At that very moment, inside the Chima household, Chioma lay in bed, the soft glow of her phone illuminating her face as she scrolled through Facebook. Her brows furrowed in confusion as she noticed that she had become the most searched hashtag. Curiosity piqued, she wondered why anyone would write about her. Although her name wasn't mentioned in the story, she knew deep down that it was about her. The story featured pictures of her and Michael, relating to the accident that had occurred earlier today. While Michael's name was mentioned, the details were scarce. Paparazzi were known for their ability to capture compromising photos.
As Chioma clicked on another link, the title caught her attention: 'Michael Njemanze will never be seduced by cheap women.' Upon reading the article, she discovered that both Jessica and Michael's fans were attacking her, accusing her of trying to ruin Michael's relationship with Jessica. Chioma dismissed the flood of derogatory comments that inundated her screen. She knew she hadn't done anything wrong and had no reason to be afraid. Netizens were experts at talking trash, and she was well aware that she wasn't even popular. Coming from a humble background, she considered herself just an ordinary girl.
However, her mind was consumed with worry about Michael. Could he already be engaged or even married? And who was this Jessica? Could she be the governor of Imo State's daughter? If Jessica held such a prominent position, Chioma believed she wouldn't stand a chance with Michael. She wished her thoughts were wrong, acknowledging her own selfishness in wanting to be with him.
Moments later, Chioma received a WhatsApp message from Emeka Ndubuisi. 'You know who Michael Njemanze is, right?' he asked.
Mockingly, Chioma replied, 'Oh, I know he's the Governor of CBN.'
Chioma had only recently discovered Michael's identity when she briefly glanced at the business card he had given her earlier today. Although she had thrown the card and money back at him after feeling insulted by his ostentatious display of wealth, she had managed to remember his name. Upon returning home, she had taken the opportunity to research Michael Njemanze. What do I care about him? He's the reason I lost the job I was hoping to get today! She thought, a tinge of anger colouring her emotions.
Now, Chioma knew that Michael was not only the CEO of Moon Corporation but also an incredibly powerful individual. From the very first moment she had met him, she had sensed an air of nobility surrounding him, which confirmed her perception of his personality.
Emeka extended a sincere invitation, 'Star Restaurant is always open for you.'
A dancing emoji fluttered across the screen, carrying a message of gratitude and acceptance. If the doors to a lucrative job had been slammed shut, she would find solace in the familiar warmth of Star Restaurant. Tomorrow, she would begin anew.
Still plagued by thoughts of Jessica, Chioma decided to search for more information about her on Google. Just as she had suspected, Jessica turned out to be the daughter of Emmanuel Nnaji, the governor of Imo State. As Chioma read Jessica's profile, shock washed over her. It was revealed that Jessica was Michael's fiancée.
Jessica's background was impressive. She had studied Mass Communication at the University of California, a reputable university in the United States, and furthered her education at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom.
The realisation that her chances with Michael were slim brought tears to Chioma's eyes, a bittersweet mix of laughter and sorrow. Then, Chioma's gaze shifted to a photo of Michael standing next to Jessica, both of them wearing dazzling smiles. Michael donned an Italian handmade collared shirt, designed by specialists who catered to royal families. The dress was adorned with exquisite blue diamonds. Chioma couldn't help but wonder about the staggering cost of such a garment—perhaps it was worth ten or fifteen million dollars. Though the article didn't mention the origin of the blue buttons on Michael's shirt, Chioma speculated that they could have come from South Africa or Namibia, given her knowledge of South Africa's blue diamonds.
Chioma found herself captivated by Michael's handsome face. She was enchanted by his beautiful eyelashes and well-defined features. It seemed unfair for a man to possess such natural charm. Michael's allure was irresistible, making it impossible for anyone to harbour ill feelings towards him. His smile was infectious, capable of melting away anger and replacing it with joy.
Jessica, too, radiated beauty. Standing at a height of 170 centimetres, she boasted long eyelashes and delicate facial features. Her adorable dimples complemented the stunning pink evening dress she wore, its white diamonds sparkling like fallen snow. The attire made her resemble an eighteen-year-old girl attending her debutante ball. Jessica embodied all the qualities of a truly beautiful woman.
For some reason, Chioma felt a tinge of sadness as she gazed at the captivating image of Jessica standing beside Michael. They weren't embracing, but their effortless poise and subtle harmony painted a portrait of flawless compatibility. It was like gazing upon a magazine spread—polished, unattainable, and achingly perfect.
Feeling somewhat defeated, Chioma clenched her fists, her heart pounding in her chest. What right did she have to feel this way? Michael was a stranger, a distant star in a galaxy she could never reach. Perhaps she needed to summon the courage to confess her feelings for him. But the thought of doing so felt embarrassing. If it came to the point where she couldn't meet Michael or lacked the bravery to express her love, she resolved to keep her feelings for him locked away in her heart, loving him silently without expecting anything in return. She chastised herself for the foolish fantasies that trespassed into her mind. Her life wasn't a silver-screen romance, and Michael was no knight in shining armour. Even though she believed there might be a chance to meet him again, she questioned her sanity, considering her thoughts to be foolish and reminiscent of a movie plot. Her life wasn't a fairy tale, and she had no right to aspire to be with a god-like man like Michael. She considered herself unworthy, not even qualified to clean his shoes, let alone become his partner. Was he a playboy, constantly changing bed partners like many wealthy men? Even if that were the case, his extraordinary attractiveness would undoubtedly keep women flocking to him like fools. Chioma even entertained the thought that he could be gay or impotent, her mind swirling with irrational notions.
Blushing, she scratched her head, realising the absurdity of her thoughts. Her mind was consumed with countless contemplation about Michael until she eventually drifted off to sleep, her thoughts still lingering in her dreams.