POETIC INTRO|
Before my eyes,
He sat on pride
Before my eyes,
He had all that should be mine
He watched me from her womb.
He said I was his beloved!
It all changed the moment he knew;
I was born of breasts and not beards
I should be Queen amount kings
But he made me steward among kings
I will be a goddess among kings
And Lord among men!
_____________________________________
FLASHBACK (APRIL 10th, 2021)
Victoria & Albert's, Orlando. Florida, U.S.A|
"Mrs Adesoji meets up with Lolade at one of the famous restaurants in Florida."
LOLADE
I am still drowning in surprise. I keep asking myself how I could convince my family's biggest rival to meet up with me.
(She picks up a glass of red wine from the table)
Mrs ADESOJI
I can see the shock in your eyes. I bet you want to pinch me to confirm if it's the devil sitting with you or me.
LOLADE
I would if that is more important than why I wanted us to meet. But sadly, it isn't!
Mrs ADESOJI
I have somewhere to be in an hour from now, so please be quick with it!
LOLADE
Of course, I have no intention of taking much of your time. What I want is simple. I want power; I want to be a goddess among men. So I accept your offer, but you must keep my identity confidential until after the state elections coming next year.
Mrs ADESOJI
Your wish is my command, my friend.
I can call you my friend since you are on my side now.
(She smiles at Lolade)
LOLADE
Of course, we are friends now, and I believe I can trust you and the party.
Mrs ADESOJI
Yes, you can.
Though I know Chief will eventually find out about this. We can't underestimate your father's influence and power.
LOLADE
Relax, my dear; I have nothing to lose. My father has one rule that he has kept to his whole life, which is the rule of bloodline exemptions. Meaning it doesn't matter what I do. He can't touch me. I'm his greatest weakness. Soon he will realise all that I have coming.
Mrs ADESOJI
You still hold a grudge over his decision to take away your birth rights!
(She picks up a glass of Champagne)
LOLADE
I have sat on my anger for too long. My brother has lived my life for too long. I want it all back; I do not care what it will take. Even if it means destroying all my father has worked hard for, I do not care! After all, he is no saint!
Mrs ADESOJI
Wow, I love your energy. I believe with you on my side; there is so much we can accomplish. It's going to take time.
LOLADE
You have said it all, my dear. Like my niece, Temi used to say, "Time is of the essence."
I believe a time is coming when we will be Lords among men and goddesses among kings.
Mrs ADESOJI
You know people like you are why and for who The AUG party exist. We are not just interested in dominance!
We exist to create equity and equality in the society. We are here to ensure women get the same opportunities as men do.
LOLADE
This is exactly why I came to you. I know you are the only one who shares my goal. Together, we can create a society in Nigeria where women are not slaves to their culture and the so-called societal standards.
Mrs ADESOJI
Thank you for finding us worthy of your trust and support! Welcome to the party, my dear. I must take my leave now. But I will keep in touch with you.
(She gets up to leave
LOLADE
Thank you for hearing me out. I'm looking forward to working with you and the party.
(They formally exchange a handshake)
TODAY(OCTOBER 1st 2022)
Mrs ADESOJI's MEETING WITH THE PARTY MEMBERS
MISS UGO
What is a Balogun doing here?
Mrs Adesoji, what is the meaning of this?
Mrs OKOYE
Miss Ugo, please relax. This may be beneficial to us. Let us hear Mrs Adesoji out.
Mrs ADESOJI
Thank you, Mrs Okoye. I know this may come to most of us as a Surprise. I apologise for any form of the inconvenience this might have cost anyone. As Mrs Ugo has said earlier, The presidential election is just around the corner. As much as The table will do everything to retain the presidency, we won't sit and just let it happen. This election will be different!
Mrs CHIAMAKA
How would an associate of The table head help us achieve this?
MISS UGO
I was about to ask the same question! I do not see her being of help in any way. She's the daughter of our major rival. I still don't understand why she's here.
Mrs ADESOJI
Lolade Balogun has been a member of our party for over a year now. Yes, she asked that her identity be kept hidden for personal reasons. She has been a huge contributor to this party, especially in finance. When she heard about the recent developments, she couldn't help but worry. That is one of the major reasons she's here today.
MISS UGO
Wow, that is daring!
Though I'm curious about something. Why The AUG? You could have easily joined The NNC if you were interested in politics. But why us?
LOLADE
The core of The AUG is built around empowering women. This is something I'm interested in. As you all know, I am the first fruit of my family. Do not recognise that. I watched my brother possess all that should be rightfully mine! I want it all back! I want to be involved in the quest for equity in Nigeria's politics and society.
BISHOP KAYODE
Your membership will be an added value to our party. With you on our side, there are higher chances of us winning the presidential Elections. I know her presence may not go well with many of us. But I think if we can keep sentiments aside, maybe you will all be able to see the light in her presence.
(He smiles at Lolade)
Mrs ADESOJI
Thank you for seeing through my eyes, Bishop Kayode.
As we all know, Mr Achebe and Mrs Alaba have been chosen as our candidates for the elections. We must win this!
MISS OKOYE
I felt we will, especially now that we have a Balogun. With her influence and resources, I believe we can win this. If only she had shown herself before the primaries, maybe she might have been the one representing us out there.
(She smiles at Lolade)
LOLADE
Just maybe, my dear!
I must applaud your strategies! Electing a man as our front liner was brilliant. This is because we exist in a society where most men would do everything to keep the power within themselves. These men have dominated us for too long. Even though we can't sit on the throne because of how the system is wired, at least we will be the first Feminist party to have a woman as a Vice President. This will be a stepping stone and an eye-opener for the women in Nigeria and Africa.
MR ACHEBE
First, I want to welcome Miss Lolade Balogun to our party. I must confess you are one brilliant soul. I guess you are a replica of your father's genius mind. Only one of a kind would be able to deduce and comprehend our strategy.
I'm looking forward to working with you.
(He shakes hands with Lolade)
LOLADE
I look forward to working with the party to achieve our goals and interests.
(She smiles at Mr Achebe)
MISS UGO
You are welcome to our party, Ma. On behalf of the party, we want to thank you for your contribution and support.
( She forced a smile on her face)
"Lolade knew a lot but still hasn't accepted her presence, including Miss Ugo. But she decided to engage in their game of pretence."
LOLADE
Thank you, my dear.
(She smiles back at Miss Ugo)
_____________________________________
Mr AYO BALOGUN MANSION, FESTAC LAGOS|
"Rukky walks into the sitting room."
RUKKY
Ahh, Taiwo, how far, na?
(She sits beside him)
TAIWO
(He knows Rukky was up to something)
I'm fine, Rukky! What do you want?
RUKKY
Ahh, can't I sit beside you again? Nawa ooo
TAIWO
Hmm, I know you, Rukky!
You never come this close except you want something.
I will ask for the last time; what do you want?
RUKKY
It's been a while since we talked na! I just wanted us to gist like old times.
KEN
Hmm, my brother run. Oh! There is no such thing as just a talk with Rukky.
(Ken tease)
CHIDI
Guy, I dey hungry oh! Rukky, any update for kitchen?
(He smiles at Rukky)
RUKKY
Do I look like your slave? Why are both of you here? Shouldn't you be at work?
TAIWO
I was about to ask the same question!
It's weird for both of you to be here on a weekday! Hmm, where is Bayo?
KEN
He is upstairs. Chief sent us to supervise some projects on our site here in Festac, so he came home to get some documents.
TAIWO
My Grandfather specifically included both of you in the errand. I don't believe it.
Chief won't send clowns to the field.
CHIDI
Ahh, Taiwo, which kind talk be that one na? What do you take us for?
Do you know what I have done for the company?
"Rukky burst into laughter. Taiwo follows suit."
"Bayo notices Taiwo's room door is open. Simi is all alone in the room."
BAYO
Good morning, Simi.
(He stands at the door)
SIMI
Good Afternoon, Bayo. It's noon already.
(She applies lotion on her face)
BAYO
You look pretty today!
SIMI
(She knew where Bayo was going with this)
What do you want, Bayo? Don't you get tired of chasing? I'm married to your brother, for God's sake!
BAYO
I do not care! We both know Taiwo doesn't love you. It's hard to accept, but that is the truth.
(He walks closer to her)
SIMI
Even if Taiwo never existed, the chance of me falling for you would be as difficult as Nigerians celebrating independence day. Why can't you get it? I don't want you.
BAYO
For now, you don't! But I promise you someday you will regret marrying Taiwo.
(He pulls her to himself)
SIMI
Bayo! Leave me be! Someone might see you!
(She manages to pull herself out of his arm.
BAYO
We both know Taiwo will never touch you the way I would. I doubt you have seen his nudity, not to talk of Living in it!
SIMI
(She drops her right palm on his right cheek)
That is disrespectful to your brother and me!
We are married. What happens in our martial bed is non of your business!
Get out of here!
BAYO
(He rubs his cheek with his hand)
A slap won't hurt as much as the truth will. He couldn't even marry you properly. You deserve more, Simi. I hope you realise this before it's too late.
(He walks out of the room)
RUKKY
Ahh, Where is the lie in what Taiwo said?
Would you even trust yourselves with that project?
(She teases Ken and Chike)
CHIKE
When that one start? Abeg Rukky nor insult us oh!
I won't take it from you!
KEN
Even you, Taiwo! Abeg I nor like that kind talk. We fit dey do foolish things at times but e nor mean say you go look down on us.
RUKKY
Foolish things like when you Asked one of the company's clients out? I'm trying to remember her name
(She exclaims in louder laughter. Taiwo joins in the wild laughter)
CHIKE
Abeg, stop it! I have changed that was a year ago! I'm focused now.
TAIWO
You are an idiot, shey, you know?
Abeg where Bayo? Make una do dey go!
"Bayo walks into the sitting room."
BAYO
At least they are doing something with their life! All you do is sit all day and whine about your late mother.
RUKKY
Bayo! That's too extreme!
KEN
Bayo, don't say that, please. Na joke all us dey abeg! Taiwo na still my "G" for life.
BAYO
You both still don't get it! He sees both of you as idiots, and you are acting like one right now!
Let's leave, please time is not on our side.
(He walks out of the sitting room.)
KEN
How far? Not reason watin Bayo talk. You know how your brother acts at times. We are leaving now!
TAIWO
(He sleeps on his rage and puts up a bright smile)
It's fine! Take care of yourselves. See you at Auntie Lolade's wedding.
"ken and Chike walk out of the room."
"Rukky see this as the perfect moment to bring up her reason for clinging to Taiwo all afternoon."
RUKKY
Speaking of Weddings, why don't you get that done for you and Simi?
TAIWO
Wedding? Why?
We both know this is more of a contract than a marriage. If I had my way, I wouldn't be married.
RUKKY
You won't be married to Simi? Or you wouldn't be married to Simi?
TAIWO
I wouldn't be married!
This isn't about Simi. It's about the plans I had for myself! Marriage was far from it. But as you can see, I had no choice. My life belongs to Chief!
(He Sips his orange juice that was served by Mrs Aisha earlier)
RUKKY
Taiwo Balogun, I have known you almost my whole life! You and Eniola are similar in some ways! You both sit on your emotions a lot. Eniola acts like she hates Love and romance but deep down, she is scared of many things! My point is that we both know this is about Simi! You have no emotional connection with her, but you pretend about it just to avoid hurting Chief and Simi!
(She smiles at Taiwo)
TAIWO
(He wonders why Rukky, of all people, could see through him)
You are right, Rukky!
But I can't do anything about it. I'm already legally married to her.
RUKKY
You do have a choice, my dear.
It's either you learn to Love her and enjoy your marriage or live with regrets your whole life. The choice is yours!
TAIWO
Hmm, what exactly are you trying to tell me?
RUKKY
Open your heart to Simi; maybe somewhere in between the pages of life, your heart may end up recognising her relevance
TAIWO
How do I do that?
RUKKY
It all starts with intentional actions! Marry her right! Surprise her with a classic wedding, maybe go for a honeymoon and get her roses. The heart will always want what it wants, but you can't know what it wants until you open her eyes to all around her.
I have to leave now. I have to meet up with Eniola and Robert at the wedding reception.
(She gets up to leave)
TAIWO
Thank you for the words of advice. Sometimes, I wonder how you are friends with my sister. You are both different people with different personalities.
RUKKY
As the saying goes, "opposite pairs attract"
(She walks out of the sitting room)
FESTAC CENTRAL HOSPITAL|
"Where the hell is he? Oh God, what do I say when I see him? We haven't spoken since we made out. His he avoiding me, or did I move my feet too fast?"
"Chidi walks into the office."
Dr CHIDI
Good Evening, Dr Temi. Your patient seems to have fully recovered. I will be discharging her today.
(He notices Temi is a little bit soaked in her world)
Dr Temi, are you okay?
TEMI
Yes, Sir!
So I was distracted. What were you saying?
Dr CHIDI
(He smiles)
I said Awelle would be discharged today. I will have to prescribe some drugs she must take for at least a month.
(He writes on a piece of paper)
TEMI
I can give that to Michael if you don't mind.
(She sees this as an opportunity to see Michael)
Dr CHIDI
Sure, that would be helpful. Are you free this weekend? I was hoping I could get to know you better. Maybe dinner or something.
(He saw this as an opportunity to push his luck with Temi)
TEMI
I wish I were, but sadly I'm not. I have a wedding to attend, and I can't miss it for anything.
Dr CHIDI
Wow! Who is getting married?
TEMI
My Auntie, I must be there.
Dr CHIDI
I understand. Maybe next time
(He smiles at her)
TEMI
Sure, Maybe!
Dr CHIDI
Alright, I have to go now! I still have some patients to attend to. Please give this to
Michael or Mrs Adebayo
(He drops the prescription on her desk)
TEMI
I will do that, sir. I'm sorry about the dinner.
Dr CHIDI
It's fine, my dear.
Family always comes first. And there is always a next time.
(He walks out of the Office)
"Awelle stands at the entrance to Temi's office."
TEMI
Hey, what are you doing there? You should be in bed.
(She smiles at Awelle)
"Awelle walks into the office."
AWELLE
I will hide behind you. Tell my father you never saw me.
(She hides behind Temi's Chair)
TEMI
What? Don't tell me you are both playing hide and seek.
AWELLE
No, I hate those drugs. They are bitter.
Here he comes
"Michael walks into the office."
MICHAEL
Good morning. Have you seen Awelle this morning?
( He could see the edges of Awelle's clothes)
TEMI
No, I haven't.
(She avoids eye contact with Michael)
MICHAEL
Are you sure about that? Because I can see that little rascal behind you.
(He grabs Awelle)
AWELLE
No, no, I don't want those drugs, please
(She cries out)
TEMI
Please let her be. I will give them to her myself.
(She takes Awelle away from him)
MICHAEL
Please don't fall for her tricks. She has a way of getting away with things!
She knows what she is doing.
AWELLE
If you make me take them, I will tell Auntie Temi our little secret.
(She smiles at Michael)
TEMI
Secrete? What is that?
(She gazes at Awelle)
MICHAEL
It's nothing, don't mind her
(He covers Awelle's Mouth with his right hand)
TEMI
That wasn't nothing; let her tongue be!
(She grabs Michael's hands)
"Somewhere in-between that moment, She couldn't take her eyes off him. She could feel the warmness of his hands and the sensation coming from the hair on the surface of his skin. Michael couldn't help but gaze at the well-built edges of her lips that were polished with lipstick."
MICHAEL
It's nothing, Dr Temi. Don't mind, Awelle!
"Onyinye walks into the Office."
ONYINYE
I have been searching for you guys. Mama is around. She's asking after both of you.
Good morning, Dr Temi.
TEMI
Good morning, my dear.
MICHAEL
Oh, alright, take Awelle with you. I will join you guys In a few minutes.
ONYINYE
(She notices the tension between Michael and Temi)
Okay, we will be leaving now!
(She walks out of the room. Holding Awelle's hand)
TEMI
What was Awelle talking about? You thought I would forget, right?
MICHAEL
It's nothing much. I think she caught us making out the other day. I tried convincing her that I was taking something out of your mouth. But it's Awelle. She's just too wise to deceive.
TEMI
Are you serious?
I'm sorry about that. It was all my fault
I shouldn't have done that
(She burry her head to the ground in shyness)
MICHAEL
You don't have to be!
I like you, Temi, right from the first day, I saw you. Your personality is one of a kind. I do not know why you kissed me the other day. But I prayed all night, hoping it was because this feeling was mutual.
TEMI
I do not know what it feels like to be in Love. I haven't been with anyone before. But I know that I can't get you off my mind. I do not know if it's alright to be in Love with you. But I know my heart wants you.
MICHAEL
I understand you. I won't pressure you. Let's take things slow and keep it private for now.
TEMI
Why? Are you ashamed to be seen with me?
MICHAEL
Of course, not! I want something serious and real with you, but I do not know if your folks would want me to be seen with you.
TEMI
It's my life! I have the right to decide with whom I want to spend the rest. I do not care who you are or what you do! If I want you, I want you!
["Simi; Love Don't Care🎶" begins to play in the background]
MICHEAL
I wish I could skip the talking stage with you
(He slowly pulls her to himself)
TEMI
Michael, we are the Office. Someone could see us.
MICHAEL
I know that is why I will make it quick.
(He slowly plunges his lips to hers for a few moments)
I have to go now. Mama is waiting for me!
(He turns to leave)
TEMI
Wait a minute.
(she runs into his arms)
Thank you!
MICHAEL
For what?
TEMI
For making me feel this way. Please go to Mama now.
Let's talk later.
(She wears a smile)
MICHAEL
Alright, I will be leaving now.
(He walks out of the Office)
_____________________________________
CHIEF BALOGUN EXECUTIVE OFFICE|
"Dr Akande walks into Chief's office."
Dr AKANDE
I got your message, brother. It sounded crucial hope everything is alright.
(He sits on one of Chief's office couches)
CHIEF BALOGUN
Yes, it is. I had my private investigator follow Lolade, and I found this.
(He gives Dr Akande some photographs of Lolade with Mrs Adesoji after the AUG Party meeting)
Dr AKANDE
This isn't good. I know both of you have had your differences for a long time. But I hope she doesn't stab us in the back.
(He flips through the pictures)
"Mrs Kate Balogun and Mr Ayo Balogun walk into Chief's office."
MR A BALOGUN
ka a ale, sir.
You requested my presence. Is everything fine?
CHIEF BALOGUN.
I don't know, son. Your sister is getting on my nerves
(He gives the photographs to Kate and Ayo)
Mrs K BALOGUN
Ahh! What is Lolade doing with Mrs Adesoji? This isn't good.
(She flips through the pictures)
MR A BALOGUN
I do not know why you are all surprised about this. It's Lolade! Anything is possible with her. She does what she likes whenever and with whomever!
She has nothing to lose because she knows father can't harm her.
Dr AKANDE
We have to find out what she's up to. Her actions can affect us in many ways! We have to stop her by all means.
Mrs K BALOGUN
I don't think we should jump to conclusions yet. Lolade might have done a lot in the past, but it still doesn't change the fact that she is my only daughter.
MR A BALOGUN
I am your only son too! But I would never stab my flesh and blood in the back. Nothing beneficial to us can come from this combo!
(He points at Lolade and Mrs Adesoji's pictures)
We should confront her about this before it's too late.
CHIEF BALOGUN
No, we won't do that yet! As your mother said, we have to find more evidence proving this picture's importance. She's our daughter and your sister.
Mrs K BALOGUN
I agree with your father. We have to be careful about this. I have someone at the AUG party who can help us. I did her a favour when I was still the nation's Chief Justice. I believe we can trust her.
Dr AKANDE
This will help a lot. It would help if you got through to her. And Chief, I'm suggesting you still ask your investigator to find out more concerning these pictures.
CHIEF BALOGUN
Kate, please do all you can to find out why Lolade attended that meeting. And yes, my investigator is currently still looking into this. I think that will be all for now. You can all leave except kate.
(Ayo and Dr Akande walk out of the Office)
Mrs K BALOGUN
What is it, Oko mi?
CHIEF BALOGUN
It's about Temi. Mr and Mrs Obi seem serious about making her a wife to their son. They will be attending Lolade's wedding. I was hoping you could get the acquitted with each other. I mean Chidi and Temi
Mrs K BALOGUN
Okay, that should be easy since they work together at the hospital. All I have to do is get the idea of marriage into Temi's head, but you know that your granddaughter has a funny way of getting what she wants. I hope she concurs with our plans for her.
CHIEF BALOGUN
Do not worry about her willpower. Just get them to be familiar with each other. Temi is a loner! With time, she will appreciate his presence in her life and consciously or subconsciously, she will fall for him.
(He picks up some paperwork)
Mrs K BALOGUN
If that is all, I shall take my leave now.
(She gets up to leave)
CHIEF BALOGUN
Alright, I will join you for dinner later this evening.
_____________________________________
ECO HOTEL, LAGOS NIGERIA|
Eniola gazes at Robert, who seems to be switching attention between her and the event planner. She admitted to herself that her Auntie was marrying an attractive man.
"He looks so hot in this casual attire, not that native he wore the other day to impress Grandpa, Eniola said to herself"
She noticed Robert couldn't take his eyes off her but, at the same time, didn't have the guts to act in line with his attraction to her.
ENIOLA
So how did it go?
(She smiles at Robert)
ROBERT
It went well. I love the place and style. Lolade was right when she said you could take care of this.
ENIOLA
I am Eniola Juliet Balogun. I can't fail at anything I put my heart and mind in. I have always loved event planning and decorations.
ROBERT
Wow, why don't you do that for a living? I learnt you are an engineer. I do not see how that fits your personality and talent.
ENIOLA
A Balogun doesn't choose their destiny. That is the price I paid for being born as a Balogun!
Chief Makes all the decisions around here. If possible, my Grandfather will decide what I wear every day.
(Robert laughs out loud Eniola joins in the laughter)
ROBERT
I understand everything you've said.
I was born into a rich home, so I understand everything you said.
ENIOLA
Can I ask a very private question?
ROBERT
Of course, you can.
ENIOLA
Why Auntie Lolade?
We both know she's far in age. I am not against my Auntie's happiness, but I never expected to see her with a guy in his early thirties, a white one, to be more precise. And there are younger girls out there, most likely white ones you could have gone for.
ROBERT
Please permit me to say you sound like a racist right now. And what is your issue with age differences?
Love can be very unpredictable. She sees no flaws in her eyes; perfection is an understatement regarding her views on the one she loves.
ENIOLA
You are very right concerning Love, but I so much believe in the concept of all other factors! Love alone can not keep two people together. There are a lot of factors that must be considered.
Concerning what you said about racism, a white man has no right to call me a racist. I am not the one who exploited Africa and sold blacks out for slavery.
ROBERT
Neither am I the one who did that!
No one is doing that anymore. Why can't you get over something that happened years before you were born? You can't solve a problem with a problem!
ENIOLA
What exactly are you trying to say?
(She appears angry)
ROBERT
Despising me or any of my kind wouldn't erase History!
Yes, my ancestors sinned against your ancestors. Not me against you. Africa fought for their freedom. We gave it to them! So let it go.
ENIOLA
Our History is a reflection of who we are! Times before now will always matter!
I am not a Racist!
ROBERT
Says the woman who seized her opportunity to mock me the first time she saw on an attire she should value and appreciate! You didn't even notice how that attire inconvenienced me! You notice the skin is white and concluded.
ENIOLA
You know what? I hate you!!
You are so arrogant!!!
(She picks up her bag and walks away)
_____________________________________
MR AYO BALOGUN MANSION, FESTAC LAGOS
"Rukky walks into the sitting room."
RUKKY
Ahh, where did you go today? You asked me to meet you at Eco Hotel when I got there; Robert said you had already left. What happened?
(She sits beside Eniola)
ENIOLA
Please don't call that guy's name where I am! That guy is so fool of himself!
BISI
Ahh! What happened? Did he say something to you?
ENIOLA
He called me a racist!
Can you imagine?
RUKKY
Ahh, but why? Watin he mean by that one?
OLAMIDE
If this has something to do with what both of you did to him at dinner at grandpa's place, then I get where he is coming from.
(He picks up a glass of wine earlier served by Maria)
SIMI
Sorry Eniola, I'm with Olamide on this one! Even though it was funny, put yourself in his shoes and imagine he did that to you!
BAYO
Simi has a point because if a white man did that to a black man, he would be labelled a racist! So I think it's fair for him to feel that way! But still, he shouldn't have called Eniola a racist! That word is just too strong!
SIMI
You are right, Bayo!
But no one ever says the word is too harsh to address a white man!
Eniola, you know I love but just put yourself in his shoes.
(She rubs Eniola's legs which were on her lap)
ENIOLA
Abeg leave me jor!
You all keep taking sides with the white dude!
RUKKY
But you sound like a racist right now sha!
(She teases Eniola)
"The room is filled with laughter. Taiwo walks in."
TAIWO
Simi, will you marry me?
(He kneels in front of her)
"She is overwhelmed."
SIMI
I don't understand; we are married already!
What do you mean by that?
(She hopes he meant a white wedding with flowers and guests)
TAIWO
I want to marry you the right way. Let's marry in the church and host the best wedding Eco Hotel has ever witnessed. We can do it with Auntie Lolade and Robert!
SIMI
But we have to plan this!
I don't have a wedding gown!
RUKKY
Just say yes, madam! We got you covered! Nor Dey dull abeg. I go shoot you oo!
ENIOLA
Simi nor just fuck up oh!
Just say yes and leave the rest for us.
SIMI
Yes, Taiwo, let's get married!
(Tears roll down her cheeks)
BISI
Wow, two weddings in one day!
Oya, get up. Let's go and test your wedding gown.
(She picks Simi from her chair)
SIMI
Wedding dress?
ENIOLA
I told you we have you covered, right?
Oya, get up. Let's test that gown!
RUKKY
Simi, stand up, abeg! I go Chook hand for your eye, oh nor dey dull my spirit abeg!
"Bayo walks out of the room in anger."
OLAMIDE
Congratulations, my brother, you are doing the right thing by being a man!
(He hugs Taiwo)
_____________________________________
THE WEDDING RECEPTION, ECO HOTEL AND SUIT|
"Yes, Saturdays are for weddings 😌🎉🥳 When last did you attend a wedding? You are about to witness one😌😁"
Background music; Cough(Odo) Kizz Daniel ft Empire🎶
CHIKE
Omo, that girl too fine, abeg.
(He sips his glass of Champagne)
KEN
Nor dey tell me abeg if you like her, go dance with her. After all, it's a wedding!
RUKKY
This one were never fit talk to himself! Abeg, Chike, sit down for there. I dey shame for you!
(She drowns in laughter)
BAYO
Abeg, Rukky nor kill me with laugh!
(He joins her in the laughter)
CHIKE
Watin dey worry all of una! Make una stop this nonsense abeg! Una dey underestimate me oo! I will prove all of you wrong! I'm going to meet her now.
(He gets up to leave)
OLAMIDE
I can bet a thousand dollars; you can't approach that girl.
KEN
Omo, I join bet, too oo.
BAYO
I'm staking a million naira. You can't even go close to her shadow!
CHIKE
Nor worry, I go shock una.
(He walks away)
RUKKY
E go meet the girl oh! Awo, thank God, say I nor bet.
ENIOLA
Where is Temi? I have not seen her since we arrived.
BISI
She's with her doctor friends. I think that girl Chike is approaching is one of them.
BAYO
This is getting interesting.
Dr PASCAL
(He notices Temi looks unhappy)
Temi, are you alright? You do not look happy!
Dr HENRY
How can she be happy? Micheal hasn't arrived!
(He teased)
Dr RAPHAEL
Oh, that is true, oh! No wonder she has refused to exercise her tongue!
TEMI
Guys, please don't start!
(She smiles)
"Dr Mabel takes her seat."
Dr HENRY
Don't tell me you are done dancing.
Dr MABEL
I can't dance in peace, oh. This weird dude has been bugging me.
TEMI
Oh, that should be Chike. Don't mind him. He is a clown, but he is really a nice guy with an amazing sense of humour.
Dr MABEL
Do you know him?
TEMI
Yes, I do!
He is a friend of my brother. He is like family to me.
"Mrs K Balogun and Dr Chidi walk to Temi's Table."
MRS K BALOGUN
This is my granddaughter, Temi. I know you must have met her at work.
TEMI
e kaasan, Ma.
Mrs K BALOGUN
How are you? This is Dr Chidi. I know you don't have friends, so I told him earlier that you are looking for friends, and I want him to be associated with him.
TEMI
Grandma!
Mrs K BALOGUN
(She ignores Temi)
I will leave you both to catch up!
(She walks away)
TEMI
Do not mind my Granny; I am not desperate about finding friends.
Dr CHIDI
Does that mean you don't want to be friends with me?
TEMI
Oh, no!
I didn't mean it that way. Please seat!
(She pulls out one of the chairs)
Dr RAPHAEL
Look, it's Micheal and his family.
TEMI
Excuse guys
(She walks towards Micheal and Onyinye)
"Chike walks back to the table."
RUKKY
Ahh, what happened? She rejected you, abi?
(She joins others in intense laughter)
CHIKE
She said she was tired, maybe another time.
OLAMIDE
Another time in heaven, abi?
Abeg e the girl reject you, bro.
KEN
That's just the truth!
We warned you, but no, you won. Show yourself!
How e be you now?
BAYO
That girl is just too gorgeous for you. You self know, say you and that girl nor with blend! You for just rest, bro.
CHIKE
Make una leave me abeg!
Nor vex me this afternoon.
BISI
Sorry sir, nor vex.
( She laughs out loud)
SIMI
Thank you, Taiwo. Words can express my gratitude to you.
TAIWO
You don't have to thank me. You deserve to be happy. You deserve all of this.
SIMI
Thank you, my Love
(She kisses him)
TAIWO
I know I haven't been the best husband to you. I promise to up my game and make you happy.
SIMI
You are doing fine, Taiwo.
I know our union didn't happen by will. There were a lot of circumstances that surrounded it.
TAIWO
Thank you for understanding me.
"Tina pushes a piece of paper into Taiwo's hands and works away)
SIMI
What is that?
TAIWO
I don't know
(He opens the note)
She said I should meet her outside that my mother and Mr Adebayo were murdered!
(He runs out of the hall).
SIMI
Please wait for me
she runs after him.
"Temi lifts Awelle on her lap"
AWELLE
Auntie Temi, you look so beautiful.
(She smiles at Temi)
TEMI
Thank you, my Love.
(She teases Awelle's cheeks)
"Maria walks towards their table."
Mrs ADEBAYO
See my baby girl. You look so beautiful.
(She hugs Maria)
MARIA
Welcome, Mummy. Have you guys have eaten?
TEMI
I already asked one of the servers to bring something for them.
ONYINYE
Maria, I have gist for you oo.
MARIA
Me too, oh. Oya come.
(She pulls Onyinye by the hands as they both walk away)
Mrs ADEBAYO
Let me go and greet Granny Aisha, Awelle Oya, come let's say hi to your Granny.
(They both walked away)
MICHAEL
So are you enjoying the wedding?
TEMI
Yes, I am. How about you?
(She smiles at Michael)
MICHAEL
Yes, I am. I have a gift for you, though.
TEMI
Are you serious? Where is it?
(She appears excited)
MICHAEL
Come with me.
(He pulls her by the arm)
_____________________________________
"Taiwo goes outside to look for Tina."
TAIWO
Tina?
(He slowly approaches her unconscious body)
Oh my God!
"Simi walks into the scene."
SIMI
Jesus! Why is she bleeding?
(She screams in shock)
TAIWO
I don't know! Go and call for help!
SIMI
Okay, She rushes out of the scene.
TAIWO
Help!
Somebody, Help!
(He lifts Tina's bleeding head from the ground)
_____________________________________