tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34691404915698685852024-03-14T00:17:16.107+00:00RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTSRandom African Thoughts is a general blog that discusses issues. We post random thoughts and use situations in life to make present living better. We aim to encourage people from all walks of life. The name does not in anyway suggest that it is for just Africans or just about Africa because we all go through the same issues in life. We use the blog as an Advertising tool to promote products and services and also hype events.
Happy reading!!! -- Edwin Oko Lampteyrandomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.comBlogger155125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-47552473510328454222017-01-08T09:35:00.000+00:002017-01-08T09:35:32.405+00:00...And This Is What I Think!In my humble opinion, I think the African has always been afraid of change; any form of change. I think we would rather let the status quo thrive just because it has always been the norm so we can be entitled to the crumbs that fall onto our tables as a result instead of working to get things right. We are even satisfied with the crumbs and I think that is a big problem when we can be entitled to so much more. Sometimes I am forced to believe that, there is this form of notion that some of us believe that the only way to amass personal wealth is to encourage the continuity of the status quo (no matter how wrong it is) so that whatever little it brings our way, we are shamelessly content.<br />
<br />
The word "change" scares us. To some of us, it is synonymous to "poverty" and the rolling of heads. I think we have a petty attitude of harshly criticising the ideals of change, integrity, justice and development that would make the masses better. We would rather prefer to be lied to than to be told the truth. We are afraid to say, "I am ready to change for the better" just because changing the status quo would bring about sanity and bring to an end the special benefits that trickle into our pockets. We are afraid of the unknown even before we try to venture into it. We are afraid to make a difference; more so, we are very afraid to be the difference. We have made our communal instincts turn us into stooges of mediocrity and inferiority. We worry too much about what the community would say if we resolve to do something different; something better; something for the greater good. We allow these thoughts to belittle our bright aspirations and gradually turns us into cowards and bathes us with inferiority complex save the very few who dare to be different.<br />
<br />
Everything comes at a price, even change. We can attest to the fact that change is one of the hardest things to embrace but it is also true that some beautiful outcomes have manifested as a result of our resolution to change. I dare say change is painful sometimes. We are afraid to roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty in order to work against the forces that constantly leave us in the shadows; all for what? To remain the same? We are afraid to speak out; we are afraid to look different. The systems we so much protect have made us slaves to it. We are afraid to lose our jobs, loved ones, properties and what have you so we keep quiet even when we are being treated unfairly. We have to move from this way of thinking and demand to be treated fairly and respectfully! Why do we have the notion that all difficult jobs pay less and easy ones pay more? Is it not possible to come together to change this way of thinking? Should we allow ourselves to be cheated and treated unfairly just in name of some fear of losing someone or something?<br />
<br />
Nothing good has been achieved by constantly doing the same thing that gives you the same result. Change has the chance to teach you one of two things; it would either be worth it or it would teach you a lesson that would make you better regardless of its outcome. Not everyone would agree to this but that is fine!<br />
<br />
My name is Edwin Oko Lamptey and this is a Random African Thought.<br />
Like our Facebook page https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QQAJwUC-NAU/WHIHmSLTHQI/AAAAAAAACGo/xjg08zmup1gynM-ZSJkDR5bfFmTgEgcBwCLcB/s1600/FB_IMG_1483864169764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QQAJwUC-NAU/WHIHmSLTHQI/AAAAAAAACGo/xjg08zmup1gynM-ZSJkDR5bfFmTgEgcBwCLcB/s400/FB_IMG_1483864169764.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-40653258359431002622017-01-02T17:04:00.001+00:002017-01-02T17:38:48.388+00:002017 Nugget from RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTS. <br />
Many of us have made and drawn up plans for the year. We choose to call them new year's resolutions. These resolutions are drawn up after reflections from the previous year (our successes, failures, shortcomings, trials, relationships etc). I bet some of the resolutions for this year were included in last year's resolutions. I bet we struggled with them (the repeated resolutions) and would want to give them another shot this year too. Famous among them would be marriage, financial freedom, jobs, breakthroughs, breaking from certain habits and what have you. A resolution is a firm will to do or not to do something. This being said, it implies that, Time (2017), is not the only factor that should inform a resolution but we have to consider the will (firm decision) as well. Year in, year out, we make plans and year in, year out, we miss out on some of our targets (if not all of them). The hard thing about resolutions is that, it comes with a certain adrenalin rush but as time and reality catches up with us, that adrenalin either dies out, diminishes or turns us into champions. It is all a matter of perception and will power! This serves my point well that, resolutions are just resolutions till we put our efforts into seeing them through! You need to be resolute to survive in any new year and that is what really matters. Don't count the years, build on your will!<br />
<br />
Granted all things go our way, would our resolutions see the light of day? Give it some thought before you answer because it is trickier than you think. Sometimes we would come up with excuses even if the conditions are in our favour. Now consider how your year ended in 2016, would you like to have the same ending when 2017 is coming to an end? If yes, than that is all well and good. But if your answer is no, then you have a lot of work ahead of you. We must endeavor to break our limits and work to improve on our skills, talents, aspirations and goals. Let's stop being afraid of what would possibly go wrong and go for the best shot we can get! From the years I have spent trying to wrap my head around the purpose for my life, I have come face to face with quite interesting things, people, ideas and outcomes. Here is what I think about certain aspects of life:<br />
<br />
■ You might be a very dependent person but when it comes to certain decisions in your life that have to do with your career and personal development, do not depend so much on others to make decisions on your behalf. That aspect of your life should be controlled by you.<br />
<br />
■On dependence, don't depend on any one person to help you achieve a goal or dream. If you don't take the first step, no one would be courageous enough to follow You. Learn to blaze your own trail and others would follow. A dream is yours to actualize.<br />
<br />
■Learn to differentiate between the people who are there for you and the people who are there because of you. Everybody loves to share in our successes but only a few people would like to relate with you in your failures and shortcomings. Know the difference between the people who are there for a reason and the people who are there regardless of the season. Let's remain resolute! My name is Edwin Oko Lamptey and this is what I honestly think. This is a RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHT!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g-sotaT_4CU/WGqII4PUjnI/AAAAAAAACF4/ggq8dXSFp505MGSOEi4zhtgEaFkUvoFqQCLcB/s1600/FB_IMG_1482698932914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g-sotaT_4CU/WGqII4PUjnI/AAAAAAAACF4/ggq8dXSFp505MGSOEi4zhtgEaFkUvoFqQCLcB/s320/FB_IMG_1482698932914.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-9884441620713618032016-11-01T11:32:00.003+00:002016-11-01T11:32:56.040+00:00#NovemberConnectz...26.11.16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ia_91mZJDa0/WBh9Md8RStI/AAAAAAAACC8/TvRgkvQJRfgoSUAXEx2noDpCr5mvvMJ6ACLcB/s1600/IMG_20161101_100504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ia_91mZJDa0/WBh9Md8RStI/AAAAAAAACC8/TvRgkvQJRfgoSUAXEx2noDpCr5mvvMJ6ACLcB/s640/IMG_20161101_100504.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-47951765029770437472016-09-27T22:26:00.001+00:002016-09-27T22:26:44.331+00:00UPCOMING EVENT!!!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yWS5bbOZYhI/V-rxwYLqBpI/AAAAAAAACA4/QqDi_Jl-2D054GEmQyWO3XElNVi_0NC1ACLcB/s1600/random%2Bafrican%2Btaught%2Bphotoshoot%2B2nd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yWS5bbOZYhI/V-rxwYLqBpI/AAAAAAAACA4/QqDi_Jl-2D054GEmQyWO3XElNVi_0NC1ACLcB/s640/random%2Bafrican%2Btaught%2Bphotoshoot%2B2nd.jpg" width="449" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Watch this space for more details!randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-35725749023717230422016-09-08T11:12:00.001+00:002016-09-08T11:12:43.489+00:00 CAPTION IT YOURSELF <div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTS.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Script Title: Caption it yourself</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Director: Edwin Oko Lamptey </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Location: Inside A "trotro" (Commercial bus)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Imagine yourself in a trotro. The main occupants are usually the driver and his conductor. You join the bus at a bus stop. The conductor employs a few "delay tactics" to get more occupants into his car. Note: It is rush hour and traffic is building up; very fast! It's past five minutes; the car is still at the bus stop. The driver makes knee-jerking movements, as if he is moving the car. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
The occupants start to complain. He calls out to his conductor who pretends not to hear him. Ten minutes in, a couple of passengers get off the bus and hurriedly join another car going towards their destination. The conductor does not want more passengers getting off so he quickly runs back and joins the car. He shuts the door and exchanges words with a few irate passengers. The driver intervenes and calm is restored. Immediately, the conductor starts collecting fares. Your fare is proportional to the distance you want to travel (even though it doesn't make so much sense sometimes judging by our pricing methods). A few passengers argue it out with the conductor. A well-dressed man pays his fare but the conductor informs him that he has to add some more to equal his destination. The man pleads; the conductor disagrees so a "Good Samaritan", saves the well-dressed man from embarrassment by paying the difference. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
A woman hands the conductor somewhat of a huge denomination. The conductor complains of not having enough change. He hands the woman her change; but not the exact change. The conductor needs to add the same amount he was asking from the well-dressed man to make the woman's change accurate but he struggles to get it. A few stops ahead, the woman gets off and does not take the rest of the change. The driver moves the car. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
A passenger seated at the back alerts the conductor that he would alight at the next bus stop. The conductor nods and pulls his head out of the car to prospect for more customers. The driver zooms past the proposed bus stop and stops the car at another bus stop way ahead. The passenger at the back is fuming because he has to walk backwards to reach his original stop point. He insults the driver and his conductor. The driver pleads and says he can only stop at designated bus stops so he had to do the right thing once he has missed the chance to stop at the desired bus stop. The conductor doesn't see what he has done wrong. A few seconds after the passenger at the back alights, the driver stops right in front of a "NO PARKING...NO STOPPING", sign post to pick another "customer". The other customers in the car accuse the driver and his conductor of being bias. The driver and his conductor "shut them up" by saying; they had to pick that customer because any of them could have been in that same situation when they were in a hurry. The whole bus is quiet. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
The driver makes another stop before the main lorry station (which is supposed to be the last stop) and says that is his last stop. Many passengers fume and accuse the driver and his conductor of deception. No matter how much they complain, the driver doesn't budge, he even turns off the ignition to tell them how serious he is. On the other hand, some passengers are happy because the driver has actually saved them some walking time because their destination is pretty much closer to their current stop than from the main lorry station. They gleefully thank the driver and get off without saying anything foul to either the driver or his conductor. You are one of these "happy bunch", you get off too and start walking towards your destination...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Now, let’s edit this script through the lens of REALITY....</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Life has a way of offering all of us a "levelled playground" for success regardless of your family background, occupational status, educational background or financial standing i.e (the bus stop)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
When the bus of success pulls over at the bus stop, most of us get on. The "hungry ones" (the people with the get-rich-quick mentality, those with ideas that need to be swiftly put into action and the like) cannot stand the long wait so they get off and join a faster bandwagon to success i.e (their destination). </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Life will still go on whether you are in a hurry or not.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Life demands from everyone exactly what it wants; you cannot shortchange life if you expect to get to your destination. No matter how much you put on appearances, life would always have a way of exposing pretence. There are days when the pocket is genuinely 'not good' but life and success don’t care. They will take from you exactly what you must give to reach your destination i.e (the fight over the fare)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
In life, you are bound to meet many "Good Samaritans". The mistake we sometimes make is that, we confuse the role of our helpers and make them our sole source of financial and other forms of support. We should sometimes learn to be dependent on our own resources no matter how little they may be.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Life would always demand whatever it wants from you but there are times that what you give out would not reflect what you expect in return. Life can sometimes short-change your efforts i.e (the woman with the "big" currency denomination being short-changed by the conductor).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
You need to constantly remind yourself of your future and how big (or small) you want it to be. Life won't offer you success on a golden platter if you ask for it just once. You need to constantly work on it and make people aware of it. If you don't do it, you would miss your destination and none other but yourself would have to pay for it; sometimes even after you put in your best and meet all the requirements.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Life can stop you at any point naturally and take something from you but you cannot stop life or even ask for a timeout to get ready for success. You need to make yourself relevant and strive to be significant i.e (the drop off and pick up scene).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
Life can sometimes decide how far you can go. It would be entirely up to you to decide at that point what lessons you've learnt and what the way forward would be. Life might throw many shots at you. Always make sure that should life decide to "dump" you off at a point you didn't plan on getting off, you would get off at least with a smile on your face. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<div style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px;">
THIS IS A RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHT. EDWIN WROTE IT!</div>
<div style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; line-height: 18.4px;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">SEND YOUR VIEWS, COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO lampteyedwin@yahoo.com</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; overflow-wrap: break-word;">
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zi3Anz1pJ7o/V9FHen8ntKI/AAAAAAAAB_o/stE5SDeR4iIP58Aj_Y7_wKBJUB_1CTR9gCLcB/s1600/IMG-20160727-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zi3Anz1pJ7o/V9FHen8ntKI/AAAAAAAAB_o/stE5SDeR4iIP58Aj_Y7_wKBJUB_1CTR9gCLcB/s320/IMG-20160727-WA0000.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-86621543707121138442016-09-03T21:40:00.001+00:002016-09-04T21:25:01.519+00:00THE SCENT OF YOUR HEART...EPISODE EIGHT (8).<br />
<br />
"What is it?", Henry asked. "I know you have your own misconceptions about all that has happened and I won't be surprised if you are biased in your judgment", Johnson started. "Sandra is not who she claims to be", Johnson revealed. "So who is she?", Henry enquired. "She told you a concocted story of how I tried to rape her before our wedding and how her father wanted to take me to court for harming her daughter", Johnson continued.<br />
<br />
"None of what she said is true because she made me do something and when I started questioning her motives, she framed me and had our wedding called off.<br />
<br />
At this point, Henry appeared to be very interested because he wanted to know what was really going on. He was now convinced that he had to take steps to withdraw from the web he was trying to get himself into.<br />
<br />
"Johnson, before you continue, I really appreciate what you are doing but the information would be of no use to me because I have made my decision to stay away from Sandra for good", Henry started. "If she had told me early on that you guys had something going on, I wouldn't have started seeing her in the first place", Henry said. "I am really sorry for what has happened between the two of you but I'd rather stay out of all this than get myself entwined with such stuff, honestly", Henry added.<br />
<br />
"You might think that saying this would absolve you from any future turn of events”, Johnson said. “I don't think you know it yet but you are in too deep to back out now", Johnson revealed.<br />
<br />
"What is that supposed to mean?", Henry asked.<br />
<br />
"I know Sandra has told you about the dark secrets of Kaprisky Law Firm including all the underhand and shady deals and has also told you about her father's incestuous tendencies towards her right?", Johnson enquired.<br />
<br />
"How did you know all of this?", Henry asked in shock.<br />
<br />
"Let's leave that question for another day", Johnson said.<br />
<br />
"Why are you doing all of this and telling me all these things?", Henry asked. "What do you stand to achieve?", Henry quizzed.<br />
<br />
"I just want to prevent what happened to me from happening to another person, more so, someone like you who has a bright future ahead of you", Johnson said.<br />
<br />
"Wow!", Henry exclaimed.<br />
<br />
"Listen to me carefully", Johnson started.<br />
<br />
"Wait!", Henry exclaimed. "Right now I am confused, I don't know who to believe; you or Sandra", Henry revealed. "Can I ask you something?", Henry enquired.<br />
<br />
"Sure...go on", Johnson answered.<br />
<br />
"Do you still love Sandra?", Henry asked.<br />
<br />
Johnson looked at Henry without saying anything.<br />
<br />
"So I take it from your silence that you still care about her and love her", Henry said<br />
<br />
Johnson nodded his head.<br />
<br />
"Do you want Sandra back?", Henry went on to ask.<br />
<br />
"I would give anything to be with Sandra", Johnson finally spoke.<br />
<br />
"Let me get something clear, the same person you are asking me to steer clear off as if my life depended on it is the same person you'd give anything to be with?", Henry enquired. "Where is the correlation in this?", Henry interrogated.<br />
<br />
"You won't understand", Johnson cut in. "Despite what has transpired between us and the misinterpretation of facts, I still love Sandra and I know that deep within her, she still harbours some feelings for me", Johnson explained.<br />
<br />
"So what is stopping you guys from getting back together?", Henry queried. "Sandra thinks I am back here to get back at her for what she did to me", Johnson said.<br />
<br />
"You keep talking about what she did to you but you are refusing to tell me exactly what she made you do”, Henry said. “Can I ask another question?”, Henry asked. “Yes you can”, Johnson answered. “Did the two of you ever make love?”, Henry asked.<br />
<br />
“Yes we did”, Johnson answered. “Several times”, Johnson added.<br />
<br />
“So how come you were accused of trying to rape her if you had already made love to her?”, Henry asked. “That is where the complication is”, Johnson answered. “This is really serious”, Henry said. “You know what, I have to go now” Henry said. “You can take my number and call me”, Henry suggested. “But before I go, I want you to understand that Sandra and I are done”, Henry revealed. “You can have her for all I care”, Henry conceded. “The truth is that, I don’t know which of the accounts to believe and like you rightly said, I am too young to get myself involved in all of these things”, Henry said. “I wish you luck in life and goodbye”, Henry finally said and exited the main gates of Kaprisky Law Firm…<br />
<br />
That night, Henry lay in his bed and thought about the countless romantic chats he had had with Sandra nights before. He was missing her but he had to fight off the urge of getting involved with her in any way. He was in love with Sandra but he didn’t want to get hurt. He thought about Julius and his advances, he was fighting wars on many unusual fronts. He wanted to stand up to Johnson and call his bluff so he could fight for Sandra’s love. He was madly in love with her but he could not fathom why Johnson spoke with so much authority and he felt the sense of suspense around whatever that transpired between himself and Sandra prior to his meeting her.<br />
<br />
“Edwin and Kennedy would know what to do in times like this”, Henry said to himself in the middle of the night. He picked up his phone to call one of his friends only to find out that he had missed several calls from Sandra and another strange number. He refused returning any of the missed calls. He called Kennedy’s number.<br />
<br />
“Hello”, Henry said as Kennedy answered the call.<br />
<br />
“Finally, you have remembered that I exist”, Kennedy complained. “I wonder why you always say that”, Henry rebutted. “You can also call me when the need arises but you expect me to be always doing the calling as if I am your girlfriend of some sort”, Henry continued. “Anyway, that is not why I called”, Henry said.<br />
<br />
“You are in some form of trouble with your girlfriend I guess”, Kennedy said sarcastically.<br />
<br />
“This in more than trouble, Ken”, Henry said. “This is the most messed up case I have ever heard in my few years on this earth”, Henry started. “What is the matter this time”, Kennedy asked inquisitively.<br />
<br />
Henry narrated Johnson’s part and involvement in the story to Kennedy.<br />
<br />
“This is unbelievably horrifying”, Kennedy said after Henry finished his narration. “I knew that this girl was up to something fishy”, Kennedy confirmed. “Henry, please stay away from her for your own good and the welfare of your entire family”, Kennedy advised. “You are like my brother and I don’t like the way this is going one bit”, Kennedy said. “You know that as for Edwin, he would not ascribe to all this bullshit so it would be best if you don’t inform him about this”, Kennedy advised. “You can tell him about it when all of this blows over and you get this girl and all her troubles out of your life”, Kennedy added.<br />
<br />
“I would take your advice”, Henry said.<br />
<br />
“You better do because should you make any false move, you’d face the punishment and backlash alone, trust me!”, Kennedy warned.<br />
<br />
“Thanks, Ken”, Henry said. “I need to get some sleep now”, Henry added. “Goodbye, Kennedy”…<br />
<br />
<br />
Ben was sitting in his gigantic living room; the lights were off. He was drinking from a glass that contained some shots of whiskey. He heard some footsteps and quickly turned on the table lamp beside him.<br />
<br />
“You startled me!”, Sandra said. “Why are you still not in bed?”, Ben asked. “I can’t sleep”, Sandra responded. “Stop lying to me”, Ben started.<br />
<br />
“Dad, do you love me?”, Sandra asked. “What is that supposed to mean?”, Ben asked. “Are you saying this because of Johnson?”, Ben asked. “Exactly!”, Sandra exclaimed. “You accepted him back because you want to have your way”, Sandra accused her dad. “You know full well what his presence can do to me”, Sandra said. “If anyone gets to hear what I did, you know it is going to end me in jail and I know you would not want that to happen so why did you accept him back at the firm when you know how much of a threat he is to me and all of us”, Sandra complained.<br />
<br />
“I am your father and I know what’s best for you but if you push me to the wall, I would destroy you without even thinking about it”, Ben said. “So you are doing all of this because of Henry?”, Sandra inquired.<br />
<br />
“Yes!”, Ben exclaimed.<br />
<br />
“What has he done to you?”, Sandra asked. “I just don’t like him and I don’t want you to have anything to do with him!”, Ben screamed. “You belong to me and only me!”, Ben added. “Is that why you influenced the pastor to say that we could not get married?”, Sandra enquired. “Ha-Ha”, Ben laughed. “Money gets a lot of things done nowadays”, Ben responded. “And is it for the same reason you accepted Johnson back just to blackmail me into doing your bidding by forcing me with threats so I can stay away from Henry?”, Sandra asked. “Yes!”, Ben exclaimed.<br />
<br />
“What kind of man are you?”, Sandra asked. “The kind that would do anything to ensure the safety of his only daughter”, Ben responded. “I am beginning to hate you, dad!”, Sandra said and walked out of the living room in tears…<br />
<br />
For a whole week, Henry did whatever possible to avoid an encounter with Sandra or Johnson. He gave Sandra the excuse that he was engrossed with work and could not talk much. During that week, he came an hour earlier for his lunch and ate it in his cubicle. Anytime Johnson wanted to talk, he gave him the excuse that he had gotten over Sandra and did not want to be reminded of anything that would arouse his feelings for her anymore. Sandra always tried whatever means to get to speak to Henry. “Henry, I really appreciate what you are doing”, Johnson said in one such encounter. “You don’t have to thank me”, Henry said. “You have what you want and I have to live with that”, Henry added. “I still don’t have Sandra back yet”, Johnson said. “It doesn’t really matter, now that I am out of the way, you can have her”, Henry said and asked to be excused to avoid talking too much.<br />
<br />
“Henry, why are you acting this way?”, Sandra asked Henry when it had become obvious that he was avoiding her. “The story might have been different if you were able to muster the courage to tell me about Johnson and the fact that you were about getting married to him”, Henry revealed. “Is that why you are acting up?”, Sandra enquired. “Is that why you are refusing to answer any of my messages or return any of my calls?”, Sandra asked. “Sandra, I am trying to stay away from trouble and it is quite obvious that you and Johnson have some unfinished business which is actually no business of mine”, Henry explained.<br />
<br />
“What did Johnson tell you about me?”, Sandra asked Henry. “I don’t know what he holds against you but I would rather you speak to him yourself”, Henry answered. “Come on Henry”, Sandra pleaded. “Please tell me what he told you about me”, Sandra reiterated. “He just said you did something that he took the fall for”, Henry, said. “Don’t mind that liar”, Sandra said. “He is a schemer just like my dad”, Sandra revealed. “I think this conversation has run its course”, Henry said and parted ways with Sandra…<br />
<br />
That weekend, Henry was at home in his room when there was a knock on his door. It was his mother. She had come to inform him that there was someone at the gate who wanted to see him. Henry rushed outside bare-chested thinking it was Edwin or Kennedy. He got the shock of his life when he arrived in the hall and saw Sandra sitting in the sofa.<br />
<br />
“What are you doing here?”, Henry asked in shock. “And how did you find my house?”, he enquired. “Is that how you welcome your visitors?”, Henry’s mother queried as she was getting acquainted with Sandra. “I came to see you”, Sandra said politely. “I hear she is the daughter of the owner of the firm you are working at”, Henry’s mother said.<br />
<br />
“It is national service, mama”, Henry corrected his mother. “Why don’t I leave you two alone”, Henry’s mother said. “I hope you would stay for lunch”, Henry’s mother asked Sandra.<br />
<br />
“Maybe”, Sandra answered.<br />
<br />
Henry’s mother smiled and rushed to the kitchen to continue with the cooking. In a matter of minutes, she was screaming out Henry’s name. Henry rushed to the kitchen to find out what the noise was all about.<br />
<br />
“This is an opportunity for you to be made a permanent worker at the law firm after your national service”, Henry’s mother started. “From the way I see things, the lady likes you, I am a woman and I can tell if a woman is in love”, Henry’s mother continued. “Please be nice to her and always bear in mind that one good turn deserves another”, Henry’s mother added.<br />
<br />
“Mama, I don’t want to wade in this kind of conversation with you for now”, Henry said. “When she leaves, we would talk about it”, Henry said and left the kitchen to join Sandra in the living room.<br />
<br />
“Let’s go to your room”, Sandra suggested. “I have never taken any girl to my room before”, Henry replied. “There is always a first time”, Sandra rebutted. Sandra managed to convince Henry and he led the way to his room with Sandra following close behind.<br />
<br />
She made herself comfortable on his bed and took off her shoes and stretched out her legs fully on Henry’s bed. It was the first time Henry was seeing Sandra’s legs; fully bare, long, slender and spotless. He sat in the only chair in the room and stole glances at her.<br />
<br />
“What are you doing here?”, Henry asked. “Like I said, I came to see you so we could talk things over”, Sandra said. “There is nothing to talk about”, Henry fired back. “Of course there is”, Sandra rebutted. “Henry, can’t you see that I love you so much and that I am willing to do anything to see us together?”, Sandra asked. “That kind of talk doesn’t move me anymore”, Henry said. Sandra approached Henry and knelt down in front of him. “Henry, please don’t do this to me”, Sandra pleaded. “Make love to me if that would make you see how serious I am”, Sandra pleaded.<br />
<br />
“What?”, Henry exclaimed.<br />
<br />
“I mean it, Henry”, Sandra reiterated. “Make love to me”.<br />
<br />
“My mum is here”, Henry said.<br />
<br />
“Don’t worry, I won’t scream”, Sandra assured and started touching Henry’s nipples. In a matter of seconds, Henry could not resist Sandra’s touches. He headed straight for Sandra’s breasts and grabbed them. “I feel terribly aroused”, Sandra moaned. “I am starting to feel dampness in between my thighs”, Sandra added.<br />
<br />
<br />
“I feel so horny”. Henry huffed…<br />
<br />
<br />
WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT? WILL HENRY BECOME ANOTHER VICTIM OF CIRCUMSTANCE? WHAT HAS SANDRA DONE? WHY IS SHE KEEPING SECRETS? YOUR GUESS IS AS GOOD AS MINE. FOLLOW THE STORY FOR MORE TWISTS AND TURNS. MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND THIS IS A RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTS PRODUCTION.<br />
<br />
<br />
FOLLOW THE EPISODES HERE:<br />
<br />
<br />
EPISODE SEVEN: <a href="http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/09/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-seven-7.html">http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/09/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-seven-7.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
EPISODE SIX: <a href="http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/07/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-six.html">http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/07/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-six.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
EPISODE FIVE: <a href="http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/06/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-five.html">http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/06/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-five.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
EPISODE FOUR: <a href="http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/06/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-four.html">http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/06/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-four.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
EPISODE THREE: <a href="http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/06/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-three.html">http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/06/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-three.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
EPISODE TWO: <a href="http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/05/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-two.html">http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/05/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-two.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
EPISODE ONE: <a href="http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/05/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-one-1.html">http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2016/05/the-scent-of-your-heartepisode-one-1.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts">https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts</a><br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
COMMENT. LIKE. SHARE. INVITE.<br />
<br />
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. THANKS A MILLION.<br />
<br />
SEND YOUR VIEWS, COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO lampteyedwin@yahoo.com<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mpQUJQHb30k/V8tDMohtDpI/AAAAAAAAB-8/yLAVEaFp3m4Twamra9M9g09Wd6WET0XHwCLcB/s1600/IMG-20160727-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mpQUJQHb30k/V8tDMohtDpI/AAAAAAAAB-8/yLAVEaFp3m4Twamra9M9g09Wd6WET0XHwCLcB/s320/IMG-20160727-WA0000.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-23311907479760950732016-09-01T19:49:00.002+00:002016-09-01T20:37:27.381+00:00THE SCENT OF YOUR HEART...EPISODE SEVEN (7).<!--[if !mso]>
<style>
v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
.shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
</style>
<![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Vodafone Rg","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:"Vodafone Rg";
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:"Vodafone Rg";
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
Henry looked at Sandra in
bewilderment as she introduced Johnson as her ex-fiance. He was left in shock. He
could not believe that Ben would be so wicked to want to marry his daughter off
at such a young age. “Hi, I am Henry”, Henry said as he extended a warm
handshake to Johnson but he was met with rivalry; as was to be expected.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Nice to meet you”, Johnson left Henry's hand
hanging in mid-air without responding to his gesture. Sandra, feeling somewhat
embarrassed held Henry's hand and dragged him towards the elevator leaving
Johnson standing alone in the lobby as the two of them walked off.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Your ex-fiance?".
"Like seriously?". Henry asked as the elevator dinged signalling them
to enter. "It's a long story; a story I don't want to recount because of
the painful memories it brings up", Sandra said.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"Are you kidding me, Sandra", Henry
rebutted. "You thought an ex-fiance was not an issue worth discussing
because it brought back bad memories?". "That is quite unfair; very
unfair to me, Sandra", Henry lamented. "I expected you to tell me
what I was getting myself into", Henry started. "I put all my cards
on the table and I expected you to do same but not telling me that you were
about getting married to someone and making me find out myself and in such a
cold manner is so not cool", Henry said. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“Henry, that part of my life is
a part I am trying so hard to leave right where it belongs; in the past and so I
didn’t think it was worth bringing up”, Sandra defended herself. “Moreover, I didn’t
want to complicate matters for us because we had things going on perfectly”,
Sandra added as she warmed her way up to Henry and placed a kiss on his lips.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“That is beside the point,
Sandra”, Henry insisted.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“How did you expect me to tell
you this?”, Sandra enquired. “You wanted me to walk up to you and say, ‘Oh
Henry, I was about to get married to someone which turned out not to work out?”,
Sandra enquired</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“That would have been a good
start”, Henry cut in.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“I was scared and I didn’t want
you to see this differently”, Sandra said. “Well, congratulations, you’ve succeeded
in tricking me”, Henry said</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“Henry please don’t do this”,
Sandra pleaded.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"What else are you keeping
from me aside this bombshell of an ex- fiance?", Henry asked.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Nothing!" Sandra
screamed.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"I don't believe it; I am
being very honest", Henry said</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Henry, what is that
supposed to mean?", Sandra started. "Are you going to let this news
tear us apart?" Sandra asked.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Tear us apart?",
Henry asked sarcastically. "We've already been torn apart by the things
that have happened ever since I decided to go out with you", Henry said.
"All the forces of good and evil are against this relationship",
Henry said. "Even men of God are against this union", Henry continued.
"I really think the time has come for us to end all of this once and for
all and move on separately with our lives", Henry said.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Are you in any way
insinuating that all that has happened and all that is happening now has
something to do with me?", Sandra asked</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Obviously!", Henry
answered. “We don’t need a soothsayer to tell us what is very obvious”, Henry added</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Wow!", Sandra
exclaimed. "I can't believe that you have come to such a conclusion
without hearing me out first", Sandra said.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"What is there to hear out
after this?", Henry asked. "Is it the fact that you forgot to tell me
that you were almost married?", Henry asked. "Or the fact that your
dad thinks we are the worst match or the fact that God spoke through your
pastor warning us of getting together?", Henry asked. "All these are
clear indications that we cannot be together, can't you see it?", Henry
quizzed.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"I can't believe you are
also thinking like them", Sandra said. “I should have seen this coming”,
Sandra added </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Don't deal me these cards,
Sandra!", Henry cut in. "You knew what you were getting me into but
you chose to keep me in the dark by not telling me all<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I </span>needed to know", Henry said</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"I have to say that I am
rather disappointed that you have fallen for these lies and schemes obviously
being orchestrated by my father and his stooges with the hopes of tearing us
apart", Sandra said</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Oh, so it's a lie that
Johnson is your ex-fiance?", Henry quizzed.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Why are you so quick to
judge me?", Sandra sobbed. "Why are you allowing all of these things
to get to you?", Sandra said.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Sandra, I think we should
stop seeing each other for our own good", Henry said as the elevator
dinged as it got to his floor.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Don't do this to me, Henry,
I love you", Sandra said as she held Henry from stepping out of the
elevator.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"I think it is the best
thing to do in light of all these circumstances", Henry said. “Love is not
enough to sustain this relationship”, Henry added</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"No, Henry, we cannot be
separated; I won't allow it to happen!", Sandra said.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
They both looked intently at
each other. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Henry, forgive me for not
telling you about Johnson", Sandra said softly looking deeply into his
eyes. “But please don’t let this be the reason we are going to get separated over.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"I have my own reasons",
Sandra continued.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Which are?", Henry
asked.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Johnson tried to rape me
before our wedding", Sandra revealed.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"What?", Henry
exclaimed. "Isn't that rather absurd?", Henry asked. "But why
would he want to do that if you were going to be his wife sooner than later?",
Henry asked further</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"One of many of my dad's
schemes", Sandra replied. He was overprotective as always and didn't even
give us a chance to be on our own", Sandra started. "He always had
people watching us and was jealous of the fact that I was finally warming up to
Johnson", Sandra explained. "As this went on, it infuriated Johnson
so much so that when he finally got the two of us to be alone, he tried to have
sex with me to get back at my dad for being overprotective", Sandra
narrated. "We struggled and I pleaded with him to take it easy because we
were going to get married soon and he could have me to himself but he just
wouldn't listen", Sandra explained.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"I got injured during the struggle and to
my surprise, my father showed up", Sandra said. "To cut the long
story short, I tried to defend Johnson and tried to convince my dad that what
he saw was a misinterpretation of Johnson's feelings towards me but my dad
would have none of that", Sandra said. "So he quickly called off the
wedding and filed a lawsuit against Johnson for trying to rape me", Sandra
said.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"That is why I didn't get
married to Johnson", Sandra added. "I have to go now, and you also
have to get going before you lose your job my love", let's chat during
lunch time", Sandra said and pushed Henry out of the elevator...</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
A few hours later, Henry and
Sandra were seated together at the plush cafeteria of Kaprisky Law Firm having
lunch.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"I am sorry for judging you
earlier today", Henry said. "I didn't know you had to go through such
an ordeal", Henry said. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Henry, there is something
inside so strong that keeps telling me that both of us can be together
regardless of the opposition that comes our way", Sandra said.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Sometimes, I believe that
all these things are meant to happen to make our bond stronger but on the other
hand too, I believe we cannot be anything more than friends because of the
opposition we face; first it was your dad, then your pastor and now Johnson,
your ex-fiance", Henry recounted. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
As they spoke, Johnson entered
the cafeteria and headed straight for their table. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Hello Sandra",
Johnson said.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"I was in your office and I was told you
were having lunch so I was hoping we could use this time to talk", Johnson
added. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"And who said I wanted to
talk to you?", Sandra asked.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
Henry got up from his seat and
started his way towards the exit.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"Henry, where are you
going?", Sandra asked. "We haven't finished talking", Sandra
added.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"I have to head back to my
office; I have some work I need to finish", Henry said. "Moreover,
you guys have some catching up to do", Henry added.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
"What is that supposed to
mean?"</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“Come on Sandra”, Henry said. “You
haven’t seen Johnson in a while and it would be good for you two to get along”,
Henry said. “Okay, call me when you close, I want to see you and talk to you
about something”, Sandra said, sensing tension between the two men. “Sure, I will”,
Henry added and walked away.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“What do you want from me Johnson?”,
Sandra queried</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“I hope you didn’t sell him the
story about me wanting to rape you before our wedding and that your dad wanted
to have me imprisoned”, Johnson said as he sat down.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“Isn’t that what you tried to do
to me after I refused to give into your sexual desires?”, Sandra accused
Johnson.. “Why have you come back here, Johnson?”, Sandra queried. “I thought we
agreed that you were not going to show your face here anymore”, Sandra added.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“Yes, I agreed not to come here
anymore but I just couldn’t help it anymore”, Johnson started. “I am tired of
living with the fact that I am the beast when in actual sense, you who portray
yourself as the victim; the weaker one is worse than the devil”, Johnson said. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“How dare you speak of me in
such a manner?”, Sandra fumed. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 115%;">
“Isn’t that exactly what you
are?”, Johnson said.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I won’t sit here and have you spew garbage against me for
no reason, Johnson”, Sandra said and got up to leave. “You will definitely be
exposed come what may, and that is a promise”, Johnson called after her</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And who is going to see to that?”, Sandra queried. “You?...Very
funny”, Sandra added. “You are going to live with the ‘rapist’ tag forever. “I
can assure you that it won’t be long before everyone knows who you truly are
Sandra”, Johnson said and drew closer to Sandra and held her by the arm.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Let go of me!” Sandra exclaimed. “In case you have
forgotten so soon, let me remind you of who I am”, Sandra started. “My name is Sandra
and I will always have my way”, Sandra said. “Let me also assure you that
before you even think of selling me out, you’d be out of here and this time, I am
going to ensure that you disappear for good”, Sandra said. "I don’t even
have to worry my head over you because no one is going to believe you because
when it goes down to the wire, it’s going to be your word against mine and I need
not tell you how it is going to turn out”, Sandra added and gave out a cold laughter</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You don’t know what is coming, Sandra”, Johnson said.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ha-ha”, Sandra laughed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I do know what is coming Johnson; I always do”, Sandra
added.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Despite all that has happened between us, I still love you
Sandra”, Johnson said as he stood in front of Sandra. “I thought you said you
could never love a snake like me after all I put you through”, Sandra rebutted.
“What you made me do was strange but just so you know, I did it out of love and
I did it because I wanted to save you from the implications of your action”,
Johnson added. “Stop brushing it in my face”, Sandra rebutted. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should be worshipping me by now because I saved you
from disgrace and jail”, Johnson said. “Yeah right”, Sandra rebutted. “This
secret must remain with us and die with us”, Sandra said.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Then you are going to have to do exactly what I tell you to
do”, Johnson said. “Is that a threat or something?”, Sandra asked. “You can
call it whatever you want”, Johnson responded and left Sandra standing alone in
the cafeteria…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sandra rushed to her father’s office after leaving the
cafeteria to find out why he had agreed to take Johnson back after her ordeal
with him. “Why did you accept to take Johnson back here?”, Sandra queried. “Ha-ha”,
Ben laughed. “Did you expect me to consult you before recruiting staff members?”,
Ben queried. “You and I know that Johnson is no ordinary staff member”, Sandra said.
“His presence here makes me feel very uncomfortable and reminds me of the
torture I had to go through because of him”, Sandra said. “Are you in any way asking
me to fire him because you feel uncomfortable?”, Ben asked</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Maybe”, Sandra answered.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sandy, both of us know that Johnson is one of the bright
minds we have here at Kaprisky Law firm. “Well, I beg to differ”, Sandra
rebutted. “I think you should not mix work with pleasure and you both would get
along just fine”, Ben insisted. “Sorry but I cannot give in to your demands of
cutting Johnson off because we need him here”, Ben said.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Fine!”, Sandra said and walked out of the office. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At 5:00 P.M that day, Johnson went in search of Henry and
found him at the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>entrance of the law
firm.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Henry…Henry…Henry!”, Johnson called out as he drew closer
to Henry. “Hi”, Henry said as Johnson approached him. “Sorry for ignoring you
earlier today, I was being a complete jerk because I was jealous”, Johnson
started. “Don’t worry, I would have done the same thing if I were in your shoes”,
Henry said. “Do you want to say something?”, Henry queried. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah”, Johnson answered. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What is it?”, Henry enquired.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I need to tell you something about Sandra; something only
known to Sandra and myself and it is going to change your perception of Sandra
going forward…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WHAT HAS SANDRA DONE? WHAT DID SHE MAKE JOHNSON DO? WHY
WOULD JOHNSON SACRIFICE THE TRUTH OF WHAT REALLY HAPPENED?.... FIND OUT THIS
AND MORE IN THE NEXT EPISODE OF <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">THE
SCENT OF YOUR HEART” </i></b>. MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND THIS IS RANDOM
AFRICAN THOUGHTS RELOADED! HAPPY NEW MONTH Y'ALL!!!!!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oBOzpUeV8bw/Vz27lU456iI/AAAAAAAAB3w/5gwLJqzcUIItEn2fOe41hleZuFemlRgywCPcB/s1600/random%2Bafrican%2Bthought%2Bedit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oBOzpUeV8bw/Vz27lU456iI/AAAAAAAAB3w/5gwLJqzcUIItEn2fOe41hleZuFemlRgywCPcB/s320/random%2Bafrican%2Bthought%2Bedit.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<a href="https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts">https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts</a></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
COMMENT.LIKE.SHARE.INVITE.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE.
THANKS A MILLION.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
SEND YOUR VIEWS, COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO <a href="mailto:lampteyedwin@yahoo.com">lampteyedwin@yahoo.com</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-6186366330482429712016-07-26T12:52:00.001+00:002016-07-27T19:17:51.701+00:00THE SCENT OF YOUR HEART...EPISODE SIX<br />
<br />
Henry got out of Ben's car even more confused than before. He walked across the face of the currently stationary car and met Sandra standing at the other side of the car. She was all smiles.<br />
<br />
"Things are beginning to look up", Sandra said, still beaming with smiles.<br />
<br />
Henry looked at her and feigned a smile.<br />
<br />
"What is that supposed to mean?", Sandra asked after deciphering the look on Henry's face.<br />
<br />
"What is what supposed to mean?", Henry asked feigning ignorance.<br />
<br />
"The smile", Sandra started. "It didn't look genuine at all", Sandra added.<br />
<br />
"Really?", Henry asked. "That's how I smile all the time", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"That is a lie", Sandra said. "Did my father threaten you in any way?", Sandra asked, drawing closer to Henry.<br />
<br />
"Honk-Honk-Honk", Ben's car horn sounded, signaling for the two of them to break it up as the driver revved the car's engine.<br />
<br />
"Get in the car!", Ben ordered Sandra as he rolled down the car's tinted glass window.<br />
<br />
"Let's talk during lunch time", Sandra said and quietly got on board the car.<br />
<br />
Henry stood there for a while as he watched Ben's car slowly zoom past him and vanish into the clear.<br />
<br />
"What is all this?", Henry asked himself as he pondered over what had just happened. As he stood there, he remembered that he had to fetch the evidence of threat on his life from Julius's office.<br />
<br />
"Oh my God!", Henry exclaimed as he made his way into the building and into Julius's office. He zoomed past the reception without saying his normal "good morning" and chatting with Audrey, the beautiful receptionist. Audrey looked on in disbelief as Henry walked past her desk and stood in front of the elevator door waiting for it to open so that he could go up.<br />
<br />
"Henry!", Audrey called out. "Is everything alright?", she asked.<br />
<br />
Henry turned and looked in her direction.<br />
<br />
"Everything is fine, Audrey", Henry answered. "I am just running late for an important discussion with my boss", Henry answered.<br />
<br />
"Okay", Audrey replied. "I thought you were quarrelling with me because I know your first point of call when you come to work is my desk", Audrey explained.<br />
<br />
"Yeah, but I hope I can be pardoned just for today", Henry said as the elevator door flew open. "I would come down for a chat during lunchtime", Henry said and hurriedly entered the elevator before it got full.<br />
<br />
Henry immediately head for Julius's office when he got to the floor of his department.<br />
<br />
He was so much in a hurry to get into Julius's office and get his hand on the only piece of evidence that he could use as proof of the threat on his life.<br />
<br />
Henry was shaking like a leaf as he walked towards Julius's door. There were a handful of people on the floor so he timed his entry to synchronize with the blind spot of all who were present. He lurked around the entrance to Julius's office till the conditions were right for him.<br />
<br />
Once he saw that the coast was clear, he barged into the office with alacrity so as not to be spotted by anyone and banged the door behind him.<br />
<br />
<br />
"What is the meaning of this nonsense?", Julius yelled as he quickly retracted his hand from the front zip compartment of the trouser of one of the male workers at the firm.<br />
<br />
Henry froze at the sight.<br />
<br />
"What are you doing here?", Julius barked.<br />
<br />
"I...I...I...I...", Henry stammered as he was taken by surprise both by Julius's miraculous presence and current posture. The young and handsome worker jumped out of his seat and struggled to remain calm as if nothing was happening but his efforts were a little too late. "I...I...I didn't know you were in here", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"That is beside the point", Julius barked angrily. "Is this your office?", Julius asked rhetorically. "This is not your office therefore you cannot come barging in here without permission", Julius continued as he fumed. He was almost going into a fit of rage.<br />
<br />
Henry pressed himself against the door not knowing whether to go out of the office or stay and take the bashing. He was literally rooted to the spot where he stood and searched the desk for the piece of paper. The other worker looked on timidly as Julius threw verbal punches at Henry.<br />
<br />
"I didn't know you were in here", Henry spoke. "I came in to check if the place was clean enough", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"Nonsense!", Julius fired back. "Is that your job?", Julius asked.<br />
<br />
Henry stood there in silence.<br />
<br />
"Answer me!", Julius screamed.<br />
<br />
"No, please sir", Henry answered. "But...", Henry wanted to explain further when Julius shut him up.<br />
<br />
"I don't want to hear another word from you", Julius said and turned to speak to the young man. "Fred, I am sorry for the inconvenience but I guess we have to finish this meeting a bit later in the day", Julius said, signalling for the young man to take his leave.<br />
<br />
As the young man made the effort to leave, he stared at Henry and whispered "Not a word to anyone or else you are dead", before shoving Henry away from the entrance and walking out of the office, shutting the door behind him.<br />
<br />
Immediately the young man left, Julius composed himself.<br />
<br />
"Lock the door and take a seat", Julius said calmly and pointed to the seat in front of him.<br />
<br />
Henry could not believe what he just heard. He could not believe that Julius could switch from throwing tantrums to becoming so gentle within seconds. He walked slowly to the designated seat after he had locked the door and sat down, crossing his right leg firmly over his left leg for security reasons.<br />
<br />
Julius took his seat and placed both hands on the desk to make them visible to Henry.<br />
<br />
"I know why you came running in here", Julius started. "I thought you would be smart enough to keep the piece of paper as evidence so I also came in very early today to cover my tracks", I was surprised to find the note still here", Julius continued. He pulled out his drawer, took out a piece of paper and immediately put it into the little paper shredder that was fixed on his desk. "Your evidence is gone", Julius said, with a smile on his face.<br />
<br />
"I can tell from the look on your face that you met Ben", Julius started. "And I don't need a soothsayer to tell me that your encounter with him was not pleasant", Julius added.<br />
<br />
Henry sat across Julius with his head bowed down and looking very timid but alert to any suspicious move.<br />
<br />
"I can protect you, Henry", Julius said wooingly. "I can make all of your fears and frustrations disappear and I can speak to Ben on your behalf to grant you genuine blessings to be with his daughter, Sandra", Julius counted. "All you need to do is to allow me have you and I promise you, all your troubles would vanish", Julius said. "I am your friend and as it stands now, you need me more than I do you, so giving in to my request would be the most humane thing to do", Julius courted. "It is actually your only option if you asked me", Julius continued. "What do you say?", Julius asked<br />
<br />
"Sir", Henry started. "I never thought that it would come to this", he said. "I am really desperate right now and I really need a solution to all of this mess but even in my desperation, I still cannot come to terms with what you are asking of me", Henry explained. "If I give in to your demands, it would mean I'd have to be with you and be with Sandra at the same time...". "Exactly my point!", Julius exclaimed. "I am not prepared for that kind of commitment", Henry said, shivering like a leaf.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I am sorry sir, but I can't see myself playing such a role", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"Then I don't think you are also prepared to have your peace of mind because I know Ben and I know he can make your life a living hell if you want him to", Julius stated.<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry's heart sank.<br />
<br />
"Sir, please understand me", Henry pleaded.<br />
<br />
"This is what I am going to do", Julius started. "Like I did the last time we had such an encounter, I am going to allow you to have a couple of days to think this over", Julius suggested. "I am the only friend you have left and I can promise you one thing, if you give in to my demands, I would be really gentle with you", Julius added. "Have a nice day, young man", Julius said and asked Henry to leave the office. Henry had a disgusted and disappointed look on his face as he walked out of the office<br />
<br />
At lunchtime, Henry met up with Audrey. Immediately he was done, he walked back to the office. As he stood in front of the elevator, waiting for it to open, Sandra came running towards him.<br />
<br />
"Guess what?", Sandra started, looking very giddy.<br />
<br />
"I am not in the guessing mood right, Sandra", Henry replied looking and sounding very indifferent. "I spoke to my dad and he wants the three of us to have dinner together this weekend",<br />
<br />
"You did what?", Henry asked out of shock.<br />
<br />
"Relax, young man", Sandra said jokingly. "He won't bite", Sandra teased. "He just wants to get to know you", Sandra exclaimed. "What do you say?", Sandra asked.<br />
<br />
"It sounds too sudden and I think we should take things slow", Henry said, thinking about the threats he had to recon with.<br />
<br />
"It's fine", Sandra reassured. "We are going to have a thrill time together, trust me", Sandra said as the doors of the elevator parted. "Call me", Henry signalled and walked into the elevator leaving Sandra standing alone in front of it.<br />
<br />
<br />
After a lot of persuasion, Sandra finally got to convince Henry to come over for dinner at her house that weekend. Henry dressed up smartly and arrived at Sandra's house at exactly 6:05 PM.<br />
<br />
"You are looking dashing!", Sandra remarked as she ushered Henry into her house.<br />
<br />
"Honestly, my nerves are killing me right now", Henry confessed.<br />
<br />
"Ha-ha", Sandra laughed. "Is that why you are coming in here all dressed up as if you are going for an interview for the world's most important job?", Sandra teased.<br />
<br />
"You can have your laugh", Henry said. "After all, I am in your lion's den", he added.<br />
<br />
"Henry, like I told you over the phone, I have spoken to my dad at length and I know this is very genuine, trust me", Sandra reaffirmed.<br />
<br />
"If you say so", Henry said and they both walked into the main house.<br />
<br />
Dinner was brief. They all ate their food in silence. Henry ate his food in silence and with fear. After dinner the three of them moved into the living room to chat.<br />
<br />
Ben kept a close eye on Henry's moves and made sure he kept eye contact with him to make him aware that he was not in any way doing Henry any favours. Henry sat across Ben in a couch and Sandra sat close to her father but not on the same couch.<br />
<br />
"Are you a christian, Henry?", Ben asked.<br />
<br />
"This is the weirdest question ever for such an occasion", Henry thought to himself.<br />
<br />
"Yes, please Sir, I am", Henry started. "My parents are devout Christians and they made sure to bring us up in a god-fearing manner, sir", Henry answered as if his life depended on it.<br />
<br />
"Call me Ben", Sandra's father requested.<br />
<br />
"Okay sir...sorry...Ben", Henry fumbled.<br />
<br />
"This might sound a little bit forward and a bit rush but I want you to accompany us to church tomorrow", Ben suggested.<br />
<br />
"Wow, this sounds very rush indeed", Henry said. "I have a program at church tomorrow and...", Henry said and looked at Sandra.<br />
<br />
Sandra returned Henry's stare with a stern look and mimed the words, "Don't mess this opportunity up"<br />
<br />
"But on second thoughts, I think I'll pass on the program and go with you to church, sir...sorry...Ben", Henry said and looked at Sandra again who was now beaming with smiles from temple to temple.<br />
<br />
"Great!", Ben exclaimed. "Then I guess you should take your leave now so you go home to prepare for tomorrow", Ben suggested.<br />
<br />
Sandra saw Henry off and as they walked down the long, decorated aisle leading to the main gate, he engaged her in one last conversation as Ben stood on the corridor watching their every move. "What is the name of your church?", Ben asked. "I don't know why my father made us stop attending our church to attend this new church", Sandra said to evade the question. "It is one of these newly created one-man, prophetic, charismatic churches with those funny string of names", Sandra continued. "Ha-ha", Henry laughed. "It can't be that bad", Henry said. "What is the name of the church, Sandra?", Henry insisted. "Promise me that you won't laugh if I tell you the name", Sandra pleaded. "Come on Sandra, you should know me by now, moreover, I have no right to question your religious preference", Henry affirmed.<br />
<br />
"Okay", Sandra said.<br />
<br />
"Living Streams Of Flaming Grace International Church", Sandra revealed.<br />
<br />
"I beg your pardon?", Henry asked as he burst out in uncontrollable laughter.<br />
<br />
"Living Streams Of Flaming Grace International Church", Sandra repeated.<br />
<br />
Henry could not control his laughter and struggled to hold his breath to cease the laughter. "That is a mouthful!", Henry exclaimed. "You promised not to laugh", Sandra complained.<br />
<br />
"I just couldn't help it", Henry pleaded.<br />
<br />
"Just so you know, my father is the financial secretary and head of protocol at the church and he is held in high regard", Sandra revealed.<br />
<br />
"Why am I not surprised?", Henry started. "Your holy prophet is going to milk him dry with financing of church projects", Henry teased. "Get out of my house and don't be late tomorrow", Sandra teased and playfully shoved Henry out of the house.<br />
<br />
The next day, Henry reported early at Sandra's house even though he knew they were to attend the second service which was not bound to start until 10:00AM. At half past 9AM, they all left for the church.<br />
<br />
Living Streams Of Flaming Grace International Church was a small church with a seating capacity of not more than 200 people. The church was expensively decorated as imagined by Henry and had many pretty young girls. More than half of the congregation was made up of women of all ages. The atmosphere was charged with songs and different dance styles as Henry watched on. There was a brief sermon and then announcements were made. After the pretty announcer finished her piece, the man who gave the sermon took over the microphone and started speaking, "Today's service is a special anointing service and I would like to invite our financial secretary and his family to the altar for special blessings".<br />
<br />
Ben and Sandra started their way towards the altar but Sandra signalled Henry to follow them up the altar. Immediately all three of them were standing in front of the congregation, the prophet went into a trance.<br />
<br />
"The spirit is speaking to me", the prophet started. He walked towards Henry and spoke. "Young man, you are in love with this young lady, am I right?", the prophet said, pointing to Sandra.<br />
<br />
Henry nodded. Ben's eyes were firmly shut.<br />
<br />
The whole church went into an uproar after Henry's confirmation.<br />
<br />
The prophet continued. "The spirit is telling me something", the man of God said. "The spirit says that you two will get married but not for long because you are going to divorce this young sister over here and marry another lady", the prophet revealed. "But we as a church will stand in the gap to break and loose the hold of divorce in your lives in the name of Jesus!", the prophet screamed and began to pray and the entire church followed his lead. After about five minutes of loud prayers, the prophet signalled for the congregation to be quiet, said a separate prayer for each of them and sent the three of them back to their seats. As they sat, Ben leaned in and whispered to both Henry and Sandra, "The voice of the prophet is the voice of God and God cannot lie, so I would leave you two to ponder over what you want to start". "God reveals to redeem, Dad", Sandra whispered back to her father. "We would find a way around this", she added. Sandra looked at Ben but Ben shook his head in disbelief and disappointment. "I think we should heed the caution from your prophet because I once received a similar warning from another prophet when I was younger", Henry said.<br />
<br />
Sandra's eyes began to fill up with tears.<br />
<br />
After the service, Sandra rushed back to the car leaving Ben and Henry behind. She did not say a word on the drive back to the house. Henry requested to be dropped off at a bus terminal to continue his journey home. Ben gladly granted his request.<br />
<br />
"Baby", Ben started as he drove both of them home. "I know you are disappointed but it is better to be safe than to be sorry", Ben added.<br />
<br />
"Why do I have the feeling that this is just one of your manipulative strategies to rid me of my own happiness?", Sandra said.<br />
<br />
"Are you calling the prophet a liar?", Ben asked.<br />
<br />
"I know what you are capable of doing and I know that you can buy the conscience of any man", Sandra said<br />
<br />
"Including the conscience of a man of God?", Ben asked.<br />
<br />
"Let's just drop this topic for now", Ben suggested.<br />
<br />
"Before we do, just know that I love Henry and we will fight this together", Sandra said.<br />
<br />
"Ha-ha", Ben laughed.<br />
<br />
"Didn't you see the look on that young man's face as the prophet spoke?"<br />
<br />
"I don't want to be a part of these schemes anymore!", Sandra exclaimed and disembarked the car to open the gate to their mansion.<br />
<br />
<br />
For the rest of that day, Sandra failed in all her attempts to speak to Henry because he refused to answer any of her calls or reply any of her messages.<br />
<br />
The next day, Sandra pressured her father into waking up early so they could go to the firm. Ben obeyed Sandra's command and by 7:00 AM, they were already leaving the house. As the driver of the car moved into the car park, Sandra saw a man standing at the entrance of the building<br />
<br />
"What is he doing here?", she turned and asked her father.<br />
<br />
Ben had already realized Sandra wanted to say something.<br />
<br />
"He called the office last week and requested that we give him a space to do a project and I agreed", Ben answered.<br />
<br />
"You hate him with passion so why did you agree to help him now?", Sandra asked.<br />
<br />
"Let's just say I changed my mind about him and I am prepared to give him another chance", Ben said.<br />
<br />
"Well that is your choice but I hope our paths don't cross", Sandra said and opened the door to alight. "Just be nice", Ben pleaded.<br />
<br />
Sandra alighted and made her way into the office.<br />
<br />
She walked past the man without saying a word.<br />
<br />
"That was to be expected", the man said and followed Sandra into the building.<br />
<br />
Henry was having his usual chat with Audrey when Sandra walked in with the man following closely behind.<br />
<br />
Sandra stopped at the receptionist's desk and smiled at Henry. "Henry, we need to talk", Sandra said. Henry said his final words to Audrey and walked with Sandra towards the elevator with the man still following closely. As they waited for the elevator doors to open, the young man caught up with them. "I am trying to be nice so at least you should hear me out", the young man said.<br />
<br />
Henry was startled.<br />
<br />
"Can you just stop following me?", Sandra pleaded as she spoke to the man. "I can't really do this right now", Sandra added.<br />
<br />
"But just so we are clear, I would like you to meet this young man", Sandra said as she pointed to Henry. "Johnson, meet Henry, my boyfriend", Sandra said before she continued, "Henry, this is Johnson, my ex-fiance...<br />
<br />
YOU DON'T NEED TO BE TOLD! THIS IS SURELY A RECIPE FOR DISASTER. MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND I AM BACK!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
COMMENT.LIKE.SHARE.INVITE.<br />
<br />
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. THANKS A MILLION.<br />
<br />
SEND YOUR VIEWS, COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO lampteyedwin@yahoo.com<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TtwJo8iZbrg/V5dcrmJCzBI/AAAAAAAAB8A/9idYNywzkYcLfOOKbXbnVphcHN3LGZB9ACLcB/s1600/Camera360_2016_3_12_104857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TtwJo8iZbrg/V5dcrmJCzBI/AAAAAAAAB8A/9idYNywzkYcLfOOKbXbnVphcHN3LGZB9ACLcB/s320/Camera360_2016_3_12_104857.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-50869085428874934932016-06-28T07:37:00.000+00:002016-06-28T10:14:44.116+00:00THE SCENT OF YOUR HEART...EPISODE FIVE.<br />
Henry's was startled and confused on seeing the man. The man stood in the doorway to signal to Henry that he knew exactly what he was doing and sent the indication that he was not lost but was standing there for a reason.<br />
<br />
"What do you want?", a scared Henry asked as he walked backwards and found himself on the other side of Julius's desk. "You are the one I directed to the conference room yesterday, aren't you?".<br />
<br />
The man was silent as Henry asked him questions but only looked intently at Henry.<br />
<br />
"What do you want?", Henry screamed to signal to anyone who was in the building that he might be in trouble and needed assistance.<br />
<br />
"You remember me from yesterday, don't you?", the man finally spoke.<br />
<br />
Henry nodded. “The conference room guy”, Henry said.<br />
<br />
"What are you doing here?", Henry asked.<br />
<br />
"Yesterday's meeting was not our first encounter", the man revealed. "I have been watching and following you these past two days", the man revealed. "I followed you back home two days ago", the man said. "I know where you live, I know your family members and I know you would not want any harm to befall them", the man continued. "I stayed here all day because of you so you should know how serious what you are doing is affecting the one who hired me", the man said.<br />
<br />
"Someone hired you to follow me?", Henry enquired.<br />
<br />
"Don't be stupid, Henry", the man started. "I believe you know better than this", the man added. "Let me explain things to you briefly", the man said as he walked up to the desk Henry stood behind and took a seat.<br />
<br />
"I want you to stop seeing Sandra for your own good", the man started. "I was hired to scare you off but I guess our encounter yesterday was enough", the man recalled.<br />
<br />
Henry nodded timidly.<br />
<br />
"Now tell me, how far did you think this could go?", the man asked Henry as he placed his hands on the table revealing some scars on the back of his hand.<br />
<br />
"How far? ", the man asked. "Just so you know, I am willing to do anything to see to it that my client is happy and I wouldn't mind breaking a few bones to ensure that I achieve my goal", the man added.<br />
<br />
"There is nothing going on between Sandra and I", Henry rebutted as he stood his ground.<br />
<br />
"I beg to differ but that is not what my client thinks", the man said.<br />
<br />
"Henry, this thing is bigger and messed up than you think", the man tried to explain. "You are like a very tiny dot in this chain and it would take very little effort to erase you and believe me, the world won't lose sleep over your disappearance", the man added. "You are not the first person I have been asked to come after", the man revealed.<br />
<br />
"Henry, I chose to be gentle with you because I realized you were scared senseless yesterday as you are today", the man said with a smirk on his face. "I'd expect that you listened to me and do exactly as I have instructed", he added. "Just steer clear off Sandra and we all go home happy", the man said. "You get to keep your job and if you are dedicated to not having this encounter with me in the foreseeable future, you would do what we have agreed on right now", the man said and got up to leave. As he got to the doorway, he turned, looked intently at Henry one more time and said. "I am not this gentle and pleasant often so should there be another encounter, you would see my unpleasant tendencies", the man said sternly. "It's a free world Henry, so the choice is yours", the man added and left the office.<br />
<br />
Henry stood at Julius's side of the desk with his legs quivering with fear and tension as the man finally left the room.<br />
<br />
"I am now fully convinced that Sandra was the girl in the pastor's vision", Henry said as he tiptoed to the door to check if the man had truly left. He slowly pushed his head out of the doorway and looked in all directions for signs of the man. When he could not sight him anywhere, he quickly withdrew into Julius's office, shut the door and turned the key twice.<br />
<br />
He leaned with his back against the door.<br />
<br />
"All of this was real after all", Henry said to himself. "What am I going to do now?". "Do I have to inform my dad that my life and possibly that of my family's could be in danger should I fail in staying away from Sandra?", Henry thought out loud. "Should I opt out of this national service and apply next year at another institution?", Henry said to himself. "Should I involve the police into this matter?", Henry soliloquized.<br />
<br />
"I think I should seek counsel from Edwin and Kennedy", Henry said and reached for his phone from his left breast pocket. He dialed Kennedy's number first and waited for it to ring. As the phone rang for the first time, there was a sudden forceful crank of the door knob leading into Julius's office. The sound frightened Henry so much that out of reflex, he dropped his phone unto the tiled floor, cracking the screen and causing it to go off due to the impact.<br />
<br />
Henry started to back away from the door and the feeling he felt in the presence of his "assassin", began to come back to him. There was a number of forceful cranks on the knob. When the cranking stopped, the person behind the door started banging on the door.<br />
<br />
At this point, Henry knew his assassin had definitely returned to harm him this time. He quickly took cover behind Julius's desk and frantically looked around the room for something to arm himself with.<br />
<br />
Typically of the room he found himself in were stacks of books placed neatly in their shelves. In one swirl movement, he looked on Julius's desk as the banging on the door continued and armed himself with a stapler and a small statue of Atlas holding the globe.<br />
<br />
He placed his weapons behind him and asked, "Who is there?". There was no answer but the knocking continued, this time louder.<br />
<br />
"Who is that?", Henry reiterated as he tightened his grip on the stapler in his right hand.<br />
<br />
The banging stopped.<br />
<br />
There was a brief moment of silence and suddenly, there was a very gentle knock on the door.<br />
<br />
Henry began to sweat.<br />
<br />
"Please, who is it?", Henry asked one more time.<br />
<br />
"It is me Sir, the janitor", the voice from the other side revealed. "I want to come and clean the place sir, the voice added.<br />
<br />
As Henry recognized the voice, he heaved a sigh of relief as his confidence returned to him and he mustered courage to answer the door. Before he got to the door, he dropped his "weapons" from where he picked them, picked up his cell phone from where it had fallen and unlocked the door for the janitor to come in and go about his business.<br />
<br />
"I thought Mr. Julius was here", the janitor said as Henry unlocked the door.<br />
<br />
"No he is not", Henry said. "He asked me to do something for him early this morning and since I didn't want to get distracted, I locked myself in here", Henry explained. "But on your way here, did you chance upon any strange looking man?", Henry enquired. "No please", the janitor answered. "I see many strange faces here every day but I don't pay attention to them because that is not what I was hired to do", the cleaner said sarcastically. "My job is throw the rubbish away", he added.<br />
<br />
"Alright", Henry answered.<br />
<br />
As Henry exited the office, he remembered the wording in Julius's warning in the file and it sent shivers down his spine...<br />
<br />
<br />
That day too, Julius, Sandra and Ben didn't show up at the office. When the day was over, Henry left the office for the house but this time, he gave every little occurrence on the way back to his house grave attention. He flawlessly made the effort to ensure that he was not being followed by anyone. When he got home, he went straight to his room and locked himself inside...<br />
<br />
<br />
Sandra was under a mild form of house arrest by her father. He had taken her cell phone from her so that her contact with Henry could be minimized. She lay on the bed with tears in her eyes and memories of Henry in her mind. Every thought of him made her heart miss several beats and sent sweet tingling feelings through her entire body. The feeling gave her a sense of reassurance that she was meant to be with Henry.<br />
<br />
She was now convinced that she was madly in love with Henry.<br />
<br />
As she lay in her bed, there was a gentle sound and the door to her room slowly flew open. Ben, appeared standing in the door way with the light from the lobby assisting in casting his shadow unto Sandra's bed.<br />
<br />
Ben had dark brown hair, which was thick and lustrous. His eyes were mesmerizing. His face was strong and defined, his features molded from granite. He did not look as old as he really was. He had dark eye brows, which sloped downwards in a serious expression. He usually put on a playful smile which sometimes drew a hard line across his face. He possessed strong hands which had become slightly rough from working hard jobs as a young man.<br />
<br />
He walked into the room and shut the door. His voice was deep, with a serious tone.<br />
<br />
"Sandra, are you still crying?", Ben asked as he walked up to her and took a seat at the edge of the bed.<br />
<br />
"No, I am not crying", Sandra said in the most sorrowful tone of voice imaginable. "So why are you sounding that way?", Ben asked.<br />
<br />
"It's nothing, I am fine", Sandra responded.<br />
<br />
"Sandra, ever since you were born, I have made it a point to protect you in the best way that I know how", Ben started.<br />
<br />
"Your way has been wrong all this while!", Sandra rebutted as she sat up on her bed revealing her red, sunken eyes.<br />
<br />
"What we are doing is wrong, daddy", Sandra said as she wiped away tears from her eyes. "I want us to stop it", "I want to have a normal life", Sandra started. "I want to be free to choose my friends and not have you interfere with it". Sandra revealed. "I want to talk to someone", Sandra said as she started crying. "I want to be free", Sandra added.<br />
<br />
"Sandra", Ben started. "The world is full of liars, cheats, gold diggers and opportunists", Ben said. "They are just waiting in the shadows to pounce on you once they realize how vulnerable you are", Ben revealed. "This young man you are getting yourself attached to falls within the category of people I am talking about", Ben said. "Because he knows whose daughter you are, he wants to take advantage of you, can't you see?", Ben said. "I don't want you making the mistake of entrusting your future to such a person", Ben continued.<br />
<br />
"How can I tell who is good for me or who is not if you don't allow me to go out there and experience things for myself?", Sandra questioned. "Allow me to make my own mistakes and then I would concede defeat that you have always been right", Sandra pleaded. "Just this once dad, allow me to do this on my own without your interference", Sandra begged as the tears flowed freely from her eyes. "Are you asking me to wait till you get hurt before I protect you?", Ben enquired.<br />
<br />
"Daddy, people get hurt, cheated on, lied to and betrayed once a while and they eventually get over it", Sandra explained. "Should I get hurt along the line, I would cry but trust me, I would get over it no matter what", Sandra preached.<br />
<br />
"In all the years we have been together, I have never seen you this adamant and strong-willed", Ben disclosed. "What has come over you?", Ben queried.<br />
<br />
"Nothing", Sandra answered.<br />
<br />
"But let's just say something I have never felt before has been awakened inside of me", Sandra said with pride written all over her face.<br />
<br />
Ben was adamant when he spoke.<br />
<br />
"There is no telling that no matter how many times I try to convince you, your mind has obviously been made up and my words are going to mean virtually nothing to you", Ben opined. "<br />
<br />
"I have never been so sure in my life", Sandra said. "Daddy, please give me this chance to prove to you that I can do this and that I am strong enough to face the world on my own", Sandra added. "I just want to fall in love like every other normal young lady", Sandra stressed. "Even if I don't find peace while I am at it, I would know that I was advised against it and I refused to listen", Sandra revealed.<br />
<br />
Ben looked at Sandra with awe. "That's a first", Ben said. "I have never seen my little girl so happy like this in a long while", he added. "I am convinced that you know what you are getting yourself involved in and I am prepared to let you have just one shot at this", Ben explained. "But let me throw this caution to the wind, should I get word of any foul play, that young man would be as good as dead", Ben added.<br />
<br />
"None of that is going to happen", Sandra said confidently.<br />
<br />
Her father went further up the bed and hugged her. "I know what is best for you and I would expect that you listen to me", Ben said.<br />
<br />
"I can do this", Sandra assured him.<br />
<br />
"You know I would always be here for you when things go bad right?", Ben said as he began to caress her.<br />
<br />
Sandra's first instinct was to break his hold but she didn't want to do anything that would jeopardize her being together with Henry. So without putting up a fight or showing any signs of disgust, Sandra quietly sat on the bed as Ben caressed and fondled her breasts. He soon took off her clothes, placed her on the bed and gently parted her skinny thighs. As soon as he was on top of her, she closed her eyes and all she could imagine was how making love with Henry was going to feel like. Tears run down her cheeks as she lay there, motionless. She clinched the bed sheet firmly and whispered, "I love you Henry, I really do"...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The next day, Henry was almost running late for work. He spent the whole night on the phone with Kennedy and Edwin updating them on the happenings at work that day involving the alleged assassin. Edwin advised that Henry stay away from Sandra for good per the man's instructions. Kennedy even wanted to have the matter reported first to Henry's parents and then the police to ensure their safety but Edwin and Henry vehemently disagreed. "I would have none of that!", Henry remarked. "I don't want to get my parents involved in this thing", Henry added. "Moreover, the people we are fighting are far more powerful and wealthy so the police would deem it a foolish case at best", Henry explained. "Even if I really wanted to get the police involved, what sort of evidence do I have to back my claims with?", Henry asked.<br />
<br />
"You can use the note from Julius's office", Edwin suggested. "I don't have it", Henry said. "Where is it?", Kennedy asked. "I left it in the file on Julius's desk", Henry answered. "Are you kidding me?", Edwin asked. "You have to get that file before Julius or anyone gets it and ends up destroying it eventually.<br />
<br />
"Okay", Henry started. "My boss didn't turn up at the office yesterday so I would wake up very early and go and pick it up before anyone else does", Henry said.<br />
<br />
It was that same morning that Henry was running late for work.<br />
<br />
When he entered the premises of Kaprisky, it was almost half past seven in the morning. As he hurriedly made his way to the main entrance to the building, he had a shock of his life as Ben's car pulled up right beside him.<br />
<br />
Henry kept walking.<br />
<br />
The driver was ordered to follow him. When the car got close to him, the left back door of the car flew open, "Henry, get in!", Ben ordered. Henry declined the offer and slowly backed away out of fear.<br />
<br />
"Get in!", Ben ordered, this time very sternly.<br />
<br />
"I can't sir", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"Henry please get into the car for Christ's sake", a female voice spoke from the passenger seat in the front. Sandra pushed her head through the seats and signaled for Henry to get into the car. On seeing Sandra, Henry was at ease and slowly entered the car, although all of his confidence had deserted him in the process.<br />
<br />
Immediately Henry entered the vehicle, he was ordered to shut the door. "My daughter has spoken to me at length about you", Ben started. "Even though I have my own reservations, I am going to allow the two of you to be just friends and nothing more", Ben explained. "She seems to have a lot of faith and confidence in your friendship and I hope that you have the endurance to keep it that way", Ben continued. "Therefore, I give you permission to be her friend but be warned, should she come complaining about your attitude, be sure to brace yourself because you will witness hell on earth", Ben promised.<br />
<br />
"Stop it Daddy", Sandra screamed.<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry sat in the back seat of the range rover like a newly-confirmed mute.<br />
<br />
He did not say a word.<br />
<br />
"Can you excuse us while I have a word with Henry?", Ben asked politely looking at Sandra.<br />
<br />
Sandra knew that she would not like what her dad would say to Henry but she had to obey him. "Every worthy venture comes with great risks", Sandra said to herself and disembarked the sports car.<br />
<br />
"Sir please I don't understand all of this", Henry started as Sandra shut the door. "If you care to know, I was threatened yesterday by some guy who was asking me to stay away from your daughter", Henry remarked. "Today, you are telling me to do the very thing I was threatened not to do", Henry added. "I just don't get what is happening".<br />
<br />
"I am glad you received that message yesterday and I hope you would know what is best for you to do what is expected of you", Ben said.<br />
<br />
"So why are you asking me to go against your warning just to put my life and that of others in danger?", Henry queried.<br />
<br />
"My daughter seems to believe that she is in love with you and so are you", Ben said. "She doesn't want to listen to me, her father, who knows what's best for her so I am letting her hear what she wants theoretically but in practice, I would never allow it to happen", Ben added.<br />
<br />
"Now I am confused", Henry said. "What exactly do you want me to do?", Henry asked.<br />
<br />
"I want you to make her believe that all is well between you two", Ben said. "Again, I would expect that you say nothing of what ensued yesterday with our mutual friend or details of this conversation to Sandra", Ben warned. "I hope you can do that without any difficulty", Ben said.<br />
<br />
"Yes sir, Henry replied.<br />
<br />
"You are a smart young man and I know you would figure out what's best for all of us and not cross the line", Ben said. "I think we are done here so get the hell out of my car", Ben ordered...MORE SOON<br />
<br />
CAN HENRY KEEP UP APPEARANCE? NOW THAT SANDRAIS MADLY IN LOVE WITH HIM, WOULD HE SUCCEED IN GETTING HER TO STAY AWAY FROM HIM? THE WEB OF SCHEMES IS JUST ABOUT TO BEGIN…STAY TUNED. THIS IS A MASTERPIECE FROM THE STABLES OF RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTS. MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
COMMENT.LIKE.SHARE.INVITE.<br />
<br />
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. THANKS A MILLION.<br />
<br />
SEND YOUR VIEWS, COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO lampteyedwin@yahoo.com<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YlolDc0q8N4/V3Io1XvmOdI/AAAAAAAAB6c/5GIwErPaAHo0jpitljYTP5oX3jund89HgCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160322_174949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YlolDc0q8N4/V3Io1XvmOdI/AAAAAAAAB6c/5GIwErPaAHo0jpitljYTP5oX3jund89HgCLcB/s400/IMG_20160322_174949.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-91765502194271884422016-06-21T10:45:00.000+00:002016-06-22T02:40:20.242+00:00THE SCENT OF YOUR HEART...EPISODE FOURIT HAS BEEN LONG OVERDUE BUT IT IS FINALLY HERE....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
THE SCENT OF YOUR HEART...EPISODE FOUR<br />
<br />
"Henry, my dad is ruthless and I don't want anything bad to happen to you", Sandra said as she held Henry's hand tightly in a dimly lit apartment.<br />
<br />
"Let's run away to a faraway place where my father or anyone cannot find us so we can be together forever, just the two of us", Sandra suggested as she held on to Henry's right hand even tighter. Sandra had packed a little travelling bag with some clothes and quickly grabbed it from the wardrobe. She launched herself toward Henry as she married her palm with his and they quickly made for the exit.<br />
<br />
"Where are we going?", a puzzled Henry asked as he was being pulled towards the door by Sandra. "We are running away like you suggested", Sandra answered as she quickly scanned the room with her eyes to see if she had left something behind.<br />
<br />
"I suggested?", a totally confused Henry asked.<br />
<br />
"But where can we go without your father finding out?", Henry asked, now feeling reluctant to leave the room in which both of them found themselves. He pulled his hand out of Sandra's and started retracing his steps to the opposite end of the room. "What are you doing?", Sandra asked as she walked towards him. "We are running out of time", Sandra revealed.<br />
<br />
"Stay away from me!", Henry screamed. "Just stay away from me!", Henry reiterated.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Henry, I thought you promised to love me and would stand or fall with me regardless of the opposition we faced", Sandra enquired with tears in her eyes. "Please don't cry, Sandra, you know your tears make me weak and helpless", Henry said as he quickly moved in on Sandra to stop her tears from flowing.<br />
<br />
"Then prove your love for me; run away with me, take me away from this torture and stay with me forever", Sandra said, hugging Henry tightly.<br />
<br />
"Give up everything and start all over with me", Sandra begged.<br />
<br />
<br />
"This is not how I wanted all of this to play out", Henry started. "I expected us to talk to your dad, make him understand and ask for his blessings for the two of us to be together", Henry said. "I didn't expect that we were going to have to fight to be together, Sandra, don't you get it?", Henry enquired.<br />
<br />
"<br />
"Henry, both of us cannot fight my dad even if we tried", Sandra explained as she looked into a drawer and stashed some money into her purse.<br />
<br />
"As it stands now, we can not have everything going our way all the time and you and I know full well that every true and worthy cause faces fierce opposition", Sandra rebutted. "This is the test of our love and we have to pass it by all means", Sandra added.<br />
<br />
"Run away with me, Henry!", Sandra insisted.<br />
<br />
"Okay", Henry answered as if he was under a spell.<br />
<br />
"I am willing to lose everything for your sake and even if I have to die, I would be glad I died fighting to be with you", Henry said in a shaky tone.<br />
<br />
He mustered courage, walked up to Sandra and held her hand tightly. "I love you so much, Sandra", Henry said and pulled her towards the door. Immediately the door cranked open, there was Sandra's father standing right in front of the opening, blocking both of them from leaving the room.<br />
<br />
"Where do you think you are going?", Ben asked in the most angry tone of voice imaginable. "Where are you taking my daughter?", Ben asked. "I would make sure I have you arrested for kidnapping and I would personally make sure that you rot in jail", Ben said in a fit of rage. Ben launched himself at Sandra in a bid to grab her and yank her from Henry's hold.<br />
<br />
As Ben made his attack on Sandra, Henry turned to shield Sandra from any possible attack from her father but in his desperate attempt to shield her, she had surprisingly vanished into thin air.<br />
<br />
Sandra was nowhere to be found. He looked around the room and it appeared empty. Sandra's father, Ben started walking towards Henry. He stretched forth his hand aiming for Henry's neck and suddenly, Henry woke up.<br />
<br />
"My God!", Henry exclaimed as he opened his eyes and saw himself on his bed; sweat dripping from his cold face. "It was only a dream!", Henry exclaimed as he made the sign of the cross to console himself. He touched his face and pinched himself a couple of times to be double sure that he was not still having the nightmare. He cast his mind back on the last conversation he had had with Sandra the previous night.<br />
<br />
"That portion was not a dream too?", Henry asked himself as Sandra's parting words came hitting his conscience. I recall what Sandra told me vividly.<br />
<br />
"Oh my God, I am in trouble, please if you truly love me, save me from the fury that is about to be unleashed upon me", Henry prayed. He felt with his hand all over his bed in search of his mobile phone in the dark room. When he finally reached for it, he turned on the phone's screen and used the dimly lit device to illuminate the room in search of any figure hiding in the shadows waiting to attack him. "What have I done?", Henry asked himself. "See where my desire has led me", Henry continued. He tried to go back to sleep but even sleep had eluded him.<br />
<br />
"I am doomed!", Henry lamented.<br />
<br />
"Sandra would be the reason for my failure", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"Sandra is the lady the pastor talked about!", Henry said. "She was the lady the man referred to in his vision!", Henry exclaimed.<br />
<br />
Like magic, immediately those words came out of his mouth, his mind went back into the past; to many years before that fateful night and the conversation with Sandra...<br />
<br />
When Henry completed Senior High School, his mother asked him to accompany her to a prayer group meeting one night. During the prayer session, the leader called Henry and told him this, "You are highly favored and it makes the devil very jealous of your bright future", the man revealed. "You have many weaknesses", the prayer leader said. “You have a haughty character and you are quick-tempered", the man continued as he began to get into what seemed like a trance-like posture. He was however ably held upright by two other members of the prayer group "One more thing, if ever you are going to fail, it will be because of a woman so choose your friends and lovers wisely!", the man exclaimed and stood at attention after which he asked the people gathered together in the meeting to pray for Henry.<br />
<br />
<br />
After the prayer meeting, Henry's association with girls plummeted. He kept more company with guys than ladies and even up until the time he completed university, he didn't have a girlfriend. He found company and solace in his two faithful roommates, Edwin and Kennedy. Even way back in the university, Henry stood up most of his blind dates and hook-ups set up for him by his roommates. He had made it a point and a rule to steer clear off female friendships so as to avert the fulfillment of the prophecy.<br />
<br />
"How come I didn't see this coming?", Henry soliloquized as he looked down upon his mobile phone.<br />
<br />
It was 2:24 AM.<br />
<br />
Henry knew it was only a matter of hours left before all hell broke loose upon him at Kaprisky Law Firm that morning.<br />
<br />
Henry went through the contacts on his mobile phone and called Edwin.<br />
<br />
There was no response.<br />
<br />
He called a second time and still there was no response.<br />
<br />
He then did the next obvious thing; he called Kennedy. Kennedy answered the call after the phone had rang like six times.<br />
<br />
"Did someone die?", Kennedy asked immediately he answered the phone. Before Henry could answer, Kennedy went on again, "Or is it Edwin?", "Is he alright?", he asked. "If you called to ask for money, then I am sorry, but you dialed the wrong number, dude", Kennedy said.<br />
<br />
"I am the one who called you so shut up and let me do the talking and stop making these unnecessary insinuations", Henry cut in.<br />
<br />
"You can't call me at this ungodly hour and bark at me", Kennedy said out of anger. "My phone is my private property and I can choose to answer it or otherwise", Kennedy added.<br />
<br />
"Ken, my situation is getting worse with each passing moment", Henry started. "Apparently, Sandra is involved sexually with her own father", Henry, revealed<br />
<br />
"Incest?", Kennedy asked. "What?", he exclaimed. "I am as shell-shocked as yourself", Henry confirmed. "As it stands now, he has found out that I may be involved in a way with his daughter and he appears not to like the sound of it and he is said to going to come after me for my foolish courage", Henry explained. "What is all this trouble?", Kennedy asked. "Can't you just stay away from this girl?", Kennedy enquired "Ask again, my brother", Henry seconded. "I don't even know what to think or what to do", Henry confessed.<br />
<br />
Before he could continue, his phone beeped signaling an incoming call, he took it off his ear and checked, it was Edwin. "Hold on, Kennedy, Edwin is calling so let me join his call so we can have a conference call", Henry told Kennedy.<br />
<br />
"Are you having an emergency?", Edwin asked when Henry conferenced the call. "Hahaha", Kennedy laughed out loud. "The same thing I asked him when he called me", Kennedy said. "What's up?", Edwin eagerly asked anticipating a positive response. "Henry's issue is getting murkier", Kennedy answered. "It appears his girlfriend's dad is sleeping with her and is coming after Henry out of jealousy. "This can't be real!", Edwin cut in abruptly. "This is the worst kind of story I have ever heard", Edwin started.<br />
<br />
"I think it's about time we put an end to all of this nonsense!", Edwin said angrily. "I cant be losing precious sleep over this madness", Edwin burst out, to the surprise of both Henry and Kennedy. "I think your girlfriend needs a psychologist and I think you also need to stop fueling all her fantasies by avoiding her", Edwin said. "It is because of the attention she is receiving from you that is making her cook up all these cock and bull stories", Edwin ranted. "These stories are so bizarre that, it wont fit into any storybook or movie", Edwin continued.<br />
<br />
"Slow down, Edwin", Kennedy said realizing how angry Edwin was getting.<br />
<br />
"Come to think of it, what proof do you have of her incest claims?", Edwin asked as both Kennedy and Henry listened so quietly that you could literally hear a pin drop. "Have you had any form of encounter with her dad before?", Edwin asked.<br />
<br />
"Yes, but briefly", Henry responded with a meek voice resembling that of a child who was being scolded for misbehaving. "And in that brief encounter, did he come across as an incestuous father?", Edwin questioned.<br />
<br />
"No he didn't", Henry answered.<br />
<br />
"So why then do you let us lose sleep over such fabricated stories?", Edwin queried.<br />
<br />
"But...", Henry started<br />
<br />
"But what?", Edwin rudely cut in. "To be totally honest with you, this matter is beginning to get on my nerves", Edwin revealed.<br />
<br />
There was a long silence.<br />
<br />
"You guys remember the prophecy about me with the girl in it right?", Henry enquired. "Could she be the one the man was talking about?", Henry asked with a worried tone of voice.<br />
<br />
<br />
"That is true!", Kennedy exclaimed. "How could we have forgotten the hell and embarrassment you put us through because of this unfounded prophecy?", Kennedy said sarcastically. "And now, you walk unaided into the same thing you have been trying to avoid for years with your two eyes wide open", Kennedy questioned. "That is the irony of life, we end up crash-landing into the very thing we keep running away from", Kennedy added.<br />
<br />
"I still maintain that the pastor was lucky and just guessed that scenario", Edwin cut in.<br />
<br />
"If it was just a mere guess, why are all the things he said falling in place?", Henry quizzed.<br />
<br />
"Why me and why now?", Henry questioned.<br />
<br />
"Henry, you are making this too hard on yourself", Edwin started.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Till Sandra's dad personally asks you to steer clear off her beloved daughter, let's just assume that all that you have heard are not true", Kennedy finally said. "I am beginning to take sides with Edwin on this particular matter", Kennedy added. "Let's all catch the little sleep left for us to catch before morning", Edwin suggested. "We can update one another as and when the need arises, goodbye", Edwin said and was the first to end the call.<br />
<br />
"Don't worry, Henry, everything will be fine", Kennedy said, yawned and dropped the call.<br />
<br />
Henry was left all alone in his own dilemma. Instead of going back to sleep like his friends, he lay on his back and looked up at the ceiling fan as it swirled. "It is easy for them to whine and rant because they are not in my shoes", Henry talked to himself referring to Edwin and Kennedy. "If all this is true, how can I stand up to Ben and Julius?", Henry continued.<br />
<br />
He tossed and turned in the bed and as he was finally about to doze off, his phone's alarm sounded and he had to get ready for what could possibly be his worst day on earth...<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry walked through the car park towards the entrance to Kaprisky Law Firm. As he walked, he looked through the car park to see if he was going to see Ben's car parked among the fleet of luxury cars at the car park.<br />
<br />
Ben's car was not there.<br />
<br />
Henry walked briskly past the reception and quickly stood in front of the elevator waiting for it to open so he could go up into his office. As he stretched forth his hand to press the elevator's button, he realized his palms were very wet from anxiety and tension. He placed his hand in his pocket in an attempt to wipe his hand on the handkerchief he kept there. Immediately, his hand touched the handkerchief, a hand tapped his shoulder and he jumped up like a frightened cat that had been startled. As he turned, he saw an unfamiliar face.<br />
<br />
"Oh, I am so sorry to have startled you", a tall, dark man probably in his mid-thirties spoke. "I am looking for the conference room", the man spoke. "The lady at the reception asked me to go down this hallway but I can't seem to find it", the man said.<br />
<br />
Henry's heart was still racing inside of his chest. "Okay, when you get to that door, turn right and count three doors, the fourth one on the right is the conference room", Henry said as he pointed and gave directions to assist the man. As soon as the man was on his way, the elevator door opened and Henry rushed into it without second thoughts.<br />
<br />
<br />
"It was thirty-seven minutes past midday and Henry had heard or seen no sign of Ben or Sandra. Even Julius had not showed up. Henry began to get worried. All his colleagues had gone out to have their lunch already but Henry insisted he was not hungry.<br />
<br />
Henry kept thinking of how he was going to face Ben if it so happened that the two of them had to face off in a confrontation. It was almost 5:00PM and there was still no sign of Ben, Sandra or Julius. Henry began to suspect that something had happened to Sandra. He picked out his phone and called Sandra.<br />
<br />
He called her four more times and there was still no response from Sandra. "What has happened to Sandra?", Henry asked himself. In his state of confusion and helplessness, he decided to call Julius and find out if he was going to come into the office that day. Since he knew Ben and Julius were friends, he had the conviction that if anything was going on, Julius would definitely have wind of it.<br />
<br />
"Hello sir", Henry said as Julius answered the phone. "Are you going to come in to the office today?", Henry asked politely.<br />
<br />
"I am already inside the building", Julius answered. "I just came in", Julius added. "Meet me in the lobby downstairs", Julius requested.<br />
<br />
"Before you come, I want you to pack your bag", Julius ordered.<br />
<br />
"The hour has finally come", Henry said as he walked to his desk to pack the bag in which he had his files and documents before making his way downstairs. "At least, I should be thankful that they are just sacking me", Henry said to himself. "It could have been worse", Henry said to console himself.<br />
<br />
"Good afternoon Sir", Henry said in a shaky tone as he reached downstairs and met Julius.<br />
<br />
"Good afternoon, my boy", Julius responded giddily.<br />
<br />
"I want you to close early today because I want you to carry out a task for me very early tomorrow morning", Julius revealed.<br />
<br />
Henry heaved a heavy sigh of relief.<br />
<br />
"They are not going to terminate my appointment?", Henry thought to himself as he listened attentively to Julius.<br />
<br />
"I am going to work on a case but I am sure it would take me late into the night", Julius started. "I would leave the finished work on my table but the client and his lawyers would pass by very early for it so I want you to report to work tomorrow earlier than usual so you can hand over the file to them", Julius explained. "I would call you and give you details of the file after it is done so please keep your phone close to you", Julius added.<br />
<br />
Henry was so shell-shocked by Julius's request that all he could say was, "Yes Sir".<br />
<br />
"I will call you tonight so be sure to get some rest", Julius said and held the front door open for Henry.<br />
<br />
As Henry walked out of the premises of Kaprisky Law Firm, he could not believe what was happening. He knew within his heart of hearts that something bad was going to happen. He just kept his faith, went home and immediately after getting something to eat, went straight to bed. He sent messages to Edwin and Kennedy updating them on the happenings of the day and they assured him that nothing was going to happen.<br />
<br />
Around 10:38PM that night, Julius called Henry and gave him details of the file in question and asked him to be sure to be in the office before 6:30AM the next day so that his clients could pick it up for an early court hearing.<br />
<br />
The following day, Henry obeyed his boss's instructions and showed up at the main gate of Kaprisky at exactly 6:20AM. He quickly went up to Julius's office to pick up the file in anticipation of the clients. It took him no time to get into the office. The building was virtually empty save the two night security guards at the gate. When he picked up the file, he realized it was so light in weight and wondered why it had to take Julius so long to work on.<br />
<br />
Out of curiosity, he decided to take a quick peek at the work Julius had done.<br />
<br />
To his surprise, when he opened the file, written in capitals were the words, "WE KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING. WE ARE CAPABLE OF MAKING LIFE FOR YOU AND YOUR UNBORN GENERATIONS A LIVING HELL. KNOW YOUR PLACE AND STAY THERE FOR YOUR OWN GOOD!".<br />
<br />
Henry's heart sunk after it had missed several beats. He turned to leave the office but there was a figure standing in the doorway.<br />
<br />
Henry froze.<br />
<br />
The figure approached Henry.<br />
<br />
Henry recognized the figure instantly. It was the man whom he had given directions to the previous day... MORE SOON!!!<br />
<br />
HENRY IS IN TROUBLE. HAS HE BEEN SET UP? FIND OUT MORE IN THE NEXT EPISODE OF THIS CHILLING SAGA. MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND THIS IS ANOTHER STORY FROM THE STABLES OF RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTS.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
COMMENT.LIKE.SHARE.INVITE.<br />
<br />
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. THANKS A MILLION.<br />
<br />
SEND YOUR VIEWS, COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO lampteyedwin@yahoo.com<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B6jpr-dJlmc/V2kag4y87wI/AAAAAAAAB50/kWUJX7GhFRQhfgWAIn8LQHFbwI9UoTjTACLcB/s1600/IMG_20160315_181421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B6jpr-dJlmc/V2kag4y87wI/AAAAAAAAB50/kWUJX7GhFRQhfgWAIn8LQHFbwI9UoTjTACLcB/s400/IMG_20160315_181421.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-51800137815250492602016-06-07T13:10:00.002+00:002016-06-07T18:56:51.595+00:00THE SCENT OF YOUR HEART...EPISODE THREE.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I beg your pardon but what did you just say sir?", Henry asked out of shock, surprise, wonder and horror all mixed in one.<br />
<br />
"I am asking you to sleep with me like a woman sleeps with a man", Julius reiterated. "I mean I want to make love to you", he rephrased.<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry's heart missed several beats.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Sir please I can't do that”. “It is out of place and equally out of this world for you to think up something of this magnitude", Henry said as he backed away but was stuck between the wall and Julius. "I am sorry if you picked up the wrong signals but I don't do men", Henry blurted. "I have never considered sleeping with a man before and as a matter of fact, I never consider doing that, never, not even for all the money in the world!", Henry exclaimed.<br />
<br />
Julius just kept staring at Henry seductively as he went on in his ranting spree. "More so, I thought you said I was like a son to you so why would you even think about sleeping with your son?", Henry quizzed.<br />
<br />
Julius laughed out so loud after Henry's submission that it made Henry look and feel so stupid.<br />
<br />
"Sir please this is not a joke", Henry said as he started to get uncomfortable in Julius's presence.<br />
<br />
"I know", Julius responded. "That is why I said you were like a son to me not as if I was insinuating that you were my real son", Julius explained with laughter.<br />
<br />
There was a long silence as both Henry and Julius stared intently at each other. "Or is this some form of sexuality test?", Henry asked as he began to feel that Julius was just playing a prank on his sexuality to ascertain whether he had more than one sexual preference.<br />
<br />
Julius laughed out even louder.<br />
<br />
"Tests are conducted in classrooms and not in bedrooms", Julius said with a smirk on his face. "This is the real deal, Henry", Julius confirmed. "I can see that my actions have taken you by surprise but it is not as if it was not to be expected", Julius started. "I saw this from miles away so your reaction is nothing new to me", Julius continued. "You know another thing that is not new to me?", Julius asked rhetorically. "Just like all the other young men before you, you would come begging and crumbling at my feet to crawl into my bed", Julius said.<br />
<br />
"The comment sent shock waves down Henry's spine.<br />
<br />
"I am not the first?"..."He put others through such an ordeal?"... "Why did they choose to give in to him?"... "What would he do to me if I told him that I would never be interested?", all these questions flooded Henry's mind as he took in the shock from Julius's last statement.<br />
<br />
"Sir, please I want to go home", Henry pleaded. "I promise not to tell anyone about what just happened here", Henry said. "After all, I have signed a nondisclosure agreement so whatever I say can make me liable for punishment", Henry added.<br />
<br />
"You are very smart", Julius started. "In fact, you are too smart for my liking and I'd give you credit for that", Julius continued. "The others didn't resist this much so let's see how long you can keep up with your hard-to-get antics", Julius added. Julius backed away and gave Henry some space to pass. Henry quickly seized the opportunity to move clear off Julius. "You don't need to be scared", Julius reiterated. "I would see you in the office on Monday", Julius said as Henry started his way towards the main gate.<br />
<br />
"One more thing", Julius started. "I'd be having someone come over next week and I can make you watch to see how we do it, that is if you don't mind", Julius suggested.<br />
<br />
"I do mind and I still can't believe all of this is real", Henry said as he turned to listen to his boss. "Sir, I would very much appreciate it if you stopped giving me gifts", Henry said. "I feel patronized already", Henry said out of disgust. "The gifts are in no way linked to all of this", Julius inveigled as he walked over to where Henry was standing. "It is still the same thing to me", Henry countered. "I would like to take my leave now", Henry finally said as he picked flirtatious signals emanating from Julius body posture as he approached the place where he stood. Henry quickly rushed to the entrance leading out of the house.<br />
<br />
When he got to the gate, the gatekeeper looked at him suspiciously as he made his way out of the house. Henry also returned the favour by giving him a very stern look as he opened the gate for him to let him out of the house.<br />
<br />
Immediately Henry stepped out of the house, he pulled out his phone and called his two friends, Edwin and Kennedy and asked them to meet up with him at his house.<br />
<br />
Henry got home after an hour and waited for his friends to arrive. When they did, he asked that they spoke outside the house.<br />
<br />
"I am in deep trouble", Henry started.<br />
<br />
"What is the matter?", Edwin asked.<br />
<br />
"This national service posting will eventually do me more harm than good judging by the bizarre turn of events", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"Henry, just cut the chase and get to the crux of the matter", Kennedy said impatiently and out of worry.<br />
<br />
"I wasn't supposed to tell anyone this but you two have stuck with me in times that no one else did and you guys are more like brothers to me so I suppose telling you this won't hurt anyone", Henry started.<br />
<br />
"What are you talking about?", Edwin asked.<br />
<br />
"What have you done wrong?", Kennedy chipped in.<br />
<br />
"As it stands now, the only thing I have done wrong is accepting to work as a national service personnel at Kaprisky Law firm", Henry started. "From what I hear, Kaprisky's integrity as the whole world knows it is just one big fat lie, a scam, to say the least", Henry recounted.<br />
<br />
"What is that supposed to mean?", Edwin cut in. "You've been at the firm for barely a year and you know all this?", Edwin quizzed.<br />
<br />
"My informant is no other than the daughter of the owner of the firm", Henry revealed. "According to her, the supposed flawless reputation of Kaprisky is built on a foundation of lies, trickery, underhand dealings, coercion and corruption", Henry revealed.<br />
<br />
"Wait a minute", Kennedy cut in. "Are you telling us that you believe her?", Kennedy asked.<br />
<br />
"I don't think she can lie to me", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"Really?", both Kennedy and Edwin exclaimed.<br />
<br />
"Henry, ask yourself this question", Edwin sat and spoke. "Who would say such damning things about her father's line of work to someone she barely knows and expect that person not to have his or her own reservations about what is being said?", Edwin asked. "And come to think of it, did you bother to ask her why she chose you besides all her rich and powerful friends to reveal this to?", Edwin questioned.<br />
<br />
Henry looked startled as the questions kept hitting him.<br />
<br />
"I really don't know why she told me but I am yet to find out if there is an ulterior motive behind all of this", Henry said. "That is even the least of my worries, Kaprisky can be the mafia for all I care", Henry continued. "There are more serious and pressing issues that I need to deal with now", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"My boss is gay and wants to sleep with me", Henry revealed<br />
<br />
"What?", both Edwin and Kennedy exclaimed.<br />
<br />
"You heard me right", Henry said. "I am just coming back from his house and he came unto me without warning", Henry said. "He said he was in love with me and wanted to sleep with me", Henry added<br />
<br />
"Prior to today, he always gave me gifts and spare change when I ran errands for him and I thought he was doing it out of goodwill but I realized that these gestures were all part of his schemes to get me to go to bed with him", Henry exclaimed<br />
<br />
Both Edwin and Kennedy looked shell-shocked as Henry narrated his ordeal to them. "He even said that he had slept with countless young men before me and he knows that with time, I would eventually give in to his demands", Henry added.<br />
<br />
"This is crazy", Kennedy said. "But are you sure you are not making all of this up?", Kennedy asked.<br />
<br />
"You know me to be a lot of things except being paranoid and exaggerating stuff like this", Henry said in his defense.<br />
<br />
"I have never seen myself this scared and confused all at once before", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"So what are you going to do about this?", Edwin asked. "Because obviously, you can't continue to be in the same office with a man who has such bizarre sexual intentions", Kennedy said. "I think you should quit", Edwin suggested.<br />
<br />
"No!", Henry exclaimed. "I can't quit", he added. "What am I going to tell my father if I quit?", Henry asked rhetorically. "He would definitely want to know why and I can't see myself telling him the truth", Henry said. "So what are we going to do now?", Kennedy asked.<br />
<br />
"I promised him I was not going to tell anyone about this and I have also signed a nondisclosure agreement with Kaprisky Law Firm so anything I say that is out of place can be used against me", Henry said. "The last thing I need is to be engaged in a legal battle with Kaprisky as the opponent", Henry conceded. "So I intend to stay on at Kaprisky and see out my national service with them and leave the place immediately", Henry said. "From Monday, I would do my best possible to steer clear off my boss and avoid his advances to the best of my skills and ability", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"How long do you think you can keep up with this plan?", Edwin asked.<br />
<br />
"For as long as I can and I am determined to see it out", henry said getting back some assurance in himself.<br />
<br />
"These people are very powerful and would go to any length to see to it that they get whatever they want so you better tread cautiously", Kennedy advised.<br />
<br />
"I won't lie to you guys for anything but the mere thought of all of this sends shivers down my spine", Henry confessed. "I just hope that things go according to plan so I can finish this service quickly and get the hell out of that place", a determined Henry said.<br />
<br />
"All of this wouldn't have happened if you were humble enough to have accepted your earlier posting but you vehemently turned down the offer and now look at the mess this God-given posting is doing to you", Kennedy said sarcastically and they all broke out onto laughter sending some of the tension out of the conversation...<br />
<br />
On Monday morning, Henry's heart sank when he heard the sound of his cell phone's alarm. He contemplated calling in sick or going to work. On second thoughts, he decided to reluctantly get out of bed and get ready for work. After forty five minutes, he was having some breakfast and getting ready to leave the house.<br />
<br />
He arrived early at work and set up his boss's office. The photocopying machine in front of their office had ran out of paper so he decided to go down to the storage room to get a refill. He decided to use the stairs instead of the elevator so that he did not have to go through the ordeal of meeting his boss on his way up to the office.<br />
<br />
It was a long flight of stairs but Henry cared less. After descending five floors, Henry found himself on the final flight of stairs leading to the ground floor of the building. He looked down the staircase from where he stood and saw Julius ascending the same stairs that he was on.<br />
<br />
Henry had just walked into the very thing that he dreaded and had taken pains to avoid. His first instinct was to go back up the stairs because Julius was yet to see him. Henry looked up and could not see himself undoing what he had just done by choosing to take the stairs instead.<br />
<br />
He decided to face off with his boss.<br />
<br />
"Why did he choose to take the stairs today of all the days?", Henry soliloquized. "Is he also trying to avoid me?", Henry asked as his legs trembled as he decided to go down the final flight of stairs.<br />
<br />
"Good morning sir", Henry stammered as he and Julius met on the same stair.<br />
<br />
Julius did not respond but kept ascending the stairs as if Henry was not even standing there.<br />
<br />
Henry was startled.<br />
<br />
Henry stood on the staircase and watched his boss go up the stairs. After a few steps, Julius turned. "Henry, see me immediately after you are done with what you are doing". Henry's heart missed several beats and he stood there speechless, only nodding with his head to signal to Julius that his request was heard.<br />
<br />
Henry trembled as he went back up the stairs with the papers in his hands. He was so tense that he could not feel his feet. He walked into Julius's office and with a stern face, Julius gave him a tall list of duties to finish before the day ended. Henry grabbed the list and quickly dashed out of the office like lightening.<br />
<br />
"So far as I am far away from you, that is all that matters to me", Henry said as he looked at the tall list in his hand to accomplish...<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry and Sandra kept contact with one another and their bond kept growing. Henry never mentioned his encounter with Julius to Sandra even though the incident had taken place over two months ago. Henry had started developing feelings for Sandra but anytime he wanted to tell her about the way he felt about her, his intuition told him not to. "She is way out of your league", the voice in his head would often tell him. "You don't expect to get yourself involved in more drama than you already find yourself, do you?", the voice in his head would ask.<br />
<br />
One night after work, Henry decided to tell Sandra about the way he felt about her. He called her and started, "Sandra, there is something I really need to tell you and I need you to pay close attention".<br />
<br />
"What is it?", Sandra asked with laughter. She had come to know Henry as one who always joked around so more often than not, she didn't take the things he said very seriously.<br />
<br />
"Talk to me", Sandra pushed.<br />
<br />
"Sandra I am in love with you", henry blurted.<br />
<br />
"Hahaha", Sandra laughed out hysterically.<br />
<br />
"This is not one of them jokes, Sandra", Henry said, feeling very embarrassed.<br />
<br />
"I know, I know", Sandra responded still laughing ridiculously.<br />
<br />
"So why are you laughing?", Henry enquired.<br />
<br />
"I am laughing because there is no such thing as love and my father has made me see over a thousand and one times that love does not exist", Sandra said.<br />
<br />
"Love does exist!", Henry rebutted. "What I feel for you can attest to that fact", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"So how do you know that you love me?", Sandra asked.<br />
<br />
There was a brief pause.<br />
<br />
"It is a feeling you have", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"Ever since I was a child, my dad kept me from mingling with guys", Sandra started. "He has been very protective and he would do anything to see to it that I am safe and happy", Sandra added. "What is more, I have never had a boyfriend my whole life even though I know it sounds embarrassing at times", Sandra said.<br />
<br />
"My dad always finds a way of driving any guy that comes lurking around me out of my life and I have learnt that way of pushing people out of my life", Sandra explained. "Don't be surprised if I tell you that we can't be friends anymore and that I can't talk to you again because I know that day will surely come and even though it hurts me, I cannot do anything about it because...I have to go now, I will see you tomorrow", Sandra said and hang up in the middle of the conversation.<br />
<br />
Henry lay on his bed and wondered why Sandra would allow her dad to control her life at her age. He was lost in thought. "Maybe I can talk to her father about her", Henry thought to himself. "That would be suicidal", Henry said on second thought. "I am pathetically in love with Sandra and I would stop at nothing to get her to love me", Henry said to himself...<br />
<br />
The next day, Henry was going about his normal routine when he met Julius in the lobby.<br />
<br />
"I still haven't heard anything from you concerning our arrangements", Julius said.<br />
<br />
"What arrangements, Sir?", Henry asked feigning ignorance.<br />
<br />
"You know damn well what I am talking about!", Julius exclaimed.<br />
<br />
"I get it now", Henry said. "But like I said earlier sir, I am not interested in it", Henry said.<br />
<br />
"I can see you still need more time", Julius said. "Do well to see me in my office after lunch", Julius added and walked past Henry.<br />
<br />
After lunch, Henry rushed to see Julius in his office because he did not want to do anything that would merit being reprimanded. On his way into the office, he met Ben, Sandra’s father coming out of Julius’s office.<br />
<br />
“Good afternoon sir”, Henry greeted politely. <br />
“Good afternoon”, Ben responded and continued to walk past Henry.<br />
<br />
“My regards to Sandy”, Henry said as he turned.<br />
Sandra told Henry that it was only his father who called her SANDY.<br />
<br />
Ben stopped, turned and looked at Henry before nodding his head.<br />
That night, Sandra called Henry and was furious over the phone. “What did you tell my father about us?”, Sandra asked fuming.<br />
<br />
“Relax, I just told him to extend my regards to you”, Henry said.<br />
<br />
“Are you out of your mind or something?”, Sandra asked. “What is that supposed to mean?”, Henry asked back. “I told you about my dad and the best thing you could do was to ask him to extend your regards to me?” “Why did you do that?”, Sandra asked. “Can you just stop freaking out and listen to me?”, Henry pleaded. “There is nothing to listen to!”, Sandra said. “Why are you making it seem as though I have done something so terrible?” Henry asked.<br />
<br />
“Henry, please listen to me carefully”, Sandra said as she started to cry. “I would be a liar to say that I don't have any feelings for you”. “You are patient, funny, gentle, kind and hardworking and I could not have asked for someone more as a potential boyfriend but I wanted all of this to be hidden from my father but now, he knows that I know you”, Sandra explained.<br />
<br />
“What is wrong with that, Sandra?”. “Isn't that rather a good thing; that your dad knows you have a boyfriend? “, Henry asked<br />
<br />
“Everything is wrong with that Henry, everything is wrong with that”, Sandra reiterated.<br />
<br />
“This is a part of my life that I have not shared with anyone but I don't know why I feel I have to tell you”, Sandra started. “I think it is because I am in love with you too”, Sandra conceded.<br />
<br />
“Here is the thing, ever since I turned eighteen years, my dad had been obsessed with me and for a long time, he had brainwashed me to sleep with him several times”, Sandra revealed. “He would never allow me to keep male friends because he said he was going to provide all my needs including my sexual needs”, Sandra continued now crying uncontrollably. “I have realized how messed up I am and I am putting a stop to it that is how come I chose to become friends with you and I have fallen in love with you”, Sandra revealed. “Now that my father has found out that you are just a friend to me, he is going to come after you and he would do anything to you to get you to stay away from me forever!” Sandra added. “I am sorry Henry, but my father is coming after you”, Sandra said…<br />
<br />
HENRY IS ABOUT TO GET CRUSHED. HE IS DEALING WITH ADVANCES FROM HIS BOSS AND NOW HE WOULD HAVE TO FIND A WAY OF SURVIVING ANOTHER ONSLAUGHT FROM ANOTHER RUTHLESS FATHER AND LOVER… MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY. NEED I SAY MORE? JUST BUCKLE YOUR SEATBELTS! THIS IS ANOTHER THRILLER FROM THE STABLES OF RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTS ®.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--iXbp6PSnQU/V1bHsj97HOI/AAAAAAAAB5A/swBnAQrlnHQlz_wukRvZpqjqvEoCqY_UACLcB/s1600/Phototastic-11_03_2016_00adabf2-b1de-4cac-8b92-a562216aa2a2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--iXbp6PSnQU/V1bHsj97HOI/AAAAAAAAB5A/swBnAQrlnHQlz_wukRvZpqjqvEoCqY_UACLcB/s320/Phototastic-11_03_2016_00adabf2-b1de-4cac-8b92-a562216aa2a2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
COMMENT.LIKE.SHARE.INVITE.<br />
<br />
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. THANKS A MILLION.<br />
<br />
SEND YOUR VIEWS, COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO lampteyedwin@yahoo.com<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-15145442963809584712016-05-24T13:54:00.000+00:002016-05-24T13:54:01.467+00:00THE SCENT OF YOUR HEART...EPISODE TWO<br />
<br />
Sandra walked gorgeously and headed towards the empty seat that was closest to Henry. Henry could not believe his luck when it became obvious that Sandra was heading in his direction. He imagined Sandra all dressed in a wedding gown walking down the aisle to be betrothed to him. Henry snapped back into reality when Sandra got close to him and pulled back the seat so as to be able to sit down.<br />
<br />
"Hello", Sandra said with a bright smile on her face as she took her seat. Henry was dumbfounded. He could not come to terms with the fact that such a beauty was talking to him.<br />
<br />
"Hello", Sandra said again.<br />
<br />
"Oh hi, hi", Henry finally responded. "I heard you the first time, I was just trying to figure out the best kind of answer for such a beautiful and eloquent young lady like yourself ", Henry said jokingly although quietly.<br />
<br />
"Very funny", Sandra replied as she extended a hand to greet Henry. "Nice to meet you", Sandra said as she waited for Henry to mention her name. "Oh I am Henry", Henry said as he took Sandra's soft hand into his and exchanged pleasantries with her.<br />
<br />
Both of them turned their attention to the instructor after acquainting themselves with one another.<br />
<br />
During the entire period that Henry and Sandra sat together, he kept stealing glances at her fair-colored thighs because the dress she wore revealed them when she sat. After the day's session, the instructor asked the national service personnel to fraternize with each other before leaving. Most of the guys gathered around Henry and wanted to find out if he possibly had any information about Sandra. One of the national service personnel, Gideon, spoke as the boys huddled together.<br />
<br />
"This Sandra chick is really fine", he started, looking in her direction as she chatted and giggled heartily with one of her female colleagues. "I would do anything to get her phone number", Gideon added.<br />
<br />
Another guy laughed and said, "We are here for business and we cannot afford to be distracted by women because they are the fastest in bringing a man down". "Gideon, I think you are barking up the wrong tree if you harbor any ambitions of ever dating that young lady", the other guy continued. "Moreover, you don't expect to take care of her with your meagre national service allowance, do you?"<br />
<br />
"Hell no!", Gideon responded and they all broke out laughing.<br />
<br />
The attention of the ladies was drawn to the hysterical laughter and they turned to look at the faces of the guys. "Gideon noticed that they were being watched and prompted the other guys, "Hey, the ladies are looking at us and it seems they are talking about us", Gideon warned. The other guys looked in their direction and noticed that they were truly being watched. They all turned to comport themselves.<br />
<br />
At 5:00 PM, the instructor walked in and told the national service personnel that they could go home and report at 8:00 AM the following day for the training to continue. Some of the personnel exchanged phone numbers and made their way out of the plush offices of Kaprisky Law Firm. As Henry and Gideon made their way down the flight of stairs, they saw Ben, the man who came into their training room earlier in the day to ask them to introduce themselves, talking heartily with Sandra. Henry's heart missed a beat when he chanced upon the two of them talking. Henry and Gideon walked past them quietly though disappointed and turned to see the two of them laughing heartedly when the got to the entrance.<br />
<br />
"You see?", Henry started. "The wealthy old men always get the fine ladies", Henry added. "She would only be interested in his money and the connections she would get by affiliating herself with him", Gideon rebutted. "Do you think a pretty lady like that would marry a potbellied, old bloat like that man?", Gideon quizzed. "I don't think so!", Gideon answered his own question before allowing Henry to even say a word. "I think we are being too judgmental", Henry started. "I am sure they are just discussing official things and not what we are thinking", Henry added to give himself some assurance that nothing was going on between Ben and Sandra.<br />
<br />
"Moreover, Ben does not come across as that kind of person who would be interested in sleeping with young ladies, he is a married man", Henry added<br />
<br />
Gideon and Henry made their way through the open car park of Kaprisky Law Firm and headed for the bus stop to join a commercial bus back home. As they stood waiting, a blue range rover evoque drove out of the premises of Kaprisky Law Firm and seated in the back seat were Ben and Sandra being chauffeured by a smartly-dressed driver. As the car passed by the bus stop, Sandra looked out of the window, saw and waved at Gideon and Henry. The two young men reluctantly waved back at her feigning smiles.<br />
<br />
"I told you!", Gideon exclaimed when they both saw the occupants of the luxury car. "I hope you would believe me now when I tell you something", Gideon said. "All girls like cars and money and they can dump their boyfriends who do not own cars and jump into even a rickety car of another man, provided the car can move", Gideon said sarcastically. "All girls are the same!", Gideon added as he looked around to see if some of the people at the bus stop were listening to their conversation. Henry was shell-shocked. "For a moment, I thought she was an exception but she fell for it like a tree being felled with a chainsaw", Henry said. "What is it with girls and cars?", Henry quizzed. "And she even had the effrontery to wave at us, shameless girl!", Henry retorted. "That explains why she even joined the training session at the time she did", Gideon explained as Henry nodded his head attentively. "She knows that her boyfriend, Ben would defend her at any given time because of the sexual favors she might be giving him", Gideon added. After a few minutes, a bus that was going in Gideon's direction came by and Gideon boarded the bus, leaving Henry lost in thought to wait for the next bus going in his direction.<br />
<br />
<br />
When Henry got home after his first day at Kaprisky Law firm, his father asked him to brief him on the happenings at Kaprisky and if anyone asked him any suspicious questions about the posting. Henry narrated what ensued that day to his father and assured him that nothing would happen provided he did not do anything that would put him into trouble. Later that night, Edwin and Kennedy came visiting Henry.<br />
<br />
They met in Henry's room.<br />
<br />
"How did your first day at work go?", Kennedy asked immediately he entered the room.<br />
<br />
"It is just National service", Henry answered in an indifferent tone. "I wonder why you all think it is such a big deal", Henry added. "It would not have been a big deal if you had been posted to any other place apart from Kaprisky Law firm", Edwin cut in. "Anyone of us would kill to walk the halls of Kaprisky so to us, it is a privilege to be associated with someone who has been there and seen it all", Edwin added.<br />
<br />
"Very true!", Kennedy seconded Edwin's assertion.<br />
<br />
"You should be excited about your prospects and stop being an ingrate and a pessimist like you always have been", Ken reprimanded. "Or is anything the matter?", Ken enquired.<br />
<br />
"Everything is fine and just so you know, my day was fine too", Henry added.<br />
<br />
"What is eating you?", Edwin asked, looking at Henry who was laying on his bed and going through his phone.<br />
<br />
"Everything is fine", Henry answered, looked at Kennedy and Edwin simultaneously and went back to concentrating on what he was doing on his phone. "You can talk to us if you are having any challenge, you know we've been like brothers for over four years and we'd be willing to assist you in the best way we can", Edwin suggested. "I am serious about what I said; everything is fine, trust me", Henry said. In fact, since you guys are insisting, why don't we go out for some drinks?", Henry suggested. Kennedy and Edwin agreed and the three of them stepped out of the house. Before they drove out of Henry's house, he cautioned, "I hope you two have money on you because the bill will be on both of you". "Don't worry about that", Kennedy said and they left for the pub in Edwin's car.<br />
<br />
<br />
After an hour and a half, Henry came back home to prepare for the next day. He ironed his clothes and polished his shoes. He then took his shower and went to bed. As he lay in his bed, he could not stop thinking about Sandra. There were flashbacks of the entire escapade involving Sandra. "Why am I even worrying my head over someone's daughter?", Henry soliloquized. "It is not as if what she chooses to do with her life is any of my business, after all, life is how you make it", Henry said. He only managed to sleep after minutes of torturous images of Sandra and Ben making love to each other dangling in his thoughts.<br />
<br />
<br />
The next morning, Henry hurriedly prepared for his training session at Kaprisky. He knew that if he spent too much time at home, he was going to get stuck in traffic so he left home very early. He was the third national service personnel to arrive the following morning. Soon, all the other service personnel started trooping into the conference room for the day's session except Sandra. They all sat in the same seats and positions they did the previous day. Even as at 9:39 AM, Sandra had not still showed up. At 10:27 AM, the doors to the conference room crept open and Sandra slipped in quietly and took her seat, close to Henry's.<br />
<br />
"You are late", Henry whispered as he breathed a sigh of relief after seeing Sandra again. Immediately he said that, he kept a straight face. "Yeah I know", Sandra replied in an almost inaudible tone. "We had to do some stuff before coming", Sandra explained. "By 'we', do you mean yourself and Mr. Ben?", Henry enquired.<br />
<br />
"What is that supposed to mean?", Sandra enquired.<br />
<br />
Henry looked puzzled and was speechless. He made a face which sent negative signals to Sandra making her look very silly<br />
<br />
"I don't know what you mean by the insinuations you are casting but yes, the 'we', refers to myself and Mr. Ben like you are saying who happens to be my father and also doubles as the owner of Kaprisky Law Firm", Sandra reiterated...<br />
<br />
At lunch break, Henry and Sandra spent the entire period talking.<br />
<br />
"Wow!", Henry exclaimed as Sandra narrated her life's story to him. "I have been in school all my life outside this country and I felt I had to come back home to assist my father in the best way I can", Sandra said. "I will go back to start and finish my law degree and then come back here to see how far I can go in the firm", Sandra added.<br />
<br />
Sandra and Henry had known a great deal about each other by the time the day's session was coming to an end.<br />
<br />
When they closed that day, Henry scolded Gideon on their way to the bus stop. "You don't need to judge people you know little about so quickly", Henry said with some authority. "I spoke to her and she is nowhere near the qualities you ascribed to her", Henry explained. "I cant believe you managed to talk me into believing all the crap you were spewing about Sandra", Henry teased.<br />
<br />
"Okay", Gideon started. " "I concede defeat on this matter and I agree that I judged Sandra too quickly", Gideon said. "But come to think of it, you seem to be so interested in this matter...or are you in love already?", Gideon enquired. "If that is the case, you better wake up from that dream and face reality because Sandra would never fall for the likes of you and I", Gideon revealed as they walked to the bus stop. "It would be a classic case of barking up the wrong tree", Gideon added and boarded the bus heading in his destination.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
After weeks of vigorous training, the national service personnel were to be assigned departments to work in after they had been made to sign a nondisclosure agreement. Henry was assigned to the finance department because of his skill set in business development. Sandra was assigned to the legal department to partake in court hearings and proceedings. Even though Sandra and Henry seldom saw each other at the firm afterwards, they kept constant contact and became very good friends.<br />
<br />
Henry's immediate boss at the finance department, Julius, was a chartered accountant and was also a very shrewd businessman who kept raking in profit for the company. He was in his mid forties' and was unmarried. He took a special liking to Henry and wanted to nurture him in the best way he could so he could also rise in the world of business and law. He always sent Henry on errands and gave him lots of spare change no matter the amount. He did not also hesitate in teaching Henry many business principles when he had the time.<br />
<br />
One day after work, as Henry walked out of the premises of Kaprisky, his boss, Julius offered him a ride to his house. Julius dropped Henry off at home and gave him his phone number and asked him to call him if he needed any form of assistance.<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry appreciated all that his new boss did for him and always talked to Sandra about him.<br />
<br />
"Julius is one of my father's very long-time, trusted friends", Sandra revealed to Henry in one of their phone conversations. "He also invested heavily in terms of finances when my father was starting Kaprisky so he is more like a right-hand man to my father", Sandra added. "I see", Henry cut in. "No wonder he is so rich", Henry said.<br />
<br />
There was an awkward moment of silence.<br />
“Why are you so quiet?”, Henry enquired<br />
<br />
"Can I trust you with a secret about my father and Kaprisky?", Sandra asked out of the blue.<br />
<br />
Henry hesitated in his answer.<br />
<br />
"Yes you can", Henry managed to let out.<br />
<br />
"Are you sure I can trust you not to tell anyone?"<br />
<br />
"Yes you can trust me", Henry reassured.<br />
<br />
"Okay, Kaprisky didn't get to where it is just by hard work alone", Sandra started.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean by that?", Henry asked, trying to seek for some clarification<br />
<br />
"My father and Julius have done many illegal and scandalous deals to get them to where they are today", Sandra revealed. "These deals include bribing judges, bribing the jury, getting false testimonies, intimidating opposing lawyers and even bribing some of them to skew cases our way so we can win easily", Sandra said<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry’s heart missed several beats. “Why is she telling me this?”, Henry thought to himself. Henry did not know what to say in response to Sandra's revelations. Worst of all, he did not know why Sandra was telling him all of these things<br />
<br />
"Now that we have made a name for ourselves, we have cut back on the underhand dealings", Sandra added.<br />
<br />
"But why are you telling me all of these things?", Henry mustered courage to ask.<br />
<br />
"I am telling you all this because I trust you and I believe I have also won your trust in the few weeks that we have known each other", Sandra started. "My dad has always kept me away from people in this country and as it stands now, you are the only close friend I have, so I think my secrets are safe with you, right?", Sandra enquired.<br />
<br />
"Yes, your secrets are safe with me", Henry answered.<br />
<br />
"Can we change the topic now?", Sandra asked.<br />
<br />
They talked about other matters and bade each other goodnight after they had exhausted topics to discuss.<br />
<br />
The next morning, Henry rushed to his assigned office. He had many doubts about the entire firm after what he had heard from Sandra. The respect he hitherto had for the firm had reduced drastically. He now had a biased perception about Kaprisky. The weeks that followed saw his output as a service personnel plummet.<br />
<br />
Julius called him to his office and wanted to enquire why his productivity and posture had changed negatively. He managed to convince Julius that he was having some issues at home and that he was going to change for the better. Julius insisted on having a one on one session with him over the weekend so they could talk about his problems. Henry reluctantly agreed even though he knew he had no issues at home whatsoever.<br />
<br />
On the agreed date, Henry met Julius in his house.<br />
<br />
Julius's house was a joy to behold. It had many things that any young man could dream about. Henry sat at a mini bar and waited for Julius. Julius arrived and poured himself a glass of whiskey.<br />
<br />
"Sir, this is a nice house", Henry said. "Yeah I know", Julius responded. "Now talk to me, Henry", Julius started. "What is wrong with you?", he asked. "Sir please I am fine", Henry answered.<br />
<br />
Julius shifted his seat closer to Henry's.<br />
<br />
"Henry, you are like a son to me and ever since I saw you, I saw a reflection of myself in you and I believe you are destined for greatness and I know you are going to achieve all of this right here and even more if you put your mind to it", Julius said as he pointed to certain portions of the house. "Take a walk with me", Julius ordered and took Henry's hand into his as he showed him round the house.<br />
<br />
When they got to a secluded portion of the house, Julius stopped.<br />
<br />
"Like I said Henry, you are like a son to me and I would help you to become just like me if you are willing to learn", Julius said<br />
<br />
"I am willing to learn, sir", Henry said with a determined look on his face<br />
<br />
"I would teach you all you need to know but before that, I would want you to sleep with me", Julius said<br />
<br />
“I beg your pardon?”…<br />
<br />
IF YOU THINK THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF HENRY'S DILEMMA, YOU BETTER RECONSIDER THAT THOUGHT BECAUSE YOU HAVE NOT SEEN NOTHING YET! STAY TUNED FOR MORE INTRIGUE AS HENRY FACES THE HARSH REALITIES OF LIVING AS AN AMBITIOUS YOUNG MAN. MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND THIS IS ANOTHER MASTERPICE FROM RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTS! YOU GET THE DRIFT?<br />
<br />
<br />
FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
Invite a friend to like our Facebook Page and stand the chance of winning a surprise package.<br />
<br />
COMMENT...LIKE...SHARE.....INVITE...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mke611KoRJA/V0Rcp4sqjmI/AAAAAAAAB4M/rBCDzeLCeqk3dKEkt9L_tZtKRDObQuoGgCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160318_193453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mke611KoRJA/V0Rcp4sqjmI/AAAAAAAAB4M/rBCDzeLCeqk3dKEkt9L_tZtKRDObQuoGgCLcB/s320/IMG_20160318_193453.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-42190897109002848152016-05-19T13:13:00.000+00:002016-05-19T15:15:44.017+00:00THE SCENT OF YOUR HEART...EPISODE ONE (1).SURPRISE! SURPRISE!! SURPRISE!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
NEW SERIES! NEW SERIES!! NEW SERIES!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
THE SCENT OF YOUR HEART...EPISODE ONE (1).<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry woke up with a smile on his face. He looked around him and realized he was in a once familiar space.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Oh thank goodness!", Henry exclaimed when he realized he was laying on the bed in a room.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I am glad that we were able to get back here in one piece even though I can't seem to recall how", Henry soliloquized . He looked around and saw two figures coiled in the bed next to his.<br />
<br />
<br />
His other two former roommates, Edwin and Kennedy were sharing one bed even though there were bedding arrangements for three. Henry laughed when he saw the posture in which his former roommates and two close friends lay in the bed; cuddling like husband and wife The night before, they had had one too many drinks by accident. Henry prided himself as one who could never get drank so the previous night, he, together with his roommates and a host of other friends went out clubbing and unfortunately, it turned out to be a drinking contest to find out if Henry could truly withstand a few shots of alcohol. Henry accepted the challenge after his two close friends called his bluff. The last thing Henry could clearly remember was the twelfth glass of six shots of whiskey he had to drink. The events that followed gave him a sharp headache as he tried to recall even though fragments of the happenings on the night came to mind.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I have never done anything this crazy my whole life", Henry said to himself. "I cannot believe that I let these people talk me into doing all of this", Henry said as he looked up and saw the ceiling fan turning slowly over his head. His phone's battery had run down and it was flat out. He ransacked his bag in search of his charger. He simultaneously drew the attention of his roommates and close friends whilst he was at it.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Edwin, Kennedy, wake up!", Henry shouted a number of times as if he was dreaming. Henry was having a katzenjammer and he knew full well that his former roommates were going to suffer the same fate when they woke up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
There was a knock on the door.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
"Come in", Henry called out as he plugged his charger to power up his cell phone.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
A young man walked in. Henry turned to look at who had entered. The young man was dressed in a suit<br />
<br />
<br />
It was the guy from the next room.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Are you guys not getting ready?", the young man quizzed. "The graduation ceremony will start in a few hours", the young man added...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry and his friends had come back to their university to officially crown their four-year university tenure. They were so gay that they decided to go out and have fun the night before the graduation ceremony. Henry rushed to the bed in which his roommates lay and vigorously shook the bed.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Idiots, wake up, wake up!" "We are going to be late for the graduation!", Henry added. Henry managed to wake them up as they all prepared hurriedly for their big day.<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry and his roommates arrived late at the venue. Henry was supposed to be seated in the front row because he was going to be called upon to receive the award for the best student in his department. The hall in which the ceremony was being held was fully packed with graduates, family members and well-wishers. Henry could possibly not see himself walking up to find his seat in the front row because he knew all eyes were going to be on him.<br />
<br />
<br />
"This is all your fault!", Henry exclaimed as he turned to face his roommates who were standing right behind him.<br />
<br />
<br />
"We didn't ask you to accept the challenge to drink so much", Ken responded. "After all, we are also graduating too", Ken added. Henry stood outside and listened carefully as the Dean of Students in his university gave his speech. It was time for the special awards and Henry knew that he had no option than to walk all the way to the stage to receive his award when his name was mentioned. During the rehearsal for the graduation the previous day, he counted the awardees and knew he was the sixth person in line. So when the fifth awardee's name was mentioned, Henry asked Edwin to help him adjust his gown.<br />
<br />
<br />
"You've made us proud son", Edwin said jokingly as the three of them quickly posed for a selfie before Henry's name was mentioned by the Master of Ceremonies. Henry heard his name loudly through the surround sound system and started to make his way up the long aisle leading to the podium.<br />
<br />
<br />
He staggered uncomfortably as he walked. He could only hear whispers from many people as they searched around the hall to see where the awardee was coming from. This made Henry more tense. As he walked up, looking straight on, a hand touched his gown. Henry turned and saw his mother almost tearing up. At the sight of his mother, Henry gained some more confidence as he walked up majestically to the front row amidst cheers from the graduating students who knew him and applause from those who did not. Henry received his prize and on his way back, he stopped and gave his mother a passionate hug before going on to join his friends outside.<br />
<br />
<br />
Soon, it had become official. Henry and his roommates were now 'certified' graduates. It was now time to make merry. There was a lot to eat and to drink. The graduates randomly selected tables of their mates to introduce themselves to their visitors, share memorable moments, partake in the consumption of the variety of sumptuous dishes and take lots and lots of pictures. Edwin was in a dilemma as to which of his ex-girlfriends' tables he could show up at without being embarrassed.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Edwin changed his girlfriend every semester when he was in school. Sometimes Henry and Ken even had to take note of the names of Edwin's countless girlfriends so as not to mistakenly call out the wrong name when they came visiting. As luck and friendship would have it, Edwin managed to get Ken and Henry to follow him and the three of them expertly made stops at the tables of all seven ex-girlfriends. Seven because Edwin decided to stay single during his last semester in school. The whole place was a chaotic beauty. There were people dressed in different cultural attires. The suits stood out as most of the guys who were graduating were clad in them.<br />
<br />
<br />
After the merrymaking, Henry and his friends saw their parents, family members and well-wishers off and returned to the hostel for a final night of fun before departing the following day.<br />
<br />
<br />
The graduation board had planned a night of fun and music for the graduates so they were all expected to meet up at an agreed venue to party all night long with some invited artistes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The graduates had already been assigned National Service postings; a one year service that is rendered by every graduate after successful completion of the years of study in the university. Henry and his friends had also been posted. Ken had graduated with a Second Class Lower in Metals and Metal Fabrication. Ken was posted to a prestigious private bank and he was overly excited about his chances of being retained after he had completed his service diligently. He had already hinted that his chances were brighter than the sun. Edwin had graduated with a Second Class Upper in Physical Education. Edwin had been posted to one of the country's leading telecommunications company. He had already been assigned a car. Henry had also graduated with a First Class in Business Administration and Development. Henry had been posted to teach in a primary school in a remote part of the country.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When the postings were announced, both Ken and Edwin had the laugh of their lives when they sighted Henry's place of posting.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Teacher Henry, teacher Henry, someone has broken my pencil", Edwin would mimic a little child sarcastically just to mock Henry. Ken on the other hand sought to encourage Henry slyly by saying, "Don't worry, it is only for a year afterwards I would employ you in my bank because by then, I would have been made a branch manager in one of the bank's branches. "Edwin would also provide you with free airtime and free internet access", Ken would often add.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry hated himself and the entire posting system for treating him so unfairly as compared to his qualification as against that of his roommates. He often complained bitterly, "I would not teach in any primary school after all the hard work I put in school", Henry complained. "I would rather be remembered as the only person who did not go through the National Service program than one who went to teach in a godforsaken no man's land", Henry lamented. Henry's father was a business man and he assured Henry that he was going to try his best to have the postings changed for Henry even though he knew the repercussions were going to be grave if his son was to be caught. "I am speaking to some friends of mine and they are asking me to be patient, because there are a lot of higher ups who are also not satisfied with the postings of their children", Henry's father assured Henry one evening. "As soon as they are sorted out, you would also be sorted out", Henry's father added.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
One whole month had gone by and still, both Henry and his father had heard no word from the people who had promised to help them.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
A second month had gone by.<br />
<br />
During the wait, Henry had already given up and had resolved to reapply for the National Service program the following year. He therefore put together his CV and started looking for a job even though he had not even started nor even completed the mandatory National Service.<br />
<br />
<br />
Many companies wanted to employ him due to his amazing CV and dazzling analytical and problem-solving mentality but there was a hurdle. As a matter of law, many of the companies that wanted to employ Henry were required to only take on staff who had completed their National Service and had a certificate to prove it. Henry came back home dejected after every interview. After one of such returns, he came home to meet his father seated in their hall. "Good afternoon", Henry greeted and dropped himself like a log on the couch out of exhaustion.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I have good news", Henry's father started.<br />
<br />
<br />
"What is it?", Henry responded with an indifferent tone.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Sit up right because you would want to hear this news", Henry's father said.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry reluctantly sat up right in the chair.<br />
<br />
<br />
"The people finally came through and gave me a call just after you left for your interview", Henry's father started.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Which people called you?", Henry asked not looking too amused by the delay tactics his father was using. "Tell me already", Henry insisted<br />
<br />
<br />
"Okay, okay", Henry's father gestured with his hand when he noticed his antics were getting his son infuriated.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Your National Service posting has been changed!", Henry's father announced.<br />
<br />
<br />
"What!", Henry exclaimed as he adjusted himself properly in his seat with his face now broadly lit with escaping beams of smiles from his cheeks.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Hold it, hold it", Henry's father said. "Now, you have been posted in the heart of the City", Henry's father continued.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Are you kidding me?", Henry asked looking very excited and was starting to get hyper.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Relax, relax, relax!", Henry's father reiterated. "Now get ready for the best part", Henry's father said. The whole room was suddenly plunged into slow-motion state as Henry anticipated the next words that were going to come out of his father's mouth. Henry fixed a zoomed-in gaze on his father's lips. "You were posted to Kaprisky Law Firm", Henry's father finally revealed.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I don't believe it!", Henry said out of ecstasy.<br />
<br />
<br />
"You had better believe it because this is proof of the posting", Henry's father said as he passed on a letter in his hand to Henry. Henry greedily grabbed the letter and read out loud its content. As he read, he could hardly stand still as he kept fidgeting.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I can't believe this; I just can't believe this", Henry kept saying. When Henry had finally settled down after the hangover excitement frenzy, he asked. "You must have paid so much for the change to be effected on this", Henry told his father. "You wouldn't believe me if I told you this, but the truth is that, I paid nothing", Henry's father said.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
"But how?" Henry asked. "You and I know that Kaprisky Law Firm is the best private law firm in this country and it takes only the best of the best law school graduates to walk the halls of Kaprisky" Henry retorted. "You and I also know that even though I have ambitions of becoming a lawyer, I am nowhere near that feat", Henry said. "You must have surely paid some sort of bribe, just tell me how much you paid", Henry said excitedly as he went through the letter again.<br />
<br />
<br />
"It is good to have friends but it is important to keep old friends", Henry's father started. "Last week I made a personal effort to follow up on the posting issue". "On reaching there, I saw a familiar face so I talked to him and lo and behold, he was my mate in school and as a matter of coincidence, he is the head of IT at the secretariat so he asked me to give him your name and assured me that he would do everything in his capacity to help me", Henry's father continued. "What you have there in your hand is the assistance he gave to me", Henry's father revealed pointing to the letter in Henry's hand. "However, you would have to go back to town and to the offices of Kaprisky to present your particulars because the deadline for submission is tomorrow", Henry's father said. "They are about to start training the second batch of their National Service Personnel", Henry's father added.<br />
<br />
<br />
"How do you know so much?", Henry asked looking on as he marveled at his father's wealth of information on the subject. "We live in a world where people know people and people use their privileges to carry out favors for one another", Henry's father said. "You better get going now before they close!", Henry's father ordered.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Yes sir!", Henry responded.<br />
<br />
<br />
Henry rushed into his room, quickly put on a new shirt, grabbed the bag that contained all his official documents and dashed out of the house after taking some money from his father. He successfully went through the registration process at Kaprisky. He was told to report after three days to start the training program. When all protocol had been duly observed and the due diligence had been carried out, Henry headed back home. He took a detour on his way back and asked his two friends, Ken and Edwin to meet up with him because he had something to tell them.<br />
<br />
<br />
After work, the three young men gathered in front of a popular eatery. Edwin ordered for food and drinks for all of them. "Teacher Henry, what made you decide to call this meeting?", Ken asked sarcastically. "Things are pretty much going to change around here", Henry said. "And what is that supposed to mean?", Edwin asked.<br />
<br />
<br />
"You see the way many people have been taking the banks and telecommunication companies to court over matters of interest with you lot always losing out?", Henry started looking and pointing at both Edwin and Ken simultaneously. "All that is about to change now because I would start working at Kaprisky Law Firm soon and I would ensure that you win every little legal battle for half the price", Henry bragged. "It is a lie!", Edwin started out of disbelief. "Say no more", Henry said and dug his hand into his bag and handed Edwin the letter of appointment. As Ken and Edwin looked at the letter, Henry started enjoying his meal.<br />
<br />
<br />
"You and your father are criminals!", Edwin exclaimed. "How did you manage to pull off this miracle?", Ken added his voice. Henry slouched in his seat and said, "This is as a result of having high and mighty friends in high places"<br />
<br />
<br />
“I didn't even call your parents criminals after you guys secured what to me was the most shocking postings ever”, Henry said sarcastically. “Because both of you are total misfits at your places of posting”, Henry added and all of them burst out laughing.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Your father definitely has mighty friends because everyone knows that Kaprisky Law Firm is..." "...the best private law firm in the country", they all sang in unison to conclude Ken's statement.<br />
“Congratulations, Henry!”, both Ken and Edwin opined.<br />
<br />
They all enjoyed their meal and chatted for a while before they parted ways.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
After the third day, Henry put on his best official clothes and left the house very early in the morning for his place of posting, Kaprisky Law Firm. The new service personnel that had been scheduled for the training were eleven in number. The ladies were six and the required number of guys made up the difference. In the middle of the training, the doors leading into the conference room where the training was being held flung open and at the entrance stood a pot-bellied elderly man. All eyes turned to look at him as the new personnel had no idea whom the man was. The man signaled to the trainer to carry on with the session. The personnel that were being trained turned their attention back to the trainer. As the trainer, a junior associate at Kaprisky Law Firm took the new personnel through the company's history, the pot-bellied man walked up to the front and introduced himself, “My name is Ben”. He requested that all the eleven personnel mention their names and the university they graduated from. After that was done, he told them that he would have someone join them in the course of the day before wishing them well and politely asking to take his leave.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Around midday, after the personnel had been treated to a world-class lunch, the doors to the conference room flung open again and this time, a gorgeous young, light-skinned, exquisitely dressed, curvaceous and possibly well-cultured young lady started her way up the aisle to the front.<br />
<br />
<br />
“Hello everyone”, the young lady greeted. “My name is Sandra and I am to join you in this training”, the young lady said confidently. She looked through the room to find a seat which had not been taken. She looked through the room and spotted the empty seat; it was right next to Henry…<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
THIS IS A BRAND NEW ONE!!!THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING!!! I WILL TRY TO DO SOMETHING NEW THIS TIME. BUCKLE YOUR SEATBELTS BECAUSE THIS SUSPENSE AND ACTION-FILLED THRILLER HAS GOT NO BREAKS ON. MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND IN CASE YOU HAVE FORGOTTEN, THIS IS JUST A RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHT! SPREAD THE WORD!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
Invite a friend to like our Facebook Page and stand the chance of winning a surprise package.<br />
<br />
COMMENT...LIKE...SHARE.....INVITE...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oBOzpUeV8bw/Vz27lU456iI/AAAAAAAAB3s/vNv3sNOwcy8rgIvuvW4F44LuG3uTUOu2QCLcB/s1600/random%2Bafrican%2Bthought%2Bedit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oBOzpUeV8bw/Vz27lU456iI/AAAAAAAAB3s/vNv3sNOwcy8rgIvuvW4F44LuG3uTUOu2QCLcB/s320/random%2Bafrican%2Bthought%2Bedit.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-22387023531466143992016-04-29T10:05:00.004+00:002016-04-29T10:22:42.787+00:00EVEN IF I DON'T. FIND PEACE...EPISODE TWENTY-5 (25).<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
...“Maxwell, Maxwell, Maxwell!”, Alberta called out
as she shook the motionless body of Maxwell that had fallen to the floor.
Alberta quickly run to answer the door. Immediately she flung the door open, she
screamed, “Please help me!”, “I think I have killed Maxwell!”, Alberta's words
echoed in the ears of the young man who was standing behind the door. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What are you talking about?", the
surprised young man asked. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"My son's father is lying down motionless in
my room and I can't confirm whether he is dead or alive", Alberta said
frantically as she tried hard to catch her breath.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What happened?", the young man asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"He came in here and started a form of
confrontation with me about an issue so when you knocked at the door, we
engaged in a scramble and he accidentally slipped and fell, hitting his head
against the sofa", a confused Alberta explained. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Please come in and help me!", Alberta
pleaded.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Alberta dragged the young man by the arm and led
him into the hall where Maxwell lay, motionless. The young man was getting
uncomfortable and in that moment, the least thing he expected to witness was
any form of altercation or trouble.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t
think I should be here now”, the now timid young man said as he tried to
retreat. Before he could think of stepping outside, Alberta grabbed him by his
collar and pulled him towards her. “This is not a joke”, Alberta said with
intent in her now red eyes. She held the young man so firmly that he began to
choke. “What is wrong with you?”, the young man said as he fought off her
clutch. “I just told you that Maxwell is lying motionless in my room and I need
your help”, Alberta reiterated. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“The thing is, I don’t want to be a part of all of
the mess that you have gotten yourself in right now”, the young man said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Alberta pulled the young man well into the room and
shut the door. “As it stands now, we are in this together and to make matters
worse, I am carrying your child”, Alberta said. “Do you know how that would
play out in all of this?”, Alberta asked as she pointed in the direction of her
room. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“What are you talking about?”, the young man asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Alberta kept quiet for a while and stared at the
young man.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“What are you insinuating, Alberta?”, the young man
asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Now, in the worst case scenario, it would be a
situation where I am carrying your child, you came to see me with my first
child’s father and out of jealousy, you decided to attack him and in your rage,
you killed him”, Alberta revealed.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“What the hell is wrong with you?”, the young
doctor asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Now, you are free to leave”, Alberta started. “Or
you can go inside with me and help me out, the choice is yours”, Alberta added.
“But bear in mind that if you decide to leave, I would not hold you back, I
have many alibis to back the point that you were here because I believe many
people saw you coming in here”, Alberta suggested. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“So you see, the odds are in my favour as it
stands”, Alberta said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I can’t believe this”, the young man said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“But you know I would do no such thing if you
decide to help me”, Alberta said as she warmed her way up the young man who had
grown increasingly disturbed. “You know why?”, Alberta asked. Without pausing
to get a response, Alberta answered her own question. “It is because I love you
so much and I am carrying your child, our child”, Alberta explained.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
With this, the young man, like an innocent sheep
being led to the slaughter house, followed Alberta into her room albeit out of
his will.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What have you done, Alberta?", the young
man exclaimed as he saw Maxwell's body on the floor immediately he entered the
living room. "Please help me out!", Alberta begged as sweat and tears
married each other on her face. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
The young man carefully approached Maxwell's
motionless body which was lying face down, and tried to aggressively turn him
over to his side with his foot. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What are you doing?", a now surprised
Alberta asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What does it look like I am doing?", the
young man asked sarcastically. "I am trying to ascertain whether he is
dead or alive before I do any other thing", the young man added.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
When Maxwell was finally laying face up after being
shoved over by the young man, the young man pulled a handkerchief out of his
pocket and used it as a makeshift glove over his hand to be able to check to
feel if Maxwell still had a pulse. As he stretched forth his hand, he shook and
trembled. Alberta stood over him trying to wipe away the tears and sweat from
her face with her palm.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I can't feel anything", the young man
exclaimed as he pressed his hand firmly against Maxwell's neck and
simultaneously turned and looked into Alberta's face.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
The young man took out his phone, unlocked it and
placed it on the floor next to him.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What does that mean?", Alberta asked as
she backed away slowly, cupping her mouth with her left hand after her
statement.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I don't know yet and I don't want to
speculate", the young man answered. "What did you say happened
again?", the young man interrogated Alberta. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"He slipped and fell", Alberta answered
meekly. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Just that?", the young man threw the
statement back at Alberta almost immediately. “Did you push him really hard?”,
the young man asked. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“No!”, Alberta said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“So the two of you were struggling with each other
and he slipped and fell?”, the young man asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Yes", Alberta replied.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Why are you asking me all these questions
instead of helping me?", Alberta asked angrily. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"You would have to answer these same questions
when the worst happens and in the instance where we have to call in the
police", the young man replied.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"The police, why?" "Is he
dead?", Alberta asked all at once as she backed away further and pinned
herself to the wall as she run her fingers through her golden brown hair in
aggressive back and forth movements. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I am yet to confirm that", the young man
said. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
His statement sent shivers down Alberta's
spine.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"He cannot just die like that, can he?",
a confused Alberta enquired. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"It would depend on the impact of the fall and
which part of his body suffered the damage", the young man replied.
"As it stands now, if it were a minor fall, he should have gained
consciousness by now since I have been here for almost fifteen minutes
already", the young man explained pointing in Maxwell's direction and
looking at his Rolex watch.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What do we do now?", Alberta asked. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"We?", the young man asked. "There
is no 'we', here", the young man started, pointing to himself and then
pointing to Alberta. "I am not an accomplice in this", the young and
now frightened man said. "Right now, I am going to try my best possible to
ascertain whether this guy can live", he said. "As for you, just stay
put and pray to your God asking him to revive this man here because if it turns
out that he cannot live, you would have a whole lot of questions to
answer", the young man added.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Immediately he made his point clear, he
started to work on Maxwell in a desperate attempt to revive him but was very
careful not to leave any fingerprints on him which would implicate him as an
accomplice.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
As he reached to stretch out Maxwell's arm,
Maxwell's phone rang. The young man, startled, reached for the phone from
Maxwell's pocket and handed it over to Alberta, "Take care of this",
he said as Alberta tried to find out who the caller was.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"It is Raphael, one of his friends",
Alberta told the young man as she saw Raphael's name displayed on the phone's
screen.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Does anyone know he was coming over here to
see you?", the young man asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"How am I supposed to know that?",
Alberta asked rhetorically. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell's phone rang again. It was Raphael again.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Turn that phone off or something; it is
distracting me and please turn on the fan, it is getting hot in here", the
young man said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
There was yet another call after some minutes and
this time, it was from Maxwell's mother.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Alberta's heart missed a beat.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
She knew it was probable that Raphael had called
Maxwell's mother to find out if Maxwell was at home since he was not answering
his phone.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Alberta immediately changed the phone's profile to
'silent' because she knew Maxwell's phone was not going to stop ringing because
of the calls that were going to follow in regards to Maxwell's refusal to
answer the phone especially when his mother was the one calling. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
There were seven missed calls on Maxwell's phone in
five minutes; most of the calls came from his mother.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"There is something I need to tell you",
Alberta said out of the confusion which took the young man by surprise.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What is it?", the alarmed young man
asked as he quickly backed away from Maxwell's motionless body. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Has it
got anything to do with Maxwell's current state?", the young man asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"In some way, yes", Alberta answered.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What?", the young man exclaimed.
"Did you try to murder Maxwell?", the young man asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"No way!", Alberta exclaimed in her
defence.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Actually...part of the reason he is here is
that, he found out something", Alberta started.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What did he find out?", the young man
asked, leading Alberta on.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I actually told him that the baby I am
carrying; your baby is his", Alberta started.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"You did what?", the young man asked
almost fuming and walked up to Alberta. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I am sorry", Alberta begged as she
backed up.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Sorry you say?". "What were you
thinking?". "Did I tell you I was incapable of taking care of you or
the baby?". "Why would you give one man's responsibility to another
man; an innocent man for that matter?", the young man enquired.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I was afraid", Alberta started.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I was afraid you were going to leave me since
you started avoiding me when you told me your ex-girlfriend wanted a
comeback", Alberta started. "You refused to pick my calls, you
refused to return my calls and what is worse, I was not allowed to see you at
your work place", Alberta revealed. "What did you expect me to
do"?, Alberta asked. "I was desperate and I needed to find a solution
to this problem", Alberta added. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I didn't expect you to read meaning into my
actions", the young man started. "I was actually doing all of it for
a reason and I expected you to stay put and not worry your head over any of the
issues I was involved in", the young man said in his defence.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"How
was I supposed to know that you had everything all planned?, Alberta started.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I needed an alternative and since I didn't
intend terminating this pregnancy, I knew the best way to cover this whole
thing up was to pin it on Maxwell because we have a child together and having a
second one with him was not going to raise any suspicions", Alberta
confessed. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Wow!", the young man exclaimed. "I
can't even bring myself to terms to fathom the extent to which you can
go", the young man started as he began to pace up and down the living room. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Get me a pillow", the young man ordered. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What are you going to do with that?", an
alarmed Alberta enquired.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Jesus Christ!", the young man exclaimed.
"I am not that kind of doctor so if you want us to save this man's life,
you better do as I say", the young doctor said. "Now, go and get me
the pillow!", the doctor ordered. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Alberta went into the inner room to find her son
still soundly asleep and picked one pillow from the bed before tiptoeing out of
the room and closing the door gently behind her. The young doctor took the
pillow from Alberta and carefully adjusted Maxwell's head on top of it to give
his neck some support. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“The pillow would give his head some support”, the
young doctor said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What next?", Alberta asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
The doctor bent over Maxwell and before long,
Maxwell started to come around.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Who are you?", Maxwell let out when he
finally opened his eyes. "My name is Abraham and I am a doctor", the
young man revealed his identity. He then gave Maxwell a hand to be able to get
up unto his feet. “I came in to see you lying here unconscious after you had
slipped and fallen and I helped to revive you”, Abraham said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"One more thing, just so we are clear, I am
responsible for the baby Alberta is carrying", the young doctor revealed.
Maxwell touched his thighs in an effort to check if his phone or other personal
effects had been taken from his possession. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Where is my cell phone?", Maxwell asked.
Alberta handed the cell phone to Abraham who in turn handed it over to
Maxwell. As Maxwell took the phone, he looked at the number of missed calls on
it and called his mother first. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
He informed her that he was sorry his action scared
her but he was going to explain everything to her once he got home.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Alberta stood there with tears running down her
cheeks as Abraham helped Maxwell to get back unto his feet. "I am so
sorry, Maxwell", Abraham started.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I didn't mean for all of this to
happen, I swear", Alberta said, trying to keep her distance from Maxwell
for fear of being attacked. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I lost Nancy because of you”, Maxwell started</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I have lost Linda because of you", Maxwell added.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"I have
lost a better part of my life all in an effort to love you but look at how you
pay me back", Maxwell lamented. "This is the last time I am ever
going to give you or anyone else the chance to treat me in a way I don't
deserve", Maxwell said. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I just cannot believe that you would be so
heartless to think of such a thing", Maxwell said. "If it hadn't been
for the intervention of many good Samaritans, I would either have been living a
lie by believing I was the father of I child I had actually not fathered or
worse, I would have been dead by now because of you", Maxwell said
pointing to Alberta with scorn in his voice.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What ever did I do to you to deserve this
treatment?", Maxwell asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I couldn't stand the thought of losing any of
you", Alberta started, referring to Maxwell and Abraham. "At least I
also deserve some form of happiness", Alberta explained.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"At the expense of another man's
bondage?", Abraham asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Now listen to me very carefully Alberta, this
is the last time I am going to talk about our relationship", Maxwell
started. "We are never ever going to come back together so the earlier you
get that into your head, the better for all of us”, Maxwell explained. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Secondly, I am going to take you on regarding
this matter and I would go wherever you want us to go for the custody of our
son because you are the worst kind of parent and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>role model for him", Maxwell revealed.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"You are not going to have my son!",
Alberta exclaimed.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Oh, with this murderous intention of yours?”,
Maxwell asked sarcastically. “Any judge would throw this case out the minute I
bring what just happened here to light”, Maxwell added. “You are also
indecisive and irresponsible”, Maxwell said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I take exception to that!”, the doctor interrupted
trying to save Alberta some dignity. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“You would not want to see the other side of me
because if you think Alberta is crazy, wait till you see what I can also do”,
Maxwell shot back at the doctor and silenced him.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I think I have to take my leave now”, the doctor
said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“You would do no such thing!”, both Maxwell and
Alberta yelled in unison. With that, the young doctor timidly looked for a spot,
picked his cell phone from the ground and sat down as Maxwell and Alberta faced
off.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Like I was saying, I would do everything in power
to get my son out of your life and the day that event materializes, which it
would, that would be the last time you would ever get to be close to him or see
him because I would never want him to pick up any of your traits”, Maxwell
said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“No sensible judge would grant you that request!”,
Alberta exclaimed.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"My dear, why don't we leave that for a
competent court and judge to decide that?", Maxwell said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I don't think this is a battle you'd want
both of us engaged in", Alberta said as she started to get back some of
her confidence.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Oh really?", Maxwell asked sarcastically
and let out a laugh. "After all that has happened here today, this case
would be like a walk in the park for my lawyers", Maxwell assured. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Now, you!", Maxwell said as he turned to
face Abraham who had been quiet all the while and sitting down quietly.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Maxwell stretched out his hand to extend a
handshake to Abraham. "Thank you for arriving here and for saving my life
and thank you for clearing my name in this whole frenzy by owning up and
accepting responsibility for your actions", Maxwell added. “I don’t envy
you at all”, Maxwell said sarcastically. “I wish you luck with Alberta and
goodbye”, Maxwell added and pointed to Alberta with his left hand as he
approached the door.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I am going to take my leave now but trust me,
you would soon hear from my lawyers", Maxwell threatened and exited
Alberta's room and headed homewards.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Before you leave, I also have something to say”,
the young doctor said. “I also have for myself, some form of insurance policy”,
the young doctor started. “I voice recorded a better part of all that ensued
here and as I sat down, I also got video evidence of the two of you”, the
doctor revealed. “If any of you think you can sell me out, you better
reconsider it because I have it here in voice and film”, the doctor said as he
played back a snippet of the video he had just recorded. “And yes, I have sent
copies of it to a trusted friend in case this thing goes further than
expected”, Abraham revealed.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Bravo!”, Maxwell said. “I have no intentions of
selling you out because I have my own strong points to use in court”, Maxwell
said. “The person you should be worried about is the young lady standing over
there”, Maxwell said, pointing to Alberta.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Why are you pointing at me?”, Alberta asked</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Because we know what you are capable of”, Maxwell
replied. “I am out”, Maxwell said and exited the room.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
On his way home, Maxwell called Raphael and told
him about all that had ensued. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell did this to also get his own alibi should
matters get out of hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Raphael suggested reporting the issue to the police
but Maxwell turned down the suggestion and opted to take other legal means of
getting full custody of his son.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"At least I am happy that for once, you have
cleared your name and taken a bold decision to confront Alberta once and for
all", Raphael said. "I also hope that the actions you intend to take
in the coming days would yield favourable results", Raphael added.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I am feeling very weak and I don't think I
can make it to the office tomorrow", Maxwell said. “Can you hold the fort
for me in my absence?”, Maxwell asked. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“That is the least I can do for you, brother”,
Raphael said. “I know you are going to be a great single dad should the legal
action go in your favour”, Raphael added and both of them laughed.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I wish you luck”, Raphael added.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Luck is for losers”, Maxwell responded and hang up
the phone.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
When Maxwell got home, both of his parents were
eagerly waiting for him in the hall. He explained to them all that had ever
happened between himself and Alberta up until the incident that had ensued,
this time, he left no information out.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
In the days that followed, many actions were taken.
First of all, Maxwell’s father suggested a for a DNA test to be carried out to
ascertain the true father of Alberta’s first child considering the situation
she almost put Maxwell through. “The paternity of the boy would determine
whether we can take legal action or not, that is in the case where it turns out
that you are the true father of that child, if not, there would be no need
taking legal action for the custody of another man’s son”, Maxwell’s lawyer
said in one of their counselling sessions. A court order was secured in that
regard and Alberta had no choice but to succumb to the law</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
The test was results were to be given in a week.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
To the disappointment of many, including Maxwell’s
mother and sister and to the joy of Maxwell, his father and their lawyers, the
DNA test returned positive, making Maxwell the biological father of Alberta’s
first son.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
A legal battle for the custody of the little boy
then began.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
The legal battle went on for months. It was a
ferocious tussle. In the end, Maxwell won full possession of his son but there
were some clauses in the court’s ruling that allowed Alberta some rights too.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Linda attended most of the court hearings and
assured Maxwell of her solidarity.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
When the case was finally over, Linda wished
Maxwell all the best and made her point of moving on with her life without
Maxwell clear to him. Linda eventually moved out of the neighbourhood after
securing a new job on the other side of town. She always kept contact with
Maxwell and made him aware that she was never going to love any other man the
same way she loved him.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Nancy tried the best she could to be good to
Maxwell’s son by visiting them and showering him with gifts all in an effort to
warm her way up his father’s heart but Maxwell remained indifferent. Nancy
eventually gave up when she realized her plans were not yielding any results.
The last Maxwell heard from her was when she sent him an invitation to her
graduation from the university as a mature student but Maxwell could not honour
the invitation.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell and his friends worked tirelessly and soon,
they were on the floor reserved for the very best of Pardieson Global staff.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell and his friends did the best they could to
support other members of the community to reach higher heights.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell tried the best he could to be a good father
to his son and allowed him to occasionally talk to Alberta over the phone.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Alberta gave birth to a lovely little boy and
Maxwell and his son attended the outdooring ceremony of Maxwell’s son’s step
brother. Alberta got married to Abraham after many months of a stand-off
between the families of Abraham and Alberta.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Both Maxwell and his son loved pizza so they always
went out mostly on Saturdays when Maxwell was off from work and his son was off
from school. On one of such outings, Maxwell and his son had to share a table
with a young lady because the restaurant was almost filled to capacity. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Is that your nephew?”, the young lady asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“No, that’s my son”, Maxwell answered.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I am a single dad”, Maxwell added.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Wow, that must be hard work”, the young lady said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I am getting the hang of it”, Maxwell replied.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell’s son pushed his chair and sat right next
to the young lady.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“So does he get to see his mother?”, not really but
they get to speak on phone more often than not”, Maxwell answered. “Orders from
the court”, Maxwell added.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Oh, I see”, the young lady said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I think your son looks very much like you”, the
young lady said. “Oh sorry, my name is Gertrude but you can call me Getty”, the
young lady said. “I was just called to the bar as a lawyer”</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Getty, I think my son is going to love you”,
Maxwell said and the two of them laughed…</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "algerian"; font-size: 72.0pt; line-height: 150%;">THE END.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Esw-Aq2wBak/VyM1ybWzMyI/AAAAAAAAB2g/RevHFIqWjqIg_hdqoUccGvfIlj0GnUQigCLcB/s1600/random%2Bafrican%2Bthought%2Bedit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Esw-Aq2wBak/VyM1ybWzMyI/AAAAAAAAB2g/RevHFIqWjqIg_hdqoUccGvfIlj0GnUQigCLcB/s320/random%2Bafrican%2Bthought%2Bedit.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "algerian"; font-size: 72.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "cambria" , "serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%;">THANK YOU SO
MUCH FOR GOING ON THIS ROLLER COASTER RIDE WITH ME. THE SUSPENSE WAS INTENSE
EVEN FOR ME. I REALLY APPRECIATE ALL THE MILLIONS OF FEEDBACK I RECEIVED
CONCERNING THIS STORY. THERE ARE MANY LESSONS WE CAN PICK OUT IN EVERY EPISODE.
THE MAIN FOCUS OF THE STORY WAS BASED ON RELATIONSHIPS WITH FAMILY, FRIENDS,
NEIGHBOURS AND MORE IMPORTANTLY, DATING. THE MAJOR LESSONS I RECEIVED HAD TO
DUE WITH THE IMPORTANCE OF ABSTINENCE AND WHAT IS MORE, THE VALUE OF BEING
FAITHFUL TO ONE PARTNER IF ABSTINENCE FAILED. MAXWELL FAILED WOEFULLY ON THESE
VALUES AND TRUTH BE TOLD, HE RECEIVED A LOT OF BASHING AND INSULTS FROM MANY
READERS. I GENERALLY LOOK AT IT IN THE CASE THAT, ANYONE CAN GET CAUGHT UP IN
HIS SITUATION AND IT WOULD NOT BE SURPRISING TO FIND OUT THAT SOMEONE IS
ACTUALLY GOING THROUGH THE SAME THING. LADIES, PLEASE FPRGIVE MAXWELL. MAXWELL
PICKED UP MANY NICKNAMES THROUGHTOUT THE STORY AND I COULD NOT HELP BUT
REMEMBER A FEW LIKE “The Idiot”, “Fool”, “Sex Freak”, “Fornicator”, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Anamuu buulu</i>” (Ga language translated to
mean “Stupid Fool”). IN MY REFLECTIONS, I ATTRIBUTED MAXWELL’S BEHAVIOUR TO
THAT OF OUR SPIRITUAL LIVES WHEN WE SINNED. I AM PRETTY SURE THE ANGELS IN
HEAVEN WOULD CHASTIZE GOD FOR LOVING US UNCONDITIONALLY EVEN THOUGH WE HURT HIM
ALMOST ALL THE TIME. THAT IS WHAT I CALL, “The Maxwell-Alberta” kind of love;
UNCONDITIONAL LOVE. THAT IS THE KIND OF LOVE GOD HAS FOR ALL OF US REGARDLESS
OF OUR MESS. SO LADIES, NOW, CUT MAXWELL SOME SLACK…LOL. PERFECTION IS
SOMETHING WE ARE ALL STRIVING AT. THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN FOR BEING THE MOST
AMAZING AND PATIENT READERS EVER!!! MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND THIS OF
COURSE, IS ANOTHER MASTERPIECE FROM RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTS®.</span><span style="font-family: "algerian"; font-size: 72.0pt; line-height: 150%;"></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
COMMENT.LIKE.SHARE.INVITE.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br />
<br />
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. THANKS A MILLION<br />
SEND ALL COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO randomafricanthought@yahoo.com<span style="font-family: "cambria" , "serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%;"></span></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-29175886342674756532016-04-14T18:18:00.003+00:002016-04-14T21:53:43.381+00:00EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE...EPISODE TWENTY-4 (24).<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<i><b>"I beg your pardon but can you repeat what you
just said?", Maxwell pleaded.</b></i><br />
<br />
<i><b> Immediately Maxwell said that, all the guys
in the office turned to look in his direction fearing that something terrible
had happened. </b></i></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
When Maxwell realized that he had become the object of attention
in the office, he shook his head in a motion to indicate that it was nothing
serious. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I said it is highly plausible that Alberta's
baby is not yours", Bernice reiterated. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Please hold on", Maxwell said politely
and stepped out of the office after he had asked to be excused. He rushed to
the washroom on the next floor and resumed the call. "What did you say
your name was again?", Maxwell asked. "My name is Bernice a friend of
Alberta's", Bernice answered. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Are you sure of what you are saying?",
Maxwell asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I am very sure", Bernice stated.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Okay", Maxwell started. "You have
my attention". "Please tell me more". I am interested",
Maxwell pleaded and said all at once.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Okay, I wasn't supposed to be poking my nose
into others affairs so I don't expect you to judge me on this", Bernice
said to make things clear. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Point well noted", Maxwell said just to
get Bernice to talk.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I got a hold of Alberta's cell phone sometime
back and as fate would have it, my curiosity got the better part of me and I
decided to go through her messages just to pass the time", Bernice
revealed. "I happened to read the messages that both of you sent back and
forth and then I got the impression that you were the father of her child even
though she had confided in me on the matter", Bernice said. "Then
again, I saw another chat from one guy, it seemed suspicious to me knowing full
well that you were the father of her son", Bernice continued.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What was their chat about?", Maxwell
asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"It seemed to me that the two of them had been
involved sexually and they were recounting their escapades which were in erotic
detail", Bernice said. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell started to feel jealous.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Okay, go on", Maxwell said after he had
managed to block his brain from viewing the mental picture it had created of
Alberta in the arms of another man knowing full well how Alberta made him feel
when they made love.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"So, going down the chat, Alberta sent the guy
a message asking him to confirm to her if he remembered the last time both of
them made love but the guy could not remember", Bernice said. "Later
that day, I take it that Alberta run a pregnancy test and found out that she
was pregnant and confronted the guy with the matter", Bernice continued.
"When Alberta revealed her current state to the guy, he asked her to
terminate the pregnancy because he was not ready to become a father and that
his ex-girlfriend had started giving him the impression that she wanted them to
come back together", Bernice explained. "Alberta went back and forth
with the guy telling him how she loved him and was scared to lose him to the
other woman and also made clear her fears of having an abortion", Bernice
summarized. "It was then that Alberta made a joke about framing it to look
like you were the one who got her pregnant so that she could dump her children
on you and do everything in her power to be with this other guy", Bernice
said. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"When did all of this happen?", Maxwell
cut in.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I think some months back", Bernice
answered.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"This whole thing makes a lot of sense to me
now", Maxwell said. "I cannot say that I do not believe that Alberta
is capable of such schemes but what is her motive this time?", Maxwell
questioned Bernice. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I wonder what she thinks of you",
Bernice replied. "Later on in the chat, she told the guy that she has
managed to coerce you to talk to your parents and knowing how naive you were,
she knew you would fall for it", Bernice added.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I cannot believe that I have been so stupid
all this while", Maxwell lamented.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I am even beginning to doubt the paternity of
the son she claims to be mine", Maxwell continued.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I don't think that topic should be up for
discussion because in all honesty, I think that kid really looks like
you", Bernice said. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Resembling someone is beside the
point!", an enraged Maxwell fired out.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I just thought I'd do you some good by
telling you this so that you can do your own investigation and find out the
truth for yourself", Bernice said. "Thank you so much for this vital
piece of information but can I ask you for a favour?", Maxwell started.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What is it?", Bernice asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I'd like it if you gave me the number of the
guy so I could confront him personally", Maxwell said.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I don't think that is so much of a good
idea", Bernice shot back. "All I can tell you and all that I gathered
from their chat is that he is a young doctor who works in a private
hospital in town", Bernice revealed. "In case you need any more
clarification, you can call me on this number", Bernice said and bade
Maxwell farewell.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Immediately Maxwell ended the call, he rushed back
to his office and called Raphael out.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"There has been a new development",
Maxwell said excitedly as he stood with Raphael in their exquisite hallway. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"What is it?", Raphael asked wanting to
know what the new development was all about.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I think Alberta was framing me with her
pregnancy", Maxwell started. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Who does that?", Raphael asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"You heard me talk over the phone a while back
in there", Maxwell started as he pointed to the direction of their office.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Yeah I did", Raphael answered.
"What has that phone call got to do with Alberta's pregnancy?",
Raphael asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Apparently, I was having a conversation with
one of Alberta's friends and she was telling me about how Alberta was having an
affair with a certain young doctor who got her pregnant and as we speak, the
doctor is shying away from taking up responsibility for the said child so Alberta
decided to pin it on me to make it appear as if I was the one who got her
pregnant so that she can dump her kids on me and run off with her doctor
lover", Maxwell explained.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"And you believed this story?", Raphael
asked looking somewhat surprised. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Yes I do!", Maxwell responded.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Why is that?", Raphael asked. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"First of all, Bernice sounded very convincing
and I don't think I have to doubt her", Maxwell started. "Again she
knew that Alberta had threatened to tell my parents about her pregnancy if I failed
to do so", Maxwell told Raphael. "Now tell me, how did she know
that?", Maxwell asked Raphael looking at him for an answer.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I think thus is beginning to make some
sense", Raphael chipped in. "I remember Alberta threatened to tell
your parents a day after she had asked you to do same right?", Raphael
enquired.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Exactly!", Maxwell responded.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"And apparently, she failed to turn up because
she knew you would believe her threats and it forced you to tell your parents
that you were responsible for another man's pregnancy and as it stands now, it
would be out of this world for you to go back and tell your parents that the
same pregnancy you accepted responsibility for was actually another man's
responsibility", Raphael explained. "This is messed up!", Raphael
blurted out. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"This Alberta is one very good schemer", Raphael said.
"So what do you intend doing about it?", Raphael asked. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"I am going to do exactly what you are
thinking", Maxwell started. "First of all, I am going to confront
Alberta and if possible, force the truth out of her", Maxwell started.
"Then I would inform my parents about the turn of events then if possible,
I would try my best possible to win back Linda's love", Maxwell said.
"Isn't that a bit too late?", Raphael asked. "Stop being a
pessimist and be positive just for once", Maxwell fired back. "I am
really excited about this news and I believe it has come in as a huge relief
for me and I know it is a sign of good things to come", Maxwell said.
"I cannot say I am not happy about this news but I still find it hard to
believe", Raphael said. ""I just want you to be very careful and
treat this news very carefully", Raphael reiterated. "You should be
happy for me that I am finally going to break free from the clutches of Alberta
for good", Maxwell said. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"So what will happen to your son if you
eventually discover the fact that Alberta's current pregnancy is not
yours?", Raphael. "That is a very good question but I have not given
it so much thought", Maxwell started. "Isn't it obvious that I would
have to take him away from her?", Maxwell asked. "I don't think she
would hand him over to you without putting up a fight", Raphael suggested.
"I know that, but as it stands now, if all of this drama happens to be
true, she would have little choice than to hand him over to me and I would make
sure that I get full custody", Maxwell explained.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Like I always say, you have our full support
and we wish you all the best in your quest to unravel this mystery",
Raphael said. "Now, let's get back to work before we lose our jobs",
Raphael added and both of them hurriedly walked back into their office to
continue with the day's activities. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
After work that same night, many ideas flooded
Maxwell's mind. He wanted to be meticulous in his actions and wanted to get to
the bottom of the matter so as to reach an amicable solution which would seek
to favour all the parties involved in the matter. He tossed the matter over and
over in his mind and applied different scenarios and approaches to it to see
which one would best fit his dilemma. He felt as if his head was about to
explode. That night, on his way home, he decided to go by Linda's house first
to inform her about the latest news and use it at an opportunity to warm his
way up her heart one more time. When he arrived in the alley leading to Linda's
house, he received a call from his mother to come home quickly and assist her
with an errand. Maxwell quickly boycotted his visit to Linda's place and rushed
home to see to his mother's errand. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
When Maxwell got home, his mother was waiting for
him in the kitchen. "Good evening", Maxwell greeted as he chanced
upon his mother. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
"Good evening", Maxwell's mother
responded as she turned to face Maxwell. "I want you to go to the pharmacy
and get some drugs for your grandmother", Maxwell's mother said. "I'd
be happy to do that", Maxwell responded in a gay manner. "You are
sounding rather cheerful, is there any reason?", Maxwell's mother
enquired. “I think I am onto something but I don’t want to jump ahead of myself
for now till I get the full details of the matter”, Maxwell answered his
mother. “Wow!”, Maxwell’s mother exclaimed. “I am anxious to hear this
particular news”, Maxwell’s mother tried to coerce Maxwell to let her in on the
matter that had gotten her son to be so giddy. “Has it got anything to do with
work or the family”, an anxious Maxwell’s mother asked. “Mom, please I don’t want
to jinx this but if you cared to know, it has got something to do with Alberta”,
Maxwell revealed</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“What about her?”, Maxwell’s mother enquired</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“That is what we are all about to find out”, Maxwell
answered.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Okay if you say so”, Maxwell’s mother responded
and doled out money from her purse to Maxwell to run the errand she had wanted
him to run. Maxwell took the money, rushed to his room, changed his shirt and
shot out of the house like a rocket to run his mother’s errand.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Before Maxwell could get to the pharmacy, he
chanced upon Linda who was going in the opposite direction. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Linda, Linda, Linda!”, Maxwell yelled. Linda
turned and looked in the direction from which she heard her name being called.
When she saw who the ‘caller’ was, she continued her journey, completely
ignoring Maxwell’s calls. Maxwell doubled his steps, got close to Linda and stretched
forth his hand in an attempt to hold her hand to get her to stop. “Are we
enemies now?”, Maxwell enquired. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“We are not enemies but I don’t want us to have any
attachment ever again so the best thing to do is to avoid you and fight the
urge of missing you even though it gets unbearable at times”, Linda revealed. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I have been trying to see you all this while but
you ignore me whenever I visit and you have refused to answer my calls”,
Maxwell complained. “Isn’t that the obvious thing to do?”, Linda asked. “Linda I
love you so much and I would do anything to get you back into my life”, Maxwell
pleaded. “Ha-ha”, Linda laughed. “Isn’t it a bit too late for all of this?”,
Linda enquired. “It is never too late for us please, Linda”, Maxwell pleaded. “Just
hear me out”, Maxwell started. “What is it again this time?”, Linda asked. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“The baby that Alberta is carrying is not mine!”,
Maxwell announced looking into the eyes of Linda and expecting an excited
reaction. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Linda, looking very indifferent at the new turn of
events responded, “I am happy for you”. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Is that all you are going to say?”, Maxwell
queried.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“What else would you have me say?”, Linda asked
back.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I thought you were going to ask me to tell you how
I found out”, Maxwell, who was looking very disappointed by Linda’s reaction
asked. “You still don’t get it do you?”, Linda started. “What are you talking
about?”, Maxwell asked. “I don’t and never have a problem if Alberta was
carrying your fourth, fifth or even tenth child”, Linda started. “So what is
your problem?”, a confused Maxwell asked. “My only problem is that you slept
with Alberta while you still with me and what makes it worse is that you could
not open up to me when I asked you about it”, Linda revealed. “You actually
lied about it when I asked you”, Linda continued. “That lie has shattered into
pieces any form of trust I had in you and in us”, Linda explained. “But Linda…”,
Maxwell started. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Maxwell please spare me all the misery”, Linda cut
in. “I am happy for you that you are not responsible for Alberta’s pregnancy
but honestly, I don’t see myself getting back with you”, Linda revealed. “I
think you should fight your own battle”, Linda added. “Once again, I wish you
luck in life and goodbye”, Linda said and turned to walk away. Maxwell could
not believe what was happening. He stood there dumb-founded as he watched Linda
walk away from him. Maxwell turned, disappointed and walked back into the
pharmacy to purchase his grandmother’s drugs. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
On his way back home, Maxwell pulled out his phone
and called Alberta. “Where are you?”, Maxwell asked the second he saw that
Alberta had answered the call. “I am at home”, Alberta answered. “Is anything
the matter?”, Alberta asked. “You sound very much irritated”, Alberta said. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“We need to talk!”, Maxwell said in a commanding
voice. “Stop shouting at me!”, Alberta barked back. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“When do you want to see
me?”, Alberta asked. “Tonight”, Maxwell replied. “Tonight would not be possible”,
Alberta responded. “Maxwell doubled his steps, got home delivered the medicine
and shot out of the house like a stray bullet ignoring the calls from his mother
asking him to at least have his supper first.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell was on his way to Alberta’s house…</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell was filled with rage and derision as he
made his way past the house before Alberta’s house. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell knocked at the door and barged in to see
Alberta half-naked lying in her couch. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I thought I told you I cannot see you tonight”,
Alberta said as she hurriedly grabbed her shirt from the floor to cover up her
nakedness. Maxwell looked on; startled by Alberta’s behaviour. “Now that you
are here, say whatever you need to say and you can be on your way”, Alberta ordered.
“This is no laughing matter and I need you to give me the exact answers to the
questions I am going to ask you”, Maxwell started. “Just ask whatever you want”,
Alberta shot back. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Who is the father of the child that you are
carrying?”, Maxwell asked.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I beg your pardon?”, Alberta shot back.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Yes!”, “You heard me right”, Maxwell reiterated. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“I don’t think this topic should be up for discussion”,
Alberta started. “Both of us know who the father of this baby is”, Alberta
continued. “I have enough reason and evidence to doubt that I am the father of
this child”, Maxwell said. “Maxwell, I don’t want to argue over this with you and
I think it an insult for you to come over here and talk to me in this manner
because both of us know full well that…”, there was a knock on the door and it
disrupted Alberta’s speech. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Are you expecting someone?”, Maxwell asked a
startled Alberta. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Maxwell started to make his way to the door to see
who was there. As he moved, Alberta moved in to prevent him from getting to the
door.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
There was a struggle.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
Alberta managed to hold on tight to Maxwell’s shirt
to prevent him from answering the door. “This is my house and I am the one to decide
who answers the door”, Alberta said as she struggled to hold Maxwell back. In
the midst of the struggle, Maxwell slipped on the woollen carpet which had been
placed over the slippery ceramic-tiled floor in Alberta’s hall and hit his head
on the edge of the couch in front of him and immediately passed out. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
“Maxwell, Maxwell, Maxwell!”, Alberta called out as
she shook the motionless body of Maxwell that had fallen to the floor. Alberta
quickly run to answer the door. Immediately she flung the door open, she
screamed, “Please help me!”, “I think I have killed Maxwell!”…</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
HAS MAXWELL FINALLY RECEIVED WHAT HE DESERVES? WHAT
IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT IS SO CHILLY THAT IT WOULD GIVE YOU GOOSE PIMPLES. MY
NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND THIS IS ANOTHER EPISODE OF “EVEN IF I DON'T FIND
PEACE” ® MORE AT randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
WATCH THIS SPACE FOR THE NEXT EPISODE OF THIS
CAPTIVATING STORY.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TjPTKHTYJHo/Vv5gndz1ZZI/AAAAAAAAB0w/pFdWipj0FYcsMjIqgMbl4dBzr5gaSJ8iACKgB/s1600/Phototastic-11_03_2016_00adabf2-b1de-4cac-8b92-a562216aa2a2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TjPTKHTYJHo/Vv5gndz1ZZI/AAAAAAAAB0w/pFdWipj0FYcsMjIqgMbl4dBzr5gaSJ8iACKgB/s320/Phototastic-11_03_2016_00adabf2-b1de-4cac-8b92-a562216aa2a2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<br />
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
COMMENT.LIKE.SHARE.INVITE.<br />
<br />
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. THANKS A MILLION<br />
SEND ALL COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO randomafricanthought@yahoo.com<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-31169907389499880222016-04-11T18:07:00.001+00:002016-04-11T18:07:10.529+00:00YOUNG AND TALENTED AFRICANS MAKING WAVES IN THE MOVIE INDUSTRY.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Q5DeZEv79w/VwvnkM7Qe7I/AAAAAAAAB1U/i86iCWEuWgkjY-mzKXsOgLs3udW7dCFbw/s1600/IMG-20160411-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Q5DeZEv79w/VwvnkM7Qe7I/AAAAAAAAB1U/i86iCWEuWgkjY-mzKXsOgLs3udW7dCFbw/s320/IMG-20160411-WA0000.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It has become obvious that screen acting has become a passion in Ghana. Many African acts are discovered almost all the time. It would therefore not be wrong to say that Africa, going forward would be a force to reckon with when it comes to the national and international movie industries<br />
<br />
After Abraham Attah of "Beast of no Nation" fame put Ghana and Ghanaian acting on the map, it appears other actors were making waves way before the "Beast of no Nation" actor came into the limelight. Many of these actors are also worthy of adulation and recognition.<br />
<br />
One of such great and young acts is Elkanah Seddoh. This young talent affectionately called "BUJU", for his role in the hit TV series, 'XOXO' is one actor many producers should definitely put a close eye on. The young actor has a very promising acting career judging by his age and the stereotype character he seems to be attracting to himself as one of Ghana's few plus size male actors. He stars in the TV series which airs on a private Ghanaian television station along with other young and talented actors and actresses. The interesting thing about this young man is that he plays his role in the TV series so flawlessly that many people are of the view that the young actor is the exact copy of his role in real life. What many people would find hard to believe is that even though BUJU exudes a lot of confidence on set due to his massive acting prowess, he is very down to earth and takes in criticism whenever they come his way. He is also a fun-loving person and sometimes deemed a lady's man due to his plus size and role in XOXO. Elikanah is definitely one young act to watch and with the changing trends in the movie industry, it would not be long before producers and directors start falling over each other just to cast the young actor in their movies.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvW3aCBkdZ8/VwvnvVntDGI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/dKVtNut6VWUI_hDinlAaDzPTwpzefbZdw/s1600/IMG-20160411-WA0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvW3aCBkdZ8/VwvnvVntDGI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/dKVtNut6VWUI_hDinlAaDzPTwpzefbZdw/s320/IMG-20160411-WA0001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If you are a fan of XOXO and BUJU, this would be the right time to warm up your way to the actor and get his autograph before it is too late- That is just on a lighter note. Watch out for more from the camp of BUJU.randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-58285268666149413942016-04-07T12:59:00.001+00:002016-04-07T15:45:48.437+00:00EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE...EPISODE TWENTY-3 (23).<br />
<br />
"<b>What is going on with you and Alberta?", Raphael interrogated.</b><br />
<b>"Raphael, I think I have messed up again", Maxwell started without any hesitation.</b><br />
<br />
"What have you done?", Raphael asked dreading what Maxwell was going to say next.<br />
<br />
"Alberta is pregnant, Raphael", Maxwell announced.<br />
<br />
“Again?”, Raphael questioned<br />
<br />
"Alberta is what?", Raphael asked in a disappointing tone. "Maxwell, how could you get her pregnant again?", Raphael asked. "What were you thinking?", Raphael asked. "Does Linda know about this?", Raphael asked.<br />
<br />
"No", Maxwell answered.<br />
<br />
"How can I tell her this?", Maxwell queried. "I am so confused right now", Maxwell started. "Alberta has threatened to inform my parents about her current state if I don't tell them myself", Maxwell revealed. ""This is messed up", Raphael replied. "So what do you intend doing?", Raphael asked. "I just don't know what I am going to do now", Maxwell confessed. "As it stands now, my relationship with Linda is nearing its end should she hear this news", Maxwell started. "What is even worse is that she asked me if I had slept with Alberta after the birth of our son and I said no", Maxwell added. "How can I now go back and tell her that I lied?", Maxwell queried. "She would stop trusting me and that would be brutal to our relationship", Maxwell stated. "Alberta just wants to mess me up", Maxwell complained.<br />
<br />
"I don't see it that way if you asked me", Raphael stated.<br />
<br />
"You could have avoided all of this with a little more self-control", Raphael started. "Honestly, I think you brought this upon yourself with your own actions and inactions", Raphael reprimanded. "You know Alberta is nothing but trouble yet you make her wreck your life not only once but as it stands now, she is on her way to wreck your life the second time with the same issue", Raphael said. "What was going on in your head?", Raphael asked, sounding more disappointed. "I am sorry", Maxwell whispered. "Sorry?", Raphael asked. "You would be more than sorry when all Alberta's plans finally come into fruition", Raphael started. "First of all, your parents would be disappointed, Linda would be disappointed and that would be the least of the things she might do, Alberta would frustrate you and you would be frustrated throughout this pregnancy period", Raphael explained. "Being sorry would be the least of your woes", Raphael added. "What do you advice I do?", a now vulnerable-looking Maxwell asked. "I would have to be in this kind of situation to offer you any form of concrete advice", Raphael joked. "Come on Raphael, stop messing around because this is a serious matter", Maxwell said. "I need you to be a friend right now and advice me", Maxwell begged.<br />
<br />
"Okay, this is what I think you should do", Raphael started. "First off, I think it would be an affront for Alberta to get through to your parents with the news of her pregnancy before you do", Raphael started. "Try and reach them and inform them about it as soon as possible", Raphael said as Maxwell nodded simultaneously. "That way, they would know that you are ready to take responsibility for your actions", Raphael added. "Then, you need to talk to Linda about this", Raphael continued.<br />
<br />
"I don't think I can do that", Maxwell responded promptly.<br />
<br />
"Sadly Max, I don't think you have a choice", Raphael rebutted. "Right now, our best bet would be to tell Linda and hope that she comes to understand", Raphael continued. "Let me give you this brotherly advice", Raphael stated. "If you are able to talk to Linda and she decides to walk out on you, please don't push it by trying to make her understand", Raphael said. "Just give her time and space to take it all in; if she loves you, she would help you to find a way around this", Raphael added. "You know you have our support already so that is already in the bag", Raphael said referring to himself and the other boys and squeezed Maxwell's shoulders with his arms as if to give him a massage. "Let us stay positive and hope that everything is going to fall in their rightful place", Raphael said with a firm sense of assurance and solidarity.<br />
<br />
"Okay sir, let's get back to work" Raphael added and both of them joined the other guys in their plush office to continue with the day's activities.<br />
<br />
<br />
Apparently, after Maxwell's family's long-awaited reunion, Maxwell's parents had moved back into their family house and had been there a couple of weeks already. When Maxwell got home that night, he called his parents, sat them down and decided to open up to them; something he never saw himself doing.<br />
"Mum and Dad, I need to tell you guys something very important", Maxwell started. Maxwell's mother was particularly intrigued by the fact that her son was learning to confide in them. "I have messed up again", Maxwell said. As usual, Maxwell's mother was the first to react. She sat at the edge of her seat and placed her hands over her lips. "Are they saying you have done something wrong at work?", Maxwell's alarmed mother asked. "You know I would not do anything like that", Maxwell responded and gave his father a look. Maxwell's father had slouched in his seat and just waited for Maxwell to tell them what the issue was about. He cared less about the prelude or Maxwell's build up. "Has it got anything to do with that girl you impregnated?", Maxwell's father asked.<br />
<br />
"Yes please", Maxwell responded.<br />
<br />
"What about her?", Maxwell's mother asked when she realized what the topic of discussion they were going to have was going to be about. "Is she giving you pressure to come and marry her or something?", Maxwell's mother asked.<br />
<br />
"No", Maxwell added.<br />
<br />
"Better, because that would be over my dead body", Maxwell's mother fired out. "Young man, just get on with it and stop stalling!" Maxwell's father yelled. "I think I have impregnated her again", Maxwell finally managed to let out after his father's warning. Maxwell's parents froze when Maxwell's last words reached their ears. Maxwell's mother looked at Maxwell like a strange creature with awe. Maxwell's words did not appear real to her because they were too strange to be true. Maxwell's father sat upright in the chair and as the man of the house, he had to do the interrogation. He appeared calm and collected all the time and ever since Maxwell knew him as his father. He knew his father to be someone who talked less and often left their upbringing to their mother; his wife.<br />
<br />
"You think you have impregnated her again?", Maxwell's father asked as Maxwell's mother sat in the exact position she was in when Maxwell broke the news; still speechless and looking on in disappointment. In times like this, Maxwell searched the face of his mother for her to give him some solace but this night was not his night. His mother had the most apt expression of pain, anger and disappointment written all over her face and Maxwell knew that he had done the unthinkable again.<br />
<br />
"Answer my question young man!", Maxwell's father exclaimed with a firmer tone of voice than he spoke with earlier. "Is she pregnant and if she is, are you responsible for that pregnancy?", Maxwell's father queried. Maxwell looked up at his dad and nodded his head sheepishly. "Speak!", Maxwell's father yelled. "She told me she was pregnant and that I was responsible", Maxwell fumbled in his response. "I just can't believe that you would do the very thing I least expected you to do again", Maxwell's father started. "I knew you to have grown wiser after her first pregnancy so what business do you have getting her pregnant again?", Maxwell's father quizzed. "You should have known better", Maxwell's father added. "You see the look on your mother's face?", Maxwell's father asked, prompting Maxwell to look in his mother's direction. "There is no telling how disappointed and embarrassed she is right now", Maxwell's father said.<br />
"Maxwell how could you?", were Maxwell's mother's first words after she was starting to recover from her self-imposed state of shock and disappointment. Maxwell's only consolation lay in the fact that this time round, she did not throw a fit and she was not crying too when he broke the news to them.<br />
<br />
"Maxwell, the last time I spoke to you on this matter, you made it quite clear that you did not intend marrying this young lady in question", Maxwell's father started. "So between the period we spoke and now, what happened?", Maxwell's father asked. "Did she seduce you to sleep with her or you got drunk and as a matter of fact got carried away?", Maxwell's father queried. Maxwell's mother just sat down in her seat, now also slouching and had cupped her lips with her hand. "You have made it clear to us that you want to settle with this particular young lady so your mother and I would make plans to go and see her parents so that we see the way forward", Maxwell's father announced. "I believe they would definitely not buy our idea of not marrying their daughter when she is having not only one but two of your children", Maxwell's father continued. "I am very disappointed in you and I don't think even you little sister would act so naively", Maxwell's mother said. "I would not speak lowly of her but I can vouch with my life that she would act more wisely in this matter and this is not to say that she doesn't know any better", Maxwell's mother added. "I think your father is right, we would go and visit Alberta's parents and fix a date to clear this whole thing up", Maxwell's mother added.<br />
<br />
"Mum and dad, there is something else I'd like to say", Maxwell said as he trembled in his seat looking for pity.<br />
<br />
"What more do you have to say?", Maxwell's mother barked.<br />
<br />
"I am involved with someone else and honestly, I don't want to marry Alberta", Maxwell revealed. "You should have thought about the repercussions of your actions when you went about flaunting your manhood", Maxwell's father said. "This is not how we brought you up", Maxwell's father said. "I wonder where you picked up all this strange behaviour", Maxwell's father added. "As it stands now, you'd have to call off that relationship because it cannot stand the test of time with all this excess baggage of yours", Maxwell's father said. "Dad, I love this other girl so much and she knows that I already have a child with Alberta", Maxwell said in his defense. "But does she know Alberta is carrying your second child", Maxwell's father asked.<br />
<br />
<br />
There was a long silence.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I thought as much", Maxwell's father said. "You know full well that this revelation would surely end whatever thing you have going on with her so why not spare that innocent lady this whole mess and misery by calling your relationship with her off?", Maxwell's father debated. "I have said what I think needs to be said and that is final", Maxwell's father added. "But come to think of it, why did you decide to tell us about Alberta's pregnancy this time round?", Maxwell's father enquired. Maxwell sat in the chair with his palms sweating profusely and tried to give his father an answer to his question. "She threatened to come by the house tomorrow to tell you about it if I didn't tell you myself so I thought it wise to inform you guys as a way of showing you some respect before you heard it from anyone else", Maxwell answered. "You think a marriage with someone like this can last?" "Someone who can threaten and coerce you to do stuff like this", Maxwell's father asked and shook his head in disbelief. "You have brought this upon yourself and it is my prayer that we don't also regret the actions we are about to take", Maxwell's father said....<br />
<br />
<br />
Nancy had been looking for Linda all over the place. She speculated that she might not be living far off from Maxwell's house. She knew the news of Alberta's pregnancy was going to shatter Linda's love for Maxwell and give her the chance to meander her way through to Maxwell's loving arms one more time even though she knew he was saddled with so many problems. Nancy had called Maxwell earlier to inform him that she wanted them to shift their date to an earlier time but Maxwell did not answer his phone. Nancy had combed the entire neighborhood the whole of the afternoon and when she realized she was not going to have any luck at finding Linda, she decided to use the opportunity to pay Maxwell another visit. She asked the taxi driver to take her to Maxwell's house after she had given him directions to the house<br />
<br />
Before the driver could park in front of Maxwell's house, Nancy saw Linda making her way to Maxwell's house. Nancy quickly prompted the driver to stop and she jumped out of the taxi.<br />
<br />
"Hello", Nancy saluted<br />
<br />
Linda turned at the greeting to look at who was talking.<br />
<br />
"Oh hi", Linda responded when she recognized Nancy.<br />
<br />
"You are Nancy right?", Linda queried.<br />
<br />
"Yes I am", Nancy responded.<br />
<br />
"We met in a somewhat embarrassing moment and I can't seem to forget about it", Linda said in a coy manner. "Oh never mind, I have experienced those moments myself one too many times", Nancy assured Linda. "So there is nothing to be embarrassed about", Nancy continued trying to warm her way up Linda's social circle.<br />
<br />
"What brings you here anyways?", Linda asked. "I was actually on my way to see you to discuss something with you", Nancy started.<br />
<br />
"Really?", Linda asked.<br />
<br />
"Yes", Nancy replied<br />
<br />
"No offence though, but I wonder what the two of us can talk about since we barely know each other", Linda started. "That is what you'd think but after you hear what I am about to say, you would wish you knew me earlier", Nancy said in her defence. "What is it about?", Linda asked curiously. "I think Maxwell and Alberta want to take you for a fool", Nancy said bluntly. "I beg your pardon", Linda who appeared taken aback by Nancy's revelation said. "You heard me right!", Nancy reiterated. "I said I suspect that Maxwell and Alberta are up to something", Nancy restated. "So why are you telling me this?", Linda asked. Before Nancy could answer the question, Linda rained more questions on her. "What is your basis for making this assumption?" "Do you have any proof?" "Why are you so interested in Maxwell's past if you don't have any ulterior motive for his future?", Linda asked all at once. Nancy dug her hand into her purse to show Linda the proof she was talking about but before she could unlock the phone, Linda fired off like a machine gun. "Honestly, the first time I saw you, you appeared to be a very likeable person and I thought we could get along despite our unfortunate first meeting but my inkling is giving me the impression that you would be bad company if I allow you any more audience", Linda said. "Thank you for watching out for me or whatever thing you think you aim to achieve by running to me to tell me about Maxwell and Alberta", Linda continued. "We are way past that episode so thank you for the heads up but I think I have to take my leave now and so should you", Linda added.<br />
<br />
Nancy was dumbfounded by Linda's reaction. "At least here me out, do your own investigations before you draw your conclusions", Nancy fought back looking somewhat embarrassed. "For your information, Alberta is carrying Maxwell's second child", Nancy blurted out.<br />
<br />
Linda's mind cast back to some months ago when she met Alberta coming out of Maxwell's room.<br />
<br />
There was a long uneasy silence.<br />
<br />
"And for your information, I don't care whether she is carrying his fourth, fifth or even eighth baby", Linda said. "Both of you can go to hell and rot there for all I care!", Linda said and asked Nancy to leave. Nancy, who was very surprised and at the same time disappointed left in the taxi that brought her.<br />
<br />
When Nancy left, Linda changed her mind and also went straight home but she couldn't help but ponder on the day she saw Alberta and Maxwell together...<br />
<br />
<br />
Three days after Linda's encounter with Nancy, she decided to finally pay Maxwell a visit. The two of them had been chatting over the phone but Maxwell could still not find the courage to confront Linda with his situation.<br />
<br />
Linda visited Maxwell when he had closed from work.<br />
<br />
"Hi sweetheart, I missed you very much these past few days", Maxwell said when Linda entered his room. Linda walked up to Maxwell and planted a kiss on his cheek even though Maxwell would have loved one on the lip. "Can I have your phone?", Linda asked politely. "Excuse me?", Maxwell asked. "I said can I have a look at your mobile phone?", Linda rephrased her request. Maxwell was taken unaware by Linda's demand but he gave in and handed over his phone to her. She unlocked the phone after Maxwell had given her his unlock code and she placed the phone in 'silent' mode and placed the phone on her lap.<br />
<br />
"Maxwell, we need to talk", Linda said.<br />
<br />
"What do you want to talk about?", Maxwell said as he simultaneously swallowed some saliva to wet his instantly dried up throat.<br />
<br />
"Is Alberta carrying your baby?", Linda asked<br />
<br />
"Baby, you know I love you so much and I would not hide anything from you", Maxwell started.<br />
<br />
"Max, answer the question!", Linda exclaimed.<br />
<br />
"I don't know how this happened but yes, Alberta claims she is carrying my baby", Maxwell answered promptly.<br />
<br />
"Again", Linda conveniently added<br />
<br />
"It is not what you think, Linda, Maxwell started.<br />
<br />
"Don't even start!", Linda screamed. "So when were you going to tell me that you were making a fool out of me?", Linda asked, with tears starting to roll down her cheeks.<br />
"Linda please don't cry", Maxwell begged. "Just hear me out first", Maxwell pleaded.<br />
<br />
"It's enough!", I have heard you loud and clear and I just cannot hear you out again", Linda started. "All this while I gave you the benefit of the doubt because I knew you would never do anything to hurt my feelings but I was wrong", Linda said. "Three days ago, when Nancy told me this, I stood and defended you as if my life depended on it", Linda revealed. "I made her look like a fool and rubbished her claims all in the name of the love I had for you", Linda continued. "If we had made a wager, I would be at the losing end", Linda said. "I thought I could do this and I thought you could trust me enough to confide in me but you didn't and the thought of it kills me inside", Linda continued.<br />
<br />
"It is not like that", Maxwell said.<br />
<br />
"Maxwell, I remember I asked you if you had been with Alberta after the birth of your son and you said no", Linda recollected and recounted. "So how come you are now proudly accepting responsibility for her pregnancy if you guys have not made love?", Linda questioned.<br />
<br />
"You are such a bloody liar!", Linda screamed. "I feel so stupid right now", Linda added<br />
<br />
<br />
"Don't worry about it because I have already made up my mind and this time, I am not going to change my mind", Linda started. "I think we should call this thing we have for each other off and go our separate ways", Linda announced. I want you to have all the time to concentrate on your new family", Linda added. "Just forget about me and thank you for the lesson you have taught me these past few months that I have known you", Linda added and got up to leave. "Your parents are in the hall and I don't want to create a scene so don't try to stop me", Linda warned as she made her way to the door. When she got to the door, she turned and said, "I think you and Alberta deserve each other; a bunch of liars and schemers". "I wish you luck in life and good-bye", Linda added and shut the door gently behind her.<br />
<br />
Weeks had passed after Maxwell's new exposé and Linda was still not answering Maxwell's calls. Maxwell called Alberta to find out why she told Nancy she was pregnant and she recounted how she had engaged in a banter of words with Nancy over the picture of her son. Maxwell got a clear picture and also confronted Nancy for being a snitch. Maxwell blocked Nancy's calls and messages after he had warned her to stay clear off him. Maxwell called Alberta and asked her to also stay away from him till she had finally put to bed.<br />
<br />
He was going to supply all she needed.<br />
<br />
Maxwell was at work one morning when he received a phone call from a strange number.<br />
<br />
"Hello", a feminine voice said.<br />
<br />
“Hello, my name is Maxwell may I know whom I am speaking with?”, Maxwell asked politely.<br />
<br />
“Hello Maxwell, my name is Bernice, a friend of Alberta”, the voice at the other end revealed her identity. <br />
“Okay, how may I help you?”, Maxwell queried.<br />
“What has Alberta put you up to?”, Maxwell added. “Alberta is pregnant”, Bernice revealed. <br />
“Ha-ha”, Maxwell laughed. “Please tell me something I don't know”, Maxwell said sarcastically.<br />
<br />
“It may sound funny to you but even though Alberta has told you that she is pregnant, the baby she is carrying is not yours”, Bernice revealed.<br />
<br />
THINGS HAVE ALREADY FALLEN APART. HEADS MUST ROLL. CAN MAXWELL GET TO THE BOTTOM OF ALL THIS STORM? LET US HOPE AND SEE. MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND THIS IS ANOTHER MASTERPIECE FROM THE STABLES OF RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTS. <br />
MORE AT<br />
<br />
randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
COMMENT.LIKE.SHARE.INVITE.<br />
<br />
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. THANKS A MILLION<br />
SEND ALL COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO randomafricanthought@yahoo.com<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-67443565774429994752016-04-01T11:33:00.000+00:002016-04-07T10:06:15.931+00:00EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE...EPISODE TWENTY-2 (22).<br />
<br />
<br />
"Maxwell we need to talk, I think I am two months pregnant", Alberta's words resonated in the innermost parts of Maxwell's entire being. He could not believe his ears; his heart missed several beats in that split second when Alberta revealed her current state to him.<br />
<br />
"How come?", a confused Maxwell asked Alberta over the phone. "How did you get pregnant?". Alberta laughed out loud and responded. "The same way I got pregnant with your son the first time is the same way I got pregnant with this particular one too", Alberta said. "Didn't you know that there was a possibility of me getting pregnant when we made love without any form of caution or protection in your house?"<br />
<br />
Maxwell's mind automatically cast itself back in time to reflect on that fateful day.<br />
<br />
"You call that lovemaking?", Maxwell asked, when his mind revealed to him the events of that particular day. "I remember how brief I was", Maxwell said in his defense. "I also remember asking you if you were in a safe period and you told me there was no way you could get pregnant", Maxwell continued. "Even when you said that, I still wasn't convinced so I took a traditional cautionary measure to ensure that I didn't get any semen inside of you", Maxwell explained. "And what is more, I wanted to be double sure so I asked you to get a 'morning after pill' just to be safe", Maxwell said. "Alberta, I also remember asking you some time last month or somewhere around the month if you had menstruated and you told me you had, so how come you are claiming to be pregnant all of a sudden?", Maxwell queried.<br />
<br />
"I remember telling you all that but what is the underlying fact here?", Alberta fought back. "You and I made love!", Alberta said over the phone. "You should have thought about all these precautions before we made love in the first place". "I guess we were not lucky in the employment of that traditional cautionary measure as well", Alberta said.<br />
<br />
"I really need to see you and it has to be sooner than later", Alberta ordered.<br />
<br />
"When would you be free?", Maxwell asked. "I would be free anytime you are willing to come and see me", Alberta responded.<br />
<br />
Linda started walking towards Maxwell's direction in the most gorgeous way possible. She wanted to find out what was keeping Maxwell from joining in their celebratory dinner. "Let us talk about this when I see you", Maxwell told Alberta when he saw Linda approaching and hang up the phone on Alberta.<br />
<br />
"Man of the hour", Linda saluted when she was now standing inches away from Maxwell and stretched to place a kiss on his lips. "What is keeping you from joining all of us?", Linda queried. "You know I get uncomfortable whenever I am not around you during gatherings like this", Linda revealed.<br />
<br />
"You are my handbag and I love you so much and I am happy for you and I am proud of you and I know you are capable of greater things and I know you have such a kind and gentle heart and..."<br />
<br />
"Those are so many 'ands'", Maxwell teased. "What about my 'buts'?", Maxwell asked in a confused manner and almost thought of telling Linda the reason he had been on the phone all that while. "Your 'buts' are in the past and even if there were more 'buts', I would still love you the same, regardless of the situation", Linda said and locked her two arms around Maxwell's neck. Maxwell placed his hand around Linda's waist and said, "I am glad to have you and I would do anything to keep you because you give me a certain feeling of peace that nobody can take away".<br />
<br />
"You are such a darling", Linda blushed.<br />
<br />
The two of them then started making for the restaurant where the rest of them were all gathered. Before Maxwell could open the door, Raphael rushed out and said, "I was just about to fetch you two lovebirds for our toast". "We thought you had flown away to your love nest to do...." Maxwell instantly cleared his throat to signal for Raphael to stop talking. Maxwell held the door for Linda to walk in and followed her closely; Raphael also followed Maxwell in that order.<br />
<br />
In some hours, the celebrations were over and all of them had to go home to prepare for work the next day. Linda went with Maxwell and the others went home separately.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Maxwell are you alright?", Linda asked Maxwell when they arrived at his house. "You looked so disoriented at the party and I thought it was strange", Linda said. "That is the more reason why I wanted us to come home so we could have some alone time together", Linda revealed. She knelt down in front of Maxwell who was seated on the bed and took his hands inside of hers. "Maxwell, I know you are going through tough times with Alberta, your child, this new and demanding job, managing all the boys and me", Linda started. "I just want you to keep your head straight and make us all proud", Linda added.<br />
<br />
"I sure will!", Maxwell assured Linda and helped her up unto her feet and unto the bed. The two of them chatted for a while after Linda had ironed Maxwell's clothes for the next morning and eventually, Maxwell saw Linda off and came back inside his room to prepare for bed.<br />
<br />
"Oh God!" Maxwell exclaimed when he finally lay in his bed. "What have I done again?", he queried himself. "How could I be so stupid and careless to get Alberta pregnant again?", Maxwell thought out loud. All of a sudden, he remembered the question Linda asked earlier if he had ever made love to Alberta after the birth of their child and he responded in the negative. "Was Linda unto something when she asked me that question?", Maxwell asked himself. "How am I going to possibly explain myself to her after I have told her that I have not had sex with Alberta?", Maxwell continued. He threw many punches into the air and could not believe that if Alberta's pregnancy was truly his, it was going to mean that he was going to lose Linda and her love forever. "She trusts me but I don't think any woman in her right senses would want to be with me if all this is true", Maxwell said and went to bed a dejected young man.<br />
<br />
Maxwell was the last person to get to the office the following morning which was very unusual.<br />
<br />
"Good morning", Maxwell greeted and quickly made for his desk to start the day's activities. The rest of the guys looked on in awe as Maxwell tossed papers about and appeared very disorganized. "This is so unusual of you; first of all, you come in late and now, you are making a mess of your desk", Rudolph said. "Is anything the matter?", Rudolph asked.<br />
<br />
"I am fine", Maxwell responded<br />
<br />
"Well, if you say so", Rudolph said. "One of us needs to be at the stakeholder's meeting", Raphael cut in looking in Maxwell's direction to suggest the obvious. "I think I would pass on this one", Maxwell revealed. "Any one of you can take my place", Maxwell revealed.<br />
<br />
Frank agreed to replaced Maxwell at the stakeholder's meeting.<br />
<br />
<br />
At lunch time, Maxwell decided to call Alberta and meet up with her. In exactly forty-five minutes, Alberta and Maxwell were at the agreed location. Maxwell gave Alberta money for her son but added some more money. "Seems you are feeling generous today", Alberta said with a smirk on her face after she realized that Maxwell had given her way more money than he usually gave her. "The extra cash is for you", Maxwell revealed. "I want you to use it to take care of that baby", Maxwell said pointing towards Alberta's tummy. "You know what I mean", Maxwell stated emphatically.<br />
<br />
"I would do no such thing!", Alberta revealed. “I have had enough!”, Alberta added.<br />
<br />
"Alberta, we are in no position right now to take care of two children", Maxwell said. "Moreover, our families are in a deadlock concerning our future so I don't want us to make the situation any murkier than it already is", Maxwell explained. "Let us keep this just between the two of us and solve it together for the sake of our son, please", Maxwell pleaded. "I know you are doing all these things because of that new girl I met in your house but I am not worried because her time will surely come", Alberta revealed. "I would give what you are saying some thought and you would hear from me shortly", Alberta said and took her leave.<br />
<br />
Maxwell returned to the office a bit satisfied and relieved because he knew Alberta's acceptance of the money without putting up any serious fight meant that his situation was half way solved. He returned to the office and all of a sudden, he had sprung back to life. He marched giddily over to Frank's table and requested that he handed over to him notes from the stakeholder's meeting. Maxwell was now more lively throwing jokes about in the room. He managed to get all of the boys laughing by telling them tales of some of the funny moments he encountered while he was a student in the university. The boys had never seen Maxwell so alive and happy after he had revealed the secret about his son to them. For whatever it was worth, the boys were happy for him and they all reveled in the moment because they knew it was going to take a long time before they would experience another moment like that again.<br />
<br />
Maxwell had still not heard from Alberta after their meeting but he was sure that his suggestion was going to see the light of day. The next month was Maxwell's son's birthday so the whole crew were excited about the big day when Maxwell informed them of it. They all made personal preparations towards the day.<br />
<br />
On the said date, Maxwell received many calls and appointments to receive gifts on behalf of his son. Most of the gifts were coming from his childhood friends who were in a bid to outdo each other for the coveted honor of 'Best Uncle'. Among the callers was Nancy.<br />
<br />
"Hello, Nancy", Maxwell said when he answered Nancy's call.<br />
<br />
"I just saw your profile picture and status on WhatsApp and I believe today is your son's birthday", Nancy revealed. "He looks very much like you and I am now convinced that he is really your son because honestly I had my own doubts prior to seeing this picture", Nancy added. "Anyway, tell him I said happy birthday and I wish him the very best", Nancy added. "Thank you so much, Nancy", Maxwell started. "I hope you are doing well because it has been a while since I heard from you", Maxwell said. "We should hang out sometime", Maxwell added. "I am doing well and I believe a hang out won't be bad judging by how much I miss you", Nancy confessed. "Just pick the time and venue and I would honor the invitation", Nancy added. "By the way, I hope I am allowed to honor your son by using the picture you have used as my profile picture on WhatsApp too", Nancy enquired.<br />
<br />
"Sure!", Maxwell responded.<br />
<br />
Alberta and Nancy were very good friends until the two of them got emotionally attached to one man; Maxwell. The two ladies had not communicated kindly or in any uncertain friendly terms with each other after their self-styled rivalry because of Maxwell. They had literally become sworn enemies. Even though Alberta and Nancy had each others phone number, they never chatted in an way after their entanglement with the same man. As fate would have it, Alberta was going through the profiles on WhatsApp and chanced upon a familiar face on an unusual profile. Alberta saw her son's picture being used by Nancy as her profile picture with the caption 'Happy birthday to our little one, I WISH YOU LONG LIFE AND PROSPERITY'.<br />
<br />
All hell was about to break loose.<br />
<br />
"What does Maxwell take me for?", Alberta screamed. "Why would he send my son's picture to this lady to use as her profile picture?", she queried. "Does he want to mock me?", Alberta asked herself and hit her chest. "I hope he knows what he is doing because he should be ready to face my wrath", Alberta added. She instantly called Maxwell's number but there was no response.<br />
<br />
Alberta called Maxwell number the second time; still, there was no response.<br />
<br />
"I am going to take up this matter before it gets out of hand", Alberta revealed.<br />
<br />
"Nonsense!", Alberta exclaimed.<br />
<br />
Alberta dialed Raphael's number and he answered immediately. "Hello, Alberta", Raphael said politely when he answered the phone. "Hello Raphael", Alberta responded. "Do you happen to know where Maxwell is?", Alberta enquired. "I have been trying to reach him on countless occasions but I am not getting through to him", Alberta added. "Maxwell is in a meeting; in fact, we are all in a meeting", Raphael revealed. "I just came out to pick some files from our office and that was when your call came in", Raphael added. "I would be glad to pass on any form of message you have for him and I would be sure to remind him to call you back immediately the meeting is over", Raphael suggested. "Raphael, please tell your friend that I don't like what he is doing one bit but if he decides to go down the path he is going, tell him to be ready for what is about to happen", Alberta stated. "Alberta, is everything alright?", Raphael asked after receiving that strong-worded message to be delivered to Maxwell.<br />
"Everything was alright until your friend decided to mess it up", Alberta revealed. "What exactly could be the matter on a day your son is celebrating his birthday; a day we are all supposed to be making merry?", Raphael asked.<br />
<br />
"Ask your friend", Alberta said.<br />
<br />
"Okay, I will”, Raphael said. “I have to go now", Raphael added politely and asked to take his leave to return to the meeting.<br />
<br />
When Raphael got back into the conference room, he whispered something into Maxwell's ear and sat down.<br />
<br />
Alberta decided to face off one more time with Nancy. This time , she decided to send Nancy a text message.<br />
<br />
'You are so shameless', the message Alberta sent to Nancy read.<br />
<br />
Immediately Nancy received the message from Alberta, she also decided to respond in kind.<br />
<br />
'Thank you sweetheart but your words don't move me anymore', Nancy's reply read.<br />
<br />
A war of words ensued.<br />
<br />
'Why cant you just stay away from Maxwell for good even when you know I have his son?', Alberta sent back<br />
<br />
'Stop deceiving yourself to think that Maxwell would marry you', Nancy's reply read.<br />
<br />
'I care less', Alberta sent back<br />
<br />
'I just can't believe that you still hold on all this hatred inside of you after all these years, I wonder the kind of upbringing Maxwell's supposed son is getting from you', Nancy harshly replied.<br />
<br />
Alberta's reply read, 'It is because the two of us can never be friends anymore'.<br />
<br />
'I am not moved one bit because having you as a friend would be a dent on my reputation', Nancy replied.<br />
<br />
Alberta decided to put the matter to bed and knew the best way to do so. In her next text message which she sent to Nancy, the message read, 'I don't expect you to be moved because in all of this I am carrying Maxwell's second child and I believe it clearly means that Maxwell knew who he wanted to settle with all this while because he just used you and dumped you like the piece of trash you are'<br />
<br />
Nancy was taken aback by the revelation as she read Alberta's text and she knew that Alberta was a lot of things but all she normally said were far from being a lie. Nancy decided to find a way to brush aside Alberta's claims and re-establish her position so she captured what she wanted to say in her next text and it read, 'I am going to get Maxwell's ring so you can keep on carrying the babies because all you would ever be to Maxwell is a baby-carrier. One more thing, this time, I would be at the naming ceremony'<br />
<br />
Before Alberta could think of another reply to send to Nancy, her phone rang, it was Maxwell.<br />
<br />
"How dare you give my son's picture to that harlot to use as her profile picture on WhatsApp?", Alberta queried immediately she answered the phone. "Alberta, your son is my son too and I have a right to celebrate him in any way I deem fit", Maxwell said. "Moreover, Nancy asked to use our son's picture and I granted her permission", Maxwell added. "Should anything happen to my son, I would hold you and your harlot responsible", Alberta sounded her word of caution. "Do your worst, Alberta, I am sick and tired of all this nagging and acts of this uncalled for jealousy", Maxwell barked. "This is a day we are supposed to be celebrating our son and not engaging in unnecessary fights", Maxwell added.<br />
<br />
"Is that what you are telling me?", Alberta asked.<br />
<br />
"Fine!", Alberta said<br />
<br />
"Start telling your parents to prepare to welcome their second grandchild because I have changed my mind on terminating this pregnancy", Alberta started. "Whether you tell them or not is up to you because I would be in your house first thing tomorrow morning to tell your mother that I am carrying your second child".<br />
<br />
"You would do no such thing!", Maxwell fired back<br />
<br />
"Watch me", Alberta responded and hang up the phone.<br />
<br />
Maxwell knew that Alberta did not mince words and also knew that she always carried out whatever thing she set out to do. He was confused and did not know what to do. He knew he had to confide in someone but that person could not be Linda because he did not want to risk losing her. Maxwell suddenly appeared disoriented when he entered his office. Raphael was the first to notice Maxwell's fall in countenance. Raphael knew that something was terribly wrong judging by Alberta's harsh message and Maxwell's current state but to avoid panicking and drawing the attention of their other friends, he signaled for Maxwell to meet him in the hallway. "Maxwell, what is going on with you?", Raphael asked...<br />
<br />
<br />
Back at Nancy's house, Nancy was going over the war of words that had just ensued between herself and Alberta. "I just cant believe that Maxwell would be so stupid as to get this witch pregnant again", Nancy thought out loud. "If Alberta is really pregnant, it could mean a lot of things", Nancy thought to herself. "I can use it as a way of blackmailing Maxwell to get whatever I want from him, after all, no harm, no foul", Nancy said to herself and laughed out loudly. "No, on second thought, I think I would rather pay Maxwell's new girlfriend a visit", Nancy said. "She can come in handy as an ally", Nancy added. "After all, it is true about what they say about the fact that, 'The enemy of your enemy is your friend'", Nancy said and hurriedly started looking for a pair of shoes to wear....<br />
<br />
<br />
MAXWELL'S ROSY DAYS ARE ABOUT TO GET STORMIER BY HIS OWN ACTIONS AND INACTIONS. THE HEAT IS ON. WATCH OUT FOR THE NEXT EXCITING EPISODE OF THIS MIND-GRIPPING PIECE ENTITLED "EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE".<br />
<br />
MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND ON BEHALF OF THE ENTIRE #RAT STAFF, I SAY HAPPY NEW MONTH AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE.<br />
<br />
MORE AT<br />
<br />
randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz @ratcolony<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
COMMENT.LIKE.SHARE.INVITE.<br />
<br />
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. THANKS A MILLION<br />
SEND ALL COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK TO randomafricanthought@yahoo.com<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TjPTKHTYJHo/Vv5gndz1ZZI/AAAAAAAAB0s/tG2YMraU7tsMJus7mg9Ry-1miqH_1aLjQ/s1600/Phototastic-11_03_2016_00adabf2-b1de-4cac-8b92-a562216aa2a2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TjPTKHTYJHo/Vv5gndz1ZZI/AAAAAAAAB0s/tG2YMraU7tsMJus7mg9Ry-1miqH_1aLjQ/s320/Phototastic-11_03_2016_00adabf2-b1de-4cac-8b92-a562216aa2a2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-58094473749457836812016-03-21T13:05:00.000+00:002016-03-21T15:15:44.880+00:00EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE...EPISODE TWENTY-1 (21).EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE...EPISODE TWENTY-1 (21).<br />
<br />
Thirty minutes later, Linda was standing right in front of Maxwell's door when she heard voices coming out of the room. She gently turned the door knob but it was locked. She stood there and listened in for a while before she decided to crank the handle of the knob to forcefully try to open the door leading to Maxwell's room. Before she could get a firm grip of the handle, the door knob was turned from the inside, the door was opened and Linda stood facing Maxwell and Alberta with their son firmly strapped on Alberta's back.<br />
<br />
"Hello", Linda greeted with a smile on her face and started to wave at the baby.<br />
<br />
"Hi", Alberta responded. With her usual stern and suspicious look before she finally turned to look at Maxwell for an explanation.<br />
<br />
"Hi Sweetheart", Maxwell said<br />
<br />
"Please wait for me while I see Alberta off", Maxwell added.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Let me say hi at least", Linda interjected. Linda stretched out her hand and forcefully grabbed Alberta's hand. "My name is Linda", she started. "I have heard a lot about you and I am thrilled to finally get the chance to meet you in person", Linda added, still holding on to Alberta's hand.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Who are you?", Alberta asked with disgust and firmly placed the strap of her hand bag on her shoulder. "I am Maxwell's friend and I normally come here to help his grandmother out when she needs assistance with housekeeping", Linda answered.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Oh I see", Alberta replied. "I wish I stay and chat but I have a lot of important things to do and as you can see, I am saddled with junior here", Alberta replied, pointing to her son. "You are very pretty", Alberta said, touching Linda's petty coat. "And I like your make-up too", Alberta added. "Who makes you up?", Alberta asked.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I make up by myself", Linda added with blushes on her face. "And thank you so much for the compliment", Linda added. "You are equally very pretty and I would kill to have your type of hair, Linda said, trying to touch Alberta's hair.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Maybe one day we can meet and give each other beauty tips to enhance our beauty", Alberta suggested. "That would be awesome!", Linda responded.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Ladies!", Maxwell cut in<br />
<br />
<br />
"This line of conversation is unhealthy for me so let us cut through it for now but the two of you can talk all the girly you want when you hook up later”, Maxwell suggested.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Don't mind Maxwell he is just being jealous", Alberta said and gave Linda a very genuine smile. "You can take my number from Maxwell and give me a call when you are free so we can link up and share ideas", Alberta said and signaled for Linda to step aside so could exit the door. "One more thing before you go", Linda started. "You have a very amazing young man there", Linda said pointing to Alberta's son. "He is so gentle and graceful just like his father but I know you are doing an amazing job at raising him", Linda complimented. "Oh, thank you so much sweetheart", Alberta responded. "It has been nice talking to you and meeting you", Alberta added. "No, the pleasure is all mine!", Linda insisted and saw Alberta and Maxwell off to the door before returning to Maxwell's room to wait for him...<br />
<br />
************<br />
************<br />
************<br />
<br />
"What was that all about?", Maxwell asked looking shocked by the way Alberta reacted when she met Linda.<br />
<br />
<br />
"What was all what about?", Alberta asked, pretending not to know what Maxwell was talking about.<br />
<br />
<br />
"You being and acting all nice as if it is your natural character, that's what", Maxwell said. <br />
<br />
<br />
"Seriously?", Alberta replied. "Please don't get me worked up to the point you don't want to see", Alberta added. "Maxwell, what is it you want?", Alberta asked.<br />
<br />
<br />
"What is that supposed to mean?", Maxwell queried.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Okay, okay, okay, I get it now", Alberta started as the two of them walked down the walkway to the main gate. "You have always wanted to marry a girl of your class and from what I just witnessed, you think I am not good enough to fit into that class of yours right?", Alberta suggested. "To the extent that she even comes her to help your grandmother for your family members to see that she is the wife material...wow!", Alberta added. "This was not how I was before you met me", Alberta said. "Upon all my naughtiness; which is as a result of the undying love I have for you, I have a good woman inside of me too and you know it", Alberta said.<br />
<br />
<br />
"And who said this has got anything to do with class or any of those your unwarranted distinction attributes?", Maxwell asked.<br />
<br />
<br />
"It has a lot to do with it!", Alberta barked back.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Alberta, please don't let us engage in these conspiracy theories of who or what type of woman I want to marry", Maxwell started. "Just try and get home and take care of our little man", Maxwell said. "I would send you some money when the month ends", Maxwell added. "The absent father as always", Alberta started. "I wonder what this little boy is going to think of you when he starts growing up", Alberta added. "Leave that for me to worry about", Maxwell said and inched closer to the baby. "Hey little man, always remember that I love you more than anything in this world regardless of what mummy or anyone else says", Maxwell said to the baby while holding his litte hand. "Don't listen to him!", Alberta said immediately. "Mummy loves you more than anyone that is why you are living with me and not with him", Alberta said while she stood aside for Maxwell to open the gate for her.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Ignore what mummy just said because you would always be daddy's little man anytime, anywhere and any day.", Maxwell said as Alberta made her way onto the landing leading to the street. "Please take good care of each other", Maxwell added before shutting the gate firmly behind him and started to make his way into the house and into his room to meet Linda<br />
<br />
***********<br />
***********<br />
<br />
<br />
Linda was sitting in the swivel chair in Maxwell's room when Maxwell opened the door.<br />
<br />
<br />
"What was that all about?", Maxwell asked immediately he entered the room and had Linda's attention. Just like in Alberta's situation, he was looking surprised by the way Linda reacted when she met Alberta.<br />
<br />
<br />
"What was all what about?", Linda asked, pretending not to know what Maxwell was talking about.<br />
<br />
<br />
"You being and acting all nice toward Alberta after swearing heaven and earth that she was a monster after I had told you about her, that's what", Maxwell said. "You barely know her but on meeting her for the very first time, you appeared all chatty and touchy", Maxwell added.<br />
<br />
Linda appeared shocked by Maxwell's queries.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I am sorry if you didn't like the way I spoke to her", Linda started. "I didn't know she was here and I didn't know what to say when I saw her coming out of your room; the room in which we just made love in less than 24 hours ago", Linda remarked.<br />
<br />
"What is that supposed to mean?", Maxwell interjected.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I am sorry if I appear to be nagging right now but I have my concerns too", Linda revealed.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Which are?" Maxwell asked<br />
<br />
<br />
"First off, this is a lady who has your child and there is no telling the kind of emotional attachment you still have going on for each other", Linda started. "Secondly...Secondly...Secondly..."<br />
<br />
<br />
"What is it, Linda?", Maxwell asked trying to sound reassuring. "Maxwell I am scared", Linda said appearing very vulnerable. "What are you scared of?", Maxwell asked<br />
<br />
<br />
"Judging from all the things I have heard her do when you are involved, it makes me scared that now that she has seen my face and it would be little wonder that she would also probably know that something is likely going on between the two of us, she can make me a target of hate or even worse", Linda revealed. "That makes me really scared”, Linda added. "Is that why you were trying to be extra nice towards her?", Maxwell queried. "Was it that obvious?", Linda asked. "I was taken aback by your reaction, honestly", Maxwell remarked.<br />
<br />
<br />
"She would send her thugs after you and they would disfigure your face with their hefty punches", Maxwell teased. "Maxwell stop it!", Linda yelled. "You are scaring me", Linda added. "Weren't you the same person who was offering to give Alberta free beauty tips?", Maxwell enquired after he had laughed out loudly for a while.<br />
<br />
<br />
"It was all part of being nice so she shouldn't flatter herself", Linda said. "Moreover, I was jealous too and I felt intimidated by her presence around you", Linda added. "You should have told her you were my girlfriend", Maxwell suggested. "Are you serious?", Linda asked. "She would have torn me up like the way a lioness tears up her prey", Linda added. "Did you see the look on her face when I introduced myself?", Linda asked. "I was also so scared that the two of you were going to brawl it out here so I didn't even take notice", Maxwell teased. "I can give you her phone number if you want so you can continue your beauty therapy chats on phone", Maxwell continued to tease as he started mentioning Alberta's phone number out loud.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I can see that you are really enjoying yourself", Linda said. "Wait till you are in my shoes and you would understand", Linda added.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Enough of this line of conversation", Linda said<br />
<br />
<br />
"What shirt are you going to wear to Passione Global?", Linda asked. "I want to iron it for you while you take your bath in preparation for your big day", Linda said. Maxwell went into his wardrobe and pulled out a new shirt and handed it over to Linda. Maxwell grabbed his phone and called Raphael to get the team ready so they could meet up at the bus station.<br />
<br />
**********<br />
**********<br />
<br />
<br />
After three and a half hours of deliberations and negotiations, the contract was finally fine-tuned and both parties; Maxwell and his team on one side and Passione Global on the other side had come to an agreement. The deal was signed and the terms and conditions were read out to all the people gathered in the room. Both parties signed a nondisclosure agreement and salaries were structured in a way that suited all the parties involved. Edwina, the beautiful receptionist was tasked to take the new team to their office and she was asked to get them to acclimatize themselves with the other teams that had already been contracted by Passione Global. As the team followed Edwina through the plush offices of their new company, they sized her up from behind and passed silent comments among each other.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Maxwell, per the fact that you already have a son, it automatically means that you already have a wife which disqualifies you from having a go at this beautiful lady here", Raphael whispered into Maxwell's left ear. Rudolph and Frank were also slugging it out over who deserved a shot at getting to date Edwina. Edwina knew that she was pretty and she equally knew that men naturally fell over each other just to get her number but she took a particular liking for Maxwell; unknown to him and unknown to her that Maxwell's life was riddled with many issues.<br />
<br />
<br />
Edwina took them round the offices of the other teams; six in number with Maxwell's group making the seventh, before ushering the boys into an already furnished office on the second floor.<br />
<br />
<br />
"All the new teams start from this office and manage to work their way up, literally speaking", Edwina started. "That is how come Kaprisky, better known as team two is on the seventh floor", Edwina revealed. "Your movement would be solely based on your input so you have to hit the ground running", Edwina added. "You have all you need on the laptops on your desks which are not password protected for now", Edwina said. "I suggest you get to know how work is done around here and strategically plan on how you intend to complete the tasks that ate going to be assigned to you", Edwina explained. "It is a competition out here so don't think that any other team is your friend, you can be friends after work", Edwina reiterated.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I would be rooting for your team and I hope to see what you have to bring to this company sooner rather than later", Edwina said. "Call any of the departments responsible if you need any form of assistance", Edwina said and pointed to a directory on the table. "And you have to come up with a group name", Edwina said. "Be sure to make it catchy", Edwina added before she asked to be excused.<br />
<br />
<br />
Maxwell got all the boys to huddle up.<br />
<br />
<br />
"This is the chance for us to prove what we have to offer as a team", Maxwell started. "We can do this because we have bright minds and brilliant ideas", Maxwell said.<br />
<br />
"Let us work hard so we can play hard", Rudolph added.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Let us not mix business with pleasure and by pleasure I mean the beautiful Edwina", Raphael added. "She is a beautiful distraction", Rudolph added. "Who knows, she might even be a mole", Raphael added and they all broke out in laughter.<br />
<br />
"We are forgetting one very important thing", Frank cut in.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Let us bow down our heads in prayer and commit all of this before our heavenly father because it is his doing", Frank added. All heads were bowed and there was a chorus of the popular 'Lord's prayer' before they sat down to begin their new venture.<br />
<br />
**********<br />
**********<br />
<br />
That night when Maxwell left the office on his way home, he chanced upon Linda heading towards his house. "I was just going by your place to check if your grandmother needed any form of assistance", Linda said when Maxwell walked up to her. "That is a lie", Maxwell replied. "Okay, no need to argue over this, you got me", Linda said. "I have missed you and wanted to know if you were back and how your first day at work went", Linda revealed. "I knew it!", Maxwell said. "My day was splendid and we are looking to make headway soon", Maxwell said.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Linda was quiet all the way to Maxwell's gate. "What is the problem?", Maxwell asked when he finally noticed that Linda was acting unusually. "There is this thing that has been on my mind for some time now", Linda started.<br />
<br />
"What is it this time?", Maxwell asked.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Did you and Alberta officially break up before you went out with Nancy?", Linda asked. "Again, have you told Alberta that the two of you are not going to get married even though you have a child together?" "If you have, is Alberta cool with the idea and since you plan on taking your son away from her, do you think she will be willing to go down without a fight?", Linda enquired.<br />
<br />
<br />
"I honestly might not have answers to all these questions but eventually, I believe everything will fall in its rightful place", Maxwell started. "I hope you know what you are doing because from the look of things, I don't think this is going to be an easy battle", Linda continued. "One more question", Linda said. "Ask", Maxwell confidently responded. "Ever since the birth of your son, have you been intimate with Alberta; I mean have the two of you made love afterwards?", Linda asked.<br />
<br />
There was a long silence.<br />
<br />
<br />
"No", Maxwell replied. "Not even once?", Linda pushed. "Even if we did, it would have been a long time ago and I was careful not to repeat any irresponsible act", Maxwell said. "I hope you are not offended by my curiosity", Linda said. "I am not", Maxwell said looking suspiciously at Linda before opening the gate to usher her into the house.<br />
<br />
**********<br />
**********<br />
<br />
<br />
Three months had gone by while Maxwell and his team were at Passione Global. They named their team "The Dream Team". Through hard work and innovation, they had managed to move to the third floor, a step higher than where they began. The team on the third floor had been relegated to the second floor for consistent poor output. Edwina was delighted to break the news of the relocation to the dream team. Maxwell was so delighted. He had a lot to be thankful for. His family were on the road to recovery, he had resigned from a poorly-paid job and was now working at a place where he felt his salary was enough to cater for all he needed to do, he had managed to enroll his son in a good nursery school, he had won the heart of Linda and now his team had just been promoted. That night he proposed that the boys all go out to have fun after work which was unanimously agreed upon. That night, he called Linda to meet them up in town and she did dressed beautifully in a red gown bought for her by Maxwell. "I wanted to make tonight memorable so I wore this dress", Linda whispered into Maxwell's ear when he ushered her to her seat. Immediately Linda was seated, Maxwell's phone rang. It was a call from Alberta. Maxwell then remembered that he had forgotten to send Alberta some money like he promised a day before. "Hello, Alberta", Maxwell said after he had excused himself to answer the call. "I would send you the money first thing tomorrow morning when I get to town", Maxwell added to cut the conversation short because he knew Alberta was going to rant over the phone. He also broke the news of their promotion to her. "Congratulations", Alberta said. After a few exchange of words, Alberta cut in.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Maxwell we need to talk, I think I am two months pregnant", Alberta revealed.<br />
<br />
<br />
IS THIS THE BEGINNING OF THE END FOR MAXWELL?<br />
MORE SOON AND I MEAN LITERALLY. MY NAME HAS AND ALWAYS WILL BE EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY. THIS HAS BEEN ANOTHER EPISODE OF "EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE. STAY TUNED.<br />
<br />
MORE AT<br />
<br />
randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
COMMENT.LIKE.SHARE.INVITE.<br />
<br />
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. THANKS A MILLION<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3L_BqRrpoUU/Vu_xUQvkSFI/AAAAAAAABz0/15SGO8ovdN4BXoH-A0zvtA4PVKp_AEo-Q/s1600/IMG_20160318_193453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3L_BqRrpoUU/Vu_xUQvkSFI/AAAAAAAABz0/15SGO8ovdN4BXoH-A0zvtA4PVKp_AEo-Q/s320/IMG_20160318_193453.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-65851035041738414552016-03-14T09:28:00.000+00:002016-03-14T22:54:16.285+00:00EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE....EPISODE TWENTY (20).Maxwell’s heart missed several beats after he had heard Alberta’s voice over the phone. He was hit by punches of fear, excitement and uncertainty all at once. He feared that Alberta; as usual, had something ‘special’ up her sleeve and he could not fathom why she wanted to drop off the baby with him when she had vehemently turned down earlier requests from Maxwell. He paced between the entrance to the living room and the walkway leading to the gate not knowing which call to answer. As he was engaged in this mental battle, a thought came to mind; Nancy’s assignment. The thought sent shivers down his spine but at the same time, he had a funny tingle which whispered to him that Nancy was within reach once his baby was out of the way and it gave him a sense of joy. He did not know whether to go inside to meet his family members or go out to meet Alberta and her son. “What am I going to do now?”, Maxwell thought to himself. As he stood there in his state of confusion, Alberta called his phone again. “What is causing the hold up, Maxwell ?”, Alberta asked. “I am running late and I don’t have all day”, Alberta added. “If you know you are not coming out, let me know so I can start looking for an alternative babysitter for my son”, Alberta said. “I…I…I am coming”, Maxwell said in a stuttering voice. “You have suddenly turned into a stammerer?”, Alberta asked. “Just give me a minute and I would be with you”, Maxwell responded not giving any audience to her question. “This is my only chance to rid myself of Alberta and all her stress and have the love of my life all to myself”, Maxwell said as he walked to the gate. “I am going to do it; I am going to kill my son!”, Maxwell said and reached for the handle of the gate and pulled it back. Alberta was looking very beautiful when Maxwell saw her. Maxwell made sure he kept his distance to avoid any surprises from Alberta. “You are looking good”, Maxwell announced as he finally stood face to face with Alberta. “I already know so you don’t need to tell me”, Alberta responded in the most hostile way imaginable. “I am only trying to be nice”, Maxwell responded. “Trying you say?”, Alberta asked. “I would only take a compliment from you when you grow up and do what you are expected to do as a man”, Alberta said. “Because as it stands now, you are still a little boy”, Alberta added. “Why do you talk to me this way?”, Maxwell asked. “I would talk to you anyhow I want until you do what is right by first walking me down the aisle and taking full responsibility of my son because as it stands, the chicken-change you send to me is not even enough to buy diapers”, Alberta revealed. “I am shocked to hear you speak this way”, Maxwell rebutted. “You call the money that I give you chicken-change?”, Maxwell asked looking very surprised. “For want of a better word, chicken change would best describe the money you give to me”, Alberta answered. “I wonder how you expect the two of us to work towards having a future together when you can just come to my house and speak to me anyhow you want”, Maxwell said. “Your attitude towards my son and I really merits every word I am saying now and for your information, I am not going to take any of them back”, Alberta said. “My son needs you around him so you better find some time to come and be with him”, Alberta said. “I am giving you the privilege of coming close to my son because if after some time, I don’t hear anything from you and your family members, I am going to take this boy so far away and you would never see him again”, Alberta continued. “You know me and you know what I am capable of so don’t even try me”, Alberta added. “I have been listening to you for a while and it seems that you are referring to our son as your son”, Maxwell started. “You are making it appear is if you got pregnant by yourself and gave birth to this child”, Maxwell said, pointing to the child who was strapped firmly to Alberta’s back. “You don’t scare me with your empty threats”, Maxwell stressed. “This boy is my son too and you don’t have any right whatsoever to prevent me from seeing him whenever I want to”, Maxwell said. “You are here ranting but when the time comes, we would see who would eventually have the last laugh”, Alberta said in rebuttal. “You said you wanted me to babysit for you so please let me have my son so you can go about your business or whatever you have to do”, Maxwell said. “Okay, but we have to make it seem as though I am still here, I don’t want him to cry before I leave”, Alberta said and handed her son over to Maxwell. Both Maxwell and Alberta walked a few blocks from Maxwell’s house before Alberta disappeared quietly without allowing her son to see that she was leaving. Maxwell then turned to go back home.<br />
<br />
***********<br />
***********<br />
***********<br />
<br />
<br />
Immediately Maxwell turned, his son started to cry. “Don’t cry, don’t cry”, Maxwell started. “Daddy will take care of you even better than mummy can and ever will”, Maxwell added. “Daddy has got a better job now and he would do everything in his power to ensure that you are well taken care of”, Maxwell said to his son who could not understand a word his father was saying but kept crying uncontrollably. “Do you want ice cream?”, Maxwell asked the little baby. “Or you’d prefer biscuits instead?”, Maxwell asked. “Or is your tummy hurting?”, Maxwell asked again. The baby just kept crying as Maxwell walked down the street. The shouts of the baby attracted many passers-by who looked at Maxwell suspiciously as if he was a baby thief. “Why is the baby crying?”, one inquisitive woman asked. “Where is its mother?”, the woman asked again. “That is my son and his mother is gone to get something from the market”, Maxwell responded and quickly doubled his steps. Before he could get to the gate, he heard someone call out his name, “Maxwell…Maxwell…Maxwell!”. Maxwell turned to see Linda quickly walking towards his direction. “Whose child is this?”, Linda asked immediately she got close to Maxwell. “Hello Linda, meet my son; Alberta’s son”, Maxwell said. “His mother just dropped him off so she could run an errand in town and I can’t seem to figure out how I am going to get him to stop crying”, Maxwell added. Linda stretched out her arms, “Give him to me; you are not even holding him right”, Linda said and laughed. Within seconds, Linda had managed to make the baby to stop crying and had begun to smile. “He looks so much like you and he is so adorable”, Linda said to Maxwell as they both walked towards Maxwell’s house. “And the three of us look good together”, Maxwell said. “Give me a break young man; I don't want any trouble with Alberta or Nancy”, Linda said and the two of them laughed off the comment. “Alberta actually came here and left her son with you without putting up a fight?”, Linda asked. “That would have been so unlike Alberta”, Maxwell started. “She spewed her venom all over me before leaving”, Maxwell said. “I thought as much”, Linda responded and laughed. “That is the kind of woman who is carrying your child”, Linda said. “You look so much like daddy but the only difference is that you are more handsome”, Linda said to the baby playfully as they walked back. The baby appeared comfortable and happy with Linda and was very excited. As they got to Maxwell’s gate, Linda handed over the baby to Maxwell. “When he begins to cry, just hold him firmly in your arms like this and pat him on the back like this”, Linda said and demonstrated to Maxwell while she held the baby in her hand. “I am going to prepare supper for my family but I would come back to check up on the two of you when I am done”, Linda said and asked to take her leave. “The two of you should take care of each other”, Linda added. Before Linda turned to leave, Maxwell held her by the arm and looked intently at her, “You are such a darling and…”, Maxwell started. “Before I forget, I have great news to share with you”, Maxwell said. “What is it?”, Linda asked as she excitedly drew closer to Maxwell. “Our proposal was accepted by the board!”, Maxwell announced. Instantly, Linda jumped and hugged Maxwell who was still holding the baby. She took the baby from him again and tossed him slightly into the air, when she had finally grabbed him, she said, “Your father is a genius and I pray you grow up to become like him!” “I can’t believe this; I just can’t believe this!”, Linda exclaimed with excitement . “I was planning on breaking the news to all of you tonight but it seems you are the first to know”, Maxwell said. “I am so delighted and I could even kiss you right now!”, Linda exclaimed. “But I won’t do that because I still remember what Nancy said and I cannot kiss you while your son is here”, Linda said and placed a kiss on Maxwell’s son’s cheek. “You can pass that on to daddy for me”, Linda said to the baby who was beaming with smiles. “I know and I understand”, Maxwell responded. “Just take it easy”, Maxwell added. “So what time are you going to break the news to the rest of the crew?”, Linda asked. “I would call them all to meet up here around 8 P.M so you can pass by”, Maxwell answered. Maxwell stepped into the house after Linda had turned to leave and he closed the gate firmly behind him. He walked straight into the hall with the baby firmly clinging to his chest and as he walked in, all eyes were turned towards his direction. “Good evening”, Maxwell greeted politely. There came an asymmetric chorus response of “Good evening” from the people who were gathered in the room. “I should have done this long ago but I don’t know what was holding me back”, Maxwell started. “I guess I was having a hard time letting my doubts and fears go”, Maxwell added. “I am sorry if I kept this secret away from some of you till today”, Maxwell added. “I want to introduce to all of you, the new member of this family; my son”, Maxwell said. “I believe this is the first time that you are seeing him”, Maxwell said and handed the baby over to his father to be passed around the room like some trophy. “His mother just dropped him off saying she was going to pick up something from town so she wanted me to babysit him for a while”, Maxwell explained. The last person to hold the little baby was Maxwell’s grandmother. “He looks so much like your grandfather”, she said. “He has the exact shape of his nose”, she added. This description led to a serious debate for a few minutes and it ended up in laughter with the side that believed that the baby looked like Maxwell’s grandfather carrying the day. “I don’t remember the last time I saw this family come together and laugh happily like this”, Maxwell’s grandmother quickly chipped in. “I guess it is about time we sorted out our differences and forget whatever happened in the past and start to be a loving family like we once were”, Maxwell’s grandmother added. “All of us are here so what stops us from voicing our concerns and having them addressed right now?”, Maxwell’s father suggested. Maxwell asked to be excused so that the grown-ups could trash out their differences. As Maxwell walked out of the hall, he was filled with a sense of fulfilment and contentment that at least what he had set out to do had almost been achieved. He looked at his son and said, “You are a lucky charm, my little one and I love you so much”. Maxwell walked quietly into his room and turned on the fan. He held the baby like Linda had instructed and stood directly under the fan. Soon, he looked at his reflection in the mirror and realized that the baby had fallen asleep on his shoulder. Almost immediately, his head was filled with the sinister thought; Nancy’s assignment. “This is my chance!”, Maxwell said. “I can get rid of this baby while he sleeps”, Maxwell thought to himself. “Let me just put him on the bed and suffocate him with a pillow”, Maxwell thought to himself”. Maxwell quickly locked his door and drew the curtains to cover any openings. He then quietly placed the baby unto his bed and quietly lifted a pillow over the baby’s head….<br />
<br />
****************<br />
****************<br />
****************<br />
<br />
<br />
As Maxwell lowered the pillow, a thought dropped into his head. “How can love make anyone want to do such a thing to another person?”, Maxwell asked himself. “Can I live with the fact that I had to kill my own son to be with the woman I love just because she could not stand the fact that I had a child out of wedlock?”, Maxwell thought to himself. “Is that love at all?”, Maxwell asked himself. “But I also cannot lose Nancy to any other person and equally, I cannot kill my child just to please her”, Maxwell said. “What if after all this, the police are contacted and I end up behind bars?”, Maxwell thought out loud. “It would be a total waste of effort and I would lose on two fronts; I would lose my son and the supposed love of my life and all this for what!”, Maxwell thought to himself. As he stood there contemplating, his son sneezed and opened his eyes. He stared at him and Maxwell stared back. The baby sneezed again. Maxwell looked intently into the innocent eyes of his son and couldn’t help but regret ever allowing Nancy to talk him into even trying to take a life of an innocent human being; a baby for that matter. Maxwell dropped the pillow and picked his son into his arms, “I am so sorry, my little one for thinking of such evil thoughts towards you”, Maxwell started. “I am going to damn the consequences and keep you, I don’t care what Nancy or anyone thinks”, Maxwell said as he bent over to pick up the baby. “I would do my best to ensure that you are well taken care of”, Maxwell said to the baby who had clung firmly to Maxwell’s neck with his tinny arms. Soon there was a knock on Maxwell’s door. “Maxwell, are you in there?”, Maxwell’s father asked. “Yes, I am here”, Maxwell responded and unlocked the door. “Your uncles want to have a word with you”, Maxwell’s father said. “What is it about?”, Maxwell asked. “Come and sit here with me”, Maxwell’s father said and led Maxwell to the bed. “My son, I believe that with all that you are going through, you are taking valuable lessons from it”, Maxwell’s father started. “Yes I am”, Maxwell responded. “I want you to look deep into yourself and into your heart and tell me if you want to settle down with the mother of this little boy”, Maxwell’s father said. “I am saying this because your uncles want to know the step you intend taking so we can all assist you accordingly”, Maxwell’s father revealed. “I don’t think I can live with Alberta because she disrespects me always”, Maxwell started. “She has threatened me several times to take the baby away from me and telling her that we cannot get married would force her to take action and I don’t know what would happen afterwards”, Maxwell confessed. “Don’t worry about that because there are a lot of things we can do to get the child away from her if we have to”, Maxwell’s father assured. “All I want right now is for you to give me a definite answer”, Maxwell's father said. “I cannot marry her!”, Maxwell answered. “Okay, don’t worry, I am going to speak to your uncles”, Maxwell's father said and walked out of the room.<br />
<br />
****************<br />
****************<br />
****************<br />
Maxwell called Alberta at 7 P.M and she said she was still in town so Maxwell had to hold on till she got there. Maxwell needed to call his friends and inform them about the good news from Passione Global. “There is no need keeping this child and this secret away from my friends anymore”, Maxwell said to himself. “They have been like brothers to me and it would be unfair on my part not to tell them about him”, Maxwell added. So Maxwell called up his friends and asked them to meet him within an hour. When they got to the house, Maxwell's father and uncles had already left. All the boys sat in the hall with the exception of Frank. Frank joined later and was followed by Linda. Maxwell broke the news to them by first telling them the story about his life after they separated and then informing them about the contract being offered by Passione Global. Maxwell's friends had many questions to ask and Maxwell took his time to answer them. “I must say that we are proud of you for keeping this boy”, Raphael started. “At one point or the other, we are all going to take up this same responsibility but it appears that you have gone on ahead of us and that is not a crime”, Raphael added. Maxwell, with Linda's help made all his friends hold his son in their arms for a while with each of them wishing him well and saying a prayer for him. They then discussed how the contract was going to pan out and also looked at the alternative preparations they needed to make. After the meeting, the boys asked to take their leave because it was getting late. Linda stayed behind and took care of Maxwell's baby awaiting Alberta's return. It was almost 10 P.M when Maxwell called Alberta again after he had not heard anything from her. “Alberta, where are you?”, Maxwell queried. “I am running a bit late so if care is not taken, I would have to come very late to pick him up or better still I would let him pass the night at your end so that I can come for him in the morning”, Alberta said. “But we didn't plan all this”, Maxwell objected. “I know but it has happened so you better improvise”, Alberta continued. “Okay, I would let him pass the night so that you don't have to come here late and all looking at the security threats we are having these days”, Maxwell said. Maxwell hang up the phone and informed Linda that Alberta was not coming back therefore the baby had to pass the night with him. Maxwell pleaded with Linda to pass the night in his house because he did not have the slightest idea as to what to do when the baby started crying in the middle of the night. Linda turned down the offer but after several pleas from Maxwell, she agreed and called her parents to inform them that she was spending the night at Maxwell's grandmother's because she was not too well and needed someone to look after her. Maxwell also informed her grandmother and she agreed. “Okay, I would sleep on the floor so the two of you can have the bed”, Linda suggested. Maxwell disagreed and managed to convince Linda that there was enough space on the bed for all three of them. The three of them squeezed themselves on the bed with the baby in the middle. Linda gently stroke the baby's tummy till he finally fell asleep. She then quietly informed Maxwell to be still. “Thank you for doing this for me”, Maxwell said to Linda. “Don’t flatter yourself young man, I am not doing anything for you”, Linda said. Maxwell instantly grabbed Linda by the neck and started kissing her. Linda responded in kind. Before long, Maxwell and Linda found themselves all over the floor making love to each other but were careful not to wake the baby up. They made love the whole night. At a point, the baby woke up Linda had to fix something for him to eat from the bag Alberta brought with her. When the baby fell asleep again, she quickly went and lay in Maxwell's arms and the lovemaking continued.<br />
****************<br />
****************<br />
****************<br />
The following day, Maxwell quickly woke up and met up with the boys at the bus terminal to go to Passione Global. When they arrived, they were warmly welcome by Edwina and were served the best breakfast. Soon the terms of the contract were discussed; it was going to be a three-year contract which was going to be renewed based on performance. Both parties appeared happy with their side of the deal and an agreement was quickly reached. The boys were given the time to discuss their roles and report to work in two days. They were given temporary access cards into the building of Passione Global and were taken on a tour in and around the magnificent building by Edwina. Soon, the boys returned home to prepare for a meeting that was to be scheduled the following day. When Maxwell got home, his son was with his grandmother. When he asked of Linda's whereabouts, he was informed that she had gone to town on an errand. Soon, Alberta showed up to pick her son up. She had to change his diaper for him before leaving so Maxwell took both of them to his room. When Alberta finished changing the diaper, she looked at Maxwell and said, “I miss us”. Immediately she said that, she leaned in and gave Maxwell a light kiss on his lips. “We cannot do this”, Maxwell said. “Maxwell, I am going to change if you marry me”, Alberta said. “I am willing to be a good wife and a good mother if you marry me”, Alberta continued. Alberta looked Maxwell in the eye and knew he was mesmerized. She put the baby on the bed and started to undress him. Meanwhile, Linda was just thirty minutes away from Maxwell's house….<br />
<br />
IS MAXWELL THE CREATOR OF HIS OWN DOOM? …THIS IS NOT THE END. MORE TWISTS ARE YET TO FOLLOW. WHO WILL MAXWELL FINALLY SETTLE WITH? MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND THIS IS ANOTHER MASTERPIECE FROM THE STABLES OF RANDOM AFRICAN THOUGHTS® STAY TUNED….<br />
MORE AT randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
COMMENT...LIKE...SHARE.....INVITE...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qtxhn0xUeJw/VuaD6xG5kUI/AAAAAAAABXE/vJQdCwRM2JkcT4-zpJ4wWiTmw4UsGRVJA/s1600/FB_IMG_1457726335509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qtxhn0xUeJw/VuaD6xG5kUI/AAAAAAAABXE/vJQdCwRM2JkcT4-zpJ4wWiTmw4UsGRVJA/s320/FB_IMG_1457726335509.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-70483868847030643242016-03-08T10:07:00.000+00:002016-03-08T12:11:58.058+00:00EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE....EPISODE NINETEEN (19).<br />
<br />
Maxwell stood there motionless not knowing what to say to Nancy. After a few seconds, he managed to fake a smile and composed himself and said, “Wow, what a pleasant surprise, Nancy”. “You are the last person I actually thought and never dreamt you of all people would show up at my door”, Maxwell added, before he turned and stared at Linda who was anxious to see who was at the door. "What is that supposed to mean?", Nancy asked angrily. Linda, who was wondering who could be at the door was already stretching her body toward the direction of the little opening of the door in an effort to catch a glimpse of the person Maxwell was talking to but Maxwell kept using his body as a shield to prevent Linda from getting the view she wanted. “You’ve put on a considerable amount of weight”, Nancy started. “When was the last time I saw you?”, she asked. “I can’t quite remember the last time we met”, Maxwell answered. “Anyway, I came to pay you a visit and check up on you since you decided not to call me anymore”, Nancy said. “Look at who is talking?”, Maxwell asked Nancy sarcastically. “You bailed out on me the moment you knew about my mess”, Maxwell complained. “You should have told me earlier and I would have thought of a way to get this sorted”, Nancy said. "Moreover, the news came as a surprise to me and I believe anyone in my shoes would have done the same thing I did", Nancy added in her defence. “Won’t you invite me in?”, Nancy asked and began to push Maxwell out of the way to let herself into the room. As there appeared to be what seemed like a struggle between the two of them, Linda could no more take the suspense so she asked, “Max, who is at the door?”. Nancy’s movement froze and with one big push, she shoved Maxwell out of the way and angrily barged into the room thinking she was going to sight her arch rival; Alberta. When she finally barged into the room and realized that the person in the room was not the one she expected, she pinned herself to the wall, clothed in embarrassment. Linda, who appeared startled by Nancy’s action and being the first time she actually saw her in person, also looked on in surprise as Nancy stood there, now also motionless. The whole room was engulfed in perfect silence as the two ladies stared each other in the face. “Hello”, Linda said and waved at Nancy to reduce the awkward tension in the room. “Hi”, Nancy replied. "Sorry about my entrance", Nancy added with a blush on her face. Maxwell walked into the room after he had shut the door behind him, still clad in the towel which was firmly placed around his waist and said, “I believe you ladies have met so there would be really no need for further introductions”, Maxwell said as he managed to stand between Linda, who was sitting on the bed and Nancy, who was still pinned to the wall. “My name is Linda”, Linda said as she extended her hand to exchange pleasantries with Nancy and made her way to where Nancy was standing. “Hello, my name is Nancy, Maxwell’s girlfriend”, Nancy answered and stretched out her hand to receive Linda’s. Linda quickly pulled her hand back and stared at Maxwell in a stern way. Maxwell caught a glimpse of Linda’s stare and shook his head to disapprove of Nancy’s allegation. “What is going on here?”, Nancy asked when she noticed what had just ensued between Maxwell and Linda. "You didn't tell her?", Nancy queried. Before Linda could say anything in reply to what Nancy had just said, Maxwell cut in, “Nancy, take a seat on that chair and wait for me while I go out to put on my clothes”. Linda swallowed her speech and also took a seat on the bed now clouded in serious doubt and suspicion. Maxwell went into his wardrobe and grabbed a pair of Denim Jeans and a crumpled T-shirt and went out to iron them on the ironing board that was in the hallway leading to his room….<br />
<br />
<br />
Immediately he stepped out, Linda acted in a manner that seemed as though she wanted to call Nancy out because of her remarks. She looked at Nancy sternly and wanted to say something to her. Nancy also returned the stares and it appeared that Nancy’s stares were more deadly than Linda’s. The stage was set for the two ladies to trade in a war of words but the problem was who was going to initiate the banter? “Did Maxwell tell you about me?”, Nancy started adjusting herself loosely into the chair. “Yeah he did”, Linda answered. “He also told you that you left him the moment you found out that another woman was carrying his baby”, Linda started and sat upright at the edge of the bed. “I wonder what kind of love you had for him back then”, Linda blurted out looking at Nancy in the most disgusted way ever. “Oh! Max told you that?”, Nancy started. “Then I bet he told you also that I was his girlfriend then when he lied to me and slept with that Alberta right?”, Nancy continued. “And hold on young lady”, Nancy said and dropped her bag. “I hope you don’t believe everything he tells you because Maxwell is a psychopathic liar”, Nancy said. “He led me on a roller-coaster ride till his lies blew up in his face”, Nancy added. “I don’t expect you to challenge what I am saying because sweetheart, whether you like it or not, I know him more than you do”, Nancy added. “I don’t expect you to involve yourself in matters that you have only a one-sided idea about because you might end up attacking the innocent person”, Nancy revealed. “Leave that for me to worry about!”, Linda said. “Young lady, don’t be deceived because I can see that you have fallen for his dirty lies and tricks”, Nancy started. "Like any other man, Maxwell is just a patient wolf waiting to pounce on you when all factors are in his favour", Nancy said. “He would only use you, dump you and come crawling back to me because whether you like it or not, Maxwell belongs to me!”, Nancy added. Linda began to get convinced and it suddenly dawned on her that it was possible that Maxwell could be lying to her to get her to fall in love with him because judging from the way things were going, she was the one who fell for Maxwell in the first place. “Why would Maxwell lie to me and why would he come so close to having me and stop if not for the respect he has for me?”, Linda asked absentmindedly. “My dear, he is a man and he would do anything to get what he wants even if it includes stalling when it comes to making love to you”, "Have you not come across the saying that every gentleman is a patient wolf?", Nancy asked. Nancy explained, “You are like a little sister to me and I would not want any man to treat you badly so just listen to my advice and avoid this web that you are about to entangle yourself in”. Linda sat on the bed and began to ponder over what Nancy had just said. After sitting down with her head bowed, Linda suddenly lifted up her head to take a look at Nancy and said, “You have a point; I think I was getting ahead of myself too quickly and being carried away by lust”. “But one thing I don’t understand is that if you claim he is not good for me, how sure are you that he would be good for you judging by the fact that you left him and are now crawling back to him?”, Linda asked in rebuttal. “Max and I have a history and I believe that history speaks volumes than the uncertain journey you intend to embark on with him”, Nancy said. “I hope he told you about Alberta, his first girlfriend”, Nancy asked Linda. "Yeah, he did", Linda answered and nodded simultaneously. “She is such a terrible character I doubt you would ever want to have an encounter with because looking at your soft and fine skin, she would just tear you into shreds and feed your flesh to her son; Maxwell’s son”, Nancy added. “You better take cover before it is too late”, Nancy added. "I could have been the one carrying his baby but he made me kill mine but allowed Alberta to keep hers", Nancy recounted. "Isn't that proof enough that he knows where his heart is and where his future lies?", Nancy asked. "When push comes to shove, where do you think you are going to end?", Nancy asked Linda. "My dear sister, don't start what you can't end". "As for me, I rest my case", Nancy concluded. Linda had finally become convinced that Maxwell could not be trusted judging by the things she had heard from Nancy. She immediately grabbed her handbag from Maxwell’s bed and made for the door. As she reached the entrance, she stopped and turned, “You know what, I would have willingly slept with him tonight and probably spent the night here with him if you had not showed up tonight”, Linda confessed with tears in her eyes…<br />
<br />
<br />
As she opened the door, she met Maxwell standing in front of the door. “Where are you going?”, Maxwell enquired. “I am going home and I don’t expect you to ever call me again, you liar!”, Linda exclaimed. “What is that supposed to mean?”, a confused Maxwell asked. “You just wanted to use and dump me so you made your side of the story so believable and as stupid as I was, I fell for your trick but I thank God that Nancy showed up today because if she hadn’t, I would have lived to regret my actions tonight”, Linda said. “What has come over you?”, Maxwell asked and held Linda’s wrist tightly. “Nothing has come over me, I was just made to realize what I was getting myself involved in and I would take my dignity along with me while I still have the chance because I would not want to be deceived by you or anyone”, Linda explained. “What are you talking about, Linda?”, Maxwell asked. At this point he was very confused but he kept his composure because he knew where all the confusion was coming from. “Do you think I would lie to you?”, Maxwell asked Linda. “Do you believe Nancy who you met just a few minutes ago more than you believe me?”, Maxwell queried. “Seriously?”, Maxwell added. I don’t know what or who to believe right now but I think to be on a safer side, I would have to stay away from you till you deal with your issues”, Linda answered and wriggled her wrist free from Maxwell’s hold and started for the main door. Linda, Linda, Linda!”, Maxwell called out after Linda but she did not even turn to look at Maxwell. Maxwell then angrily barged into his room to question Nancy….<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Immediately Maxwell entered the room, he had the shock of his life. Nancy had changed her clothes and was now dressed in a see-through kinky lingerie nightwear and was lying on Maxwell’s bed. Her breasts were half-covered by the breast cup of the night wear. “What do you think you are doing?”, Maxwell barked angrily. “Why are you dressed this way?”, Maxwell added. “Isn’t it obvious?”, Nancy asked. “You are going to make love to me like you made love to Alberta”, Nancy added. “What has come over you?”, Maxwell asked still shell-shocked by what he was seeing. "What just happened between you and Linda?", Maxwell asked, taking a full view of Nancy's seductive body and moves. “I am going to do to your new girlfriend what you and Alberta did to me”, Nancy replied and laughed hysterically. “What did you tell Linda?”, Maxwell asked angrily and ignored Nancy's comment. “I told her the same thing that Alberta told me when I was in her shoes; when I was madly in love with you”, Nancy replied. “I trusted you so much so that I could jump in front of a train for you but what did you do?”, Nancy started. “Nancy don’t let us do this”, Maxwell cut in. “I want us to do this!”, Nancy barked back. “You lied to me and slept with my friend while I was at home thinking you were in school studying to get a better life for the two of us and the family we intended to raise; the two of us, Max!”, Nancy yelled. “I bet you could not resist her touches when she came to see you”, Nancy said. "I bet you moaned and begged for more because she cast a spell on you", Nancy said. “I have always known that you have loved her more than you did me”, Nancy added. "I thought you could resist her so I gave you all of my love and attention just to get you to forget about Alberta but I guess all my love was still not enough", Nancy accused. “Maxwell, I swear to God, if you don’t make love to me this minute, I would know that you were taking me for a fool all this while”, Nancy started. “And not just but I would also be fully convinced that you set me up to use me and just dump me”, Nancy added. “Don’t say that, Nancy”, Maxwell started. “Both of us know full well that you are the one I love”. “I have loved you genuinely with all my body, soul, heart and mind and if you asked me, I would say that my heart still yearns for you in the midst of this mess”, Maxwell explained. “Like seriously?”, Nancy rebutted. “Was your heart yearning for me when you impregnated Alberta?”, Nancy asked. “Was your heart yearning for me when you kept this secret away from me all this while?”. “Where you thinking about our future and that of our children while Alberta was putting to bed?” “Did you consider the adverse effect another woman’s child was going to have on our family?”, Nancy asked with tears in her eyes. “Did you think of me for once in that moment of pleasure that you had with Alberta?”, “Maxwell did you think that you could get away with this?”. “Did you think…did you sit down to even consider…did you even know what you were doing and the fact that if we are to get married our finances are going to be messed up?”, Nancy lamented. “Your money would have to be shared between us and I would not take it lightly”, Nancy added. Maxwell drew closer to Nancy and hugged her tightly as she lamented and cried uncontrollably. “I hate you, Maxwell!”. “I hate you so much for doing this to me!”, Nancy added while hitting his chest with her small fists. “Nancy, you know I would do anything in my power to make things right”, Maxwell started. “You know I would not prefer losing you to anyone because in actual sense, I have loved you from the beginning and the more I try to let go of you, the more my heart yearns to be with you”, Maxwell continued. “Kiss me, Maxwell!”, Nancy ordered. Maxwell grabbed Nancy firmly by the neck and placed a long and passionate kiss on her lips. “I love you so much, Nancy and I would do anything to have you by my side forever”, Maxwell confessed. “Anything?”, Nancy repeated. “Yes my love, I would do anything to redeem myself”, Maxwell replied. “Maxwell, I want you to kill your child!”, Nancy said. "I can't tolerate it in our matrimonial home should we get married", Nancy said “WHAT?”, Maxwell exclaimed. “You heard me, Max”, Nancy started. “If you really claim to love me and want to have a future with me, then you must kill your child”, Nancy repeated. "Please tell me you are kidding", Maxwell said. "I am dead serious!, Nancy exclaimed. “You know that is impossible right?”, Maxwell pleaded. “How do you expect me to take the life of an innocent baby?”. “How do you expect me to even have access to the baby to think of doing such harm to it?”, Maxwell asked. “How do you also expect me to live with the fact that you have a child elsewhere and that child happens to be the child of Alberta; my friend”, Nancy started. “I would have been okay if that child was for any other person but Alberta”, Nancy complained. “Nancy please don’t be heartless”, Maxwell pleaded. “The only way we can ever get to be together is when I know that this baby is out of the way and out of your life!”, Nancy added. “We can work something out, can’t we?”, Maxwell suggested. “No!”, Nancy exclaimed. “If you are not willing to compromise, why do you expect me to compromise?”, Nancy asked. Maxwell held Nancy tightly and kissed her again. “Baby please listen to me”, Maxwell started. We are going to make this work and I promise you that you would be happy”, Maxwell tried to convince Nancy. Nancy suddenly dropped the strap of her nightwear to reveal the top of her breasts and indirectly invite Maxwell to have a feel of her body; the body he adored. Immediately Maxwell’s eyes caught the action, he reached for the right breast of Nancy with his left hand and aggressively suckled at them. While he was still at it, he simultaneously pushed Nancy unto his bed and jumped on top of her. Before he could start undressing, Nancy pushed him off her and started to put on her clothes. “What are you doing?”, a startled Maxwell asked. “What does it look like I am doing?”, Nancy asked angrily. “I am putting on my clothes and it is also obvious that I am leaving your house”, Nancy added. “If you want more of this, consider what I have told you and act upon it”, Nancy added and began to put on her shoes. Maxwell could not believe that Nancy had done that to him. “Why would you come all the way from your house to my house to tease me if you knew you didn’t want us to make love?”, Maxwell asked. "Do something about that bulge in your trousers because it looks hungry", Nancy said jokingly and left Maxwell all alone...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Three days later, Maxwell's grandmother was discharged from the hospital and was placed on strict medication at home. Maxwell had still not heard from Linda in all the three days. She refused to answer his calls and visits to her house proved futile because she was always not at home; as he was told anytime he visited. On the fifth day after Maxwell's grandmother was discharged, Maxwell had closed from work when he saw Linda getting out of his house. Maxwell quickly rushed to her side, "Linda, why are you refusing to speak to me or see me?”, Maxwell asked. "Linda refused to talk and kept walking. "Linda please stop this", Maxwell said. "Maxwell, leave me alone!", Linda exclaimed. "I know I am in a mess but truly, I need a friend right now and you have been more than a friend to me these past weeks”, Maxwell confessed. "Don't allow anyone destroy the trust we have built", Maxwell begged. "Maxwell, I can't seem to get you out of my mind but I would also be out of my mind to think that we can have a future together", Linda confessed. "I think the best thing for both of us would be to stay away from each other", Linda added. "Please don't say that", Maxwell pleaded. "Just give me the chance to prove to you that I am worth it", Maxwell suggested. "Let me think about it", Linda said and moved on toward the direction of her house. "By the way, your Dad and uncles are in the house with your grandmother", Linda said. "I came to pay her a visit but it seems they are in some sort of a meeting so I would come back another time", Linda said and moved away. Maxwell was delighted that for once, his father and brothers had come back into the house and he could not hear shouts and insults. As he approached the door, his phone rang. "Hello", Maxwell said as he answered the phone. "Hello, my name is Edwina from Passione Global, am I speaking with Maxwell?", the voice on the other side asked. "Yes you are, this is Maxwell", Maxwell said. "Okay, I am glad to inform you that, your proposal has been accepted and you are expected to be at the company's premises by 9 A.M tomorrow morning to sign a contract", Edwina said. "What?!", Maxwell exclaimed. "Oh my God, thank you very much, Edwina, I would be there at exactly 8:30 A.M", Maxwell replied with excitement in his voice. "Looking forward to seeing you and congratulations once again", Edwina said and hang up the phone. Maxwell could not hold in his joy. He was vibrating with excitement. He sat outside and was going through his contacts to call his friends and tell them the good news. He was about to call Raphael when a call came in; it was from Alberta. "Hello", Maxwell said as he answered the call. "Maxwell, I am standing in front of your gate with your child", Alberta started. "You better come out and get him and take care of him while I go to town to get some stuff done because this child is also your child!", Alberta barked...<br />
<br />
BITTERSWEET IS THE ONLY EXPRESSION THAT CAN BEST DESCRIBE THESE TURN OF EVENTS...MORE TO COME SOON. MY NAME IS EDWIN OKO LAMPTEY AND THIS IS ANOTHER CRACKING STORY!<br />
<br />
MORE AT randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
SPECIAL FEATURE:<br />
<br />
HERO CLOTHING® PRESENTS, THE HERO THINK® EDITION OF HANDCRAFTED CAPS MADE EXCLUSIVELY IN GHANA.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wGZdgujPKqI/Vt7A_6S5i4I/AAAAAAAABVI/TK7ANy4YZN4/s1600/IMG-20160308-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wGZdgujPKqI/Vt7A_6S5i4I/AAAAAAAABVI/TK7ANy4YZN4/s400/IMG-20160308-WA0000.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d3TMpoBgMH0/Vt6lOaXMdwI/AAAAAAAABU0/35qqDvL6xWM/s1600/FB_IMG_1457373624948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d3TMpoBgMH0/Vt6lOaXMdwI/AAAAAAAABU0/35qqDvL6xWM/s320/FB_IMG_1457373624948.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IwiOqwAM9Ig/Vt6lTQPzwYI/AAAAAAAABU4/6W6Pu2EJbok/s1600/FB_IMG_1457032135449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IwiOqwAM9Ig/Vt6lTQPzwYI/AAAAAAAABU4/6W6Pu2EJbok/s320/FB_IMG_1457032135449.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
VISIT<br />
<br />
www.herocollections.com<br />
<br />
FOR DETAILS AND PICTURES AND YOU CAN ALSO PLACE YOUR ORDER FOR DELIVERY.<br />
<br />
FACEBOOK PAGE:<br />
<br />
https://m.facebook.com/randomafricanthoughts<br />
<br />
TWITTER: @eddylampz<br />
<br />
WORDPRESS: eddylampz.wordpress.com<br />
<br />
BLOGSPOT: randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.<br />
<br />
Invite a friend to like our Facebook Page and stand the chance of winning a surprise package.<br />
<br />
COMMENT...LIKE...SHARE.....INVITE...<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-37912792860006494642016-03-06T19:34:00.003+00:002016-03-17T15:31:39.538+00:00MY VISION FOR GHANA ON HER 59TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KuJl_h-1XEI/VtyFmqDFKbI/AAAAAAAABUU/k90TjdJhI6c/s1600/images.jpgFEFEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KuJl_h-1XEI/VtyFmqDFKbI/AAAAAAAABUU/k90TjdJhI6c/s1600/images.jpgFEFEF.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
It has been
fifty-nine long years since this sovereign nation of ours attained independence
from imperial rule. Have the years made us wiser? Last year, I asked the
question, “Are we growing up or growing old?” (<a href="http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2015/03/are-we-growing-up-or-growing-old.html">http://randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com/2015/03/are-we-growing-up-or-growing-old.html</a>).
This year, I dare ask, “As the years pass us by, is 59 years worth the brag
considering how far we have come comparatively? Isn’t 59 years too late a time
to be waddling in naïve stuff? We have over the years celebrated this “august”
occasion with the highest level of splendour and pageantry. We celebrate the
old and young; we honour the past and anticipate for the future; we show off our
security detail; we showcase our rich African culture and heritage which is
depicted in our way of dressing; we showcase the ‘little’ that technology has
blessed us with. The cycle repeats itself the following year and the next and
the next. Now to my next question, does it all end there? Is our independence
only one which can best be described as a “showcase independence”? Where have
all the years we have gathered as a sovereign State passed? I am a proud African
and proud Ghanaian but in all my years, our independence appears to make little
meaning to me with the passing of the years. Where is the proverbial ‘national’
cake that we are all supposed to enjoy? 59 years is not a small feat and as my
friend rightly put it, if Ghana were a human and a civil servant, she would have
another 365 days to go on retirement. I don’t think her retirement package
would be anything to write home about judging from my own personal opinion. The
future looks bleak but we hope to brighten the path to redemption by pooling
together our little ‘glimmers’ of hope for the greater good. The “old” Ghana is
nearing her retirement age and as growing young Ghanaians, the mantle will soon
be thrust upon us whether willingly or unwillingly because it is a heritage
that needs to go on. We must prepare our minds for the task ahead. We must aim
to do better; we must strive to do better and we have to do better because we
know better. We have been under training for too long. It is time we rose up to
the occasion and proved to the world that we can manage the situation no matter
the mess that is obviously going to be turned over to us. Without further ado,
here is my prayer for Ghanaian youth and I believe if we declare this daily, we
will see the Ghana we all dream of…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nEtWQx-3qN0/VtyFl5iFwHI/AAAAAAAABUI/_YiA6DcbP-U/s1600/gh-celebrations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nEtWQx-3qN0/VtyFl5iFwHI/AAAAAAAABUI/_YiA6DcbP-U/s320/gh-celebrations.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
“I promise on my
honour to be faithful and loyal to Ghana my motherland”…These words have always
appeared as mere words when we recited them at our morning assemblies in
preparatory school. But as we take a deeper look at these words, (I am sure some
of us are getting to see these words in writing for the first time) take a
minute to reflect upon them and you would understand the gravity of the mantle
that we are about to take up. Now, let us break them down, “Promise”, “Honour”,
“Faithful”, “Loyal”. These words are big deals when it comes to relationships, self-respect
and expectations, image and dignity. They carry a sense of responsibility to do
the best possible. So it is little wonder that our national pledge has this
powerful introduction. It is a wakeup call to us that the task ahead has a tall
list of unquenchable human and personal requirement to service and a will to do
the best for the motherland. It is not the time to go back on our words or to dishonour
our image and heritage or to be unfaithful in all our endeavours or disloyal in
our quest to serve the great purpose of working for the greater good. These words
were chosen for a reason and that reason is for us to attach to our persons,
the right moral and ethical values to service. Then and only then can the
Ghanaian flag fly high without any blemish attached to it. It is the beginning
of hope and that is the kind of big shoes we are expected to fill.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jRBHdIsPziM/VtyFmzMyPgI/AAAAAAAABUc/GPWO8j6mrBk/s1600/index.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jRBHdIsPziM/VtyFmzMyPgI/AAAAAAAABUc/GPWO8j6mrBk/s1600/index.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
“I pledge myself
to the service of Ghana with all my strength and with all my heart”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here too, the call to service is made clear. We
must arise and build like it were a personal vendetta against a sworn enemy; a
revenge that is only sweet when all your best laid plans see the light of day. When
you can sit back and proudly say, “I took part in the development of this
nation”. It is only unbroken will and perseverance that are needed in this
venture. As a matter of saying, it really takes “heart” and “strength” to carry
this out; with “heart” representing passion and “strength” representing perseverance.
We need not mince words, our Ghana needs saving and we are the doctors to this
ailing patient. Our pride is at stake, we will not let her down! Our hope and
creed going forward would be to serve God, country and more importantly,
humanity. That is the core purpose and a true reflection of who we are and who
we have always been.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
“I promise to
hold in high esteem, our heritage won for us through the blood and toil of our
fathers”. For those of us who did not know, “Heritage” is synonymous to “Inheritance”,
“Legacy”, “Tradition”, “Culture” and “Custom”. Do not be carried away yet
because the heritage that is going to be passed down to us is not to be accept
as the “and all and be all” because we know too well that some of the “Legacies”
need to be ‘hanged’ to die because of the adverse effects they have on our National
development. Corruption, which is becoming too much of a national parlance must
be the first to walk the plank followed by her cousins and second cousins. There
must come, a new breed of faultless “heritages” that we must seek to pass on
when our time comes to hand over the mantle to the generations to come after
us. Our forebears had to ‘fight’ for what we now see as a common feat and it
would take more ‘fighting’ in the form of good deeds to keep this ship afloat. Our
esteem as a people thrust with responsibility is at stake and we must live up
to the hype if we want to rub shoulders with the rest of the world. History is
watching us from behind and posterity is waiting patiently in the future. We must
not let both of them down!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IpFGpBfS_Wo/VtyFmrwaCLI/AAAAAAAABUY/NLTN0Bgq638/s1600/images.jpgFFF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IpFGpBfS_Wo/VtyFmrwaCLI/AAAAAAAABUY/NLTN0Bgq638/s1600/images.jpgFFF.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
“And I pledge
myself in ALL things to uphold and defend the good name of Ghana…”. It has
never been easy from the get go and it promises to get tougher with time. Here is
the good news; we all have a shot at redemption by playing our roles without
fear or favour. We must do the best we can to develop ourselves and the motherland.
We must put in a good word for our industries and rich culture; we must flaunt
our hospitality without being taken for granted; we must speak freely without being
intimidated or intending to belittle one another and more importantly, we must
respect Ghana and promote Ghana at the least chance we get because if we don’t sing
the praises of our own, who will?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
“So help me God!”.
The final words of this fine piece, which we have come to know as the “National
Pledge” of the Republic of Ghana need no explanation because, it truly speaks
for itself. Help is good but divine help is divinely good. This is our Ghana,
Your Ghana and My Ghana. We will not let it drown! We will not let our oppressors
have the last laugh! We will be free! We will let the meaning of our
independence be more than a formality! We will make this work! This is the
pledge!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qA2JA1bX2IU/VtyFma4QHKI/AAAAAAAABUQ/nq-f3rEFJRs/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qA2JA1bX2IU/VtyFma4QHKI/AAAAAAAABUQ/nq-f3rEFJRs/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
More at
randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
The next episode
of “EVEN IF I DON’T FIND PEACE” WILL BE OUT SOON!!!!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
WATCH THIS
SPACE!!!!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-29022810017218792562016-03-01T20:21:00.001+00:002016-03-01T21:57:44.649+00:00EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE...EPISODE EIGHTEEN (18).<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Maxwell rushed back into the pub
and immediately informed his friends that his grandmother was in trouble so he
had to rush back home to take care of her. In solidarity, all the boys paused
their drinking, paid what they owed and joined Maxwell to his house to help him
with his grandmother. When Maxwell got close to his house, he started shouting
out his grandmother's name, "Grandma, Grandma, Grandma!". Maxwell
opened the gate and left it ajar. He had gone on ahead of his friends and
entered the house about five minutes clear before his friends followed.
Maxwell, already soaked with sweat barged into his grandmother's room. His
grandmother was laying on the floor sweating profusely and also in what seemed
to be like excruciating pain. She had both arms firmly pressed against her
chest and was trying the best she could to get air into her lungs. A bottle of
pills had spilled on the floor close to her. In the midst of the chaos, she
tried her best to lift her head to see who had just walked in but her conscious
effort failed woefully. "Grandma, what is happening to you?", Maxwell
asked as he rushed to her side. Maxwell sat on the floor with his grandmother and
gently placed her head on his lap. He yelled out to his friends and start
barking out orders at them. He had even forgotten about the feud that had just
ensued between himself and Raphael and shouted out the first order to him,
"Raphael, take my cell phone and please call my father and ask him to call
his brothers and ask them to come home at once because my grandmother is having
a crisis", Maxwell barked and handed his phone over to Raphael.
"Rudolph, go into the kitchen and wet a towel for me but before that, get
the towel from the top shelf in the bathroom in the top left cabinet.
Immediately Raphael stepped out to make the call, Maxwell yelled after him,
"Raphael, when you are done calling my father, please call Linda and ask
her to come at once". "Prince, check the inside of the drawer over
there and get me some drugs; they should be in a green or blue container",
Maxwell said to Prince as he pointed to the dresser in the centre of the room.
"I have stopped taking that medicine", Maxwell's grandmother managed
to let out. "Maxwell, please ask your father and his brothers to hurry up,
this time I think I am not coming back", Maxwell's grandmother started.
"The pain is too much and at my age, I think I have been a burden enough
to your parents and I think it is time I joined your grandfather",
Maxwell's grandmother added. "Grandma don't say that", Maxwell
rebutted. "You know that we are in a crisis as a family and you are the
only one who can get this thing all cleared up in the absence of Grandpa",
Maxwell added. "If you let go now, who is going to get this family back
together as the loving family we once were?", Maxwell asked.
"Maxwell, I am too old for these things and as you know, your grandfather
was the unifier; moreover, your father and his brothers won't listen to me because
they think I am an illiterate and that whatever I would say will make no sense
to them", Maxwell's grandmother added. "Don't say that, Grandma, you
have been an amazing mother and grandma to all of us regardless of your level
of education", Maxwell started. "If you allow yourself to die now,
this family is going to collapse totally and the repercussions would be grave
for us", Maxwell added. "This is a family matter so level of
education has nothing to do with it", Maxwell said. Maxwell quickly
stopped talking when Raphael walked back into the room. Raphael told Maxwell
that he had called his father and he said he was on his way to the house. Linda
too said she was on her way. When Rudolph brought the towel into the room,
Maxwell's grandmother went into another crisis. "Argh, my heart!",
Maxwell's grandmother let out in a shrieking cry. This time, Maxwell had to act
fast to save his grandmother. He quickly ordered Rudolph to get a taxi so they
could rush his grandmother to the hospital.......</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
When the taxi arrived, Maxwell
with the help of his friends got his grandmother into the taxi and sped off to
the hospital. On the way, he called his father and asked that he meet up with
him at the hospital. He also called Linda and asked if she could make it to the
hospital. Linda said she was already on her way and that she managed to get
some fruits for Maxwell's grandmother even though it was too early for visits.
When they finally arrived at the hospital, a stretcher was brought out and two
beautiful nurses came to take over proceedings. They strapped Maxwell's
grandmother safely on the stretcher and rushed her into the hospital. A doctor
was summoned on the P.A system and in five minutes, a well-built man in his
late thirties quickly dashed past Maxwell and his friends and went straight
into the room where Maxwell's grandmother was being attended to. It was only
became obvious that the young man who just passed by was the doctor when
Maxwell spotted a stethoscope hanging out of the right pocket of his trousers.
Soon, his grandmother's condition was stabilized and she was put to bed. The
doctor came rushing out because he had been once again called to attended to
another patient who had just been brought in. One of the two nurses who rushed
out to help Maxwell's grandmother came out of the room and briefly explained to
Maxwell what was happening and what had been done to stabilize the situation.
"The woman you brought in is fine but she is asleep now", the nurse
explained. "She is under so much stress and her blood pressure indicates
that she does a lot of thinking which she shouldn't be doing at her age",
the nurse added. Before the nurse turned to go back into the room to check up
on Maxwell's grandmother, Maxwell's father walked into the hospital, spotted
Maxwell and quickly rushed to the spot where they stood. "Madam please is
my mother alright?", Maxwell's father asked the relatively young nurse
politely when he got to where she was standing. "Yes sir, her condition is
stable now but you cannot go in to see her now because we have just
administered some drugs to enable her get some rest", the nurse added.
"Don't worry, we will wait here till she wakes up", Maxwell's father
said. "This is my son, Maxwell and the woman inside is his
grandmother", Maxwell's father said in his introduction, first pointing to
Maxwell and later pointing to the room in which his mother was kept to explain
his point to the nurse. "Oh okay, nice to meet you Maxwell", the
nurse said and extended her hand to exchange pleasantries with Maxwell.
"My name is Alberta Johnson", the nurse said. Immediately Maxwell
heard the name, he stuttered in his speech, "Nice...nice...to meet you,
Alberta", Maxwell struggled to speak. Maxwell was still holding on to the nurse's
hand when he exchanged glances with his father. "Is anything the
matter?", the confused nurse asked as she witnessed the strange look in
Maxwell's eyes. "It is just a coincidence that we already know an Alberta
and the two of you are worlds apart from my standpoint", Maxwell's father
cut in. Instantly, Linda walked up behind Maxwell and tapped him on the
shoulder as she witnessed the introduction that was going on. Maxwell quickly
turned and let go of the hand of Alberta the nurse. "I have to go
now", the nurse said and slowly walked back into the room. Maxwell's
father excused himself and sat on a bench that was placed directly opposite to
the room in which his mother slept. He joined Rudolph, Raphael, Prince and
Frank on the seat and struck a conversation with them..... </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
"How is your grandmother
doing and who was that lady you were talking to?", Linda asked Maxwell all
at once. "My grandmother is responding to treatment and the young lady is
the nurse who is attending to her", Maxwell answered both questions
simultaneously. "She is called Alberta", Maxwell added. "Can you
imagine?", Maxwell asked. "Another Alberta?", Linda asked and
they both laughed. As they laughed, the boys walked up to Maxwell and asked him
what they were going to do about the proposal they were yet to start. "I
think we all need some rest so let us all go home, get some rest and meet up
early in your grandfather's house tomorrow so we look at what we have to
do", Linda suggested. "That sounds like a good idea and moreover, not
all of us are in the right state of mind to think straight", Frank added.
They all agreed to go with Linda's suggestion and Maxwell decided to see them
off. When they got to the entrance of the hospital, Maxwell's uncle drove up to
them and rolled down his front door window. "Where are they?", he
asked Maxwell. "Uncle please they are in the ninth room on the right when
you start counting from the main entrance", Maxwell answered. Maxwell's
uncle rolled his tinted window back up and drove past Maxwell and his friends
to look for a parking spot. Maxwell looked back at him as he quickly made his
way into the hospital. "Thank you guys so much for that much needed
assistance with my grandmother", Maxwell said to the boys as they stopped
a taxi and sat in it. "Come on Max, you have an enviable family and any of
us will kill to be a part of your family", Prince said. "Your family
is also our family and family takes care of family", Frank added.
"Thank you all for the love", Linda said. "Aren’t you joining us
back home?", Raphael asked Linda. "Not yet, I would wait with Maxwell
a little longer", Linda said. Rudolph who was sitting in the front
passenger seat of the taxi pulled his head out of the taxi and said, "If
there is something going on between the two of you, you guys should let us know
before it is too late". Maxwell laughed and said, "Please don't read
any meaning into this simple and kind gesture". That being said, Maxwell
signalled for the taxi to move and he stood at the entrance of the hospital and
waved as the taxi made the first turn into the curve.....</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Maxwell and Linda made their way
back into the hospital to see what was happening. Before they got to the
entrance, they heard lots of noise coming from within the hospital; a place
where silence was one of its hallmarks. Maxwell rushed to the room that his
grandmother was being kept fearing that the worst had happened but on arrival
he saw the security detail of the hospital trying to separate his father and
uncle from having a go at each other. Even in the separation, they engaged
in a war of words. "I think I have had enough of your nonsense and
arrogance", Maxwell father said as one security personnel held him back.
"It is this same nonsense and arrogance of mine that pays the bills, pays
the hospital bills, helps you in your time of need and has in a huge way
contributed to educating your son up to the university", Maxwell's uncle
fired back. "Sirs, please this is a hospital and as such we don't tolerate
noise here", one of the security detail warned as the two men traded 'word
punches'. “Look at how you are dragging the name of this family down the mud and wash
our dirty linen for all to see!”, Maxwell’s father said. “Look at who is
talking”, Maxwell’s uncle started. “You are the one who started it in the first
place, always accusing me of being arrogant and self-centred and selfish and
all the other foul words you describe me with”, Maxwell’s uncle purported. “I will
never bad-mouth you in anyway and if that is the reason why you have suddenly
developed that hate for me then I am sorry to inform you that you have missed
it”, Maxwell’s father barked back. “Sirs, I am the director of this hospital
and I have been informed of the scene you both are creating and as a result, disturbing
the whole hospital”, a broad-looking man in his late fifties said as he managed
to join the increasingly growing crowd and found himself between the feuding
brothers. “You leave me with little choice than to ask you both to leave this
premises right away”, the man added. As the crowds gathered, Maxwell could not
hide his embarrassment. He tried his best to separate his father and uncle but
it seems the bad blood had reached its climax but the time and place they chose
to trash out their issues was the wrong one. Alberta the nurse stood in front of
the door leading to the room in which Maxwell’s grandmother lay and watched
what ensued from there. “Daddy, please stop embarrassing all of us”, Maxwell whispered
to his father as he pleaded with his father to quiet down. “Don’t tell me what
to do!”, Maxwell’s father yelled at him. “Tell that to your uncle who wants to
complain and let the whole world knows that he is the Lord God Almighty in the
family because without him, we are all useless”, Maxwell’s father added. “I
never knew you were such an ingrate”, Maxwell’s uncle fired back in response to
Maxwell’s father’s claims. “How did all this start?”, Maxwell asked his father.
“I just asked your uncle if he brought enough money to settle your grandma’s
bills and he went into this rage”, Maxwell’s father responded. As Maxwell tried
walking up to his uncle to enquire why they were arguing, his uncle gave him a
stern look and he remained rooted in his position. “Alright, Alright I think we
have had enough!”, the director of the hospital shouted on top of his voice to
express his anger. “Please escort these two men off the premises!”, the
director ordered. Maxwell’s father and uncle were forcefully shown the exit and
even as they were heckled by the security personnel, they still would not stop
throwing curses into the air at each other. As they were forced out of the
premises, the crowd that had gathered to witness the near-brawl started to disperse. Maxwell pleaded
with the director of the hospital to allow him stay on with Linda to keep an
eye on his grandmother in case she woke up and needed anything. When both
Maxwell’s uncle and father had been successfully seen off the premises, Maxwell
and Linda went back into the hospital and sat at the entrance on the same bench
on which they sat earlier. “People who are not in my family see my family as
the envy of the neighbourhood and as the family everyone should look up to but
today, you all have seen the true reflection of the white-washed life my family
has been living in the eyes of the outside world all this while”, Maxwell lamented. “Don’t worry, Max, everything will be fine”, Linda encouraged and
placed her head on Maxwell’s shoulder……</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
The following day, Maxwell woke
up early from bed after a short night’s sleep upon his return from the hospital
and walked into the hall to get ready for the meeting with his friends
regarding the new proposal they had to work to come out with. To his surprise, Raphael
was already seated in the hall busily scribbling something on a white piece of
paper. “What are you doing here this early and where are the others?”, Maxwell
queried. “I created this mess in the first place and I figured the least I could
do was to make up for it by coming early and draft an idea that came to mind last
night as I got home”, Raphael replied “Come and have a look”, Raphael
requested. Raphael walked Maxwell through his idea and explained to him in
detail how the whole project was supposed to pan out. Before long, the two
young men were joined by Rudolph and Prince. Linda and Frank joined the group
later on. Linda was tasked by Maxwell to prepare some dishes for his
grandmother and take them to her so that explained why she was late to the
meeting. Frank had virtually no excuse to be late because from the time all the
boys started growing up, he was always the last to show up for any event that
was organised. After hours of brainstorming and information-pooling, the new
proposal was finished and put together into different file formats. “Let me
sound a word of caution to all of us gathered in this room”, Raphael started. “If
this proposal is leaked, know that I am not the one who did it”, Raphael added.
Immediately he finished talking, all those gathered in the room broke out in
hysterical laughter. Raphael and Maxwell were nominated to submit the proposal
at <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Passione</i> Global. Raphael was the
most astonished of the two when they arrived at <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Passione</i> Global. He could not believe that an organization could be
so beautiful. Maxwell walked up to the receptionist and said, “Hello, do you
remember me?”. “I was here some days back but there was some sort of mix-up so I
had to leave without even saying goodbye”, Maxwell added. “Yeah, I remember you”,
the receptionist said in a sweet voice. “I wondered where you had gone after
the meeting”, the receptionist added. “I had to quickly do some work on my
proposal”, Maxwell responded and gave the receptionist a cute smile. “Today, I am
ready to face your bosses and this time, I came with back-up”, Maxwell
explained to the receptionist. “Meet my very good friend, Raphael”, Maxwell
introduced his friend. “Hello”, the receptionist said. “My name is Edwina”, she
added. “That is a lovely name”, Raphael said. “And I am Raphael”, Raphael
introduced himself. The receptionist once again led the way to the conference
room where the meeting was supposed to be held, this time, she was clad in a
red dress with matching shoes. As Maxwell walked into the conference room,
there were giggles among the members of the panel. “I hope you are going to
present an original proposal”, the chairman of the panel said. “Yes, please”,
Maxwell answered feeling somewhat uneasy and tense. Maxwell presented copies of
their proposal to all the members of the panel who went through the pages and
were astonished at what they were seeing. The panel requested that there be a
presentation by the owners of the two top proposals that were submitted. The two
proposals involved the first proposal that was ‘stolen’ from Maxwell and the
current proposal presented by Maxwell and Raphael. With the aid of Raphael,
Maxwell presented the details of their new proposal to the panel seated and
were completely blown away by the passion that was exhibited by Raphael
especially. The panel asked them to take their leave and wait for feedback from
them in a week’s time. The second group was made to present the details of
their proposal and were given the same feedback by the panel after their
submission. Maxwell and Raphael walked up to the receptionist and exchanged phone
numbers before they exited the building of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Passione</i>
Global. Maxwell and Raphael were heavily interrogated by the rest of their
friends when they arrived back home that evening. They wanted to know how the
whole presentation went and were eager to hear the good things that both Maxwell
and Raphael had to say about <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Passione</i>
Global. Soon, Maxwell had to visit his grandmother in the hospital so the boys
had to go home. Maxwell visited his grandmother with Linda. When they returned,
Linda joined Maxwell in his room. Maxwell went out to take his shower and came
back into the room with a towel wrapped around his waist. “I am shy so let me
excuse you”, Linda said as she turned away from looking in Maxwell’s direction.
“Come off it, Linda”, Maxwell said in response. “It is not as if you have not
seen a sexy male model like me before”, Maxwell added and walked to where Linda
was seated and started to give her a lap dance. Linda pushed Maxwell back and
when he made another attempt to dance in front of Linda, there was a knock on
the door. Maxwell tightened the towel around his waist and opened the door. “Hello
Maxwell, I knocked at the gate for minutes but when I was not getting any
response, I pushed the gate and it flew open so here I am now, I hope you’ve missed
me because I have”, Nancy said….</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
MAXWELL IS APPEARING TO BE A
LADIES’ MAN….IS THIS THE CASE?</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
WHAT WILL NANCY THINK OF HIM
NOW? HOW IS HE GOING TO EXPLAIN THE PRESENCE OF LINDA IN HIS ROOM? AND WHAT
KIND OF INTRODUCTION WILL HE GIVE? WILL NANCY AND LINDA ALSO FIGHT OVER MAXWELL
TOO? THESE QUESTIONS NEED ANSWERS SO STAY TUNED. HAPPY NEW MONTH TO YOU ALL.
REGARDS, THE R.A.T TEAM ®</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
MORE AT randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Like our FACEBOOK PAGE....look up "Random African Thoughts" </div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-19164308571641636812016-02-24T11:55:00.000+00:002016-02-24T22:41:27.875+00:00EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE. EPISODE SEVENTEEN (17).<br />
<br />
<br />
Before Maxwell could get inches closer and stand face to face with Raphael, he was impeded by Prince and Linda all at once. Both of them stood as a shield between Maxwell and Raphael in the fiery moment. "Maxwell please stop this", Linda pleaded with tears in her eyes. "You cannot destroy whatever brotherhood you have built over the years with your friends here and like this", Linda said, while looking at the faces of the people that were gathered in the room. "He should have also thought of that brotherhood before going on ahead to act so selfishly", Maxwell barked back at Linda referring to Raphael . "Some of us risked a lot and all of it was for nothing, Linda, nothing!" "All thanks to my selfish friend over here", Maxwell added as he tried to breach the barricade and have a go at Raphael. "Why did you do it?", Maxwell yelled at Raphael, still trying to break free and get closer to Raphael. "Why have you jeopardized the future of every single one of us here and stand there without speaking?", Maxwell asked. "At least be man enough to tell your friends here why you had to stab them in the back this way", Maxwell continued. "Come to think of it, why didn't you tell us this earlier when you had the chance but you had to wait till now when this has blown up in our faces and the future looks bleak?", Maxwell asked. "You are more intelligent than this and I strongly believe you had your own ulterior motive to achieve and it led you to do this", Maxwell added. "Why didn't you come to see me when you were in trouble and you knew you couldn't meet the deadline?", Maxwell asked Raphael who was still pinned to the corner of the room by his twin brother, Rudolph. "We are supposed to be brothers and help each other out with our issues and that is what we have been doing ever since we became friends so why did you do this to all your brothers?", Maxwell barked. Maxwell was a very fast speaker so it took those who knew him very well to understand him when he spoke. He was always being asked to repeat what he had just said to a listener who had not heard him before till that person got used to his way of speaking. The speed with which he spoke with naturally doubled when he was angry or in a rage. "I guess we were supposed to be brothers when you went ahead and slept with my girlfriend", Raphael said while still pinned to the wall. "What are you talking about, Raphael?", Linda asked. Linda turned and walked slowly towards Maxwell and also asked, "Maxwell, what is Raphael talking about?". All the boys in the room turned to look at Maxwell and the struggles seized for a moment. "Ruth told you that I slept with her?", Maxwell, who appeared to be shocked asked Raphael. "Ever since that time, we never got along and I had to do everything possible and sometimes I had to do things I didn't want to do just to please her and keep her by my side", Raphael revealed. "I have never attacked you on it because I know you guys had once dated", Raphael explained. "Stop acting surprised and tell all of us that you didn't do it!", Raphael added. "So you did this as revenge; to get one over me for sleeping with your girlfriend?", Maxwell asked. "And I would gladly do it over and over again if I had the chance because as far as this brotherhood goes, you are the one who betrayed it in the first place! ", Raphael added. "So you could not let this slide after all these years and you could not even consider the fact that this project involved more than just the two of us for you to act more selflessly?", Frank, who had now stepped aside asked Raphael. Some sense of uneasy calm was returning to the room and the two parties involved were still exchanging words. "Raphael, you still haven't answered my question!", Maxwell started. "Did Ruth tell you that I slept with her after we had broken up and you guys had started dating?", Maxwell asked. "Did you expect her to tell me this to my face?", Raphael asked sarcastically. "You expected her to walk up to me and say, oh Raphael, I forgot to tell you but I just went back to Maxwell to sleep with him?", Raphael asked rudely. "Raphael, just cut through the chase and help us make meaning out of all of this", Frank said. "Ruth was acting weirdly so I decided to keep some close tabs on her", Raphael started. "It was during those times that I realized she had contacted you and was checking up on you", Raphael said. "So how does this lead to knowing that they slept together?", Rudolph asked. "One time, I was on my way to see Maxwell but I got a bit held up so my arrival time stalled a bit", Raphael narrated. "Before I got to the gate, I saw Ruth coming out of Maxwell's house and she was looking around to see of she was being watched or followed", Raphael continued. "I didn't allow her see me so I quickly walked into the space between the big gate to Maxwell's house and that car washing bay", Raphael added. "This is absolute rubbish!", Prince yelled at Raphael. "So you saw your girlfriend coming out of her ex-boyfriend's house and you draw the conclusion that they made love to each other; what kind of logic is that?", Prince asked. "Just let me finish", Raphael pleaded. "So I didn't make her see me and when she was out of sight, I went in to see Maxwell who was supposed to be my brother and tell me everything that goes on", Raphael started. "I gave him the chance to tell me what had just happened because I feigned ignorance earlier but when the truth was not forthcoming, I asked him of what he had been up to all day and he told me he had been in bed all day and what made me more suspicious was the fact that it didn't even occur to him to tell me that my girlfriend had just visited him", Raphael added. "So after seeing Maxwell, I went over to Ruth's and while she was taking her shower, I went through her phone and found out that she had just been chatting with Maxwell and if my memory serves me right, there was a message from her that read, 'you are such a darling and will forever take a special place in my heart regardless, thanks for the thing, you know what I want and you do it better than anyone'. "Do we need a prophet to tell us what 'the thing' is?", Raphael asked. All this while, there was dead silence in the room as Raphael narrated his side of the story. "Raphael, I still maintain that you are an ingrate and increasingly growing in non-existent hatred for me", Maxwell said. "Oh, if it is coming from my friend who screws his friend's girlfriends, I would take it as a compliment", Raphael said sarcastically. "So why didn't you ask me about it then?", Maxwell asked. "Just like now, I also expected you to act as a brother and tell me what was going on without me having to ask first when it has blown up in our face like you are saying", Raphael added. "So all you did and thought about was to stage a revenge against me for allegedly screwing Ruth at the detriment of all the people here including your own twin brother?", Maxwell asked. "I guess there is no need holding on to the truth anymore so this is my version and let us allow the rest of the people here judge between the two of us", Maxwell said. "This is what happened..."<br />
<br />
<br />
Maxwell and Ruth used to be the neighborhood’s favorite couple. There was no place you would see one without the other. They talked, laughed, held hands and even cuddled to the full glare of any company they kept. They were so fond of each other that the word making rounds on the street was that the two of them had been secretly engaged to get married when they were of age. This rumour made a lot of sense judging by the way the two of them basked in the glory of each other's company. Maxwell and Ruth got on well for months till Ruth started demanding outrageously even when she knew full well that Maxwell was not enjoying any form of income. Maxwell tried the best he could to satisfy Ruth's 'high libido' of wants for the luxuries of life. When Maxwell could no longer take it, he asked Ruth to slow down on her demands but Ruth misinterpreted it as a way of driving her away. When this happened, the once talked about “Romeo and Juliet” love affair came to an abrupt end. Before Maxwell could think of getting over Ruth, he heard rumours that she was now going out with one of his friends. It took little effort for him to find out which of his friends was going out with Ruth. When Maxwell confronted Raphael, he didn't deny it and openly professed his love for Ruth. "You had a taste of paradise and you lost it", those were the exact words of Raphael to Maxwell during the confrontation. Maxwell did not like the idea that his friend was seeing his ex-girlfriend. During the period in which Maxwell found out about the relationship between Raphael and Ruth, Ruth called and asked to see him. Maxwell was at home when Ruth arrived. "Hi Max, don't you miss me?", Ruth asked when she was ushered into Maxwell's room. Ruth found a spot close to Maxwell and sat down. "You are looking really beautiful", Maxwell said as he tried hard to take his eyes off Ruth's shining cleavages. "Who would miss you if they were in my position?", Maxwell said sarcastically. "You are nothing but trouble to a man's pocket and I am not afraid to tell you", Maxwell added. Ruth laughed and said, "I have always loved you for your frankness and the way you speak your mind freely without being intimidated by my beauty like all the other men are", Ruth said. "Today is not the day for your comparison games", Maxwell cut in to cut Ruth off before she started talking about the past . "Maxwell, stop being rude and cynical", Ruth pleaded. "I heard you are going out with Raphael now", Maxwell said. "How is that turning out for you?", Maxwell asked. "That is absolutely none of your business unless you tell me that you want me back then I would consider your comeback terms and conditions", Ruth replied. "So what brings you here this hot afternoon?", Maxwell asked. "This is embarrassing but there is no one I can do this with but you", Ruth started. Maxwell got alarmed and asked if Ruth was having problems with Raphael. "No, we get along fine", Ruth answered Maxwell's question to allay any fears of friction between the two of them. "On the contrary, I think I am in love with your friend", Ruth confessed. "The thing is that Raphael's birthday is coming and I don't know what to do", Ruth revealed. "I want to get him something that would let him know that I care so much about him", Ruth said. "So what is stopping you from getting him the thing?" "Or is it that you want my advice on what to get for him?", Maxwell asked. "Yes", Ruth answered. "And one more thing", Ruth started. " I am broke and I don't think I can come up with any money from now till the birth date", Ruth confessed. "It is quite unfortunate Ruth, but at the moment, I am also cash-strapped", Maxwell revealed. "I don't know if I can come up with any money so I don't want to promise and come up short so try and get a loan from a friend so that we can offset it when I get some money", Maxwell suggested. "I have actually run out of options and I didn't consider asking you for help looking at the fact that you know Raphael and it sounds awkward to be asking for your help to buy a gift for my boyfriend who happens to be your friend and I, your ex-girlfriend", Ruth confessed. "At least I tried", Ruth said and started to leave. When she got to the door, Maxwell called her back. "Even when we were dating, I never saw you talk so passionately about me like you are doing now", Maxwell said. "Come and take a seat and let me see what I can do", Maxwell said. "Your happiness is mine too", Maxwell said. Maxwell ransacked his suitcase which was positioned at the far end of the room and returned with a new shirt and a box of perfume. "I had planned to wear this on my first date when I found another girlfriend but you can have it for Raphael instead, he is my brother", Maxwell said and handed the stuff over to Ruth. Ruth was elated and could not thank Maxwell enough. "This is such a beautiful shirt!", Ruth exclaimed as she admired the shirt that Maxwell had just handed over to her. "I know Raphael would love this!", Ruth added. "I am so happy!", Ruth exclaimed. "I knew I could count on you, Max!", Ruth started. "You are a life saver", Ruth added. Ruth hugged Maxwell tightly and as they hugged, Maxwell said, "I am glad you are someone else's problem now". On hearing that, Ruth broke the hug and said, "I am the best thing you never had and never will". "Yeah right", Maxwell responded and they both broke out in laughter. After chitchatting for a while, Maxwell saw Ruth off to the gate. "Please promise me something", Maxwell said. "I would promise you anything!", Ruth exclaimed. "Promise me that you would never tell Raphael that the gifts came from me", Maxwell started. "And promise me also that you won't burden Raphael with so many demands", Maxwell pleaded. "I would try my best possible to be a loving and caring girlfriend to your friend", Ruth replied. "Thanks for the thing one more time", Ruth said and left Maxwell's house. A party was organized in Raphael's house and all his friends were in attendance. Ruth presented the gifts which she had received from Maxwell to Raphael and they shared a passionate kiss. Ruth never mentioned how she came across the gifts...<br />
<br />
<br />
"Raphael, you remember what I told you when you confided in me right?", Maxwell asked Raphael who was now sitting on a swivel chair which was placed behind a big study table. "You told me that you were not jealous of my relationship and you would do anything to ensure that none of us gets hurt", Raphael said, now looking very embarrassed. "I still stand by my words", Maxwell said. "You can call Ruth right now and find out", Maxwell added and handed over his phone to Frank to pass on to Raphael . "Raphael, you were actually hating me for the good I did you and look at the number of people you have allowed that hatred to drag down along with yourself", Maxwell added. "Raphael you have messed up!, Frank yelled. "Is there any way we can make up for this misunderstanding?", Raphael asked, with his head bowed down. "A resolution will require cool heads", Prince suggested. They all agreed to go down to 'Cool Running', the pub that was down the road to grab a round of drinks and come back to figure out the next step to take. Before they left for the pub, Maxwell decided to take Linda home to freshen up for the task ahead. Now, they had to work around beating their previous proposal which had already been tendered in for approval. "Do you think we can pull this off?", Linda asked Maxwell. "We have the brains and this time, we have more people to bring out ideas but it has to be damn good", Maxwell confessed. As they arrived on the landing of Linda's porch, she held Maxwell's hand tightly and said, "Maxwell, this is not the right time and probably not the right thing to say but I think I am falling in love with you", Linda confessed. Maxwell leaned in to give Linda a kiss but Linda pulled away. "What is the matter?", a confused Maxwell asked. "I don't want to rush into doing anything now", Linda said. "I think you should come with me to church one of these days", Linda added and rushed into the house but before she banged the door behind her, she said, "Please don't forget to call me when you get back". "One more thing, please do not get drunk because we have a task ahead to accomplish". Maxwell rushed back to the house and called the other boys and they headed straight for 'Cool Running'. After the second round of drinks and with Linda's advice ringing in his head, Maxwell kept his drinking to a minimum. As he orders for the third round of drinks, Maxwell received a call from his Grandmother. Because of the loud music that was playing, Maxwell went outside to answer the call. "Grandma, I am just around the house, do you need something?", Maxwell asked. "Maxwell, please come home, I think I am going to suffer another heart attack", Maxwell's grandmother said...<br />
<br />
MAXWELL IS ON TRACK WITH THE WORK TO ESTABLISH HIS FRIENDS BUT HAS THAT MADE HIM FORGET THAT HIS FAMILY ALSO NEEDS SAVING? A MAN CAN ONLY DO ONE THING AT A TIME.... WATCH OUT FOR THE NEXT EPISODE OF"EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE. MORE AT randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Like our FACEBOOK PAGE....look up "Random African Thoughts"</div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469140491569868585.post-51148239575618807512016-02-17T16:49:00.001+00:002016-02-17T20:08:07.532+00:00EVEN IF I DON'T FIND PEACE...EPISODE SIXTEEN (16).<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Maxwell and Linda got back to
working on the proposal that they were working on before Maxwell recounted his
story. Maxwell was very intelligent and often had great plans but never had the
chance to implement them. He felt that this was the right avenue to really know
how good he was at organizing people and planning something worthwhile. He had
the tendency of evaluating people and despite his own shortcomings; he knew the
strengths and weaknesses of all his friends and acquaintances. As he drafted
the proposal, he put into consideration the role each of them was going to play
should they be awarded any contract. He had carefully designed the proposal and
he knew it was going to fly with anyone who set eyes on it. As he tried to
explain something to Linda to get them to rectify the proposal and put
finishing touches to their work, he caught Linda staring at him and it made him
feel a bit uneasy. "Why are you still staring at me like that again?",
Maxwell asked Linda trying to hide away the impression that she had already
made a thousand and one inferences about him from his story. "You
are the first person I have fully recounted everything I have been through to
and I would be very disappointed if I heard this from anyone else",
Maxwell warned, feeling somewhat insecure. "Your secret is safe with
me", Linda assured Maxwell with that banality. "Come to think of
it", Linda started as if to say she had just remembered a multimillion
pound idea. "In your entire story, you never mentioned your father and the
role he played in all of this because from the get go, it has been your mother
who has been fronting for you all this while", Linda said. "Before I
went to secondary school and even on the eve of my departure to the university,
my father sat me down and advised me", Maxwell started. "He told me
that the best legacy he was leaving behind for myself and my siblings in the
instance of his death was not wealth or possessions obviously because he had
little of that but he said his legacy to us was going to be the name that was
passed down to him by his father", Maxwell explained. "My father told
me that when he received his surname he was told by his father that he had
successfully passed on the baton of integrity to him and he was to maintain
that integrity and pass it on to his children and if possible, see to it that
his children passed it on successfully to their children too", Maxwell
added. "But you can see from my escapades that I failed my father woefully
because I could not live up to that name and I ended up disgracing my family's
name by dragging it through the gutters of promiscuity and amorous
behaviour", Maxwell added, bowing his head down in disappointment. Linda
gently held his hand and rubbed it against hers, "I know how it feels to
somewhat be a black sheep in a family but in life, we should always remember
that broken crayons still colour so no matter how far you have gone down the
wrong road, you can still come back and make something of the rest of your life
on earth because hope is mankind's greatest asset so if you have hope, you have
enough to fight the odds of life", Linda preached. Maxwell forcefully
pulled his hand from Linda's hold and yelled, "You don't know how it
feels, Linda, you don't!". Linda was startled by Maxwell's sudden change
in tone and composure and moved back a bit because she felt Maxwell was going
to go into a fit of rage but Maxwell gently got off his seat and slowly paced
the room and after a few rounds in the spacious confines of his room, he returned
to his seat, held Linda's hand to assure her that he was fine and said,
"Let me explain something to you". "My father and his brothers,
for whatever reason known to them were and are still in competition with each
other", Maxwell revealed. "They sought to outdo each other maybe to
gain the favour of their father so they all did things in that regard",
Maxwell added. "And I guess it included the way their children were also
brought up", Linda suggested inferring from the way Maxwell was making his
point. "Exactly, and this singular act of mine had brought to naught all
the conscious effort my father had put in to make us appear more prim and
proper than the children of his brothers", Maxwell said. "But that
was insane on their part!", Linda burst out. "They are blood brothers
for crying out loud!", Linda exclaimed with disgust written all over her
face. "Unfortunately, that is the kind of family I was born into",
Maxwell said. "I have never been able to look my father in the eye ever
since this happened and I think this is how things are going to be till we
die", Maxwell said and immediately, tears started rolling down his cheeks.
He tried to hide the tears away from Linda but he was too late. "Maxwell,
are you crying?", Linda asked. "No I am not", Maxwell responded
trying to wipe the tears away expertly with the back of his palm. "I am
such a disappointment to my family and there is nothing I can do to make up for
all the pain and emotional trauma I have put them through", Maxwell
confessed. "It is all well and good and maybe some things are just meant
to happen to help make our lives take the trajectory that destiny has in place
for us", Linda said, in an effort to try to console Maxwell. "No,
Linda!", Maxwell started. "Let's face reality here", Maxwell
said. "When my parents found out that Alberta was pregnant, they vowed to
keep it a secret from the entire family and cover it up in the best way they
could because first of all, they didn't want to rat me out and my dad also had
his integrity to protect in the eyes of his brothers but as fate would have it,
Alberta's parents eventually got in touch with one of my uncles when my father wasn’t
going forward to tell them anything and informed him of what had happened and
he also informed the rest of his brothers who carried out their own checks to
verify the claims made by Alberta's family", Maxwell recounted. "When
they were satisfied with their investigations, they invited my father over and
gave him what was probably the worst verbal bashing any man could take",
Maxwell explained. "My father took all of this in his stride and never
raised his voice at me but believe you me, I knew he had a heavy heart when he
came back home that night", Maxwell said. Linda kept totally silent as
Maxwell spoke and did not make interjections like she did earlier. "By
now, all my cousins know that I have a child out of wedlock and how do you
expect me to look them in the eye and pretend as if everything is
alright?", Maxwell asked. "Things are not the same anymore and I have
little doubt that things would come back to be as they were", Maxwell
added. "That doesn't change the fact that you are a good young man with a
lot of potential to make something out of this life", Linda said. "I
see what you are trying to do Linda, but it still won't change anything",
Maxwell cut in rudely. "Change is a state of mind, Maxwell and you of all
people can relate better to it", Linda interjected. "Where were you
all this while when I was going through all of this?", Maxwell asked, looking
at Linda in awe. Linda smiled and moved close to Maxwell and placed her head on
his shoulder, "Let's just say I was a few seconds late in this case",
Linda said. Linda looked at her watch and said, "Unless you plan on
holding me hostage, I think I have stayed out too late and I have to return
home before the police are alerted of a kidnapping", Linda said jokingly
and both of them broke out in hysterical laughter. Maxwell and Linda went
through their proposal one more time before Maxwell decided to see Linda off.
"I have really enjoyed myself and I have learnt a lot from your story and
I am glad that you have started on a road to redemption by doing this project
with your friends", Linda revealed. As they walked down the pathway to the
gate of Maxwell's house, Linda still had a lot on her mind and wished she could
get some clarity. "So when was the last time you heard from Nancy?",
Linda asked. "Well, I tried to reach her several times to apologize for
all that had happened and beg her to come back to me but she claimed she could
not see herself in this mess and that I had to clear up my mess all by
myself", Maxwell said. ""I think she has a point because even
though it hurts to be treated this way, I am the one who cheated on her in the
first place", Maxwell recounted. "In one of our conversations,
in which she was crying, she asked me point blank to find someone else who
would understand that I have cheated and let that person fight this battle with
me", Maxwell said. "Okay", Linda responded and turned to face
Maxwell as they finally got to the gate. "Maxwell, you are one amazing
young man and...", before Linda could finish here statement, Maxwell
grabbed Linda by the neck and planted a kiss on her cheek and hugged her
tightly. "What was that for?", Linda asked, trying to hide the
blushes on her face. "That was for being a good friend back there and not
being judgmental at least to my face owing to the fact that we are mere
acquaintances", Maxwell said. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves
because if we are going to act according to how we are feeling right now, we
might end up doing something we might not be able to reverse",
Maxwell said. Maxwell gracefully opened the gate and ushered Linda out and both
of them walked the lonely street in silence till they arrived at a
semi-detached house a few blocks from Maxwell's house. "This is my
house", Linda said pointing to the house which was painted in bright
yellow and green colours. Maxwell watched Linda as she graciously cat walked
unto the landing of her porch and waved her goodbye and started down the road
alone in silence on his way back home. As he approached his gate, he was hit by
a pinch of veridical perception. "How could I tell all my secrets to
another woman; the same species that has landed me where I am today?",
Maxwell thought out loud. He pondered over the happenings of the night as he
took his shower and retired to his bed to catch some sleep.</div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
The following morning, Maxwell
called up all his friends and arranged a meeting with them that evening. When
they all honoured the invitation and were seated at the dining table in
Maxwell's house, Maxwell presented a copy of the proposal to all of them and
they went through the details together. They all brought their expertise to the
table. Raphael made very intelligent suggestions after just a first glance at
the proposal and made many recommendations. Maxwell jotted down all the points
Raphael made and quickly edited his copy of the proposal. Raphael was the most
intelligent among all the young men gathered at the table so it was little
wonder to all of them gathered that he had his own reservations and additions.
The other boys made their inputs and soon, they had a well-defined proposal
with all the ideas they pooled together. Maxwell edited the previous proposal
he had drafted with Linda and asked Linda to work on the edited proposal. In a
matter of days, the new proposal was ready and Maxwell had it personally
delivered to all his friends to look thoroughly at one more time. On each
visit, he carefully explained the role that each person was to play. Maxwell
took some time off work to go round in search of a company they could sell
their proposal to. With each day that passed, Maxwell returned home with little
success after trying to get a company that would grant him audience. Many of
the organizations he contacted wanted to know more about the track record he
had raked for himself before they listened to him. Maxwell had virtually no
record to boast of but he was determined to get their proposal to a bidder who
would reward them handsomely. The leave he had requested from work had almost
run out and still, he did not have anyone to look at their proposal. "Just
grant me five more minutes of your time and I would show you how this proposal
would benefit your organization", Maxwell said, at one of his many
meetings with some C.E.O's. "Young man, the business world does not thrive
on trial and error and more importantly, it is not a field for new entrants
like yourself", one of the board members said. "Build for yourself a
good track record and some extra experience and come back to us", another
board member chipped in. Maxwell was at the verge of giving up, he gave his
friends a daily report as to what was happening on his hunt. "Maxwell, do
you think this is going to work?", Frank asked, during one of their
meetings. "This proposal is fool proof and we just have to hope that
someone would agree to take a look at it for just five minutes", Maxwell
answered. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
Soon, Maxwell had exhausted all
his leave days and had to return to work. On the day he was supposed to report to
work, he called in sick and requested to stay home. He decided to use the
excuse to take one more chance at getting someone to look at the proposal.
"I can't fail my friends", Maxwell thought to himself as he sat in
the commercial bus heading into town. He had seen an advertisement in the
newspapers and it was in line with their proposal so he decided to tender in
their proposal to see if they were going to get lucky. Maxwell was ushered into
the lobby of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Passione</i> Global; the
company that was in need of ideas for their capacity building project. He sat
there and day dreamed about working there as the new Project Coordinator. His
daydreams were cut short as he ushered back into reality by the words,
"Sir, the board would like to see you now". Maxwell followed the
beautiful receptionist to the entrance of the conference room where the board
of directors were waiting to hear him out. "These heels must cost a
fortune!", Maxwell thought to himself as he could not help but keep
staring at the stunning shoes the receptionist had on. "Soon, all of us
would be wearing some of all these expensive stuff", Maxwell said to
himself. "My bosses are easy-going therefore you shouldn't have a hard
time convincing them, all the best", the receptionist said and held the
door ajar for Maxwell to enter. After the exchange of pleasantries, Maxwell
handed over the proposal to the board members who glanced through it
individually. After the last of them had skimmed through the document, the
chairman of the board started, "You have made very solid points in your
work but I don’t know whether it is coincidental or something but we have
received this same proposal already two days ago and what is more, the wording
in the document are the same. Maxwell could not believe what he was hearing.
"There must be some sort of mistake somewhere sir", Maxwell stammered
as he adjusted himself in the seat. One of the board members, to prove their
point, handed over a document to Maxwell. All the information in the document
that was provided to Maxwell was exactly the same as was in his own proposal
except the fact that the producers of the documents were different. Maxwell
could not believe his eyes. He was at a loss for words. "We reviewed this
proposal yesterday and we are to meet its producers next week to discuss their
terms of employment", the chairman of the board revealed referring to the
earlier proposal. Maxwell did not know what to do or say. "Can I come back
tomorrow?", Maxwell requested. The board members agreed and Maxwell
quickly rushed out of the building without even stopping by the desk of the
pretty receptionist to say goodbye. </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
When Maxwell arrived home, he
quickly called an emergency meeting for all the individuals who were involved
in their proposal. He wanted to remain as calm as possible but it was not
working. "Which one of you leaked our proposal?", Maxwell shouted as
he commenced the meeting. All the people gathered in the room started
exchanging glances at each other looking to find the culprit. "Linda, did
you per chance show your copy of the proposal to anyone?", Maxwell asked
angrily. "I wouldn't do that for anything in the world", Linda said
in her defence. "So which one of you guys did this?", Maxwell barked,
scanning the faces of all his friends. "For your information, I visited a
company this morning and they are going to award the new owners of our proposal
a contract; our proposal, our hard work!". "All they had to do was to
present it and in a matter of days, they are going to be smiling all the way to
the bank", Maxwell added. "Someone better start talking so we see if
we can salvage anything from this mess because I know one of you is responsible",
Maxwell barked out. "Okay, okay, enough already", Raphael started.
"If you have something to say, say it now!", Maxwell cut in.
"Three days ago, an old school colleague contacted me and asked that I
helped him draft a proposal for a fee", Raphael started. “I had forgotten
about it so when he called saying he had deposited the money into my account, I
had to also fulfil my part of the deal so I sent him our proposal to use as a
sample”, Raphael continued. “I didn’t know he was going to stupidly present the
same thing”, Raphael added. Immediately Raphael finished his submission,
Maxwell burst out in a fit of rage only to be held back by Prince and Rudolf. “Raphael,
you are a fool!”, Maxwell yelled. “Up until today, I always thought that you
were the most intelligent among us but this your action has confirmed how
shallow-minded and daft you are!” “Your stupidity has let all of us down!”,
Maxwell said as he tried to wriggle free from the hold of Rudolf and Prince and
pounce on Raphael. “You have sold our future and a chance of a better life for
a something not worth the price of fine wine!”, Raphael was standing at one corner
of the room and tried to defend himself, “How was I supposed to know that he was going
to present the document verbatim?”. “Shut up, Raphael and accept that you
action was not merited”, Frank burst out. “All the sacrifices and sleepless nights were
for nothing?”, Maxwell yelled. “Come to think of it, I had to put my job on the
line for all of us and see how you pay me back you ingrate”, Maxwell added. All
of a sudden, Maxwell broke free from the hold and dashed towards Raphael…RAPHAEL’S
ACTION IS ABOUT TO THROW YEARS OF BROTHERHOOD INTO DISARRAY BY HIS SELFISH ACT.
WERE MAXWELL’S EFFORTS ALL FOR NOTHING? MORE TO COME IN THE WAKE OF THIS
BETRAYAL OF FRIENDSHIP. KEEP YOUR EYES ON </div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
randomafricanthoughts.blogspot.com</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
randomafricanthoughtshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17229324289352371059noreply@blogger.com9