Chapter 5
" broken trust- picking up the pieces and disappearing"
Andy was so disappointed with Angela's parents. He was really hurting as he went home. He sat on the bed and wept bitterly. Angela kept calling him but he was not in the mood to talk to her. Andy was directing his anger on her even though he knew it was not justified-it was not her fault and he knew it. She too was hurting as she went to her former bedroom. She cried her eyes out as she lay on the bed. Angela now resented her dad. How could she do this to her? Andy was the man she loved. She had made up her mind to stand by him no matter what. Angela was feeling so frustrated since Andy was not picking up her calls. She decided to leave for her place. Angela wept as she drove to Chilenje. She realized that as long as her man was coming from a humble background; her family would never accept him. Angela had made up her mind to elope with him but deep down in her heart she knew her man would not approve the idea. Andy realized he needed a break from all this drama; he just needed some fresh air to clear his mind and have a better perspective on what was happening. He explained what was happening to his boss; with tears in his eyes, he poured his heart out to him; Mr. Zuze the CEO was a father figure to him after all. He hugged him tightly and assured him that all will be okay. Andy had asked for a month long leave so that he could travel to Mfuwe on holiday. It was granted. He was so overwhelmed with anger and bitterness. His parents knew him too well that he could not handle rejection too well. Andy's mind was set for the trip. He would visit his parents in Katete en- route to Mfuwe.
Andy was now on his way to on a month-long holiday. He had enough of rejection from people. With time he would reveal to Angela who really, he was. Angela was more confused. She did not know what to do. Should she disobey her dad and run away with Anderson? She wondered. That again would make her not receive the blessings of her parents. But must she give up the love of her life just for the sake of marrying a rich guy whom her parents and friends would accept? She was too perplexed. Angela was not thinking straight. After Andy's leave was approved, he headed to Mfuwe via Katete to see his mum. He wanted to leave all behind. If it meant him losing the girl that he loved with all his heart, let it be so, he thought. He never wanted to tell Angie that he was leaving. He packed his bags and left as early as possible. Andy was ready to lose her; after all, love was not a forcing matter. He hit the road while blasting some tracks on the car stereo. Andy was not that sad, he was just disappointed with Angela's dad. How could he say such words? Did he think that only rich guys would take good care of his daughter? Money was not everything and Andy knew that too well.
He was pumping gas on the pedal. Within two hours of leaving Lusaka, he was at Luangwa Bridge. Andy had to buy some fish for his mum as it was the fishing season when fish tended to be cheaper there. In order to clear her mind, Angela did not bother to call him or text him. She wanted things to move by themselves. Maybe this was a blessing in disguise she thought. If he was meant to be with her, no matter where he went; fate would still bring him to her. This thought comforted her so much. Andy arrived in Katete around midday. How happy was his mum to see her son! She hugged him as she welcomed him. Mrs. Banda had expected him to come with Angela as he had promised his mum on the phone. Her joy was quickly turned to sadness upon learning that she was not with him.
"But why haven't you come with her? Is everything alright with you two?" asked Mrs Banda with a worried look in her eyes. Anderson just kept quiet for a few minutes. "Ma…her dad does not want me to marry his daughter" explained Andy. "But why not my son? You did not do something bad to his daughter didn't you? How come he refused?" wondered Mrs Banda. "It is not like that ma...its …. it's just that it's complicated. I lied to them that I work as a waiter at a restaurant so her dad said I was not worthy to marry her" said Andy with a worried look. He was sure his mum would harshly scold him. "How could you, Andy? What were you thinking my son to come up with such horrible lies? Am so disappointed in you! We have raised you well; why do such a terrible thing? What were you trying to prove anyway?" scolded Mrs Banda. "Ma, please don't be hard on me, yes what I did was wrong and foolish but it was for a purpose. You know how materialistic these town girls are; I wanted to test my girl to see if she would love me for who am and not what I have accumulated" said Andy. "Ok, I get it, now don't you think you have overdone it my son? Am afraid you may lose that girl! She must be devastated as we are speaking; have you even told her that you were travelling here? Asked Mrs Banda. "No, I did not see the need. Ma I just want to be alone for now, to think. If it happens that I lose her, let it be so," said Andy. Though he was acting like he never cared much whether he lost Angie or not, deep down his heart he knew just how devastating that would be to him. He could not imagine himself losing the girl of his dreams. Andy was now more afraid with the words that his mother had just told him. His dad just looked at him. Being a man of few words; he just smiled and patted his back. ''My son, women issues are complicated, I don't blame you at all for what you did, that was brilliant but hey just make sure you tell her what is really happening ok'' assured Mr. Banda. Andy's parents were the envy of the town, they had prospered due to their son's wealth in the city of Lusaka. They owned a huge farm, highly mechanized and producing abundant crops for sale and rearing some of the best livestock animals in the region. All that they needed was for their son to marry a Godly and hard-working woman.
He just stayed in Katete for two days and left for Mfuwe. He was cruising his Range Rover Evoque. His mum had advised him to come out and tell the girl especially the truth or else he risked losing the only girl who ever truly loved him. As Andy was driving to Mfuwe he was just thinking about Angela. He could not get her out of his mind. He arrived in Mfuwe around 2pm. Andy booked himself at Kachele lodge along the Luangwa River. What kept him busy there was sightseeing of the animals and fishing. He loved it! While there; he decided to switch sim cards. After a week, Angela tried to call him but failed to go through. She was getting anxious and worried at the same time. Where was he? She wondered after three days without success, she decided to visit him in Mutendere. Angela wanted to see him so that she hears from him what they would do next. Andy was a man and she was sure he would come up with a solution. Angela knew he would do that. Angela had so much faith in him and she knew he would come up with a solution to the impasse. As Angela drove there, she was very anxious to see his face. Three weeks had felt like eternity without seeing him! When she reached; Angela entered the yard and went straight to his supposed two roomed house. She found the door open thinking that her man would show up at the door. Angela was shocked to see Jerry, Delson's friend and they had never met before.
"Yes madam, how can I be of help?" asked Jerry. "Sorry to barge in like this, I was looking for Anderson, is he around?" asked Angela while trying so hard not to imply that she was his girlfriend. "You work with him?" inquired Jerry. "Yes, we work together, i got lost and then I remembered that he stays here" lied Angela. "Am sorry madam, the person you are talking about does not and has never stayed here before" answered Jerry. "Really? So, would you know where he stays sir? Asked Angela with a shocked look on her face. "Am sorry madam I don't know where he stays " answered Jerry in a respectful way. "Ok thanks sir, you have been of help. See you around" said Angela as she left in disbelief. Jerry was left wondering who this lady was. How come she knew this place? Does it mean that Andy had come with other women apart from Angela? She looked so fine. Was she the Angela that Delson had been talking about? It never crossed his mind that he had messed up big time. Angela now realized that Andy had been lying to her. She just wondered how many lies he had told her. Angela really wanted to see him and get some answers for all the questions she had. She now realized just how Andy had lied to her! How could he? She had put up with so much going out with him. Angela had stopped being close with her girlfriends all because of him. Now she hated him! She vowed never to forgive him since her life was in a mess thanks to him. To top it all he had disappeared without a trace. Angela thought of his work place, she was sure of finding him there.
Before he had gone on holiday, Anderson had instructed his restaurant manager to recruit more members of staff. At least four more members of staff were employed to beef up manpower challenges since business was good due to the professionalism of the team that Anderson together with the manager had assembled. When Angela arrived, she found the place packed to full capacity. Angela found new faces there and they were busy. "Excuse me madam, can I please talk to Mr. Banda, has he reported for work today? Asked Angela. "Mr. Banda is not around; he is on leave in Mfuwe. He has left charge of this place to the manager Mr. Brian Nasilele" said Trana the new employee in a calm voice. She did not know the little game that her boss had been playing on his woman. Brian was not in sight. He was busy in the manager's office balancing figures. "What? Am not getting you; are you saying that Mr. Banda runs this place?"" asked Angela with shock written all over her face. What was Andy up to? She wondered "Are you sure of what you are saying my dear?"" asked Angela in disbelief. She was mad at Andy. She was sure Andy was hiding so many things from her. Angela felt she never knew him anymore. All her trust in him at this point had vanished! Angela was so angry and bitter with him. She needed answers from him and fast! That is why her friends were against him and her dad. He was phony, she thought. A very crooked man! She thought as she was leaving the restaurant; she tried to call him but still Andy's phone was off. Angela felt used and she was swearing as she entered the car. That was the last straw for her. She had decided to end their relationship. No matter how he would explain to her; she would not buy it! It was over!
When her parents asked her the way forward; Angela explained that she was done with Andy though she could not say much about what really made her decide like that considering that a month ago she had seemed to be so madly in love with him. Angela explained to her parents that she had gone to see Andy at his place in Mutendere but she was shocked to be told that he had never stayed there. "You see why I have been against that fellow my dear? Now you understand why I chased him like a dog here? He was not good enough for you! He is not just poor but he is a crook too! Just forget about him!" warned Mr. Musonda. "But honey, don't you think there is just a misunderstanding here? I think let Angela make up her own mind on this. She is old enough'' said Mrs. Musonda. ''I have made up my mind, I think Andy has too much baggage, maybe am better off without him!'' said Angela as she went to her former bedroom to rest. ''That's my girl'' cheered Mr. Musonda as Angela had left. Mr. Musonda had a friend, who had worked as a diplomat. He too had well educated children and he had requested him to ensure that his son marries his daughter Angela. Some sort of an arranged marriage. After two weeks, Mr. Musonda and Mr. Tembo met at Rhapsody's at arcades to discuss the way forward for their children's union. Mr. Tembo was richer than Mr. Musonda. He had established his family in the steel and real estate businesses. He was a tycoon. Mr. Musonda now wanted Mr. Tembo's son James to marry his daughter Angela. He felt this would strengthen his business prospects. Mr. Musonda was to gain financially if the marriage went ahead. By the way James had just come back from Oxford University where he had gone to pursue his Master's Degree in Business Management. He was a fine young man: ambitious, flamboyantly dressed, always with a good sense of humor and above all a workaholic. All he ever wanted in life was to make money! His dad had plans to make him his successor to take over his vast business empire. Mr. Tembo also wanted his son to marry from a decent family. He knew that the success of his son in running the business depended on the type of woman he married. Mr. Tembo knew that Mr. Musonda had brought up his kids well. It would be a win-win situation for both of them but for Mr. Musonda; due to his greedy nature he wanted his family to benefit more than the Tembo family. "Which of your daughters Mr. Musonda? I hope it's not your eldest, am sure she is married that one, isn't she?" said Mr. Tembo after sipping some coffee. "No, not that one. I meant my youngest daughter; she just completed her degree at UNZA Mr. Tembo. Your son will go crazy for her'' assured Mr. Musonda. ''Ok will inform my son so that they can get to know each other then" continued Mr. Tembo. ''That would be great, you will never regret this Mr. Tembo'' said Mr. Musonda as he was leaving. "I hope so my friend" said Mr. Tembo with a sigh of relief.
Andy was back in town. He wanted to set the record straight with Angela and her family. He wanted to see her pronto. Andy had sent her a text: ''sweetheart am back, can I see you?" She never replied. Angela was through with him. She was now trying hard to pick up the pieces and move on. Her dad had shared with her about her getting to know Mr. Tembo's son James who had just gotten back from the UK. Mr. Musonda did not want to sound as if he was arranging his daughter's marriage. That would backfire and blow up in his face. He knew how his daughter would react if she knew that it was an arranged marriage that her father was advocating! Angela was stubborn to the core. He wanted to be gentle with her. This he believed could be achieved through gentleness by first inviting his daughter home for lunch and then invite James so that they see each other and get to know each other better. He shared the plan with Mrs. Musonda and she obliged considering that it was for her daughter's happiness. Of course, he could not divulge all the details as to why he wanted their daughter to marry James Tembo. He knew that if he told his wife the truth, she would object and she would even warn her daughter about her father's devious plans. Mr. Musonda concealed his true intentions to his wife. He never wanted her to be a stumbling block to his plans.
Andy was wondering why Angela was not picking up her calls or replying to his texts. He sensed something was not right and he wanted to know what it was. Angela had never acted this way ever since he knew her. Could it be that her dad had put so much pressure on her to end the relationship? He wondered. Andy decided to visit her at her place in Chilenje. It had been two months ever since they saw each other. Angela had somehow moved on and was trying so hard to give her heart to James. He had everything a woman wanted; a nice car, a good job and of course good looks. Andy as usual went on bus to see her. He was well dressed this time. He wanted to slowly start to show who he really was. Andy had text her that he was coming. She replied to say it was fine for him to come. When he arrived, he noticed that she was not as enthused as before to see him. She had changed and that was a huge sign that things were not the same. How he missed his old Angela. She did not even hug him. She just gave him this disgusted look as she offered him a seat.
"Letting the cat out and losing everything"
''What's happening?" Asked Andy. "What do you mean what's happening? I thought I must be asking you that question. Where have you been? It's been almost three months. Your phone was off, you disappear without telling me and you have the guts to ask me that!? Yelled Angela. "Baby I can explain". "Explain what Andy? I loved you! No one supported our relationship; I sacrificed a lot for you because I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you but your lies have let me down!" answered Angela. "Baby which lies? It was an oversight on my part and that's why am here to explain myself. "Look, love without honesty is worthless, how could you lie to me about where you stayed? So, you thought I would not know huh? Tell me something Andy; are you a waiter or not, tell me the truth and no lies! And that stupid restaurant; is it yours or what? Andy how could you take me for a fool? Why Andy? Why?" said Angela while crying. "Now hear this from me; I don't want to see you ever in my life. I have decided to end this relationship! It's over between us! If you could please leave now, my date is coming anytime soon". "Your date? You have even started dating in my two months absence? Ok am leaving. Thanks for everything Angela. It's just unfortunate that things had to end this way" said Andy as he left Angela's place. Andy could not believe that it was over between him and the girl he had gotten to love so much. As he left Angela's yard, tears started rolling down his eyes. He blamed himself for the break up because it was all his fault and he could not do anything about it. Andy was so angry with himself. How he hated girls now! He had become so bitter! His was an experiment terribly gone wrong and he could do nothing but just watch.
Angela's date came to pick her up after an hour. James was a man of class. He was driving an Escalade. James was flamboyantly dressed as usual. He was a complete opposite to Andy. Angela noticed the difference earlier in the relationship. Unlike Anderson who was reserved and never talked about his accomplishments; James was big mouthed. He had a habit of exaggerating his achievements and bragged about how much money he could make just in hours of doing projects. He took Angela to a 5- star hotel where they would have lunch. James was not a good listener. All he ever wanted was to talk and Angela to be quiet all the time. He was bragging about the many deals he was closing in at his father's company and how he had outsmarted his elder brothers at running the family businesses. All that Angela could do is just listen to this blabber. She detested his pride and arrogance but she could not show it openly. On their first date he talked about how he would marry Angela and take her to the United Kingdom to live there. He bought a very expensive meal for two. He bought sea food for them to eat. "I bet you have never tasted prawns, have you?" proudly asked James. "No, I have not, I hope they taste nice, I don't want to vomit in public" warned Angela. "Don't be childish! Do you know what the public will think of me? That would destroy my public image. When you are with me in public, you better act like a public figure ok?" said James proudly. After about two hours the date was over for Angela. She was so bored and besides there was nothing romantic about it. Angela was fed up with James' bossy type of behavior on their first date. Angela was sure if they would ever marry; he would always want things to be done his way. But overall, she saw that despite his shortcomings he was a nice man who would do anything for her. Comparing James to Andy was not a good thing Angela came to conclude. Both were good men in their own way. Despite this, she had never stopped loving and thinking about Andy. There where moments Angela could miss his strong arms around her body. She missed the way he played his songs to her. Angela just wondered if at all James was also good at something like playing music.
Andy was still in pain. He was failing to move on. He could not just forget her from her mind. Andy was still in love with her but he wished to respect her decision no matter how painful it was to him. It was not her fault after all but his. Andy had miscalculated his moves and now he was paying a hefty price for his deeds. He wished her well though hurting because of losing her. He had learnt one thing about love; when the person you love decides to leave you, the best you can do is let them go and Andy was now doing just that. He did not want to involve himself in love matters again. All he wanted to do was to concentrate on God, his job and his music. He had all sorts of musical instruments at home. Each time he felt like breaking apart, he would go and play an emotional song on the piano in the room he kept the musical instruments. He now wanted to devote more time to write music and sing it with his friend Tony at church. Tony and Andy were music buddies who loved to make music and play it on Sunday during worship service at church. They could rehearse at Anderson's place on weekends just to perfect their art. He never talked much about his love life to Tony. His time in Mfuwe had opened up his musical mind, he had written so many songs. There was this strange peace within him despite losing the girl of his dreams. Playing music was therapeutic in a way. Andy found peace each time he sat on the piano and played. His band started to rehearse the songs he had written. They would do a mini tour around churches around Lusaka. He wished Angela well in her love life. Angela had fallen in love with James. Things were in top gear. They wanted to tie the knot as soon as possible and relocate to the UK. Angela's parents had assured her this was the right decision to make by marrying James. He would take good care of her and make her happy. Andy was doing interviews on television about their upcoming mini tour. The band "Andy and the boys" was making huge waves in the music industry. Their blend of progressive afro pop was just too soothing to listen to. The masses could not get enough of it. Angela saw Andy's interview on the television, she felt so happy for him. He looked so happy. Her heart skipped a bit. She realized just how much she still loved him despite what had happened.
She had never given her body to anyone; not even Andy. James was too eager to taste her assets. He devised all sorts of plans just to take her to bed. All he wanted was to sleep with her. James had always lusted after her great behind. He could not wait to squeeze it. He took her to a trendy hotel. He had booked a room without telling her. All he wanted was to bang her. ''Hey sexy, you look so hot!'' complimented James. She looked at him with a frown. She was not flattered. Angela hated it when a man called her 'sexy'. Angela was wondering what James was up to. ''What's about all these compliments?'' she asked. ''Nothing darling'' answered James. He was a thug. This he concealed carefully from her. He had a horde of thuggish followers who did his bidding. James was a crime boss in the underworld. He was so ruthless and never took no for an answer. ''How about we go and rest upstairs?'' he whispered to her. ''Rest? Why in a hotel? What are you up to James?'' angrily asked Angela as she gave him a stern look. James now realized that this Angela girl was not a pushover. He hated her for that. All the girls he ever dated had begged him to have sex with them on their first date. This one was different, he thought. She obliged to accompany him to the hotel room. However, she had already made up her mind that she would never have sex with him till their wedding night. As they climbed the stairs, James kept on admiring her well- shaped behind. It was shaking vigorously. James just wanted a taste of that sweet looking behind. He was such a lustful man. Since she had agreed to go to the room with him, he had concluded that she wanted it. James thought she was just playing hard to get. This was his lucky day so he thought.
''So, what did you want us to chat about in here James?'' asked Angela. He held her tightly and kissed her so passionately. She seemed to enjoy the kisses. James violently grabbed her bums and started fondling her groin area. The animal in him was slowly manifesting. Angela was so shocked. He pushed her so hard on the bed and jumped on top of her. Angela was sure this guy was up to no good. She could not scream as it would create a scene. She had to think fast. He had pinned her down with his moderate biceps; not as big as Andy's though. James was now unzipping his trousers. Her skirt was pulled, as he kissed her neck. She knew what was about to happen. He was about to rape her. She had to think fast. James spread Angela's legs apart. He then with one hand gently fondled her private area in order to arouse her. ''What are you doing? Will you please stop it!'' protested Angela. All her pleas fell on deaf ears. James was hell bent on raping her. James was almost tearing her pant apart. He was assuring her that all will be okay. He unzipped his trousers and removed his manhood; ready to penetrate her. By this time Angela was crying. She had not imagined that she would lose her virginity like this. She hatched a plan. ''don't worry baby girl, you will love it. Just enjoy the show okay'' assured James. ''Please stop, stop it please James!'' cried Angela. As James was about to insert his huge manhood, Angela pretended to submit; she stopped struggling. James thought she was giving in. suddenly she grabbed his manhood and pulled it violently. James moaned with excruciating pain. He was powerless as he fell down. ''How could you Angela? Stupid girl!'' yelled James. ''Oh, so you thought am a cheap girl huh? You are such a fool James! Am so ashamed of you!'' yelled Angela. She kicked him in the stomach hard. Angela also punched him in the face and blood started to ooze out. After about a minute she ran out and headed home.
Andy's mini tour with his band was under way. Despite looking like all was okay, he was hurting inside. He could not forget Angela. He had written a song specifically for her. It was more like a dedication to her. Andy still loved her so much. Angela was so shaken after the attempted rape ordeal. She could not believe that James could do what he did. Try to rape her, of all things? She asked for four days off from work. She felt so disgusted. Angela had not shared with her sister Grace about what happened last weekend. ''So, how is my would-be brother-in-law, James? Baby girl you are so lucky to have him'' gushed Grace. ''I don't know how he is and I don't care!'' said Angela angrily. Grace was surprised. Her sister seemed so angry. She was not her usual self. She wondered what had happened between her and James. Angela was withdrawn. She was shutting herself in her room. Her eating habits had changed and was moody. James was trying so hard to get hold of her. He had underestimated his fiancée. Angela could be so feisty at times. He was trying to be apologetic. James had made about thirty calls but she was not bugging. He wrote apologies on her WhatsApp and Facebook but she was not buying it. Angela just wondered what kind of a husband she would make once they get married. Their wedding was planned in a year's time. Angela had a difficult time clearing her mind. She saw it clearly that James was a monster. How she missed Andy. He was such a gentle man. He could not force himself on her. How she loved him. James called Grace to act as mediator in their impasse. She told her to tell Angela to pick up the phone.
''Why are you not picking up James' calls?'' asked Grace after Angela had knocked off from work. ''And how is that your business? Stop being nosy okay!'' angrily answered Angela. Grace was hell bent on ensuring that her kid sister marries James. She felt him coming from an affluent family would make Angela happy. Grace was so wrong. Angela was still in love with Andy. She was just wondering how he was doing. She fancied to see him. Angela just did not know how he would react to her after she had ended their relationship. Angela realized that she had made the decision in haste. She regretted it; how she wished she had given him a chance to explain himself. Perhaps their relationship would not have ended. ''So, tell me dear, what has really happened between you and James?'' asked Grace as they sat in the living room watching television. ''I hope you won't tell mum and dad what am about to tell you'' started Angela. ''I swear I won't'' assured Grace. ''The problem with you is that you have a big mouth! You love to talk about my affairs to mum and dad. How could you demean Andy like that? You never covered my back when dad rejected Andy; how could you?'' fumed Angela. ''Well, am so sorry, was just trying to cover your back. Am sorry forgive me dear sister; so, tell me what happened with James'' continued Grace. She was getting interested in what Angela would say. ''Well James took me out two weeks ago to this fancy hotel; well, I did not know what he was up to. It seems he had planned to sleep with me'' continued Angela. ''So, did you give him what he wanted?'' excitedly asked Grace. ''Are you nuts? For your own information this idiot James wanted to rape me! He pinned me on the bed and spread my legs apart. He wanted to insert his gigantic manhood in me. I struggled and pleaded with him to stop what he was about to do but he continued to fondle me; he almost pulled my pant aside to enter me. That was my chance. I violently pulled his manhood and he became so weak'' continued Angela. ''don't tell me! I don't believe it; James can't do that. He seems like a gentleman'' said Grace with a surprised look. ''Gentleman my foot!'' retorted Angela. ''So will you marry him after this?" asked Grace. ''I don't know really, am confused" sheepishly answered Angela. Suddenly Andy appeared on the television on an interview on ZNBC TV. ''Hey check Andy on television; he is giving some sort of interview; this is so sweet; am so happy for him'' said Angela with excitement. Grace frowned on her face. She had never expected Andy to be on TV. ''So, this guy can sing?'' asked Grace. ''Oh, you can say that again, Andy is a multi- instrumentalist. We have to go to his concert so that you see him" said Angela. Her face was full of excitement. Grace perceived that Angela was still much in love with the guy.
Mr. Mbewe was dragged to court for assault by his wife. He was charged and ordered to compensate her for the injuries she suffered. There was war in the home. He started spending nights out; of course, with his side chick. Mavis had succeeded in wrecking Mrs. Mbewe's marriage. He had promised her marriage. To that effect he had already bought her a flat as promised and two luxury cars. She was so happy. Life seemed to move on her terms. After a year she delivered a bouncing baby boy and Mr. Mbewe was overjoyed with the news. He proposed marriage to her and she said yes without hesitation. Mrs. Mbewe would file for divorce from her husband. Their marriage of eleven years came crashing down to the ground. Richard Mbewe was a serial womanizer who was quick to fall in and out of love. He surrendered most of the assets to his former wife and these included two penthouses and a fleet of luxury cars. Their divorce was quick. Their marriage had broken down irretrievably. Both were looking forward to life away from each other. Mavis was ecstatic when Mr. Mbewe shared with her the good news of their divorce. They had a double celebration; the baby and of course the divorce. They wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. Plans for their wedding were under way. He had named his son with Mavis Richard Mbewe Jr. He had huge plans for his son. Mr. Mbewe wanted the best for him and his mother. He felt Mavis would be a trophy wife. She was way too young for him but he loved her; she was a breeze of fresh air into his life. Mr. Mbewe would not be ashamed to go out with her to office functions. After all she had a figure to die for. Mavis was the envy of Mr. Mbewe's friends each time they pitched together at functions.
James was a charmer. With the help of Grace, he had succeeded in winning Angela back. He spoiled her with expensive gifts straight from the United States of America. She was chaffed. At least he was showing his romantic side. Angela was happy at least. They had planned on pitching up at Andy's mini concert which would be held at Kamwala Reformed Church. Angela had never told James that the guy who was the front man for the headlining act was her former flame. James had heard about Andy's band. They were the most happening group on the scene at that moment. The concert would start at 7 pm. Andy knocked off early in order to prepare for the gig. They wore simple and yet smart clothes. Each band member wore black denim, with a black waist coat on top of a long-sleeved white shirt and a bow tie. Andy had grown a beard and had a nice hair style. He looked so handsome. The concert would be an intimate affair for concert goers. It would just last for three hours. Andy and his band planned to play 15 songs in total. They would close with the song Andy had penned down for Angela. That would prove to be the climax of the show. Andy had no idea Angela would be there. He had just planned to have fun, praise God and just do what he loved the most and that is sing beautifully. The show started with Andy opening with a short prayer. ''I know you are all wondering why we are here, it's God who has made it possible for all of us to be here; you are not here accidentally. Let's bow our heads and pray. Father, we thank you in heaven for whoever has come to this concert. We are here because you love us, it's my humble prayer that you open our spiritual eyes and ears so that at the end we won't be the same in the name of your son Jesus we pray, amen'' prayed Andy as the crowed jubilated. The noise was so loud such that it could be felt in the whole neighbourhood!
As usual Andy was on the piano. He looked so dashing. James, Angela and Grace were near the stage. James held Angela in her arm. She seemed to resist being held though. Andy could see her. Throughout the first two songs he could not take his eyes off her. She seemed to smile at him and James could perceive the visual communication that was taking place. Grace could not believe what she was seeing. This was the same man she had thought a few months ago was a nobody. She could not believe that he could play the piano so beautifully. And his falsetto voice was just out of this world! Seeing Angela was enough motivation for Andy to play and sing like this was his last concert. He did not want the crowed to focus their attention on him; all he ever wanted was to direct the crowd's attention to God. The crowd went wild. Andy and the boys were playing so skillfully. At one point, Andy being the front man left playing the piano and went to the crowed just to sing with them. Angela's eyes were so fixed on him as he went to the back of the crowed. James could not understand why Angela was behaving like that. In the middle of the song, after interacting with the crowed, Andy rushed back to the stage while singing with a micro-phone in hand and continued playing the piano. The crowd cheered for the band for the beautiful music. ''As we wrap up our show, this song is dedicated to someone so special in the crowd, this song is for you, it's an encouragement for you to seek and find God in the midst of your trials'' said Andy. Tears were rolling on Angela's cheeks. She could not believe it that Andy had written a song for her. Andy begun playing the piano with so much emotion. All could see that song really came straight from the heart. The lyrics just made perfect sense to Angela. It's like Andy was just talking to her face to face. It was such an emotional song. Andy sweated as he sung the lyrics while playing the piano. As the song was being played, they exchanged roles with the drummer, Andy hammered the drums while the drummer played the piano. Everything was just perfect. Angela had never felt so loved like this by Andy. She was so excited to see Andy play a song which he had written specifically for her. James was trying so hard to hold her tightly as they walked to the car but she was always pulling away from him. Grace knew the reason but she could not utter any word to James for fear of endangering her sister's life. James would not have hesitated to harm Angela had he found out that the front man of the most happening band was her former flame and that she still had feelings for him.
Andy was in pain after the performance. He was reminded of his losing the woman he loved so much. He could not stand seeing her in another man's arms. Andy literally cried when he headed home. Those were moments of pain and anguish. It really hit him hard. Reality sunk in. Angela had moved on without him. He was wondering how he would finish the remaining dates for the mini tour. He was an emotional wreck. Tears were flowing as he lay on the bed. He regretted having played this silly game of hiding his identity to her and now he had paid the ultimate price of losing her. Andy was not good at handling painful moments. He was a closed-up type of person. Even his band mates were not aware about his emotional state. This time the mini tour would take them to Heroes stadium. What was planned as a small musical concert was sold out. All tickets were sold and yet people were still clamoring to enter the venue. To avoid a stampede, the last one hour all the gates were opened to accommodate all those outside without tickets to the annoyance of those who had paid inside. ''Are you all cool in here!?'' Andy shouted on the micro phone. ''Yeah!'' the crowd responded emphatically. They were expectant of a splendid performance from the most happening gospel band of the moment. This time the guys wore black denim jeans and black t-shirts and white snickers. Andy's work mates from the stock exchange were in attendance including his boss Mr. Zuze since it was a weekend. Grace and Angela too would be in attendance. They could not get enough of Andy's music. They were excited to be in attendance. James had told them to join them later due to some commitments from work. The evening was cool. Neither hot nor cold; very good for an outdoor musical experience. "Andy and the boys" quickly stepped on the stage to signal the start of the music much to the admiration and joy of the crowd. They included fast paced tracks in terms of tempo, slowly building the mood of the crowd. Crowds loved Andy's honest lyrics, full of catchy tunes and melody. Most songs were piano driven, full of hope. Of course, some were sad and some members of the crowd could shed a tear here and there. They started with the song ''look at me now'' which sent the crowd into delirium. It was a song which started on a sad not, slowly building pace till it culminated into words of hope of a better future. Andy was crying as he played the piano and no one could see it. This song was a sad one for him. It just reminded him of how many loved ones he had lost. Angela was so intrigued by his 'former' flame. Her eyes were fixed on him. How she loved the way he was playing the piano. All seemed perfect at some points; Andy's eyes were closed and yet he could not make a mistake playing the piano. Unknown to them all was the fact that Andy was crying throughout the concert. The zenith of his agony came in when they played the last song. The crowd was in a frenzy. The dedication to Angela was always played at the end. Andy could not take it anymore. As the music was playing; he just stopped playing the piano and stepped away from the stage. The crowd watched in horror. Nobody knew what was happening, everybody just looked at him as he walked off to the exit of the stadium and went to his car. He wept bitterly there. The rest of the band members could not disappoint the fans. George quickly rushed to the piano and sat on the stool to finish the song. Being a skilled pianist, he wowed the crowd. They could not tell the difference between Andy and George. Both were skillful players. To some it just appeared like that's how they had arranged the song with Andy walking off the stage.
The few days that followed Andy was avoiding his band mates. They were furious with him for leaving them on stage. The media roasted him for putting his personal issues ahead of his band. His boss gave him some space. As long as his personal issues were not interfering with work, he was okay with it. After all Andy was his most prized employee who had risen through the ranks due to his hard work and resilience. The man was performing beyond expectations. He avoided calls from his band mates. More bad news lay ahead of him. His world would turn upside down. Angela could now feel Andy was not himself. She felt his pain too. She longed to be with him but it was just not possible. Angela would be getting married in six months' time to James. It would be a wedding of the year by all standards. Angela was not convinced that she was marrying the right man. She had her own doubts. They were so disconnected; with nothing in common. Unlike Andy whom they could laugh their lungs out, all that James cared about was making money. He had no emotional connection to Angela and this was making her feel as if she was single. Their dates were boring to say the least. She had sacrificed her happiness in order to make her parents happy. For her dad, it was a business deal as usual. The man was shameless and greedy. He never cared whether his daughter would be treated well or not. His first priority was to bolster his businesses. Andy received the news of his father's illness. He was admitted at the fee-paying ward at S.t Francis Mission Hospital. He had a stroke and was paralyzed on one side. Andy was so worried about his father. His mum assured him that the condition was getting better. Andy had talked with Mr. Zuze the CEO about his dad's condition. ''Son you better travel there and see your father, get a month off and travel tomorrow'' said the CEO while giving him a pat on the back. Andy was so shaken by his dad's worsening ill health. He decided to call Angela to inform her about his dad. She was thrilled to hear from him. ''Am so sorry Andy, may he get well soon, am with you in this; will be praying for him. Please travel safely to Katete. Wish could go with you to see him'' lovingly said Angela over the phone. Those were the words he had been waiting to hear from her. They were words of healing to Andy. He knew she still cared for him. ''So, you will go by bus?'' asked Angela. ''No, why should I? I will drive there my dear'' Assured Andy. ''Okay, drive safely on the road okay'' advised Angela. Andy left early in the morning and by midday he was already in Katete. His dad was critically ill. He was on life support. The following day he died. Andy cried like a mad man. He could not be consoled. He text Angela about the demise of his dad. Angela cried too. Grace was so shocked. After asking her why she was crying like that, she responded that Andy's dad had passed on. She got permission from her boss to go attend Andy's father's funeral. However, she did not tell James about her move. Angela never even told Andy that she was following him for the funeral. Grace was so furious to see Angela still going back to her ex-Andy, and for his dad's funeral for that matter. There had been a scuffle the previous night. Grace yelled at Angela for being such a moron by going back to her ex's boyfriend father's funeral. She had threatened to tell James. ''You can tell him if you want, I don't care!'' retorted Angela.
Angela used the bus. She jumped on the earliest bus for Katete. Andy was in mourning. His uncles and aunties from the village had come. They wanted to give a befitting burial to Andy's father. Andy's pain was so unbearable. The man that he loved so much was gone. Andy was numb. Being the only son of his father; he felt so lost and confused. Death was so painful he came to realize. Angela too was feeling the pain that Andy was feeling. By midday she had arrived in Katete. She sent a text to him that she had arrived. Andy at first thought she was joking. He could not believe it when she called him to tell him to come and pick her at the main station. ''Yes, I have arrived, why would you doubt that I have arrived in Katete; am with you in this Andy'' said Angela. ''Okay, that's great Angela; you just don't know how happy am that you have taken your time to attend my dad's funeral, am on my way'' said Andy after wiping tears from his eyes. Angela wore a long skirt and a wrapper on top. She really looked like a typical African woman. Her hair was nicely plaited. She patiently waited for Andy. He came to pick her driving his Range Rover Evoque. Angela could not believe her eyes when she saw him behind the wheel. They hugged each other almost kissed. Andy restrained her considering that she was someone's wife to be. ''Hey am so sorry for your dad's death, please accept my condolences, Andy!'' Angela said while holding his hands. Andy felt comforted by Angela's gesture. He knew that she was still in love with him. ''Let's go shall we'' said Andy while ushering her into the car. ''Wow, nice car Andy, is it yours or you have just borrowed it?'' asked Angela with a smile. ''Hmmmmm, what if I say that I own it? What will you do?'' asked Andy with a smile. ''You mean you own this nice car? You are so full of surprises Andy you know that? And you are so good at lying! I feel cheated by your behavior to say the least; but anyway, we will need to talk about this after the funeral'' said Angela as she laid back into the car seat. ''Am sorry, I have so much to tell you Angela, will tell you everything after the funeral; you are still the woman I love; I have not stopped loving you despite you dumping me'' said Andy as he drove her to the funeral house. There was quietness in the car as they rode. Angela was so happy deep down her heart. She too was still in love with him. She realized Andy had been pretending all this while. He was not the man he had been portraying himself to be. However, she was not mad at him anymore. He knew he had a lot of explaining to do. As they drove towards the funeral house Angela suddenly pecked him on the cheek. ''What was that for?'' asked Andy with a surprised look. ''Well, that one was to say I missed you so much'' happily answered Angela. ''Okay, thanks'' shyly answered Andy. When they reached the funeral, Angela started crying as she stepped out of the car. Andy too. The whole funeral gathering was surprised to see Andy with a beautiful looking lady who was crying on top of her voice. They concluded her to be his wife to be. He ushered her into the living room where most women were. Angela wept like no man's business. Andy's mum instantly recognized that she was the lady he had been talking to her about. She was impressed by the love she was showing her son. Mrs. Banda just hoped they would tie the knot soon.
James had wondered where his lover had gone to without informing him. He was mad. He inquired from Grace who told him everything. ''While you are here, your girl has gone to attend the funeral for the father of that loser of a musician!'' muttered Grace over the phone. ''What? Are you telling me that stupid musician is having an affair with my woman!?'' angrily asked James. He was mad. ''Not really, he is the ex- boyfriend to Angela. Mum and dad rejected his plans to marry Angela; don't mind him, he is such a hopeless fool'' sarcastically answered Grace. ''Tell me, why would Angela go to that fool's dad's funeral? To do what? She must still be in love with him. I will deal with him; he will definitely hear from me'' warned James. Grace regretted blowing the lid wide open on her kid sister's little secret. James made sure he reported Angela to her father. Mr. Musonda was mad. His daughter's move would have derailed his plans to secure the much-needed capital injection into his businesses by marrying James. He too vowed to deal with her after she came back. ''You see what your daughter has done? She is hell bent on bringing shame on us; how could she go to the funeral of that fool's father? For what?'' muttered Mr. Musonda as he watched television. His wife was just quiet. She too realized that her daughter had gone too far. Besides James' family were remaining with a few weeks to come for marriage negotiations. Mrs. Musonda wondered what her would be son in law's family would think of them. ''Please be gentle with her when she comes back my husband'' softly said Mrs. Musonda as she sat on the sofa. ''These kids of nowadays! They have no morals; I had warned that poor boy to stay the hell away from my daughter; just imagine, he had the guts to invite my daughter to his dad's funeral? Poverty is written all over that boy! I don't know what Angela sees in him which we can't see!'' shouted Angela's father. He was mad. Mr. Musonda was very much aware that any slight mistake by his daughter; all his plans would be derailed.
Andy's band mates also had come for the funeral. They would play a song George had penned down as an ode to Andy's dad. They had travelled the whole night with musical instruments using the mini bus the band used during the mini tour. Of course, Andy would not play with them. He was not in a state in which he could play music and besides in was in mourning-it would be taboo. He had thought that his band mates would play from their old catalogue. How wrong he was. George would be the front man when they played on the burial day. They were given ten minutes to play the song. All clad in black, George sat on the keyboard, Delson was on the bass guitar. The song was titled ''precious''. It sent the whole crowd into wild mourning. It was such a sad song. Andy wept like a child. He could not believe his dad was no more. The song was the perfect song which just described how Andy and his mum felt. George had tears in his eyes as he played the keyboard. The mourners were moved by the song. There was silence when they had finished playing the song. The burial ceremony went well. The reverend infused hope in all those that attended the burial. Andy would stay for another two days and later leave for Lusaka. His days had expired at work. He would drive to Lusaka with Angela. George would drive with the other band members in the mini bus. The journey was so sweet for Angela. She could not believe it that Andy owned the range rover. ''So, this is your car, Andy?'' asked Angela while looking him into the eye. ''Yes, it is, please stop giving me that look'' answered Andy. ''So why did you lie to me about not owning a car? By the way are you really a waiter at that trendy restaurant?'' asked Angela. ''Baby am sorry I lied to you okay, as I said earlier on, I will sit with you and tell you everything okay'' assured Andy. ''Okay, I will be waiting'' answered Angela. Most of the journey they all kept quiet. Eventually Angela dozed off and slept. Occasionally Andy could stare at her. She was such a beautiful woman. How he wished her family had not rejected her. Deep down his heart he knew he still had a chance with her. When they reached Luangwa Bridge, she requested that she drives and he obliged. She loved driving the Range Rover Evoque. Angela was cruising at top speeds of 140 km/h. ''Hey Angela you will go off the road if you drive that fast baby!'' warned Andy.
They had arrived by 3 pm. She drove to her place in Chilenje. Grace was not home when they arrived. She was at work. Andy drove back to Avondale after dropping Angela. They hugged and almost kissed. Andy was not ready for that. All he wanted was to take a shower and sleep. Grace was shocked to find Angela in the house. ''So, you are back huh? Why did you attend Andy's dad's funeral? Of all people! Has he bewitched you or what?'' asked Grace. ''That is none of your business! I care for Andy okay!'' retorted Angela. ''Be ready to hear from James, he is mad with you as I told him about your secret adventure with that loser of a man!'' answered Grace. ''Look, I care less about how you and James feel, in fact you can have him if you want him okay!'' rudely answered Angela. ''You don't seem to know James so well, he is rich and is powerful, he will deal with that loser Andy!'' warned Grace. '' Can you hear yourself Grace? You know how muscular Andy is, James should not step on a tail of the lion when it is sleeping; he will just be beaten up!'' muttered Angela. Grace knew just how muscular Andy was. She was betting on James' influence in that he could hire thugs to beat up Andy. Grace had underestimated Andy. She would later be shocked to learn that Andy was not a push over. Mr. Musonda summoned his daughter over to his place. He wanted to tell her his mind. He was so furious with her. Angela was threatening his business interests. She knew too well what lay ahead of her. Her dad would shout at her for going with Andy to the funeral for his father. Her mum would sympathize with her. That is where her hope lay. The meeting was to be held over the weekend at Mr. and Mrs. Musonda's Residence. Angela's mum told her husband to exercise caution considering how stubborn their daughter was. Besides of all their girl children she was the most disciplined one. Unlike Grace who had been a thorn in their fresh; she had brought joy and honor to the Musonda house hold.
Mavis seemed to be happily married to Mr. Mbewe. They had spent their honeymoon in Paris. She was so overjoyed. He was spoiling her with expensive gifts. Mavis was the envy of her friends Jennifer and Molly. They envied her for marrying a big ''fish''. They too wished they had such men who would spoil them. They had as usual been jumping from one man to another in search of greener pastures. Mavis was so overjoyed with her marriage to Mr. Mbewe, even her family in Katete were happy for her. Her parents always used her as a referral point when advising other young ladies in the community as to how a lady must work hard and marry the man of her dreams. She was surrounded by opulence and luxury. If only her parents had known that she had built her happiness on the tears of another woman. Life would never be the same for the former Mrs Mbewe. She had gotten used to the good life. Despite being given a lot of assets; things were not the same. She had given it all by loving her husband with all her heart. She was just miserable without him. She knew too well she could not compete with these young girls who knew how to dress seductively. She was a sad, fat and miserable woman who had forgotten how pretty she was. Her self-esteem had been shattered by the divorce.
Mr. Musonda was in a foul mood that morning. His daughter would be coming at 9 am. It was 6 am and he was busy ranting. ''Calm down dear, take it easy on her'' requested his wife. ''How can I calm down in this situation? Your daughter wants to bring shame on us!'' yelled Mr. Musonda. ''No, she won't do that I can assure you darling'' said Mrs. Musonda. ''Your daughter had the guts to go and attend the funeral of her ex-boyfriend when she has been betrothed to be married to her new man? What kind of nonsense is that? That should come to an end today; do you hear me!?'' furiously emphasized Mr. Musonda. Mrs. Musonda went to the kitchen to make him some soup and juice to calm him down. She had always been worried by her husband's hot temper. She feared one day he would develop blood pressure. After taking the soup he calmed down and smiled a bit. ''my wife you know how to take care of me; that is why I love you my dear!'' gushed Mr. Musonda after a gulp of soup in his mouth. There was a temporally truce in their bedroom. He sat up and started to watch BBC news on the television. He had taken his wife's counsel. There was no need to harshly rebuke Angela. Issues of the heart were very delicate. All he needed to do when his daughter came would to make her see the error of doing what she did. Soft power works and not threats. He realized he could achieve his plans of marrying her off to James and secure the much-needed funding by being gentle to her.
''So how are you my dear?'' gently started Mr. Musonda. ''Am fine dad'' answered Angela while pulling a face. Deep down she was wondering why her father had not burst into one of his infamous hot tempers. She was cautious. Angela did not want to take things for granted. ''Angela, we called you here because of what you did. It was wrong my dear; you know you are about to get married to James. How could you go and attend the funeral for Andy's father surely?'' complained Mrs. Musonda. Angela was quiet. She wanted to listen first before uttering any words. The mood of the meeting seemed reconciliatory to Angela. ''What will James' family feel when they hear about this? It would bring shame on us as your parents!'' calmly asked Mr. Musonda. ''But mum, dad; what did you want me to do? Andy called me and told me about his dad's death; you really expected me to just ignore him? He is my friend despite you people forcing me to dump him'' said Angela while looking at her dad's countenance. ''So, what are you telling us here my daughter? Do you still have feelings for that man? Do you still love him?'' gently asked Mrs. Musonda. Being a woman, Mrs. Musonda understood just how complex matters of the heart where. Angela hesitated to answer. Her father's penetrating eyes were on her. He intently wanted to hear her daughter's answer. ''Well, since you desire my honest answer; I can safely say that I still love Andy with all my heart; you people are just forcing me to love and get married to James; I don't love him and I will not love him in a million years. The very man you hate so much is the man I have always wanted to be with all the days of my life!'' emphatically stated Angela. The lounge was quiet for a minute. Mr. Musonda's anger had been stirred from within. He was sweating with rage. ''So, you are insulting our intelligence huh? We have found a man who suits your status and you dare question our decision? How foolish and insolent you are Angela! What can that wretch give you? What do you know about love anyway? That Andy of yours whom you love wholeheartedly will never marry you because he is such a loser. He is too poor! You will be miserable for the rest of your life and you will remember our words. Stop being an idiot and listen to our counsel! This topic is closed and you will do as I have said! You will marry James and forget that loser of a man!'' finished Mr. Musonda. He was literally shaking with rage. ''My dear daughter please, listen to your father. He means well when he says you should marry James and forget about Andy. James will make you happy; he will take care of you very well Angela'' assured Mrs Musonda. For a few minutes Angela seemed to have listened. Suddenly she started talking. ''It's like you people are just thinking about what you are feeling, how about thinking about how am feeling? Why are you forcing me to marry a man I barely know and whom I don't love at the same time? Does that make sense to you?'' asked Angela. ''Of course, it does make sense, why marry a poor man all in the name of love? You think love alone will cover you when it's cold? Do you suppose love alone will put food on the table? Think twice. Don't later complain that we never guided you properly, what has Andy done to you such you should love him like this? How special is he? The boy is just too poor for you!'' ranted Mr. Musonda.
Grace being the one who had snitched her young sister knew that things were going down at their parents' place. She decided to drive there. She had a mini cooper. A gift from one of her lovers. She loved to show off while driving the car by playing loud music. A complete opposite from her kid sister. Grace found the discussion midway. Being the inquisitive type, she at first kept quiet so that she listens to the conversation. ''It's good Grace that you have come; lets pump sense into your sister's head. Can you believe it? Your sister here has disappointed us by insisting that she still loves that loser, Andy. I have told her of the dangers of marrying a poor loser but she still can't get it in her thick skull'' continued Mr. Musonda after a sigh. ''And you Angela; you mean you can't see sense in what mum and dad have been telling you? James represents stability, comfort and a good life; any girl would want to date and get married to him; what's wrong with you? So, you think just because Andy is a skilled musician so you think he can take good care of you? You are wrong my dear! Just marry James and secure your future and that of your kids!" lectured Grace. Angela was unmoved by her sister's entreaties. ''So, you all think that money is everything in a marriage huh? You are just fixed on Andy's economic status but you are all not talking about how good of a man he is. Come on, have you asked yourself if at all Andy is an honest man, a hardworking man? Those are the qualities that I consider to be the most important in a man. He may not have money today, how about tomorrow? You know situations are not permanent. The fact still remains that you are forcing me to marry a man I don't love and it's so unfair coming from you people I consider my family!'' said Angela while crying. Her dad hugged her. ''You will be okay my dear, you will start loving him. Just marry him, that is what am all asking and make me a happy man'' assured Mr. Musonda. Their entreaties seemed to have worked. Angela seemed to have been convinced by her family. Maybe they were right maybe they were wrong. Only time would tell. Anytime soon James' family would come for the marriage introductions. The Musonda household was full of joy. Angela's dad had achieved what had seemed impossible-convincing his stubborn daughter to marry the man of his choice.
The deal had been done. Angela had agreed to marry James. Her dad was the happiest man by the turn of events. Mr. Musonda had feared the worst. Had Angela refused to marry James he would have lost a fortune. James set a date to meet up with Angela. He had come to pick her up from her place in Chilenje South. They needed to talk. James had been pissed with his girl for going to Katete to attend the funeral for Andy's father. He felt cheated. How on earth could she hide it from him that the musician was her former flame? He now realized why Angela had acted so weird when they attended Andy's concert with his band. James had wondered that day as to why Angela had always intently fixed her eyes on the front man for the band. They seemed to have been communicating to each other and James had been so dumb to decipher what was going on. He wanted her to say it plainly that she no longer loved him anymore. Despite seemingly not having power and money; Andy still posed a big threat to James. He was handsome and besides that, a skilled musician who could play almost any musical instrument. He could not compete with that despite having money. He planned to use soft power on Angela; he did not want to force her to avoid Andy. That would be futile and he knew it. ''Hey babe, you ready?'' politely asked James after hugging her tightly. ''Yeah, I think so, let's go to your place babe'' whispered Angela. She never meant anything she had said to him. She just wanted to appease him for her little crime. He wore blue denim jeans, a white shirt on top of a black t-shirt inside. He looked so dashing. He topped it all with white sneakers. She dressed simple, a hipster and a crop top with flat shoes. There was silence as James drove. ''Can I put some music baby?'' asked James. ''Yeah sure, why not? Anything will be nice'' shyly answered Angela. He put some hip- hop music. Angela was no fan of violent rap music, especially the misogynistic and homophobic songs which tended to degrade women. She had stopped listening to secular music thanks to Andy.
''So, you really wanted to talk?'' asked Angela as they sat in the lounge in James' apartment. It was well furnished. James had taste too she perceived. All the furnishings in the house were so expensive and state of the art. ''Yeah, wanted to talk to you babe. What really happened to you? You should have not gone to the funeral for that guy; what's his name again?'' asked James while pretending not to be pissed with her. ''And why not James? Mind you we broke up a long time ago; it's not that we are still going out'' gently answered Angela. ''Look you have not told me his name, and why did you not tell me that he was your ex? You made me feel cheated!'' protested James. ''Am sorry for that, his name is Andy'' gently answered Angela. ''Do you still love him perhaps?'' asked James with penetrating eyes on her. ''Why ask me that? Where is that coming from?'' furiously asked Angela. ''No, I just want to know, maybe you still love him" answered James curiously. '' The answer is no! Andy and I broke up a long time ago; he is history'' lied Angela. She hid the truth from him to avoid difficult questions from him. At least James was satisfied with her responses. He was seeing a wife in her. Besides she was beautiful and decent at the same time unlike the numerous girls he had dated in the past. He concluded that she would make a better wife for him being very chaste. This implied that she could not open her nice legs to another man. This James concluded. The furthest they had gone was some mild kissing. She was so strict with him. That day they just relaxed at his place laughing as they watched movies. At least James was proving to be a gentleman. Angela realized maybe she needed to give him a chance. Maybe he could make a good husband once they married. James had been gushing about how he loved her the whole afternoon. She felt `flattered. He made it all the clear that he loved her and wanted to marry her as soon as possible. It seemed that Angela was falling for him. James seemed so serious after all.
After two weeks, James wanted to propose to Angela. He had been showering her with expensive presents and gifts. He had a custom-made diamond engagement ring just for her from South Africa. He had been sending her chocolates every day at her work place. She felt spoiled and she loved it. He was giving her so much attention. James had booked the whole lounge at Holiday inn. It was to be a surprise to her. He had hired a live band. James had just told her to come to the lounge at 6pm. He had planned everything to detail in that he would hide so as to make her enter the lounge and then he would come out from his hiding place and go on his feet to propose marriage to Angela and make her his fiancée. After that the resident band would be playing love songs as they ate their dinner. It would really be a romantic moment. Angela just wondered what her man was up to inviting her to an expensive hotel. Maybe it was just for supper as usual. She asked for the directions from the reception to the lounge. Everything was planned to detail. Even the members of staff at the reception were aware of James' little surprise. She was dressed to kill that cool evening. Angela was putting on her favorite evening gown; black in colour and matching stilettos. Her hair was beautifully made into a ponytail. She looked so stunning. When she entered the lounge; Angela was greeted by empty chairs and tables. She wondered what that meant. There he was from behind her as she tried to call him on her mobile line. He tapped her shoulder and gently grabbed the mobile phone from her. He gave her a peck on the cheek and fell on one knee. ''Baby have been wanting to do this ever since the day I set my eyes on you, please make me the happiest man alive by marrying me. Will you please marry me and be my wife?'' emotionally said James with a diamond ring in his right hand. ''Oh, my goodness! This is so beautiful, what can I say baby? Yes! I will marry you!'' excitedly answered Angela as they hugged. From nowhere the band started playing James Blunts song entitled ''you are beautiful''. Angela was so amazed at the intricate preparations and efforts that James had put into their official engagement.
Angela felt so special in a long-time. She knew at least James adored her. Perhaps her parents were right and her sister. Everything seemed perfect that night. She had just accepted to marry James! She hoped it will bring happiness as they marry. The wedding was to be held very soon. James did not want to hesitate to marry Angela. He knew there was a poor rival in the background. Though poor, he still posed a real threat. He did not want to take a risk. The only way he could defeat his rival was by making Angela his wife. The evening went so smoothly. James was showing his romantic side that evening and Angela was swept off her feet. After the meal, both were all smiles. ''Wow, this ring is so expensive darling'' said Angela as she beheld the shiny stone. ''Yeah baby! You know me babe, I have taste, I only afford the best for the woman I love '' bragged James. That evening as Angela was dropped at home, she was so ecstatic as she showed off her diamond engagement ring to Grace. ''this is what I have been talking about my kid sis! You will never go wrong with my advice and counsel. You and James are meant to be together, marry him and you will be the happiest woman on earth!'' assured Grace as they chatted while seated on Angela's bed. Everything seemed perfect. As Angela lay in her bed that night; she suddenly started thinking about Anderson. She wondered why she could not think of her fiancée James. Was she being fair to herself? Was she doing things to impress people; her parents and elder sister? She wondered. The thought of walking the aisle with James seemed unfathomable to her. Her mind just seemed not to agree to the thought.
Andy was beginning to accept the fact that he had lost the girl he loved with all his heart. She still loved him despite getting engaged to James. Angela really wanted to see Andy so that she clears her mind. So much was at stake. She was not thinking straight at this time. Angela did not want to regret for the rest of her life. She knew deep down her heart the man she truly loved. Andy had a lot of explaining to do. She called him so that they talk. They met at arcades shopping mall later in the evening. ''Am happy that you honored my invitation to see me despite the short notice" said Angela with a smile. ''Hey, no problem Angela, so what are we going to order" asked Andy as he intently looked her into the eyes. Their eyes locked. One could tell that there was intense chemistry between them. ''Why are you looking at me like that? I asked you what we will eat and you are busy staring at me" teasingly said Anderson. ''Will eat whatever you will eat Andy'' softly said Angela. They ordered chicken and chips with some drinks. ''This chicken is so sweet I tell you!" exclaimed Andy. ''Hmmmmm, I know how much you just love chicken Andy; do you ever sleep over chicken? Hehehe'' teased Angela. ''If one wants to fight with me let him take away my chicken'' jokingly warned Andy. ''So, tell me Andy, why did you lie to me? I mean why did you hide your actual status from me?'' asked Angela with a deep look into Andy's eyes. Anderson pretended not to hear her. ''So, let me get this straight; so, you thought I would not accept you for who you are? Why did you lie that you worked as a waiter when in fact not?'' asked Angela as she now drew more closely to him. ''Well...am sorry my dear...I mean what is there to say? I messed everything up, please forgive me'' said Andy as he held her hands while kneeling on the floor. ''Look, just get up, stop embarrassing me ok, you are sorry, will that change anything? It won't! Am so disappointed in you Anderson, you are so disgusting, I guess my parents have been right all along about you, I don't think you deserve me'' said Angela. Andy knew from the look on her face that she was dead serious. ''You don't mean what you are saying do you? You were supposed to give me a chance to explain things. Yes, I messed up; so what? Will you keep on shoving it to my face just because I messed up? Asked Andy. He was losing it. ''Look at me Andy!'' angrily said Angela while showing him the finger where she wore her diamond engagement ring. ''Am now engaged to be married in the next two months, will be a wife to somebody else and not you! So, I think let's just forget about each other. Stop calling me and I won't be calling you, please move on Anderson. As you can see it's getting late; I must be going home'' said Angela as she stood up to leave. Andy tried to hold her down but she gave him her signature stern look and pulled away her hand from him.
Andy could not believe what she had just told him. He cried bitterly as he drove back home. He blamed himself for being so foolish. Why did he not just tell her the truth? Why did he have to test Angela that way? He was so stricken with grief as he lay on the bed. He could not even eat his supper. All his appetite had gone. He remembered the guy who might have engaged the love of his life. He had seen the guy at one of their concerts. He seemed loaded. Am sure Angela's family accepted the guy wholeheartedly. Andy now he kept himself busy with work and making music. He did not want to think so much about losing the woman of his dreams. Maybe it was for the best of both of them so he thought. He chose to respect her wish of not calling her.