SHADOWS OF DECEIT
Episode 4
The next day, Chidi found himself driving towards Grace’s fruit stall, eager to see her again. As he pulled over, he noticed her bright smile and sparkling eyes, and his heart skipped a beat.
“Good morning, Chidi! Welcome back,” Grace exclaimed, her voice warm and inviting.
Chidi returned her smile, feeling a sense of joy. “Good morning, Grace. I couldn’t resist coming back for more of your delicious fruits.”
Grace chuckled. “You could have just called me, and I would have delivered them to your doorstep.”
Chidi shook his head, his eyes locked on hers. “No, I wanted to come see you again. I enjoyed our conversation yesterday, and I couldn’t wait to chat with you some more.”
Grace’s face lit up with a radiant smile. “I’m glad you did. I enjoyed talking to you too.”
As they chatted and laughed together, Chidi felt a connection growing between them. He selected some fruits, and Grace helped him bag them, their hands touching briefly.
“I’ll see you tomorrow, then?” Grace asked, her eyes sparkling.
Chidi grinned. “Definitely. I’ll come back for more fruits…and conversation.”
As he drove away, Chidi felt a sense of happiness he hadn’t felt in a long time. He looked forward to seeing Grace again and exploring the possibility of a new friendship…or something more.
Chidi and Grace started talking on the phone every day for weeks, sharing gists and laughter. Their friendship had grown stronger with each passing day. One evening, Chidi decided to take their friendship to the next level. “Hey Grace, I was thinking…why don’t you come over for dinner this weekend?” he asked, trying to sound casual.
Grace’s response was immediate. “I’d love to! What time should I come over?”
Chidi’s heart skipped a beat. “How about 6 pm?”
The day of the dinner arrived, and Chidi found himself nervously pacing around his living room. He heard a knock on the door and took a deep breath before opening it.
That’s when he saw her, standing in his doorway with a bright smile on her face. Chidi was taken aback by her beauty, and for a moment, he forgot to speak. Grace looked stunning in a yellow sundress, her hair styled perfectly, and her eyes sparkling with warmth.
“Hey, Chidi! Hope I’m not late,” Grace said, breaking the silence.
Chidi recollected himself, feeling a flush rise to his cheeks. “No, no, you’re right on time. Please come in.”
As he stepped aside to let her in, Chidi couldn’t help but notice the way her eyes lit up as she took in his home. He felt proud to have her there, and he knew that this was just the beginning of something special.
As the evening unfolded, Chidi found himself captivated by Grace’s presence. Her beauty and charm left him speechless, and he struggled to find the right words to say. But as they sat down for dinner, he began to relax and open up.
Over a delicious meal, they talked about everything from their favorite hobbies to their childhood memories. Chidi was amazed at how much they had in common, and he found himself feeling drawn to her warmth and kindness.
As they moved to the sitting room after dinner to relax , Grace asked him about his job. Chidi hesitated for a moment before responding, “I’m a managing director in an oil firm.”
Grace’s eyes widened in surprise. “Wow, that’s impressive! I wouldn’t have guessed.”
Chidi smiled, feeling a sense of pride. “Yeah, it’s a challenging job, but I enjoy it.”
Grace leaned in, her curiosity piqued. “And what about your personal life? Are you married?”
Chidi’s expression faltered, and he looked away, unsure of how much to reveal. “I was married once,” he said quietly. “But it didn’t work out.”
Grace’s voice was gentle. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to pry.”
Chidi forced a smile, not wanting to delve deeper into his past. “It’s okay. Let’s just say it was a complicated situation.”
Grace nodded understandingly, and they sat in comfortable silence for a moment, enjoying each other’s company.
After some time, Chidi turned to Grace with a curious expression. “So, Grace, tell me more about yourself. What did you study in school?”
Grace’s eyes sparkled as she began to share her story. “I studied accounting, but unfortunately, I couldn’t find a job in my field. So, I resorted to selling fruits to make ends meet.”
Chidi’s face lit up with admiration. “Wow, I applaud you for your hard work and determination. Not everyone can do what you’re doing.”
Grace blushed, looking down. “Thank you, Chidi. It means a lot to me.”
Chidi’s gaze lingered on her face, taking in her beauty and strength. He couldn’t believe how much he had grown to care for her in just a month.
“Grace,” he said, his voice low and gentle. “I know we’ve only known each other for a short time, but I have to be honest with you. I’m really into you. I want you to be my girlfriend.”
Grace’s eyes widened in surprise, but then a smile spread across her face. “I like you too, Chidi. I’ve felt a connection with you from the start.”
Chidi’s heart soared as he leaned closer to her. Their lips met in a passionate kiss, the chemistry between them undeniable.
As they pulled away, gasping for air, Chidi smiled. “I’m so glad we met, Grace. You’re an amazing woman.”
Grace’s eyes sparkled. “I’m glad too, Chidi. I feel like I’ve found someone special.”.
To be continued……
Story by Vivi
