......Dana

Hello, my name is Dana and I am an alcoholic. Hello Dana! The crowd responded.

I started drinking when I was 17. My friend; Carla introduced me to alcohol and partying then I got addicted. It became a thing of joy to get drunk, and then I became solely dependent on alcohol as a source of happiness. I couldn't sleep, even work without some shots of Hennessy.

Did you do anything fun!? Dan asked from the crowd.

I wish! Sometime 4 years ago, I was very drunk so I had to stay in-door. Prior to drinking, I used to sleep walk but I thought I had gotten over it so I stopped taking precautions i.e. locking all doors and windows and even sometimes having to cuff myself to my bed! Yea, it was that bad. Anyways, after I got wasted, I slept on the sofa in my sitting room. I woke the following day in my kitchen with a butchered chicken lying on the floor and the knife still clutched in my hands. I was beyond confused. I laughed at myself for a bit though. This is crazy! Apparently I had taken the chicken from the freezer and cut it to bits….the process….very blur!

2 weeks later, there was a dead man under my staircase and blood stains on my carpet. I couldn't remember anything that had happened except the part where I was drinking and yapping with my friend over the phone. I woke up in my bed like a sane person so how did I get blood stains on my floor!? Holy cow, did I murder someone….I couldn't share this information with anyone so I cleaned my house and let someone else call the police. Thank God he wasn't dead in my apartment. 3 months passed without any incident, in fact I was scared of going out so my life became one straight line – home - work and back home. I still couldn't get the dead dudes face out of my head but since the investigation had passed and they already called in suspects, I felt more confident I didn't do anything rash! Maybe I was in the stairs and had blood under my shoes or something….

6 months ago, I woke up sitting on my balcony railings. People were screaming from the ground floor and I could hear police sirens from afar. My heart sank when I realized I almost killed myself. It was then it dawned on me that I am a risk to myself and others around me. I was advised to join this group and I am seeing a psychiatrist for evaluation.

Wow! Some story Dana!! Glad you could share and enlighten us on…..Janet interferes… I would like to share my story with the team too. My name is Janet and I am a watcher…I stay in the apartment just below Dana and I can testify to all the nasty stuff she has done. It is quite sad she doesn't even know half the things she is capable of doing but I do and I have them all on tape…..

SHIT!!! Dana exclaims

....Life of Dana Walsh (05)

(Omolade and Funke chatting on the corridor)

Omolade: I  heard it was bad but not crawling on the street bad...
Funke: Who could have taken the pictures though. The person wicked small oo!!
Omolade: In this day of blogs and paper tabloids, any gist would sell, especially when its a society person, so anyone could have taken and sold the pictures to the highest bidder.
Funke: True sha.
Omolade: How did you even get  the gist before our very own "Linda Ikeji"
Funke: I'm James Bond na...
Omolade: Hmm mm...1st hand tataafo!!! Well done.

(Dana walks past them)

Dana: Hi Funke (ignores Omolade)
Omolade: See you later Funke. Morning Dana!
Dana:  Hope I didn't interrupt anything.
Funke: Not at all, break is over... (talking to Omolade) I'll swing by your desk to pick up that stuff.
Dana: Whats the latest now? I heard people chatting and laughing away in the tea room earlier.
Funke: So you haven't heard!?.
Dana: Heard what?
Funke: Gist aside....I can't believe i call you my friend yet you have such a huge secret.
Dana: You have lost me oo. Which one do you want to drop on me, I'll like to hear the gist first cos i know i aint hiding anything from you.
Funke: I hear you are an Otto. I also hear you want to take Bernard out so you are trying to blackmail him...
Dana: (shocked) oh wow! I thought only alcohol could hype your imagination.
Funke: I have proof of your real name. I also intercepted the mail you wanted delivered to Bernard's table this morning.
Dana: A mail? From me!? To Bernard? Can i see what it is because clearly you have lost me. And me been an Otto, last time i checked, i am a Walsh, at least that is what my birth certificate reads. So get your facts right.
Funke: You can come to me when you ready to talk. I am tempted to walk into Bernard's office to give him the down-low but i assumed you would be reasonable and come out plain to me.
Dana: (trying to put herself together) I sincerely need to understand what is going on. What pictures and how does it even relate to the gist from this morning.
Funke: Bernard's wife's pictures are all over the internet so i guess the stunt you were trying to pull by delivering it to him has failed you. Bernard is devastated and his marriage might as well be over.
Dana: (frowning now) So you think i have something to do with all of this. Isn't it absurd that i would play a prank like that. Though i am surprised that you think i have that kind of stunt up my sleeves but i wouldn't be so dumb to have it all spill on me. Give me some credit now, haba!
Funke: You have got people watching you dear. I can help with whatever you are planning. you just need to trust someone and let me in.
Dana: I have heard enough of this, you can go to anyone if you think you have enough proof to pin whatever you have got on me, besides that, i have a meeting abeg!

(Dana walks away with all the charisma she could muster)

Omo: (Phone rings) What the hell have you gotten yourself into Dana!!
Dana: What the fuck is everyone talking about. I was just going to call you and ask the same thing.
Omo: One Funke is trying to dig up stuff about you.
Dana: I can deal with that! What i am trying to understand is how they can link the photos to me.
Omo: What photos.
Dana: Never mind. I'll call you in a bit. (slumps into her chair)
Omo: Dont you dare han.....
Dana: (hangs up) Fuck! Fuck!!

(Tries to call Adetayo but he didnt answer)

Dana: This is what happens when i get lazy. Shit!!
Jide: (soft tap on the door) Great job today. Show such passion and you will climb up the ladder faster than your piers.
Dana: Thank you sir. (smiling wearingly)
Jide: Is there something wrong? you seem off..
Dana: I just feel light headed that's all. Will be fine after a cup of coffee.
Jide: You can take the rest of the day off. Huge meeting tomorrow and you need to rest that pretty brain of yours.
Dana: (smiles) Thank you sir. I guess i will see you tomorrow.
Jide: (walks away and just waves his hand)
Dana: (Talking to herself) At least that's some good news today. Have to go deal with this dumb fuckers.
(Calling her assistant) Clear my schedule for the rest of the day.
Assistant: How about Mr. Ladi.
Dana: I will call him on my way out..
Assistant: Ok..

(Dana stops by Funkes desk)

Dana: I will see you later on. We need to clarify some things but not here.
Funke: okay...wh..
Dana: Sky Lounge, I'll come pick you up.
Funke: ohk, no wahala.

(On the phone with Omo)

Dana: I am coming over.
Omo: You never come here, what is going on?
Dana: I am outside your door..
Omo: sikes!! stop messing with me and tell me what is going on..

(Knock on the door)

Omo: (chuckles) Really, is that you? (moves towards the door)
Dana: me where? I meant i am around the corner stupid!, will be at your door step in....

(BANG!! BANG!!! BANG!!!BANG!!!!)

Started from the bottom......

Peeping through the window to get a glimpse of what was thought in the classroom. I had to somehow learn to read and write. On my way home, I always looked out for broken pencils or any sort of writing material so I could practice all I learnt during the day. We were so poor; my mum told us it was luxury eating 3 times a day, that we were blessed having 1 or 2 meals in a day. I never complained, I was born into poverty but I didn’t plan to die in it.

I hoped to be a doctor someday…I watched ER from my neighbors window some nights and I imagine saving lives like those doctors.  I was 7 years old and in Pry 4 (if you count window schooling as a sort of education), common entrance was fast approaching and I had to enroll to write this exam.

There was this inter-state exam for the physically challenged, it was done every year, and the top three were given scholarships to finish secondary school. I had to do this exam. I went to the venue with my elder sister who kept making fun of me by the way, trying to demoralize me, but no, I would not give in to such unnecessary pressure. I matched forward to the admin officer and told her I wanted to enroll.

She smiled at me. Is your leg broken love? No. Do you have a problem with your sight? No Ma’am. Do you have any difficulty whatsoever moving around? Not really. So you cannot apply for this exam, it is for the challenged students of this community.

I raised my shirt to show my ribs that were almost piercing out from my flesh. I am very hungry yet determined child ma’am so that qualifies me as a challenged person, maybe not physically but in every other way.

I am sorry child; there is nothing I can do for you. It’s the standard regulation; anyone enrolled must have a kind of challenge. I backed off. I had to seek plan B.

My saving grace came. This lady asked me to visit her church for a test and they would advise further. Of course I did super well in the exams. I got a scholarship to attend a federal secondary school. It wasn’t easy. After all the bullying, washing of toilet, cutting grass, washing clothes for seniors, I still managed to pass my exams. I had to keep the end in sight.

Daddy passed on. He wasn’t able to support my ordeal in any way but he was an important figure in my life and I would miss him dearly. RIP daddy. I will always love you and will do you proud.

SSCE was fast approaching and the thought of university always came to mind. I had saved all I worked for and it still wouldn’t cut it. All the holiday jobs, alabaru, washer girl, fetching water, house cleaning, baby sitting…..the money from it wouldn’t even pay my first year in the university. My mum had ruled me out. You think you can be as lucky as the last time. How many people get a scholarship through the university…life isn’t all about luck oo.

You know what, I put it into consideration, and I didn’t bank on been as lucky as I was…I am 14 years old now and in SS2 it is a miracle I got here in the first place….

Criminal Mind

There’s the thought of carrying out some evil deed and all that could settle in was death….death!! Who is worthy of death by my hands?

You are fired!!! His voice rang in my ears.

Sir, I can’t imagine another person’s error would warrant me being fired and I think a warning letter would be fair.

Do you think life is fair!!! You cost this company a 12 Billion Naira contract because of your recklessness. How could you have let that huge sum slip from your grasp!! Security will walk you to the door and do not expect any gratuity whatsoever.

What!!! I felt life drain out of me. I couldn’t believe things were changing this instant. This is my dream job. Where would I start from? No savings and huge expenses.

Luck shone on me, though it wasn’t easy, but I rose to the top. Now I am counted amongst the top 20 richest women in the country even if it took me 5 years to get here.

Death!  He most definitely is worthy. I need a strategy…

Two years after....

Nice car! Even in my wildest imagination I wouldn’t have expected you to save me from this mess. A broken down vehicle on 3^rd mainland bridge at this hour….bad combination.

We both laughed.

You are just a lucky man sir. I am only taking this car for a spin. Watched a movie over the weekend and they made me believe it could run almost as fast as a plane.

A spin on this bridge!! I would advise against that…too many bumps and pot holes.

Chicken!!  Brace yourself. I’m sure we’ll be fine…. Or I’ll be fine at least. I stepped on the accelerator and men this car moves…..pity this is the only time I get to drive it.

I gauged the bend; I knew there was a  bump just before it. I could see the fear in Dapo’s eyes. My very own former boss afraid… Death sure has a face….we hit the handrail, flipped right over it and yes…we were in the air, then downward into the lagoon. Dapo was screaming. I had a smirk on my face.

It can go either way, we both die or one of us survives and that person sure as hell will be me. There’s a huge splash and we were sinking.

Bayo was struggling with his seat belt…hahaha, just as I anticipated, it was stuck! It will be a thing of joy to ensure he sees me smile just before his belly gets jammed with the water from the lagoon. I turned, looked into his eyes and said “Don’t panic Dapo, that won’t help us” I smiled. I unhooked my seat belt asked “Do you trust me Dapo”? Of course his answer was ‘yes’ as his life automatically depended on me… I smiled again. “Die in peace my friend”….I wound down and swam up.

I was glad. Mission accomplished. How easy that was….well except for my $125,000 car.

HOLY MOLLY!!!! That was one heck of a dream. Phew!!

In the office the following morning, my client called and stated he was going to invest with our biggest competitor …..SHIT, Dapo is going to fire my ass!!!

fruit of the Spirit

…..I was in my car heading out to for a meeting with my friend Dami and there was a lot of traffic at the Lekki toll. I was frustrated and on the edge as my nanny had wasted my time trying to explain how Tutu’s (my daughter) pajamas’ got stock in the washing machine and how the akara almost torched my kitchen. Nannies need a separate kind of schooling.....

I was super tensed….who knew a 20 minute drive could extend to almost 2 hours. Is Goodluck in town abi bawo, I mustn’t miss this meeting oo. I managed to pass the toll, ope oo, no traffic!! Then this 4Runner comes right at me…….GBOSAA! He ran straight into my fender and did not wait oo. He drove off and gave me the waka sign. Mogbe!! In this Lagos!!! I step on my accelerator, sped past the dude and slammed my brakes. He ran into me again and this time my fender was on the floor. I jumped out of the car, walked straight to the driver…..Pa! Pa!! Pa!!! Three hot slaps without a flinch. I was in rage….I didn’t even bother speaking English…..Oju e fo ni, eni ti o ma pa lo n wa, oti was je gbese!! Bole bole ko wa mo gbese e oo. (are you blind, you are looking for a victim to kill now you have run into debt!! come down and see how much your bill is). As the dude stepped out, I followed him with a slap from behind. He spoke under his voice….'Dear God, why today'. At this point some people had gathered, trying to put together what happened. I picked up my phone and called my husband, then the head of security in the office and finally my mechanic. This dude must be dealt with; I had even forgotten I was trying to get to a meeting.

The head of security was there within minutes, he owed me a favour so I guess he was eager to pay back. He lynched the guy and threw him into his van, hooked the guys’ jeep to his and towed them both away.

I couldn’t condone what had happened but I felt a sense of content when I heard someone say ‘all this reckless drivers should meet mad people like this every now and then’….

I didn’t make it in time for my meeting; in fact, I got there at the end. I apologized to my friend and explained what had happened on my way.

Woman of God!! My friend exclaimed. You always preach about self control and here you are gloating about how you treated someone. He couldn’t have run into you intentionally..

Error you call it! What if he had killed me?

But he didn’t!

What if he had wrecked my car completely?

But he didn’t!!

Woo Mope; are you trying to crucify me?

Why are you getting all upset? I’m only stating the obvious. What have you gained by putting that man in a cell? That won’t fix your car and from what you have told me, you created a scene, what would do to your junior colleague if you find him on the streets of Lekki in the same situation? You slapped a grown man 3 times and you are happy about it. What if he had retaliated and beat you up? Ore, I shouldn’t be the one telling you that you have gone about the whole thing in an improper way.

Hello! Who is this? Mope answers her phone. Oh my God!!! I’m on my way right now.

What is it? Dami asked in anxiety.

The driver just had a seizure and is in the hospital. I need to go…

I’m coming with you. Dami snatched her purse as she head out with Mope.

In the hospital, the driver of the car had been revived but was to be put under surveillance for another 24 hours. Immediately Mope walked in, he shouted ‘stay away from me, evil person’. You almost took our lives.

Ha ha! What is that supposed to mean. You hit and abused me yet you have the audacity to call me evil. Obviously whatever happened at the police station was staged so you could leave abi! I will show you pepper in this Lagos. What do you mean by ‘our lives’?

Calm down Mope, Dami says calmly. He just mentioned it wasn’t just him in the car. Can’t you just hear his side of the story first? Obviously something doesn’t add up.

Thank you madam. The driver says as he tries to sit up. My wife had a tummy ache and she was complaining bitterly, she couldn’t even walk straight so I had to rush her to the hospital. She was lying on the back seat, screaming like a knife was cutting through her skin. As I passed the toll, I didn’t hear her anymore, so on top speed, without thinking, I looked back only to see she had passed out and BOOM!! I hit your friend. I couldn’t wait to explain or start an argument because I didn’t even know if my wife had died. I waved and gestured that she followed me. This I did because the hospital was just at the bend and I could look at the damage as soon as my wife was attended to.

That’s a lie!!! Mope tried to cut in.

Lo and behold, your friend sped past me and slammed her brakes. Before I could blink, she was all cat woman on me. It all happened so fast and before I knew it, we were in a police station. She was not even there. When her police friend saw my wife, on the floor of the car, I guess it worried him, so he checked her pulse and called an ambulance. At that point, I was screaming on top of my voice and next thing, I woke up here.

And your wife? Mope asked more calmly.

She is fine, thank God.

Wow, Mope!! You almost killed two people just because you lost your cool. Imagine the trouble you will be in if the story were otherwise. Anthony (Chief security) too will share in this trouble for trying to help you out.

Well thank God the story isn’t any worse. Mope murmured. I apologize Mr.…..

Smith….Olasunkanmi Smith.

I’m sorry Mr. Smith. I was in a hurry and my maid had upset me plus she ruined my schedule. This doesn't mean you will not fix my car..... I guess today was just a really bad day.......for you I mean.

Chei...Mope Mope. Crazy woman!!

Mope did not exhibit these traits:

GENTLENESS: Gentle strength under self-control. NUMBERS 12:3 (Now the man Moses was very humble, more than all men who were on the face of the earth.)

If she was gentle, she wouldn't have slapped a grown man. Another woman's husband. Haba!

SELF-CONTROL: Holding back or restrain oneself. JOHN 19:10-11

¹⁰ So Pilate said to Jesus, “Aren’t you going to answer me? Don’t you know that I have the authority to free you or to crucify you?”

¹¹ Jesus answered Pilate, “You wouldn’t have any authority over me if it hadn’t been given to you from above. That’s why the man who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.”

She felt she knew people in power that could deal with the driver. What I didn’t add to the story was Mr. Smith was brother to Mope's Managing Director. Who do you think has the upper hand now....

KINDNESS: Ability to show extravagant favor. 2 Samuel 9:1

¹ Now David said, “Is there still anyone who is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”

Kindness is far from what Mope had in mind. She had given in completely to the works of the flesh and unfortunately for many of us these days, we do not see this as wrong. Challenges come in various ways and the manner at which we handle each one varies pending on how we allow the fruit of the Spirit flourish in our lives.

Your mindset is critical to exhibiting the Fruit of the Spirit. Philippians 2:4-5

⁴ Don’t be concerned only about your own interests, but also be concerned about the interests of others. ⁵ Have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. 

Mans error and twisted ways

I write this guided by the Spirit of God.

As i write fictions and other stories, it is important not to deviate from the word of God. As He has put it in my heart through the word and His servant, i write this piece.

Let me make this slightly interesting by telling you a story.....


Don't give me that crap! I worked my head off for this position and you tell me i am not qualified for it!! That's cock and bull as far as i am concerned and heads will roll. It is wise you stick with me on this one because when my mother hears of it, she wont be pleased at all!! Funke yelled at her supervisor and stormed out of his office. Panting with so much rage, she calls her mother immediately......"ring, ring".........she doesn't pick up. Ooooh!!!I'll just tell her when i get home.


Funke's mum is the Co-CEO of Global Resources. She had wanted Funke to work there and learn more about business ethics before giving her the gift of a life time- Her own company. Funke of course isn't aware of this training and award, she thought her mum had pulled all the strings to get her the job in the first place and all she had to do was show up in the office and all will be well...huge mistake.

At home that day, Funke yapped on and on about how her supervisor stresses her and shoves all her work under the table. How he always complains about her relationship with her colleagues and to make the story interesting, she added how he sleeps with some of the office staff. Mama Funke smiled as she already had this reports before hand but didn't want to ruin the moment for Funke.We should teach this supervisor a lesson. How dare he insult my baby and think he will get away with it. "Mission accomplished" Funke thought to herself....maybe i can take his job but i wont be too pushy, I'll let mum decide.

Some weeks passed and nothing seemed to change in the office until a memoir started going round; people writing their feelings about other team members and superiors. Everyone stated how they felt about each other in anonymous and Funkes name popped up one too many times. She randomly put her comment and passed it on to the next person. 2 weeks later, after yelling at her mum for not helping her with the current situation in the office, she quit.

Where am i going to with this story, Funke took her job for granted because she felt she had her mum on her side plus she took the familiarity she had with her for granted. Lets link the error of familiarity to the bible now shall we....

"Then He went out from there and came to His own country, and His disciples followed Him. ² And when the Sabbath had come, He began to teach in the synagogue. And many hearing Him were astonished, saying, “Where did this Man get these things? And what wisdom is this which is given to Him, that such mighty works are performed by His hands! ³ Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him." Mark 6 vs 1-3.

Note that the people of Nazareth felt they knew Jesus, His background, His family and his upbringing so they had no respect for him. There's the common saying that a man is often not respected in his own home. However, Jesus responded

“A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.”⁵ Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them." Mark 6 vs 4&5.

Back to the story

Getting a job wasn't as easy as Funke had presumed it would be and Mama Funke had deliberately left her in the cold. She sat at home for months, her pride was beginning to wear thin. She had to apologize to her mother. Why? Because she had realized what Mama Funke was trying to achieve and all the things she had done wrong in the pretext that she could get away with them.

Mama Funke of course was not happy with the turn around of things and she knew the void in Funkes CV will not help her in the nearest future. Though she had to learn from her mistakes and apologize, Mama Funke could not watch her daughter suffer anymore. She gave her the opportunity at another job, something smaller at a friends company. Funke didn't mind. She worked hard and with the guidance of her mother, she soon prevailed and helped the company grow.

Funke was promoted to position of a CFO in this growing multi million Naira project/company. People were beginning to recognize her globally. It was starting to get to Funkes head. She felt on top of the world and indispensable. Although, she remembered how her past employment was, she felt the time and place was completely different. She wasn't working for her mum, she had basically grown this business with the owner from the scratch.


Within a time frame of ten years, Funke had grown into a big madam. You want a contract, a job in a top shot company, a chair person at your event? She was the go-to person. She was in a relationship with Mr. Olanrewaju- a loan shark though but he was a kind man. They already had plans to get married and start a family together. Life was good until Ola informed Funke of this property in Dubai everyone was buying and it would do them a lot of good if they could purchase one too. He was willing to pay half if Funke would do the same. She didn't think twice, they bought the place. Within 3 years, they had properties in south of France, US and UK.


It was brought to Mrs. Olu-Rotimi's attention that monies were due to certain contractors. Some employees were beginning to raise eyebrows at Funkes lavish spending. She knew it would soon blow up that she was spending the company's money. She walked up to her boss and explained some of the things she had done and her vision on how it would help the company. Of course her boss saw reason with her; buying properties abroad with employees gratuity didn't seem wrong at the time, besides she was buying them in the company's name.


Let me quickly tell you about Balaam, how he ignored or rather disobeyed Gods word NOT to go with the servants of Balak..... he was greedy.

"And God came unto Balaam, and said, What men are these with thee? 10 And Balaam said unto God, Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab, hath sent unto me, saying, 11 Behold, there is a people come out of Egypt, which covereth the face of the earth: come now, curse me them; peradventure I shall be able to overcome them, and drive them out. 12 And God said unto Balaam, Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed. 13 And Balaam rose up in the morning, and said unto the princes of Balak, Get you into your land: for the LORD refuseth to give me leave to go with you". (Numbers 22:9-13)

What did Balaam do instead?......

"And Balaam answered and said unto the servants of Balak, If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the word of the LORD my God, to do less or more. Now therefore, I pray you, tarry ye also here this night, that I may know what the LORD will say unto me more.And God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, If the men come to call thee, rise up, and go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do. 21 And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab. (Numbers 22:18-21)"


Back to the story with a twist


Mama Funke started to worry about how much control Ola had over her daughter. Funke had spent all she had on purchasing things for Ola (though she foolishly believed it is for both of them) and started with the company's money. Sometimes, she even had to borrow. Something had to be done! As a fervent prayer warrior, she continued to fast and pray for her child seeking a way out of this problem.

It came to her like a vision; Ola's mother set him up with wealthy young women and controlled them mystically. No one could ever suspect her and Funke wasn't the only puppet she had. It is time to break this cord and bring my daughter back.

Funke had yielded to her human nature by been angry, ambitious, Corrupt, greedy and jealous. This ultimately gave way to the enemies...i am sure no one wants to be the devils puppet...

......Life of Dana Walsh (04)

Bernard: (sipping from his cup of coffee) so tell me what you have been able to gather..
Omo: The Otto is a big name in Delta. The family runs an empire they built from scratch. In earlier years they traded in coal later expanded to quarrying and bottle manufacturing. They monopolized the market so they were major marketers in the whole county. They partnered with the Ibrus, Ogagas and Agofures; the business was massive.
Bernard: Ok......?
Omo:  They traded internationally too and that arm of the business was run by Eva, Dana's mum. China, Europe you name it.
Bernard: So if her family is so wealthy, why isn't she working for her dad and why isn't her name Otto. Is she married or she had to change her name for some weird reason? Hmmm! now that i think of it she's always silent about her family and background all together....
Omo: Married? I don't think so. Something in her past, maybe...
Bernard: so what is it?
Omo: I need more time and money, she is a very private person and getting this information will involve getting deep into her family and business.
Bernard: How much money do you need?
Omo: A million....
Bernard: That's preposterous....
Omo: Well how well do you want to know Dana. I can leave you with this or get more juicy stuff on her....
Bernard: (thinking)..............lemme get back to you?
Omo: You know how to reach me boss.

Bernard leaves for a hotel in Lakowe and places a call to his new friend Michelle

Michelle: Hi! Thought you had forgotten me so soon.
Bernard: With a body like that.....i wonder why i didn't call you immediately.
Michelle: You have a wife remember?
Bernard: Oh, are we playing saints now...
Michelle: Hmm....whats up, how you doing?
Bernard: Was wondering if we could see today. I can send my driver to come get you if you don't mind....
Michelle: Oh! Where are you?
Bernard: Lakowe. There's a new hotel...very discrete with a beautiful waterfront view. Its..
Michelle: You want me to meet you in a hotel? Do you think I'm a call girl or something! Silly old PRICK!!!
Bernard: I'm sorry, didn't mean to...
(Michelle hangs up and smiles. Lets see how much you want this piece...)
Bernard: Shit! I really have lost touch. Need to step up my game.

(The following day)

Dana: You told him what!!! Here i am thinking i can have this long weekend to myself, strategize on other important stuff and you tell me you put him off track by telling him about my family!!! What the hell were you thinking!!
Omo: Calm down Dana.
Dana: Calm down! Calm down!!! Are you crazy? or maybe you had too much Okro yesterday and you couldn't keep your tongue in your mouth!!
Omo: You really need to calm down and hear what i have to say...
Dana: Oh! you have a light bulb in your head! Lets hear those bright ideas...
Omo: (looking really worried) I just believed him knowing you had a strong background will put him off whatever he's thinking of doing.
Dana: How did you even find out i was related to the Otto's to begin with.
Omo: Its my job to find out stuff, i knew this a long time ago.
Dana: (murmuring) dang! shouldn't have trusted mother to do this one thing right!
Omo: What was that?
Dana: So what were his concerns after you told him.
Omo: He wanted to know where you got the name Walsh from and why you aren't working with your fathers company.
Dana: .........and?
Omo: that actually spiked my curiosity. Why do you want Bernard out of the way so bad when you can fight your way up the ladder in a company that probably will be willed to you anyways.
Dana: What's that saying about curiosity and cats again.....? they get fucking killed!!
Omo: I just think you should throw him a power punch to put him in his place. Hes not going to get anything interesting out of your past. I'm sure you covered it all up since even i couldn't dig up further connections with your family.
Dana: (sobbing) I just had to get away from those people. I had to go through the pain of changing my name and identity completely, it will be bad for me if anyone from my past finds out that i am alive or even in this country.
Omo: That bad?
Dana: If i had to go through the pain of changing my identity completely, you of all people should understand why there shouldn't be any leakage.
Omo: I guess i have thrown Bernard the wrong bone here.
Dana: No worries, it isn't your fault. You had no idea how this would affect me. I'll just have to deal with any issues that arises from this. I'm a fighter remember, wont allow this weigh me down.
Omo: No, let me deal with this. I gave him a story, i can turn it around. He'll probably just chew on any bone i toss at him
Dana: Probably..
Omo: I'll make it a certainty! Don't worry that pretty head of yours. I'll deal with this ok?
Dana: OK (forces a smile).


(Omo steps out to use the phone and Dana decides to call her mum - Eva Otto for a quick chat)

 

Eva: I did make it go away!

Dana: Apparently not! There are two people on my heels and i can't deal with this...not with everything going on around me now.

Eva: What exactly did they find out? That you are an Otto? Which of the Delta Otto families do they think you are from?

Dana: I don't see where this is going mum!

Eva: Trust me, this isn't going to bite you in anyway.

Dana: You still haven't convinced me on the how Ma!
Eva: I know trust isn't one of your traits but you have to believe and trust me on this one.
Dana: Oh please mum! I'll just sort this out my own way! But thank you. Love you mum.
Eva: Love you too baby.

Omo: I just set up a meeting with Bernard. He said he's somewhere far away but will meet up with me soonest. I'll make this go away ok?
Dana: Ok. Thank you.

(Omo leaves)


Dana decides to go out for some drinks at her favorite spot and she runs into Shola - Bernard's wife.

Dana: Hi Shola....
Shola: (squints trying to remember)
Dana: Its Dana, Bernard's colleague..
Shola: Oh! I am so sorry (burps) excuse me. How you doing...my apologies, i didn't recognize you.
Dana: (smells the alcohol) Not a problem madam. What you doing here?
Shola: I'm waiting for Bernard actually. We are supposed to have dinner....its our wedding anniversary today (she lies)
Dana: Really!! Congratulations.
Shola: Thank you (smiles). If you don't mind, i need to use the bathroom
Dana: No problem, I'll be at the bar. You don't mind i wait with you till Bernard comes?
Shola: Of course not. I'll join you in a bit.

Shola disappears into the bathroom and Dana gets herself a drink at the bar.

Shola: (re-joins Dana) What are you doing here though?
Dana: I come here occasionally for drinks and i get to meet new people.
Shola: It is a nice place. I've been coming here even before i met Bernard...feels like a second home (she lies again).
Dana: You can say that again.

(Shola talks on and on. Dana distracts her for a bit and slips a pill in her drink)

Shola: Ooh, i feel light headed. I think i should head on home.
Dana: You not waiting for Bernard anymore.
Shola: I'm sure he'll meet me at home. Besides I've had too much to drink already. You are bad influence..
Dana: (Laughs) Do you want me to give you a lift and probably my driver take your car home?
Shola: That's so nice of you. Thank you.

(Shola manages to get into the car before she passes out)

Dana: (humming) We are going to take a quick detour, then i can take you home....

(In a shack not too far from the bar, cameras going haywire)

Dana: Seal and deliver all the pictures to this address on Tuesday morning. All soft copies should be sent to me.
Photographer: Ok Ma'am.

(Dana puts her in a taxi and sends her home; Shola is still unconscious)

Dana: (talking to herself as she drives off) Not fair but someone has to be put under the radar....that can't be me!



More to come......

 

 

 

 

........Life of Dana Walsh (03)

Omo: (on the phone) You have to do something about your boss, he just hired me to dig up dirt on you.
Dana: (surprised) You are the PI he hired?
Omo: Apparently he is uneasy about something going on in your office and needs you out, and how do you know he has someone on you.
Dana: I guess the time is right to take him out
Omo: What do you plan on doing and you didn't answer my question?
Dana: The less you know the better but thank you for the info....what feedback are you going to give him though, he did pay you right?
Omo: Not as much as you do sweets. When do i get to have a taste of you again?
Dana: Thanks for the tip. Bye. (hangs up)

(In the office, there is an uproar as people see the results from the appraisals)

Funke: Congrats Dana, you are one or more like 4 steps away from where you want to be.
Dana: I got it?
Funke: You got it darling (giggling). If i didn't know how ambitious you can be, I'll be envious of your achievements.
Dana: You are too good a girl to be me.
Funke: My point exactly.

(Walking towards Dana's desk)

Funke: So you are going to have your corner office and a secretary.
Dana: Oh (exhales) life is going to be good. Finally separated from this cheese cakes!! That excludes you of course.
Funke: I know (smiles)....ooh, here comes your bosses boss.
Jide: (Jide walks up to them) Congratulations is in order, welcome to the big boys league. Dana, please see me in my office after you settle in, OK.
Dana: Will do.

(Jide walks away)

Funke: (sighs)
Dana: What i will do to that man behind closed doors...
Funke: My only nasty thought spoken out loud...
(They both laugh and go to their separate offices. Dana goes to see Jide a while after)

Dana: Hello Jide.
Jide: (not looking away from his computer) Come in, have a seat.
Dana: (presses her phone as she is uncomfortable)
Jide: I'll just go straight to the point. We have faith you'll do well in your position as Manager South West division, however you will have challenges since you are not so much of a people person.
Dana: Ermm....
Jide: So i have decided you will be on a 6 month trial period, if you can prove to me you can handle this position without a glitch, all will be well...
Dana: Are you saying i will be fired if i do not meet your criteria of a 'good manager'?
Jide: You are undeniably a smart girl and i am sure you will be just fine.
Dana: So i report to you directly?
Jide: You report to Tosin and I.
Dana: (under her breath) wow, this people must really want me out!
Jide: What was that?
Dana: I won't let you or this firm down (smiles).
Jide: Good! I have sent you an email with things i recommend you start your day with.
Dana: Thank you. I will see you later on sir?
Jide: Pardon?
Dana: At the party. Apparently the board made a lot of people happy so there's a party later on today at Sky Lounge.
Jide: You sure know how to change a subject!!
Dana: I just thought the air was really tight in here. I am really a people person and i can be a good leader. I am sorry if my previous supervisors didn't see it in me, but i really will not let you down.
Jide: Ok then.
Dana: So see you later today?
Jide: Will see...

(In Bernard's office)

Dana: (smiling) Hello Bernard..
Bernard: Hello
Dana: Just wanted to swing by and thank you for the opportunity to rise, heard your recommendation put me where i am today. I am truly grateful.
Bernard: (Coldly) No need to thank me. God works in mysterious ways. Just ensure you manage that seat properly while you can.
Dana: Ooh, i indeed plan to. Have a good day Ben.(walks away)
Bernard: (Places a call through to his PI)
Omo: Hello!
Bernard: (yells into the phone) Its well over a week now, tell me you have something good!!
Omo: Well, i found out she is from the Otto family and....
Bernard: So where did she get the name Walsh from? Is she married or something?
Omo: I need more time to put that piece together.
Bernard: I like what i am hearing already.
Omo: Do you know anything about the Otto family?
Bernard: Should I?
Omo: I don't know....I'll give you more information as soon as i can.
Bernard: Make that very soon please.
Omo: That's my job. (hangs up)
Jide: Chitty chatty in the office now ehn....
Bernard: (shocked to see him standing there) Of course not, just following up on some family matter.
Jide: Ok. So are you ready for our 4 O'clock
Bernard: Yes, I'll join you shortly.

(At Sky Lounge later in the day, people talking about their time with the firm and how they look forward to spending more years reaching set goals. Dana sits in the corner and has a couple of drinks. When she realized Jide wasn't going to show up, she left to have a more interesting night out.)

Bernard: I don't believe we have met, do you work with the firm.



24982: No! A friend invited me over but she had to run. My name is Michelle.
Bernard: Hello Michelle, I'm Bernard.
Michelle: I know, i already asked Folashde who you are.
Bernard: Oh, so you came with her.
Michelle: You want to talk about Folashade?
Bernard: I'm married you know (showing off his ring)
Michelle: Makes it more interesting
Bernard: (smiles)
(They talked a little while longer, exchanged numbers and Michelle leaves. Bernard walks up to Folashade)
Bernard: She's a stunner, you never said you had pretty friends!!
Folashade: Who are you referring to now?
Bernard: Michelle
Folashade: Oh yes, she seems sweet. (I'm coming, she yells out as she walks away)
Bernard: (mumbling) A catch she is. Have to save her name as something else before madame yanks my head off.....

 

More to come.........

.....Life of Dana Walsh (02)

(3 months ago in a hotel in Benin)

Dana: What exactly do you think i should do with him? I really want to hurt him bad.

Omo: You have to get your hands dirty with this one.

Dana: I play fair, this you know! But if i have to get dirty to win this, i can go the whole nine yards

Omo:  So take out a member of his family.

Dana: (rolling eyes) How does that help me kick him out of the company. You know the drill - scandal, bring to light some hidden secret or we plant something incriminating on him. I cant believe I'm the one with the ideas.

Omo: Way ahead of you darling, Kill someone in his family and pin the murder on him. He wont keep this job or get any other anywhere in this country.

Dana: and his motive?

Omo: His wife is a drunk and a public nuisance....

Dana: Who gets married to a woman like that anyways (smiles) . As much as i like this idea, i want something else. Think up something more excruciating and let me know.

Omo: You are one heck of a woman.

Dana: I know (chuckles) I'm going for a swim. You can let yourself out when you finish that (pointing at the scotch on the table).

(Goes for a swim in a private pool within the hotel. Later gets some drinks and heads back to the room)

Dana: (surprised) You still here?

Omo: Wanted to ensure you get back safe

Dana: Sure about that?

Omo: (grins) I have missed you

Dana: (Laughs out loud) Tell me what you want darling

Omo: I cant get the last time out of my head.

(Phone rings and Dana picks up)

Dana: Not your lucky day sweety, i have to be on the next flight to Lagos.

(In Lagos, Dana arrives at the hotel and walks through the service entrance headed straight to the penthouse)

Door Man: Welcome ma'am

Dana: (walks in without looking at him) Get me a drink.

Door Man: Yes ma'am

Adebode: You can at least be nice to the guy

Dana: I choose not to be (shrugs and jumps on her friend) When did you land.... Wasn't expecting you till tomorrow (with all the enthusiasm she could muster)

Adebode: I called immediately i landed. Tell me all about your day, missed how you talk passionately about stuff.

Dana: Nothing new. Though there is a rumour that they want to start off new offices in the northern and eastern parts of the country so there will be some shuffling and raising of funds.

Adebode: What kind of funds?

Dana: Its still a rumour...

Adebode: I'm here whenever you need monetary assistance...

Dana: Enough talk. Wanna get busy?

Adebode: You must have really missed me.

Dana: You have no idea......

Life of Dana Walsh (The Beginning)

Oh shut it mummy, i need to show him how it's done. It doesn't always have to be done your way you know?

 

"The Beginning".......

 

Sean: It isn't going to hurt, is it?

Dana: Just trust me Sean. You are going to love it.

Sean: Whatever you say darl, I'm going to have the best night of my life...

Dana: You don't mind the cameras now do you?

Sean: One copy and it remains with me?

Dana: As long as we watch it together first...

Sean: Sure baby....that's the plan.

 

Dana cuffs him to the bed, ties his legs far apart and blind folds him. There is honey, ice cream and hot stones on the side table......

 

(Knock! Knock!!)
 

Dana: (walks to the door) who is it?

Guest: 24982 

Dana: (smiles and opens the door) Take a seat and read the note (she whispers)
Sean: Who is that darling (he calls out from the bedroom)

Dana: Room service baby..

Sean: Come in here, i cant wait anymore....

24982: Are you sure you don't want more, this is kind of bare.

Dana: You have room to improvise, only if he can handle it though.

24982: Got ya!

 

She walks into the room and shuts the door.

 

Earlier that day........

 

Dana: (walks in the the store and straight to the dresser) You sound very much like me, that's a good thing. Did you read the contract.

24982: Yes, but i need clarity on the number of clients i have to do this with.

Dana: As many as i deem fit, is this going to be a problem?

24982: I need more money, you seem like a very adventurous person, I'm sure you'll need me to do some outstanding performances on your clients. Probably payment per individual instead of monthly.

Dana: Is it that obvious (smiles) and they are your clients not mine. Anyways, money isn't a problem as long as there is no fowl play or fall you falling in love with any of this clients. It is purely business.

24982: Got ya!

Dana: Good.

 

Act 1, Scene 2

 

(Meeting in the office about fund raising and target allocation)

 

Bernard: I trust you all will out perform the other teams, we cannot afford to come second place. We all know competition is what Wale had in his mind when he put us in teams.

Shade: ...but why does our target have to be so high?

Dana: (coughs)

Bernard: Do you have something to say Dana?

Dana: Nope (continues pressing her phone).

Folashade: I think this target should further be broken down, as in per individual, so it can be easier to appraise each persons performance.

 

(Dana's phone rings)

 

Dana: Yes, please (pause) ooh, that's fantastic (pause) I'll come over in 20 minutes. 

Bernard: Who says this meeting will be over in 20 minutes?

Dana: (standing up) I just raised two thirds of our target, so i believe this meeting ends for me now.

 

(The team looks at her in shock)

 

Dana: Can i go now? (sarcastic voice) please...

Bernard: of course, no problem.

 

(Dana walks out of the room avoiding glances from her colleagues)


 (2 months later in an appraisal meeting)

 

Jide: I believe Bernard's team did well in the past exercise, exceeded their target beyond my wildest imagination. They actually tripled the set target.

Bernard: We have some outstanding team members and they indeed showed team spirit.

Jide: Are you sure about that? With Dana on your team?

Bernard: I would say i was shocked myself but she did raise the highest.

Jide: I guess she is due for a managerial position then..

Bernard: (surprised) Managerial??? That means we will be on the same level...

Tosin: You did just say she raised the highest and the incentive for that is a managerial post.

Bernard: So what happens to me as the leader of the team? besides she doesn't have leadership skills.

Jide: Of course you will get your commission..... and we will deal with her leadership skills after(sends a mail via Blackberry to Tosin)

Tosin: That will be all Mr. Bernard, you are excused.

Bernard: but....

Tosin: (picks up the receiver to call the other unit head) you have something else to say?

Bernard: no, not at all. Have a good day.
 

(Back in Bernard's office)
 

Bernard: (on the phone) i need a background check on Dana (pause) Walsh, yes....its Dana Walsh!

Receiver: Information from birth, school, boyfriends, enemies and all?

Bernard: Yes, everything.

Receiver: (long pause)

Bernard: Money is not a problem, i just need this information as soon as possible.

Receiver: OK! will call you by the end of the week.
 

(In Dana's office)
 

Dana: (drops phone and smiles) its going to be a good day (exhales).

Bernard's secretary: He just called a PI to do a background check on you.

Dana: Really? Do you know who this PI is?

Secretary: Not yet, but i can find out if you want.

Dana: Leave that to me. Thank you.

Secretary: Can i have those pictures now. You promised me.

Dana: will you trust me enough if i give you a copy. I have several copies darling so it won't make any sense. Just continue with my bidding and we'll all live happily as one big fam.

Secretary: You promise not to publish?

Dana: I swear on my life

 

 

 

 

More to come......