THE SELECTED SEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHIEF MARKUS GETS THE NEWS

It was seven-thirty in the evening, the hour when the day's bustle began to give way to the serene intimacy of the night. Streetlights flickered on as families settled into their homes, the faint sounds of laughter and chatter echoing through the neighborhood. Chief Markus Charles, a respected figure in the community known for his dedication to public service and unwavering commitment to fostering safety and trust, sat alongside his lovely wife, Blessing. They had been partners in life for many years, sharing not only love but also a deep respect for one another's aspirations.

Their plush couch enveloped them in its soft embrace; the delicate fabric, adorned with rich, warm hues, molded to their forms as they settled in for an evening of entertainment. The couple had meticulously planned this moment as a much-needed respite from their busy schedules, a chance not just to relax but to reconnect after a week filled with responsibilities and community engagements. They exchanged light banter about their plans for the weekend as they navigated the multiple remotes strewn across the coffee table, finally settling on a familiar channel that they both adored.

As the couple became engrossed in Markus's favorite TV program—a gripping drama that had captivated his attention for weeks— the atmosphere in their dimly lit living room transformed into a cocoon of tranquility. The soft hum of the refrigerator and the distant sounds of crickets outside blended into the background as the bright glow of the television screen flickered, casting a warm light that danced along the walls, creating an ambiance of comfort, relaxation, and an unspoken bond between them. For a while, they reveled in the unfolding storyline, the complexities of the characters drawing them in, allowing their minds to escape the relentless pressures of their daily lives.

However, the peaceful evening was suddenly interrupted by an urgent news bulletin that filled the room with an unsettling gravity, starkly contrasting the lighthearted scenes they had been enjoying. The sudden shift in tone from the television instantly pierced the cozy atmosphere, like a gust of cold wind entering from a broken window. The reporter's tone was serious, his voice laced with an urgency that immediately captured the viewers' attention. A palpable tension filled the air as he began to relay shocking news: a prominent governorship aspirant, a well-known figure in the state, had tragically died in his car just hours after a major campaign event.

The announcement struck a chord, sending ripples of shock through the living room and beyond. The aspirant had been returning from a major campaign event that had drawn an immense crowd of over a million enthusiastic supporters, all gathered to hear his vision for the future of the state. The news clips showed the vibrant energy of the campaign—the aspirant’s impassioned speeches, the radiant smiles of supporters rallying behind him, and the palpable hope that filled the air, amplifying the sense of community and shared dreams.

As images of the deceased flashed on the screen—moments captured during his speeches filled with fire and determination, his interactions with his supporters, and spontaneous shouts of approval—it all played out in rapid succession, creating a stark contrast to the previous scenes of dramatic storytelling. The jubilance of his campaign faded into a somber reminder of life’s unpredictability and the fragility of existence, a reality that many often choose to ignore.

As the details of the incident unfolded on-screen, revealing the chaotic aftermath of the tragic accident, the atmosphere in the room shifted profoundly. The casual viewing experience transformed into a moment of deep reflection for Markus and Blessing, who were both swallowed by the weight of the news. They exchanged glances filled with understanding and empathy, contemplating the unexpected turns life can take and the heavy burden of loss that can strike without warning. The contrast between the jubilation of the campaign and the gnawing sorrow of the news made them acutely aware of the delicate balance between hope and tragedy; the moment was a bittersweet reminder of their mortality and the impermanence of life.

As they sat in silence, the couple realized that this event would ripple through their lives and their community and state, a reminder that sometimes, beyond the dreams and aspirations, there lies a profound unpredictability that binds them all—a truth that underscores their love and commitment to one another.

"What!" Blessing interjected, breaking the silence that engulfed them. Her eyes widened in shock as she turned to her husband in disbelief. "Death! Who could have been responsible for this heinous act? Professor Kelvin Innocent was a very good man—a man of the people, respected by all. This is not fair! This is the reason why I don't like politics one bit. The manipulation, the backstabbing, the greed—it all culminates in such tragic outcomes. It feels like the voice of the people has been silenced with his passing. He dedicated his life to serving our community as well as our state, and now his absence leaves a gaping hole that cannot be filled. It is a dark day for us all, and I can't shake off the feeling that foul play is involved."

"It is obvious you didn't hear the news well," Chief Markus replied, displaying an unusual calmness that only heightened Blessing's agitation. "They said he died right inside his car on his way home after returning from a campaign ground. Nobody killed him. He probably was sick or something, perhaps even a heart attack from the sheer stress of the political arena they were in," he added, waving his hand dismissively as if brushing away her concerns like dust on a table.

"I don't think so, honey," Blessing argued, shaking her head vigorously as her long, braided hair swayed with her movements. "Somebody, no doubt, poisoned him. The timing was just too convenient—right after making promises to improve the communities and state, and right before the elections? Recently, there have been whispers in the wind about underhanded tactics among the contenders. It all seems suspicious to me. What if those whispers are rooted in reality?"

"Woman, you should be more concerned with the prospect of becoming the First Lady of Soko State," Chief Markus replied, his voice rising with a hint of irritation. "Rather than spewing trash with your mouth. That man impeded my political career. Now that he is gone, there is hope for me to become the next governor of Soko State and you, the First Lady, living in opulence and influence! Picture it—the grand parties, the importance, the power!"

"And you think I am interested in becoming the First Lady of a country?" she questioned: her tone a mix of disbelief and indignation. "I am more than comfortable being called Chief Markus's wife. I never wanted the spotlight or the responsibilities that come with such a title. The very idea of attending endless social gatherings, making small talk with politicians and their wives, or endorsing policies I don’t believe in feels alien to me. If you don't mind, I will return to the bedroom. When you're done with your scheming and plotting, meet me there. I need some peace to think about everything that has happened today."

"All right, good night then!" he said nonchalantly, a smirk forming at the corners of his mouth as he watched her leave his presence, unaware of the turmoil brewing within her heart. She was torn between her loyalty to her husband and her sense of justice for the fallen leader. Deep down, she knew that the peaceful life she envisioned was slipping further out of reach as political games unfolded around them.

Soon after that, there was a phone call that interrupted the tension-filled evening. It was Victor Chuks, a name synonymous with both loyalty and treachery in their circles; perhaps he was calling to relay the good news of an accomplished task. The air was thick with anticipation as Chief Markus leaned closer to the phone, eager to hear what Victor had to say.

"Hello, Chuks, the death of that bastard has been confirmed," Chief Markus exclaimed, barely able to contain the high level of excitement in his voice. His mind raced with thoughts of what this news could mean for his plans moving forward, confident that this pivotal moment would solidify his standing.

"I know. I am on the news now, live and broadcasting. I called to let you know that your words have been carried out to the letter," Victor's voice came through from the phone, steady and reassuring. "It is up to you, Chief, to keep your part of the bargain. Remember, it is ten percent, no more, no less. My associate and I will always be there to watch your back against any uprising that may arise from this situation. The streets won’t be quiet for long, and loyalty is a fragile commodity these days."

"Thanks, I appreciate your trust in me. I will not fail," the Chief replied confidently, feeling the weight of the moment settled on his shoulders. As he hung up the call, he took a deep breath, considering both the rewards and dangers that lay ahead. This was a turning point, and he knew that every move he made from this point on would be scrutinized, both by allies and enemies alike. The city was on edge, and so were the stakes.

After having rested for a while, he retired to the bedroom to join his wife.