Eight months later, on a warm August evening in 2020, Chioma was in the backyard of their house, surrounded by loved ones, celebrating Andrew's birthday. The atmosphere buzzed with joy and laughter as friends, family, and neighbours gathered to mark the special occasion. Chioma felt like a princess in her new apple green dress, which she had thrifted from Wuse Market months ago. Paired with matching ballet flats, she was determined to avoid serving food to the guests, fearing it might stain her beautiful attire. Everywhere she looked, conversations bloomed, hands gestured in animated stories exchanged between friends and family that had gathered to celebrate Andrew's birthday.
The backyard buzzed with life. Andrew, the celebrant, threw his head back in laughter, a wide grin splitting his face as he reminisced with old friends from secondary school and university, now city slickers with tales of their urban. Their laughter and whispered conversations mingled with the rhythmic pounding of generators, a constant soundtrack to life in Abuja's slums.
Fairy lights, scavenged from wealthier neighbourhoods and strung with borrowed wire, cast a dim glow, catching the ragged ends of colourful streamers—remnants of old birthday decorations haphazardly strung across the clothesline, swayed gently in the breeze. It was a time for conversation, laughter, and indulging in the delicious homemade meal prepared by Louisa and some of the neighbours. Although the decorations weren't extravagant, they still added a touch of charm to the festivities.
When it was time for dancing, Chioma longed to join the throng, to feel the warmth of connection. But the memory of Michael's absence was a cold stone in her stomach. She retreated to the familiar sanctuary of her room, listening to the melody of the beautiful song playing. As she picked at her salad, her gaze drifted to the window. There, bathed in the soft glow of fairy lights, Andrew and Chisom waltzed, a perfect picture of happiness. Chisom's dark hair cascaded down her back, catching the light like a raven's wing. The white dress Andrew had gifted her flowed around her ankles, and for a fleeting moment, Chioma saw a princess out of a storybook. She was happy for her best friend. Top of Form
Similarly, Daniel felt a sense of loneliness on the dance floor, as he didn't invite Audrey due to her absence in London for a friend's wedding. She was set to return the following day, while the birthday celebration was happening today. Daniel missed her deeply and wished he could be dancing with her instead of feeling like a loner during the birthday celebration of his best friend, Andrew. From time to time, Daniel took out his phone to gaze at the wedding picture Audrey had sent him. In the photo, she wore a unique blush ball gown featuring a backless, halter neckline and a full blush tulle ball gown skirt. Her ensemble was complemented by diamond drop earrings, matching pumps, and clutch. She also wore a beautiful flower crown atop her long flowing hair. Just by looking at her stunning picture, Daniel's sense of loneliness eased.
Chisom blushed as all eyes turned to her and Andrew on the dance floor. They were a perfect match and showcased their dancing skills with elegance. Her dark flowing hair cascaded over her shoulders, accentuating her beauty. Andrew had gifted her a new white floral dress for the celebration, making her look like a princess.
The music shifted, a slow, romantic melody filling the space. Couples began to drift to the makeshift dance floor, their laughter and whispered conversations a low hum. Chioma remained rooted to the spot, the green dress suddenly feeling like a heavy cloak, isolating her from the carefree throng.
Suddenly, a voice broke through her reverie. Jennifer Kanu, slightly older than Chioma and known for her sharp tongue and slight jealousy, leaned in conspiratorially, posing an obvious question. 'Is Andrew going to marry Chisom?' she asked, her eyes fixed on the dancing couple.
Chioma smiled, understanding the implication behind the question. 'Isn't it obvious?' she replied confidently.
'They do make a good couple,' Jennifer remarked, observing Andrew and Chisom's happiness on the dance floor. But then she let out a scornful remark, 'But can your brother provide for her? He's just a roadside mechanic.'
Chioma scolded her, giving her a disapproving look. 'I know you have feelings for my brother, but he will never love you. If you continue with this negative attitude, you might end up alone. Stop being a joy-killer.'
Jennifer retorted defensively, holding her zobo drink and meat pie. 'I've never been a joy-killer. You know, I am a very beautiful girl...'
Chioma interrupted her, cutting through the self-praise. 'Yes, I can testify to your beauty, but your attitude has prematurely aged you. If you don't stop meddling in others' affairs, you may shrink a few inches from your original height of 169 centimetres. Then, when you look in the mirror, you'll see an ugly witch-like face and scream as if you're in a horror movie. No one will come to save you.'
'Some idiots think of you as a goddess from a secluded and peaceful oasis,' Jennifer retorted.
Chioma scoffed, dismissing her words. 'You're simply making up nonsense in your inflated ego. I have never heard anyone say such things about me. However, I appreciate you being the first to compliment me.'
Jennifer continued her critical remarks, 'Your beauty isn't the type to awe anyone. I wonder how you managed to deceive Michael and Felix into falling for you...'
'Jennifer, have you ever considered that there are different types of beauty in this world? Not all of them are dazzling, yet they possess an enchanting allure. And it just so happens that the unassuming young woman you see before you is one of those rare individuals... someone who can captivate others with her unique presence.'
'Stop trying to mislead others with the illusion of being caressed by a gentle spring breeze,' Jennifer snapped angrily. 'You're nothing more than a promiscuous opportunist. Soon enough, you'll become a fat, lazy old cow.'
'I genuinely wish you the same, Jennifer Kanu. Congratulations in advance,' Chioma responded, her gaze shifting to her brother and Chisom. They were dancing slowly, lost in each other's eyes, radiating happiness. Chioma knew they had fallen deeply in love, and it wouldn't be easy for anyone to separate them. 'My brother is gentle and sensitive towards women, so instead of being jealous for what isn't yours, pray that your ideal man would be like him… all women like my brother.' She turned to look at Jennifer, but she was gone from the room. 'I hate women that are scheming…' Chioma muttered with a shrug.