A Rule of Love 2

Othuya and Chinelo got along as they spent more time together, nevertheless they had their several hitches as it was common of new relationships, although Chinelo did her very best to overlook Othuya’s overly strictness but it seemed very difficult for her to get by. And finally it was their passing out parade ceremony, POP as it was called for short. Othuya had left the lodge earlier because he was one of the flag bearers, he was part of the squad on camp too, and has always desired to be part on their POP day.

Chinelo did not leave the lodge on time and by the time she arrived at the stadium the parade was over and everyone sort their Local Government Inspectors and other designated officials for their National Youth Service Corps Certificate.

Othuya dialed Chinelo’s phone a number of times but she was not picking, to know her where about. Just as he reached the entrance to the stadium as he was set to leave, there he saw Chinelo stepping out of the taxi that had conveyed her to the venue. Othuya fumed with anger, ‘was she just arriving at the venue or she had gone back to retrieve something?’ He thought. He stopped on his track and waited for her, Chinelo walked to the entrance of the stadium in her complete uniform, fully kitted as it was referred to, she noticed Othuya, who gave a clueless face where he stood.

“Hey dear,” she said as she stood before him, “Did you forget something you had to go back to retrieve? He asked.                                                                  
“Not at all I am just coming,” Othuya darted a surprised look, still grilling.      
“I didn’t want to come and sit here all day while we wait for the Governor’s representative, moreover I did not know they would finish as early as this, anyway that’s by the way, how did it go?” Chinelo added trying to make light of the issue.

“Late coming is not a virtue, I hope you know that?” He said tersely and sternly too.            
“Oh I just did not want to waste time around, the main thing is my certificate,” Chinelo chuckled. “Moreover you did not watch me march,” he replied still frowning. At this statement Chinelo laughed aloud, “now you are talking, you should have said you were upset because I missed the sight of you marching, don’t worry you will march for me alone when we return to the lodge,” Othuya forced a grin.
“Alright, will you wait for me, while I get my own certificate?” she winked; Othuya did not know what to say, Chinelo was very good at relaxing his nerve each time he took a matter too seriously.
“Why should I wait for you when you decided to come behind schedule,” he tried to be firm.

“C’mon, even the military men always waited for us to leave our hostels back in camp, let alone you a bloody civilian” Chinelo giggled as she pulled him along. Othuya swallowed the laughter he wanted to unleash. “Funny girl,” he murmured as he walked along.

That night the lodge was filled with entertainment, the blast of music filled the compound, although some of the batch passing out travelled the same day, a good number of them were still around, as they said their goodbyes, many of them had travelled from far to live in that state for almost a year, as that was one of the visions of The National Youth Service Corps, to bring and unite youth from different part of the country together; the south-southerners, the south-westerners, the northerners, the easterners and everywhere across the nation were a youth can be found.

This was the very reason why English language was made the lingua franca in the lodge to maintain peace, nevertheless some of them had picked up slangs that was found in their host community. These youth had mingled with each other for the past one year, during the one year different set of people came into the scheme and some other passed out until it was their turn, as the scheme was notable for working in batches, A, B, and C.

For the past one year, for most people emotions had crisscrossed emotions, some had become emotionally attached to another, some of them had become fond of each other, especially those who were roommates, they could not come to terms with the fact that they had to part and may not set their eyes on each other again. Some other people had fought tooth and nail and afterwards still became fond of each other. People and luggage filled the lodge that particular evening, some stayed back in their rooms reminiscing on their times together, some other raised their voices in their rooms as they settled their discord.

While some people lobbied around the lodge saying words of prayers together for their future, the auditorium was filled with a number of people, in small groups. Some people held each other tightly, affirming to themselves that they would still see each other; these were people who had come from extremes of the country, also some other people hugged tightly and would not loosen their grips, others sat in small groups and discussed into the night as most of them were going to travel the next morning, especially people who had to travel long distance.

Chinelo sat in the auditorium with her friends, a good number of them were not passing out, but because Chinelo was a loveable person, people were endeared to her, she was a very patient person, as cool as a cucumber, and could accommodate any kind of person, her friends would tease her that she could live with the devil conveniently, and she would answer back, with a smile “God forbid!” there was an incident back in the middle of her service year, in the lodge when it was Chinelo’s turn to prepare dinner, on that day, she slept off in the afternoon and woke up a little later than she should have, she prepared yam and stew and the yam had come out salty.

Meanwhile, there was a particular Brother in the fellowship who was known to be very notorious, but since the family house was a home for all, moreover people were not accepted into the lodge based on the fact that they were born-again or not, hence they had a mix of various kinds of Christians.

Nnamdi was known to cause trouble each time he was not satisfied with the meal prepared, he had been counseled often times that life is filled with the good and the bad, and he should be ready to swallow the bad ones too.

On that fateful day, his football club had lost to their opponent, and as a result he was cheesed off by the time he returned to the lodge, and would not calm the inferno that raged within him. He struggled to pick up his dinner as it was common of those who were emotionally attached to sports. He entered his room to eat the food after picking his food flask from the kitchen, and found the food salty; he dashed out of his room to the mini-parlour where most people stayed to take their meals if they did not want to use their rooms. He knew it was Chinelo that prepared the meal, as he found her in the kitchen with the Sister’s coordinator who always assisted whosoever was on duty in the kitchen.

Nnamdi found Chinelo walking along in the mini-parlour; he held his food flask in his hand, and gritted his teeth as he stopped behind her.          
“Chinelo!!!” he alarmed as it was not compulsory to refer to any one as a Sister or Brother, Chinelo turned back to see who called her name with such alacrity. She knew the food was not too ok that night but she felt anyone should still be able to manage it.
“Yes Nnamdi,” She answered back. “I did not know Poison is now on our food time-table in this lodge,” Nnamdi retorted. “I beg your pardon?” Chinelo answered confused, her gaze meeting his.                “You should have simply told us we are on punishment tonight,” he continued by now they were already making a scene.

“Nnamdi what exactly is the matter, make your point pop and plain,” Chinelo did not have an idea of what exactly he was indicating, she never thought anybody could have put up a terrific confrontation simply because of a meal, moreover she was not the first to prepare a salty meal, when such happened everyone managed to put up with it, and hoped to eat a better one the next time.
“I mean what was that you prepared for us as dinner?” he scowled, Chinelo was not aware he only transferred the aggression from the football match to her, nevertheless she ate the dirt. “Oh! That you mean? You would have simply made it clear, much more I am sorry, it will not repeat itself. I am so so sorry.” Chinelo answered politely eating the crow and was almost walking away as she dismissed the case.

She felt that was enough to get over the situation, but it was the opposite for Nnamdi who acted as if he had just gained energy from the devil to start a warfare. People who stood close by also felt the matter should be put behind since Chinelo had acted respectfully too. Nnamdi pulled Chinelo by the arm such that she was facing him.
“Excuse me young lady, is that all you have to say?”  
Flustered, Chinelo turned to him flashing a surprised look, “leave my arm Nnamdi, are you going to resurrect the dead because of a single meal,” she expressed uneasiness with the way he gripped her arm. Those words hit him hard, and he reacted even more fiercely.

“Exactly what I am going to do tonight, if you don’t get something else for me to eat.” Chinelo chuckled, she was shocked at the display of shame he put up, nevertheless, she ate the humble pie.
People started to calm Nnamdi, and told him to forget about the whole matter and let it rest. Nnamdi just ignored them all and faced Chinelo, Chinelo spoke calmly, “okay your Lordship Nnamdi, what would you have me do, now that you know it is late to leave the gate or even prepare another meal?” as it was one of the rules in the lodge.

“Ermmm ermmm… I don’t know, “he began to stutter, he did not know what to make of her politeness, he expected that she would answer back, the same way he approached her, but he had forgotten he takes two to fight. “Just help me find a way around it,” still tight lipped he shot his hand forward lifting his food flask to her.

Chinelo gently received the flask and walked away, “I will be back.” Everybody was amazed at the level of maturity and comportment she displayed especially with such finesse with which she handled the matter, she was not moved at all when he ranted, it was unlike some other people who would give it to him fire for fire until the fellowship executives intervened.

Chinelo returned into the kitchen, setup the fire place, placed the yam pieces into a pot and added excess water, boiled for few minutes and poured the water away, she did this twice and bit a piece of the yam and found that it was okay, she cleared the fire place, returned the food into his flask and headed for where he left him, he found him there still standing with a frown still painted all over his face.

“Here is it,” she said as she handed him his food flask and added “once again, I am very very sorry,” and walked away in a slight daze. Nnamdi felt very embarrassed and stupid that day, as everyone looked on him with a look of disregard, he walked away to his room feeling very bitter for causing a fine kettle of fish.

Some people who were at the scene muttered, “You finally met your match today,” Chinelo’s roommate who had come out of their room to watch the whole scene followed her hastily back into the room. One of them clapped as they entered the room, “Chinelo you are indeed a woman of virtue,” Chinelo giggled.

“I can't just stomach that entire rubbish, I mean  I can’t imagine what I would have done to that big-headed Nnamdi if I were the one, he feels he can run down anybody the way he likes, mtchewww” she gave a long hiss. Chinelo smiled again, “my dear, nobody can make you feel stupid, except you permit them,” “but believe me that guy has really got fat in the fire," another person added.

“Chinelo I have always seen that nugget, but my dear, I just saw it in reality today,” the lady that clapped added. “I can't take that, not for all the tea in china," the lady that hissed added again, Chinelo answered still chuckling, “I have addressed the issue of offences a long time ago, I used to react very badly to situations before, until I told myself, nobody was worth that energy. I’ll rather save it to pray and seek the face of the Lord, so I have learnt to forgive people in advance. I tell you I have forgiven him for the next time he will put up another stupid act.” They all stared at her with intense amazement, “what is it??? Why do you stare at me like someone who fell from heaven, it’s simply a training I gave myself to subdue my flesh.”

The ladies left their gaze on her with their mouth wide open, “I guess you want me to call Nnamdi to help you put those jaws of yours together?” Chinelo giggled that evening. At the mention of Nnamdi, the ladies adjusted and said “no thank you, we are perfectly fine.”
“I see the fear of Nnamdi is the beginning of wisdom for you girls,” Chinelo laughed loud, “Not for me,” another vivacious lady in the room said. “Until then,” Chinelo said laughingly.
……………………………………………………………
The next day after the passing out parade, everyone finally picked their luggage, as the other corps members helped them to the junction where they would find a taxi.

Chinelo walked along with her roommates and other friends, Othuya also walked beside her with his luggage. When they eventually reached the junction, the ladies said their goodbyes, Chinelo held them all close to her chest, and hugged them tightly, emotions surged through them as tears flowed down their cheeks, while Othuya stood there wondering why they got so emotional after all.

Chinelo kissed them all on their fore heads, and said in their ears one after another, “I love you,” after a while they loosened their grips as a taxi pulled to a halt right in front of them.   

…………..To be Continued………..             

A Rule of Love

“You said you wanted to see me earlier,” Chinelo said calmly as she adjusted her body to the back rest of the chair she sat in. “Thank you for waiting behind, how was the bible study today, hope you were blessed???” Brother Othuya asked as he settled on a seat close to her.

Othuya was the General Secretary of the Corpers’ fellowship where he met Chinelo who was also a corps member at that time; and they both resided in the Corpers’ Lodge. They were rounding off the service year in two months time, Chinelo was not an executive in the fellowship, Othuya suddenly had an unexplainable likeness for her, they were both mobilized for the scheme at that same time, although from different Church backgrounds, everybody tried to relate as one in the Corpers’ Lodge.

“I was blessed Sir,” Chinelo answered, the President and General Secretary enjoyed so much regard and preferential treatments especially when these Brothers always received Visions and Prophecies virtually every hour of the day.

“May God’s name be praised,’’ Othuya answered back, “Well I will go straight to the point, this is majorly an instruction from the Lord and trust that I will not say what God is not saying, “Chinelo was a lovely woman to behold, a portrait of beauty, she was a quiet and gentle person after all. She relaxed in the chair, and listened to what Brother Othuya had to say, God is saying that you are my wife-to-be, nonetheless so that you don’t think I am one of those Brothers with several God said, I am going to tell you I like you, and wants to be in a relationship with you, But you know man must not compromise God’s instruction and decision, God must have the final say after all. “He did not even take notice that Chinelo gave a clueless face all along, she sat in there relaxed as she divulged the news. “I hope you will be ready to carry out God’s will after all?”Othuya asked.

“Huhn!” Chinelo gave a solemn sigh, although she did not like his approach, especially the way he made it appear like God had come down from heaven to tell him, she was going to be his wife, nevertheless Chinelo knew Brother Othuya to be a devoted Brother in the Corpers’ fellowship and many of his revelations had come to pass in their midst, so she answered, “alright, let me take time to pray about it.”  Othuya answered, “alright go ahead and pray, its good, but be sure I said as the Lord spoke to me,” “it’s alright have a nice night,” Chinelo said as she stood to her feet.

“Sister Chinelooo,” Othuya dragged her name, “don’t you think we should even pray before you leave?” Chinelo looked around, pulled back her seat and sat in it, “I am sorry,” she said as she bowed her heads for prayers.

………………………………………………………… 

As Chinelo laid on her bed in the same Corpers’ lodge, she ruminated on what Othuya told her, although she had always admired him, especially his godliness, she did not like his straight-jacketed Christian life, he always preached holiness gap between Brothers and Sisters in the fellowship and would always scold any two found discussing together for too long, but Chinelo assumed the only benefit of such attitude was that such brother may be loyal to his spouse, nevertheless she still felt he should soften a little.
She turned on her bed as she put the pillow over her head to pray about the issue. She prayed on and on that God will lead her right maritally. She mentioned Othuya in prayers a number of times and eventually slept off after a while.
…………………………………………………
Othuya continued to send Chinelo several messages reminding her of his intentions. They were passing out of the National youth service scheme in few weeks time. A dinner was held in the Corpers’ lodge to celebrate the batch passing out, before the winding up programme begin to becloud their schedules.

The dinner was held at the auditorium in the Corpers’ lodge, executives from the batch passing out were dignified with special seat at the front. Othuya was seated close to the “Papa” as the President was fondly called. Othuya adjusted his long tie intermittently, although most of the brothers used a bow tie he refused and commented that it doesn’t make a man appear serious, more so the last time he remembered wearing such was on his tenth Birthday, he took everything serious and formal.

The dinner started on a warm note, as the evening unfolded, everyone enjoyed themselves all along. Othuya had sighted Chinelo from one of the tables as it was a round table dinner, although she looked beautiful and resplendent in the teal armless mermaid dress she wore, she sat with her legs crossed, calm and sill in the seat she chose, she giggled once in a while as the anchor man and woman cracked their ribs moment after moment.

She released her neatly done hair over shoulder, and tilted her head once in a while to adjust the hair. As much as Othuya glanced at her, she seemed not to take notice; she was a reticent lady, although he liked her appearance, he did not like the fact that she wore an arm-less dress that could reveal her armpit if she raised her hands up, he was going to rebuke her for it he thought.

Chinelo sipped the glass of fruit juice on the table before her. She followed the program, she was in the midst of her friends, and the one seated close to her said something in her ears once in a while and made her chuckle.

Othuya and Chinelo were from two Christian backgrounds with a large dichotomy. Othuya was from a Christian background where everything was believed to have a serious spiritual implication and opined that nothing should be glossed over, everything wrong in a man’s life was believed to be demonic, and enemies were prayed against more than the blessings of God, where the members managed to dress in a modern way simply because of their fear for the second coming of the Lord Jesus to meet them well, a church background were they had married Christianity and primitiveness. They assumed everyone who dressed otherwise is too flamboyant and knocking on the door of hell.

Meanwhile Chinelo came from an opposite Christian background where their doctrines were not to tight and difficulty to follow, their dress sense was freestyle, opposite sexes related and mingled well, such church setting where everyone was excited in church, and females were not bothered about covering of the head, even some men permed their hair conveniently, approaching the extremity of modernity, slangs flew across the church, and there were replies to what the pastor said a number of times when excited.

Othuya and Chinelo were born-again Christians indeed but from two extreme backgrounds, with different godly values and virtues, but since different people come together the for the National Youth Service Scheme and everyone was referred to as a ‘Brother’ or ‘Sister’, they felt it was going to be easy to merge, especially when one of the lines of their anthem read, ‘one for all, all for one’.

The batch passing out were asked to introduce themselves, each of them stood up, mentioned their names, the university they graduated from and if they were engaged or not, when it was the turn of any executive or the very popular ones amongst them, they hailed such person by screaming their nickname, turn after turn, then it was Othuya’s turn and everyone screamed ‘Uncleeeeeee’ as he stood to his feet and adjusted his tie, he answered very formally unlike the others who took the event quite lightly.

“I am Othuya Lawson, a graduate from the University of Port-Harcourt and I am not engaged,” he said firmly and sat back in his seat. The whole auditorium roared, someone from the auditorium shouted, “but why???” just to tease him, because they knew him to be very close in character to the military men that trained them on camp, very rigid in everything. He jumped to his feet and gave a quick response, “because men like us only follow the leading of the Holy Ghost and not some lustful desires.” As he said those words, he left his gaze on Chinelo for a split second, the whole room echoed loudly, and cheered at his reply, some ladies clapped their hands together, “always acting spiritual” someone said silently, Chinelo sat in there unmoved.    

After several awards were given out, and a number of fun filled programmes done, the last event on the agenda was dance, and off course everyone stood to their feet, same gender faced each other, the opposite sex, and others in small groups danced together, it was a splendid evening after all, several genres of music filled the room.

The guys, who had always wanted an opportunity with specific ladies, seized such now, Othuya watched on her desired lady from across the room, but because he felt it was ungodly to stand too close to a lady in such an atmosphere, he refused to walk up to her, he looked at her intermittently. Although Chinelo had made up her mind on the answer she was going to give him, she was not going to push it.  
            
Later that evening when everything seemed to have slowed down, Othuya walked up to Chinelo where she was seated with her friends, and asked to see her for few minutes, Chinelo had waited to see if Othuya wasn’t going to come talk to her in such a friendly atmosphere. “Excuse me ladies,” she said to them with a clueless face and followed him, she walked behind him quickly as he led her to a quiet part of the auditorium, he pulled two chairs for the two of them.

Chinelo sat there calmly as Othuya began to speak, regardless of the several stunts spurned by him especially during the dinner party, Chinelo seemed to like him, more she was ageing and with the myth in the society, that if a lady did not get hooked to a man while in the university, and throughout the service year where she gets to meet with several people, then it might be difficult for her to find a spouse.
“I guess God must have spoken to you eventually,” he started to say, “huhn” Chinelo managed a grin. “Okay, so what did God tell you, because he only keeps re-affirming it in my heart?” Chinelo remained silent in her seat, “it is okay by me.” You mean God has confirmed it to you too???” He gleamed for joy, “whichever,” she answered with a chuckle, he did not seize to amaze her with the way he  mentioned God every passing second, as he much as he liked him, that was the only part of him that lifted her eyebrow, but concluded she could put up with it.

“Thank you very much,” he said with a bright face, how he wished she had given him this answer before the dinner, so he could have boldly stood to his feet, and answer seriously engaged like some did, the news warmed the cockles of his heart.

Chinelo smiled all along as he expressed his words with gladness, he discarded the topic of the dress he was going to raise beforehand so has not to stab the joy in the atmosphere. Othuya muttered some things to her as the night ended on a great note for him.

…………………..To Be Continued……………………..                                       
           

Amazing Love(the concluding part)

It's been months since Charles Olatona became aware of his wife's status, he still struggled to swallow the bitter pill, the Pastor had stepped into the matter all the way he fixed counselling sessions for the couple and at other times each of them had to face the counselling team individually.

It seemed to be the toughest assignment of Charles entire life to forgive Olamiposi of this sin, nevertheless he gradually limped over it, he had reduced his business trips drastically. The Pastor told him it was one of the reasons his home had experienced a setback. Although he managed to admit, he excused that he was hoping for a peaceful marriage since he married a godly woman in the first place. Nevertheless he could not deny the fact that a lot had gone wrong in his home since he picked up this high paying job.

The more Olamiposi belly bulged out the more Charles despised the sight, he did not touch her most times, if he wasn't sure of anything he was sure he wasn't called to be another Hosea like the one in the bible. Olamiposi apologised everyday, Charles woke up each morning to read her apology messages on his phone for months.

One of the days during this period, when Charles suddenly got upset with her, Olamiposi moved to him, knelt at his feet and said amidst tears, "Charles please divorce me," she sobbed. “I know I have hurt you to the bones, I have personally torn your fabric of love and trust in this marriage, let me go, so you can start afresh, I will gladly indicate that I demanded for a divorce. Let me relieve you of these pain I have single-handedly caused you for years." She said, “let the consequences be upon me, you have remained faithful and loyal everyday of this marriage, I cannot deny your un-ending love for me." She said.

At her words, every wall of defence in Charles became low, Charles hated divorce with everything in him, it appeared like it was the only part of the scriptures that was inscribed in his heart. Once she was through with her words, Charles would stare deeply into her eyes and walk away.

Just as Charles was still struggling with the current state in his home, his family showed up, they were fully aware of his wife's scandalous ways, they had called for a family meeting once, Charles' family had faced Olamiposi's and Olamiposi's family had apologized on behalf of their daughter and promised she was going to change for better.

When news reached them again about Olamiposi's strange pregnancy, every member of the Olatona's family flared up, Olamiposi's family also hated what there daughter had done, Charles' relatives demanded for a divorce, and as a result a meeting was scheduled at Charles Olatona's home, he disagreed to have a meeting concerning the matter and simply informed his family he wasn't interested.

The Olatona's simply turned deaf ears and arranged a meeting on a day they were sure the couple would definitely be at home.

.....................................................................

Eventually the meeting was held at Charles' home, since he couldn't return them at the door. Once the two families were settled in there seats, Olamiposi walked around the living room with her bulging belly to greet them all, the Olatona's screamed at her to leave their sight at once. She swallowed the hatred. A prayer was said and the meeting kicked off Charles was given a separate seat in between the two families, Olamiposi was not allowed to be in view as what she did was considered despicable.

Olamiposi's family took the opening formalities and greeted their in-laws once again. The most elderly one representing the Olatona's family started to speak at once. “Good day our in-laws, thank you for coming all the way, if you didn't show up we couldnt have dragged you from your home anyway," he paused. Someone among the Olatona's family who didn't like the calm way their Older Uncle spoke muttered beneath her breath, "we would have dragged there daughter out instead." The rest of the Olatona's family didn't like the way he took the matter like a dose of salt, we have not come for a peaceful alliance they thought.

They didn't know he was more bitter than they thought, he continued two speak after inhaling a deep breath, “we are sure a good number of you here were present when we received your daughter into this family, and that's why we have requested that you be present now that we are returning your daughter to you, your daughter has rubbed our family name in the mud enough, she has delved into things that are damn ugly. We have tried to make it honourable as much as possible and so we kindly crave your indulgence that you also don't make it a rough one."

Charles flashed his uncle a hot gaze, how could he speak on his behalf, was it supposed to be a valedictory speech or something? He kept mute to avoid been seen as disrespectful.

Just then one of Olamiposi's relative spoke, "we are deeply sorry Sirs and Ma's, for the pain we have caused your entire family, but we do not think divorce is the best..." Just then a woman from the Olatona's family stole the line, "divorce is not the best what!!!" She stood to her feet at once.

You didn't tell us you gave us a harlot instead of a wife, you gave us an adultery ace when we came to your home," she kept haranguing. “First, she started off with behaviours that were as ugly as sin, we condoned it, now she went as far as getting pregnant for an Alhaji, is that not the height of it? I ask of you, if one of your sons were married to such a dirty woman would you allow the same? Oh, is it because we did not drag your daughter out with her belongings once we arrived here? Oh because we are still behaving like we are all in a utopia society???" Just then the Older Uncle calmed her, “enough! Let me take the lead here is that OK?" She sat at once.

Olamiposi who eavesdropped from the kitchen sat in there, soaked in tears, her eyes were swollen by now, she knew even an unbeliever would not take what she did, she waited to hear her husband's voice.

Charles sat still in the chair he was given, and followed with his eyes the big wall clock that ticked. When the tension seemed to have reduced in the living room, Charles spoke, “thank you my Fathers and Mothers, thank you more for your interest in our well-being. Please I kindly ask that you excuse me for five minutes and I will be back here with you. “No problem, don't take long," his Uncle said.

Charles walked out of the living room immediately, and entered the kitchen, he knew that was where Olamiposi would be sitting. He pulled her out and they headed for the stairs at once. They entered their bedroom, this was one of the things that had kept them going, they shared the same room every day of their marriage. Charles believed it was inappropriate for couples to use separate rooms, and felt no reason was genuine enough to justify it, he had counselled couples on the same matter severally.

Charles shut the door behind them as they entered and pulled his wife  to the mattress. “Olamposi Jesudarasimi, the only woman I have asked her hand in marriage in heaven and here on earth, God being my witness today," he pulled her face into his hands and stared into them deeply.

“I know you have heard with your own ears all they have been saying out there, and I guess you have swallowed what everyone out there have said about you," he paused and continued almost immediately. “But you know what, Love is a decision, it's for you and I to decide, so I ask you dear, Do you want to make this marriage work??? Do you desire that we continue to live as husband and wife? I have forgiven you, and I will take this baby as mine, but you have to promise me your commitment to this marriage. Charles pulled her face closer and looked into them as if the answers were in there.

Olamiposi muttered after a while, “I promise," she said solemnly, “do you mean it?” “Yes I do." “Okay, so we are not having a divorce right??? We are in this marriage to stay and we will build a Christian home from hence forth." Charles stood up, sealed his words with a kiss and walked out of the bedroom. Olamiposi followed him and stopped on the stairs where she watched him return to his seat in the living room.

A lot of ranting was already going on in the living room when Charles walked in there, but the noise subsided when he cleared his throat to gain their attention. He stood to his feet almost immediately, Olamiposi scanned his masculine body from head to toe, he appeared more handsome after all, maybe she had stop paying attention to the handsome man he married, Charles was a well built man, he wore the traditional attire of the Yorubas this particular day.

“Thank you once again," Charles said, “I am indeed grateful for sparing time  for me," Olamiposi watched him as he spoke, he picked his words carefully with proper diction, “I miss my loving friend," Posi muttered beneath her breath.

Charles walked away from his seat a bit and continued to speak, “I will like to inform you our families that we are not having a divorce, we took an oath for better for worse, and we just think this could only be the worst times we were referring to, thank you for everything, we will love to remain in this marriage together." He said finally.

Olamiposi closed her eyes for a moment where she stood on the stairs, it appeared like a day dream, Charles was a strong man and a Man of God indeed, she thought. She opened her eyes to realise a ranchor had started in the living room as each of them walked out of their living room one after another. It was Olamiposi's relative that moved out first in a file.

Some of Charles uncles and aunts shouted above their voices, “make sure you don't call us when she eventually kill you, because we will not come here then. “Stupid boy, he has gone to consult her bewitched wife before coming to talk to us," another said aloud as they reached for the door.

Charles did not shift ground neither did he say a word until the last person stepped out, once the noise was reduced, he walked to the door, slammed it and returned into the living room. He saw Olamiposi where she stood on the stairs, he fixed his gaze on her from afar, just then Olamiposi muttered with only her lips shaking, “THANK YOU."



..................................THE END.........................

Amazing Love 3

Charles walked around the living room angrily, he fumed over the whole issue, “God what exactly did I do wrong??? What??? I have served you with everything in me! I have made you the umbrage of my life, but your words says, ‘the path of the righteous is as a shining light that shines more and more’ Lord my path have been filled with thorns all along,” he had started to sob now.

“Just tell me Lord, where exactly was the loophole the devil found out in my home? God where did I miss you along the line, when did I give the enemy a tenancy permit in my home,” tears drifted down his cheeks. “I cannot even face my destiny with full vigour, I have wasted so much strength on frivolities, everything seemed messed up now. God I have failed as a Deacon over my own home let alone the church.” He slouched into one of the couches in the living room.

“Father please show me the loophole the enemy found and I promise I will block it, I am simply fed up, your word says Moses gave them divorce as an option because of the hardening of their hearts but it wasn’t so from the beginning.” Confusion was expressed all over his face, he swept the large room with his gaze, but his heart seemed to be far away, he was lost in his thoughts.

“Lord Jesus, Olamiposi has pushed me to the verge of divorce, but I don’t want to throw in the towel, I don’t want the devil to eventually have the last say, please Lord, please...” his eyes were red by now, just then he had a noise from the door, it was Folafunmi and Olamiposi, Folafunmi had been discharged from the hospital.

Olamiposi shut the door behind her and walked quietly to her husband, Folafunmi only walked upstairs to her room, leaving the duo to grind their axe.

Folafunmi had narrated her ordeal to her mother, Olamiposi felt terribly sad, she blamed herself for everything that had happened to her and apologized seriously. Just as she got to the couch Charles was seated, she fell on her knees right in front of him, she knew this time she didn’t have the right words, none were suitable.

She buried her head, grabbed his two legs and started to cry profusely, she did not utter a word, she just continued to cry. Charles shook his head severally, he also did not know the words to use, he was filled with misery, after a while he spoke at last amidst tears, “Olamiposi I cannot figure out what exactly happened, I cannot lay my hands on it, but I am sure of one thing, either of us have opened an entrance for demonic and negative flows in this house, and we have got to seal that opening!!!” Just as he ended the line, he stood to his feet abruptly and walked out of the living room, Olamiposi jerked, sat on the bare floor and cried louder, the situation seemed to appear more real to her now, she rolled on the floor severally, weeping loudly.

Charles’ words seemed to register loudly in her heart, all of the atrocities she had committed for years now gained more meaning to her, suddenly she stopped to cry, and laid there, in a jiffy she seemed to be in a trance, she saw a man in a complete black attire pulling her towards a heated furnace, while she was in shackles and screamed to be free and just like it moved into reality. She started to shout all over the living room, “Lord Jesus I am sorry! I will desist from it, I will!!! Let me not perish, please, save my soul. Let the devil not have me please…”

……………………………………………………….

Ever since Olamiposi’s personal experience, there seemed to be a significant change. It’s been weeks after the sad event, Charles noticed the change, nevertheless he still doubted if it was genuine, even though her incessant calls had reduced, he still believed they were all acted scripts. Olamiposi avoided everything Charles could take umbrage at, although she wished to apologize to him personally, she knew he was not going to believe her anyway. Charles watched her through her changing period, he was not sure of what she was up to.

Folafunmi was still at home with them so as to get over the shock she was forced to experience. Charles spent more time with his daughter than his wife, he counseled her severally, he advised her not to see men as devils because of the sad experience, he helped her all through the subsequent months and surrounded her with so much love that the experience seemed to fade faster.

Charles who was still surprised at Olamiposi’s new development was more perplexed when the Pastor asked to see him after the service on a Sunday with his wife, it had been long since he witnessed such a seating. Most of the Sundays, Olamiposi had one excuse or the other to give.

“God bless you Deacon Olatona,” the Pastor said. “Thank you Sir,” Charles bowed while Olamiposi curtseyed. “I know all you have been going through in your home and I am sorry you had to go through those tough times,” Charles looked around, he wondered what the Pastor meant, if only he knew that Folafunmi was raped due to Posi’s carelessness, maybe he would have understood better what he was facing.

He kept quiet and listened attentively; just then the Pastor answered the very question in his mind. “Your wife has told me all about the recent happenings in your home, and she has submitted herself for a consecration process, she will have to resume the Deliverance clinic and go through some trainings too. Some Pastor will also be assigned to her case.”

Charles inhaled a deep breath, his belly tingled at the sound of the Pastor’s words, it appeared like he was in a trance, but it couldn’t be more real than it was, ‘Olamiposi asked for a consecration process?’ he muttered beneath his breath, it was like drums were rolled out in his ears, this must be God at work.

The Pastor continued to speak, “Deacon Olatona, I have called you more importantly because I want you to stick with her throughout the process. We should give God the glory for this new development,” he paused and continued to speak almost immediately. “Don’t forget the part of the scriptures that says, ‘If you faint in the days of adversity, your strength is small,’ that is why I want you to fight the devil all the way. The battle is almost over and victory will yours in Jesus name.”

Just as the Pastor dismissed them, Charles looked into Posi’s eyes intermittently as they walked out of the church, Posi who had kept quiet all through the conversation walked behind her husband quietly as they walked to their car.                  

…………………………………………….

Charles was glad about the new development, he was now sure than ever that God had visited his home, he never raised any of the past issue with Posi, he refused to harangue about the whole incidence, and just let things be. Olamiposi requested for due permission each time she was going for her deliverance clinic, she would call when she arrived at the church and when she was leaving too. She gave details of her movement to regain his trust although it was difficult for her at first, but it appeared like a greater hand was involved.

Charles was amazed at the radical change, he was so impressed, and felt God had even answered his prayers more than he had expected, but only concluded by reminding himself that God doesn’t answer men at their levels but at His level, nevertheless he didn’t relent in his prayers.

………………………………………………………..

Just as Charles was beginning to enjoy his new home there came the big bang. Olamiposi who had been faithful to her deliverance classes, and all other necessary trainings she had to undergo, started noticing a change in her body system, she had felt something was wrong at first, but she didn’t budge because she had not had sex with her husband for months now, it had been one fight or the other.

Sooner than later she became aware of the changes than before, she decided to go for a test to clear her doubts, and there the doctor  confirmed she was eleven weeks pregnant, she left the hospital confused. She knew Charles was definitely not responsible for the pregnancy, except he raped her during those weeks, when their home was tensed, but she was sure he couldn’t have done such; she had been conversant with Alhaji Yakubu lately.

For days she was disturbed about the latest development, her heart was heavy most of the times, Charles noticed the weariness expressed in her attitude, he expressed concern a lot of times, especially now that she was beginning to revive his love for her, he had started enjoying the utopia atmosphere in his home.

Amidst the whole confusion, Olamiposi finally decided on how to tell her husband the sad news, she knew it would come to him as a big blow and cut him deep, but she couldn’t help keep such dangerous secret, God had began to work deeply on her heart, she was not ready to be bound by the enemy by such secret.

……………………………………………..

It was in the night that particular day, Charles and Posi were both turned on that very night, moreover the Pastor had permitted him to have intercourse with his wife days ago because she was fast improving in the deliverance clinic. Posi had just finished taking her bath that night and wore a lingerie-like night gown.

Charles was already laid on the bed, he turned around and looked towards the bathroom, immediately he set his eyes on his wife, it appeared like he had never seen a woman all his life, Posi had starved him of sex for months now, every night for months recently have been spent settling one quarrel or the other. As Posi walked towards him he twinkled, there was a tingling in his belly, he sat upright immediately, it was not too late into the night, and it didn’t even matter.

Charles muttered as he stretched his hands towards her, “Olamiposi Jesudarasimi, I missed you, where have you been all these months?” He looked deep into her eyes as she joined him on the bed. Just as Posi moved into his embrace and they started to kiss deeply, a phone rang, it was Charles’.

Posi did not expect to turn him on that particular night, she had watched her steps around him lately, but since her husband demanded it, she was not going to budge.

“Good evening Sir,” Charles responded the Pastor, that was the main reason he had the picked the call at such a time, the Pastor had decided to call at such a time so that the couple could discuss it into the night and sleep over it, but he didn’t know he had called at such a sensitive time, just as the Pastor relayed the news to Charles over the phone, his facial expression changed, Olamiposi got the message, she adjusted on the bed.

The words were like a bang in his ears, “Posi is pregnant for an Alhaji!!!” he said to be sure he heard the right words. He didn’t know how exactly he ended the call, he just knew the phone dropped on the bed, he sat in the bed staring at Posi, his gaze was fixed on her. All the mutual feeling for sex had suddenly disappeared into the thin air, “POSI!!! PREGNANT!!! ALHAJI!!!” this were the only words he could utter, it appeared like something sweet had suddenly turned bitter in his mouth.

 

 

……………………To be continued………………………              

Amazing Love 2

 “Oh! anything the matter?” She asked, “you know that’s an understatement in this house, we both know a lot is wrong in this home, I am not happy with the kind of matters we address as Christians, things we should be ashamed off,” he paused and continued almost immediately, “you have made it so difficult for me to counsel couples whose partner commits adultery in church, you have made my work more difficult.”

“I cannot leave home without the fear of what my wife might be doing or where she might be,” Olamiposi inhaled a deep breath, “Olamiposi Jesudarasimi,” that was how Charles stressed her name when he wanted to drive home a point, “you have virtually torn my fabric of trust in this marriage, but I am still holding on because of the word of God, you have tried my patience and pushed me to the stony wall, if I had picked you from a brothel, maybe I would not be amazed, but how did the Firebrand Posi turned out to be this? Posi I have shown you ultimate love from the first day, I love your heartbeat dear, yet you only keep abusing this love, if you do not fear what I can do to you, what of God’s wrath? Please I want you turn a new leaf.”

Olamiposi swept the room with her gaze, although it was quite dark in there, she managed to see with the bedside lamp that gave the room a little illumination. Charles continued to speak, “and as a result of this, Folafunmi will cease to be a boarding student in her school, she will start off as a day student from next term, maybe if you have her at home, it will keep you busy or at least you will be ashamed to flirt around with men.”

Olamiposi who kept mute all through spoke now, “I am sorry dear, but I don’t think we need to involve our children in any of these, I promise I won’t return to that lifestyle, I promise,” she said solemnly. Charles answered, “I am trying to believe you, but it has become very difficult for me. Nonetheless, that is how I want it to be, Folafunmi will be at home with us, the driver will drop her off at her school every morning. Is that okay?” Although she was not pleased with the decision, she had to agree, so that Charles doesn’t think she had anything up her sleeves again.

……………………………………………………..

“Blood of Jesus!!! Blood of Jesus!!!” “Suleiman! Suleiman!” Folafunmi kept on screaming from the living room, “Suleiman! Suleiman! Help!!! Help!!!” Suleiman who was deeply asleep as usual did not hear Fola scream for help. It’s been ten weeks into the new term; Folafunmi had become a day student as earlier decided by her Father. Charles Olatona’s decision to make Folafunmi a day student at her college  to prevent her wife from her strange outings did not improve the situation at all. Olamiposi would prepare enough food, and refrigerate them, and would take to her strange trips.

Folafunmi was initially surprised at her mother’s awkward trips when her father was away, since she was aware her mother did not take up a secular job, nevertheless she got used to it by the day. During weekends Fola would bring her friends home so as to relieve her of boredom, she did this in the absence of her Parents, often times she visited her friends too.

She had done exactly the same thing this particular weekend, but it had turned out to be at her detriment. Two guys had come visiting her this weekend, they were supposed to come in company of Tolani a close friend to Folafunmi, Tolani a lady, had promised to come over later, but she never showed up, only for the two boys to take advantage of the lonely girl.

The two boys raped Fola mercilessly, she kept on screaming for help but to no avail, her noise did not register to Suleiman’s ears, the building of the Olatona was so big that one could hardly eavesdrop outside the building; moreover Suleiman was already in another world entirely. Mrs. Olatona was also miles away from home to help her daughter, and her Father was also on assignment for his firm.

Once the first guy was through with her, the second guy undressed hurriedly, and started to press hard on her, Fola gasped for breath, she struggled for breath intermittently; she was only in her third year in the junior school, a very young girl. Her strength began to fail her, her eyes went dimmer, just as she struggled with her breath the doorknob was pressed.

Charles Olatona had arrived from his trip that afternoon, he entered the building angrily, Suleiman had infuriated him; Charles had honked his horn severally before Suleiman opened the gate for him. After giving him a hot lash of words he walked to the building, what welcomed his eyes as he pressed the doorknob shocked him to his bones.

Charles Olatona walked into the living room to find a strange man pressing hard on her daughter; he dropped the suitcase he had in his right hand and the briefcase in his left. The sound distracted the two guys, Charles did not quickly notice her daughter beneath, “Wha…t!!! What is it you are doing in my house?” He looked around the living room as if he had entered into a wrong building, he walked towards them faster, and there was Folafunmi struggling to breathe, the guy on top of her had jumped off immediately, he struggled with his clothes as if he wanted to tear them.

Charles did not know the exact word to use, the scene was so awkward, he lifted up her daughter right away, “Folafunmi! Folafunmi!” while he tried to revive her fainting daughter, the two boys ran away. He didn’t know which of the issue to attend to first, “Idiots may God punish you,” immediately he screamed through the window, “Suleiman don’t let those guys get out!” But it seemed Suleiman didn’t hear his voice.

“Folafunmi!!! Talk to me! Where is your mother? Fola dear talk to me,” he stood up abruptly, with his daughter in his hands, picked up his car keys and rushed for his car. “Suleiman open the gate immediately, but be sure you have lost your job.”

………………………………………………………….

Folafunmi had recovered from the shock and pressure, she had been treated in the hospital she was driven to, it was the second day after the incident, yet Olamiposi had not returned or called home. Charles Olatona, sat by Fola’s bedside, he slept there for the night. He was mad at his wife, several thoughts flew across his mind, this was the height of his wife’s untoward attitude, maybe he was wrong to have involved his daughter after all, maybe he should have kept their children out of the whole mess. ‘Maybe he should have left her as a boarding student.

He didn’t know who to put the blame on, his shameless wife, or himself; maybe his decision was wrong after all. He was sad that his daughter was raped in his own house. “Folafunmi,” Charles started to speak, he felt she should be able to speak now since she felt better. Charles knew his wife must have gone on her strange trips but he wanted to confirm from her daughter.

“Yes Daddy…” She answered quietly, “So when did your mummy leave home?” Fola adjusted on the bed, “four days ago Dad.” Her answer hurt him deeper, he shook his head sadly, “Olamiposiiiiii….” He said beneath his breath. “So where exactly did you meet those brothers of the devil that did this to you?” Charles said with his head bowed, he had removed his tie, he folded the sleeves of his shirt, he had not taken his bathe since his arrival from his trip.

Folafunmi explained how they were supposed to come in company of Tolani her friend, but how Tolani did not show up afterwards. “But I have told you to stop bringing strange friends home… you see how you have allowed yourself to be defiled.” Tears started rolling down her cheek, “but Daddy I am always bored during weekends, Mummy is always out.”

“Mummy is always out,’  those words hit him hard, he had prayed severally for her, Olamiposi had thrown caution out of the window, she had totally treated their marriage with a high level of profanity. Charles was fed up, he refused to call her on her mobile phone this time, he was going to see exactly when she would return.

“It’s Okay, but you have to be careful of your choice of friends,” just as Charles ended the line, Olamiposi stepped into the ward, the duo lifted up their eyes to see who it was, immediately Charles’ eyes met Posi’s, anger swelled up rapidly from his bowels, he stood up right away and lifted up his hands to hit her, “DADDY!!!” Folafunmi shouted. Charles held back his anger and dropped his hand; he was desperately trying to calm the inferno raging within him. He stared into Olamiposi’s eyes deeply, after a while; he looked around the room, picked his car keys and walked out the ward.

Olamiposi had arrived a while ago; Suleiman only told her that Charles drove out of the home speedily with Folafunmi, although he was not sure of exactly what had happened. Olamiposi only presumed he must have driven to the hospital.

 

…………………………………..To be continued…………………..

Amazing Love

Suleiman turned once more on the mat he laid on in his small room, although the honk from the car was deafening, yet he only imagined it was a dream, Charles Olatona honked his horn a third time, this time it seemed to register louder in Suleiman’s ears, he rushed out of the tiny room to the gate, he peeped through the small hole. It was his boss who had arrived, he hurriedly opened the gate expecting a hot lash of words from his boss, who had returned suddenly from his trip. 

Charles Olatona drove into the parking space at once, just besides the gigantic building he had lived in for years now, “Suleiman! What on earth were you doing inside your room?” Charles started to say immediately he set his left foot out of the car, he was furious, “Oga I am sorry, I was…” he dragged. “You were sleeping right? Seeing how red your eyes are,” Charles said as he walked towards him.” “I dey very sorry Sir,” Suleiman trembled, with his head bowed.

Charles looked around the wide compound and noticed the absence of his wife’s car, “what of my wife?” changing the topic of discussion, “did she go to the market or something?” Suleiman looked around before he answered, he knew the sincere truth would have grave consequences, “she, she… she has not been around since five days ago sir.” Charles darted him a surprised look. 

“What!!! Did you just say five days ago?” he raised his right hand, spreading his fingers, “yes Sir,” Suleiman answered. “You mean she left this house right after I travelled?” shock was expressed all over his face, “something like that Sir,” Suleiman knew he was in for a big mess if Mrs. Olatona ever finds out what he just said.

“Jesus Christ… is this what goes on each time I travel?” Suleiman shook his head, “no be so Sir,” he tried to cover up for Mrs. Olatona’s strange outings. Charles did not know what to ask for again, he walked away, but suddenly turned around, “Suleiman come and take these keys from me and bring in my briefcase.” “Yes Sir,” Suleiman answered as he walked towards his boss.

……………………………………………………….

“Not again Olamiposi, for how long do I have to live with this attitude of yours, can’t you just sit at home alone. God where did I get it wrong? I married this lady as a virgin for Christ’s sake, where did I miss God along the line?” Charles said to himself, “where did the devil get me? What was the loophole the enemy found out in my home?” he continued to speak to himself.

“I am sure she has gone into the hands of some strange men again, how did I suddenly become a cuckold?” “I have satisfied this woman with all I have got, I make more money each month yet she will not be contented…” just as he wallowed on his thoughts, there was a bang on the door, it returned his consciousness. “Who is it?” he called out from the couch he sat on, he had not even changed from his office wears.

“It’s me Suleiman,” Charles stood to his feet because the doorknob was inside the building. “Thank you, and don’t let me find you sleeping at that post again except you have got an alternative job.” He said as he received the brief case from him alongside the keys. He slammed the door behind him, he picked his jacket which he had dropped on the couch earlier and walked upstairs to his room to change from his office wears.

“Hello dear, how are you?” Charles had changed and was walking back into the living room, he had decided to call his wife on her mobile phone, he was sure there was a cooked up story ready for his ears. “I am fine honey,” Olamiposi answered with her calm voice. “I miss you, you know?” he forced a smile, “I miss you more,” She replied. “Oh I am sorry dear,” Charles answered playing along. “You left me all alone in this big building, anyway I am getting used to it, please dear remind me, when exactly did you say you are to return?”

She wanted to confirm when his return was going to be, so that she could plan her movement accordingly. Charles initially chuckled at her lie, he tried to avoid the question, “oh, where are you now? Are you home?” “Off course dear, I am all alone, I hope you return soon.” ‘This is demonic…’ Charles muttered beneath his breath, he was not really surprised at her attitude anymore, it had become her frequent way of life in the past few months, he was only amazed at the high sense of impunity with which she lied.

“Olamiposi…, but when will you stop this way of life, I am right at home and I can’t find you anywhere here, except you have become so invisible. “You mean you are at home at the moment?” She stuttered, “I aaam sorry, I just went over to the Babasomi’s place, I will join you soon,” Olamiposi knew Charles had caught her again this time. She was surprised at his sudden arrival, his trip to Port-Harcourt was supposed to last two weeks, she wondered what could have changed the plans.

Charles was a top executive of an oil firm; his position required him to be on the road most of the times.  Olamiposi had suddenly started taking advantage of his absence to play around with strange men.    

She hurried out of Alhaji’s bed, got dressed properly and hurried to his car, she was lucky she was in town this time, Alhaji who understood what was going on did not bother to raise an eyebrow.

As she raced her car home, several thoughts filled her mind, ‘what if Charles decided to call Mrs. Babasomi before she arrived home, for how long has he arrived!’ Whatever the case may be, she was not too scared of what the outcome would be, the fact that she married a godly man indeed had encouraged her despicable act, because she knew Charles wouldn’t raise a finger on her. He was a deacon at the church they both attended and has always preached against divorce.

Olamiposi made the last turn and drove into the compound after honking her car a few times; she hurried into the building she didn’t bother to ask the gateman since when her husband arrived. She headed straight for the building, ready for whatever words Charles might have prepared for her, she was going to swallow them in as usual.

She stood at the front of the door, adjusted her blouse for the last time, and used her keys at once. Charles who was seated on the couch with his legs crossed before drifted his attention towards the door; Olamiposi stepped in quietly, ready to act as usual. “I am sorry I kept you waiting dear, there was terrible traffic,” she started to say.

“Olamiposi, you don’t need to feign any innocence, when did lying become your stocking trade for God’s sake? It’s just me standing in front of you and not a jury, why do you need to lie at the slightest opportunity? Why?” Olamiposi stood right there in the middle of the neatly arranged living room, her gaze swept the big room with fine furniture, trying to avoid her husband’s demanding gaze.

“I am sorry dear…” she tried to say. “Oh, keep that to yourself, you live your life on lies every day, okay when exactly did  you leave this compound today?” he queried, looking directly into her eyes. “Just this morning dear, I just went over to say hi to Mrs. Babasomi like I said earlier,” she lied.

“Blood of Jesus!!! Posi!!! Ah!!! When did you get a PhD in lying for heaven’s sake? How is it that you lie without any sense of remorse? Okay should I call Mrs. Babasomi right away and put it on loudspeaker?” Charles spoke quite fiercely now, bringing out his mobile phone almost immediately. “Hmmmn hmmmn…” she stuttered, she knew she would only be extending her shame beyond the walls of her home.

“Posi you have been out of this house for five days now,” She fingered her neatly packed hair, she knew the gate man must have leaked the truth, ‘stupid man, I will show him tonight,’ she murmured. “What are you saying there? You have no shame faced-ness whatsoever, no sense of sobriety at all, you and I know you are coming from a man’s bed, you have let mere men in the neighbourhood talk down on me and my calling because of your shamelessness, Olamiposi what exactly did I do wrong?”

Olamiposi maintained her head bowed, she was void of excuses, Charles had lavished her with the height of love any man can show a woman. He inhaled a deep breath, “I have sent our children to the best of schools, or wait do you do this with convenience because all our children are in the boarding school? Or is it because you have stopped going to work? Even if you do what is the assurance that you will not flirt with your co-workers? I am getting sick in the head for Christ’s sake, what else do you want Posi?”

Olamiposi shivered where she stood, ’twas all feigned act, “I am sorry it won’t repeat itself.” “Exactly what you have told me all of the times we have had to address this matter, nevertheless, you still run back to your vomit,” Charles was already on his feet by now, he walked towards her. Posi felt he was coming to slap her or something, but she bet on her life that Deacon Latona wouldn’t do such a thing, nevertheless the fierceness in his voice this time could propel such.

Charles stopped right in front of her, it was unlike what she was expecting, he held her face in his hands, and stared deeply into those eyes he had always loved, “Olamiposi Jesudarasimi Olatona, I love you more than you think, is that so difficult for you to understand, please drop this wayward way of life you have embraced dearly, it will only lead to destruction.”

……………………………………………………..                             

It’s been three weeks since Charles Olatona returned from his trip to Port-Harcourt, as much as Olamiposi had tried to behave well enough, the incessant calls she received on her mobile phone disturbed her husband, as much as he was not particular about the text messages she received, the frequency with which her phone buzzed at intervals couldn’t go unnoticed. Charles had read a number of them, and they had confirmed to him beyond reasonable doubt that she was deeply involved in adultery.

Charles and Olamiposi had met during their university days, they both attended the same fellowship when they were in the school, they were both fervent in the fellowship at the time, while Charles served as the President of the fellowship in his final year in the university, Olamiposi was the financial secretary, they both started off as casual friends.

Olamiposi was in the choir unit of the fellowship during her stay in the university, she was a committed and vibrant sister, a very quiet and calm lady, not only did she have a quiet spirit, she also carried these great qualities in a beautiful body, she had long black hair, she was a wish of most brothers in the fellowship back in school, Charles had had to contend with a number of them who tried to steal her attention away from him after they were in a relationship.

Olamiposi could lead prayers for hours without ceasing, that she was nick-named ‘Fire-brand Posi’ back then in school, she was indeed a delight of the brethren in fellowship. Charles could not fathom what exactly went wrong along the line, he had waited upon the Lord in prayers concerning his marital choice, what could have happened he wondered, he was surprised at the sudden change in her attitude, the change has been for months now.

Although he was almost fed up of the whole situation, he was determined not to give up praying, he continued to confess ‘with God all things are possible’ and continued to show her his un-ending love.   

The issue had topped the list of his prayers for months now, he had taken several days to fast and pray concerning it, but it appeared unyielding in the physical. He had started to consider physical measures that could be applied to achieve improvements.

………………………………………………………….

“Olamiposi dear…, Charles tapped her once more, Posi rolled some more on the big bed they both shared, Charles had turned on the bed-side lamp, it was in the middle of the night, he had decided to speak to Posi about his decision. “Yes dear…” Posi said adjusting her slender body, she managed to open her eyes, the dim light from the bed-side lamp caused her to rub her eyes roughly.

“I am sorry for waking you; please sit up,” Charles said, “why are you not sleeping dear?” Posi asked she seemed to be awake; Charles who was already seated upright tried to help her up, “I want to have a word with you.”

………………………………….To be continued……………………………………