WRONG NUMBER by Toyin Taiwo. Episode 11...

Episode 11
 morning and ask if I was at home, of course I’m at home it’s a Saturday. Some hours later he showed up at my place.
He apologized for not calling or visiting, he talked about the good times we shared, he talked about me having a lovely family and me having a good heart and all that.
And at the end of the whole epistles he said and I quote “Pamilerin I think we need a break”
“A break? Then you must think I’m blind, stupid and gullible. Tunde you and I know we don’t need a break, you don’t need to fool me, I wasn’t born yesterday.
You know exactly what we need and please don’t make me say it for you because I won’t forgive you if you make me say it for you”
“Pamilerin! I love you, but im not just feeling the vibe anymore, Love is not enough you know” he said with Pleading.
“Please cut to the chase and spare me the lectures” I said sternly.
“Ehm actually, things are no longer working out between us, what I really mean is that…we should….end the relationship" he said
I knew already that the relationship is over I just want him to say whatever he has to say and leave me for good, I was that tired.
“Fine, the relationship has ended before now, all this is just formalities. I wish you all the best”
He was shocked at my words. I’m sure he didn’t expect that, he thought I’ll be crying or something or maybe he thought I’ll beg him not to leave, it’s written all over his face that he was shocked at the way I reacted to the news.
I’ve cried my eyes dried before now and I already let go since.
He apologized for not coming out straight in the first place and with that we ended it.
In the evening, I went to my parent’s bedroom, and explained everything to them.
“Pamilerin, so you two have been having issues all this while and you never mentioned it? My Mom asked sounding worried.
“Mummy, I was trying to give him time, I thought things will get back to normal”
“So where did he expect you to start from now, ehn!” she lamented
“Eh! Woman, what will your Lamentation solve now. You should even thank God that we discover his true identity early” My Daddy said firmly.
“I thank God oooo, broken relationship is better than a broken marriage. Who would have thought that, that boy would change like that” My mom said putting her two palms together.
“Daniella! My daddy called out as he fondly calls me.
“Sir” I replied
“Every disappointment is a blessing, and if one door closes another will open. So please try as much as possible to move on with your life”
“Yes sir, thank you sir”
“Jo oko mi ma ronu o” (myndaughter, please don’t brood about it)This is just a sign that Tunde is not yours. Please be strong, ehn!" Mummy added.
“ Mo ti gbo ma” (I’ve heard you ma) I replied.
I knelt down and thanked them.
“Good night sir/ma”
“Good night” they chorused.
I told my siblings were still in the sitting room, I broke the news to them too. There’s no point calling any friend, they’ll find out sooner or later.
I called my cousin, Joy. She’s preparing for her wedding with the same guy that got her pregnant when we were still in school. At least there are still few loyal ones out there. I guessed I wasn’t lucky with mine.
“Hello Joy”
“Dear cousin, what’s up”
“Joy, Tunde broke up with me, he’s seeing someone else”
“It’s a lie, tell me you are joking. After all this years….”
“I’m not joking” I took my time and explained everything to her.
“That’s his lose my dear, just take heart, I believe God will provide someone far far better than him”
“Amen, thanks.
“Please don’t kill yourself over one stupid son of Adam o”
“Me! Never. My sister how’s the wedding preparation going?" I asked brushing my own issue aside.
“Leave that for now, Let’s focus on you now”
“Joy…. There’s nothing to focus, Let’s just say that’s how God want it.
She told me about the latest plan on ground, before i ended the call.
I prayed that night thanking God for giving me the strength to handle it, while I was praying few drops of tears left my eyes, but trust me I wasn’t down or broken.
I told myself "Isaac Oluwapamilerin Daniella the sun will shine again”. With that, I slept off.

.

Episode 12
#When someone hurts you, you learn to be stronger…..When someone leaves you, you learn to be independent #
****
Ladies learn to wise up.

After my break up with Tunde, I kept myself busy with work and Church activities. I don’t party or club but I make sure I use my free time to engage myself in things that makes me happy. I fed my soul with good music. Yes music is food for the soul.
Sincerely I enjoyed my single status, I was free, I don’t owe anyone any explanation for my life, I do things my way and I buy less recharge card. I know how much I spend on recharge cards when I was dating.
My Parents were very happy because I was happy. My Daddy called me once and told me “I never knew you are this strong, I’m proud of you”
He actually said this after My cousin’s wedding. My cousin got married to her Price charming, her wedding was awesome. I was there for her all through.
I just told him “Daddy, the Joy of the Lord is my strength.
What doesn’t kill you, make you stronger.
****
Five months later, I was in my room relaxing after doing my chores. I was about to see a movie on my laptop when I heard my phone ring, I looked around for my phone then I noticed the sound is coming from the bathroom.
I remembered I left it there when I washing. My Mom always warn me not to take my phone to the bathroom, but I love listening to music when washing or doing other chores.
In my Mummy’s voice “The day that phone will drop inside water, ehn. Thank God you are working, you know how easy it is to earn money”
I rushed into the bathroom to pick my phone. I checked the caller Id it was an international number, I was wondering who it was, although I have few friends abroad, but we only communicate via social media platforms, we rarely talk on phone.
“Hello”
“Hello” I replied, please who is this?
“This is Daniel on the line calling from America, please I’d like to speak with Mr Paul” he said in American accent.
“Sorry, this is a wrong number” I informed him.
“Wrong number? He said from the other end. Please hold on while I checked the number again.
Silence….
“I just rechecked this is the number I was given” he said
“Well, I’m sorry this is my line and obviously I’m not Mr Paul”
I expected him to end the call but he did not, I suspected he’s some how disappointed.
“Oh…my… goodness” he said stressing each word.
Any problem” I asked just feeling concerned.
“I’m coming to Nigeria on a business trip tomorrow and he’s suppose to help me settle down and show me around. Mr Paul is a cousin to a friend of mine whom I can’t even reach right now. He’s busy with his project somewhere in East Africa and I can’t reach him over there too” he explained.
“Sorry about that, I said. Do you know his email address, if you do then you can mail him”
“Yes I have sent numerous mails to him, I called this line because he did not reply any of my mails”
“Ok let’s try it this way, use his email address to search for him on facebook, then maybe you can be lucky to get his mobile no or other information about him on facebook” I suggested.
“You are a life saver, you know I never thought of that,I was so anxious to get through to him, I couldn’t think straight. That was a good suggestion, thanks for your time. Despite the fact that I’m a stranger, you still took your time to find me a solution. Thanks I appreciate it. What’s the name” he asked
“Pamilerin, but if you can’t pronounce that you can call me Daniella”
Of course I can, I’m Nigerian and  yoruba but I’ll prefer Daniella since my name is Daniel” he said jokingly. Thanks for your help”
“You are welcome”
Thanks once again and have a great weekend.
“You too, bye” I replied, then the line went off.

Then what next.

 Episode 13

Daniel called on Friday evening, I told him our meeting place, he said Mr Paul will bring him.

“See you tomorrow then” I said

“Good night Miss Daniella”

“Good night Mr Daniel”

I woke up on Saturday morning and I realized my mind was at ease. I checked my wardrobe and I pick a simple royal blue gown. Took my bath, dressed up with silver accessories to match. I styled my hair and wore little make up. I think I’m good to go” I said checking out myself in front of the mirror.
I just told my Mum that I want to see a friend, but I explained everything to my younger sister and with this I left the house.

When I got to the restaurant I called him and he said he was already there so I went in still talking to him on phone so that I could easily locate him. He got the idea and waved when he saw me on phone. I moved towards his table. Another man was with him, I guessed he’s Mr Paul.

“Miss Daniella! He said and smiled

“Mr Daniel!” I said and smiled back.
“Meet Mr Paul”

“I thought as much” I said and exchanged greetings with him.

“Let me take my leave now. I have a friend around here, I want to cease this opportunity to check on him” Mr Paul explained.

“Alright then”

“Give me a call when you are through” he said to Daniel and left.

He pulled out a sit for me. I sat opposite him.

“Wow! He exclaimed. A good heart with a beautiful face. I was sure I’m gonna meet a beautiful lady but I never knew you’re going to be this beautiful.

“Mr Daniel!”

“I’m sorry for over reacting, he pleaded. But you are breathtakingly beautiful”

“Thanks for the compliment “ I said with a smile.

We placed our orders and we started chatting. I scanned him why we were eating, he’s handsome and indeed looked like someone who lived in the state, fresh skin, nice nails, lovely hair cut. He looks perfect.

“Tell me about you” he said

I told him everything I think he should know about me.

“A beautiful lady like you will definitely be in a relationship, I envy the lucky guy I must confess”

“A handsome man like you will definitely be in a relationship too” I countered

“Oh! Smart move! I can see you are very smart Miss”

I smiled and sipped my drink.

“Don’t you want to know anything about me?” he asked

“I’m all ears if you want to tell me about yourself”

“Alright, I’ll tell you. Like I said earlier, I’m a Nigerian, I’m Yoruba, Ekiti state to be premised but I was born and raised in the US. My Parents and my sibling are also in the state.

My name is Daniel Ayomiposi Johnson.
I work in an IT company in America. But I’ve always wanted to come back home. A friend of mine in the State introduced me to some of his client here in Nigeria. Now I’m here to start my own IT firm fully.

Mr Paul is my friend's cousin who shows me around here since I don’t have family members or friends here. He runs an IT firm. My extended family members are in Ekiti.

As for my relationship status, my girlfriend broke up with me, when I told her about my plans of coming back to Nigeria. Although she’s Nigerian but she said she can’t leave the state” He stated.

“I can’t really blame her, she can’t just leave her life over there and follow you down here” I said

“Don’t you feel If she really loves me as she claims, she will come with me?”

“She may have her reasons, it’s her life and the report people in abroad gets from here is not that encouraging, so don’t blame her”

“Even if I want to change my mind about staying, I think meeting you won’t let me change my mind” he said with a straight face.

“You can’t say that, we barely know each other”

“I’m serious, if I have someone like you here, then I’m good”

“Hmm. Do you understand yoruba language at all?”

“I understand Yoruba and I speak it as well, although not fluently”

“Really!”

“Yeah! My paternal grandma lived with us for 25years, so she made us speak our language. She passed away Five years ago”

“Wow, she did a great job! May her soul rest in peace.

“Amen, thanks” he said and sipped his drinks.

“Tell me about the lucky guy” he said.

“There’s nothing to tell”

“I just want to know, but you can choose not to answer that”

“I’m not in a relationship” I opened up.

“I should not have believed that but I have a feeling that you are saying the truth”

I explained everything about my ex boyfriend to him.

“You know what, some people don’t know the worth of what they have until they loose. I’m sorry”

“I’m over him, I’ve moved on” I said and we continued with our chat.

He asked for my username on Facebook, he sent me a friend request right there and I accepted his friend's request.
He was fun to be with, very jovial, I spend like two hours with him.

“I think we should call it a day, your hotel is on the Island and I’m sure you wouldn’t like to be stuck in traffic” I said

He agreed with me and called Mr Paul's number, he said he’s not too far away from the eatery. 15minutes later, Mr Paul showed up.
Daniel offered to drop me off but I turned down his offer since my house is not too far from the restaurant.

I got home and called him, hoping they’ll won’t be stuck in traffic.

“Hello”

“Hello, are you home?” he asked

“Yes I’m home”

“Good, we are still on the road, you are right, traffic here is terrible”

“Welcome to Lagos” I said jokingly.

“Sure, I’ll survive. Anyway I’ll let you know when I get to my hotel”

“Alright, my regards to Mr Paul”

“Ok, Later”

Two hours later, he called and told me he’s now at the hotel and Mr Paul has left for his house. He also thanked me for hanging out with him.
 Episode 14
Days later, I got a call from him.
“You know I’m travelling next weekend and I really wish we could meet one more time before I leave” he said
“Is that really necessary, we can talk on phone” I said
“Daniella, I really had a nice time the other day can you please oblige me?”
“I told you I’m always busy during the week, there’s no way I can meet up with you”
“Are you saying I won’t get to see you before leaving?”
“When exactly are you leaving?”
“On Saturday”
“Ok, let’s do it this way, we could meet on Saturday at the Airport and keep you company until your flight is ready to take off”
“That idea is not bad, I’m happy you’ll be the last person I’ll see before I leave but I would have loved it if we meet before then” he said.
“Sorry about that”
“Promise me you’ll find time to chat with me everyday online before saturday”
“Promise”
“Good, thanks”
“We’ll see on Saturday”
“Saturday it is then, good night and sleep tight”
“Good night” I said and the line went off.
****
Seriously, I don’t trust all this America based Nigerian guys, some just come down to Nigeria and trick girls, some will even claim single when they are happily married with kids over there. But there’s something about Daniel that seems different. He sounds honest, sincere and I think he’s transparent. You can read him like a book. I feel safe with him as a friend.
During the week, we chatted online, I don’t know why but I feel free with him, we talked about so many things via chat. He also made it a point of duty to call everyday during the week.
On Saturday, I left my house for Muritala Mohammed Airport. I called him when I got there and he told me where to meet him.
He was so happy when he saw me, Mr Paul was with him too. He hugged me, I greeted Mr Paul when he released me.
“Looking beautiful as ever”
“Thanks, you are not looking bad yourself” I said shyly
We sat at the departure, Mr Paul got us some light refreshments.
“I’m coming back next month by God’s grace” he said
“Are you coming back finally” I asked
“Yes, my IT company is kicking off next month, we’ve succeeded in putting everything in place, thanks to God and off course Mr Paul has been of great help”
“That’s nice, I’m happy for you. Thank you Mr Paul” I said facing him.
“Thank God, I’m glad everything turned out well too”
I got to know that Mr Paul owns one of the most prominent IT firm in Lagos
“Daniella! I already told Mr Paul to get me an accommodation before I come back so I won’t have to stay in the hotel when I return” Daniel explained.
“That’s good, you already have everything planned out” I said.
We all continue chatting, Mr Paul asked for my number and we both exchanged numbers. He also gave me his complimentary card.
By 7pm, the public address system announced his flight.
“I guess it’s goodbye” I said
“Yes, and I’m going to miss you and Mr Paul. You guys really made my stay in Nigeria worthwhile”
“I think you’ll miss Mr Paul more, since you are always together since you came to Nigeria. This is my second time of setting my eyes on you “ I said
“You think so, I don’t feel like we just met, I felt like I’ve known you since forever” Daniel countered
“Really! If that’s the case don’t miss me too much then” I said playfully.
“I’ll try not to, he said holding my cheek gently with his hands”
“It’s time to go” Mr Paul announced
“Mr Paul can you please help me take her home” Daniel requested.
“Sure I will” Mr Paul replied him.
Daniel hugged me and whispered slowly into my ears “I will be back”
“I’ll be expecting you” I whispered into his ears too.
Episode 15
On our way home, Mr Paul and I were chatting while driving, when he suddenly changed the topic.
“You are a Christian right? He asked
“Yes I am” I replied
“I’m sorry, but what I’m about to say may sound like I’m intruding…”
“Mr Paul, feel free to say whatever you want to say”
“Miss Daniella, once again I’m sorry for intruding…”
“Intrude, you have my permission” I said
“I think you should start praying about him”
“About who?” I asked
“Mr Daniel” he replied
“You are still talking in parables Mr Paul”
“I think he really likes you, I’m a man and I know when a man likes a woman, I can see it in his eyes that he likes you”
“How can I start praying about someone I just met?”
“I know you just met, but that did not change the fact that he likes you. Anytime I’m with him in the hotel, he only talks about two things, work and you”
“He talks about me?”
“He did not tell me he likes you or something but there’s a way your name always come up in all our conversations”
“Really!”
“I advice you start praying now, because one thing is sure, he would like to be with you when he comes back finally to Nigeria”
“Did he tell you he has a girlfriend in the state?” I asked Mr Paul
“Yes and she already broke up with her” he replied
“What if she decides to come back with him”
“We are not sure of that, but from what he said, I think the lady had made up her mind”
“Thanks for the advice, I’ll think about it”
Some minutes later, he pulled over in front of my house, I alighted and thanked him. He promise to keep in touch.
****
I got into the house, I met my Parent in the sitting room, I already informed them before I left the house earlier that I want to see a friend off to the airport. I greeted them, they ask about my friend and I answered them. I got to my room and took my bath and change to my night wear.
I lay on my bed and thought about everything Mr Paul said. I know I don’t need a sooth sayer to tell me that Daniel likes me and I like him too. My only concerns is that we don’t really know each other and of course he has a girlfriend and there’s all possibility that she can come back with him.
I said my prayers before I slept, I also prayed for Daniel safe trip too. While praying I remembered what Mr Paul said.
“Lord, let thy will be done” I muttered before sleeping.
I woke up around 5am, I had my quiet time. I was about rounding up when I heard my mom called my name, it was time for devotion. I was on my way to the sitting room to join the rest of the family for morning devotion when I heard my phone ringing.
It was Daniel, we exchanged greetungs. He told me he’s now in New York.
“Good to hear, thank God for safe trip” I said
“Pamilerin” my mummy called out.
“I can hear someone calling you “ he said
“It’s my mom, its time for Family devotion, I have to go now” I informed him.
“I’ll call back later” he said and hung up.
***
He called back in the evening, we talked at length. He told me how much he missed me and Mr Paul but he missed me more. He even said his family members said he has changed ever since he came back.
“Change how?” I asked him.
“They said my countenance changed ever since I came back from Nigeria”
“I told them I’m happy about my IT Firm that is kicking off soon, but my younger sister insisted there’s more to it. And of a truth there’s more to it”
“There’s more to it?”
“Yes”
“What did you now tell them” I asked
“I told them about you of course” he replied
“Me! What did you tell them about me?”
“Don’t worry, I’ll tell you what I told them later, but trust me its not something bad”
“You can’t be serious, I need to know what you told them”
“Don’t sweat it, I won’t tell you now, I will tell you later”
“OK, if you insist”
I want to end this call now, let’s talk on Skype, I’ve missed that pretty face, its that OK with you?”
“Yes, it’s OK”
He ended the call, called backed on skype and we continue our talk via video call.
“I want to hear your voice and see this face everyday till I come back to Nigeria, will you oblige me?” he asked
“Everyday? You are funny”
“I’m not joking, I’m serious here, just give me the go ahead”
“Mr Daniel, we barely know each other, what could we possibly be discussing everyday”
“I thought we’ve pass that stage Miss Daniella” he said calmly.
“Still we can still over rule the fact that we just met”
“That’s why I’m doing all this, I want to know you, I want us to know each other better”
“It’s OK, but….
“What’s the but again?”
“Let’s make the video calls on weekends”
“If that’s what you want, its OK by me” he said.
“One more thing let’s drop this “Mr” and “Miss” thing, just call me Daniel “ he said
“Just call me Daniella too” I said and we both laughed.
Some minutes later we ended the video call.
I think he likes me but I must thread carefully, considering where I’m coming from. More so, he has a girlfriend in the states, who can decide to change her mind and come back with me. I decided not to raise my hope or have any expectations.
d our routine calls. Along the line I got to know some things about him. Mr Paul do call me too, to ask after my well being, he’s very friendly. He relate with me as if we’ve known each other for ages. I was happy to have this two great guys in my life.
****
Few weeks later, Daniel stopped calling, he’s not online also, I was really worried for him, I just hope he's fine.
I decided to give him a call at least for someone who calls almost everyday and stooped suddenly, I think courtesy demand I check on him.
I called all his two lines, but none was going through. I thought of Mr Paul "he would have more information on him". I dialed his number
“Hello, Mr Paul"
“Hello dear, how are you today?"
“Mr Paul I’m good, please….
“I know why you’re calling, I tried calling him countless times but all his lines are not going through.
“What do you suggest we do now, I don’t know I have a feeling that something is wrong. He can’t just abandoned everything he’s spent money on here and then disappear into thin air”
i said
“I’ve sent mails, which he did not reply. I even tried to contact his company in America just to get hold of him but all my efforts on reaching him proofed abortive”
"What are we going to do now?" I asked Mr Paul
My cousin is leaving east Africa for the state next week, I think he would help us contact him”
“Next week!"
“Daniella!”
he called out
“Yes”
“He’s…coming…back”
“I don’t mind if he doesn’t come back, I just pray his safe, he could decide to stay back but I want to hear that he’s safe”
“See! Just relax, let’s pray for him”
“I’ve been doing that for weeks now”
“Then let’s leave things to God. You know what I can see you are very tensed, can we go out, maybe to the cinema?”
“Is that a date?”
“Lets not call it a date, I just want to make you relax”
“Ok, cinema it is then?
“Good, I’ll pick you up tomorrow, 7pm”
“Alright then, see you tomorrow “
“Have a lovely night rest”
“You too, good night”
****
He picked me up the next day and we went to the cinemas. He said he’ll be the one to pick the movie to watch.
"No problem as long as its not a crime or horror movie that’s the last thing I need right now"
We saw a romantic comedy, the movie was so hilarious, I almost spilled my drink on my body. In fact I had to handover my drink and popcorn to him.
“I think I succeeded in making you laugh” he said after the movie ended.
“Yes, I really enjoyed myself” I said all smiling.
“I can see that, we can do this again, if you don’t mind”
“I don’t mind at all, I had fun. Thanks so much”
Lets take you home, it’s getting late”
We strolled down to the parking lot, some minutes later we are out of the place.
On our way home, I thought of Daniel, I really miss his voice.
“A penny for your thought”
I just smiled sheepily
“Daniel right!”
“I know I just meet him and we are just friends, but Daniel he’s just so good that I pray everyday for him that no harm should come his ways”
“Next week is just around the corner dear, let's wait till then”
“Thanks, I really enjoyed myself, I’m sorry I brought this up again”
“It’s OK, I understand and I appreciate your concern, a lady like you is rare”
He parked in front of my house.
“Thank you, I’m really relieved, thanks for the treat”
“Its nothing, just take care of yourself, call and let me know if you need anything”
“OK, thanks. Good night and drive safe.
“ I will good night”
I alighted, he reversed and zoom off.
He called the following week and gave me the news, the news wasn’t pleasing at all. “God please intervene” I prayed silently
“What exactly happened” I asked Mr Paul anxiously.
“My cousin said Daniel had problem with the company he’s working with in the states. He’s employer

Episode 17
“What exactly happened” I asked Mr Paul anxiously.

“My cousin said Daniel had problem with the company he’s working with in the states. He’s employer doesn’t want him to resign, I heard he’s the brain behind the company, so a lawsuit had been filed against him”

“Oh my God, why are this white people like this, so they expect their employees to work under them for the rest of their lives?”

“That’s what they do over there, they are Ready to pay for your brain till it stop functioning. I even heard they tripled he’s pay and still he insisted he’s leaving”

“Do they have to file a lawsuit? That’s extreme for crying out loud”

“He’s been doing some running around, just to win the case. I think he purposely kept it a way from us, especially you, he did not want you to worry for him”

“It is well at least now we know what to pray on, they will drop that lawsuit by God’s grace”

“I believe he’ll scale through”

“Amen, thanks you so much Mr Paul”

“You don’t have to thank Mr, Daniel is my friend too”

“I hope his absence didn’t affect anything here?” I asked

“Not at all, I’ve put things on hold till he comes back” he replied

"Ok" We talked a little about me, before we ended the call.

***
Days turns to weeks, weeks turns to months and I didn’t hear from him.
Mr Paul had been very friendly, he called and we hang out once in a while.

Then one faithful day, my phone rang, i checked the callers ID and guess who called?

“Daniel!” I almost screamed

“Daniella, I’m sorry I’ve wronged you, I’m very sorry for the silence all this why. Things are beyond me

“I understand, I’m just happy to hear your voice

“Daniella I starred at my phone every night before I go to bed but I couldn’t bring myself to call you”

 “Those people almost torn me apart, but God intervened, I won the lawsuit”

“Thank God “ I almost screamed. I was so happy.

“Yes, I won, I did not only win, I was paid compensation money worth millions of dollars including my entitlement”

“I’m so happy Daniel, finally. I want to hear the full gist, what really happened. Didn’t you notify them that you’re leaving?

“Off course I did, I submitted my resignation six month before I came to Nigeria”

“Really that’s enough notice, what exactly is now their problem”

“The only problem they have is me leaving the company. You can’t believe I was framed up”

“Are you for real?”

“I was told to pay some ridiculous amount of money, if I want the law suit to be dropped”

“Why are this white people like this! They are racist, I’m sure they can’t do these to a white man”

“They think they can buy people over with money, they use your brain and expect to work under them till your brain is inefficient”

“I heard you are the brain behind the company”

“I won’t dispute that and I’m been paid handsomely. But I just want to leave, but now is over, I’m a free man”

“Congratulations once again” I said

“I’m I forgiven?”

“You did not offend me, I shut people out to when I’m going through hard times so I understand”

“Thanks for your understanding. I really miss talking to you”

“Same here” I said smiling

“I’m coming back next month, I need to tidy up some things here”

“Alright, we'll be expecting you”

“I promise to talk to you ever day till I return”

“Okay…”

Every thing went back to normal, Daniel is just too wonderful while Mr Paul was always checking on me.
With this new relationship between the three of us, I forgot everything about the past and looked forward to the future. want him to resign, I heard he’s the brain behind the company, so a lawsuit had been filed against him”

“Oh my God, why are this white people like this, so they expect their employees to work under them for the rest of their lives?”

“That’s what they do over there, they are Ready to pay for your brain till it stop functioning. I even heard they tripled he’s pay and still he insisted he’s leaving”

“Do they have to file a lawsuit? That’s extreme for crying out loud”

“He’s been doing some running around, just to win the case. I think he purposely kept it a way from us, especially you, he did not want you to worry for him”

“It is well at least now we know what to pray on, they will drop that lawsuit by God’s grace”

“I believe he’ll scale through”

“Amen, thanks you so much Mr Paul”

“You don’t have to thank Mr, Daniel is my friend too”

“I hope his absence didn’t affect anything here?” I asked

“Not at all, I’ve put things on hold till he comes back” he replied

"Ok" We talked a little about me, before we ended the call.

***
Days turns to weeks, weeks turns to months and I didn’t hear from him.
Mr Paul had been very friendly, he called and we hang out once in a while.

Then one faithful day, my phone rang, i checked the callers ID and guess who called?

“Daniel!” I almost screamed

“Daniella, I’m sorry I’ve wronged you, I’m very sorry for the silence all this why. Things are beyond me

“I understand, I’m just happy to hear your voice

“Daniella I starred at my phone every night before I go to bed but I couldn’t bring myself to call you”

 “Those people almost torn me apart, but God intervened, I won the lawsuit”

“Thank God “ I almost screamed. I was so happy.

“Yes, I won, I did not only win, I was paid compensation money worth millions of dollars including my entitlement”

“I’m so happy Daniel, finally. I want to hear the full gist, what really happened. Didn’t you notify them that you’re leaving?

“Off course I did, I submitted my resignation six month before I came to Nigeria”

“Really that’s enough notice, what exactly is now their problem”

“The only problem they have is me leaving the company. You can’t believe I was framed up”

“Are you for real?”

“I was told to pay some ridiculous amount of money, if I want the law suit to be dropped”

“Why are this white people like this! They are racist, I’m sure they can’t do these to a white man”

“They think they can buy people over with money, they use your brain and expect to work under them till your brain is inefficient”

“I heard you are the brain behind the company”

“I won’t dispute that and I’m been paid handsomely. But I just want to leave, but now is over, I’m a free man”

“Congratulations once again” I said

“I’m I forgiven?”

“You did not offend me, I shut people out to when I’m going through hard times so I understand”

“Thanks for your understanding. I really miss talking to you”

“Same here” I said smiling

“I’m coming back next month, I need to tidy up some things here”

“Alright, we'll be expecting you”

“I promise to talk to you ever day till I return”

“Okay…”

Every thing went back to normal, Daniel is just too wonderful while Mr Paul was always checking on me.
With this new relationship between the three of us, I forgot everything about the past and looked forward to the future.
Episode 18
3weeks later, we were having our usual chat on phone when he informed me that Mr Paul has gotten an accommodation for him on the island.
“That’s good, I was about to ask you about the accommodation since you are coming back next week” I said
“Mr Paul just informed me today, so he suggested that I should tell you to come check the place out before he pays.
“Ooo….What’s my own business in this now” I thought.
It was as if he knew what was going on in my mind.
“I really don’t want to bother you but Mr Paul insisted. He said if you like it, then I’ll definitely like it and I think he’s right”
“You guys are……infact that Mr Paul is something else, where did he get that philosophy from, that you’ll like whatever I like”
“You can ask him that when you see him” he said laughing. He’ll pick you up on Saturday, so you could go together”
“So you guys have already planned my weekend for me and who told you I’ll be free on Saturday?”
“I know you are, if you are not, I would have known by now”
Now he’s right, if I’m not free he would know because we talk about everything which include our schedules for the week.
“He’ll also take you to see an interior decorator, so you can choose everything that’s needed for the interior decoration.
“Daniel, how on earth do you want me to know your taste”
“I trust your judgment, I just want a beautiful home”
“I’ll try my best”
“He’ll take you to my office, although we already arranged that before I left Nigeria. He will just show you around”
“What about your staff?”
“Yea, we gave the contract to a recruiting firm, the qualified applicants has been selected but I’ll be the one to conduct the final interview”
“Good, everything is in place then” I said
“Except for the accommodation and that depends solely on you”
“Don’t worry we still have one week, we’ll put that in place before your arrival”
“I trust you, thanks dear”
“Don’t thank me yet, you can thank me later”
“If you say so” he said smiling.
“I’ll call Mr Paul” I said yawning.
“You are feeling sleepy already, let’s sing you to sleep” he said
Smiling “You want to sing me a song?”
“Yep!”
Wow!
“I have a good voice you know”
“I’ll be the judge for that”
“Can I sing now?”
“Yes, I think I’d love that, so go ahead let’s hear you sing”
“I’m only one call her away,
I’ll be there to save the day
Superman got nothing on me,
I’m only one call away…
I joined him in singing.
“So when you’re weak, I’ll be strong
I’m only one call away…
I drop my tab on my lap and gave him a round of applause.
“Your voice is so sweet”
“Thank you”
“That was a nice cover of Charlie Puth's song” I said
“Thanks, I can sing for you everyday if you want”
“I won’t mind” I said jokingly.
“Let me release you, so you can sleep”
“Ok, byeeee”
“Bye, sweet dreams”
I place my phone against the wall on my bed, with my face opposite the screen.
“Won’t you end the call” I said when I noticed he’s still on the screen.
“Go ahead and sleep, I want to watch you sleep”
“I won’t be comfortable with that, in fact I won’t be able to sleep if I know that I’m been watched”
“ That’s not fair”
“You know what? I’ll help you, bye…” I said and disconnected the call.
I smiled. “This guy is so sweet”
I’m very sure I slept with a smile on my face.


Episode 19
On Saturday Morning, Mr Paul came to my house to pick me up. We went to see the house on the island. It took us two good hours to get there, the traffic was so much. He parked in front of a mighty building.
“Here we are” he said as we both alighted from the car.
“A mansion! Why is he renting a mansion is he bringing the whole of America?”
Mr Paul was just starring at me
“Why did he want to rent such a big place like this all to himself?” I asked Mr Paul.
“He didn’t tell you?”
“Tell me what?”
“He’s buying it, not renting it”
“Maybe I miss that part when we were discussing about the house”
“Moreover, he’s not getting younger, I know he’ll be planning to settle down soon”
“Hmm, ok”
“Also he’s family members might decide to come to Nigeria to visit him anytime” Mr Paul added.
“That’s true” I nodded.
We check out the house together and I was pleased with what I see.
“Wow! This is beautiful” I said in amazement.
“You like it?”
“Yes and you said you need my approval, who will disapprove this kind of house, it’s so beautiful” I commended
It was a big beautiful structured building with a nice garden. The compound is very spacious, it has a parking garage. The interior has nine bedroom(master bedroom included),main office, library, main hall, dining, kitchen, swimming pool, a full size inner tennis court and wine cellar, all are divided by different floors.
We met with the agent who was already waiting for us there. We exchanged greetings and he opened the gate and show us around.
“Mr Paul, I love this place and I’m very sure Daniel will like it”
“So can I make the payment now?” he asked
“Sure” I replied
The agent told us since we are ready to buy the mansion, we have to come to their office to finalize the process. He told us we’ll need a lawyer. Mr Paul call his lawyer, gave him the office address and told him to meet us there.
20mins later we were at the office. We waited for some minutes for the lawyer to show up.
They also signed some documents, made all all necessary transactions. Mr Paul’s lawyer was also there, he signed. I also signed too as a witness.
The keys to the house, all the documents of the house, including the c/o was handed over to Mr Paul.
From there, we went to the interior décor’s office. She said she has to see the mansion first, so we had to drive back to the house.
When we got to the house, she looked around, then we all put heads together to choose what will suit the house. Although Mr Paul and the Lady still ensured I gave the final say.
I ask her if she can fixed everything within a week and she said that’s not a problem that she has enough helping hands to put things in place.
She informed us that she’ll be through in five working days. Mr Paul gave her the spare keys and promise to come around during the week to check things out. By the time we were through it’s already 6pm. I was exhausted.
We went to a nearby restaurant and took some snacks and drink. While eating Mr Paul told me, we have to pick another day to check out Daniel's company, since it’s already late. I told him we can do that next week Saturday after inspecting the interior decorations.
Mr Paul offered to take me home but I told him not to bother. I told him I’ll take a cab that we take me straight home. It’s getting late and I know traffic will be heavy by now. I don’t want to add to his stress. He disagree at first, but he later agreed after pleading with him. He called a cab man for me and paid the Tfare. I thanked him before leaving.
 *WRONG NUMBER*
Episode 20
I got home around 8: 30pm, I was so tired. I called Mr Paul to let him know I’m home and I cease the opportunity to thank him for everything, he was such a selfless man.
He even apologized for taking all of my time, but I told I was glad to be of help.
I took my bath went to the kitchen to grab my dinner.
I was almost through with my dinner when Daniel’s call came through.
I picked the call and he thanked me for everything, he said he was sorry for stealing my weekend. I guessed Mr Paul had already called him and related the event of the day to him.
He sounded very grateful for the helped I rendered, but I told him to thank Mr Paul more.
During the week, I make it a point of duty to call Mr Paul to ask how far the interior decoration is going. On Friday he called and informed me that everything has been fixed. I was glad the interior lady fulfilled her promise.
I was in school teaching, when I heard my phone rang. I checked the caller ID, it was Daniel. I excused myself and went outside the classroom to receive the call.
“Hello, how are you doing?”
“I’m good, I’m at work”
“I’m sorry, I’ll call back if you are busy”
“ I can still spare some minutes” I said
“I have good news, I want you to be the first person I’ll share with” he said with enthusiasm.
“I’m all ears, what’s the good news?”
“I got two contracts from two universities in Nigeria. My company will be handling their IT department. One of the university is a private university.
“Wow! Congratulations, I’m so happy to hear this news, so work is actually waiting for you in Nigeria”
“Yes, thanks. Let me run now, I'll get back at you later”
“Alright then, bye” I said before the line went off.
I was really happy for him, Nigerians trust people who came from abroad more, they believed they would have gathered experiences from abroad. I’m sure that will be one of the criteria they considered in given him the contract.
On Saturday, I went to the mansion to check out the place. I met Mr Paul there too. Everything was sweet and perfect. He drove me to Daniel's company. It has few offices but many cubicles each cubicle has his own system. The place was nice too.
He showed me Daniel's office, it was a glass office, very spacious and well furnished.
His office reminded me of Harvey Specter's office in "Suit" TV series.
I commended his effort, although he said Daniel designed everything himself.
He offered to take me home and I obliged.
We discuss a lot on our way to my house. His phone rang and he received it via a Bluetooth device. He told the person on the other side of the line that he’ll be back in two hours time. I heard him say I love you before he ended the call.
“Your girlfriend? I asked inquisitively.
“Fiancée” he corrected
“She’s a lucky girl” I said smiling
“Lucky?”
“Yes, she’s lucky to have someone like you. I envy her you know”
“Hmm, if you say so, but I think any man that married you is a lucky guy too”
“ You think so?”
“I know so, I already told her a lot about you and Daniel. Don’t worry you will meet her. Maybe when Daniel comes back”
“I can’t wait to meet her”
“Her name is Elizabeth, but she’s fondly call Lizzy, I call her Lizzy too. We have a dinner date tonight” he informed me.
“That’s cool”
He dropped me off in front of my house.
“Thanks for the ride”
“You are welcome”
“Greet your fiancee for me and enjoy your dinner date”
“Sure I will, thanks” he said and left.
*****
I and Mr Paul were at the Airport to receive Daniel. The three of us hugged one another other, it was like we are all one family. He later hugged us separately.
“I told you I’ll be back” he whispered softly to my ears as he hugged me.
“And I’m so going to give you a tough time here” I whispered back and smiled.
“ Bring it on” he said and we both laughed.
Mr Paul pretended as if he didn’t see us. Before we left the airport, he changed the dollars on him to naira.
Mr Paul drove us to his new apartment, the guys were at the front while I sat at the back seat. He already hired a gateman who opened the gate for us.
He packed in the parking lot and we all alighted. Daniel was impressed, although he has seen the picture of the house even before it was paid for, but seeing is believing like the saying goes.
We entered into the mansion and he opened his mouth wide. I was so scared, I can’t place his expression whether he liked what he sees or not.

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