chapter 8

Sam’s stressful life was divided in two, work and family and neither of them were giving him a peace of mind, while at work he had pressure to deliver, at home his nagging wife was there waiting. Thinking of it all, he slumped his hands at his desk, he was furious with life, it was draining all his energy.

Looking at all the paperwork on his desk, contracts that needed to be delivered, he realized he was far from being the King sitting on the throne. He walked over to the roof to floor glass window, he was lost in thoughts, he thought of all the things he’s done in his life to be where he is.

“It's all your fault, all those promises and life changing experience you promised me, I believed and counted on you, but you let go the moment you thought you had it all. You are the one to blame for all my suffering and misfortunes, how do you expect to prosper when you use short cuts in life? Your hands are stained with blood, your guilt is slowly eating you and your wife thinks you’re an ATM machine.” The little voice from within was cruel, Sam’s pain in his chest was more than he could take.

“My dear husband, why are you in despair? You had a lovely smile that made you look more handsome, at one point your smile was my hope, now look at what you’ve become, haven’t you learned anything? When was the last time you had a peaceful sleep” Bel’s voice was echoing in his head. “Bel, isn’t my messed-up life a punishment enough for me?|” Sam was talking to himself, he heard the voice answer back, “No my dear husband, your messed up life is your own doing, but who will pay for the deaths you’ve caused, first it was me, now two innocent people have lost their lives because of your greedy. What happened to the Sam I fell in love with?” the little voice didn’t spare Sam, the pain was increasing, he thought his life was ending, this is not the end I expected for myself, he closed his eyes and sat in his chair quietly, he didn’t know how to ask for help.

When his secretary walked in, her boss was sitting in his chair with eyes closed and soaked in the his sweat, she was shocked and thought maybe he was sick, Sam was startled by her footsteps and opened his eyes and sat up straight in the Chair.  “Are you okey boss?” the secretary asked with concerned. Sam forced a smile on his face and answered back, “I’m not so well, I think I’ll just head home and rest, postpone all my meetings for today.”

Sam’s heart was beating so fast, he wasn’t sure what was happening to him and he wasn’t sick either, because the pain was just in his thoughts and was not real, it was his guilt punishing him. When he arrived home he went straight to their guestroom and locked himself up, he didn’t want to see his nagging wife, he just wanted to be alone.

Jenna and Kayla on the other hand were doing well. Kayla expanded her business and opened a branch in Nairobi, she offered Jenna a job to run her Nairobi Branch, surprisingly Jenna agreed without any hesitation, she was happy to work with Kayla and it reminded her of Bel all the time. Erica and Bellah were working hard at school so that they don’t disappoint Jenna and waste her efforts.      

The two women were busy recruiting employees for the new office. Jenna could carry the CVs at home so that she could go through them before she met with the candidates. She came across one candidate who was applying for one of the senior positions, she didn’t believe her eyes, she thought she was dreaming but then why would she be dreaming about someone who ruined her life, broke her heart and left her on the streets.

It was Christopher, the man who the reason she fought with her parents and has never gone home for 18 years. She felt anger growing inside her, she never thought that she’ll see this son of a bitch in this life, maybe the next life was possible, but fate had planned for it to happen in this life.

Those people who hurt us, move on and even forgets our shadows, but those who have been hurt, they carry their shadows around all their lives.  When Christopher ended his relationship with Jenna, she didn’t have anything in her pocket, a friend took her in and helped her get a job as a tea girl in late husband’s work place.

Jenna was up the whole night, but at dawn, she told herself that it was time to face her past and put her troubled heart at peace. She had a great body and today Christopher will realize he lost the best treasure he had. She wore a cream under the knee fitting dress, with a black coat and black heels which made her look even taller.

That day was her day, everywhere she passed, both women and men followed her with their eyes until she disappeared in the distance. Kayla was already at the company, she was stunned when she saw Jenna walking in, she had never seen this Jenna in front of her, even in their past life. Her heart was filled with joy but she didn’t ask what the occasion was.

Time was moving so fast, the interview was starting at 9a.m. Kayla was just there to help Jenna out, she wanted her to get her own staffs, so she was in charge. All the candidates were in another room waiting, she had more than ten candidates to interview, and called them in one by one. Christopher was he last candidate.

When he walked in, he saw two beautiful women sitting in front, he greeted them and proceeded to sit down.  Christopher didn’t recognize Jenna at all, she then asked him to tell her about his life, family and career, at first Christopher didn’t understand since she already had his CV, even Kayla was puzzled but didn’t say anything. After he finished, Jenna asked him one last question, “why do you think you’re a suitable candidate for the position besides the experience that you have?” Christopher cleared his voice and answered back. Jenna thanked him and told him they’ll contact him. He stood up and left.

“That was the shortest and easiest interview I’ve never had in my entire life,” Kayla said with a confused expression on her face. Jenna turned to Kayla and narrated her misfortune with Christopher 18 years ago,  then she asked her if she could help her investigate Christopher’s life, Kayla couldn’t say no because in her past life Jenna had already told her, she immediately got in touch with her people to get the job done.

It was already 1400hrs, the two women went out for lunch, discussed about business plans for the company, after lunch Kayla was to head back to Kajiado since she had other businesses to attend to the following day, so she left Jenna to continue with the interview which was scheduled for 0900 hours the following day.

When she got to the office, the report about Christopher had already been delivered in her office, she didn’t expect it that fast, she took the brown envelope and put it in her bag, she didn’t want to waste the opportunity Kayla has given her so she maintained her professionalism, after all she had the whole weekend to go through Christopher’s report. Jenna had all the information she wanted about Christopher, he’s been divorced and re-married though his current relationship was not going well too.

In Kikoy’s family home, Sam had rested enough and was in his study trying to sort out the contracts he had asked the secretary to deliver at his house. He was determined not to fail and become a laughing face to everyone. On Monday was the shareholders meeting so he spent the whole weekend preparing for it with the help of Zak.

Zak was a young man but cruel, his methods of doing things were not acceptable, he used underworld methods to solve all the problems without living any trace, he was flawless in everything he did and Sam loved him for that. Sam was starting to get his life back because the little voice was gone, Zak took care of those clients that were giving Sam a hard time and his life seemed perfect once again.

Jenna went through Christopher’s file, she even felt sorry for him, she wasn’t going to give him a job but his innocent child needed treatment, but that didn’t mean she’ll give him an easy time. All those who have been accepted were contacted and were to report at work the following week. Jenna had employees from Kajiado office who were helping her out.

Kayla organized for the party to officially open the new office and welcome all her new employees and her business partners. She even invited Sam and other shareholders of Sambel Corporations. Christopher was happy he had a job to help him care for his family especially his daughter who was sick.

Everyone was looking forward to this day, those who were curious about the person in-charge of the company and of course Kayla didn’t leave out her competitors, you know what they say, you keep your friends close but enemies closer.

The big day is here, and everyone was dressed in their best attires, to impress, catch attention and even some to make new connections, nobody wanted to be left behind in this life, as usual Jenna arrived earlier than everyone at the venue to make sure everything was in place. Kayla was running a little late because she didn’t want to wake her grandparents up early, she knew they were tired from their journey back to the city, they never missed any of her functions, she wanted to share all her success with them and never gave them a room to say no and they too never wanted to make her sad so they’d agree fully heartedly.

Jenna had arranged for Bellah and Erica for a day off from school, since it was on a Friday, she wanted them to share this day with her, they were her family even if they were not related by blood. “This is going to be such a wonderful day,” Bellah told Erica while they were getting ready, they didn’t want to be late, the driver was already waiting for them outside.

Kayla and her grandparents arrived at the hotel but went straight to Jenna’s room, they had arranged for them to have lunch before the function which was meant to start at 2p.m.

Guests started arriving at 1 p.m. staffs from Kajiado and new employees had already arrived at the venue. Back in the room Jenna was already dressed up and was more beautiful than ever. She was dressed in a long off shoulder gold dress with gold open heels and a black purse, it fitted her so well and portrayed the perfect body she had, both Men and Women were envy of her perfect body.

On the other side, Kayla was also putting on a long sleeveless wine-red dress, white pearl earrings and neckless, which looked like a set, she matched it with an off white open heels that was same as her purse too, showing off her beautiful nails that had wine-red colour like her dress.

Both women were dazzling, the looked like goddess, Kayla went out first to the venue and left Jenna behind because she was still waiting for Bellah and Erica who after a while arrived. When Kayla walked into the venue, everyone’s eyes were on her, her dress was simple but perfectly made just for her alone, some envied her, some men even wished they were single so that the could pursue her but her employees were so proud of her, the room was silent for few minutes before everyone came back to their senses, the master of ceremony was kind of speechless for a while and took him a while before he could speak up.

Kayla walked in and welcomed her guests, she didn’t mind eyes following her around, this time she was living her life to the fullest, she was happy she got a second chance to live and wasn’t going to waste it. She was happy with the way the venue was decorated.

Jenna went outside to pick Bellah and Erica from the parking, little did she know that she’d run into Sam and Julie. “Well look who is here, this barren woman, it’s been long time since I saw you, life has treated you well I must say,” Julie said with a mockery smile on her face. Jenna looked at her with lazy eyes “how many times have I told you that I’m not barred? Do you want me to try out with your adulterous man here so that you know that I can also be a mother? At least I don’t climb in a married man’s bed like someone I know, it’s such a pity that people still see you as a mistress even after having that glamorous wedding.”

Julie moved few steps to Jenna, she was furious, looking at her face, you can see her veins. “Repeat what you’ve just said now?” Jenna smile disappeared and she had a cold face and even her tone changed. “I said you’ll always be a Mistress whether you married Sam or not, you filthy woman, how long has it been and yet nobody calls you Mrs. Kikoy? There will always be one Mrs. Kikoy in this life and definitely, it’s not you sweetheart.” Jenna let out a cold laughter, few tears came out of her eyes, she moved close to Julie who was somehow confused with Jenna’s behavior, she’s out of her character, she’s not an arguing person, Sam too was puzzled and was starring at her without saying anything.

Bellah and Erica were walking out of the parking when they saw the three of them, they stopped and hid behind other cars and continue to watch the unfolding scene in front of them... Jenna wiped the tear drops from her eyes, crossed her hands in front of her chest and continued. You might have taken everything that belonged to my friend, but you’re still that cheap woman and putting on expensive clothes doesn’t mean you’re someone special. Jenna paused and let out a smile. Julie was so angry, she lifted her hand to slap Jenna, but was faster and caught Julie’s hand before it reached her beautiful face.

How dare you want to put your filthy hand on me? Jenna was really angered this time, she had bottled up all the anger she had for Sam and Julie when Bel passed away and them provoking her today she decided to let it out. Her chest was burning like it was going to burst, she thought of all the things she’s missed out of sharing with Bel, if she’d be alive if Sam tried to get her proper treatment. She used all her energy to push Julie and let go of her hand. Luckily Sam was there to catch her.

Who gave you the right to disrespect us Jenna? Sam shouted at her, she let go of Julie and walked towards Jenna, raised his hand to slap her but a voice was heard from the distance. “Mr. Samuel Kikoy, I dare you to touch even a single string of her hair and you’ll know how if feel to have your own daughter as your sworn enemy.” Bellah’s voice was so cold and had red eyes, both Jenna, Julie and Sam were stunned and turned to look at the direction she was coming from.

“Since when did you start talking to me like that? Is that the kind of manners this woman has instilled in you?” Sam questioned his daughter who was now standing in front of him with her both hands on her hips, you should be lucky I still see you as my father, the so called woman has been a good mother to me since my mom passed away, she’s given me everything and took up your role as a parent, so tell me, do you still think you’re worthy being my Dad? Have you ever even bothered to reach out to me since mom passed away? You turned your back on me after getting everything you wanted, you choose this woman here over me. Watch your tongue young girl, Sam raised his hand to slap her but she cut in, go ahead and beat me.

Sam was startled with his daughter’s attitude towards him, he looked at her eyes and realized the little girl he knew was long gone, she was full of hatred, that made his heart

to ache, he was speechless for a second, his guilty conscious was coming back again, he’s spent days fighting inner voices of himself and Bel and now his own daughter has asked him questions that he knew were true, he abandoned her when she needed him the most, just the same way he abandon Bel, he was lost in his thoughts for few minutes but gained his senses back.

Jenna took Bellah’s hand and walked away, Erica following them behind, Sam turned and watched the three disappear through the hotel’s back entrance. Julie looked at Sam but didn’t believe what has just happened, it was like watching a movie but you’re part of that movie.

What did I do to my daughter? How can I make her hate me this much? Sam asked himself one question after another, Julie on the other hand was dying with jealous, she hoped Sam would never regret the choices he made and was starting to feel that everything that Jenna said was true. She looked at Sam and decided to walk towards the hotel entrance, Sam snapped out of his thoughts and followed her.

They walked into the hotel venue and were welcomed by the company’s employees, later on Kayla came forward and said hello to them before walking out to go and check on the people she left in the hotel room since she haven’t seen Jenna.. It was 20 minutes before the party officially starts. She got to the room and found that everyone was quiet, Jenna was in the washroom crying her eyes out, Kayla asked what happened and Erica explained everything to her.

She felt pain in her heart, after all these years her friend was still hurting because of her departure, she open the bathroom door and walked in, hugged Jenna from behind and in a low voice she said, “I’m sorry, I wish there was anything I’d do to make you feel better, I wish I had the power to bring Bel back but I know she’d not want you to loose your temper on people who are not worthy your tears, I’m always here for all of you, I consider you my family and now it’s time to show them that you’re not someone to mess around with, show that Julie you’re nothing like her.”

You’re right, though whenever I see those two my blood boils, and the worst part Bellah witnessed it too and had a confrontation with her Dad which I’ve been avoiding. I think she hates him now and it’s my fault. Jenna told Kayla in a sobbing tone. Don’t ever say that, Bellah is not a kid anymore and knows what’s right and wrong, give her the chance to sort her feelings out and she’ll never hate you.

Kayla helped Jenna to freshen up, then asked then to follow her after 10 minutes, she left and went back to the venue, the DJ and master of ceremony were doing a good job in entertaining the guests, people started settling in their seats as per the arrangements made,

Everyone eyes followed the sound of heels that was coming through the door, Kayla had a lovely smile and with her natural long hair and perfect slender body, she was a bit slender than Jenna, the dress fitted her so well. Everyone was drooling on her, some women even envied her, a single woman with a flourishing career was like a taboo in our African society.

Let us put our hands together to welcome our beautiful CEO on the stage, Ms. Kayla! Everyone was cheering at her well not everyone, some men were lost in their thoughts, hahahaha……… one of the guest was busy gossiping, who ever thought that this woman will conquer the men’s world, I heard she only finished high school but when her Dad passed away and took over the business, she has doubled the profits. The people talking were close to her grandparents and they were just listening to them conversing.