Sandra's mother, her eyes blazing with fury, confronted her in the living room. "When was the last time you went to church, Sandra?" she demanded, her tone laced with disapproval.
Sandra, visibly tired and burdened, sighed deeply. "Mum, why are you always on my case? I know you're a pastor's wife, but Dad is gone. Maybe it's time you loosened up a bit. And why am I the only one you're questioning? What about my brothers? Are you just ignoring their issues while hounding me? Please, Mum, I've had enough for today. I need to rest." Without waiting for a response, Sandra picked up her bag and made her way to her room, her shoulders slumped in exhaustion.
As she settled into her room, her phone buzzed. She glanced at the screen and saw Mr. Coca's name flashing. She answered quickly. "Hello, Mr. Coca," she said softly.
"Have you gotten home safely?" Mr. Coca asked, his voice warm but cautious.
"Yes, I'm home now," Sandra replied, a faint smile crossing her lips. "I think I already miss you."
Mr. Coca chuckled. "I miss you too, Sandra, but remember our arrangement. Don't call me unless I call you first. My wife sometimes checks my calls, and I don't want any trouble. If you need something urgently, send me a text. Only call me if I say it's okay."
"Alright," Sandra said, a hint of disappointment in her voice. "I'll do as you say. Bye for now." She ended the call and leaned back, her mind swirling with mixed emotions.
---
Meanwhile, James, a sharp-looking young man, was on his way to the office. Feeling a pang of hunger, he decided to stop by a nearby supermarket to grab a quick snack. Coincidentally, Sandra was at the same supermarket, picking up provisions for herself.
As James entered, he spotted her immediately. His memory flashed back to the day he had accidentally splashed muddy water on her while driving. "That's her," he thought to himself. "The girl I made a mess of. I hope she doesn't cause a scene here."
He decided not to approach her yet, choosing instead to observe from a distance as she moved through the aisles, selecting her items. When Sandra finished shopping and approached the counter, James made a swift decision. He instructed the cashier to add Sandra's bill to his own and paid for everything.
Sandra, oblivious to what had just happened, handed the cashier her money. "How much is it?" she asked.
The cashier smiled and handed her the bagged items. "Your bill has already been taken care of."
Sandra frowned in confusion. "What do you mean? Who paid for it?"
The cashier pointed toward the door. "That gentleman over there took care of everything."
Sandra turned and saw James walking away with a slight smile on his face. Puzzled, she hurried after him. "Wait!" she called out.
James stopped, turned, and smiled at her. "Yes?" he asked, feigning innocence.
"The cashier said you paid for my groceries. Why would you do that? I don't even know you," Sandra said, her tone a mix of gratitude and suspicion.
James chuckled. "You really don't remember me, do you?"
Sandra looked at him, trying to place his face. "No, should I? Who are you?"
Still smiling, James shook his head. "It's funny how polite you're being now. You even called me 'sir.' That's quite a change from the last time we met."
Sandra's brow furrowed. "What are you talking about? Can you just explain instead of beating around the bush?"
"Alright," James said, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Do you remember a day when a car splashed muddy water on you? You were furious and yelled at the driver, even after he apologized."
Sandra's eyes widened as the memory came rushing back. "Oh, that was you? You completely ruined my dress! I was so angry that day."
"And rightly so," James said with a grin. "But I've been wanting to make it up to you. So, can we be friends now?"
Sandra crossed her arms, her expression skeptical. "No, I don't think so."
James raised an eyebrow. "Why not?"
"I just don't feel like it," Sandra said curtly. "Besides, I'm not looking for new friends right now."
James wasn't ready to give up. "Can I at least get your phone number?"
"No, you can't," Sandra replied firmly. "Please, just leave me alone." She turned and walked away, leaving James standing there, his grin fading slightly.
"She's fiery," James thought to himself as he watched her leave. "But at least now I know she's not involved with my dad. That's a relief."
---
Later, at his office, James found his father, Mr. Coca, already there.
"Dad, you're back early," James said, surprised.
"Yes, my meeting wrapped up sooner than expected," Mr. Coca replied. "Now, what's so urgent that you wanted to talk to me about?"
"It's about some of the staff," James began. "They're not performing up to standard, and we're starting to lose clients because of it. I think we need to make some replacements."
Mr. Coca nodded. "You don't need my approval for that. You're in charge now. Handle it as you see fit."
James hesitated for a moment before changing the subject. "By the way, Dad, who's your new... friend?"
Mr. Coca's expression darkened slightly. "Why are you asking?"
"No reason," James said casually. "I'm just curious. You know, you're always with these young women, spending money on them like it's nothing. Meanwhile, Mum is at home, hurting because of your actions."
Mr. Coca sighed, clearly annoyed. "My lifestyle is none of your business, just as your life is none of mine. It's my money, and I'll spend it however I please."
With that, Mr. Coca stood and walked out, leaving James shaking his head in frustration.
---
Back at home, Sandra picked up her phone and sent a text to Mr. Coca. Moments later, he called her back.
"Hello, baby," Mr. Coca said warmly. "Are you alright?"
"Yes, I'm fine," Sandra replied. "I just wanted to remind you about our discussion in Abuja—the car and the business."
"Have you decided what kind of business you want to start?" Mr. Coca asked.
"Yes, I have," Sandra said confidently. "I'm just waiting for you to make it happen."
"Alright," Mr. Coca said. "Meet me tomorrow at the automobile dealership on Victoria Island. We'll pick out the car together."
Sandra's face lit up with excitement. "Thank you, Mr. Coca. You're the best."
Mr. Coca chuckled. "Anything for you, my dear."