Chadera Okaphor was already late. Her delivery bike moved through the busy road as fast as she could manage.

The food box behind her shook each time she entered a rough part of the road, and her phone kept vibrating on the holder in front of her.

The customer had already called twice. “Madame, I am coming. Please, just give me a few minutes.”

That morning, she had woken up with only one thought in her mind. Make money, save money, pay debt.

She was still thinking of the debt when she saw the old man. I forgot to bring cash.

My grandson is on his way. Give me just one bread. He will pay you when he comes.

Old man, leave my front. Do I look like I’m running charity here? I am not begging.

He will pay. Shh. If you do not have money, move away. You people will always say somebody is coming.

If you do not have money, move away, you shameless old man. Papa, are you okay?

I am fine, my daughter. I am fine. Why did you push him? Is he your father?

That is not the point. He is old. You do not treat an elderly man like that because of bread.

He wanted to take bread without paying. He told you his grandson was coming. Then let the grandson come and buy it.

Jadera brought out the little cash she had kept for fuel and emergencies. It was not much.

She had planned to manage it till evening. How much is the bread? 1,000 naira.

Cheda knew he had increased the price because she challenged him. Give him two. Two?

Yes. Give him two. Here, papa. Please eat something and sit down first. You look weak.

My daughter. Many people passed here. They saw me. Nobody stopped. Something in his words cut deep.

Perhaps because her own mother had once been just as helpless. Are you hurt anywhere?

No, my daughter. You caught me on time. Do you want me to call your grandson?

He’s coming. He’s always coming late. Then he should learn to come early. What is your name?

My name is Chidedera. Chidedera. Good name. You have a good heart. You will make a very good wife for my grandson.

Papa, please. I am not thinking about marriage. Why? Because marriage does not pay debt.

I just want to survive. I want to find a stable job and pay what I owe.

You are too young to carry this kind of worry. Life does not ask age before giving people load.

Papa, I have to go. I am already late for a delivery. Take this. This is my phone number.

If you need anything, call me. Even if I cannot help much, I can at least come.

Chida, God will not forget you. Amen. Please sit somewhere and eat. A driver came down first.

Two security men followed. Then a tall young man stepped out of the second car.

He was Azoka Ezani. At 28, Azoka carried himself like a man who was used to being obeyed.

His face was calm, almost cold, and his eyes missed very little. He was the head of Ezani Group, one of the strongest private companies in the country.

But only a few people knew what he looked like. Papa, I’m sorry. The meeting took longer than I expected.

You came late. I said I am sorry. You came late and allowed your wife to escape.

My what? Your wife. Papa, did you hit your head? Papa, are you sure you’re not confused?

Do not talk nonsense. I met a girl today, a very good girl. She bought bread for me when this heartless man pushed me.

He pushed you? Leave him. Chida already fought for me. Chideda, that is her name.

Chidera, she has respect. She has kindness. She did not know me, but she helped me.

Not like those girls who smile only when they see money. Papa, please. I am not marrying anybody because she bought bread for you.

Let us go home. I will find that girl again. Papa, I said I will find her again.

You are being dramatic and you are being foolish. That is why you are still single.

Azoka did not answer. There was no winning with Papa Ezani when marriage entered the matter.

Hello, my daughter. Is this Chidedera? Yes. Who is this? It is me. The old man you bought bread for.

I need your help. Papa, are you okay? My chest is tight. My eyes are somehow I do not know what is happening.

Where are you? I will send the address now. Can you come? Yes, papa. Send it.

I’m coming. But I move because people are hungry and they are waiting. At that moment, Papa Ezani was sitting in a large sitting room looking very healthy.

Papa, this is wrong. I am old. Anything can happen. You are not sick. Are you a doctor?

You called that girl here by lying. I called her here to test her. She bought you bread.

Is that not enough? No. I want to know if she will come when she thinks I have nothing to give her.

She will not come. Why? To her, you are just a poor old man who could not buy bread.

She will not waste her time. Let us see. He did not like this game.

He had work waiting for him, documents to sign, people to meet, but his grandfather was the only person who could drag him into such foolishness and still make him stay.

Papa. Papa, are you okay? Where is the pain? Should I call an ambulance? Can you stand?

Easy, my child. I can manage. No, we need help now. My daughter, calm down.

I feel better now that you are here. Azoka stared. For a moment, nobody spoke.

Then Shidera narrowed her eyes. Papa, were you really sick? I was uncomfortable. You sounded like you were dying.

I missed you, Papa. That is not fair. I left work and rushed here. I am sorry, my daughter, but look, you came.

That means your heart is as good as I thought. Azoka watched her. She was upset, but she still checked the old man’s face, touched his arm, and made sure he was not shaking.

She had come without asking what she would gain. For the first time that day, Azoka wondered if he had judged her too quickly.

Cheda, this is my grandson, Azokaani. Chedara turned and looked at him properly for the first time.

Good afternoon. Good afternoon. He is 28, handsome, responsible, and ready for marriage. Papa. Papa, please.

What? Am I lying? I am sorry. My grandfather enjoys making decisions for people. You two should talk.

You will make a fine couple. Papa, I already told you I am not ready for marriage.

Nonsense, my dear. You will be. And I have no plan to marry a stranger.

Young people talk too much. Papa, this is not funny. It is not funny. It is serious.

If you marry into this family, you will not suffer. I will give you houses, money, full support, anything you need.

My grandfather exaggerates. Please do not mind him. Who is exaggerating? He likes to imagine we are rich.

The car outside is borrowed. These clothes are nothing special. I do not even have a serious job yet.

He even used his pension to pay for this big house so that we can please you and appear rich.

But we are actually poor and struggling. He rented this big house for just 24 hours.

There is nothing wrong with that. I also live in a rented room. I ride delivery because I have no better option.

So I cannot look down on anybody. Azoka did not know what to say. Most people changed once they heard money was not involved.

Their smiles became smaller. Their voices became colder. But Chadera’s face remained the same. “But Grandpa, you should not have spent your pension like that.

I don’t care about big houses and cars.” Did you hear that? A woman with sense and Florence.

Hello, Auntie Chedera. I hope you have my money ready. Auntie, I told you you’re working on it.

Your mother’s hospital debt is still hanging on my neck. But auntie, the amount’s rising.

I owe you 2 million. Please stop increasing it. 2 million. You think money stays the same?

Interest has entered. Stress has entered. Auntie, please, I beg you, don’t increase it. Auntie, my mother was your sister.

And did I kill her? If you do not bring my money soon, I will throw away all her things.

The boxes, the clothes, the pictures, everything. I am tired of keeping rubbish in my house.

Please do not touch my mother’s things. Then pay me. I will pay. I promise.

Her eyes were wet, but she wiped them quickly before turning back. Azoka had heard enough to understand only one thing.

Money. There it was again. He looked at her and felt his earlier suspicion return.

Chidera, is everything okay? Yes, Papa. Just finally matter. Marry her. Papa, you heard me.

Papa, please. I cannot marry someone because you feel sorry for me. And you should understand something.

Marriage to me will not make your life easier. I am broke. No stable job, no comfort, only hardship.

If I agree, I have one condition. Say it. My daughter, I need 2 million naira.

Azoka’s jaw tightened. So this is what she really wants. Chidera quickly added, it is not free money.

I will pay it back. I just need to save my mother’s belongings. My aunt will throw them away if I do not pay her.

Is that all? Papa, 2 million is nothing for a good granddaughter-in-law. I’ll make the call now, Papa.

Yes, I understand. Papa, send it now. The full 2 million. Chedara watched him, confused.

For a man Azoka claimed was not rich. Papa spoke like someone used to being obeyed.

Azoka noticed her expression. My grandfather knows many people. That is his only par. I’ll handle it.

Yes. Good. The money will be sent. Now, let us go. Go where? To the marriage registry.

Today? Yes. Today. Papa, you cannot be serious. I am very serious. People do not just marry like this.

You people already agreed. I did not agree. You kept quiet. That is agreement. Papa, this is too sudden.

My daughter, life itself is sudden. You helped me this morning without planning it. Let me help you now without wasting time.

Cedara looked at Azoka. He looked angry but also trapped. She should have walked away.

She knew that. No sensible woman married a stranger in one afternoon, but her mother’s belongings flashed in her mind.

Aunt Florence would really throw them away. If I do this, I will repay the money.

You will not need to. I will. Azoka watched her. He still did not trust her, but there was something in her voice that did not sound greedy.

It sounded desperate. And desperation, he knew, could make people do strange things. The marriage registry was quiet when they arrived.

Papa had already made calls. A lawyer was waiting. Two of Papa’s workers stood as witnesses.

Sheera did not know how everything had happened so fast, but she was too overwhelmed to ask too many questions.

Are you sure? Yes. My children, this is a good day. My daughter, from today, you are family.

Thank you, papa. You treat her well. If I hear that you made her cry, I will deal with you myself.

Yes, papa. I am not joking. I know. You will live well together. Hey, we will try, Papa.

Not try. You will. The moment his car left, the air changed. Let us be clear.

I am listening. This marriage happened because of my grandfather. Do not imagine it is real.

I know. I do not know you. You do not know me. We are not husband and wife in any real sense.

Fine. What are you doing? Asking for your number. Why? We just signed a marriage certificate.

Even if it is not real to you, it is still a legal marriage. If papa asks me for your number and I do not have it.

What will I say? Thank you. What is this for the 2 million? You wrote me an IOU?

Yes. You think this changes anything? No, but I want you to know I’m not taking advantage of you.

You asked for money before agreeing to marry me. I asked because I was desperate, not because I wanted your money.

My mother died after suffering too much. The few things she left behind are with my aunt.

If I lose them, I lose the last part of her I can hold. And there is her hospital bills too.

I know you were forced into this. I know you did not choose me. I will pay every narabat back.

With what job? I have an interview soon. A design company. I study jewelry design.

Until then, I will continue deliveries. I will pay you little by little. Do you expect me to believe that?

No, I cannot force you to believe me. But I know myself. Please take care of papa.

He should not stand under the sun like that again. Azoka looked at her. Even after everything, she was still thinking about the old man.

Azoka remained outside the registry holding the IOU in his hand. He wanted to throw it away.

He wanted to tell himself she was like the others, but the paper stayed in his hand and for the first time since his grandfather mentioned her name, Azoka Ezani was not completely sure he was right about Chidara.

Boss, the car is ready. Two men came down at once. The first was Henry Bassie, his personal assistant.

Where is Papa? He has gone home, sir. He said his work for today is complete.

Boss, should I say congratulations? I only mean you left home single this morning. My grandfather forced it.

Of course, sir. Say what you want to say. Nothing, sir. I value my job.

Cheda must not know who I am. You mean she must not know you are the CEO of Azani Group?

Yes. Azani Group was not a small name. It was a multi-billion dollar company with businesses in real estate, hotels, design, and oil services.

Why, sir? Because I do not trust her yet. She asked for 2 million before agreeing to marry me.

She also promised to pay back. That does not mean she is honest. So, what should she know?

That I walk around the company. If she asks, I am a driver. A driver?

Is there a problem? No, sir. I am only trying to imagine you collecting salary as a driver.

Understood, sir. The next morning, Chedera arrived at Soremy Designs with her portfolio in her hand.

Smi Designs was a small design company, but it was now full of people because Ezani Group had just bought it.

I heard the CEO of his Yani group is young and very rich. They said he’s handsome and not married.

Are you also here to meet the CEO? No, I am here for the job.

You are not interested. I am married. I just need work. I have debts to pay.

When Chidera entered the waiting room, she saw someone she knew too well. Angela Okoro.

Angela had been her coursemate in the university. She came from a comfortable family and always looked down on Chidera.

Chidara Okafur. So it is true. I heard you now deliver food. Work is work.

From being the best jewelry designer in school to carrying food for people. Life is funny.

Your last job was food delivery. Yes, ma. But I studied jewelry design. My work is in my portfolio.

This is a design company, not a food company. Please judge me by my work, not by poverty.

These designs are almost the same. Ma, this papa Chidera stole my work. Angela, you know that is a lie.

You copied me in school. Now you are doing it again. If the work is yours, explain the concept.

It is a modern jewelry piece. It shows beauty and class. That is all. The necklace was inspired by my late mother’s beads.

The three curved lines stand for patience, dignity, and courage. The broken pattern shows loss, but the gold lines trace the story.

That is why both pieces have the same half moon shape. Angela comes highly recommended.

Her uncle is connected to the board. So, you will not even check the truth.

Are you questioning us? Shider leave before you embarrass yourself more. What is going on there?

Sir, two applicants submitted similar designs. They said one copied the other. Get me the files.

They could not see this. It is obvious, sir. One was a complete piece of work.

The other was a poor copy. Azoka walked toward the interview room, but before entering, he saw Chidera inside.

He stopped. If she saw everyone treating him as the CEO, his secret would end.

He turned to Henry. You are the boss, sir. Now, boss is aoka. I work as his driver sometimes.

Driver? Henry cleared his throat and acted serious. What happened here, sir? This girl tried to cling Angela’s design as her own.

Azoka stood behind him and spoke low enough for only Henry to hear. Why did you ignore the errors in Angela’s design?

Sir, this work is copied. The measurements are wrong. The concept is empty. Chidera’s design is complete.

Sir, my uncle is on the board. That is not talent. Mrs. Cole and Mr.

Dele, you are both demoted pending review. Angela Okoro, you are disqualified from this interview.

What? M Okafo, your work is excellent. Sermy Designs will offer you the job. Thank you, sir.

Thank you. I did nothing. You helped me. Your work helped you. If it was not good, nobody would have hired you.

Still, thank you. Azoka did not answer. He walked away before her smile could affect him more than it already had.

Where are you going? To my room. Which room? My room in my house. You are married now.

Go and live with your wife. Grandpa, you cannot be serious. That marriage was your plan.

And now it is your life. I will stay in a hotel. Try it and I will call Chidera tonight and tell her who you are.

Azoka knew his grandfather would do it. So later that night, he stood in front of Chidera’s small one room apartment with a small bag in his hand.

What happened? I need a place to stay. Your landlord threw you out. Something like that.

You could not pay rent. Come in. He thought of his mansion and almost laughed at his own life.

It is small, but it is safe. Most of the time. Most of the time.

Relax. I am joking. What happened? The circuit breaker again. Were you scared? I was not scared.

You stood like somebody saw a ghost. I am not hungry. Eat before your stomach disgraces you more.

This is good. Better than what our cook makes. Your cook. My friend’s sister. She cooks sometimes.

I can cook, sew, fix small things, change tires, and survive almost any problem. Who taught you all that?

Life. My mother died when I was young. My father betrayed her before she died.

Do not look at me like that. I am not helpless. I am a life expert.

Life expert. Where are you going? To work at night. Yes. You are not going alone.

You want to follow me? You that was afraid of darkness. I was not afraid.

Fine. Come. That night, Azoka saw her life. You are late. The food is cold.

I am very sorry, sir. This is unacceptable. I want a refund. I understand, sir.

I’ll process that. Stop this delivery work. Will you feed me? I will support you.

By the way, you that cannot pay rent, please support yourself first. As they neared her street, a car brushed Chedara’s bike.

She managed to stop without falling. Are you hurt? I am fine. The car stopped.

A young man came out angrily. He was Tundai Briggs, Angela’s boyfriend. Well, well, chided again.

Look at the scratch you made. You hit us with with your delivery bike, please.

Be careful how you speak. Oh, the driver. He is my husband. You married a driver?

There is nothing wrong with honest work. Honest work, but he is wearing fake designer suit and fake watch.

That watch looks like the rare one people said belongs to the Ezani CEO. Please, can Ezanian CEO be standing here with her?

It is fake. Pay 500,000 for the scratch. We are not paying for your lie.

Where will you get that kind of money? Is Azani Group? My boss advanced my salary as a driver.

Yes. Azoka sent one short message to Henry. Not long after, Tundai drove off proudly.

You damaged my car. This will cost 2 million. 2 million? This is your fault.

My fault? You were driving. Bring the money you just collected. It is your car.

You pay. You collected the money. Don’t play games with me. I am not paying.

It is your responsibility. Cheddar watched them and laughed. For once, Angela had tasted her own medicine.

Azoka looked at Chidura’s face and smiled quietly. He liked seeing her happy. Your ankle.

It is nothing. You do not have to suffer alone anymore. Sit down. His words touched her more than she wanted.

There are two kinds of people I hate. Which people? People who bully others and people who lie.

My father lied to my mother for years. I watched what he did to her.

So if you ever lie to me, Azoka, I will divorce you. Azoka lowered his eyes.

He said nothing because the man treating Chidara’s ankle so gently was already lying about almost everything.

The next morning, he slipped out before she fully woke. Do not come near this area with the company car again.

Good morning, sir. Why? Just don’t. I am serious. I know, but may I ask why?

If Chidera sees you picking me up here, she may start asking questions. Many women would give up anything just to marry into a Zani group.

Yet, you hide from the one who is already your wife. Chidera is different. Yes, sir.

You left early. I had something to do. I made you lunch. For me? Yes.

Buying food outside is expensive and some is not even safe. Why are you looking like nobody has ever packed food for you before?

Thank you. No one ever had. You are welcome. Eat it, please. Do not form big man and waste it.

All right. Let me give you a right to work. Thank you. Call me when you close.

I can go by myself. I said call me. Okay, husband. The word entered his chest before he could stop it.

Angela, what are you doing here? Working. You were disqualified. Interviews are for people without power.

My uncle is on the board. One call and I am back. You will finish these before closing.

These are not mine. They are now. I am not doing your work. Then I will call my uncle.

Call him. And I will make sure your driver husband loses his job at Azani Group.

Azoka. He just started, right? You may not care about yourself, but you care about him.

Fine. I will do it. Good girl. Submit for closing. Chideda, I can help you with one file.

Thank you, Tina. If you touch that work, you will leave this company with her.

Choose wisely. I am sorry. I really need this job. It is okay. I understand.

Are you done? Not yet. Why? I have work on your first day. It is fine.

I will call you when I finish. Why is she working late? Sir, after the interview, I sent a clear order.

No new staff should be forced to work over time. Then who gave her work?

I will find out. No, I am going there. He bought another meal on the way.

Azoka, what are you doing here? I brought food. You did not have to. I know.

These are too many. That Angela gave you this. Leave it. Why? She said her uncle is on the board.

She also threatened your job. My job? Yes. Please do not make trouble. You just started working there.

So, you accepted all this because of me. I will help you. You know, design projects.

I reviewed documents for the CEO. I know how to arrange ideas. That is not the same thing.

He worked fast. Too fast. Azoka, what? You are very smart. Drivers can be smart, too.

I did not say they cannot. They worked together until the files looked better than anything Angela had expected.

Thank you. You did not eat. I forgot. Why is your food different from mine?

I was not very hungry. Do not lie. I am saving money. For what? To pay you back.

The 2 million. Yes. What is this? My salary card. Why are you giving it to me?

Because we are married. Aoka, married people share responsibilities. Stop starving yourself because of me.

I cannot take your card. If you refuse it, it means you do not see me as your husband.

And do not mention paying back that money again. You are acting strange. Eat your food.

You are bossy. Yes, but broke. The next day, Angela and her team were called into the manager’s office.

What is this nonsense, sir? The client rejected it. The version you submitted is poor.

The client rejected it, but the corrected version from Chideda was praised by the Chidera.

Since you pushed your work to her, at least learn from what she did. Good job.

This is your bonus, sir. You earned it. Also, this is an invitation to the Azani Group annual gala.

The annual gala was the biggest company event of the year. Only selected staff, top clients, and important people attended.

That evening, Chidera was at home when a knock came. Mom, my son finally married and you wanted to hide my daughter-in-law from me.

Mom, please. So, you’re Chidera. You are even prettier than papa described. Good evening, ma.

Ma? No. Call me mom. My mother is an actress. Actress? Yes. She is acting as a rich woman in a movie.

All these things are props. Prop wine. Your acting must be very good, Mom. You look real.

Like this girl. I like this girl. That these are for your gala. Mom, this looks expensive.

Clearance sale, very cheap, almost free. I cannot take all this. You can. You are my daughter now.

Thank you, Mom. As Okaoka watched them, and the careful wall he lived behind felt for the first time like something he might one day want to break.

The night of the gala came, Kaidera arrived with her gold invitation. She wore Margaret’s dress, shoes, bag, and the necklace.

She felt nervous, but she told herself she had earned the invitation through work. At the entrance, Angela stood with Ivy and Lara.

So, you really came? I was invited with a fake gold card. Our invitations are blue.

Where did you print your own? She is trying to enter with a fake invitation.

This is a top level VIP invitation. Ma, please come in. What? Nice dress. Is it rented?

Fake luxury everywhere. Even the jewelry, you really have courage. Good evening, distinguished guests. Welcome to the Azani Group annual gala.

Regrettably, the midnight star will not be displayed tonight. The piece was bought by a private buyer.

The Midnight Star was the final masterpiece of a respected jewelry master. Many guests had come just to see it.

My family bought it. This is the midnight star. Why did Angela’s necklace look exactly like the one Mrs.

Margaret had given her? Chideda, why are you wearing the same necklace? Unbelievable. You made a fake copy.

I did not. A poor girl like you cannot afford the midnight star. Remove that fake before you embarrass yourself.

Where are you going? Yours looks dull. The stone has no deep shine and the edges are rough.

You know nothing about highclass jewelry. That stone is dull with rough, unpolished edges. Get this fake, lowclass woman out of here.

Let me go. Remove your hands from my wife. Azoka, look who came. The driver husband.

Are you here to defend your wife and her fake necklace? There is a simple test.

A real stone cannot be damaged by testing liquid. Let us test both. That is not necessary.

Scared. Azoka. No. Trust me. That one looks real. Now yours. No, her family did not buy the Midnight Star.

They make cheap accessories. No, that is not true. Then a man hurried into the hall.

He was Chief Victor Okoro. Bossani. Chief. Chief, you are mistaken. I only drive bosses sometimes.

Yes, I thought the boss was nearby. What is going on here, bossi? This was an internal test to expose fake status and corruption.

Angela Okoro is dismissed and blacklisted. Chief, your protection of her has damaged the company.

I understand. Compensation should go to my wife. Compensation will be transferred to Mrs. Chidera Ezani.

Me, uncle, help me. Help me. Why did Chief Victor call you boss Ezani? I am always around the boss.

People mix things up. And Henry is really the boss. Yes. She did not fully believe it, but too much had happened that night, so she kept quiet.

The lie had survived one more night, but it was wearing thin. Do you think bossani likes me?

What? He gave me too much money. Maybe he is interested in me. Interested in you?

Yes. Why else would he give me this kind of money? Azoka felt jealous before he remembered he was the person she was talking about.

That is nonsense. Are you jealous? No. You sound jealous. I am not jealous of my boss.

Okay. I want to use part of the money for something. What? You will see.

The next morning, Chidera took Azoka to an orphanage where she used to volunteer. Chidera, my child, it has been long.

I know, ma. I’m sorry. There is a large amount in this account. I want to donate it in May.

Busband’s me and mine. Oh, my child. This is too much. Thank you. It is not too much for the children.

You have struggled for them for years. Let this help. God bless you. With the rest, I want to start a foundation for children.

Can you help me? Whilst boss Izzyani, you want to give out everything. This money did not come from my sweat.

If it can help people, let it help them. What about yourself? I am still young.

I can work. I wanted to use it to pay my debts, but it feels wrong.

Azoka looked at the children around her. For the first time, he fully understood. Chedara did not worship money.

She only wanted dignity. Auntie Chidara, I know him. He is the rich man from TV.

Yes, the richest man. No, no. You saw Bosani on TV. My husband only stands near him.

You confused them. You saw him. You saw wrong. If he is your husband, you must kiss him.

Who taught you that? Kiss. Kiss. Do not laugh. I am not laughing. You are laughing with your eyes.

Azoka watched her. Something between them had changed again. Not fully, not safely, but warmly.

And for the first time, the small lie he was living inside began to feel like a wall he would soon have to break.

By Monday morning, Chadera’s name had started moving around Sori Designs. From today. Chider Okafo is the new design director.

Sir, she just joined us. Clients are asking for her designs, not yours. This company rewards value, not noise.

Sir, I will do my best. I know. Madame Chedera, do your work. I did not say anything.

You were about to. Congratulations to our new design director. Make sure Mr. Zayn gets his raise.

Yes, boss. Azoka looked at Chidera’s message again. He felt proud. Not because he helped her, because she deserved it.

Chideda, come for dinner tonight. We want to see you. Auntie, why? Must there be a reason before family eats together?

Tida almost laughed. Since her mother died, Aunt Florence had never invited her anywhere without a hidden plan.

My aunt wants to see me tonight. It’s just a family dinner. Should I come with you?

No, it’s just family. Send me the address so I can pick you up after.

You worry too much. Yes. Chidaani will be there tonight. Take care of her quietly.

Chidura meets Kelvin Lal, a very serious young man. I deal with contracts. Big people know me.

My son is doing very well. Any woman who marries him will rest. Kelvin is interested in you.

This is a good opportunity. Auntie, you called me for matchmaking. Is marriage a bad thing?

After we marry, you can stop working. A woman should focus on her home and children.

I want grandchildren quickly. I am leaving. Sit down. Do not disgrace me. You should have asked me first.

I am already married. You married without telling us. Yes, Florence. You brought a married woman for my son.

It could be cancelled. It is nothing serious. She’s still fine. Since she has been married before, reduce the bride price.

80,000 is enough. Excuse me? You people are pricing me like secondhand furniture. Keep quiet.

When your mother was sick, who helped you? My mother paid your children’s fees. She paid your rent.

She carried your family for years. She was my sister. She was supposed to help.

And I am not my mother. You will not use me the way you used her.

Your family collected money from us. You will sign this tonight. I will not sign anything.

You are stubborn because nobody has disciplined you. Who dares touch my wife? Azoka. So this is the husband, the driver.

Fine face, empty pocket. I do not approve of this marriage. He is gentle and responsible.

That makes him better than Kelvin. Your wife stepped on my shoes. Pay me 200,000.

That thing? Do you know who I am? My company works with Azani Group. Bring cash to this room.

Sir, 1 million for your shoes, 2 million for your pride. How dare you? Money will not scare me.

I have Azani Group behind me. No, you do not. End our cooperation with Kelvin Lal’s company.

Blacklisted. You are calling who? Your fellow driver. Blacklisted. No, there must be a mistake.

Kelvin, what happened? Ezanian group ended everything. If any of you disturb Chidera again, I will not be this kind next time.

How can a driver end someone’s business with his unique group? Kelvin’s company was under investigation.

I only called the right person. The cash was stage money. The restaurant is preparing for an event.

I want to believe you. Then believe me. She nodded, but doubt stayed in her eyes.

Aunt Florence did not sleep that night. By morning, she had called people, asked questions, and used every gossip link she had.

By afternoon, she got the truth. Azoka was not a driver. He was the real CEO and only heir of Azani group.

So, Chidera entered that kind of family, that girl. Then she heard another name, Vanessa Adabanjo.

Azoka’s former fianceé, Aunt Florence, smiled slowly. If Chidera did not know the truth, then the right person could remove her.

That night, Aunt Florence sent everything she had gathered to Vanessa. Bring Chedera for family dinner.

Mom, to the mansion. Calm down. I rented a small house. Papa wants to see her.

Mom, one mistake and she will know everything. Then do not make mistakes. My daughter, I missed you so much.

Papa, I missed you too. You are welcome, my child. The dinner was warm, but the lies were everywhere.

The food came in expensive plates with the restaurant name still printed under them. A friend gave us the plates.

The bathroom is there. Mom, bathroom is this way. I am still getting used to the house.

My friend made this at home. Since my mother died, no elder has cared for me like this.

I know this marriage started strangely, but I hope you people will always be my family.

You are our family. Nothing will change that. You have a handsome face. Why have you never touched me?

We are married. Chideda, you are drunk. Maybe you do not like me. That is not true.

And what is true? Azoka almost said it. I like you. But before the words came out, Chidara fell asleep against the pillow.

We wanted you two to become real husband and wife before Vanessa returns. Vanessa left when this family was struggling.

She has no place here. And Chidera, the only wife I want is Chidera. I knew my eyes did not fail me.

The next week, Vanessa Adabanjo entered Seri Designs. Who are you? Who are you? The woman whose place you’re trying to take.

I do not know you. You seduced my fiance, the CEO of Iani Group. I have nothing to do with boss Ezani.

Still pretending. There is the boss Ezani you are looking for. Let us go. So she does not know.

That poor idiot has no idea who her husband really is. So this is the life you chose.

Roadside food with this poor girl. Respect my wife. Your wife? You belong in high society?

Azoka. Not here. Just look at this place. What is she talking about? Vanessa was my childhood friend.

Our families once arranged an engagement but it ended. Is that all you will tell her?

Leave. One day you will know who you married. Azoka. Why did you not tell me you had a former fiance?

I did not want you to misunderstand. Do not hide things from me. I will not.

Is it her? You should pick. Maybe it is important. What do you want, Vanessa?

My birthday is tomorrow. I want you to attend. I am not interested. I only want to end our engagement in front of family for closure.

After this, I will stop disturbing you. Fine, I will come, but only to end it.

But when she ended the call, she smiled. Ending the engagement was not her plan.

Exposing Azoka was. And once Chedera saw who he really was, Vanessa knew the marriage would crack.

She had agreed to give him closure. He had walked straight into her trap. Chideda, please help me.

My child is sick. I have one cake delivery today. If I cancel, they will report me.

Helen, I have stopped doing deliveries. Please, just this one. I have nobody else. Send me the address.

Cadera did not know Vanessa had paid Helen to make that call. The cake was heavy.

I am here to deliver a cake. Ah, Chidera, you brought it yourself. Vanessa, open it.

I want to check it. Jedera, why would you do that? I did not do it.

Someone pushed me. We all saw you drop it. That cake costs more than what you make in months.

I will pay for it. I do not want your money. Kneel and clean it.

What? Kneel or I will report Helen and make sure she loses her job. Cheda’s hands tightened.

Helen’s sick child came to her mind. Jedera. Good. Everyone is here. Who did this?

Azoka, do not make a scene. Let us tell everyone the good news. What good news?

Everyone, I have an announcement. Mr. Azoka, Aani and I will have our engagement ceremony soon.

Engagement? Vanessa, stop this nonsense. Why are you shy? Everyone knows our families arranged this long ago.

I am already married. My wife is Chidera. His wife, Bosani is married. Boss says, “The CEO of Azani Group married a delivery girl.

The richest young businessman in the country.” The words hit Chadera one by one. CEO Azizani Group, boss Izzyani.

Her mind started putting everything together. The company transfer from Azani Group, the gala, the necklace, the children at the orphanage saying they had seen him on TV.

You are bossani. Chidera, let me explain. You lied to me. Of course he lied.

Did you think a man like Ahsoka would marry someone like you openly? Vanessa, she is not fit to be your wife.

A poor girl who forced her way his family. Behind her came Kelvin Lwal, his mother, and Aunt Florence.

Chideda’s heart dropped. Vanessa had prepared everything. Let everybody hear the truth. Chideda is not innocent.

She accepted bride price from my son while already married. She agreed to marry me and even signed this agreement.

That paper was forced. I never accepted you. You took our money. Stop pretending. You were trying to sell me.

She married bossani and still wanted another man. Greedy girl. Enough. You and your family tried to force her.

And you helped them because of money. One more lie from you and I will make sure you never recover.

I never wanted any of this. I never wanted your money. I never wanted to enter rich people’s games.

All I wanted was to work, to live honestly, to pay my debts with my own hands.

I know. No, you do not. The worst part is not that you are rich.

The worst part is that you watched me struggle. You watched me count food, ride at night, and kept pretending you were poor.

I wanted to tell you, but you did not. Our relationship was built on deception.

I cannot live like that. Please do not say what I think you want to say.

I want a divorce. Do not celebrate. Even if Chedera leaves me, I will never marry you.

Chidera, please listen to me. Why are you here? You have mansions, villas, hotels. Why are you still coming to this small room?

Because you are here. Stop acting poor. I am tired. At first, I did not trust you.

I thought you wanted the Aani name and money. After I knew you, everything changed.

I saw your heart. I fell in love with you. I was afraid you would leave, so I delayed it.

I was wrong. Yes, you were. I am sorry. Fear does not excuse deception. Azoka, please leave.

Chidera, leave. The cold entered his body, but he stayed. Azoka. Azoka. Henry, please come.

Azoka is sick. My child, I am not here to force you. I only want you to understand something.

After his father died, Aani group almost collapsed. People we trusted turned their backs on us.

The Adabanjo family broke the engagement and left us in shame. Vanessa’s family. He became cold because people showed him love could change when money disappeared.

I am not saying what he did was right. He lied to you and that hurt you.

He did not lie to laugh at you. He was afraid of trusting the wrong person.

I am not asking you to forgive him today. I only do not want both of you to carry regret.

I need time. I understand my things. Yes, I packed them. Please sign. No, I am the CEO of Azizani Group.

I am the heir of my family. But before all that, I am your husband.

Family background may mean nothing to you, but it means something to the people around you.

They will always see me as less. I do not care what they think. I care.

I do not want to keep proving I am not after your money. I will not sign.

You cannot force me to stay. I will not force you, but I will wait.

I’ll wait till the day you change your mind. Vanessa did not stop. Soon, some workers at Sori Design started making Chedara’s life hard.

My necklace is missing. Someone said they saw you near my back. What are you talking about?

Found it. So, our design director is a thief. We planted that. Poor people always steal and then cry when caught.

She does not deserve that position. Search her bag. Maybe she stole more things. Do not touch my things.

Remove your hand from my wife. Driver, this is company matter. Boss Ezani. Chideda’s husband is the billionaire CEO.

You framed my wife. Sir, we did not know that I was the CEO. So if I was truly a driver, it would be fine.

Fire them. Blacklist them. Yes, sir. If this happens again, I will not warn you twice.

Are you okay? No. Now everyone knows I am your wife. How will I work here?

They will respect you. No, they will fear you. That is not the same thing.

I wanted to be known for my talent. Not as boss Iani’s wife. You are talented, but nobody will see it clearly anymore.

I am resigning from Seremy Designs from all of it. The company, the drama, everything connected to you.

Chidiraa, please. I need to breathe. Azoka watched her leave, and for the first time, he understood that every time he tried to protect her, he pushed her father away.

She still walks away like she won. She ruined my life. She took my position, my respect, and now she has Azoka.

Then let us take everything from her. What do you want to do? We will use her to force Azoka.

If he wants her safe, he will announce our engagement to the media. And after that, after that, Chidura will have nothing left to hold.

That night, Chedera went to a bar alone. She had never been the kind of woman who drank away pain.

But that night, her heart felt too heavy. She kept seeing Azoka’s face, his lies, his tears, his hands treating her ankle, his voice telling her she was not alone.

How can one person hurt you and still feel like home? Are you okay? I feel dizzy.

Let me help you get home. No, I can go. Easy now. I’ve got you.

Chidora, pick up please. Chidora, pick up please. Track her phone now. Her last signal was a bar.

A man took her away. Whoever touched my wife will pay. Azoka. What do you want?

You will not find Chidera unless I want you to. What did you say? Chidera is with me.

Tomorrow you will hold a press conference. Announce our engagement. Do that and I will release her.

Come to Royal Crest Hotel. Announce our engagement before the media. If you touch her, you will what?

Come alone, Azoka or Chidiraa suffers. And if I refuse, then you will never see her again.

Find her. Search the whole city if you must. What is this? Comfortable? What do you want, Vanessa?

Your good days are over. You should have stayed in your level. You are simply the key.

You can force a stage. You cannot force his heart. He will never choose you.

You left him when he had nothing. Now you call it love. Shut up. You do not love him.

You love what he owns. Do not waste your energy. Nobody is coming for you.

Angela, we were classmates for years. What did I do to you? You always acted innocent.

Talented. Then you married him. I never took anything from you. You took my shine.

You took my position, my respect, everything I had. Now look at you, ordinary delivery girl.

I never took anything from you. You have stolen from me since when we were in school.

Let me go. I will not report you. End this here. You think it’s that simple?

You’re not going anywhere, Angela. Hatred will not give you peace. Keep your advice. I planned this because I hate you.

I will not stop. Azukov arrived at the hotel. Watch carefully. Today he will choose me in front of the world.

Watch her. I will be back a married woman. Are you and Mr. Izzyani uniting your families through marriage?

Yes. Today we put everything in its right place. But rumors say Mr. Izani is already married.

That woman was only obsessed with him. It has been dealt with. Azoka, you came.

I have an important announcement. I am married. My wife is Chidra Xani. I want that on every record.

Let me be very clear. I will never marry Vanessa Deanjo. Not now. Not ever.

Today I have transferred everything I own to my lawful wife. Every company, share, house and land now belongs to Chidera Isani.

What? I have only one wife in this life. Her name is Chidera. Everything now belongs to your wife.

Yes. If she feels unsafe, I will give her security. If she feels unworthy, I will show she’s worthy of love.

If they think she is beneath me, everything I own now stands in her name.

What you wanted was the name, the money, the position. I have given it all to Chidera.

You have no reason to want me now. You think this will end here. It ends here for you.

You left me when things got a little rough. She didn’t love me when she thought I had nothing.

You will regret this, Azoka. Both of you will regret it. Boss, we traced the call.

An old building. Our men are moving. Let us go on the street. Madam, what do we do now?

End it. What? As long as you are alive, Azaka will keep choosing you. Angela, do not do this.

Shut up. Gotcha. Gotcha. Catcha. Let me go. Try that again and it will be worse.

Hold her down. Aoka, I can explain. No, explain at the station. Let’s go. Sheera, I thought I will not see you again.

I am here. I will always come for you. I am sorry for everything. Vanessa De Banjo, you are under investigation for kidnapping and conspiracy.

This is a mistake. I did nothing. Did you kidnap Mrs. Enzani? Did you force the engagement?

We have evidence, calls, payments, and witness statements. Became the one. You must see a doctor.

I am fine. You must see a doctor. I am fine. I said I am fine.

Let me check on you, my dear. My daughter. Who touched you? I still have strength in this body.

Papa, I am okay. She is not badly hurt. She only needs rest and she must avoid stress now.

She is pregnant. Say it again. My ears are old but working. Mrs. Ezani is pregnant.

My grandchild. Oh, God. Thank you. I will see my great grandchild. This marriage is blessed.

Shida. They both remembered the same night. It had been the night she was promoted.

A promotion deserves celebration. And a plastic table. I care for you more than I planned.

I care too, Aoka. Do not make promises you cannot keep. I will keep this one.

A few days later. So this is your house. Our house. And you squeezed into my small room, pretending you had no rent.

I do not know whether to laugh or slap you. I deserve both, but I prefer laughter.

Of course you do. Everything is legally yours now. The house, the shares, the lands, the businesses.

So I am the rich one now. Yes. I now work for you. If I divorce you, you will be homeless.

Completely homeless. Good. Maybe that will teach you honesty. Chidera, I know money cannot fix what I broke.

I am not forgiving you because of this house or the company. I am forgiving you because you finally told the truth because you chose me in front of everyone.

And when you protected me, you did not try to own me. But listen well.

I am listening. If you lie to me again, I will fire you as husband and employee.

Fair. I am serious. I know. I will not sit at home doing nothing as Mrs.

Aani. I would never ask you to. I still want to design to build the foundation to help children.

Then we will do it together. Together. In the months that followed, Chedera and Azoka made changes at Soremy Designs and across the design arm of Azani Group.

No junior worker was allowed to be mocked because of background. No applicant was to be judged by who they knew.

Every design submission had to be recorded, dated, and protected. So nobody’s work could be stolen because they had no powerful person behind them.

Cheda created a mentorship program for young designers who could not afford expensive training. Azoka funded it, but Chadera ran it.

You did it. We did it. I told you he was the rich man from TV.

Yes, this time you are right. So, you admit it now? Do not be too proud.

One evening, Margaret asked her to dress nicely for a family dinner. What is all this?

The first time you did not really choose me. Papa rushed it. I lied. Chidera, will you choose me again?

Not as a poor driver, not as boss Aani hiding behind lies, just as Oka.

Say yes before this boy’s knee breaks. Yes. Yes, I choose you. I told all of you.

My eyes are still sharp. My children, now my heart can rest. She had not come into their lives chasing wealth.

She had come by buying bread for a hungry old man when no one else cared.

Her kindness opened the door. Her courage kept her standing. And in the end, she was loved not for money or status but for herself.

Her courage kept her standing. And in the end she was loved not for herself.