Gladys couldn‘t believe all the information Chief Okrika was throwing at her. “You had people following us? What confuses me is this: how did you get my instruction mandate to sell the shares?”
He laughed, “Your account officer and someone else from my partner‘s side were very helpful.”
He smiled at her look of amazement and dropped the cocktail stick he‘d been flossing his teeth with. “Let‘s talk about why I called you. I liked what I saw of you in the magazines and also when we met at Ikoyi club. I want you to be my mistress. I know you‘re with Edward for the money, so I put the money in your account as a first step…”
Gladys was very shocked. Though she‘d suspected that this had been his motive all along, it still roiled her stomach the way he‘d come out with it. She felt like walking away, but she restrained herself. After all, the plan was going even better than she and Ola could have imagined.
“You‘re a very good looking girl and I want you. I want you very badly and will do anything…”
“What are you saying?” Gladys was furious. It would be a joke if this was the reason Chief Okrika was trying to takeover Bestman Group. “You‘re married! Your wife was even supposed to be here. And I‘m engaged to Edward, as you know well enough!”
“That doesn‘t matter. What I do in my marriage is my business. My wife and I understand each other. As for your engagement, how long do you think that will last?”
“I won‘t stay here and listen to this.” She made as if to stand up.
Chief Okrika held her hand and she allowed him to pull her back. “I know you might be thinking of what people will say but you‘re not a foolish girl. Think of what I can give you. I will release that money in your account after you‘ve left Edward. You don‘t have to remain in this town; I‘ll settle you anywhere…”
“Why are you doing this?” Gladys whispered.
“Doing what?” He laughed. “You‘re so naïve, but that makes me want you more. I‘m saying you should forget Edward. I‘ll be good to you.” He leaned closer to her, his hot breath on her cheek.