The Billionaire’s Forgotten Act of Kindness — Episode 2

Obinna Okafor adjusted his tie as he stepped into his office. The sun streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a golden glow over the modern furniture and pristine white walls. He had built this empire from the ground up, and every corner of this space reflected his relentless ambition. Yet, despite all his success, there was a persistent emptiness he couldn’t quite shake off.

His secretary, Tolu, entered the room with her usual efficiency.

“Sir, your schedule for today,” she began, placing a sleek tablet on his desk.

Obinna barely glanced at it. “Cancel my 2 PM meeting with the board. Move it to tomorrow,” he said, his tone brisk.

Tolu hesitated. “Sir, it’s about the acquisition deal with the Lekki group. They requested this time specifically.”

“I said move it,” Obinna repeated, a hint of irritation in his voice.

“Yes, sir,” Tolu replied, bowing slightly before leaving the room.

Obinna sighed and leaned back in his chair, staring out at the city skyline. It wasn’t the first time he’d dismissed important meetings recently. Something was tugging at him, a restlessness that wouldn’t go away. It wasn’t about the business—that was thriving. It wasn’t about wealth—he had more than enough. It was something deeper, something he couldn’t name.

His thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. It was Chinedu, his childhood friend and the only person who dared to walk into his office uninvited.

“Oga billionaire,” Chinedu teased, settling into one of the chairs opposite Obinna. “You look like someone just told you naira is now useless.”

Obinna chuckled softly. “Maybe it is. How can I help you, Chinedu?”

Chinedu leaned forward, a more serious expression taking over. “I came to remind you about the charity gala this weekend. You’re supposed to be the keynote speaker, remember?”

Obinna groaned inwardly. The gala had slipped his mind entirely. “Do I have to? You know I’m not a fan of these events.”

“Yes, you have to,” Chinedu insisted. “It’s for a good cause, and besides, you promised. Don’t tell me you’re becoming one of those rich men who only care about their pockets.”

Obinna shot him a look. “You know me better than that.”

Chinedu smiled. “Then prove it. Show up, give a great speech, and inspire some people. Isn’t that what you always say you want to do?”

Obinna sighed, knowing he couldn’t argue. “Fine. I’ll be there.”

Satisfied, Chinedu stood up. “Good. And while you’re at it, try to remember where you started from. Sometimes, I think you forget.”

Obinna watched him leave, the words lingering in his mind. Where he started from. It had been so long since he’d thought about those early days, about the struggles and sacrifices that shaped him. Maybe Chinedu was right. Maybe he had forgotten.

Back in the small room she shared with her mother and brother, Amara counted the remaining money from the stranger’s generous payment. She had used part of it to buy food and medicine, but there was still enough left to cover Chike’s school fees for the term. The relief she felt was immeasurable.

“Mama, we’ll be fine,” she said softly, her hand resting on her mother’s frail arm. “God has not forgotten us.”

Her mother smiled weakly. “It’s because of your hard work and prayers, my daughter. God will reward you.”

Amara’s thoughts drifted back to the man in the Mercedes. She wondered who he was and why he had been so kind. She doubted she’d ever see him again, but his face was etched in her memory.

That weekend, the charity gala was in full swing at one of Lagos’s most luxurious hotels. The city’s elite gathered in their finest attire, sipping champagne and exchanging pleasantries. Obinna arrived fashionably late, his presence commanding attention as he walked into the grand hall.

The event’s organizer, Mrs. Adekunle, greeted him warmly. “Mr. Okafor, we’re so honored to have you here. Your contributions to our cause mean so much.”

Obinna smiled politely. “Thank you. I’m happy to support.”

As the evening progressed, Obinna took the stage for his speech. He spoke eloquently about the importance of giving back, of using wealth to uplift others. His words drew applause, but deep down, he felt a disconnect. Was he truly living by the principles he preached?

As he left the stage, his eyes scanned the room, landing on a painting displayed for auction. It was a simple piece, depicting a young girl selling snacks in a bustling market. Something about it tugged at him, a faint sense of familiarity he couldn’t place.

Obinna couldn’t shake the feeling that the painting was speaking to him, reminding him of something he had long buried. And in that moment, he resolved to uncover whatever it was that lay hidden in the recesses of his memory.