MY SUGAR MUMMY Episode 5: A Shift in Focus Baby Mariam story “The girl couldn’t stop flirting with him.” “And why does that bother you so much?” Amaka asked pointedly. “Isn’t this the point of your plan? To get him ready for Ada? Or are you starting to have feelings for him yourself?” Nkechi froze, the question cutting deeper than she expected. She shook her head firmly. “Of course not. This is about Ada. I just need everything to go as planned.” But as she lay in bed that night, Nkechi couldn’t help but wonder if she was lying to herself. Meanwhile, Chidi found himself thinking about Ifeoma’s bright smile and engaging conversation. For the first time, his thoughts drifted away from Nkechi, adding yet another layer of complexity to an already tangled web The following week brought an unexpected change in Chidi’s demeanor. Nkechi noticed he seemed distracted during their usual interactions. He completed his tasks diligently but was less responsive to her jokes and casual conversations. Nkechi’s curiosity grew, and she decided to address it. “Chidi, is everything all right?” she asked one afternoon while they were organizing inventory in the boutique. Chidi hesitated before responding. “I’m fine, ma. Just a lot on my mind.” Nkechi frowned, sensing he wasn’t being entirely truthful. “Is it about work? Or…something else?” “It’s nothing serious,” Chidi replied, avoiding her gaze. Nkechi decided not to press further, but her unease lingered. Unbeknownst to Nkechi, Chidi had been in touch with Ifeoma. Their chance meeting at the boutique had sparked a connection, and they’d exchanged numbers. Ifeoma’s lively personality and genuine interest in his life had been a refreshing change for Chidi, who often felt overwhelmed by Nkechi’s intense presence. One evening, Ifeoma invited Chidi out for drinks. They met at a cozy bar, where their conversation flowed effortlessly. Chidi found himself laughing and opening up about his struggles and ambitions. Ifeoma listened attentively, her warmth putting him at ease. Back at home, Nkechi grew restless. She’d called Chidi earlier to discuss an upcoming event, but his phone had gone unanswered. She told herself it wasn’t a big deal, but a nagging feeling of insecurity crept in. What if Chidi was slipping away from her grasp? The next day, Nkechi’s suspicions were confirmed when she overheard Bola gossiping with another employee. “Chidi went out with Ifeoma last night. They looked so good together,” Bola said with a sly smile. Nkechi’s heart sank. She realized she was losing control of the situation. Her plan, which had seemed so foolproof, was now riddled with complications. Ada’s impending return, Ifeoma’s involvement, and Chidi’s shifting focus were creating a perfect storm. Determined to regain control, Nkechi decided to confront Chidi. That evening, she invited him to dinner at her home. As they sat down to eat, Nkechi leaned forward and said, “Chidi, I need to know where your priorities lie. Have you been distracted lately?” Chidi looked up, surprised by her directness. “Ma, I…I don’t understand.” “I mean, are you still focused on your work here? Or have other…interests taken precedence?” she asked, her tone sharper than she intended. Chidi’s expression hardened. “Ma, I appreciate everything you’ve done for me, but I don’t think it’s fair to question my dedication. I’ve always given my best.” Nkechi nodded, masking her frustration. “I’m only looking out for you, Chidi. You have so much potential, and I don’t want you to lose sight of your goals.” As they continued their meal, an uneasy silence settled between them. Nkechi realized that her grip on the situation was slipping, and for the first time, she wondered if her plan would backfire. Meanwhile, Chidi’s thoughts drifted back to Ifeoma, whose laughter and kindness had brought him a sense of clarity he hadn’t felt in a long time. The tangled web of emotions was tightening, and the stakes were higher than ever... Continued.... @Everyone #Daloaders