The moment I met you (Chapter 111)

 By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu  

Michael didn’t speak.                                                                              

‘You don’t like the cake? I could have the maids make you any cake of your choice.’                                                                                                     

‘Just go away. I’m not in the mood for cakes.’ Then, he turned away, and moodily, Michael lay on his bed thinking of Chioma, and how he nearly kissed her today. He couldn’t help becoming restless. Perhaps, if he had lightly pecked her lips, he wouldn’t be feeling restless now. The thought of Chioma at a barbecue stall with her friends instead of with him made him sad. In fact, he was jealous that he wanted to treasure her and guard her without anyone getting close. For the first time in his life, he was selfish.                                                            

Meanwhile, Andrew and Chioma were already back home. They had a hearty dinner of jollof rice and fried eggs. Chioma cleared the dishes on the dining table and then placed the gifts Audrey gave to her on it.                                    

Open your gifts,’said Andrew curiously when he walked out of the bathroom with only a bath towel around his waist.                             

Louisa was at the living room knitting a pink sweater, and from time to time sipped her cup of steaming Achara tea, and occasionally glanced at the TV playing an Indian drama. She seemed not interested in the movie.                   

                  

Chioma glanced at Andrew who was now drying his hair with a white towel from a street vendor, she smiled and said,’ Beautiful boxes,’ she breathed. Picking one of the boxes up, she held it beside her ear, and playfully shook it. Then, she eased off the lid gently.                                  

‘Just pull it right off.’   Andrew changed into his pyjamas lying on the sofa. Chioma had placed it there for him.                                                         

‘What if it’s a bomb?’