“IN LOVE WITH MY BROTHER’S FRIEND”
Episode 8
The following morning, by 7 am, everyone began entering the dining room for breakfast. Among the early arrivals were Babs and Derin. Babs was surprised to find Abiodun and Kemi sharing a breakfast table, and it made him feel quite uncomfortable. Choosing a table that offered a clear view of theirs, he observed them closely. The ease with which they conversed and laughed bothered Babs; it was evident that Kemi was comfortable in Abiodun’s company. This didn’t sit well with Babs, and although he attempted to focus on his breakfast, he found his appetite had already gone.
Meanwhile, Kemi was merely putting on an act. The moment she spotted Babs entering, she initiated a conversation and behaved overly familiar with Abiodun, intentionally aiming to provoke jealousy in Babs.
“So, you fancy him, huh?”
“What are you talking about?”
“I can tell from the way you suddenly started acting all familiar with me that you were trying to grab his attention. And judging by his reaction, it seems it’s working.”
“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”
“Sure, you do. I think you should go for it. He’s making a mistake marrying that girl; she’s not who she appears to be.”
“Do you know something we don’t?”
“I’m not called the original bad boy for nothing. I can sense these things. But don’t worry, I’ll assist you by pretending we’re involved.”
“And what’s in it for you?”
His expression turned serious. “This is my second divorce, and my wife is aiming to take everything. I can’t afford to worsen my situation this weekend. You’ve been my buffer; two women showed up at my door last night, offering company. It was tempting, but there’s too much at stake for me.”
“And here I thought I was irresistible.”
“Undoubtedly, you’re the most enchanting woman in this resort, but adding Remi to my problems right now is not an option. He’s not someone to underestimate.”
Throughout the day, it seemed like Babs and Abiodun competed for Kemi’s attention. They competed in running, swimming, and squad bike races. At some point, Derin grew bored and headed back to her room. Kemi later retreated to her room for some rest. She ordered room service and skipped lunch with them. Together with Moyo they had lunch in her room and talked about the event of the afternoon. Moyo warned Kemi to be careful as things seemed to be getting out of hand. They ended up serving siesta together. Moyo only returned to her room to get ready for the party scheduled for later that night.
Abiodun watched Derin closely during the entire lunch session. His instincts rarely fail him and if his suspicions were correct, Babs had no idea what he was getting himself into by marrying her. Returning to his room after lunch, he made a call. “I’m sending you some information and a photo. I need you to dig for any details you can find on her starting now.” After the call, he forwarded all the necessary information.
Kemi made a late entrance to the party, and as she arrived, Abiodun was waiting.
“You look especially beautiful tonight, Kemi.”
“Thank you, and you look dangerous.”
Biodun chuckled “Drinks?”
“Yes, please.” Kemi surveyed the room and spotted Moyo and her husband approaching.
“Hey Moyo, hi Laide.”
“Where have you been? You’ve been missing; this party is amazing.” Moyo announced.
“You should slow down on the alcohol, Moyo,” cautioned Laide.
“Come on, babe, what’s the essence of going to a party if you can’t drink?”
“Laide is right; you know you have a light brain,” added Kemi.
“Well, this is why he is here, to keep me out of trouble.” Abiodun returned with the drinks, and Kemi made the introduction. As Laide and Abiodun talked, Kemi’s eyes scanned the hall again.
“Are you looking for him?” Moyo whispered.
“Who?” Kemi asked.
She laughed, clearly having had too much to drink. “Babs, of course. He’s on the right side of the hall by the flower pots, looking right at you.” As Kemi turned, her eyes met Babs’, and they locked gazes. It was as if they were the only two people in the room. Just then, Derin appeared beside him, and he looked down at her. Kemi quickly averted her eyes. After a while, Abiodun and Kemi danced. Some of the girls at the party tried to get him to dance with them, but he rejected their advances.
After a while, Laide informed Kemi that Moyo was too tipsy, and he was taking her to their room. After they left, Abiodun and Kemi went in search of something to eat. Remi, Emeka, and Babs stood and watched Kemi and Abiodun walk hand in hand towards the buffet.
“Abiodun is asking for it tonight,” Remi complained.
“He’s the same old bastard,” Emeka added.
“I already warned him that if he tried anything with my sister, Lagos would be too small for him to hide.”
As the discussion unfolded, Babs remained quiet. This is another reason he couldn’t entertain the thought of being with Kemi—Remi would never allow it. Remi was too protective of her, even though she was an adult with a boyfriend. At that moment, it didn’t occur to Babs that he could fight for Kemi if he wanted to. That’s how loyal he was to Remi.
After some time, Shalewa approached Remi.
“Babe, I need to change into my last dress for tonight.”
“Another one?” Babs inquired.
“Yes, fashion designers gave me these dresses to showcase for them, knowing the publicity our wedding will get.”
“Oh, okay, that makes sense. This one you’re wearing is perfect. Who made this?”
“Soks Nath’s Fashion.”
Remi addressed her, “Alright, let’s go.” And to his friends, he said, “Keep an eye on them.”
