Jessica stood before the imposing gates of Diamond Snow Secondary School, with the school's majestic name etched overhead. Memories of her own high school days flooded her as she leaned against her sleek black Bentley. She had spent countless hours daydreaming about ways to win Michael's heart, pouring her emotions into countless love letters and showering him with gifts. Yet, despite her efforts, Michael never reciprocated her feelings. Instead, he chose someone who had never been a part of his life. Glancing at the bright, clear sky, Jessica fought back the tears threatening to escape.
Schoolchildren's laughter filled the air as Jessica became lost in thought. She lifted her gaze to see students approaching the gate in their pristine uniforms. Among them was Celine, dressed in her Diamond Snow School uniform, exuded elegance as she walked alongside Prince.
Celine, unlike many other girls, wore no makeup and carried a pale pink rucksack from a renowned international luxury brand. Her long black hair was neatly tied into a ponytail, while some of the other girls flaunted their wavy or straight hair cascading down their backs, accompanied by rucksacks also from renowned international brands.
At that moment, Jessica couldn't help but feel that there was no attire more emblematic of obedience than a school uniform. She reminisced about her own days wearing the uniform, tying her hair neatly in a ponytail, and not having to compete for Michael's attention. Back then, she enjoyed a closer relationship with him than any of the other students, earning her the respect and admiration of her classmates and everyone around her. But now, it seemed like she had permanently lost all of that.
'Good afternoon, big sister Jessica,' Prince and Celine greeted her simultaneously.
'Is Sharon back from Lagos?' Jessica enquired, settling into the car.
Celine settled beside Prince in the backseat, while Jessica occupied the driver's seat.
Prince clicked his tongue, and then said, 'She will be back this evening… she's your best friend. Maybe, you should ask her yourself.'
Jessica flashed a smile as she started the engine, ready to hit the road. Celine placed her rucksack on her lap and fished out a piece of paper, playfully explaining, 'These are the things I want to buy if Felix came to pick me up. But since you're here instead, I'd love it if you could take me to Grace Shopping Mall for a stroll. It's a grand mall with luxurious brands.'
'Are you going for a casual walk or are you planning to indulge in some extravagant purchases?' Jessica asked, focusing on the road as she drove.
'I need some bags, scarves, high heels... Audrey's 18th birthday is coming up, and I want to shop happily,' Celine replied, studying Jessica's mood.
Observing Jessica's low spirits, Prince suggested to Celine, 'Jessica is feeling down... how about we both go together on Saturday? Just you and me. I'm sure that we'd have a great time. Today is not the day to bother Jessica.' He smiled affectionately at Celine.
Celine smiled up at Prince, accepting his offer, while Jessica expressed her gratitude and mentioned that she would visit Sharon the next day. Prince alighted in front of a cake shop, and although Jessica offered to take him home, he declined, gave Celine a gentle kiss on the forehead, and hailed a taxi to his destination.
As Jessica watched Prince leave, she couldn't help but wonder why he chose a taxi over accepting a ride from her. Celine, sensing her thoughts, explained, 'Prince's car broke down on his way to school. He had to send it to the garage for repairs, which is where he's heading.'
'Ah, I see,' Jessica replied, understanding the situation.
'Jessica, please don't take this the wrong way... It's good to fall in love. But if the person you love doesn't reciprocate, it's better to let go sooner rather than later. Don't hurt yourself for someone who doesn't value you. Prince has a wonderful elder brother who cares deeply for you... Open your heart to him, unless, of course, you want to star in a Filipino movie, where supporting characters rarely have a smooth ending... Well, it's your choice to fight for your love and risk getting hurt...'
Celine's words hit Jessica unexpectedly, but she didn't get angry with her. After dropping Celine off at their house, Jessica slowly drove towards the Nnaji family's mansion in Asokoro, a district renowned as the haven for top government officials and known as the most exclusive area in Abuja.
As Jessica's car passed through the grand curved gate, her phone began to ring. Glancing at the screen, she saw it was Nathan Ojukwu, Prince's elder brother, but she chose not to answer. Her heart was still fixated on Michael, and she couldn't bring herself to open up to another man. Perhaps someday, she would let destiny take its course or decide to fight until the end.
With tears in her eyes, Jessica walked into her dressing room and changed into a pink loungewear before entering her bedroom. The room was aglow with bright lights, illuminating the space beautifully. To her surprise, there was someone lying on her bed, staring at the ceiling. Her shiny, wavy hair spread across the pillow, and her dark eyes sparkled in the light. Jessica initially considered scolding the maids for allowing someone into her room, but as she got closer to the bed, she recognised the figure—it was her best friend, Sharon Ojukwu.
Sharon turned her head, offering a sweet smile. 'Surprised to see me? I thought I'd drop by unexpectedly.'
'Well, Prince mentioned you were returning this evening,' Jessica replied.
'I did say that, but a surprise is always fun,' Sharon chuckled, rising. 'Jessica, I'm hungry. Are you?'
Jessica forced a smile. 'I'm famished.'
'Let's have the maids prepare food in the garden,' Sharon suggested, turning around as Jessica followed.
After a few minutes, Jessica and Sharon sat in the luxurious garden, savouring their delicious meals that filled the air with tantalising aromas. The garden was adorned with beautiful flowers, enhancing the serene atmosphere.
'Michael doesn't love me anymore,' Jessica said.
'He has never been in love with you, Jessica,' Sharon replied, her voice laced with gentle certainty. She was adorned in a chic pink sequined off-the-shoulder top, paired with pristine white trousers. The sparkle of diamond earrings dangled from her ears, accentuating her elegance, while her hot pink pumps added a touch of vibrancy to her overall look. She exuded beauty and grace effortlessly.
'You say that to me?' Jessica was annoyed to hear such words from her best friend.
'Hear me out,' Sharon urged, placing a comforting hand on hers. 'Your needs can be met, and you deserve that. Find someone who can reciprocate your affection, someone who sees your worth.'
Jessica shoved a bite of food into her mouth, barely swallowing. 'If that's your advice, then leave.'
Sharon chuckled softly, undeterred. 'Not before I finish my food, darling,' Sharon replied, placing more food on Jessica's plate. Her laughter faded, replaced by a serious expression. 'Jessica,' she began, pouring herself a glass of water and looking up. 'I'd always encourage you to fight for what you believe in, but this battle is already lost. His heart isn't yours to claim. Move on, find someone better.' She took a sip of water.
A tear escaped Jessica's eye, rolling down her cheek. 'But I can't imagine my life without him.'
'Why do you insist on loving Michael so much? Look at what happened to your heart. He shattered it, and yet you still love him? Holding on will only leave you with countless scars,' Sharon reasoned.
'I don't need him to give me his entire heart. A little bit is enough for me,' Jessica said through her tears.
'This isn't about needing, Jessica. It's about recognising your worth. You're crying just because Michael rejected you? Do you truly love him that much? Nothing is worth sacrificing your well-being for,' Sharon said, reaching for her strawberry juice and taking a sip.