The Moment I Met You (Chapter 591)

By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

At Moon Corporation, and in the afternoon, just as Felix finished the board meeting and prepared to go home to prepare for Michael's wedding, Peter rushed into the office.

'Sir, let me show you something.' After Peter finished speaking, he took out his smartphone and handed it to Felix.

After Felix looked at the photos, he calmly asked, 'Peter, where did you get these?' His face was unreadable.

The photo was of Catherine and Prince eating happily at a seafood restaurant. It seemed they were chatting something that was interesting. Anyone would wonder what it was, and anyone would wonder why the two of them instead of prince and Celine.

In the photo, Catherine was wearing a casual ripped light wash jeans and a white button down shirt, complete with a brown Gucci bag, her favourite choker and brown flats. Her beautiful hair hung loose down her back.

'I don't need to ask you where you got that photo...'

'I never wish to tell you...anyway, it might be though that nothing is going on between Prince and the girl but people are saying that she might be promiscuous...Money is never her problem, so why does she have to parade and flirt around? Somehow, I still won't believe in the photo. Maybe someone must have stalked her and then took these photos... I wonder who it was that had her followed and investigated. Perhaps, it could have been a casual photo taken by someone that wanted to boost his views...these days, people do crazy things to have million of views.'

'Do you like her?' Felix turned off his computer and asked.'Tell me if you like her?' He was looking handsome in his limited edition blue leather jacket and a white shirt underneath.

'Um...sir, are you joking?'

'Hurry up and answer me.'

'I like her for you...She is a good girl. I think you need someone like her,' Peter replied confidently.

'No month- end bonus for you this month. Go to her to give it to you.' After speaking, Felix got up to leave.

'Sir, is it right for you to cut my bonus just because you're not happy with my answer? Everyone is entitled to their opinion, right?'

'Isn't answering me well part of your job?'

'But sir...I think you match each other...'

'You're fired,' Felix said in all seriousness.

'No, you can't torture me like this...I did nothing wrong. Yes, Chioma would have been perfect for you...but she's getting married tomorrow. Do you still need to stick your heart to her? She doesn't love you, so you should move on.'

'I just recorded our conversation right now. I will send it to the world...'

'I'm sorry Sir...please, don't cut off my bonus.' Peter didn't know whether to cry or laugh.

'I won't,' Felix said and Peter laughed.

After leaving Moon Corporation, Felix didn't go home straight. Instead, he went to meet with a client that just returned from London. As he drove his blue Rolls-Royce to Paradise Hotel, he casually looked out the window and saw Chioma standing under a streetlight by the curb, waiting for a taxi. Chioma was carrying bags of cooking ingredients. She seems to have purchased those items from the supermarket close by. She was wearing a green khaki jacket over a white sweater with black jeans. She pulled her hair back in a bun.

Felix pulled over and walked towards her, offering to give her a ride home. Chioma smiled but still hailed a taxi driving towards her.

As the taxi stopped, Felix smiled up at Felix and then took a step forward, and just as she was about to pull open the door, Felix walked over and grabbed her wrist. Chioma froze, not daring to look up at his face. She understood it all and tried her best to pretend not to understand anything.

'Chioma...' Felix paused before saying, 'Tomorrow is your wedding... Congratulations! For all the times I had known you, although I have never believed that you will belong to someone someday, I would still want to say that since that day is tomorrow, I am very happy that you ended up with my good brother, Michael. Always take good care of yourself and take good care of my brother too...'

Chioma felt her eyes sting, and tears began to trickle down her cheeks. She wished that she was never in such a love story as this one. Two brothers are in love with her. The other brother gave way for his other brother to have the woman that they both love. She could feel that Felix was hurting inside but would still have to silently bear the pain he was feeling. Chioma moved her lips a few times before saying, 'You will always remain dear to me.'

At this moment, tears poured down his face like pearl from a broken necklace. This was the first time Felix had cried in front of a woman. He tried his best to control it but the tears had no choice than to pour.  But then, he forced himself to smile, and gently he said, 'You will be happy with Michael... He loves you more than I do love you. I'm glad you're marrying him tomorrow.'

Chioma inhaled deeply and said, 'I wish you find someone that will love you deeply, someone that means the world to you...'

Before she could finish her sentence, Felix pulled Chioma into his embrace. He closed his eyes to savour this very moment that he would never have the chance again but would treasure for the rest of his life, as he hugged her. But the embrace did not last long. He didn't want to ruin her day tomorrow, for he knew that Paparazzi are always looking for scoop to report. The hug had been simple like a hug from a close friend. Smiling, he released her. Without looking at her face, Felix walked up to the waiting taxi, whose driver was Segun. Felix pulled open the passenger door, and gestured for her to enter the taxi.

Chioma quickened her step and walked towards the taxi. As she entered the taxi, she heard Felix say, 'See you tomorrow in your gorgeous white dress.'

Chioma didn't respond nor did she look at him but calmly, she greeted Segun. Segun nodded, and then looked over at Felix who was leaning down below the roof of the taxi. Felix said his goodbyes as he looked at Chioma for the last time. Then, he stood up, shut the door, and elegantly took a step back, as Segun drove off and disappeared from his sight.

Chioma watched Felix in Segun’s rear view mirror until she couldn't see Felix. She silently prayed for him to find the perfect match for him.

Meanwhile, as Felix turned to enter into his car, a cool breeze blew at him as well as a soft soothing music for the moment, flowed onto the street. It was Whitney Houston’s I will always love you that was playing. Felix stepped into his car and disappeared into the traffic.

Reaching home, Chioma carried the shopping bags into the house in a lively manner, not letting anyone notice the fact that her eyes had been moist because of Felix. Segun helped her carry in a small plastic bag. Chioma had obviously carried the heavy bags, for she didn't want to stress Segun with the heavy bags.

Segun had been friends with the Chimas for many years. He treated their home as his home. He watched Chioma and Andrew finish secondary school and got into the university. As Chioma was about to get married, he looked the happiest because he had always love the kindness Chioma possessed. He wished his son was all grown and was actually the one to tie the nuptial knot on Chioma, for she was the kind of woman he wished for his only son.

Not only did Segun bring her back from the supermarket, he offered to help her carry the bags inside. Segun was pleased with the way Chioma had grown into a very good girl.

Chioma smiled happily when she saw their old neighbours in their house, everyone busy with one thing or the other. 'Mum, can you guess what I bought today?'

'What is it?' Louisa asked with a smile, not able to figure out the items in the bag.

Chioma walked towards Louisa and opened the bags. 'Look! I bought cashew nuts, soy milk, banana milk, chicken, chestnuts, lamb, beef, vegetables and seafood. I bought them all for you, Andrew and Aunt Bisi. They're for nourishment,' Chioma said in delight.

Louisa wanted to speak, but Chioma ran off to Andrew to show off the akpu she bought specially for him. Andrew was pleased when Chioma said she was going to prepare ofe ede for him.

Louisa let out a soft sigh in her heart. You'll surely miss your sister, she thought.

After Chioma proceeded to the kitchen, Andrew said to Louisa, 'Mum, I feel like I am already missing my sister.'

Louisa smiled gently. 'Me too...that's how it is. You'll get used to it.'

Almost one hour later, Chioma was done with cooking the ofe ede. She had cooked the soup only for Andrew, so of course the food was placed in front of him. The other dishes Louisa and Bisi had cooked were served to the guests, of which Louisa, Bisi and Chioma ate as well.

Ofe ede was one of Andrew's favourite dishes but knowing that this might be his last lunch with Chioma, he was reluctant to eat the food.

Chioma was worried when Andrew wasn't eating. 'What's wrong with the food? You know I have improved a ton in cooking after learning from both mum and Chisom...also, I learnt a lot from online...'She laughed gently. ‘I’ve also learnt how to be huge foodie from watching YouTube…eat up, and don’t waste my effort,’ she chuckled.

Andrew wasn't going to reject this delicious food Chioma had worked hard to cook. Without thinking more, he finished the food and thanked Chioma happily.

After the refreshing meal, each of the former neighbours presented her with special gifts. Sola, still didn’t forget what she said about saving money for Chioma’s wedding and not condolence dues.                

 Sola walked over to Chioma who was in the kitchen, kissed her affectionately and wished her well, and then she pressed a purple box into Chioma’s hand. ‘I remember telling you about saving for your wedding,’ Sola said with a gentle smile. ‘That was true. I thought of what gift to give to you, then, I told my son to get this small gift. He bought it in Japan.’

Chioma smiled; opening the gift she saw a beautiful golden locket. Sola had matched the locket with a golden bracelet. Chioma reached out and hugged Sola. ‘It’s beautiful!’ Chioma breathed, as she smiled and thanked her. 

THe Moment I Met You (Chapter 590)

By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

As the big wedding was going to be tomorrow, all thoughts were turned towards this big event. The wedding was a huge piece of entertainment news, and many local and international newspapers, social media reported the news. 

Chioma, who had been dreaming about her wedding, suddenly opened her eyes when she heard Louisa call her from the kitchen. She turned over in the bed and stretched. She had been dreaming of the man she was going to start a new life with as from tomorrow, and when Louisa broke into her dreams, she frowned a bit. But then, a warm flush ran through her body at the thought of belonging to Michael. She felt her heart filled with butterflies, like wedding butterflies.

There was not so much work for her to do, because Michael hired professional wedding planners to take care of everything. The elders also helped in the preparation of the wedding.

'I'm coming,' Chioma mumbled under her breath when Louisa called her again. She quickly tied her hair back and headed to the kitchen, almost colliding with Andrew.

'Watch out else you will have bruises and look ugly tomorrow,' Andrew teased her.

Chioma giggled, then clapped her hand over her mouth, 'All I need is to be careful and look the most beautiful, right?'

Andrew chuckled at the thought. 'If no one marries you, then be sure that I will marry you...' Andrew gave his sister a neck squeeze.

Louisa who was in the kitchen cooking breakfast with Bisi couldn't help but smile at her children. They were both dressed in blue floral pyjamas.

Seems like they were always meant to be together, but we can't stop destiny. We can't stop GOD...Tomorrow; Chioma was going to be a married woman. Andrew will miss you. I will miss you too, Louisa thought with a smile as she chopped the vegetables.

Chioma walked into the kitchen and hugged her mother from behind, pleased with the dishes which were filled one side of the counter, and glasses at the other side. A roast in the local oven filled the kitchen with delicious smell. Louisa and Bisi were preparing the dishes especially for friends who were coming to stay over against tomorrow.

'Mum, you've always been so good with everything you do,' Chioma laughed happily.

'You always make me jealous, don't you think?' Bisi said jealously.

Smiling, Chioma walked over to Bisi and hugged her. 'You're good too.'

Bisi smiled happily and asked, 'Do you have wedding butterflies?'

Chioma nodded with a smile.

'I felt like that as well when I was getting married to my husband... After tomorrow you will no longer belong to yourself but to someone else. You'll start a new life with him...'

'Can I see him today?' Chioma asked with a laugh.

'No, Chioma,' Louisa said firmly. 'It’s not right for the groom to see their bride the day before the wedding... From tomorrow he'll be all yours.'

Chioma pouted with a laugh. 'Mum, do you still believe in those old traditions? I have been seeing Michael for almost everyday…and seeing him today will bring bad luck to me?’ She chuckled. ‘I don’t believe that…Anyway, I will be going to the supermarket later to make a few purchases...'

'I could buy them for you,' Bisi offered.

'No, I will love to get them myself. I don't want to bother you too much...'

Just then, a knock was heard at the door, Chioma walked over to get it. She was surprised to see this tall and handsome man, dressed in a high-end blue suit.

'Chioma...' Nathan greeted.

'Nathan...what are you...' Chioma wanted to ask what he was doing at her house but she remembered that he left his wallet with Andrew and paused, smiling at him instead.

'I'm here for the wallet,' Nathan answered her thought.

'Okay.' Then, she turned towards Andrew's room and called him to get Nathan's wallet.

Andrew stood up from his desk when he heard that, grabbed the wallet and walked over. He greeted Nathan as he handed him the wallet.

Nathan opened the wallet after he had received it and took out the cash in it and handed it over to Andrew. 'Here, you go.'

'What's the meaning of this?' Amused, Andrew looked at Nathan.

'I am sorry to have bothered you.'

Andrew laughed lightly. 'Please, you don't have to do this. I helped you hold your wallet and don’t require any reward. Take the money back. My sister is getting married. I don't want to be greedy...'

'Okay.' Upon Andrew's refusal, Nathan didn't force it. Suddenly, the door of a black Rolls- Royce outside was pushed open and Jessica who was gorgeously dressed in a Dior belted gingham eyelet dress, a Sarah Flint brown sandals and a wavy blow out, gracefully stepped out, holding a beautifully wrapped box.

Chioma walked over to Jessica, smiling. 'Jess...'

Jessica nodded with a sweet smile and pressed the exquisite box into Chioma's hand. 'This is my special gift for your tomorrow, Chioma Chima. I couldn't wait for tomorrow. I just wanted to gift you this piece today...as well as thank you for your help towards me and my parents...'

'But your parents are still in detention...' Chioma felt slightly guilty.

Jessica smiled. 'Nathan told me that his father spoke to Michael and Michael told him to do whatever pleases him...that's good news because my parents will be there for your wedding. I couldn't have Michael but I'm glad that you have him...thank you so much Chioma.'

Chioma nodded.

Smiling, Jessica said, 'Open it...'

'Okay,' Chioma breathed. Then, she gently opened the box and saw the beautiful Briolette Diamond Necklace, which had cost a whopping sum of 11 million dollars, with moist eyes she hugged and thanked Jessica. She didn't even know that the glittering diamond had cost about 11 million. If she knew, she would never hesitate to return back the necklace to Jessica. 'I will always remember you whenever I put on this piece.'

Jessica smiled.

After Jessica and Nathan left, Chioma returned inside. She placed the box on the centre table and said, 'Jessica gifted it to me.'

'It's looks super expensive,' Bisi said, as she touched it.

Even those that weren't used to wearing jewelry will praise how beautiful the necklace was. Andrew stood up and took the bracelet from Bisi. After glancing at it, he slowly said, 'This stunning pendant necklace has 75.36 carat diamond... The piece also includes a Marquise-cut purplish pink diamond suspended above the briolette...' He paused. 'This two diamonds are joined by a briolette neck chain mounted in 18 carat rose and white gold...This necklace cost 11 million dollars...I had seen that same necklace online, that's how I know.'

'That's too much...Did Jessica tear through Nathan's wallet?' Louisa said, surprised at the high cost of the necklace.

Andrew handed Chioma the necklace. 'She gave it to you so take it.'

Chioma felt a bit awkward, as she turned to leave. 'I really love the beauty of this necklace but I can't accept it...the money is too much.'

'She has already given it to you, so keep it.' Andrew was calm.

'You don't think this is too much?' Chioma looked at Andrew, confused.

'Why would I think such? She caused you pain that was greater than 11 million dollars. This piece is not enough to pay for all of it,' Andrew smiled.

'Since it's for you, you should keep it,' Louisa said after a thought.

'Louisa is right. That girl has so much money to spend. I'm sure she wears costly ones...keep it,' Bisi suggested. 'Besides, it will be rude to return it after thanking her. She gifted it to you from her heart. You should accept it from your heart as well.'

Chioma sighed, not knowing whether to still keep the necklace or to return it. She had already promised Jessica to treasure the gift, and didn't want her to feel bad. But then, if she knew earlier that this gift was worth 11 million dollars, she would have rejected it.

Sola and the other old neighbours were to come over that afternoon to help with some work. Chisom and Audrey were going to be the bridesmaids, so they would come later in the evening as they had a lot to talk about.

 

The Moment I Met You (Chapter 589)

By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

That same day, Andrew and Chioma arrived home at around ten o'clock in the night to see Bisi in the living room watching television. She was engrossed in the Korean movie that she became too lazy to welcome them home.

The Korean drama that was playing on the television was depicting a young girl that was preparing happily for her wedding because she was getting married to the man of her dreams. The young girl was surrounded by her close friends, chatting happily with them as they walked to high-end stores in the shopping mall they had visited.

Suddenly, a teenage girl, eating ice cream came rushing towards her, 'Uni! Uni!' She was full of smiles.

Chioma understood that line very well that she didn't even bother to look at the subtitles, which to her was because she had seen so many Korean dramas and was already used yo their language.

Chioma sat on the living room sofa as she kicked off her shoes, yawning tiredly. At this moment, Louisa came out of the kitchen, carrying a tray of freshly cut fruits. Smiling at both her children, she placed the plate on the centre table, pulled off the apron, then sat next to Bisi.

Andrew went to his room to change while Chioma reached for the fruits, feeling so lazy to change into a comfortable home dress. She took a piece of watermelon with a toothpick and started to eat.

'Mum, see all the fruits you sliced up, I am going to help you finish them all...that is if you and aunt Bisi needs help.' Chioma shrugged with a smile. She ate another piece of watermelon.

'Of course, I know that you will never disappoint your mother, but you disappoint me because you haven't still turned into a pig with all the food you eat everyday,' Bisi jokingly said, while eating a strawberry.

Pouting, Chioma said, 'I will be glad to disappoint everyone but not my belly.'

Eating the juicy strawberry, Bisi said, 'There is s no need to explain you to me. I know you can swallow a shark if you have the opportunity.'

Louisa laughed. 'Chioma will be given award for becoming such a giant foodie.'

'The money we earn is wasted if not to feed our belly,' Chioma said, picking up a piece of papaya from the plate. 'Mum, I have been given lucrative job offers. After I marry Michael, I will love to work at Sharon TV as a broadcaster. Although, Sharon wants me to be the manager, but I told her that I could only become a broadcaster or reporter...my point is, I will resign from Star Restaurant,' she paused, chewing slowly the papaya in her mouth and continued, 'our life will change, because I will be paid hugely. I will love aunt Bisi to come and live with you. Not here, in another house, not a slum. Andrew and I have already talked about getting a better house...so, with aunt Bisi around, am sure that the house won't be boring for you.'

Bisi really felt warmth from those words. Eating her apple, she said, 'I will really love to come and live with your mother but renting another house will be a waste of money. I could stay here with your mother, right Louisa?' She looked at Louisa.

Louisa sighed and said, 'you’re right, Bisi. I don't want anyone to think that we were able to afford a better house because you married Michael. I might not be able to handle the gossip...'

Chioma laughed at what Louisa said and then walked behind Louisa, put her hands around her neck and slowly said, 'Mum, in two days time I will get married to Michael, and in few months Andrew will get married to Chisom...You have suffered for almost all your life. It's time you begin to enjoy the fruits of your labour. Don't think that because I am getting married that I will leave you to suffer. I'll be with you as you gracefully grow old...so let me take care of you. Let Andrew and I take good care of you...we might not be able to give you the best of houses but we will give you a house that has happiness all around its walls and the beddings will also change...you will be happy as well as aunt Bisi. Since her grandchildren had gone back with their parents, I think that it will be nice to have her stay here with you...thank you mum, for being my mother. I love you and will always love you.'

After Chioma spoke, she lightly kissed Louisa on her cheek. At that instant tears began streaming down Louisa's face.

Bisi also had tears rolling around her eyes, almost about to drop out. She tried her best not to let them fall. She wasn't the kind of person that cried but she couldn't hold it in anymore since Chioma's words were touching. This sort of scene was seen on a TV show. It was rare for some one to say such stuff in a household. Women are always sensitive, regardless of their age.

'Where did you learn such silly words? Seriously, I can't help but cry. I will get us another fruits.' Louisa got up and went to the kitchen.

'Chioma, look at what you have done, you made your mum cry. I had to cry as well.' Bisi was wiping her own tears.

Louisa returned with another plate of fruits. She placed them on the centre table. Smiling, Chioma took a piece of watermelon with a toothpick and started feeding Louisa. 'Mum, I will make sure you lack no fruits. Fruits are good for the skin. Come on, open your mouth...'

Louisa might not have an opportunity like this with Chioma because in the future, she would be busy taking care of her own family. So, she counted this day as one of the treasured moments. With that, she gladly opened her mouth and ate the piece of watermelon.

Jealous, Bisi said, 'Chioma, who will be here with your mother when you are away with your lovey-dovey? I will be here with Louisa while you're with your Prince charming. Shouldn't I get the same treatment?'

Chioma smiled sweetly like blooming flowers. 'Of course, you will be here with my mother and definitely she will turn you into a pig,' Chioma said while feeding her with apple. 'I will learn the best dishes and come here to prepare them for you both.'

'Silly girl, there is no meal that I can't cook. In fact, you need to come home with the ingredients and I will make them for you,' Louisa proudly said, pinching Chioma's face, her eyes filled with spoiling adoration. 'Is Andrew already asleep?' She asked.

'Oh, he went to change. But it seems he is already drifting to 3000 miles to dreamland. I will go and check on him, mum,' Chioma said.

It warmed on Louisa to see that her daughter cared for Andrew as much as Andrew cared for her. 'Off you go. But don't wake him if he is already in deep sleep.'

Chioma nodded. Before heading to Andrew's room, she quickly fed both Louisa and Bisi strawberry. This act pleased both Louisa and Bisi.

Andrew who was now in his room eating bread and milk, suddenly, his phone began to ring. As he was about to pick up, he had a knock at the door. Thinking it was Louisa; Andrew put the milk down and went to get the door. But it turned out to be Chioma who stood at the door, holding a glass of warm milk.

 'Chioma, you're here?' Andrew smiled, letting her inside. His room was small but it was neat and had the feel of a young man living inside of.'Andrew, I am here and you can see that.' Chioma pushed the cup of milk into his hand.

With a teasing smile, Andrew said, 'Ever since Michael proposed to you, you have been extremely outstanding in your role as Michael's wife. As your big brother, I admire your new cultivated ethics and loyalty...'

'You've always said I was the silly one, now who is acting silly?' She asked and giggled. 'I thought you're already asleep, didn't know you're already drinking milk and bread.' She smiled sweetly at him.

As Andrew was about to drink the glass of milk Chioma had brought to him, his phone rang again. He reached for his phone and looked at the caller ID. It was Nathan's number. They had both exchanged phone number today at the presidential Villa before the birthday party commenced.

'Hello?'

'I forgot to collect my wallet from you.' Nathan had given Andrew his wallet to hold for him when he was busy with some work at the Presidential Villa, during Celine’s birthday party.

'Wait let me check where I kept it.' Andrew held the phone and went to his desk and saw the male Chanel wallet on the table. He had kept it there, hoping to return the wallet back to Nathan tomorrow. It was a white wallet that looked very exquisite.

'It's still here with me. Where should I take it to?'

'Aso Rock Villa.'

'Aso Rock Villa...it's pretty far, can I give it to my sister to give it to Audrey, who will hand it over to Sharon, then Sharon will give it back to you?'

Chioma wanted to laugh but didn't dare. Andrew could be very funny sometimes. She knew that Andrew was purposely teasing Nathan.

'I will come to your house and collect it. After all, it was my fault. You shouldn't run around for nothing,' Nathan said calmly.

'I didn't mean for you to give me money....' Before Andrew could finish the call Nathan had already disconnected. He sighed and put the phone on the desk, then picked up the wallet. Flipping through it, Chioma walked over to see what was inside the wallet. There were bank cards, ID cards, and plenty of cash, which was about twenty or thirty thousand naira.

Chioma produced a paper bag and Andrew put the wallet inside it. Then, she went back to her room, given Andrew some time to rest.

Meanwhile, Nathan was leisurely drinking tea in his room. He had purposely handed the wallet to Andrew so that he would seize the opportunity to visit Chioma with Jessica. Jessica wanted to visit Chioma and give her the gift she had bought her as she would not want to present the gift on the day of the wedding. His performance tonight was truly applauding. He could have given his wallet to anyone but he chose to give it to Andrew for this reason. He loved Jessica and was willing to make her happy. Thankfully, she had changed for good.

 

The Moment I Met You (Chapter 588)

By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

 ‘I want to show you something,’ Prince looked up at her and said with a lovely smile.                                                                                                         

‘What’s that?’ Celine was eager to know.                                                    

Prince released her from the embrace, taking her hand, he said, ‘You’re going to love it.’                                                                                           

Celine smiled and said, ‘I want to see it already.’                                           

Then, with a hand in his pocket, Prince held her delicate hand as they two walked sweetly out from the hall. The arrived outside, Celine glanced at Prince with the look that there wasn’t anything special outside. She turned to look at her surroundings, wondering where Prince had hidden the surprise.                                                                                  

 ‘Where is it?’                                                                                                       

‘Over there!’ Prince smiled sweetly as he pulled her into a lovely embrace. Hugging her from behind, he blissfully pointed to the front. Celine followed his finger, and just then, something magical as well as romantic was seen in front of them. Celine stared in awe at the lights that appeared, flashing like little stars and floating in the air.                                                                     

‘Fireflies,’ Celine whispered. ‘It’s so beautiful…’

The sight was indeed beautiful, almost like a fantasy kingdom made of fireflies.

 Prince kissed her cheek, and said smilingly, ‘They are not real fireflies…it was hard to find real ones…’                                                      

‘Even though it's only a simulation, I think that they look quite real to me…’Celine looked at Prince, her beautiful face smiling. ‘This is the best present that I received today.’                                                             

  Prince looked into her eyes and said in his magnetic voice, ‘You deserve the best…Celine, thank you for coming into my life. Thank you for belonging to me?’                                                                                                      

‘Prince charming, do you think it’s good for us to be sentimental?’ Celine softly laughed.                                               

Prince didn’t reply, but he leaned down and kissed Celine’s rosy cheeks. Celine felt a sweetness flow into her heart as they silently embraced each other while kissing under such beautiful scenery.                         

When the guest caught sight of the beautiful scenery, they rushed over to the scene, shrieking in surprise as well as laughing sweetly at the romantic atmosphere that had surrounded them.                                               

Prince didn’t mind the crowd that were looking at them as he embraced her tightly, burying his face in her neck and breathing in her delicious scent.                                                                                                            

Celine knew that she would never forget such a romantic moment as long as she lived. Prince had put in so much effort and thought to make her have the best birthday party. She was grateful and loved him even more.

          

The Moment I Met You (Chapter 587)

By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

When enough guests had arrived, Prince bowed to Celine. 'We should lead the waltz, ' he said with a smile.

Daniel walked over to Audrey who was looking beautiful in her champagne-coloured long flowing gown, and extended his hand towards her. Audrey took it with a smile. Michael gently led Chioma to the dance floor; Sharon was with her beau, Johnson. Jessica was with Nathan, Chisom with Andrew, and Felix had no choice than to dance with Catherine, who was looking very beautiful in her peach silk dress. Her hair hung loose down her back.

Slowly the waltz turned the guest into couples. The luxurious chandeliers shone beautifully, gorgeous dresses worn by the guests, swished to and fro elegantly as men and women moved in union. The scene was refreshing and pleasing to watch. Everyone showed their dancing skills. Tonight everyone felt like a prince or Princess, and the stars shone especially over the villa. For the party tonight, Prince had only invited the younger generation like him. The old folks, who were there parents didn't come for the party as they had Michael and Chioma's wedding to prepare for.

'After their wedding we will have ours,'Audrey said, looking at Michael who was dancing with Chioma. Their cheeks were pressed close together, and their body enraptured in the flow of the music. 'I am happy for them.' She turned back to look at Daniel who was smiling sweetly at her.

'Will you marry me?' Daniel asked softly.

'We are getting married so why do you still need to propose to me?' Audrey laughed; turning her eyes towards the door, and swiftly turning it back yo Daniel.

'I want to hear it from you.'

Audrey chuckled and said, 'Whether you propose or not, I will be the only one to marry you.'

Daniel laughed as well. Then, in a few minutes, the music stopped and the guest went into pockets of conversation as they drank their wine. Then, after a moment, a soft song began playing. Prince looked at Celine, and with beautiful smiles, he embraced her rapturously. As she was in Prince's arms, he led her into the dance floor again. They danced and danced until the music came to an end.

Celine looked into Prince's eyes and said as the party came to an end, 'This is the best birthday party I have ever had.'

'And you're the only girl I have ever loved. I wasn't able to have you do this birthday in Buckingham Palace or White House, but I promise you that during your eighteenth birthday I will make sure of that.'

'How's that going to be possible? Anyway, I don’t mind where my birthdays are held. I will only be happy when I am with you.'

Prince smiled and pulled her into his embrace.

 

The Moment I Met You (Chapter 586)

By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

The following morning, the sky outside the window was already bright and beautiful when Celine woke up. The sunlight shone bright on half the room through the large French window. Since the light was bright, Celine couldn't help but raise her head to cover her eyes. Then, she sat up in bed, beaming from ear to ear at the thought of today being her sixteenth birthday.

 'Happy birthday, Celine,' Audrey said smilingly as she walked inside, dressed in a simple white floral dress.

 Celine turned towards the door with a beautiful smile. 'Today is my birthday...and big brother Michael's wedding follows...I feel so happy with everything falling into place.'

Celine received countless of gifts from friends and family. She was the happiest girl in the world. Prince wasn't able to fulfill hosting her sixteenth birthday at Buckingham Palace or White House, but he was able to convince his father to let the party take place inside Aso Rock Villa. He loved Celine more than anything in the world; he was willing to give her anything to make her happy.

By evening, and inside the presidential Villa, many of the guests started arriving for the party. Prince didn't want anyone to bring Celine to the party, and so he drove to Diamond Gardens in his black 918 Porsche to pick her for the party. He went quickly inside and gasped in awe when he saw Celine walking down the stairs, dressed in a Marilyn Monroe's white long dress. The dressed had specially being designed by Marilyn Monroe for her sixteen birthday party. The designer had made the dress with sequins which shone brightly like diamonds and the dress cost a whopping price of 1.3 million dollars.

Prince immediately stopped in his track when he saw Celine in this Beautiful dress. Celine stopped walking as well as the two stared at each other. Celine's beautiful eyes shone like a mesmerising lake, reflecting a moving and beautiful scene. The Njemanzes were indeed beautiful creatures, Prince thought with a Beautiful smile.

Celine smiled like a blooming flower and said after a moment as she walked towards him, 'I am very beautiful to the point that you can't take your ugly eyes away,' Celine laughed.

Prince laughed as well. 'You're so beautiful,' he whispered to her ears alone. 'You look like a refreshing hibiscus, an enchanting peony...you are the only one capable of redefining the meaning of beauty.'

'Am I the most beautiful woman in the world?' Celine asked with her soft and elegant voice. She was indeed asking for praise.

Prince nodded with a smile.

'Then compared to Audrey and Sharon who is the prettiest?' Celine asked with a smile.

'Of course you...' Prince nodded his heart beating very fast. If he doesn't control himself he might kiss her without minding who was watching them.

'Really?' Celine whispered.

Prince pinched her cheek lovingly and said, 'We must go already.'

Celine bit her lips shyly, exuding charming. Taking her delicate hand, he led her to the car and brought her to Aso Rock Villa, holding hands as they walked inside the hall allotted for the party.

 

The Moment I Met You (Chapter 585)

By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

At Chioma's home, just as she finished having dinner with her mother and brother and headed for the living room to rest over a glass of milk, her phone began to ring. It was a video call from Michael. Feeling happy, she took a sip of her milk and accepted his video call. Michael was at home, so the scene behind him was his bedroom. He was already dressed in his silk pyjamas, looking refreshing and handsome.

'Honey, have you had dinner?' Michael asked, looking at the drawings for the expansion of his new resort.

'Just finished with my dinner...'Chioma giggled. She was wearing an olive green shirt dress, and hadn’t changed into her night dress yet.

'Remember to drink a warm glass of milk before you go to bed,' Michael gently reminded her.

'You really want me to turn into a pig. Men will be scared away if I become fat,' she pouted.

'How will I let any man come near you? They must be courting death.' Just then, Michael saw a glass of milk on the centre table. 'Figured out you're already drinking your milk. You really wanted to turn into a pig...'

'Of course...I am certain that even if I turn into the fattest pig in this world, you'll still love and adore me.' Chioma smiled happily at him before hanging up the phone.

After Michael hung up, he curled his lips into a beautiful smile. Then, he reached for the bowl of fruits on his nightstand, picked up a strawberry and took a small bite. As he munched the strawberry, he couldn't help but smile at the conviction that Chioma was his alone.

At this same moment, Catherine had finished having a long refreshing bath. So, feeling a bit hungry; she walked downstairs to the kitchen. Opening the fridge, she took out a carton of milk and an apple and turned to head back to her room. Just then, Felix who was coming downstairs, dressed in his blue pyjamas, bumped into her by the stairs.

'Tomorrow is Celine's birthday. I am really glad to be her friend,' Catherine said to Felix with smile in her face.

Just as she was about to take a step, Felix pulled her back with his long arm, pinning her in his embrace. 'Let's go together,' Felix whispered.

Catherine's eyes widened as she had never expected Felix to say something like that. How could she easily fall for his words? Yes, she was already in love with him but hearing him just now made her think that he must be toying with her feelings. Her eyes became watery, looking like she was about to cry as she stared at him pitifully. She suddenly let go of his hug.

'I will love to go with Audrey and Celine...' Catherine found her voice after a moment of silence.

'I don't love you, that's the truth. But I can still learn to love you.' Felix said. He reached out and put his arm around Catherine's shoulder, and said again,'You need to dry your hair or you'll catch a cold.'

Audrey, who was coming out from her room, holding Barack Obama’s The Audacity of Hope, stopped in her tracks when she saw them. She was dumbstruck, was she hallucinating? But after a while, the corners of her mouth revealed a sweet smile.

Pushing the door of her room open, Catherine turned to Felix and asked,'Do you think it's right for you to come into my room?'

Felix curled his lips and said, 'I don't think so,' then, he paused and said again, 'This is my house. You're free to move out anytime.'  Catherine looked up and stared at him with a curious look.

Catherine bit into her apple, smiling as she looked back at him and said, 'I know that you wouldn't throw Chioma away. But she belongs to your brother.'

'I thought you were about to cry? What happened to your tears? Did you suck them out?'

Catherine chuckled and said, 'Yes, I had tears in my eyes, but I remembered that I shouldn't cry before someone like you. I don't want you to act smitten everyday.'

'Then, I must let you catch a cold for talking stupidly to me.' Felix blocked her path and folded his arms at his chest as he stared at her.

Catherine flung her wet hair and said, ' I might catch a cold. I need to get my hair blown dried.' She pushed him away and went to her drawer to get her hairdryer and went to the sofa to sit down. Plunging the hair dryer into an outlet, she began to blow-dry her hair.

Felix followed, glancing around the pink decorated room as she began to blow her hair. 'Don't you want to finish your apple and milk?' Felix teased her.

Catherine didn't say anything and continued to blow her hair. She wanted to eat her apple and drink her milk. But Felix was here, so how could she drink her milk in one gulp in front of this very handsome man who had a god-like figure.

'I know you eat like Chioma Chima...' His eyes were full of smile at the thought of Chioma. 'So finish your apple...'

Catherine showed him the hair dryer in her hand and curled her lips, saying, 'How can I eat in front of a man who is only talking to me just to get over Chioma?' She disdainfully waved her hand at him. 'Go away...I know that my heart beats only for you but I don't wish to star in any love story. I can't bear to die of heart attack.' She reached for the apple she had placed on the coffee table and took a big bite, ignoring Felix.

Felix snatched the hairdryer from her and said, 'I will help you dry your hair.'

Seeing that Felix meant to dry her hair, she revealed a gentle smile. How would she reject his service? She knew that he was trying to be nice to her so that he would forget about his love for Chioma and move on. Catherine didn't mind at all. As long as Felix was going to make her his woman, she wouldn't mind whether he love her or not.

She took another bite and asked, 'Don't you think I look beautiful in my red hair?'

Her hair was beautiful, silky, smooth and very soft. Instead of answering her, he couldn't help but imagine how Chioma would look like with red hair.

'I don't care whether you speak or not.' Catherine took a few bites of her apple and put what was left of the apple on the coffee table, and took out her phone, enjoying the way Felix dried her hair.

After a while, Felix was done drying her hair. He put down the hairdryer and turned to leave. No Matter what he does, it was a pure fact that he was still in love with Chioma Chima. Instead of going into his room, he decided to go to the garden. As he walked towards the luxurious garden, Audrey who was watching Ellen in the living room quickly stood up from the sofa and followed him.

Just as Felix was about to sit on one of the benches, Audrey asked, 'Are you trying to catch a cold?' Her hair and dress fluttered in the wind. She was wearing a white button up A-line dress.

Felix turned around to find Audrey standing behind him. His tall, slender sister was smiling sweetly at him.

Concern wrinkling her brows, Audrey said softly, 'Let's go back inside.'

'I don't feel like going inside,' Felix said softly as he sat down.

Audrey let out a breath, and walked to the bench, sitting beside him. 'You still love her?'

Felix nodded.

'I agree that you love her very much and will always love her, but never fail to remember that for a relationship to be perfect, love must be the fulcrum. Yes, there are people that believe that it's just enough to find someone that will be there to pour them a glass of hot water when they are sick, and hang up clothes for them after washing them. But no, you have gadgets to do all of that for you...so what you need is simply someone that will love you back and not being in an unrequited relationship...'

'I still love her… If she won't love me back, do you think I will love someone else even if they love me more than their life?'

Bright light lit up the entire garden. It was a beautiful night, but Felix seems not to like the peacefulness of the night because Chioma wasn't here with him. He tried to forget her but instead his memories of her kept flashing in his mind.

Felix looked around the beautiful garden, his eyes deep and misty. He sighed and said, 'When I traveled to the United States, I thought I would forget her but no, all that I could see was Chioma Chima. I kept dreaming about her. I remembered her smile and the sweetness of her voice.'

'That's all in the past.'

'Yes, I might be able to push her behind, but I will always cross path with her...because she's going to be a part of the Njemanze family.'

'You should move on....I remember during your secondary school days, girls fell crazily in love with you and big brother Michael,' she chuckled. 'I can never forget those girls who made banners to profess their love for you two...something like, 'Felix, Michael, we love you. We won't grow tired of loving you even if we grow old, even if you had wrinkled face in the future...'

Felix turned his head, looking at Audrey and said, 'I still remember that even when you were still in kindergarten, several boys were vying to marry you and make you their bride. How is it now, are you going to marry all of them?'

Audrey sniffed as she felt that Felix was trying to tease her.'But when I saw those banners I knew that you and big brother Michael would never fall for those girls,' Audrey continued after a while. 'Through out your life, you have always been in the headlines...your grades on every examination you took had always been one of the best...very prestigious universities offered you admission. Finally, you still chose Harvard University instead of the universities here in Nigeria while big brother Michael chose MIT...you had countless fans in school and outside school. However, you looked at the girls who were in love with you, like they were idiots. You are extremely germophobic and always kept people at arm's length. At school...'

'I had my own desk and maintained a strict distance between the rows. I even had my own time during mealtimes,' Felix interrupted, wondering what Audrey was aiming at. 'I was only very close to Michael who was extremely germophobic as well...we were treated with special treatment. Why are you remembering the past?'

'Because I want to let you know that you don't need your past...move on already? Chioma is the only woman you have falling for but...I don't want you to keep pursuing dreams that will never be fulfilled. Jessica has moved on already. You should do the same.' She raised her hand and placed it on Felix's shoulder. Enunciating each word, she said, 'When I first saw her at Star Restaurant, I thought, 'I'm going to make this girl my brother's wife for sure' I had gotten attracted to her, wanted my brother to marry the woman that I found for her, but no, destiny doesn't work that way. I didn't know that everything would turn out this way. If I knew that big brother Michael would win the sweep, I shouldn't have introduced her to you...'

'It's hard to believe that I lost in the game of love. Going back to the starting point when I had first met Chioma, I wish it will all come back again. I wish I met her before Michael did,' Felix breathed. 'I can't have Chioma but I will forever love her in my heart and I am also very happy that Michael my brother was the one that won the sweep and not a stranger.' Felix turned his head towards the apple tree, and said, 'Tomorrow is Celine's sweet sixteen birthday and two days later become Chioma's wedding...I am going to be Michael's best man,' he laughed subconsciously, as though he was going to cry.

'Everything will fall into place,' Audrey smiled. 'Let's go back inside.' Audrey stood up as she waved at Felix to follow. Together they went back inside. 

That same night, Celine got too excited to go to bed, and she chatted with Catherine as they sat in the rocking chair at the balcony. Suddenly, Celine got a Whatsapp message. Immediately, she took out her phone to check who had sent her a message. It was from Prince.

'What are you doing now?' Prince asked.

'Chatting with Catherine,' Celine replied.

'You should go to bed else you will wake up looking like a panda,' Prince teased her.

'You dare say that to me?'

'Yes...that's because I care for you.'

Celine's heart melted at Prince's words. 'I will go to sleep in a while.

'Before we travel back to Harvard, I will take you to the new seafood restaurant in the northern end of the city. I went there today with Nathan after he came back from the seaside. You'll really like the place.'

'If you take me to the seafood restaurant, then I will take you to the movies. Catherine just told me that a good movie just came out and had gotten good reviews. I will buy the tickets and take you to go and watch it with me,' Celine smiled.

'Which movie theatre?' Prince asked.

'It will be a surprise...'

'Are you ready for tomorrow?'

'Of course my prince charming,' Celine chuckled.