Ọmọbinrin omi

INTRODUCTION

As a Side Note, This Was My First Ever Written Short Piece.

?m?binrin Omi Is a 2020 Supernatural Horror Short Fiction Written By Georgian–Nigerian Author Nahna James. This Short Fiction Tells a Story About a Young Ghanaian Writer Who Lost Everything To a Mermaid Mystery Story He Came To Write About In Nigeria.

CONTENTS

FIRST CHAPTER: DAWN
SECOND CHAPTER: SEEKING
THIRD CHAPTER: BRAVE ANGEL
FOURTH CHAPTER: DIVINE DRAMED
FIFTH CHAPTER: HAPPILESS
SIXTH CHAPTER: FALSIFIED EMERGENCE

FIRST CHAPTER: DAWN
Gilbert Apartment - Night
Don't you feel a little inquisitive? Gilbert stops the vehicle in front of their flat. I'm not sure how to say this, Nana replies. I feel a lot of pressure to do what you require of me, even if this is only the second month. Nothing should harm our infant, please. Gilbert, replies Don't you feel that we are going about this a little too methodically? Perhaps we should just... Nana asked, "Let's get it over with! Gilbert, it's just sex; I'll be really delicate, you know, trust me. Nana, I am aware of that, but after this evening, no more sexual activity is allowed until this baby is born, okay? Gilbert, of course, I promise, can we go inside now? Yes, she replies. Gilbert pulls off his shirt and bends in to kiss Nana, both of them kissing in their bedroom and also attempting to undress. It's not really practical. Gilbert can't seem to get his shoes off. Nana is having difficulty unbutting her blouse.

Gilbert, turn the light on, she says. He turns it on and rushes to her on the bed. They sit side by side and strip naked while exchanging looks. Hold on a second. Gilbert says, "Don't say anything. Nana, okay. He asked, "But what were you going to say? I wasn't going to say anything, she replied. "Oh, you always have a stunning appearance when you're not clothed. She grinned and said, "Let's crawl under the blankets.

Lying on the bed, they slide into each other's arms. Go slowly, please, Nana asked. They caress each other, letting go of their inhibitions and making love. On top, Gilbert is going slowly, and with her eyes closed, Nana bites her lower lip. Gilbert observes her and questions why she isn't looking at him. Why won't she turn to face me? .. She probably has our child on her mind right now; I bet she is probably praying that nothing bad happens to the child, and she is also incredibly quiet. Why is she so quiet?. She needs to be focused on me. He then exhales with ecstasy. Nana's eyes widen in alarm. "What's wrong, babe?" she asks. He pauses. I should be the one asking what's wrong. .. She responded, "Well, these walls are paper-thin, and this building is so poorly built," after moving a little to the other side of the bed and inhaling deeply. Everyone may hear us having sex. Is that the reason you're so quiet? Gilbert squints his eyes in her direction before asking.

Well, the walls are... Nana, what exactly are you saying? We've been living here for four years, and during that time we've had plenty of sex that was considerably louder than the TV. Why did this notice just now come? I can't tell if you're having pleasure with the sex. Of course I am, she says in a passionate tone. If my voice isn't loud enough for you, I apologise. That's not what I meant, he replies. "Baby, I just want to make sure I'm doing something right here. She replies, "There's no right or wrong way to do this, Gilbert; I am carrying a child in me for Christ's sake. I know I just want to make sure I'm, you know, in the ballpark," he replies. She stares at him and replies, Gilbert, I don't expect you to understand my fear, she says in an agitated tone. I apologise; that wasn't how I intended it to sound," she says immediately. They both roll away from one another and fix their gaze above, recognising a distant siren, possibly from a fire vehicle. There is a five-alarm fire burning somewhere, but not close.

Later That Night
I'm sorry, baby, Gilbert says. She replies, "Please don't be, lately, I.. you know what, let's remain still for some while. Alright? Okay, Gilbert replies. Gilbert and Nana are staying put. Uncertainty surrounded the passage of time. She clears her throat, saying, I apologise for acting out when you were only attempting to be a decent husband. I have heard a lot of spooky tales about pregnant couples who had sex. But they might all be untrue. They are all myths, says Gilbert. I agree with you. Let's try not to be too hard on ourselves, Nana says. I concur with his replies. Babe I just had a few too many worries. Gilbert gives a nod of approval. "Besides, sex is merely one aspect of the situation," he adds. Just what do you mean? she asks. Well, after the required nine months, I've heard of couples who didn't have sex at all for the course of their pregnancies and who still didn't deliver healthy babies, Gilbert replies. She replies, "Same here," but there must be another activity we can engage in besides sex to satiate our sexual cravings. As Gilbert eventually fell asleep, they continued to converse while she gazed up at the ceiling as she turned to face him. She caresses his face. Then, her hand slides down under the sheets, and she tries to arouse him, but after a while, she stops. He was very much asleep. She then lied back, slid her hand between her legs, and began to pleasure herself quietly.

The Following Morning
The day seems so bright, and the air is crisp and pleasant, according to Gilbert. A little while later, he receives a phone call from his boss. Hello, Mr. Gilbert, says the boss. Good day, Sir Gilbert replies (with a smile on his face). I have good news for you, the boss replies. What could it be? Gilbert asked. Well, in three days, you will depart for Nigeria, says the boss. Gilbert (speaking louder): "Why, sir?" Well, I received a call from a dependable source regarding a story I believe you would be interested in covering. With a deep breath Gilbert replies, "As alluring as it may be, sir, I am unable to embark on such a journey because my wife is currently two months and a few weeks pregnant and I am unable to leave her. The boss replies, I'm confident you won't stay more than five months, so don't worry. Before your wife's due date, you must have finished. Think about it, Gilbert; you simply can't refuse this offer. (Call terminates).

After the call ended, Nana awoke briefly due to her husband's obnoxious voice. Babe, what's up with you? The morning seems incredibly sunny and upbeat. Well! My boss and I just got off the phone, and he informed me that I will be heading to Nigeria in three days for a report that he claims I will be interested in. Okay, she replies, So why are you depressed? I'm guessing you declined the offer. You told your boss we were expecting a baby soon, right? So you can't be too far away from me until this child is born. He sighs. I'm aware, baby; that's what I was attempting to tell him before he ended the call. Well, it's alright; don't worry about it; when you get to the office today, you'll explain everything to your boss, she replies. Let me go prepare you breakfast, she says (with an affectionate grin on her face).

That Morning, Gilbert Office
He gets to work at 7:00 a.m. and walks straight to his boss's office before going to his office. " Take a seat, said the boss (who at the moment was still standing). He turned to face Gilbert after taking a step away from the table and asked again, "Young man, are you really going to pass up this chance? You are aware that a lot is at stake here, right? Your life, as well as that of this firm, will be changed by this story! You really don't want to disappoint both myself and yourself. Take this number and call him as soon as you leave my office, and he will get you the necessary documents for your flight to Nigeria within two days. But, sir! I was not even given the chance to speak. Gilbert says as he stands up. The boss replies, "Well, there's nothing to discuss here. You're going, and please close the door behind you.

Gilbert gives his boss a very gloomy look as he leaves the office. Abenna immediately hurried to his office as soon as he arrived and inquired as to what was going on. Hey, handsome, why are you looking so downcast? What did the boss do this time? Well, he is sending me to Nigeria in three days for a story that, in his words, will alter my course and that of the firm for the rest of our lives," he says, sighing. Wait! (Her expression abruptly changes to irritation.) Are you kidding me? I actually gave the boss that information, and I was under the impression that he would send it to me. Why didn't he send you then? Gilbert asks. Why ask? She replies, I should be the one asking in this situation. I'm positive he did this because I stopped sleeping with him. However, Gilbert replies, "Given that there are other men around, why didn't he send them? Don't be dumb, chale; your mom is from Nigeria. It goes without saying that our boss found out and prefers sending someone who has a history with that country; truth be told, you are the best person to send there, she concluded. Quick question: how will Nana react to this? With the newborn you guys have on the way, she is aware, Gilbert replies; the boss called me at 6 a.m. to let me know about it, and Nana overheard the entire exchange and warned me not to accept the journey. But, Gilbert, you know how the boss can be at times, so you should probably go home and start parking and explain how important the journey is to your wife, said Abenna.

Abenna continued, "Let her know that I'll come and stay with her till you get back. Chale, remember you're one of Ghana's top writers, so you ought to finish the gig within three to four months, long before Nana is due to give birth. Thanks, Abenna; you don't have to remain with her; just keeping an eye on her regularly will be plenty, Gilbert replies. You've already accomplished a great deal by bringing the two of us together. Stop the praise, Abenna says as she rushes back to her desk before the boss starts complaining.

Gilbert Apartment - Night
Car parking in front of the house—that must be Gilbert, Nana said to herself as she walked towards the door to welcome him. Kissing him on the lips, she took his bag and asked him how his day went. "Boring as usual," he replied, kissing her back. "How I so much missed these juicy lips today, Gilbert said, carrying Nana on his arms. Well, imagine how much you would miss it if you had accepted your boss offer, she replies. He brings her down gradually at the dining table, asking her to sit so he can discuss an important issue with her. Gilbert tries to explain the situation of the job to Nana, but she continues to insist that he stay home. She further asks him, "What would happen in the event of a medical emergency while he was away? Gilbert doesn't seem to understand her concerns, and they started to argue. He kept insisting that everything would be fine and that she and Abenna would be able to handle any medical issues if they arose. She felt like he wasn't taking her concerns seriously and was only thinking about his next big story. As much as Nana wanted to support Gilbert and his trip, she couldn't shake off her worries about her and the baby's well-being. Nana knew that she would feel more at ease if he stayed home with them throughout the nine months. Finally, she tried explaining to Gilbert that the risk of complications during pregnancy was much higher for her to handle alone, but Gilbert seemed determined to go despite her concerns. Gilbert tried to convince Nana that she would be fine and that his colleagues would take care of her. He also promised to check in with her every day and keep her updated on his whereabouts. Okay, she replied with a sad tone as she went into the bedroom to sleep.

Three Days Later
At precisely 7:30 am, Abenna shows up at Gilbert's house with some of her clothing. Abenna laughs and says, "I told you guys I'd be here on time," to Gilbert. Given that you're here, I suppose I should start heading towards the airport, Gilbert replies. Okay, Nana replies in a sad tone: Me and the little one will miss you. Same here, baby. Gilbert replies, hugging and kissing her all over her face. Don't stay in Nigeria for too long, please, she says as she waves him good-bye in the taxi. I won't, I promise you, he screams back at her from the taxi window.

SECOND CHAPTER: SEEKING
Arrives at the Mutala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, Nigeria
The plane landed in Nigeria at exactly 4:44 p.m. Airport Taxi Driver, Good evening, sir! Where are you heading to? I'm heading to the nearest park, Gilbert answered. Which state are you going to? "Iberdin" I can't pronounce the pronounce the name of the state very well. Huncle nah "Ibadan" which one come be "Iberdin" again. The driver said to himself silently. Vacation or work, sir? He asked. Work, but I won't turn down a little fun Gilbert replied. I understand, sir. Ibadan has so many pretty girls ready to flex if you have the money. Gilbert, smiles well chale I don't have much money, but I bet I will be able to work something out with them. I'm sure you will, sir. You're from Ghana, abi? Yes! Yes! How did you know? Your accent, sir. Oh! I noticed it's really different from Nigeria's own, which is still a shock to me. Why, sir? We have so many Nigerians in Ghana, and they speak exactly like we Ghanaians do, and even some of our local languages. That's because we adapt easily to wherever we find ourselves sir. That is one we Nigeria's superpowers.

They Arrived At The Nearest Park
Gilbert paid the taxi driver, and they both went their separate ways. Gilbert afterwards entered a GUO Transport bus to Ibadan. He arrived at GUO Transport Park in Ibadan at exactly 7:00 p.m. and lodged in a hotel close to the park. Two days later after settling in he embarked on his journey to the local government he was going to get the story from. When he arrived, his boss informant had already prepared a room in his small apartment for him.

Femi is his name, Femi is a 5'10 ft tall, dark skin man in his mid fifties, who looked like someone in his mid forties. Welcome to ISEYIN, our small community, please don't mind the size of this community; you will have a lot to write about by the time you are about to leave, Femi said as he welcomed Gilbert in. No problem, sir. Thanks for your hospitality, and I am very sure there will be plenty to write about. Gilbert replied. Asiyah, Femi's wife who looked like a sixteen years old girl but had the face of a forty years old and a distinctive three line scar on her face. O dara aal sir, she said, greeting Gilbert in a local yoruba dialect. This is my wife Asiyah, Femi continued; she has prepaid our local delicacy for you. Really that's so thoughtful of Her. What did she prepare? Gbegiri, Asiyah replied. You will enjoy it, sir. Gilbert, who was still in his early thirties, found it weird that this advanced lady, who should be in her mid fifties, called him sir. He then told her to address him as Gilbert alone. Femi replied, well, Gilbert, it's our culture; please don't be upset. No! No! Sir, I am not; I just find it weird, that's all, but if that is the case, I am fine with it.

Dawn Arrived
Femi, who was already done with his morning worship in the shrine at the back of his house, was patiently waiting for Gilbert to wake up in the corridor of his house. "Kaaro sir" Asiyah greeted Gilbert as he came outside. He was confused seeing that he couldn't understand what she was saying. She was saying good morning, sir, Femi sayed noticing the confused look on Gilbert face. "Oooh! Good morning ma. Back in Ghana, we say "MAH CHEE." Femi grinned at him amusingly; that sounds funny. That's because of your Nigerian in you sir. So where are we going and what are we doing today he asked? Well lucky for you, today is October 31. What is so special about today, Gilbert asked? Today is the Yemja festival. What is the festival about Gilbert asked? The seventeen days Yemoja Festival in October is as old as the Yoruba people. It is the grand finale of the Yemoja Festival hosted here in Ibadan, and different groups of orisa devotees dance to the rhythm of thrumming drums in front of the Yemoja Temple. Wow! That sounds really fun, are we going? Of course we are, Femi answered, nobody in this village misses this festival; even people from outside Nigeria come for it. Wow! Too bad I didn't bring a festival outfit Gilbert replied. It's fine, sir, Asiyah said turning towards his direction; one of my son's clothes will fit you perfectly, let me go and get it for you.

Festival Ground
After they were all dressed and ready, they all went to the festival. They arrived at the festival ground, where after the head priestess decodes the message from Yemoja, which in most cases is a positive one, people are usually jubilant, and the oriki (praise song) of Yemoja fills their mouths as follows: This praise song was accompanied by drumming and clapping of hands, and the people present all joined in the singing. While the festival was going on, Gilbert stubbled against a damsel by the name of "?m?binrin omi." She was a curvy 5'5" tall girl who looked like someone in her mid-20s, with a very dark complexion, blue eyes, and a very pointed nose. I am sorry, I was carried away by the dancers; Gilbert said as he gazed into ?m?binrin omi blue eyes. She replied, "It's fine handsome," with a sultry glance. You speak English while feigning some astonishment, he replied. "Of course I do." Don't mind my weird question he continued; am Gilbert, from Ghana. Well, nice meeting Gilbert, I have to go now, she quickly responded. Wait! Wait! Wait! "I didn't get your name." She echoed from the crowd, "Am ?m?binrin omi, see you around," she said as she abruptly disappeared into the crowd.

Back At Femi's House
When they got back home, Gilbert asked Asiyah about the strange girl he met and tried to describe her to her. Ma'am, I met this girl at the festival today. My God! That girl was something else. She should be around 5'3-5'5'', I think, and she had really seductive eyes, a nice face shape and a sharp nose. What did she say her name was, Asiyah asked? Hmmmm I think it heard her say something like "Umubinrin Umi," did I pronouncing the name correctly, he asked? She smiled saying It's ?m?binrin omi sir, "sha that name sounds familier but it might not be her sha." "Oh, really?" She has incredibly slender hips, which first caught my attention. Ma'am, did you know that a person's hip size is closely correlated with their ego, sense of power, drive, and desire to work independently? "Laughing out loudly," really I didn't know that sir, "but you sha dey really funny, sir," she replied in Nigerian Pidgin. So what does her curvy hips say about her? she continued. Well, people with curvy hips are often believed to be people wanting to explore new things and have fun, yet they can also tend to mean they often put their nose in other people's business. "Okay oooo, I will remeber to tell my market about this small lecture you gave me," Asiyah stated as she walked away from him in the front doorway. Let me go and prepare the meal we are going to eat tonight. Alright, ma'am, he responded. "Speaking with you was enjoyable." I agree, sir, she said. Going into the kitchen.

Next Morning
"Good morning," Gilbert. "I hope you slept well?" Yes sir, I did. Unfortunately though; I couldn't stop thinking about the girl I met yesterday. The curvy girl abi? my wife told me about how you had her in your mouth all evening yesterday. "Did she;" well yeah, I just can't get her off my head. Hopefully, I'll see her again before I leave. You might see her today or tomorrow, Femi replied. "Is that so?" Today is the procession of Arugba to the river, and tomorrow is the visit to the palace of Olubadan, Femi stated. You'll likely see her in one of these places, hopefully, he said as they both stood up to go out. "Really?" that's great, said Gilbert. "Let's start going, then." Sure, Femi replied.

At The Procession Of Arugba To the River
Everyone's foreheads were being scorched by the sun intensely around 3:45 p.m. Gilbert and some Ghanians he met at the festival stood by the river's edge. He then sensed someone grasp his upper arms from behind, turning to see who it was. Only to discover it was ?m?binrin omi. Oh, my, it's you! it really is you! You kind of frightened me, he remarked, immediately blushing as he eased in for an embrace. "I am sorry" she replied. You don't need to apologies. I was really hoping to see you here. "Really?" she responded, gazing at him as though she desperately wanted to screw him. "I thought as much sha," She remarked as they both nonchalantly exited the chaotic environment. "We didn't have time yesterday for introductions." "You vanished" "Can I ask why?" She responded, grinning at him, "You seek a bunch of answers." She inquired, "Where are you going from here?" I suppose the place I'm staying? Or is there a different ritual? he asked. "Not really sha." Gilbert offered, "How about we go somewhere quiet and talk." "Okay." ?m?binrin omi replied. "Where do you suggest?" he responded. "I really don't know." Although there's a large tree not too far from here; it's called "Igi ti aw?n okú." What does it mean Gilbert asked? Well it means "tree of the dead." "Really! creepy I like." He responded. "I see she replied." "Let's go there then" said Gilbert. "No! No! Not today." We will meet there in three days time by 9:00 a.m, don't be late, she replied as she slowly drifted apart from him. Chale! "You want to vanish again?" He inquired in a flirtatious manner, "Can I at least get your number?" I don't have a phone she replied as she vanished into crowd again.

THIRD CHAPTER: BRAVE ANGEL
Day Three After The Procession Of Arugba To The River
Nkechi, whom was married to a Yoruba man and had resided next door to Femi, soon became fond of Gilbert due to his generous spirit as well as the goodies he bought for the kids she raised. "Good morning, Aunty Nkechi." "Morning, my dear, how was your night?" It was fine ma. Ma, please, I am meeting someone at a particular spot today, and she said the name of the tree is "Igi ti aw?n okú." Do you know where the tree is located at? Gilbert inquired. Why would someone ask to meet there? Hasn't anyone told you stories about that demonic tree? she replied. "Mrs. Asiyah did say the tree was strange and some other stuffs but nothing particularly demonic though." Watin be the name of the person wey you won go see for there sef? It's a girl by the name of ?m?binrin omi. "Blood of Jesus!" "That witchcraft girl!" Rumour has it that she ate her parents and siblings alive. If you asked my opinion, I would say you should not have anything to do with that girl. "She is very demonic." "Relax, aunty Nkechi, nothing will happen; I will be fine." Just direct me to where the tree is located, Gilbert responded. Hmmmm! "Okay ooo," if you say so. "Well, you know that school my daughter goes to, abi?" Yes I do. "Good!" "Do you know the building faces the school?" Yes. "Good!" "Behind the building you will see the tree." Just be careful, please. "Thanks for the concern, aunty." "I will." He replied, as he went off.

Igi Ti Aw?n Okú
Gilbert got to the tree's location. He found ?m?binrin omi waiting for him there already. She embraced him passionately, asking, "So you've come at last?" I'm sorry, but I got lost trying to get here. And I'm just fifteen minutes late, he added with a wink. In any case, what do you think? She enquired. Think? He prompted, "About what?" "My village na," she retorted in a flirtatious manner. Oh! Yeah! Yeah! Okay, well, I feel like it's a very peaceful village, and its residents are really nice people. What about me? She gave a sinister smirk. How do you perceive me? He then starts to feel anxious. You are odd, I guess. Wait! You appear very enigmatic, which makes me really want to get to know you. Strange, but in a good way. "You want to know me?" are you serious? She questioned, "Know me in what kind of way?" I'm talking about as a buddy or sexually, if you're game. She begins to chuckle and queries, "Are you flirting with me?" perhaps something else? like getting intimate with me? He then begins mumbling as he speaks. However, I didn't mean to imply that I would reject it if you were interested; rather, I meant something more akin to a affair. You're hilarious, "uncle just say you wan fuck me." There's nothing wrong with that, except than the fact that you've only met me for a short while and want to make me your girlfriend. I'm not suggesting that we go on a date right now or tomorrow. He laughed and continued, "Just that I will eventually require a companion in crime since I will be staying quite a while in this community. "For a while?" She questioned, "I believed you travelled here for work, which should be for a couple of weeks? Hold on! How did you know about that; I never told you why I came here? and how long I was to spend here? he said as he was questioning her. Well, it's a small community, and walls have ears, plus many of the village girls have been talking about you. Oh! I never knew I had become that popular here, he replied. You do jare! drop the act, she replied him. I've been meaning to ask what your name means in English. Actually, she retorted, a little bit blushing. It means the "daughter of the water." Was your father an angler? He inquired once more. "My mother died while giving birth to me." So I grew up with my grandma, she retorted. "I never knew my dad." My mother's final request to my granny was my name. He remarked as he moved closer to her and gave her an affectionate cuddle, "I'm truly sorry about that." It's okay, she said, it's been decades since I last confided in someone on this level. I guess I must be unique after all. I'm sorry, decades? Wait a minute. You really did sound like you were at least forty years old; this is simply a lie, right? You have no idea, she grinned. But in all seriousness, aren't you still in your mid-twenties? He inquired. Someday, I'll respond to that inquiry. She retorted. What topic did you come here to write about then? It's a rather strange story, in actuality. It piqued the interest of my employer. The man I'm staying with was supposed to have told me the entire tale by now, but he required that I stay here for at least a month to get to know the locals before he gave me what I came for. It's about a legend of a marine spirit who once dwelt among the residents of this hamlet. "Okay." She answered. Have you heard the story before? He queried. "Maybe but I don't think I have sha." Yes, I had that same thought, which is why I had referred to it as a strange tale. So how many years have you been married? She went on. How did you know that I am married? He inquired with astonishment. "Silly!" "I saw a ring on your finger the first time we meet na." Oh, I see, you really do pay attention, don't you? It has now been five months. After only five months, you've already begun travelling for work, she retorted while casting him a critical glance. He quickly responded, "It's not like that." My wife is completely aware of the difficulties that come with my job. She does? or do you believe she does? No, no, not like that; She genuinely understands, he responded. She gave him the side-eye as she said, "Okay, if you say so." Why do you have such a strange gaze on me? He queried. She responded with a sultry smile, "Well, ladies say a lot of things they don't mean. similar to what I previously spoke of. What was it? He questioned while gazing into her blue eyes and feeling drawn by her sexual gaze. Gilbert gets a little lip-kiss from her as she leans over, then she leans away. She was given a brief yet passionate kiss as he leaned in closer.

Then they lingered under the tree for hours in conversation. She said, gazing intently into Gilbert's eyes, "It's becoming late, and I have to go. No, please let's remain for a little bit; in addition, it's only 10:45 p.m. and the moonlight is so beautiful tonight. He pleaded with her not to leave, saying, "Everything is just perfect." I'm afraid not. She stands up to leave; Gilbert hugs her and kisses her again on the lips before grasping her waist and saying, "We'll see when we can." She said as she stared into his dark brown eyes. Please let me know when I can see you again. He queried. I promise to let you know. But for now, bye, she replied, letting go of his hold and vanishing into the night.

FOURTH CHAPTER: DIVINE DRAMED
Four Weeks Later
As the last rays of sunlight faded, a deep sense of unease settled over the small village. Strange occurrences had been happening to Gilbert for weeks, but it was only now that the he truly began to feel the full weight of his fear. One night, ?m?binrin omi decided to take Gilbert to her house after much plea from him. Her house was an old abandoned building on the outskirts of the village. The house had always been shrouded in mystery, and many believed it was cursed. As they approached the house, he began to hear strange noises coming from within – the creaking of doors, the shuffling of feet, and unearthly whispers. They reached the front door and she pushed it open, he's hearts beating in his throats. The inside of the house was dark, with only a few flickering candles lighting the way. They crept through the hallway, their footsteps echoing on the creaky floorboards. "Welcome to my little home." She said as she offered him a sit. "Wow!" "Your place is even bigger than that of the king." He stated. "Your grandpa must have been a very wealthy man?" He asked. "Yes, he was." She answered as she took off her clothes and stood in front of him completely naked. "Wait before you take off your clothes." "Remember, there is no going back after today." She stated. "Sure, I know." He replied. He seized her by the neck and gave her a long, passionate kiss. He undressed after that, and they had intense sex the entire night.

Next Morning
"Good morning, baby." She said as she kissed Gilbert lips. "Wow!" She finally called me a sweet name He stated. "Don't be silly jare." She replied. "Wait, don't stand up yet; let's stay on the bed all day." He requested. "Soon we will." She responded. But now you have work to do. Work? How? He asked. You need to go and pack your belongings from Femi's house and bring them to my place, and before you leave, by the way you are now officially my boyfriend because you slept with me. "Yes, ma!" Guffawing as he responded. "Your bossy side is appealing." He stated. You'll see a lot of it soon, I promise. She replied. He was prompted to put on his clothing quickly as she ordered him.

Femi's House
Morning Gilbert. Femi said as Gilbert walked from the back door. "Where were you last night?" He asked. "We were so worried about you." He stated. "I'm really sorry." Gilbert responded. I should have called, but I slept at a friend's place. Asiyah steps into the coversation, and asked. "A friend's place?" Please tell me it wasn't ?m?binrin omi place? She angrily asked. "It definitely was." He replied. "Ahhh! Gilbert!" Asiyah screamed. Just tell me you did not do anything stupid. Femi questioned. "With all due respect sir!" Gilbert replied. "What do mean?" "We had great sex last night; what's the big deal?" He stated. "Mo ti pari!" "Alejo ti a mu wa si ile wa ti fi wa sinu ewu." meaning "Am finish!" "The stranger we brought to our house has put us in danger." Asiyah responded screaming at the top of her voice. Femi, what do we do now? She questioned her husband as she appeared to be afraid. "You two should unwind." Why are you so concerned about it? It's not that big of a deal; we simply had sex. Gilbert answered. Keep in mind, I'm an adult, you guys. He stated as he went in to gather his items. I think it's time you left for Ghana, Gilbert. Femi suggested. I will call your boss now and tell him you are done, and he should send you flight money. He continued. "No, I'm not going, and you don't have any right to call my boss and tell him such." By the way, I am leaving anyway. Gilbert said as he walked out of the palor. "Leaving to where?" Asiyah asked. "My gf's place eeiii." He replied. She has asked me to come and leave with her, and I agreed. "Oh, Gilbert, I pity your poor soul." Asiyah responded and walked away to her kitchen. Fine, do as you wish. You are not related to me in any way, and you are a grown man. Femi said before returning to his room. Gilbert then leaves for ?m?binrin omi's house. As he arrived at her place, she was in the corridor waiting for him. She hugged him and gave him a kiss on the lips. You don't know how happy you have made me today. She stated. I haven't loved a man for years the way I love you, Gilbert. "I know my love." He replied.

?m?binrin omi's Abode
Hot day in Iseyin village, Gilbert knocks softly at the door. He is stubbing out a cigarette with his beaten farmer's shoe when ?m?binrin omi answers, "Who's there?" It's me, Gilbert. "Come in," she replied. He enters, but when he looks about the parlour, he can't see her. "Where are you?" he asks. "Am in the room?" she answers. He walks into the bedroom and sees her lying on the bed, bathed in sweat and wearing a see-through gown. He rushed and laid on the bed with her. She softly kisses him passionately and began to undress. She beared a slight resemblance to Nana when it comes to romance, but hers was overly more attractive. She, however, has a definite carnal appeal and an air of confidence that Nana lacks. I have started developing really strong feelings for you.Gilbert stated as they both sat on the bed. "When did you begin to develop this feelings?" She asked. "About a month ago." He replied. I don't know what brought it on; I just started feeling like I couldn't live a day without seeing your pretty face. He stated. "Is it because of how great our sex life is?" She questioned. I've never really been into sex that much. I mean, I like it and everything; it just didn't freak me out, you know? But it all changed after our first sexual encounter. He stated. "I think it's prior to the feelings I have for you." He continued. "Right!" She gave a silent shrug. He was then completely undressed, standing by the bedside. She commanded in a seductive voice, "Come over here; you're making me horny." He plops down next to her on the bed, tears open a condom wrapper, stares into her eyes, and asks her to put it on for him. She bends over and smiles. While having sex. She's on top; her movements are slow and hypnotic while she's mummering some incantations. Occasionally, she offers a moan, some more convincing than others. Fourty-five minutes later, Gilbert, like Pavlov's proverbial dog, moans, and the whole thing was over. "Wow!" "That was something." She stated. "Really, was it?" He asked. "Cut the modesty." "You really know what you're doing." She replied as she leans over and kisses him on the cheek. He looks at her for a moment before heading for the toilet. She stood up afterward and went into the kitchen.

A Months Later - One Day By The River
Gilbert and ?m?binrin omi had become so close that he told her everything about his life. Both his past and future plans. Although she hasn't told him who she truly is. They went to the river to swim constantly due to how hot the village got. "My love, not that I am complaining; I have enjoyed everything that has happened between us these past few months, the places you have taken me to, the histories about this village that you have told me, but I want more!" He stated. "More?" "What do you mean?" She questioned. The hot sex ain't enough. I want us to spend the rest of our lives together; I want to marry you; in fact, if you agree, I will burn all I have written down about this village, abandon my life back in Ghana, and start a new one with you here. "Hmmm." There are consequence for everything in this life. I have my reasons for saying this. She stated. Look, my love, tell me what it will take for me to become one with you—anything, just name it." I'll do he promised her. "Gilbert!" "Gilbert!" Are you certain about what you are requesting? She questioned while twice warningly calling his name. It's not going to be that easy, Gilbert. "I'm willing to do anything, baby, just say the word." He stated. "Okay, you have to promise me something." She asked. "I will, just say the word." He replied. She went inside the house and brought out a wooden cup and handed it over to him. He hurriedly opened it out of anxiety, and was immediately startled by the powerful smell that emanated. What the hell is this reddish substance, anyway? With an outward air of disgust, he questioned. My first menstrual blood dates back to almost six hundred and eighty years ago. She retorted. She instructed him to sip. Hell no, he said. Basically screaming. He heard the words "just sip" uttered in his ears and at that moment grabbed the cup off the floor, drank three sips, and then appeared to have passed out going into transient coma.

The Bloody Beginning
"Eat it, murmured the three women who had their eyes covered and were circling Gilbert." "They were feeding him and flogging him at the same time to eat the devilish concoction they had prepared before him." They weren't intended to beat him, but when he wouldn't consume their food, they had no choice but to flog him, much like a psychiatric matron would if she had to coerce the insane into eating. Gilbert wasn't really at blame. Who would consume a mixture of raw rat meat and raw bitter leaf? "He periodically puked because of the smell." "Eat! They continued whipping his body while the voices rang, "Eat! and finish it."" He was also flogged with a cane while slicing the horrible mixture. Why won't you consume the meat? I believed you to adore it. I've observed you eating two or three pieces of steak by yourself several times.The one of them amongst the three blinded women spoke.Gilbert would have fought them back because he is an assertive individual, but the hefty chain they used to restrain him prevented him from acting voluntarily. He continued to submit to them as a slave who had been abandoned. "After finishing the meal, he belched loudly and let out gas that had an offensive smell." He sat back on the floor and exhaled in satisfaction after concluding that it was over. Bring the additional plate. the vegetable dish containing peppermint and yarrow. A loud voice added, "Make sure that the snake and the lizard are included," as though tormenting him with the concoction's ingredient name. This time when they put food on the table for him, he wouldn't even touch it. I'm sorry, I can't eat that. Please!!" He bemoaned as he ate the meat from the rat that was still in his mouth. After several attempts to make him taste the food, they resorted to intense and strong vîolence. They started hitting him and pounding him all over. He was being trampled on his backbone and stomach by one of them who was already planning to kill him. As if that wasn't enough. After ceasing, she walked away from them and came back with a large rod. She gave him a pretty heavy smack to the head, and Gilbert awoke on ?m?binrin omi's bed at that precise moment. He yelled aloud as soon as he opened his eyes, as though he had just taken another hit in the real world. He was shock to feel the meat and toothpick in his mouth. He had nothing in his mouth before he slept off the night before. He spat out the meat. Immediately. He took a small piece of the meat that had broken off and smelled it. He quickly dropped it because the scent was so awful.

Bloody Aftermath
?m?binrin omi shortly after she heard his scream entered the room and sat next to him on the bed. "Last night, didn't you say you wanted to marry me?" She questioned him. "Really?" "Did I actually say such a thing?" He asked. "Yes, you did!" "Don't play with me." She responded in a furious manner. Gilbert lets out a booming chuckle that is followed by a cough. "Baby, I'm just playing with you." "You better be." She responded. Leans closer to her and asked. "Baby I truly meant everything I told you yesterday." "I'm assuming that what occurred in my dream the night before was something you did as a kind of test for me, am I right?" He asked. "Yes it was my way of sealing my faith with yours and becoming one with you." She replied. Thought as much now do see I can do anything to be with you and make you happy. He stated. "Well good to know that because you sha have a lot to do." "That was just the begining." She stated. "What so ever happens from here on stays between the both of us." She cautioned him as she stood up. "I promise my love." He gave a poppet-like response.

Final Request
After they burned the journal, they went inside. She decided real identity to him. "Gilbert I have to tell you something." She stated. "No need to; I know what you are about to say." He responded cuddling her. "You do?" She questioned. "Yes." "You're a mermaid, right?" "Yes, how did you know?" She asked. "Literally everyone in the village did." He responded. "And you still chased after me?" She questioned. "Yes, that's because I feel in love with the first time I looked into those beautiful blue eyes." He replied. "I also have a confession to make." He stated. "Which is?" She asked. "Well my great-grandmother was a mamaid too." He stated. "That's why I fell more in love with you when some of the villagers told me." He ended. "I did not see that coming." She responded, which was a lie because she knew even before Gilbert was born that this day would come. "I know." He replied. "So now that we've both said all our secrets, and are now one." "What's next?" He asked. "Rebirth!" She replied. "Rebirth?" "How?" "I thought what happened in that dream was the rebirth?" He questioned. "No!" "You must forsake everything about your past." She replied. "Which means your wife in Ghana has to die for us to be together completely." "No!" "Hell No!" "I can't!" He responded in a furious tone. "She is carrying my child be cognizant eeeiii." "You have too if you truly love me and want us to be together forever" She responded. "No, I just can't." He responds and then gets up to head out.

FIFTH CHAPTER: HAPPILESS
The Supreme Rose Estates - Ridge - Accra, Ghana
Nana informs her friend Abenna that it has been a month since she last spoke to her husband since he travelled to Nigeria and am extremely concerned; I hope everything is okay with him. "A month?" "Haven't you called him?" Abenna asked. "Nipa ny3 ooo," I have called him and had no response, and he never called back, "nti he does nor miss me and his baby eeii?" He probably has been busy ei; he should be rounding up his work by now, that might be the cause of it. "You believe so?" Nana enquired. "Yeah," it's been four months already; he should be almost done. Besides, you have the little one coming soon; you should be worried about her, not Gilbert eeii. Abenna advised her. "I know, but it's not like Gilbert to stay a month without calling me eeii." "Nana trust me, he's fine." She responded, "If you say so," and then went into the kitchen to get a glass of water. She returns from the kitchen and asks, "So what's up with Kuami?" She asks, chuckling, "Which kuami?" Nana questioned, "What does your new he do now?" "Well, he's fine; he's saving up to open his own pharmacy store and nti he's bought a ring for proposal." He doesn't know I've seen it; I'm just waiting for him to propose so I can act surprised. "Bad girl!" Nana hailed her friend. "How did you find the ring?" Well, I was washing last week, and I saw it in one of his dirty suits. "My God, the ring was so beautiful." Abenna stated. Just the way you like it, paaa? Nana mentioned. Yes! Yes! Just the way I do, she said as she stood up to leave, hugging Nana calmly.

A Month Later
It was a beautiful afternoon in the city of Accra, Nana Gate began to shake violently and loudly. "Bang! Bang! Bang!" "Who is that?" "Don't break my gate!" She said in an angry tone."It's me, eeeiii open the gate!" While sobbing, Abenna answered. "Oh, my God, Abenna, what happened?" "Why are you crying?" Nana questioned her as she let her in. "Eno be that bastard called Kuami erh!" "What has he done?" Nana asked. "Nti you remember the ring I told you I saw in his suit last month?" "Eeii yes I remember, what about it?" "Well, it turns out eno be for me; it was meant for one Afryea, one of the nurses in the hospital he used to work at." Paaaa, my God." "I am so sorry, Abenna." "That must be really painful, she included." It really is, she retorted, asking if she could remain with her for a bit. whilst sobbing. "Yeah, sure, as long as you want Abenna." Nana responded as she gently hugged her.

Few Weeks Later - A Saturday Morning
Girl, For the past few weeks that I've been here, I haven't heard or seen you speak to Gilbert. Abenna said as she exited the porch after washing her clothing outside. "Nti! Eno go better for that man paaa." "Nearly two months have passed since I last heard from him." "Paaa at this point his dead to me." Nana stated. "Do you think he has found another lady?" Abenna asked. "Eeii I don't know and I don't care paaa." She stated. She began to writhe "I'm his wife for Christ's sake, not his girlfriend, and I'm pregnant with his daughter; isn't that enough reason for him to have called since?" "Take it easy, Nana." As she approached nearer, Abenna said. "Okay, let me try calling him again." Nana suggested. "Trust me, it won't go through." She added. As she started Gilbert phone wasn't going through. I will be due next month, and he isn't back yet, nor has he shown any concern or care." "You know what if he doesn't call me back by Monday." I'm filing for divorce. "No! Please, Nana, it hasn't gotten too that, besides, Monday is in three days." "Nothing will change my mind if he doesn't call by Monday." Nana sayed as she stood up from the ground. "Abenna, you know me; haven't I tried for him?" Nana asked. "I've been enduring all this pain and stress alone, and even a simple call I haven't received from him, much less a thank you." "No paaa I can't do this nonsensical thing called marriage with Gilbert anymore." She ended as she walks up to go to the kitchen. "Nana, please wait; trust me, there will be a good reason for his sudden silence." Abenna said as she rushed toward her into the kitchen. He better call before Monday; I have said my own. Nana shouted from the kitchen as she started to prepare breakfast.

SIX CHAPTER: FALSIFIED EMERGENCE
?m?binrin omi's Abode
There were only seven days left till Nana's due date. Gilbert had a very unsettling morning because it was the day he was supposed to murder his wife and unborn kid. "Good morning, baby." ?m?binrin omi said as she roled untop him. "I hope you enjoyed last night?" "I definitely did." "Last night's sex was something else." He answered with a rather dejected tone. "I know right!" "If only this would last forever." She replied moving her fingers around his chest. "Okay!" "Okay!" "Fine, I will do it." Despite being deeply saddened by what he had to do, he answered. He got a hearty kiss from her while she yelled. "Thank You!" "Thank You!" "We should get to it now, then." She suggested. "Are you being serious now?" "Can't we wait till tomorrow?" He pleaded. "No!" "I can astroproject you to your house back in Ghana right now, so you can get it done right." She answered with a tone of excitement. "You can do that?" He questioned her being truly surprised. "Of course I can." "I've lived on this planet for more than six hundred and eighty years, so I can do a lot of things." She responded. "I never knew mamaids could do such." He stated. "Well, now you know." She replied.

The Supreme Rose Estates - Ridge - Accra, Ghana
The exact time was twelve in the afternoon. Candles had already been lit by ?m?binrin omi to surround Gilbert's body. Gilbert was lying motionless on the ground. After performing some incantations, Gilbert's spirit departed his body and he was able to see himself in the bathroom of his flat in Ghana. With her pregnant tummy, his wife Nana was taking a bath. When Nana pressed the shower button, Gilbert was standing next to the door and crying because he felt so horrible. It truly stunned Nana. "When did you return?" "How on earth did you get into this flat?" "Moreless of stepping into the loo without a single sound." She questioned. Gilbert cries and says, "I'm very sorry, Nana." "Sorry for what." She questioned fiercely. "Get the hell out of my house right now." She screamed. He then approaches her, wipes his tears from his eyes, brushes his eyeliner off, and turns to face her, gazing into her piercing eyes. With his knife, he repeatedly stabbed her before slicing her in two and breaking her up into several parts. shortly before disappearing. Abenna noticed an unpleasant scent coming from the bathroom when she arrived at the flat hours later that day to transport Nana to the hospital. When she entered, she saw that her friend had been murdered and the baby's skull had been left on the wash basin to rot. A few weeks later, the state had heard about it. People assumed that the murderer's motivation was retribution because Nana's, Father was an extremely powerful figure in Ghana. Gilbert was nowhere to be located despite their best efforts to find him. Gilbert and ?m?binrin omi went to the river in the ISEYIN village known for mermaids the night he killed Nana, stripped off their clothes, and submerged themselves in the water. They were never seen or heard from again.

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