Chereads / Festac / Chapter 36 - Episode 35(E shock you?)

Chapter 36 - Episode 35(E shock you?)

|POETIC INTRO|

I want to tell you a secret

I want to spill the truth

I want free my soul from this disarray

My fate lies in what my ears have heard

My heart shrank in paranoia and fear

My soul was suffocating in the deep water

My subconscious wounded in distress

So many things left unsaid

But in the end, I said a lot

They sat and wondered how come.

I sat and laughed; E shock you, abi?

_____________________________________

CHIEF BALOGUN RESIDENCE, BANANA ISLAND|

CHIEF BALOGUN

(He turns to Kate)

Your daughter has bitten off more than she can chew. I just hope she can handle what is coming next.

MR. A BALOGUN

Dad, can you just be straight with us?

BAYO

Isn't it obvious? Auntie Lolade is the vice president-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

(He sits on Chief's couch)

MRS. B BALOGUN

Bayo, shut up.

CHIEF BALOGUN

Why should he? It is the truth.

MRS. K BALOGUN

Are you saying AUG won the election?

CHIEF BALOGUN

We had three million votes ahead of them, but we couldn't meet the required twenty-five percent of all four major regions, including the federal capital.

(He gets up to leave)

BAYO

So what do we do, Grandpa?

"They all gaze at Chief"

CHIEF BALOGUN

Nothing.

MR. A BALOGUN

Nothing? Dad, stop kidding.

Please, this is a serious issue.

We all know you won't let it slide.

CHIEF BALOGUN

And that is what your sister wants.

She wants to see us bury our heads in shame and regret, and then somehow earn her respect.

To us, this is a struggle for power, but to Lolade, this is her own way of seeking validation from me.

MRS. K BALOGUN

So you will do nothing concerning the results?

CHIEF BALOGUN

(He smiles)

What can I do? It is what it is. Good night.

Do not forget to close my door when leaving.

(He walks out of the office)

TAIWO

I'm off to bed.

(He walks out of the office)

_____________________________________

LOLADE's RESIDENCE, LEKKI PHASE ONE|

"Lolade congratulations Mr Achebe on the phone "

LOLADE

(She laughs as she relaxes on her office chair)

Yes, oh my president. Finally, we did it!

They thought they could stop us, but little did they know.

(She switches her phone to her left ear as she gazes at Robert and Bisi walking into her office)

We had our own plans, and we certainly knew what we were doing. Alright, my president, let me call Mrs. Adesoji.

(She hangs up)

BISI

Congratulations, mummy!

(She hugs LOLADE in excitement)

LOLADE

Thank you, my love.

ROBERT

Congratulations, Mrs. Vice President.

LOLADE

You can say that again. Now I can relax.

(She turns to Bisi)

Where is your brother?

BISI

Where else but his room?

LOLADE

So he doesn't know he should come and congratulate his mother?

Nawa, this boy never seems to amaze me.

BISI

Mummy, relax. You know Olamide doesn't care about whether you win or not. And you shouldn't take it personally.

It's just OLAMIDE being his usual self.

LOLADE

I shouldn't take it personal? Why?

Why would a child not be happy for his mother?

Even if he is not interested, can't he pretend to care about me this once?

ROBERT

Lola, relax. Don't let Olamide's attitude spoil this moment for you. As I said before, give him time, he will come around. You know what? I have an idea to cheer you up. We have to toast to this.

BISI

Oh yes, we must. I will get some wine.

(She walks out of the office)

_____________________________________

THE ABIOLA's RESIDENCE|

"Gen Abiola walks into the sitting room"

Dr. SHADE

(She sits beside him)

I just saw the news.

I'm sorry about the election.

GEN ABIOLA

It's fine, my love.

I believe Chief will do something about it.

AYOOLA

How?

The results are already official, and I think you guys should just accept defeat and move on.

The NNC can't rule forever.

MR. F ABIOLA

(He turns to his younger sister)

Ayoola!

AYOOLA

What? I'm only saying the truth.

I know it's hard to accept, but it is what it is.

And if we want to be honest, we all know the AUG deserved the win. Those women worked their ass off during the campaign, so it's only right that we give what belongs to Caesar to Caesar.

Dr. SHADE

(She snaps)

Ayoola Abiola, that's enough! 

You shouldn't be saying such things to your dad.

Do you know all the work they put in to make this work?

AYOOLA

I'm just airing my view, mummy.

Dr. SHADE

Now is not the time to air your view.

Who cares what you think?

AYOOLA

Hmm, nawa.

MR. F ABIOLA

(He turns to Ayoola)

Why do I feel like you are in support of the AUG party?

AYOOLA

Bro, we both know say I nor care about these una politics matter. All I care about is business and the company. I have told you before to quit this your politics nonsense and join me at the company.

MR. F ABIOLA

Ṣe o ya were?

Or do I look like your mate?

Watch your tongue, young lady.

AYOOLA

Ahh, sorry, Mr. Deputy Governor.

(She picks up her glass of wine)

Dr. SHADE

That's enough, both of you!

GEN ABIOLA

(He gets up to leave)

I will be in my chambers. I need to rest.

Dr. SHADE

Alright, dear, I will join you soon.

"Gen Abiola walks out of the scene"

AYOOLA

Mum, have you heard from Simi?

Dr. SHADE

We spoke yesterday. Why?

AYOLLA

Ahh, nothing oh.

Can't I miss my baby sister again?

Dr. SHADE

Then call her!

MR. F ABIOLA: This one they call person?

She only cares about the company.

AYOLLA

And you only care about politics.

When was the last time you called to check up on me?

MR. F ABIOLA

Why will I check up on a grown-up woman like you?

AYOLLA

Then don't call me a bad sister just because I'm too busy to check up on Simi.

MR. F ABIOLA

Then quit complaining about missing her!

Cause she's only a call away from you.

Dr. SHADE

Enough!!!

What has come over both of you this evening?

Must you find every opportunity to be on each other's throats? You are grown-ups, for God's sake, act like one

(She walks out of the sitting room)

_____________________________________

CHIEF BALOGUN's RESIDENCE, BANANA ISLAND|

"Mrs Aisha knocks on Chief Balogun's office door"

CHIEF BALOGUN

Come in

(He picks up his glass of coffee in front of him)

Mrs. AISHA

Good morning, Chief.

Breakfast is ready.

CHIEF BALOGUN

There would be no need for that.

I will be leaving for the company in a few minutes.

Nanny, you know the other maids can do all of this.

You shouldn't be stressing yourself at all

Ayo should have retired you a long time ago.

Mrs. AISHA

(She smiles)

I cannot quit my job, Chief.

Especially now that they are still trying to cope with Eniola's absence. They need me now more than ever.

CHIEF BALOGUN

They cannot hold on to you forever, and you are not getting any younger. Your body needs rest.

Mrs. AISHA

I'm fine, Chief.

I was hoping we could talk?

CHIEF BALOGUN

Of course, please sit.

Mrs. AISHA

Thank you

(She sits opposite Chief)

CHIEF BALOGUN

So, what is it that you want to talk about?

Mrs. AISHA

(Clears throat)

This is very personal to me, and I know you have your reasons for doing the things you do, but I cannot stay quiet anymore.

Your actions have caused the Adebayos a lot of pain, and I can't watch them go through all of this when I know I can talk to you about it.

CHIEF BALOGUN

The Adebayos are responsible for all that has happened to them, and I see no reason why you should care about your stepdaughter and her family . She is a product of your husband's shortcomings.

Mrs. AISHA

They are my family, Chief.

If you hurt them, you hurt me.

CHIEF BALOGUN

As long as they don't get in my way, they will be fine.

Tell your grandson to bring my granddaughter home and stay away from my family.

Mrs. AISHA

Hmm, why do you disapprove of Michael so much?

CHIEF BALOGUN

Because Temilade deserves better, and you know it, Nanny.

I care about you, and I don't think we should let this come between the strong relationship you have established with me and my family over the years.

Mrs. AISHA

I will do all I can to make sure they stay out of your way as long as you promise to let them be.

(She gets up to leave)

CHIEF BALOGUN

I am a man of my words.

Do you know where they are?

Mrs. AISHA

Pardon?

CHIEF BALOGUN

Your grandson and Temilade?

Mrs. AISHA: I don't, Chief.

I haven't heard from them since the demolition at Festac.

CHIEF BALOGUN

Hmm, alright.

You can go.

Mrs. AISHA

Thank you, Chief.

(She walks out of the room)

_____________________________________

"Ayo walks into the dining room"

TAIWO

E kaaro, sir

(He picks up his cutlery)

Mr. A BALOGUN

Where is your brother?

TAIWO

He left for work already.

How about your wife?

Mr. A BALOGUN

You mean your mother?

TAIWO

Dad, we both know she never saw me as a son.

Mr. A BALOGUN

Don't talk about her that way.

TAIWO

It is what it is, Dad.

Mr. A BALOGUN

Any news from Temi?

(He gazes at Taiwo)

TAIWO

No, sir. Can we eat now?

Mr. A BALOGUN

I know you and your brother know where she is.

And I understand why you must keep it from us.

TAIWO

Dad, I don't know where she is.

I thought we have had this conversation before?

Mr. A BALOGUN

No, we haven't. You had a conversation with your grandfather, now I'm talking to you man to man.

I'm asking you to trust me.

Have I ever let you down before?

I just want to know if she is fine, please.

TAIWO

She is fine!

Mr. A BALOGUN

Meaning you know where she is?

TAIWO

Maybe.

Mr. A BALOGUN

Taiwo, tell...

"Bisola walks into the dining"

Mrs. B BALOGUN

What are you guys talking about?

Mr. A BALOGUN

It's nothing, my love.

Come sit beside me.

Mrs. B BALOGUN

It didn't look like nothing.

(She turns to Taiwo)

Taiwo?

TAIWO

You don't have to know.

Mrs. B BALOGUN

Of course, I do. He is my husband.

TAIWO

And he is my father.

"Simi walks into the dining"

SIMI

E kaaro, sir.

E kaaro, Ma.

(She sits beside Taiwo)

Mr. A BALOGUN

(He changes the subject of conversation)

Simi, how are you?

You look so beautiful this morning.

What is the occasion?

SIMI

Thank you, sir.

I will be spending some time with my sister today.

She will be coming over.

Mr. A BALOGUN

Wow, that is nice.

You seemed so excited about it.

SIMI: Oh yes, I am.

I miss her a lot, even though she can be bossy at times.

TAIWO

I will be leaving for work now.

(He gets up to leave)

Mrs. B BALOGUN

Of course, you should.

Your brother left so early today.

Mr. A BALOGUN

Bisola!

TAIWO

See you later, Dad.

(He turns to Simi and kisses her)

I will call you later in the day.

(He walks out of the scene)

_____________________________________

Mrs ADESOJI's RESIDENCE, VICTORIA ISLAND LAGOS|

"Stella walks into Mrs. Adesoji's Office"

STELLA

Good morning, Mummy. Congratulations.

(She hugs Mrs. Adesoji)

Mrs. ADESOJI

Thank you, my love.

How was your night?

STELLA

Very fine.

I dreamt of UNILAG.

Mrs. ADESOJI

Wow, are you serious?

(She plays along with her manipulation)

STELLA

Yes, oh.

Mrs. ADESOJI

Why do you love that school?

STELLA

It's close to home, and I get to be around an environment that I can relate to. Overseas can be very lonely. I have no social life over there.

"Tony walks into the office"

TONY

You do not need a social life to pass with good grades.

STELLA

(She turns to Tony)

Really, bro? I thought you were on my side?

TONY

I am.

That is why I have convinced Mom to let you transfer to UNILAG.

STELLA

(She turns to Mrs. Adesoji)

Mum, is that true?

Mrs. ADESOJI

Yes, dear, but there are some rules which you must follow.

We will talk about them when I'm back later today.

STELLA

I love you, Mum. Thank you.

(She hugs Mrs. Adesoji in excitement)

_____________________________________

FESTAC OIL AND GAS, YABA, LAGOS|

"Bayo walks into Taiwo's office."

TAIWO

(He flips through the pages of some documents brought in earlier by his secretary)

Why are you here, Bayo?

BAYO

(He sits and puts his legs on Taiwo's desk)

I was around the neighborhood to see a business client, so I thought maybe I could check on my brother and see how I can help since he would never ask an expert in the business.

(He puts a cigarette in between his lips)

TAIWO

What makes you think I would come to you if I need help?

That would be me giving you an unnecessary platform to boss me around.

BAYO

Well, it is what it is, bro.

I know what you don't.

(He lights his cigarette)

TAIWO

Coming from a man who hasn't closed a deal ever since Grandpa brought me into the company.

Don't flatter yourself, Bayo.

(He drops the document and picks up another)

BAYO

I have closed deals worth billions of naira long before you came into the business.

Don't let your one-time deal with that Agnis person get to your head.

TAIWO:

You are the one assuming such nonsense.

Can you find something to do and let me be?

BAYO

What?

Don't tell me you find my presence intimidating?

TAIWO

Hmm.

(He walks up to the refrigerator in his office for a glass of water)

BAYO

By the way, don't you think it's a matter of time before Grandpa figures out the whereabouts of Temi?

TAIWO

Seems someone is scared of what Grandpa might do if he figures out he was involved.

BAYO

Well, I have always been the good kid.

This is the first time I kept something this important from him.

You, on the other hand, are used to rebelling and acting outside Grandpa's wishes.

TAIWO

(He sits on one of the couches)

Are you the good kid or Grandpa's little robot?

BAYO

And what's that supposed to mean?

TAIWO

Figure it out, brother.

(He picks up his jacket from the chair)

Turn off the lights when leaving.

BAYO

Where are you going?

TAIWO

I have to bring some things to Temi.

Oh, before I forget, I told Dad about Temi's whereabouts.

BAYO

You did what?

What's your problem, Taiwo?

TAIWO

Relax, he promised not to spill.

Are you coming with me or not?

BAYO

(He drops the burnt off cigarette in the dustbin)

Fine, let's go. I won't let you make me look like the uncaring brother.

(He walks out of the office alongside Taiwo)

_____________________________________

Mr. ACHEBE, RESIDENCE, ABUJA|

"Mrs. Achebe hugs Mr. Achebe in excitement."

MRS ACHEBE

Congratulations, my husband.

Finally, your dreams are coming to pass.

MR. ACHEBE: We thank God almighty

(He drops his tired body on one of the couches in the sitting room)

ADOBI

(She rushes into the sitting room)

Where is my president?

(She jumps on Mr. Achebe's body, engaging him in a tight hug) Congratulations, Daddy! Finally!

MR. ACHEBE

Thank you, my love. (

He smiles at Adobi)

MRS. ACHEBE

So when are we moving to Asu Rock?

"Adobi Laughs alongside Mr. Achebe"

ADOBI

Mummy!

(She says in between laughter)

MRS. ACHEBE

Kedu ihe ọ bụ? 

Why the laughter, na ?

MR. ACHEBE

Calm down.

This woman, you won't kill me with laughter one day.

ADOBI

Nor be only Asu Rock.

MRS. ACHEBE

I still don't understand why both of you are laughing.

ADOBI

It's not yet the 29th of November.

The current president has to complete his tenure of office.

MRS. ACHEBE

And how was I supposed to know that?

ADOBI

Everyone should know that, Mummy.

Who doesn't know about that?

MRS. ACHEBE

(She snaps)

So you are calling me an idiot because I don't know!

MR. ACHEBE

Ahh, no. She never said so.

MRS. ACHEBE

(She turns to Mr. Achebe)

Of course, you will defend her.

Thank you for making a fool out of me.

ADOBI

Mummy, you are overreacting.

II never implied that.

MRS. ACHEBE

Shut up your mouth!

I don't blame either of you.

(She hisses and walks out of the scene in anger)

"Mr. Achebe and Adobi continue laughing."

_____________________________________

Mr. OBI's RESIDENCE, IKOYI, LAGOS|

"Mrs. Obi walks into the sitting room."

MR. OBI

How is my beautiful wife doing this evening?

MRS. OBI

I'm not fine, oh.

MR. OBI

Ahh, what is the problem?

(He drops his widescreen on the couch and gazes at Mrs. Obi)

MRS. OBI

Chidi hasn't been himself since the election results were announced. I have told him it won't affect your deal with Chief because we played our part.

MR. OBI

So what is there to worry about since you have reassured him?

MRS. OBI

I'm still worried. Temi is missing, and Chief hasn't done anything about it. Left to me, I don't even want that girl for him.

It's obvious she doesn't want him, but Chidi won't listen.

MR. OBI

It doesn't matter what she wants. She must marry Chidi.

MRS. OBI

But the girl doesn't want him, na.

I know how it feels to be rejected that's why I don't want her for him.

MR. OBI

Who cares about how she feels about him?

When you married me, were you crazy about me?

MRS. OBI

But that was then, na. During our time, traditions didn't care about feelings.

But it's different now. How many people consent to arranged marriages again?

MR. OBI

You worry too much, woman. If it worked for us, it will work for my son. He is our only child. I won't die knowing that he is unhappy. So if Temilade is what he wants, I will do everything in my power to make that happen. Besides, they are a perfect match since we are major shareholders of the hospital. Both of them can run it as a power couple.

MRS. OBI

And you think Dr. Akande will give up his position in the hospital?

MR. OBI

He has no choice. He has no heir.

He didn't remarry after his wife passed away years ago.

MRS. OBI

Hmm, alright if you say so.

MR. OBI

Where is your son, by the way?

MRS. OBI

He should be sleeping.

He's on evening duty at the hospital today.

MR. OBI

(He picks up his glass of whiskey)

I wonder why he still works there.

I offered to talk to Chief to transfer him to one of the elite branches, but Chidi insisted on staying there.

MRS. OBI

(She smiles)

Isn't it obvious?

He wants to be around that Temi. Let me wake him up so that he can prepare for work

(She walks out of the sitting room)

_____________________________________

ADEBISI's RESIDENCE, FESTAC|

"Taiwo walks into Temilade's room."

TEMI

Hey.

(She hugs Taiwo)

TAIWO

How are you?

TEMI

I'm good.

Did you come with the stuff?

TAIWO

Oh yes, I did.

(He drops a white bag on her bed)

I came with a surprise. Don't freak out.

(He smiles at Temi)

TEMI

What is that?

(She appears curious and paranoid)

"Ayo walks into the room alongside Maria."

MR. A BALOGUN

Temilade Balogun, do you want to kill me before my time?

(He said in a soft tone)

TEMI

((She hugs Ayo as tears stream down her eyes)

Daddy, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. I just did what was best for me. Grandpa won't let me be.

(She sits on the edge of her bed)

Maria, how are you?

MARIA

I'm fine, ma'am.

TAIWO

(He turns to Ayo)

Alright, I will leave you and your favorite child to bond.

(He walks out of the room)

MARIA

Let me check on Onyinye and the others.

(She walks out of the room)

MR. A BALOGUN

(He sits beside Temi)

I'm sorry, my baby. I know your grandfather can be heartless sometimes, but I want you to remember that although his actions are inhuman at times, they come from a place of love.

That man loves you more than anything in this world. He may express that in a weird way, but you and I know you are the most special of all his grandchildren.

TEMI

I don't know what to think anymore. Sometimes he just gives me reasons to hate him.

(She folds her hands)

MR. A BALOGUN

Temilade, don't talk that way, na.

Don't worry, I'll talk to him about this.

TEMI

No, don't. Daddy, please, don't tell him I'm here.

He won't let me be.

MR. A BALOGUN

I won't, but you know your absence is getting others worried, especially your mom and grandmother.

TEMI

Abeg, Mom should leave me alone. It's not like she cares much.

You can tell Granny because I know she's on my side.

MR. A BALOGUN

Temi, oh.

TEMI

What? I'm saying the truth, na.

Besides, there is something I want to tell you, but please don't freak out. It's good news, but I don't know how you might take it.

MR. A BALOGUN

When am I expecting my grandchild?

TEMI

How did you...?

MR. A BALOGUN

Your sudden cravings, unnecessary mood swings. You even said some unbelievable things to your grandfather.

TEMI

I'm sorry, Dad.

I know you you expected better from your favorite girl

MR. A BALOGUN

It's fine, dear. As long as he takes responsibility for the child and you are happy.

(He gets up) today was hectic for but before I leave, I want to see Michael and Miss Agnis.

TEMI

Alright, I will take you to them.

MR. A BALOGUN

Don't worry, you should rest.

I will find them myself.

_____________________________________

"Bayo's eyes fixated on Awelle as she peacefully slumbered."

BAYO

(He whispers to Dr. Cara)

How is she?

DR. CARA

She's doing fine.

BAYO

When do you think she'll be able to walk again?

DR. CARA

Give it two weeks, and she should be able to grip onto crutches. In a month or two, she'll be taking her first steps.

BAYO

Is her condition really that serious?

DR. CARA

Honestly, yes. I've suggested to Miss Agnis that Awelle undergo surgery.

It would greatly aid her recovery by replacing some of the damaged bones.

BAYO

Surgery?

Won't that be incredibly painful for a young girl like her?

I mean, how much pain can she bear?

DR. CARA

It won't be a walk in the park, that's for sure.

But it's necessary for her well-being and long-term mobility.

BAYO

(Glancing at Awelle's peaceful face)

Well, if it's for the best.

"Suddenly, Awelle stirs and opens her eyes, catching Bayo off guard. He tries to casually walk away."

AWELLE

Hey, you!

What are you doing here?

BAYO

(Playing innocence)

Oh, just checking in on my little sister.

Thought I'd pay her a visit.

AWELLE

(Raising an eyebrow)

Really?

Does this look like her room to you?

Did you get lost or something?

BAYO

Lost?

Me?

No wa I'm not stupid like you are

AWELLE

Maybe you're here because you secretly care about me.

BAYO

(Rolling his eyes)

Please, as if I'd care about a bratty little kid like you.

AWELLE

(Mischievously) Well, well, well. Look at that reaction.

It seems I hit a nerve, didn't I?

BAYO

You're just an annoying little pest.

Where the hell did you learn those words from?

"Out of the blue, Awelle clutches her leg and lets out a dramatic scream."

AWELLE

(In mock agony)

Oh no, my leg! It hurts so much!

DR. CARA

(Rushing over)

What's happening?

BAYO

(Panicking)

Are you okay? What's wrong?

AWELLE

(Bursting into laughter)

Gotcha! I was just fooling around.

I thought you didn't care.

BAYO

(Relieved and frustrated)

You little troublemaker!

I hate you .

AWELLE

I don't like you too

It's payback for underestimating me.

BAYO

Fine, you win this round.

You started this

"Awelle laughs out loud"

_____________________________________

CHIEF BALOGUN's RESIDENCE, BANANA ISLAND|

"Lolade bursts into the sitting room, brimming with excitement."

LOLADE

Nanny! Barka da yamma!

(She embraces Mrs. Aisha tightly, showing off her improved Hausa language skills)

MRS. AISHA

Ahh, look at my baby girl!

It seems your Hausa has really improved.

Congratulations, my little vice president.

LOLADE

You can say that again!

(She spins around in excitement)

MRS. AISHA

Where are the children?

Don't tell me you didn't bring them along?

LOLADE

No, I didn't. I was just roaming around the neighborhood and thought I'd stop by to say hi.

So, where is that old man?

MRS. AISHA

Lolade, don't speak of your father in such a manner.

LOLADE

What? Isn't he old?

MRS. AISHA

Your dear father is in his office.

LOLADE

Alright then

(She confidently struts out of the scene)

_____________________________________

"Lolade confidently strides into Chief Balogun's office."

CHIEF BALOGUN

You know, your actions have become too predictable these days. You should work on that. I thought I taught you better

(He smiles at Lolade)

LOLADE

Is that how you talk to your Vice President?

(She smiles back)

E shock you abi?

I told you, Dad, I was born for this.

CHIEF BALOGUN

(He pours whiskey into two glasses)

Let's toast to that. (He slides one of the glasses towards her)

LOLADE

How does it feel to be a loser?

CHIEF BALOGUN

Wow, this tastes nice. By the way, you should stay for dinner. Hopefully, your nephews and brother will be back soon.

LOLADE

I know it hurts, Dad. Admit it.

CHIEF BALOGUN

Did you bring my Bisi and Olamide with you? It's been a while since I last saw them.

LOLADE

Why are you avoiding the topic of conversation?

CHIEF BALOGUN

Why are you here?

LOLADE

To watch you tremble in fear.

CHIEF BALOGUN

(He laughs)

Have you seen your mom?

She mentioned that you don't check up on her these days.

LOLADE

Dad!

CHIEF BALOGUN

Lolade, although you might have won the election, we both know that you are nothing without my validation.

LOLADE

Who said I need your validation?

CHIEF BALOGUN

(He takes a sip of his whiskey)

Then why are you here?

LOLADE

(She disregards the question)

I'll go check on Mom.

(She exits the office)

____________________________________________________________

"Mrs Aisha welcomes the Okafor's into the residence."

Mrs AISHA

Hope, your parents here

(She calls out)

HOPE

Mummy!

(She hugs Mrs. Okafor)

Mrs OKAFOR

How are you, my baby?

HOPE

I'm fine.

I missed you and Daddy

Mr OKAFOR

We missed you too, my love.

(He turns to Mrs. Aisha)

Chief asked us to see him.

Mrs AISHA

Oh yes, come this way, please.

(She leads them to Chief's office)

"Mr. and Mrs. Okafor enter Chief's office leaving Hope with Mrs Aisha"

Mr OKAFOR

Good evening, Chief.

You requested our presence.

CHIEF BALOGUN

Yes, I did. Please, have a seat.

"They both sit."

Mrs OKAFOR

Sir, is there something wrong?

CHIEF BALOGUN

It's nothing much. I just wanted to appreciate your effort and the kindness you showed my late granddaughter.

(He places a signed check in front of Mr. Okafor)

That is fifty million Naira

We want full custody of Hope.

Mr OKAFOR

What?!

Mrs OKAFOR

Our daughter is not for sale, Chief.

(She pushes the check back towards Chief)

CHIEF BALOGUN

(He smiles)

She is a Balogun. She belongs to us.

Mrs OKAFOR

She is my daughter, and she belongs to herself!

Who the hell are you to claim ownership of a life that isn't yours?

Mr OKAFOR

(He turns to Mrs. Okafor)

Calm down.

(He turns to Chief)

Chief, what you are asking of us is unfair. We may not be able to give her the life that you can, but please don't take her away from us. We can cope with joint custody, but please don't take her away from us.

CHIEF BALOGUN

How about a hundred million?

Would that do?

Mrs OKAFOR

A hundred million kill you there!

Nwoke ara! We are not selling our child to you.

Mr OKAFOR

Chief, I can't believe this is coming from you.

Why are you doing this to us? All we want is to be with our daughter. Chief, please.

(He falls to his knees)

CHIEF BALOGUN

There is nothing I can do. She doesn't belong in your world.

So, it's either you take the money and walk away, or you walk away regardless.

If I were you, I wouldn't want to lose on both ends.

Mrs OKAFOR

You are a wicked man! You can go to hell with your money.

We will see you in court.

(She walks out of the office)

_____________________________________

ADEBISI's RESIDENCE, FESTAC|

"Ayo walks into Adebisi's office."

Mr A BALOGUN

Hello!

(He notices the room is quiet)

Where could she be?

(He sits on one of the chairs opposite her executive office chair, his eyes scanning the room)

Well, not bad.

(His gaze falls upon a picture on the table, and he picks it up out of curiosity)

No, it can't be.

Why does she have this?

(He gazes at a mini portrait of himself, Adebisi, and a young Taiwo)

"Adebisi walks into the room, sensing the tension."

ADEBISI

Mr. Governor, I heard you were looking for me.

Mr A BALOGUN

(His voice filled with intensity)

Why do you have this?

(He shows the portrait to her, his eyes locked on her face, searching for answers)

"Adebisi is caught in a moment of shock, her words momentarily failing her. The air in the room grows heavy with anticipation."

____________________________________________________________