Cassandra season 2 continuity

Complete season 1

Episode 1 and 2

Episode 3

Nora’s side of the story;
As narrated by Nora

Seeing a young man who introduced himself as Val that fateful January afternoon, my
mind quickly raced towards David. I instantly had the fear that he was in grave danger. And just like I feared, the young man brought some very bad news to me. He told me that David was being detained by the police, which really got me anxious but then what really got me very angry was the annoying request that I should follow him to the station to see David.

Of course I snapped. The request left me totally angry. I couldn’t believe David could have the guts to make such a request as if I was his wife or a part of his life after making it very clear in the past that I was nothing but a bug in his life. Yes he tried to make peace with me quite alright but then he equally made it very clear that he was doing it for the sake of my baby and not for me. I don’t think you need to be a woman to know how painful all his actions has been to me. Nevertheless I still did my part by referring him to my cousin for legal help, thinking he would let me be, instead he sent the young man who introduced himself as Val to come and fetch me the instant he got arrested.

David really deserved all that was happening to him. He equally didn’t deserve any help from me. He needed to feel how it hurts being without a partner in time of need. He badly needed to be taught a lesson that life isn’t all about him.
A part of me wanted him to suffer but then a greater part of me couldn’t just let me back away. My conscience wouldn’t let me be and as soon as Val left, I dropped my little baby in my sister’s care and headed to the police station to see David.
Yes I still was in love with him no matter how hard I tried to deny the feelings. I really couldn’t stay to watch him suffer even though he deserved every bit of a thing happening to him.

In no time, I found myself standing before Val and David at the poli8ce station. I was nervous as ever because I hated the police for no reason. One look at David showed me a man who lost everything. I saw a man who was scared of losing his life. I saw a man who was scared of the future before him. I saw hopelessness in his eyes. I badly felt like holding and caressing him tightly but instead i stood my ground and smiled softly as he quickly got up with a smile of relief, hugging me tightly.

Of course I knew the hug he gave me wasn’t out 0f love but possibly out of gratefulness.

‘’oh Nora, thank you’’ he breathed in my ear.

——————————————————–

David’s point of view;
As narrated by DAVID

As soon as I saw Val return to the police station without Nora, I instantly felt empty. Of course I knew she had no reason to pity my condition or show up, nevertheless I had hoped on her good nature, thinking she would be forced to come with Val out of sympathy; but on seeing Val all alone, I realized that I hoped too much.

I felt like crying that moment. I felt like turning back the hands of time. I felt like correcting all the mistakes I did in the past but then it was already too late to hope on anything. All the remained in me were the prayers in my heart. I prayed for Cassandra to show up from anywhere she was hiding. I definitely was scared of spending even a single night in the police cell.

As Val and I were talking, I just didn’t know what made me bring up my head which really had been down since he showed up without Nora. I couldn’t believe my eyes as they rested on Nora who was standing unannounced before us.
All I could mutter was ‘’oh Nora, thank you’’ as I quickly hugged her with great passion.
———————–
However the joy of holding her in my arms was short-lived as an officer showed up that moment to take me to the cell.

I couldn’t help but wonder if that was the last hug I was ever going to share with Nora.

‘’just be strong’’ Nora whispered in my ear and believe me, her voice never left my head after that moment.

‘’dear Lord don’t let him hang for something he didn’t do. Yes David could be nasty and bad but he isn’t a murderer or a kidnapper’’ I heard Nora softly pray for me as tears slowly dropped from my eyes.

Episode 4

Nora’s side of the story;
As narrated by Nora

‘’officer please I just got here, just give us five minutes to talk’’ I quickly begged the officer who came to lead David away. Surprisingly the officer acknowledged my plea without any hesitation, giving David and I the opportunity to talk.

‘’so what exactly do you want me to do for you? Please don’t ask for the impossible’’ I quickly asked David who was too emotional to talk. He slowly composed himself, breathing deeply.
I really couldn’t help but weep in my heart as I saw how Cassandra turned a good looking, strong and well doing man like David into a shadow of himself..
I quickly looked away to avoid letting my emotions take control of me once again.

‘’ I have no other family or friend in this town but you. Chinedu is yet to return from Christmas but then even if he is to be in town there isn’t much he can do for me. I just need you to take charge of my home, shops and belongings. Please I do know that I’m asking too much but please help me.’’ He slowly begged, watching me with fear in his eyes. I swallowed hard as I breathed deeply. Of course my presence really meant that I was willing to help him but perhaps he was yet to realize it. He was yet to see how much I still cared about him even though I hate admitting it.

‘’so how about money, food etc, I know you will need lots of them?’’ I asked softly, searching him with my eyes. He quickly nodded, reaching forward to hold my hand strongly.

‘’I promise if I get out of this, you will see a new me. Please forgive me Nora for all I did in the past’’ he begged passionately while Val silently watched us keenly.

Yes few months ago when I was suffering from the pain of child birth, I had prayed for David to suffer. I had prayed for things to get difficult for him. I had prayed for him to suffer the same pain I felt when he abandoned me, but seeing him now in such a pitiable condition, I couldn’t help but realize that he wasn’t the only one suffering; I too was feeling the pain much more than him even though I was wearing a brave look.

No matter all he did to me, he is still the love of my life and the father of my child.
‘’I will be looking forward to see you tomorrow. Please your food, presence and moral support is what I need the most’’ he begged as the police officer slowly led him to the cell.

‘’I guess we should start going now. Let’s get out of here’’ Val quickly said, tapping my shoulder. I nodded In agreement and together we headed out of the police station.

————————————————-
My head was filled with several thoughts as Val and I headed towards my house. I really was considering how to mix the job of caring for my little baby and caring for David who was locked up at the same time. David badly needed food, my presence and perhaps money. Moreover the job of taking care of his apartment and shops which I was yet to know their conditions was equally on me. There wasn’t any doubt I had a lot in my hands.
Few months ago, who would have known that I would end up playing the role of a wife to David in such circumstance?
…………..
‘’thanks for coming. You are really a very wonderful person. Not every woman will make this sacrifice’’ Val breathed, interrupting my thoughts. I smiled at him, breathing deeply.

‘’I guess you don’t know my story with him?’’ I asked curiously, he smiled and shrugged.

‘’I know a little. David told me stuffs about you before the police arrested him’’ he answered.

‘’but what exactly is your relationship with him?. I thought I knew all his friends but I guess I’m wrong’’ I breathed curiously. He smiled, saying nothing.

‘’anyway I’m sorry for being harsh on you earlier today. Seriously David did me a whole lot of wrongs. I made a mistake of getting pregnant for him, and he never for a moment stopped short of telling me that I wasn’t good enough for him. That really hurt my pride a lot. And when I finally managed to pull through on my own, he showed up after I gave birth to demand seeing his son. Tell me, what sort of love, could a man give a child he never wanted?’’. Seriously don’t be deceived by all he said at the police station. He merely said those words because he needed my help. David is very arrogant, selfish and ambitious’’ I opened up to Val who slowed down the car and stared at me curiously.

“” But why didn’t you fight for his love. Why did you allow the love of your life slip away so easily? Supposing you fought for him, perhaps he wouldn’t have been in this mess??”” he asked.

‘’that’s a very strong question and I hope you are not trying to blame me for the mess David is now in?. Men are used to blaming we women for everything and I won’t be surprised if you are now indirectly blaming me for his plight’’ I muttered suspiciously, forcing him to shrug defensively.
‘’ Anyway let me answer your question; You see it really isn’t the first time I’m facing such a question and yes I never fought for David’s love because I never believed in forcing myself on any man would make him love me. Instead it could only lead to perpetual abuse and agony from his hands in the end’’ I said with a deep smile, leaving him to ponder over my words.

———————————
I returned home to meet my sister and cousin angrily waiting for me. Of course they were very furious that I abandoned my son to attend to David.

Episode 5

Nora’s side of the story;
As narrated by Nora

–
The look my cousin and sister gave me as I walked into the apartment really made me very uncomfortable, nevertheless I forced out a smile, trying my best to appear calm.
‘’good evening dear brother, I never knew you were coming in today. I thought you told everyone that you will be coming over tomorrow?’’ I joyfully asked my cousin, sitting by his side. The frown on his face kind of increased, making me shift uneasily as I waited for him to say something.

‘’Nora tell me the reason you abandoned your baby to go after that silly man once again?. I guess what he did to you in the past didn’t teach you enough lesson huh?. By the way, why do you even want me to help him?” he asked angrily while my sister nodded in support. I shifted nervously once again, throwing a quick look at my sister for support which wasn’t forthcoming.

‘’David is innocent. I don’t have the mind to let him suffer for what he didn’t do. I have a conscience’’ I breathed slowly.

‘’A guy used you like a toy, dumped you, disrespected you, and disrespected your family. And you are here talking about conscience. What makes you think that he didn’t even commit the crime he is being accused of? Believe me, a guy like him can do anything to a lady’’ he said seriously, forcing me to hold his hand.

‘’why are you saying all these brother?, I thought you already promised to help?’’ I asked passionately.

‘’oh yes I’m going to help that b-----d but I’m just letting you know on time what you are getting into. That guy is just using you again like he always does’’ he said angrily. I looked down, unable to say a word.
I just wished that moment that he could feel how my heart throbbed quickly; I just wished he could have the slightest taste of how strongly I still felt for David notwithstanding all he did to me. Yes I knew some could term it foolish love or something much more, but then it was just as if David’s blood was on me. It was as if we shared a bond stronger than love.

I look a quick look at my little son who was sleeping peacefully on my sister’s laps. He was just the carbon copy of his father and I couldn’t help but pray that he doesn’t follow his father’s footsteps.

‘’dear sister, you really need to consider your feelings for this David. He used you when he wanted to satisfy his lust and disappeared afterwards. Now he needs you again and I bet he will disappear once he needs you no more’’ my sister quickly added.

‘’I’m helping him for my son’s sake and not because he deserved it. I’m not helping him because I want him back in my life. One day you will be a mother and you will understand’’ I replied my sister as my mind drifted back to the night David and I made love without any protection..
————————–

David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David

Sitting on a very wet corner of the crowed cell, I had time to think of my life, my mistakes and where fate led me. It dawned on me that love could mean many things. That love could never be fully defined.
Every individual has his own definition of love and following it the wrong way could lead one to an early grave, or end up in a condition similar to mine. I had Nora, a lady who loved me with all her body and soul but I chose to be greedier, I chose to go where my hand wasn’t supposed to be and ended up getting burnt.
Love has many faces, just like our destiny. It’s left for us to shape it;
Supposing I had focused all my attention and desires on Nora, I would have been the happiest man on earth, but I was deceived by fake beauty, fake charms, and fake sophistication.

‘’dear lord, I’m ready to make amends. Please I want to get out of here’’ I prayed.

———————-

Early the next day, Nora’s cousin showed up like he promised, I was led out of the cell to see him and I couldn’t help but be hopeful as I saw the young man, who stared at me with a faint smile on his face. I couldn’t help but wonder what he was thinking that moment and yes I really was ashamed to meet him under my present condition but i really had no choice than to accept his help.

‘’Mr. David before I start, just know that I’m helping you against my wish. My cousin just forced me into it and just like I told you in the past, she is like a sister to me.’’ He said quickly, avoiding my eyes.

‘’now I have talked to the officer in charge of this case and I’m very sorry to tell you that he refused letting you go on bail’’ he said quickly. My heart instantly froze.

‘’so that means, I will be here till who knows when?’’ I breathed with great fear.

‘’yes this is a very serious case but then the police are still confused on the charge to throw on you. The girl’s body hasn’t been found and so they are just keeping you against any eventuality. For now she is still declared missing. You know our country?. I don’t think the police are even willing to conduct a proper investigation because they don’t have the means to do so, even though they told me they are on it. You couldn’t have been here if not for the strong evidence Cassandra’s father tendered against you. I’m really surprised that they are yet to torture you into accepting being responsible for the girl’s disappearance’’ he said slowly.

‘’I get it, I’m not getting out’’ I breathed with resignation.

‘’There is still a way to get out of here. I spoke to the most superior officer in this station and he asked for three hundred thousand naira and an assurance that you will be reporting to the station first thing every morning. Secondly your properties will be searched and you must give them every necessary support they require when investigating the case’’ he slowly added

‘’what? Three hundred thousand naira!’’, I exclaimed with great shock. I was yet to pay my house rent, my shop rents and every other bills that needed paying every January. My account equally was on all time low at the end of the previous year. I just couldn’t help but realize that the two paths now before me was either heading to prison for a crime I knew nothing about or leaving the police station as a penniless man.

Nevertheless what I needed the most was my freedom and I was ready to pay any price for it.

Episode 6

Nora’s side of the story;
As narrated by Nora

It was already few minutes past ten in the morning when I was able to round up things and get set to visit David at the police station. My cousin however showed up the minute I was about leaving the house.

‘’hmmm, I see you prepared a delicious meal for your David?’’ he joked, eyeing the food flask with me. I breathed deeply and smiled.

‘’yes but I guess, I’m already late. I had to first take care of my little baby before heading to his apartment to pick up some of his belongings. That kind of delayed me’’ I explained as if he needed the explanation. He smiled and shrugged.

‘’you shouldn’t have to worry that much. Your David will be free very soon’’ he muttered softly, leaving me as curious as ever.

‘’really!, tell me is there any new development?’’ I asked.

‘’Yes the police are yet to build up a case against him, and so with my skills, I negotiated his freedom though it will cost him three hundred thousand naira’’ he explained with a smile, turning my excitement into a big frown with his words. I stared at him suspiciously

‘’what do you mean you secured his freedom with such a staggering amount? Come on I thought you were helping me, but I can’t help but feel that you only offered to help out of your own personal gain. Don’t tell me the police will simply take such an amount from a lawyer like you simply to free an innocent man?” I asked pointedly. This time around it was his turn to frown.

‘’listen sister, I don’t know what you are trying to prove with your words but mind how you speak to me. You are simply his baby mama and nothing more, so cut the serious look. You asked for my help in freeing the man and I just negotiated his freedom. He didn’t even complain about money?. If you no longer need my help, I can leave this moment. He can rot in jail for all I care’’ he said with a raised tune, leaving me with no choice than to shrug with resignation.

‘’I’m sorry. I have to leave now. My sister will attend to you. She prepared your favorite meal’’ I softly stammered before leaving with a fake smile.

———————-

David was very happy to see me when I arrived at the police station and he wasted no time in telling how my cousin was securing his freedom. Even though I felt my cousin was trying to cheat him, I couldn’t get myself to tell him about my suspicion, instead I listened to him without saying anything.

‘’My two ATM cards are inside the wallet I left with you yesterday, Simply head to the bank and withdraw three hundred and ten thousand naira for me. Please be fast with it and return with your cousin to secure my freedom. I can’t wait to get out of here. I barely survived the night’’ he poured out excitedly, equally giving me his card pin numbers plus more directives..

‘’but can I be able to withdraw such an amount with just two ATM cards?. I thought there is a limit to what one can withdraw?” I quickly asked while his face fell.

‘’I really don’t know how to ask you this, but don’t be mad at me. Help me raise the money if you can’t get it from my account. I will refund you once I’m out of here’’ he pleaded solemnly. I silently stared at him for some seconds before shrugging in resignation.

——————————————————–

By 2:45pm I had the required money with me, and I headed back to the police station with my annoying cousin who insisted on meeting his police friend alone.

‘’this is a very delicate matter, so you have to stay out of this dear sister. Simply wait for me outside while I go inside to complete the deal’’ he said with a cunning smile, taking the money from me. I gave him a look of disdain, hissed and drew back. I felt like smashing his head that moment and I just couldn’t help but realize that all lawyers were just the same. They never act in the interest of anyone without anything to gain from it even when it looks otherwise. Though I knew he never had even a little bit of likeness for David.

———————————————————————————————————————————

David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David.

It really was a long wait, as I eagerly waited for Nora to return with the money for my freedom. It was just as if the day refused to run as it was running prior to that moment. I was as nervous as ever as I prayed deep down in my heart.

Few hours later, I was dragged out of my cell to meet Nora and her good cousin who smiled at me, giving me hope that finally my freedom was near. The inspector who led my arrest soon showed up with a dry smile on his face.

‘’my friend, you are very lucky that orders from above just came for your release. Nevertheless my men and I will still search your house as part of the investigation. Just pray that we find nothing there’’ he said, leading me to an office where I signed some papers.

Few minutes later I arrived at my apartment in company of the inspector and his men who ransacked my entire apartment but found nothing.

‘’I hope you know this isn’t personal? I’m merely doing my job. You are now free but remember to report at the station every morning and whenever you want to leave town make sure you inform me. Lastly you have a big job of convincing the girl’s father that you are innocent. You have a duty to him’’ he said as he shook hands with me.

‘’I promise to find Cassandra. I must get to the root of this case. Trust me’’ I promised. He smiled and left with his men.
‘’thank God you are now free’’ Nora breathed, turning my attention to her. I stared at her with great joy, with great gratitude, with great admiration. I rushed forward and lifted her up with surging emotions.

‘’I’m now free, thanks to you. Please take me back into your life. Let us become the Couple that we were supposed to be’’ I begged passionately. She stared at me with eyes filled with great passion and want, giving me great hope that my proposal would be accepted but surprisingly she pushed me backwards with great strength, shaking her head.

‘’I didn’t help you for us to be together. You are already a closed chapter in my life. We can never be a couple’’ she breathed, shocking me with the painful words.

‘’oh Nora’’ I breathed.

Episode 7

Nora’s side of the story;
As narrated by Nora

Seeing David get very affectionate with me, of course my head swelled with great desire to hold him tightly and to feel his kisses but then I had to push him away because I felt he merely wanted to get back with me because he had no choice than to do it.
Even though I badly wanted him by my side, I wasn’t ready to cheapen myself to him like I did in the past. He had to prove his love. He had to fight to prove himself worthy of me. I already survived long difficult months without him and I had the strength of living without him for the rest of my life.

The look on his face clearly showed how much my action shocked him. I couldn’t believe he was expecting me to kiss him with great happiness because of his sudden display of affection. I breathed deeply and headed towards the door.

‘’I have to leave now. Some of your belongings are in my house, you can come pick them up later’’ I added softly, grabbing the door knob.

‘’please Nora wait. I’m very sorry for being very disrespectful. I was carried away by my emotions. However you should know that I said those words from the bottom of my heart. The terrible night I spent in the cell gave me the opportunity to see things clearly. I’m the most foolish man on earth. I threw away the gift God gave me to pursue shadows. I understand how you feel but please just promise to think things through’’ he begged, drawing close to hold my hands. His touch made me tremble within me. I had to bring out my whole strength to look brave and deviant. I tried to say something but couldn’t. I was only saved by my phone which rang that very moment. I quickly took a step backwards, fetched the ringing phone from my handbag and checked who was calling. To my surprise it was no other person than his sister; A girl very dear to me.

‘’hey sweetheart what’s up?’’ she greeted with great excitement.

‘’can you believe I just dropped a baby boy?. I gave birth to a baby boy this morning’’ she announced happily while I jumped with great joy.

‘’congrats dear, I will surely visit you tomorrow’’ I promised excitedly.

‘’my brother’s phone hasn’t been reachable since yesterday, I know I shouldn’t be telling you this but I kind of feel uneasy about it’’ she added slowly.

‘’I’m with your brother right now and his is fine. I think he switched off his phones on purpose’’ I lied giving David my phone.

——————————————————————————————–

‘’let’s visit my sister together tomorrow?’’ David asked as he returned my phone after speaking with his sister. I stared at him suspiciously, unable to mutter a reply.

‘’please just say yes’’ he pushed on. I smiled breathed deeply, gave him a long look before heading out of his apartment. I couldn’t help but smile to myself as I came to the conclusion that the little shake up Cassandra’s father gave to him really got him on the right track.

———————————————————————————————————————–

David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David

I really meant every word when I asked Nora to take me back. I didn’t do it out of appreciation for her help or out of desperation. I simply wanted to be with her that moment. I simply wanted to start a new life with her. I simply wanted to refocus my life but unfortunately she misunderstood me. Perhaps she felt I was trying to use her once again. I really saw the suspicion in her eyes and it made me weep deep inside.

My sister’s phone call however changed the tension in the room. It equally brought me back to the problem at hand which was finding Cassandra.
Yes I know it kind of sounds strange for a man like me planning to find Cassandra, but then that was the only way I could prove my innocence and be free. That was the only way I could get my conscience to be at rest.
My first plan was to get the contact of one of Cassandra’s friends from my sister, possibly the contact of the girl who told her everything about the doctor. I felt it could be the lead; I badly needed to unravel the mystery surrounding Cassandra’s disappearance.

——————–
The rest of the evening really was uneventful as I spent all my time inside my apartment, checking my accounts and preparing my budget for the year. There wasn’t any doubt that the first six months of the year would be a very difficult one for me.
Early the next day, I reported to the police station, had a little chat with the inspector before heading to Nora’s apartment. She was already set to head to my sister’s place when I arrived. She was very surprised to see me and never tried to hide her surprise.

‘’I wasn’t expecting you this morning?’’ she kind of asked with a smile. I smiled back at her, walking into the apartment.

‘’I was about leaving for your sister’s house when you walked in’’ she added softly. I walked towards the couch where my little son was sleeping peaceful and stared at him for some seconds.

‘’and you plan taking a public transport to her house with my little son?’’ I asked accusingly.

‘’hmmmm when did you start caring, moreover it isn’t as if it is our first or second time taking a public transport’’ she answered quickly. I slowly carried my son and faced her.

‘’we are going together whether you like it or not’’ I offered a little authoritatively while she shrugged with a smile.

————–

Nora and I arrived at my sister’s apartment to meet my mother and dear sister extremely stunned to see us together. Yes it was the first time they were seeing us together in such manner. They just couldn’t hide the joy they felt.

‘’wait a minute!!, are you guys finally together?’’ my sister asked without any reservation while my heart pounded furiously as I opened my mouth to give a slightly positive response but unfortunately Nora was the first to respond.

‘’no we are not together as a couple. He merely gave me a lift’’ she quickly responded, leaving me to ponder over the true state of her mind

Episode 8

David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David

We spent a whole lot of time with my sister and mother who were quite delighted to see Nora and I together. The topic of discussion soon centered on me after Nora told them all I passed through in the hands of Cassandra’s father. Nora really had a good descriptive prowess and she kind of held my sister and mother spell bound with her story.
All I could do was just to look down in shame. Yes I really felt embarrassed listening as she narrated my ordeal.

‘’you are really God sent my dear. You now see the reason why you guys should be together. You are stronger together than apart. I see my son is slowly coming to his senses and you have to be with him to support and guide him to the right track’’ my mother slowly chipped in with an understanding smile, while Nora keep quiet, saying nothing.

————————————————————

When we finally got set to leave, my sister gave me the contact of one of Cassandra’s friends.
‘’her name is Jessica, she is Cassandra’s neighbor and I feel if anyone is to know Cassandra’s whereabouts, she would be the one to know. Anyway just be civil with her, don’t be aggressive or she won’t speak to you’’ she advised, equally describing the girl’s physical looks to me.

——————————-

As Nora and I headed home afterwards, all that occupied my mind was finding Cassandra. I couldn’t even start a conversation with Nora who was sitting beside me because I was so preoccupied with my thoughts. I desperately needed to get to the root of the matter. I desperately needed to unravel all the mysteries concerning Cassandra’s disappearance. That was the only way I could be free to start a better life for myself.

‘First thing tomorrow I will head to Cassandra’s school to search for Jessica and also Edwin. Yes Edwin, how did I even forget about him? I know he runs frequent tabs on Cassandra and I can bet he will have a clue on where to find the silly girl’’ I reasoned with a smile.
‘’but how do I convince Edwin to work with me?’’ another part of me asked, throwing me back to another level of thinking. To and fro my mind wandered till we got to Nora’s house.

‘’I plan heading over to Cassandra’s school to start my own investigations. It’s something I have to do on my own. I can’t leave the police on this’’ I explained to Nora who shrugged and smiled as she opened the car door to alight.

‘’don’t get shot over there’’ she said with a smile, alighting from the car. I silently watched her walk into her apartment, swallowing hard as I admired her curves. I couldn’t help but notice that I instantly felt h---y. Yes it had been long I last made love to a woman and it really was telling on my body system.

——————————-

Early the next day as I got set to embark on my quest to find Cassandra; my friend Chinedu walked in unannounced. I frowned on seeing him as all I passed through days ago without his help flashed into my head. But then, a quick apology from him and some jokes soon made me loosen up with him. I told him all that happened, hiding nothing.

‘’I’m really sorry that I wasn’t around to assist but count on me from now onwards’’ he promised when I was done with my story.

‘’of course you know i need every help I can get. I plan going to Cassandra’s lodge to search for her. You can come with me’’ I offered. He quickly nodded in agreement, bringing out a smile from my face with his acceptance.
‘’first, I have to call the police inspector to speak with him, afterwards I will call Jessica; the girl my sister said I should contact before we proceed on the difficult task’’ I breathed as I grabbed my phone.

——————–

An hour and half later, Chinedu and I arrived at Cassandra’s hostel. I slowly parked my car at the spot Edwin and his gang beat me up the previous year. I bit my lips as the memory flashed back into my head. I almost ran my car into a black SUV equally parked at the spot. Chinedu eyed me with concern. I gave him a reassuring smile.

‘’I’m cool bro’’ I stammered, freezing as my eyes fell on a young man who was coming out of the big hostel. He was no other person than the doctor, Cassandra’s new boyfriend. I breathed furiously.

‘’that’s him. That’s the doctor Cassandra rubbed on my face the previous year’’ I said with a raised tone, pointing at the young man.

‘’but, but, but I thought you told me he travelled out of the country?” Chinedu asked curiously.
Instead of replying him, I bolted out of the car and ran towards the young man who was really shocked to see me. I quickly grabbed him by collar, not minding the environment.
I shook him furiously with great strength, giving him no chance to fight back.

‘’you b-----d!, where is Cassandra?’’ I asked furiously

Episode 9

David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David

‘’you b-----d!, tell me; where is Cassandra?” I asked breathlessly, shaking the young man furiously. Chinedu quickly did the right thing by separating us. He pushed me backwards, begging me to calm down.

‘’I heard you were locked up by the police for Cassandra’s disappearance?. Why are you now asking me about Cassandra?” the young doctor quickly asked, trying his best to compose himself.

‘’I just got back to the country yesterday, to learn that my Cassandra is still missing. Why are you here?. Are you not supposed to be in police custody?” he asked furiously, taking a surprising step towards me. Chinedu quickly blocked him.

‘’listen guys, we are in a public place. We have many things to sort out concerning Cassandra’s disappearance but not here. Actually my friend thought you left the country with Cassandra in order to get back at him but your reaction is currently proving otherwise. We definitely have a big issue to tackle but not here. Unless we wish to embarrass ourselves before the little kids around’’ he said intelligently. The doctor nodded, drew back and headed to his car.

‘’this isn’t over David. I will find you. You have a lot of explanations to make’’ he breathed, entered his car and drove off. I shook my head with disbelief.

‘’what do you think?. ‘’ I asked Chindeu who shrugged.

‘’the young man looked very surprised when you asked about Cassandra. Perhaps he isn’t responsible for her disappearance. Perhaps Cassandra never got to his house that very evening she left yours’’ he answered slowly.

‘’what could it then mean’’ I asked quickly.

‘’it means two things brother. Either Cassandra is with another man or she is already dead. A girl can’t just disappear like that without a trace’’ he breathed, sending more fear into my heart.

The last thing I wanted was Cassandra being dead but then just like my friend said, a girl like her couldn’t just disappear without a trace. My last suspicion fell on Edwin but then I saw the young man as nothing but a rascal. I never had reason to believe that he could have the capability or means of kidnapping Cassandra for such a long time. I could only come up with three half baked theories that moment
‘’firstly; Either Edwin killed Cassandra that very night and disposed her body which kind of looked impossible for a guy like him, or secondly Cassandra got involved with another guy who did the dirty work. Or thirdly, the doctor actually did the killing, disposed her body and had to throw off every suspicion by quickly travelling out’’ I reasoned.

‘’hey good day; Are you the guy who called to see me?”’ I soon heard a very young beautiful girl ask, drawing close to us. I smiled nervously as I stared at her.

‘’you are Cassandra’s friend?’’ I asked softly. She nodded quickly.

‘’I’m David and this is my friend Chinedu’’ I quickly introduced.

‘’so can we talk somewhere, preferably in your room?’’ I asked. She stared at us suspiciously, shaking her head.

‘’okay fine we can talk here.’’ I breathed.

‘’listen; I’m being accused of being behind Cassandra’s disappearance and I need your help. I guess you are one of her friends that know a lot about her. I guess you also knew she came to visit me that very night she disappeared. The truth is that we argued and she left my apartment. I felt she went to spend the night with her doctor friend only to discover weeks later that’s she’s missing. At first I thought it was nothing but a setup to get back at me until her father showed up to arrest me. Please if you know anything that can help me find Cassandra, better spit it out now. Of course I will settle you handsomely and also know that your friend could be in danger if she really is missing and anything you say to me could be helpful’’ I begged breathlessly. The young girl took a deep breath, stared at me for some seconds before shrugging.

‘’Cassandra is a very good friend. Some people may see her as greedy and deceitful but deep down she has a very good heart. Yes she is actually missing and at first I really thought you had something to do with it until this moment you spoke to me. I really don’t know but since she isn’t with you, it could then be that she’s with Edwin. I feel somehow Edwin finally got her. The dude has been a pest in her life and since Cassandra disappeared, the dude hasn’t been seen around this vicinity and the bad thing about it is that no one knows much about him. He has been here longer that ninety nine percent of the students. We all met him here and no one unless perhaps members of his gang can tell his background or where to find him’’ she revealed, leaving me totally speechless with the revelation.

‘’but why haven’t you told the police anything?’’ Chinedu quickly chipped in.

‘’the police hasn’t been here. The campus security only came once with Cassandra’s father and all they did was to break into her room’’ she answered.

‘’I guess we have a lot to talk about. Please let’s go somewhere more private’’ I slowly offered with a pleading look. The Young girl accepted after a slight hesitation and together we headed to a small eatery few kilometers away.

Episode 10

David’s side of the story continues;
As narrated by David

We had a long chat with the young girl who really answered all we asked her even though most of her answers weren’t overly helpful but at least they gave us a little insight on what to expect in future concerning Cassandra and Edwin. With all the information we could gather from her, Chinedu and I couldn’t help but feel that Edwin could be very responsible for Cassandra’s disappearance but then finding Edwin was the big deal. According to the girl no one except perhaps members of his gang could know his background and whereabouts.

We finally headed back home, happy that at least we were making a breakthrough. I had many plans running through my head that moment. Of course getting a rascal like Edwin surely needed a whole lot of planning.
‘’but what if Cassandra isn’t with him?’’ another part of me wondered.

Chinedu however soon broke the silence between us with a very shocking revelation..

‘’I don’t know brother but I think I’m very much attracted to that Jessica. She looks so different from all the girls I have come across. I just can’t describe how I felt as a listened to her talk with us. My hands kept shaking with excitement as I stared at her’’ he confessed, forcing me to give him a curious look and smile.

‘’she’s Cassandra’s friend’’ I reminded him.

‘’of course I know but that doesn’t mean she is as bad as Cassandra. Don’t you see how she opened up to us’’ he defended quickly.

‘’she opened up to us because she had no other option’’ I quickly pointed out.

‘’I’m going to ask her out’’ he muttered after a little silence while I shrugged with a smile. I had my own problems to worry about and I didn’t argue with him.

———————————————————————-

After dropping off Chinedu at his apartment, I headed over to Nora’s house to pay her a short visit. Just like in previous times I was nervous as I knocked on her door because I really didn’t know what to expect.

‘’hey it’s you?’’ she murmured with a smile as soon as she opened the door to see me.

‘’expecting someone else?’’ I asked curiously as I walked in.

‘’yes, my sister went over to my salon to pick up some things. I will resume work on Monday’’ she replied quickly. I stared at her with a smile.
‘’now what?’’ she asked with a playful look which encouraged me to draw closer to her. I stared into her eyes, smiling softly.

‘’I succeeded in meeting the girl today. I mean Cassandra’s friend and according to all she told me, I think Edwin could be behind Cassandra’s disappearance’’ I informed her softly.

‘’that’s great, I hope you have told the police?. Edwin should be arrested immediately’’ she quickly breathed, surprisingly grabbing my hand affectionately.
‘’that’s the problem. Edwin equally has disappeared. He hasn’t showed up in the neighborhood this year and I don’t think our police have the capability of finding a guy like him. I think I will do it on my own’’ I breathed..

‘’noooooooo you can’t, what do you mean finding him on your own?’’ she fired back, tightening her grip on my hand. I looked into her eyes; all I saw was real love, real passion, great feelings and deep care.
I instantly felt like grabbing and kissing her sweet lips. I instantly felt like making hot love to her there and then. Unfortunately or perhaps fortunately, my phone rang than moment, breaking the passionate tension in the room.
As I picked my phone, my little son started crying and Nora quickly went to attend to him.

—————————————-

The number that called was hidden and I couldn’t help but wonder who could be calling with a hidden number but as I answered the call, fear gripped me as I recognized the voice of the caller who was no other person than Edwin.

‘’Mr. David, what did I do to you?’’ he asked softly, leaving me stunned with the question.

‘’why won’t you let me be?. I already left my school for you, still you won’t let me have rest of mind’’ he said with a cold tone.

‘’You came to my school once again, looking for Cassandra. You came looking for my wife when you have yours. Isn’t that greed?. I hope you know what happens to greedy men?. They get burnt’’ he added, while I listened, unable to say a word.

‘’The more you get yourself involved in my business, the more you put your family and friends in danger. You just put the innocent girl you talked with today in great danger and that’s bad. You still don’t know what I’m capable of’’ he threatened softly.

‘’where is Cassandra you scumbag?. Are you with her?”’ I asked loudly, breathing heavily.

‘’you are asking if I’m with my wife? Hmmmmm. You are really sillier than I thought’’ he answered with a short laugh.

‘’oh and is that the cry of your little son that I’m hearing?. Yes I heard you have a son. Mmmmmmm and what makes a man go mad than taking what he cherishes the most?. In few days I will recite the poem *Twinkle, Twinkle little star* for your boy while you rest in peace inside a grave’’ he breathed and hung up, leaving me shaking with great fear.

Episode 11

David’s side of the story;
As narrated by David

I quickly dialed Jessica’s number to make sure she’s alright as soon as Edwin hung up, but unfortunately the girl’s number wasn’t reachable. I dialed Chinedu’s number and as soon as he answered quickly told him about the strange phone call I got from Edwin.

‘’I think he has Cassandra and I also fear that we just put Jessica in harm’s way. I tried calling her but couldn’t get to her’’ I opened up breathlessly.

‘’yes you are right. If Edwin can have the nerves to kidnap Cassandra all these while then that guy is capable of doing anything. I will try to see if I can get across to the girl today but if I fail to , it then means we will be heading back to the hostel to warn her’’ he said seriously.
I hung up to face Nora who was seriously staring at me.

‘’did anything else happen?’’ she asked quickly.

‘’the caller was Edwin, and with the way he sounded, I feel he is with Cassandra’’ I opened up to her softly. She stared at me with an anxious look.

‘’But that isn’t the main issue my dear’’ I added, studying her carefully.

‘’Edwin threatened to come for my family. He heard my son crying and threatened to kill me and take him. Yes I know he can’t accomplish that easily but then I have learnt not to underestimate that boy. He isn’t just a school cultist but a big time criminal’’ I slowly revealed to Nora, drawing close to hold her as she instantly colored up.

‘’If he could kidnap Cassandra for so long without anyone knowing his whereabouts; It means he can easily get us anytime he wants’’ she breathed.

‘’I’m not going to let that happen. I’m going to protect you and my son’’ I promised with all my heart.

——————————————————————————————–

I ended up spending the whole day with Nora. I couldn’t get myself to leave her and my son all alone. It really wasn’t as if I could do anything to protect them supposing Edwin showed up with his gang but then being with her kind of created a strong bond or a form of security and oneness I really can’t explain.
Later in the evening, Nora virtually had to go down on her knees begging me to go home and take a rest.

‘’you can’t sit here all day like an old security man. It’s already 9pm. You need to go home and sleep. Nothing will happen to us’’ she begged with great concern but I really wasn’t ready to leave even though I badly needed a good night sleep.
To be sincere I really didn’t know what gave me the strength to make such a decision of not leaving her presence that very day. Perhaps it was because I felt Edwin could probably be in a corner watching my every move or perhaps it really was the first time my little son was being threatened and as a father I had to do everything necessary to protect him. I just didn’t know what got all over me that day.

‘’you should have told the police about the phone call you got from Edwin’’ Nora slowly added, watching me keenly.

‘’yes I will definitely report it on Monday but then I do know they can’t do anything about it. All the police need from me is more money. I just hope Cassandra’s father will show up at the police station on Monday’’ I breathed.

‘’poor man’’ She added in sympathy.

‘’seriously you mean you are not going home tonight?’’ she asked after a little silence. I nodded in affirmative.
She shrugged with resignation, shaking her head.

‘’how about taking a shower and sleeping on my bed?’’ she suddenly offered.

‘’never mind, I’m fine here’’ I replied, leaving her stunned with my reply.

———————
I ended up, spending the night on the couch and what a terrible night it was for me. I couldn’t sleep a wink all through and as early as 5:30am, Chinedu called me with some very bad news.

‘’Edwin carried out his threat on that girl. As we speak, the poor girl is currently battling with her life at the school teaching hospital’’ he announced softly. I gasped with shock

‘’my God!; How did it happen?’’ I breathed.

‘’of course we are going there to find out, aren’t we?’’ he asked.

‘’yes I will be at your house shortly’’ I answered lazily.

‘’I really feel so bad right now bro. I like that girl very much and this just happened at the wrong time’’ he added sadly, leaving a frown on my face as I ended the call and headed to Nora’s room to tell her that I was leaving.

My greatest fear however, was leaving Nora unprotected. I was scared of returning to find she and my son hurt.

—————————————————————————————————————————

Nora’s side of the story;
As narrated by Nora

Yes I really was scared after David told me about Edwin’s threat but then I never took it very serious until he refused leaving my apartment that very day. I couldn’t help but realize that the guy in question was very dangerous than I thought he was, for David to sacrifice his comfort in trying to protect me. The love I had for him equally grew with that singular gesture of his.
Even though he really was the person who brought ant infested wood into our lives, his seriousness in correcting his mistakes made me grow softer towards him with each passing moment.

I even had to offer him my bed to sleep on, something that could have tempted us to get intimate again but he declined the offer, showing how manly and responsible he had grown of late.

As he finally left my apartment early in the morning, with the news of what happened to his informant, I couldn’t help but shed some tears for him. David was now a man on a mission to set things right.

‘’do you think he has changed?”’ my sister asked as we watched him leave. I nodded in affirmative.

‘’This isn’t David of last year. Yes he has changed, but we are in grave danger. A criminal is after us and I pray he doesn’t kill my David first’’ I breathed solemnly, taking a quick look at my son who was sleeping peacefully, unaware of the dangers of the world……………………