Derek is our dashing and successful bachelor. His life seems perfect—he’s wealthy, runs a thriving business, and is the most eligible bachelor in town. But beneath the surface, Derek is dealing with heartbreak, family pressures, and the complicated emotions of new love interests. Let’s read a story that fill with romance, drama, and personal growth!
The Bachelor – Triangle Love Story
Derek, at 26, is a successful businessman focused on building his wine company to be the best in Africa. His life takes an unexpected turn when his parents start pressuring him to settle down, and his ex-fiancée’s betrayal still haunts him. Enter Beverly, a smart and beautiful woman who saves Derek from a near-fatal accident. Their paths cross again when she becomes his personal assistant. Derek is immediately drawn to her, but his life gets more complicated with the return of his old flame, Eva, and the presence of Beverly’s long-time friend and potential rival, Kelvin. Amidst business deals, personal conflicts, and emotional rollercoasters, Derek must face his feelings and make the right choices.
Author: Nanoh
Episode 1 : Struggle with Family Expectations and Ambitions
“So how was your date with Julian go”
My mum asked as she served me my breakfast of fried rice and salad, my favorite..
I always pove having breakfast with my parents whenever I come visiting during the weekends..I love spending my weekends with my mum and dad..but most importantly I visit cause of mum’s food.
But this weekends visit has been bitter sweet for me…basically because she’s been nagging me to death to get married…I pretended as though I didnt hear her as I fixed my eyes and concentration to a video I was watching on youtube ..
“didn’t you hear me the first time or should I repeat myself derek”.
She said authoritatively though in a calm tune.
“I heard you the first time mum”.
I answered absent mindedly still watching the video…
“What did I tell you about table manners derek”.
A voice that sounded pike my dads’ …I raised my face only to see my dad that had been away on a week business trip standing in his pyjamas..
“Pops”.
I said heartily as moved over to his side to give him a warm hug..
“My boy…my boy”.
he said happily as we hugged eachother.
My dad was not just a father figure to me…he was my mentor, my adviser and my bestfriend.
I was labeled the daddies boy by my other siblings as I always stuck to my dad since I was little.
“How was your trip dad”.
I asked as I savoured my breakfast.
“It was good, Hmmm, I heard through the news during my trip to the US that you proposed a partnership with DON PABLO wine company in Spain,the biggest in Europe…do you think they would accept your proposal” he asked curiously..
“Well dad you once told me that every great journey starts with a step…and no mountain is unsurmountable..so I took my chances…besides I got nothing to lose”.
I answered confidently.
If i’ve learnt anything from my dad it would be his courage, confidence and lion approach to any difficult task.
“Thats my boy,the real son of his father”.
My father said proudly.
“Ok,enough of the business talk, honey”.
my mum said as she looked at my dad tenderly.
“Help me talk to this your son, I have been trying for the past seven months since the strange cancellation of his weeding with sandra to get him settle down with a decent working class lady but he has constantly made jest of the whole thing”.
She lamented as she took a class of water and continued as my dad listened attentively.
“Can you imagine that I have set him up with Governor iduma’s last daughter Toyin,who is a barrister..senetor idris’s daughter who is a neurosurgeon and Senator Baker’s daughter who is a pharmacist but this naughty boy of yours ‘claimed ‘ they didn’t met his fancy, can you imagine”..
She said obviously annoyed.
“What do you have to say about this son”.
My dad asked.
“Well first of all, am not fifty years old am just 26 and secondly I have no plans for now to get married..maybe 3 to 5 years from now I would consider it..because I wanna put all my focus and time to building my wine company to be the best in Africa, thats my answered dad”.
I said getting up from the table.
“I gotta go mum and dad,am already late for work”.
I said as I kissed my mum on the cheek.
“Cheer up mum,you are a grandma of 6”.
I teased her..she smiled.
“Silly boy,drive safe honey”.
She said from behind as I made my way to the door.
At around 3:30pm I was already at my mansion, very tired , the days work wes very tedious ,as I had to go through a mountain of documents and files to sign or approve them.
“Damn , running a company ain’t childsplay” I said as I walked up the stairs.
And into my room..I fell facedown on the bed and doze off.
I woke up few hours later to my phone ringing non stop..I answered the phone still half asleep.
“Yeah,.xup bruh “I said as I heard a familiar voice on the other line..it was dave…I could also hear some loud music playing at the background…
“We are already at the club man, where you at”dave asked.
On hearing this I got up from bed instantly.
My friends and I had made it a tradition to always chill out in our favorite club after the days work..this was a thing they initiated to help me get over sandra’s betrayal.
“I would be there in 30mins time.
I said and hung up.
Looking at the clock is was already 9:30pm.
“Damn ” I cursed under my breath.
I took a quick shower ,put on a kelvin plein black polo and leather jacket , a black trouser…to me black was the real deal.
I looked at the mirror,I was satisfied with I saw.
Their was a reason I was called the most eligible bachelor in lekky..i got the looks ,the physique and most importantly I got the money..I wore my $50k rolex watch and drove off in my ferrari.
I got to the club five minutes earlier and went straight to the VIP section of the club where we normally chill out.
From where we sat ,we could see whoever that comes in or go out of the club.
Around 3am Sandra walked in with a dude…I wouldn’t have known had it not been micheal who annouced it to my hearing.
“Is that not sandra” he asked.
I raised my head and saw her in the arms of her partner in crime.
I felt a sharp pain in my heart ,the pain I buried deep down in my heart started rushing out to the surface.
I felt the same pain I felt seven months ago.
I didnt say anything as I just signaled to the waiter to bring more wine…my friends stared at me as though I was about to jump off the ledge.
I drank like never before.
“ain’t you taking too much D” jude asked..
“Am fine man”I answered.
I took the last glass and stood up walking to where Sandra and her lover sat.
Immediately save rushed and stood in front of me. “Whatever you plan on doing,please dont” he pleaded.
“Get out of my way dave” I said as I shoved him aside.
“Hi sandra” I said when I got to their table.
Before she or anyone could say anything ,I shoved her from seat, pulled her to my arms and kissed her fiercely …she tried to push me off but I was too much for her.
Few seconds into the kiss, a stronger arm pulled me off of her and gave a punch on the face…I hit him back and we started fighting..
I didnt care that we were been filmed I just wanted to teach the son-of-a-bitch a lesson and I did before the bouncers came and through us out of the club.
“This ain’t over bitch” the guy cursed and drove off leaving Sandra behind.
“What the fuck is wrong with you man,congratulations ,you are allover every social media outlet” save said and drove off angrily with his girlfriend..
“Like I care” I said and drove off.
Episode 2 : A Heroic Act
Few minutes into the road I started feeling light headed and dizzy..I didnt know if its from the fight or the reaction of all the bottles of wine I gulped down my throat at the club..but all I knew was that my eyes were shutting.
I shone my head trying to clear my head but had little or no help at all.
A mind was telling me to park at one side of the road and take a quick nap but another reminded me of my appointments at the office 7am that morning plus I had a meeting that I cant miss for anything in the world..so I shook my head harder and continued my journey back home…few minutes later I was already fast asleep while my car obviously drove it self.
I didnt know what happened later on as I heard a deafening bump and hit my head hard on the steering wheel and fell unconscious.
I had hit an Arab tractor that was parked at the roadside.
Thirty minutes or there about I regained consciousness though heavy smokes was already coming out of the burnet and into the car..I saw a flicker of light lit in the engine area and instantly my heart fell into my stomach …..”oh my God” I said as fear griped me.
I searched for my phone but couldn’t find it…for some strange reasons the door pf the ferrari refused to open and the windscreen refused to wind down…”what is happening” I panicked.
“Is this how its all gonna end”.
“Is this am gonna end”.
Tears started running down my face as I thought about my parents especially my sweet mum.
My death will definately make the News headlines today “The billionaire bachelor burnt to death in his own ferrari”.
“What an irony of life” I whispered to myself.
The fire was getting pretty intense so was the smokes coming inside the car…I was almost choked to death about to give up hope of been saved when i heard a hard bang on the windscreen…i opened my eyes weakly and saw a beautiful lady hitting the windscreen with an iron bar.
I lost consciousness again as I blacked out and didnt know what happened afterwards.
I woke up hours later on an oxygen at a private ward in the University of Lagos federal hospital… where my parents and friends sat beside me all wearing a worried look.
“Am I dead” was what I could say when I regained my consciousness.
“Thank God, he’s awake” my mum screamed almost pulling down the entire hospital with her voice.
The doctors and the nurses rushed in thinking that it was an emergency.
“Where is she” I asked as I couldn’t see the lady that rescued me in the room.
“You mean the lady that saved your ass from been burnt to ashes” dave hit back…still obviously annoyed with what I did at the club.
“Yeah,” I answered back.
“She left few minutes after we got here” my dad said.
“Did you at least got her contacts” I asked anxiously as I needed to thank her personally.
“Noo she didnt give us her name but made mention that she was a final year student of Unilag”…my dad said.
“Could you imagine that she turned down a little token of 100k you father gave her as a thank you gift for saving your life , …i didnt know such ladies still exists in this our Nigeria” my mum said shaking her head.
We were still talking when the doctor came in again to inform us that I would be discharged in three days time as I would have to stay in the hospital two more days for observation.
On Monday morning I was already at my mansion preparing for work…I had a mountain load of paper work to go through and some important meetings to attend…so basically today’s gonna be horrible ,probably wouldn’t get time for clubbing today.
I put on my Red givenchy suit and an Italian leather-skin shoes.
“You look good man” I said smiling to my self at the mirror ….i left a few seconds later.
On my way to the office I stopped at an intersection as the traffic light shone red.
I saw a pretty lady pass in the front…she really looked like the girl that saved me..so when we were free to drive I had to drive slowly pass where she stood waiting for a taxi.
It was really her…I mean how could I even forget her face…she was really beautiful.
I parked my car a few yards from where she stood…got down from the car stretched to my full length and put on my Mr nice guy smile…
“Hi…am Derek… do you remember me”…I said trying to make her look at my face but she was busy looking at the road..my ego was badly bruised…no lady has treated me like that ever.
She reluctantly returned my greetings.
“Hi…I remember you …you were the guy I saved from the fire…thankfully you are alive “….she finally said.
“But I gotta go now…i have to be somewhere ASAP…she said as she flagged down a taxi.
” let me give you a ride at least…”I called behind her.
She turned and I thought she would take me up on my offer.
“Thanks but no thanks”…she said and entered the taxi.
I just stood there with hands in my pocket…amazed that I can actually be snubed by a lady.
Few minutes later I was already at the office..obviously late as my secretary kept calling me non stop.
“Bring them in one at a time”…I told my secretary as I entered my office.
I had an interview to conduct with our new IT student…I wanted to know them personally…that has always been my policy with any individual that works in my company.
“Call in the next person, the last person I hope”…I told the guy that I just interviewed.
The next person that came in was a suprise and shoker to me..I didnt know if it was fate or coincidence but the lady that saved me from the fire incident,that I saw this morning was the same lady standing before me in my very office…I had to stand up from my seat and sat on my table…
“I’ll be damned” I said as I stared at her…she was obviously suprised and shocked but did well to keep it together.
Episode 3 : Sparks Fly
I looked through the documents she presented for her interview ,I must admit i was very impressed….4.5GP in her 4yrs in the university,that is an insane performance …she is well on her way to graduate with distinction if not the best graduating student.
“Well Beverly, beautiful name u got there, am impressed with what am seeing here ,but I have one question though, if u get it right ,I will give u the job of my P.A which will be yours even after u graduate.
That is an official automatic Employment…with pay grade of level 8, an official car and a pent house….. though it will be official after u graduate….buy only if u answer my question honestly and truthfully. .” I concluded giving her a daring stare.
“Am all ears sir” she said.
” alright then, if u knew that I was the CEO of this company , would u have treated at the bus stop… ” I said smiling devilishly.
I was expecting her to give me the normal Nigerian girl answer that would save her any embarrassment and secure her the job but I was grossly disappointed, because her answer was that of a non apologetic feminist ….strong willed lady.
“With all due respect sir, I wouldn’t have treated u any differently. I mean u practically undressed me with ur eyes..it was irritating and profoundly annoying”. ..she said boldly.
At this point I was terribly embarrassed cus she caught me off guard. I didnt really thought that she noticed it back, or if she still notice now…cus ever since she came into my office,I’ve tried so hard to keep my eyes from strolling down her insane figure.
“My bad, I apologize. ..I didnt mean to stare” I lied.
Who was I kidding ,I mean to stare,its ur fault u look so damn gorgeous. ..I thought to myself.
“Well, congratulations, Beverly ….u are now my personal assistant…with effect immediately”..i said grinning.
“Here, give this to the secretary, on ur way out ,she will update u on my schedules …and show u,ur office..I said as I handed her a file and her documents.
I could see the shock and suprise in her face as her countenance changed …she never expected it.
“Oh my God…i…i….cant believe it…thank you sir..” she stammers as tears ran down her cheeks.
“You deserve it, I will make do on my promises…” I said as she took the files and left the office.
“Come on in” I said to whoever that was knocking on the door of my office.
“Good afternoon sir…Beverly greeted as she walked in into my office.
Damn, she smelled and looked good….as always…I said under my breath.
“What can I do u for, Beverly”,I asked.
“Sir, three mails just came in now..all three bearing foreign address..”
On hearing this I stood up from my seat.
“Can I have those I said” as I collected the mails from Beverly.
“You may go”…I said as Beverly left the office.
I have been expecting this mail for the past three weeks, be it a congratulation or a rejection. ..I wanted to know ,atleast my proposals were read and considered.
I sat down slowly ,and started going through the mail…as my heart was beating louder than my primary school bell….I honestly wanted my proposals to be accepted…as it is a chance for my company to enter Europe and conquer it as I have done so well in African continent.
“Woooooo!!!!…yes! Yes!! Yes!!!…” I screamed on top of my voice as Beverly rushed into my office.
“Are u alright sir” she said wearing a worried face as she bashed into my office.
“Oh am more than ok..” I said as I rushed to where she was standing and draw her into my arms for a hug,suprisingly she didnt push me off…
“We did it, B, you told me not to lose hope that my proposals was too good to be turned down. ….you believed in me…thank you” I whispered into her ears.
“Your welcome sir,so can u let go now, cus I cant breath, with you holding me so tight”.
“Oh sorry…I didnt mean to…” I said as I let her out of my arms.
” we got all the three contracts…from the Spanish government, from Belgium, and from Germany.
“And also I was nominated for the award of All African Entrepreneurs Of the Year (AAEOY)…the award ceremonies will be taking place in Madrid this Sunday so I believe you have an international passport…”
I asked inquisitively.
“No I dont have for now, and why do I need one now,sir”….she asked.
“Well, for starters ,as my PA ….u are like my wallet,wherever I go, you go…simple as that. ….so get ready Beverly, we will travel the world pretty much before the end of your IT….” I said smiling.
“Ok sir”.
“Well get ur things ready, my secretary will get u an international passport by tomorrow or next, cus by Thursday we will be live in Madrid for the award and the official signing of the contracts. …” I said.
” you may go”…
“I will see u guys at our usual spot later this evening after i’hv seen my parents about the good news..” I said to Tony on the phone as I made my way to the parking lot.
The day had gone so well, My proposal was approved, and I got myself a gorgeous PA..It couldn’t get any better..I smiled sheepishly as I drove out of the company.
As I was stuck in traffic, I saw my PA standing on her usual spot on the bus-stop.
“I might have to reconsider giving her the company car now than waiting till she graduate,after all its just few months to her graduation….”I said to my self.
I was still deliberating within myself when a black SUV pulled over in front of her and a guy in his late twenties came down from the car and to my utter suprise and chagrin my PA jumped up and hugged him.
“That does it” I said to myself as I drove off.
My friends and I have two favorite spots,one was the sleek lounge ,and Genesis Eatery .. but today we needed a spot where there is less noise and more calm so drove to Genesis.
“Wait let me get this straight, you are saying that since u got “ur” PA ,all the proposals and contracts that had been overdue just started getting approval one by one” Tony asked solemnly.
And I nodded “damn right”.
“My concern is this, is the babe beautiful, “jack asked ,as we all burst into laughter.
I was about to answer his question, when I saw my PA being escorted inside the eatery with the same SUV guy.
“Well,speak of the devil” I said as I pointed to my friends to where they were seated.
“Wow, you didnt say she was a beauty goddess…jack said jaw dropped as he stared at her.
“Quit staring guys,” I said to them ..
“I cant help it man,you mean u stare at this face everyday..” Stefan said.
“Are we going to the club or what” I asked as I rose up from where I sat.
The exit door was just across there table so obviously our eyes locked, I saw the look of suprise in her eyes, but she looked away almost immediately. ….
” Damn, those eyes” I said to myself as I looked away.
Episode 4 : Old Flames Reignite
Our plane took off as early as 7am on thursday morning. We landed around 4pm in madrid..my PA, secretary, and two other senior members of my board and i came to this trip,as the contract and partnership deal with Memorata group of companies will be officially signed on friday morning…
An envoy from the company picked us from the airport and escorted us to a beautiful villa where we were lodged.
I went straight to my room which was just across Beverly’s room..i removed all my cloths except for my trouser as I laid on the bed obviously exhausted from the trip but mainly I wanted to be left alone, alot of things were going on my mind.
It has been 5 years since I last came to Madrid, it held alot of painful memories for me..if not for business reasons, Spain was the last place I will ever travel to…ever again.
I was still deep in thoughts when I heard a knock on the door.
“Yes come on in” I said still faced down on the bed.
“Sir” Beverly said as she walked inside the room.
“Oh my God,am sorry sir, I didnt mean to walk in on u like this ” she said as she turned around and backed me.
I smiled..
“I am not totally naked, just shirtless” I said as looked around for my shirt..unfortunately for beverly my shirt was on a couch in front of her..
This time around I laughed.
“Can u hand me my shirt pls”…I asked smiling devilishly.
“Shit” I heard her curse under her breath..she turned around and handed me my shirt , this time our eyes met and just then I could hear the walls I built around my heart cracking bit by bit.
It took all the will power I had to pin me where I was standing, because all I wanted at that moment was to feel the thirst of her lips…to feel her perfect face in my hands.
We staired at eacheach for almost five minutes and I could swear she can feel the chemistry too.
I was saved by a knock on the door..thank God.
“Am coming” I called out to whoever that was at the door.
“I believe u came here to inform me that I have some visitors ” I said…as she nodded.
For some weird reasons I was nervous of meeting the CEO of the biggest wine company in the world ,who happens to be the son of the Spanish president.
My hands were shaking so much so that I was struggling to button my shirt.
I didnt know that beverly noticed, so she came close and held my hands.
“Let me help you sir” she said as she started buttoning my shirt.
She was incredibly close that I could perceive the aromatic scent of her cologne ….she smelled so good,like snack.
“Am done sir” she said solmnely.
“I dont know if this will help, but u are the smartest person i know..you always know the right words to use,..so there is no need to be anxious or nervous to meet the president son, just see him as a normal business partner…..you’ve got this” she said and gave me that smile that drives me nut…
“Am so lucky to have u beverly, shall we” I said as we left the room.
“Mr Derek “.the visitor called out as he saw me walk in into the main room.
“Am always excited to see a fellow young blood on the forefront of the business world. .” He said as he stretched out his hand for a handshake,while wearing a genuine smiling face.
“Mr Santiago, its an honour to meet u in person” I said as I shoke his hand.
“Oh please ,just call me Pedro, Santiago sounds older than I look” he joked as we all burst into laughter.
I introduced him and his associate to my board member that came on the trip.
“And finally this is my PA Beverly”..I said as I pointed at her.
“aren’t u a damsel,senorita ” he said as he took her hand and kissed it.
He held her hands as he stared into deep her eyes.
The awkward silence in the room was becoming deafening that I had to save the day.
“Where are my manners,pls pedro ,care for a drink”I said as I turned to one of the female house keeps,
“Be a darling and get Pedro a glass of scotch” I said.
“don’t worry, i’ve got it” beverly said as she let her self free from pedro’s grip.
I smiled, smart girl.
“Oh dont worry amigo,am only here to inform you in person,that contract signing.
Has been shifted to tomorrow night, my father wants to be present ,i believe he wants to see you in person..he was pretty impressed with your proposal”Pedro said.
“Wow,it really is an honour” I said happily.
“Can I have a moment with you beverly” Pedro asked…as he went to where she stood near the wine cabinet,..
I pretended not to care about whatever there were discussing so I ordered one of the chef in the villa to prepare me something to eat.
Pedro came to where I sat and said.
“Apparently I need ur permission to go watch a movie with ur PA..she said u wouldn’t agree..”
I looked at my PA who was standing behind him ,as she shook her head in disapproval , actually she was hoping I would turn him down but I was thinking about my company and the contracts and how I dont want anything to disrupt it not evening beverly dislike for Pedro, so I made a rather selfish decision,I gave him my consent.
“I will pick u up by 12pm tomorrow ” Pedro said wearing his Mr coolguy smile that was obviously his ACE card.
“Sure” beverly replied forcing a smile.
I could sense she wasnt happy with my decision but she gotta understand that the company comes first.
I saw Pedro off as him and his associate drove off.
My secretary and two board members were staying in a different building inside the villa,while beverly and I stayed in another together.
“You’ve been awfully quiet beverly” I asked in a mouthful of spaghetti.
I have been the one talking since we came to the dining…she no longer smile to my jokes or replied my remarks.
“Are u mad that I approved of ur date with pedro” I asked…..this time she replied.
“No, am happy, as a matter of fact, I am ecstatic” ….she replied obviously mad.
“What for,you should be happy, I mean….not every girl gets to be asked out by a president’s son” I said nonchalantly.
She looked at me suprised,like she was disappointed with me.
“Wow, and here I thought you were different, if you dont mind sir, I would like to go back to my room” she said and left angrily.
It took about five minutes for what she said to sink in.
“Oh my God,what did I just do”.
I jumped down from the dinner and went straight to her room..on getting to her door,I thought of knocking, or evening calling her out by exercising my power as her boss but I might aggravate things…after all I was the one that told her to not be formal with me here since we are not at the company….
I just realised that I have been nothing but a jerk since Pedro came here..I wanted so bad to apologize but I didnt know how to do that..
“Just give her some space,she will come around” I said to myself as I left her door.
I deliberately sat on the main room waiting , maybe beverly will come out of her room,maybe to grab something from the kitchen, but she didnt show..so I went to bed afterwards.
I woke up by 9am the following day,obviously hungover from previous night heavy drinking…I hate drinking alone.
And obviously no one cared enough to wake me.
I rushed to the shower, I actually had an impromptu meeting with my staff this morning before going off to the president villa this night.
Not once during the meeting did beverly look me in the face ,even though we sat across eachother…sir had been incredibly formal and strictly professional since yesterday incident with Pedro…..she no longer laugh to my silly jokes or even smile at my remarks..I miss those dimples..
Its what i get for being a jerk.
It wasnt up to thirty minutes after the meeting that Pedro came to pick up beverly for their date.
He was actually an hour early..he looked really excited.
I watched as Pedro took her hand as he led her out to the compound.
“Like I care” I said to myself as I went to change in my room…even I have somewhere to go.
A convoy from the government house came in the evening and carried us to the president villa.
We had a very good dinner…I got to officially sign my contract, I also got to meet the presidents family.
“Its really an honour and a pleasure,having been invited into ur home, ur excellency ” I said humbly.
“Oh amigo, the pleasure is all mine”he said as he got off from the dinner.
“Take a walk with me, Derek…”.he requested as I stood up immediately.
Coming back from my walk that was cut short by a call of duty with the president..I heard two voices laughing around the garden area in the compound, one voices sounding familiar. …so I went to check it out.
It was Beverly and Pedro discussing something that was obviously funny,cause i’ve never seen her so happy….and there and then he kissed her…
I looked away and left.
I thought this trip couldn’t get any worse than its already is for me,but I was wrong.
The following day which happened to be the award night.
Beverly and I didnt talk to eachother ,unless its about business or the company,suffice to say,she was been very formal with me.
At the gala that night, Pedro was there,actually he was nominated for three awards, European youngest entrepreneur of the year EYEOY, World youngest entrepreneur of the year WYEOY,and finally European male entrepreneur of the year EMEOY,…at just 24..and he scooped them all…
I on the other hand won the two awards I was nominated for…AYEOY, and AEOY…which was becoming like a norm rather than a competition, winning it three times in a row.
I wanted real competition like Pedro Santiago.
I was still deep in though when Pedro came to our table.
“Congrats Derek on ur award,” he said.
“Same here” I said.
“Mind if I steal ur PA for a minute”….he said as he whisked her away,though not far away from out table.
I watched as he brought, out a fancy little box,that normally houses an engagement or weeding ring…at panicked.
“What the hell” I said as I stood up.
Thankfully he brought out a diamond necklace and put it on beverly’s neck and kissed her in front of everyone, and like typical whites they were clapping and cheering them.
When we got to the villa,I went straight to the wine cabinet, my body was in dare need of some spirits.
I was still drinking when beverly came out to grab a bottle of of water.
“Did you know that,that diamond cost ten thousand USD, I believe you know its worth in our currency..I said, and this point she turned around to face me.
“Do you love him” I asked her.
“With all due respect sir, my personal life is non of your concern..” she said boldly….she was as bold as they come..one of the qualities I love about her..
“Or are you one of those gold diggers that pawns off rich guys,that show interest ” I said nonchalantly.
This time around she free closer to where I sat in the cabinet.
“Excuse me, what is that suppose to mean”…she asked obviously hurt by my words…but I continued to throw insult.
” don’t tell me, you gave up ur pussy for that diamond” I said mockingly.
At this point I hit a nerve..I was still drunk and laughing when a dirty slap landed on my left cheek.
“How dare you,you don’t know anything about me” she said angrily as tears ran down her cheeks..as she stormed out to her room.
Episode 5 : Jealousy and Suspicion
We touch down in Nigeria at around 1pm on Sunday afternoon.
The company cars were already waiting at the airport to take each and everyone of my staff to our destination, but beverly took a cap and left …..since after yesterdays incident,it seemed she doesnt want to be in the same space as me.
I went straight to my mums and dads, I had promised that I would always come visit during weekends, although today was Sunday and a new week, I just wanted to see my favorite girl in the world,my mum, and maybe eat some nice Sunday rice.
“Oh, my darling boy, is back” my mum screamed as she left the food she was starving at the dinning,and rushed to where I was standing arms wide and gave me some motherly love.
Luckily for me,I came in just on time for Sunday lunch.
“My man crush is back ” my kid sister Stephanie said as she came around and gave me a warm hug.
“Oh, steph honey, am so sorry I couldn’t make it to ur graduation in New York.
I said as I hugged her.
She is my best friend, and sometimes my relationship advicer.
I never thought I would ever miss her graduation for anything in the world, but it just happened that the Spain trip coincided with her graduation..
“We all watched the contract signing on BBC evening News, am proud of you honey,congratulations” she said happily.
She was always against talking while eating but today she couldn’t contain her joy.
“So who was that lady on red gown, standing beside you,during the contract signing, she looked really gorgeous ” Stephanie asked curiously …
“She’s my PA” I said as I eat my salad.
“Derek,you didnt tell us that your PA was a woman” my mum asked suprisingly.
I didnt tell my parents that my PA was a lady because I know they would over react as they are doing now.
Prior to Beverlys appointment, I was still nursing a broken heart, so most times than not, my parents walks up on me making out with different women at my house, they even sent me to one of her friends for counseling.
I didnt take my ex betrayal well so, they were worried that women will always be my Achilles heel…and they advised against me having female secretary or PA because they feared it may affect my work but they were so wrong…I was the best because I don’t mix business with pleasure. ….business stays at the office, pleasures and lots of it stays outside the company.
“I know what you guys are thinking,but mum,dad, she is not just any lady…she is the lady that saved me from the fire accident…” I said as I showed them her pictures in my phone.
“Oh, you dont say” my mum said very shocked as she as stared at her pictures.
“What a small world “my dad chipped in.
“She looks different ,and very classy” my mum continued.
“It was just a coincidence,that she happened to apply for her IT in my fompany” I said defending myself,before they would read any more meaning to it,than its already is…
“Invite her over on Sunday,we never got to properly thanked her for saving your life” my mum requested.
“No way, I dont see that happening, ever” I said sadly.
“Why?, did something happen between you two in spain” my sis asked throwing me a suspicious look.
She’s known me so well,so much so that she knows when something is wrong.
“Yes something happened,”I admitted.
“But its not what you think though..”I said as I saw all the suspicious eyes glaring at me at the dinning.
” I hurt her,pretty bad” I said finally.
This made my mum freak out.
“How many times have I told you Derek,that a man that lays a hand on any lady, no matter what is a he-goat, a beast. ….Nzediego’s men are not known as woman beater” my mum boiled angrily.
She wouldnt even allow me defend my self.
“Allow,the young man defend himself honey” my dad said,interrupting her.
“Thanks,dad”..I said.
“Mum,I didnt hit her,I would never do that,you know me ,Ma” I said.
“Oh thank God” my mum said feeling very relieved.
“But i did say some terrible things to her”…I said as I narrated everything that happened between me and beverly to them….while they listened attentively.
“Oh my God, you did not just say those things to her” Stephanie said really shocked.
“I did, and I wouldnt blame her, if she hands in her resignation letter tomorrow ” I said sadly.
I enjoyed her working for me,not only because of her insane beauty but because she was smart, intelligent and very thoughtful lady…I will hate losing her and her services.
“Oh son, you went to far, you just crossed the line” my mum said.
“Well if its any consolation, I dont think she will resign,if anything you said about her is true,then she being a non repentant feminist, she will definately show up,if not for anything, but to finish her IT,that type of lady doesnt allow her personal life interfere her work life ” she said confidently. .
My sister is such a good judge of character….I hope she is right about this.
“Thanks sis” I said as I continued with my lunch.
“And for the record, I dont think its a coincidence for her working for you, I think its fate or even destiny” my mum said as she eat her chicken..
“Oh mum, come on, enough of the match making already” I said wearily but she continued.
“You never know, maybe she might end up being my daughter inlaw” my mum said chuckling.
At this point I laughed so hard that my ribs hurt.
“I never said I liked her,and even if I did which i dont, Pedro Santiago drools over her, and their is the SUV guy ,who I dont know his relationship with her…so mum this guys are ahead of me in the pecking order” I said.
“Did you just admit that you like her ” my sister asked coyly.
“I didnt say anything steph…allow me eat my lunch in peace” I said as I eat my lunch silently.
I came to work early on Monday morning, I had made up my mind to expect anything from beverly that day. I just pray she will report to work today..it was past 7:30.am and she is yet to report to my office,like she normally do every morning.
I called the secretary’s office, like ten times already but they said she hasn’t come to work.
“So much for a feminist ” I said dryly as I paced my office.
I was on the phone for the eleventh time when beverly walked in with some files.
“Am sorry am late sir,I was stuck in traffic” she said as she walked into my office.
“Its ok beverly, am just glad you showed up, I have a lot of things I wanna tell you, starting with apologizing” I said but I received a cold shoulder
“Sir, I think its better to focus on the company,rather than my personal life” she said coldly.
Ouch,that felt like a punch on the groin.
“Fare enough,what do you have for me..” I said as she handed me some files that needed my signatory.
I can take her strictness ,cold shoulders, as long as she reports to work everyday.
“There you go,”I said as I handed her the files.
“One more thing, email all my board members,tell then that we have an emergency meeting on Friday morning by 10” I said as she took the files and left my office.
During our board meeting I named my sister Stephanie Nzediego my chief financial officer CFO.
“She will be handling all the financial aspect of this company, starting on monday” I announced to the board,as they applauded her appointment.
I am so fortunate to get her to work for me…I mean she was on the top of her class in Yale university, New York.
Alot of company with higher paycheck wanted to poach her but ultimately she choose blood over money.
“Beverly will show you your office,I said to Stephanie as beverly took her out of the conference hall.
Its been over a month since our Spain trip debacle,but beverly hardly talks to me on a non formal ground like she use to” I lamented to my friends as I gulped down a glass of hennasey.
“If she obeys you like her boss, comes to work early, and is efficient with her work then I dont think you need anything from her again…” Tony said frankly.
“You guys dont understand, before the trip, we were friends…she even made me eat in the cafeteria once…she practically made me believe that the world is not all about Lamborghini’s and Ferrari’s …she is special” I didnt know when I said that last part.
“Oh Derek, son of Nzediego, how low have you fallen for this girl” Jason said mockingly. ..as they all burst into laughter.
“No I didnt”…I lied.
“Keep telling yourself that” frank said.
“Speak of the devil…is that not beverly” Tony said pointing at her as she made her way into sleek lounge.
“And I guess the guy with her is the SUV guy” Jason asked.
“What is she doing here, ” I asked very much suprised.
“To blow off some steam obviously ” frank said.
I watched jealously as the guy was allover her…she seemed uncomfortable and uneasy…but he didnt seem to notice.
He took her to the dance floor and they started dancing…and then he draw close and kissed her,but suprisingly she pushed him off slowly. …..and that,I was happy.
I sipped my drink as I watched them closely.
I watched as she left him and went and sat by herself.
“Pervert” Tony said as he hit my head.
“Am not, am just enjoying myself”…I said as I saw beverly getting up and heading at the door, with the SUV guy behind her.
“You could just tell her how much you like her…cause its becoming too obvious” frank said.
“I think I will call it a night”…. I said to the guys as I got up to leave.
“Come on men we just got here…its still 8pm…” Jason said.
“Goodnight guys ” I said as I made my way through the crowd of people at the club.
I drove out with the intention to go home but I saw myself going to the opposite direction…I was heading to beverly’s house.
I got her address from her resume` since a month ago…but I have not really had the courage to show up at her place unannounced and definately not now that she probably hates me but I needed to talk to her outside the office and even though I dont know how this will go ,its better than not doing anything.
I got to her apartment and immediately wanted to go back but….
“Just knock on the damn door derek” I said to myself….I hated feeling so vulnerable.
I knocked on her door like three times before she came out.
“Hey” I said nervously not knowing how she would react to this..
“What are you doing here sir” she asked suprised.
“I just want us to talk, you have not given me a chance of the day…so I decided to pay you a visit” I said.
” we have nothing to discuss” she said as she wanted to close the door.
I held the door with my hand.
“Pls just hear me out” I pleaded.
At this point she stepped aside and invited me in…it was a nice apartment she had…
I sat on one of the sofa’s as she offered me a drink.
“Am so sorry, for everything that happened in Spain…..everything I said, everything I did, am just so sorry “I apologized sincerely.
“Apology accepted ” she replied and then smiled…how much I missed those smiles.
“Why did you do what you did” she asked.
“I never really told you I was born and brought up in Spain…I schooled there, from my kindergarten to college..and the first girl I loved was a Mexican…she was so beautiful …..and so those other guys thought…long story short,she cheated on me with a mayor’s son…
And back here in Nigeria my first fiancee cheated on me with a son of a senator …so I just had this misconstructed feelings about women…that they all want the same thing, money”…I said finally.
“Wow, am sorry, i dont blame you,you’ve went through a lot”…she said.
“Yea, you could say that”…I replied.
I was so happy we have passed our differences….she was so easy to talk to…and she was a great listener.
“But that wasn’t the only reason you said all those things to me…you sounded like you were hurt” she said curiously staring at me with those beautiful eyes…I couldn’t lie any longer so I admitted my worst feelings.
“I was jealous..I was so jealous that I almost lost my mind” I confessed.
She laughed so much that I thought she was mocking me.
“You, jealous. …I doubt that” she said still laughing as she rose up to put down her noodles from the the gas.
I rose up to where I sat and walked straight behind her…she didnt see me coming…before she could turn I was already infront of her.
“What have you done to me, I cant think straight when am around you,….you just take my breath away beverly….and seeing you in the arms of other guys …it hurts like hell” I said from my heart.
She was speechless…and I have a feeling she feels something for me…and their was one way to find out…so i draw closer to her and kissed her and I loved it….but she didnt push me away…as a matter of fact she kissed me back…and then pushed me away slowing.
“I cant do this” she said…