Chapter 14 - Chapter 5: The Looming Crisis

By the end of Naomi's second trimester (around six months pregnant), the bump was clearly visible under loose clothes. Zion's channel finally crossed 2,700 subscribers after a viral short on Egbeda night life, bringing small AdSense money. But a major crisis hit: the landlord demanded early renewal due to "compound repairs," and Naomi had another mild scare requiring hospital tests that cost nearly all their savings.One stormy night, with rain pounding the zinc roof like their first balcony encounter, they faced reality. "We can't keep hiding forever," Zion said, holding Naomi's hand on her rounded belly. "The baby go come soon. We need real help — maybe reach out to Mama carefully… or move farther."Naomi cried softly. "I still regret how we started. The lust, the secrecy, getting pregnant as half-siblings. But I don't regret choosing you. This child is ours, even if the world calls it wrong."They made love one final emotional time that week — passionate yet tearful, her riding him while the rain masked their sounds. Bodies slick with sweat, tongues tangled, deep thrusts full of love and apology. They came together, clinging as if the world might end.The next day brought the breaking point. A message from Aunty Bola via a mutual contact: "We know say una dey Egbeda area. Mama dey cry every night. Come home make we settle am." Panic surged. Neighbors' whispers grew louder. Money was critically low again.In the final scene, Zion and Naomi sat on the small chair, bags half-packed, discussing their next risky move — perhaps heading to a farther suburb like Abule Egba or cautiously contacting family while preparing for the birth. "One mistake changed everything," Zion said, voice heavy. "Now we have to decide how far we'll go to protect this love… and this child."Naomi leaned into him, hand on her belly. "Together. No matter the shame or regret."To be continued… (Season 4)