I could hardly wait for dismissal time to go meet Becky and ask her about what transpired between Mr Bernard and the people he was supposed to meet. I made sure I completed all I was supposed to do for the day and at the exact closure time, I dashed out of my office to Becky's.“Hey girl!” I greeted, walking towards where she sat.She raised her gaze from the papers she worked on to meet mine. “Hi, what's up? Why are you in a hurry to leave your office?” She teased in a jocular tone.“C'mon, the monster has gone! You shouldn't expect me not to be excited,” I giggled, in a cheerfully mood “Silly girl!” She sneered.We laughed it out loudly, not minding the people that lurked around.“So tell me, what happened between him and the men?” I began, as soon as we quieted.“Oh! I should be the one asking first. Why are you always in his office? Is there something you're not telling me?” She cast a suspicious glance at me.“But I asked first, you go first.” I wasn't willing to succumb.“Do y
Bernard's POVI felt an inauspicious omen when Becky barged into Alice and I in my office, to announce that I was being called by some strange anonymous men. I knew instinctively that it wasn't going to be any regular client or business associates. From the way things sounded, it was more like a higher authority, some kind that I needed to be subject to.I hesitated for a while, wondering why they had refused to disclose their identity. It brooded ill.'Could they be serial killers or anything of the sort?’ I pondered, realizing the possibility of being killed or detained.Luckily for Alice, it was yet another chance to escape from the lingering punishment she'd got to serve. I also deemed it necessary to remind her that I haven't forgotten about it yet.I headed to the reception room, where the men were supposedly waiting patiently for me, only to find out that they were policemen.My heart melted at the sight of them. With every step I took, my anxiety heightened. ‘What could be go
Alice's POV A satisfied grin played at the corners of my lips while I headed home in a cab. I couldn't help but rejoice at how I ended up winning at the end of the day. Mum had always told me not to let the fear of losing take away the joy of winning. So it was for me, all thanks to Stephanie for all standing by me. I could hardly get home before I put a call across to Charles. It rang for a couple of minutes, but there was no response. I felt a fresh wave of anxiety course through my veins. 'Why can't he just pick my calls? Did the Officer tell me a lie or something? Could it be that monster trying to act silly? Eerie thoughts flooded through my mind. I then decided to call Stephanie instead. Perhaps she might have an idea. “You've seen him, right?” She asked eagerly, as soon as she picked up the phone. “No… I haven't gone to his place yet.” “Put a call across to him then,” “He isn't picking up. What should I do?” Stephanie heaved a distressed sigh. “But they said
I turned my face impulsively to meet those of the man that addressed me, and quivered in great fear. He looked mean and starwart, and was putting on a black hoodie that did well to conceal most of his face. His companion, who snatched my bag earlier, was likewise putting on a black hoodie, stopped by the alley and stood, watching as the other confronted me.“Let me be!” I yelled, struggling to wriggle free from his tight grip.“Don’t you dare make a noise! Else I'd blow off your fucking skulls!” He threatened, taking menacing steps towards me.My heartbeat doubled. My breathing is escalating. I knew instinctively that what stood between me and death was just a sound, so I dared not to make one.He drew closer to me, so that I could feel his warm breath and in a cold but threatening voice.“Listen, a pretty lady like you shouldn't be seen alone in the streets at night, unless you are a lady of the night.” He paused and breathed, irritatingly. “And I don't care if you're one or not, bu
A month laterBernard's POVGetting back to work as an ex-convict was a tough experience for me. Not only had I lost the trust of clients, I've also lost the hope of future collaborations with other promising companies, who could have been of great help to my company. So many of my employees had dropped their resignation letters on my desk this morning, including Alice. Everyone now doubted my sincerity.A lot has really changed, both at home and at work. I also did change after a torturous month spent with my personal assistant behind bars. All thanks to Mum and a few good friends and relatives for standing by me.My attitude towards people, especially Alice, my secretary, changed also. My clinginess in the past has now been replaced with I suddenly developed a new sense of reasoning and have sworn to never make use of my position to torture anyone anymore. I felt so sorry about how bad I've treated Alice in the past and decided to apologize to her and ask about her resignation.“Goo
The severity of the news dawned on me slowly. I couldn't believe I could lose such a great deal that was able to fetch me millions so easily. I regretted my stupid pasts and vowed in my heart never to get back to them again. “How about Albert's? Do you think we stand any chance?” I was gripped by extreme pain and regrets. “I doubt sir. The news had spread everywhere. The media now questions the integrity of our company. It's so unfortunate we're losing out on everything,” Davis bemoaned. “Well, it's fine,” I breathed heavily, as though to console myself. “We could make a turn for the better and paint brighter pictures in the minds of people in no time.” “I believe so too, it's just that it won't be really easy to have a comeback, especially considering the situation of things. Let's keep being optimistic, though,” he comforted. “Sure.” I muttered softly. To me, the possibility of having our place back in the industry was not going to be as easy as it sounds. I knew how har
I grumbled angrily as the resounding ring of the alarm clock jolted me from my enjoyable sleep. Last night was not like every other night. I could remember musing about getting married to Alice just before I drifted into deep sleep and coincidentally, I dreamt about the same thing. In my dream, I was walking side-by-side with Alice, her hands locked in mine, amidst the cheering of the crowd. The hall was tastefully decorated with coloured balloons and ribbons that did well to fill the entire space with an aesthetic aura. Alice looked as stunning as ever in her white satin ballgown, while looking exquisite in my black suit and trousers, complemented by a red necktie. Smiles were plastered on our faces and those of the audience. It was our marriage reception and there were several guests present to grace the occasion. Foods and drinks of different kinds and origin were presented in the buffet style for each guest to serve themselves. I couldn't help but smile at how fate destined
I walked into Mr Grey's office with a steady composed gait. I quickly took in the details of the place; it was spacious and cozy, just like mine, but a trifle more grandiose. He was sitting comfortably behind his mahogany desk and was busy digging deep into some files as I stepped in. He was an aged man, probably in his mid-sixties, with a slightly wrinkled face and grey hairs and beard. His husky English accent was also a dominant trait of his personality. “Hello, Mr Grey!” “Oh you're welcome, Bernard. So pleased to see you,” he averted his gaze towards me, offering his hand for a handshake. “You may have a seat,” he gestured towards the seat opposite him. “Thanks,” I muttered under my breath. I sat down as expected, but was ill at ease, especially because of the way he addressed me. I knew he was way older than I was, old enough to be my father. But how could a grown man like me be addressed in such a way? Could there be something he was trying to insinuate? “May we proce
Welcoming my first child brought me more joy than I expected. I beamed with smiles as I cuddle him dearly in my arms and reminisce about my past and how serendipity smiled at me. Bernard was now a happy father. I'm so glad and thankful for bringing my child into this world. He was my joy giver and now my joy was complete. The living room was flooded with family and friends, who came around to send greetings and gifts to the new baby. Becky came along with Davis, smiling at each other all the time. I suspected something going on between the two of them, but confirmed my thoughts when I spotted the diamond engagement ring in her finger. “You're engaged?” My popped, as I stared at the beautiful ring in her middle finger. “Of course, I am,” she returned the smile, flaunting her ringed finger in the air. “Wow! Congratulations to you!” I cheered. “Thank you. You too, Alice! You're now a mother,” she replied heartily. “Where’s your fiancé?” I asked, to be sure I wasn't mistaken
The early morning sun rose steadily, shedding its beams across to my weary eyes. I gently opened them up and stretched lazily, yawning tiredly while I turned my head to my side. Bernard wasn't there. 'But where could he be?’ My heart missed a beat. My head spinned and I felt heavy blocks pushing their weight against it. I cleared the sleep off my eyes and stared around the room, expecting I would find him somewhere close by, but I didn't. I became worried. “Ben!” I called out his name but there was still no response. I stood up anxiously and headed into the bathroom to check if perhaps he'd be there, but I still didn't find him. My heart pounded hard in my chest. ‘Where could he be now? What the hell is going on?’ The fear of being abandoned seized me. I stepped out of the room hastily, as though chased by a monster and went to the next room, his study, to search for him. The study was empty and dumb. “Bernard!” My throaty voice pierce into thin air. “Where are you?”
Alice's POV Everything seemed to be happening so fast, but at least so perfectly. I wouldn't have believed it if I was told that I'd get married soon, and to Charles as I previously envisioned, but to my boss. That was the very best day of my life, when we stood there, radiantly breathtaking on the altar and exchanged marital vows. Walking down the aisle with Bernard was the best decision I have ever made and there is no going back. Here I am in our private hotel suite, designed for just the two of us, in the cuddle of his arms, while I reminisce about the activities of yesterday. From the church wedding, to the reception party and then to this very bed we slept, last night, it all replayed in my head. We went wild last night. Our clothes were still sprawled across the floor. I could remember almost vividly how he threw me to the bed and undressed me hungrily, like a prey he was ready to devour. He did so many other things to me, so many that I can't even remember. The only on
A month later, The church hall was tastefully decorated to suit the event of the day. Numerous guests from different walks of life sprawled over the place in their festive attires, wearing cheerful faces. The orchestra serenaded the congregation with soft melodious tones from their instruments. Cheerful indistinct chatters were heard around the hall, all set for the arrival of the bride. I waited patiently at the altar, in my custom made black suit and matching trousers, together with Davis, my best man, who was dressed similarly. I beamed with smiles, in anticipation of the bride. The clergyman also stood at the altar, ready to execute the ritual of exchange of marital vows between me and the love of my life. As if propelled by some telepathic instigation, Alice showed up as expected, with a bouquet of white roses in her hand. She was putting on a sparkling white satin dress that was tailored perfect to fit her figure and accentuate her curves. Her skin glowed brightly, as she w
Two weeks later. "This has to be perfect for Alice. Are you sure I'm doing it all right?" I asked Davis, pacing around with the ring box with me. He shook his head in approval. "You're going to do just fine Ben, don't bother about it." Davis assured me and I heaved a sigh. “The truth is, I plan on proposing to Alice tonight, I really hope she says yes. I mean she can't possibly say no? Right? We've been together for a couple of months now and Alice has been the best thing that ever happened to me. I love her to bits, and she loves me too, and I think this is the big next, final step for us.” "Hey! Man up! She's here already." Davis said to me and I felt my heart skip a beat. "Do not mess this up, dude!" Davis warned and I nodded sheepishly, nervousness taking over my system immediately. I watched from the corner, as my dear Alice smiled in happiness, in respect of the surprise party thrown in her honour, she radiated in happiness. I'm enthralled with her beauty. There
Bernard's POV Would I say I was nervous? Or was it just a regular tingling feeling one has when on a date with a woman one has formerly known? Whatever the case may be, that was exactly how I felt right now. She sat graciously opposite me, beaming with enticing smiles that I couldn't resist. I tried smiling back, but each time I did, I ended up blushing openly. It was a dinner date in my personal suite in the hotel. She was putting on a short red sexy dress, with a lowered neckline, exposing a little of her cleavage and high stiletto heels, that she would easily pass for a lady of the night in. Her red tinted lips and mascara that made her eyelashes more prominent further attested to that. Her skin glowed brightly, even in the dimly lit lounge. We had barely started to enjoy each other's company, when the waiter arrived with the menu. “What would you like us to have for dinner?” I asked her, in anticipation. “Cheese sandwich with some grilled chicken,” she answered. I smiled wi
“Charles!” I yelled on top of my lungs, exasperated at the activity going on in my very presence.Charles was making out with another woman, who moaned so loudly and irritatingly, feeling the entire room with their sounds. Their ripped off clothes sprawled across the floor, giving more details to what was going on.“So, you could do this to me?” I shook my head slowly in regret.Hot tears welled in my eyes while I stared disdainfully at him. My expression saddened at the bitter taste of a painful betrayal. Charles didn't utter a word. He only ignored me and continued with what he was doing, in my presence.“Can you be so shameless? This is all you could think of, huh?” I flared up angrily, watching as the two lovers made love in my presence.Only then did he pause and glare at me, still clutching onto the woman beneath him.“Look Alice, I'm having a great time right now. I'm tired of you. So tired that you've become an obligation to me. I'd appreciate it if you leave,” His words shat
Alice's POVResigning from work wasn't as easy as it sounded. I've always threatened my boss about resigning from his company, to get a job elsewhere, but I never meant it. Who could have sorted my unending bills, if I had had meant it in the real sense? Did he think I was willing to leave so soon?As I heard about his release, after serving his one month jail terms, I assumed it was a perfect opportunity to follow my heart, and not my head. The wrapped paper in the light brown sealed envelope was already seated on his desk, awaiting his approval. I also noticed that I wasn't the only one following this course, others did too. I smiled satisfactorily, thinking about how our boss was going to react. I was unaware that Mr Bernard had other plans until I found him in my office, kneeling down to plead with me to forgive him. That moment was one of the very best since I stepped into his company. I suspected something fishy, but I decided not to show it, granted that he was remorseful.“I
I walked briskly along the hallway and incidentally found Alice coming towards my direction. The devastation on my face transformed suddenly to a smile, as my eyes met hers. She seemed to have just walked out of her office. She stopped in her tracks as soon as she noticed I was coming. “You need to sign a document urgently,” Alice said, looking at me with a straight face. I stared at her intently as though finding it difficult to fathom the meaning of the message. My mind wasn't really interested in what she said, but her. “What document are you talking about?” I asked for clarity, as though I had an idea what she was talking about. “The Simpsons, they asked for your approval on an upcoming project,” she replied, leading the way back to her office. I followed her from behind, secretly admiring her well-rounded ass as she walked. A playful smirk played on my lips. We got into her office and she handed me the papers, still standing close to her desk. I sat down next to her an