*ENEMIES OF THE CHURCH:*

EPISODE 13

Grace had not slept ever since she left Chief Ike's office. She remembered all he did and everything he said to her and she regretted ever going to him. But she had to go because the money he gave her was finished and she needed to talk to him to employ her as a cleaner in one of his companies. At least that way she won't have to rely on anyone or beg anyone for money again. No matter how small her salary might be.

Chief Ike welcomed her into his office and offered her tea which she refused. She then told him of her reason for coming. Chief Ike told her it was a brilliant idea and promised to help her and give her a better job than a cleaning. 

Then he stood up from his seat and went over to her and place his hands around her neck and starts fondling her ears and her hair.

Grace was not comfortable with this but she kept calm so as not to blow her little opportunity of getting a job. She needed this job for herself and her little boy. But then Chief went far by putting his hands through the neck of her slacked Polo shirt down to her breast. He squeezed her breast gently and she jumped up from the seat.

"Sorry sir, what are you doing? Why did you that?" She asked. 

"Relax Grace, I am only playing with you, see eh, the whole of this company is mine and I can give you any position you want. I can even go as far as making you the manager of this company, so long you are very hardworking and you make me very happy. Chief Ike said while smiling foolishly and walking towards Grace again.

A shocked and scared Grace moved backward as the Chief moves towards her. 

"Please Chief, as you know I am already a single mother, I have nobody in this whole world. It's just me and my little boy. I need this job mainly because of him, so that I can at least provide his little needs. Please Chief I cant do this, I can't afford to get pregnant again when I have not got over the first. I really need this job sir. Please daddy!

A smiling Chief Ike looked at her again before he spoke. "The more you speak, the more I want you for myself. See how calculated your words are, and this is the reason I am now in love with you. See eh, you will not get pregnant okay? I will make sure of that, and stop saying you don't have anybody in the whole world. You now have me all to yourself and I will take very good care of you. You can confirm from any of my wives, nons of them is regretting why they married me, I will send you and your son to any country of your choice, you will drive the best cars around, you will sleep and wake up in money. Just come to me dear. And even if you get pregnant, I will marry you and you will be my number seven hehehehehe" he laughed foolishly at himself. 

Grace was irritated by his laugh but did not show it. "Chief number seven?" No ooooo, I don't want to be number seven wife o, God said one man one wife. How can I marry you and be number seven? What will Reverend Leo and the church say to me? What will God think of me?

Which Reverend? Which church? I am the church and the church is me, without me that church will cease to exist don't you know that? I am the pillar of that church and nobody can challenge me there, not even your Reverend. My money is what was used in building that church, I can wake up and decide that they all should get out of my property one day because I built it with my money and no one will be able to challenge me. Do you know how much tithe and offerings I give in that church? That is why they respect me and can't cough when I talk. If I want to be the Pastor of that church today I can be the Pastor all I need to do is voice it out. But I don't want that for now. 

Do you know that when I don't go to church they will all troop to my house and start asking me why? Then they will start kneeling and begging me to come back and using sweet words on me. Do you think they do that because of love? It's not because they love me, but because they love my money, the money I give to the church. I am the sustainer of that church you see today. The Pastor and almost all the members they don't know God, they are all pretenders. In fact all the churches you see today they don't know God, they don't go to church to worship God, they go to church to worship man and money. So my dear, forget the church. I rule the church, my money rules the church. 

Chief Ike walks towards her and she tries to open the door and run away but the door was locked. The Chief smiled as he caught up with her at the door. He held her face and kissed her pressing the whole of his big body over her. Grace could not breathe or fight him off because he was far bigger than her. She struggles to get herself free from him but she couldn't. The Chief went further and starts pressing her breasts tearing her bra from her chest and then sucking on her breast. 

Grace screamed so loud that it got him terrified.

"What is it? Why are you shouting like that?" The Chief asked. 

"I'm sorry sir, but I can't so this. I really can't. Please don't help me anymore. Open the door for me let me go. Please sir. Grace pleaded with hot tears gushing from her eyes. 

"You are very stupid. A very stupid girl. Do you know how many girls are begging me to marry them? Even in the church there, do you know how many twist and bend their waist at me just so I will notice them? And here you are getting a free chance from me and you are turning it down. You are really stupid.

He took out his brief case brought out fifty thousand naira in bundle and threw it at Grace.

"Take this fifty thousand naira and get out of my office and don't you ever come here anymore. Stupid girl! The money is for your smelling bra that I tore. Now get out!

Grace took the money and ran out of the office. It was when she was outside she realized her cloth was torn badly and she can't really go home like that with exposed breasts, and so she hid behind the big beautiful building to wait a little till the day was dark before going home. 

Thank God she left her boy with Nkechi her friend, so she knew the boy was safe. 

She sat behind the building crying and thinking of all that life had thrown at her and before she knew it she had slept off.

_______________________

It's been two months since the death of Reverend Leo and the church has taken up the responsibility of the burial. Pastor Jim who has automatically become the Pastor and General Overseer of the church has made himself the coordinator and the one in charge of the burial arrangements.

"Pastor Jim, don't you think the budget for this burial is too high? How can we buy coffin ordinary coffin for 750k, it's too much na. And you also budgeted 3million naira for just food and drinks. Don't you think it's too much? It's a burial not a feast. And if we are not careful people might just start thinking we are celebrating and not mourning." It was the Treasurer talking. 

"But of course, it's a celebration of life. Our Reverend has gone to be with the Lord and so we have every course to celebrate despite the circumstances surrounding his leaving. What is most important is that he is with our Father in heaven." Replied Pastor Jim.

"I know this Pastor, but the budget is still too high. You've drawn a budget of almost 10million naira. Is it not too much?" The Treasurer asked again.

"Why are you sounding like this? Reverend Leo was a highly respected man in this society. He was a king and should be buried like a king. That 10million naira is just management compared to what I have planned for him. My very Reverend? God forbid that we bury our Reverend in a small way. God forbid it. Listen my dear, the money is there, our Reverend worked so hard to raise this money. It's so unfortunate he was not wise enough to spend it when he was alive. At least now that he is dead, let's give him a befitting burial. After all he won't enjoy from the money anymore will he?"

"No, he won't!"

"Ehn! So let's bury him well and stop complaining about money.  Jim concluded.

"Ah, but Pastor, it's so surprising that Reverend Leo is actually gone. Just like that. His killers will never go unpunished in Jesus name.

*Jim:* Amen and amen. I feel so bad for him o, they didn't even wait for him to carry his unborn child. It's so pathetic.

"Now, what will happen to his wife, the church and everything he left behind?'

*Jim:* Well as for his wife, I really don't know. She is still a very young and pretty woman. After having her baby she might decide to marry who knows. Then for the church, obviously I will be the new Pastor of the church. And the one in charge of everything. The account, and all.

"Wow! Pastor you don hammer be that o, there will be no fear of anything or anyone again abi? It will just be me and you running the accounts and everything. And maybe you will get an assistant too." The Treasurer said excited

Jim smiled for a while before speaking out. 

*Jim:* Well about that, I really can't tell for now, I don't think I'd be needing an assistant for now, I don't want anyone coming to oppose me on anything or any decision I take in this church. So, I won't be needing any assistant. And even the post of a treasurer I don't think ..., well I am still thinking if I'd be needing a treasurer in the church. 

"How do you mean?" The Treasurer quickly asked. 

*Jim:* Well, I don't know yet, I've not really decided, I will make that decision after the burial. 

"Are you planning to discard me now? After all we've been through together in this church?"

"Discard you how?" Did I say anything like that? Why are you getting yourself worked up over nothing? I just said after the burial, we will decide on that. Those things are really not in my head right now. We have just two months to the burial. It may seem far to you but is really not far. Please come let's continue with the planning. After the burial we can discuss this." Jim replied. 

They both sat down and started writing some things down with Pastor Jim stealing glances at the Treasurer. He already made up his mind to drop him after the burial. He does not trust him enough to leave church fund with him. But he was going to relax and endure till after Reverend Leo has been buried. 

WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 14

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*ENEMIES OF THE CHURCH:*

EPISODE 12

Reverend Leo has been sleeping in the church office for almost two weeks now and people were beginning to suspect. 

That evening, he sat in the office writing the sermon for the next Sunday when Pastor Jim approached him. 

*Jim:* Reverend good evening.

*Leo:* Pastor, I thought you've left already. Hope all is well?

Jim took the seat close to him and sat down. 

*Jim:* Reverend, I am afraid all is not well, and I just have to speak up.

*Leo:* (dropping the pen and the paper and adjusting himself on his seat) What is wrong my brother?

*Jim:* Reverend, for sometime now we have noticed you don't go home, you are always in church from morning till night and you end up sleeping inside the church sometimes. Please correct me if I am wrong. It's becoming a thing of concern for us who have noticed and so I have decided to ask what is happening? Is all well at home?

Reverend Leo needed to talk to someone badly about his situation and all he was going through. But somehow he felt no one would give him a solution to his problem except the Holy Spirit and so he has decided to talk only to Him. He smiled and looked at Pastor Jim.

*Leo:* Pastor firstly, I want to appreciate you for your concern and all, but all is well. Everything is in the hands of God.

*Jim:* Reverend you know you can always confide in me for anything. They say a problem shared is half solved. Talk to me, what is wrong?

*Leo:* My Pastor, I really appreciate your concern but I am fine. I just decided to take time off to be with the Holy Spirit, you know there are times when we need to seek His face and counsel. But you need not worry anymore, I'd be going home today.

Jim smiled to himself, he was relieved to hear that the Reverend was going home. Since his sudden stay in the church things had been difficult for him and the Treasurer. He had found it difficult to collect money from the church for this past two weeks. He stood up with a big smile on his face.

*Jim:* It's okay Reverend, I knew I was getting myself worried for nothing. You know I love you so much and I always want what's best for you and for you to always be happy. My family and I are always praying for you and Mummy Reverend.

*Leo:* (smiling) Thank you so much, God will bless you.

Jim turned to leave and then suddenly stops.

*Jim:* Reverend why don't you just join me so that I can drop you off, it's already late and you may not get a bike anymore.

*Leo:* Oh, thank you so much, but don't worry about me, I will leave soon but not now, there are some things I need to round off before leaving. 

*Jim:* No problem Rev., do you have a good night rest. 

Jim left and shut the door behind him, he was worried that the Reverend might end up staying again. He didn't like that Reverend Leo had refused for him to be dropped. However, he left, hoping that the Reverend would pack and get out of the church.

Leo sat for a while, and decided to go home and face his wife today and so Jim coming to tell him that people were already suspecting was just a motivation to hasten his leaving. After waiting for about thirty minutes he picked up his Bible and left. 

True to Jim's words there was no bike on the road, Reverend Leo was not even in the mood of getting home early, he just wanted to stroll and enjoy the cool of the night.

All the days he had spent in the church he had been at peace. But as he walked home in the darkness, fear began creeping into him again. Fear of what Rachael would say to him, fear of what she will do to him and fear of the next bomb she was going to throw at him. He loved his wife so much and whatever she does to him pierced his heart like a sharp knife. 

As he got closer to his gate, he noticed he was being followed and so he hastened his movement. He tried to reach his gate and open it fast, but he wasn't fast enough as the two men grabbed him from behind. He looked at them terrified.

*Leo:* Blood of Jesus! Who are you? What do you want from me. Please don't harm me, I am a man of God.

The first guy who looked ugly with a big scar on his face turned to his second and asked. 

"Na him be this? Look am well we no get time, na him?"

"Yes na him " the second guy responded. 

"Then wetin you dey wait? Waste am make we dey go, time no dey."

Before Leo could say anything, they fired at him  and as he fell to the ground with tears on his eyes all he thought about was his wife Rachael and how she would be able to live life without him?

"Rachael won't survive this shock if I die, dear Lord for the sake of my wife please save me."

Those were the words from his mouth as he blacked out in the dark of the night.

______________

The news of the death of the Reverend spread like wild fire round the town. While some cried and pitied the wife some gossiped that God always keeps your punishment for you no matter your repentance and this was his punishment for killing a small girl years ago. 

Rachael sat on the floor crying and wailing. The entire women of the church surrounded her, Pastor Jim's wife was also there  holding her, her parents were also there with Leo's parents.

Some policemen came also to ask her some questions.

*Policeman:* Madam, we are so sorry for your loss, but can you please tell us when last you spoke with your husband? And why was he outside that night.

*Rachael:* Oh my husband, oh my beloved Leo, why? Why would you leave me now? Who will take care of me and our baby? Who would love me like you do? My dearest husband please don't leave me now, please. May God punish your killers, may they not see the light of day. May God expose and disgrace them, may they suffer before their death. Oh Leo, oh my Leo. 

(She falls on the ground and continue shouting and crying)

*Pastor Jim:* It's alright Mummy, please stop crying or cursing. Judgement is of the Lord and he will surely be the one to judge this people who murdered our Reverend in cold blood. Dont curse anymore. Just leave it for God.

(Turning to the Officers, he said) 

"Officers as you can clearly see, she is not in the mood to answer questions for now, I suggest and plead with you to give her time. She is still grieving and when she is a little bit better than now she will be able to take your questions.

*Police:* It's alright. But, who are you sir? And how are you related to the victim.

*Jim:* Well, my name is Pastor Jim and I am the Assistant Pastor to Reverend Leo. 

*Police:* Okay sir, please if you don't mind can you answer a few questions for us?

*Jim:* Sure, why not!

*Police:* Thank you. Please can you tell if the victim had any enemy? Anyone who hated him and would have wanted him dead? 

*Jim:* Well, I don't know sir. Reverend Leo was a very nice man loved and respected by all. But, the day he died, I was with him in his office. In fact, when he told me he was going home I wanted to drop him off but he told me not to worry that he still had things to do for another thirty minutes. If I had known, if I had k-n-o-w-n (Pastor Jim starts shedding tears)

*Police:* Please be strong sir, we understand how you feel. From the way you sound it seems like the two of you were close.

*Jim:* Yes! Yes we were very close. He was like my big brother, guiding and directing me in the path of Christ. (He starts crying again)

*Police:* You have to be a man sir. One more question. Please do you know if he had any issue bothering him? Like he was being blackmailed or threatened by anyone? Anything?

Rachael raised her head when she heard this question. Leo had been out of the house for two weeks before he was killed. She didn't know if he had told anyone about their marital problems the period he was away. 

*Jim:* Erm, well, that day, he looked sad and worried like something was eating him up, I tried to make him confide in me, but he wouldn't open up. I did everything to get him to talk but he just told me he would be fine. 

*Police:* Thank you so much Pastor Jim, you've been so helpful. Here is our card if you remember anything please do not hesitate to give us a call please. 

The men shook hands and the police turned to leave. And then suddenly Him stops them. 

*Jim:* Officer excuse me, I remember something.

"What is it?" The policeman turned asking him.

*Jim:* There is this brother in our church, Brother Gbenga, Reverend Leo had openly confessed in church to the killing of his only child and daughter many years ago in an accident before he ever repented and became a Pastor. Brother Gbenga even  lost his wife from that incident and he vowed not to remarry because he couldn't let go that his only daughter was killed by a man he respected. Though, he later came and said he had forgiven the Reverend, but he left this town and we don't know where he went to since then. I do not know how he can easily forget a grudge he carried for years so easily.

*Police:* So, what are you suggesting Pastor?

*Jim:* Nothing sir, I am not saying anything. I am just saying that he is the only one I know has something against the Reverend. Though, he claims to have forgotten o. But aside him I don't know anyone else. 

*Police:* Thank you Pastor for the information, we will definitely look into it. Thank you once again.

With that the policemen turned and left the house. With Rachael still crying and wailing on the ground 

WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 13

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*ENEMIES OF THE CHURCH:*

EPISODE 11

Leo sits in his office lost in thoughts of what to do. His problems were becoming too much than he can handle. He had cried and he had prayed about his problems but it seemed to be getting worse. He didn't realize he had started talking to himself.

*Leo:* Where have I gone wrong? What have I done to deserve this kind of treatment? I have followed and served God faithfully with all my heart, I have prayed for persons by the leading of the Holy Spirit and by the Grace of God they have received their miracles. Why then does my own miracle seem far. Why is my family being torn apart. Why Jesus, why?

Tears fell from the Reverend's eyes and he tried to dry them off, the more he dried the more they flowed and so he just allowed it flow.

Mrs. Alfred walks into the office with swollen eyes. She couldn't sleep all through the night. The messages she read on Alfred's phone kept ringing in her head. She remembered every word from it,

*"You are the sweetest man I have ever known, and I am ready to die in your arms. Don't worry my love, together we will make great lovers."*

Another one was:

*"Your wife is just a baby factory company, I don't mind you impregnating her over and over again. Let her continue giving birth and losing all her beauty and shape. I bet she is already slack and loose. Don't worry, when you feel like she is drowning you, I will be here to give you succour."*

*"My Darling, my plans for us are numerous. Do not worry I have plans to buy a duplex out of town, a quiet place where we will enjoy our love and life in peace. There won't be anyone to disturb us. No sagging wife of football team of children, just you and I, we will relocate and become a family. We will build a happy home together forgetting the past forever."*

*"Sweetheart, the way you make me feel I can't explain. I hope we will meet again tomorrow. There are some new tricks I want to show and teach you."*

The last one was what was even eating Mrs. Alfred up. 

*"My Darling Alfred, how are you? I would have called but I don't know if your dog is with you. I hope she is not bothering you on your late hour coming home. She shouldn't dare if not I will seize you from her completely. Anyway, I have plans in motion to separate you too forever so that we can be together without interruption from anyone."*

This last message got Mrs. Alfred worried. She had gone through the senders number over and over again and it baffles her that a whole Mummy Reverend is the one sending all these messages. And that is the main reason she decided to visit the Reverend to find out if all was well in their home.

And then she meets him talking to himself.

*Leo:* Lord, what sin have I committed? Why has my wife suddenly become the thorn in my flesh? Now, she has asked me for a divorce, what do I tell the church? What do I tell my family? What do I tell the society? How do I cope without a woman in my life.

Yes, I am justified to divorce her on the ground of witchcraft or adultery, but your word says if I can't forgive her and divorce her then I must remain unmarried. How can I remain unmarried when I don't have a child of my own yet. Lord Jesus this temptation is just too much for me to bear. Help me Lord, help me Lord.

Leo started crying, he bowed his head on the table and cried like a baby. 

A confused Mrs. Alfred became even more confused as she heard all the Pastor's cries. She stood still not knowing what to do, if to speak to him or go back.

She was confused. This is someone she was coming to for help and he was even in a worse situation than she thought. 

She turns back and walks out of the office.

____________

Chief Ike sat outside his duplex with two of his youngest wives. One was pulling off white hair from his head while the other was helping him stretch his toes. As he sat enjoying the feel from their hands, his security man came in to inform him that someone wanted to see him. Chief Ike asked him to describe how the person looked and after he explained to Chief Ike, Chief felt reluctant to see the person but on a second thought he accepted.

Grace walked up to Chief, who was looking at her like one of those pests that normally come to disturb him. Grace was holding her two years old son in her hand. She was looking tattered and worn out. When she got to where Chief and his wives were enjoying themselves she knelt down and put her head down.

*Chief Ike:* Young lady, do I know you?

*Grace:* Yes Chief, we attend the same church sir. Good evening sir, good evening ma.

*Chief Ike:* Okay, so what are you doing in my house?

*Grace:* I am sorry to bother you sir, but I couldn't think of any other person to go to that is why I decided to come to you.

Chief Ike's wives looked at her with hatred in their eyes. They don't like Chief talking with beautiful ladies like Grace because the next thing he will think of is marrying her. It was the youngest wife that spoke first.

"So, of all the persons in the church it was my husband, our husband that you felt you can come to meet. Now you are here, what is it? What do you want?

The elder wife quickly joined in.

"Yes what do you want?"

*Grace:* I am sorry ma's.

(she starts crying)

Since yesterday my son and I have not had anything to eat? We are so hungry. The garri I begged from the church kitchen is finished and I couldn't go back to ask for more. Please Chief help me, please ma's help me for the sake of my son please.

"Don't you have a husband? Why is the father of your child not helping you?" The youngest wife asked.

"Don't you know that Chief has his own responsibilities and his own children to take care of? Will he die because he is a member of that church? Please leave, go and meet the father of your child to help you."

Grace starts crying even more.

*Grace:* I am sorry ma, I don't know who the father of my son is. Three years ago, my house was attacked by armed robbers, my parents and only brother were shot and killed, and I was raped and got pregnant after the incidence. 

(Grace broke into tears the more) 

My Uncles took everything my father has and when they discovered I was pregnant they wanted to force me to abort the pregnancy but I refused, and so they threw me out. I had to move to the church and Reverend Leo and his wife have been the ones taking care of me for the past two years. The church has been taking care of my rent and everything.

"Then, why are you here? Go to the church so they can continue what they started." Replied Chief Ike's youngest wife.

*Grace:* Honestly ma, I don't know what is happening. I haven't seen Reverend Leo in a while. I went over to the house to see him but Mummy Reverend refused to let me see him. I don't know why, but she warned me never to come there again.

"Just as I am about to throw you out and warn you never to come here again, do you understand?"

*Grace:* Please ma, I dont mind washing all your clothes and doing all of your house chores please just give my son something to eat please.

Grace knelt down and made her little boy kneel too. Chief Ike who had been silent all this while finally spoke.

*Chief Ike:* Young lady stand up. It's alright. I will help you.

"What? Chief, you will help her? How many people will you keep on helping in the church? Are you a bank that anytime anyone needs anything they will come to you? Don't they have family members and friends? Why must it be you? Help her today now, tomorrow she will come again and next tomorrow she will come again and before we will say Jack she will be one of your new wives" That was Chief's youngest wife talking.

*Chief Ike:* Shut up woman? That was how I helped you and you became my wife. Come on get out of here! the two of you get out!

The two of them grudgingly left. Chief Ike smiled as he opened his wallet and brought out a bundle of cash. He counted ten thousand naira and gave it to Grace. He also brought out his card and gave it to Grace.

*Chief Ike:* Young lady what did you say is your name again?

"Grace sir"

*Chief Ike:* Alright Grace, take this cash and my card. Call me anytime okay? And visit me tomorrow in my office. Do you understand?

*Grace:* Thank you so much sir. God bless you sir.

Grace happily took the money and left the compound, thanking God for everything.

WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 12

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*ENEMIES OF THE CHURCH:*

EPISODE 10

Alfred gets up from the bed and wears his clothes and his wrist watch as he prepared to leave. He takes a look at Rachael who was lying on the bed like she wasn't going anywhere.

*Alfred:* Ain't you going home? You are just lying there like you don't want to go home.

*Rachael:* Oh, Alfred my love, can't we just pass the night here? Must you rush home anytime we are together?

*Alfred:* Mummy, I really have to go. We've been here for hours and my wife would be worried already waiting for me.

*Rachael:* Oh Alfred, why don't you just forget your wife, she is not the only one that needs you, I need you too, don't forget I am carrying your child. We need you.

*Alfred:* Seriously Mummy, seriously speaking, I don't understand anymore. We had a deal. I get you pregnant and I disappear from your life for good. I still don't know why you changed your mind and don't want me to leave.

*Rachael:* Alfred!

(she stands and starts touching him) 

It's because I have fallen in love with you. I didn't know how it happened but I am just so in love with you and I can't stay a day without seeing you.

She starts kissing his face and rubbing him all over. Alfred felt irritated.

*Alfred:* Oh, oh, oh stop this right now please. Don't you feel guilty, don't you feel a little bit guilty about what we are doing? The reason I accepted this deal in the first place it's because of the money, but now everything seems to be changing all thanks to you. And I don't think I like the man I have become. I feel guilty everytime I look at Reverend and my wife. I can't even stand her looking at my face, I can't pray in peace. I have lost my peace, and I am not happy. Mummy honestly, I don't want this anymore. I want this to end.

*Rachael:* What?

*Alfred:* Yes, I want this to end, let us stick to the original deal. And so by tomorrow I will start making arrangements to relocate with my family from this place.

*Rachael:* What? You can't do that. What happens to me? What happens to our baby?

*Alfred:* Our baby? Your baby Mummy, your baby not mine. A deal is a deal and I am standing by this one.

*Rachael:* You lie Alfred, you are going no where. I started this relationship and I decide when it will end. And it will only end when I say so, when I am tired of it and right now, I don't think I am tired. I decide when I am.

*Alfred:* No you don't. It's over and it's over. I don't want to have anything to do with you anymore.

*Rachael:* And I say you lie.

*Alfred:* Just watch and see.

Alfred heads to the door and made attempts to leave when suddenly Rachael fell on the bed and let out a big laugh, Alfred stood surprised watching her. Then slowly she began to dress up.

*Rachael:* Do you really think I chose you out of all the men in the church because you are the only one that can get me pregnant? There are thousand of men out there and I could easily have chosen anyone anytime.

*Alfred:* So, why did you choose me?

Rachael paused for a while and then started.

*Rachael:* Many years ago, you dated a girl called Sonia, she loved and cherished you with all her heart and you acted like you felt the same way. Sonia got pregnant for you and you asked her to abort it. She refused because she was scared. The doctors had told her she was expecting twins. On that fateful day, you had called Sonia from her hostel and told her you wanted to make peace. She was happy that you are finally going to accept her pregnancy. You apologized and she followed you to your house, where you gave her juice and then quickly deceived her and sent her away because you had drugged her to abort her baby.

Sonia got home and started bleeding and was dying. She sent for you because she didn't know what was happening but you never came. She eventually died two days later.

*Alfred:* (surprised) How did you know all of this?

*Rachael:* I know because Sonia told me everything before she died, that was when she was suspecting that you might have poisoned her drink. Sonia and I were roommates and I took her to the hospital. She died in my hands. I promised my friend I was going to tell the world her story, but then I was not bold enough to come out with my story and I couldn't find you. By the time I saw you years later, you were already married to your wife and you were a member of our church. I couldn't bring myself to bring that story up again so I let it slide. And this is the reason I chose you for this job knowing full well there was no saying no to me because whether you said no or not I would make you say yes. Surprisingly, you chose money and said yes. The old spirit of Alfred is still in you.

Rachael picks up her phone and started pressing it while walking to the door.

*Rachael:* Plus, I also ended up falling in love with you because of that active thing between your legs. So my dear, there is no walking out on me. I decide when this relationship is over. Do you understand?

*Alfred:* (thinks for a while and then stops her just as she was about leaving) You can't prove anything. Besides what you are saying now happened over 15years ago. You have no evidence to nail me. I didn't mean for Sonia to die, I mistakenly dropped two of the tablets that my friend gave me inside her juice instead of one. I didn't think it would be of any effect since she was carrying twins. Unfortunately, she died. It was an accident, and besides it's been so long. You can't possibly have anything to prove to the authorities that I have a hand in her death.

Rachael laughs out very loud once more and then raised her phone up to show him.

*Rachael:* Yes,  I didn't, but all thanks to you I now do. I just recorded your last confession.

(She touches him on his chin as she smiled) 

See you tomorrow darling. Same time and don't keep me waiting.

She gives him a kiss on the head and walks away as Alfred just stood confused and watching her leave.

__________________

Mrs. Alfred had had sleepless night because she found it difficult to believe that the Reverend's wife was having an affair with her husband. But everything seemed so true. Alfred now kept late nights, he hides his phone and receive secret calls. It was almost midnight and he was yet to return. She sat in the sitting room staring at the wall clock. She didn't know if to call the Reverend or not. Just as she was lost in thoughts, she heard the sound of his car horn.

Mrs. Alfred adjusted herself and waited patiently for him to come in. Her face was expressionless. She stared at him as he dropped his bag. He was smelling of a woman's perfume and Mrs. Alfred knew exactly who that woman was.

She watched him fall on the long chair in the house obviously tired from his escapades with Mrs. Reverend.

*Mrs. Alfred:* Where have you been?

*Alfred:* Is that the welcome you are supposed to tell your husband?

*Mrs. Alfred:* Welcome! Where have you been?

*Alfred:* Out!

*Mrs. Alfred:* Out? That's all you have to say?

*Alfred:* What are you expecting me to say?

*Mrs. Alfred:* I want you to say you are coming from your lover's hideout because you are totally shameless. You are having an affair with another man's wife, your own very church Reverend's wife and you don't feel guilty at all about it? Your conscience does not judge you for hurting your wife and a good man, a man of God at that, God will definitely punish you Alfred.

*Alfred:* So you know?

*Mrs. Alfred:* Of course I know, did you think you can hide it forever? You and that woman should be ashamed of yourselves. Now, I am even beginning to suspect that you might be the owner of the pregnancy she is carrying.

*Alfred:* Yes I am and what do you intend to do about that?

*Mrs. Alfred:* So,  you are really responsible for her pregnancy. I will inform the whole world that you are sleeping with the Reverend's wife and even got her pregnant. I will announce it to whoever cares to listen. You are so shameless and that woman she is evil and she is a disgrace to the church and to women.

*Alfred:* And after you announce to the world and I receive the shame, what else? You will come back here and leave the marriage because then I will marry whoever I deem fit and you will go back to your father's house, I am very sure you will not find a husband anymore at your age and considering the number of children you already have. So, you will remain in your father's house sad and frustrated while I enjoy my new wife. You will die a lonely and unhappy woman all because you couldn't control your emotions and rage.

Alfred stands up and walks away from his wife but he stopped as he was about to shut the door behind her.

*Alfred:* There is really nothing you can do about this, what is done is done and all you should do now is think and device a way to win your husband back not push him away completely. For a wise woman builds her home.

With that Alfred walks away into his room.

Mrs. Alfred felt a hand shaking her and talking to her.

*Alfred:* Honey, Honey, Honey, are you with me?

*Mrs. Alfred:* (regaining herself) Yes, yes, yes! What happened?

*Alfred:* Are you okay? I came in and you said welcome and suddenly went blank. I was even talking to you no response, what are you thinking about?

Mrs. Alfred realizing that she might have just come out of a trance or a dream or a revelation from God quickly composed herself and smiled and said,

"It's nothing dear, I guess it's the stress of the day that is telling on me."

"Oh my love, I am so sorry please come let's go to bed so you will rest okay?" Alfred said as he held her and led her to their bedroom. 

Mrs. Alfred was just staring at him wondering how he could be so perfect in his pretence of being a perfect husband. She didn't say any word but followed behind and climbed on the bed with him. He held her close and cuddled her, she pretended to be asleep but she wasn't and it was not long before Alfred started snoring.

Just then about four messages dropped on his phone and Mrs. Alfred picked it up and gently tip toed out of the room.

__________________

Reverend Leo sat on the couch waiting for his wife to return home. He took another look at the clock. It was almost 12:30am. He would have been worried but he was getting used to her midnight home coming. He had noticed this kind of movement from his wife for almost a month now. In fact, since Rachael got pregnant she had put up one new strange character everyday.

Leo was a sad and heartbroken man. Every night he cries to God in prayer for Mercy and for a miracle in his home. His wife getting pregnant for another man was making him believe that he might actually be the cause of their infertility all these years. And now Rachael had become something else in the house.

They barely spoke to each other except in church or when a visitor comes in. Rachael was a perfect pretender and no one would suspect that she wasn't living well at home with her husband.

Leo had a lot of big problems on his hand yet members of the church do not understand. Every now and then they run to him for prayers and counselling. He was even wondering if there was anyone praying for him and his household. 

"God have you forsaken me? Why is my home shredding to pieces. Dear Lord please show me mercy, please Jesus show me mercy." As Leo was praying he heard the front door open. He knew Rachael was back, and so he sat up. She came in, looked at him and just walked past him. Leo had to interrupt her.

*Leo:* Rachael, where are you coming from?

She pretends like she didn't hear him and continues walking to the room.

*Leo:* I am talking to you, where are you coming from?

Rachael ignores and keeps going. Leo had to hold her forcefully and drag her back.

*Leo:* When I talk to you, you listen to me and you don't walk out on me.

*Rachael:* Ah, ah! Do you want to hurt me and my baby? Why did you drag me like that?

*Leo:* You don't want to see me angry, woman. So, gently and respectfully answer my question. Where are you coming from at this time of the night?

*Rachael:* I went to see a friend.

*Leo:* What friend?

*Rachael:* A friend, you don't know him, I mean you don't know her.

Leo looks at her before continuing with his question.

*Leo:* Does this your him or her friend have a name?

*Rachael:* Oh, oh, oh! What is all this interrogation for na? I just said you don't know the person I went to see. Please Leo I want to rest I am very tired after a long day please.

*Leo:* You are tired? Was I the one that sent you out to work that got you tired.

*Rachael:* Leo, I am pregnant in case you are too blind to see, I am pregnant and I get tired easily. But of course you won't care. How can you care? When you don't know the effort and the strength it takes to get a woman pregnant. If you were capable of impregnating a woman now you would have known the pains, the feelings, the sacrifice and how it feels for a woman to be carrying your child.

*Leo:* Shut up Rachael! Don't insult me.

*Rachael:* Did I insult you? Is there any word I have said that is not true? How many years have we been married? Were you able to get me pregnant? But just one try from a real man, boom! I have something to show for it.

Leo raised his hand in an attempt to slap her but he quickly realized himself and held back. He stepped back and sat on the chair, looking into nothing.

A surprised Rachael looked at him, adjusted her clothes and cleared her throat.

*Rachael:* Leo, I am tired of leaving like this, I am tired of this cold war between the two of us. For years, I have been patient with you but my patience has finally run out because you don't even appreciate anything I do. Instead you want to start beating me now. I will not stay in a violent marriage. I will not wait until you kill me before I act.

*Leo:* Did I touch you? Have I ever laid my hand on you?

*Rachael:* But you almost did. You wanted to slap me just now.

*Leo:* I wanted to but did I? After everything you've done and the way you treated me have I ever touched you.

*Rachael:* But you almost beat me up just now if not that...

*Leo:* If not what? Were you the one who stopped me?

*Rachael:* I will not wait for you to beat me up o. You were able to stop yourself now but what happens next time when you can't stop yourself. You will beat me up and kill my baby because she is not yours abi. You will kill me and my unborn child. I will not let you do that.

*Leo:* You are possessed Rachael.

*Rachael:* No problem, but hear this Reverend Leo. I am tired of this whole shit . And I am not ready to take it anymore.

*Leo:* Meaning what na?

*Rachael:* I want a divorce...

*Leo:* What? Did I hear you right?

*Rachael:* Yes, you heard me very well. I want a divorce.

Leo was shocked as he stood up staring at her.

WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 11

PLEASE LIKE OR COMMENT IF YOU ENJOYED THE STORY

*ENEMIES OF THE CHURCH:*

EPISODE 9

Mr. and Mrs. Alfred sat at the dinning table enjoying their dinner. The children have all gone to their various rooms, some were watching TV in the sitting room. Mrs. Alfred was the one who started the discussion.

*Mrs. Alfred:* Honey have you heard?

*Alfred:* Heard what?

*Mrs. Alfred:* Chief Ike is set to take another wife, the number 7th wife.

*Alfred:* What?

*Mrs. Alfred:* Yes dear, he wants to take another wife. An elder in the church and yet no one is talking to him.

*Alfred:* Who will talk to him?

*Mrs. Alfred:* The Deacons and Deaconesses, the Pastor, the Reverend. Someone ought to talk to him.

*Alfred:* You are making me laugh. Chief Ike is like the pillar of that church, nobody will tell him anything. You want him to angrily leave the church? Who will sponsor the church, who will support the church. Haven't you heard him brag that his tithes alone is enough to settle all the members of the Church for life?

*Mrs. Alfred:* Are you serious? Na wa o. I don't understand our church these days. Pure and physical sin like this and no one will rise and speak about it. Not even the Reverend.

*Alfred:* Which Reverend? Abeg talk of something else.

*Mrs. Alfred:* Talking about the Reverend, I heard his wife is finally pregnant. After all the years of waiting.

*Alfred:* I heard it too.

*Mrs. Alfred:* Thank God for her o, I am very happy for them. Especially for our Reverend. Thank God for them.

Alfred's phone started ringing, he looks at his wife and then picks up the phone and steps out. Mrs. Alfred has been noticing him for some time now, he has been acting funny especially when his phone rings.

Not quite long, he walks back in and gave his wife a peck and told her he was coming and needs to meet up with a client. Mrs. Alfred was not happy because this attitude started recently. But she said nothing, she watched him step out.

Hours later he returned. Mrs. Alfred was still very much awake, but she quickly pretended to be fast asleep as Mr. Alfred took his phone and replied a WhatsApp message that came in and then falls on the bed, and few minutes later he was snoring so loud.

Mrs. Alfred got up and picked up his phone and went through it to see the client that called her husband that evening and kept him so late till this time. She went through the call logs and saw the number saved as Mr. Wale.

Then she went through his WhatsApp chats and she got the shock of her life:

*Mr. Wale:* Thank you for being such an amazing lover. I had fun tonight.

*Alfred:* I had fun too sweetheart. Please no more messages I am off to bed. I will see you tomorrow.

*Mr. Wale:* No problem, I am home already and about going to bed. I hope you are home too and your wife has no suspicion.

*Alfred:* No dear, she is already here snoring like a cow.

*Mr. Wale:* Hahahaha. See you tomorrow Darling, I promise to give you treats that your wife has never and can never give to you. Good night!

Please delete these messages from your phone.

Mrs. Alfred was surprised and furious. The last message from Mr. Wale came when Alfred had probably slept off, because it was not yet read.

Mrs. Alfred was angry, she thought of what to do to her husband whom she has concluded is cheating on her, she wanted to wake him up, slap him or even hit him with the phone but then she thought again, *"who is this Mr. Wale?"*

Obviously, it's not a Mr., it's definitely a woman, and so she picked up her phone and copied out the number and dialed it. What she saw almost blinded her. Boldly written on her phone, *"Mummy Reverend"*

"It can't be!" She muttered. 

"It's not possible!" she repeated. 

How can her own Reverend Leo's wife be having an affair with her husband?

Mrs. Alfred wanted to scream, she wanted to cry, different emotions overwhelmed her, she wanted to go crazy but surprisingly she was just there unable to do anything.

__________________

It was almost 7pm, but Reverend Leo was still seated in his office staring into nothing and thinking of how far his family had grown apart. He and his wife have suddenly become strangers in their own house. He had stopped eating her food and she has moved into another room in the house. They barely even see each other except on Sundays when they pretend before the church and smile to the congregation.

Everyone will be fooled that they are the perfect couple. Rachael's smile sent a lot of messages to the movers who are always ready for gossip. Some believe that she looks more beautiful and younger now that she is pregnant. No one sees the inner pain from the Reverend. He has lost a lot of weight due to staying hungry and always praying for a miracle to happen in his home, despite his looks and unhappiness no one seems to notice the pains the Reverend is going through. Instead they come to him for prayers and advice and even marital problems.

Now he had no one to go to for advice on his own marriage that is falling apart because he is the one the people normally come to. As he sat in his office thinking and brain storming, Sister Tina walks in. 

Sister Tina is one of the very active members of the church, she was always in church from time to time, sweeping and cleaning the church.

Reverend Leo sat up when she came in and greeted her warmly.

"Reverend, how are you? I came in to tell you I am about to leave. Ain't you leaving yet?" She asked.

"Oh, thank you so much Sister Tina, but I will still stay a little while before I leave." The Reverend managed to say.

"Reverend, I hope all is okay with you, I've been noticing you for days now, you come here sit alone in your office and leave very late at night. You ain't the cheerful Reverend I used to know. I also noticed that you don't send me to get food for you anymore like you used to. You don't eat or drink. Or are you on a fasting program? Because I know you are not. Whenever you are on fasting program, I always hear you praying from your office. But lately, I know you have not been praying. So, what is wrong Reverend." She asked.

Reverend Leo looked at her, he needed someone to talk to, he was almost tempted to open up to her but then he held back for reasons he didn't understand. 

"Thanks for your concern Sister Tina but I am fine, the Bible says the temptation a man cannot overcome will not come his way, and so whatever it is I am passing through will pass soonest by the power of the Almighty."

When Reverend Leo made this statement, it sounded like a confirmation to Tina as she had been watching him for sometime now and she suspected something was wrong. The other day, she had suspected that Reverend Leo had slept in the office because when she came in the morning to sweep, she saw him at exactly the same spot where she left him the previous night. But she couldn't summon the courage to ask him. Even though she heard the Reverend well, she decided to push forward.

Reverend Leo was a man she admired so much and before he got married she had shown him the green light severally but he refused to notice her. She had taken the job of cleaning the church just so he would see her everyday and notice how serious and devoted she is to the work of God but still he went ahead and married Rachael. She would have left the church when he finally got married but she decided to stay so she can be close to him until she finally gets her own husband. She was happy all the years the Reverend and his wife suffered because of childlessness and she sometimes wish the Reverend's wife will just die one day so that she can get his full attention and probably marry him and bear him beautiful children.

The news of the Reverend's wife being pregnant broke her heart terribly and she really would have left the church but she somehow felt again that the Reverend's wife might just die during child birth and so she decided to hang on a while longer.

Seeing how sad the Reverend looked, she had decided to try her luck tonight.

"Is it your wife? Is she the reason you feel so lost Reverend?" She asked.

Leo was surprised because his wife was the exact reason why he was like this.

"How did you know? Because of a truth my wife is the reason I am like this, but how did you know?"

Tina smiled before answering, and as she spoke she moved closer to the Reverend putting her hands at the back of his neck.

*Tina:* Reverend, I am a very spiritual and dedicated member of this church, I have devoted my life to the things of God alone and so sometimes He reveals things to me that others don't know. You should have known but you don't ever notice my presence in this church.

*Leo:* Ah! Sister Tina don't talk like that. Everyone sees you and what you do in the church and God will surely reward your good works. I notice you, I see you and I always pray for you.

Tina pushed her effort forward by rubbing his cheeks and trying to show off her cleavages to him.

*Tina:* Reverend about your wife, I want you to relax and not let whatever she does bother you. Sometimes, women are like that. But instead of you to be weighed down you can always call on me and I will take care of you just as I take care of the church.

By now, she was rubbing her breasts against the Reverend, who quickly jumped up and pushed her away.

*Leo:* Sister Tina what do you think you are doing?

*Tina:* Reverend please relax, I am not doing anything, I am only trying to make you relax and calm your nerves from all the stress your wife is putting you through.

*Leo:* Stop that rubbish. Calm my nerves by trying to seduce me? What is the meaning of that?

Tina unbottoned her dress exposing her bra to the Pastor.

*Tina:* Reverend in honesty and truth, tell me when last you felt a woman's touch. I know your wife is stressing you, I just want to ease up some of that tension.

*Leo:* Put on your clothes and leave my office now.

As the Reverend was talking, Tina let the dress fall of her body exposing her thighs and buttocks.

*Leo:* Blood of Jesus!

(Reverend Leo shouted as he picks up his phone and runs out of the office outside) 

Sister Tina I can see that something had possessed you. I bind that spirit out. I am out of here.

Luckily for him, he saw a bike man outside and quickly jumps on the bike straight home. When he got to his house he knew Rachael was not home because the whole place was so dark. This has been her new habit of keeping out late.

He had made up his mind not to ask her anything. And so, he went straight into his room and fell on his bed wondering what just happened in his office.

WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 10

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*ENEMIES OF THE CHURCH:*

EPISODE 8

Reverend Leo woke up to see almost 200 missed calls on his phone. He was both surprised and scared because he just decided to sleep for two hours and then this. At first he feared that someone had died but then he decided to change his thoughts to positive thoughts only. He wanted to call the callers one by one but he didn't know whom to start with. Finally, he decided and picked one number. His heart was pacing up and down as he waited for Sister Rita to pick. Finally she picked up.

*Leo:* Hello Sister Rita, how are you? I missed your call.

*Rita:* Hello Reverend, good evening sir, how are you and Mummy?

*Leo:* We are doing great by the Grace of God! I missed your call, I hope all is well and there is no problem?

*Rita:* Of course sir, there is no problem, I called because I wanted to tell you congratulations sir. I saw the good news online.

Leo who was surprised and had no idea what Rita was talking about and decided to ask.

*Leo:* Thank you, but what good news are you talking about?

*Rita:* Reverend the good news about Mummy. I am so happy, after so many years of waiting God has finally blessed you and Mummy. This is a fufillment of scriptures and a proof that they that wait upon the Lord will never be disappointed. Papa you have no idea how you have built my faith and that of so many persons.

Reverend Leo who was still confused, was trying to understand what Sister Rita was saying.

*Rita:* Papa my prayers for you and Mummy is that with this pregnancy, God will give you double or even triplet as a prize for all your waiting upon Him in Jesus name.

It was at this point that Reverend Leo understood what Sister Rita was trying to say. So Rachael was pregnant and he didn't know about it? Who was responsible for the pregnancy? Did she go ahead with her plans with Alfred? Or was he the father of the baby? Leo was so lost in thoughts that he didn't hear the last words of Rita, not until she asked.

*Rita:* Reverend are you there? Did you hear what I said.

Reverend Leo quickly remembered he was on call and answered.

*Leo:* Yes sister, Thank you so much, I really appreciate, we appreciate your call. May God bless you.

*Rita:* Yes sir, my regards to Mummy and please tell her to take plenty of rest, we don't want to hear stories now that God has finally done it for us and answered all of our prayers.

*Leo:* No problem sister, she will hear.

After Rita ended the call, Leo received 7 other calls all of which was to congratulate him on the pregnancy of his wife, which he was not even aware of. He decided to call Rachael who was in the kitchen cooking. They've not really been intimate as husband and wife since the Alfred's saga, they just lived like two strangers in the house. Leo barely speak with her. But after hearing this news he decided to call her.

She grudgingly walks up to him without answering his call.

*Rachael:* So, you still remember my name. I thought you have totally forgotten.

*Leo:* Rachael are you pregnant?

Rachael looks at him. And started rubbing her stomach and smiling.

*Leo:* Answer me Rachael, are you pregnant?

*Rachael:* So, you finally noticed, I thought you would never ask.

*Leo:* So, it's true, you are pregnant and the whole country knows about it except me your husband.

*Rachael:* The whole world. What do you mean by the whole world. I've not told anyone about it.

*Leo:* You've not told anyone yet the whole country is calling me to congratulate me.

*Rachael:* Well, I don't know anything about that.

*Leo:* So, who is responsible? Who is the father of the child you are carrying?

*Rachael:* What kind of question is that?

*Leo:* Rachael, I haven't got angry with you in a long time that I can remember, don't make me get angry now because if I do, it won't be funny, just answer me, who is responsible for your pregnancy?

*Rachael:* It's our baby Leo, yours and mine...

Just then her phone starts ringing. Leo picked up the phone and sees the caller. It was Alfred.

*Leo:* Pick your call Rachael.

She bends and takes the call. Leo listens as Alfred congratulates her, he watches his wife as she smiled and grinned from ear to ear. After the call he spoke with pain in his voice.

*Leo:* So, it's Alfred's baby?

*Rachael:* No baby, it's ours, Alfred may have been the instrument that God used to put in this child but the baby is definitely ours. 

(Leo was staring at her) Baby, nothing has changed. We will just relocate from here and have our baby in peace. Alfred will not bother us. God has answered our prayers, ain't you happy?

*Leo:* Shut up, just shut up!

With tears in his eyes, he stood up and walked away.

________

Leo returned to the house very late at night, his eyes were swollen from crying too much. He went straight into his room and fell on his bed. Not quite long Rachael walks up to him.

*Rachael:* Are you sleeping?

Leo ignores the question and laid still facing the wall. Rachael quickly goes on her knees and starts crying.

*Rachael:* Honey please, I don't want us to live like this anymore. I know you are angry with me but I want you to know that whatever I have done I did for the two of us. I want us to have our own children, I want us to be parents like other people too. You know on a normal circumstance, I will never allow any other man touch me. Please Honey, I am not happy that things went this way but please let's let go and move ahead with our lives. Honey please.

*Leo:* I begged you Rachael, I pleaded with you but you allowed the devil take possession of your heart. You allowed impatience overwhelm you and you lost yourself in sin. The sin of adultery.

*Rachael:* I am so sorry dear, I am really sorry, I was desperate, I was determined.

*Leo:* Now, you are pregnant. This is why you have suddenly realized you are sorry. If you weren't pregnant you wouldn't have come to your senses. You wouldn't be begging right now. You insulted me, you threatened me, you even blackmailed me, you disobeyed and ignored me just because you were blinded.

*Rachael:* I am truly sorry my husband. I have begged God to forgive me and I know he has, so please forgive me too and let's plan our lives together just like we used to. Please Honey, for the sake of our unborn child.

*Leo:* Your child Rachael, your unborn child, that child is not mine and I will never accept it as mine. That child is a product of sin and I will never be part of that sin.

*Rachael:* (angry) Stop talking like that, ah ah. Don't call my child such please. We did this together. We are in it together. Now, I am begging you so that we can come together and ask God for Mercy and build again like we used to, you are bringing in the past.

*Leo:* I am not part of your sin. Don't rope me in.

*Rachael:* But you are Leo, you are. You brought the money we used in settling Alfred, so you are part of this.

Leo smiled and then raised up his head.

*Leo:* Rachael, you are so lost and I will pray for God to redeem your soul. Yes, I took the money from church and I quickly realized and wanted to return it, but you stole the money. You stole it! I never gave it to you.

*Rachael:* You had it in mind and that was why you signed it and kept it carelessly for me to steal. Whatever you say we are in this together. So let go the drama and let's plan on how to take care of our baby.

*Leo:* Your baby Rachael, not mine. And don't you think you will blackmail me once more with the 7million naira from church. Because I already returned it.

*Rachael:* What?

*Leo:* Yes dear, I returned it already. Look outside, I have sold my car, I also took some loans and by the Grace of God, I have returned it same way I collected it.

*Rachael:* But how would you be moving around. You can't be entering bikes or cabs up and down.

*Leo:* I am not like you Rachael, I will wait on the Lord to bless me when He deems fit.

He stands up and walks away.

*Rachael:* Buh, buh buh...

*Leo:* I forgive you Rachael. Ask God to forgive you too, and be truly repentant from your sin and change your ways.

Leo walks away with Rachael staring at him as if she's seen a ghost.

WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 9

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*ENEMIES OF THE CHURCH:*

EPISODE 7

Leo stayed in the hotel room for two weeks before returning to his house. All through his stay, Rachael didn't bother to call him or look for him. He had cried and prayed to God for Mercy, he had fasted and seek for direction and finally he decided to return home. When he got to the entrance of his house. His feet became heavy and he didn't know if he should go in or turn back. Rachael soon stepped out. She was looking happy and fresh.

*Rachael:* I thought you were never coming back.

Leo ignores her as he steps inside the house. He looked round as if he was trying to find something or someone around. He couldn't tell if Rachael went ahead with Alfred or not and he was not ready to talk to her. He walks straight inside the house and straight to the bathroom. Everywhere was neat, just as he left it.

Leo decided to live and forget and does not want to know if his wife slept with Alfred or not. Knowing would break him down and so he focused his attention on going back to church. He dressed up and prepared for the evening service. As he was about driving out Rachael stopped him.

*Rachael:* Are you going to church without me?

*Leo:* Are you going to church?

*Rachael:* Please wait for me o, I am going.

Rachael quickly grabs her bag and went to meet him in the car, and together they left. Members of the church who had assumed that Rev. Leo travelled were so happy to welcome him back. Even Jim who seemed excited shook hands with him as he took his seat.

Rev. Leo was happy to be back, he told the church he was passing through some challenges and he needed time with God alone and that was why he was absent from church. Then he mounted the pulpit and preached on the topic, *"HOLDING STEADFAST TO GOD"* he told the congregation the need to trust God at all times and hold unto him no matter what.

After the message, so many people wept and reconciled with God for losing faith in Him, and then Reverend Leo did the unexpected.

*Leo:* Is Brother Gbenga in church please? If yes, please come forward.

At the mention of Brother Gbenga, Rachael sat up. She was shocked and didn't know what was going on.

Brother Gbenga who was also surprised that Rev. Leo called him was shocked too. He stood up and walked to the altar. The congregation was watching, wondering what was happening. Reverend Leo went on his knees on the altar before Brother Gbenga and with tears in his eyes he started talking.

*Gbenga:* My Reverend what is going on please? Why are you kneeling before me.

*Leo:* I know many of us would be wondering what is going on? But, I have a confession to make.

The whole congregation sat up, surprised and waiting to hear what the Reverend had to say. Rachael was feeling uncomfortable on her chair.

*Leo:* I kneel before God and before you tonight to ask for your mercy my brother and my friend.

Gbenga was still very confused.

*Leo:* Sixteen years ago, before I met with Jesus, I lived a rough and unholy life, I drank and I smoked and I lived in the world. One night, I was on my way from a night club with my girlfriend then. I was so drunk and reckless, I drove into a little girl who was trying to cross the road.

Gbenga fell on the floor, because he quickly remembered and understood what was going on.

*Leo:* (crying) I didn't see her enter the road, before I knew what was happening I had already hit her. I came down to check on her but she was already dead. I was so scared and terrified that when my girlfriend advised me to run away so that I won't have to face the law, I didn't think twice. I fled and ran away to the North. Where I stayed for three years. It was while I was there I met Jesus.

Gbenga began to cry like a baby.

*Leo:* God instructed me to come back to this same town and build His church. I came here to do the will of the Lord. And I started looking for the family of that little girl. I searched and searched but could not find them. I was told that the girl's mom couldn't survive the shock of losing their only child and she died a year later. And the father packed out of her house and no one knew where he was. All these years, I never knew that man, the father of that girl is the same Brother Gbenga, who had been with us for the past eight years in this church.

The whole church was shocked and was looking at the drama happening in the church.

*Leo:* Brother Gbenga, I am very sorry from the depth of my heart. I only found out two weeks ago and that is why I have decided to confess before the church and before you. I heard you have refused to remarry all these years because you vowed to catch and punish the killer of your little girl before you can move on. Well, here I am, I will not blame you for whatever action you decide to take, if you want to call the police I am ready to pay for my sin, but I want you to know that I am deeply and sincerely sorry.

Brother Gbenga who was weeping uncontrollably stood up and walked out of the church with no one trying to stop him.

Reverend Leo remained on the floor crying, with his wife staring at him without any emotion. Pastor Jim came up and helped him out of the church into their office. He came back and closed the service.

It was a quiet moment in the house of God.

___________________

It's been a month since the open confession of Reverend Leo in the church but the news was still trending like it just happened courtesy of Stella and Vic. Helen was the one in charge of physical gossips.

This fateful Tuesday they met again in a salon where they normally make their hair and Helen was the one who started the discussion.

*Helen:* But babes una bad ooo, you girls keep updating the Facebook about the happenings in the church. How much Mark Zuckerberg don pay una for these updates wey una day do?

*Vic:* Ah don't go there o, our church gist is the hottest in town o, do you know how many followers I now have on Instagram just because of my updates?

*Stella:* Ah, you too? My Instagram followers grew over night from two thousand followers to sixteen thousand followers.

*Helen:* Are you serious?

*Vic:* Mine is eleven thousand from one  hundred followers.

*Helen:* Really?

*Stella:* Dey there!

*Helen:* But na wa o. In the church again o. A whole man of God.

*Vic:* The caption I used on my update was, *"Popular Man of God kills a little girl and hides it for sixteen years"* Oh boy! Come and see requests to follow me, come and see comments.

The girls burst out laughing...

*Stella:* Mine was, *"Man of God who murdered a young girl in cold blood sixteen years ago finally exposed..."*

*Helen:* Haba, all this una caption is too much na. It was our Reverend that came out to confess by himself, it's not like he was caught na. Why are you guys now doing it as if he was caught.

*Vic:* Ah, how will the story sell if we don't add our own salt and pepper. We need to put something that will make people want to read it,  you know?

*Stella:* Before nko, abeg leave that girl wey no know anything. Ehn! How about Brother Gbenga, so he just let Reverend go like that, after how many years of looking for his daughter's killer.

*Helen:* Yes o, I heard he came back to church and told Rev. that he has forgiven him and he is glad he told him the truth.

*Stella:* Are you serious?

*Helen:* Yes o, they even hugged in church and laughed together. That man have a forgiving heart. A heart of gold.

*Vic:* (smiling to herself) Done!

The girls turned and looked at her.

*Helen:* What is done?

*Vic:* Ah! The update on Brother Gbenga and our Pastor. I just uploaded it on my WhatsApp and Instagram.

*Helen:* Ah! Just now, just now? You did not even confirm whether I am lying or not.

*Vic:* What is there to confirm?

*Stella:* For your mind now you smart abi? Anyway, I will take my time to do my own update.

*Vic:* Na you sabi, my news are authentic, sharp and first. So before Stella and others start updating mine has gone far. That's the deal baby!

*Helen:* Ehn girls, have you girls noticed our Reverend's wife lately?

*Vic:* Senior mummy?

What is wrong with her?

*Helen:* You've not noticed?

*Stella:* Noticed what na?

*Helen:* Hmmm, it's like God has finally heard their cry o.

*Stella:* How do you mean?

*Helen:* I suspect she might be pregnant!

*Vic:* Ewoo Helen, na you talk this one. Preg what? Preg gini? As in how na?

*Stella:* After how many years? Abeg if you no get gist make you quiet. No come dey talk rubbish.

*Helen:* When have I ever talked rubbish? I said I suspect I didn't say she is.

*Vic:* Okay, why you talk like that?

*Helen:* Okay see, recently I saw her vomiting at the back of the church. And I felt she was sick. Then she started spitting all over the place. And just last night I saw her buying a drug at the chemist.

*Stella:* Which Kain drug?

*Helen:* Pregnacare! Though she was already keeping it in her bag when I entered but I spied and I saw it.

*Vic:* Ah! that will be good o. 

(She starts pressing her phone)

*Stella:* What are you doing? Don't tell me you've started updating o.

*Vic:* Before nko!

*Stella:* Stop that rubbish jare. Have you confirmed that she is pregnant? You are already posting.

*Vic:* Wetin concern me with confirm. I already posted it, sorry!

*Helen:* Jesus! Vic e be like say I no go day talk for your presence again o.

*Vic:* Shoo wetin concern me, you talk, you no talk, one way or the other people will still hear.

*Stella:* Lemme see what you posted! 

(She collects the phone and looks at it. She saw the caption that Vic had used) *"After 12 years of waiting, Reverend Leo's wife finally gets pregnant."* Babe, but na wa for you o, what if she is not pregnant.

*Vic:* Ehn, na all pregnancy dey reach term? E mean say the belle get accident for road. Another update be that.

The hair stylist who was irritated by the girls could not hold herself anymore, she quickly spoke up.

*Hair Stylist:* Sorry to interrupt, but what you girls are doing is totally wrong. Even if your church had the worst Pastors on the earth, it's your duty to protect and pray for your Pastors. Not to sell them out to the world.

*Helen:* Wetin this one dey talk?

*Stella:* Yes, who call you for the matter?

*Hair Stylist:* Sorry but I have been listening and seeing what you've been doing. It's wrong. The Bible says we should judge not, but you girls have been gossiping your church and Pastors since you came in here. You who are supposed to even protect them are the one selling them to the world. And even with fake news. Why? It's totally wrong.

*Vic:* Hey Pastor's wife, mind the hair wey you dey do. Nobody call you for our talk, you hear me? Amebo.

*Hair Stylist:* Sorry.

*Stella:* Sorry for yourself. Do your hair jare.

The lady continued with the hair as the girls continued insulting her.

WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 8

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*ENEMIES OF THE CHURCH:*

EPISODE 6

Leo had slept off before Rachael returned. He had a dream that he was playing with three beautiful children. A girl and two boys, and the kids called him daddy. They were running around in a garden. Suddenly a woman came in and the kids ran to her shouting Mummy! Mummy! Mummy!, Leo was trying to see the woman's face when he suddenly started hearing his name.

*Rachael:* Wake up, wake up Leo.

He opened his eyes to see a long faced Rachael looking at him.

*Leo:* Oh sweet Jesus! So this was all a dream.

(Excitedly he jumps up and held Rachael by the hand) 

Honey, God has shown me, God has revealed it to me. I saw our children in my dream. A girl and two boys. I told you Honey, I told you the time was near and God would soon answer us and just now He in His infinite wisdom revealed it to me.

*Rachael:* You are just talking nonsense. Do I look like a fool to you? Leo listen to me, you can't back out of this. We are in this together. We are doing this together do you understand?

*Leo:* Doing what together.

*Rachael:* You can act naive for all I care. All I know is that we are in this boat to-ge-ther. Get that straight into your thick skull. We will get this done over and for all and we will move out of this place together. The plan is still in tact and nothing you do can change it. Do you understand?

*Leo:* What is wrong with you? Here I am telling you of the wonderful vision that God has shown me and here you are talking nonsense. I thought I told you about the Lord's warning through Sister Alex, why are you acting like you didn't hear when I told you the deal was off?

*Rachael:* You lie Leo, the deal is not off, in fact the deal is perfectly on. And if you must know, then know now that Alfred will be here anytime soon and plans will kick off. So, I came to tell you that if you know you cannot stand me with another man then you should step out of the house for a while. But if you know you can be a man then stay and let's get this over and done with.

*Leo:* I can see you are stupid. Alfred is coming to which house? I don't think it's this my house.

*Rachael:* It's this house and he is already on his way. So make your decision fast. You stay or you leave.

*Leo:* (laughing) Look at you, I will never give you that cheque. You will never be able to get that money. In fact let me show you something.

Leo rushes to his bag and searched for the cheque. He wants to tear it before her but he was surprised that the cheque was gone. He started contemplating if he had brought the cheque home or forgotten it at the office.

Rachael suddenly burst out laughing.

*Rachael:* Listen Leo, I am always one step ahead of you and you can never catch up. Are you looking for the cheque you have signed already? Please don't bother because I already caught the money and delivered it to Alfred.

My side of our deal is delivered. It's left for Mr. Alfred's.

*Leo:* Rachael you can't do that, you have to return that cheque, I want to return it.

*Rachael:* Ouch! So sorry Leo, it is too late. You will not be returning anything, because the deal has been signed, sealed and about to be delivered.

*Leo:* Rachael you can't do this, I will report you to the church and to your family.

*Rachael:* Go ahead Leo, go ahead and report me and watch what will happen to you. I already went to the police to complain that church fund is missing and we may decide to open the case or forget it but we want to give benefit of doubt to whoever took it for the time being. So, if you dare do anything contrary to our plans I will not only make sure you suffer I will make sure you spend the rest of your life as a prisoner.

*Leo:* What? So now it has come to blackmail?

*Rachael:* Even the Bible clearly stated that the violent takes it by force. I am only trying to take my children by force and anyone who would try to stop me would suffer deeply for it. So don't dare me please.

Just then the door bell rings and Alfred comes in. Rachael welcomes him with a big smile before turning and looking at her husband.

*Alfred:* Good evening Mama, good evening Papa, are we ready please?

Rachael looks at her husband before talking.

*Rachael:* What is it going to be? Are you staying or you are leaving.

Leo who was utterly confused couldn't say anything. He just picked up his phone and walked out of the house. While Rachael leads Alfred into their bedroom.

_______________________

Another Sunday and Rev. Leo was absent again. Pastor Jim who was always delighted and happy whenever Reverend was not in church gave a beautiful sermon. The Holy Spirit moved like never before. There was great deliverance, testimonies and miracles. This motivated the people to even give more than before because the man of God made them understand that giving opens the door to your breakthrough.

After the service, Brother Isaac the treasurer was seated in his office counting the offering and tithes and seeds sown by the members. He came across a huge envelope and he opens it. It was filled with dollars and a short note attached to it.

*''God has used this Ministry to bless my life and my family. Reverend Leo stood by me in prayers and encouragement and I wouldn't be where I am today if not for him. Today my family and I are in the US because of the lessons I learnt and followed from this great church. This is a token from my heart to God. Let the house of God be built from it. Once again, thank you Jesus and thank you my able Reverend Leo."*

Brother Isaac took a look at the envelope, there was no name or forwarding address attached to it. The money in it was huge and so he knew that it was a reasonable amount of money. He looked round to see if anyone was coming, and when he saw no one, he quickly dipped the envelope inside his bag and kept the bag a little bit far from him but at a very visible point where his eyes can always be on it.

Not quite long Pastor Jim walks in excited.

*Jim:* Isaac my man, how far? What do we have for today?

*Isaac:* Pastor I am still counting, the people really gave today.

An excited Pastor Jim sat down and helped brother Isaac with the counting, with Brother Isaac stealing a glance at his bag from time to time.

At the end of the count, a whopping sum of 1.7million naira was received. Pastor Jim jumped up and started dancing round the room.

*Isaac:* Pastor why are you dancing?

*Jim:* I should dance my brother, God has blessed us. Since the history of this church, never have we gotten this kind of money on a Sunday service. Never! Except during programs or raising of funds. Never!

*Isaac:* But we do get this kind of money sometimes. Not very often but sometimes.

*Jim:* Ehn! It's possible, you know I really didn't put interest in church money and offerings until last two years. I didn't care. You know na. That our Reverend is the only one in charge, collecting and syphoning all the money. Greedy fellow!

*Isaac:* Ah, ah Pastor, Rev Leo is not like that. He has never taken money from the church purse, except for a project in the church and he makes it open for all the committee members of the church.

*Jim:* See you, will you know? How will you know if he collects money. This is how someone outside will say, Brother Isaac has never collected a dime from church money since I know him. Or do you go out to announce that you took church money?

*Isaac:* No oooo, how can I do that?

*Jim:* O o o oh! That is how Leo will not tell you if he collects money. See ehm, Rev. Leo is greedy. He is making money from this church. Didn't you see he changed his car? And bought a new one for his wife? Do you know how much those two cars will cost? If I am not mistaken those two cars will cost nothing less than 7.5million. Where do you think he got the money from?

*Isaac:* I still doubt Pastor, all the money pass through me, and you and I always collect more than half of the money that comes into the church. So where and how did he gather that kind of money.

*Jim:* Shut up there you don't know anything. Okay fine, let's assume he is not collecting the money what is he now doing with it? He is not building the church anymore. There is no project on ground. What is he doing with all the money?

*Isaac:* He pays church workers na.

*Jim:* How much? How do you think I got frustrated to start collecting church money? It's because of Reverend's greediness. He collects huge offerings and tithes from church yet pays us meagre salaries. How much is my salary you think? N30,000, miserable thirty thousand naira. If I his assistant is receiving 30,000 naira, how much then do you think other church workers are receiving?

*Isaac:* Mine is N18,000.

*Jim:* Minimum wage, you see? You see what I am saying? How can a church be receiving hundreds of thousands every Sunday and yet paying peanuts to church workers. Is that not wickedness? And then you expect me to feel guilty when I am collecting church money? Never, I am only paying myself the salary I am supposed to receive. Abeg share this money let's leave here abeg.

*Isaac:* How much do we keep for the church?

*Jim:* Erm, bring 1.5million. keep 200k for the church.

*Isaac:* But that's too big sir.

*Jim:* It's like you don't want money. My workers are working in my site o, I need to pay them. Anyway, if you don't need money, you can leave your share with the church.

*Isaac:* Noo ooo, I have big responsibilities too o.

*Jim:* No you don't have. Two hundred thousand Mayra is too small for the church. What are they doing with the money? Abeg give me 900k and keep 600k for yourself.

Isaac wore a big smile on his face. As he quickly separates the money and keeps two hundred thousand in the church safe, keeps 600k for himself and gives Jim his share.

*Isaac:* My Pastor, the correct man.

*Jim:* Make sure you record on ground very well o, 200k do you understand?

*Isaac:* Trust me Pastor, that's my job. I know what to do.

*Jim:* Good, I am going home. Pack up and leave.

Jim steps out of the church and Isaac heard the sound of his car driving off. He quickly rushes to check his bag if the envelope of dollars was there. After making sure it was there, he smiled to himself as he packed up to leave.

He drives off quickly to meet his aboki friend that normally changes dollars to naira. And demanded that the dollars be changed for him.

It was a total of 5million naira. Isaac almost fainted, but he composed himself, lifted the Ghana-Must-Go bag in his car and zooms off.

WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 7

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