On the other hand, Chioma stood alone, nervously swirling the ice in her drink, while Chisom twirled like a carefree butterfly across the dance floor with a stranger. Chioma gripped her glass tighter, feeling out of place as her hand grew sweaty around it, the coolness offering little relief from the heat creeping up her face. The upscale atmosphere and sophisticated crowd made Chioma feel uneasy. She noticed Felix engaged in conversation with a man in a brown suit, and when their eyes met, he smiled at her. Quickly, Chioma averted her gaze, feeling uncomfortable under his intense stare. She finished her drink and let out a sigh.
Placing her empty glass on a passing tray carried by a waiter, Chioma decided to leave. However, before she could slip away, Felix appeared out of nowhere, offering his hand for a dance. Chioma wanted to decline his invitation, but his overpowering presence made it difficult for her to object. She didn't want to reject him, especially in a place where everyone seemed to be caught up in gossip.
'Sometimes, the heart speaks in whispers,' Felix murmured, leading her onto the dance floor. His voice was close to her ear, sending a tingle down her neck.
Chioma stared at him, unsure of how to respond. She found herself nodding in agreement, lacking the words to express her thoughts.
'I'll take you home,' he revealed suddenly, his voice weaving through the melody.'
Chioma blinked, surprised. 'Home?'
'Would you object?' he asked, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Unease tightened her chest. 'Sir, it wouldn't... wouldn't look good,' she stammered, searching for the right words.
'Let people talk if they want to,' Felix dismissed her concerns.
'Trust me, I'm going to decline your offer tonight, but perhaps next time I will accept if you offer to drive me home,' Chioma halted him, determined to keep her distance. She needed to find a way to avoid his advances. Maybe she could mention that she already had a partner. 'There's something important I need to tell you...'
Felix's eyes narrowed for a fleeting moment. Just then, Chioma noticed a flicker of amusement in his gaze. 'Something you need to tell me, then?' he asked, his voice taking on a playful edge. Before she could answer, he leaned closer, his lips brushing her ear. 'That you've agreed to be my woman?'
A shiver ran down Chioma's spine, a strange mix of apprehension and something else she couldn't quite define.
'Thank you,' he whispered, and with a slight bow, he turned and walked away, leaving Chioma standing alone on the dance floor, the music now a distant echo in her ears.
Chioma was left speechless. Felix possessed a domineering personality, reminiscent of Michael. She realised she had to maintain a safe distance from him, as his presence had the potential to jeopardise her relationship with Michael.