Chapter 7: Free as a Bird
Author: Siobhan O'Shaughnessy
last update Last Updated: 2024-10-29 19:42:56

Beatrice's worries had melted away, and she found herself contemplating Professor Bam's strange plea to stay away from his family. This enigmatic statement had left her with questions, but she had decided to set those concerns aside as she awaited her meeting with James later in the day.

At 4 p.m., James arrived, and as he caught sight of Beatrice, he was struck by her radiant presence. She was swaying from side to side, her jet-black hair cascading like a waterfall, and a joyous smile gracing her face. He couldn't help but be captivated by her, realizing that she was truly a heart-stopper, a game-changer in his world, if only the complications surrounding them could be averted.

Impulsively, Beatrice ran up to him, and James caught her in mid-air, their eyes locking in a shared moment of affection. He gently planted a kiss on her forehead, his voice filled with warm playfulness. "I can tell your exam must have been a breeze," he remarked, his eyes reflecting his admiration.

Beatrice beamed, her own voice filled with enthusiasm. "It was, and I can't wait to tell you all about it. But there's something else I want to discuss. Professor Bam, the one who failed me, said something strange. He asked me to tell 'them' to stay away from his family. I have no idea what it means, but it's been on my mind."

James furrowed his brow, intrigued by this unexpected revelation. "That is indeed peculiar. We should definitely keep an eye on it," he mused. "But for now, let's focus on your success and the wonderful evening ahead. I'm here to celebrate your triumph and spend time with you."

As they continued to walk and talk, Beatrice's heart felt light, and James was there to offer the support and companionship she had been craving.

Beatrice's bond with her mother was a testament to the enduring strength of a mother-daughter relationship. As the second child in a family of six, she often found herself in the middle, a position that might be seen as having no distinct role. She wasn't the eldest, and she wasn't the baby of the family; she wasn't a son, and she wasn't a child with a clearly defined place. However, in the eyes of her mother, she was a treasure, a child whose charm and qualities transcended birth order. Beatrice's mother adored her for her radiant beauty, her innate kindness, and her selflessness that radiated through her actions and words.

The house came alive with a unique energy whenever Beatrice was around, and her infectious wit and sense of humor created an atmosphere of perpetual joy. But above all, Beatrice was her mother's confidante and closest friend.

Their bond was more than just that of mother and daughter; it was a deep and unbreakable friendship, a connection that transcended the roles society had assigned to them. Whenever Beatrice's mother spoke about her daughter, her eyes would light up with an unparalleled pride and affection that knew no bounds. Their conversations were a beautiful dance of shared secrets, dreams, and laughter, and no matter the challenges that life presented, they faced them together with unwavering support and love. Beatrice was, in every sense, the heart and soul of her family, and in her mother's eyes, she was a source of boundless pride and immeasurable joy.

Beatrice couldn't wait to share the day's events with her mother. As she dialed her mother's number and heard her voice on the other end, the anticipation in her voice was palpable. "Mom, you won't believe what happened today," she began, her excitement evident.

She recounted her encounter with Professor Bam at the exam hall and how he had suddenly approached her to rectify her failing grade. Her voice carried a mixture of confusion and intrigue as she shared the professor's cryptic comment about staying away from his family. Her mother listened attentively, absorbing every detail.

The bond between Beatrice and her mother was unbreakable, and she valued these conversations where she could share her world with the woman who meant so much to her. Her mother's voice was a comforting presence as she reassured Beatrice that the professor's apology was a positive turn of events.

However, as Beatrice neared the end of her recounting, she couldn't help but add a playful comment. "I'll give you all the gist later, including the little buzz in my ear."

On the other end of the line, James had been listening to their conversation with a smile, savoring the heartwarming mother-daughter connection. But when he heard Beatrice's words, his eyes widened, and he couldn't quite believe his ears. Did she just refer to him as a "little buzz" to her mother?

Beatrice's playful comment had caught James off guard, but he couldn't help but laugh. He had yet to meet the woman who meant so much to Beatrice, and now he had a new nickname to live up to. It was a lighthearted moment that added a touch of humor to their day, and, for James, it only endeared Beatrice to him even more.

As the conversation with her mother came to a close, Beatrice felt a sense of contentment. She had shared the day's unexpected turn of events with her confidante, and their connection had remained as strong as ever. For James, he had not only gained insight into the unique relationship between Beatrice and her mother but had also discovered a playful, endearing side of the woman who had captured his heart in just 2 days.

Beatrice couldn't contain her excitement, and her fingers danced across her phone's keyboard to send a text to her dear friend, Yvonne. The message read, "Free as a bird! I can't wait to see you. On a date with James now, but the countdown to two days begins."

Yvonne's phone chimed with the incoming message, and as she read Beatrice's words, a mixture of joy, anxiety, and caution washed over her. She had been a loyal friend to Beatrice for years and was thrilled that her friend was finally experiencing moments of happiness. However, Yvonne also couldn't shake the concern that had been building up ever since Beatrice had embarked on this journey with James.

Her reply was filled with warmth and excitement but tinged with an underlying caution. "Oh, Beatrice, that's amazing news! I'm so happy for you, and I can't wait to catch up. But please, just be careful, okay? You know that James has a reputation. I want you to enjoy every moment, but always stay safe. If anything feels off, don't hesitate to reach out. Your happiness means the world to me."

Yvonne's message was a reflection of her genuine concern for her friend. She had seen Beatrice navigate the challenges life had thrown her way, and now that she had found a source of joy, Yvonne was determined to be there for her every step of the way. She knew that Beatrice deserved nothing but the best, and she hoped that this newfound connection with James would bring her the happiness she had long yearned for.

Beatrice turned to James and said, “I’m going back home in 2 days”.

Related Chapters

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   Chapter 8: Unspoken Understanding

    James, the campus rogue with a reputation for being a ladies' man, found himself in uncharted territory the moment Beatrice entered his life. Their first encounter had been nothing short of electrifying, and as he got to know her, he realized that his whole agenda had taken an unexpected turn. James was not one to back down from a challenge, and when he decided to set his sights on Beatrice, he initially saw her as just another conquest, a passing fancy in the ever-revolving carousel of relationships. His friends were well aware of his intentions, as he had made no secret of his amorous pursuits in the past. Yet, for some inexplicable reason, he found himself taking a different approach with Beatrice. As he spent time with her, he couldn't help but be captivated by her innocence, her youthful outlook on life, and her gentle disposition. It was as if she had cast a spell on him, making him want to protect her, even though his initial inclination had been to consume her like he had do

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   Chapter 9: Shane's Revelation

    The day following her emotional encounter with James, Beatrice found herself grappling with a jumble of emotions. She had been adamant about not wanting a relationship during her first two years of college, intending to focus on her studies instead. Yet James had entered her life like a whirlwind, making her question her own resolutions. What was it about him that kept pulling at her thoughts? In an attempt to clear her mind, Beatrice decided to take a trip to town and do some shopping. She also wanted to stock up on some of the famous local snacks that Ife City was known for. It was her way of grounding herself and temporarily shifting her focus away from the enigmatic James. As she strolled through the mall, she was suddenly taken by surprise when she ran into Shane, a fellow student she had briefly met at the Eagles's lackluster party. Her initial reaction was to pretend she hadn't seen him, but Shane, with his confident demeanor, approached her without hesitation. "Do I not des

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   Chapter 10: Dark Night Unravelled

    As Shane continued to reveal more about the events of the lackluster party and his feelings for Beatrice, the atmosphere grew heavy with tension. Beatrice had been taken aback by the revelations about James and Professor Bam, and now she was faced with Shane's confession.He leaned in, his voice low and sincere. "I left the party that night because I couldn't bear to watch James monopolize your company. Beatrice, I like you a lot, and I've been holding back because he made the first move. But let me be clear: there will come a time when you and James will have your differences. It's just a matter of when, not if. And when that happens, I'll be here waiting." Beatrice's eyes narrowed as she listened to Shane's words. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. His admission was not one of genuine affection but rather a calculated plan to step in when James was no longer in the picture."You're willing to just pick up where he left off?" Beatrice retorted, her voice laced with disgust.

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   Chapter 11: Resolution

    Chapter 11: Resolution Despite the undeniable attraction and connection she felt with James, she was acutely aware of the world she had stumbled into – a world filled with secrecy, rivalry, and potentially dangerous agendas. Beatrice had always been independent and cautious, and the prospect of being drawn into a malevolent organization was something she was determined to avoid. The bus arrived, and Beatrice boarded with a heavy heart and a cloud of uncertainty hanging over her. She was resolved to seek the truth and understand the depths of the enigma she had become a part of. The story of the Eagles and their rogue captain was over as far as she was concerned. She does not need any of this drama or darkness, she decided. She was going to take her own action and she was doing it now. Beatrice sat in her room, a mixture of emotions coursing through her veins. The events of the past few days had left her in a state of confusion. On one hand, there was the intrigue and allure of Jam

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   Chapter 12: The Real Motivation

    James's flat was a far cry from what Beatrice had expected. It was devoid of the usual trappings she associated with a notorious campus figure like him. Instead, the room was simple and sparsely furnished, with only the essentials. As they entered the room, Beatrice couldn't help but look around, taking in the minimalism. She found herself feeling even more curious and apprehensive about what James was about to reveal. What could be so important that he had brought her here? James gestured for Beatrice to take a seat on the plain sofa, and he sat across from her, his eyes never leaving hers. His typically roguish demeanor seemed to soften, replaced by a more serious and contemplative expression. "Beatrice," he began, his voice steady but tinged with an unusual vulnerability, "I want to answer your question about my motivation. You see, my life has been far from ordinary. The legends that surround me are both a curse and a shield. They've allowed me to navigate the underground of th

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   Chapter 13: Solace at Home

    Yvonne eagerly anticipated Beatrice's return to Lagos, and she couldn't help but wonder what stories her friend would bring back from her time at the university. She had missed Beatrice's company and the lively conversations they shared. As she strolled along the sun-drenched streets of Lagos, Yvonne's thoughts were filled with excitement about the impending reunion. She knew that Beatrice had embarked on a new journey by choosing the university in Ife. Beatrice wanted to be far from home and become an independent person in her own right, away from parental and family influences. Having to go back to school for this resit alone was depressing and a lonely time for her. Now that it is all over and she got tangled with the Eagles! How on earth did her lil sis cum friend manage that? James Keegan of all people. Yvonne was eager to hear all about it, both the highs and lows of her experiences. While Yvonne couldn't help but feel a tinge of worry for her friend's well-being, she knew

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   Chapter 14: The Girly Catch-Up

    Beatrice's choice of outfit was both bold and elegant, reflecting her determination to face the world with confidence. The bright fuchsia color of her dress complemented her smooth dark skin and emphasized her curves. Her updo and subtle makeup added a touch of sophistication to her look. She felt empowered and ready to reconnect with her friend. As she left her house, she exchanged a warm farewell with her mom, who couldn't help but smile at her daughter's resilience. Beatrice booked a cab and, with anticipation building, sent Yvonne a text to confirm her imminent arrival. Before heading to the diner, she decided to make a quick stop at the supermarket to pick up chocolates, knowing that these sweet treats could always lift her spirits. Beatrice chose a box of Ferrero Rocher chocolates for her friend Yvonne, a thoughtful gesture to celebrate their reunion. She also indulged herself with a box of Lindt chocolates, a small luxury that she enjoyed savoring. The smooth,

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   Chapter 15: Incessant Calls

    James found himself unable to immediately call Beatrice after she left. He was deeply conflicted, torn between his protective instincts and his more carnal desires. He couldn't comprehend why he felt this way about her, and he struggled with the notion that she was a forbidden territory due to his inexplicable urge to shield her. Part of him wanted to blame her for being so captivating and alluring, while another part recognized her clear aversion to becoming entangled with him. He had never experienced such inner turmoil before. He prided himself on being a law unto himself, but this situation had him questioning everything. As he grappled with his feelings, his phone incessantly rang and buzzed throughout the day. It was mainly the Eagles trying to get in touch, but every time the phone rang, he secretly hoped it was Beatrice. However, he understood that she had every right to be disappointed in him. The internal conflict within James had him on edge, and he knew he needed

Latest Chapter

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   

    Chapter 60: To Say or Not to Say

    The soft glow of the phone illuminated James's face as he read Shandie's text. "Hey babes, I am missing you too and can do with a bear hug now," he replied, a tender smile playing on his lips. Shandie, always eager to bridge the distance that physical separation imposed, suggested, "How about I come down tomorrow?"A moment of hesitation lingered in James's response. Shandie, sensing his reservation, quickly retracted her offer, her intuition attuned to the nuances of his emotions. James, apologetic for the brief pause, explained, "I want to be sure I would have enough time to make your visit worthwhile." Yet, Shandie, perceptive to James's inner workings, knew there was more on his mind."Babe," she said gently, "you sure you don't have something bothering you?" James, caught in the crosscurrents of his thoughts, seized the moment. "I actually do. You know me too well," he admitted, the weight of the unspoken revelation pressing on his conscience."What is it?" Shandie inquired, her

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   

    Chapter 59: Decisions and Confusion

    As James drove away from Gloria's house, a cloud of contemplation hung over him like a heavy fog. Returning to the flat, he found Jide anxiously awaiting news, curiosity etched across his face like an open book.James, in need of a moment to gather his thoughts, prepared a cup of Irish coffee and settled into a chair with his head leaned back. The weight of responsibility weighed heavily on him, especially considering the potential implications of Gloria carrying his child. The baby, an innocent party in this unfolding drama, was a consequence of either negligence or fate, and James was resolute in acknowledging and addressing his responsibilities.Sipping his coffee, he reflected on the mess that had unfolded, contemplating the complexities of the situation. He recognized the gravity of the matter at hand; if Gloria was indeed carrying his child, he was prepared to take responsibility. However, he wasn't willing to be manipulated or coerced by an unknown woman claimin

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   

    Chapter 58: It’s a spade not a gardening tool

    As Gloria led Yomi into the small living room of the flat, she gestured for him to take a seat on the sofa. To her surprise, Yomi waited for her to have her seat first, and instead of settling on the sofa as expected, he chose the wooden coffee table, positioning himself to face her. The subtle nuances of this action didn't escape Gloria's notice; there was an unspoken dynamic at play. "How are you?" Yomi inquired, a smirk playing on his face. Gloria, attempting to project an air of calm, replied, "Fine," almost feeling a surprising sense of ease. It seemed as though the encounter might be more straightforward than she had initially thought. Yomi, maintaining his enigmatic expression, questioned, "What is your name again?" Gloria, momentarily puzzled, deduced that he likely sought her full name. "Gloria Bright," she answered. "So, I heard things that were unclear to me from Jide," Yomi began, an air of mystery surrounding his words. "You went to Jide because

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   

    Chapter 57: Heart Burns

    The call connected, and Yomi's familiar voice came through the phone. Obviously, since he had gotten the number from Jide earlier, it was saved on his phone. As Yomi greeted her with a simple "hello," Gloria found herself lost for words. Uncertain of how to broach the delicate subject, she stumbled over her words, attempting to speak but only managing to cough.Yomi, on the other end of the line, picked up on Gloria's struggle. With a tone that carried a mix of nonchalance and amusement, he said, "Gloria, when you finish coughing, you can call me back because apparently I am a baby daddy." A chuckle followed his words. "Or better still, come over here when you are ready to talk, and let's thrash this out."Gloria, still coughing and taken aback by the unexpected turn of events, couldn't get a word in as Yomi continued to speak. Before she could gather herself, he dropped the call, leaving her in a state of shock. The sudden revelation that Yomi not only knew her number

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   

    Chapter 56: Call Now

    Gloria pushed the door of her flat open, greeted by the concerned face of Kemi. "There has been this ringing sensation in my ears all morning," she sighed, a hint of worry etched across her face.Kemi, ever the empathetic friend, quizzically inquired, "What kind of ringing sensation? Like a telephone call or a bell ringing?"Gloria paused, searching for the right words. "Well, more like someone is talking about me somewhere. And honestly, I shouldn't be surprised."Kemi arched an eyebrow, concern deepening. "Gloria, you need to take better care of yourself. You look like an old wife whose husband ran away with the maid. What happened?"With a resigned expression, Gloria confessed, "Anxiety is what it's called, and I don't know if you fully grasp what it means. Ever since I told Jide about the pregnancy, I haven't heard anything from him. He just said he would discuss it with Yomi, but I have yet to hear anything. It's been one whole week today. I'm worrie

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   

    Chapter 55: Pivoting Threat

    James burst into laughter, a genuine, almost incredulous sound that echoed through the room. Jide, who had been harboring concern, couldn't help but be taken aback by the sudden outburst. "Jide, my friend, are you serious? You've been worried about this?" James chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. "Come on, man, we go way back. You know me better than that." Jide, still trying to gauge James's sincerity, questioned, "You're telling me you had nothing to do with Gloria? She's claiming you're the father, James." James leaned back, still amused, and started recounting the encounters. "Alright, let me set the record straight. Yes, I've been with Gloria once, and yeah, I was careful. The other time, she claims we were together. I woke up, and she was in my room, but nothing had happened. I don't even remember going out with her the night before she showed up." He continued, a smirk playing on his lips, "Tell her, categorically, to dream on. If she thinks she can tie me down with som

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   

    Chapter 54: The Dreaded Chat

    Yomi walked into the shared flat in London, his heart still dancing in the euphoria of his rekindled relationship with Shandie. The warmth of the past week lingered in his smile, and he felt a renewed sense of joy. Little did he know, the atmosphere was about to shatter."Welcome back to reality, Romeo," Jide remarked with a sly grin. Yomi chuckled, saying, "I didn't realize how much I missed that girl, I swear." He paused, reflecting on the past. "But that's all history. She's back for keeps now."Jide, eyebrow raised, regarded him quizzically. "Is she? Seriously?" he questioned skeptically. "Well, time will tell."Confused by Jide's cryptic response, James pressed for clarity. "What do you mean by that?" he asked, a note of urgency in his voice. "Why are you talking like this, Jide? Spill it, man. What's going on?"Jide, sensing the gravity of the situation, advised James to take a seat. Uncertain but intrigued, James complied and settled in, bracing hi

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   

    Chapter 53: Promenade

    As they go for a long walk, catching up on old times, the air is filled with a palpable sense of nostalgia and unspoken emotions. Delight radiates from their faces, grateful to have found each other again after all these years. The pavement beneath their feet echoes with the rhythm of their shared history, a melody of memories that once seemed lost. They stroll back to studio 39, the place where James parked his car, the tangible connection to the present moment. The city around them buzzes with life, but in their bubble of conversation, time seems to slow. James, with a glint of sincerity in his eyes, suggests taking Shandie back home. However, there's a subtle twist in the plan—it's not to her home but to his. A smile plays on Shandie's lips, a silent agreement forming between them. As they drive through the city streets, the glow of streetlights paints fleeting images on their faces, emphasizing the shared laughter and exchanged stories. The car slows to a stop in

  • The Con Captain's Nightmare   

    Chapter 52: Elephant in the Room

    Jide stepped out into the vibrant atmosphere of the bar, scanning the room for Yomi. Spotting him at the general's table, Jide observed a relaxed and contented Yomi. He was surrounded by a group of people with laughter echoing in the air. As Jide approached, he couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness for his friend, who seemed blissfully unaware of the impending paternity issue that loomed over him. The weight of the secret burdened Yomi's thoughts, creating a stark contrast to the carefree ambiance of the bar. Drawing nearer to the general's table, Jide's understanding deepened as he noticed the source of Yomi's joy. Shandie, Yomi's ex-girlfriend of many years, graced the gathering with her presence. She exuded an undeniable allure, radiating confidence and beauty. The two of them appeared at ease, sharing laughter without any apparent reservations and relishing the camaraderie of the moment. Yomi's fixation on Shandie, however, raised concerns in Jide's mind. The familiar narra