His Father Pretends To Be Poor palace Gate Man To Pick A wife For Him. And This Happened

His Father Pretends To Be Poor palace Gate Man To Pick A wife For Him. And This Happened

…

Mr. Okcoy remained calm.

I am at my duty post.

Princess deaf.

I am talking to you.

>> Cassie laughed without joy.

You listen, but you never learn here every day like an old tree and still nothing is done well in this palace.

Bella and Ella stood behind her.

They exchanged worried looks, but neither of them spoke.

Mr. Okoy said nothing.

That silence annoyed Cassie even more.

“Are you deaf?” she asked.

“I am talking to you.

I am listening, princess.

” “Listening?” Cassie stepped closer.

“You listen, but you never learn.

Lazy old man, useless man.

” Mr. Okcoy lowered his eyes.

An older man sitting under the shade near the ver rose slowly.

His name was Chief Lawrence Ezer, the king’s younger brother.

He had come to visit the king that morning and was still in the palace.

>> Cassie, that is enough.

He is old enough to be respected.

>> Who asked you? Who asked you? >> Chief Lawrence frowned.

I am only telling you to calm down.

You are telling me to calm down in my own palace? Cassie asked.

Please do not start with me today.

This is not how a princess should speak, Chief Lawrence said.

Cassie laughed bitterly.

And this is not how a jobless uncle should talk to me.

The compound became quiet.

Even Bella opened her mouth in shock.

Chief Lawrence stared at her.

What did you call me? Cassie folded her arms.

You heard me.

Jobless uncle.

Every time you sit around here like you own the place.

Please leave me alone.

Cassie.

Queen Esther’s voice came from the entrance.

The queen walked out quickly, her face tight with embarrassment.

She was a beautiful woman, but worry had started leaving marks around her eyes.

She loved Cassie deeply, but even she could see that her daughter was becoming harder to control.

>> “Cassie, stop this now.

” Queen Esther said, >> “Cassie, stop this now.

This is your uncle.

I do not care.

>> Everybody should stop acting as if I am a child.

This palace belongs to my father and after him, it belongs to me.

Nobody can control me here.

” Cassie, the queen warned softly.

>> No, mother.

I am tired of all of you.

This man keeps moving around like he is important.

He is not important.

He is a gateman.

>> Mr. Okcoy swallowed, but his face remained calm.

Amaka had been standing at the side entrance.

She had come out when she heard the noise.

She stood quietly watching everything with pain in her chest.

She wanted to speak.

She wanted to defend Mr. Okcoy.

But she knew Cassie.

The moment anyone opposed her, the matter would become worse.

So Amaka stayed still, holding the file she had brought home from work.

Mr. Aoy saw her and quickly looked away as if he did not want her to feel sorry for him.

That small action touched Amaka deeply.

Cassie’s friends were still silent.

Bella looked uncomfortable.

Ella pretended to check her phone, but her fingers were not moving.

Queen Esther placed a hand on Cassie’s arm.

>> Go inside.

Please not pull her arm away.

>> Then she walked back into the palace, her heels hitting the ground hard.

Bella and Ella followed her like frightened shadows.

Amaka remained where she was.

Queen Esther looked at Chief Lawrence with shame in her eyes.

>> I am sorry.

>> Chief Lawrence shook his head.

>> Girl will cause pain one day.

The queen did not answer.

Mr. Okcoy bent slightly.

>> Your majesty, I will return to my duty post.

>> Amaka finally spoke.

Mr. Okoy, I am sorry.

He looked at her and for a moment his tired face.

>> I will return to my duty post.

>> Mr. Okoyas, >> you have nothing to apologize for.

>> But Amaka knew that was not true.

Someone needed to apologize.

Someone needed to stop Cassie.

That evening, the family gathered for dinner.

King Victor was strong enough to come downstairs, though two palace aids had helped him to his chair.

He looked thinner than before, but his eyes were still sharp.

Queen Esther sat beside him.

Cassie sat with her phone beside her plate.

Amaka sat quietly opposite her.

Chief Lawrence was also there.

The servant served food in silence.

For a few minutes, nobody spoke.

Then Queen Esther smiled and looked at Cassie.

>> “My darling daughter, I am proud of you.

Very soon, everything your father built will rest in your hands.

” “Thank you, mother.

You are the crown princess.

” >> Cassie smiled as if she had been waiting for the praise.

>> “Thank you, mother.

” >> Queen Esther continued, >> “You are the crown princess.

>> You must start preparing your mind.

Leadership is not easy.

” King Victor slowly raised his eyes.

Leadership is not by mouth.

>> The table became quiet.

Cassie’s smile disappeared.

>> Father, what is that supposed to mean? >> It is work.

It is sacrifice.

It is not only title.

>> Know that >> King Victor turned to the reason the company is still respected.

>> So this is now a Maka.

I am saying the Amaka lowered her eyes.

She did not like being used as a reason for quarrel.

Cassie dropped her spoon.

So this is now about a marker.

I am saying the truth, the king replied.

Cassie looked at Amaka.

Are you happy now? Amaka sighed.

Cassie, please.

I did not say anything.

But you like pretending, Cassie said.

Quiet, innocent Amara, the hardworking daughter, the good one.

>> Are you happy now, >> Cassie? Queen Esther said, “Eat your food.

” >> Say anything.

>> No, mother.

Let us talk.

Everybody keeps acting as if I am useless.

>> Let us talk.

>> King Victor’s voice became firm.

You are not useless, but you are careless to them with your silence.

>> Cassie stared at him.

>> The king continued, “You spend company money without asking questions.

You travel whenever you like.

You insult workers.

You do not attend serious meetings, yet you call yourself CEO.

I am the CEO, Cassie said proudly.

King Victor looked at her for a long moment.

Then tell me what CEO means.

Cassie blinked.

What? Tell me.

The silence around the table became heavy.

Cassie looked away.

I do not have time for this nonsense.

Amaka closed her eyes briefly.

She felt embarrassed for her sister, but Cassie took the shame and turned it into anger.

“You think because you know books, you are better than me?” Cassie asked Amaka.

“No,” Amaka said softly.

“I do not think that.

” “Then why are you always acting like the company belongs to you?” Amaka looked at her calmly.

“I am only trying to protect what father built.

” Cassie laughed.

Protect from who? Amaka hesitated.

The king answered for her.

From you.

Cassie stood up at once.

Wow.

So that is what this family thinks of me.

King Victor’s face tightened.

Sit down.

No, I will not sit down.

If all of you do not want me here, I can leave.

I can go to a hotel.

I can leave this palace completely.

Queen Esther reached for her hand.

Cassie, nobody said you should leave.

Cassie pulled away.

Nobody can control me.

Not you.

Not father.

Not a marker.

Nobody.

King Victor looked tired, but his voice was full of sadness.

>> One day, Cassie, this behavior will destroy you.

>> Cassie laughed coldly.

>> It destroy me.

Cassie, wait.

>> She picked up her phone and walked out of the dining room.

Queen Esther called after her, but Cassie did not stop.

Amaka sat still, her food untouched.

She wanted to be angry, but all she felt was sadness.

The next morning, the palace woke up to another storm.

Cassie came out early, dressed to leave.

Her car was parked near the front of the compound.

It was clean, shining under the morning sun.

>> Mr. >> But Cassie walked around it once and screamed, >> “Mr. >> Princess, what is this?” “Your car.

” >> I told you to wash this car last night.

>> I washed it.

>> He looked at the car.

Your car, princess.

Do not insult me.

I told you to wash this car last night.

I washed it, he said gently.

Cassie slapped the bonnet with her palm.

You are calling me a liar.

No, princess.

I only said I washed it.

You washed it and it is still looking like this.

A Maka who was about to enter her car for work stopped and turned.

The car looked clean.

Even the tires were shining.

Cassie raised her hand as if to hit Mister Okoy, but Amaka rushed forward.

Cassie, stop.

Cassie turned slowly.

Excuse me.

Amaka stood between them.

The car is clean.

Cassie’s eyes narrowed.

So now you are his lawyer.

No, Amaka said, “I am only saying the truth.

The car is clean.

And even if it was dirty, washing your car is not his duty.

We have people assigned to that.

Cassie laughed in disbelief.

Can you hear yourself? You are defending this man again.

I am defending what is right.

Cassie stepped closer.

>> Hang on.

Between you and this old man.

What did you say? You heard me.

>> Cassie smiled cruy.

You heard me.

Queen Esther came out quickly, tying her wrapper as she walked.

>> What is happening again? Ask your perfect daughter.

She is defending the gate man like he’s her family.

Do not say shameful things just because you are angry.

No, mother.

>> Amaka’s voice shook, but she controlled it.

Do not say shameful things just because you are angry.

Cassie moved toward her, but Queen Esther held her back.

Enough, the queen said.

Cassie, enough.

Cassie struggled free.

No, mother.

Everybody in this palace thinks they can talk to me anyhow.

Queen Esther looked around and saw workers watching from a distance.

Her face burned with shame.

>> You are embarrassing yourself.

I am not going for.

Then maybe you should go back for treatment.

>> Treatment? >> No.

>> Cassie stared at her.

>> I am not going anywhere.

Then maybe you should go back for treatment.

Queen Esther said carefully.

You need help, Cassie.

Cassie’s face changed.

Treatment.

Calm down and listen to me.

No, you listen to me.

Cassie pointed at the palace.

This is my palace, my father’s palace, my future throne.

I am not leaving for abroad.

I am not going to any treatment center.

I am staying here.

Anyone who does not like it can leave.

Amaka looked at her sister and felt something break inside her.

This was no longer ordinary anger.

Cassie had started seeing everyone as an enemy, even her own sister.

Mr. Okoy quietly stepped back toward the gate, his face full of pain he refused to show.

Amaka watched him go.

She did not know why Cassie hated him so much.

She did not know why Mr. Aoy kept enduring it.

And she did not know that the quiet man at the gate was carrying the secret that would one day shake the whole family.

But from that morning, one thing became clear.

The fight inside the palace had only just begun.

That morning, after Cassie walked back into the palace, the compound remained quiet for a long time.

The workers did not talk loudly.

The guards avoided each other’s eyes.

Even the cleaners moved as if one wrong sound could bring Cassie back outside.

>> Amaka entered her car and left for work, but her heart was not settled.

She kept seeing Mr. Okoy’s face.

>> The man had stood there with so much shame in his eyes, yet he still said nothing.

He did not defend himself.

He did not even complain.

Amaka wondered what kind of pain could make a grown man accept such insult in silence.

Inside the palace, King Victor had seen enough.

He sat in his private sitting room wrapped in a thick robe, his breathing slow and heavy.

A small tray of medicine sat on the table beside him.

Queen Esther entered quietly, but he did not look at her at first.

For a moment, both of them stayed silent.

Then the king said.

Esther, what are we going to do about Cassie? The queen sighed.

Your majesty, please.

Not this morning.

When should we talk about it? He asked.

When she kills somebody, Queen Esther looked at him sharply.

God forbid.

Then stop defending her before it reaches that point.

She is your daughter.

She is also old enough to know right from wrong.

Queen Esther sat down opposite him.

Cassie is not a bad person.

She is only stubborn.

She needs patience.

The king gave a tired laugh, but there was no joy in it.

Patience? He asked.

Is that what you call this? Esther, your daughter went to my company last month and insulted senior staff in front of visitors.

Two weeks ago, she collected money without approval.

Before that, she sold one of my cars and could not even explain what she used the money for.

Queen Esther looked away.

The king continued, “She has wasted millions.

She has disgraced this family many times.

She insults elders.

She beats workers.

She smokes in my compound.

She moves with useless friends who clap for her foolishness.

And you sit here telling me she needs patience.

” Queen Esther’s face tightened.

You always talk about her as if she has no good side.

Show me the good side, Esther.

Let me see it.

She is still growing.

Cassie is not a baby.

She is my child.

She is our child, the king said.

But you have made her believe she owns the world.

Queen Esther’s eyes became wet, but her voice remained hard.

No, >> no.

What hurts you is that she is not like Amaka.

>> Do not bring Amaka into this.

>> I will bring her in because that is the problem in this family.

You love Amaka more.

You praise Amaka for everything.

>> Amaka works.

Amaka is wise.

A Maka is calm.

What about Cassie? Have you ever tried to understand her? The king stared at his wife.

Understand her? He repeated.

Do you understand the workers she beats? Do you understand the people she insults? Do you understand the company staff who are afraid to do their jobs because Cassie may storm in and scatter everything? Queen Esther stood up.

You are her father.

Correct her with love, not with hatred.

I do not hate Cassie.

You talk like you do.

The king’s voice dropped.

Esther, you are the one dividing this family.

You defend Cassie even when she is wrong.

You make Amaka look like an enemy because she is responsible.

One day, this thing you are feeding will grow teeth and bite all of us.

Queen Esther wiped her eyes quickly.

You always blame me.

Because you keep protecting madness.

The queen stepped back as if his words had hit her.

Your majesty, she said quietly.

Be careful how you speak to me.

King Victor looked away.

He was tired, too tired to fight, too tired to beg, too tired to watch his house break slowly.

But the breaking had already started.

2 days later, Cassie went to Royal Spring Water.

The workers knew from the sound of her heels that trouble had entered the building.

She walked straight into the accounts department with Bella and Ella behind her.

The manager, Mr. David Nanquo, stood up when she entered.

The accountant, Mr.s.

Grace Bellow, quickly closed the file she was checking.

>> Good morning, princess.

Mr. David said, >> Cassie dropped her handbag on his table.

I need 10 million naira transferred to my account now.

Mr. David blinked.

Princess, I am sorry, but we cannot process that without approval.

Cassie stared at him now from the board or from Princess Amaka.

The account is under review because of last month’s expenses.

>> Cassie laughed.

So, Amaka is now the owner of this company.

No, Princess, that is not what I said.

Mr.s.

Grace spoke gently.

Please understand, we are preparing for an audit.

If we remove such an amount now, it will create a problem.

Cassie turned to her.

Did I ask you to speak? Mr.s.

Grace became quiet.

Cassie picked up a glass paper weight from the table.

So, both of you have joined a marker to insult me.

Mr. David raised his hands.

Nobody is insulting you.

You refuse to give me my money.

It is company money, princess.

That sentence finished everything.

Lock us four.

>> Cassie threw the paper.

It missed Mr. David’s face by a small distance and hit the shelf behind him.

Files fell.

Mr.s.

Grace screamed.

>> Cassie moved around the table and slapped Mr. David.

Bella and Ella rushed forward, not sure whether to stop her or pull her back.

“You lowclass fool!” Cassie shouted.

“You people eat from my father’s hand and still have the courage to block me.

” Mr.s.

Grace tried to call security, but Cassie pushed her hand away.

In the struggle, Mr.s.

Grace fell against the side table and hurt her arm.

By the time the security men rushed in, the office was scattered.

Mr. David’s cheek was swollen.

Mr.s.

Grace was crying.

Cassie stood in the middle of the room, breathing hard, still angry.

When King Victor heard what happened, something in him went cold.

He did not shout.

>> “What have you done?” >> He only called the police.

Arrest her,” he said.

Queen Esther was not at the palace when they took Cassie away.

By the time she returned and heard what had happened, she almost lost her mind.

She stormed into the king’s sitting room with her wrapper loose around her waist.

“What have you done?” she asked.

The king was sitting with his eyes closed.

He opened them slowly.

“I did what a father should have done long ago.

You sent police to arrest your own daughter.

I sent police to arrest a woman who attacked my staff.

She is your heir.

She is a danger.

>> Victor, release my daughter.

>> Not until she apologizes to Mr. David and Mr.s.

Grace.

>> She will not do that.

>> Stay there.

>> You are doing this because of a marker.

>> Do not insult me with that nonsense.

>> Then she will stay there.

Queen Esther stared at him as if he had become a stranger.

You are doing this because of a marker, she said.

The king’s anger rose.

Do not insult me with that nonsense.

You want to break Cassie so a marker can rise.

I want Cassie to learn before it is too late.

She is the crown princess.

She is not above discipline.

>> If anything happens to my daughter in that police station.

>> I will never forgive you.

If Cassie refuses to change, life will teach her what we refuse.

>> King Victor leaned back, weak but firm.

If Cassie refuses to change, life will teach her what we refuse to teach her.

The queen left the room without another word.

That evening, the king looked for his royal crown.

He had an important meeting with some elders the next morning, and the crown was needed.

But when the palace aids opened the cabinet where it was usually kept, it was gone.

The king already knew who had taken it.

>> Call Esther.

Yes, your majesty.

>> But Queen Esther did not answer.

>> No answer.

>> The next morning, as the king prepared for his meeting, he entered his bedroom to rest for a few minutes.

Before he could come out, he heard the door lock from outside.

He went still.

Esther, he called.

No answer.

He moved slowly to the door and tried the handle.

It did not open.

Esther, still nothing.

His breathing became heavy.

He knocked on the door first gently, then harder.

Open this door.

One of the palace aids ran to call Queen Esther, but she had already left the palace.

When they called her phone, she answered only once.

“I will open that door when my daughter enters this palace,” she said.

Then she ended the call.

The king stood behind the locked door, sweating and shaking with anger.

His meeting was in less than 1 hour.

The elders were already on their way.

His blood pressure was rising and there was no spare key.

A Maka was called from the company.

>> “Father,” >> she rushed home, panic written all over her face.

“Father,” she shouted from outside the door.

“Are you okay?” “Your mother has lost her.

” >> “I am alive,” he replied, breathing hard.

“Your mother has lost her mind.

” Amaka called Queen Esther again and again.

At first, the queen did not pick.

Later she picked and spoke calmly.

“Tell your father to release Cassie.

” “Mother, please,” Amaka begged.

“This is not right.

He is sick.

Then he should do the right thing.

You locked your husband inside his room.

He locked my daughter in police custody.

” Amaka closed her eyes in pain.

“Mother Cassie hurt people.

She is my child and father is your husband.

Queen Esther became silent.

Amaka lowered her voice.

Please tell me where the key is.

Let him release Cassie first.

The call ended.

Inside the room, King Victor sat on the bed, weak and humiliated.

His hands were shaking when he picked up his phone and called the police officer in charge.

Release my daughter,” he said quietly.

The officer asked if he was sure.

The king closed his eyes.

“Yes, release her now.

” That day, Cassie returned to the palace smiling.

She had not learned anything.

Queen Esther had proved something dangerous.

She would protect Cassie even when Cassie was wrong.

And the king understood that his wife could go very far for that daughter.

The next day, Amaka returned to work with a heavy heart.

She was tired.

The company needed her attention, but her mind was still in the palace.

Her father was becoming weaker.

Her mother was becoming harder.

Cassie was becoming more dangerous.

Amaka sat in her office looking at a file she had not read for 10 minutes when Jenny entered.

Jenny was her personal assistant.

She was young, smart, and loyal.

She knew when to speak and when to keep quiet.

Ma, the young man for the operations interview is here today.

Yes, Ma.

His name is Chidio.

Let him in.

>> Amaka almost told Jenny to send him away.

She was not in the mood to meet anyone, but the operations department needed help and the company could not wait for her emotions.

Let him in, she said.

Jenny nodded and left.

A minute later, the door opened.

Chidi walked in.

Amaka looked up and her heart stopped for a second.

She knew that face.

A few days earlier, after a late meeting, some men had tried to attack her near her car.

It had happened so fast.

One had grabbed her bag.

Another tried to drag her back.

Before she could scream properly, a young man appeared from nowhere and fought them off.

He made sure she was safe, then disappeared before she could even thank him.

Well, she had searched for him.

Now he was standing in her office.

Cheddy looked humble and nervous.

He wore a simple shirt and trousers.

His shoes were clean but old.

He held a brown envelope with both hands.

>> “Good morning, Ma,” he said.

Amaka stood slowly.

“You.

” Chi looked confused.

“Ma, you are the man who saved me.

” His face changed.

“Oh, you remember me?” “Yes, Ma.

I remember.

Amaka smiled for the first time that day.

I looked for you.

I am sorry I left that day.

I did not want trouble.

You saved my life and you left without waiting for even a thank you.

Chidi lowered his head.

I am glad you are safe.

Amaka pointed to the chair.

Please sit.

He sat carefully as if the chair did not belong to him.

She collected his file and went through it.

He had studied business administration.

He had worked in two small companies before they closed down.

His experience was not big, but his record showed honesty and effort.

>> Why do you want this job? >> Chi looked at her directly.

I need work ma, but more than that, I want to build something.

I have been trying for a long time.

I am ready to learn and work hard.

Amaka watched him.

There was no pride in him, no fake confidence, no begging either, just honesty.

>> You know this job is not easy.

>> I know >> you will deal stuff, supply problems, movement records, and sometimes difficult people.

>> Can this company pressure? >> Pressure has many cousins.

>> I can handle pressure.

Amaka almost laughed.

In this company, pressure has many cousins.

Chi smiled a little.

That small smile made the room feel lighter.

Amaka closed the file.

>> You are qualified and I believe you can do the work.

>> Ma, >> you have the job.

>> Just you.

Just like that.

>> Yes, I am grateful.

You have the job.

Give you this job.

I’m not disabled.

>> He looked shocked.

>> Just like that.

Not just like that.

Amaka said you saved me.

Yes, I am grateful.

But I am not giving you this job because of pity.

I checked your background.

You are capable.

Chi swallowed.

Thank you, ma.

I will not disappoint you.

Call me a Maka at work, she said.

Only when we are in formal meetings, you can say princess if you want.

He looked unsure.

I will try.

Maaka smiled.

You can start with that.

Later that week, Amaka showed Chidi around the company herself.

She took him to the operations office, introduced him to Jenny, Mr. David, Mr.s.

Grace, and some team leads.

Some workers were surprised that she was personally helping a new staff member settle in, but Amaka did not care.

Chidi listened more than he spoke.

He asked clear questions.

He took notes.

He treated everyone with respect from the manager to the cleaner.

Amaka noticed.

By the end of the week, she arranged an official apartment for him near the company.

When Chidi saw the apartment, he stood at the entrance for a long time.

It was not a mansion, but it was clean, spacious, and comfortable.

To him, it looked like something he had only prayed for.

“Is this for me?” he asked quietly.

“Yes,” Amaka said.

“It comes with the position.

You need to be close to work.

” Chi stepped inside slowly.

“I do not know what to say.

You do not have to say much.

Just do your work well.

” He turned to her.

His eyes were full.

You do not understand.

I have struggled for years.

Sometimes I had transport fair for interviews but no food.

Sometimes I had hope in the morning and rejection by evening.

This means more than you know.

Amaka felt his words deeply.

I understand more than you think.

She said softly.

Different people struggle in different ways.

Chi looked at her and something quiet passed between them.

Respect.

Maybe something more.

That weekend, Chidi’s friend, Amika, came to visit.

Ama was loud, playful, and always smiling.

The moment he entered the apartment, he shouted as if Chidi had bought the whole estate.

>> This kind of place, you got one job, >> my brother.

So, this is where they kept you.

>> Employment.

This is opportunity.

>> Laughed, calm down.

Calm down.

In this kind of place, you got one job and they gave you an apartment, my friend.

This is not ordinary employment.

This is opportunity wearing perfume.

Chidi shook his head.

Do not start.

Amecha sat on the chair and looked around.

That princess likes you.

She gave me a job because I am qualified.

Yes, yes, qualified.

Ama nodded dramatically.

Qualified with fine face and rescue experience.

Chi threw a small pillow at him.

Be serious.

I am serious.

Use your head.

She is rich, kind, beautiful, and powerful.

If you play your card well, this whole struggle can end.

Chi’s smile faded.

Do not talk like that.

Am looked at him.

What did I say? I will not use anybody.

Who said use? I said be wise.

There is wisdom and there is greed.

Chidi said a maka helped me when she did not have to.

I will not turn her kindness into a ladder.

Amecha studied him for a moment, then nodded slowly.

You have always been like this, he said.

Too clean for this dirty world.

Chidi smiled faintly.

Maybe the world needs some clean people.

Amika laughed.

Maybe, but clean people should also eat.

I will eat through my work.

Those words stayed with him.

Chidi was poor, but he was not hungry for shortcuts.

And that was one of the first things Amaka began to admire about him.

As the weeks passed, they worked closely.

Amaka saw how fast he learned.

Chidi saw how much weight she carried alone.

Sometimes he met her still in the office late at night, checking reports with tired eyes.

“You should rest,” he told her.

One evening, Amaka looked up.

“The company does not rest.

But you are not a machine.

She smiled sadly.

My father built this with his whole life.

I cannot let it fall.

Chidi stood by the door holding some files.

You carry too much for someone who does not complain.

Amaka looked at him.

And you noticed too much for someone who just joined.

They both smiled.

It was small but it was real.

Back at the palace, Mr. Okoy was reaching his limit.

Cassie’s insults had become worse since her return from the police station.

She blamed everyone except herself.

Whenever she saw Mr. Okoy, she made sure he remembered that he was beneath her.

One evening, after she poured water on his shirt because he did not open the gate fast enough, Mr. Okcoy went to the king.

King Victor was sitting alone in his private room.

Your majesty, Mr. Okoy said, bowing slightly.

I want to retire.

The king looked at him for a long time.

You want to leave me now.

Mr. Aoyy’s face tightened.

Your majesty.

I have tried.

I have endured.

But I am tired.

I know.

Princess Cassie has made this work painful.

I know.

I am not young anymore.

I know that too.

Mr. Aoya swallowed.

Then please allow me to go.

The king leaned forward slowly.

Romanus, if you leave this palace now, you will leave the gate open.

Mr. Okoy did not answer.

The king continued.

And if the gate is open, danger will enter.

Your majesty, the wrong person must not wear my crown.

Mr. Okcoy went still.

King Victor’s eyes were weak, but his voice became serious.

The ancestors have spoken.

Cassie must not sit on that throne.

Mr. Aoy looked away.

The king saw the fear on his face.

You know something, King Victor said quietly.

Something I do not want to force out of your mouth today.

But when the time comes, you must speak.

Mr. Aoy’s breathing changed.

Your Majesty, some truths can burn a whole house.

Then let it burn what is rotten, the king said, but do not let it burn the innocent.

Mr. Aoy closed his eyes.

He had carried that secret for many years.

He had buried it under silence.

He had swallowed insults because of it.

He had stayed at the gate because of it.

Now the king was asking him to remain.

Promise me, King Victor said, “Do not leave.

Not yet.

” Mr. Okoy bowed his head.

I promise your majesty.

Far away from all this, Cassie was preparing to travel with Bella and Ella.

She said she needed to clear her head, shop, and enjoy herself.

Queen Esther gave her money and warned her to avoid trouble.

But Cassie had another worry.

For some days, her body had not felt normal.

She was restless.

Her monthly flow had come strangely and stopped too quickly.

She kept checking the calendar, counting days, pretending not to be afraid.

In her room, Bella noticed her mood.

Cassie, what is wrong with you? Bella asked.

Nothing.

Ella looked at her closely.

You have been quiet since morning.

That is not normal.

Cassie sat on the bed.

My body is acting somehow.

Bella frowned.

How? Cassie hesitated.

>> Period did not come well.

Did you have untected sex? There was this guy at the club.

I do not even know what came over me.

I will not lose my crown.

>> Cassie rolled her eyes, but her face showed fear.

There was this guy at the club.

Bella covered her mouth.

Cassie, he was handsome, Cassie said quickly, as if that explained everything.

I do not even know what came over me.

It was one night.

One night is enough, Ella said.

Cassie stood up.

God forbid I cannot be pregnant.

What if you are? Bella asked.

Cassie turned to her.

“Then I will remove it.

” Bella and Ella looked at each other.

“You know what tradition says,” Cassie said, her voice low.

“An unmarried pregnant heir cannot be crowned queen.

I will [clears throat] not lose my crown because of one careless knight.

” “She did not know the man she was talking about was Chidy.

She did not know he was already working with Amaka.

She did not know that one night would return to destroy the confidence she carried like gold.

When Cassie and her friends traveled, the secret followed them.

And when they returned weeks later, Cassie acted as if nothing had happened.

But secrets do not stay hidden because people want them to.

One afternoon, Queen Esther was sitting in her car outside a shopping plaza when Bella made the mistake of speaking too much.

The queen had asked why they had stayed longer than planned.

Bella became nervous.

She tried to defend herself.

She tried to explain that they were not bad girls.

And before she knew it, the truth came out.

Cassie had been pregnant.

Cassie had removed the pregnancy abroad.

Queen Esther sat frozen.

Her hand tightened around her handbag.

“My daughter did what?” she asked.

Bella began to cry.

“My queen, please do not tell her I said it.

I was only trying to explain.

Get out of my car.

My queen, get out.

” Bella stepped out shaking.

Queen Esther sat there for a long time, staring ahead.

For the first time, shame entered a place inside her that even love could not cover.

That evening, she confronted Cassie.

Cassie was in her room, lying on the bed and scrolling through her phone.

Queen Esther entered and closed the door behind her.

Cassie looked up.

Mother, is it true? Cassie frowned.

Is what true? You were pregnant.

Cassie’s expression changed for a second, then she looked away.

Who told you that? Queen Esther moved closer.

Answer me.

Cassie sat up slowly.

Yes.

So the queen stepped back as if she had been slapped.

So she repeated.

Cassie shrugged.

It was a mistake.

I corrected it.

You corrected it.

What did you expect me to do? Keep it? Carry a pregnancy without a husband and lose my crown? Queen Esther’s eyes filled with tears.

Cassie, do you hear yourself? Cassie stood up.

Mother, please do not start crying like I killed somebody.

You killed something.

Cassie’s face hardened.

I protected my future.

Queen Esther stared at her daughter and suddenly saw what the king had been saying for years.

Cassie was not just stubborn.

Cassie was dangerous.

But even with that fear in her heart, Queen Esther still loved her.

And that was the problem.

Cassie looked at her mother and spoke without shame.

>> I did what I had to do.

Nobody will take my crown from me.

Queen Esther could not answer because in that moment she understood that Cassie was ready to do anything for power.

And the worst part was that she had been the one teaching her that the crown mattered more than truth.

For some days after that, Queen Esther became quiet.

She still protected Cassie, but something in her eyes had changed.

She watched her daughter more closely.

She listened when Cassie spoke.

She noticed how Cassie laughed at things that should have made her ashamed.

But even then, she did not have the courage to correct her.

She told herself it was too late to be hard on Cassie.

She told herself Cassie was only fighting for what belonged to her.

She told herself many things.

But deep inside, fear had started growing.

At Royal Spring Water, Amaka tried to keep her mind on the company.

The debts were becoming heavier.

Some suppliers were threatening to stop work.

Two banks had started calling every day.

The company was still respected outside, but inside Amaka knew the truth.

If they made one wrong move, everything her father built could fall.

That was why Chid’s coming felt like fresh air.

He did not behave like someone who wanted to impress her with empty talk.

He studied the company records.

He asked questions.

He checked transport losses, supply delays, and unpaid debts.

Within a few weeks, he found ways to reduce waste and save money.

One afternoon, Amaka called him into her office.

Chidi entered with a file in his hand.

“You asked to see me?” “Yes,” Amaka said, pointing to the chair.

“Sit down,” he said.

Amaka opened one of the reports on her table.

“This idea you gave about changing the delivery routes, are you sure it will work?” It will not solve everything at once, Gi said.

But it will reduce fuel waste.

Some drivers are taking longer routes because nobody is checking them.

Some trucks are also being sent half empty.

If we plan the movement better, we can save money every week.

Amaka looked at him carefully.

You noticed all that in less than one month.

Chidi smiled lightly.

I have been poor before.

Poor people notice waste faster.

Amaka laughed softly before she could stop herself.

Chidi looked pleased that he had made her laugh.

She looked down at the file again, but her smile remained.

We have a business meeting tomorrow.

I want you to come with me.

Chi sat straighter.

>> Me? >> Yes.

You understand the new supply plan better than anyone.

>> I want you.

>> I want you to present it.

He looked uncertain.

Are you sure? I am.

I have never presented in front of big investors before.

You know the work.

Amaka said that is enough.

Chidi looked at her for a moment.

You trust me too much.

No, Amaka replied gently.

I trust what I have seen.

The next morning they traveled together for the meeting.

It was the first time they spent many hours outside the office.

On the way, Amaka worked on her laptop while Chidi reviewed his notes.

At first they spoke only about business.

Then slowly the conversation became easier.

Chidi told her about his years of searching for work.

He spoke of the shame of attending interviews and never hearing back.

He spoke of his father who he believed worked far away as a company driver.

My father is a funny man.

Chi said smiling.

He can turn even hunger into a joke.

But he is also secretive.

There are things he never tells me.

Amaka looked at him.

Like what? Like my mother, he said quietly.

Anytime I ask him about her, he changes the topic.

Amaka’s face softened.

I am sorry.

It is fine, he said.

I have stopped asking too much.

Sometimes silence can be heavier than the truth.

Amaka [clears throat] said.

Chidi looked at her.

You sound like you know.

Amaka smiled sadly.

In my family many things are not said.

We only walk around them.

Chidi did not ask more.

He only nodded.

That small silence between them felt peaceful.

It was not empty.

It felt like understanding.

At the meeting, Chidi surprised everyone.

He spoke simply but clearly.

He did not try to sound bigger than he was.

He explained where the company was losing money, how the delivery system could be changed, and how the company could recover slowly without hurting workers.

Amaka watched him from the side of the room.

For the first time in a long while, she felt hope.

After the meeting, one of the investors shook Chidi’s hand.

“Young man, you understand the business well,” he said.

Chidi thanked him respectfully.

When they returned to the car, Amaka looked at Chidi with quiet pride.

“You did well,” she said.

Chi smiled, but he tried to hide it.

“Thank you.

” No, I mean it.

You did very well.

He looked out of the window for a moment, then back at her.

I was afraid.

I know.

How you kept tapping your finger on the file? He laughed.

You noticed.

I noticed things, too.

Their eyes met, and for a moment, neither of them spoke.

Something had changed.

It was not loud.

It was not rushed, but it was there.

From that day, Chidi and Amaka became closer.

They still kept things respectful at work, but everyone could see that they trusted each other.

Chi knew when Amaka was tired before she said it.

Amaka knew when Chidi was worried even when he tried to smile.

Jenny noticed too, but she said nothing.

She only smiled to herself whenever Chidi entered Amaka’s office, and Amaka’s face became softer.

But news did not stay inside a company for long.

One evening, Cassie heard that Amaka had traveled for a business meeting with the new male staff.

She was in her room with Bella and Ella when one of the palace maids mentioned it by mistake.

Cassie lowered her phone slowly.

What did you say? The maid became frightened.

I only said Princess Amaka has returned from a company trip.

With who? The maid swallowed.

with the new staff.

Ma Cassie stood.

New staff.

Bella looked at Ella.

Cassie turned to them.

So a maka now travels with male employees under my nose.

Ella spoke carefully.

Maybe it was just business.

Cassie looked at her.

Did I ask you? Ella became quiet.

The next morning, Cassie stormed into Amaka’s office.

Amaka was going through some documents with Jenny when Cassie entered without knocking.

Lee, Cassie told Jenny.

Jenny looked at Amaka.

Amaka nodded.

It is fine.

Jenny left.

Cassie walked to the front of the table.

Who is he? Amaka sighed.

Good morning to you too, Cassie.

Do not play with me.

Who is that man you are moving around with? Amaka closed the file in front of her.

His name is Chidi Okoy.

He works in operations.

And why am I just hearing about him? Because you have not been involved in the work.

Cassie’s eyes flashed.

Be careful.

Amaka stayed calm.

Chidi is helping this company.

We have debts, Cassie.

Heavy debts.

Some of them came from money you took out without approval.

His ideas are helping us reduce losses.

Cassie laughed.

So now you have found one poor man and made him your hero.

He is not poor in the way you think.

Amaka said he has sense, discipline, and respect.

Those things matter.

Cassie leaned forward.

Bring him to me.

For what? I want to see him.

He is a staff member, not a toy.

I said, bring him to me.

Amaka’s voice became firmer.

No.

Cassie stared at her.

Did you just say no to me? Yes.

Cassie smiled slowly.

You are becoming bold because father is sick and everybody is clapping for you.

This is not about clapping.

It is about control, Cassie said.

And I am the one in control.

If you keep hiding things from me, I will burn down this company and build another one from the ashes.

Amaka looked at her sister and felt cold inside.

She saw that Cassie was not joking.

“Cassie,” she said quietly, “this company is father’s life, and I am father’s first daughter.

You are destroying what you want to inherit.

” Cassie laughed, then let it be destroyed in my hand.

” She picked up a Maka’s pen from the table, snapped it in two, and dropped it back.

>> “Bring him to me, or I will come for him myself.

” Then she walked out.

Amaka sat still for a long time after Cassie left.

Jenny entered slowly.

>> Ma, are you okay? >> Amaka looked at the broken pen.

>> No.

>> No, she said softly.

But I will be.

>> But I will be.

>> Cassie did not let the matter go.

Even while she was angry about Amaka and the company, her mind was still on the man from the club.

She had searched for him since returning from her trip.

She paid people.

She asked questions.

She sent photos to friends.

But nobody found him.

The more she failed, the more obsessed she became.

She did not even know his full name.

She only remembered his face, his voice, and the way he had made her feel powerful and wanted.

One afternoon, she stood before her mirror speaking to Bella and Ella.

“I must find him,” she said.

Bella adjusted her bracelet.

“What if he does not want to be found?” Cassie turned.

Everybody wants to be found by me.

Ella forced a laugh.

Cassie faced the mirror again.

That man is mine.

I do not care where he is hiding.

That same day, Chidi came to the palace with a marker.

Amaka had forgotten some documents at home and Chidi had followed her because they were heading to another meeting after that.

He had never entered the palace before.

He stood near the car looking around quietly.

The compound felt familiar in a strange way, though he did not know why.

Then he saw an older man walking toward the gate.

Chi froze.

The man froze too.

Papa, Chidi whispered.

Mr. Okcoy stopped as if the ground had caught his feet.

Papa >> Chidi walked closer.

Papa.

Mr. Okcoyy’s face changed.

Pain, fear, and shame entered his eyes at once.

Chidi, he said softly.

Amaka turned confused.

You know him.

Chidi did not answer her.

He stared at his father’s uniform, the security cap, the badge, the gate keys in his hand.

Papa, Chidi said slowly.

What are you doing here? Mr. Okoy opened his mouth, but no words came out.

You work here? Chidi asked.

In this palace.

Amaka’s heart began to beat faster.

Mr. Aoy lowered his head.

My son, you told me you were a company driver, Chi said.

You said you worked far away.

I know.

You lied to me.

Mr. Okcoy looked at him with tired eyes.

Yes.

Before anyone could speak again, Cassie came out of the palace.

>> Right there.

>> She was talking on the phone, but the moment her eyes fell on Chi, she stopped.

Her phone slowly dropped from her ear.

Cheddy turned and saw her.

Cassie stared at him like she had seen a ghost.

“You,” she whispered.

Amaka looked from Cassie to Chidi.

Chedi looked uncomfortable, “Princess.

” Cassie walked toward him, her eyes bright with shock.

“So it is you.

” Chidi said nothing.

“You are the one I have been looking for.

” Amaka felt something sharp enter her chest.

She did not understand yet, but she understood enough.

Cassie turned to Mister Okoy.

Wait, this is your son.

Mr. Aoy did not answer.

Cassie laughed, but the laugh sounded broken.

The man I have been searching for is the son of the gateman.

Chi’s face hardened.

Do not call my father that.

Cassie blinked, surprised by his tone.

Amaka stepped closer.

Cassie, what is going on? Cassie looked at her and smiled.

It was not a kind smile.

You did not know, she asked.

This man is mine.

Amaka went still.

Chidi turned sharply.

Cassie, stop.

But Cassie was already enjoying the pain on Amaka’s face.

He is the man I met before you ever employed him, Cassie said.

The man I have been searching for.

The man I want.

>> Is this true? >> I met her once before I knew who she was.

>> Once can be enough.

>> Cassie laughed.

Once can be enough.

Amaka stepped back.

Mr. Okoy watched everything with fear in his eyes.

The secret he had carried for years had not yet come out, but another fire had started in front of him.

That evening, the whole palace knew.

Cassie announced it with pride.

>> Chidi is the man I want to marry, she told Queen Esther.

And nobody will stop me.

>> The story isn’t over yet.

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