CASSANDRA
Season 2
Episode 18
David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David
Seeing Cassandra walk into the ward as I was talking with Nora left me a bit stunned and uncomfortable. I wasn’t expecting to see her at the hospital neither was I expecting the surprising show she put off which left a big frown on Nora’s face.
Of course Cassandra had every right to apologize for all she did in the past. She equally had every right to be graceful to me for saving her a-s from Edwin but then the way by which she apologized spoke volumes of unspoken words which left everyone in the room wondering what her next intentions could really be.
( I just couldn’t say a word as she brushed past Nora to sit beside me.)
‘’The police finally allowed me to go home. I will be travelling shortly to see my family. I will return tomorrow with my father. There are still things to settle, you know’’ she announced softly, standing up with her usual captivating smile. She stared at Nora for a while before facing me once again.
‘’I will see you tomorrow Dave’’ she added, rolled her eyes and left without another word.
I never said a word to her. Of course what could I even say to the girl?. Unfortunately my silence never went well with Nora. The fierce look she gave me was so penetrating and hot. I quickly avoided her gaze and the silence that befell the room was saved by the doctor who just walked in that moment with a smile.
‘’doctor I really want to get out of here today. You can see that I’m fine and strong. Thanks for taking care of me’’ I quickly muttered, sitting up as the doctor slowly examined my wound.
‘’The wound isn’t deep but you lost quite a lot of blood, though the young girl who administered first aid to you did a very wonderful job of controlling the bleeding. I can’t force you to stay against your wish but you have to be coming for check ups’’ he said softly. I nodded in agreement.
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By 6:30pm that fateful day, I arrived at Nora’s house in company of Chinedu and the police inspector who was so kind to escort us to the house.
‘’I don’t know if you guys have noticed the police patrol team that always stays at the entrance of this street?. I have told them to keep an eye on this house. Here is the phone number of the officer in charge of the team. You can call him or call me if you find yourself in any danger’’ the police inspector said to Nora , scribbled down a phone number on a piece of paper and gave to her before leaving with Chinedu.
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9pm, Nora’s bedroom
‘’Thanks for allowing me to stay in your house’’ I softly said to Nora as she sat beside me on her bed. She smiled softly, saying nothing. I slowly reached out for her hand which I caressed softly.
‘’my greatest wish right now is to start living with you. Please can’t you consider moving back to my apartment?.’’ I asked softly. She shook her head, leaned towards me and smiled.
‘’are you really serious about that?’’ she asked.
‘’of course I’m very serious. Nothing would make me happier than that’’ I quickly answered.
‘’then you have to do things the right way. I know my family isn’t the good one but you still have to meet them and do the right thing before we can start living together. Moreover I’m not a little girl anymore’’ she breathed softly.
‘’so that means you have accepted me back in your heart?. All I now need to do is meet your family?’’ I asked with a swift smile. She said nothing, instead bent and surprised me with a hot kiss which she planted on my lips.
Oh I felt so good. I couldn’t believe it was happening for real. I closed my eyes, held her head with my free hand and tried my best to prolong the great kiss. Suddenly she broke free from me, breathing quickly.
‘’how about Cassandra?, are you still in love with her?. What if she comes back?’’ she surprisingly asked, staring at me with great anxiety. I swallowed hard.
Episode 19
David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David
‘’Cassandra is a closed chapter in my life. I feel nothing for her anymore. Moreover you very much know what I just passed through because of her’’ I answered softly, breathing quickly. Nora left her eyes on me for a while before nodding with a smile.
‘’yes you are right. I’m sorry for the question’’ she muttered solemnly.
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The next day slowly arrived with Cassandra and her father showing up at the police station. I was asked to come over for settlement and I took my friend Chinedu along as my witness.
Yes it really was one of the happiest moments of my life. I was finally free from police harassment and fear of detention. Cassandra’s father was virtually on his knees, thanking and asking for forgiveness at the same time. He equally offered me the sum of hundred thousand naira which I politely rejected because the money wasn’t even up to half of what I spent over Cassandra’s issue. I felt it was better not to accept the money and take all I spent on Cassandra as nothing but a sacrifice.
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I returned home hours later a free man. I had great plans ahead. I was given a second opportunity by God to reshape my life and of course i wasn’t ready to joke with such opportunity.
My first plan was to do everything necessary to make Nora my wife and secondly to put Edwin behind bars because I knew a guy like him would always be a threat to my happiness.
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7:30pm David’s house
After enjoying the great meal Nora left at my house when I was busy at the police station, I headed to my bed for an early sleep. But before I could even close my eyes, I heard a gentle knock on my door.
I quickly headed to the door, thinking that it was Nora who was surprising me with a late visit but to my surprise, I discovered that it was no other person than Cassandra who was knocking by that hour.
At first I speechlessly stared at her, very much at lost on what to make of her presence while the events that led to her disappearance quickly flowed back to my head.
‘’Hello Dave; I hope I’m welcomed?’’ she asked softly. I nodded after a slight hesitation.
Yes I badly wanted to shut to the door on her face but I just couldn’t do that. I just couldn’t risk allowing what happened the last time she showed up by that hour to repeat again.
I quietly allowed her in, shut the door and faced her suspiciously.
‘’aren’t you delighted to see me?’’ she asked curiously.
‘’no but you see, I just remembered what happened the last time you showed up here by this hour’’ I answered slowly.
‘’hmmmm, I understand how you feel. I know I treated you very badly in the past but I guess I have learnt my lesson. I really don’t know if I will ever be able to atone for my sins the way I want to’’ she breathed, looking down.
‘’I have lost a lot, both in my love life and academics. I just don’t know where to start to fix things. I’m very confused right now. I’m also scared because Edwin is still free out there. I want to go back to school but I can’t at the moment because of that rascal’’ she added with great pain. I stared at her, touched by her words but too scared to come any closer towards her.
‘’that very night you left my house; how did Edwin get to you?’’ I asked curiously.
The question had always been in my mind and I couldn’t stop myself from asking her with the opportunity that presented itself. She shrugged and shook her head.
‘’my doctor friend was responsible for everything that happened to me that very night. I ran to his house after I left yours but he threw me out like a leper. It was just as if he had a deal with Edwin or maybe Edwin threatened him before i got to his house that evening. We were still arguing at his gate when Edwin walked up and dragged me to his car. The guy never lifted a finger to help me out nor did he even query Edwin. All he did was to walk back to his apartment’’ she narrated as tears slowly dropped from her eyes.
‘’in my quest for love, I have been used by many guys. You are the only person that never took advantage of me and I ended up hurting you’’ she sobbed.
‘’its okay’’ I breathed, drew close and held her.
‘’you know your way around the house. Just freshen up and relax. We can talk tomorrow’’ I said softly while she nodded in agreement.
‘’Thank you’’ she breathed
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I really had a long night as I laid awake, thinking of how things finally ended between Cassandra and I. I never for a moment believed that she would come back to apologize for all her wrong doing in such a vulnerable manner. Nevertheless I was scared of what her presence could bring to me. I was sure Edwin was out there monitoring the situation. I equally had Nora to face. Of course it won’t go down well with her to know that Cassandra spent the night in my house even though she slept at the other room.
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Unfortunately, Just like I feared, my fears came to past much earlier than I expected when Nora showed up at my house very early in the morning, carrying a food flask.
‘’hi dear, I just couldn’t sleep last night, knowing you slept here all alone in this condition’’ she smiled, eying my wounded chest. I just couldn’t say a word as I quickly tried to compose the suitable words to use in telling her about Cassandra’s presence.
‘’why the cold look huh?, ‘’ she asked as she headed to my kitchen, freezing with shock as she opened the kitchen door to see Cassandra.
I equally was shocked because I never knew Cassandra was in my kitchen. I thought she was still sleeping in the other room.
Episode 20
David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David
‘’seriously what is she doing here?’’ Nora asked, turning to face me with great anger, ignoring Cassandra who politely greeted her. I quickly drew close and held her by the waist to calm her down.
‘’actually she came in very late last night and I couldn’t ask her to leave out of fear of what happened the last time she showed up by that exact hour’’ I answered truthfully, praying for her to believe me.
‘’she slept here?. She slept with you?’’ she asked without reservation, her face coloring up deeply. I quickly shook my head.
‘’no she slept in the other free room. You can check it out to confirm for yourself. I wasn’t even aware that she is already in my kitchen’’ I answered like a scared little child. She shrugged, walked back to the sitting and sat down.
I stared at her for some seconds, not knowing what to say or do. I have never found myself in situation before.
‘’Nora dear, you got to believe me. There is nothing going on with Cassandra and I anymore’’ I tried to explain, sitting by her side.
‘’fine, then ask her to leave’’ she said seriously, throwing me aback with her demand.
Yes it really was the right thing to do but the manner by which she gave the command made it look as if I was a little kid or someone being controlled by a woman.
‘’she wants to return to her school but then she’s scared of what Edwin could do to her. Can you just allow me to talk with her first?’’ I said desperately, clueless on how to follow the situation.
‘’just listen to yourself. Are you trying to justify her motive of being here?. If that’s the case then I think you still want to continue your relationship with her.’’ She said with a raised tone.
Cassandra walked in that moment, smiling innocently as she came closer to us.
‘’Nora I know we have never related well to each other but you just have to calm down please. I have no bad intentions for you or for David’’ She said softly, trying to work her way into Nora’s heart with the gentle words but unfortunately Nora wasn’t buying any of it. She simply ignored all Cassandra said to her, instead faced me with burning eyes.
‘’David you have just five minutes to send her out of here or I will leave this house and you will never see me or your child ever again’’ she suddenly threatened, standing up as if she was about leaving the house. I quickly got up and dragged Cassandra to the room (she slept the previous night).
‘’I’m sorry for doing this but you have to leave. It was your entire fault. I was ready to do anything for you in the past but you insulted and abandoned me. Nora picked me up and revived me. She now owns my life and I will have to do as she wants. This is hard for me but you have to leave. Go back to your house and remain there until Edwin is caught’’ I said seriously. She nodded softly as tears showed up in her eyes.
‘’I don’t know what else to say. I’m very much broken in spirit right now. I just feel so terrible but I will have to leave’’ she breathed. I nodded, drew back and returned to the sitting room where Nora was anxiously waiting.
‘’she’s leaving’’ I said to her quietly, a bit angry over the insensitive behavior she put up towards Cassandra.
‘’that’s fine by me’’ she muttered, glanced at her watch and breathed heavily.
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Cassandra showed up at the sitting room minutes later, ready to leave. She gave me one last look, breathed deeply and left without saying any word. I never knew where she was going nor did I ask.
The dark smile on Nora’s face as Cassandra left unceremoniously kind of made me wonder the true state of her feelings.
There wasn’t any doubt Nora was in love with me. There was any denying she was only trying to protect me but then I felt she went way over the line with the way she reacted towards Cassandra.
‘’I hope this is the end of Cassandra?’’ she asked, leaving me to ask myself the very same question.
‘’is it really the end of Cassandra’s influence in my life??’’ hmmmmmmm
Episode 21
David’s side of the story;
As naratted by David
As soon as Cassandra left, I headed straight to the bathroom to freshen up without saying anything to Nora. Of course I really was very much uncomfortable with the way she forced me into sending Cassandra away even though she did what most women would have done.
‘’do you need help?’’ I heard her shout from the living room as I took my bath. Her question kind of softened me.
I smiled to myself as my manhood slowly nodded its head, strange ideas filling my head.
‘’yes yes yes. I need help’’ I replied, expecting her to show up to attend to me but all my reply got me was nothing but laughter from her.
‘’I was only teasing you’’ she laughed while I sighed in disappointment.
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moments later
I whistled a song as I slowly dressed up in my room, suddenly feeling happy without knowing the reason for such sudden feeling. Nora knocked on the door, peeped in before walking with a seductive smile. One look at her, I scoffed and shook my head.
‘’what?’’ she asked.
‘’nothing’’ I answered, reached out, grabbed and pushed her down on my bed.
‘’you are going to injure yourself for no just reason. What are you even trying to do?’’ she asked, staring at me with great passion. I licked my lips as I stared down at her.
There wasn’t any denying she badly wanted it as much as I did but was only suppressing the hunger inside her.
‘’I love you very much Nora. I just wish to be with you every moment, every minute’’ I breathed while she stared at me, saying nothing. I slowly lowered my lips on hers, planting a deep kiss on her lips.
She never responded neither did she resist. She simply kept still as if she was overcome with something I just couldn’t fathom.
‘’I have always loved you Dave. I never stopped loving you even when you were with Cassandra, even when you left me out in the streets. Deep down I knew one day you would come back. But I’m not yet sure if you are really back for good. Are you really back?’’ she asked solemnly.
I stared into her eyes and all I saw was an open soul. It was just so magical and pure. I just couldn’t say a word; instead I brought down my lips and kissed her over and over.
‘’oh Dave’’ she moaned as the passion in us ignited like a fireball. She held me tightly as I tried to unbutton her top. Suddenly she pushed me off softly, breathing heavily as she searched me with her eyes.
‘’are you back for real?’’ she asked once again.
But before I could get myself to give an answer, my phone rang.
‘’answer your call first we are not in a hurry. I hope it isn’t Cassandra calling?’’ she said with a smile. I nervously fetched my phone, smiled with relief as I saw that it was Chinedu calling.
‘’hey my guy, I’m just driving towards your house. There is a new development. The student leader that helped us on Cassandra’s issue just called to tell me that Edwin is back in the school neighborhood. I have already informed the inspector and he asked me to fetch you. Just get ready please. You know we have to settle this issue once and for all and move on with our lives’’ he said and hung up.
‘’Chinedu is on his way. Edwin was spotted at his hostel’’ I informed Nora.
‘’ I pray he is a caught and sent to jail’’ she breathed.
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An hour later Chinedu and I arrived at the police station, where we discussed with the inspector and a senior police officer who surprisingly showed up from the state police headquarters because of Edwin’s issue. We had quite a long talk.
‘’after you and your friend managed to rescue Cassandra, we had to question the traditional ruler and people from that village and some new revelations poured in from every corner. We got to know that a very influential man from that area who specializes in sponsoring and backing some candidates during election is a very close ally of Edwin. We heard of assassination threats. We also heard of plans to steal ballot boxes and so on. We really have no evidence nor are we sure if all the reports are true but this case could be what the police needs to get the public support and commendation we badly need in this society. So we are going to deploy all resources within our control to get this Edwin and drill him thoroughly. He could help us solve some pending cases in the division and equally spill names of his sponsors and members.’’ The officer addressed us.
‘’well but Edwin really doesn’t look like a well connected criminal. He looks just like an ordinary misguided student’’ I muttered.
‘’that’s why we need to get him for questioning. And since you are the only one that can easily identify him, you will be going with us to the school to get him tomorrow. We have informed our men in that division to render every assistance’’ the senior police officer said.
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By 6am the next day, I was with a team of well kitted mobile police men and the inspector, heading to Cassandra’s school to get Edwin. I really couldn’t believe the boy could be so important to the police for them to send ten of their best men for the take down.
Unfortunately, a greater surprise awaited us ahead.
Episode 22
David’s side of the story,
As narrated by David
As we approached the street leading to the hostel where Edwin was said to be hiding, we were surprised to see a large crowd of students gathered outside a blue hotel adjacent to the one we were about storming.
It really left the police inspector and his team a bit confused of what to make of the crowd, considering the time of the day.
‘’what could be happening?. It’s too early in the day for students to gather outside in this manner. Something isn’t right’’ he breathed as the leading squad car slowly stopped. After a little hesitation, he alighted with his men.
‘’we planned taking this guy by surprise but I guess he had luck on his side. The element of surprise has been lost’’ he said to me with a frown.
A group of female students instantly approached us with tears in their eyes.
‘’you guys came late. You always come after a crime has been committed. It’s not fair’’ they cried, almost physically attacking the inspector and his team. We all were totally confused and shocked to even say a word.
Another squad car suddenly showed up from nowhere, distracting us for a moment as a different group of policemen led by a sergeant approached us panting heavily.
‘’we just got a call that two guys were stabbed in front one of these hostels’’ the sergeant said to us after saluting the inspector.
‘’what!’’ the inspector exclaimed, facing the students who nodded in agreement.
‘’yes the student leader for students living within this vicinity was just stabbed moments ago. His friend was also stabbed. We have taken them to the hospital. You guys are just worthless. You can’t protect us. You only protect the criminals and always show up after a crime must have been committed.’’ They shouted and booed at the policemen.
In no time sachets of water started landing on us from nowhere, leaving the inspector and his colleagues clueless on how to handle the enraged students without things escalating.
‘’you should call for back up my friend. I came here on another mission. You guys should try to put a patrol team within this neighborhood. I really need to have a long talk with your boss’’ he said to the sergeant who drew back to speak with his men.
‘’so what do we do now?’’ I asked the inspector as we headed back to the squad car.
‘’we just lost the element of surprise. We also can’t storm any hostel without having to confront the angry students which is totally unacceptable’’ he said with resignation but before I could say another word, a gunshot rang out from nowhere, sending the inspector down as students scampered with fright.
There was total chaos everywhere. No one could even say where the shot came from and the armed officers couldn’t risk firing back for fear of hitting innocent students.
I simply froze with fear as the inspector’s blood designed my shirt. For the first time in my life, I made up my mind to give up my quest of getting Edwin. Of course I felt it was either him or one of his men who took the shot from a hidden location. And for a guy like him to have the nerves to shoot at armed policemen, he surely was nothing but a hardened criminal. Someone I shouldn’t have any business with.
The other policemen quickly pulled the inspector to the car which sped up, heading straight to the teaching hospital as the inspector struggled hard to breathe.
‘’I believe the bullet grazed your neck sir. Just be calm’’ one of the young officers said as he expertly bandaged the inspector’s neck.
‘’that’s a high caliber gun’’ the inspector managed to mutter with a weak voice.
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Six hours later. F.M.C Owerri
I sat at one of the chairs at the reception hall, still shaken with fright. i couldn’t help but wonder if the bullet was actually meant for the inspector or for me because we stood beside each other when the bullet came flying.
‘’thank God he survived’’ I muttered to myself, picking up my phone which vibrated that moment. It was Cassandra calling for the second time that day. She first called when we were leaving the teaching hospital after the inspector’s wound had been stabilized, begging to speak to me urgently. I had no choice than to ask her to wait for me at F.M.C Owerri (where we were taking the inspector to, for a more thorough treatment because he wasn’t well attended to at the teaching hospital which surprisingly was on a strike).
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‘’I’m at the hospital gate. Where are you?’’ Cassandra asked as soon as I picked the call.
‘’I’m at the reception. Just stroll down you will see me’’ I answered.
Minutes later, she walked over to me with a strange look on her face, surprisingly drew close and hugged me strongly as if her life depended on it.
‘’oh David’’ she breathed, hugging me tightly as her bosoms sent a strong wave of electric current to my head.
Episode 23
David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David
‘’so what do you want to tell me?’’ I asked, breaking free from her. She breathed deeply and stared at me for some seconds without saying a word.
‘’were you guys able to get Edwin?. i got some calls from friends who told me what happened today’’ she muttered slowly, I shook my head softly.
‘’unfortunately we couldn’t get him. Instead the inspector got shot. We left immediately and I’m yet to know if anyone was later arrested’’ I answered honestly.
‘’you now see how dangerous it could be, trying to confront Edwin. I know how much pain I passed through just to withstand his advances and everything. That guy is just so ruthless. He is so obsessed with me. I’m so scared. He has been calling me since morning. I can’t go home to my parents because he could come for me there and you know how harsh my father is. He could end up killing the old man. I equally can’t go to any of my relatives without first sharing my horrible story with them which I can never do. Just look at me. Just look at how dry, thin and dirty I have become. I’m now so worthless. I don’t even have a place to stay’’ she suddenly blew up, almost creating a scene with her outburst.
I was forced to hold her tightly, just to calm her down because she really was drawing great attention with her drama.
‘’what do you want me to do now?. You know you are not welcomed any longer in my home. Supposing I have money, I would have lodged you in a hotel until Edwin is caught but I lost all my money over your case and seriously there is nothing I can do to help. I wish I can’’ I explained truthfully.
‘’Dave. Dave. Dave’’ she called my name thrice, staring deep into my eyes. I swallowed hard and looked away, very much surprised that my feelings towards her were still somehow alive.
‘’Just allow me to stay with you for few days. I really need like a week to regroup and fix myself. I will leave your house at the end of one week and will never come back nor disturb you again’’ she suddenly begged, grabbing my hand in the process.
I shook my head as I quickly remembered Nora.
‘’this is going to be difficult. Nora won’t like it. You already know I’m moving on with her’’ I stammered.
‘’oh! Nora. I see. She now dictates to you what to do. She now tells you how to run your life. You can’t help a friend without first consulting her’’ she slowly murmured, turned and backed me.
‘’please David, don’t let me sleep out in the street again. All I need is just one week. Please, there is nothing I can possible do to you in a week or is there?’’ she begged, turned and faced me with tears dropping from her eyes.
‘’I can call Chinedu to accommodate you. He is single’’ I reluctantly stammered.
‘’just listen to yourself acting like a child. You will call your friend to accommodate me because he is single. Are you married?. Are you not single like him?. Please don’t spoil all the good things you have done for me by allowing me fall back in Edwin’s hands. Please just accommodate me. I beg of you’’ she begged desperately.
‘’I will have to talk to Nora first’’ I said seriously. She had no choice than to shrug with resignation.
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fifteen minutes later
I arrived at Nora’s apartment with Cassandra in my car. Yes I knew what I was about doing was totally crazy but I just couldn’t let the girl go, after the way she begged me minutes earlier. I had to leave the hospital with her to Nora’s apartment.
When we got to the house she waited for me in the car while I went in to speak with Nora. My plan was simply to convince Nora to allow Cassandra either stay with her for some days or stay with me, something I knew she wasn’t going to buy but then I still felt like giving it a try.
I knew my plan wasn’t cool judging from any point of view. Anyone could easily suspect that I was just looking for an excuse to get back with Cassandra, but seriously that wasn’t the case. Yes I loved Cassandra in the past. Yes I still had some feelings for her. But come on; which man would take back a woman so openly and thoroughly abused for a month or more by a loud mouthed rascal like Edwin?.
To be sincere my decision to help Cassandra was more out of sympathy than love. But I guess no one would believe me including Nora.
As I walked into Nora’s apartment that evening, I felt a strong weight in my chest. I was scared of how she could react. I just was tired of all these. All I wanted was just a quiet and peaceful life.
Episode 24
David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David
Nora instantly noticed my nervous composure the moment I walked into her apartment. She quickly hugged me, feeling that it was the tension of what happened earlier at Cassandra’s school that made me so nervous.
‘’I couldn’t go out today because I was so scared and when you called to say that the inspector was shot, I almost fainted. Thank God you are back’’ she breathed happily, hugging me tightly with great happiness.
I closed my eyes as I enjoyed the warmth of her embrace.
‘’she’s surely the right woman for me’’ I breathed inwardly.
‘’Cassandra is with me’’ I slowly muttered. She instantly froze as the news went through her head.
‘’she met me at the hospital, begging me to accommodate her for some days. The girl has nowhere else to go. She can’t go to her house out of fear that Edwin could easily get to her there and harm her family in the process’’ I explained softly.
‘’yes and you are the lone ranger with nothing to lose, with no family?. Jeez’’ she quickly interrupted me, drawing back with disgust.
‘’hear me out my dear’’. I begged desperately, very much uncertain on how to get her to understand. She folded her hands and nodded.
‘’I’m all ears’’ she breathed.
‘’Cassandra only begged for me to accommodate her for few days. The girl really went down on her knees to beg me at the hospital. She almost created a big scene and i couldn’t say no to her’’ I explained truthfully.
‘’The girl has lost everything. She has lost her life, her freedom and all she used to be in the past. She is just a depressed girl looking to start all over with life. I didn’t say no to her neither did I promise her anything. I told her I had to get your consent first and I know you won’t give in easily. I really can’t stand allowing her fall back in Edwin’s hands again’’ I stammered nervously.
Nora simply couldn’t believe her ears. Her color changed as she listened to me.
‘’you are still in love with her right?’’ she suddenly asked. A question I was undeniably expecting. I drew close and held her with a smile.
‘’I’m not in love with Cassandra. All I feel for her right now is pity. You have to trust me on this. I earlier wanted to ask you to accommodate her in your apartment but it’s risky. Allow me to accommodate her for few days. She already promised never to return once she leaves. My dear all I need is your trust. Our relationship needs trust to be strong. I think you should use this to test my fidelity and loyalty. If by any means something happens between Cassandra and I again, then just know that I’m nothing but a very stupid man who never deserved you in the first place. I know this is hard to accept but you have successfully lived through many difficult moments. I beg of you Nora. Just have a little sympathy on the girl and allow me to take her in for few more days’’ I begged breathlessly.
‘’Dave this is crazy’’ she breathed.
‘’yes I know. But you are a noble woman with a noble heart. You sacrificed your happiness in the past for my sake. Just please allow me take her in’’ I pushed on.
‘’okay. I trust you on this. Just be careful with her. I still feel she is nothing but a snake. Nevertheless if she needs anything, do let me know’’ she finally accepted, leaving me close to tears with her humanitarian gesture.
‘’Thank you. Thank you’’ I breathed with great happiness, held her face and kissed her strongly.
‘’I love you Nora’’ I breathed with all sincerity.
‘’I will return later in the evening to be with you after she has settled down in my apartment. We still have a lot to talk about’’ I said happily to her.
‘’fine, I will be expecting you’’ she smiled.
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Nora’s side of the story;
As narrated by Nora
Yes I really was very uncomfortable with David’s request but the way by which he presented the whole thing was totally convincing. I had no choice than to let him have his way in a bid to test his fidelity just like he requested.
My young sister walked into the sitting room as soon as he left, breaking my thoughts with her appearance.
‘’I witnessed all that just happened. I just don’t know what to say to you big sister. You know men are like chameleon’’ she said to me. I smiled at her.
‘’yes I’m scared but hopeful. Whatever will be, will be’’ I breathed with resignation.
7;15pm, Nora’s apartment
I heard soft knocks on my door, which made me feel that David was back just like he promised. I hurriedly opened the door to see three young men grinning at me.
‘’hi my name is Edwin, David’s friend’’ one of them introduced himself as they brushed past me, entering my apartment noiselessly.
I almost fainted with shock.
Episode 25
David’s side of the story,
As narrated by David
I left Nora’s apartment that fateful evening with great happiness. My respect and admiration for the noble lady increased a thousand times over. She just was amazing. I never expected her to be so understanding and submissive. I swore never to let her down ever again.
‘’I know she didn’t accept right?’’ Cassandra asked as I joined her in my car. I smiled at her and shook my head.
‘’Nora is a very noble woman. Of course she gave her consent’’ I answered with a smile.
‘’thank God’’ she breathed with great relief while I switched on my car engine.
‘’I don’t think there is anything to eat in my house. I guess we should first find somewhere to eat before heading to the house’’ I suggested. She shrugged in agreement.
———————————————————————————
minutes later, @ a small eatery downtown
‘’you know there are many things about your relationship with Edwin that I’m yet to fully understand’’ I softly said to Cassandra as we settled in a food joint to eat. She breathed deeply and shrugged.
‘’what do you want to know?’’ she asked.
‘’the day I rescued you from his house, you really weren’t like someone under captivity. Yes I noticed you weren’t comfortable but then you were free. Why didn’t you make a move to escape all the while you were with him?’’ I asked seriously.
‘’escape how?. The house was always locked up. I didn’t even know the name of the village nor the terrain. I had no money with me. He locked my phones inside his locker which you saw for yourself. Escaping was practically impossible’’ she explained feebly.
‘’so what made him so obsessed with you?. Don’t tell me that bull crap story you once told me sometime back. I feel there is something that made him very obsessed with you’’ I asked curiously. Her eyes instantly dropped.
‘’I don’t know. Maybe that’s his own way of loving’’ she breathed softly. I shook my head, saying nothing further even though I felt like asking a lot more.
—————————————
We returned to my apartment minutes later where Cassandra freshened up before joining me in the sitting room.
‘’I want to ask you something’’ she said with a smile, sitting beside me. I nodded and stared at her.
‘’are you getting back with Nora simply because of what I did to you the previous year or because of how much she helped you through the crises?’’ she asked softly. I breathed deeply, a bit surprised by the question.
‘’Cassandra, you are no longer in a position to ask me that kind of question. Just go in and sleep. You have your life to think about’’ I answered a bit coldly. She rolled her eyes, drew closer and held my hand.
‘’that very day you walked into Edwin’s house to save me. My eyes opened. I began seeing things with a different perspective. We all make mistakes but what makes a difference is learning from your mistakes. I have learnt my lesson and it’s very difficult to say this, but I’m very much indebted and in love with you. I just wish we can continue from where we stopped’’ she breathed, searching me with her eyes.
Supposing it was months back, my head would have swollen by those sweet words but unfortunately, loving her almost sent me to the grave and the last thing I would ever do was daring to even consider having her back in my life.
I quickly stood up, to avoid getting aroused by her soft hands.
‘’I have to go check on Nora again. I promised her earlier that I would return to spend the evening with her. Take care of the house’’ I said to an astonished Cassandra, went to my room, changed and headed out.
But Instead of going directly to Nora’s house, I first stopped at a hair salon to barb my hair. I really spent close to an hour there before heading to Nora’s house that fateful evening.
———————————————————————————
meanwhile @nora’s house, the story continues;
As Narrated by Nora
Edwin and his gang walked into my apartment looking very mean and cold. I felt like screaming but couldn’t. My sister was in the kitchen cooking while my little son was in my room sleeping.
‘’we came for your baby and please madam this isn’t about you nor your child. You guys are just victims of circumstance. You see, David took something that belongs to me. I begged him in the past; I approached him like a gentleman. I did everything to make him leave my property but he refused and here I’m to take his own blood. Please for the sake of your life and that of your son. You got to comply. I already have nothing to lose. I can easily kill anyone that stands in my way, so please relax, you will have your son back. That I promise you’’ Edwin said with a softly cold tone as his men went into the rooms.
I just didn’t know how to react as his men reappeared, with the first guy dragging my sister and the second one carrying little David. I lost it that moment. I instantly screamed while Edwin quickly pulled out a gun, cocked it and aimed it at my mouth.
‘’I swear to Gawd, I will kill you. Nothing would have given me more pleasure than to kill you. But no, I don’t kill women’’ he said as my voice seized in my throat.
‘’what if we take your sister along huh?. Someone needs to care for the little baby. Your sister is equally very pretty’’ he said with a dirty smile while his men laughed.
‘’I hate kids and if David doesn’t comply within 48hrs to get his son back. The kid will be killed or sold’’ he threatened, nodding to his men who quickly headed towards the door. I instantly plunged at the guy carrying my baby but it earned me a super punch from him while Edwin grabbed me from behind and threw me with great strength across the room.
My sister was just too scared to react; luckily they didn’t take her along as they left. And Before I could recover from the shock, they were gone.
They were gone with my son.
I screamed like a mad woman as I ran out to the street only to see David pull up with his car that very moment. The first thing I did was to slap him.
‘’my son is gone. Edwin took my son’’ I cried.
Season 2
Episode 18
David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David
Seeing Cassandra walk into the ward as I was talking with Nora left me a bit stunned and uncomfortable. I wasn’t expecting to see her at the hospital neither was I expecting the surprising show she put off which left a big frown on Nora’s face.
Of course Cassandra had every right to apologize for all she did in the past. She equally had every right to be graceful to me for saving her a-s from Edwin but then the way by which she apologized spoke volumes of unspoken words which left everyone in the room wondering what her next intentions could really be.
( I just couldn’t say a word as she brushed past Nora to sit beside me.)
‘’The police finally allowed me to go home. I will be travelling shortly to see my family. I will return tomorrow with my father. There are still things to settle, you know’’ she announced softly, standing up with her usual captivating smile. She stared at Nora for a while before facing me once again.
‘’I will see you tomorrow Dave’’ she added, rolled her eyes and left without another word.
I never said a word to her. Of course what could I even say to the girl?. Unfortunately my silence never went well with Nora. The fierce look she gave me was so penetrating and hot. I quickly avoided her gaze and the silence that befell the room was saved by the doctor who just walked in that moment with a smile.
‘’doctor I really want to get out of here today. You can see that I’m fine and strong. Thanks for taking care of me’’ I quickly muttered, sitting up as the doctor slowly examined my wound.
‘’The wound isn’t deep but you lost quite a lot of blood, though the young girl who administered first aid to you did a very wonderful job of controlling the bleeding. I can’t force you to stay against your wish but you have to be coming for check ups’’ he said softly. I nodded in agreement.
—————————————————————————
By 6:30pm that fateful day, I arrived at Nora’s house in company of Chinedu and the police inspector who was so kind to escort us to the house.
‘’I don’t know if you guys have noticed the police patrol team that always stays at the entrance of this street?. I have told them to keep an eye on this house. Here is the phone number of the officer in charge of the team. You can call him or call me if you find yourself in any danger’’ the police inspector said to Nora , scribbled down a phone number on a piece of paper and gave to her before leaving with Chinedu.
—————————————–
9pm, Nora’s bedroom
‘’Thanks for allowing me to stay in your house’’ I softly said to Nora as she sat beside me on her bed. She smiled softly, saying nothing. I slowly reached out for her hand which I caressed softly.
‘’my greatest wish right now is to start living with you. Please can’t you consider moving back to my apartment?.’’ I asked softly. She shook her head, leaned towards me and smiled.
‘’are you really serious about that?’’ she asked.
‘’of course I’m very serious. Nothing would make me happier than that’’ I quickly answered.
‘’then you have to do things the right way. I know my family isn’t the good one but you still have to meet them and do the right thing before we can start living together. Moreover I’m not a little girl anymore’’ she breathed softly.
‘’so that means you have accepted me back in your heart?. All I now need to do is meet your family?’’ I asked with a swift smile. She said nothing, instead bent and surprised me with a hot kiss which she planted on my lips.
Oh I felt so good. I couldn’t believe it was happening for real. I closed my eyes, held her head with my free hand and tried my best to prolong the great kiss. Suddenly she broke free from me, breathing quickly.
‘’how about Cassandra?, are you still in love with her?. What if she comes back?’’ she surprisingly asked, staring at me with great anxiety. I swallowed hard.
Episode 19
David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David
‘’Cassandra is a closed chapter in my life. I feel nothing for her anymore. Moreover you very much know what I just passed through because of her’’ I answered softly, breathing quickly. Nora left her eyes on me for a while before nodding with a smile.
‘’yes you are right. I’m sorry for the question’’ she muttered solemnly.
——————————–
The next day slowly arrived with Cassandra and her father showing up at the police station. I was asked to come over for settlement and I took my friend Chinedu along as my witness.
Yes it really was one of the happiest moments of my life. I was finally free from police harassment and fear of detention. Cassandra’s father was virtually on his knees, thanking and asking for forgiveness at the same time. He equally offered me the sum of hundred thousand naira which I politely rejected because the money wasn’t even up to half of what I spent over Cassandra’s issue. I felt it was better not to accept the money and take all I spent on Cassandra as nothing but a sacrifice.
_____________________________
I returned home hours later a free man. I had great plans ahead. I was given a second opportunity by God to reshape my life and of course i wasn’t ready to joke with such opportunity.
My first plan was to do everything necessary to make Nora my wife and secondly to put Edwin behind bars because I knew a guy like him would always be a threat to my happiness.
——————–
7:30pm David’s house
After enjoying the great meal Nora left at my house when I was busy at the police station, I headed to my bed for an early sleep. But before I could even close my eyes, I heard a gentle knock on my door.
I quickly headed to the door, thinking that it was Nora who was surprising me with a late visit but to my surprise, I discovered that it was no other person than Cassandra who was knocking by that hour.
At first I speechlessly stared at her, very much at lost on what to make of her presence while the events that led to her disappearance quickly flowed back to my head.
‘’Hello Dave; I hope I’m welcomed?’’ she asked softly. I nodded after a slight hesitation.
Yes I badly wanted to shut to the door on her face but I just couldn’t do that. I just couldn’t risk allowing what happened the last time she showed up by that hour to repeat again.
I quietly allowed her in, shut the door and faced her suspiciously.
‘’aren’t you delighted to see me?’’ she asked curiously.
‘’no but you see, I just remembered what happened the last time you showed up here by this hour’’ I answered slowly.
‘’hmmmm, I understand how you feel. I know I treated you very badly in the past but I guess I have learnt my lesson. I really don’t know if I will ever be able to atone for my sins the way I want to’’ she breathed, looking down.
‘’I have lost a lot, both in my love life and academics. I just don’t know where to start to fix things. I’m very confused right now. I’m also scared because Edwin is still free out there. I want to go back to school but I can’t at the moment because of that rascal’’ she added with great pain. I stared at her, touched by her words but too scared to come any closer towards her.
‘’that very night you left my house; how did Edwin get to you?’’ I asked curiously.
The question had always been in my mind and I couldn’t stop myself from asking her with the opportunity that presented itself. She shrugged and shook her head.
‘’my doctor friend was responsible for everything that happened to me that very night. I ran to his house after I left yours but he threw me out like a leper. It was just as if he had a deal with Edwin or maybe Edwin threatened him before i got to his house that evening. We were still arguing at his gate when Edwin walked up and dragged me to his car. The guy never lifted a finger to help me out nor did he even query Edwin. All he did was to walk back to his apartment’’ she narrated as tears slowly dropped from her eyes.
‘’in my quest for love, I have been used by many guys. You are the only person that never took advantage of me and I ended up hurting you’’ she sobbed.
‘’its okay’’ I breathed, drew close and held her.
‘’you know your way around the house. Just freshen up and relax. We can talk tomorrow’’ I said softly while she nodded in agreement.
‘’Thank you’’ she breathed
——————————————
I really had a long night as I laid awake, thinking of how things finally ended between Cassandra and I. I never for a moment believed that she would come back to apologize for all her wrong doing in such a vulnerable manner. Nevertheless I was scared of what her presence could bring to me. I was sure Edwin was out there monitoring the situation. I equally had Nora to face. Of course it won’t go down well with her to know that Cassandra spent the night in my house even though she slept at the other room.
————————-
Unfortunately, Just like I feared, my fears came to past much earlier than I expected when Nora showed up at my house very early in the morning, carrying a food flask.
‘’hi dear, I just couldn’t sleep last night, knowing you slept here all alone in this condition’’ she smiled, eying my wounded chest. I just couldn’t say a word as I quickly tried to compose the suitable words to use in telling her about Cassandra’s presence.
‘’why the cold look huh?, ‘’ she asked as she headed to my kitchen, freezing with shock as she opened the kitchen door to see Cassandra.
I equally was shocked because I never knew Cassandra was in my kitchen. I thought she was still sleeping in the other room.
Episode 20
David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David
‘’seriously what is she doing here?’’ Nora asked, turning to face me with great anger, ignoring Cassandra who politely greeted her. I quickly drew close and held her by the waist to calm her down.
‘’actually she came in very late last night and I couldn’t ask her to leave out of fear of what happened the last time she showed up by that exact hour’’ I answered truthfully, praying for her to believe me.
‘’she slept here?. She slept with you?’’ she asked without reservation, her face coloring up deeply. I quickly shook my head.
‘’no she slept in the other free room. You can check it out to confirm for yourself. I wasn’t even aware that she is already in my kitchen’’ I answered like a scared little child. She shrugged, walked back to the sitting and sat down.
I stared at her for some seconds, not knowing what to say or do. I have never found myself in situation before.
‘’Nora dear, you got to believe me. There is nothing going on with Cassandra and I anymore’’ I tried to explain, sitting by her side.
‘’fine, then ask her to leave’’ she said seriously, throwing me aback with her demand.
Yes it really was the right thing to do but the manner by which she gave the command made it look as if I was a little kid or someone being controlled by a woman.
‘’she wants to return to her school but then she’s scared of what Edwin could do to her. Can you just allow me to talk with her first?’’ I said desperately, clueless on how to follow the situation.
‘’just listen to yourself. Are you trying to justify her motive of being here?. If that’s the case then I think you still want to continue your relationship with her.’’ She said with a raised tone.
Cassandra walked in that moment, smiling innocently as she came closer to us.
‘’Nora I know we have never related well to each other but you just have to calm down please. I have no bad intentions for you or for David’’ She said softly, trying to work her way into Nora’s heart with the gentle words but unfortunately Nora wasn’t buying any of it. She simply ignored all Cassandra said to her, instead faced me with burning eyes.
‘’David you have just five minutes to send her out of here or I will leave this house and you will never see me or your child ever again’’ she suddenly threatened, standing up as if she was about leaving the house. I quickly got up and dragged Cassandra to the room (she slept the previous night).
‘’I’m sorry for doing this but you have to leave. It was your entire fault. I was ready to do anything for you in the past but you insulted and abandoned me. Nora picked me up and revived me. She now owns my life and I will have to do as she wants. This is hard for me but you have to leave. Go back to your house and remain there until Edwin is caught’’ I said seriously. She nodded softly as tears showed up in her eyes.
‘’I don’t know what else to say. I’m very much broken in spirit right now. I just feel so terrible but I will have to leave’’ she breathed. I nodded, drew back and returned to the sitting room where Nora was anxiously waiting.
‘’she’s leaving’’ I said to her quietly, a bit angry over the insensitive behavior she put up towards Cassandra.
‘’that’s fine by me’’ she muttered, glanced at her watch and breathed heavily.
————————-
Cassandra showed up at the sitting room minutes later, ready to leave. She gave me one last look, breathed deeply and left without saying any word. I never knew where she was going nor did I ask.
The dark smile on Nora’s face as Cassandra left unceremoniously kind of made me wonder the true state of her feelings.
There wasn’t any doubt Nora was in love with me. There was any denying she was only trying to protect me but then I felt she went way over the line with the way she reacted towards Cassandra.
‘’I hope this is the end of Cassandra?’’ she asked, leaving me to ask myself the very same question.
‘’is it really the end of Cassandra’s influence in my life??’’ hmmmmmmm
Episode 21
David’s side of the story;
As naratted by David
As soon as Cassandra left, I headed straight to the bathroom to freshen up without saying anything to Nora. Of course I really was very much uncomfortable with the way she forced me into sending Cassandra away even though she did what most women would have done.
‘’do you need help?’’ I heard her shout from the living room as I took my bath. Her question kind of softened me.
I smiled to myself as my manhood slowly nodded its head, strange ideas filling my head.
‘’yes yes yes. I need help’’ I replied, expecting her to show up to attend to me but all my reply got me was nothing but laughter from her.
‘’I was only teasing you’’ she laughed while I sighed in disappointment.
———————————————————————————
moments later
I whistled a song as I slowly dressed up in my room, suddenly feeling happy without knowing the reason for such sudden feeling. Nora knocked on the door, peeped in before walking with a seductive smile. One look at her, I scoffed and shook my head.
‘’what?’’ she asked.
‘’nothing’’ I answered, reached out, grabbed and pushed her down on my bed.
‘’you are going to injure yourself for no just reason. What are you even trying to do?’’ she asked, staring at me with great passion. I licked my lips as I stared down at her.
There wasn’t any denying she badly wanted it as much as I did but was only suppressing the hunger inside her.
‘’I love you very much Nora. I just wish to be with you every moment, every minute’’ I breathed while she stared at me, saying nothing. I slowly lowered my lips on hers, planting a deep kiss on her lips.
She never responded neither did she resist. She simply kept still as if she was overcome with something I just couldn’t fathom.
‘’I have always loved you Dave. I never stopped loving you even when you were with Cassandra, even when you left me out in the streets. Deep down I knew one day you would come back. But I’m not yet sure if you are really back for good. Are you really back?’’ she asked solemnly.
I stared into her eyes and all I saw was an open soul. It was just so magical and pure. I just couldn’t say a word; instead I brought down my lips and kissed her over and over.
‘’oh Dave’’ she moaned as the passion in us ignited like a fireball. She held me tightly as I tried to unbutton her top. Suddenly she pushed me off softly, breathing heavily as she searched me with her eyes.
‘’are you back for real?’’ she asked once again.
But before I could get myself to give an answer, my phone rang.
‘’answer your call first we are not in a hurry. I hope it isn’t Cassandra calling?’’ she said with a smile. I nervously fetched my phone, smiled with relief as I saw that it was Chinedu calling.
‘’hey my guy, I’m just driving towards your house. There is a new development. The student leader that helped us on Cassandra’s issue just called to tell me that Edwin is back in the school neighborhood. I have already informed the inspector and he asked me to fetch you. Just get ready please. You know we have to settle this issue once and for all and move on with our lives’’ he said and hung up.
‘’Chinedu is on his way. Edwin was spotted at his hostel’’ I informed Nora.
‘’ I pray he is a caught and sent to jail’’ she breathed.
———————————————————————————
An hour later Chinedu and I arrived at the police station, where we discussed with the inspector and a senior police officer who surprisingly showed up from the state police headquarters because of Edwin’s issue. We had quite a long talk.
‘’after you and your friend managed to rescue Cassandra, we had to question the traditional ruler and people from that village and some new revelations poured in from every corner. We got to know that a very influential man from that area who specializes in sponsoring and backing some candidates during election is a very close ally of Edwin. We heard of assassination threats. We also heard of plans to steal ballot boxes and so on. We really have no evidence nor are we sure if all the reports are true but this case could be what the police needs to get the public support and commendation we badly need in this society. So we are going to deploy all resources within our control to get this Edwin and drill him thoroughly. He could help us solve some pending cases in the division and equally spill names of his sponsors and members.’’ The officer addressed us.
‘’well but Edwin really doesn’t look like a well connected criminal. He looks just like an ordinary misguided student’’ I muttered.
‘’that’s why we need to get him for questioning. And since you are the only one that can easily identify him, you will be going with us to the school to get him tomorrow. We have informed our men in that division to render every assistance’’ the senior police officer said.
—————————————
By 6am the next day, I was with a team of well kitted mobile police men and the inspector, heading to Cassandra’s school to get Edwin. I really couldn’t believe the boy could be so important to the police for them to send ten of their best men for the take down.
Unfortunately, a greater surprise awaited us ahead.
Episode 22
David’s side of the story,
As narrated by David
As we approached the street leading to the hostel where Edwin was said to be hiding, we were surprised to see a large crowd of students gathered outside a blue hotel adjacent to the one we were about storming.
It really left the police inspector and his team a bit confused of what to make of the crowd, considering the time of the day.
‘’what could be happening?. It’s too early in the day for students to gather outside in this manner. Something isn’t right’’ he breathed as the leading squad car slowly stopped. After a little hesitation, he alighted with his men.
‘’we planned taking this guy by surprise but I guess he had luck on his side. The element of surprise has been lost’’ he said to me with a frown.
A group of female students instantly approached us with tears in their eyes.
‘’you guys came late. You always come after a crime has been committed. It’s not fair’’ they cried, almost physically attacking the inspector and his team. We all were totally confused and shocked to even say a word.
Another squad car suddenly showed up from nowhere, distracting us for a moment as a different group of policemen led by a sergeant approached us panting heavily.
‘’we just got a call that two guys were stabbed in front one of these hostels’’ the sergeant said to us after saluting the inspector.
‘’what!’’ the inspector exclaimed, facing the students who nodded in agreement.
‘’yes the student leader for students living within this vicinity was just stabbed moments ago. His friend was also stabbed. We have taken them to the hospital. You guys are just worthless. You can’t protect us. You only protect the criminals and always show up after a crime must have been committed.’’ They shouted and booed at the policemen.
In no time sachets of water started landing on us from nowhere, leaving the inspector and his colleagues clueless on how to handle the enraged students without things escalating.
‘’you should call for back up my friend. I came here on another mission. You guys should try to put a patrol team within this neighborhood. I really need to have a long talk with your boss’’ he said to the sergeant who drew back to speak with his men.
‘’so what do we do now?’’ I asked the inspector as we headed back to the squad car.
‘’we just lost the element of surprise. We also can’t storm any hostel without having to confront the angry students which is totally unacceptable’’ he said with resignation but before I could say another word, a gunshot rang out from nowhere, sending the inspector down as students scampered with fright.
There was total chaos everywhere. No one could even say where the shot came from and the armed officers couldn’t risk firing back for fear of hitting innocent students.
I simply froze with fear as the inspector’s blood designed my shirt. For the first time in my life, I made up my mind to give up my quest of getting Edwin. Of course I felt it was either him or one of his men who took the shot from a hidden location. And for a guy like him to have the nerves to shoot at armed policemen, he surely was nothing but a hardened criminal. Someone I shouldn’t have any business with.
The other policemen quickly pulled the inspector to the car which sped up, heading straight to the teaching hospital as the inspector struggled hard to breathe.
‘’I believe the bullet grazed your neck sir. Just be calm’’ one of the young officers said as he expertly bandaged the inspector’s neck.
‘’that’s a high caliber gun’’ the inspector managed to mutter with a weak voice.
————————————
Six hours later. F.M.C Owerri
I sat at one of the chairs at the reception hall, still shaken with fright. i couldn’t help but wonder if the bullet was actually meant for the inspector or for me because we stood beside each other when the bullet came flying.
‘’thank God he survived’’ I muttered to myself, picking up my phone which vibrated that moment. It was Cassandra calling for the second time that day. She first called when we were leaving the teaching hospital after the inspector’s wound had been stabilized, begging to speak to me urgently. I had no choice than to ask her to wait for me at F.M.C Owerri (where we were taking the inspector to, for a more thorough treatment because he wasn’t well attended to at the teaching hospital which surprisingly was on a strike).
——————————————————————————
‘’I’m at the hospital gate. Where are you?’’ Cassandra asked as soon as I picked the call.
‘’I’m at the reception. Just stroll down you will see me’’ I answered.
Minutes later, she walked over to me with a strange look on her face, surprisingly drew close and hugged me strongly as if her life depended on it.
‘’oh David’’ she breathed, hugging me tightly as her bosoms sent a strong wave of electric current to my head.
Episode 23
David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David
‘’so what do you want to tell me?’’ I asked, breaking free from her. She breathed deeply and stared at me for some seconds without saying a word.
‘’were you guys able to get Edwin?. i got some calls from friends who told me what happened today’’ she muttered slowly, I shook my head softly.
‘’unfortunately we couldn’t get him. Instead the inspector got shot. We left immediately and I’m yet to know if anyone was later arrested’’ I answered honestly.
‘’you now see how dangerous it could be, trying to confront Edwin. I know how much pain I passed through just to withstand his advances and everything. That guy is just so ruthless. He is so obsessed with me. I’m so scared. He has been calling me since morning. I can’t go home to my parents because he could come for me there and you know how harsh my father is. He could end up killing the old man. I equally can’t go to any of my relatives without first sharing my horrible story with them which I can never do. Just look at me. Just look at how dry, thin and dirty I have become. I’m now so worthless. I don’t even have a place to stay’’ she suddenly blew up, almost creating a scene with her outburst.
I was forced to hold her tightly, just to calm her down because she really was drawing great attention with her drama.
‘’what do you want me to do now?. You know you are not welcomed any longer in my home. Supposing I have money, I would have lodged you in a hotel until Edwin is caught but I lost all my money over your case and seriously there is nothing I can do to help. I wish I can’’ I explained truthfully.
‘’Dave. Dave. Dave’’ she called my name thrice, staring deep into my eyes. I swallowed hard and looked away, very much surprised that my feelings towards her were still somehow alive.
‘’Just allow me to stay with you for few days. I really need like a week to regroup and fix myself. I will leave your house at the end of one week and will never come back nor disturb you again’’ she suddenly begged, grabbing my hand in the process.
I shook my head as I quickly remembered Nora.
‘’this is going to be difficult. Nora won’t like it. You already know I’m moving on with her’’ I stammered.
‘’oh! Nora. I see. She now dictates to you what to do. She now tells you how to run your life. You can’t help a friend without first consulting her’’ she slowly murmured, turned and backed me.
‘’please David, don’t let me sleep out in the street again. All I need is just one week. Please, there is nothing I can possible do to you in a week or is there?’’ she begged, turned and faced me with tears dropping from her eyes.
‘’I can call Chinedu to accommodate you. He is single’’ I reluctantly stammered.
‘’just listen to yourself acting like a child. You will call your friend to accommodate me because he is single. Are you married?. Are you not single like him?. Please don’t spoil all the good things you have done for me by allowing me fall back in Edwin’s hands. Please just accommodate me. I beg of you’’ she begged desperately.
‘’I will have to talk to Nora first’’ I said seriously. She had no choice than to shrug with resignation.
———————————————————————————
fifteen minutes later
I arrived at Nora’s apartment with Cassandra in my car. Yes I knew what I was about doing was totally crazy but I just couldn’t let the girl go, after the way she begged me minutes earlier. I had to leave the hospital with her to Nora’s apartment.
When we got to the house she waited for me in the car while I went in to speak with Nora. My plan was simply to convince Nora to allow Cassandra either stay with her for some days or stay with me, something I knew she wasn’t going to buy but then I still felt like giving it a try.
I knew my plan wasn’t cool judging from any point of view. Anyone could easily suspect that I was just looking for an excuse to get back with Cassandra, but seriously that wasn’t the case. Yes I loved Cassandra in the past. Yes I still had some feelings for her. But come on; which man would take back a woman so openly and thoroughly abused for a month or more by a loud mouthed rascal like Edwin?.
To be sincere my decision to help Cassandra was more out of sympathy than love. But I guess no one would believe me including Nora.
As I walked into Nora’s apartment that evening, I felt a strong weight in my chest. I was scared of how she could react. I just was tired of all these. All I wanted was just a quiet and peaceful life.
Episode 24
David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David
Nora instantly noticed my nervous composure the moment I walked into her apartment. She quickly hugged me, feeling that it was the tension of what happened earlier at Cassandra’s school that made me so nervous.
‘’I couldn’t go out today because I was so scared and when you called to say that the inspector was shot, I almost fainted. Thank God you are back’’ she breathed happily, hugging me tightly with great happiness.
I closed my eyes as I enjoyed the warmth of her embrace.
‘’she’s surely the right woman for me’’ I breathed inwardly.
‘’Cassandra is with me’’ I slowly muttered. She instantly froze as the news went through her head.
‘’she met me at the hospital, begging me to accommodate her for some days. The girl has nowhere else to go. She can’t go to her house out of fear that Edwin could easily get to her there and harm her family in the process’’ I explained softly.
‘’yes and you are the lone ranger with nothing to lose, with no family?. Jeez’’ she quickly interrupted me, drawing back with disgust.
‘’hear me out my dear’’. I begged desperately, very much uncertain on how to get her to understand. She folded her hands and nodded.
‘’I’m all ears’’ she breathed.
‘’Cassandra only begged for me to accommodate her for few days. The girl really went down on her knees to beg me at the hospital. She almost created a big scene and i couldn’t say no to her’’ I explained truthfully.
‘’The girl has lost everything. She has lost her life, her freedom and all she used to be in the past. She is just a depressed girl looking to start all over with life. I didn’t say no to her neither did I promise her anything. I told her I had to get your consent first and I know you won’t give in easily. I really can’t stand allowing her fall back in Edwin’s hands again’’ I stammered nervously.
Nora simply couldn’t believe her ears. Her color changed as she listened to me.
‘’you are still in love with her right?’’ she suddenly asked. A question I was undeniably expecting. I drew close and held her with a smile.
‘’I’m not in love with Cassandra. All I feel for her right now is pity. You have to trust me on this. I earlier wanted to ask you to accommodate her in your apartment but it’s risky. Allow me to accommodate her for few days. She already promised never to return once she leaves. My dear all I need is your trust. Our relationship needs trust to be strong. I think you should use this to test my fidelity and loyalty. If by any means something happens between Cassandra and I again, then just know that I’m nothing but a very stupid man who never deserved you in the first place. I know this is hard to accept but you have successfully lived through many difficult moments. I beg of you Nora. Just have a little sympathy on the girl and allow me to take her in for few more days’’ I begged breathlessly.
‘’Dave this is crazy’’ she breathed.
‘’yes I know. But you are a noble woman with a noble heart. You sacrificed your happiness in the past for my sake. Just please allow me take her in’’ I pushed on.
‘’okay. I trust you on this. Just be careful with her. I still feel she is nothing but a snake. Nevertheless if she needs anything, do let me know’’ she finally accepted, leaving me close to tears with her humanitarian gesture.
‘’Thank you. Thank you’’ I breathed with great happiness, held her face and kissed her strongly.
‘’I love you Nora’’ I breathed with all sincerity.
‘’I will return later in the evening to be with you after she has settled down in my apartment. We still have a lot to talk about’’ I said happily to her.
‘’fine, I will be expecting you’’ she smiled.
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Nora’s side of the story;
As narrated by Nora
Yes I really was very uncomfortable with David’s request but the way by which he presented the whole thing was totally convincing. I had no choice than to let him have his way in a bid to test his fidelity just like he requested.
My young sister walked into the sitting room as soon as he left, breaking my thoughts with her appearance.
‘’I witnessed all that just happened. I just don’t know what to say to you big sister. You know men are like chameleon’’ she said to me. I smiled at her.
‘’yes I’m scared but hopeful. Whatever will be, will be’’ I breathed with resignation.
7;15pm, Nora’s apartment
I heard soft knocks on my door, which made me feel that David was back just like he promised. I hurriedly opened the door to see three young men grinning at me.
‘’hi my name is Edwin, David’s friend’’ one of them introduced himself as they brushed past me, entering my apartment noiselessly.
I almost fainted with shock.
Episode 25
David’s side of the story,
As narrated by David
I left Nora’s apartment that fateful evening with great happiness. My respect and admiration for the noble lady increased a thousand times over. She just was amazing. I never expected her to be so understanding and submissive. I swore never to let her down ever again.
‘’I know she didn’t accept right?’’ Cassandra asked as I joined her in my car. I smiled at her and shook my head.
‘’Nora is a very noble woman. Of course she gave her consent’’ I answered with a smile.
‘’thank God’’ she breathed with great relief while I switched on my car engine.
‘’I don’t think there is anything to eat in my house. I guess we should first find somewhere to eat before heading to the house’’ I suggested. She shrugged in agreement.
———————————————————————————
minutes later, @ a small eatery downtown
‘’you know there are many things about your relationship with Edwin that I’m yet to fully understand’’ I softly said to Cassandra as we settled in a food joint to eat. She breathed deeply and shrugged.
‘’what do you want to know?’’ she asked.
‘’the day I rescued you from his house, you really weren’t like someone under captivity. Yes I noticed you weren’t comfortable but then you were free. Why didn’t you make a move to escape all the while you were with him?’’ I asked seriously.
‘’escape how?. The house was always locked up. I didn’t even know the name of the village nor the terrain. I had no money with me. He locked my phones inside his locker which you saw for yourself. Escaping was practically impossible’’ she explained feebly.
‘’so what made him so obsessed with you?. Don’t tell me that bull crap story you once told me sometime back. I feel there is something that made him very obsessed with you’’ I asked curiously. Her eyes instantly dropped.
‘’I don’t know. Maybe that’s his own way of loving’’ she breathed softly. I shook my head, saying nothing further even though I felt like asking a lot more.
—————————————
We returned to my apartment minutes later where Cassandra freshened up before joining me in the sitting room.
‘’I want to ask you something’’ she said with a smile, sitting beside me. I nodded and stared at her.
‘’are you getting back with Nora simply because of what I did to you the previous year or because of how much she helped you through the crises?’’ she asked softly. I breathed deeply, a bit surprised by the question.
‘’Cassandra, you are no longer in a position to ask me that kind of question. Just go in and sleep. You have your life to think about’’ I answered a bit coldly. She rolled her eyes, drew closer and held my hand.
‘’that very day you walked into Edwin’s house to save me. My eyes opened. I began seeing things with a different perspective. We all make mistakes but what makes a difference is learning from your mistakes. I have learnt my lesson and it’s very difficult to say this, but I’m very much indebted and in love with you. I just wish we can continue from where we stopped’’ she breathed, searching me with her eyes.
Supposing it was months back, my head would have swollen by those sweet words but unfortunately, loving her almost sent me to the grave and the last thing I would ever do was daring to even consider having her back in my life.
I quickly stood up, to avoid getting aroused by her soft hands.
‘’I have to go check on Nora again. I promised her earlier that I would return to spend the evening with her. Take care of the house’’ I said to an astonished Cassandra, went to my room, changed and headed out.
But Instead of going directly to Nora’s house, I first stopped at a hair salon to barb my hair. I really spent close to an hour there before heading to Nora’s house that fateful evening.
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meanwhile @nora’s house, the story continues;
As Narrated by Nora
Edwin and his gang walked into my apartment looking very mean and cold. I felt like screaming but couldn’t. My sister was in the kitchen cooking while my little son was in my room sleeping.
‘’we came for your baby and please madam this isn’t about you nor your child. You guys are just victims of circumstance. You see, David took something that belongs to me. I begged him in the past; I approached him like a gentleman. I did everything to make him leave my property but he refused and here I’m to take his own blood. Please for the sake of your life and that of your son. You got to comply. I already have nothing to lose. I can easily kill anyone that stands in my way, so please relax, you will have your son back. That I promise you’’ Edwin said with a softly cold tone as his men went into the rooms.
I just didn’t know how to react as his men reappeared, with the first guy dragging my sister and the second one carrying little David. I lost it that moment. I instantly screamed while Edwin quickly pulled out a gun, cocked it and aimed it at my mouth.
‘’I swear to Gawd, I will kill you. Nothing would have given me more pleasure than to kill you. But no, I don’t kill women’’ he said as my voice seized in my throat.
‘’what if we take your sister along huh?. Someone needs to care for the little baby. Your sister is equally very pretty’’ he said with a dirty smile while his men laughed.
‘’I hate kids and if David doesn’t comply within 48hrs to get his son back. The kid will be killed or sold’’ he threatened, nodding to his men who quickly headed towards the door. I instantly plunged at the guy carrying my baby but it earned me a super punch from him while Edwin grabbed me from behind and threw me with great strength across the room.
My sister was just too scared to react; luckily they didn’t take her along as they left. And Before I could recover from the shock, they were gone.
They were gone with my son.
I screamed like a mad woman as I ran out to the street only to see David pull up with his car that very moment. The first thing I did was to slap him.
‘’my son is gone. Edwin took my son’’ I cried.
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