Interlude VI

GRoaning awake, Ryan grimaced at the glaring sunlight, cursing as he turned onto his side. The headache came, strong and merciless. Fuck. His jaw sang with pain.

"It's a bitch, isn't it?" Lawrence snapped the book he was reading shut, stowed it away in a drawer before approaching the bed, tugging his contrast T-shirt over black pants. He sat beside Ryan, pushing him to lie supine, and pried his lids open to assess his pupils despite crude protests. They were mildly dilated.

Smacking Lawrence's hand off, Ryan sat up, wriggling his jaw. "What the hell did you do to me?"

"He did what had to be done. That's part of his job description, isn't it, to keep you in check?" Observing his brother closely, Lawrence peered, said. "You don't remember what happened?" Ryan blinked dazed eyes, hissing, and that was answer enough. "You tried to strangle.....her. She came by yesterday to plead with you again. You didn't succeed. "

By 'her', his bother meant Vanessa. Ryan recalled the blow promptly, delivered right when he would have snuffed out her life. Anthony hadn't held back. The full force of all that weight impacted on his face. Damn it. Lethargically, he crept out from under the sheets and lumbered toward the mirror, ignoring Lawrence's presence. Inspecting for injuries, Ryan attempted a scowl but the pounding in his head protested. In just a week, his assets had received multiple assaults. He winced, groaned.

"Take one of that when you're ready," Lawrence told him. There was a pack of drug on the nightstand, a glass of water beside it. Ryan merely grunted, stifling another yawn as he trudged to the bathroom. A few minutes later he came out, toweling his hair dry. By then, Lawrence was sitting forward on one of the plush couches, elbows on splayed knees, face pensive.

The room was quiet. Too quiet. He glanced at Jidenna's crib.

"He's in my room," Lawrence mollified before his brother could erupt. "Rita has him."

Ryan said nothing, placing the towel on his neck. These days not many words passed between them, so in the silence that ensued, he downed the tablet while Lawrence observed him. Ryan could feel those eyes, hear those questions, but he wouldn't acknowledge either of them. Instead, he pulled back his chair, sat, and delved into work, squinting at the screen; he reached for a cigarette, stuck it between his lips.

About using the lighter, Lawrence plucked out the stick. "There will be none of that  today. You've had enough."

Wow, Ryan thought, stunned but not showing. Could it be that his brother had lost his fear of him? He was on his feet in a flash, standing toe to toe with Lawrence. His brother didn't cringe away, staring him down with dark eyes that had wavered before becoming steely. The eyes never lie. Intensely, silently, they confronted each other. Then Ryan grinned—he could do so now. The pain in his head and jaw was almost nonexistent.

"Of course," he clapped his brother's arm once, surprising him. "Whatever you say, sir." He sat back down and resumed typing. One of his online Caucasian girlfriends had just transferred a substantial sum to his bank account. He smiled when his phone chimed wherever it was. The alert.

I've seen the alert, love. You just saved my mother's life.

"Sweet," Ryan murmured, focused on the screen. "Good news, Nedu. I nailed this rich bitch from Texas two weeks ago, and now, we are thirty thousand dollars richer."

Lawrence relaxed. He had been expecting some form of retaliation. Apparently, his brother didn't fancy the idea today. As much as he'd have loved to walk out that instant, certain things mattered more.

"When did you start using? You told me you'd never indulge the product."

Ryan only continued typing, humming to himself.

"Worse you go and brew yourself a cocktail with it," Lawrence didn't let the lack of response deter him. "Do you have any fucking idea what that shit can do to you?"

"And what can it do to me?" Rising, Ryan went to pour himself a drink. He held the glass of fine, sea blue liquid up, inspecting it as he spoke. "Enlighten me, brother mine." He picked another bottle from the cabinet, added some of its content. The drink turned dark red. "Go on. Prove to me that you're the only one with a school degree here."

"I didn't mean it that way. I just--"

"You just what, huh?" it was a rhetorical question and when Ryan stood before Lawrence, sipping the drink despite the unspoken protest in his brother's eyes, the other twin was cowed into silence. "Yeah, I thought so." Tipping his head back, Ryan guzzled down the drink then slammed the empty glass on his work table.

"All I'm saying is that if you continue this way, you'll get seriously hurt or hurt someone else like yesterday." Lawrence said, careful of his words, knowing he was now walking on eggshells. "You could......"

Ryan grinned big, the kind that endeared him to women--enigmatic and cynical. "And that would be perfect for you, wouldn't it? The evil twin's tyrannical reign would be over and you'd sleep peacefully at night. But guess what fine boy; I won't die just yet. " He jabbed one finger on Lawrence's chest. "For as long as you live, I'll be here to make sure that you know no peace or happiness. So don't you worry about me."

Lawrence gazed silently at him, and Ryan turned away, rubbed his face.

"I don't want such, either. I'd rather suffer your wrath than see that happen. You're the only relative I have left. Believe it or not, I do care about you. I ---" Lawrence caught himself in time, pocketing his hands on a deep, shaky breath. "You have to stop this. I can get you help. If something's the matter with you, you can always talk to me. We can sort this out."

Ryan clenched his jaw. He didn't like the buzzing fly in his ears. He snorted. "Help. Talk. Someone's really begging for it this morning."With deliberate slowness, he faced Lawrence again, stepping closer. Bowing his head briefly, Ryan chuckled as he sniffed like he couldn't believe his brother's temerity. "You think I need help?You think there's something wrong with me?"

"That's not----"

"Sssshhhhh," Ryan held up a warning finger. "I'd stop talking if I were you." He added when Lawrence obeyed. "I'm being a little lenient this morning, have you noticed? Next time you might want to think twice before you cross the fucking line again. Understand me? Nod your head."

Lawrence did.

" It's already past nine, and I don't see my order." He looked around for emphasis. Irritated, Ryan scratched his head. "This is the sort of thing that pisses me off."

"I apologize."

"Don't fucking apologize. Get it done!"

Crestfallen, Lawrence started to leave. As far as conversation went, this one was over.

"By the way, how's our home girl's business coming along, hm?" At the door, Lawrence paused, apprehension knotting his chest, turning just as Ryan walked up to him, looking playfully sinister. "Gotten past second base? Has she spilled the juicy details?"

"There's been progress. It's just going to take a little more time."

Ryan nodded emphatically, folding his arms. "Taking things slow, huh? That's funny because that's not what my sources tell me. From what I hear, you've only made contact once. The rest of the time you've been MIA. Care to explain that? Where do you go to when you're supposed to be fulfilling your duties? Did you think i wouldn't put a tail on you?"

"Nowhere," Lawrence spoke past the lump in his throat, shrugging.

" You know better than to lie to me."

"I'm not. I've just been...trying to gather as much information about her as I can--her habits, where she frequents, and all that."

"And what have you found out?"

"That she's cleverer than she looks. She is a psychology student in her final year; athletic; worked par time until recently; antisocial; She's Involved with a non-governmental organization for challenged children."

"Interesting indeed. How did you come by the information?"

"She's popular among her course mates. It didn't take much to get what I needed."

"Good," Ryan lauded. "It pleases me to know you are taking this seriously, but it's not enough. You've taken your time with the passive sweep, get active. And you may want to speed things up—just a little brotherly advice." His phone chimed again. "That must be my sugar baby. Another maga has paid up. " Yawning, he turned and, walking towards the table, confirmed the transaction by typing back a message, leaving Lawrence puzzled.

"Speed things up?"

"Yup, you've got, let's see......about less than a month."

"Why the sudden change in time frame?"

"That's not for you to know."

"But that's not feasible." Lawrence started forward. His brother wasn't making any sense. "It's going to take much more time. She's not the most amenable of persons. These things take certain tactical processes, one you do here every day. I'm not a magician."

"You better start learning how to do tricks then and fast." Meeting lawerence's overt displeasure with a hard stare, Ryan stepped up until they were toe to toe. "You know, I saw her. She happened to walk past my car just a day ago. A gorgeous piece I must say, just the way I like them, what you'd call  nature's work of art: a body to drive a man's imagination wild, that face, those fiery eyes, those lips---i bet they would feel and taste good. While I watched those hips sway, I thought to myself 'I'd like to tap that. Maybe I should. Does she like it rough? I'd like to find out.'" As he spoke, Ryan gauged his brother's reaction, watching for the subtlest change in expression. "So how about it? I take over and you go service sugar mama 19 in Abuja, a ferverent client—that one is a real bed animal. Three rounds may not be enough. Frankly speaking, you may not survive it but what a way to go. That reminds me, you've not banged a woman in what, five years? You sure you still know how to man the tool? You should be thanking me for this opportunity to garner experience instead and look what a fine piece I've given you. I'm not surprised, though, you've always been an ingrate. If you don't fancy this way, we could always try my former plan. Only this time I plan to have a little bit of fun---she's just too easy on the eyes to pass up, don't you agree?"

Although his face was impassive, Lawrence boiled inside. If Ryan knew what potent anger—one he wasn't sure should be felt-- he'd stirred within him trouble could ensue. He ensured to sound unperturbed despite his balled fists in his pockets. "I'll get it done."

"That's the spirit," Ryan said hugging Lawrence's shoulders good naturedly. "This is more like you-anything to avoid dead bodies. See that it is, hm?"

After a day of sex and making plans of bedding wives all over the country, Ryan stepped into his room, phone in ear. Rita was there, cross-legged on the floor babysitting Jidenna who occupied himself with the toy clustered play area. She looked up when the door opened.

"I hope it's not going to be like the other day when your husband happened to just pop in," he was saying, pinning the phone to a shoulder as he unlatched his watch. "I'm just saying, I won't tolerate that next time." Switching ears, he gestured for Rita to get out, which she responded  with a mouthed curse, standing up. She perked the baby's forehead, stroking it tenderly, and gathered her things.

"Yes, I know you love me, just like you love your husband." As soon as the woman on the end started ranting, Ryan let her vent to the air. He brought out his wallet. When Rita moved past him, he caught her wrist, drawing her back, then replaced the phone. "Blackmail? Me? Now, honey, why would I do that when you take such good care of me?" He proffered some cash to her. Rita sneered but didn't take it. "I assure you. You keep your end of the business, my sweet, and I'll keep up the confidentiality of the good services I offer." He tucked it into her cleavage instead, walked away, leaving the girl's jaws unhinged from being appalled by his nerve. "How's your friend these days? The really big one. I hear she's in need, too. I'm considering." Soon he was smiling. "That's what I like to hear. You see why you are my one and only. Later, love ya."

Humming, he strolled toward the mirror, assessed his reflection.

"If only they could see you for what you really are." Rita scoffed.

Ryan glanced at her through the mirror. "If it isn't the belated birthday girl." Wriggling his jaw for pain, he exhaled deeply. It still felt sore. "They do actually. They see the man of their dreams. Too fine to be true. "

"They see an illusion," Rita taunted, "one so thin layered. You don't give a damn about those targeted women. You'd discard them in a heartbeat."

"True."

"You just love ruining marriages."

"Ruin?" Ryan quirked his brow. "I save them. The adulterous wives are sated and happy. The fools they married feel competent. A happy union. Viola! My job is done. I'm literally the cupid of holy matrimony," Tossing his phone on the bed, he started unhooking his watch. "What do you want? I know this isn't about what i do. You've known for ages."

Clutching the strap of her bag for courage, Rita contemplated saying what was on her mind. She'd stayed back and waited specifically to air her grievance against him. "Stop hitting him."

He paused, frowning."Excuse me?"

She spoke louder. "I said stop hitting him. He's not a freaking piñata. You don't like bruises on your face, so don't bruise his. I don't know why you do it or why he lets you. Just stop."

He couldn't believe his ears. Up till now, they'd never exchanged words alone, both steering clear of each other's path. He faced her then, stalking forward as he spoke.  Chin jutted up, Rita stood her ground, meeting his piercing gaze despite her thudding heart. "The sissy can't do anything so he bitches to you about it. I didn't realize you both were so close these days, Rita, close enough for you to come in here and issues orders. It surprises me. You guys slept together yet?"

Staggered, Rita blinked. "Why would-How dare you? I'm nothing like the whores you bed. Lawrence is my friend, and I care about him,"

"But it's more than that, isn't it?" Ryan put a finger to his lips, moving closer still, peering closely. "You want him. You want him to want you, but Nedu is too dense to see it. He has always been that way---stuck in his little world. Not seeing anyone or anything. It must hurt."

"I-I-I don't know what you're talking about." But her lips trembled. He saw that little slip, smirked. The pressure being too much to bear, Rita faltered back, bracing herself against the door when he trapped her between his arms.

"Oh yes, you do." His eyes glittered wickedly. She made it so easy."Or maybe it isn't him. Maybe it's me. You want to know what I think? Neither brother sees you as a woman, so you settle for something else."

"Tha-that's not it. I have a man, and I love him. I don't expect someone like you to understand, since you love no one but yourself."

The blight ricocheted off him. "Yeah, about that." Ryan's eyes roved over her face, as if searching for something. "Are you sure he feels the same way?You sure it isn't guilt or pity on his part? I feel it's both anyway. Back when you were game, you had your pick of the lot, and you go for someone like him.  I was disappointed. Sure, you could have left- you thought about it-but it's too late now, isn't it? No one else will have you." He grinned at the sight of welling tears. "Did I hit a nerve?"

Despite her blurred vision, Rita held his mocking gaze. "Tony loves me for me. He isn't that shallow."

Ryan chortled, leaning away and freeing her. "Is that what you tell yourself when you look in the mirror every day? No, someone like you avoids reflecting surfaces. I'd get nightmares, too."

"You son of a---" Rita swung up her hand, intent on hitting him, but he caught her wrist. She tried yanking free. "Don't fucking touch me!" He held on, amused by her futile attempts. Leisurely, he pressed her against the door.

"He is a better man than you'll ever be."

"Can you believe this chick, Jee? " He snorted. Jidenna only blabbered, squishing and tossing toys, oblivious to the situation. Letting the statement sink in, Ryan couldn't hold back irrepressible laughter. "Better? Last time i checked, your man was and still is a fucking killer. I think you're confused. Maybe you need to lie down and rest, Rita."

"You're the worst kind of human being," She retorted bitterly, tear stained face taunt with impotent anger. "I don't know how such a sweet boy came from the likes of you."

"Beats me," He glanced the boy's way, shrugged. "Well, It shows I do have some of that in me. A recessive trait, perhaps."

"You disillusion yourself ."

"Now, now, that's no way to speak to your savior. That shop complex was fucking expensive."

Rita looked bemused, mouth opening and closing. "I was told it was a joined effort."

"Joined? That's not how I remember it. The cost sort of tilted my way. I mean, I pay your man. The gym he runs belongs to me. Lawrence is the same. It may look like some twisted partnership but I'm really at the crux of things. So," he still held her hand and shocked Rita by tugging her against him. "where is my kiss of gratitude? Come on, don't be stingy."

While she struggled, he laughed. A knock sounded, curtailing the fun moment. Ryan scowled, releasing her just as she shoved his chest, said. " Enter."

The face of the house keeper, a fair-skinned young girl, flushed when she sidled inside, shifting gaze between the two.

"I hope you do end up falling hard for someone-assuming you don't meet your end before then- and choke on it! And when you do die, i'll dance on your grave!"

"So no cake, either?" Ryan chuckled.

Chucking the money he had given her at him, Rita stormed out of the room, nearly bumping into the girl who sprang back in time.

"Are you sure you don't need the money? The price of fuel these days..... Women." He said to the girl, eliciting a coy glance and an abashed smile. "You new?" He knew all the workers by face and this one was especially unfamiliar. His brother's doing most likely--something he forgot to mention.

"Yes, sir."

"I thought so. We don't have girls this pretty around here, a welcome change."

She blushed. "Thank you, sir."

He looked for her name."You aren't wearing your name tag."

"I haven't been given, sir. It will be ready by tomorrow."

"Your name, then."

"Amarachi."

"Fine name. So, what is it, Amara?"

"I found this while cleaning your room today, sir." She clumsily fished out something from the pocket of her dress. "It was under the bed."

Ryan stared at the ring, took it.

Distracted, he murmured. "You can go." But the girl tarried. "Anything else?"

Amara, fumbling, said."I didn't come along with my siblings this morning( i had a 7am class) as you requested, so i wasn't able to tell you how grateful i ---we all are.  Thank you so much. My mother sends her greetings. She says whatever you eat at our place from now on is on the house."

Help? Although puzzled, Ryan responded with a flippant wave of his hand, smiling warmly. His brother forgot a lot things these days."My pleasure. Tell her  i look forward to it."Alone he held the ring up to his eyes. He'd seen this ring before. On someone. It's Huma's, he thought, bewildered as he sat on the bed. Why would the girl's ring be in---. Slowly, he stood, studying the bed, studying Jidenna, studying the room, for answers. Then he remembered in a blur of flitting images.

"Shit,"

*****************

"Why didn't you mention it ?" Ryan faced the window, hands in pocket. Trees lined the landscape on this part of the hotel.

"I had no idea that you didn't remember, boss." Anthony, freshly showered, stood with a towel wrapped around his waist, body dripping. He'd had no time to prepare for the unbidden visit.

"Do you know if anything happened?"

"No.I only stepped in when you were about strangling...her. She must have interceded."

"But you can't say for sure."

"No, boss."

"It was just you." Ryan turned his head, looked at him. " Nedu wasn't there?"

They held eyes, Anthony steeling his as he responded. "It was just me. Lawrence hadn't yet come back from the meeting."

He let his eyes linger on the big man before averting them. "Good. How's our ambassador's son doing?"

"In good health. Currently playing video games in his room."

"Caused any trouble?"

"None at all. He's been very complacent."

"And the negotiations?"

"The father is ready."

"We proceed." Ryan crossed the room to stand in front of Anthony. "You've taken care of that loose knot, I presume."

The big man merely nodded.

Ryan, smirking, said. "We have nothing to worry about then, better  man." As he opened the door, Tony, glad of his successful deceit, exhaled deep and slow, shoulders sagging. "One more thing." The words had Anthony's back ramrod straight once again. "Keep your girlfriend in line."

A/N

Thanks for reading, guys!

Note: Updates will be pretty slow from now on.