Wedding Of My Ex, The first ChrisEffe story, is running now…
Aaron Ansah-Agyeman’s
WEDDING OF MY EX
A ChrisEffe Bliss
CHRIS BAWA is a young talented fashion designer. The fashion company he works for is sending him to South Africa as their CEO. A top businessman in South Africa is impressed with Chris’ designs and has decided to partner the Company. The businessman is getting married in Takoradi, and Chris is given an invitation card to represent his Company at the Wedding.
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But then, he sees that the girl who’s going to marry the businessman is EFFE KEDEM, a girl who had been Chris’ fiancé, a girl Chris had loved with all his heart, a girl who had broken his heart, a girl who had ignited fierce passions in the heart of Chris!
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Chris can’t say no!
He has to be there!
Suddenly, his happy life takes a stunned shock, and his heart kick-starts out of its comfort zone and spirals into a massive cycle as old passions of volcanic proportions scream back into life!
Thrills. Passion. Betrayal. Enjoy the first CHRISEFFE ROMANCE series in all its explosive twists and turns…
EPISODE 1
Location: CHRIS’ OFFICE,
A large modern office, brightly lit, replete with modern art and office equipment.
CHRIS BAWA is sitting on an elegant swivel chair behind a huge oak desk. He is dressed in an excellently tailored black suit and crisp white shirt.
His necktie is loosened at the neck. The office door opens and a smartly-dressed elderly woman walks in. She is holding a slim black file, and her face splits into a happy grin when she sees Chris.
She is EVELYN BOAMPONG, 55 years old, and she is the CEO of Slash Designs. Chris gets to his feet and a smile of welcome crosses his handsome face.
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CHRIS
Did the Board like the designs?
EVELYN
(Drops the file on the desk, and then she walks up to him and hugs him gently)
Liked? That’s an understatement. It blew them off their feet, Chris. We are using your designs exclusively for the African Fashion Show in South Africa this September!
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CHRIS
Exclusively? That’s a bit deep, Mrs. Boampong. Gabriel isn’t going to like this. He is the Head Designer after all, and I think his designs are decent too.
EVELYN
Decent is the right word, Chris. Gabby is good, we all know that, and we certainly appreciate his dedication to Slash Designs over the years, but we are going with the best for the South African show, and the best is your FURY collection.
She drops into a chair and crosses her legs.
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EVELYN
You’ve not reached that level of greatness yet, my dear friend. But you will get there. The Board has recognized your potential, and that’s why we’re going with you. I know how concerned you are, and I know old Gabby has been giving you the cold shoulder lately. That was bound to happen. Old lions die hard, and that’s that. To break the ice, the Board has decided to let Gabby hold the lines in Ghana. We want to send you to South Africa in September. You’re going to open the Slash Designs lines over there, and you’re going to send it International.
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She stands up, reaches across and pushes the black file towards him.
EVELYN
You can’t please everybody in this industry, Chris. You’re young, and you’re going places. Ride with the tide, boy. I’ll see you tomorrow.
She heads for the door as he opens the file. His voice halts her just as she reaches for the handle. He is holding up an elaborately-designed golden envelope.
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CHRIS
You left this in the file.
EVELYN
Oh, sorry. Almost forgot. That’s a wedding invitation. Mr. Rupert Henderson, our South African partner, is getting married on Saturday in Takoradi. The Chairman wants you to be present.
CHRIS
Me? No, Eve. I mean …I’m taking Elaine to Akosombo on Saturday. I’ve been putting it off for decades. There’s a favourite aunt she wants to visit and …
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EVELYN
Old aunts can wait, Chris. Rupert is more than a partner to us. The man practically owns the South African business market. He has links, he has contacts, he has political clout and he is probably the wealthiest man in Africa. He is immensely pleased with your designs. This is the golden chance, boy. You get into his good books and your doorway to fame and glory is wide open. That’s why the Chairman wants you to attend this wedding.
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CHRIS
I guess I have no choice then.
EVELYN
No, you don’t, my boy.
CHRIS
This Rupert, he looks quite old, right? The guy’s nudging close to seventy, so what’s all this about? He’s South African, so why’s he marrying in Ghana anyway?
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EVELYN
Actually he will be sixty-five this Saturday. He’s marrying on his birthday, incidentally. The lady is a Ghanaian, and that’s why he’s marrying here. From what I hear she’s quite young too, far younger than he is. She’s around thirty, I guess.
CHRIS
Thirty years? I’ll be damned! She’s young enough to be his grand-daughter, for Christ’s sake! She’s probably doing this for his money. Women and money!
EVELYN
Naughty, incorrigible Chris. Do not judge, my boy. It may be true love, you know. Get your act together and make sure you are at the wedding on Saturday. The Chairman and I will leave on Wednesday. We will expect you there. Your Mom is in Takoradi, right? You can take the opportunity to see her. You can leave on Thursday, if you wish. But let me know tomorrow. Good night, Chris.
She walks out and closes the door.
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CHRIS:
(hesitates a moment, then opens the envelope. He sniffs it. He shakes his head, smiling, and he looks very impressed.)
Boy, boy, boy! This old geezer sure knows how to flaunt money, man! The envelope is perfumed!
He pulls the card half-way out from the envelope, but just then his mobile phone rings. He snatches it up and puts it to his ear. The envelope is still clutched in his right hand.
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CHRIS
Hello, my dearest Angel. Worried about me, right?
He listens for a while, and then a smile crosses his face.
CHRIS
Sorry, Love. I had to wait for the Board Meeting to close. Something good just happened, my love. Seems to me that you’re looking at the new CEO of Slash Designs, South Africa Lounge!
He listens for a while again, and then bursts out laughing happily.
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CHRIS
You keep it iced, my love. I am coming right home, and we sure are going to celebrate!
He cuts off the phone. Puts the wedding invitation on his swivel chair and quickly packs his laptop into its bag.
He heads for the door with his laptop case slung across his shoulder. At the door he pauses, remembering the envelope, and then goes back for it.
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He walks through the huge glass doors of Slash Designs. He walks to the car park and heads for a sleek shiny black Nissan Pathfinder.
Chris puts his laptop bag on the passenger seat and flings the wedding card on top of the bag.
The envelopes lands, and the card slides further out of it, and now the face of a young woman can be seen clearly on the light-golden invitation card.
A security man beckons him to reverse, and Chris slowly manoeuvres the car out.
He blasts his horn to the security man, and drives out of the huge gates of Slash Designs.
EPISODE 2
Chris is driving down the fast lane of the 37 Military Road heading towards Airport junction.
He is listening to music from the CD player, and nodding his head in time with the tune. His phone rings and he glances over to his right.
His phone is lying on the wedding card, which has now slid further out of its envelope.
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The picture on the card depicts a beautiful girl holding hands with an elderly man, framed in a heart. Chris picks the call.
CHRIS
What the dilly dilly dilly yoo, Steve. I am driving, okay? Let me call you back, bro. Yeah, yeah. Safe, rasta!
He cuts the call, still smiling, and leans over to put the phone back on the wedding card.
He sees the picture on the card and he groans hoarsely, passionately, his face absolutely shocked.
CHRIS
JESUS H. CHRIST!
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He draws a shuddering breath and rubs his forehead. He looks really disturbed.
His face filled with incredulity, he looks at the card again. He is close to a bus stop.
He swings in past the waiting passengers and parks at the extreme end of the bus stop. Trembling, he reaches up and turns on the twin inside lights.
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He reaches for the card and pulls it out of the envelope. Chris looks at the woman on the card. She is a fair woman, oval-faced, slim, and extremely beautiful.
CHRIS
EFFE KEDEM! OH, DEAR SWEET JESUS! IT IS EFFE!
His body begins to tremble, and his breathing is laboured. Slowly his eyes fall on the card again. He sees the words:
RUPERT AND EFFE, A CELEBRATION OF LOVE.
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CHRIS
YOU DAMN BITCH! EFFE
He leans his head back and closes his eyes. Sighing heavily, he bites his lower lip, and a deep groan that sounds almost like a sob blasts through his throat.
He remembers that first time he met Effe Kedem…
It had been on the Winneba-Accra road.
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Chris is driving a dark-coloured Toyota Camry. He has just left Winneba junction and he is approaching the next town.
He sees a lot of people along the road. Some are frantically waving to him to slow down. Chris is in a bend, and he slows down considerably.
First he sees the green branches lying along the road, and shortly afterwards he comes across a motor accident.
The people are staring down a deep ravine, and Chris sees a badly mangled bus lying half across the street, and the burning remains of another car down in the ravine along the road.
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Chris pulls over, stopping several metres ahead of the parked cars. He gets out and trots to the edge of the ravine.
The car, tyres pointing upwards, is burning now. Chris listens to a young man narrating how a bus belonging to the ORPHANAGE OF HOPE has collided with another bus.
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No one is dead, and the wounded have already been conveyed to the Winneba Government Hospital.
Chris then gets into his car, starts up and drives away. Suddenly he senses a movement behind him and looks into his driving mirror and finds himself looking at the blackened face of somebody sitting in his backseat.
Chris shouts with shock. He drives off the road unto the shoulder, his eyes still fixed on the driving mirror.
He brakes hard and swivels in his seat. It is a girl. She is wearing a badly stained designed dress of some sort, and after a moment he sees that it is printed with the round logo of the ORPHANAGE OF HOPE.
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Her face is grimy, just like her skin. She stares at him with fear on her face, continually wringing her hands.
CHRIS
Who the hell are you? And how did you get into my car?
She holds up her hands towards him, and tears suddenly forms in her eyes. Her voice is soft and plaintive.
GIRL
Please, please sir, don’t let him take me back, please!
CHRIS
Were you in the Orphanage bus?
GIRL
Yes, yes, please! When the cars collided I fell out. I was lying in the bushes when you parked your car, and climbed in when you got out!
CHRIS
What’s your name?
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GIRL
Effe. Effe Kedem. Please, please, I beg of you, don’t let me go back to that awful place…to that bad man…please!
CHRIS
Listen, girl, I don’t want to get involved with you, okay? I am sending you to the first police station I see, okay?
Her whole body shakes with violent panic, and her huge eyes look very terrified.
EFFE
Nooooo! Please don’t send me back to him…don’t send me back to him!
CHRIS
Okay, okay, belt it down, lady. Hey, shut up!
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She stops screaming.
CHRIS
Who are you talking about? Who don’t you want to go back to?
EFFE
Mr. Afful.
Chris waits, but she says nothing more.
CHRIS
This Mr. Afful, is he at the Orphanage?
EFFE
Yes, He is the Manager. He does bad things to me…very bad things!
CHRIS
Listen, Effe. I’m going to Accra. I can’t take you with me. That will be kidnapping and can get me into serious trouble with the law. Is there somebody you know who I can call for you?
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EFFE
I have Auntie Joyce’s number. Please if you’re going to Accra take me with you. I’ll get down at Accra.
CHRIS
Is Auntie Joyce in Accra?
EFFE
No. She’s in Winneba. She also works at our orphanage. She is good.
CHRIS
Aren’t you a bit too big to be in an orphanage? Do you work there?
EFFE
No. I grew up there. i was left in a basket in front of the orphanage when I was a baby. It seems my mother, whoever she is, didn’t want me.
CHRIS
(His expression melting to one of sympathy.) I see. Mr. Afful, the Manager, he rapes you?
EFFE
Auntie Joyce has not allowed him to…yet! But he does bad things to me…with his fingers…
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Chris sits silently for a while; lips pursed, and regards her with troubled eyes.
CHRIS
Listen, Effe. Because of what you have told me, I will take you to Accra…
EFFE
Oh, thank you, thank you!
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CHRIS
When we get to Accra, I will contact Auntie Joyce, and I’ll let her come for you. That’s all I can do for you now, ok?
Effe lies down in the seat. He drives on. After a time he looks back at her. She is sleeping now, both hands clasped under her head, legs bent innocently.
When they get to Kasoa he stops and buys a T-Shirt and jeans for her. He also buys some Waakye and bottled water too.
She wakes up suddenly and starts scre
aming, her hands slapping at unseen attackers.
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CHRIS
It is alright, Effe. It is alright. You’re safe!
She looks at him, and for a moment she does not recognize him. After a moment she calms down and then she nods once.
He parks off the road again and turns to her.
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CHRIS
There’s a police barrier ahead, Effe. They might be aware of the accident, and seeing you in my car, dressed in the Orphanage’s clothes, will make them suspicious and bring problems. You understand?
She looks terrified again, but he holds up a hand to reassure her.
CHRIS
It is okay, alright? I bought you some clothes. I will get out and allow you to change. There’s a towel too. Clean up your face a bit, and then eat. Hopefully, we can get through.
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She nods, and he gets out. He stands at the back of the car, leaning against the boot.
CHRIS
What the hell am I doing? What am I getting myself into?
He passes through the police barrier safely, and they get to Accra. Chris enters a boutique and buys her some dresses.
He finds a small hotel and pays for a night, and he sends Effe in. Her face is beginning to get terrified again when they enter the room, but he smiles at her reassuringly.
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CHRIS
Don’t worry, girl. I will not do anything to you.
EFFE
(nodding)
You are my guardian angel. Auntie Joyce told me that someday I will find a guardian angel who is willing to help me out.
CHRIS
I’m no angel, girl. I will call Auntie Joyce, she will come for you…and that’s that, okay?
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He orders some more food and asks her to take a bath first. He gives her the three dresses he has bought for her.
Her face lights up with pure innocent joy, and he smiles. She selects one of the dresses, a knee-length white thing, simple but nice, and disappears into the bathroom.
He is sitting at the desk, making a list of the things he will do the next day, when the bathroom door opens and she comes in.
She is wearing the white dress. Her hair is tied back in a ponytail. She stops and looks at him shyly.
Chris stares. The change from dirty grimy girl to the stunning beauty he is looking at is so great that for a moment he is lost for words. Her beauty is quite extraordinary.
CHRIS
You’re beautiful.
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She blushes furiously. A waiter wheels in their food and they have a meal.
Later she falls asleep in the far corner against the wall, curled up on one side, covering herself completely except for her head.
She does not use the pillows, but her hands are folded under her head. Chris stands beside the bed, hands in his pockets, and stare at her.
EPISODE 3
Chris suddenly bolts forward. His phone, on the passenger seat, is ringing.
He looks at his phone. The image on it is a portrait of a beautiful young lady, and the name below it reads ANGEL.
Her real name is ELAINE BOATENG. She is 28 years old. She is Chris’ fiancĂ©e. Chris picks the call.
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CHRIS
Hello, Angel.
ELAINE
My love, it is getting late. Traffic demons again?
CHRIS
Yeah, but I’m at Airport junction. I will be there soon.
ELAINE
What’s wrong, love? You don’t sound so funky. Horror day again?
CHRIS
Nah, just a bit bushed out, I guess.
ELAINE
Hurry up and come home, my love. I’m going to rub you down real slow and show you a piece of heaven.
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CHRIS
Hmm, yeah. I think I will like that, Angel. Love it when you’re in this kinda mood, sugar pie!
ELAINE
I’m all spread out and waiting, Superman. Just fly and come and rescue me! I’m all heated up here, love.
CHRIS
Can’t wait to sing to your body, Angel. See you soon. Bye.
He looks at the wedding card, and stares at the face of Effe Kedem. Suddenly he looks angry.
CHRIS
Leave me alone, Effe Kedem! Stay out of my life, devil!
He begins to drive again. Suddenly he starts hammering the steering-wheel with his fist.
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CHRIS
Leave me the hell alone, Effe!
He snatches up his mobile phone again, activates the call list, selects a name, and dials.
A male voice answers. The voice belongs to STEVE HOLLISON, aged 38. He is Chris’ best friend.
STEVE
What the dilly yoo? Are you at the fuel station?
CHRIS
Nah, man. I’m driving home. Elly’s waiting, so I gotta rush.
STEVE
Eh, charlie, your own good oo! Say hi to her for me, ok?
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CHRIS
Belt up and listen, you damn parrot. Something bad just happened. You won’t believe the shit you’re about to hear, man. Effe is getting married!
STEVE
You’re not, by any stretch of the imagination, talking about Effe Kedem, are you?
CHRIS
Do I know any other damn Effes? Of course it is her, the greatest love of my life, the girl who broke my heart so badly that I almost committed suicide. Same girl, dude, same hell. And I’ve been invited to her hell of a wedding. She’s marrying some asshole from South Africa, some damn…
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STEVE
Hey, hey, hey, man, slow down. Simmer down, rasta. Take it from the top. What happened?
CHRIS
What didn’t happen, dude? You just wouldn’t believe how small the world is! My bosses just invited me to Effe’s wedding!
STEVE
You telling me you’ve been in touch with Effe all this time?
CHRIS
Hell no! Haven’t heard from or seen her for four years! This is just one of those damn twists of fate! Our business partner from South Africa decides to marry a Ghanaian girl, and he chooses no other girl than my girlfriend, can you believe that?
STEVE
Not your girlfriend, dude. Not even your ex-girlfriend. That girl was death to you, man. But talk about crazy coincidences, and this surely beats any I’ve ever heard! Say, bro, what…
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There are two sharp beeps in Chris’ ear, and then silence.
CHRIS
Hello, Steve, you there?
He looks at the phone, and redials. A mechanical voice tells him that Steve cannot be reached.
Steve’s phone has gone off. Chris swears, puts down the phone, and continues to drive. He rubs his forehead occasionally in obvious stress.
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CHRIS
Oh, Effe! What’re you doing to me now? Why now, oh Lord, why now?
CHRIS’ LUXURY APARTMENT IN HAATSO – NIGHT
Chris drives into a very beautiful compound. The house is flat and very nicely designed.
There is a white Nissan Rogue already parked in front of the house. It belongs to his girlfriend, Elaine Boateng.
He picks up the wedding card, looks at it for a while, and then he opens the glove compartment and throws it in.
He picks up his laptop and gets out of the car, and then he enters the house. The living-room is semi-dark, and he quickly doubles his steps as he nears bedroom door.
He pushes the door open silently. The bedroom is huge, has a four-poster bed. Gentle and soft music comes from the speakers.
It is an alluring and romantic setting. She is lying on the bed, propped up against the headboard, wearing a very short sky-blue nightdress. Her legs are slightly apart.
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He looks at her, and then he drops his laptop and approaches the bed. A happy smile plays around her lips as she raises herself up to meet his kiss.
They kiss passionately, and her hands push his coat away and frantically undo his tie. He holds her desperately, kissing her hard.
There is a flash as he recalls Effe’s face. Elaine reaches inside his shirt and caresses his chest.
She unzips his trousers, and her hand reaches in. Elaine stops suddenly even as he tries hard to kiss her.
She puts a hand on his chest and gently pushes him back. Her eyes search his face.
ELAINE
What’s up, Tiger? The engine room is cold.
CHRIS
Just a bit bushed, I guess. Let me take a shower. That might do the trick.
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ELAINE
Do that, Sweetness. I’m here, and I’m all yours.
Chris shirks his clothes and walks into the bathroom in his boxers. He leans against the closed door and exhales rapidly.
CHRIS
Effe, I will not let you do this to me, you damn bitch!
He turns on the shower. Cold water splashes over him, and he let it fall on him for a long time.
He emerges from the bathroom naked. Elaine watches him, and a mischievous look passes across her lovely face.
Their kiss is fervent, their desire strong. They moan as they make love. Later, he falls asleep.
Elaine lies beside him, her face happy as she lazily watches the muted television.
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Suddenly a soft dinging sound comes through. It is Chris’ mobile phone’s message tone. She takes his phone out of its trouser clip and glances at the screen.
It reads: NEW MESSAGE FROM STEVE.
ELAINE
What’re you bad boys up to?
She inputs Chris’ password, opens and reads the message from Steve.
SORRY. HAD LOW BATT AND DE FON WENT OFF. WE’LL TALK LATER BUT U KANT GO 2 EFFE’S WEDDING. OPT OUT CUZ IT’LL BRNG BAD ENDINZ. SEE YA LATER.
Elaine freezes.
She reads the text message again, and then she glances at the sleeping Chris.
She shakes him awake.
EPISODE 4
Chris sits up groggily. He speaks sleepily.
CHRIS
What’s wrong, Honey pie?
ELAINE
What’s going on between you and Effe now?
CHRIS
What’re you talking about?
ELAINE
Stop it, Chris. Please, don’t start that with me!
She hands him the phone.
Silently he reads Steve’s message, and his jaw tightens. He sits up higher and sighs deeply.
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CHRIS
Something happened today, Angel. I told you about a Mr. Rupert Henderson, our South African bankroller. Remember?
ELAINE
I remember. You told me he’s the brain behind the Slash Designs South Africa lounge.
CHRIS
As I told you, I’ll be CEO of the South African lounge. The decision was taken today. Henderson’s been basing in Takoradi most of the time when he’s in Ghana. He’s some relatives there, I gather. Well, he is going to get married this Saturday. Evelyn told me today, and gave me the invitation card. He is going to marry Effe.
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ELAINE
(stunned)
What? What’re you telling me, Chris? You told me the man is an old man. He’s going to marry Effe? And you didn’t know about it? You really expect me to believe that?
CHRIS
No one at Slash knows Effe and I were once engaged! I don’t think even Mr. Henderson knows! It is just one of those crazy coincidences!
ELAINE
And you were not going to tell me about this, were you?
CHRIS
Of course I was going to tell you. I was just waiting for the right moment.
ELAINE
And the invitation card? Where is it? Don’t tell me you forgot it in the office, Chris. I wouldn’t believe that.
CHRIS
I left it in the car.
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ELAINE
In the car or stashed away in the glove compartment?
CHRIS
Come on, Honey. Don’t get riled up over this. It is crazy, sure, but it has happened. It doesn’t need to change anything. Effe is dead to me. You have given me back my life, and I am totally committed to you, so let’s concentrate on what’s important.
ELAINE:
(wagging a forefinger at him.)
Don’t tell me it hasn’t changed anything! You put that card in the glove compartment, didn’t you? You never intended to tell me, at least, not today! And when you came in and kissed me your damn dick was colder than ice, Chris. That has never happened before! Of course this has touched something in you! You still care for that girl, don’t you?
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CHRIS
Now quit it, Elly. Fine, I would be lying if I say I wasn’t affected. I was shocked, yes, just as you were, but that’s it. Effe is getting married, fine, let her. You and I are getting married at the end of the year, remember? So that’s it. Let it go.
She gets up and sits on the sofa and folds her arms across her breasts.
She looks at him with venom. And she is breathing hard, barely able to control her anger.
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ELAINE
You’re not going to that wedding, Chris. Saturday, our plans remain the same. We’re going to Akosombo to visit my Aunt.
CHRIS
John Tamakloe wants me to go, Elly. He is the Chairman of the Board, and he thinks this will cement the relationship between Slash Designs and Rupert Henderson. They are using my designs exclusively for the South African Fashion Show in September, love, and Henderson is setting up the platform for me. I can’t say no to Tamakloe.
ELAINE
Four years ago Effe treated you like trash. You were so hurt you lost even your will to live. I stayed by your side, loved you, and helped you heal. That bitch tore your life to shreds, and made your heart all mushy like minced meat. I stayed with you and nurtured you back to life, Chris. Now, if I mean SOMETHING to you, find a good excuse and stay away from that damn wedding!
Her hands are balled into angry fists, and there is fire in her gaze as she looks at his face. He approaches her and speaks gently.
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CHRIS
Stop working yourself up over nothing, Honey. You’re the one I love, you know it.
ELAINE
Don’t touch me now, Chris, please don’t.
CHRIS
Elly, you’re letting that witch affect our lives again. We vowed to move out of her web four years ago, didn’t we? Please, don’t let us bleed our hearts for her. She is not worth it.
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ELAINE
If Effe is getting married to a rich old bugger, well, that’s no surprise because she has always been a shameless gold digger, a slut who’ll go to any lengths to ensure that she has her hands on money. But you’re right, she doesn’t matter anymore, love. What matters is that you don’t go to that wedding.
CHRIS
Fine. I’ll find something to tell Evelyn tomorrow. Maybe they might want to let Gabriel go instead.
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ELAINE
This is no coincidence. I will not be surprised if Effe somehow found out that Rupert Henderson is related to your work, and wormed herself into his arms. Now she marries Rupert, she goes to South Africa with him. You’re made the CEO of Slash Designs South Africa, and of course you’ll be there with her. How convenient!
CHRIS
Now, don’t go that way, Elly. It is purely coincidental. Why, if I go to South Africa you’ll be there with me, as my wife! You know me, Elly. If Effe and I are alone in the same room and she happens to be the only girl in the world, nothing will happen. You know just how much I detest her! She can never draw me into her dark shadows again.
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ELAINE
(standing up and facing him. Her face is cold and earnest.)
You’re not going to South Africa anymore, Chris. You don’t have to let them push you around like this. You told me yourself, darling, they’re using your designs exclusively. They need you, and not the other way round. Maybe this is the right moment for you to leave Slash, darling. You’ve made your name already, and you can make millions just by going on your own, representing Africa in the fashion world, baby. This is the time to break free!
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CHRIS
We’ve gone over this before, love. I need more experience. I need more exposure and we agreed that South Africa would be the best stage for me. Evelyn took me in at a time in my life when I was useless. She had faith in me, and took great care to teach me the finer details of my talent. She has been good to me, and I can’t betray her now.
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ELAINE
It is your decision, darling. But if I mean anything to you, then stay away from that wedding. If you attend Effe’s wedding, our relationship will be redefined. Just bear that in mind.
She lies on the bed, far away near the wall, and turns her back to him. She does not want him anywhere near her.
He stares at the bed. He sighs softly and lies down beside her. Chris feels her relaxing, and he draws her closer, running his palm down toward her breast.
She turns towards him, and kisses him deeply. For a very brief moment as his lips descends, it is not her face he sees.
He sees Effe ‘s face.
EPISODE 5
Chris enters the well-furnished lobby of the Slash Designs building. He enters the lift.
There is already one other person inside. He is GABRIEL BLANKSON, 44 years old.
He is short and squat with a powerful compact body. Gabriel is dressed in a smart cream suit. He is Head Designer of Slash Designs. Chris smiles in greeting.
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CHRIS
Good morning, Gabby.
GABRIEL
Morning. You didn’t get my memo yesterday, did you?
CHRIS
Oh, dear Jesus, forgive me, Gabby! I got it. You wanted to see me at four, right? It slipped right out of my mind. You see Evelyn brought in the Cameroonian figures and needed an immediate analysis. So sorry, Gabby. Can we make it today?
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GABRIEL
Today will be fine if you can find some time off your busy schedule, or if our gods release you.
The elevator stops, and the heavy doors ding open. Both men step out unto a well-lit corridor.
Gabriel begins to walk away but Chris reaches out and holds his arm.
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CHRIS
Listen, Gabby. It was a genuine mistake on my part. I forgot all about it, and I’m sorry. I’ve been telling you I personally hate these cold wars between us, and I do my best to be civil, but sometimes you make it so hard for me.
GABRIEL
We are not friends, Chris, and we shall never be friends. Maybe it is through no fault of yours, but I personally think the stink that permeates these halls are not as rosy as some of you may think.
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CHRIS
Gabby, chill it. There is no need to start that kind of battle.
GABRIEL
Battle? Get real, Chris. It has been a war all this while. I think it is downright incredible that only your designs are going to be used for the South African shit, forgive my language. Personally I can’t congratulate you because that kind of shit sticks in a man’s claw. But what can mere humans like us do? Â Go to South Africa, Chris, but here’s one heart which will not miss you.
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CHRIS
Give it up, Gabby. So much bitterness bottled up inside you is going to eat you all up. C’mon man, we can ride this together if you’ll just allow yourself to defreeze.
Gabriel turns and begins to walk away. He speaks over his shoulder.
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GABRIEL
See you around, Chris. And if you can make the time, let’s go over the quotes today.
Chris stares after him, shocked. After a moment he turns and walks in the opposite direction.
He walks along a red-carpeted floor towards a glass door marked Evelyn Boampong, CEO.
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Chris pushes the office door open and enters. The office is huge and has all the accoutrements of a modern office.
Evelyn Boampong is dressed in a fetching cream skirt suit.
EVELYN
Good morning, Chris. How’re you this morning?
Chris takes her hand and shakes it gently.
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EVELYN
You don’t look so happy, my darling boy. What’s the matter? Come, sit down, and tell me what’s ailing you.
Chris sighs and sits down on one of the chairs facing the desk.
EVELYN
The first prints of your FURY collection will roll off this evening, Chris. Already the feedback from the factory heads is astounding. You’re reaching for the skies with this one, boy.
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CHRIS
So soon? Well, that is something!
EVELYN
You did it, Chris. This is what will cut your teeth internationally, and we’re all so very happy for you.
CHRIS
Evelyn, there’s something you must do for me, please.
EVELYN
Mmhhm? Let’s hear it, Chris.
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CHRIS
It is about Mr. Rupert Henderson’s wedding, Evelyn. I am afraid I can’t attend. You just have to find a way to get me out of it!
Evelyn shakes her head at him, alarmed. Her eyes send him a desperate message, and she casts furtive glances at the sitting-room area of the office.
A huge, booming voice speaks, startling Chris. It is the voice of MR. JOHN J. TAMAKLOE.
He is the owner of Slash Designs, and Chairman of the Board. He is 62 years old, tall, slim, elegant and silver-haired.
TAMAKLOE
You’re not getting out of anything, Chris. You’re going with us. Get that into your thick skull.
Chris swivels round in his seat. Mr. Tamakloe sits up straight. He had been at the sitting-room area, and Chris had not seen him when he had entered.
CHRIS
Mr. Tamakloe, please, I have very genuine reasons why I can’t go to that wedding!
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TAMAKLOE
The fact that Rupert’s bride-to-be was once your fiancee doesn’t mean you can’t attend the wedding. Hasn’t that relationship been dead for ages now?
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EVELYN
(shocked)
What, John? Did you just say Chris and this girl – ah, what’s her name – Effe, yes, once dated?
TAMAKLOE
Yes, you heard right. Chris here used to date Effe, Rupert’s bride-to-be. They had something thick and fancy going on, from what I heard from Rupert. Chris dumped the girl, and now she’s getting married. So what’s your beef, boy?
Evelyn Boampong stares first at her boss, then at Chris, lost for words.
CHRIS
Boss, how…
TAMAKLOE
How did I know? Effe told Rupert, and of course he told me.
He gets up and approaches the desk.
TAMAKLOE
Listen, Chris. Life is not as complicated as you young folks want to make it look like, okay? Evidently it didn’t work out between you and Effe, though I find that to be a pity. Quite by accident she finds out you’re on the invited list, and she told Rupert all about her life with you. It is over, and it is done with. Rupert holds no grudges, and believe me neither does Effe. I don’t know what happened, but the dear lady has moved on. So, if that’s the reason why you want to bail out, forget it. Unless there’s some other reason you want to tell me about.
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CHRIS
I guess that’s the only reason really, boss
TAMAKLOE
The South African Minister for Trade will be at the wedding, Chris. Also, the CEO of Black House Creations, the biggest name in African fashion, as you well know, will be there. Rupert has conveniently arranged a meeting between them and Slash Designs, and we will showcase your FURY collection. So you simply can’t afford to miss this opportunity. Let me assure you that Effe bears you no grudge, if that’s causing the cold feet. She is a remarkable person. She speaks highly of you.
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CHRIS
I don’t know what that little devil told you, but if there’s any grudge bearing, it certainly isn’t coming from her!
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TAMAKLOE
I don’t want to hear what passed under the bridge, my boy. Just be there on Saturday. Eve, I’ve to go now. I’m meeting the Minister of Tourism. Will catch up with you later.
Evelyn still looks shocked. She speaks softly.
EVELYN
Okay, John. We’ll talk later.
Mr. Tamakloe squeezes Chris’ shoulder and then he walks out.
Evelyn gets up and goes to the bar. She mixes two drinks and comes back to the desk. She hands a tall glass to Chris.
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EVELYN
Here, take this. I think you need it.
Chris takes the drink. His hand is not steady, and it shakes slightly.
EVELYN
I must say this is quite complicated. I can’t imagine, by the craziest stretch of the imagination, how your ex ended up with Mr. Henderson. Obviously, you’re greatly affected. Believe me, if I had known about this earlier, I could’ve done something about it. I certainly would’ve prevented this seemingly ugly situation!
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CHRIS
It is crazy, really. But well, there are things we can’t control, right? I’ll have to get it over and done with.
EVELYN
Four years ago there was a look about you. You were really hurting, and though you never told me anything, I got the distinct impression that your heart was badly broken. Can I safely guess that you were running from this Effe?
CHRIS
Yes. Effe was the reason. I’ll tell you this, Boss, this heart that is beating in my chest has never cherished any girl as much as it did Effe. I can tell you too, now, that although it might never beat as hard as it did for any other girl, it is now filled with only the bitterest kind of gall for Effe!
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EVELYN
From what I hear about Effe from John, and from the little I’ve heard from Rupert, I find it very hard to believe that we’re talking about the same girl here, Chris.
Chris laughs gently, and then he wags a finger at Evelyn.
CHRIS
That’s her devil-given talent, Evelyn. That girl has the looks of an angel, but beneath that cover lurks the most vicious devil you’ve ever encountered. She makes everybody fall at her feet, fawning and lapping, and then when she bares those fangs, even the luxurious depths of hell does not compare to the torture of her sick soul!
EVELYN
Woah, Chris. Stop scaring me. Rupert is a dear good man, and quite frankly I’m very fond of him, and if you keep on that way about the girl he’s going to marry, you’re going to drive me really crazy with concern for him. I shudder to think he would be saddled with the type of girl you’re describing to me.
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CHRIS
Effe Kedem. Nice name, isn’t it? She is even a more beautiful person. Seen her before?
EVELYN
Nah. Just the picture on the back of the wedding card. She looks very beautiful.
CHRIS
Beautiful? She’s breath-taking. She’s so beautiful I used to wonder how God ever decided to make something as perfect as that. I mean, that girl looks at you with those eyes and your heart just flips into your mouth and chokes you. I met her under bizarre circumstances, though.
There was an accident on the Accra-Winneba road, and that’s when I had the most regrettable opportunity of meeting that foul devil…
The clock on the wall shows that some minutes have passed. Chris has finished telling Evelyn how he had met Effe.
NB: This is a completed story. Use the next episode button at the end of each episode to read along.
To Be Continued…
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What happened between Chris and Effe kwraaaaa? ?
Why is Chris talking about Effe with such bitterness??? ??!
Another interesting story from the 3As, my number 1