Chapter Three

Chapter Three

Abuja was alive that evening, its December harmattan breeze carrying a mix of dry air and

the faint aroma of roasted corn from roadside vendors. The city bustled with life as cars

honked impatiently, and pedestrians moved with purpose along the brightly lit streets. Angela

Olajide couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement as she stepped out of the sleek Toyota

Corolla her father had given her for her 21st birthday.

This wasn't her usual kind of outing—Angela preferred the safety of her father's carefully

planned social events or the tranquility of their family estate in Gwarimpa. But tonight was

different. Her best friend, Bella Smida, had persuaded her to join her birthday celebration at

Majestic Lounge, one of Abuja's most talked-about nightlife spots.

Bella, vibrant as ever, led the way into the venue. Her honey-toned skin glowed under the

streetlights, and her colorful outfit made her the center of attention wherever she went.

Angela, in contrast, exuded a quiet elegance that still turned heads. She was dressed simply

yet stylishly, her chocolate-toned skin luminous in the soft light.

"Angela, this is going to be fun," Bella said, linking arms with her. "Just relax and enjoy

yourself for once. It's my birthday, so no excuses!"

Angela smiled but felt a knot of nervousness tighten in her stomach. She wasn't used to

stepping out of her comfort zone, and the thought of her father finding out where she was

made her even more uneasy.

Inside Majestic Lounge, the air buzzed with energy. Afrobeats thumped through the

speakers, blending with the chatter of Abuja's elite crowd. The décor was upscale, a mix of

modern luxury and African artistry, with dim lighting casting a warm glow over the room.

Angela followed Bella to a reserved table near the edge of the dance floor. As Bella greeted

other friends and ordered drinks, Angela took a moment to soak in her surroundings. The

lounge was a far cry from the structured events her father preferred. Here, everything felt

vibrant, alive, and untamed.

"Angela, stop looking so serious," Bella teased, handing her a cocktail. "Drink up and loosen

up. This is Abuja, not your father's house!"

Angela laughed nervously and took a cautious sip. The sweet, tangy drink was refreshing,

and she couldn't deny that the lively atmosphere was beginning to grow on her.

As the night progressed, Bella took to the dance floor, her energy infectious as she moved to

the rhythm of the music. Angela stayed at the table, enjoying the music but feeling more comfortable watching the action from a distance.

Her quiet moment was interrupted by a deep, smooth voice.

"Good evening, sunshine."

Startled, Angela looked up to see a tall, strikingly handsome man standing before her. He

had a neatly trimmed beard, broad shoulders, and an effortless confidence that was hard to

ignore. His tailored shirt and wristwatch hinted at wealth, but his smile was warm and

approachable.

"I'm Kunle," he said, extending a hand. "May I join you?"

Angela hesitated, her heart racing, but she managed a nod. "Angela," she said softly as she

shook his hand.

Kunle's smile widened. "Angela. A beautiful name for a beautiful lady."

At that moment, Bella returned to the table, her eyes lighting up at the sight of Kunle. "Well,

well, who do we have here?" she teased, sliding into her seat. "I'm Bella. Nice to meet you."

Kunle greeted Bella politely but kept his attention on Angela. "I couldn't help but notice you

sitting here," he said. "You seem... different from everyone else tonight. I had to introduce

myself."

Angela felt her cheeks flush. "Thank you," she said, unsure of what else to say.

The conversation flowed naturally. Kunle had a way of putting Angela at ease, asking her

about her interests and sharing a bit about himself. He was an architect, he explained,

specializing in luxury homes for Abuja's upper class.

As the night wound down, Kunle stood to leave. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Angela," he

said, his dark eyes locking onto hers. "May I have your number? I'd love to get to know you

better."

Angela hesitated. Bella nudged her playfully. "Don't be shy, Angela. It's just a number."

Blushing, Angela reached for Kunle's phone and entered her number. Kunle dialed

immediately to ensure the connection. Her phone vibrated in her purse, confirming the

exchange.

"Thank you," Kunle said, smiling. "I'll call you soon."

He turned to Bella. "It was nice meeting you too. Take care of Angela for me, alright?"

Bella laughed. "She's in good hands. Have a good night, Kunle."

Kunle offered a polite bow of his head and walked toward the parking lot, where a sleek

black Range Rover awaited him. Angela watched as he climbed into the vehicle and drove off, her heart still fluttering

Bella smirked, leaning closer to Angela. "Looks like someone just made your night."

Angela didn't respond, her mind swirling with thoughts and emotions she couldn't quite

name. She felt a strange mix of excitement and nervousness, wondering what might come of

her chance encounter with Kunle.