Chioma and Michael entered the Lamborghini, sharing laughter and conversation as they sped towards the luxurious restaurant reserved by Robert. Upon arrival, they were escorted to a private room exclusively theirs.
Chioma gasped, awestruck by the romantic ambiance that greeted her. Shimmering candles adorned the room, casting a mesmerising glow. The table was exquisitely set with a beautiful tablecloth, candles, and flowers. Scattered rose petals and a crystal bowl holding floating candles further accentuated the scene. Chioma realised with a thrill that this was her first candlelit dinner.
Michael hadn't informed her about this surprise, and she wished she had dressed more appropriately. However, Michael didn't seem to mind and was simply delighted to have her by his side.
As Chioma prepared to sit down, Michael approached her and presented an extravagant bouquet. Soft and melodious music played in the background, adding to the romantic atmosphere.
Michael had intended to let her take her seat, but instead, he found himself snuggling against her back, his arm wrapped around her waist. Chioma could feel the warmth of his chest against her back, and a warm smile graced her face as she inhaled his captivating scent. After a moment, he released her and turned her face towards him. She gazed up at him, captivated by his beauty. The dimly lit room accentuated his glowing skin, making him appear even more handsome.
'Thank you for belonging to me,' Michael whispered, holding her hands tightly, unwilling to let go. Chioma had always known him to be proud, reserved, and cold, but in that moment, she witnessed the depth of his affection and his vulnerability. She could see and feel how much he loved her.
Michael then pulled out a chair for Chioma, and she gracefully took her seat. He walked to his own chair and sat across from her. The meal consisted of a delectable Western cuisine, including the pineapple rice that Chioma had been craving for a long time. Her appetite immediately surged as she was finally able to savour the dish she desired.
'Take your time eating,' Michael said, unsure whether to laugh or be concerned as he observed Chioma's enthusiastic and somewhat careless eating. He wasn't appalled; in fact, he adored her for who she was.
He kindly passed her a glass of water, and Chioma took a sip before continuing with her meal.
'Would you like to work at my office?' Michael suddenly asked, his voice gentle. He ate his food gracefully despite the unexpected question.
Chioma's fork hesitated mid-air, a frown creasing her brow. Michael's offer hung heavy in the air, the weight of its implications settling on her shoulders. The thought of working at Moon Corporation was tempting, a shortcut to a world she yearned for. But a knot of apprehension formed in her stomach. She didn't want people to think she was using her relationship with Michael to gain advantages. Accepting it felt like accepting whispers of doubt, like succumbing to the very thing she despised—using connections instead of merit.
Chioma barely shook her head, a tiny 'no' escaping her lips in a whisper. It felt heavy, filled with worries she couldn't voice.
Michael observed her closely, his gaze reflecting a mix of understanding and disappointment. 'Are you worried about what people might think?' he asked gently. 'Chioma, people will always talk, regardless of your path. Besides,' he continued, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice, 'opportunities these days often stem from connections, not just merit.'
His words held a bitter truth, one Chioma couldn't deny. Yet, the idea of accepting this opportunity felt like a betrayal of her values. She looked up at him, a determined glint in her eyes. 'I love my job, Michael. And if I ever decide to explore other options, you'll be the first to know.'
Throughout the conversation, Michael continued to serve food onto Chioma's plate, and Chioma continued to enjoy the meal, savouring each bite with delight, without much grace.
A soft chuckle escaped Michael's lips. 'Only with me, Chioma,' he said, his voice laced with amusement. 'Only with me can you shed that polished facade and embrace your playful side.' His words sent a blush creeping up her cheeks, a welcome distraction from the turmoil within. 'Get ready,' he continued, his voice turning serious. 'I'm introducing you to my parents soon.'
Chioma's heart skipped a beat. 'Soon?' she echoed, a mix of excitement and apprehension swirling in her stomach.
'Yes, soon,' Michael said firmly, his eyes locked on hers. 'I want them to meet the woman who holds my heart.
Chioma's mind raced with worries. What should she wear? How would she face his influential family? What if they didn't approve of her as their son's partner? She felt a wave of doubt and insecurity engulf her. In that moment, she empathised with Carolyn Sundseth, who found herself in Hawaii and was asked to work in the White House, where one of her initial concerns was; what will I wear? Chioma couldn't help but pray to escape the torment of her own high-heeled shoes, just as Carolyn did in her high-ranking position. She recalled Jessica's words, warning her that the Njemanze family would never accept her. Jessica, being from the prestigious Nnaji family, seemed like a princess compared to Chioma, who saw herself as a plain-looking girl. Based on appearances and family background, Jessica was seemingly more compatible with Michael. However, when it came to love and matters of the heart, Chioma firmly believed that Love, not societal expectations, held the true weight in their bond.
Michael gazed directly into Chioma's eyes, his gaze unwavering. 'Do you think I would let anyone bully my girlfriend?' he asked, his voice filled with conviction.
Chioma's voice shook as she whispered, 'Honestly, Michael, I don't think I'm good enough for you.'
Michael just smiled warmly, his eyes full of love. He didn't need words. In that look, Chioma found comfort, knowing their love, not society's expectations, was what truly mattered.