Seated on the living room sofa, Philip's hunger gnawed at him. Sheila's narration about acquainting someone with the house was halted abruptly by Philip. "Could we hold off on that? I'm quite famished. Kindly ask the cook to set the table and bring me some hot tea before dinner," Philip's interruption stung Sheila, but she wordlessly retreated to the kitchen, tasking the cook with setting the table. Meanwhile, Philip activated his data to receive messages and noticed one from an old friend, Felix.
FELIX || PHILIP
Hello, old friend. It's been a while.
Indeed, you're right. Are you still in Nigeria?
Yes, I'm still in Nigeria, without any concrete plans. And you?
I've left Nigeria. I'm in Canada now, but I'll be back before this month ends.
What's the reason for your return?
To tie the knot, my friend.
That's wonderful news! Who's the fortunate lady?
You'll find out in due time.
On another note, I'm married as well. I did mention it to you, but you were quite occupied.
True, I recall. I even saw your updates online. I should have made an effort to celebrate with you, but circumstances kept me away.
Sheila soon arrived with a tray bearing a steaming cup of tea, placing it on a stool by Philip before returning to the kitchen. Philip took a sip and set the cup back down, continuing his chat with Felix.
I'll definitely attend the wedding. It's a celebration I wouldn't miss.
Appreciate that. We're also hosting a pre-wedding night party.
It's been a while since I last went clubbing, especially after marriage. When was your last drink?
I've given up those habits since getting married.
Haha, well, that's your choice. Do you still intend to indulge after marriage?
Life in Canada is enjoyable. I'll pursue what brings me pleasure. Have you moved past all these things?
By the way, I intend to keep flirting even after getting married.
Oh, really?
Absolutely!
Good to know. I'm ready for dinner now. Enjoy yourself. I'll sign off.
Alright, take care...
Philip signed off, picked up his suitcase, and wearily headed to his room, looking fatigued. After refreshing himself, he donned a black top and pale green 3-quarter jeans. Coming out, he proceeded to the dining room, settled in front of his plate – yam and egg sauce – with a glass of water and a Champagne flute at his side. Sheila joined him, both offering a prayer before their meal.
Meanwhile, Gabriel found himself joyfully surprised to be at Sheila's house, even with a gateman. He anticipated a smooth execution of their plan and hungrily devoured his meal, seemingly ravenous.
Episode 32:
"Good morning, sir," Gabriel greeted with a respectful bow as he approached Philip, who was grappling with his car's lock. "How are you?"
"I'm quite well," Gabriel responded, a radiant smile lighting up his face. "Your joyful demeanor suggests you've been savoring your time here, am I right?"
"Yes, sir. The surroundings are delightful, and the ambiance is inviting. I must acknowledge that your wife is genuinely caring."
Philip chuckled before replying, "You ought to acquaint yourself better with her, given that you reside in proximity to her supermarket."
"I've only encountered her once. It was the day I assisted her with her malfunctioning vehicle. People mentioned she sought to express gratitude, but I never anticipated it would lead to this remarkable opportunity."
"Very well, enjoy your time here. Just be sure not to replicate the errors of our former gatekeeper. I assume you're aware of the situation that landed him in prison?"
"I've been briefed on the entire matter."
"Excellent. Make the most of it. I need to head to the office."
"May I address you by something other than 'area man'?"
"You may refer to me as Clinton, sir."
"Alright, Clinton, could you please open the gate for me?" Philip settled into his car, initiated the engine, reversed out of the garage, and exited through the gate.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Kenneth had repeatedly dialed Sheila's number, oblivious to the fact that her phone was on silent. Upon noticing the array of missed calls, Sheila promptly returned the call.
"Hello, Sheila. I've been attempting to reach you. Have I somehow upset you?"
"No, ma'am. You haven't offended me in any way. My phone was set to silent mode due to some work I was engrossed in, which is why I failed to respond to your calls."
"Not a problem. Our plan is proceeding as intended."
"Yes, ma'am. I'm prepared for the pivotal phase. I merely need him to transfer control of the company to me, although I'm uncertain about the procedure."
"Our time is dwindling, with the imminent prize-giving event. We can't afford another setback."
"I'll expedite the mission. Kindly arrange for the funds to be sent as soon as possible."
"Thank you. The funds are at the ready. Once you share your account number, I'll remit five million naira to you."
"Perfect. I'll transmit my account number now. Wishing you a productive day." Sheila shared her account details, and shortly thereafter, the sum of five million naira was deposited. She acknowledged the transaction, concealed her phone in her bag, and proceeded indoors.
Meanwhile, Philip was engrossed in preparing for the upcoming prize-giving event on his laptop when he received a missed call notification from Sandra. He retrieved his phone to read her message.
"Hello, Philip. I'm currently at the airport, ready to depart. The flight is set to take off shortly. I attempted to call you, but there was no response. I simply wished to inform you of my departure. Take care."
As Philip perused the message, he recollected the promise he had made to Sandra. Swiftly, he transferred five million naira to her account, and she promptly acknowledged the receipt.
Elsewhere, Shannon entrusted Sandra with gifts for her friend Margaret, accompanied by a heartfelt greeting card. Shannon underscored the importance of Sandra ensuring the safe delivery of the items.
"Mom, I assure you, I'll personally see to it."
"Excellent, my dear. Additionally, remember to keep me posted on your return to Nigeria with your fiancé for the wedding."
"Certainly, and I'll miss you too. Farewell." They shared a warm embrace, and Shannon bestowed a tender peck on Sandra's cheek before they parted ways. As Sandra moved towards the plane, tears welled up in her eyes. She offered a slow, sorrowful wave, mirroring her mother's sentiment.
After a brief pause, Sandra redirected her steps towards the aircraft. Similarly, Shannon retraced her path to her car, lost in contemplation. Seated in the vehicle, hands resting on the steering wheel, she whispered to herself, "Though I'll feel Sandra's absence, I must release her and embrace a new phase."