About the book
A 28-year old geek is forced to discover herself through situations she never imagined herself in. Would getting into a bet to get her boss fall in love with her be a price too much to save her mother's life?


Episode 1

It was an unusual Monday morning at Lancast Media. Everyone was at the right place discharging their duties. Lancast Media had over the years earned itself a good place in the Nigerian Media Industry. In fact, it was regarded as the most fun place anyone in Lagos State could work. They had in-house parties every Friday, lunch delivered to the office everyday, background music all day for continuous creativity, girls of all sizes dressed in the hottest dresses.


This Monday however was different. Utmost silence became the background music. For the first time, every member of staff was corporately dressed. Anyone would wonder why things changed all of a sudden? The new CEO was coming in. I'll also tell you the reason why things were the way they were.
Lanre Castle, the Chairman of Lancast Media wasn't as vibrant as he used to be anymore- old age was setting in. He was an interesting rich man to everyone, as long as you were bringing in money into the company’s account.The ladies who brought in lots of money soon became decision makers. As such, there was little or no supervision from anyone.


Deji Castle, the son of the chairman had recently moved back to Nigeria after his undergraduate, triple masters degree and doctorate in the United States. He was coming to change the norms and set new rules at Lancast Media.
As expected, everyone was still. It seemed an angelic visitation was being expected. Indeed it was an angel but this time, he was in human form. Deji Castle finally arrived and all eyes went in the direction of the glass door.

An escort came down from the car to open the door for him. Just like we see in movies, where the shoes go on display before the person steps out, it wasn't any different. The shoes reflected the sun, well patterned and polished. I could bet the thought on everyone's mind was, “Can he just come down already,” especially the girls who were all ready for a catch.

Continues Tomorrow...If you liked this episode, follow me, like, share or drop a comment.

Thank you.

Episode 2

Walking towards the office was a very tall man,about 6ft 5 (just guessing) , neatly carved beards with no strand of hair on his head. His skin shone like dark chocolate. His suit looked so perfect, one would wonder if it was sewn on him. It didn't need a label that screamed “Expensive designer ” but it was pretty obvious.


Within in a few seconds, he was in the office with all eyes on him. He took off his glasses and smiled at everyone. His dentition was also very perfect with a sparkling set of white teeth. Everyone smiled back at him eagerly waiting for him to say his first words and alas he did but it wasn't quite what everyone was expecting.


“Hey guys, it’s good to be here. I hope you feel the same way after the first few months. If I were you, I'll concentrate on my work and try to retain my job after the next month. Only the best of the best stays! Thank you.” He said as he walked into his office.


Everyone felt like ice water had just dropped on them and the silence continued. No one moved an inch out of their desks except Ranti. She was the hottest girl in Lancast media and she was very much aware of that fact. This made her attitude even worse. She had an hourglass figure and wore the best clothes. She could flirt her way through any situation and as a result she brought in more than 70% of advert placements . She would often pride in the fact that she was regarded as one of the company’s assets. “Where was she going?” Everyone thought to themselves. We all watched her as she walked straight into Deji's office.


In less than five seconds, she was out of the office. We all wondered what went wrong. Her beautiful body and charming smile always worked for her but this time, we could tell her visit didn't go as planned.

Continues tomorrow by 7pm.

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Thank you.

nice story

Thank you. I appreciate.

Shola2019:
nice story

Following

Please don’t hang up on me,I’m eagerly awaiting subsequent episodes...much love ❤️

Thank you so much. I appreciate you following.

succana:
Following

Thank you so much. I appreciate the kind words. I'm never going to hang up on you lol.

Berkley89:
Please don’t hang up on me,I’m eagerly awaiting subsequent episodes...much love ❤️

Episode 3


People hid their faces in their workstations to laugh at her except me who let my emotions get the best of me. I laughed so hard but stopped as soon as I saw her looking and realised I was the only one laughing.


“Cleo are you stupid or something?” Ranti asked as she moved to my station in anger.
“Who gave you the right to be in my business? You must think highly of yourself. You good for nothing geek.”
“Ranti how dare you speak to me like that?” I asked angrily.
“And what can you do?” she asked moving closer.
Now, everyone was watching the both of us like a show.


“Cleo all you know how to do is just write, write and write and that is why you are still on the same level I met you seven years ago.” Ranti laughed.
“Ranti!” I screamed. I couldn’t imagine how she could be comfortable saying such hurtful words to me.
“I know you can’t deal with the fact that I'm the brain behind the online success of Lancast Media. I said in a bid to feel better.
“Oh dear. I'm touched.” She replied sarcastically.
“I bring in the money that pays your salary you Arrow. A geek is what you are and will always be Cleo!


I hear your mum is hospitalized and you need close to 4 million naira for her surgery. Maybe if you were more than a geek, you may have been able to sort the bills.”
I had tears all up in my eyes. What was I thinking getting into a heated argument with Ranti.
“That’s enough Ranti. I am sorry I laughed at you. Leave my station please.” I pleaded.
“I can help you with the Money Cleo.”
I paused for a while, wiped my face and sat up in my chair.
“What did you just say?” I asked
“I said I can help you with the money.” She repeated confidently
“Are you serious?” I asked surprised.
“Yes I am but this is not a gift.” .

IN YOUR OPINION WHICH SKILL SET SHOULD BRING IN THE MOST MONEY? RANTI's or CLEO's? .


Continues in the next episode tomorrow.
If you've enjoyed the story so far, kindly follow, like, share or drop a comment.

Cheers!

thanks for the update what time does the next episode drop tomorrow?

Same time 7pm.

Shola2019:
thanks for the update what time does the next episode drop tomorrow?

[Bros I like your story but I must say the episodes are just too short. You can kindly make it a little lengthy. Thanksquote author=HealthTeacher post=81475567]Episode 3


People hid their faces in their workstations to laugh at her except me who let my emotions get the best of me. I laughed so hard but stopped as soon as I saw her looking and realised I was the only one laughing.


“Cleo are you stupid or something?” Ranti asked as she moved to my station in anger.
“Who gave you the right to be in my business? You must think highly of yourself. You good for nothing geek.”
“Ranti how dare you speak to me like that?” I asked angrily.
“And what can you do?” she asked moving closer.
Now, everyone was watching the both of us like a show.


“Cleo all you know how to do is just write, write and write and that is why you are still on the same level I met you seven years ago.” Ranti laughed.
“Ranti!” I screamed. I couldn’t imagine how she could be comfortable saying such hurtful words to me.
“I know you can’t deal with the fact that I'm the brain behind the online success of Lancast Media. I said in a bid to feel better.
“Oh dear. I'm touched.” She replied sarcastically.
“I bring in the money that pays your salary you Arrow. A geek is what you are and will always be Cleo!


I hear your mum is hospitalized and you need close to 4 million naira for her surgery. Maybe if you were more than a geek, you may have been able to sort the bills.”
I had tears all up in my eyes. What was I thinking getting into a heated argument with Ranti.
“That’s enough Ranti. I am sorry I laughed at you. Leave my station please.” I pleaded.
“I can help you with the Money Cleo.”
I paused for a while, wiped my face and sat up in my chair.
“What did you just say?” I asked
“I said I can help you with the money.” She repeated confidently
“Are you serious?” I asked surprised.
“Yes I am but this is not a gift.” .

IN YOUR OPINION WHICH SKILL SET SHOULD BRING IN THE MOST MONEY? RANTI's or CLEO's? .


Continues in the next episode tomorrow.
If you've enjoyed the story so far, kindly follow, like, share or drop a comment.

Cheers!
[/quote]

Hi. Thanks. I'm happy you like the story.
I broke the book into episodes initially for social media which explains the length.
However I'll consider for the next book. Not to forget I'm also posting daily lol
Thanks.

succana:
[Bros I like your story but I must say the episodes are just too short. You can kindly make it a little lengthy. Thanksquote author=HealthTeacher post=81475567]Episode 3


People hid their faces in their workstations to laugh at her except me who let my emotions get the best of me. I laughed so hard but stopped as soon as I saw her looking and realised I was the only one laughing.


“Cleo are you stupid or something?” Ranti asked as she moved to my station in anger.
“Who gave you the right to be in my business? You must think highly of yourself. You good for nothing geek.”
“Ranti how dare you speak to me like that?” I asked angrily.
“And what can you do?” she asked moving closer.
Now, everyone was watching the both of us like a show.


“Cleo all you know how to do is just write, write and write and that is why you are still on the same level I met you seven years ago.” Ranti laughed.
“Ranti!” I screamed. I couldn’t imagine how she could be comfortable saying such hurtful words to me.
“I know you can’t deal with the fact that I'm the brain behind the online success of Lancast Media. I said in a bid to feel better.
“Oh dear. I'm touched.” She replied sarcastically.
“I bring in the money that pays your salary you Arrow. A geek is what you are and will always be Cleo!


I hear your mum is hospitalized and you need close to 4 million naira for her surgery. Maybe if you were more than a geek, you may have been able to sort the bills.”
I had tears all up in my eyes. What was I thinking getting into a heated argument with Ranti.
“That’s enough Ranti. I am sorry I laughed at you. Leave my station please.” I pleaded.
“I can help you with the Money Cleo.”
I paused for a while, wiped my face and sat up in my chair.
“What did you just say?” I asked
“I said I can help you with the money.” She repeated confidently
“Are you serious?” I asked surprised.
“Yes I am but this is not a gift.” .

IN YOUR OPINION WHICH SKILL SET SHOULD BRING IN THE MOST MONEY? RANTI's or CLEO's? .


Continues in the next episode tomorrow.
If you've enjoyed the story so far, kindly follow, like, share or drop a comment.

Cheers!

Episode 4


“Ranti I hope you know I can't pay back anytime soon.”
“Oh shut up. Of course you can't. It’s not a loan as well.
“Then what is it?” I asked curiously
“It’s a bet.”
“A bet?” I asked in shock.
“Yes, a bet. Get the CEO in three weeks and I’ll give you $10,000 for your mother’s surgery.
“How do you mean get the CEO?”
“Get him to fall for you.”
“Ranti!” I shouted. “How am I supposed to do that?”
“I don’t know. Try anything, everything. You have three weeks. If I were you, I’ll start now.
“Why are you doing this Ranti?”
“I love competition. We are in this together. Besides, you have to prove to me you are more than just a geek.”


“Wait a minute! Ranti you mean I'm in this bet with you. You know I’ll never win. This is mean and how am I supposed to give you $10,000 when I eventually lose?”
“Never mind geek. I know you can’t afford it in your wildest dreams. It’s a one-sided bet. I’ll be the one to give the money and if you lose I’ll be satisfied knowing I wasn’t wrong about you. That should be enough for me.”
“I’m sorry, I can’t Ranti. I'll get the money elsewhere. Thank you.”
“Okay then.” She said laughing as she swung her hips away from my workstation back to hers. .


While I was still trying to digest what had just happened, the door of the CEO's office was pushed open and Deji was soon in the workspace. “So, I’ll like to know the head of the copy department.” He asked.
My tiny voice replied from the extreme end of the work station, “I am the head of the copy department sir. My name is Cleopatra Obi.”
“Hmm Cleo I see. You are the famous Cleo.”
I smiled and didn’t say anything.
“Okay good.” He said as he walked towards me, scanning my body for about ten seconds. .

Continues in the next episode.

WILL THE BET BE TOO RISKY OR TOTALLY WORTH IT?

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Cheers...

Loving this story like my name. Following bumper to bumper but please try to make the updates longer at least two episodes. More ink to your pen.

Thanks. I'll consider Lol...

Shola2019:
Loving this story like my name. Following bumper to bumper but please try to make the updates longer at least two episodes. More ink to your pen.

Episode 5

“So, who's the head of the Adverts and Sales department?
“I, Mr Deji.” Ranti replied as she stood up in a provocative manner with one hand resting comfortably on her hips with a smile.
“And your name is?” He asked with a straight face.
“Ranti Adeyemi.”
“Okay good. That will be all for today. Cleo meet me in my office now. I'll meet the rest of you as time goes on.” He said as he turned swiftly and walked into his office.

I stood up immediately and rushed behind him. I couldn’t catch up with him. Just before I got to the door, he entered his office and shut the door in my face. Confused, I turned and stared at everyone asking what they thought I should do.
“Knock” they all advised and so I knocked.


“Come in.” He said as he pointed in the direction of a seat.
“I always scanned through the website and every document you put together while I was away. I was quite impressed but I'm very sure you can do better. Mind you, I'm very difficult to please. You have to work very hard.”
“I will sir. I promise.”
You may be having a fully funded scholarship for an advanced course in copywriting in Netherlands if you keep your promise.My eyes immediately shone brighter as I thanked him.


We spent the rest of the day going over ad copies intended for the next six months. When we were done, I was on my way out when he said, “Cleo you are pretty!” Shocked at his compliment, my mouth wide open.
“Close your mouth and my door Cleo.”
“Yea sure.” I replied as I ran out of the office.


While I stood in front of the office, I couldn't stop thinking about what had just happened.I never thought of myself as pretty. At that time, I never used makeup or made anything nice with my hair except for neat cornrows. Long flowing skirts or big jeans and polo shirts were my most comfortable outfits. I wondered if I heard him correctly?




The next morning, as soon as Ranti came into the office, she walked straight to my desk and asked what my meeting with Mr Deji was about.
“I hope you are not losing your job as quickly as you may lose your mum.” She said.
In anger, I stood up and moved very close to her like I was going to walk into her body.
“On the contrary Ranti, I am never losing my job and I'm in for the bet.”
“What did you just say?” Ranti asked in shock as she burst into laughter.
“Okay then. Let the game begin.” She said still laughing.
“You are in for the shock of your life, I replied as I stretched out my hand for a handshake.”
“Sure. Can’t wait.” She replied, giving me a handshake.


What was I thinking entering into a bet with Ranti I asked myself as I turned around. I took a closer look at my slender figure in the mirror on the wall as I walked back to my seat. Suddenly, I heard a voice in my head say “you wish you had a nicer figure right?” Yes indeed.
How do I tell her I'm no longer interested? I thought. Maybe I should admit it was only a joke. I thought again as I looked towards her desk.


If you've enjoyed this story so far, kindly like, share or drop a comment.

Cheers!

hmmm I smell something fishy

You may be right lol. Did you notice I made this episode longer?

Shola2019:
hmmm I smell something fishy

yes oh and I love your consistency

Seemed a little cliche at first, but turns out it's d Nigerian version of all those books I read on Wattpad, and even betteeeeer, you're doing a really nice job on this story, the story is nice and you update regularly, what else could we ask for�

Oh nice. Im glad you like the story. Thanks. You can be sure to read new episodes Mondays to Fridays. I'll keep posting regularly

Oremeyii:
Seemed a little cliche at first, but turns out it's d Nigerian version of all those books I read on Wattpad, and even betteeeeer, you're doing a really nice job on this story, the story is nice and you update regularly, what else could we ask for�

Op is there no episode today? I'm already salivating o

So sorry. No, It will continue tomorrow. Episodes run from Monday to Friday

succana:
Op is there no episode today? I'm already salivating o

Episode 6

I kept on hearing two voices at the same time.
1st Voice: She knows already. Just tell her you are no longer interested and be free. She will only tease you. It's better than embarrassing yourself.
2nd voice: You can do this Cleo. You are stronger than you think. Let’s do this.
So, I decided to go with the 2nd voice.
Are you okay Cleo? Ranti asked after watching me stare into space continuously.
“Yea sure. ” I replied bracing myself.
Quit the pretense and spill it- You can't do what I'm asking of you. Just say it.”
Now everyone was staring at us wondering what we were talking about. “If you don't mind I am busy Ranti. Can we get back to doing what we are paid to do?” I asked with a confident smile that got her more confused.



“Wow this is looking more serious than I thought.” I said as I quickly went on to search google for clues on how to have the perfect look, win a guys heart and so much more. The information I found was overwhelming. I decided to shut down my laptop and close for the day. Afterall,I had the weekend all to myself. I could spend enough time on my research.
I got home in time and just a few minutes after I laid in bed, I got a surprise visit. It was Ladi, my friend from the University. Asides everything else that made her really sweet, she had an amazing sense of style and fashion. She couldn't have come at a better time.


“Welcome Ladi. It's been ages.” I screamed as I gave her a doting hug.
“I almost thought you forgot about me.” She said as she fell in the chair tired from the Lagos stress.
“Ladi I will need your help urgently.” I pleaded with her after dropping her luggage in the room.
“You seem desperate. Is everything okay? She asked looking into my eyes. “I hope it's not money Cleo because I don't have o. It's the last cash I had on me I used in buying the ticket here. I am patiently waiting for my new catch to credit my account.” She laughed as she flung her hair behind her.
“It’s not money Ladi. I want to be beautiful, dress my best. I want to be like you -hot enough to get a CEO dying to be with me.”
“What did I just hear?” She asked laughing and looking around to be sure it wasn't a prank.
“Stop being silly Ladi. I am serious.”
“Okay so what's the motivation for this new style?” sShe asked as she moved closer to me. I know you Cleo, something is up. You better tell me or else I won't help you.” She said as she stretched her legs on the couch waiting for a reply.


I told her all there was to know and more and after listening to me, she said; “I love this. You see that money, it is yours already.” I had a total makeover the next day and I couldn't believe how affordable it was to look really beautiful.


I got to the office at almost noon. If it were left to me, I would have had the makeover by weekend but Ladi won’t let me. She said, if I was in a bet with Ranti, it meant I had to be strategic and very fast.


“Come here.” Segun said in a loud voice as he pulled me out of my desk.
“You are looking beautifuuuuuuuulllll.” Of course everyone asides Ranti rushed to my work station.


I was having the moment of my life until Deji walked in.
“What is going on here?” He asked.
“Nothing sir.” We all replied in unison as everyone hurriedly found their way to their respective workstations.
“Ranti and Cleo, can I please see you in my office immediately?” He asked as we stood up to follow him.


If you enjoyed the story so far, kindly like, share or drop a comment.


Cherrs!

First compliment from the workforce
hmmm Ranti is in for a shocker cos the second compliment is gonna come from Deji himself

but op pls its not long enough or give us two update a day

thanks for the update and the time consistency

Thanks for adding jara to the episodes. Longer than what we usually have

Thanks I'm glad you are following and like the story.

I'll consider your request lol

do4luv14:
First compliment from the workforce
hmmm Ranti is in for a shocker cos the second compliment is gonna come from Deji himself

but op pls its not long enough or give us two update a day

Thank you so much.

succana:
Thanks for adding jara to the episodes. Longer than what we usually have

Thanks. You are welcome

Shola2019:
thanks for the update and the time consistency

Episode 7

“I need you to come up with strategies for increased adverts uptake. Use this as a guide.” He said as he handed her a document . The typical Ranti who always wanted more asked Deji if that was all he had for her. She was moving slowly towards him already, not minding that I was present. I could hardly read the look on Deji’s face. He seemed to be moving away trying to give her some space but at the same time it was quite glaring he was checking her out as she walked away.
“Sir, you called me.” I said quickly trying to divert his attention.


“Yea Cleo. Please sit.”
While we discussed about copies, I tossed and turned in my chair but he didn’t seem to notice anything.
“Did all my effort go to waste?” I asked myself. I made up my mind this was the end for me. The last thing I would want to do is make a fool of myself.

I got to my desk really sad. I mean who wouldn’t after all the work I put in to look desirable. Once I picked up my phone, I got a text that read:

"You look really nice. Your makeover looks good on you. I didn’t want to say it to your face so I don't have to remind you to close your mouth again. Dinner at The Crown Restaurant by 6?
I felt so relieved. At least my effort didn't go to waste.



I clposed really early from work to go get ready for my date with Deji. It was a dream come true * for me and I didn't want to mess it up.
I rushed home hoping and praying would meet Ladi. “Ladi” I called repeatedly as I searched the bathroom and both rooms.
“I'm here Cleo,” she replied out of the kitchen.
“Hi darling, how did your day go?” I asked with a big smile as I thought of the best possible way to break the news to her.
“Great. How was yours? How is Deji? Any luck yet? She asked pretty excited as she picked the last set of plantain she was frying from the frypan.
“I have a date in a few hours and I need you to get me all glammed up.” I said winking at her.
“Wait a minute. Is this date with whom I'm thinking it is?” She asked as she turned off the gas.
“This is happening quicker than I expected. You really need to tell me how all this happened.” She said as she walked me to the room leaving her plate of food behind.


“You should finish with your food Ladi.”
“You know I can always eat later,” she laughed.
“I think you should wear the glittering red dress we bought at the shop the other day,” she said as she opened my wardrobe.
“Yes here it is.” "This? I can't wear this”
“So why did you buy it? She asked as she threw it in my face.
“The back is all open Ladi.”

“So? It’s a date with Deji remember The earlier you wrap up this bet and get your money the better.I know how you feel Cleo. You need this money. Your mum has just six months. This doesn't make you a bad person. You do not have a choice. You are only doing what you have to do to save your mother’s life. Always remember that.” She said holding my hands.

Continues tomorrow in the next episode tomorrow.

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Cheers!