Chapter Sixty-Seven

In Richie's sleek home studio, equipped with cutting-edge technology, the soft hum of electronics and the faint sound of unfinished beats played in the background. The glow of recessed lighting bathed the room in a warm ambiance, adding a serene warmth to the high-tech space. Richie, dressed in a tailored black shirt and designer jeans, sat in an ergonomic chair, his focus sharp as he reviewed digital sketches and notes displayed on a multi-screen setup. Around him, neatly organised binders, mood boards, and a tablet loaded with analytics reflected the meticulous planning for his upcoming album launch.

Night sat nearby in a plush armchair, exuding effortless elegance in her silk blouse and tailored trousers. She scrolled through her tablet, her perfectly manicured fingers pausing occasionally as she considered potential venues. Beside her sat a crystal carafe of sparkling water and a fruit platter, from which she ate and drank occasionally. She glanced up, watching Richie flip through annotated design mockups on one of the screens.

'We need something that stands out,' she said thoughtfully, tilting her tablet to show him a luxury rooftop venue with a stunning infinity pool overlooking the city. 'This screams exclusivity and sophistication… perfect for showcasing your new sound.'

Richie's eyes lit up as he leaned closer, studying the image. 'I want it to feel exclusive but still accessible to my core fans. I want them to be part of this journey. And the visuals have to be top-notch.' His voice was steady but filled with passion, his hand gesturing to the evolving concept map on the screen. 'This one's different, Night. It's got more depth. I'm talking about real experiences… love, struggles, victory… everything that led me here.'

Night smiled, her admiration evident as she set her tablet down. 'You've put your heart into this. It's going to be phenomenal.'

A gentle knock on the door announced the arrival of Richie's event planning team—a group of seasoned professionals carrying mood boards and proposals. They laid out plans for a meticulously curated rooftop event, complete with state-of-the-art staging, a custom sound system, and immersive visuals that would transport the audience into Richie's world.

'The media list includes the biggest names in entertainment,' one of the planners began, scrolling through a digital presentation on their tablet. 'We're ensuring top-tier coverage across all platforms, with exclusive interviews and live social media integration.'

'Good,' Richie said, nodding in approval. 'Let's also include a segment where I perform live… something intimate and powerful. I want the music to connect directly with the audience.'

Night interjected with her own input. 'And let's ensure the guest experience is flawless… luxury transportation, personalised invitations, and curated gift bags that reflect Richie's brand.'

Richie leaned back, a grin spreading across his face. 'Our son has one special request. He wants me to invite Ibrahim Musa, the suya guy.' The room broke into light laughter, but Richie's tone turned serious as he added, 'Make it happen. It's what my son wants.'

As the team finalised details and departed to execute the plans, Richie walked over to Night, pulling her into his arms. 'My sweet Night,' he murmured, his voice low and full of emotion. 'I will love you forever and do everything in my power to make you happy.'

'You're already doing that, there is no need to say it,' Night said, pretending she wasn't interested in those sweet.

'What's wrong with saying it to my wife? We have a thriving company, a beautiful home, and with you by my side, I feel complete and loved. So saying how much I love you a trillion times means you deserve it.'

Night smiled, relishing the promise. Cradling his face in her hands, she said, 'Richie, my lord, all I need to make me happy is you.'

She kissed him gently and then took his hand and led him to dining for dinner. She was so happy that Richie was her husband, and each moment she prayed for him to grow old with her, in good health and prosperity. He was the best dad, and husband.

***

The following day, Peter woke up with a smile on his face. Today was the day he would propose to Stella. Picking up his phone from the nightstand, he glanced at Stella, who was sleeping soundly beside him. Kissing her forehead gently, he went downstairs to meet his chief butler, Mr. James.

'How's everything going?' Peter asked Mr. James.

Understanding what Peter meant, the chief butler replied, 'Everything is ready, sir.'

Peter nodded, dialling a number on his phone. When the call connected, he asked, 'How are things over there?'

'The road is clear, sir.'

Peter couldn't help but smile, knowing everything was in place. He had been planning this day for weeks, pouring his heart into every detail to make it an unforgettable moment.

Early that morning, he and Stella left his villa. Stella looked effortlessly chic in a royal blue blazer with jeans and white sneakers, while Peter was dressed in a navy suit. The road from Mark Villa to Mars Corporation was lined with dazzling decorations. Colourful ribbons and flowers adorned every tree, lamppost, and corner, creating a magical path that seemed to stretch endlessly. Stella noticed the festive display and smiled, thinking it must be for some city event, never imagining it was all for her.

As they drove closer to Mars Corporation, the decorations grew more extravagant. Flower arches spanned the road, and banners in bright, beautiful colours greeted them along the way. Stella's curiosity grew, and by the time they reached the company entrance, she was speechless, her eyes widening in wonder at the breathtaking display.

Peter parked the car, stepped out, and gently took Stella's hand, guiding her through the beautifully adorned paths. The entire compound seemed to sparkle with life—every tree, and corner was decorated with lights, flowers, and ribbons that shone in the morning sun. Stella was mesmerised, taking in the beauty around her, still unaware of what lay ahead.

Peter led her to the heart of Mars Corporation's Love Garden, a place transformed into an enchanting paradise. The garden was filled with red and white roses, twinkling fairy lights, and elegant decorations surrounding a single grand sign at the centre. The words 'Marry Me, Stella Adaeze Adams' were written in golden letters, shining brightly amidst the greenery.

Stella froze, her hand flying to her mouth as she realised what was happening. Tears filled her eyes as she looked at Peter, who gazed back with pure love. He knelt on one knee, holding a diamond ring that sparkled in the sunlight, his face filled with joy and tenderness.

'Stella,' Peter began softly, his gaze steady and warm. 'You are my everything… the heartbeat of my life. I've dreamed of this moment, but now that it's here, I can hardly contain my emotions. I can't imagine a single day, a single breath, without you by my side. I know I hurt you when you discovered I was the CEO of Mars Corporation and not just the humble provision store owner I'd pretended to be. It must have felt like I was hiding something essential from you, and I'm so sorry. I never meant to test your love by telling you I was just an ordinary provision store owner. That day, I couldn't bear the thought that my status might come between us. I wanted you to see me, just as I was, without titles or wealth. I needed you to know my heart before anything else. I never wanted you to feel small or think I held any power over you. If I've made you feel used or misled in any way, please forgive me. From the very beginning, my love for you has been true and deep.'

He paused, looking deeply into her tear-filled eyes. 'I love you, Stella, in every way… your laughter, your tears, your flaws, your dreams. And I would love you no matter what. Even if you had known who I was from the start, even if your intentions had been to take my wealth… which I know you wouldn't have done… I would still love you. I love you for who you are. I want you in every part of my life, every morning, every night, to be the woman of my youth and the woman of my old age. So, here I am, heart in hand, asking you to make this dream come true. Will you do me the honour of being my wife? Will you marry me, Stella Adaeze Adams?'

Stella's emotions overflowed as she nodded, her voice barely a whisper. 'Yes, Peter Chibueze Mark. A trillion times, yes!'

Peter gently slid the ring onto her finger, sealing the promise of their future together. As he stood up and wrapped her in a warm embrace, the couple shared a sweet, tender kiss, surrounded by friends, family, and well-wishers. Cheers erupted around them, filling the air with joyful celebration.

From behind the flower arrangements, Richie, Night, and little Wealth stepped forward, beaming with pride and happiness. They had come to witness this precious moment, sharing in the love and joy surrounding Peter and Stella, their bosom friends.

At that moment, Peter's parents stepped forward, their faces glowing with joy. His mother embraced Stella, her voice filled with warmth. 'Welcome to the family, Stella! You're a blessing to us all.'

Peter's father shook his son's hand firmly, then gave him a hug, his voice choked with pride. 'You've chosen well, my son. Congratulations to you both!'

Just then, Stella's parents arrived, their eyes brimming with happiness. Her mother wiped away tears as she hugged her daughter tightly. 'Oh, Stella, I'm so happy for you!' she whispered.

Stella's father gave Peter a firm, approving handshake. 'Take care of her, son. She means the world to us,' he said with a warm smile.

Amidst the celebration, an elderly man made his way through the crowd, his face beaming with delight. It was Chinedu Obinna, the owner of Chinedu Provision Store, where Peter and Stella had first began their friendship. With a broad smile, he reached out to shake Peter's hand. 'Congratulations, Peter! And congratulations, young lady. I always knew there was something special about you two.'

Peter grinned and embraced the old man warmly. 'Thank you, sir. You were there from the beginning, even if you didn't know it.'

Chinedu chuckled, giving Stella a gentle pat on the shoulder. 'Young love is a beautiful thing. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness.'

'Congratulations to you both,' Chijioke said into Peter's earpiece, its tone warm and celebratory. 'A million golden buzzes to you, Peter, for finally having Stella as your woman.'

'Thank you, Chijioke,' Peter said.

'If I were flesh and blood,' Chijioke joked, 'I'd have proposed to Ihunanya right now.'

'That will happen in Imagine 2200 drama series,' Peter teased with a grin.

The garden sparkled with fairy lights, petals floated gently in the breeze, and applause filled the air as Peter kissed Stella rapturously, lifting her ringed hand to show everyone that Stella was now officially his.

That night, Peter led Stella up to the rooftop of his villa, where he had arranged a cosy, intimate setup just for the two of them. A soft blanket was spread out, cushions arranged around it, while the city lights sparkled below and a canopy of stars stretched above.

Stella lay beside him, gazing up at the stars. 'Look, there's Orion!' she said, her voice filled with childlike excitement. Peter chuckled, captivated by the joy on her face.

'Why do you know all this?' he asked, gently teasing.

'My dad used to take me stargazing,' she replied softly. 'It's one of my favourite memories.'

Peter turned to her, his eyes tender. 'I could get lost in your eyes forever,' he whispered.

A blush warmed Stella's cheeks as she met his gaze. 'Thank you, Peter. I've loved you since the day we met at that music show that was organised for Richie at the University of Abuja. I didn't tell you because I wanted to support you, to make sure we'd be ready…' Her voice faltered, and she looked down. 'I'm sorry for the time we lost.'

Before she could finish, Peter cupped her face and kissed her deeply, silencing her worries. When he pulled back, he looked deep into her eyes. 'It was never your fault… and I don't blame you for it.'

'But part of the delay was actually me that caused it.'

He looked beyond her. 'Ella, believe it or not, I don't see any reason to blame you for anything.' He looked at her again, with sincerity in his eyes. 'We're together as a couple, and in few days, we would walk down the aisle. I promise you this, Stella Adaeze Adams, I will love you forever with all my heart. And if I have to travel for business trip or any reason and you can't accompany me, you have my assurance I will hurry home to you as fast as I can.'

'Peter Chibueze Mark, I love you.'

Her eyes shone with a radiant glow, as though the rest of the world had faded away, leaving only Peter in her view. He cupped her face in his hands and kissed her gently and reverently.

'I have dreamed of you being my wife for so long,' he murmured between kisses. 'I am happy that is now becoming a reality.'

'I suppose you could say that if I didn't delay you we could have made five babies by now.' She smiled, thinking of the so many times Peter had wooed her that she rejected him. 'However, I have learnt a lot from everything that has happened. I believe that during those delays God was preparing me to be a better person, to be a good wife to you, and a good mother to our children.'

Peter's expression was hungry, asking for more.

'I understand about your having to travel on business trips sometimes. I can live with it, knowing you will hurry back. I believe my love is strong enough to accept that. Just as your love was strong enough to wait for me.'

Her heart was so full. She had so much she longed to say to him but she could not find the words. Then his lips captured hers again, and she knew that sometimes words were unnecessary.

As they lay beneath the stars, Peter's touch was tender, his fingers gently caressing her arm, then her shoulder, and the side of her face. He moved closer, enveloping her in a gentle embrace, his eyes never leaving hers. They held each other for a moment, feeling the warmth and love between them, unspoken yet deeply understood.

Peter's movements were slow and careful, his every gesture filled with love and reverence. He took care not to press too closely, mindful of her growing belly. Stella felt cherished and safe, wrapped in the comfort of his gentle love.

With soft whispers and lingering touches, Peter kissed her, their breaths mingling as they drifted together, savouring each moment with relish. Afterward, they lay close beneath the blanket, feeling the calm of the night settle over them. Wrapped in each other's warmth, they drifted off to sleep, their hearts full, as the stars above bore silent witness to their love.