THE SURROGATE  

You can still say no. The money is already in my account. Banana island people are not like us. Aduni, it’s 9 months. Doris, I can survive 9 months. What if something goes wrong inside that house, Adun? Then you will come and carry me out yourself. Doris, this Lagos has swallowed better women than you. This Lagos will not swallow me, Doris.

 I have plans. You must be the surrogate. Good afternoon. I’m Aduni. I am Bernardet. I run this house. Leave your shoes at the door. Madame doesn’t like dirt inside. Is Mrs. Facad home? Bernardet? Madame will see you when she’s ready, not before. This house has rules. Aduni, I’m ready to follow them.

 Bernardet, 9 months is a long time to hide things. I have nothing to hide. Bernardet, everybody in this house says that. Even you, Bernardet. Aduni, welcome to Banana Island. Thank you for having me, Mrs. Fasadi. We are not friends. Aduni, let’s be honest about that. I understand, ma. This is business. Sit.

 We have things to discuss before my husband arrives. I’m listening. Mrs. Fasadi, this child means everything to this family. Aduni, I will take care of him or her. I promise this will be your room until the baby comes. It’s bigger than my whole flat in Yaba. No visitors, no phone calls after 9:00 p.m. Bernardet will report anything unusual. Report to who, Mrs.

 Fasadi? You or your husband? To me, Aduni. Always to me first. Understood, ma. You will eat well here. Rest well. That’s all I ask. Thank you, Mrs. Fasadi. Aduni, I’m Alisa. Thank you for doing this. Good afternoon, sir. It’s a pleasure to meet you. FASA has briefed you on the rules. Yes, Olya. She has been very clear.

This baby is the only thing I’ve wanted for 10 years. Aduni, I will carry him safely. Olya, you have my word. FAD, get the barrista on the phone. Let’s finish this today. He’s on his way. Olya, relax. Aduni, my name is Barrista Gabriel White. I drafted this agreement. Good afternoon, Barrista White.

Nigeria has no single federal law on surrogacy. Aduni. This contract is what protects everyone in this room, which is why every clause matters. Gabriel, clause one, full confidentiality, no press, no social media, no family outside this house and the payment barrista, three installments.

 First on signing, second at 20 weeks, final after delivery. Is that arrangement clear to you, Aduni? Clear. Olya, but what happens if something goes wrong medically? Clause 9 covers that. The clinic in Victoria Island carries full responsibility for the embryo’s handling. Then I’m ready to sign Barrista White. Sign here, Aduni.

 An initial every page after. Okay, Barrista White. This is it for Lassad. After everything, let’s just see it done. Olya, it’s done. Congratulations to to everyone in this room. FAD, we finally did it. You make it sound so simple. Olya, isn’t it? We found a surrogate. The struggle is almost over. You don’t know what this is costing me, Ola.

Costing you, Fisad? I’m the one who can’t give you a child naturally, not the other way around. That’s what you think, Ola. What does that mean, FAD? Nothing. I’m just tired, Oisamea. It’s been a long day. Get some rest, then. I’ll check on Aduni myself. Madame thinks I don’t see anything in this house.

 10 years I have served here watching everybody’s secrets. Aai is too busy hoping for a child to notice his own wife. That girl Aduni will learn fast. Secrets don’t stay hidden in this house. Madame FASA has a secret bigger than mine. And every secret in Banana Island has a price. 9 months. Just 9 months and then my life changes. This room is bigger than anything I’ve ever owned.

 But it doesn’t feel like mine. It’s not supposed to feel like mine. Aduni, remember why you’re here. The money will fix everything. Mama’s hospital bills, my own future. I just have to survive this house and these people. Survive it and walk away. Doris, I made it. I’m inside the house. Aduni, how is it? Are they treating you well? Cold, Doris. Very cold.

 But I signed everything. Just be careful in that house, Aduni. Aduni, call me every night. You hear me? I will try. Doris, network in this house might be monitored. Monitored? Aduni, what kind of house is this? The kind that pays well. Doris, good night. Olya thinks I’m only tired. Eight years of pretending nothing happened for Lassad.

Eight years. That doctor promised me nobody would ever find out. If Olya ever sees this, everything ends. Adun’s pregnancy was supposed to make this easier, not harder. God, please don’t let this house swallow me too. Madam, I know what you did before this marriage. Lower your voice, Bernardet. Relax.

 Madam, your secret is safe with me for now. What do you want, Bernardet? We will discuss that tomorrow. Madam, what secret for Lassadi? What did I just walk into? Good morning, Bernardet. Did you sleep well? Eat your food, Aduni. Madame wants you ready by 10:00. Ready for what, Bernardet? The clinic. Today is the transfer. Aduni. The car leaves in 40 minutes. Eat fast.

Today already, Mrs. Fasad. It’s so soon. The embryos have waited long enough in that clinic freezer. I just didn’t expect it to fill this fast. Today is the day for Lassad. 10 years of waiting. Don’t get ahead of yourself, Ola. A transfer isn’t a guarantee. Aduni, how are you feeling this morning? Nervous, Olya, but ready.

After you, Aduni. Thank you, Olya. Let’s just go, Olya. We’re already running late. Aduni, your hormone levels are perfect for transfer today. What exactly happens, Dr. Briggs? I’ve never done this before. We thaw one frozen embryo from storage and place it directly into your womb. It takes minutes.

And it’s definitely our embryo, Dr. Briggs. Fas’s eggs. My sample. Every vial in that lab is labeled and logged. Alisa Mecha. Nothing leaves storage unverified. Facade, are you all right? You’ve gone quiet. I’m fine, Dr. Briggs. Just emotional, that’s all. Mhm. It’s a big day. Let’s get Aduni prepped for the procedure room.

 Aduni, you’ll feel a little pressure. Try to relax your body. I’m ready, Dr. Briggs. Good. The embryologist is bringing the catheter in now. Look at her. Fas so calm in there. She’s getting paid to be calm. Olya, why do you always sound so bitter about this? Fasi, I’m not bitter. I’m just tired.

 Olya, thank you. Aduni, thank you for this. It’s done now. Olya, we just wait. 10 years, Aduni. You don’t know what this means to me. Look at him kneeling there like a man in church. If only he knew the truth was kneeling right beside that bed too. Bernardet where is my son and where is this surrogate girl? Good afternoon ma.

They have just returned from the clinic. Then call them. I did not drive from Ioi to stand in this hallway. So you are the girl carrying my grandchild. Good afternoon ma. I’m Aduni. Make sure you eat well and behave yourself in this house. Aduni. Yes ma. I will for lassad. Why did it take 8 years to even attempt this? These things take time, mama.

 We tried for years before deciding on a surrogate. Tried or you refused to go for proper tests for Lassad? I went for every test this family asked of me. Mama, every test? Then explain to me why those tests were never shown to this family for Lassad. Because it is my body, mama, not the family’s property. In this family, FAD, a barren womb is everybody’s business.

Baron womb, but FASAD said it was Orisa who couldn’t conceive. Somebody in this house is lying. I just don’t know who yet. I saw your face after Mama Beatatric’s visit. Aduni, it’s nothing, Bernardet. Just a lot to take in. This family has more secrets than rooms in this house. Adun, what kind of secrets, Bernardet? The kind that will cost somebody dearly one day.

Bernardet, do you know something about Mrs. FAD? I know everything that happens in this house, Adun. Just focus on that belly of yours. The rest is not your wajala. Doris, the embryo transfer happened today. It’s official now. How are you feeling, Adun? Body and mind. Tired, Doris.

 But something is wrong in this house. The wife and the mother-in-law were arguing about her fertility. Aduni, didn’t they tell you it was the husband’s own issue? That’s what I thought too, Doris. Now I’m not so sure. FAD, can we just be close tonight? It’s been so long. I’m not in the mood, Ola. Today was a heavy day. Every day is a heavy day with you lately, FAD.

Maybe because every day in this house is heavy. Olya, is there something you’re not telling me for Lassad? Good night, Olya. Good night, for Lassad. Just a small cramp, Aduni. The doctor said this was normal. Relax your body. The embryo just needs time to settle. 9 months. You can survive 9 months in this strange house.

Madame Fasad’s secret alone is worth more than 10 years of my salary. But greed has killed better plans than mine. I will start small. Small enough that she will pay quietly and keep paying. Madam, I think it’s time we talk numbers. numbers. Bernardet, what are you saying? 500,000 naira, madam, every month or hears everything. You ungrateful woman.

After everything this family has done for you, think about my offer, madam. I will wait until Friday. Bernardet. Bernardet, wait. Adoni, is it starting already? I don’t know, Benedict. My stomach won’t settle. Drink water. Small, small. Don’t gulp it. Take this, Aduni. Small sips. Thank you, Bernardet.

 This one is strong this morning. That is a good sign, Adoni. Very good sign. Bernardet tells me you’ve been vomiting since dawn, Adoni. Yes, Mrs. Fasad. It started suddenly. That is normal. It means something is taking root in you. Get dressed, Adoni. Dr. Briggs wants the blood test done today. To confirm it properly, Mrs. Fasad. Yes.

 The car will be ready in 30 minutes. Olya Aduni. The better hcg levels came back strong. You’re pregnant. Pregnant? Aduni. Did you hear that? Pregnant. Everything looks very positive. I heard Oisai. I felt it before they even confirmed it. Congratulations to this whole family. FAD, we’re finally going to be parents.

Yes, Olya. Finally. FAD, are you not happy? This is good news. Forgive me, Dr. Briggs. It’s just a lot of emotion at once. Mama, the test is positive. Aduni is carrying our child. Olya, God has finally answered us. Praise be. Yes, mama. We are very happy. FAD, you sound far away.

 Is everything well with you, FAD? Let’s celebrate properly tonight. Just us. Not tonight, Ola. I have a migraine coming. You always have something coming whenever I reach for you for lassad. Don’t start this today. Olya, please. Aduni, this is for you for carrying my child so well. You didn’t have to do this, Ola. I wanted to.

 You’ve given me something no one else could. It’s still early days, Ola. But thank you, Ola. Can I ask you something personal? Of course, Aduni. Ask me anything. Is FAD okay? She seems far away most of the time. Honestly, Aduni, I don’t fully understand my wife anymore. Madam, Friday has come. I am still waiting. Bernardet, give me a little more time, please.

 I have given you two weeks already. Madam, I’m trying. I don’t keep that kind of cash lying around. Find it by Saturday, madam, or I go straight to Alisa. Bernardet, please don’t destroy my home. Saturday, madam, don’t make me wait again. My mother gave me these earrings on my wedding day. Forgive me, mama. A black mailer is more dangerous than poverty.

This will buy me one more month of silence. One month to find a permanent answer for Bernardet. Mrs. Fasadi, are you all right? You look exhausted. I’m fine, Aduni. Just a long day in traffic. If you ever need someone to talk to, Mrs. Fasad, I’m here. I don’t need a surrogate playing therapist in my home.

 Aduni, I wasn’t trying to overstep Mrs. Fasadi. Just carry the baby, Aduni. That’s all I’m paying you for. Doris, Mrs. Facad nearly beat my head off tonight. Aduni, what happened? You said she was already cold. She came home looking destroyed. Doris, like she’d been crying in the car. Aduni, you said the housekeeper was acting strange, too.

 Something is connecting all of this. I know, Doris. I just don’t know what yet. Aduni, I made a decision at 35 that I’ve regretted ever since. What kind of decision, Olya? I had a vasectomy. I didn’t want children with the woman I was with then. And then you met FAD. I reversed it for her, Adoni. But the years had already done their damage.

That’s a heavy thing to carry alone. Olya I never told FAD the full story Aduni only that the doctors couldn’t explain it does she know it might have been from your side partly no Aduni and I intend to keep it that way Aduni please my hands are full bring my prenatal vitamins from the cabinet which cabinet Mrs.

 for the small one above the sink. Aduni, quickly, please Lagoon specialist clinic. A date from 8 years ago. FAD, what procedure were you hiding before this marriage even began? Why is that girl taking this long for one bottle of vitamins? If she opened that small box by mistake, God help us both. This box was at the back.

 Now it’s almost falling out. She saw something. I need to know ex exactly what. Aduni, did you find the vitamins all right earlier? Yes, Mrs. Fasadi. I left them on your dresser and the cabinet. Did you see anything else inside it? Answer me. Adoni, did you touch anything else in there? No, Mrs. Fasadi.

 Just the vitamin bottle like you asked. Good. Get some rest. Adoni. Good night, Aduni. Good night, Mrs. Fasadi. She lied to my face just now. I felt it. Whatever happened in that hospital 8 years ago, it’s the reason for everything in this house. And somehow, I think this baby and I are both standing right in the middle of it. Madam, today is Saturday.

 I know what day it is, Bernardet. Then you know what I am waiting for. By this evening, Bernardet, I will have it by evening. Evening. Then, not one minute later. Madam Olsa, I want to start buying things for the nursery myself. That’s wonderful, FAD. Use the family card. No cash, please. I want to bargain properly at the market like my mother taught me.

Take this, FASAD. Buy whatever our child needs. Thank you, Olya. You won’t regret trusting me with this. I trust you with everything, FAD. Always have. There it is, Aduni. A tiny heartbeat right there. I can see it, Adoni. I can actually see it. It’s really happening. Oie sea. You must be the friend. Doris.

 30 minutes only. 30 minutes is fine. Bernardet. I just need to see Aduni. Garden. Madam said the garden, not the bedroom. Doris, I’ve missed your face so much. Aduni, you look thinner. Are they feeding you well in this house? I’m fine, Doris. It’s just morning sickness. Aduni. I asked my cousin about that clinic name you mentioned, Lagon Specialist.

 And what did she say, Doris? She said it’s known quietly for one kind of procedure. Termination Aduni. Private ones for rich families. A termination, Doris. 8 years ago before this marriage. Aduni, please. Whatever this is, it’s not your business. Don’t dig deeper. I just keep feeling like I’m already inside it.

Doris, whether I dig or not. There. Exactly what you asked for, Benedict. Good girl, madam. This will hold us until next time. Next time. Benedict, this cannot continue forever. Forever is a long word. Madam, let’s just take it month by month. Month by month. As if my whole life is now rented out to her. One day the money will not be enough for Bernardet.

 What then? for lassad one phone call aduni just to know what kind of place this was if it’s nothing I drop it if it’s something I need to know that file is sealed under doctor patient privilege may I ask who is calling I’m sorry I I think I dialed the wrong number this is the only lagoon specialist clinic line madam who gave you this number lagoon specialist clinic this small girl is calling the same place. Interesting.

 Very, very interesting. Aduni. Two women in one house, both circling the same secret. Patience, Bernardet. Let them dig a little more before you decide who pays you next. I thought we should all eat together tonight, like a real family. That’s a lovely thought, Oisa. Thank you for including me, Olya. to this baby and to all of us getting along.

Aduni, you’ve been quiet today. Anything on your mind? Just tired, Mrs. Fasadi. The pregnancy takes a lot out of me. Tiredness can make people do strange things. Even pick up phones they shouldn’t. I got a call last night, Aduni, asking who was digging into my private affairs. I only wanted to understand what I found. Mrs.

 Fasadi, that file is not yours to understand. Aduni, it’s mine. You don’t know what that place took from me, Aduni. Then tell me, Mrs. Fasadi, I’m not here to hurt you. Stop asking about that hospital, Aduni. I’m warning you. Stop asking about that hospital. What hospital? FAD, what is my wife hiding from me? FAD, what hospital were you two talking about? Nothing, Ola.

 Just girl talk about my old gynecologist. It didn’t sound like girl talk to me. Aduni, is everything all right between you and my wife? We’re fine, OA. Just adjusting to each other still. You’re a terrible liar, Aduni. But I won’t push tonight. I could have told him everything just now, Aduni. But for Lassad’s eyes tonight, that wasn’t anger. That was fear.

 I need to know the whole truth before I break anyone’s home. Olya heard something tonight. I felt it in his eyes. If Aduni keeps pulling, keeps pulling at this thread. My whole marriage unravels. Dr. Briggs personally sealed that file for me 8 years ago. It’s time he reminded that clinic exactly whose secret they’re protecting.

Madam is awake, pacing. The girl is awake thinking. Two frightened women under one roof and only one woman holding the keys. Dr. Briggs, I need to see you today in person. FAD, is something wrong? You sound frightened. Someone was trying to uncover my past last week. Come at noon.

 We’ll talk properly for Lassad. Dr. Briggs, you promised me 8 years ago that file would disappear. For lassad, I sealed it. I did not destroy patient records. That’s against the law. Then anyone with the right pressure can still open it only with a court order for Lassad or your own consent. There’s something else for Lassad.

 The clinic is running an internal storage audit next month. An audit? Why now of all times? Standard procedure after expansion. Every embryo, every record gets cross-cheed. Frank, my file cannot be part of that audit. Gabriel, I need you to quietly look into something about FAD. Alisa Mecha, you’re asking me to investigate your own wife.

 I overheard her and Aduni talking about a hospital. FAD nearly broke down. Be careful, Olya. Whatever this is, it may be older and deeper than you think. A lawyer cannot dig into private medical history without consent. Olya, that’s a private investigator’s job, not mine. Then point me to someone discreet. Gabriel, I need answers before this child is born. I’ll make a call.

 But Olya, be ready for whatever you find. Some days this house feels heavier than the whole of Lagos. Aduni, you carry a lot. Olya, more than people realize. Can I ask um do you feel any different yet? Not yet. Oly mika. The doctor says still too early to feel much. Aduni, sometimes I envy how simple your life must feel compared to mine.

My life is not simple, Lisa. I just hide it better than FAD does. Maybe that’s why I find it easy to talk to you. Look at them laughing in my own garden like I don’t exist. Olya, careful. That girl is not yours to fall for. You sat with that girl for almost an hour. Olya laughing, holding her secrets apparently.

Fasades. She’s carrying our child. Is it now wrong to talk to her? It’s wrong when my own husband seems closer to her than to me. Maybe if you let me close for Lassadi, I wouldn’t be looking elsewhere for conversation. Madam, I saw you watching your husband and Aduni in the garden today. That is none of your business, Bernardet.

Everything in this house is my business. Madam, that is what you are paying me for. No. What do you want now, Bernardet? Nothing new yet. Just remember now I know two things that can break this house. Not one. Two things now. My past and my husband’s wandering eyes. Bernardet is no longer just a housekeeper.

 She is now the keeper of my whole life. Doris, I think I’m starting to care about this man’s feelings more than I should. Aduni, please tell me you’re talking about the baby, not the husband. It’s not romantic, Doris. But Olya talks to me like I matter. Fas barely looks at me. Aduni, that house is not your home. Don’t let kindness confuse you.

I know, Doris. I just feel caught in the middle of something much bigger than a contract. Now, Susan, your remaining two embryos are still safely frozen in storage. Dr. Briggs, after the first transfer failed, I just need to know they’re truly safe. Every vial is labeled, logged, and doublech checked.

 Susan, nothing has been touched. Thank you. I don’t think my heart could survive losing those two. This labeling sequence here, it doesn’t match the transfer date. Probably just a clerical mixup before the audit. Nothing more, Frank. Nothing more. Fas I want to ask you something and I want the truth. Ask me Olya.

What hospital were you and Aduni discussing the other night? I told you already my old gynecologist. Why does this matter so much to you? It matters because my wife looked terrified. Fasad, that is not how people discuss old doctors. Ola, please. Not everything has to be dragged into the light. I’m your husband, Fasad.

 If something happened before me, I deserve to know. Some things are better left buried. Oly Mecca, please just let it rest. Some things are better left buried. That’s exactly what FASA told me, too. Whatever this secret is, it’s strong enough to nearly break a marriage. I need to be careful now for this baby’s sake and my own.

 Aduni, the clinic called madam asking about your phone call. Bernardet, I I didn’t mean any harm. I just wanted answers. I know everything that happens in this house. Remember? I heard you on that call, too. What do you want from me, Bernardet? Simple. Tell me what you hear in this house, Aduni. Every little thing. And if I refuse, Bernardet, then madam learns her surrogate has been digging into her secrets behind her back.

 Fine, Bernardet. I’ll tell you what I hear. Gabriel’s investigator found one name. Lagoon Specialist Clinic Leki. Tomorrow I will go there myself. Whatever FAD is hiding, I will find it with my own eyes. Olya is closer to the truth than he has ever been. If he finds that clinic before I find a way to control this, everything I built will collapse in one single afternoon.

Madame is walking on eggshells around her husband. And the new girl is completely under my control. This house is finally exactly where I want it. Everybody answering to Bernardet, you’re dressed early, Alisa Mecha. Where exactly are you going? A business meeting downtown for Lassad. Nothing important. Which business, Alisa? You haven’t mentioned any meeting all week.

It’s about a supplier contract for Lassad. I’ll be back before evening. You’ve never once mentioned a supplier contract before, Oisa. There’s a first time for everything for Lassadi. Be careful with your first times. Zai, they have a way of unraveling people. So, Aduni, what did you hear in this house since yesterday? Nothing much, Bernardet. It’s been quiet.

 Quiet houses still have ears. Aduni, try again. Olya and Fasa argued a little at dinner. That’s all I know. Olya left this morning saying it’s a business meeting. Find out exactly where Aduni. How would I even find that out? Bernardet, he doesn’t report his movements to me. You’re a clever girl. Find a way before tonight.

Olya, I wasn’t expecting you today. Is Adun all right? She’s fine, Dr. Briggs. I just had a few questions of my own. Of course, sit please. What’s on your mind? I wanted to ask about some details regarding my wife specifically. Olyamea, I cannot discuss FAD’s background without speaking to her first.

 I’m her husband, Dr. Briggs. Doesn’t that count for something? Legally, no. Patient confidentiality protects her even from family. Then tell me this much. Does the name Lagoon Specialist Clinic mean anything to you? That name doesn’t ring any bells for me. Orisa, you hesitated, Dr. Briggs, just for a second.

 I think this meeting has reached its limit. I wish Aduni well. Omecha is closer to the truth than he realizes. And that storage log discrepancy is still sitting in my drawer. unresolved. Folad Harkort, Susan Doerti. Two names dangerously close on this shelf. I’ll resolve this myself before the audit. Quietly. No need to alarm anyone yet. How did the meeting go, Lisa? It went nowhere productive for Lassad.

Total waste of an afternoon. That’s strange. You look more troubled than when you left. It’s nothing for Lassad. Just business frustrations. Bernardet, did Alisa say anything to you before he left this morning? Nothing strange, madam, just that he had a meeting. Keep your ears open for me, Bernardet.

 Something about today feels wrong. Of course, madam. That is exactly what I do best. Now even madam is suspicious of her own husband Aduni. Did you find out where he went? He didn’t tell me anything directly. Bernardet. Bernardet. But you spoke to him this afternoon. I saw you both in the garden yesterday. We talked about the baby Bernardet.

 Nothing about his meeting. I don’t fully believe you Aduni, but I’ll let it go for now. Believe whatever you want, Bernardet. I’ve told you what I know. Just remember whose side keeps your secret safe. Aduni, a small token, Aduni, for carrying this baby so faithfully. Thank you, Mrs. Fasadi. You didn’t need to do this.

 I want us to trust each other more. Adun, we’re in this together after all. I’d like that too, Mrs. Fasadi. Did Olya mention anything to you about his day? Adoni. Not really, Mrs. FAD. We mostly talked about the pregnancy. Of course. Well, if he ever does mention something unusual, you’ll tell me, won’t you? I’ll always be honest with you, Mrs.

FAD. I went to the clinic today. Aduni Briggs wouldn’t tell me anything. Olya, maybe it’s better to leave it. Whatever it is, it’s clearly painful for FAD. How can I leave it? Aduni, my own wife is hiding something this big from me. Sometimes people hide things because they’re protecting themselves, not punishing you.

You always know what to say, Aduni. It’s strange how easy this is with you. I just listen, Alisa. That’s all. It’s more than that. Thank you, Aduni. Truly. So, Aduni, what did you finally learn about Olya’s meeting? Nothing useful, Bernardet. He didn’t say where he went. You were in that study with him for almost 20 minutes.

 We talked about the baby, Bernardet. That’s all that happened. Don’t play games with me, Aduni. I will find out if you’re hiding something. I’m not hiding anything, Bernardet. I just don’t have what you want this time. We’ll see, Adoni. We’ll see. Forade gives me gifts with one hand and watches me with the other. And Bernardet wants me to betray whichever one of them she chooses next.

I didn’t sign up to be anyone’s weapon. Just a surrogate, nothing more. Paying Bernardet monthly is not a solution for Lassad. It’s a slow bleeding. Maybe it’s time I found out exactly what Bernardet herself is hiding. Everyone has something. Tank 7, slot 12. Folicad’s embryo and Susan’s embryo were stored one slot apart.

If a technician moved the wrong vial during the busy transfer week, no one would have noticed until now. I need to run the genetic cross check quietly before the official audit finds this first. God help us all if Aduni isn’t carrying who we think she’s carrying. Olyka and Aduni alone again talking like old friends.

 Madame FAD would pay handsomely to know how close her husband is getting to her surrogate. Knowing two things is good. Knowing three is even better. Bernardet, let’s see how much Madame is willing to pay for this one. Madam, I have something important. You need to hear this before leaves. What is it now, Bernardet? I’m already running late.

 It’s about Adunia and your husband. Madam, say what you need to say quickly, Bernardet. Every second counts. Last night, I saw your husband walk that girl to her bedroom door. Madam, how long were they talking, Bernardet? Long enough to laugh more than once, madam. Long enough. Oly maker was the one who sought her out, madam. Not the other way around.

How much, Bernardet? Just tell me how much you want. The arrangement changes this month, madam. What I bring you is much heavier than last time. You double your expectations every single time, Bernardet. And every time, madam, the information doubles in value also. By Friday, Bernardet, not before, because I need to think. Friday. Madam, of course.

Sit down, Aduni. Is everything all right, Mrs. Fasad? I want to ask you something and I want a direct answer. Of course, Mrs. Fasad, when exactly did you and my husband start talking alone at night? Olya sometimes checks on me after dinner, Mrs. Fasad, about the baby. That is all. He seeks you out, Aduni.

 That is what concerns me. With respect, Mrs. is for lassade. Perhaps your husband seeks conversation he is not finding at home. Be very careful how you speak in my house. Aduni, I came here to carry your child, Mrs. Fasadi, not to compete with you for anything. Then act like it. I always have, ma. You just haven’t been looking closely enough.

 That will be all. Aduni, Ola, I found something significant. The doctor who handled certain procedures at Lagoon Specialist Clinic, he also held guest privileges at your current fertility clinic. The same clinic where our embryos were stored. the very same sir. His name appears on both facility access logs eight years apart.

That is not a coincidence. I agree. And there’s more. He retired abruptly after a patient records dispute at Lagoon. No formal complaint. It was settled quietly. Settled by who? I’m still working on that. Give me two more days. Dr. Briggs had to know this doctor. They were at the same clinic. Whatever happened to FAD 8 years ago, it passed through those same hands.

I’m going back to that office. And this time, I’m not leaving until Briggs tells me what is really happening. marker sequence CX47 present in Susan Doerti’s stored embryo profile and present again here in the record for the embryo thaw for Adun’s transfer. This cannot be a coincidence. These two records should never overlap.

 This is not a clerical error. The wrong embryo was thawed. Aduni is carrying Susan Doerti’s child, not the Harkort’s child. God, what have we done to these women? Aduni. I heard madame talking to her lawyer on the phone this morning. About what? Bernedet. She is asking about grounds to reduce the final payment.

 Contract terms not being fully met, she said. What terms? I followed every single rule they set for me. I don’t know the law, Aduni, but madam sounded very serious on that call. My mother’s bills depend on that final payment. Bernardet, I know. That’s why I’m telling you so you can protect yourself. Adoni, what am I supposed to do with this? Bernardet, read your contract carefully, Aduni. Every single line.

 Why are you helping me, Bernardet? You’ve never done anything out of kindness in this house. Let’s just say I prefer the balance of this house to shift a certain way, Aduni. That doesn’t make me feel better, Bernardet. It wasn’t meant to, Aduni. It was meant to make you careful. Doris, Bernardet is saying foreay is trying to reduce my final payment.

 What? On what grounds? Aduni, she said something about contract terms not being met. Aduni, read me the payment clause exactly as it is written. Full final payment to be dispersed within 48 hours of successful live delivery. Unless the surrogate breaches any agreed conditions, then they cannot touch that arrangement, Aduni.

 Not even a single bit. But Bernardet seemed so completely sure. Doris, Bernardet fabricated that story to make you afraid. That’s what she does, Adoni. I know, Doris. It worked. Stay smart. Don’t let that woman weaponize your own fear against you. I’m trying, Doris. I’m really trying. Every person has a past, Bernardet. Even you, Port Hark.

 Household Registry, previous domestic staff referrals. Let us see exactly what you have been hiding. Bernardet Ez dismissed from the Coker household. Port Hark 2014. Reason misappropriation of household funds. Complaint filed. Settled privately. So you have stolen before, Bernardet, from people who open their home to you. Now we are truly equal in this house.

Where is my son Bernardet? Is he home yet? Good afternoon. Ma Aisa is not back yet. Madame Fasa is upstairs. And the surrogate girl, how does she look? She looks well, ma. The pregnancy is holding by God’s grace. Good. Get me something cold and call for Lassad down immediately. Yes, ma. Right away, ma. Aduni, you look smaller than I remember.

Are they feeding you enough? Yes, ma. My appetite is still adjusting with the early pregnancy. FAD, make sure this girl eats exactly what the doctor prescribes. Of course, mama. Adun’s health is our absolute priority. And how is the baby, Aduni? No pains, no complications. All is well, ma. Dr.

 Briggs is satisfied with the progress. Good. That baby carries my family’s name. Good is not enough. Perfect is what we require. I want to know how this household is truly running for Lassadi. Not the polished surface version. Everything is fine, mama. The pregnancy is progressing smoothly. A little bird told me there is tension in this house between you and Olya.

Every marriage has its moments, mama. Nothing serious. And what about this girl? She seems very comfortable here for Lassad. I try to follow every rule, ma. Nothing more. Keep prop order in your home for Lassad. I have seen house fires start from less comfortable arrangements than this. When this baby comes, I don’t want to hear complications of any kind, medical or otherwise. Understood completely.

 Mama Aduni, take care of yourself. That baby is everything. I know ma I will tell Alisa I came for Lassad and that I am watching. Yes, mama. Week seven. Nobody tells you that a surrogate is also expected to be invisible. Fasad sees me as a threat. Beatatrice sees me as furniture. Bernardet sees me as a tool.

 Olya Mecca is the only one who looks at me like I am actually a person. And that is exactly the most dangerous problem in this house right now. I came here for money. Simple, clean, 9 months and out. Now I’m in the middle of a marriage falling apart, a black mailer with too many weapons and a secret filling this house like smoke.

Survive, Aduni. Just survive and get out whole. Madam, I’ve been thinking. 700,000 is fair for what I know. You’ve been thinking, Bernardet. How very nice for you. You should be more frightened than that, madam. Should I, Bernardet, or should you be? What do you mean by that, madam? I’ve also been thinking Bernardet and I’ve been doing a little reading too.

Reading about what exactly madam Koka household port harkot 2014 misappropriation of household funds complaint filed settled privately. Where did you find that? You stole from your last employer. Bernardet and every household agency in Lagos would love to know your name. That complaint was settled madam.

 It carries no legal weight. It carries enough weight to close every door in Lagos to you. So the original monthly amount, not a naira more. That is our new arrangement. And Olya still doesn’t know your truth, madam. Remember that. And Lagoon Specialist Clinic still doesn’t know you’ve been blackmailing their most sensitive patient.

Remember that, Bernardet. The cross check is complete. There is no ambiguity in this result whatsoever. Aduni is carrying Susan Doerti’s embryo. A woman who doesn’t even know her child is already growing inside someone else. And Olya is already standing at the door of the truth with his investigator. He will be here soon.

 So, you have been doing your own digging, madam. 10 years of patience, Bernardet. You badly underestimated me. Neither of us can destroy the other without destroying ourselves. Which means from tonight, we have a very different kind of arrangement. The original amount only. As you say, madam. And you stop feeding Olya’s suspicions about Aduni. That game is over.

As you wish, madam. One wrong step from you, Bernardet. That document finds every domestic agency in Lagos by morning. And one wrong step from you, madam. Olya still does not know your truth. Then we understand each other perfectly, Bernardet. Perfectly, madam. Good night. Whoever you are in there, I don’t know your whole story yet, but you are real.

And whatever this house is hiding, you deserve to know the truth of it one day. There is only one person who must be told this before anyone else in that house discovers it on their own. God forgive me for what this phone call is about to set in motion. Susan, good morning. This is Dr. Briggs. I need to see you in person.

Dr. Briggs, is something wrong with my remaining embryos? I’d rather not discuss this over the phone. Susan, can you come in tomorrow morning? Dr. Briggs, you’re frightening me. Please, just tell me something. I promise I will explain everything. Susan, I just need to do this properly and in person. Okay, Dr. Briggs.

 Tomorrow morning, I’ll be there. Dr. Briggs has never once sounded like that before. Not in 3 years of appointments. Two embryos left, Susan. Just two after everything you’ve already lost. Please, God, not those two. I don’t think I could survive losing those two. 35 years old, no husband, no partner, just me and a dream of a small room painted yellow.

 Everyone told me I was foolish to do this alone. Susan, everyone except my own heart. One more day. I just need to survive one more day before I know. Desmond, tell me you have something solid this time. I do. Olya, full picture now on Dr. to Adanju the doctor from Lagoon specialist. I’m listening Desmond.

 He was quietly let go after a records dispute involving mislabeled tissue samples. Not just for Lassad’s case, several others. Mislabeled samples. Desmond, what does that even mean exactly? It means somewhere in that clinic’s history, patient records didn’t always match what actually happened in the lab. Ola, send me everything, Desmond.

 Every document, every name you have, mislabeled samples, records that don’t match reality. And this same doctor sat quietly in a clinic tied to my own family. Fasi, whatever you buried 8 years ago. It happened inside a system that was already broken. I’m done circling this softly. Tonight, I confront my wife directly. Aduni, you’re holding your stomach.

 Is something wrong? Just a small twinge, Bernardet. Probably nothing. Pregnancy twinges are normal, but don’t ignore your body, Adun. I’ll rest a little, Bernardet. I’m sure it will pass. Call me if it gets worse. I mean it. Adun, you’ve barely said 10 words to me since you came home. Oamecha. I have a lot on my mind for Lassad.

Did something happen at work today? Something happened. Yes. We’ll talk properly this weekend, FAD. Not tonight. You’re frightening me a little, Ollie. Then we’re even, FAD, because you’ve frightened me for weeks. No, no, no. Not now. Please, not now, Bernardet. Somebody, please. Please, Bernardet.

Aduni. God have mercy. What is happening? There’s blood. Benedict, I’m bleeding. Olya fasa, come quickly. It’s Aduni. Hold on, Aduni. We’re almost at the car. Hurry, Oly Ma. I’ve already called Crest View. The baby. Oly Ma, please. The baby. Stay with me, Aduni. We’re going right now. I’m right here, Aduni.

 I’m not letting go. It hurts, Omea. It hurts so much. Stay strong, Aduni. Please, just stay strong for a little longer. Aduni, I’m here now. Let’s find out exactly what’s happening. Dr. Briggs, thank God. Is the baby okay? Give me a few minutes, Aduni. I need to check everything carefully first. There’s the heartbeat, Adoni.

 Strong and steady. The baby is okay. Truly okay, Dr. Briggs. The baby looks fine, Adoni. What you experience is called a subcorionic hemorrhage, a small bleed near the placenta. It’s frightening but common and usually resolves on its own. So this isn’t a miscarriage, Dr. Briggs. No, Aduni, not tonight.

 But I want you on strict rest for the next few days and we’ll monitor closely. Standard protocol, blood type and Rh screening after any bleeding episode in case a transfusion is ever needed. If tonight had gone differently, this exact form is what any doctor here would have relied on blindly without ever knowing the truth.

 I cannot keep gambling with these women’s lives. Frank, not one more day. Why is this taking so long for Lassad? Sit down. Olya pacing won’t make the doctor come faster. Fas if something happens to that baby tonight. Don’t speak it into existence. Just sit with me. I’m scared for Lassad. Truly scared. So am I. Oola. So am I.

Olya for lassad. They are both stable. Thank God. Thank you, Dr. Briggs. Truly stable. Dr. Briggs. You’re certain she needs rest. But yes, you can see her now briefly. You scared me tonight, Adoni. Truly scared me. I scared myself too. Olya, thank you for holding on for both of us. I wasn’t ready to lose this baby.

 Olya, not after everything. He held my hand like that once for Lassad. Before all the silence between you started tonight, I was truly afraid for that girl and that baby. And still some small ugly part of me watched him hold her hand and felt something twist. What kind of woman does that make me? Tonight, a nurse nearly ordered a transfusion match based on records I know are wrong.

If this had gone worse, Frank, that error could have cost a life. Not a reputation. A life. No more waiting for the perfect moment. Susan, tomorrow. The clinic’s board by the weekend. This ends now. Dear Susan, please come first thing in the morning, no matter what. Some truths cannot survive one more sunrise unspoken.

Bernardet, is it true? Is the surrogate girl in hospital tonight? Yes, ma. There was some bleeding, but I hear the baby is stable now. Bleeding? Nobody informs me anything in this family until it’s already an emergency. I only just hurt myself. Ma, I will call you the moment they return home.

 See that you do, Bernardet. That baby’s safety is this family’s whole future. A scare like this changes everything in a house, Bernardet. People become careless when they are frightened. Frightened people talk more. Frightened people slip up. I only need to keep watching. By this time tomorrow, three lives will know a truth this clinic buried for 7 weeks.

 God help all of us survive what comes after that truth is spoken. We made it through tonight, little one. Whatever tomorrow brings, we made it through tonight. Susan, thank you for coming so early. Please sit. Dr. Briggs, you’re frightening me more by not saying anything yet. Sit down, Susan. I need you sitting down for this. Susan, during a routine records review, I found a labeling discrepancy in your storage cycle.

A discrepancy meaning what exactly, Dr. Briggs? I ran a full genetic cross check before saying a single word to you. I needed to be certain. The embryo transferred into another patient of ours 7 weeks ago. It was yours, Susan. Mine? Dr. Briggs, are you telling me someone else is pregnant with my child? Yes, Susan. a gestational surrogate.

 7 weeks along. 7 weeks. My baby has been growing inside a stranger for 7 weeks and nobody told me. I only confirmed it two nights ago, Susan. I came to you the moment I was certain. Two failed transfers, Dr. Briggs. Two. And this whole time, my last embryo was alive inside someone else’s body. I understand this is overwhelming, Susan.

Overwhelming is not my word for this, Dr. Briggs. There’s a whole family already waiting for my baby, and I don’t even know their names. There is a process for this, Susan. Nothing is decided. Nothing is final. Dr. Briggs, I will not lose this child. Not after everything I’ve already lost to have it.

Olyamecha, I need you and Fasadi at the clinic immediately. Both of you together. Dr. Briggs, is Aduni all right? Is it the baby? Adun and the baby are both fine physically. This is about something else entirely. You’re scaring me, Dr. Briggs. Just tell me what this is about. Not over the phone. Oamecha.

 I need you both here in person within the hour. We’re leaving right now. Dr. Briggs, I’ll be waiting. Olya, thank you both for coming so quickly. There is no easy way to say this, so I will simply say it. Say it, Dr. Briggs, please. A labeling error occurred during your embryo storage process. The embryo transferred into Aduni was not yours.

Not ours. Dr. Briggs, what exactly are you saying to us? The pregnancy Aduni is carrying belongs genetically to another patient of this clinic. Are you telling me my wife and I have no biological child right now? Dr. Briggs, the embryo you both created is still safely frozen, untouched. But the pregnancy in progress is not that embryo.

 Her name is Susan Doerty, also a patient here. Seven weeks, Dr. Briggs. 7 weeks under our roof and you are only telling us now. I confirmed it two nights ago. I came to Susan this morning. You are the second people I am telling. Then whose child has Aduni been carrying inside our own house? Two families shattered in one single morning and I am the only common thread between both of their pain.

The board will want this contained quietly. reputation, liability, insurance, but containment is not the same as justice. And these women deserve more than this clinic’s comfort. I am filing the full report today. Whatever it costs this place, whatever it costs me. for Lassad. How do I even begin to tell Aduni this? I don’t know, Alisa.

 I don’t know how any of us survived telling her this. You’ve been strangely quiet since we left that office. What do you want me to say, Oisa Mika? That I’m grieving a child that was never truly ours. I know this hurts you too, FAD, more than you’re letting yourself show. Let’s just go inside. Aduni deserves to hear this from us, not whispers in this house.

Aduni, we need to talk to you about something serious. Please stay seated. You’re frightening me, Oisa. Is something wrong with the baby? The baby is healthy, Aduni. This isn’t about the baby’s health. There was an error at the clinic, Aduni, during the storage of the embryos. What kind of error, Alisa? The embryo transferred into you.

 It wasn’t ours, Aduni. It belongs to another woman entirely. Another woman, Alisa Ma, what are you telling me right now? You are carrying a stranger’s biological baby, Aduni. Not ours. 7 weeks and none of you knew. Or did somebody know and simply decide not to tell me? Dr. So Briggs only confirmed it two nights ago.

 Aduni, we are telling you the same day we learned it. I need a moment. Please, just give me just give me a moment alone. 7 weeks of feeling this life move, of talking to it at night, of calling it mine, even in my own head. And it was never mine to call anything, was it? Not theirs either. Whose baby have I actually been carrying? Doris, I don’t even know how to say this out loud. Aduni, you’re scaring me.

 What happened? Everything is completely wrong, Doris. They made a massive mistake. What I have here belongs to someone else entirely. Aduni. Oh my. Are you for real right now? I don’t know what happens to me in all of this. Doris, breathe, Aduni. Whatever happens, you are not walking through this alone. Mama, I need to tell you something and I need you to stay calm while I do.

Olya, calm is not a word you use before. Good news. Say it. The embryo Aduni is carrying was not mine. And for last days, Mama, a mixup. Are you telling me this family has no child coming at all? Our embryo is still safe, mama. Frozen, untouched. But this pregnancy belongs to another woman. 7 weeks,

 Olya. 7 weeks. This family has been celebrating a child that was never ours. I know, mama. We only learned today ourselves. They will answer for this. Every single person responsible will answer for this. This house has been like a graveyard since you and Auga returned. Madam, what exactly happened at that clinic? Not tonight, Bernardet.

 I don’t have the strength for this tonight. I heard enough through that study door, madam. A mixup, another woman’s child. And what exactly do you think that information is worth to you, Bernardet? A secret this size, madam. This is worth far more than what we agreed before. Bernardet, listen carefully. This is not my secret to protect anymore.

 What do you mean, madam? Lawyers, doctors, possibly a courtroom. This truth is already walking out of this house whether you sell it or not. Then perhaps I sell it to the newspapers first, madam, before your lawyers get the chance. Try it, Bernardet. That theft complaint from Port Hakott reaches every newspaper desk in Lagos alongside your name by morning.

Pack your things by the weekend, Bernardet. Your services are no longer needed in this house. Gabriel, I need you now. Something has happened that changes everything. Olya Mecca, it’s nearly midnight. Tell me, the embryo Aduni is carrying isn’t biologically ours. Gabriel, there was a mixup at the clinic.

 It belongs to another woman. Alisamea, say that to me one more time slowly. It is not our child, Gabriel. It never was. Nigeria has no clear law built for this exact situation. Policea, no clean precedent. Then what do we do, Gabriel? What happens now? We move carefully. DNA confirmation after birth.

 Likely mediation before any court gets involved. I’ll start preparing immediately. Thank you both for agreeing to this. I only ask that we speak honestly and carefully with each other. You’re Aduni, the woman carrying my child. I didn’t know, Susan. I want you to understand that first. I truly didn’t know. I believe you, Aduni.

 None of this is your fault. I felt this baby moving inside me for weeks, Susan. Thinking it belonged to a family I was helping. It’s strange hearing a stranger describe feeling my child move before I ever could. What do you want to happen now, Susan? I need to understand where you stand in this. I want my child, Aduni.

 I have to be honest with you about that. And what happens to me once this baby is born? What happens to everything I’ve already given to this? I don’t have that answer yet, Aduni. I don’t think either of us has it yet. This is exactly why we move slowly and carefully from here. I will draft where we stand for both families by the end of this week.

 I’m not walking away from my child, Barrista White. I need that understood clearly. And I’m not walking away either, Susan. Not until I understand my place in this. Then this may take longer and cost more than either of you is currently prepared for. I signed a contract for somebody else’s child and carried it like it was mine to protect.

Now, two women and a family across this city are all waiting to hear which one of us it actually belongs to. Whatever the papers finally decide, I am the one who has felt this child grow, that has to count for something. This is the clinic’s full internal audit, Alisa. Every case Dr. Adanju touched across both facilities.

 Both facilities? Gabriel? I thought this only concerned our clinic. His pattern of negligence started at Lagoon Specialist years before he moved to Victoria Island. The audit had to trace the whole history. Is that relevant to our case, Gabriel, or simply background? It establishes the pattern the board can’t deny.

 It strengthens everything we’re building for Susan’s mediation. The lagoon specialist section is largely older cases from around 8 years back. So, Gabriel, stop talking for a moment. Olya, what is it? I’d like to take copies of this section home, Gabriel. I’ll review the rest myself tonight. Olya, you’ve been quiet since the chambers.

 What is that folder? Lagoon Specialist Clinic FAD 8 years ago. Your name? Where did you get that? It doesn’t matter where, FAD. Tell me it isn’t what I think it is. I had an affair, Oly Mecca, 9 years ago in a difficult season of our marriage. An affair? And the procedure? I terminated the pregnancy, Olya. There were complications.

That’s why I can’t conceive naturally. It was never you. Never me. Fas I had a vasectomy reversed for you. I carried the guilt of maybe being the reason for years. I know. I let you carry it because the truth was worse than your guilt. You let me apologize to you for lassade for years for something that was never mine to apologize for. Oly ma, please.

I need air for Lassad. I can’t be in this room right now. Something broke in this house tonight. I can feel it through the walls. The house has been quieter since Bernardet left. But tonight, it isn’t quiet. It’s holding its breath. Whatever happened between Oisa Mecca and FAD, it isn’t mine to walk into. Not tonight.

9 years for Lassad. 9 years of quiet apologies I never needed to make. I don’t know what I’m angrier about. The affair or the years of letting me carry a guilt that was never mine. Thank you for meeting me without the lawyers this time, Aduni. I wanted that too, Susan. Just us for once. How are you feeling? Truly, Aduni.

 Not the version you give everyone else. Tired, Susan. Confused. Carrying a child I now know isn’t mine to carry for the family I signed with. I think about that every day, Aduni. that you’re the one feeling every kick, every ache, and I’m the one who should be. Aduni, I don’t want this to end with you just handed a check and forgotten.

What are you proposing, Susan? A new arrangement directly between us. Fair payment, yes, but also updates as she grows. Maybe visits if you’d want that. You said she, Susan. The old file said girl Aduni. I suppose some things survived the mixup after all. Thank you all for being here. Let’s speak plainly and keep this respectful.

I want to be recognized as this child’s mother when she’s born. That is not negotiable for me, Barrista White. And I want acknowledgement for what I’ve carried, Susan. Not just payment. A real place in how this is remembered. Both positions are reasonable and neither excludes the other.

 Susan, I want to say clearly, my family will not contest your claim to your daughter. Thank you, Alisa Mika. That means more than you know. Then we’re building an agreement around Susan’s parentage with Adun’s role clearly protected within it. That is the right thing to do, Gabriel. It’s the only thing that still feels honest to me right now.

You told that woman’s lawyer you will not fight for the child. Mama, that child was never ours to fight for. She belongs to Susan biologically and rightfully that baby grew for 9 weeks under this family’s roof. That counts for something, Olya. It counts as Adun sacrifice, mama, not as our claim. You look like a man carrying more than one grief this week. Oly ma.

Mama, there’s something else about FAD. I’ll tell you when I’m ready, but not today. Whatever it is, my son, you are not alone carrying it. Come here. Thank you, mama. I told my mother I’m not fighting for a child that isn’t mine. That part was easy in the end. What I don’t know yet is whether I’m fighting for my marriage or if I even want to.

This new agreement replaces the old surrogacy contract entirely. It’s built directly between you two. Full parental rights to me upon delivery, as we discussed, and fair completion payment, plus the visitation terms we spoke about at the cafe. If you’re both satisfied, this becomes the governing document.

 Take your time reading it fully. Thank you, Aduni, for carrying her. For everything you didn’t sign up to endure. Thank you for not treating me like I I disappear once she’s born. Susan, you won’t disappear, Aduni. Not from her story and not from mine. You’re leaving, Oisa. Just for a few days, for Lassad, I need space to think clearly.

I understand. I don’t deserve to ask you to stay. This isn’t a punishment for Lassad. I just don’t know what I’m looking at yet when I look at you. 9 years of silence and it only took one folder to undo it for Lassad. I don’t know if I’m crying because I lost him or because some part of me is finally relieved to stop hiding.

I came into this house wanting nothing but money and an exit, little one. Somewhere between the lies and the mixup, I started wanting a place in your story, too. Not ownership, just a place. Susan is giving me that. I didn’t expect kindness to survive all of this, but it did. So, how are you really doing, Aduni? Beneath all of it, lighter than I expected.

 Doris, Susan signed the new agreement today. Aduni, that’s real progress. You fought for a place in this and you got it. I didn’t fight the way I thought I would, Doris. I just refused to disapply. That’s the only kind of fighting that ever mattered. Aduni, once both signatures are on this page, the agreement is binding for all parties.

I’m ready. Barrista White. So am I. It’s done. It’s done, Adoni. And it’s honest this time. I’ll file this with the clinic settlement documentation this afternoon. This was the picture Orisa showed me the day he thought this child was ours. A real embryo is still waiting, frozen, patient, somewhere in that clinic.

Perhaps that is the child we were always meant to raise in God’s own timing. Not this one. A stranger’s child, a broken marriage marriage, a housekeeper gone. A truth finally spoken. Nine weeks ago, I thought I understood exactly what this house was. I understood nothing. Whatever is left of this pregnancy, I intend to walk through it with my eyes fully open this time.

A marriage counselor or a divorce lawyer for Lassad. Both numbers are saved in this same phone. I don’t know which one I’m brave enough to call first. Aduni, look at you. 38 weeks and still glowing. Glowing and exhausted. Doris in equal measure. This apartment still surprises me every visit. You did well for yourself.

Adoney. Susan insisted on covering the rent until after delivery. Doris, I almost said no. Almost. I’ve learned to accept help without shame this year. Doris, that’s new for me. Any news from the Hakot house this week? Aduni? Just quiet. Doris Olya is still staying at his service flat in Victoria Island.

 And for Lassad, counseling from what I hear. No divorce filed yet. No reunion either. And you’re at peace with how you left things there. More peace than I expected, Doris. I gave that house everything I had. I don’t owe it anything else now. Aduni, everything looks excellent for 38 weeks. Baby is head down, fully engaged.

So, we’re close, Dr. Briggs. Very close. Any day now, honestly. Any day, Adoni. I still can’t believe it. Believe it, Susan. She’s almost here. I’ll also mention um the clinic’s board formally accepted full responsibility last month. That review is closed. Dr.

 Briggs, what happens to my other two embryos once she’s born? They remain safely stored, Susan. Whenever you’re ready, if you’re ever ready, they’ll be waiting. I didn’t think I’d have that choice again after everything. You still have every choice, Susan. that much this clinic owes you completely. One miracle at a time, Susan. One miracle at a time. Aduni.

Agreed. The clinic’s insurers have finalized the settlement. I want to walk you both through it clearly. Please. Barrista White. Aduni receives her full original contracted fee from the Hawort family as agreed months ago. That was never in question from what Olya told me. In addition, the clinic’s malpractice settlement provides further compensation directly to you, Aduni, for the circumstances of the pregnancy itself.

You earned every narrow of that twice over, Susan. Once the postnatal DNA confirmation is filed, the birth certificate will list you as the child’s legal mother without complication. Finally, something simple in all of this. Barrista White, simple and fully yours, Susan. And my name, Barrista White, does it appear anywhere at all? As the birth attendant of record, Aduni, if you both choose, in the private visitation agreement you signed.

That’s enough for me, Susan. It really is. FASA, I still don’t have an answer for you. I want to be honest about that. I’m not asking for an answer today, Olya. I’m asking you to keep coming back. Every week for 2 months, and it still feels like learning to walk again. Then we learned slowly, Olya.

 I destroyed the trust. I don’t get to rush you rebuilding it. I don’t know if we survived this, Fasad, but I know I don’t want to stop trying yet. Then don’t stop. Olya, that’s all I’m asking. Your mother asked about the embryo again this week. Olya, she always does. Fasi, what did you tell her? That we’ll decide together once we know if there’s a we left to decide anything.

As Fair enough, Olya. Fair enough. Same time next week. Same time next week. Olya, you look lighter today, Olya. Barely, but lighter. Counseling is slow, mama. But we’re still going. Slow is better than nothing, my son. I have learned that much in 62 years. You asked about the embryo again. Fas told me.

 I only wonder Olya I am not pushing. When we know what we are mama as a marriage then we’ll know what we’re ready to try again. That is the wisest thing I have heard you say in months. Olya Doris. Doris I think this is it. Aduni breathe. How far apart are the pains? Close. Doris too close. Then we’re not waiting another minute. Let’s go. Aduni.

Call Suzanne on the way. Doris, please. Already dial in Aduni. Come on, Aduni. Right on schedule. Let’s get you settled. Is Susan here yet, Dr. Briggs? She just arrived, Aduni. She’s coming now. Aduni, I’m here. I’m right here. Good, Susan. Stay close. I’m not going anywhere. Adoni, good. Aduni, almost there.

 One more push when you’re ready. I’m ready, Dr. Briggs. You’re doing so well, Aduni. She’s almost here. Okay. Okay. Now, there she is. Healthy lungs. Listen to that cry. She’s here, Susan. She’s really here. Oh my god. Oh my god. She’s here. Aduni, you did it. Look at her. Susan, would you like to cut the cord? Here she is, Susan. Yours at last.

Oh my heart. You are finally here. She is truly something special, Susan. Because of you, Aduni. Only because of you. Because of both of us, Susan. In our own way. Both of us. Always. Both of us. Saduni 9 months of feeling her move and now my arms are empty. And that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be. It still hurts a little.

 This kind of empty. Nobody warned me that relief and grief could live in the same body at once. But I chose this. I would choose it again, even knowing exactly how it would end. So Aduni, you said you had news for me today. I’ve been accepted. Doris, master’s program, public health, University of Lagos. Aduni, when did this even happen? I applied quietly in my seventh month.

Doris, needed something to hope toward. Your mother’s hospital bills, your own future. You’re finally building for yourself, Aduni. For myself, Doris, for the first time in a long time, just for myself. Well, master student Aduni, should we celebrate properly this weekend? Suya and Jalof at my place. Doris, nothing fancy. Just us.

 Nothing fancy after everything you’ve survived this year. Simple is exactly what I want now, Doris. Simple and mine. Simple and yours, Aduni. I’ll bring the drinks. Deal, Doris. A year ago, I packed a bag to carry someone else’s family’s hope into a house that saw me as disposable. Today, I’m packing a bag to carry my own future.

Into a lecture hall that only answers to me. The pregnancy was never the whole story. It was just the loudest secret in a house full of them. Mine is simpler now and it’s finally completely mine. Onward, Aduni.