Chioma was awake and feeling much better, thanks to the delicious akamu meal served by Louisa, accompanied by milk and Milo. She was about to be discharged from the hospital, but Felix insisted she stay a few more days to rest. However, Chioma couldn't help but feel uncomfortable with the special treatment she received from the doctors and nurses who constantly checked on her. Every time the plush hospital door creaked open, Chioma's gaze would dart towards it, only to relax slightly when a nurse or doctor entered with a warm smile and a hushed enquiry about her well-being. Their constant attention, though kind, felt like an invisible wall separating her from genuine human connection. Chioma knew their deference stemmed from Felix's family's fame and the power associated with his name. Without Felix, she believed they wouldn't give her a second glance; instead, they would treat her poorly. Money seemed to rule the world, and through Felix's influence, Chioma was given a level of respect.
She had discovered that Felix and Michael shared the same surname but wasn't sure if they were related. Before Michael returned from Lagos, Chioma was determined to find out the truth on her own. She didn't want to question Audrey; instead, she aimed to investigate on her own without arousing suspicion. Having seen movies where two brothers fought over a girl, she had no desire to be entangled in such a scenario or a soap-opera. She didn't want Audrey to see her as deceitful or manipulative.
Glancing over at Audrey, who was happily engrossed in a game of chess with Daniel, Chioma observed their interaction. They had already played three rounds, with Daniel emerging as the victor each time.
'I never knew you played chess,' Audrey remarked with a playful glint in her eyes. As she visited the hospital today, she looked elegantly dressed in a bright turquoise Victoria Beckham dress, accessorised with black Aquazzura pumps, a matching clutch, and sparkling diamond drop earrings. Her hair was styled in a loose bun, completing her sophisticated look.
'Yea, sometimes I play alone,' Daniel chuckled. 'My sister only knows how to play online and smartphone games.'
'Ah, perhaps Chisom finds chess a bit boring,' Audrey laughed, finding Daniel quite endearing.
'I'm sure Celine doesn't have much time for traditional games.' Daniel lifted his head from the chessboard, his gaze locking with Audrey's for a beat too long before flickering back to the board. 'Felix is always busy and wouldn't have time for games…or maybe both your siblings can't play the game of chess, so they find it boring.'
'Felix is actually a chess expert like you, but he rarely has time for games lately due to his busy schedule.' Audrey pouted playfully. 'Daniel, you can't let your girlfriend lose, can you? Let's play some more. I want to win.' She gave him an adorable pout.
Daniel smiled awkwardly as Audrey openly referred to herself as his girlfriend. They played another round, which ultimately ended in a tie. Daniel purposely allowed this, wanting to show Audrey that he wouldn't let himself win over her in a game of chess anymore, and perhaps in other aspects of life as well. He aimed for equality in their relationship, where neither of them would hold an advantage. Even though Audrey may be wealthier due to her family background, Daniel desired that their love and everything between them be on equal footing. He valued their connection beyond material possessions, and he wanted to foster a relationship built on mutual respect and understanding.
'Oh, Daniel, that round didn't count. Let's play another one,' Audrey exclaimed, thoroughly enjoying their time together. They were about to continue playing when the head nurse entered the room, interrupting them
'Ma'am Audrey, may I speak with you for a moment?' the head nurse asked.
'Sure,' Audrey replied, slowly getting up. 'Dan, I'll be right back. Wait for me to come back and finish you off.'
'That's if I let you have your way,' Daniel replied with a sweet smile.
Audrey smiled back gently. 'We'll see then.'
'I'll give you ten minutes,' Daniel playfully teased Audrey.
As Audrey stepped out, she noticed the head nurse wearing a smile.
'What's with the smile?' Audrey enquired with curiosity.
'Someone is here to see you,' the nurse cheerfully replied.
Audrey looked surprised. 'Who could it be?' she asked with a serious tone.
Glancing at her luxury watch, Audrey realised she needed to return to Daniel to continue their game. She had eight minutes before she had to go back. Although Daniel's ten-minute remark was playful, Audrey took it seriously. Daniel was important to her, and she respected and cherished everything he said. She still had time. Audrey then turned her attention back to the nurse.
'You'll find the person at the hospital entrance,' the nurse happily informed her.
Upon reaching the sterile hospital entrance, Audrey squinted against the sudden burst of sunshine. Every second counted. A smile, as warm as the sun itself, spread across her face as she thought of Daniel waiting for her return.
She hadn't walked far within the hospital compound when a flash of white caught her eye across the vast parking lot, occupying a prime spot. Leaning casually against a white luxurious Bentley were Celine and Prince, both in their smart school uniforms while savouring their delicious ice cream.
The car itself was a showstopper. Sunlight danced off the pristine white paint, and a faint scent, like expensive cologne, wafted from the open windows. The opulent white exterior looked grand, and its interior resembled a presidential suite in a hotel. The plush white leather seats and the pleasant fragrance emitted by the automatic air conditioning system added to the car's allure. Heads turned in the hospital compound as people admired the extravagant display. Only the elite, or those who burned through cash, could afford such a vehicle.
Behind the wheel sat Samson, Prince's personal driver, dressed in a tailored high-end black Versace suit. He exuded quiet efficiency at his work.
Audrey approached them, amusement and annoyance battling within her. 'Celine,' she said, voice flat. 'Enjoying an ice cream in the hospital compound? Seems a bit… unusual. I know you dislike the unpleasant smell of hospitals, so what brings you here?'
Celine offered a bright smile, holding out a pink plastic bag to Audrey. 'Here you go.'
'What's this?' Audrey questioned, glancing at Celine as she accepted the bag.
'Afternoon tea, of course,' Celine chirped. 'I know you're surprised to see me here. Yes, I dislike the smell of formaldehyde, but Prince is going to be a doctor soon. As his girlfriend, it's natural for me to adapt to these unpleasant smells.' She glanced at Prince, her eyes sparkling. 'For Prince's sake, I can do anything.'
'Enough with the Romeo and Juliet scene. Last time I checked, they died,' Audrey playfully retorted. Though she wasn't appalled, she was genuinely happy for them and wished their love story wouldn't meet a similar fate. However, she couldn't help feeling a little annoyed that she had left Daniel alone for just an afternoon tea. Daniel was important to her, and so was everything related to him.
Celine's smile faltered for a second, but a playful glint lingered in her eyes. 'Is that how you repay Prince and me for bringing you tea, Audrey? We had to leave in the middle of the fashion week preparations at school to bring you afternoon tea, knowing you barely ate anything today. And this is how you thank us?'
Audrey shook her head, a genuine smile gracing her features. 'Thank you, but I should head back now. Daniel's waiting for me.'
The mention of Daniel seemed to pique Prince's curiosity. He leaned forward, his expression unreadable. 'What about Chioma? Do you know her well?' Prince suddenly asked.
Audrey blinked, surprised by the question. 'Uh, yeah, I guess. Why?'
'Has anyone else visited her besides Felix?' Prince continued.
'What do you mean?' Celine was taken aback by Prince's question, as was Audrey.
'I heard that Michael is also in love with her,' Prince revealed.
Audrey was speechless. 'How could that be?' she asked in a low, clear voice.
'I just heard it, but I'm not sure,' Prince waved a hand dismissively. 'Sharon told me that. I didn't believe her because if it were true, Michael would have been here, right?'
Audrey smiled in relief. 'Yep, you just scared me,' she paused. 'I told Michael about Chioma being attacked. Maybe Sharon misunderstood everything.'
Prince used his hand to tuck Celine's bangs behind her ears as he spoke to Audrey. 'All right, I hope it's all a misunderstanding.' His gaze flickered to Celine, then back to Audrey, a hint of a smile playing on his lips, 'You don't need to pick Celine up after school today. We'll be going to the mall to spend some time together, buy a few things for Fashion Week, eat ice cream, take a walk... so she won't be home until later in the evening.'
Celine's cheeks flushed a rosy pink at Prince's touch. A shy smile played on her lips, the picture of a girlfriend cherished and adored. Adorable and cute, she seemed to melt under his touch.
'It's okay; I wasn't even planning to pick Celine up from school.' Audrey said, a hint of amusement in her voice. 'She can take the bus, as she sometimes commutes when she's in the US. Or you can save me the trouble of always bringing her home,' Audrey suggested.
Celine didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Prince wanted to laugh but held it back. Instead, he acted as if he hadn't heard anything and got into the car. Celine followed him, sitting beside him.
Audrey smiled slightly, then sighed as she headed back to Chioma's hospital room with her afternoon tea. Pushing the door open, she saw Chioma and Daniel engrossed in watching the Samsung TV hanging on the wall. They were tuned in to NTA news, where Isabelle was being interviewed by a reporter about the Central Bank of Nigeria supporting the reconstruction of the long-abandoned National Arts Theatre, the country's primary centre for the performing arts. Chioma and Daniel were so absorbed in the news that they didn't notice Audrey's presence.
When the broadcaster switched to a different segment, Chioma and Daniel finally realised Audrey was in the room.
'Have you been here for long?' Chioma asked, turning to look at Audrey.
'Not very long. I'm not worried,' Audrey replied, her smile gentle.
Louisa, who had just entered the room with warm milk for Chioma, placed a straw in the cup and handed it to her. Then she turned to Audrey and spoke with gratitude, 'I appreciate your kindness towards my daughter, but I don't want her to become a burden on your shoulders.'
Audrey's brow furrowed slightly, her gaze shifting from Chioma to Louisa.
'You have classes to attend, so don't miss them because of her,' Louisa continued, her tone firm but kind. 'Chioma wouldn't want you to have academic issues due to frequent visits. Moreover, your presence here sometimes makes Daniel forget about his work. My daughter is perfectly fine now. Thank you, Miss Audrey. However, I would appreciate it if you stop visiting, especially now that I found out your mother is the CBN governor and your father is the Senate President.'
'How did you find out about my parents?' Audrey managed to ask, though she felt her questions might sound foolish. 'Did you see them on TV, or did someone tell you?'
'That's not a foolish question. Of course, I'm not a fan of watching Nigerian news or reading their papers, so I didn't find out from the TV. However, Chioma just mentioned your parents' special status to me. I have no intention of digging into their background, as I might discover something I'd rather not want to know, at least for now. Louisa rarely watched Nigerian news because her past was often tainted by reports and entertainment segments in the media. Instead, she preferred to watch movies. However, she didn't completely rule out keeping up with the news, as she occasionally tuned in to stay informed about the world. 'So, please, for everyone's sake, stop visiting and focus on your studies instead.'
After taking a sip of milk, Chioma spoke softly, 'Mum, I think Audrey is old enough to decide whether to stop visiting me or not. Besides, Daniel is here... Daniel is her boyfriend, which makes them officially a couple.'
'I never believed love could be this foolish until now,' Louisa murmured. 'Daniel might as well become a live-in son-in-law in Audrey's home. And I don't care about their relationship. My worry is that she's skipping classes, which isn't right for a student...'
Audrey lowered her head, unable to meet Louisa's gaze. Her eyes fixated on the marbled floor, but after a few moments, she slowly lifted her head to steal a glance at Louisa. She also noticed Daniel's handsome face looking warmly at her, his eyes not as questioning as Louisa's.
Chioma couldn't stop smiling at Audrey, who was blushing. She gulped down more milk and then heard her phone ringing. Glancing at the screen, she saw an unknown caller and decided not to pick up. She finished her milk while watching Daniel and Audrey locked in a gaze. Louisa, feeling confused, moved to the couch and sat down.
'Celine brought afternoon tea,' Audrey finally said, opening the beautifully packaged bag that contained delicious snacks and a box of mixed fruits, including watermelon, apple, strawberries, grapes, and papaya.
Everything in the bag was exquisite and of high value. The afternoon tea had been carefully selected from a renowned, upscale coffee shop in the city that specialised in offering luxurious tea experiences.
Taking a seat, Audrey and Daniel began to enjoy the decadent treats together. Chioma, not having much of an appetite, declined to eat, while Louisa politely refused, having already eaten. So, Audrey and Daniel indulged in the delicacies themselves.
Just as they were about to resume their game of chess, a male doctor wearing black-framed glasses knocked on the door and entered the room. He held a bouquet of roses in his hands and addressed Chioma, 'Miss Chioma, this came from a secret admirer who knows you're here.' Placing the bouquet on the table, he added, 'Please don't forget to check the card, okay?' With that, he left the room.
'A bouquet of roses? Is someone trying to win your heart?' Audrey asked, a mysterious smile on her face.
'No, I have only one boyfriend. I will never betray his trust,' Chioma replied sincerely. Audrey's face lit up with happiness, assuming Chioma was referring to Felix. Little did she know that Chioma meant Michael.
'Then who is this secret admirer of yours?' Audrey enquired, wiping her mouth and getting up. However, before she could reach the card, Louisa had already picked it up.
'Chioma can't accept these flowers,' Louisa declared, tearing the card and tossing it into the trash can after reading the note. The roses had been sent by Patricia Njemanze, but she had signed it as 'Patrick' and included a note that read, 'We haven't met each other before, but you are absolutely skilled in the game of love. I bet if you will succeed... scheming bitch. I wish you an Oscar award, but are you qualified to receive such an accolade?'
'No, it's okay, Aunt. My brother won't be upset. There's nothing wrong with gifting flowers to a patient,' Audrey gently reassured Louisa. She had assumed Louisa had torn the card because she didn't want her daughter receiving flowers from unfamiliar individuals. However, Audrey was unaware that Louisa had torn the card because the flowers hadn't come from a secret admirer but from someone seeking to sabotage Chioma's relationship with Michael.
Chioma was taken aback. She didn't know who this person was or why they would send her flowers. Her relationship with Michael was still concealed, except for a few people who were present at Star Restaurant when Michael forcefully proclaimed her as his girlfriend. She couldn't help but wonder what was going on.
Daniel observed the roses and then turned his gaze towards Chioma. He suggested, 'Maybe you should be discharged as soon as possible.' It seemed like he had grasped the situation.
Audrey waved her hand dismissively and interjected, 'No, no, it's just flowers. There's no need for her to leave the hospital. My brother isn't the type to get jealous like in those cheesy romance dramas.'
Louisa intervened firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument. 'Tomorrow, I'll take care of the paperwork to get Chioma discharged. She can then continue her recovery at home. It's time for her to rest. You may leave now.'
'Why do you want Chioma discharged tomorrow?' Audrey expressed her displeasure, questioning Louisa's decision. Did she need to remind Louisa that Felix wanted Chioma to remain in the hospital until he granted her permission to leave?
Louisa's response was firm, her reasoning rooted in a desire to protect her daughter. 'Because she's attracting too much attention that she doesn't deserve. I don't want people gossiping about my daughter in the hospital,' Louisa explained. 'Besides, even the hospital director hasn't received this much attention. Chioma only sustained minor injuries, not a cerebral hemorrhage.'
Louisa worried that if Chioma continued to stay in the hospital, she might attract media attention, and Michael would eventually find out about the incident. Louisa didn't want Michael to be upset about Chioma keeping such a significant event from him, potentially jeopardising their relationship. Additionally, she didn't know the true intentions of the person who sent the roses, but she sensed something was amiss.
Audrey fell silent, clearly upset. Daniel approached her, but she spun on her heel and headed towards the door. However, just as Audrey's hand reached for the knob, she turned back as if remembering something important.
'You're right, Aunt Louisa. Your daughter may not be suffering from a cerebral hemorrhage, but even if she were, my brother Felix would spare no expense,' Audrey stated firmly. 'He would willingly pay for the surgery costs, provide the necessary medical supplies and equipment, ensure she receives treatment in a VIP operating room, hire the best doctors, and guarantee that Chioma receives the utmost care.' She paused for a moment and continued, 'Brain surgeries are incredibly demanding, requiring unwavering focus from the surgeon. One wrong move or mistake could result in long-lasting effects or even loss of life. My brother may not be the best in the world or a doctor, but he would give his all to ensure your daughter doesn't suffer any adverse effects. Whether it's minor injuries or a cerebral hemorrhage, he would treat both cases with the utmost care because he believes Chioma is his woman. Anything related to Chioma will always hold great importance to him. He will protect it fiercely and handle it with care.' Audrey maintained eye contact with Louisa as she spoke, saying, 'I understand that Chioma doesn't want to flaunt her relationship with Felix or disclose it to others...'
Daniel's shoulders slumped slightly, as he said, 'Chioma would prefer to stay,' he mumbled, his voice tight with unspoken worries. 'But…' He hesitated, running a hand through his hair. 'How can she ever show her gratitude to Felix for everything he's done?' Daniel softly remarked to Audrey, attempting to make her see reason even though he knew that his explanation wasn't sufficient to make Audrey believe him. He was aware that Chioma was in love with another man, but he couldn't bring himself to tell Audrey just yet. He feared that Audrey might come to resent Chioma for it, and he didn't want their own relationship or Chioma and Audrey's friendship to suffer as a result.
A spark of indignation ignited in Audrey's eyes as she turned to face him. 'So you're saying my brother's position is a burden to her?' She questioned.
'No, don't misunderstand the situation. Chioma doesn't want to attract media attention. She's concerned that everyone who sees their relationship will have misconceptions about her,' Daniel clarified.
'So, you're suggesting that my brother hides his relationship with Chioma for the rest of their lives, just like you want us to hide ours? I don't agree anymore. Who would want to hide the fact that they are in love with the Njemanze family? In fact, I will personally tell the whole world, so that Chioma will not be attacked by anyone,' Audrey asserted.
Daniel shook his head and replied, 'No, not now. Let Chioma decide that. You know her health isn't good, and she might not be able to handle the media.'
'I am curious about one thing, though. As Chioma's friend, maybe you know something about what I'm about to ask,' Audrey said.
'What is it?' Daniel asked quietly, aware of the question but unsure if he could answer Audrey's curiosity.
'Could it be that Chioma has a boyfriend? I find it strange that Aunt Louisa suddenly wants to discharge her after reading the card,' Audrey questioned.
'I requested for Chioma to be discharged,' Daniel said.
'Which is why I'm certain that you know something about everything that's going on...' Audrey turned to Chioma. 'Do you have a boyfriend? The first time I saw you, you said you never had a boyfriend. Was that true?'
Chioma bit her lip and hesitated before responding, 'Actually, you see...'
'Never mind, I believe what you told me before. I believe you would never hurt my brother or betray my trust in you,' Audrey said. With that, she turned around and left.
Daniel wanted to follow Audrey and explain the situation to her, but Louisa stopped him. 'Let her be. If you go out, she might ask so many questions that you won't be able to answer.'
'Aunt Louisa, why did you upset Audrey?' Daniel turned to Louisa and enquired.
'Because she doesn't deserve to be here, babysitting my daughter. She has school to attend, and you have work to do. Besides, I don't actually know who is behind that bouquet of roses,' Louisa said, glancing at the trash can where she had tossed the flowers. She then looked back at Daniel. 'The person who sent the flowers didn't mean well for my daughter. If I continue to let Chioma stay here, who knows how many threats she would receive? To avoid a heartbreaking story, I want to discharge Chioma right now. I know what I'm doing may not seem right, but I can't handle the gossip around here. I told Andrew, and he said it was all right,' Louisa explained. She left the room to file the paperwork for Chioma's discharge.
Daniel was silent, recognising that he was merely a friend to the Chimas and not a family member. Nevertheless, the torn card Louisa had mentioned weighed heavily on his mind, and he couldn't help but wonder about the future awaiting Chioma, pondering how many obstacles she would have to overcome before achieving a happy ending. He hoped that Chioma's story wouldn't follow the common trope of romance movies, where the main characters often endure significant losses, whether it's losing loved ones or wealth, before finding happiness. Yet, in this case, Michael Njemanze was too powerful to ever face poverty. The question remained about Chioma Chima, who was seemingly blessed with poverty. Would she lose everything before finally having a chance to be with Michael?
'I need some water,' Chioma requested.
Immediately, Daniel filled a disposable cup with warm water and handed it to her. 'You don't look well. Are you okay?'
Chioma lifted her head and looked at Daniel, remaining silent as she took the cup of water. She appeared lost in deep thoughts.
'If you want me to help you explain things to Audrey, I will gladly do it,' Daniel offered.
'But she's upset,' Chioma replied slowly, holding the cup of water. 'What if she doesn't listen to you?'
'Why wouldn't she?' Daniel questioned.
'I'm afraid everything is turning into a mess. I might not be able to handle all of it,' Chioma admitted.
'It's okay. I'm here, along with Chisom and Andrew...' Daniel reassured her.
Chioma nodded, then drank the water as if it gave her the strength to face the brewing battle ahead.
***
Celine and Prince returned to Diamond Snow Secondary School after visiting Audrey at the hospital and delivering her afternoon tea. The school, renowned as the top institution in the country and attended by the children of the elite, had transformed into a luxurious hive of activity as Fashion Week preparations took over the school compound. Every detail reflected the school's reputation for excellence and grandeur, and the students were immersed in the final stages of their high-end fashion projects.
The school buzzed with the hum of the latest state-of-the-art sewing machines, their sleek designs fitting perfectly with the modern aesthetic of the school's creative studios. In the design rooms, students worked on touchscreen sketchpads, sketching out their fashion concepts with digital pens that offered precision and finesse. The walls were adorned with massive LED screens displaying mood boards, high-resolution images of runway shows from Paris, Milan, and New York, serving as inspiration.
In the school's expansive, artfully designed studio, students gathered around tables of polished marble, discussing fabric swatches ranging from the finest silks to exotic materials sourced from around the world. The room was a blend of innovation and elegance, with students utilising 3D printers to create intricate accessories and embellishments for their designs. The entire space exuded sophistication, from the luxurious leather stools they sat on to the ambient lighting that highlighted the radiant colours of their work.
Outside, the courtyard had been transformed into an outdoor fashion atelier, sheltered under sleek, white canopies that protected the students from the sun. Mannequins stood draped in luxurious fabrics, each one more exquisite than the last. The latest in smart fabric technology was on display, with materials that could change colour or texture at the touch of a button. The air was filled with the subtle scent of high-end perfumes, as students experimented with scents to match their collections, some even using custom-made fragrances.
Practice runways were set up with polished hardwood floors, and students strutted down them, practicing their walks in designer heels, their movements precise and confident. A high-end sound system played the latest tracks from top fashion shows, creating an immersive atmosphere that matched the grandeur of the preparations. Their steps echoed with the sound of designer footwear on the pristine surfaces, as they perfected their turns and poses.
The cafeteria had taken on the feel of an exclusive lounge, with plush seating and gourmet snacks catered by top chefs. Conversations buzzed with talk of fashion icons and the latest trends, while students sipped on custom-blended smoothies and designer coffees. Fashion magazines from around the world lay scattered on the tables, alongside tablets displaying the latest collections from global fashion houses.
Even the staff room reflected the high standards of the school. Teachers discussed the upcoming Fashion Week with a level of detail usually reserved for high-profile events. They coordinated the lighting, which would be provided by a top-tier production company, and the music, curated by a renowned DJ, to ensure that the runway show would be nothing short of spectacular. Every element was meticulously planned, from the VIP seating arrangements to the high-tech projection screens that would display live feeds of the event.
Celine and Prince, still energised from their visit to Audrey, quickly fell back into the rhythm of preparations. The atmosphere of the school, charged with creativity and ambition, pushed them to pour their hearts into their work, determined to make this Fashion Week an unforgettable celebration of art, culture, and fashion.
As the final bell rang, signalling the end of a busy day, Celine and Prince exchanged a glance, the excitement for the upcoming events clear in their eyes. They decided to head to the mall, eager to pick up some last-minute items for the fashion show and indulge in a little personal shopping. The mall was not just a place to gather supplies but a moment of respite and anticipation, where they could unwind and refocus before the whirlwind of Fashion Week truly began.