Act I

Scene I

(Thelma, sister to Theresa, in a discussion with Jenna her childhood friend in her compound about her teacher in school on how he teaches his subject lackadaisically. The compound is made up of four houses; a duplex, an open gym house, a personal warehouse and the alternative power supply house often described as the 'generator house').

Thelma: (sitting down tiredly) you see that Mr Okeke, I don't even know what he teaches during his period.

Jenna: (backing her up) I'm telling you. He doesn't care about any other person outside his private classes.

Thelma: And I heard any one that attends his private lessons do pass his subject.

Jenna: (confidently asking rhetorically) are you not in my class again? Are you not seeing Gabrielle result? Is she not a product of his private lessons? (Mixed feelings) I don't even feel secure having private classes with him.

Thelma: (laughing sarcastically) only God knows if he has gone underneath the feathers or.....

Jenna: (interrupts speedily) hmm... Please don't put words in my mouth oh!

Thelma: (laughing) not at all but it looks like so

Jenna: (hungry) please is there any chops inside I'm really hungry.

Thelma: (laughs out loud) why not? (Hits her shoulder) but you too like food oh!

Jenna: (laughing) food is life

(Both laughs as they all go inside the 🏠 house)

(Light out)

Act I

Scene II

(Theresa in her room praying with tears in her eyes over her barrenness)

Theresa: (crying) oh! Lord my God 🙏, father of ages and lover of mankind. Oh! Lord I know you're the giver of children and other children outside your source are heart ache 😢😭 and demons in human clothing. I'm here again to seek for your help once more cos I know all things are directed according to your will and only your will stands forever. Lord it's been seven years since I got married to my husband yet no issue. All issues I keep getting resolved to miscarriage. Oh! Lord here I'm to seek for your grace and care to carry this child to deliverance...

(Max, Theresa husband's return from office to see Thelma in the parlor without her sister so he inquires for his wife)

Thelma: (greeting) welcome uncle! How was your work today?

Max: It was good (asking) by the way where's your sister, my wife?

Thelma: she should be upstairs, I've not seen her downstairs since morning

Max: (shocked) what!!! Since morning!! I need to go see if she's alive(rushes upstairs)

Theresa: (still praying) oh! Lord! May this miscarriage syndrome cease from now henceforth...

Max: (hears his wife voice) oh! Thank God she's alive (eavesdropping his wife's prayer silently) oh! God! When will all this pain be over and my wife stop being this bittered and worried. (Silently opens the door and finally stood at the door after opening it)

Theresa: (still praying in tears) Lord I speak to my womb, for it is written whatever you hear us say that you shall do. No more miscarriages, no more misconception, no more barrenness in this womb....

Max: (interrupts as he pats her shoulder) for in Jesus name we've prayed. Amen. It is done.

Theresa: (perplexed) welcome my husband. How'd you get in here? I mean without me noticing the door sound.

Max: (smiling) I over heard you praying so I never wanted to interrupt til I saw the much tears in your eyes. You know I can't see you crying and remain 💔 calm 💔😢(Tinkles her ribs).

Theresa: (blushing) stop eet! Lemme go and prepare your food. So now go take your shower and change your dress 😉. (Teasing) Don't come downstairs looking the same oh! Cos I won't give you a spoon of my pot of food if you smell same.

Max: (laughing) who am I to disobey? Do I want to go on hunger strike? Expect me in the next five mins.

Theresa: (stands to leave) don't rush your bath! If you stink I'll bath you myself (leaves).

Max: (heads towards the bathroom as he undresses) not at all babe.

(Light out)

Act I

Scene III

(All at the dining table eating. Theresa and Thelma alongside Max are present at the dining table. Thelma tries convincing her brother in-law about getting her a befitting lesson teacher as Theresa stands to serve the meal for them all).

Thelma: (with a soft tune) brother, pls I need a lesson teacher.

Max: (staring at Thelma) lesson teacher for what? I thought I paid your complete school fees so why another lecture aside the ones I paid for in school?

Thelma: (soft tune) it's not like I don't listen in class but my maths teacher don't take time to teach us. He only teaches for those whom he teaches private lessons, why the rest of us, he don't mind if we attend his classes.

Max: then I think lesson teachers aren't the best idea, go report him to your principal.

Thelma: (scared) no oh! A lot of people have tried it and the outcome wasn't pleasing at all.

Max: (interested) what was the outcome?

Thelma: (scared) he failed them all for that session. I can't stake report sheet for that at all.

Max: (smiles) you see, life doesn't give to you what you really want. It depends on you to take the risk. For every achievement was once a risk taken by the achiever...

Theresa: (interrupts speedily) eh! Eh! Eh! Can we pray and eat our food now? I'm so hungry.

Max: sure.

(They all bow their head as Theresa prays for the food).

(Light out)

Act II

Scene I

(Max comes back from his weekend work out exercises sweating profusely but looks worried. He enters the compound to see his wife and sister in law playing outside the house).

Theresa: (welcomes Max home) hey babe! Welcome home (hugs Max) won't you join us in our game.

Thelma: (greets) uncle welcome home (waving at Max).

Max: (waving at Thelma) yeah! What's up? Hope you're enjoying yourself 😊 (answering his wife) do you want to kill me? I'm just coming back from the gym. Im tired and hungry. Is my food on the dining table?

Theresa: (smiling) yeah for sure! But don't finish my food oh! Mine too is there

Max: forget it! It's gone into my belly

Theresa: (screams ironically at Max) I'm not joking at all (faces Thelma) let's continue what we were doing.

(Lights out)

Act II

Scene II

(Max sitting alone in the sitting room with a glass of wine thinking about the present situation going on in the family)

Max: (soliloquizing) Lord! God! Almighty! Creator of the universe. Lord I've struggled too much to have a child, I and my wife. My wife has gone through so much pain and tears 😢 and I think this tears should end 💔 this time. Lord! I'm not asking for anything much but that you let my wife have this child to childbirth and also old age. I need to live with a child not outside my marriage but with my wife.

Theresa: (walked behind him, held his shoulder) Are you not sleeping tonight? What you thinking about?

Max: (shocked) jeez! You scared me. For sure I'll soon retire.

Theresa: you haven't answered my question yet. What are you thinking about?

Max: (stammering) eehm.... I... waaasss ac....tua....lllly thinking about the stress of my business today.

Theresa: ok, if you say so. I'm waiting for you inside (Walks inside).

Max: Alright be there soon. In short I'm coming now (stands up and head for his room) wait for me!!!

Theresa: walk faster (smiles as she walk faster)

Max: (holds her waist from behind) caught ya (Both laughs as they walk up the stairs)

(Light out)

Act III

Scene I

(Max has gone for his usual morning exercise with his friends; Dave and Osita, leaving Theresa and Thelma at home. They just finished joking and are resting on Max's car. Max is looking worried)

Dave: (inquisitive) what's the problem with you, Max?.

Max: (tries to cheer up) nothing bro, just thinking of my work.

Dave: but you look stern and sad. What's it bro?

Max: (speaks up) it's my wife.

Osita: what supped your wife?

Max: (worried) my wife is with a child and I'm scared. You know how the last one went. It wasn't funny and at the same time heartbreaking. I want to carry my child, I want to be a father of my own child, I want to produce my children and not adopt another person's energy. I just don't know what to do.

Osita: (smiles) bro, this is nothing. I think you should get another wife since it looks like your wife have a leaking bag.

Max: (furious) what'd you just say? I should marry another wife. How many wives did you marry? Oh! You think my matters are comedy that you laugh about. It's looking like you've enough money to pay the dowry for the second wife.

Osita: (chuckles) if it's that one, bro I can help raise funds for you to get another wife. All you've to do is just tell me the lady you want to make your second wife and I'll... (Dave interrupts)

Dave: Osita! What kind of friend are you? How can you make such an archaic solution to a critical matter?

Max: (sarcastic) no! Leave him! He thinks it's funny! Maybe I'm rehearsing for stand up comedy.

Dave: (soft tune) you see Max needs our help so much and you think it's the best time to make jest of him. That's not fair bro. You sound both cruel and rude.

Osita: (defending) but it's not a taboo in our land. You can marry as many wife as you want as long as it's in your prowess to cater and care for them. I even said I can sponsor the paying of the dowry yet you see me as the wicked person. No problem, I'll stop talking during conversations like this.

Max: (unsatisfied) bye Dave! I'm gone home to see my wife. You know she needs me very well at this moment of her life.

Dave: that's true man. Till tomorrow then.

Max: no problem. (Shake hands and hugs Dave while he snubs Osita as he enters his car to leave).

Osita: (lamenting) so this is how it's now right! I'm now the evil person because I suggested an opinion for you, Max.

Dave: (attacks Osita) you still have the gut to spill out more sentences thank your God he didn't strike your lips (heads to his car leaving Osita standing there alone).

Osita: (feels neglected) it's alright. I'll never say a word of advice to any of you both since you don't appreciate the few I say (heads for his car).

(All three leaves the presence zooming off with speed respectively).

(Light off)

Act III

Scene II

(Max is at home now. Comes down from his car as he absent mindedly walks inside).

Theresa: (smiles) welcome babe ❤️

Thelma: (kneels) welcome brother

Max: (walks upstairs without replying any of them)

Theresa: (soliloquies) why did my husband not any of our greetings? Something's wrong somewhere I need to ask him. (Sets the table for breakfast after which she goes to see her worried husband).

Max: (in the room alone soliloquizing) what kind of advice did Osita give to me at the gym park? Is he right or wrong? Come to think of it, he said he was gonna help me with paying the dowry. That means I'm entitled to only finding a gal I like or wish to marry then he does the rest. I think Osita is making some sense. My wife has a leaking womb that needs another woman for a remedy. But I love my wife so much and I'm hoping that this her pregnancy doesn't flush like the rest. Lemme call Osita and reason one or two things with him. (Reaches for his phone before Theresa who has been standing at the door the whole time called his name).

Theresa: my love ❤️ (walks towards him), my heartbeat, my sweet heart, the love of my youth (sits on his lap), my only husband, what's the problem? (Massaging his shoulder).

Max: (couldn't resist her touches, spilled it out) I'm worried about you my love! I'm worried about you as the baby. I don't know why I'm this worried. Maybe its because this is the longest surviving child you're carrying.

Theresa: (pats his shoulder) babe ❤️, you don't need to worry yourself, God's in control and I know I'm going to give birth to this child whether the devil likes it or not. What you're experiencing needs medical attention before it eats you up real bad. (Gets up to go mix his bath water) babe go take your shower and stop worrying too much, it won't help at all 🔐. Breakfast is ready too.

(Max undresses to go shower after which he heads for the dining table for break fast together. What a sumptuous meal consisting of chocolate Bread, Tea, Jam and Fried egg).

Act III

Scene III

(At the dining table)

Max: (enjoying his meal) hmm! This meal is so fantabulous. I've the best wife ever. Lord I can finish the whole food on this table.

Theresa: (mockingly) eh! 🦛 hippopotamus (laughs) stop exaggerating you can't even finish mine and yours.

Max: (feigns surprise) you think I can't finish this whole meal?

Theresa: (smiling) yeah! You can't.

Max: you have a big luck I'm not very much hungry today. If not, I'd have showed you my ability (laughing).

Theresa: you see! I knew you were just building castles in the sky (laughs)

Max: (nods his head) this egg is too delicious alongside this 🍞 Bread.

Theresa: (hyped) trust Tessy bakery and kitchen for your sumptuous Bread and Foods.

Max: (tries mocking Theresa) stop feeling too big I was just exaggerating. It taste sour.

Theresa: (hits him lightly on his shoulder) leave me alone this man!

Max: (smiles) I didn't chain you to any pole. (Looks at the wall time) it's almost time for the 7 O'Clock news. (Rushes his meal. He enters the sitting room and sits on a three man sofa. He's dressed for work and can leave home at any time).

(The 7 O'Clock news is premiering. The news talks about a virus first discovered at the Asian part of the world. The virus is very deadly and has killed a lot of people around the globe. The name of this deadly virus they say is "corona virus").

Max: (calls his wife) babe ❤️! Come see what I'm seeing. There's a new virus ravaging the Asian government. It's very deadly and has killed thousands of the citizen.

Theresa: (rushes to the sitting room) oh my God! This virus is so deadly. Since it's a virus, it'll have a cure. A virus is a man made organism. So whosoever created the virus will have the cure.

Max: that's true. I hope this does not become like the deadly HIV and AIDS. The cure should come out soon.

Theresa: (sarcastic) just pray the government won't monetize it.

Max: (stares at his wife) what has the government done this time?

Theresa: (confident) a lot of things. This government never make things look easy for its citizen. They keep on adding more cut to our injuries. They make life very bitter for us and give us a pinch of salt to reduce it bitterness a bit. Everything in this country comes with a price tag and I've never seen a free gift from our politicians. They give you money during election for vote and when they're in power they embezzle the nation's budget. If this virus ever enters our country, expect the worst from our rulers. I don't trust them even to a play.

Max: (bold) but you know, you're not meant to depend on the government for much. They've given you the necessities like roads, houses, hotels, schools, water, electricity and other essential needs. One thing about our citizens is that we expect the country to provide for us wants not needs. Until we learn to differentiate these two ideology it'll be hard for us to say we're advancing. Imagine a lazy man sitting at home doing nothing blaming the government for poverty. How does that make sense? Ok those who goes to find job from reputable companies to look for jobs, often times, depend on their certificate rather than their ability and attitude. You see I don't the nation for monetizing everything. They've made us apathetic therefore they don't give accountability. Citizens really need to be taught about their obligations and that of the government. In this, we can achieve more than our present development. (Looks at the wall clock and see time is far spent). See you when I'm back babe ❤️ (pecks his wife cheek) bye babe

Theresa: bye sweetheart.

(Max leaves for work. Theresa sits at the sitting room to watch her favorite HBO series).

(Light out)

Act III

Scene IV

(Max returns from work earlier than normal. He meets his Wife at the sitting room alongside her sister. Theresa is surprised to see home earlier today which was meant to be his busiest day on his schedule).

Theresa: (bothered) hey babe! Welcome back home (hugs him) are you tired? Are you sick? Were you fired? Did you boss relinquish your duty today? What's wrong? Tell me I can be of help.

Thelma: (greets) uncle welcome.

Max: (holding Theresa's waist) bae! It's nothing we've just been asked to go home. (Waves at Thelma) you're welcome my dear.

Theresa: what if it's a test and they're looking for the most dedicated worker by those who stayed back this is how you'll fail?. Go back to work pls!

Max: babe ❤️, there's nothing to worry yourself about. The virus we watched about earlier today was the cause of the close of work.

Theresa: (confused) how'd you mean? Like explain yourself.

Max: (sits down) babe, due to the pandemic going on around the globe, the federal government has asked us all to go home. We were given a letter to close our company with ultimatum of twenty four hours. We had to obey or else our company will be banned from servicing their citizens.

Theresa: (rhetoric) is it this bad?

Max: (laughs) I never expected it. Now am I free to go take my 🚿 shower?

Theresa: (sarcastic) no, til you help massage my feet.

Max: (hits his palm on his head) ah! You can be exhaustive!

Theresa: are you not my husband?

Max: (exhausted) you'll not kill me.

Theresa: (chuckles) how can I?

(Max sits on the floor while Theresa on the chair. They both talked and laughed the whole moment after which Max was allowed to go bath)

(Light out)

Act IV

Scene I

(Max, Thelma and Theresa are outside playing. While Thelma and Max are busy playing ping pong, Theresa is seated close to the board playing ludo. Max receives a call from Dave).

Theresa: (passes Max's phone) hey babe ❤️, you've a call from Dave. (Max collects the phone from her).

Max: (on call) hi Dave! How're you doing?

Dave: (on call) I'm fine Max. I was asking if you were free tonight for a bottle of drink at Quilox bar.

Max: (on call) their drinks are really expensive. How can I afford one?

Dave: (on call) relax Max, I'll foot the bill.

Max: (on call) my own Dave. (Hailing Dave) my own Davolee, David Beckham, French imported David

Dave: (laughs) it's ok Max. Are you coming or not?

Max: (exaggerates) am I foolish to say no? I'm coming bro.

Dave: (chuckles) alright then. See you at the venue.

Max: (relaxed) no problem. Bye (cuts the call). (Returns the phone back to Theresa).

Theresa: (collects the phone) and why was my husband so happy?

Max: (playing his ping pong game) Dave invited me for a party at Quilox bar tonight. He also promised to foot the bills.

Thelma: but I was taught that modest and decent people don't attend night parties.

Theresa: that's right, Thelma.

Max: (pauses for two secs) this isn't a night party, it's more of relaxation with friends. If it was a night party I won't attend it. It was hosted by my close friend Dave and I can't turn it down.

Theresa: (breathes out) be careful!

Max: sure I'll. I'm a man.

Theresa: that word has killed a lot of people.

(They continue playing their various games. They keep discussing about the night bar meeting. Thelma tries her best to convince Max not to go but it was to no avail).

Act IV

Scene II

(It's past twelve and Max is not yet home. Theresa is worried and troubled as she keeps walking around the parlor. Suddenly, she hears a knock at the door).

Theresa: (runs to the door) who's there?

Max: (answers) it's me Max.

(Theresa opens the door. They both stares at themselves for some seconds before Theresa heads for her room. Max locks the door behind him as he goes upstairs).

(Both at their bedroom)

Theresa: (looks away) why are you home late?

Max: (stammers) babe! I.... Waasssss... Stocked aaaatttt the traaaa.... (Theresa interrupts).

Theresa: (turns towards him) you're not a stammerer Max so don't lie to me! (Paused for three secs) what was the call for?

Max: (perplexed) which call?

Theresa: the call from the cops.

Max: (perplexed) I can explain babe

Theresa: (hands folded in between each other) I'm listening.

Max: (sober) we were arrested for breaking the curfew. The call was for you to remit my bail I guess.

Theresa: (nods her head) yeah which I paid. I was so upset you made me think much. I thought you went for a robbery.

Max: (shouts) no oh! How can I?

Theresa: (walks toward the bed) go take your shower and come meet me on bed. (Max grabs her from behind).

Max: (whispers) babe🥺, I'm so sorry for stressing your cerebrum. I promise to be a good boy. (She paused for seconds then she turns to hug him. That night was a sweet night as they both had 7styles in 70mins).

(Light out)



O

ut now@ simdi_the_ultimate!!!!

Act V

Scene I

( It's daybreak. Everyone still deep asleep. Max feels uncomfortable, someone was knocking aggressively at their gate. The gate man tries telling the person knocking to calm down).

Musa: (screaming) Kai madam stop am for knock. idan kana son shiga gidan nan, dole ne ka buga da kwarewa.

Mrs Dave: (screaming) open this door now! I'll break it oh!

Musa: (screaming) break am for one, buy am for three. Ga alama kuna son kashe kuɗi.

Mrs Dave: (screaming) open this door! One! Two! Three!

Max: (uncomfortable) oh! Oh! Oh! Who's that knocking at this early hour of the day? (Comes out of his room. Standing at the outlet upstairs) hey! Musa! What's wrong? Me yasa kuke damun ni a safiyar yau?

Musa: Yallabai e get am for woman, tall fair, talk am for my name nah misheez rave

Max: (thinking) who's misheez rave?

Musa: (to Mrs Dave) you see am ya oga no Sabi am for my self Barka dai.

Max: open the door Musa.

Musa: (to Max) me say you open am for gate?

Max: yes Musa.

Musa: (perplexed) Ok babu matsala

Max: (Smiles as he sees Mrs Dave) who am I seeing here? Her honorable.

Mrs Dave: (raises her right hand) pls spare me those greetings. Where's my husband?

Max: (perplexed) pls come inside let's discuss this ma.

Mrs Dave: (looks away) I'll be waiting for you at the sitting room, Sire.

(Max rushes down to meet Mrs Dave)

Max: (soft tone) you really need to take things softly right now.

Mrs Dave: (bored) spare me this sermon and tell me where the hell my husband is?

Max: (pauses hysterically) Dave is dead and his corpse is being constificated for autopsy by the cops.

Mrs Dave: (smiles) I know you're joking. At least we've been friends for years and I know you love jokes very much. Now where's my husband?

Max: I'm serious your husband is dead.

Mrs Dave: (flips her wrist) stop this joke. You're making it so intense.

Max: I'm not joking! He died of high percentage of alcohol in the system.

Mrs Dave: my husband! Is dead! (Laughs, suddenly starts crying) no! No! No! (Screams) Nooooo! This can't be! Not my husband! (Tears flows down her cheek).

Max: (rushes to hold Mrs Dave from injuring herself) I'm sorry ma! I'm totally sorry! In short I make you part of my family. From today take this home as yours.

Mrs Dave: (crying) will that bring back my husband?

Max: (paused for some secs before breaking the silence) that I can't tell ma! I'm forever indebted to you ma. Anything you want just phone me and I'll provide it. I'm so sorry ma!

(Mrs Dave still crying as Max tries to calm her down. Finally she stops crying and leaves for her house).

(Light out)

Act V

Scene II

(Max is sitting under the Jack fruit tree at his compound when suddenly he hears a knock).

Max: (shouts) Musa! Musa!

Musa: (runs out of his room) Ee sir!

Max: open the gate (Musa opens the gate. Four men dressed in black uniform approaches Max)

1st officer: (to Max) your attention is needed in the station sir.

Max: (inquisitive) for what?

1st officer: just a little question about a man named Mr Dave who died at a party you attended yesterday night.

Max: (convinced) alright let me go change my wear into something nice.

1st officer: no problem Sir.

(Theresa who has been eavesdropping at their conversation runs upstairs to Max's room to get more information. Max bumps into Theresa).

Theresa: who are they?

Max: (panicking) you mean those men, they are here to see me. My attention is needed at the station right now. I'll answer your questions when I'm back.

Theresa: (unsatisfied) you haven't answered my question yet. Who are they?

Max: they're waiting for me when I come back, I'll answer your question.

(Max wears something. Leaves the room to go meet the officers as they head for the station).

Act V

Scene III

(Max at the station. He's taken to the interrogatory room. He and the head of department, Austin police federal intelligence bureau in the name of Mr Scott. Max had a long conversation with Mr Scott about what happened the previous night. The interrogatory room is a small room made up of a table alongside two chairs at opposite direction. The room has a micro camera and recorder).

Mr Scott: (stares at Max vividly) Mr Max, can you recall what happened to Mr Dave the night you both attended that party.

Max: (flashback) we were both sitting together enjoying the music at the bar parlor, discussing about politics and laughing about jokes and comedies which we've seen online. Then, Dave decided to play a game with me. He said first to get drunk will have to give the winner one thousand pounds. I resisted the idea at first but after much pressure, I decided to queue in. We mixed Ciroc and champagne in a bottle.  He took the first shot, I drank mine, he took another, I took another, this was how it was before something abnormal happened at the eighth round.

Mr Scott: (inquisitive) and what was that?

Max: (stares at the interrogator disheartening) Dave began shivering. I thought it was just one of his scopes to not continue the game cause he was getting drunk. So I ignored him.

Mr Scott: (interrupts) you ignored a man who was shivering cause of monetary gains?

Max: (interrupts speedily) not my motive sir! I thought he was faking it til he fell down.

Mr Scott: (interlocks his fingers) what'd you do this time after he fell on the floor? You left him there? You ran away? You helped him? What was your reaction?

Max: (tears rolled down his cheeks) I rushed to call the bar emergency unit but before we came back to rescue him, he was foaming. The emergency unit still rushed him to their ward but before they could get there, (pauses for five seconds) Dave.... Diedddd! (Bows his head in tears).

Mr Scott: (hits the table gently with his right index finger, placing his pen in between his lips) Dave died before your eyes! What a tragedy? (Teases Max) I hope this testimony is not adulterated and you've spoken according to how you witnessed it?

Max: (sobbing) yes sir!

Mr Scott: do you know any other participants present that same night?

Max: (brainstorms) not really! The only person I think I remembered is the bar attendant.

Mr Scott: (shakes Max hands) you can have a nice day sir!

(They both shook hands together. Max leaves the station but didn't go home, he diverted to see Osita, on the crew member. He left to tell him about Dave death).

******************************

(At Osita's house, a duplex made up of 8 bedroom, an open space, car park and goat site after the fence).

Osita: (shocked) how's that possible? Dave! Is gone! Dave that was with us the other day at the gym park? Oh! Death why are art thou sting so dreadful!

Max: (face pale) death... Is... Indeed.... So painful. Dave my very close friend is gone. He died before my eyes! (Holding Osita's polo) and I couldn't help him even when I had the opportunity to.... (Tears drops from his eyes) oh! Death while art though wicked! I had the chance to stop him! I had the chance to tell him no! I had the chance to make him the winner while I be the loser! Buttt.... Myyy... Selfish interest didn't let me do so.

Osita: (removes Max's hands from his polo) relax man, relax, what'd you mean by you had the to help? I don't understand.

Max: (looking pale) he was beside me, we had a challenge of first to get drunk, he made the first push, I made mine, he made another, I drank another til we got to the eighth round. (Bows his head) Max began to shiver. I thought it was his normal trick of escaping when the contest gets tough. Unfortunately, he fell to the floor. I rushed to get some attendant at the emergency unit but before we came back, he was foaming from his mouth. (Looks at Osita) I'm the cause of his death. If I had rushed earlier to inform the emergency unit, he won't have died. (Sobs) hours after he was admitted, he died.

Osita: (confused) wait! Wait! Wait! What was it you guys drank that became so toxic on Dave cause I know Dave is a wine lover.

Max: (stares at Osita for a moment before looking away) Ciroc + champagne.

Osita: (screams) aaaaahhh! What have you done, Max? That's really bad of you guys. How'll you mix two different drinks that are alcoholic from two different brands? Why?! Why?! Why?! Max why?! You keep on making mistakes everytime, weren't you about this in school? Didn't your chemistry teacher teach you about chemicals and reactions? Why'd you decide to turn deaf ears to them all?

Max: (shouts) it's not my fault, Osita! I never wanted to do it. I warned him about it but he insisted we play the game for fun! Stop blaming me! Stop blaming me Osita.... (Breaks down)

Osita: (feels sorry, taps Max shoulder) I know man it was never your intention. I'm sorry for tryna blaming you for all that happened. I'm here for you man, I'm here. We just have to deal with the cops which is our major problem right now. Keep it cool man! I get your back.

Max: (dull tone) thanks man! (Hugs Osita)

Osita: no problem bro, We're strong forever. So what'll you like me to offer you?

Max: (smiles) words of encouragement.

Osita: (laughs) not that bro! I mean whatchu want to eat?

Max: (laughing) just one chilled beer with small chops.

Osita: alright man, will get that right away.

(leaves to get Max's request. Max sits alone thinking about Dave death)

(Light out)

Act V

Scene IV

(Theresa sits at the sitting room listening to six o'clock news. The broadcaster speaks on the ravaging virus which has shut down various companies around the globe and also in Salamadi, Theresa's country. She talks about the signs and symptoms of this virus and any case seen should be reported irrespective of  the relation with the individual. Max's knocks at the door. Theresa goes to open the door).

Theresa: (shouts) who's there?

Max: (responds softly) it's me, Max.

Theresa: (opens the door) welcome babe ❤️. (She hugs and kisses him)

Max: (weak) yeah babe. How was your day?

Theresa: (happy) it was nice. At least, I listened to today's evening news.

Max: what were the headlines?

Theresa: (shaking her head slowly) hmm!!! It wasn't really talk much. All headlines were based on the new virus. They talked about China, England and the rest of them all.

Max: (sits on the couch) did they say anything much about Salamadi?

Theresa: (confident) yeah! They talked about the lockdown of schools, churches, mosques, hotels, breweries, companies and all other social centres. They all talked about the signs and symptoms.

Max: which are?

Theresa: coughing, frequent sneezing, heart pains, lungs pain, weak immune system, difficulty in breathing and a lot of them. They're very much to mention. So how was today's meeting with the FIB?

Max: (tries to ignore her question) this disease is really bad and dangerous. Lord! How're we going to live in this country? And I heard... (Theresa ignores)

Theresa: (asks again) how was today's meeting with the FIB?

Max: (stammering) eehmm!!! It... Wassss a caaassee of mis....taaaa....ken ide...nnnn...tiiii....ty.

Theresa: (stares at Max) are you hiding anything from me?

Max: (smiles) noo ooh! How can I lie to my wife? Impossible!

Theresa: (indifferent) I know you don't stammer, so I wonder why you're stammering this time?

Max: (caught) alright! I'll spill it out.

Theresa: thank you babe.

Max: (low tune) Dave is dead.

Theresa: (shouts) what!!!! How?!!! How come?!!!!

Max: (calms her down) relax Theresa, you don't need to shout. (Agonized) you know that day I told you I and Dave are going to Quilox for a bar night?

Theresa: (nods her head) yeah! I remember vividly. Its just yesterday afternoon.

Max: (continues) I and Dave decided to play a game of tolerance. We mixed two different strong alcohol; Ciroc and champagne. Dave wasn't strong enough to endure to the tenth. He convulsed at the eighth round and died before he was rushed to the emergency ward.

Theresa: (crying) Dave! Where are you? I never knew you were going to leave so soon. (To Max) I warned you not to go. I and my sister, but you refused now you've killed an innocent man. (Screaming) if you had rejected the offer, Dave won't have died. He won't have gone to the his place of death. Now, you've seen where your stubbornness has landed you? You've killed Dave!

Max: (bittered) stop blaming me! Stop it! I didn't kill Dave, it was all a mistake.

Theresa: a mistake that cost a life! What kind of mistake is that?

Max: (walks away) I'm gone to take my shower. I'll join you soon.

Theresa: (destabilized) oh my God! What kind of trouble is this? Max you really to explain yourself cause I don't get you. Ah! God! (She sighs and sits confusedly. Max goes upstairs to take his shower).

(Light out)

Act VII

Scene I

(The FIB comes to Max house to interrogate his wife Theresa about what she knows about the death of Dave, Max's friend).

Musa: (runs to Max) oga! I get m por pour fezin por gate. Wear m por black folo and trazah.

Max: are they officers?

Musa: (place his in between his lips) eehmmm! E be laik seh yes.

Max: (soliloquies) what does this people want again? (Speaks out) let them in.

Musa: sure sir! (Salute and runs back to open the gate)

(The FIB officers enters the house, greets Max and inquires for his wife. Quickly, Max sent Thelma to call her sister).

1st officer: (to Max) pls sir, can give us some minutes with your wife.

Max: (looks at the officers suspiciously) alright (leaves his wife with them).

1st officer: (to Theresa) kindly sit (the second officer turns on his recorder) down ma. (Theresa sits down) this is a case that needs the truth and nothing but the truth. Ma, do you know any Dave?

Theresa: (slowly) yessuh! He's my husband's friend likewise my good friend.

1st officer: good ma! How close is he to your husband?

Theresa: They're very close and have been so close even before I got married to my husband.

1st officer: when does your husband return from work on a normal office day?

Theresa: (looks fiercely at the officers) who are you people and who sent you to me?

3rd officer: (shows her their FIB badges) we're crime investigators from the federal republic of Salamadi. We interrogate suspects for a living.

1st officer: (nods his head) correct!

Theresa: (retaliates) I'm not a suspect so why interrogate me?

1st officer: you might not be, but your husband is (taps his ball pen on his left palm).

Theresa: (pauses for some seconds before talking) my husband usually return home past six during weekdays and past four weekends.

1st officer: (looks at her sternly) did your husband tell you about going on a bar night with Dave?

Theresa: (cracks) yes sir! Aaanddd I told.... Him... Not.... To go yet he... Chose..... To disobey and.... Left.

1st officer: (serious look) did he tell you about Dave's death?

Theresa: yes he did! (Sobs) he said Dave died from alcohol toxicity.

1st officers: (shakes her as the other three bows) it's nice having you today. Thanks for your time and cooperation.

Theresa: (fakes smile) thank you so much officers.

(The officers left the auditorium, Max quickly rushes to inquire what the officers were here for)

Max: (impatient) what was it about?

Theresa: (relaxed) they were here to know if I knew anything about the death of Dave.

Max: (breathing fast) what'd you tell them?

Theresa: (calming Max) relax Max. Don't rise yout blood pressure above average. I said yes and told them he died from alcohol toxicity.

Max: (breathes out) thank God! I thought you said something out of the context like you don't know about it.

Theresa: (laughing) see how you're behaving like a ten year old child that just got into trouble with his parents.

Max: (pushes her head) big head!

(They both laugh as they go inside holding each other).

(Light out)

Act VIII

Scene I

(Two weeks later, four police officers of the state comes to arrest Max with handcuffs on his hand)

Police officer: (points his gun at Max) you're under arrest for the murder of Mr Dave. Anything you say now will be used against you in the court of law. Place your hands behind your back and kneel.

Max: (hands at his back) I'm not guilty, sir. (Two policemen handcuffs him and pushed him toward their car) I'm not guilty, sir.

Police officers: (pushing Max) move! Move!

Theresa: (sees what's happening downstairs and run to stop them) leave my husband! What has he done to be arrested?

Police officer 1: (to Theresa) he has been found guilty for the murder of one Mr Dave.

Theresa: (tries to defend her husband) no! No! No! No oh!!!!! My husband is not a killer! (Topples her voice) my husband is not a killer! (Breaks down) my husband don't kill. (To Musa) Musa! Who told you to open this gate?

Musa: (hands on his head) ya think m por seh nah oga prend. Ya open m por door por oga gaskia!

Theresa: (shouting) Musa!

Musa: (answers) ma!

Theresa: (calls again) Musa!

Musa: (answers) ma!

Theresa: (calls again) Musa!

Musa: (frustrated) madam! You dey m por ya name you no kwo dey tey ya anything.

Theresa: (shocked) oh you're still talking! (Picks up her slippers, throws it at Musa but Musa dodged it) in fact no food for you today.

Musa: eh! (Begins crying) madam won kii ya, madam won kii ya. Ban san dalilin da ya sa na zo wannan gidan da fari (rolls on the floor crying)

Theresa: (pleading) pls sir! For the sake of my unborn child have mercy on my husband.

Police officer 1: I don't have the power to do it. My powers are limited ma, See you at the court (pushes Max) move!

Max: (restraining arrest) babe! Babe! I'm innocent! I'm innocent!

(They successfully pushed Max inside their pick up and zoom off. Musa and Thelma chases the pick up but stops when they couldn't meet up with the vehicle).

(Light out)

Act VIII

Scene II

(Osita is in the sitting room with his wife, an average height lady, black in complexion and endowed. Osita turns his TV on, tunes to watch latest updates and he's shock to see what's being shown on TV)

Broadcaster: today news at eight. A man identified as Maxwell Rowell has been arrested at the early hours of today from his house. He has been accused of killing his best friend at a bar identified as Quilox. Maxwell alledgedly poisoned Dave, his best friend, when he found out Dave wasn't showing any sign drunkenness any time soon. Max decided to kill Dave so no one will take home the grand price which caused a thousand pounds.

Osita: (fulfilled) I said it! This Max is suspicious. How can Dave I know die of alcohol? He can't. So Max killed Dave cause of money, God knows if I'm the next on his mind to kill. See the way he was busy crying that day looking like a newly born Ave. Men and treachery are like brothers.

Nneudo: (disappointed) Max why this taint? I know you not to be a killer how come you killed your best friend. I pray it's a set up.

Osita: (shuns her) come on will you keep quiet! You see Max is a serial killer and you're here supporting him. I don't blame you, the day he kills me then your eyes will be cleared.

Nneudo: (consistent) ah! Nna-anyi but Max is your close friend. Why are you painting him black at his back? He can't kill you I'm sure of that.

Osita: Edere ya n'isi isi na otu bu ogbu mmadu?

Nneudo: (consistent) Di m, Max bụ enyi gị ugbu a! Kwụsị ile anya mmụọ ọjọọ.

Osita: (pissed off) in short, go inside. I

don't want to see you in this parlor for now.

Nneudo: (sad) my husband, this is not fair oh! Ọ bụ adịghị mma ma ọlị.

Osita: (warning her) I won't tell you to go inside again. The next time I'll say it you won't like my reaction.

Nneudo: (stands up) I'm going inside, you can have the full sitting room to yourself (leaves the sitting room)

Osita: (shouting) get out of here! You think I enjoy you staying around me? The next I come into this parlor and I see you here, I'll teach you a lesson of your life. In short I ban you from entering this sitting from now til further notice. Akpụkpọ anụ ahụ mebiri emebi.

(Osita is left alone in the sitting room as he continues reigning insults on his innocent wife).

(Lights out)

Acts VIII

Scene III

(Max and Mr Scott back again in the interrogation room. This time Max isn't free but handcuffed and forced to admit he is guilty. He's beaten at every count of minutes and forced to admit he's a serial killer)

Max: (in pains) I didn't kill him... I didn't kill him.... I've killed no one my entire life... I didn't kill Dave, Dave's my best friend. I didn't poison him nor kill him.

Mr Scott: (holds Max shirts) who brought up the idea of playing the game? (Max keeps mute) I said who?? (Max still silent. Mr Scott orders one of the Police officers to whip him)

Max: (in severe pain) ahhhh! I never forced him into it, I told him not to but he pressurised me into playing it with him.

Mr Scott: (wailing) you haven't answered my question young man. Who brought up the idea of playing the game?

Max: (severe pain) I did but objected immediately he said we should play it.

Mr Scott: (evil smile) why didn't you stay at home when your beloved wife asked you not to go for the bar hang out?

Max: (surprised) who told you that?

(Mr Scott laughed for a while. He snapped his finger and another officer played a recorded audio)

Record: (cracks) yes sir! Aaanddd I told.... Him.... Not... To go Yet he.... Chose.... To disobey and.... Left.

Max: (felt betrayed, soliloquies) God damnit! (Bows his head) She made excesses 🙇 now there's nothing left to say. What'll I say now? Lord have mercy.

Mr Scott: (laughs as he walks around) I've all it takes to imprison you. All I need now is your allegiance if not, (puts his face nearer to Max's own) you're going to face murder charges.

Max: (confident) I didn't kill him. I didn't kill Dave (spits on Scott's face) I owe you no allegiance Fowler!

Mr Scott: (embarrassed) get ready to go to jail you son of a bitch! (Hit Max with the baton in his left hand).

Max: (in pains) you can kill me, but I'll never admit being a killer! You're the killer in disguise! Moron!

Mr Scott: (evil laughter) I see you've both a nice gut and an excellent lawyer to defend you. (Signals the officers to carry Max back to his cell as he awaits judgement).

(They carried Max back to the cell still on handcuff. Mr Scott walks around the room a little while before leaving)

Mr Scott: (wondering) this man must have a good connection with the government. He talks like someone from the royal family. I think his lawyer must be a good one. Let's see what he gat next week Thursday. I bet I have all the evidence to jail him forever. (Walks out of the room embarrassed)

(Light out)

Acts VIII

Scene IV

(Theresa calls Cassie her Childhood friend and narrates to her all that has been going on this week in her family. Theresa is putting on a singlet alongside tying and African designed fabric around her waist. She's sound so tired and dull that Cassie made her repeat her sentence twice before Cassie could understand what Theresa was saying)

Theresa: (on call) Cassie, I don't know what to do.

Cassie: (on call) Tessy, what your husband needs now is your care and prayers, nothing more. Don't worry too much. It might lead to depression.

Theresa: (sad voice) Cass, my husband has never been arrested since I got married to him. Why now? When we're expecting our first child. It's so painful to bear. I just want them to come arrest me for same charges.

Cassie: (consoling Tessy) don't say that babe! Your husband will be fine and back in no much time from now. Relax babe! You're worrying your baby too much.

Theresa: (crying) I miss Max so much. I can't stay a moment without him. How can I be ok and he's suffering? Do you believe he has a no visit ban on him?

Cassie: (on call) you're not expected to visit him at all?

Theresa: (tears increases) yes Cassie! I... Can't... See.... My husband until judgement. I'll call you back Cassie I've to go now.

Cassie: (on call) can you please stop crying for the baby's sake?

Theresa: (sobs) I'll Cassie, I'll (tears increase)

Cassie: alright then bye! Love you!

Theresa: bye Cassie, I love you more (cuts the call)

(Thelma comes in and sees her sister crying. Thelma quickly rushes to console Tessy)

Thelma: (cuddling Theresa) this won't help sister, stop crying. You're making things tougher for yourself. Bro Max will be back very soon. Sooner than you expect.

Theresa: (sobbing) thank you so much for your encouragement Thelma. Thank God for making you my sister. You're the best sister in the world.

Thelma: (smiling) you're the best mom in the world.

Theresa: (smiling) I haven't even given birth and you're calling me mom already.

Thelma: (laughing) I'm giving you practices so when you give birth to your child, it won't be a new name to you.

Theresa: (laughing) don't finish the mom before I give birth to my child. At least let my child calling of mom be interesting to my ears.

Thelma: (laughing) that's your new name from today!

Theresa: (laughing) no oh! Don't try it. I won't answer you.

(They continue in their discussion about the baby and the first language she or he will say. Theresa laughed to the extent someone who there the whole time won't believe she cried a while ago).

Acts VIII

Scene V

(The president of Salamadi due to the outraging pandemic has ordered all criminals whose cases were reported two months down to one weeks to be released. Everyone is happy about that good news. People started calling those they knew has someone in cells and prisons to tell them about the president's prerogative of Mercy. Cassie immediately called Theresa to inform her about it. Theresa and Thelma are at the sitting room discussing about family issues before Theresa receive a call)

(Theresa's phone rings)

Theresa: (tells Thelma to bring her phone. On the call) hey Cassie!

Cassie: (on call) yeah! How're you doing Tessy?

Theresa: (dull)  we've been managing our foodstuffs ever since Max was arrested.

Cassie: (surprised) isn't Max back yet?

Theresa: (sad) he isn't back yet, his case hasn't been judged yet.

Cassie: aren't you aware of the president's announcement?

Theresa: what's it about?

Cassie: every prisoner jailed maximum within two months is asked to be acquitted by the president.

Theresa: (happy) what!!!! Halleluuuuujaaaaahhh!!!!! My God wins over all!!!!! (Thelma runs in and asked what's making Theresa so so happy this morning) it's my husband Thelma, he has been released and acquitted.

Thelma: (screams) praise!!!!!!! The!!!!!!! Lord!!!!!!!!!!!

Theresa: (to Thelma) hallelujah!!!!! (Backs to her call) thank you so much Cassie, without you, I will not have known this vital information. Lemme go and pick up Max from the station.

Cassie: no problem, Take care of yourself.

Theresa: thank you so much Cassie, bye for now.

Cassie: alright, bye (cuts the call).

Theresa: (drops the call) Thelma, go and dress up, we're going to pick up Max.

Thelma: (happy) alright mom!

(The both of them happily rush to their various room to change to a suitable outfit).

******************************

(Mr Scott also heard the news. He's so displeased about the president's decision. He wanted to make Max pay for Max's aggressiveness before the unexpected news broke out in the country. Mr Scott is in his office listening to the news)

Mr Scott: (dismayed) no, no, noo! What's wrong with Mr President?, How can he make this kind of announcement at this crucial hour?. I wanted to make life unbearable for that nonchalant Mr Maxwell, I wanted him to see that I'm not his mate when it comes to crime and punishment. Oh God! Why'd you allow this man escape my wrath? This is impossible, it can't happen. I'm informing the inspector general right away. (Picks up his phone and dials the IG of police number).

******************************

(Theresa and Thelma arrives at the station. They both run inside to the reception room to ask for Max)

Theresa: (to the officer on desk) Mr man, where's my husband?

Attendant: who's your husband ma?

Theresa: (fierce) Mr Maxwell Rowell, the man you arrested earlier this week.

Attendant: (to another officer) has Mr Scott signed Max's release grant?

Officer B: I don't think so.

Attendant: (to the officer) ok (to Theresa) he can't be released at the moment ma, he hasn't been released by the HOD FIB. I'm sorry you've to come back later.

Thelma: (angry) who employed this one? My friend will you release my sister's wife before I charge you to court for deprival of release of an innocent man or illegal release.. don't (Mr Scott interrupts)

Mr Scott: don't do what you want to do. (Looks at Theresa) are you his wife?

Theresa: (hard tune) yes sir! Any problem with that?

Mr Scott: there's no problem with that at all. Just asking (to one of the officer) go get Mr Max alongside all his belongings let him go home.

Attendant: but Sir you haven't signed the release grant.

Theresa: (shuns the attendant) will you keep quiet? Awọn eniyan rẹ ti iru rẹ ti o mu igbesi aye kikoro fun elomiran.

Attendant: I'm sorry ma, I was just doing my work.

Theresa: that's not how to work. In fact you don't know your work.

(The officer sent to bring Max finally returns with Max. Theresa on seeing him, ran to him and hugged him so tight. Max is shabbily dressed with bruises on his face)

Theresa: (hugging him) who did to your face darling? Why are you injured so badly?

Max: (turns and saw Mr Scott, both stares at themselves for some seconds before Scott retired to his office) it was one of this officer that injured but let's go home first I need to change this my outfit.

Theresa: yeah you need to (on going outside, she intercept with one of the officer that came to arrest Max. She pokes out her tongue and sings  loudly) 

🎵I've a father, who will never fail me,          

I've a father who'll never fail me,

I have a father who'll never fail me,

he'll never fail for ever more🎵

Max: (interlocks his right elbow around Theresa's neck) babe, let's go home. Leave all this officers alone they're just doing their job.

Theresa: (distaste) these people are so cruel and stone hearted. I pray I don't marry one of them.

(Max, Theresa and Thelma laughs as they all left the station).

(Light out)



Out now @ simdi_the_ultimate

Acts IX

Scene I

(All countries around the globe has suspended all activities including; trade, commerce, tourism, flight movement, social centres, etc and asked its citizens to remain indoors as they try to get a solution to the present pandemic. But something's wrong! Max has been feeling feverish for two days now but has refused to visit a clinic. He always tries to hide his health status from his wife anytime she asks him if he's ok to avoid visiting a hospital for check up)

Max: (feeling feverish) I'm shivering so bad. Only God knows what's wrong with me (Sneezes) this refuses to stop. I'm feeling unnecessarily tired

Theresa: (enters the room. Sees Max sneezing and shivering) Max are you sure you're not sick and needs the doctor's attention.

Max: (assuredly) I'm good Theresa. There's nothing wrong with me, I'm not sick like you think, it's just my normal fever.

Theresa: (worried) you've been on this bed for days yet you say there's nothing wrong with you. How am I to believe you now? Pls we need to see the doctor before things get worst.

Max: (consistent) I'm fine babe. There's nothing serious wrong with me. All I need is just a few dose of paracetamol and I'm good.

Theresa: (bold) you're not going to treat yourself. We need to see the doctor.

Max: (pissed off) Tessy I said I'm fine! Can't you listen to me for once? Stop making a slight thing look big.

Theresa: (hands up) no problem. You do what's best for you. I quit! (Turns to leave) your food is ready.

Max: I'll be there right away.

(Theresa exits the room. Max is left alone)

(Light out)

Acts IX

Scene II

(Theresa calls the family doctor to come over to her house to test Max's body temperature and what he's suffering from)

Theresa: (on call) yes doctor, he has been feeling feverish for days but refuses to see a doctor.

Doctor: (on call) has he been sneezing indecently this few days?

Theresa: (worried) yes doctor! The rate at which he has been sneezing is alarming.

Doctor: I'll be on my way now to conduct a test on him...

Theresa: alright doctor. I'll be expecting you (drops the call).

Max: (interrupts) and who are you expecting?

Theresa: I asked our family doctor to come conduct a test for you. He said he's coming soon.

Max: (pissed off) Tessy I've told you I'm alright! There's nothing to worry about. I... Will... Be... Fine!!! Why don't you listen to me?

Theresa: (soft tone) why won't I be worried? Aren't you my husband any more? You're not fine!! Your health hasn't been at its best these few days. How do you expect me to sit down feeling cool when my husband's health is diminishing every single day? There's nothing bad in conducting a test, at least at home.

Max: (points at her) since you've decided to be me, whenever the doctor's come, tell him to conduct a test on you and Tessy. As for me, I'm not interested in any medical test. Thank you (walks away)

Theresa: (lamenting) what bad have I done now? I'm trying to care for you yet you resist my every action. If you die now who's going to be the widow? Is it not the same me that you're shouting at?. I don't just understand why you don't want to take a medical test. I don't know just know (keeps on lamenting to herself as lights goes off)

Acts IX

Scene III

(Thelma goes online and sees an article about the ravaging virus which list the signs and symptoms of an infected patient. Thelma quickly shows her sister what she saw online. Theresa has been racking her brain trying to understand what's wrong with Max since he has refused to visit a medical centre. She sees it and her suspicion rises. She's sitting at the outlet)

Thelma: (runs outside) mom! Mom!

Theresa: what's it now?

Thelma: (shows Theresa her phone) see what I found while surfing the web. The signs and symptoms are similar to Max's condition.

Theresa: (collects Thelma's phone) this site isn't legit. Don't ever believe what they say. They're all looking for how to monetize our data.

Thelma: (convincing Theresa) sister it's no scam, they're only creating awareness about the virus which is supposed to be. Max has been sneezing, coughing and feeling feverish for the past one week now. He has been on self medication which is not meant to be. (Looks away) I'm suspecting Max has the virus.

Theresa: (shuns Thelma) will you keep quiet! What arrant nonsense are you spilling out of your mouth? Don't you know the virus is contagious and once Max contact it, we all will also contact it. Pls don't spread the bad news further. Before SCDC comes for us all.

Thelma: (lamenting) but Tessy, the earlier the better for us all. We should at least inform them about what's going on. They're the only organization that can make uncle Max forcefully have a medical test.

Theresa: (confidence) My! Husband! Has! No! Virus! Period!

Thelma: (lamenting) it's not written on one's fore head. At least to save us from suspicion Max should take the medical test. To save more imaginations, Max should go for a test.

Theresa: I think you've over stayed your welcome. As you can see I was thinking about something before you interrupted. Can you kindly excuse me?.

Thelma: (lamenting) you really have to start taking me serious in this house. I'm no longer a kid. (Leaves the scene)

Theresa: (left alone, asides) what Thelma said sounds true. My husband has the symptoms of this virus. He has shown a lot of signs and symptoms these few days. From fever to frequent sneezing, to struggle for breath, to lung problem. I think I'll just have to phone the SCDC before my husband dies. I don't care if he's gonna shout for me anymore.

(Theresa goes inside with the magazine she was holding to go browse about the SCDC awareness messages)

Acts IX

Scene IV

(Theresa contemplating within whether to call the SCDC officers on her husband who has shown almost all the signs of the virus or not. In her room)

Theresa: (browsing, asides) oh my God! He has shown all this signs and symptoms. What am I to do now? He won't go for a medical check-up. He claims to be alright yet he's sick. I'm so much tired of this whole scenario. I think I'm going to phone the SCDC that'll be the best I can do for now. At least he will have a medical check-up. Then only will I know what's wrong with him. (Calls the number displayed on the SCDC page on Twitter. Number picks, a male voice answers the call) hello, good afternoon sir!

SCDC: good afternoon ma, how can we help you?

Theresa: (scared) your help is needed in my house urgently.

SCDC: what's the problem, ma?

Theresa: (looks around, low voice) my husband has been having series of signs and symptoms of the ravaging virus which has shut down the globe. I invited our family doctor to come do a check up on him but he refused. He has been turning down all efforts to invite a medical personnel into this house and.... (Max interrupts)

Max: I'll turn down more medical personnel's invited to this house. (Fierce) this is my house and this is my body. I say what goes on in here and you obey. If you are tired of obeying my commands, you can pack your loads and leave.

Theresa: (shocked) Jesus! (To SCDC) I'll call you back (drops the call. To Max) why have you chosen to make me a widow at an early age? Why have you chosen to make our baby fatherless? Max, I love you and I care for you with my whole heart. I can't... Sit here and watch you die slowly while I'm comfortable.

Max: (holds her shoulder) babe! I love you so much and I won't harm you in any way. I only ask for this one favor, stay out of my health issue this time. I can handle things myself. Promise me you're gonna be a good wife and listen to me this time.

Theresa: (looks at Max for some seconds, her face pale. She then breaks the silence) Max, for the sake of unreasonable imaginations pls go for a medical check-up. Please!!!

Max: (removes his hand from her shoulder and walks toward the window) why do you always have to strike a deal whenever I ask for a favour, why can't you just say yes without complaining? (Holds the window burglary) anyways, I'm being a Patriotic citizen of my country, an obedient one. The president said no one for now should be seen outside his home and no visitor is allowed at the moment.

Theresa: (fires back) at the expense of your health? (Hugs his shoulder from behind) health cares has never been shut down since it's inception. Everyone is allowed to visit a healthcare for health complications. (Whispers into his ear) you're such a loving person but I don't know why you chose to be adamant now.

Max: (turns towards Theresa, holds her waist) this conversation is over (kisses her cheeks and leaves).

Theresa: (looked at him till he left the room) this man is so stubborn. Oh Lord touch my husband heart to listen to me at this crucial moments.

(Light out)

Acts IX

Scene V

(Max goes out to see a friend while Theresa is in the kitchen cooking lunch with Thelma)

Max: (enters the kitchen) babe ❤️, I'm gone to see a friend.

Theresa: (worried) but we were warned not to go out of our houses.

Max: (holds her waist with his two hands) hey babe, it's just a friend down the street.

Theresa: can't the visit wait til when the visits ban is lifted.

Max: (cuts in) come on! Stop being too strict. I'm running late see ya (pecks her cheeks).

Theresa: (stares at him til he left the kitchen) he doesn't take my words serious.

Thelma: (encouraging Tessy) everything is gonna be fine sis. It's just a visit to a friend nearby.

Theresa: (cuts in sharply) it's a nearby visit with a lot of effect. Are you not aware of the global pandemic or you just want to support evil? (Everywhere is quiet for a while before Thelma breaks the silence)

Thelma: don't be angry nah! I was just trying to lighten your worries. Alright! I'm sorry.

Theresa: next time don't try defending what's wrong. It doesn't make it right.

Thelma: I said I'm sorry!

Theresa: don't worry pass me the tray over there.

Thelma: (happy) on my way! Yepee!

(They continue in their cooking. Theresa remembers she promised to call the SCDC. She leaves the kitchen and tells Thelma to watch the pot of food on fire)

Theresa: (rushes to her phone in the sitting room. Dials the SCDC's number) hello! It's me Mrs Theresa Rowell, the lady who called days ago before my husband interrupted.

SCDC: yes ma! Is your husband showing any sign and symptoms yet?

Theresa: (whispering) yes sir! He has been showing a lot of signs that he's infected with the virus.

SCDC: what are the signs you've noticed?

Theresa: he has been having frequent sneeze, mild difficulty in breathing, abnormally tired, headaches and body pain.

SCDC: alright what's your husband's name? Ma.

Theresa: he's Maxwell Rowell.

SCDC: where do you reside? Ma.

Theresa: we reside at.... (Max comes in, Theresa hides the phone behind her)

Max: (laughing) babe, you won't believe what happened?

Theresa: (cuts the call) what is it my beloved husband (smiling).

Max: (smiling) I got to Jerry's house, the friend I told you I was going to visit. You won't happen what happened there.

Theresa: (hits his shoulder) tell me nah, stop making me overthink.

Max: (breathes in) alright! When I got there, Jerry wasn't at home. His wife then chased me away from the house. She said I could be a carrier of the trending virus and I'm not welcomed into her house. (Laughing) this woman must be crazy!

Theresa: (soliloquies) you don't know you're (fakes laughter) she must be crazy indeed! How can she think something like that?

Max: (spreads his hands) I don't know either. I made mistake going to his house. (Stomach rumbles) are you done cooking? I'm very hungry.

Theresa: I'm not sure. Lemme go check if Thelma is done.

Max: be real quick about it.

(Theresa heads for the kitchen while Max sits on one of the couch at the sitting room).

(Light out)

Acts IX

Scene VI

(Theresa's asides in the sitting room. She walks from one end of the room to another. She's impatient and full of thoughts)

Theresa: (soliloquies) I don't know why he keeps dodging all efforts to call a medical personnel to conduct a check up. I don't just know why he behaves that way. I think it's best if I call the SCDC on him not minding the repercussions. This whole imaginations and thoughts and dicing must stop now. I'm so stressed out.

Thelma: sister! what's wrong with you this time?

Theresa: (shocked) you scared me Thelma. For how long have you been standing here?

Thelma: for the past five minutes.

Theresa: you'll make a good cinema audience.

Thelma: (smiles) sister, you're funny.

Theresa: you don't have to worry about me that much. I'm fine I was just having a few mental exercise. (Holds Thelma waist) lets go play ludo outside.

Thelma: if you say so no problem!

Theresa: (drags Thelma out) come on!

(Theresa and Thelma laughs out of the scene)

(Light out)

Acts IX

Scene VII

(Theresa walks around the sitting room impatiently. She calls the SCDC and this time succeeds in telling them her address)

Theresa: (dials SCDC call line) hello, it's Theresa Rowell speaking.

SCDC: (sighs) ma, are you ready to answer us and stop dialing this line like it's your shopping call line?

Theresa: (calms them down) you really need to calm down pls. My husband is against me involving any medical personnel in our family issues that's why I've been cutting calls on you. Not like I want to do it but I've to do it to avoid my husband's wrath.

SCDC: alright. Where do you reside?

Theresa: I reside at 4, Bob Carl street, behind Austin's state convention hall. Austin City.

SCDC: noted we'll be on our way right away.

Max: (comes in from behind) who are you inviting to our house this critical period?

Theresa: (soft tone) I'm sorry babe, I just have to do it. I love you Max and I really care about your welfare. I promise you this is not gonna hurt you. I did this because I don't want you to be missing during our child's dedication and first birthday. I did it because I need my child to have a father that would play and secure her. She's not gonna be fatherless her whole life because of a mistake I failed to secure.

Max: I'm not understanding what you're saying? What's this whole sermon for? Who're are you inviting to see us is all I asked.

Theresa: (emotional) I invited the SCDC.

Max: (shocked) what!!!! For what? Who are they here to see?

Theresa: (emotional) they're here to see you. (Tears drop from her eyes) I'm sorry!

Max: (upset) how can you be sorry for this dangerous act? Reverse the call pls. I said reverse the call! (Ambulance siren sings in the compound. A man makes an announcement)

Ambulance man: Mr Maxwell Rowell, please exit the building!

Max: (heartbroken) what have you done, Tessy? (Announcement repeated twice)(Max screams) what have you done, Tessy?

Theresa: (crying) I'm sorry Max!

Max: (upset) you've to be sorry for yourself. I promise you, you're gonna shed more tears than you're doing even though I'm not gonna be allowed out of the isolation centres. Trust me, you're gonna regret what you've done! (Two medical practitioners covered in white apron runs from behind and drags Max out).

Theresa: (crying) I'm sorry Max. I hope you survive the test to. (Another medical personnel comes in and addresses Theresa)

Medical personnel: (consoling Theresa) don't cry ma'am, he'll be fine. It's just a two weeks programme. I urge you not to leave your gate too for this two weeks. It's likely you've the virus but I don't want to come to a conclusion without verification. No one in this house should go outside.

Theresa: (still crying) alright sir.

(The ambulance leaves with Max. Theresa peeps through the window crying continuously. Theresa sits on the staircase looking helpless and tired).

(Light out)

Acts X

Scene I



(Its been four days since Max was  admitted into the state's isolation centre at Austin city. Theresa is sitting on the floor inside her bedroom. Theresa has been tired and weak since her husband left. She looks shabby and unkempt. Thelma decides to stroll the street and tells Theresa about it.)

Thelma: (enters Theresa's room) sister!

Theresa: (weak) yes! What is it?

Thelma: lets take a stroll round our street to reduce the worry and save us the risk of being depressed.

Theresa: I was warned not to leave the house or let anyone leave for the next two weeks.

Thelma: come on sister. It's just our street. We stroll to the beginning of the street, to the end then back to our house. (Leaving) am going.

Theresa: no problem. Come back early oh! Don't waste more than ten mins outside.

Thelma: ten minutes noted (leaves the scene)

Theresa: (feeling uncomfortable, soliloquies) oh Lord protect my sister. It's best I call her back now than to take chances. I need to call her back before she contract the virus. (Runs after her) Thelma! Thelma!

Thelma: (almost leaving the gate turns back to answer her caller) yes! (Sees her sister running) what's it sister? Is there any problem?

Theresa: (breathing fast) yeah a lot! (Pleading) Don't leave pls! I don't want to be left lonely in this house pls! Max has been taken away and you're about to take the same risk ue took. Thelma pls!!!!

Thelma: (smiling) sis, there's nothing to be scared of. I'm not going anywhere more than the street our house is built on. (Hugs Theresa) I'll be fine sis. Don't worry much.

Theresa: (worried) pls make sure you're careful pls!!!

Thelma: (leaving) Emi yoo arabinrin. gbẹkẹle mi.

Theresa: (watches Thelma as she leaves) Jọwọ ṣọra

(Theresa stands there staring at Thelma as Thelma exits the gate)

(Lights out)

Acts X

Scene II

(Four men carries Thelma corpse to her house. Some young girls followed the young men crying and wailing. Musa who opened the gate starts crying as soon as he saw Thelma's corpse. Theresa is disturbed by the cries and noise coming from her compound. She walks out to the compound inquisitively)

Theresa: what's going on here? Why are you gathered here crying and moody?

Man 1: ma, we were informed (points at Thelma's corpse) that lady lying there is your sister. We found her corpse at the junction with this later under her (hands over the letter to Theresa)

Theresa: (ignores the letter and runs to Thelma's corpse screaming) Thelma! Thelma! Thelma! Oh, no Thelma wake up! (Reduced her voice) alright Thelma, I'm not shouting anymore. Jọwọ dide, Ma binu pe ariwo ati pariwo jọwọ duro. Thelma no oh!!!!! (Crying) why will you leave me now?!!!! I told you not to go outside but you insisted now I've lost you! God why do you let good people die? (Tears increases) where are you gonna be when my baby's born? Who's she going to call Aunt? Why didn't you stay back? I should have used my authority as her Sr sister. (One of the women amongst the crowd tries consoling her)

Lady 1: ma'am it's going to be fine. Just 

take heart and be stronger for the sake of the unborn child. Your child's innocent for the pain you're making him/her pass through (Cassie runs in shouting)

Cassie: Theresa! Theresa! (Sees Thelma lifelessly lying on the floor) no!!! This is not true, it's a lie she's not dead! This can't be true! (Anxious) has she been taken to the hospital? (A lady from the crowd replies)

The lady: there's no need for that, her pulse has stop counting.

Cassie: (wails loud) no!!!! Thelma's not dead!

Theresa: (lamentating) You should have rushed her to the hospital rather than apply self medication. After which you'd have phoned me to collect the admission fee. (Another lady answered from the background)

Lady 2: before we could get to where she was, she was dead.

Cassie: (pained) can someone explain to me what led to her death? (Everyone is murmuring about their Innocence before another lady spoke out)

Lady 3: we don't really know what happened but if you ask me I'll say it was a rape case.

Theresa: (exclaims) rape!!!!

Lady 3: (continues) yes I'll say it was a rape case. When I first saw her she was bleeding from her private part continuously. Maybe she died of continuous bleeding from what happened (everyone grumbles in support)

Cassie: (milf for a while before she reply)(to the first man) can I have that letter in your hand? (He hands it over to her. Theresa is surprised by the what was inscribed) I warned you before you did this. Now you've to bear the consequences of playing the wise individual. (Thinking) who could this be?

(Keeps the letter to herself. Theresa weeps uncontrollably and keeps lamenting. The ladies present tries consoling her but she struggles with their restrain).

(Light out)

Acts X

Scene III

(Thelma's body has been remitted into the mortuary. Cassie has been living with Theresa ever since Thelma's death. The both of them are present at the sitting room discussing about Max's health and Thelma's death)

Cassie: how've Max been ever since he got admitted to that isolation centre?

Theresa: my sister, they refused me calling him ever since then. Even when I went to visit him, I was chased home not to ever return again til his dismissal in two weeks time.

Cassie: (optimistic) did you read the letter?

Theresa: what letter?

Cassie: the letter the reporters of Thelma's death brought with Thelma's corpse?

Theresa: (stammers) I.... Saw.... It... Not... Really... No I didn't see it.

Cassie: lemme go get it. (Goes inside and brought out the letter) here it is (gives it to Theresa. Theresa reads it and starts crying) why are you crying? Or are you suspecting anyone?

Theresa: yeah! I'm suspecting Max. He was the only one who threatened me before Thelma's death.

Cassie: (shuns Tessy) shiii!!! How will make such accusation against your husband? Don't you know it's dangerous? Stop it if you're joking pls!

Theresa: (consistent) I'm serious! Max on several occasions has warned me against inviting a medical personnel to this house. I disobeyed him by inviting the SCDC. I think he wants to revenge.

Cassie: it's like you're still suffering from the shock of Thelma's death. (Stands up) when you're done hallucinating, meet me inside (climbing the staircase).

Theresa: why don't you want to believe me?

Cassie: cause you're not saying the truth.

Theresa: I'm saying the truth pls believe me!

Cassie: when you're ready to discuss about it, I'm in your room (enters inside)

Theresa: (monologues) why don't she believe me?, Max threatened me more than once about calling the medics on him. He warned me not to call them and now I called them, can't you see he's tryna revenge? Why will she see me as a liar when I'm saying the truth (follows Cassie) wait for me Cassie! Alright let's discuss this thing mutually.

(Light out)

Acts X

Scene IV

(Cassie and Theresa are inside Theresa's room. Both seated on Theresa's bed. Theresa tries to make Cassie understand her opinion about  Max being her suspect)

Theresa: alright Cassie, try putting yourself in my shoes.

Cassie: I cannot cause you're not making sense.

Theresa: ok. Your husband threatened you for weeks about not calling the police and finally you call the police on him. Then your son dies days later and you see a later like mine, who will be your first suspect?

Cassie: (sarcastic) first of all, my husband can't threaten me and secondly my son is not dead. So it makes no sense using this analogy.

Theresa: (furious) Cassie try understanding me!!!!! (The room is quiet for some seconds) I need some rest (covers herself in her duvet).

Cassie: (touches Theresa's shoulder)  I'm sorry. I apologise for being naughty. You know being angry is not good for your health. (Shakes Theresa's shoulder) come on! I said I'm sorry now. If you think Max is a suspect why don't you file a case with the federal Intelligence Bureau. Maybe that would help you the stress of overthinking. (Theresa still didn't respond) I'm going to have some cool air outside when I'm back we'll discuss this more vividly.

Theresa: (reminisces her last conversation with Thelma) sister there's nothing to be scared of. I'm not going to anywhere more than the street our house is built on. I'll be fine sis. Don't worry much. Pls make sure you're careful pls!!!. (Crying) Emi yoo arabinrin. Gbekele mi. Jowa soro (tears increase).

(Light out)

Acts X

Scene V

(Theresa and Cassie visits the police station the next day to file a case against Max for killing Thelma)

Theresa: (at the clerk's table) where is your superintendent?

Police 1: (recognizes Theresa) ah Madam, nah you again.

Theresa: I said where's your superintendent?

Police 1: (smiling) my oga dey inside. Any problem wey we go settle for you?

Theresa: (persistent) yeah! But I need to see your superintendent.

Police 1: (smiling) alright! May I call am for you. (To another officer) hey! Go tell oga say person won see am.

Police 2: (salutes) sure sir! (Goes in to call him)

Police 1: (smiling) but madam, why your face squeeze like spoilt eba? Anybody slap you for junction... (Cassie interrupts)

Cassie: Mr man, can't you just shut up and let us see who we came to see?

Police 1: (shuns Cassie) bia aziza, who tell you may you talk? See as you be like condense milk wey maggot dey use throw party. When two termites are talking, ants don't talk. (To Theresa) no vex for the interruption. (Smiling) eh heh! Wetin do your face.

Theresa: officer I'm not in the mood for any discussion I'm just here to see your superintendent. (The other officer sent returns)

Police 2: my oga said you should come to his office.

(Theresa and Cassie follows the officer to the superintendent office. The office has a desk almost destroyed by termite attack, an outdated 📅 calendar hung side ways on the wall, the chairs foam are torn and flattened, the paint peeling from the wall and the tiles are weapons of destruction to our bare legs. The superintendent is a tall man dressed in black attire designed with sky blue camouflage).

Superintendent: (husky voice) sit down ladies.

Cassie: (looks at the chair) we are ok sir. Standing is our hobby.

Theresa: (sits down) thank you sir (drags Cassie to sit)

Superintendent: what do I owe this visit?

Theresa: Sir, I'm here to file a case against the murderer of my sister by name Maxwell Rowell, my husband.

Superintendent: (perplexed) your husband????

Theresa: yes sir, my husband.

Superintendent: why do you say your husband is the murderer and where's this your husband?

Theresa: my husband is presently at the state isolation centre. He was admitted last week into the centre. My husband before he got admitted into the isolation centre warned and threatened me on several basis not to call the medics on him. He was suffering, he was dying, he was at the point of dying but yet refused being admitted into any medical centre. Every time I try to call the SCDC, he always interferes. This happened almost four times but I resisted his threat the last time I called the SCDC which led to his admission. Before he was admitted, he threatened me and on the day he was admitted he still threatened me that I'm going to regret ever knowing him. Days after he got admitted, Theresa died while strolling on my street in my estate. The men who brought her corpse back to my compound gave me this later (brings out the later) saying it was found under my dead sister corpse.

(The Superintendent collects the letter and reads it)

Superintendent: (amazed) this is a letter of victory. This case needs to be investigated. (Calls the clerk phone) hello, send in one A4 paper, there's a case that needs statement from the reporter. (To Theresa) ma'am, we're going to get to the root of this case. This is a serious case. The murderer cannot escape the law.

Theresa: sir the murderer is Maxwell Rowell, my husband.

Superintendent: (plain) we can't say he's the murderer for now instead we can call him a suspect. (An officer walks in with an A4 paper hands it over to the superintendent and leaves) thank you. (Passes the paper to Theresa) here ma'am file a statement.

Theresa: (collects the paper) thank you sir. (Write her statement and returned it back to the superintendent) here it is sir.

Superintendent: (collects the statement) alright madam. We promise to track whosoever is the murderer.

Theresa: thank you so much sir (shakes him, stands to leave)

Superintendent: ma, do you have any other befitting evidence to show that your husband is that murderer?

Theresa: (standing) I don't think so.

Superintendent: alright ma, have a nice day.

Theresa: thank you sir (leaves the office)

******************************

(Theresa and Cassie out of the station in their car. Cassie is uncomfortable with the station. She tries to tell Theresa to visit another station)

Cassie: (sitting inside Theresa's car) Theresa, I'm uncomfortable with this station oh!

Theresa: (sitting inside her car) why?

Cassie: can't you see how disgusting this place looks. (Points at the station pick up) see that car, look at the way it looks. Broken flashlight, the paints are no more stable, broken side mirror, cracked mirror and a flat tire. Ok take a look at the station paint. The paints are peeling off already, spirogyra has made the walls their breeding spot, different kind of dirt's and writings are on the wall. Thank God we entered the superintendent office together. Didn't you see what I saw? The office doesn't look like the office of a senior office but a forgotten horror room. This building is too dilapidated to investigate a case.

Theresa: Cassie! The building isn't doing the job, it is the officers. By the way you don't judge the book by the cover.

Cassie: is it those hungry looking creatures in there you call officers? They don't fit officers oh! Those ones are saved from unemployment not officers.

Thelma: Cassie leave this officers case let's go home.

(On her car and zooms off)

******************************

(The superintendent phones the HOD FIB to inform him about the new case)

Superintendent: (on call) hello! It's superintendent Gau on the phone.

Mr Scott: (smiling) oh Gau! How've you been doing?

Superintendent: (on call) been good and you?

Mr Scott: what do I owe this call?

Superintendent: I have a pending case for investigation from one Mrs Theresa Rowell accusing her husband Maxwell Rowell of murdering her sister.

Mr Scott: (exclaims) Maxwell Rowell??

Superintendent: yeah Maxwell Rowell. I'm not wrong about the name.

Mr Scott: interesting. Send his file to my office.

Superintendent: I'll send my boys to your head quarters right away.

Mr Scott: I'll be expecting your boys.

Superintendent: alright have a nice day (drops the call).

Mr Scott: (soliloquies) Maxwell Rowell... We meet again and now in a more severe case. (Smiling) I'm going to make sure you don't escape this time around. The world is a small planet that draws us back to one another. No matter how far you try to run on foot it can't exceed the speed of a car. Now you have two case to settle; Dave's death and your wife sister's death (laughs).

Acts XI

Scene I

(Mr Scott visits the isolation to drop charges against Max. Mr Scott is talking with the head of medics; Mr Anderson, in his office

Mr Scott: (enters Mr Anderson's office) my own man! My big man.

Mr Anderson: (smiling) Scott! Scott!

Mr Scott: (hailing) the only medical personnel with an emeritus.

Mr Anderson: (happy) you can say that again. (Scott sits down) what brings you to my office?

Mr Scott: one of my suspect is in your building.

Mr Anderson:  and who could that be?

Mr Scott: (whispers) Maxwell Rowell.

Mr Anderson: (confused) who's that?

Mr Scott: one of your admitted patient in ward 103.

Mr Scott: (breathes out) a client?! What's his offense?

Mr Scott: he has two murder case on board. One committed months ago and the other committed this week.

Mr Anderson: (wondering) how could that be? I mean he has been here since the start of the week. How come he committed murder without leaving this centre?

Mr Scott: that's what I was thinking too. My instincts then spoke to me that he could have allies out there working for him while he's in here.

Mr Anderson: no! I sense alliance to terminate Max. You want to eliminate an innocent soul without evidence.

Mr Scott: (angry) what'd you mean by what you just said? Do I look like a petty officer? A case was brought to me by his wife with a letter of threat accomplished and all you can say is I'm ganging up against Max.

Mr Anderson: can I see the letter?

Mr Scott: (passes the letter to Anderson) you can have it, my pleasure.

Mr Anderson: (reads the later) what!!! This can't be true. Are you sure the woman who wrote this letter is Max's wife?

Mr Scott: (rhetorical) why will I wish to execute justice on someone who's not an offender?

Mr Anderson: this is serious. I'd like to see the woman wrote this letter. I need to verify if she's Max's wife or a story cook.

Mr Scott: Mr Anderson! Why should you call a woman who has handed over to the state security her predicament for questioning? Don't you think that will diminish her confidence. She'll think we are not capable or doubts her report.

Mr Anderson: (indifferent) I've made my decision. I need to see her before handling over my patient to you.

Mr Scott: (mean) mind you Mr Scott, he's her husband (leaves the office in anger).

Mr Scott: that's the worst you can do. Don't forget to bring the testifier I asked for. (Opens his drawer and brings out a new newspaper to read).

Acts XI

Scene II

(The next morning, Mr Scott and Mrs Theresa arrived at Mr Anderson's office unexpectedly. Mr Anderson is looking for one of his library when he heard the push on his door)

Mr Anderson: (surprised) welcome Scott.

Mr Scott: (angry) welcome.

Mr Anderson: you both freaked me out. I wasn't expecting you to come so early.

Mr Scott: when it involves a case of murder, I do take my work so serious.

Mr Anderson: (nods in approval) that's a nice commitment. (Looks at Theresa) is this Max's wife?

Mr Scott: yeah, she's the one.

Mr Anderson: (smiling) she looks much younger. (To Theresa) you may have your seat. (To Mr Scott) can you excuse us for some minutes?

Mr Scott: that's not an issue (exits Mr Anderson's office).

Mr Anderson: (smiling) how're you feeling today, ma?

Theresa: (looks at her fingers) I'm feeling better.

Mr Anderson: that's good. May I know your name pls.

Theresa: my names are Mrs Rowell Theresa.

Mr Anderson: Theresa, I'm Mr Anderson, the state's HOD of medics. I need nothing but the truth from you. I know it might be hard to say something's but you have to say it. If not for anything, for pleading not guilty. (Looks at the letter Mr Scott gave him the previous day) according to this letter on my hand, you filed a case against Mr Maxwell Rowell who happens to be your husband for murdering your sister. Can you tell me why Max happens to be your prime suspect?

Theresa: (pause for a while) Mr Maxwell Rowell is my husband for over seven years and counting. We lived happily with few conflict over the years. Maxwell has never threatened me until this quarantine period. Maxwell was first accused for murdering his friend, Dave, at a bar relaxation party. After some days the president through his prerogative released Max. After the release, Max became feverish and sometimes would breathe like an asthmatic patient under attack. I told Max to contact the medical centres for check ups but he refused and warned me he won't take it likely with me if I call anyone. The first was called but he left the house. The other two times I tried contacting your centre, he shouted at me and warned me strictly never to call your line. I took him unaware when I called your centre and they came at an unexpected hour. (Crying) Max at the point of invasion told me I'm going to regret every bit of my actions. He threatened me I was gonna be affected badly (bows her head in tears)

Mr Anderson: (consoling her) it's ok ma. Everything's under control now. We are on your case, no need to shed any tears.

Theresa: (sobbing) two days after Max threatened me, I lost my sister. My only sister who has been with me since I lost my parents.

Mr Anderson: it's ok. Stop crying. We'll solve your matter with the speed of light. Pls can you help me call Mr Scott while you wait outside for a moment.

Theresa: (sobbing) no problem Sir (exits the office. Mr Scott comes in)

Mr Anderson: her story doesn't depict Max as the traitor. Max has been a loving husband. The misunderstanding only came in as a result of resisting medical attention. I don't think Max is the prime suspect looking at the basis. I won't release Max to you until this case is taken to court and Max is called up.

Mr Scott: (furious) Mr Anderson!!! Why don't you understand people?!! Why have you sold your feelings to the dungeons?!! Why have you decided to be very wicked and heartless?!!. An innocent woman came to you crying about the death of her sister and you decide to support the murderer. That's not nice enough. Rethink and make a better decision.

Mr Anderson: (indifferent) I've made my choice. You can leave my office now!

Mr Scott: are you chasing me out of your office?!!!

Mr Anderson: for the fact you don't have meaningful words to discuss, get out!

Mr Scott: you mean I should leave your office?!!

Mr Anderson: Mr man, I can't answer your question. Just leave before I call the security on you.

Mr Scott: no probs. (Smiling) I'll leave. But once again, think about your decision on this matter (exits the office and slammed the door forcefully).

Mr Anderson: your days are numbered.

(Light out)

Acts XI

Scene III

(Mr Scott enters his office in anger. He enters and slammed the door forcefully. He called two of his senior officers to his office. The officers arrives at his office).

Mr Scott: sit down two of you. (They both sat down) hope you know Mr Anderson?

Officer Cartel: yeah I know him Sir.

Mr Scott: good! I want the both of you to eliminate him.

Officer Botha: (shocked) blood of God! (Scared) sir.... I can't do it...

Mr Scott: what can't you do? Pull a trigger on a man? Let me ask you now. How many civilians have you killed with your gun? Mr Shola you murdered last week, do you think I wasn't aware of it? Oga Tunde you injured last week with your gun, do you think I'm unaware of it too? Obi Nwakanma you killed cold bloodedly on a lonely street last month, do you think I'm so ignorant not to know about it? If you don't want to be imprisoned forever, you better do what I asked you to do.

Officer Cartel: (raises up his right palm) I'm in sir!

Mr Scott: (smiles) that's my boy! I'm going to relinquish the both of you from duty today. You're going to track him down til he's left alone, then you kill him.

Officer Cartel: that's a simple job Sir! Infact I've done it.

Mr Scott: (laughs) I trust you Cartel. You're my best officer. You can both leave now.

(They both stand up, salutes him and exit the office).

Acts XI

Scene IV

(Mr Anderson enters the phone room. It's a small room demarcated by a glass where a contacted patient and a visitor talk to themselves via phone calls. Mr Anderson asked the personnels in charge to leave him alone with Max on the other hand side of the glass).

Mr Anderson: hello Mr Maxwell.

Max: (low-key) hello Mr Anderson.

Mr Anderson: (whispering) listen up Max. You're in a big trouble now with Mr Scott. You've been charged with murder and will soon be taken to court.

Max: (shocked) Mr Scott! Murder?! How come?!!

Mr Anderson: your wife, Mrs Rowell Theresa has filed a case charging you with murdering her sister, Thelma.

Max: (exclaims) Thelma is dead!!! How did this happen?!

Mr Anderson: you are being charged with rape and murder two dreadful offense. Not only that Mr Scott is testifying against you alongside your wife. Thelma died two days after you were arrested. (Drops the phone to leave)

Max: wait Mr Anderson! (Mr Anderson picks up the phone) I need you to help me more than ever.

Mr Anderson: I can't help you. If I do I'm afraid you might murder me too.

Max: (angry) I am... Not... A... Murderer!!! (Pauses for a while then continue talking softly) I killed no one and I don't know how it feels to kill anyone. You have to believe me! I'm innocent! I'm neither a rapist nor a murderer. This event happened while I was in jail. I didn't do it pls I need your support more than ever.

Mr Anderson: I can only do one thing for you while you do the rest.

Max: (inquisitive) what can you do for me?

Mr Anderson: release you from here.

Max: and what am I to do?

Mr Anderson: you run away. Runaway from Austin City, runaway from Salamadi, run to somewhere Mr Scott power can't be imposed. That's the only way you can be safe.

Max: thank you so much Anderson. I promise to pay back every bit when this case dies and I'm back.

Mr Anderson: get ready by 9pm, I'm coming to dismiss you from your ward.

Max: I appreciate so much sir.

(Mr Anderson stands up and exit the room. Max stares at Mr Anderson as he walks out before Max left the room).

(Light out)

Acts XI

Scene V

(Mr Anderson on his way home intercepted by a black car).

Mr Anderson: (honks) pls excuse me Mr man. This is how people look for trouble unnecessarily. (The car stands still) I said excuse me oh! (Honks louder)

Officer Cartel: (to officer Botha) make sure you aim him real good.

Officer Botha: (aiming Anderson's forehead) 2cm to the skull and... Done (shoots Anderson's three times on his forehead) let's go.

(Officer Cartel zooms off with officer Botha in their car. Mr Anderson died there due to loss of blood and damage in the brain).

(Light out)

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Acts XI

Scene VI

(The medical personnel's are panicking and confused about the death of their director and the sudden disappearance of Max. The board of directors called for a meeting to bring up a better illustration for public news)

Dr Segundo: (walking pole to pole tirelessly) I can't just believe this is happening. The same day Mr Anderson died was the same day Max disappeared from the centre.

Dr Charles: (confused) I just don't know what to tell the public.

Dr Rita: I think we should relate the both case into one.

Dr Samson: how?

Dr Rita: (relaxed) tell the public Max is responsible for the murder and because of this he fled from the centre.

Dr Charles: (unsatisfied) that's not appetizing enough.

Dr Sharon: I think we write on the page lay out that Max sent his troops to attack the director general and also those troops came to release him. We bribe other ward patience to say they saw people entering the centre with guns. The public won't resist that at all.

Dr Miller: what if investigators or journalist decide to investigate this case to the root?

Dr Rita: as long as we have internal testifier, they are bound to believe the news.

Dr Segundo: (sad) how can someone kill a peaceful man like Mr Anderson? He has done nothing to be assasinated. We shouldn't tell the public lies but rather the truth.

Dr Sharon: if we don't tell them those lies, they'll see us as liars. How can Max dismiss and Anderson die on the same day? That's more than unimaginable.

Dr Rita: I think the best way to do this is to have a referendum. We vote within ourselves.

Dr Segundo: if you go by Dr Sharon idea please can you kindly raise your hand (Counts the numbers of people raising their hands). If you wish to stick by the truth, kindly raise your hand up (Counts the number of hands up). Alright, we go by Dr Sharon decision.

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(Dr Rita phones Mr Scott immediately after the meeting ended to tell him about the successful election they had)

Dr Rita: (walking) what's up Mr Scott?

Mr Scott: I'm fine Rita. What do I owe this call?

Dr Rita: (whispering) we've successfully transferred aggression to Max. The public will soon receive report about Max's evil acts.

Mr Scott: (happy) that's my girl! Come over to my house for your balance.

Dr Rita: no problem Sir. See ya. I'm on duty, bye.

Mr Scott: bye (cuts the call) Max will forever live with guilt and scar wherever he is (laughs).

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