ZOE

I asked Shika to meet me for lunch in my office. We have to catch up on business and her amazing voice. She came dressed beautifully as always, in a grey corporate attire that hugged her curves.

She settled and we spoke about our business, Purple Linen, as we ate the waakye¹ she brought.

‘’Soooo… because I do not have an accent and six packs. When I ask you to sing, you will not mind me’’ I teased.

‘’I knew you would eventually bring this up. It was just a matter of when, Mama Zoe. Honestly, it even took me by surprise. I think the timing was just right. It was hard to disobey, anytime I tried to ignore it, I felt this pull, burden to follow through. I was prompted to go ahead’’ she explained.

‘’That is good to hear, I hope it is not a one-time thing’’ I said.

‘’Well…’’

‘’Well, I know you will be uncomfortable with this suggestion. Have you… Just join the choir, I am sure they will be glad to have you’’ I interrupted her, remembering Jordan’s advice on not asking, just stating.

‘’Come on Mama Zoe, not all Christians are non-judgmental as you’’ she stated.

‘’True, but you have to stop hiding. I have said this a thousand times, do not let your past stop you from serving God’’ I said as I squeezed her hand.

‘’Can’t I just sing without joining the choir?’’ she asked.

‘’I wish that was possible, but what precedent will you be setting if anyone can just do what they want? As a business woman, you of all people understand the importance of structure’’ I said.

‘’Hmmmmm….’’ She was still pensive.

‘’Okay, I hate to resort to this. How about we strike a deal? This should be strictly between us. I have not preached at the youth service in months. How about I preach when you join the choir? So we will both be getting out of our comfort zones’’ I said, astonished at my own suggestion.

‘’Okay, that works. So preach the whole of next month’’ she suggested.

‘’Not possible, I will be away on one of the weekends to support Reverend at a conference in Lagos’’ I replied.

‘’Alright, three times is good with me. Deal?’’ she extended her hand for a handshake and I complied.

After eating and praying, I walked her to her car.

‘’So is there anything going on between you and Pastor Jay? You two seem a bit chummy’’ I asked, fishing for information.

‘’No, we are just friends. He has not been inappropriate if that is what you want to ask. Just light-hearted conversations, very much on the friendly side’’ she answered honestly.

‘’Okay, but what if he wants more? He is a single and attractive young man’’ I said.

‘’Mama Zoe, I don’t think I am ready for that, and no offence to you. But I do not want to marry a pastor. In fact, I doubt I will get married’’ she said.

‘’Shika, we will talk about the pastor part later. But your second statement is troubling. Why do you doubt that?’’ I asked

‘’Unless I relocate, no man or family will want to marry me due to my past. Let us be realistic’’ she said.

‘’Oh Shika, I thought we have made enough progress over the years. You are the child of a King. He loves you and he sees you. Have you stopped your morning declarations?’’ I asked, she went silent.

I pulled her into an embrace.

‘’Repeat after me,

 I am a daughter of a King, chosen and deeply loved.

I carry dignity, grace and strength where ever I go.

I have the peace of God that surpasses all understanding.

I am worthy of healthy, godly love.

I have the love of God, I am the love of God and I give that love freely.

I am her-because I am His. In Jesus’ name. Amen’’

‘’Thank you so much’’ Shika said.

‘’Pastor Jay’s preaching on identity has been uploaded on youtube. Listen to it once again. Do not ever talk down on yourself’’ I encouraged her before we said our goodbyes.

After a long day at the office, Yaw Djimah called me as I drove home.

‘’Hey Beautiful, so you are coming to my city next week and you will not bother to tell me?’’ he accused as soon as I answered the call.

‘’First of all, call me Zoe. Secondly, You are on loudspeaker, imagine if there was someone else in my car. And a single man who is not my husband is greeting me like this. Lastly, it is not definite yet and how did you know?’’ I asked.

‘’Apologies on the greeting. I saw Preacher boy’s picture on a billboard. I figured you will come with him’’ he said.

‘’I might, it depends on how I am able to finalise my to-do list at work. Here is the situation where I will be in Nigeria again the following month’’ I said.

‘’Aha! No wonder you tried to move the training to next week so you could kill two birds with one stone. So sorry about that’’ he said.

‘’Well yes, I will let you know when I finally decide. But I doubt I will be able to see you since I will be occupied with church activities’’ I said

‘’True, don’t worry. I will come and meet you at the program’’ he said.

‘’That will not be necessary, you will see me again in three weeks at the retreat’’ I said.

‘’You know I am always happy to see you’’ he said.

‘’I hear, how are the children?’’ I asked steering the conversation.

I noticed my fuel gauge was low and decided to buy some as Yaw remained on the line. I stopped at the fuel station and unfortunately, I left my official fuel card at the office. In fact, I had left my purse in the office. I came to this realisation after the attendant had filled my tank. I guess I have to move money from my bank account to mobile money. Thank God, I had my phone on me.

I picked it up and noticed there was a mobile money alert of 5000ghs from Yaw. I forgot he was still online and eavesdropping on my conversation with the attendant. Just as I paid, I noticed another alert. This time it was a debit alert of 4000ghs from Dave, we share a joint account for our monthly expenditure which I contribute 80% to. It had the reference ‘suit’. I am sure it is for the upcoming conference. But couldn’t he use his savings for it? Why our joint? I was too exasperated to complain.

‘’Is everything alright? Should I send you more money or you prefer your bank account?’’ Yaw asked.

‘’Oh yes, thank you and 5000 is too much for fuel. I will refund the rest and pay you later’’ I said.

‘’No, keep it. I barely get to spend on you. Just use it to buy something for the children’’ he said.

I agreed, but first thing tomorrow, I will definitely refund him. Yaw is the last person I want to get too comfortable around with, accepting gifts and allowing him to be flirtatious.

Flashback to 16 years ago

A year after her marriage, Zoe paced impatiently at the back of the office, she had just finished a call and was fighting back tears. Just then, Yaw popped up. He had been looking for her all over, her phone was engaged when he called. He knew she liked to pray at that spot to clear her head. It was a clean spot, just the silent humming of the outdoor unit of the air conditioners.

‘’Heyyy, are you okay? Wanted to let you know I am heading home’’ he said as he approached her.

‘’Yes …I .. am’’ her voice broke.

‘’What is wrong?’’ he asked as he inched closer to her, she broke down into tears and he hugged her.

A month ago, she gave money to Dave to pay their landlord. This whole week, they have been receiving threats of eviction. When she confronted Dave about it, he explained that under prophetic direction, he sowed the money as a seed for their family and ministry. She was dumbfounded. Now she had till tomorrow morning or else they will be thrown out. She did not want to ask her girls or her family members, that is too embarrassing. Dave also claimed to be asking around for help, but nothing so far. He had faith help will come in the last minute.

Now here she is, crying in the arms of another man. One thing about Yaw, he never judged any situation except her choice of marriage to Dave. She had also exhausted all options of a loan and salary advance.

‘’You know something, I will give you the money’’ he suggested.

‘’No, that is not right. Dave and I will figure it out’’ she said, drying her eyes.

‘’Tomorrow morning, you will be out on the street. That will be worse. You know, how about we call it a loan? You repay me every month. That way, it is not weird. These things happen, everybody goes through difficult times. You will sail through’’ he encouraged as he gently let go of the hug and cupped her face.

He has admired her features, those innocent eyes and full lips. Why didn’t he fight for her?

‘’You do not ever have to worry or cry Zozo, I am always here’’ he murmured and she shook her head. She was vulnerable, this was his chance. A soft kiss will be a good start, then he can feign ‘respect’ for her marriage. Earning her trust and attraction to him for pulling away. Just then out of nowhere

‘’I am pregnant’’ she announced.

The words hit him like water poured onto hot charcoal in a coal-pot. Any spark of desire died instantly. This pregnancy news, a painful reminder that she belongs to preacherboy…

‘’Oh nice…’’ he stuttered as her let go gently and did a happy dance. It cheered her up, I guess anything to make Zoe smile.

Present Day

Feeling grateful for Yaw and being annoyed with Dave was a complex emotion. As I inched closer to my neighbourhood, I decided to use another route. Just then, a few meters ahead, there stood two young people. The boy leaned in, whispering in the girl’s ear as he held her hand. She giggled and hit his chest with her other hand playfully.

Wait a second…I can spot that silhouette from Mars, that is Davida! My daughter. Who is this boy? I can barely see him. As my car got closer, it was too late. She pulled her hand away and stood there stupefied.

‘’Good evening Mrs. Osei’’ the young man greeted politely as soon as I rolled my window down.

‘’Good evening. Who are you?’’ I asked in a strict tone.

‘’My name is Omar, Alhaji Kanton’s son please’’ he said. He does look like a younger version of his dad, tall, chocolate skinned, slender model like features with messy cornrows. He tried to smoothen them with his palms.

‘’Davida, get in’’ I commanded and she did without hesitation.

‘’Wait, you left this’’ he said and handed her the tote bag he was holding in the other hand.

‘’Your father’s house is up the hill, what are you doing here?’’ I asked and he looked at Davida for her to answer.

‘’I went to buy something from the store, he was walking me home’’ she answered.

‘’You came all the way to the store here, what about the one on our lane?’’ I asked.

“She didn’t have what I wanted’’ she answered.

‘’I hear, get in and let me drop you home’’ I said to Omar.

‘’No thank you, Mrs Osei. I would like to walk, need some exercise. Nice meeting you’’ he said and started walking away slowly.

I drove off. I was fuming, but I did not want to scare her.

‘’Omar sounds like a nice guy’’ Yaw said interrupting the silence in the car. Davida and I exclaimed in shock. I forgot he was still on call again.

‘’Mind your business, Yaw’’ I said and ended the call.

‘’Wait till your father hears about this’’ I said.

‘’Mum, I did not do anything wrong. I was just chatting with a friend’’ Davida explained.

‘’Then why did you let go of your hand as soon as you saw me? Why didn’t you allow him to hold it as you giggled? In the night, on a lonely street!! Tell me, is he your boyfriend?’’ I asked

‘’No mum, we are just friends’’ she answered.

‘’Alright, you know you can tell me if he is your boyfriend. Though I feel you are still too young, you do not have to hide it from me’’ I tried to calm down.

‘’I know, mum’’ she said.

‘’Where did you guys meet in the first place?’’ I asked.

‘’We met at the education fair organised by the embassy. He wants to go to Columbia while I want to study at NYU²’’ She replied.

‘’Davida, I know NYU is very dear to you, let us pray the scholarship goes through. I believe in not putting all your eggs in one basket. Without the scholarship, it will difficult to fund your fees’’ I said.

Davida is so bent on travelling overseas for her studies but financially, it will drain us. Especially with two more kids right behind her. I sometimes wish Dave did not fill her head with such lofty dreams and ideas. It is so easy for him to do so, when he is not primarily funding it.

I hope this Omar guy is just passing phase, and she is not planning her life around a boy.

DAVE

After buying my suit, I passed by Prophet Odame’s house. He is one of my senior brothers in the Lord, he has a bigger church with lots of branches worldwide. The kind of prophet that people sometimes treat like a god. After passing through various security checks, I was seated in one of his many ornate and gaudy living rooms.

Odame came out dressed in a rich linen white jalabiya. His assistants brought communion wine and bread for us to break as his tradition before we started chatting.

‘’So will Zoe ever join you fully in ministry?’’ he asked halfway through our conversation.

‘’When the time is right, she will’’ I answered.

‘’The woman is meant to be under the man Dave, you give her too much freedom. I have seen her prophesy, she is good for ministry. I noticed the big women that attended that conference she organised last year. Will she be having another this year?’’ he asked

‘’No, she wants to do it every two years’’

‘’Oh how? she better organise it every year and make money out of it. You two have the tools to be bigger than where you are, but you are playing. How is the third building coming up?’’ he asked.

‘’So far so good, but building a church takes money. It is crazy!’’ I exclaimed.

‘’Yes ooo, that is why you need to add a prophet to your ministry. The people we serve need direction, teaching is just plenty talk. I am not saying teaching is bad, but either your assistant is prophetic or you bring Zoe to take charge’’ he advised.

‘’I hear you sir’’

‘’What about the campus ministries? I remember there is one in Legon’’ he said.

‘’Yes, that is doing very well. The pastor in charge is amazing, and the youth pastor, Hugh recommended is assisting them very well. Especially with transitioning those who graduate into our main church’’ I said.

‘’That is good, what about Davida, your first born? Is she with them now?’’ he asked

‘’No, she will starting university later this year and she is looking into NYU’’ I answered.

‘’Oh Dave, will she be on scholarship?’’ he asked.

‘’We have applied, just waiting…’’ I answered.

‘’No Dave, your first born is supposed to continue your ministry. Look at all this hard work, and study the greats. Let her open a campus ministry, if not, go and head the already existing one. In addition, what will your members say? That you have used their tithe to send your children abroad. She can always pursue her masters outside, but for a ministry as young as yours. She has to study here, it will not be the end of her life. When the church grows, by that time, your last born can start a campus ministry in UK or US if it is part of your expansion plan. If she will not understand you, then let her spend time with Blessing, my second born son who is an executive of our campus ministry. In fact, let me call him, BLESSING’’

Not long, a young well-dressed gentleman appeared. He knelt and greeted both of us, I was impressed by his manners.

‘’Aha, Blessing, do you like working with the campus ministry?’’ Odame asked him.

‘’Of course, it is such an honour and privilege to serve. Where else should my gifts go?’’ he answered enthusiastically.

‘’What do you think about pastor’s children not working in their parents’ ministry?’’ Odame asked.

‘’They are missing out on a lot, there is no higher calling than being called to serve in the Lord’s army. At first, I was hesitant but now, it gives me peace and joy. One you do not understand’’ he replied.

Odame nodded his head with pride as he dismissed him. I was equally impressed.

‘’You are the man of the house, Dave, you need to learn to put your foot down. Building this many branches does not come easy’’  Odame advised.

We spent the rest of the time talking about the challenges of building a church. I was greatly encouraged by Odame and it is always a blessing to listen to his wisdom. His church did not come great by letting people walk all over him. He took drastic measures. If that is God’s plan of Radiant Life Ministries, I need to sit up.

At home,

I got home on time for dinner, we had a hearty meal and I decided to tell Davida my plans. I dismissed the boys and asked Davida and Zoe to follow me to the prayer room.

‘’After prayer and a lot of reflection, I have made some decisions. Even your mother is unaware of this, but Davida. We will have to postpone your NYU plans.’’ I stated.

‘’Why?’’ she asked and Zoe looked confused as well.

‘’First point is finances, even with a partial scholarship. This is not a good time. In addition, you will need to start a campus ministry in one of the universities where we do not have an official representation. I know we have a number of students in KNUST, it will be good for you to go there and open our KNUST campus ministry. You already understand the church dynamics and have a good relationship with pastors Isaac and Jordan’’ I said in a stern tone.

‘’But I do not want to start a ministry’’ she said.

‘’Davida, it is not about what you want. You are a part of this family, and as the man of the house and a man of God, this is the way. You as my daughter and first fruit will walk in it’’ I commanded. They both look tongue-tied, but Zoe knew not to question my authority in the presence of the children.

‘’Is this because of Omar?’’ Davida asked.

‘’Who is Omar?’’ I asked.

‘’I have not mentioned anything to your father Davida, he has no idea’’ Zoe answered and Davida looked scared.

‘’Someone better start talking , who or what is Omar?’’ I asked.

‘’I will tell you about it later’’ Zoe said.

‘’This is so not fair!’’ Davida said and turned to walk away.

‘’Young lady, did I ask you to leave?’’ I warned and she turned back.

‘’Sorry dad’’ she said.

‘’What has come over you? remember! I am your father, I will not tolerate any disrespect. You can go to your room now, by the end of the week we will talk about strategies to start the ministry’’ I dismissed her.

Zoe stepped closer to me.

‘’Is everything alright?’’ she asked.

‘’Yes, I am just tired. What time will you make it to Nigeria with me? It will be good to have you there by the second day’’ I said.

‘’I am not sure yet, Dave’’ she answered.

‘’Please let me know by COB tomorrow so arrangements for your pick up can be made. Do not disappoint me, I am tired of going for some of these conferences and revivals alone’’ I said.

She nodded her head.

‘’Now who or what is Omar?’’ I asked.

She made me calm down before narrating everything.

‘’I guess everything happens for a reason. If she says they are friends, let us take her word for it’’ I concluded.

The Next Day

It was a calm afternoon, I closed from church early and decided to go see Davida in her room.

‘’Your mum told me about Omar. Honestly, my decision after supper had nothing to do with him. I do not have any problems with you making friends, but invite them home when we are in. Let us meet them, especially those of the opposite sex. It is suspicious when you hide it from us. Remember the rule, no relationships till university final year’’ I said.

‘’Alright dad’’ she said in a calm voice.

‘’I know you are not excited about the NYU decision, but believe me Davida. You know I am a man of God. Have I ever led you astray or made you take any bad decision?’’ I asked.

‘’No dad’’

‘’Exactly, just choose, any university of your choosing in Ghana. You know what I will do to sweeten the ministry deal?’’ I asked.

‘’What?’’ her eyes widened.

‘’I will get you a car’’ I answered and she squealed in excitement.

‘’Thank you dad!!!’’ she said and wrapped her arms around my neck.

‘’Not your dream car please, but something decent. Remember, it is not for partying. It is to make ministry work easier okay?’’ I said.

‘’Okay dad, but how will I be able to start something like that?’’ she asked.

‘’Don’t worry. The Holy Spirit will be your guide. Remember how you took charge of our tiktok page and now my soundbites go viral? Also, I am here for you as well as Pastor Emefa from the Legon Campus ministry, not forgetting, Pastor Jordan too. Additionally, you can get some tips from Blessing Odame. Blessing will come pick you up one of these days, so you run some errands with him. He will be the best person to make you understand, as a pastor’s kid himself’’

‘’Alright, but how will he reach me?’’ she asked.

‘’I gave him your contact, he should call you later today’’

‘’Okay’’

I hugged my daughter and we spoke for a while before I left her room. I called Zoe and talked about the car, she agreed with me reluctantly. At least, that would be far less expensive than paying tuition for three years at a private university abroad…

A week later…

ZOE

I have tried talking about Omar with Davida. As usual, she is being secretive. Dave was already in Lagos for the church conference he will be ministering at. It was a week-long one, I decided to join him on Wednesday. Work remotely on Thursday and Friday from our Lagos branch during the day and partake in the evening services. Thank God, he was slated to preach on Thursday and Friday nights.

I sent the children to their grandparents. Davida wanted to spend her weekend with Shika. I don’t know why among the ladies around me, Davida gets along with Shika. I would prefer Imelda though, but I guess Shika is the best person to talk to her about men. Or why can’t my own daughter talk to me?

I texted Damson to let him know I was about to leave Accra. He did not reply, I called but no response. I knew Dave’s phone will be off because he mentioned staying offline during the day, praying, fasting and meditating. I called our hosts and his wife as well, no answer. I started to worry, who will pick me up at the airport? What hotel will I stay in?

The Murtala Mohammed Airport can be quite confusing for a newbie. Just as I was about to board the plane, I had no choice than to make that call, the last person I wanted to reach out too, Yaw Djimah.

We landed safely and as soon as I entered the gate. I saw Yaw, his driver and a customs officer. Yaw asked the driver to take me to the car, he will sort my luggage.

In no time, my bag was in the booth and Yaw sat beside me at the back of Mercedes Maybach. Being a CEO must be nice, I should have really taken that promotion. But it will require long hours and travels away from my children.

‘’You should have taken that promotion eh?’’ Yaw said as he wore his seatbelt, as if he can read my mind.

‘’Oh please, not at all’’ I said.

‘’Okay, so where are you lodging so we drive you there?’’ he asked

‘’Honestly, I don’t know. Damson was supposed to handle all these. I just appear and be told where to go. Just send me to the conference venue’’ I said.

‘’Are you sure? You don’t want to freshen up or something? What time does the evening session start?’’ he asked.

‘’In two hours’’ I answered.

‘’You know what, I do not live far from that church. You can freshen up at my guest room and then go to the conference. Because you are still in your office clothes and if I remember clearly, you like bathing like you belong to the sea’’ he joked.

‘’I don’t think..’’ I started but he interrupted me.

‘’Don’t worry, you will have the house to yourself, Bukky will drop me off at the office and he is yours till you find your husband’’ Yaw said.

‘’Thank you’’ I replied, grateful. He was right, after the day I have had. I need a quick shower.

Yaw’s place was exquisite, very comfortable. I stepped out of the bathroom to see several missed calls from Dave, Damson and our hosts. Just as I was about to call back, Dave called again and I picked.

‘’I have fired Damson right this minute, he is on the next flight to Ghana. I am so sorry. Are you still at the airport? Have you even left Accra?’’ he kept rambling

‘’I am fine, I am in Lagos. Remember I promised you that nothing will stop me from coming to Lagos. I am at Yaw’s place. Just freshening up …’’

‘’Send the location, I will be there shortly’’ he interjected.

‘’No need to, Love, I have a driver at my disposal. I will be there shortly. You need to be on the premises plus we do not understand the traffic situation’’ I said.

‘’Okay, pass the phone to Yaw so I extend my gratitude’’ Dave says.

‘’One, I just stepped out of the bathroom. Two, he is not at home, he dropped off at the office. He said he might come by. You can talk to him later. I have to get ready, see you soon’’ I said.

‘’I am so sorry’’ he apologised again.

‘’It is not your fault’’ I said.

Hours later,

The evening program was a success. Dave is such a great preacher of the word, people listened attentively, hanging on to every word. This was one of the reasons why I fell in love with him. He does transform behind the pulpit.

After greeting and talking to so many people, we stepped out to the private car park. There stood Bukky, ready to take my handbag. I forgot to dismiss him, he was waiting for me. I noticed Yaw too had not called me. Bukky stood by the sleek car.

‘’Whose Maybach is that?’’ Dave asked.

‘’Yaw, I forgot his driver was still waiting for me. I was in such a hurry’’ I said and walked towards Bukky. I tipped him generously and apologised before dismissing him. He handed my luggage over to one of the stewards assigned to us.

Our hosts had arranged for one of their cars to take us to a hotel they booked for us. It was a land cruiser, also comfortable but definitely not a Maybach. Dave was unusually quiet throughout the ride. The hotel room was lovely but I missed Yaw’s guest room already. Just as I unpacked my suitcase, it dawned on me. I left something at Yaw’s but this is not the time to call or text. How will I explain myself? I hope he does not find it before I do.

Recap of Characters
To keep track of our characters, here is a brief description.

1. Dave/Reverend Dave – General overseer and head pastor of RLM (Radiant Life Ministries)
2. Zoe – wife of Dave and Deputy Finance Head of a global mining company.
3. Davida, David and Zack – Children of Dave and Zoe, Davida is the first born daughter , 17 years old.
4. Yaw Djimah – long time colleague and close friend of Zoe, currently CEO of the mining company.
5. Pastor Jordan/Jay – Youth pastor currently friends with Shika
6. Shika – baddie of the congregation, ex- sugar baby now choir member
7. Imelda- choir director, youth secretary and head of event committee.
8. Rev Isaac – strict assistant pastor.
9. Kojo – church member who lost his mother and is angry with church administration.
10. Sena- Kojo’s girl friend
11. Madam Jessica – rich church member and mother of Zoe.

Author’s Note
I hope you are enjoying this series and not losing sight of the characters. Season one will focus more on the general overseers (Dave and Zoe) and Pastor Jay. Do not forget to comment, like and subscribe.

Also, please and please follow selimsaidso on instagram. Snippets of what to expect in the next episodes are shared there.

Lexicons

1. Waakye – traditional Ghanaian dish made from rice and beans cooked together, often colored with dried millet leaves. Commonly eaten for breakfast or lunch, usually served with sides like fried plantain, spaghetti, boiled eggs, gari, fish, or meat.
2. NYU – Commonly stands for New York University