in such manner.
My love for her multiplied a thousand times over.
———————————–
”thank you Cassandra” i stammered as i slowly penetrated my queen via the popular d----e style. It just looked as if i was dreaming. It just looked so unreal. I was finally in control of her mind, body and soul. So i reasoned.
”thank you God” i breathed over and over as i rode her swiftly, taking my time to take her to the extreme with my superb moves.
—————————————————-
An hour later, we fell beside each other, totally spent and exhausted.The love i had for her this time around was way more than what i felt for her in the past. This new love was so strong that i could even starve myself for a week just to provide all her needs and make her happy.
”there isn’t any need starving you of sex anymore since the vow i made to God has been broken already” she breathed as she played with my chest.
”i really wish there is something i can do to compensate you for it. I really will do anything and I’m serous about it” I said with all sincerity.
”what if there is really something i know you can do?” she suddenly added, placing her head on my chest and leaving me wondering what her next demand could be.
As for the sex. I totally enjoyed every bit of it and what i felt now was very much stronger than what i felt for her in the past.
Episode 29
‘’my dear let’s just sleep. There is nothing in my head right now than to sleep’’ Cassandra breathed deeply. I smiled and kissed her with satisfaction.
‘’very well then. Lets sleep’’ I said softly, closing my eyes with great happiness and satisfaction. I slept with a very happy and relaxed mind.
———————————————-
I woke up the next morning to hear my door bell ringing. I lazily yawned as I got up from the bed, wondering who could be at my door so early in the day.
‘’who could it be?’’ I wondered as I made my way to the sitting room, using the opportunity to take a quick glance at my wall clock. The time read 9:20AM.
On opening the door I was shocked to see the same man I saw with Nora the previous day, looking down at me. I stared at him with disbelief , wondering if I was dreaming or not. He definitely was the last person I expected to see that Sunday morning. I just was so surprised that I couldn’t even say a word to him. Instead I weighed him with my eyes.
The gentleman was much more taller than I was. The manner and way in which he carried himself, clearly told me that he was very rich. Yes very , very rich. I just was so stunned and surprised seeing him at my door step.
‘’good morning sir. I’m so sorry for disturbing you so early in the day. Actually I came into town last night and will be traveling this evening, that’s the reason I came so early in order to meet you at home’’ he explained swiftly while I stared at him with a look of suspicion because he was yet to introduce himself.
‘’by the way,my name is Charles and I’m Nora’s cousin’’ he quickly introduced himself. I nodded , urging him to go on.
‘’well there are some things I wish to discuss with you concerning Nora and it definitely has to do with her pregnancy and it’s very serious’’ he added when he noticed that I wasn’t eager in letting him into my apartment. But as I heard the reason for his visit, I instantly grew nervous because Cassandra was in my apartment.
‘’listen mister. You cant just show up in a guy’s house so early in the day without even a phone call or invitation to discuss such issue. I’m very busy right now and we cant discuss here. Give me your card or phone number. I will call you around 12pm so that we can meet and discuss somewhere else. Hope you are cool with it?’’ I asked guardedly. He gave me a suspicious look before shrugging and fetching a business card which he gave to me.
‘’call me. Please this is important’’ he said and left.
I returned to my room , looking very worried and a bit scared. I couldn’t imagine what the gentleman wanted to discuss with me. There wasn’t any doubt that a guy like him was the type who enjoyed legal issues.
As i opened the door leading to my room, I overheard Cassandra speaking on phone, but then she was already in the process of rounding up the call and all i was able to hear were the words ”GOOD BYE DEAREST”.
However i never paid any serious attention to it because even though the words appeared affectionate in meaning, it could still be used on anyone. Moreover i was still in shock or should i say nervous over the unexpected visit Nora’s cousin just gave me.
‘’of course I thought so. He is a lawyer. How bad can things get?’’ I wondered as I read the words written in the complimentary card i was given.
‘’hope everything is okay?’’ Cassandra asked curiously as I entered the room with a grave look. I forced out a smile, hiding my fear and pretending that all was well. But then no matter how hard I tried to appear calm, fear still showed all over me. I was filled with great suspense over what Nora was planning with her cousin.
————————–
Hours Later
2pm saw me at the exact spot Cassandra and I spent the previous evening. I was back again at ‘’All Seasons Hotel’’ but this time around, it wasn’t for pleasure but for something I just couldn’t fathom.
You guys cant imagine how loud my heart pounded as I made my way to the young man who really insisted I show up at the hotel when I called him as i promised by 12pm.
The tone he used on me, really made me abandon Cassandra and rush over to see him. There wasn’t any doubt he could be my future nightmare.
‘’I guess you already know that I’m a lawyer but not only a lawyer but also a human right activist. You had an affair with my cousin, got her pregnant and then felt because you are in Nigeria that you can abandon her to her fate. Right?’’ he quickly asked, studying me with his intelligent eyes while I closed my fist like a guy getting ready for a fight.
Episode 30
‘’anyway relax bro, I’m not here to fight you, rather I’m here to discuss things with you’’ the young lawyer suddenly added, forcing out a smile that made me relax a bit. Nevertheless I still stared at him suspiciously, wondering the type of game he was trying to play with me.
‘’before I continue , you should know that Nora has no hand in this meeting. She clearly kicked against it but I had to force her into giving me your details. Nora means a lot to me. I’m much more than a cousin to her. Her problems are equally mine and I wont take it kindly with anyone hurting or causing harm to her happiness’’ he said calmly, stopping to see if his words were registering. I kept my eyes on him, not blinking even for a second.
‘’I was with Nora yesterday and believe me, she is just a shadow of herself. She is suffering in silence. Her heart is totally broken, thanks to you. Seriously I’m very unhappy with you. I’m not here right now as a lawyer but as someone who wants his sister’s happiness. Why are you doing this to her?. Don’t tell me you don’t love her please. I know it’s about the new girl in your life. Yes she told me everything about Cassandra and i came to the conclusion that you probably abandoned her because you felt she doesn’t deserve a man like you. You felt her level in society doesn’t meet up to your taste?’’ he went on and on, throwing me around with his words. I never said a word until he was done.
‘’you know at first I thought all you wanted to do was to threaten me but I’m happy you are matured enough to know that things don’t work that way. You see Nora and I were never in a relationship. Yes we were close to each other but as neighbors and nothing else. It was unfortunate that a night of careless abandon ended the way it did. I never denied her pregnancy. I even offered to assist but no she wont hear of it. Nora wants us to be together as a couple and nothing else, something that can never happen because I’m in love with someone else. I’m so sorry for being so plain and honest with you’’ I muttered seriously. The young lawyer stared at me silently. The look on his face clearly showed that he was disappointed with my reply.
‘’Nora is a great woman, no doubt. She will make a good wife and mother but I don’t feel strongly or feel the way I feel for Cassandra towards her. You got to understand please’’ I begged desperately.
‘’how are you sure the love Cassandra has for you is greater than that of Nora’s?. have you tested Cassandra for once?. You see one thing we guys don’t know is that it Is better to move on with a woman whose love is greater than ours than moving on with a woman whose love is way much lower than ours. Think of it bro. Think of it. Nora needs you , here is her new house address’’ he said softly, fetched a pen and a piece of paper from his pocket and wrote than Nora’s new address which he gave to me.
‘’I want us to be friends and the only way it can happen is by you getting back to Nora. I have many ways to go around things but I pray this issue ends well between us’’ he said with a cold smile, shook hands with me and got up, leaving me with my imaginations.
——————————————–
I had great urge to drive over to Nora’s new apartment to surprise her with a visit but after thinking about it for some minutes I decided to go home instead. I just couldn’t imagine how my Cassandra was feeling after being left alone on a Sunday when we were supposed to be together.
I hurriedly drove home, forming an apology In my mind as I drove. My Cassandra was someone I couldn’t afford to hurt and I kept checking my watch as I cursed and speed home.
———————-
On getting to my compound, I spotted Cassandra in front of the gate seriously arguing with a young man whose dressing portrayed as a rough person or should i say a rough student. The young man was on black jean trouser, black top and a black face cap, also probably in his mid twenties.
Quickly parking my car, I rushed forward to see what was happening. I drew back Cassandra and stared at her with great worry.
‘’whats happening my dear?, what going on?’’ I asked but she couldn’t answer, instead nervously looked down.
‘’so you are the guy huh?. You are the old man deceiving my Cassandra?’’ the young man suddenly barked, drawing out a pen-knife from his pocket as he advanced towards me murderously.
Episode 31
As the young man advanced towards me with a knife in his hand, I stared at him fearfully, very unsure if he was actually going to use the weapon on me or not. I really felt like a cornered rat and the last thing on my mind was running away like a scared chicken.
I bravely stood my ground while deep inside I was shaking with fear. Of course I didn’t know the guy. I didn’t know what he was capable of doing, but I couldn’t just run away from a young boy like him. Luckily Cassandra quickly came in between us and pushed the troublesome guy backwards.
‘’whats wrong with you Edwin ?. you just pulled a knife for my friend. Have you gone nuts?. Do you think we can resolve this with fighting?’’ she barked at the guy who bit his lips as he exchanged glances with Cassandra and i.
Cassandra’s words kind of had a good effect on him because he instantly pocketed the knife and tried to close in on me again while Cassandra pushed him backwards.
‘’seriously you are going nuts. How dare you show up here just to embarrass me?’’ she barked at the guy who really was behaving as if he was under the influence of drugs.
‘’so he is the guy right? ‘’ the silly boy asked, roughly pushing Cassandra sideways as he closed in on me one more time with great strength. I really wasn’t expecting such move and so was caught unawares.
Closing in on me, he grabbed my shirt by the collar.
‘’you took my girl from me because you have money right?. You will pay for this. You got to pay. I easily found you guys and that’s the same way I will easily deal with you’’ he threatened as saliva flew from his mouth and designed my face, getting me very angry.
Without warning, I hit his crouch with my right knee, sending a great wave of pain across his body. As he tried to regain his composure I gave him three supper punches on the face , sending him backwards while Cassandra screamed and held me as concerned neighbors ran towards us.
‘’this isn’t over. I see you can fight old man. I’m coming back for a rematch’’ he threatened, wiped out blood from his nose and quickly disappeared down the street before my neighbors could understand what was happening.
‘’’Mr David are you okay?. Who is that guy. What happened?’’ my neighbors asked curiously.
‘’he is a street tout. I guess he is under the influence of drugs’’ I stammered, totally shaken and scared. The silly boy threatened he was coming back and I definitely knew if actually he was coming like he threatened that he wont be coming alone. He surely would be coming with a truck load of gangsters.
‘’we got to talk’’ I seriously said to Cassandra as we headed to my apartment while she nodded in agreement.
———————————————
‘’my friendship with Edwin is rather a weird one. You see when I was in my 2nd year in school, I was being disturbed by a redhead cultist who wouldn’t take no for an answer. It got so bad that I was sacred of going to school because of running into him. Edwin was my neighbor. He equally belonged to a cult group, but his own group hardly terrorized anyone. I had to reach out to him for protection which he gladly offered by confronting the guy and telling him that ” I’m his girlfriend”. The guy backed out eventually and I showed my gratitude to Edwin by sharing my food most times with him. There was even the month he ate all his meals in my room but unfortunately he soon became obsessed with me and wont let me have my privacy anymore. I soon moved into another hostel but yet he wont let me be, always embarrassing my friends and stalking me. I really don’t know if he is still mentally sound. You need to see the type and size of weed these guys smoke. I’m still in shock how he found me here. I’m really ashamed and embarrassed’’ she breathed, covering her eyes with her hands while I stared at her speechlessly.
I really didn’t know what to think, nor believe. Of course I felt there were some details in the story which she didn’t share with me. But what could I do?. I still loved her. I still wanted to be with her. I still wanted to support her.
‘’I’m so sorry. I think I will leave tomorrow. I don’t want him to come back and harm you. Very early tomorrow, I leave for my school’’ she added solemnly, throwing a curious look at me as she awaited my response.
Episode 32
‘’you are not going anywhere tomorrow. We will stick with the original plan and on Tuesday I will accompany you to your hostel’’ I said seriously, leaving her a bit shocked with my decision.
‘’is it really necessary accompanying me to my hostel?. What if you run into Edwin there?’’ she asked breathlessly. I smiled and breathed deeply.
‘’my worry isn’t about Edwin but about you. I pray you are not lying to me’’ I muttered, shocking her one more time with my statement. She said nothing else, instead shrugged and forced out a smile.
”but seriously you need to put an end to your friendship with that rascal. I really feel disgusted right now” i added with a serious look.
”yes i promise to do just that. I will try my best to shun him seriously even though i know it won’t be easy. You really got to understand my situation. I’m really disturbed over this issue. Just take a moment to put yourself in my situation and see how it feels to be embarrassed by such a guy” she added slowly, tears quickly appearing in her eyes. I instantly felt sorry for her but kept my feelings to myself.
Seriously I never knew dating a campus girl could be so difficult and troublesome. But still my feelings for Cassandra remained the same. I had many reasons to doubt her sincerity in some issues but then i believed everyone has a dirty secret or past covered somewhere. What mattered to me the most was that she chose being with me and that counted a lot, moreover i had nothing against her to make me doubt the success of our relationship. She visits at will, performs her duties without being forced and equally was very obedient and calculative .
In order to gain more knowledge on how to follow my relationship with my dear Cassandra and equally learn more about campus life, I used almost all my Monday night reading stories on coolval’s forum as I desperately searched for a story relating to my problems while Cassandra spent almost all night watching TV.
———————————
Finally, Tuesday arrived with a very cold weather. We all quickly prepared for the journey ahead. Yes I was nervous and excited at the same time. I really didn’t know how the journey would end but I was optimistic things would go well.
I gave Cassandra the money I promised for her birthday before we left my house and yes It was a long drive to her school.
The time was 12:15pm when we got to Cassandra’s hostel. A very well structured giant building which stood out in the midst of other houses.
‘’wow this house is so cool’’ I stammered with a smile as we walked in, quickly remembering the rich lifestyle my sister told me about Cassandra.
‘’you know I really wasn’t expecting you to follow me to my room” I suddenly heard her complain as we entered the compound, but before I could say something, my eyes fell on three young guys who were smoking weed at the extreme end of the large compound, among them was Edwin.
I instantly had the urge to head back to my car as i stared at them but Cassandra quickly held my hand tightly.
”you have nothing to worry about. Trust me” she said, flashing a quick smile at me but i couldn’t help but notice that she equally was very nervous.
Episode 33
”Edwin really isn’t much of a violent person. I don’t think he will do anything stupid” she added softly, tightening her grip on my hand.
‘’lets go to your room. He dare not try any nonsense with me’’ I answered with a strong voice as we slowly made our way into the compound.
Luckily it appeared as if we weren’t noticed by Edwin and his gang who were so preoccupied with the weed they were smoking. Because we walked right into the hostel without any of them confronting us or even looking up but instead of being relaxed I became more worried because I greatly suspected that they merely pretended not to notice us due to reasons best known to them ..
‘’I pray they also pretend not to see me when I leave’’ I prayed inwardly while Cassandra flashed me a smile as she stopped in front of a door.
‘’here we are. Hope you are now satisfied?’’ she asked as she unlocked the door, revealing a well furnished room which looked more like a hotel room than a student’s room.
A sharp 17 inches television set stood by the corner, surrounded by a home theater system, fridge and a tall standing fan. Her rug, mattress and curtain were all of the highest quality and I couldn’t help but gasp as I walked in. I never expected to see so much in her room.
‘’don’t tell me your parents bought all these for you?’’ I asked curiously. She smiled and shook her head.
‘’not actually but yes most of the things here were bought with my parents money. Just that things have now changed in my family’’ she answered, frowning as she added the last statement.
‘’well at least I have seen where you live and I’m really satisfied’’ I added with a smile while she looked up at me curiously.
‘’so is there anything else you want to say to me?’’ she asked , drawing close to hold my hands. I shook my head and breathed deeply.
‘’no dear but I have to get going. I have things to do in the shop’’ I answered. She rolled her eyes.
‘’thanks for everything. Thanks for coming into my life. You are the best’’ she said softly, igniting my emotions with the sweet words. I hugged her tightly for some seconds before heading back to my car with a happy mind.
—————————
On getting close to my car, I spotted Edwin sitting on the bonnet. At first my heart froze but I summoned up courage and walked to the car.
‘’finally you are here in my school. You are in my territory flaunting my girl. Tell me what really do you want me to do? ‘’ he said insolently, jumping down from the car bonnet. I scoffed and stared back at him, biting my lips with anger. He laughed and brought out a locally made pistol which he pointed to my mouth.
‘’’you know what I want you to do. I want you to back away. Stay away from my Cassandra or else you will see the bad side of me’’ I threatened seriously, eying the gun.
It really wasn’t as if i was ready to fight him nor willing to be shot at but as a guy i bravely faced him because i knew standing up to him was the only way to get him scared and probably make him back away from Cassandra.
‘’oh I’m scared’’ he shouted and laughed.
‘’you are not the first to play games with me over Cassandra. Mr man please I won’t beg you again. Respect your old age and stay away from my woman.i wont mind spilling your blood to prove my point’’ he said seriously.
‘’really?. Fine lets watch and see’’ I answered as I opened my car door.
‘’you have a sister right?. Don’t let her pay for what she knows nothing about’’ he added with a cold smile, freezing me with his threat. I felt like stabbing him that moment. I felt like choking life out of the little boy but I held myself because I knew all he wanted was to provoke me so that his friends could join in the fight.
‘’you have made your point. I get it. You are a killer. Kudos’’ I smiled , entered my car and zoomed off.
Yes I was nervous and scared. Yes I was afraid of my sister’s safety but I just couldn’t let go of my Cassandra for the little kid. Every man has a duty to fight and protect his woman and letting go of Cassandra was the last thing on my mind.
————
Hours Later
just few kilometers to my shop , my phone rang and it was Cassandra calling.
”hi hope you are okay?” i asked,
‘’No I’m not okay. He has taken all the money. Edwin just took all the money you gave me. I’m finished. My birthday’’ she cried over the phone, leaving me totally speechless.
‘’whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat!’’ I roared.
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