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Here are some highlights from the last update with Jordan, Imelda and Shika from S1E5: The Preacher and Us

Jordan and Imelda

“Come on, let me cook for us next time. Not to brag but my okro stew is awesome’’ Imelda said.

‘’Hmmmmmm, tempting but…’’ Jordan stuttered.

‘’Please do not overthink it. I know you have set boundaries but it is just two people eating. Nothing major. I invite people over to eat all the time’’ she said.

‘’Okay, if you say so. I guess it is my turn to dine at Imelda’s’’ he joked.

Jordan and Shika

‘’Always welcome. I would like to take you to dinner sometime’’ Jordan said when he got to the door.

‘’Jay, I have had a difficult life and I like to work with clarity. What do you want from me?’’ Shika asked.

‘’Let us have dinner then we talk about it. How does next week Thursday sound?’’ he asked.

Now, enjoy today’s episode

SHIKA

Another service done and dusted. I am still on probation but for the past one month, I have been the one teaching the songs and directing the choir. Today, all the pastors kept constantly praising the choir, especially Reverend Dave and surprisingly, Pastor Isaac. There is this fulfilment I get after rehearsals and ministrations, it feels like I can finally offer something to God for the blessings and favour He has bestowed on me.

Why didn’t I start serving in church earlier? The other members have become like family and good friends especially the pianist Tetteh, by extension his wife Agnes as well. They are the sweetest couple I have ever met. They give me hope that people can be happy in their marriages. Last week, I invited them over for lunch and we had a good time.

I was about to enter my car when Jay approached me.

‘’When will you ever stay for second service? Yours is to just sing for first service and run away!’’ he proclaimed.

‘’Baby steps Jay, baby steps. Don’t push it. Everybody must carry their cross, you decided to be a pastor so you have to join all services. I like singing’’ I remarked.

‘’True. Before I rush back in, I hope we are still on for Thursday?’’ he asked.

‘’Yes, you already reminded me on Friday. Don’t worry’’ I said. He smiled as he opened my car door.

I wonder what is so important to him that he cannot wait for this date.

Thursday

In about an hour, Jay will be picking me up for our dinner date. What should I wear? At the end of the day, it is a date with a pastor. Most of my dinner clothes had plunging necklines, or were too short or backless. I need to change my wardrobe. What can a girl do to get a decent dinner attire in this city? I settled on a black long body hugging dress with an open-back, draping a shawl over it for some coverage.

Jay arrived on time, looking dapper in a black classy linen tunic shirt and a grey pair of trousers to match.

‘’You look beautiful, Shika’’ he said after taking a deep breath.

‘’Thank you. You don’t look bad yourself’’ I said.

‘’Look at us matching, we are in the spirit’’ he teased.

Jay took me to a restaurant that I have never been to in Accra. As someone who regularly dines, I was surprised I have never been here. It was a private restaurant in a basement, cozy and posh. It had a cabaret setting, with a pianist and her piano on stage playing softly.

We settled in and placed our orders.

‘’Now, how did you find this place?’’ I asked as I munched on the starters.

‘’You are not the only one with ‘a guy for everything’ okay!’’ he joked.

‘’Touché’’ I said.

‘’Impressed?’’ he asked.

‘’Very’’

 We continued to chat about the dining scene in Accra as we enjoyed our meal. As we waited for dessert, impatience took a better part of me.

‘’Jay, What do you want with me?’’ I asked.

‘’What do you think I want?’’ he asked.

‘’I am not in your head’’ I answered, he stretched out his hand and took mine.

‘’I feel a strong pull toward you. I cannot explain it. Ever since I laid my eyes on you during my first sermon at RLM, I can’t stop thinking about you. Honestly, I am not sure what this means or where it will lead. But I will genuinely like to explore it. Maybe we are meant to be more than friends or probably share a path in ministry. This can only happen if we pray together and spend more time together. I notice you have this wall up, always on guard. We text and communicate a lot but you have this big wall, you are distant. I know you feel something more than friendship too. We can explore what this feeling is if only you let your walls down and let me in’’ he said gently while stroking my hand.

‘’I don’t know what to say’’ I was dumbfounded.

‘’That is fine, take your time and pray on it. I just wanted to let you know that you are important to me and that I see you’’ he said with his eyes boring into my soul.

 It felt good to be seen. We had dessert and enjoyed the music for a while before Jay drove me back home. He is such a handsome man, no wonder a lot of the women in the church have been trying to get his attention. We jammed to music on the drive back and danced in the car. This was fun.

As he walked me back to my apartment, he placed his hand on the small of my back. I was pleasantly surprised because I did not expect that from a pastor. When I stopped at my door with his hand still on my back, he leaned and whispered, his breath slow, warm and heavy ‘’You are a work of art’’. An electric shiver slid down my spine in an exciting way. ‘I should not be feeling this way towards a man of God’ I advised myself.

‘’Thank you for a lovely evening’’ I said.

‘’Welcome’’ he said and hugged me gently while saying a short prayer of thanksgiving for the date.

‘’Amen and Goodnight Preacher’’ I teased.

‘’Goodnight, now go inside before other thoughts creep into my head’’ he said and we both laughed.

It has been a while since I went on an exciting date. Most of the men I was dating were lewd in behaviour and made inappropriate comments. This deterred me from the dating pool for a long time. This felt right and special but one thing I know. When it comes to men, whatever nationality, tribe, religion or origin, you have to tread carefully. After all, even a golden retriever is still a dog.

JORDAN

Shika always knows how to make an appearance and take my breath away. I am ecstatic that the date on Thursday went smoothly. I do feel something for her, but I hope she opens up more. Today is a holiday and Imelda invited me for her special banku and okro stew¹.

 I followed the address she sent and arrived at a building complex, her apartment was on the second floor. She was already at the balcony to greet me and lead me to her place. She was dressed in a simple jean mid-thigh shorts and a T-shirt. I wonder why she always wears long dresses, those legs need to be seen more often.

Imelda’s apartment truly reflected her personality. It was neat, organised and adorned with simple furniture and christian-themed artefacts done tastefully. She lives with her younger brother who had stepped out.

‘’Here, since we both don’t drink alcohol, I brought this non-alcoholic sparkling wine and more chocolates for you. It is rude to come empty handed when invited for a meal’’ I said as I handed it over to her.

‘’Thank you and God bless you, you are such a gentleman’’ she said as she took the bag.

Her place carried a soft lavender scent which complemented the purple cushions and décor of the apartment. The table was already set with the meal neatly covered.

‘’Where is your kitchen so I can wash my hands?’’ I asked.

‘’You are my guest, just relax’’ she said, ushering me to the dining table.

We sat and blessed the food. Imelda had everything thought out, there was a bowl, soap and a jug of water for hand washing. She helped me by pouring water over my hands, and I returned the gesture.

The aroma of the okro stew was divine and it looked mouth-watering. When the first scoop of stew entered my mouth, it tasted incredible. Imelda was not lying, best okro stew I have had in my  life and my mother must never find out. I kept nodding my head in approval as I ate while she kept an arrogant smirk on her face.

When we were done, she wanted to clear the dishes alone. I insisted and helped her, her kitchen too had the same vibe as the rest of the apartment. Neat, organised, not a hair out of place. We washed the dishes together while sharing tales of our favourite meals.

After, while I sat in her couch watching a Christian YouTube movie. She brought nkatiecake² and kubecake³ as dessert. Three items I have not had in ages, it stirred comforting memories of my grandmother and we spoke about family. The movie we were watching sparked a conversation about outward appearances.

‘’So will you have a problem if your pastor has locks and dresses in tattered jeans?’’ I asked Imelda.

‘’I mean it depends on the context. In our society, it is frowned upon when a leader does not dress properly. It is easy for you to say these things do not matter, because you were a pastor in the USA. That is a different way of life’’ she said.

‘’What will be your reaction if I popped up one Sunday with a nose piercing?’’ I asked.

‘’Nothing… because I know what is in your heart. It is Pastor Isaac that will handle everything’’ she joked to lighten the mood.

‘’Let us say you meet a good man, a true man of God that bears all the fruits of the Spirit but he has a tattoo. Will you date or marry him?’’ I asked, she went pensive for a minute.

‘’Is it somewhere visible?’’ she asked.

‘’Yes’’ I answered.

‘’hmmmmm…when we get to the river, we will cross it. It is not my preference but it depends on what the Holy Spirit says’’ she said.

‘’Interesting… I thought you will say no’’ I asked

‘’Appearance is very important to me but the Lord looks at the heart” she answered.

‘’Okay, interesting. I am surprised’’ I said and she smiled.

I spent the rest of the day getting to know her. Apart from reading autobiographies, one of her hobbies was fixing jigsaw puzzles. She rolled out one of her unfinished pieces and we did it together, chatting, laughing and talking about life.

It was almost supper time, so I decided to leave. I did not want to eat twice in her house on my first visit. She walked me to the car.

‘’I hope you had a good time’’ she stated.

‘’I did, I am actually surprised’’ I said.

‘’How come?’’ she asked

‘’Please do not take this the wrong way or cry on me. I cannot afford it. I had this image of you, like a typical chrife⁴ judgmental lady. Today, not only are you a great cook but a fun hostess. Fun in a relaxing way, I needed this’’ I complimented as I straightened one of her braids.

‘’Thank you. And I do not say this often but feel free to come relax at Maison De Imelda anytime’’ she said, playfully curtsying.

‘’Merci for that offer. One more thing, do not hide your legs. They deserve to be seen and admired’’ I said with a wink. She covered her face because she was shy. I hugged her before driving off.

I got home, had dinner with my parents before retreating to my room. A lot of thoughts plagued my mind. From the feelings I have towards Shika to the comforting feeling when I spent time with Imelda. Why do I feel this way? I have this insane chemistry with Shika and after today, am I developing feelings for Imelda? At that instant, a message from Shika interrupted my thoughts.

SHIKA

Hey Jay, I have not heard from you the whole day. Is everything alright?

JAY

I am good, busy with some errands. Thanks for asking. How was your day?

SHIKA

Good, just stayed at home…

JAY

Nice, any plans for the weekend?

SHIKA

Ever since I joined the choir, weekends belong to RLM now🤷🏾‍♀️

JAY

Hahahaha! a small price to pay.

SHIKA

What about you? any other plans?

JAY

Apart from the gym and church, nothing else.

SHIKA

I will also go to the gym tomorrow…if you do not mind, we can work out together?👀

I was about to reject the offer but I remembered I pleaded with her on Thursday to be more open.

JAY

God does answer prayers🙏🏾. Definitely, I will pick you up. Is someone slowly letting me in😍?

SHIKA

Don’t push your luck😜.

Just then a message from Imelda popped up.

IMELDA

Are you home safe? I haven’t heard from you

JAY

Yes I am, I got into a conversation with my parents. Thanks for the meal.

IMELDA

You live with your parents? Nice

JAY

Yes, it helps with avoiding temptation. It doesn’t totally discourage some people, but it acts like a filter.☺️

IMELDA

Same reason why my brother lives with me too. I am glad you came by…

In an instant, I remembered I was chatting with Shika

JAY

 let me keep my mouth shut 🤐. Pick up at 9?

SHIKA

Fine by me.

JAY

See you tomorrow. Goodnight beautiful…

I did not wait for her reply before going back to Imelda’s chat

JAY

I am glad I came by too. I would like to chat more but that delicious okro has knocked me out. Let us catch up on Sunday. Goodnight Imelda.

IMELDA

🥰Goodnight Jordan.

I put my phone away and let out a huge sigh, how did I get here?

SHIKA

The gym with Jay was fun, he was very respectful and kept his hands to himself. We picked up some smoothies and spent some time at my apartment before he left.

Later in the afternoon, I went for choir rehearsal. Reverend Dave, the general overseer has been visiting our sessions for sometime now. Today, he appointed me as Acting Choir Director since I already teach most of the songs. This meant I have to stay for second service too. Everybody expected Imelda to be sad, but she seemed happy to let go of one more responsibility. Probably cause being the youth secretary, events chairperson and communications member is a lot to juggle. She seemed very zen and happy today, I wonder what has gotten into her.

On Sunday, after first service, there were mixed reactions when the appointment was announced. Most members were happy, others were wondering why. Reverend Dave assuaged their doubts about how the grace of God can quickly elevate someone’s life. Jay was absent from the first service hence missed the announcement. He was invited to preach at the campus ministry. He appeared right after service to meet me at the snack stand as usual.

‘’Where is your handbag?’’ he asked as he paid for my meal.

‘’I am staying for second service’’ I said and a huge grin spread across his face.

‘’First gym together, now second service. I should have taken you out on dinner the first day I laid my eyes on you’’ he said.

‘’Don’t flatter yourself. I am the new acting choir director, appointed by Rev Dave himself’’ I said with pride.

‘’This is such good news!!!’’ he exclaimed in excitement as he hugged me rousing attention from onlookers. He did not seem to care.

‘’Thank you, let me eat and see you in second service’’ I said, I noticed Imelda walking towards Jay. I had not had the chance to compliment her knee-length dress with heels. She always wore ankle-length or long wide-leg pants.

‘’Wowwwww, nice dress Imelda!’’ I complimented.

‘’Thank you, A special somebody told to show my legs more often’’ she said with a glimmer in her eye.

‘’That person was right, if you are blessed with it, show it!’’ I said before bidding Jay and Imelda farewell.

After two services, I was knackered. I forgot to even let Jay know I was leaving the church premises. I have been feeling weak for some time now, but today feels too heavy. I had a severe migraine and decided sleep it off.

The coming week is packed with fabric orders from a school group celebrating their anniversary and jewellery orders from Bishop Odame. Tetteh complained about the dark circles forming round my eyes the last time he came to fix something in my shop. I hope I will be able to pull through this week and take a needed vacation. Should I invite Jay? No way, that is too soon.

Saturday

IMELDA

This morning, Shika sent me a message that she had just been discharged from the hospital and will not attend rehearsal and church service. Small director work and she is already sick. Then when revival and Christmas season appears, she will be away forever.

After rehearsal, the choir members insisted on paying her a visit. I tried to let them understand that the protocol for using the church bus at that instant will not be possible. Hence, tomorrow after church will be ideal. Nadia, one of the members whose husband owns a bus called him to lend it to us.

They showed genuine concern for Shika. For someone who has been with us for only two months and a week, she has managed to win their love so quickly. I decided to leave my car parked at the church and join the bus. Tetteh and Agnes have been to Shika’s place before hence knew the location. I did not know she had personal relations with some of them in the first place. They stopped by the mall to buy fruits for her.

Shika lived quite far from the church, such dedication is admired. Tetteh called and she asked the security to allow us in. I always see this high-rise building on my way to work, I did not know she lived there. It must have been the sugar daddy who bought it for her. The other members were also astonished at her place with Tetteh leading us like a man of importance.

Shika opened the door, she really looked ill but was shocked and happy to see all of us. From conversation, she was stressed out and anaemic. She passed out in her shop, it was her attendant who rushed her to the hospital. We were glad it did not happen while she was driving. She lay back on her couch as we sang for her and kept her company. As we were wrapping up the visit, she seemed happier but tired. She clearly needs more rest.

I had to use the bathroom before leaving. On my way there, I peered through her window, I spotted Jordan’s car at the junction. I am sure he is on his way here. After using the bathroom, I asked the choir members to leave without me. I told them I did not feel comfortable leaving Shika alone in her apartment and insisted on taking an Uber back to the church premises.

Shika thanked me for staying, I waved the others goodbye.

Not long, there was a knock on the front door. If it was Jordan, I wonder why he did not press the bell and how come the security did not call first. The knock was not the usual one, it had a special rhythm. I was so lost in thought that by the time I realised, she was already opening the door and yes, it was Jordan.

‘’Why didn’t you tell me you were ill? We texted yesterday and this morning. Why did I have to hear it from some members at the church premises that the choir has come to see you? And that you were on admission??’’ he started ranting from the entrance.

‘’I didn’t want to bother you’’ she said as she closed the door.

‘’oh…hi Imelda’’ Jordan greeted, confused.

‘’Hi’’ I replied.

He helped Shika back to the couch.

‘’Have you taken your evening medication?’’ he asked, as he draped the throw over her.

‘’Not yet, I need to eat first’’

‘’Well, I brought you some rice and soup from Mayenii, sit up’’ he commanded.

I watched him enter the kichen, he moved around with some familiarity. I know Jordan and Shika are close but not like this…

I watched him fuss over her, he was visibly worried about her.

I was confused at that moment, does he treat all the ladies in the church the same way? I thought our lunch date, okro stew and regular texting was special…

SHIKA

Jay barely uses my doorbell, he does a special knock. It was created during one of his visits here. I found it difficult to read Imelda’s facial expression as she watched Jay move in my kitchen. This promises to be an interesting visit.

Jay guided me to the dining table after he set up the meal. He then went back to pack the fruits the choir members brough. He sliced some and placed them in containers, stored them in the fridge for me to eat the next day. After, he made Imelda a cup of tea before coming to sit by my side.

‘’Finish eating and when you get well, I will scold you for not telling me about your health’’ he said.

‘’What matters is, you are here now’’ I said weakly.

‘’The choir brought you a lot of fruits, you must be loved’’ he remarked.

‘’Yes, I was overwhelmed with all of them in here but it felt nice and warm. I am looking forward to repaying them’’ I said.

‘’Come on Shika, no need. The choir is like family’’ Imelda said.

‘’Then I have to join’’ Jay joked.

‘’With what voice?’’ I teased.

‘’Don’t worry, I will give him voice lessons’’ Imelda added and we giggled.

There was an awkward silence.

‘’You really have a nice place, do you rent or own?’’ Imelda asked.

‘’Own’’ I answered.

‘’Wow…must cost a fortune. I better get into jewellery business as well because this my 9-5 cannot buy this’’ she remarked.

I knew why she asked, everybody and their grandmother knows Minister bought this place for me. To fill the awkward silence, Jay switched on the television and we watched YouTube videos. I mouthed ‘thank you’ to him.

It was getting late and Jay had put the dishes away. After, he ran me a bath in my bathroom, left chill gospel music playing in there and lit scented candles. Imelda made herself busy by trying to tidy up the living area.

‘’Okay, it is getting late. You are both VIPs needed at church service tomorrow. Go home’’ I exclaimed and Imelda got up.

‘’What if something happens to you at night? I don’t want to leave you alone’’ Jay exclaimed while seated, reluctant to leave.

‘’My friend, Melody is on her way’’ I said as I texted Melody, a good friend I made through business with Mama Zoe to come quickly. She lives in the other complex nearby.

‘’I will wait for her to come before I leave’’ Jay said.

‘’Imelda, did you drive here?’’ I asked

‘’No, I parked at the church. Don’t worry, I will stay with Jordan. We will both keep you company till your friend comes’’ she said, and Jay looked uncomfortable.

Not long Melody arrived and also gave me a good scolding for not calling her when I was admitted, with Jay supporting all her points. Even with Melody around, Jay looked uncomfortable leaving and still hung around. Imelda kept frantically tapping her phone.

‘’Imelda, is everything alright?’’ I asked.

‘’Yes, the ride apps keep cancelling, uber, bolt, yango, shaxi…’’ she said.

‘’Let me try my phone’’ Jay said and I shot him a look. ‘’Oh… let me just drive you, Imelda. No need’’.

Before leaving my apartment, Jay sat close to me on the couch. He held my hand and prayed for me.

‘’Take care and I am just a call away’’ he whispered.

‘’I know’’ I whispered back

‘’We cannot hear that part of the prayer ooo’’ Melody joked and we all laughed.

He planted a soft kiss on my knuckle before leaving. I was too tired to react. This osofo is gradually getting under my skin, but I wonder what is going on between Imelda and him.

When they left, Melody turned to me, showing me her phone.

”Ah but Bolt and Uber are available ooo, ei Asorefoɔ⁵!” she exclaimed and we both laughed.

Imelda definitely likes Jay, this is an interesting development.

JORDAN

Meeting Imelda at Shika’s place was a surprise. I was hoping she would leave us but she stayed. She must care about Shika a lot. I am still angry at Shika for not calling me. I thought she was opening up. I was too busy caring for Shika to think about whatever feelings I had for Imelda earlier. I guess seeing both of them is bringing clarity. I am probably just grateful Imelda’s attention and caring nature…

‘’Why don’t you just drop me home? I am too tired to drive myself. I will take an uber from the house to church tomorrow, then return home with my car. After all, the car is safe in the church’’ Imelda suggested as we walked to my car.

‘’Fine by me’’ I said. Now I have to drive in a totally different direction, throws me off my route home. Dropping her off at the church is much easier but this is the least I can do for the last time I ate at her place.

The drive to her house was quiet. If you listened close, you can hear our lungs working.

‘’Are you alright? You are unusually quiet?’’ I asked her, breaking the silence.

‘’Yeah, just tired. I am just glad Shika’s friend came through. I wouldn’t want to leave you alone there’’ she said.

‘’Well…I am not complaining’’ I said, surprised.

‘’Really! Not that I am accusing you or anything but sleeping in your single female member’s house overnight? Pastor Jordan?’’ she said with a suspicious tone.

‘’True, that will raise some flags. Thanks for your concern’’ I said, I was not ready to explain my feelings for Shika to Imelda till I am certain where I stand.

‘’Always here for you’’ Imelda said with a smile.

We finally got to her apartment.

‘’You look tired, do you want to come up and relax a bit before you continue driving home?’’ she suggested.

‘’I am fine, plus it is too late. Remember, Pastor Jordan being in a single female member’s house…’’ I mimicked her tone.

‘’I did not say sleep over, just come up. I have ice cream. You mentioned you have a sweet tooth’’ she said.

‘’hmmmm..ice cream’’ I said, I do love ice cream.

‘’It is salted caramel’’ she added.

‘’ugghhhhhh, my favourite. You know what, though this is very tempting. I will pass, how about I visit during the week for some’’ I said.

‘’Awwww, okay. Why not tomorrow after service?’’ Imelda asked.

I was about to admit I will be spending the rest of the day with Shika. Instantly, I remembered blowing Imelda off in the past using family as an excuse.

‘’You know Sundays after church are for my family, nieces and nephews’’ I said.

‘’True. Gentleman, Handsome, godly, caring and family -oriented? What box don’t you tick?’’ she teased.

‘’Now you have called me a gentleman, I guess I have to walk you to your door’’ I scoffed.

‘’I will not settle for less’’ she joked and I got out and opened the passenger door for her.

We spoke about family briefly as I walked her to her apartment door.

‘’Jordan, before we say goodnight. A verse in the book of Ephesians tells us to speak the truth in love’’ she started.

‘’Yes, Ephesians 4:15. Is there a problem?’’ I asked.

‘’Not at all, I have been trying to tell you this but I don’t know if tonight is the right time. But you are a mature man of God hence you will treat this information well’’ she continued and I listened attentively.

‘’Okay, I am all ears’’

‘’Look, I intercede for you a lot, I care about you deeply, very much. Just be wary of the people you trust, those you call friends and where your heart is. You seem distracted, you were brought to RLM for a purpose, be with the people that will help fulfil that purpose. I will not stop praying for you and ask the Lord for more clarity on this’’ she ended and we said goodnight.

This is very interesting, is she referring to Shika? This is just too much.

I will take it one day at a time. I got home exhausted and slept off.

As planned, I spent the rest of my Sunday after church tending to Shika. She fell asleep with her head on my lap in the late afternoon. Damn, she is beautiful, and I cannot stop thinking about her. I was about to plant a kiss on her cheek when Imelda’s words flooded my mind.

I need to fast and pray about this. I need God’s direction. What about talking to Mama Zoe or both?…

Lexicons

1. Banku and Okro stew – Banku is a smooth, slightly sour dough made from fermented corn (sometimes mixed with cassava). It’s boiled and stirred into a soft, stretchy ball. Okro stew (or okra stew) is made from okra pods cooked until they become slimy and thick, often with tomatoes, pepper, fish, or meat. Together, they form a classic dish eaten across southern Ghana, valued for its texture and satisfying taste.
2. Nkatie Cake – popular Ghanaian snack made from roasted peanuts (nkatie) and caramelized sugar. It is similar to peanut brittle.
3. Kube cake – Kubecake is a sweet made from grated coconut mixed with sugar and sometimes spices. It is cooked until it hardens into chewy or crunchy candy-like pieces.
4. Chrife – Ghanaian short term/slang for born-again christian.
5. Asorefoɔ – ( Twi word) means church members / congregation.

Author’s note

I hope we are enjoying the read, five more episodes to the end of season 1, then we take a short break. Dates will be shared soon. Remember to like, comment and share. Follow selimsaidso on Instagram, there will something exciting happening in the month of May.

Some our favourite Church Angel Characters will take over our IG stories for a day!
Enjoy the weekend!!