“The truth is that I haven‘t spoken to Edward since Monday night when he raised the issue with me. I was supposed to stay with him till Friday but after our quarrel on Monday night, I threatened to return to my aunt‘s house which I did. He moved to a hotel and hasn‘t picked any of my calls since.”
“You had a quarrel…and it‘s already Wednesday. Oh my…I
don‘t know what to say. You know I think couples should always leave their channels of communication open.”
Gladys shook her head, “I don‘t want to dwell on it too much. I have decided to focus on a plan of action. My suspicions are that Chief and Mrs. Okrika are the ones weaving this web.”
“Who are they and what do they have to do with this?”
“Chief Okrika is a rich industrialist based in Kano where Edward grew up. I never knew they were connected till last February. I think they‘re business rivals.” Gladys glossed over the facts not wanting to break Edward‘s confidence. “Chief Okrika called yesterday and agreed to a meeting so we can discuss my involvement with Edward‘s business problems. But listen - the wife also visited me saying I should leave Edward because he‘s going down.”
“She said that?” Ola‘s eyes were wide as plates. “How come they know about it?”
“That‘s the question.”
“But how are you involved in all this?”
“I don‘t know, but that is what I intend to find out.”
“How‘re you going to do that?” Gladys imagined Ola‘s mind already racing ahead.
“I have a date with the Okrikas this afternoon. Chief Okrika said he and his wife are willing to discuss not just the business problems but also address my involvement in it.”
“Gladys if they‘re the ones behind the takeover, do you think that‘s wise? If they already framed you successfully, they‘ll want things to remain that way.” Ola reasoned.
“I agree, I don‘t think they‘re sincere. You should hear the stories Mrs. Okrika told me. As for the takeover, I‘m sure of it. The process must have started since we met them in February; it only came to light after we travelled out of the country.”