"WE DON'T SELL NIGERIAN AUTHORS": SINMISOLA OGUNYINKA TALKS OF HER UNFAIR TREATMENT AT THE HANDS OF NIGERIAN BOOKSHOPS

Speaking with South African based writer; Sinmisola Ogunyinka, she talks about about her books and the efforts and challenges she faced trying to sell them in Nigeria. 

BLOG HOST: Let’s know you. 

SO: My name is Sinmisola Ogunyinka. I started self publishing in 2003. I have written 35 books, 17 of which have been self-published in paperback and hardback, others in eBook and kindle. I write Christian fiction so the genre itself is not popular amongst Nigerian readers. I’m fine with that. The genre will grow. 

BLOG HOST:  What other genre do you write?

 

SO:  I write a little of inspirational non-fiction but most of my books are Christian Romance and contemporary women’s fiction.

BLOG HOST: What was the name of your first book, what year was it published? 

SO: Sister Minister, 2003. 

BLOG HOST:  Tell your story, including the bookshops that turned you down and their reasons.

SO: I started self publishing in 2003. I don’t remember all the bookshops that turned me down because almost all the ones I went to did. But I do remember the very painful ones and the big names. Sister Minister was the one Edysil Book shop refused to even take a complimentary copy. Edysil Bookshop in Palm Groove told me they don’t sell Nigerian authors. Some of the bookshops took my books and never returned my money. Ipfy Konnections; Ikeja, Booksellers; Ibadan and Debonairs, Yaba. Also, Laterna Books asked me to submit a book for review about ten years ago and told me they’d get back after three months and never did. I went back several times but they kept posting me for another year or so. At least tell me you don’t want my book.

BLOG HOST: What year was this?  

SO: This was between 2003 and 2005/2006. These bookshops contributed to discouraging me in the early days of my writing. I can’t forget them, especially because they are big shops and names in bookselling. There have been many others who cheated or turned me down. So many.  Nowadays I sell my paperback on Jumia and Konga. At least they send me reports and remit. Then of course, I sell on Amazon’s kindle, Okadabooks, Smashwords, iBooks etc. I’m everywhere online. 

BLOG HOST: Are you at least making a profit, selling your books online? 

 

SO:  Sales are slow but I don’t get turned off for being a writer. At least I get to sell my books one by one, after trying the bookshops that failed me. 

BLOG HOST: Some writers wait ages before they get published.

SO:  I don’t even mind the wait but at least let me know what I’m waiting for. And please pay me for my work... that’s just so unfair! It’s not easy to write. You spend two years working on a book; someone picks it up and finishes reading it in a day! It’s no small task. What I do is pick up everything the traditional publishers do for my book and do it myself. My daughter did a colouring book for preschool kids. I sold about 500 copies myself, school to school. It was well packaged, editing was spot on, everything was done well. No excuses. The schools bought them. 

BLOG HOST: That’s really good. How old is she?

 

SO: She was 7 at the time. She’s 16 now. She now writes historicals and some contemporary fiction but we haven’t published any yet. My fault there. Too busy working for money (Laughs) 

BLOG HOST: Tell me a bit more about yourself. Do you have a day job? 

 

SO: My husband is a church planter and I chose writing as a career to enable me work and move with him when he had to. So I am a writer. I got trained by Jerry B. Jenkins through his Christian Writers’ Guild between 2010 and 2014. I got a B.Sc. in Economics from O.A.U (Obafemi Awolowo University) Ife, and I’ve worked on and off in accounting, office administration, real estate and human resources. Currently, I write full time. I work day and night writing (laughs)

I do editing for people, I ghost-write as well. I write movie scripts and this year I decided to start self-publishing services. I have ghost written three books so far. Edited tons of books for people. I teach writing too. I am currently working on several projects;

1.    Pitching two of my works to international traditional publishers.

2.    Converting my book- THE DAYS AFTER THAT NIGHT- into a screenplay.

3.    Writing with a writer/producer from Zimbabwe. 

My plate is quite full at the moment. I write best at night, where everywhere is quiet. During the day, I do Facebook and Twitter and Whatsapp (Laughs) 

BLOG HOST: What are the titles of some of your works? 

SO:   I have 4 series; Issues of Life Series- 5 books. Wisdom Series- 6 books. True Dream Series (Classic romance novellas for women) - 14 books. Revelation series- 1 book. Then I have contemporary women’s feature novellas:

-          The Days After That Night(2014)

-          Frail Flesh ( 2012)

-          Pepper (2009)

-          Scent of Water (2007)

-          To Where The Wind Blew (2004)

-          TISHA (2015)

 You can get them really cheap and in naira at okadabooks.com

 

BLOG HOST: When did you move to South Africa? Do bookshops sell some of your works there? 

SO:  I came to SA in 2014. I haven’t tried any of their bookshops here. I’m paranoid really. 

BLOG HOST:  What made writing your calling?

SO: I knew from the age of 10 I could write. I have a host of baby stories I wrote through secondary school. But marriage and family made me turn writing from a hobby to a career. 

BLOG HOST: Finally, what’s your favourite book? 

SO: I read a lot of romance and have come across many great ones. I don’t have a favourite book. I just love well written books. That said, I enjoyed the works of Francine Rivers, Frank Peretti, Sandra Brown and Linda Howard. 

 

Sinmisola Ogunyinka’s latest book ÌKA is available for pre-order at Amazon.com. Her previous works are available for sale at okadabooks.com, Smashwords and iBooks.

VETERAN ACTOR JAB ADU'S PASSING A BIG LOSS TO NOLLYWOOD

My earliest memory of Jab Adu was watching him in the T.V series, THE ADIO FAMILY; which he starred with actress Rosemary Adams. I also heard he was in another classic NTA show, THE VILLAGE HEADMASTER; where he played Efik shopkeeper, Bassey Okon. However, my generation was more familiar with THE NEW VILLAGE HEADMASTER- the apparently revamped version with the late Justus Esiri taking over the role of the village headmaster; hence I had no idea of Adu being in it until after I heard of his passing 

I also remember him in another T.V series in the early 90's, THE TURNING WHEEL and then years later in HOSTAGES Part II; directed by Tade Ogidan. Seeing him several more years later in the AIDS/HIV awareness series WETIN DEY was a surprise but a real treat. And that was because Jab Adu was a versatile actor who knew how to play a role. I can't help but liken him to Olu Jacobs, Justus Esiri and the late George Menta. Considering he started his career as a banker, Adu possessed such skill and polish-  that it was more than obvious he was born to be an actor.

Which makes his death a  real loss to Nollywood. Jab Adu was one of the few pioneer actors of the country's T.V and film industry. All the more reason why- as a tribute to him- NTA should air some re-runs of THE ADIO FAMILY; let the current generation of viewers him in his earlier work, especially since he co produced that series in the first place. Jab Adu should be celebrated as such and it will be a real shame if this gesture is not carried out by NTA. 

Joseph Abiodun Adu; you brightened our screens with your versatility and great acting skill and you will never be forgotten by the people who appreciated you. Rest in peace now in the arms of the Lord.

ACCUSED 'WITCH CHILD' ABANDONED BY PARENTS: IS IGNORANCE TO BLAME?

In this day and age, one would hear unbelievable and heartrending deeds happening to children. We hear the stories and we wonder when such evils in the world will cease. In Nigeria, before  Civilization and Education enlightened the people; twin babies were regarded as evil and thrown into  evil forests and deep pits to die; until a strong willed Scottish missionary Mary Slessor put an end to it. Present Nigeria, we hear of children  physically and sexually molested, child labour and child marriages. And still trending is the case of 2 year old abandoned by his  parents, because he was  actually thought to be a witch child!

This particular story is not old news, it's been viral for some time and people are still talking about it. In Akwa Ibom state, a 2 year old boy was found and rescued by a Danish aid worker, Anja Ringgren Loven; who is the founder of the African Children's Aid Education and Development Foundation. The poor emaciated boy was found wandering about in Uyo; apparently living on scraps for several months. Ms. Loven immediately gave him water and something to eat before taking him away for a much needed bath and medical care. God was obviously watching over that poor child, it's a miracle  when he was found he was still alive. It breaks my heart imagining Hope (as he's now called) wandering about alone and starving all those months but seeing pictures of his smiling face assured the world he's in good hands. What his future is going to be, we are yet to know but it better not be Hope being handed over to the heartless parents who abandoned him in the first place. I sincerely doubt they would dare show their faces and claim Hope back. Hope deserves far better than them.

Ignorance goes a long way in the worst possible way; especially when it involves children. Ignorance was the main reason behind the killing of twins so very long ago, until Mary’s intervention; at the time they were thought to be abnormal. Education has enlightened us since then but unfortunately, there are still some primitive practices carried out and superstitious beliefs held. What was the basis behind  Hope's parents' accusation in the first place? A strange birthmark on the child's body? Something they thought they saw in him and  "collaborated" by some dibia? How could they bring themselves to do what they did to this boy; a 2 year old who had no means of looking after himself after he was thrown out. We still don't know on what grounds they accused Hope of being a witch child in the first place. But if they still believe such a thing about him, then should we blame ignorance behind their wicked action?

Frankly, I don’t know what to think in terms of their reason for abandoning Hope. But all I can say is that they did a terrible thing and I hope they will forever live in guilt.

Feel free to leave your comments. 

CARBO FAN FICTION-Déjà Vu CHAPTER 16

‘Come in,’ Bo said without looking up from the file he was intently studying.

The door opened and slammed shut loudly, causing him to look up; startled.

Frankie Brady stood there; his bluish black eyes blazing with anger. ‘What the hell do you think you’re doing, Bo?’

Bo put the file down and stood up. ‘Frankie. We’ve been trying to reach you for a very long time.’

‘From the amount of messages on my answering machine; I figured.’ Frankie said coldly. ‘Plus a phone call from Emil Standish informing me my sister is in Salem; on loan from the ISA. And I’m willing to guess it was by your request. What are you doing?’

‘Before I answer your question, Frank; why didn’t you tell me what happened to Carly in the first place? What was that about?’

Frankie scoffed. ‘Would you have cared? You handed Carly over to that bastard in the first place and in a matter of months, you forgot her! You never even told Hope about her; as far as she’s concerned, it was Billie who made you whole again while she was gone!’

‘Well, we both know that’s not true. And I never forgot Carly.’ Bo replied, anger in his voice. ‘Letting her go was the hardest thing I ever did in my life. But Larry brainwashed her; by the time she got out the amnesia it was too late for us. I let her go because I loved her. But it was too hard for me to picture her being a family with him and Nicky; you should know how it is! That’s why I couldn’t bring myself to think of her for years. Now pull a chair and sit down, we need to talk about this rationally.’

Frankie hesitated then reluctantly did as he was told. Bo sank back into his chair, looking at Carly’s brother intently. ‘One more question before I answer yours. Shane told us the doctors made Carly believe she survived a terrible accident when they couldn’t help her. But they did more than that, didn’t they?’

Frankie was silent for a few seconds then quietly replied, ‘They implanted false memories into her mind. You got to understand Bo; she’d been through a lot of trauma and the last thing we wanted was Lawrence finding out she was still alive. And that would have happened if we had told her who she really was; she would have fought for custody of Nicky or go back to Alamania for him. I wasn’t around to help my sister but no way was I going to allow Lawrence touch her again. As far as she’s concerned, she’s an orphan who lost her family as a child and was left money. I couldn’t be in her life but Standish’s been looking out for her for me. Now I find out she’s here and you’re endangering her by keeping her here.’

‘I’m trying to help her get her life back, Frank. Once we got the whole story; Roman and I decided we couldn’t let her go on as Clarice Parker. She has a right to know who she really is.’

‘So that’s all there is, you just want to help her.’ Frankie said disbelievingly. ‘And how does Hope feel about you helping out your ex fiancée?’

‘She doesn’t know Carly’s my ex and she’s not an issue anyway. We’re divorced now.’

Frankie couldn’t believe what he was hearing. ‘You’ve got to be kidding me. You and Hope?’

Bo raised his hands. ‘We were having a lot of problems before Carly came back. Hope moved out with Ciara and I tried to fix things; I really did. And then… Carly and I fell in love all over again and before you say anything,’ he hastily added seeing Frankie’s staggered look, ‘it’s not a rebound from Hope. It was a force bigger than the both of us and it’s real. It really is. It’s not just about helping her now. She’s back in my life and she’s never leaving it again. I love her Frankie and she loves me.’

Frankie sank back into his chair, overwhelmed. ‘My God…’ he said at last.

‘She’s not in danger.’ Bo assured him. ‘Now she’s got me and Roman to protect her. And she’s starting to remember a few things; they’re foggy right now but in time, she’s going to remember more and I’ll fill the blanks as they come. And you must do the same thing, as her brother.’

‘But what about Larry? Somehow he’s going to find out she’s here.’ Frankie said worriedly.

‘He comes near her, I’ll kill him.’ Bo’s voice was now hard and ominous. ‘And as for Nicky; he doesn’t have to know his mother’s alive just yet. Once Carly gets her memory back, she’ll decide whether or not to call him. Lord knows what that son of a bitch even told him about her.’

‘If I know Larry; a load of crap enough to turn him against her- just like Vivian did.’ Frankie said sullenly. ‘I hate them so much. And I hate my father for handing my sister over to him in the first place. That was the worst part about being Francois and Katarina Von Leuschner, Bo. The only thing our parents could give us was money and expected nothing from us but marry into yet more money.’ He sighed. ‘I’m really sorry I didn’t tell you about what happened to Carly. I just kept looking at you and Hope and thought you wouldn’t want to help her. I guess I misjudged you.’

‘Pretty much but it’s okay.’ Bo smiled. ‘And after she regains her memory and gets her life back, I’m going to ask her to marry me.’

Frankie chuckled softly. ‘For real? Wow… it is serious. But you are going to tell Hope right? I don’t want Carly having problems with her.’

‘Soon, Frankie; I promise. I’m going to handle things my way.’

Frankie shrugged his shoulders in defeat. ‘Well… I guess I have to trust you. Where is Carly anyway?’

‘She’s out with Roman on a case.’

Frankie shook his head in exasperation. 

‘I know… I don’t like her being in law enforcement either. She’s more than capable but she doesn’t belong here. She’ll get her memory back, in time.’

‘I pray she will. Lord knows nothing the doctors did worked. When can I see her?’

‘Meet us at Mum’s place tonight; I’ll bring her over.’

‘Great.’ Frankie gave Bo a hug, very grateful for him now that his anger was gone. He was still worried about his sister’s safety but he didn’t doubt Bo and Roman’s capability of protecting her. ‘I’m only in town for a day; I have to fly back to D.C very soon.’

‘We’ll see you tonight then. And please remember not to call her Carly.’

‘You got it.’

:::::::::

Carly looked at Frankie intently as Bo introduced them. Caroline and Roman watched, bracing themselves; wondering if she would recognize her brother.

‘Pleased to meet you, Frankie.’ She said at last. ‘I have a huge feeling we’re going to be very close friends.’ She smiled wider, her hand still holding his. ‘Funny… I already feel so close to you.’

Bo looked at Caroline and Roman over her head. A good sign at least.

Frankie’s warm smile hid his frustration but he was very glad to see his sister. With Bo and Roman around, Standish didn’t have to keep tabs on her on his behalf from now on and he could now visit her often; as Bo and Roman’s younger brother.

All through dinner, Carly and Frankie couldn’t stop chatting with each other; there was playful banter and to Bo’s amusement and delight, Carly uncannily kept finishing Frankie’s sentences.

‘It’s a real treat meeting you, Frankie.’ Carly said when it was time for her and Bo to leave. ‘It’s a shame you’re flying back so soon. When will we see you again?’

‘More often from now on.’ Frankie hugged her close. ‘It was great meeting you too. And I’m happy for you and Bo.’

Carly turned to smile lovingly at Bo. ‘I’m happy too.’

As she walked through the door after kissing Roman and Caroline goodnight; Frankie gripped Bo’s shoulder. ‘Take great care of her, Bo. Please, don’t let anything happen to her again.’

‘I promise, don’t you worry.’ Bo assured him gruffly.

‘We all will, son.’ Caroline added as Roman patted his back.

‘I like your brother very much.’ Carly said as she sat on the bed and removed her shoes. ‘We really clicked.’

‘You sure seemed to have a lot in common with him.’ Bo said, washing his hands in the adjoining bathroom and drying them with a towel.

Carly looked at him with amusement as he stepped out. ‘Are you jealous?’

Bo scoffed. ‘Please…’

‘Not even a little bit?’ she asked, getting up to slid her arms round his waist.

‘Would you prefer if I was, you minx?’ Bo teased, pulling her against him.

Carly laughed. ‘Seriously, Frankie’s really sweet and we’re so in tune. Don’t get me wrong, I love Roman but there’s just something about Frankie.’

It’s that damn déjà vu again; at least that’s what it was to her. The memory wasn’t yet in place but the natural connection was; just like the connection she had with him that led to them being together again. A matter of time, Bo reminded himself. Just a matter of time.

‘Well, he liked you too; in fact he gave a quick remark about how lucky I am. And I agree with him, a hundred percent.’ He cupped her face and kissed her lingeringly. Carly’s lips parted eagerly for him, her arms moving up to encircle his neck, pressing herself against him and feeling his instant reaction. He kissed down her neck, his warm breath over her as he unbuttoned her shirt and peeled it off her.

‘Definitely a hundred percent.’ Bo grinned at her, his voice husky as he walked her backwards to the bed.

Carly grinned back.

Bo pushed her onto the bed and then started taking off his shirt. He stopped, noticing an odd expression on her face, a rather petrified expression. ‘Clarice, what’s wrong?’

A shadowy figure roughly pushing her on a bed, pinning her down… ripping her clothes and she was kicking out, struggling, screaming…

‘Princess,’ Bo said urgently, moving close to her. ‘What’s wrong, did I do something…?’ He stroked her cheek.

‘No!’ Carly shrieked, scrambling away from his touch in terror.

Bo stared at her, unsure of what to do.

Clarice rubbed her head with her hands; confused and shaken. What the hell was wrong with her and what was the meaning of that unexpected vision? She turned away to bury her face into a pillow, taking deep breaths.

Bo joined her on the bed, upset the latest flash of memory made her scared of him. ‘Clarice?’ he touched her hair cautiously. ‘Are you okay? Talk to me please.’

Carly didn’t raise her head until she sensed the strange sense of terror leaving her.  Feeling better she turned to face Bo who was looking so anxious and concerned that it wrung her heart. She sat up and slipped her arms round him and he held her tightly, pressing his lips against her forehead.

‘I’m sorry,’ she murmured. ‘I don’t know what came over me.’

‘It’s alright,’ Bo stroked her hair, wishing happier past events would come to her instead of visions of Lawrence abusing her. It must have been the way he pushed her onto the bed that triggered it. ‘What was that?’ he asked tentatively.

‘I don’t know.’ Carly pulled away to look at him, confused and still rather shaken. ‘I… I saw something in my head just now… something or someone evil. A premonition I think.’

Bo of course knew otherwise. ‘You don’t honestly think I would ever do anything to hurt you.’

 ‘No, no…of course not,’ She hugged him again, basking in his manly strength and immediately feeling safe and warm again. He always made her feel that way. ‘I know you, Bo Brady. You’re the last person that could ever hurt me.’

‘I’m glad you know that, princess.’ Bo replied quietly, relieved by her words. Goddamn Lawrence Alamain! If he ever showed up in Salem to come after Carly, he will kill him dead; kill him with his bare hands.

Feeling better, Carly began kissing Bo again. Wrapping his arms round her, his mouth devoured hers in a drugging kiss; his hands feverishly exploring her breasts before lowering her onto the bed, gently this time. Kissing his way down her body, he unbuckled and pulled her jeans off her legs. As he slipped from her arms to take off his pants, she sat up to take off her tank top and bra; their eyes locked with each other. Bo saw the woman he loved, beautiful and sensually feminine. Clarice saw a handsome, very macho man she was absolutely crazy about and completely in sync with. No way was he capable of harming her so was that sudden episode all about?

Pushing it aside, she held out her arms to him. Bo rejoined her, taking her in his arms. As much as he wanted her to remember more, he also didn’t want her getting more flashes of Lawrence hurting her. So he rolled onto his back, lifting her and guided her down to him. Gasping against his lips, she moved on him, trembling with intense pleasure as they moved together.

Bo gripped her hips, loving her fiercely and basking in their  mutual blazing passion; planting kisses on her mouth and against her neck, the urgency in him mounting as their bodies moved together in a sweet, driving frenzy and finally, after spasms of their culmination shook them, Carly collapsed against him; both panting heavily  in fulfillment. She pressed her face against his neck and he held her tightly, rubbing her back and turned his head to kiss her on the forehead. They lay in silence, content and warm against each other.

‘Bo?’

‘Yeah, baby?’

‘Do you believe in past lives?’ she asked, her finger tips running over his hair roughened chest.

‘Never thought much about that subject; why?’ he replied, stroking her hair.

‘I keep going back to the night we met. How I felt so connected to you the moment I saw you. And after that, it felt like I’ve always known you.’ Moving her head up, she peered at him. ‘Every time you smiled at me I found myself more in love with you. Every time you touch me, I always feel so safe in a way I’ve never felt before. If there’s really a thing like a past life; I think we were in love, just like this.’ She smiled, reaching up to stroke his jaw.

Bo smiled back at her, wishing he could tell her they were together so many years ago. ‘Well maybe we do have past lives, princess. Or it’s just the plain old déjà vu you keep having.’

Carly’s mind went back to Frankie. She’d felt connected with him immediately;  just as if she’d known him all her life too, like a brother. ‘I guess. Like tonight with your brother… completely in synch with him, like I am with you, just not the same way. Come to think of it…’ she resumed rubbing his chest, toying with his medallion. ‘The time I’ve spent here, with you and with your family; I realized my career and going on missions just masked how lonely I really was.’ She looked up at him again. ‘You’re my missing other half, Bo Brady. Déjà vu or past life… I can’t imagine my life without you.’

‘Neither can I.’ Bo whispered back, turning round towards her and she was lying beneath him. ‘I love you so much, Clarice Parker. And I promise you; no one’s ever going to take you away from me.’ Not a second time. Let that bastard come; I’ll be ready for him.

Carly sensed something odd in his tone but before she could ask him, his lips were on hers; his hands caressing her soft skin.  Her arms encircled his neck as she eagerly responded to his touch; parting her legs when she felt his knee slide between them and they made love again.

She was standing beside a bed brushing her hair, dressed in a robe. She was younger, maybe in her twenties. And then she heard a deep voice behind her.

‘She walks in beauty, like the night; of cloudless climes and starry skies… 

And all that’s best of dark and bright,’

She turned, smiling at whoever was talking to her.

‘Meet in her aspect and her eyes,’ he continued, ‘thus mellowed to that tender light, which heaven to gaudy day denies.’

She moved to him. He had dark hair and was dressed in jeans and a leather jacket. He took in his arms and she raised her eyes to see his face…

She jerked awake at the sound of thunder. She sat up, clutching the sheet to her chest, watching Bo as he closed the windows. ‘Wow… looks like a storm’s brewing.’ He said. ‘There it is,’ he added as the rain began to pour.

Carly felt aggravated at the lousy timing; she was so close seeing who the mysterious stranger was, certain it was the same man with the tattoo she kept seeing in her dreams. It was all so mysterious; the dreams, the man, the premonition. What exactly was wrong with her?

Bo closed the curtains and climbed back into bed beside her, pulling her down to cradle her head against his chest. And once again, as she nestled close to her lover, feeling his arms round her; she felt her frustration ebbing away. Bo always made her feel better; always. She loved the man so much.

The thunder rolled yet again and the rain poured harder. Spooned against Bo, Carly slept peacefully. And began dreaming again…

A man was kneeling in front of her… unbuttoning her blouse. Again she couldn’t see his face but she was stroking his cheek. Slowly he got to his feet, peeling it off her. A tattoo on his back… but again she couldn't see clearly… they were making out in a dimly lit room… or was it a room? Lightning was flashing against… a pothole. They were in a cabin… on a boat!

Carly squirmed under Bo’s arms, hoping to see more. But the dream faded and she was back to a dreamless sleep.          

CARBO FAN FICTION-Déjà Vu CHAPTER 15

Was the tattoo on Bo’s back the same as the one in her dream? Was Bo the man she’d been dreaming about the whole time?  If so, she might accept it as a sort of premonition telling her she and Bo would eventually become lovers but something still kept nagging her.  Frustrated, Clarice rubbed her aching forehead; trying to picture the dream again. A candle lit room… her fingers caressing a man’s back, a tattoo, of what she didn’t know; a man kissing her neck… why is his face hidden?

Why am I so bothered about Bo’s tattoo; I don’t even know if it’s the same tattoo in the dream! Clarice shook her head, staring at the fishing boats sailing along the river. What does it matter anyway, it was just a dream…only a dream. She should concentrate on what she had right now, the most wonderful man in the world; who loved her as much as she loved him and the centre of her world. She wasn't going to allow a dream or a tattoo to bother her any further. Feeling less uneasy by that thought she walked along the docks, the afternoon breeze blowing her long hair about. Then all of a sudden she heard a scream and she immediately ran to the direction they were coming from. A woman was lying on the ground while a scruffy looking man in torn jeans and a dirty T-shirt was rummaging her purse. Immediately Clarice pulled out her gun, aiming it at him. ‘Hands in the air where I can see them… do it now!’

The thug froze, his stoned eyes staring at her.

‘I said hands in the air and get down on your knees; I’m not going to say it again!’ she shouted harshly; her finger on the trigger. He obeyed slowly, dropping the purse. Maneuvering her way behind him, she swiftly cuffed him before hurrying to the woman who was moaning. ‘Are you alright, ma’am?’ she asked, holstering back her gun.

‘He… he stabbed me.’ was the whisper. Blood was flowing from her stomach. Casting a look of repulsion and contempt at the perp, Clarice pulled out her cell phone and called for an ambulance and then for backup. ‘Don’t worry, help is on the way.’ She soothed.

‘Please don’t let me die… I have two kids; I’m all they have, please…’ the woman clutched her hand tightly.

‘Hey come on… I didn’t hurt her that bad…’ the perp whined.

Rage surged through Clarice, a type of rage she’d never felt before but she was more concerned about  the victim than walking up to him and smash his mouth with her boot.  ‘Don’t worry, you’re going to make it; believe that, you hear me?’ she soothed, taking off her jacket.  ‘Calm down now.’

‘Hey, what’s going on here?’ A man in a faded denim jacket appeared, staring in amazement.

‘I’m an FBI agent, this woman was just mugged and needs immediate medical assistance- please go to my car parked in front and get the first aid kit in the trunk.’ She produced the keys and the man hurried to take them. ‘It’s a blue Carina… please hurry, she’s losing blood!’ The man darted away. Turning to the cuffed perp who was wriggling about on the ground she snarled, ‘If she dies, I swear I’ll kill you myself, you just wait!’ Looking down at the woman, she asked, ‘what’s your name?’

‘Linda.’ was the soft reply. ‘What’s yours?’

‘Clarice.’

‘That’s a pretty name…’ she closed her eyes.

‘Linda… Linda stay with me now… my God, where the hell’s that ambulance?’ 

‘Agent… I got it!’ The man hurried back with the box. To her surprise, Clarice felt a strong feeling of purpose and confidence as she attended to the woman; her hands were steady and methodical as she did all she could to stop the bleeding; not once did she panic or falter. Thankfully, she managed to stop the woman from bleeding profusely.

‘You sure missed your calling Agent Parker; you should’ve been a doctor.’ The man, who’d introduced himself as Derek commented, watching Clarice’s ministrations closely.

‘Why do you say that?’ she asked without looking up.

‘You know exactly what you are doing there, just like a pro. Hey look, she’s opening her eyes…’ Linda peered up at Clarice.

‘How are you doing?’

She nodded, smiling faintly.  At that moment a police car drove up, the sirens blaring and two uniformed police jumped out. Pulling the perp roughly on his feet he was dragged to the car as well as bagging the weapon as evidence. Two seconds later, the ambulance finally arrived and the paramedics took over from her.

‘Excellent work Agent Parker; top notch job. You have medical training?’ one of them asked after Linda was transported inside into the ambulance. Clarice hesitated then shook her head; still feeling rather baffled at how she was able to administer first aid so diligently. The whole thing had simply come so naturally and familiar to her; like a hidden and undiscovered skill. It shouldn’t be a big deal but… she’d felt like the professional Derek described her.

‘Well, thanks to you, this lady’s going to pull through. Pity there isn’t more like you who knows exactly what to do in an emergency.’

Clarice shrugged, turning to Derek who appeared at her elbow with her jacket. ‘Thanks. And thanks also for your help.’ She said, taking it from him.

‘No problem, besides you did more than I did, that’s for sure.’ Derek looked at her intently as she slipped the jacket back on. ‘Uh… can I have your number, so I could call you sometime?’

Clarice smiled, shaking her head. ‘I already have a boyfriend who’s probably wondering where I am as we speak.’

Derek sighed, a look of resignation on his face. ‘Lucky bastard. You win some and you lose some. Nice meeting you, anyway.’

‘Likewise, and thanks again.’ Clarice called after him as he left; he turned to wave at her.

‘That woman was lucky you happened to be here, Agent Parker.’ One of the officers said. ‘She would’ve bled to death and that son of a bitch would’ve gotten away with murder.’

‘Thank God for some mercies. You two get him out of here before I change my mind about killing him.’

‘You got it.’ The young man hurried away to join his partner.

‘Agent Parker,’ the second paramedic poked his head out. ‘The patient wants you to ride with her. Coming?’

Without hesitation, Clarice climbed in, slamming the door behind her.

::::::::::::::

‘Princess?’

Clarice rose from her seat as Bo hurried to her, wrapping her arms round his waist as he hugged her tightly. ‘Are you okay?’ He asked, pulling back to hold her face between his palms.

She nodded. ‘I’m waiting for news. The victim… her name’s Linda… is in surgery right now. I have to know she’s really going to be okay.’

‘Sure.’ Bo surveyed her face carefully. ‘Something’s bothering you besides her though. What is it?’

‘It’s nothing.’

‘Don’t tell me it’s nothing, this is me you’re talking to, Clarice.’ Bo pushed back a few strands of hair from her forehead clearly seeing she looked disturbed. ‘What’s wrong?’

Clarice stared at him, wondering how to express what she was feeling coherently enough for him not to think she was going crazy. Bo, when I was helping that woman with her wound I felt like it was somebody else doing it and my hands worked like clockwork doing something I never knew I could do. How can I tell you about something I don’t understand myself?

‘It’s really nothing Bo; I’m just worried about that woman, she’s a single mum and if she doesn’t pull through…’

‘She is going to pull through and I’m not going to let you beat yourself about it, okay? She’s going to be fine, you see.’ He pulled her back in his arms, wondering if she’d remembered something else during the encounter; Davidson and James had narrated how she’d so carefully tended to the victim until the paramedics came. A way a doctor would do was how they’d described it. Carly doesn’t understand how she was able to help that woman so well; she was confused. If you two get closer she might start getting memory flashes she doesn't understand and it will be your job to fill the blanks and give her answers; Roman had warned him. This wasn't a flash of memory though; it was uncovering a skill she didn’t know she had. So far she still didn’t remember her past life as a surgeon but her medical training was still within her. Sooner or later she was going to experience those flashes of memory and he had to be there for her and give her those answers before she got more confused.

‘Bo, Clarice.’ Lexie came out.

‘How is she… she going to be okay, right?’ Clarice asked anxiously.

‘Oh yes.’ Lexie beamed at her, squeezing her shoulder. ‘She’s very lucky you were there to help her the way you did; speaking as a doctor I’m really impressed. Maybe you should consider a career change like I did.’

Clarice chuckled, not noticing Bo’s frown. ‘Can I see her?’

‘In a few minutes; she’ll be moved to Recovery in a few minutes. Have you contacted her family?’

As she spoke, a plump woman dressed in a faded blue sweater came out of the elevator and hurried to them, her face agitated and anxious. ‘Excuse me; I got a call from the police about my niece Linda Hagen. Is she alright?’

‘She just came out of surgery ma’am; she’s going to be fine.’ Lexie swiftly assured her.

‘Oh thank God! I would’ve been here a lot sooner but I had to find somebody to mind the kids. Where is she, can I see her now?’

‘Her room’s this way; follow me.’

Bo stopped Carly from going with them. ‘Let her see her alone for today, princess. You can come back tomorrow to check up on her, okay?’

‘I guess you’re right.’ Clarice glanced at her watch. ‘Well, let’s head back to the station. I have to write out the report before I go home.’

‘Wait a bit; I need to talk to Lexie about something.’  Walking down the hall, he found the victim’s room and signaled Lexie to come out.

‘What is it?’ she asked, closing the door behind her.

‘You need to be more careful about what you say to Carly; none of us can afford to make mistakes.’ Bo snapped.

‘Why, what happened?’ Lexie asked in surprise. ‘I only said…’

‘She suspects something or I think she suspects something.’ Bo related to Lexie about Carly’s obvious confusion over her sudden medical expertise. Lexie listened, looking thoughtful.

 ‘Is it normal for an amnesiac to still have trained skills from a past life?’ he asked.

‘A person with Carly’s type of amnesia; it’s not common but not unheard of either. It takes years before they display skills they had prior to the amnesia; usually that happens when a certain situation they find themselves in forces them to act on instinct and then it comes. Carly’s been in law enforcement for years; leading a far different type of life from the one she led when she was here; she suddenly found herself with an emergency in her hands so her past skills  suddenly came to her at that moment.’

‘But she’s got to have helped victims who’d been attacked before now.’ Bo pointed out.

‘Obviously not like the one she rendered today since you said she’s confused about what she found herself  able to do. For a few minutes she was Dr. Manning, maybe living in Salem again for the past few months helped.’

‘Then I’m sure glad I was able to keep her here!’ Bo sighed deeply. ‘She may start remembering some things next…I sure hope so.’

‘Bo…’ Lexie said hesitantly. ‘Are you involved with her again?’

Bo leveled her with a cool look. ‘If I am, so what? You’re going to dish out your objections?’

‘Are you?’

‘Yes, I am. We fell in love again and I’ve never been happier.’

‘But what about Hope?’

‘I think you’re getting a little bit of amnesia yourself, Dr. Carver; the divorce was final a few days ago and I don’t owe you any explanations.’

‘Bo, this isn’t far to Hope. She doesn’t know Clarice is your ex, she’s going to blame her for the divorce when she finds out about you two!’ Lexie insisted.

‘Eventually she’s going to find out I’m dating her but not about her past life here; not until Carly starts getting her memory back. And if you’re still my friend Lexie, you’ll keep your mouth shut. Got it?’

‘Hope’s my friend too. Keeping this from her doesn’t sit well with me.’

‘I’m more concerned about protecting Carly than Hope; Hope’s not my wife anymore and never will be again so clear your mind from that thought. Carly’s going to get her life back, without anything or anybody upsetting her; I’ll make sure of that. Not one word from you Lexie, I mean it.’

‘Then you be the one to tell her yourself.’ Lexie snapped, annoyed by his attitude and the way he was speaking to her.

‘I will, on my own time, my way.’ Bo emphasized, giving her a long, cool look before walking away.

::::::::::::::

For appearances sake, Clarice didn’t wait for Bo when it was time to leave but he told her not to start dinner as he was going to bring home takeout from The Brady Pub. The strange episode she’d had still puzzled her and was more difficult to shake off than the man with the tattoo in her dream; where and how did she suddenly acquire the skills of a doctor; how was she able to know exactly what to do when treating Linda and so confidently too?

‘Maybe I am going crazy.’ She muttered as she lay on her bed, one arm over her eyes, waiting for Bo to come. He spent a lot of time at the loft with her, refusing to stay in the house Hope had let him have and she in turn was reluctant to move in with him. Not that living with Bo wouldn’t be heavenly but not in a house he once shared with his wife; that would be far too weird and uncomfortable for her. Turning to her side, she closed her eyes and dozed off…

She was on a carpeted floor, bleeding from the mouth; her eyes ringed with purplish bruises. ‘Please stop… please…’ she begged, cowering as a shadow moved over her.

‘Until you learn.’ An icy cold voice replied. ‘That nobody crosses me, especially you.’ It reached down and dragged her up by the hair before holding on to her neck with both hands. ‘I can snap you like a twig so easily; which is precisely what I’ll do if I have any more of your behavior.’

Her head snapped back from the impact of a stinging slap and then another and another…

‘Princess, wake up… wake up!’

She cried out, frantically pushing away the hands shaking her. ‘Stop, get away!’

‘Honey, it’s me; Bo. Just me, okay?’ Bo’s handsome face hovering over hers was filled with worry. ‘Calm down.’

Clarice gasped, one hand resting on her heaving chest.

‘A nightmare?’ Bo asked, touching her face. ‘You want to tell me about it?’

She sat up, reaching for Bo; reveling in the warmth of his strong arms.  Bo stroked her hair, waited for her to speak.

‘A man was hitting me; I couldn’t see his face.’ She whispered against his chest. ‘It was horrible and felt so real… ’

Lawrence… Bo thought grimly. Of all the things she had to dream about it just had to be one of her terrible moments with that beast.

‘Did he say anything?’ he asked gently.

‘Something about making me pay if I cross him again, or something.’ Clarice shook her head. ‘I don’t understand why I would have a dream like that.’

He couldn’t possibly tell her the truth, not yet anyway. Bo fervently wished Marlena was around, she would know what to do about this.

‘Don’t worry, I’m here, princess. Right here with you; it’s only a dream, okay?’

She nodded, her terror subsiding. ‘Right. Just a dream.’ She raised her head. ‘Thank you.’

‘Hey, you don’t need to thank me. I love you, you know that; I’m here for you- always.’ Bo kissed her; thoroughly exploring her mouth. ‘You’re hungry?’ he asked as he pulled away.

Clarice shook her head. ‘Not right now. Just lie here with me if you don’t mind.’

‘Sure, whatever you want.’ Kissing her again, Bo settled in bed spooned against her; wrapping his arms below her breasts.

‘I love you Bo.’ She said softly, rubbing the arm encircling her. ‘Very much.’

Bo smiled tenderly, kissing the back of her neck. ‘I love you too.’

VALENTINE'S DAY: LOOKING AT IT MORE DEEPLY

February 14th... a very special day. Love is in the air and presents are exchanged. Valentine gifts come in many forms but  the usual stuff given and received are...

A LOVELY BOUQUET OF FLOWERS

A CUDDLY TEDDY BEAR

AN EXPENSIVE BOTTLE OF PERFUME

A PRETTY GREETING CARD

A ROMANTIC CANDLELIT DINNER FOR TWO 

A yummy Box of CHOCOLATES

While Valentine's day is neither an official public holiday nor a religious holiday, it's pretty much a huge made a big deal of in most countries and commercialized to the full! If you step into most supermarkets here in Nigeria right now, you would find greeting cards, fake but scented roses, chocolate bonbons and teddy bears on the stands and people buying them for their 'valentines'.Who doesn't like receiving a very thoughtful gift or gesture, after all. But is that what Valentines' Day is all about, just exchange of gifts and feeling extra romantic? NO.

If one traces Valentine's day to its origins, it would be clearly that it's far more than that. Love comes in many forms; a gesture, loving words, a direct expression. And it's not  limited to couples exchanging gifts. Children can express love and appreciation to their parents and vice versa. Friends can show how their friendship is important, which would further deepen it. 

 In my opinion, its more like a day of expressing and showing universal love. Giving a present is a lovely addition but should not just be about giving presents or spending money. How about doing something nice for a loved one, or a kind deed  and that gesture of kindness may be passed on to someone else that day. 

We  must remember how precious life is and how the people in our lives are very important. In some cases, a present can be given merely to keep up tradition. What really comes from the heart and given because the giver wants to and not expected to is the real gift that anyone can receive. And the real message of Valentine is giving Love, Friendship and Hope.  

So... Happy Valentine's day everybody.

Click on link- THE STORY OF VALENTINE'S DAY