Sunday, 27th March 2016 I was anxious all morning. I barely got any sleep and my thoughts drifted far even during church service. I had just left church and was limping slightly in my sandals. I had cleaned the wound on my foot the previous night but it still stung a little. My phone rang as I tried to flag down a taxi. “Hello?” I answered without checking the caller ID. “Hello, Eniola. It’s me, Simon.” “S-Simon…?” “Have you heard the news?” His voice was subdued. “I heard…but I don’t want to believe it.” “The car was completely wrecked, Bode didn't make it. He gave up the ghost before they got them to the hospital. Daniel is still in a coma.” “Oh no… no, no, no. Simon, I’m so sorry.” “None of this is your fault. The accident… no one saw it coming.” “How… how did it happen?” “The trailer driver was drunk.” Simon clenched his jaw. “Bode and my brother had to suffer for his actions.” Simon’s words hit me like a fright train. I felt numb. Maybe I did see it coming. Back at his
Monday, 28th March 2016Simon and the other company executives ran the company in my boss's absence. I assisted them with paperwork and retrieving files since I had worked closely with Mr Daniel. Simon came by my office a few times to check that all was going as it should. The employees were distraught over the news. For several years, Mr Daniel had been a permanent fixture in the company.Ever since he built the company back up to where it was now, his presence had always been felt by everyone. According to those who worked at Legacy longer than I had, he had never even taken a sick day off, always in the office on time and he still monitored the company activities even when he was away on business trips."I can't believe it. I mean, he's the Daniel Jacobs," Melody said as she waved a piece of fried yam on her fork, up in the air. We were out of the office on our lunch break."He is still human you know, I just want him to regain consciousness.""Same here, my dear," she sighed sad
Thursday 28th April, 2016I collapsed unto the sofa when I returned from the hospital, exhausted and weak. A bleak, depressed feeling began to settle in my chest and I couldn't drive it away. I quickly wiped the tears that threatened to fall. I was tired of crying.In the bathroom, I splashed my face with water and changed my clothes. My mind went to the empty apartment building a few floors up from mine and I felt empty again.First my father then Daniel. The two men who hold an important place in my life.My dad had always been a strong, unmovable presence in my life ever since I was a child and I had never really thought of the day I wouldn't have either of my parents anymore. It always seemed like a blurry, distant future that was too far away to think of but now, it hit me with such heart rending clarity that it could become my reality.Then there was Daniel, the boss who seemed so unattainable and far out of my league but was proving himself to have all the qualities I wanted in
I cringed at the thought of how many people at the office actually thought I was sleeping with the boss and using our relationship to my advantage. I shook my head to set it free from the disturbing thoughts. My phone rang and I snatched it up immediately. It was a welcome distraction.“Eniola, it’s me… Bassey.”Surprise mixed with a tinge of guilt washed over me. Lara was right, I hadn’t even spoken to or thought about Bassey in a while. Not with everything going on.“Hi Bassey, I’m so sorry I didn’t call.”“It’s fine. I wasn’t sure how long I was supposed to wait either. You know, I figured there may be some unspoken rules about these things.”“Rules? What rules?”“Well, that makes both of us. I don’t know either.” He chuckled.“It’s really nice to talk to you again. I wanted to thank you for helping me get through the whole wedding drama.” I suddenly felt lighter talking to him. Like some invisible burden was lifted.“I’m glad, I got to meet you because of that whole wedding drama
I couldn’t sleep a wink the previous night after Simon’s call. I had imagined a thousand and one different scenarios of what it would be like when I finally saw Daniel awake. I spent most of the day psyching myself up for later that evening. I stood in front of the hospital doors and took a deep breath before I walked in.I made my way to Daniel’s room without any resistance. The guard didn’t bother me this time, he even gave me a little nod which I reciprocated. I sat by Daniel's bedside and gently held on to his hand.A nurse walked in and smiled at me in greeting. I returned the gesture. “I heard he was awake, why is he still asleep?” I asked.“Yes, he woke up in the early hours of today but he is just resting now. He is out of the coma and he is in a much more stable condition than before.”I nodded in relief. The nurse left shortly afterwards and once more I was alone with Daniel. I knew he couldn't hear me, that was what gave me the confidence to say some of the things I could
Wednesday 4th May, 2016Just knock already. I scolded myself.I stepped back abruptly when the door opened and a woman stepped out.She stopped when she saw me and gave me a questioning look. She looked older, had a petite figure and a mane of long, dark hair extensions. Her delicate features and the way she carried herself gave her an air of sophisticated professionalism.My heart thumped in my chest. I shouldn't have come.“Hello, how may I help you?” She asked as she watched me closely.“I'm here to see Mr Daniel. I am his personal assistant at work.”“He's resting now, sorry. Can I take a message for him or would you like to wait?”My gaze dropped to the ground in disappointment.“No, never mind. I'll just… come back later.” She nodded and shut the door gently as I turned away. Once I was in the safety of the elevator, I let out a deep breath.I knew it was a bad idea. I had never been up to his apartment without him requesting for me. Why did I think it was a good idea to do so
Daniel leaned back to get a good look at my face and frowned.“Did you just ask me about… my wife?”“Yes,” I jumped to my feet as I shoved him away in the process. I ignored his wince of pain and focused on my exasperation. “You wear a wedding ring on your finger for crying out loud. So, how can you tell me these things without me questioning your character and the very existence of another woman you must have pledged your life to. You’re nothing but scum of the earth!”“Eniola… I never said I…”Gone was the romantic mood. Daniel looked perplexed and tired. He clutched at his chest as he stood without a word and stumbled towards the coffee table where a glass of water and some pills were placed in a tray. I watched him from across the room as he gulped down the pills. “I think you should leave,” he said.“But…”“One more thing, since I'm not going to be back at the office for a while, you can have the time off.” Daniel’s business tone was back. “I was informed that you were assisting
I took the stairs to get to my floor. I felt the need to keep moving instead of waiting for the elevator. I couldn't help but feel a little foolish. Everything about Daniel’s reaction to Claire pointed to the fact that there was something between them.Claire seemed like the calibre of women he should associate with. Not just beautiful, but extremely successful as well.But then again, why did I feel hurt? Maybe I was simply silly enough to develop feelings for someone who was so far out of my league.But Daniel said he cared about me… right? Claire’s image flashed through my mind and snapped me back to reality. I stopped moving only when I got into my apartment… the apartment Daniel had given me. I had never felt so many doubts and insecurities like that moment. The only heartbreak I experienced was with Akin. If I didn't put a stop to this, Daniel would be the second and what was worse would be the fact that we were never even together in the first place.“This is ridiculous!” I
Wednesday 1st June, 2016Daniel helped me out of the car when we arrived at the venue.The Maxwell Charity Foundation gala was bigger than I imagined. Maybe I thought so because I hadn’t attended one before. There was a red carpet leading into the building. The Press was there, reporters and cameramen covered nearly every angle of the event. Photographers and videographers milled about as they interviewed the elegant guests.I stiffened subconsciously and Daniel sensed the change because he turned to look at me.“Are you okay?”“Um, yeah. Just a bit nervous.”“Darling, you will turn heads, trust me.”“Hm, for more reasons than one.” I muttered under my breath.As we approached the building, the paparrazi turned their attention to Mr Jacobs and inevitably towards me. I froze at the onslaught of lights and winced. A warm hand gripped mine tightly and I felt reassurance in his grip. I blinked severally as my eyes adjusted to the lights and took a deep breath.“Mr Jacobs. There are rumour
Sunday 29th May, 2016Long after Lara had left, I was alone in my apartment that night when there was a knock at the door. I hesitated for a moment before I got up to check who it was.“Eniola, are you home?”I threw the door open at the sound of his voice and launched myself into his arms for a warm hug. He laughed and the sound sent vibrations through his body that I felt through the thin layers of my clothes.“Well, this is a nice welcome. I should travel more often.”I dragged him into the apartment and shut the door.“I thought you would be back earlier,” I gripped his hand in mine, unwilling to let go.“I’m sorry, the meeting took longer than I expected and the traffic was terrible. My mom and Simon send their greeting by the way.”“I hope they are fine?”“Yes, they are.”He leaned in and kissed my forehead then tilted my chin up to look at my face. He stared at me carefully and a frown caused his eyebrows to crease together.“Is something wrong?”“W-why would you say that?” I c
Saturday 28th May, 2016When a storm hits, it wrecks everything in its path.Pictures of Daniel and I flooded the internet the following day. They were taken during our date. I realized that the flashes I kept seeing that night were from a camera. Someone had followed us and taken those pictures.I stared in horror at the headlines on the blogs.“This sultry seductress has captured the heart of Legacy CEO, Daniel Jacobs.”There was a close up photo taken of us as we left the restaurant. It was dark but those who knew me could possibly identify me. A peek at my notifications confirmed my worst fear. Several messages had popped up on my phone from friends and family asking if the gossip blogs were true.It was one thing to take down a gossip forum that didn’t even have any pictures for evidence. However, it was an entirely different ordeal to shut down the gossip backed with pictures that were spreading like wild fire.Entertainment websites and social media pages all wanted to know one
Friday 27th May, 2016I was nose-deep into a new novel and snuggled up in my nightwear as I sipped from a mug of tea. No, I did not have a ‘hot date’ that evening. Daniel was away for a family meeting, his mother was in town and wanted to see her sons. Even though he had invited me, I was way too terrified to meet his family just yet.“But they would be ecstatic to meet you. I heard from Simon that you already met my mom at the hospital. A second meeting can’t be that hard,” he had said the previous day.I had done my best to postpone it so that I could gather my wits.My phone rang, it was Bassey. I hesitated before I picked up the call.“Hello Bassey,” I said.“Hi Eniola, I haven’t heard from you in a while.”“Sorry, I’ve just had a lot going on.”“Oh I understand.” He paused for a moment then continued. “Have you thought about what I said or shall I give you some more time?”I took a deep breath and bared my mind.“Bassey, honestly you’re an amazing guy.”“But…” He drawled.“But I
Wednesday 25th May, 2016I felt like I was floating on clouds. It was like God was smiling down at me and peace coursed through me at the decision I made to be with Daniel.No longer, did I feel guilty about loving him. In fact, everything felt right. Sometimes, it all felt too good to be true but I banished such thoughts from my mind.That morning, I prepared for work as I hummed a love song. I twirled around as I checked myself out in the mirror.Uh oh, was I putting in too much effort that day?I shook my head and shrugged off the idea. I deserved to look good. I grabbed my purse and stepped out of my apartment.“Ah!” I yelled when I ran straight into someone.I blinked severally to be sure my vision was correct.“Lizzie?” I muttered in confusion.“Hiiiii, it’s been ages!” Lizzie grabbed me and pulled me into a bear hug. Despite her petite frame she sure did have a lot of energy. Must be all the gym hours she used to put in.“Wow, yes. I heard you travelled.” I turned to lock my ap
I fiddled with my fingers for a moment before I looked up at Daniel. I wasn’t sure whether to ask the question that suddenly popped up in my mind or not.“Um, can I ask you something though?” I licked my bottom lip nervously.“Go ahead,” Daniel nodded encouragingly.“What did you think about me then, when you heard about it?”Daniel smiled softly as he looked at me. It was such a gentle look that nearly melted my nervousness away.“I thought you were cute to admit it.”“What, cute? That’s just disappointing.”“Let me finish.” He scolded. “I also thought you were bold to do something that seemed so out of character for you. I was a bit annoyed that the lady, Lizzie, I later learned her name, had taken you out and brought you back in such a vulnerable state.”My lips widened in a silly smile as I realized he had cared even back then.“Though you are my personal assistant, I realized I did not know much about you because you rarely spoke about your personal matters. A part of me wanted t
The lipstick tube glided across my lips one final time as I spread the dark red hue evenly on my top and bottom lip. I smiled into the mirror as I applied some perfume and smoothened out my hair one more time.I had taken out my braids the previous weekend, so my hair was in a low afro bun that gathered just above the nape of my neck. It had taken some effort to pull the thick, long, curly strands into submission but it was worth it.Daniel was waiting outside. He had sent a message some minutes ago that he was at my apartment.I rubbed my hands together to stop them from shaking. The dress was black and silky, with an asymmetrical neck and bell sleeves. It was simple yet stunning. A pair of gold earrings, watch and heels complimented the outfit.I grabbed my black purse and phone. I was ready. After a deep breath, I opened the door and stepped into the hallway.My breath hitched in my throat at the sight of Daniel who stood about three steps away. He wore a snug black turtleneck an
Tuesday 24th May, 2016After the CEO’s general meeting, I remained numb in my seat until the hall was empty. I was startled when I felt someone tap my shoulder. It was Melody.“Are you okay?” Her eyes were full of concern.I forced a smile and nodded even though I felt horrible.“No, you’re not.” She grabbed my shoulder and pulled me in for a side hug. I lay my head on her shoulder, closed my eyes and sighed.“Whoever put that up on the forum is just a jerk who doesn’t know what they are talking about. Besides, no one really knows anything they are all just speculating. Just don’t worry about those gossips.”“I just hate this.”“I know. You both have a right to your private lives and you are both adults.”I raised my head and looked at her.“So, you don’t care if anything is going on?”She gripped my shoulders.“In all honesty, I think you’re a smart woman who knows what she is doing.”“I don’t always feel smart,” I sighed.“Listen, Eni. People have the right to fall in love, you don’
BONUS CHAPTERDANIEL (CEO)Wednesday 4th May, 2016Daniel stared at the woman who stood before him. Why, after so many years did she decide to show up at that very moment? “What are you doing here, Claire?” He asked as he suddenly felt very tired. He wished Eniola had not left. He had tried to communicate his plea for her to stay with his eyes but she had dashed off like hot coals of fire were under her feet. She barely even looked at him after Claire arrived. “I told you, sweetheart. I heard about what happened and I simply had to get here immediately,” Claire said. “Can you cut it out with the terms of endearment. We both know I don’t mean anything to you. As you can see, I am fine. Thanks for your visit," he said curtly as he stood up. Claire sighed and waved her manicured fingers in the air. “Daniel, please. It's been years. Are you still bitter about it?” Daniel scoffed.Bitter? He was freaking livid! He couldn't believe that she didn't understand.“I wore my heart on my s