WARNING: THESE BONUS EPISODES ARE FOR MATURE AUDIENCE ONLY!

IZZY

I rushed back to Dede’s room breathless, she let me in. She looked radiant in the short satin nightie with thin straps she wore. She grabbed me by the collar and pulled me into a kiss, frantically taking off my shirt at the door. I stopped her midway.

‘’Before we continue, I want you to know this, I am not looking for something serious’’ I declared.

‘’Works perfectly for me, and let’s keep this between us’’ she said without hesitation and continued rushing the process.

‘’Hey, relax, let’s take it slow’’ I said calmly as I stopped her the second time. I shut the bedroom door and led her to the bed. The bedside lamp was on as I lay on top and kissed her slowly. She then stretched her arm and switched it off,  I switched it back on instantly.

‘’I want to look at you…all of you’’ I whispered as I undressed her.

As I made my way down her bare body, she covered her faint C-section scar with her hands.

‘’Dede” I said softly. “Never be shy of your body. It is beautiful, and it brought life. I like what I see’’ I said, and she let go quietly as I kissed her there and continued south.

With time, she managed to be more confident, I reassured her with words in a patient gentle voice, lingering eye contact and tracing her curves. Everything was intentional, encouraging her to notice her beauty. She got a hang of it, and just like sharing a playlist. She caught up with the tempo, knowing instinctively what to play next. Being the gentleman I am, I made sure she came first. She then burst into tears, I reached for tissues on the bedside drawer and handed them to her. I was confused on the mood shift, I noticed she didn’t seem ready to explain, so I pulled her into an embrace. She then gazed at me and said thank you in a genuine tone. The kind of appreciation that comes from the soul. I held her till she stopped crying.

‘’Is everything okay?’’ I asked

‘’Yeah, just tears of joy’’ she said and we both laughed before moving on to the next round. This time, it was like a new side of her had emerged. Her voice calling out my name sounded so good that my music stopped before it reached its usual end but so did hers. Right on cue, right on time. Just like any good record, we were stuck on repeat throughout the night. She just could not get enough…

Saturday

I woke up before Dede, she was still fast asleep. Last night was a workout on its own. I gazed at her sleeping so peacefully with a glow on her face. My mind drifted back to last night, how she bit her lower lip, the sound of her moans in my ear, the rhythm of her movements and that satisfied smile. The one that assured me that I made her night. I almost woke her up to see if we can make that smile happen again but the low rumble from my stomach said otherwise. I checked the time and we had missed the breakfast buffet. I tried calling room service but the phone was faulty.

As soon as I stepped out of her room, my eyes met Chris who also just got out of Elorm’s room. We both burst out laughing.

‘’Room service?’’ we asked each other in unison which made us laugh even more.

We walked towards the reception, I remember I gave Chris all these tips when he started dating. Always get the lady a meal after, to complete the experience. Carmen was seated at the lounge and judging us as we walked to the reception. We ordered and asked them to bill the ladies’ room to our cards.

‘’Well, I guess abstinence is off the table?’’ I asked Chris.

‘’Oh! knowing Sunshine, it is back on. This was just a slip up. But I need to gauge whether we are resetting after the trip or after today. That is quite tricky’’ he said.

‘’Let’s hope she doesn’t run away’’ I said

‘’Yeah, so I am thinking of proposing’’ he said.

‘’Are you crazy?’’ I blurted.

‘’Why?’’ he asked

‘’There you go trying to control and manipulate her. Do not propose because of fear plus this is Gwen’s weekend. Will Elorm be happy sharing her proposal with her ex-boss’ wedding? Come on Chris, you know better. Do better’’ I scoffed and walked off, leaving him to his thoughts.

I went back to my room to brush my teeth and shower. I called to check on the twins before heading back to hers.

I had taken one of Dede’s key cards so I let myself back in. She was a bit alarmed when I opened the door.

‘’Sorry, you were asleep, I did not want to wake you up. Here!’’ I said showing her I was putting the card back where I found it.

‘’Keep it, so you can come anytime’’ she said. Her bare face in the morning is so beautiful.

‘’Thank you for the honour’’ I said

‘’I thought you had left me alone’’ she said.

‘’No way, I went to freshen up for you’’ I said and she smiled.

”Thank you once again for last night” she said.

”Always welcome” I said. She is so appreciative.

She went to the bathroom to brush her teeth and freshen up. I sat on the bed with my back against the headrest. I watched her dress up in front of me, she wore a dark green milk maid sun dress that accentuated her bosom with a thigh high slit.

‘’Nice milk maid dress’’ I complimented.

‘’Thank you and how do you know the name?’’ she asked.

‘’Marlene is the fashionista, always teaching me things’’ I said and we laughed. I beckoned her to bed and she slid in and lay her head on my chest.  I took her hand and kissed the back.

‘’Don’t leave on Monday’’ I pleaded.

‘’Hahahaaha, we have to go back to our kids’’ she said.

‘’Fuck them kids’’ I joked and we both laughed, ‘’I will be returning to them in three weeks’’ I added.

‘’Well I cannot follow you with your family’’ she said.

‘’Then let us stay here, right in this villa. Just for a week, the two of us. Bills on me’’ I tried convincing her.

‘’Izzy, the week will end. Either way we have to get back to our lives. Back to reality. The earlier we pull the bandaid, the better’’ she said.

‘’There is no convincing you, is there?’’ I asked as I planted a kiss on her head and caressed her arm.

‘’Let me think about it’’ she said ‘’I am starving, let’s go eat’’ she added.

‘’Already handled, Dede’’ I answered and in that instant, room service arrived.

She was so grateful for the meal, just as we were about to relax and continue from last night. She had to go help Gwen let down her hair for the afternoon activity ahead.

‘’Another reason why you need to extend your stay, for pleasure not business’’ I said as she walked away.

ELORM

I felt Chris play with my waist beads as he planted kisses on my shoulder.

We ate and he was unusually quiet.

‘’Wakey wakey, food is here’’ he whispered gently. The sound of food made me open my eyes. He had ordered room service.

‘’Is everything alright? You are being weird’’ I asked after we finished eating and then he took a deep breath.

‘’Are we going to talk about last night?’’ he asked.

‘’We can if you want to. Did I do something wrong?’’ I asked

‘’No, not at all, in fact it was nice… very nice. We agreed to abstain, and now, here we are. I wanted some clarification. What are we doing? Are we resetting, or are we now that kind of couple? My mind is racing!’’ he rambled.

‘’I think we can reset, but I do not have the energy to think about that now. Let us just enjoy the weekend’’ I said, not ready to confront my genuine feelings.

‘’Oh..okay. Can I ask you for a favour?’’ he said

‘’Sure’’

‘’Don’t run away, don’t leave me alone after. I am not your ex. There is no negative pattern here. I just want to make this clear’’ he said with certainty.

‘’Oh Love, no way, I know that’’ I said and got closer to him. I held his face and kissed him.

‘’Thank you’’ he muttered ‘’That was reassuring, I nearly proposed to you’’ he added.

‘’Are you out of your mind? Now that… would have sent me running. We have lots of things to discuss before such a big step and I do not want hijack Gwen’s weekend!’’ I argued.

‘’I know, I know. Izzy made me realise it was a stupid move’’ he said.

‘’Do you even have a ring on you?’’ I asked.

‘’Nope, that also made me realise I was just being irrational’’ he said.

‘’Thank God for Izzy’’ I said.

‘’Yes, and speaking of him. Guess who he got busy with last night?’’ he asked.

‘’Marietta?’’ I asked referring to the bridesmaid he was paired with.

‘’No, your friend, Dede’’ he said with a huge grin.

‘’DEDE!!’’ my brows furrowed.

‘’You don’t look happy, what did I miss?’’ he asked.

I thought for a while, she has not been wearing her wedding band of late. Is she separated? If she is married and I tell Chris, he will start judging the company I keep. It is too early for that, they barely know Dede. This will definitely get to Gwen and Carmen, not a good look for her business as well. I have to talk to her.

‘’Hello?’’ Chris called interrupting my thoughts.

‘’Oh, yeah, I am surprised she did not say anything. Good for them, what activity are you looking forward to?’’ I asked, changing the topic.

‘’I have been here a couple of times, so done most of them. But I look forward to the sunset boat ride with you. What about you?’’ he said.

‘’Same!’’ I answered.

He then had to leave to go check up on his parents and Carmen.

As soon as he left, I got up and walked to the next room and knocked on the door. Izzy opened the door.

‘’Sunshine, Sunshine’’ he greeted with the widest grin.

‘’Where is Dede?’’ I asked

‘’She’s with Gwen. I know she is here for business but let her rest small so I can get to know her more. She is too busy!’’ he pleaded and I forced a smile.

He is a finished man, his heart will break when he finds out the truth.

‘’Tell her to come find me, it is urgent’’ I said and left.

After an hour, Dede came to my room.

‘’Izzy said you needed me urgently’’ she said as she sat on the bed.

‘’Dede’’ I called

‘’Yes’’

‘’Dede’’

‘’Yes, Elorm’’

‘’Dede’’

‘’Yessss, Elorm what is it?’’ she was uneasy.

‘’How many times did I call you?’’ I asked

‘’Three’’ she answered

‘’Does he know you are married?’’ I asked

‘’No’’ she muttered

‘’Dede, what is going on?’’ I asked.

‘’How did you know something was up?’’ she asked.

‘’Chris saw him come out of your room this morning and put one and two together. I go to your room and he answers the door like the landlord. Dede!!! What is it? Talk to me’’ I pleaded.

She narrated everything concerning her problems with Prince and how Izzy made her feel.

‘’We both know this is fleeting, no harm done. I will not have to see him when I return. Just this weekend’’ she narrated.

‘’But Dede, what if he looks for you in Accra? What if it gets out? What will it say about your business? Your brand!!! I know Prince did not try but you do not have to stoop to his level. Two wrongs do not make a right!’’ I was frantic.

‘’Stop judging me, Elorm’’ she became defensive.

‘’I am not, Dede. Honestly, deep down, really deep down. I am glad you got to experience a proper…you know…orgasm. But not this way Dede, it is either you are in your marriage or not. You have to tell Izzy the truth or I will’’ I said.

‘’Come on Elorm, let me just leave on Monday in peace. Just keep this between us’’ she pleaded.

‘’Sorry I have to go nuclear Nuerkie on you, you have till end of day. I know Izzy, he will not be happy that he is piping another man’s wife and it is better he hears it from you. So he gets your side of the story and before you ruin your image. Get ahead of it!’’ I threatened. She was sad, but she admitted I was right. She promised to do so as soon as she returns to her room.

 It was time for the Saturday activities with the couple. A lot of the guests were still exhausted from the after party so decided to sleep in. I noticed Dede and Izzy were absent, I was uncomfortable with it. After the sunset tour and dinner, Carmen and I decided to walk back to the villa so we can enjoy the scenery.

‘’You and Dede better share your secrets with me oo’’ Carmen said.

‘’What secrets?’’ I asked confused and alarmed a bit, hoping she was oblivious to the affair.

‘’What have you done to the men in my family? What are you ladies brewing in your honeypot? Can you believe Izzy sent me a message saying he might spend an extra week here? With Dede? He is just waiting for her to decide. That is why he did not join us ooo, he intends on convincing her’’ she said.

‘’Good for them’’ I said.

‘’You do not seem enthused. Is everything alright? ‘’ she asked concerned.

‘’Oh yeah, I am just exhausted’’ I lied and hastened my steps to go meet Dede.

I marched straight to her room as soon as I entered the villa. I knocked on her door several times but no answer. It was difficult to tell if anyone else was in the room. I just walked back to mine and sat there quietly.

Not long, Izzy was at my door, bare-chested and in boxers. My knocking definitely interrupted something.

‘’What is it Elorm? Is there an emergency? You just kept knocking on the door like a maniac!’’ he attacked as soon as I opened the door.

‘’Oh! she didn’t tell you’’ I said and he looked confused. Not long, Dede came running to my door wrapped in her house coat.

‘’Let’s go to my room’’ she said pulling confused Izzy back to her room.

DEDE

Elorm’s warning scared me, why did Chris have to see Izzy at that time? This was meant to be my little secret. Izzy refused to go for the tour and spent all day in my room. Every time I opened my mouth to confess, it found its way to his. I was like a kid that had discovered a candy store, I just wanted him inside me all the time. He did things I had only heard in songs and read in books. Parts of me I did not know operated that way, sounds I made that shocked me!

I was in the bathroom cleaning up after some alone time with Izzy. We had to rush this time because Elorm kept banging on my door. Suddenly, I heard him talking to Elorm. I still had not yet told him the truth. I quickly run to bring him back inside.

‘’Tell me what? What is sunshine talking about?’’ he asked.

‘’Sit down’’ I said, he did with a concerned look on his face.

‘’You ladies are scaring me’’ he said, his voice cracking.

‘’Please what I am about to tell you, should not change what we have shared. I kept it to myself because of the challenges in my life. I did not mean to lie to you. I just got carried away. Imagine a man who treats his wife….’’ I narrated all the things Prince had done to me but in the third person.

‘’I am still confused, what does this Prince guy have to do with anything?’’ he asked.

‘’I am married to him, still married’’ I said and he moved away from me like I was infected.

‘’DEDE! Why did you lie when I asked if you were single?’’ he demanded in a shocked tone.

‘’Please, listen to me. You made me feel special’’ I said.

‘’You sleep with anyone who makes you feel special?’’ he was angry.

‘’No, you know what I am talking about. Please do not tell anyone about this, especially Chris. Elorm has nothing to do with this, in fact she is angry at me. I hope you learn to forgive me. I am so sorry’’ I pleaded.

 He just wore the rest of his clothes in silence and stormed out as I pleaded.

Not long, Elorm walked in, I expected her to give me a speech but she just hugged me and I cried in her arms.

‘’So what are you going to do now?’’ she asked after I calmed down a bit.

‘’We both knew this was fleeting. It was bound to end, but I am sad’’ I said.

‘’Dede…I am talking about Prince, your husband, what will you do? Will you confront him about the call or the money stuff?’’ she asked.

“Oh…No, it will just cause a fight and unnecessary arguments. Plus trying divorce Prince is a battle I am not ready for. He will do everything to destroy me. He will make an example of me, to strip and leave me at my lowest. He is so good at breaking my spirit. He is a good father and Papa Yaw deserves that. My son needs the presence of a father. I will just focus on my business and now, photography, that will give me happiness’’ I said and she had this look of pity. One day, she will understand but I doubt she will ever be in this predicament. Chris is good catch, if he is anything like his cousin, lucky her…

Sunday

My last task was done, fix Gwen’s look for the thanksgiving lunch, happening in the beautiful garden of the villa. She was so happy with a her looks, she already shared some of the official photographs with me. I also showed her the reel I had edited for approval before posting and she loved it.  We agreed I post them a week later.

Izzy avoided me throughout the day. When I joined them for lunch, he did not even look my way. I spent the rest of the afternoon with Elorm. We hiked and I took lots of pictures. I appreciated how she did not utter a word about my affair, and tried to cheer me up for the last.

ELORM

The thanksgiving lunch was lighthearted and fun, Enzo and Gwen do make a lovely couple. It was funny seeing Gwen all lovey-dovey. Even when I worked for her, her romantic life was very private and here she is gazing at her beau and holding hands every second.

I spent the rest of the day with Dede, trying to cheer her up so she returns home with a smile on her face. I was avoiding alone time with Chris because I knew what is bound to happen. I was slightly ashamed because there were times in the past, I stopped him from even kissing me. Here I was last night, throwing all the warnings I uttered out the door.

I had to sleep early on Sunday night because I wanted to see Dede off at the airport on Monday morning, our flight was scheduled for later in the day. I was looking forward to seeing Worla. Chris and I made an agreement, out of the twenty-one days in Netherlands, I spend eleven with Worla in Rotterdam and the last ten with his family so we return to Accra together.

Monday

Dede and I checked out of her room, as we were dragging her suitcases to the car park, Izzy appeared and insisted on riding with her to the airport. I was adamant at first but Dede agreed so I reluctantly left them.

I got to my room and Chris was seated on my bed, I remembered I had handed him the spare key card.

‘’Are you okay?’’ he asked when he saw me.

‘’Sure’’ I lied.

‘’Elorm, you have been weird since you found out about Dede and Izzy. And even though he is good at hiding his feelings, something has been off. What is it?’’ he asked

I tried changing the topic but Chris was very insistent.

‘’Do not judge my friend or get angry at me or Izzy. I did not want to tell you because I wondered what your perception about me will be’’ I said before narrating everything. I expected Chris to be disappointed but he looked sad. He felt sorry for Dede.

‘’Though Izzy hates to admit it, I think he likes her more than he is letting on. That is for him to figure out. If she needs help with a divorce lawyer, I do not mind helping her with one. I hate it when men stifle women’’ he said.

‘’Ermmm. She is not divorcing him’’ I said.

‘’What?‘’ he asked and I narrated what she said.

‘’I guess we will never understand. Marriage is crazy and that’s why prenups are a necessary evil’’ he said.

‘’I do not like them, I think it shows lack of faith’’ I said.

‘’Whoa! Elorm! I hope you know we will have a prenup’’ he stated.

‘’I don’t think so. You have not even started the journey and you already want a way out?’’ I asked.

‘’Let us put a pin in this conversation. We will definitely have it when we land in Ghana. I am enjoying this vacation too much to argue. I will send you some videos and materials on its importance then we can have an informed decision. One more thing, nobody’s actions will affect the image I have of you. It is your own actions, you are an adult’’ he said.

I had a feeling this prenup discussion will not end well and I also want to enjoy the rest of the trip so I agreed. Why would he want one? Is he already looking for a way out? All I know is, never sign one. Or should I talk to a lawyer about this? I do need to do more research as he said and get ready.

”Please do not tell Izzy or Carmen” I said as he got up to leave.

”Definitely not, I will wait. When he is ready to talk about it, then fine” he assured me.

IZZY

I hate to admit it, but I have a soft spot for Dede. Something in me still wanted her even though I found out she is married. I wanted a fling, something to enjoy for the weekend which I got. Mission accomplished but why does this feel sad? That asshole does not deserve her. She has so much potential, but hiding it to please her husband. But I know ladies like Dede, she will never leave him. I do not want to be the one to break up a marriage or continue to consciously sleep with another man’s wife.

Elorm was stubborn about me seeing her off but she eventually caved in. It was an hour ride to the airport.

As soon as we took our seats, I reached for my phone and earbuds. She got the message and did the same. We listened to music in silence, sharing a jam session with songs about sad goodbyes with especially ‘A Couple of Minutes’ on repeat. My plan was to leave her at the car park but I could not help it. I helped her check in her luggage and even paid for an upgrade from economy to business. I have to remember to attack Gwen for being so cheap. She did not even pay for her arrival because of us.

‘’Next time, for a journey that exceeds three hours, insist on a business class ticket’’ I advised.

‘’Definitely, but I agreed to this for the exposure. She paid me full price for my services though. Thank you for the tip… I apologise one more time for lying to you’’ she said.

‘’It’s all good, apology accepted’’ I said and opened my arms for a hug.

She hugged me the way I taught her to.

‘’This is how you hug a tall man’’ she said, referring to the first time we hugged, and we both laughed. I did not want to let go.

‘’You shouldn’t have lied, we could have been friends, good friends’’ I stated.

‘’We both know that is a lie’’ she said.

”Hahahaha, first time I saw you, I already knew I had to have a taste” I joked and she laughed.

”Stop making this difficult…I can stay an extra week…” she whispered with uncertainty.

“My conscience will not allow me to enjoy that smile. When you finally want to escape, for real, I am just a call away’’ I whispered and planted a kiss on her cheek before letting go.

She nodded as tears welled up in her eyes. I handed her the handkerchief in my pocket to wipe them and walked away before doing something I will regret…

I got back to the villa to pack for our flight later in the afternoon. I took out my phone to delete her contact then I paused. Let me hold on to it, who knows…

FAMILY TRIP WITH THE RIVERSONS

Elorm’s trip to Rotterdam and Amsterdam was filled with excitement. She and Worla spent a lot of time together visiting other cities, they even spent two days in Hamburg sightseeing and catching up. In the beginning, she was skeptical about Worla’s living situation but ended up becoming friends with Johann and Xander too. Elorm tried not to judge their situation and just focus on her sister. She had never seen Worla look happier and at peace in ages. Her elder sister had really settled in her new country. Worla was talking to this nice Nigerian man named Seun, but she was taking it slow. At least, Elorm has some good news to report to Mama who was constantly worried and praying about Worla’s love life.

The time spent with the Riversons was unforgettable. She spent most of her time with Lucy and Carmen so much that it was like she had a pair of elderly girlfriends. Carmen took her shopping on numerous occasions and they visited a lot of museums. The night before they left, Worla came to Amsterdam so she can see her off. They all went to the Red Light District for the last time, Elorm was still fascinated about the window display of sex workers. Chris constantly reminded her to fix her face and to stop staring but she could not help it. The last night partying with Worla, Izzy, Carmen and Chris was memorable. They all got along so well, especially Worla and Chris. They bonded over being retired nightlife sailors and their love for Elorm.

“Lala, another glass before we call it a night?” Chris affectionately called Worla, like the character from Teletubbies.

”Sure, lets go to the bar!” she said and they left the others who went back to their rooms

At the bar

”Thanks for my sister’s trip. It is always great to see family” Worla said to Chris.

”Thank you too for taking her round the other cities. I am happy she is happy and cheers to more future trips” Chris said and raised his glass, same with Worla.

”You bring out the best in her, I might be friendly but I will mess you up if anything happens to her” Worla warned.

”I will keep that in mind, Lala” Chris said and they both smiled.

They then bonded over living abroad and its difficulties before retiring to their rooms.

ELORM

This trip was the best!!! Why did I want to return in four days? Now I understand when people say they need a proper vacation. This has been one for the books. The bakery was still running smoothly thanks to Mama and Anna. I made sure I bought them loads of gifts because I really owe them. Worla helped me pack my bags, what was left was my sponge bag and the pyjamas I wore. I was about to get into bed when she stopped me

‘’What are you doing?’’ Worla asked.

‘’Coming to sleep?’’ I answered.

‘’Ah! this my sister, last night on vacation, go and sleep by your man. This bed is even too small for us’’ she said and shoved me out of the door.

Chris’ room was just two doors down. I knocked and he opened looking shocked. He was dressed in a t-shirt and boxers.

‘’Is everything alright?’’ he asked as he let me in.

‘’Yes, Worla sacked me from my room. She said the bed is too small’’ I said.

‘’Is that all she said?’’ he asked in a suspicious tone.

‘’Plus last night of vacation so we should spend it together’’ I said admiring how his chest looked in the t-shirt. My initial intention was to just sleep, nothing else, but naughty ideas are creeping in with the way he looks and smells.

‘’She is right, apart from Gwen’s wedding, we haven’t really spent time. Ten days, you were away with your sister which is cool and then the rest, you were basically with Mum and Carmen. I am happy you guys get along but I was a bit jealous. I am not going to lie’’ he said.

‘’Awwww, I apologise’’ I said, admiring his lips and dimples.

‘’It is alright, I know you were just trying to avoid being alone with me after what happened Friday night in Italy. You are fleeing but that doesn’t mean you should completely avoid me!’’ he whined but my mind was drifting towards something else.

‘’I am sorry about that’’ I said to wrap up the conversation.

‘’Look, this is quite new to both of us, Sunshine. A celibate relationship? It is difficult but what matters is we keep trying’’ he encouraged.

‘’Sure’’ I got closer to him.

‘’I will leave this room for you, I am heading over to Izzy’s’’ he added.

‘’No..stay, let’s reset tomorrow’’ I said, pulling him into a hug and kissing him.

”Elorm…” he stuttered. I didn’t let him finish, I guided him backward until the mattress caught him, where he lay then I climbed over him.

”You were saying?” I asked as I caressed his chest, my lips a few inches from his

”I think..” His voice trailed off as I closed the gap between our lips.

”Just give up” I teased after pulling back, feeling the rise in his boxers against me.

”Where are your manners? Say Please” he said in a flirty tone.

”Please..” I said and he turned me over instantly, taking the lead.

One more night of intimacy before we land in Accra. Nothing was rushed, there was an unspoken understanding of how we missed each other. Chris always knew what to do and how I liked it. Nana was alright but Chris… Chris…We savoured every moment before drifting to sleep in each other’s arms. We agreed, what happens in Europe, stays in Europe. Accra was for a fresh start.

The lies we tell ourselves to justify our desires are interesting…

Three months later

PRINCE

My wife has been in a good mood since she got back from that her nonsense trip.  She finally got our weddings rings resized without reminding me every second. I do not know why she was eager to do so, I barely wear mine. I guess she wants to boast about being married.

I do not know what happened but she has stopped arguing with me or begging for us to go for couples’ counselling. She just ignores me and goes about her business. I am sure she realised she has good man now. I believe she witnessed something at that wedding that made her appreciate me. I can see they paid her well because she has been looking good of late in those attires meant for young women. After several warnings, she still went ahead and opened her salon. God punish my next-door neighbour, Mr. Takyi for building a store complex right beside my house, so Dede’s argument to work and take care of Papa Yaw is a strong one. At least, I have reduced my complaints because she still attends to my needs.

I know Cilla picked up the call when I was asleep but Dede has not asked a question. Or was there really a network problem? She also has this new photography hobby, look at a four-day borga, Buei. If she had gone for two weeks, only God knows. Now, every hour before bed, she sits in the porch and listens to music with her airpods. She just sits in silence, no talking or singing. I catch her smiling to herself occasionally and biting her lower lip.

There is only one way to stop all these career woman, boss-lady and I-want-my-own-money dream. I have to impregnate her, I have been trying. The only upside to her working is.. she seems to enjoy when I mount her these days. She is always moaning ”Easy, Easy”, but she pronounces it in a weird way! I guess my stroke game is that good.

DEDE

 I decided not to engage Prince that much. I will just fulfil my duties as a wife and mother. I deleted Izzy’s contact to avoid the temptation of reaching out. I am always watching Elorm’s social media to catch a glimpse of him. On random occasions, I gaze at the wedding pictures and admire him. I still have the portraits I took of him on my camera.

Every night, I listen to the playlists he shared with me. This calms my nerves especially on days Prince gets on them. Izzy will remain my secret revenge, the lick-back I got quietly. I sometimes giggle when I overhear Prince boasting to his friends about the power he has over me.

I sometimes wear Izzy’s jacket, I placed the handkerchief he gave me at the airport in the pocket. Occasionally, I hang the jacket on the chair in our bedroom and stare at it when Prince is on top of me. He thinks me smiling means I am enjoying it. I leave these little clues for myself, to keep me sane. There are times I wish Prince will find out but quickly come back to reality. Papa Yaw is what matters and that is it.  I have lied about my birth control. I want the business to stabilise before I have another child for this idiot.

One day, I hope I get to be fully happy with my marriage and family. But right now, I will remain eternally grateful to Izzy and the memories he gave me on the bed…against the headboard…on the table…on the chair…on the ottoman…on the carpet… leaning on the dresser…in the shower…by the window…against the wall…on and on and on and on and on…

THE END

Author’s note

I hope you have enjoyed yourself, and I really look forward to your comments and reactions to the bonus episodes!! Please share your thoughts!!!

Should Elorm have minded her business? What about Dede? Was cheating back her only option?

For those who would like to buy a cup of coffee for the writer, here is the digital TIP JAR

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!! Watch out for the release of Church Angels in March 2026.

Stay safe and remember to love yourself!