On the other side, Daniel entered Star Restaurant and was drawn to a corner seat. Chioma, balancing a tray of rice and stew with a jug of water, spotted him and beamed. 'Big brother Daniel!' she exclaimed, setting a customer's order down before placing a bottle of coke in front of him. 'Chisom's swamped in the kitchen, and Boss Emeka's out fetching market supplies,' she added with a grin.
Daniel returned her smile, unscrewed the coke, and took a sip. Playfully, he asked, 'You missed me, didn't you?' His charming smile made the few pimples on his face seem to smile along with him.
Chioma pouted playfully. 'I would miss you more if you bought me pizza and roasted chicken.'
Teasingly, Daniel remarked, 'Since when did you become a little eating machine?' They chuckled, and after a swig of coke, he asked, 'Enjoying the waitress life?'
Chioma nodded. 'Yes, the customers are nice.'
'You don't have to be a waitress,' Daniel suggested. 'You could be my assistant, or even the manager of my shop. I hardly supervise the place since I'm always on business trips. You and my sister could work for me. Chisom is stubborn and wouldn't work for me because you're here. I know it's unfair to pull you out from here. Emeka has been my friend since we were young.'
Chioma felt touched by his words. She knew he genuinely cared for her. However, she held her ground. He was already in a relationship, and it wouldn't be right to disrupt two people who were in love. Even if he were single, she wouldn't accept him as her partner. She only saw him as a big brother figure, nothing more.
'Big brother Daniel, I think being a waitress is pretty good,' Chioma replied, pausing for a moment. 'The customers here are quite nice people.' She replied, then paused, a mischievous glint in her eyes. 'Besides, at your shop, I might sell the wrong car parts to your customers.'
Daniel lowered his head to drink his coke, then whispered to himself, 'It would be great if you became my woman.' Though Daniel's voice was barely audible, Chioma heard it clearly. However, she knew she had to pretend not to have heard him.
Ever since Chioma started working as a waitress at Star Restaurant, her unique presence had always attracted customers. Some curious patrons who didn't know Chioma would ask Chisom who she was, and the typical response was, 'She's not your type... food is your type!'
Chioma, wearing a smile, asked Daniel, 'Didn't you bring your girlfriend?'
Before Daniel could reply, a surprised shriek came from another table, capturing everyone's attention. To Chioma's astonishment, she saw a man elegantly dressed, and standing beside the man was... him. The man she had fallen in love with from the moment they met, the man who was arrogant yet held the utmost importance in her life. It felt like a dream to see him in this restaurant again. He had appeared magically yesterday, and now he was here in plain sight. What was his purpose? All eyes were on him, filled with respect. Was he here for her? Or perhaps he had come to see someone else? She dismissed the thought.
Star Restaurant had never been a luxurious establishment and had rarely attracted wealthy clientele, except for Audrey and a few other girls who had recently visited. It was puzzling to see someone as powerful as Michael here.
Chioma couldn't help but wonder why he had appeared without giving her the week she had requested to prepare her mind and give him an answer. Perhaps he wasn't there for her. Her thoughts raced, uncertain of his intentions.
'That's Michael Njemanze, the new CEO of Moon Corporation,' Daniel whispered, catching Chioma's attention. 'I'm pretty sure he came here to see you. Maybe he wants to propose to you. I... I also want you to be mine since I ended things with my girlfriend, but I can't compete with this man. I'm not his rival.'
Chioma blushed and whispered, 'How could the CEO of such a powerful corporation be interested in someone of humble birth like me? No, he must be looking for someone like Audrey...'
As if to dispel her doubts, Michael spoke with a magnetic voice, 'Chioma Chima, I'm here for you.'
His seductive voice sent a shiver down Chioma's spine, and as she gazed at him standing at the door, she felt an overwhelming desire to reach out and embrace him. The aura radiating from him captivated everyone's attention. He stood tall and elegant, his outfit exuding charm, and his neatly styled hair added to his allure. It was as if he had stepped out of a painting.
Upon hearing her name mentioned, drawing the gaze of onlookers, Chioma felt her heart ready to burst out of her chest. Curiosity filled the air as everyone eagerly awaited Michael's words.
Chioma was unsure of what to do. Confusion engulfed her, and she felt like crying or running away. Suddenly, silence fell upon the room as everyone anticipated what this god-like man was about to announce. Chisom, who emerged from the kitchen, accidentally dropped the tray she was carrying, diverting the attention of the patrons. They all glanced at her, except for Michael, whose gaze remained fixed on Chioma.
Was this an illusion or a dream? Michael was here again? Chisom realised that if news of this got out, Chioma would face hardships. Regaining her composure, she approached Michael while Chioma took the opportunity to escape to the washroom.
'Sir, what would you like to order?' Chisom asked cheerfully as she hurried towards them. 'My friend Chioma is very busy...' Chisom glanced around and realised Chioma had disappeared to the washroom. She turned back to Michael and Robert. 'She's occupied... Perhaps you'd like to reserve a table?' Chisom carefully avoided saying anything that could provoke Michael. She was simply being cautious.
'I'm here to make Chioma Chima my woman,' Michael casually announced, responding to everyone's curiosity.
Stunned gasps and hushed murmurs filled the air. Who would have thought such a powerful man would pursue a waitress in such a public manner? Was he insane?
At that moment, Emeka returned, carrying two plastic bags from his shopping trip. With a smile on his face, he politely said, 'Sir, please come and have a seat.'
'Bring her here,' Michael instructed.
Emeka nodded, and before he could ask Chisom to bring Chioma out, she had already disappeared. Vanished, as if swallowed by the earth. Emeka smiled at Michael. 'Please have a seat first, and I'll bring her over.'
Michael and Robert followed Emeka to a table by the window, without uttering a word. While they waited, whispers swirled like smoke.
Chioma spent about ten minutes in the washroom, contemplating her next move. When she finally emerged, she found Chisom waiting for her. Chioma hurried towards the exit, as if being chased by someone, but Chisom stopped her with a whisper-yell.
'Chioma, stop right there.'
Startled, Chioma froze in her tracks, her heart racing. She didn't dare to turn around.
'He's the man of your dreams, go and embrace him. You love him, and he clearly loves you,' Chisom whispered, a playful nudge urging Chioma forward.
Chioma whispered back, her voice filled with uncertainty, 'How can I face such a man in front of everyone?'
Chisom's reply held a hint of amusement. 'These few people are nothing compared to the thousands you'll face during your wedding with him.'
Chioma didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Slowly, she turned to face Chisom. 'You're right,' she paused, her doubts creeping in about the possibility of being with Michael forever. 'I have loved him from the moment I met him... but I don't know where to begin. I want him for myself, but can I really do it? Can I fit into his sophisticated world? Am I even qualified to be by his side?'
Chisom smiled and whispered, 'Women are funny creatures. One moment they're outspoken, and the next moment they become afraid to say what they had planned to say.' Being a woman herself, she found her words amusing. Stepping closer to Chioma, she gently patted her shoulder. 'It's a good thing that neither of you has had a serious relationship before. You both fell in love with each other at first sight, didn't you? You can dream about your future together and build it into an empire.'
'But he already has an empire,' Chioma murmured, doubt creeping back in.
'And he wants you in it. Honestly, you're blessed,' Chisom reassured her.
Chioma felt joy and excitement bubbling up inside her, similar to the feeling she had when she first tasted champagne. However, she still anticipated challenges ahead.
'Just imagine that you're stepping out of a long, dark tunnel and into brilliant sunshine, not bumpy roads. He loves you... today is the beginning of something wonderful for both of you. Don't let anything stand in the way.'
'Thank you,' Chioma whispered gratefully.
'Then let's go,' Chisom whispered back, taking both of Chioma's hands. She led her towards Michael.
As soon as Michael saw Chioma, he couldn't help but smile. It felt like they were drawn together, like a needle finding its thread. There was a spark between them, and she felt a shiver down her spine as his voice, smooth as melted chocolate, drifted across the room. 'Chioma Chima,' he murmured, his eyes holding hers with an intensity that stole her breath. 'Come sit beside me.'
Chioma's heart stammered in her chest, caught between the thrill of his attention and the weight of his reputation. He was Michael Njemanze, heir to a dynasty, whispered about in hushed tones and envied by all. Could this be real, or just a fleeting fancy of a powerful man?
Robert couldn't help but wonder if Michael was actually from the wealthiest and most influential family in the capital—the Njemanze family. Doubts crossed his mind, but he knew that Michael, being a savvy businessman, wouldn't let this opportunity slip away. Robert was certain that Michael desired Chioma greatly and that he would surely become her man. Yet, the question lingered: Given her humble background, was Chioma qualified to be his partner?
Reluctantly, Chioma approached Michael, her heart trembling with both excitement and nervousness. Every step echoed in the sudden silence that had fallen over the restaurant, amplifying the pounding of her own heart. She was about to sit face to face with a man who stood at the pinnacle of power, emanating a regal aura. Reaching for the chair, her fingers brushed his, sending a jolt of electricity through her. Then, disaster struck. Overwhelmed, she accidentally knocked over the juice glass Emeka had offered Michael, shattering it on the floor. Feeling the weight of the sudden attention, Chioma sank into the vinyl of her uniform, the restaurant suddenly feeling alien in her familiar uniform. Curious stares and hushed whispers followed her every move. How had her life transformed into this whirlwind in mere minutes?
Chioma couldn't believe that her life had turned into a movie-like romance drama, a storyline she had watched countless times.
Mortification burned in Chioma's cheeks as she stammered, 'I'm so sorry, sir.'
Chisom, ever the quick thinker, rushed over with a napkin. She handed it to Chioma to clean the edge of her dress. Chioma was still in her Star Restaurant waitress uniform. Chisom giggled softly, seemingly enjoying the romantic scene unfolding before her.
A chuckle escaped Michael's lips, unfazed by the shattered glass. 'No need to apologise, Chioma. Accidents happen.' He gestured to the seat beside him, his voice an intimate rumble. 'Please, sit. I've been waiting to talk to you.'
Chioma sank into the chair, her heart fluttering like a trapped bird. His captivating and intense eyes held hers hostage. 'What do you want?' she asked cautiously, unable to meet his gaze fully. His eyes possessed an undeniable allure and captivation.
'What I want is already here,' Michael gazed at her without blinking, his eyes filled with complex emotions that words couldn't fully express.
Chioma, feigning misunderstanding, stood up abruptly. 'If what you want is in the restaurant,' she said, voice strained, 'I should go.'
However, Michael was quick to grab her hand, indicating his intentions. This was the woman he was willing to shower with unlimited love and affection. He was deeply, undeniably in love with her.
Chioma's breath hitched as she tried to pull away. 'Please, let me go,' she whispered, her eyes locked on his.
Michael held her gaze, unfazed by the rising murmur of gossip spreading through the restaurant.
'Why did the king leave his throne just to be with this slummy woman?'
'That's right. I heard he treats his girlfriend like ice, but this one...is she his true love, like in the movies?'
'She must have bewitched him!'
'Chioma's a good girl, but she doesn't belong with him. Those rich boy, poor girl stories only happen in fairytales...'
Chisom, fed up, whirled around to face the gossipers, her voice sharp. 'Shut your traps!'
'Does she deserve him, the most powerful man in the city?' someone sneered.
'Wow! So she doesn't deserve him? Then who does, you with the decayed tooth?' Chisom scoffed.
In a corner of the restaurant, Jessica burned with rage. She had secretly followed Michael here without his notice. Perhaps he had seen her trailing behind but pretended not to notice.
'Chioma,' Michael said, his voice laced with sweetness, 'you know why I'm here. We both do. I'm not one for games.'
A wry smile touched Chioma's lips. 'I never asked you to play any,' she replied, her voice tight. 'Just please let me go. This attention is unwanted.'
'Everyone's already looking at you.' Michael seemed unfazed by the scrutiny. On the other hand, Robert remained silent, placing the 99 roses and box of chocolates that Michael had asked him to buy before Chioma, their silent presence adding to the surreal scene.
'Do you not like the flowers?' Michael asked gently.
Chioma didn't want to look at him, but when she did, it was hard to look away. His eyes were captivating. 'I do... but...'
'Then it's settled,' Michael declared, a triumphant note in his voice. 'We're a couple now.'
Chioma's face displayed shock. She loved this man more than anything in the world, but was it too soon to accept him into her life? And what about the diamond ring adorning his finger? Could he be secretly married to Jessica?
'It hasn't even been a week,' she reminded him, her voice trembling. 'You said you'd give me a week.'
'Now that we're a couple,' Michael asserted, his tone leaving no room for argument, 'you're officially my girlfriend.'
A thousand unspoken words battled within Chioma, but in that moment, she could only nod, her voice lost.
'Settled, then,' Michael said softly, smiling as he rose from his seat with effortless grace, captivating Chioma with his movement. He paused, gazing out the window for a moment, a wistful longing momentarily clouding his features. 'Before I met you,' he began, his voice a low rumble that sent shivers down her spine, 'I used to imagine myself in a sprawling garden, filled with laughter and the joyous chaos of children playing. But the woman in those dreams always remained faceless, an elusive figure just beyond my grasp.' His gaze returned to Chioma, his smile deepening as if a missing piece had clicked into place. 'I tried to imagine her visage,' he continued, 'thinking of famous film stars, models with long legs and flawless features, girls who had crushes on me, and those I encountered during my travels. But none of their countenances brought me joy, no matter how beautiful they appeared.' His voice dropped to a husky whisper, his eyes locked on hers. 'Then, the moment I met you, your face stayed with me. I dream of you every single second, envisioning you and our children together. I know, with absolute certainty, that I am the right man for you.'
'I'm not the kind of girl you can mould into what you want,' Chioma responded, her voice filled with uncertainty.
Michael met her gaze, his voice sincere. 'You're not ordinary, and I have no intention of moulding you into someone you're not,' he whispered earnestly. 'You are beautiful, and you make my heart beat faster. Whether you're rich or poor doesn't matter to me. I love you for who you are, and for what you are.' He paused, searching her eyes. 'You're an angel, Chioma,' he whispered, his words laced with reverence. 'And I love you with all my being.'
Chioma stood there, her mind filled with confusion. Never in her wildest dreams could she have imagined a man of Michael Njemanze's stature seeking her companionship.The whole situation felt surreal to her. She barely knew this man, except for what she read about him in the papers and heard in rumours. His words sounded like a command, leaving no room for objections. She understood that a man of his stature held immense power. With his family background, Michael was revered like a god. Yet today, he was here, humbly seeking love from a woman of lowly status, someone not considered conventionally beautiful. Yet, in Michael Njemanze's eyes, she was the most breathtaking woman in the world.