Amidst the bustling market, Louisa's voice, bright and cheery, echoed through the market: 'Fresh mangoes, oranges, pineapples—the best in Abuja!' Her stall overflowed with vibrant, colourful fruits, each gleaming in the afternoon sun. Satisfied customers clutched overflowing bags, smiles mirroring Louisa's own as she sold her fruits.
The market was full of energy, buzzing like a busy beehive. Sellers moved quickly, calling out to customers, their voices mixing with music from loudspeakers, adding to the lively atmosphere. Sharon hadn't expected Jessica to bring her to such a crowded place for shopping—she had imagined a fancy mall instead. But as they walked through the market, Sharon couldn't help but look around. Stalls overflowed with goods—vibrant carpets, hand-carved statues shining in the sunlight, and piles of spices filling the air with rich, exotic scents.
Everywhere Sharon looked, there was something colourful to see. Street sellers in bright Ankara fabrics moved through the crowd, balancing large trays on their heads with ease. Green plantains shimmered in the sunlight as they rested on strong shoulders. Baskets overflowed with red tomatoes, their sweet and tangy scent filling the air.
The air was filled with different smells. The smoky aroma of suya grilling mixed with the sweet, buttery scent of roasting corn, its kernels popping like tiny fireworks. A playful breeze carried the rich scents of the market, tickling Sharon's nose. It hinted at something cold and refreshing—soon, the sound of metal bells rang out as ice cream sellers pushed their colourful carts, offering a cool treat in the midday heat.
There were plenty of drinks to quench thirst. Clear sachet water, sealed in plastic bags with colourful logos, hung from simple stands. For those wanting more, bottles of water stood in tall stacks, their cool droplets shining in the sunlight like tiny diamonds.
The market had more than just fruit, though there were many kinds. Pineapples with spiky green tops sat next to shiny purple eggplants and fresh green okra. Baskets were filled with bright red peppers and even onions.
Beyond the fruits and vegetables, another part of the market came to life. Butchers with rough hands skillfully cut fresh meat, its scent mixing with the air. Women in bright headwraps sat beside large heaps of rice, its white grains promising a filling meal. Different types of beans were piled on tables, while sweet potatoes and cassava tubers were neatly arranged on the ground.
Everywhere Sharon looked, there was something delicious to try. Golden, crispy bean cakes were ready for hungry customers. Women in colourful headwraps stirred steaming pots of rich stews, their tempting smells filling the air. For those willing to try something different, some stalls offered skewered bush meat, its crunchy shell shining under the sunlight.
Sharon, on the other hand, stood out like a single orchid in a field of bright red lilies. This wasn't just a market—it was alive, full of energy, colour, and excitement. At first, she felt unsure, but curiosity slowly replaced her hesitation. Jessica, always mysterious, had a reason for bringing her here. For the first time, Sharon felt a spark of excitement. Maybe this lively market, with its endless sights and surprises, would help her understand Jessica's true purpose.
As they walked past carts filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, Sharon couldn't help but admire how fresh everything looked. Her eyes rested on the bright mangoes, some turning golden at the edges, and the shiny red tomatoes glowing in the sunlight. A sudden longing filled her. Though the market was exciting, a small doubt remained. She glanced at Jessica, but her mysterious smile didn't make her feel any less uneasy.
'We will purchase an abundance of fruits and vegetables from a luxury mall,' Jessica declared, her voice light and carefree. 'Consider it my treat. I understand that as the President's daughter, you deserve nothing less than the finest quality. We'll head to the mall after we complete a small task.'
Sharon's brow furrowed. 'I can't help but feel suspicious,' Sharon retorted. 'I know there's more to your plan than meets the eye.'
Jessica chuckled, a sound both musical and unsettling. She offered no explanation, instead leading Sharon towards an enticing ice cream and cake shop, adorned with an array of mouthwatering desserts. Sharon's eyes widened at the sight of the perfectly frosted cakes and colourful ice cream tubs. A delicious wave of nostalgia washed over her, momentarily erasing her apprehension. Yet, she hesitated, concerned about the quality of the treats in this bustling environment. Though the cool treats held a powerful allure, Sharon decided she would prefer the sterile environment of the mall.
Just as she was about to voice her preference, Jessica pointed at a strawberry cake, one of Sharon's all-time favourites. 'I'll take this strawberry cake and a vanilla ice cream. Make it two, please,' she instructed the shop attendant with confidence.
The attendant swiftly assembled the cakes, placing them in separate boxes before handing them over. Sharon couldn't shake off her suspicions about Jessica's intentions.
As the two exited the shop, a tall woman, dressed in a blue blouse and tight-fitting trousers, approached them with a shopping bag in hand. Her hair cascaded freely, and a subtle touch of makeup adorned her face. Jessica offered a smile, but Sharon sensed that something was amiss. Raising her head, the woman, Julia, exchanged glances with Jessica before acknowledging Sharon with a greeting.
'Why are you wandering in the market? Couldn't you have assigned your servants to assist you? Besides, a princess like you shouldn't be purchasing goods from such a cheap place,' Julia remarked.
Jessica's eyes narrowed as she met Julia's gaze. 'To understand the plight of one's people, a king or emperor must dress as a commoner and interact with them,' Jessica explained with a smirk. Jessica donned a black dress with a matching blazer, complemented by a silver belt and pearl drop earrings.
'But you hardly resemble a commoner. Your attire is more akin to that of a Duchess visiting the market. Here, amidst the market chaos, you stand out with grace,' Sharon observed, her gaze fixed on Jessica. 'So, do tell me, what exactly is your plan this time?' Sharon pressed, her gaze fixed on Jessica.
Jessica glared at Sharon from the corner of her eyes, her response curt. 'You'll find out soon enough.'
At that very moment, amidst the bustling fruit and vegetable line, Louisa, engrossed in selling apples to a customer, glanced up and noticed four men approaching her. Clad in attire befitting gangsters, with slicked-back hair, silver chains, ripped jeans, menacing expressions, and cigarettes dangling from their mouths, their presence immediately wiped the smile off Louisa's face. She could sense that something was awry.
'Old woman, someone reported that you stole his wallet,' one of the men declared, his voice gruff.
Louisa's brow furrowed in indignation. 'Who told you that? Did you fabricate this story?'
'And I also heard that you haven't been paying for your allocated space or protection fee,' added another man, his voice dripping with insinuation.
'I have always paid for my allocated space, but I have never paid a protection fee because I don't have a stall. I push my cart home every day,' Louisa replied, her voice filled with a mix of frustration and disbelief.
'Well, you better return the wallet to the man,' declared the broad-shouldered man in a threatening tone as he picked up an apple from Louisa's cart, took two large bites, and callously discarded the remainder onto the ground.
'Can I see the man?' Louisa enquired, her gaze shifting as a young man, sporting a brown vest, black trousers, and a pair of green plastic slippers, emerged from the sidelines.
The young man's hair was disheveled, but his face exuded a mature and handsome charm. Louisa couldn't help but notice that he was still young and had the potential to find decent employment instead of engaging in such activities. She couldn't help but think that a city like Abuja should not harbour individuals like these men, as they tarnished the city's reputation.
'Hand over my wallet, or I will drag you to the police station and ensure you rot there,' the young man, Ibrahim, threatened.
'Ibrahim, we are here to retrieve your wallet,' one of the men reassured him.
'You guys should be focused on studying instead of duping people,' Louisa interjected, her voice tinged with disappointment.
'You might as well call us hoodlums or even unknown gunmen... we don't care. We're just doing our job,' one of the men callously replied.
'Please, all I want is to sell my fruits and go home in peace,' Louisa calmly pleaded, attempting to ignore the men's intimidation.
'How dare you ask us to leave?' one of them yelled, violently yanking Louisa's hair.
Caught off guard, Louisa had turned to attend to a customer when her hair was abruptly jerked, leaving her scalp tingling and numb.
'Stop it!' Louisa exclaimed loudly, drawing the attention of passersby to the distressing scene.
The man smirked, unfazed. 'I have no intention of stopping. What are you going to do? Just return Ibrahim's wallet, pay for your allocated space and protection fee, and we'll leave you in peace. Otherwise, we'll feast on all your fruits.'
'But those who don't operate stalls shouldn't have to pay a protection fee, and I know Louisa would never steal from anyone,' one of the onlookers chimed in, defending Louisa.
'Hah! Louisa suddenly has supporters now. Unfortunately, we won't pay heed to anyone,' one of the hoodlums mockingly scoffed.
Another hoodlum joined in, wild laughter escaping his lips. 'It's time we teach Louisa a lesson, and then we'll take her to the police station,' he declared. Without waiting for Louisa to say more, he viciously kicked her in the abdomen, sending her flying into a nearby garbage bin. The remnants of fruits and vegetables covered her body, drenching her clothes in filthy water.
Louisa felt both pain and tears welling up in her eyes, and the putrid stench of the garbage made her sneeze.
Ibrahim said, sarcastically, 'This old woman loves to play action movies. I'm sure she'll do well playing James Bond.' The hoodlums laughed at his remark. Ibrahim then callously took the fruits that belonged to Louisa and threw them at her, smashing some of them. 'I'll even learn martial arts just for you, Louisa,' he taunted.
Several onlookers witnessed the assault on Louisa, but none of them dared to intervene. These hoodlums had always been domineering, instilling fear in everyone around them. Even the man who spoke up for Louisa became afraid and retreated into his own shell. Louisa was wrongly accused of stealing, and the onlookers feared being dragged into the chaotic situation.
Suddenly, a captivating voice rang out, breaking the tension. 'Who gave you the right to treat this woman like this?' the voice exclaimed.
The hoodlums were about to drag Louisa out and subject her to further violence when they heard the voice. Startled, they turned their attention towards it. Behind Jessica stood Sharon, dressed in a white shirt dress, paired with bright pink earrings and nude heels.
Focusing his gaze on Jessica, Ibrahim asked, 'Madam Jessica, what are you doing here?'
'What's going on here?' Jessica enquired, her voice filled with concern. A flicker of something in her eyes—amusement? Sharon couldn't be sure.
Ibrahim chuckled. 'I respect you so much, but I can't tell you.' With that, he slapped Jessica across the face. A collective gasp rippled through the crowd. 'How dare you enquire about what's happening?' he snapped angrily.
The onlookers gasped in shock. Good heavens! This man had the audacity to strike Jessica, who came from a wealthy and influential family. What's more, she was rumoured to be Michael's girlfriend. Was this some kind of staged performance? Could Jessica have planned this herself? Well, Jessica wouldn't be foolish enough to harm herself, the onlookers thought.
One of the hoodlums glared daggers at Jessica. 'You deserve what you got,' he seethed, tightly gripping her hand.
'I will make all of you pay for this!' Jessica gritted her teeth, breaking free from his grasp. Her performance was convincing, but a sliver of doubt gnawed at Sharon. This wasn't the Jessica she knew.
Just then, a police car passed by, and two policemen in their smart uniforms stepped out, approaching the scene with stern expressions.
The leading police officer asked coldly, 'Where is Louisa Chima? She was reported to have stolen a wallet from one Ibrahim.'
'She's over there,' one of the hoodlums pointed towards the garbage bin. 'She hid herself in there as soon as she saw the police coming.'
Louisa was extracted from the garbage bin, bewildered as to why this was happening to her. She suspected that someone had orchestrated this, but she couldn't determine who. 'Sir, why are you looking for me?' she asked, seeking an explanation.
The police officer flashed his badge and arrogantly replied, 'I am an officer of the Nigeria Police Force. Someone reported you as a habitual thief in this market. We need to bring you to the police station for questioning.'
In a moment of realisation, Louisa understood that the hoodlums had been heavily paid to carry out this act. It became evident that the mastermind had connections within the police force, manipulating them to suit their nefarious agenda.
Sharon rushed forward to explain, 'Please, I think there's been a misunderstanding. Louisa wouldn't do something like that. I don't believe she could steal from anyone.' Her voice shook with a mix of disbelief and anger.
'We've heard about numerous thefts happening in Abuja. If we don't take action, it will continue,' the leading police officer responded dismissively.
'What about the hoodlums? They even slapped my friend... What will you do about them?' Sharon enquired her voice rising.
'Your friend never reported anything to us,' the leading police officer stated firmly, waving his hand as he signalled for another police officer to step forward.
'Please, call my children,' Louisa pleaded after being handcuffed.
Sharon glanced at Jessica, and in that moment, Jessica's earlier words flashed in her mind. It became clear to Sharon that Jessica had orchestrated this scene while pretending to care. Jessica had even allowed herself to be slapped. She had scripted the whole scenario and willingly played her part. Sharon couldn't help but curl her lips in disdain.
After the police officers took Louisa away and the hoodlums disappeared, the onlookers, consisting of traders and shoppers, began loudly cursing the police and hoodlums. 'What a shameless country, filled with hoodlums and criminals in police clothing,' some exclaimed.
'This country will never improve with such people around,' others voiced their frustration.
Each of the onlookers had their own opinion, but they would never dare to express it in front of the police or the hoodlums.
When Jessica and Sharon returned to the car park, Jessica moved to open the door to the driver's seat, but Sharon quickly blocked her.
'What kind of movie were you acting in just now?' Sharon asked, her voice laced with venom. The smile that had been plastered on her face was gone, replaced by a cold fury.
'I'm not a movie star,' Jessica pretended not to understand Sharon's question.
'You're still pretending not to know?' Sharon gave her a cold smile, the amusement nowhere near her eyes. Disappointment settled heavily in Sharon's stomach, a cold weight that tightened her throat. How could Jessica, her friend, orchestrate such a cruel scene?
Jessica had initially planned not to disclose her scheme to Sharon, but since Sharon had already discovered the truth, she decided to come clean.
'How could you plot all of this? What has Chioma ever done to you? We arrived yesterday from Paris, and this is how you repay Michael?' Sharon demanded, her voice laced with anger.
'I'm not after Michael,' Jessica replied.
'Even so, Michael is Chioma's boyfriend. Why do you relish playing the role of a villain? You could have been a leading character, but you shamefully chose a role that will ruin your future. Stooping so low, you even came to this market, bought ice cream and cake, only to throw them away...' Sharon's disappointment was evident in her voice.
Internally, Jessica scoffed. Leading role? More like a damsel in distress, forever waiting for Michael to notice her. Playing the villain offered power, control. It was the only way to get close to Michael and expose Chioma for the gold-digger Jessica believed her to be.
'I could retrieve them from the garbage bin for you. Let's go home,' Jessica suggested, making her way towards the driver's seat. Sharon reluctantly got into the passenger seat, sighing with disappointment. If she had come with her own car, she wouldn't have gotten into Jessica's car.
Jessica's hand glided over the smooth surface of the steering wheel, her fingers curling around it with practiced ease. With a soft press of her foot on the accelerator, the engine roared to life, emitting a low, rumbling growl that reverberated through the sleek red Porsche. The car jerked forward, its tires gripping the asphalt with a determined force as it surged ahead, leaving behind a swirling cloud of dust and a trail of exhaust fumes in its wake.
With one hand on the steering wheel, Jessica used her free hand to reach for her phone resting in the console as it buzzed with an incoming call. 'It's Nathan calling,' she announced before answering the call.
Casting a glance at her, Sharon muttered, 'You don't love my brother who loves you deeply, yet you'd rather love a man who doesn't even care about your existence.'
Jessica pretended not to have heard what Sharon said. After speaking with Nathan, she hung up the call.
Shortly after the car pulled up to a grand restaurant, the Ojukwu family crest gleaming above the entrance. The luxurious restaurant was owned by the Ojukwu family. Jessica parked the car at the entrance, they stepped out, the cool air blowing gently on them.
Inside, the atmosphere was opulent, with soft lighting casting a warm glow over the polished surfaces. Jessica and Sharon made their way to the private room, passing elegant decor and attentive staff along the way.
Sharon placed her palm on the biometric scanner, granting them access as the door slid open with a soft whoosh, revealing the room where Nathan and Prince were already seated, surrounded by an array of delicious dishes. Only Nathan, Sharon, and Prince had their palm prints registered, ensuring exclusive access to the room.
Jessica settled into her chair, a practiced smile plastered on her face. She reached for a glass of champagne, the delicate crystal cool against her fingertips, and took a sip, the effervescent bubbles tickling her palate.
As the waiter finished pouring, Nathan raised his glass, his voice filled with genuine happiness and anticipation. 'It's my pleasure,' Nathan declared, 'to propose a toast to my beloved fiancée, Jessica. Here's to our happily ever after.'
Sharon looked at the two of them, perplexed by what was happening. She gulped down her champagne in one go. Prince was equally confused. He knew how much Jessica loved Michael and despised Nathan, so the toast came as a surprise to him.
'Brother, I know how much you love Jessica, and I know how much she hates you. Why did she suddenly agree to you?' Sharon asked Nathan, her gaze fixed on Jessica.
Jessica placed her hand on Sharon's shoulder and replied, 'Sharon, I have thought it through and decided to accept your brother.'
Prince couldn't help but voice his skepticism, his tone tinged with suspicion. 'What are you really planning?'
'Love,' Jessica stated. 'I promise to love Nathan as my better half with all my heart.' Inwardly, she cursed herself, thinking, Nonsense!I'm only with Nathan to use him as a cover for my plans, so no one will ever suspect my true intentions. Once I win Michael over, I won't hesitate to drop Nathan like a hot potato. But to win Michael, I need to come up with a better plan to destroy Chioma. I want to see her on her knees, begging for mercy. Otherwise, I won't find peace in my heart.
Sharon glanced at Jessica and pondered, I've witnessed many scenes like this. They come together, perhaps not truly loving each other, but destiny finds a way to make them inseparable. That might be the case for you. But how much will you hurt Chioma before realising you need to stop fighting her and start loving my brother instead? Sharon took a sip of her champagne and forced a smile. 'I'm glad you've realised that loving my brother is the best choice.' She turned to Nathan. 'Now, where's the ring?'
Jessica frowned but quickly composed herself as Nathan waved his hand, prompting a waiter to enter the room swiftly carrying a bouquet of roses and a box.
'Ah, my big brother is quite romantic,' Prince chuckled as Nathan approached Jessica, kneeling beside her.
'Jess,' Nathan whispered, suddenly at a loss for words. It was as though he had forgotten all the eloquent proposals from romantic movies he had once memorised. The reason for his hesitation? It wasn't that he didn't know what to say; it was that he was utterly captivated by this woman and her beauty. Nathan extended a bouquet of roses and a box of chocolates, and with genuine emotion, he implored, 'Please, will you marry me?'
Jessica forced a smile. 'And if I don't?' She smelled one of the long-stemmed roses. 'What will you do?'
'I'll die, I swear it, Jess...'
I'd love it if you disappeared from here. I love Michael, not you, Jessica thought, maintaining a sweet smile. 'We don't have to rush things. We can announce our engagement to the public and carefully plan our wedding.'
Nathan embraced her, having waited for this moment for so long, and kissed her as if his life depended on it. He kissed her with such intensity that Jessica found herself gasping for breath. Before she could gather her thoughts or curse him silently, Nathan retrieved a small box from his suit pocket. 'This is for you, a pledge of my undying love.'
'I hate listening to our country's pledge. It's so dull. Tell your father to change it,' Jessica remarked with a hint of annoyance. Then, she lowered her head and opened the box, revealing a meticulously crafted ring adorned with a stunning diamond, held in place by six delicate platinum prongs. Its sleek silhouette and flawless finish exemplified timeless design, proving that simplicity could be truly breathtaking.
Nathan had purchased the engagement ring for a significant sum, hoping that Jessica would appreciate it. He had put great thought and care into selecting the perfect ring. Anxiously, he asked, 'Do you like it?' He feared that she might reject his proposal or have a change of heart.
'They are beautiful,' Jessica replied, and Nathan breathed a sigh of relief. However, the idea of Nathan becoming her husband irritated her. She would have felt happier if these gifts had come from Michael. She imagined herself leaning into Michael's embrace, their connection unbreakable, and indulged in the fantasy of passionately kissing him.
Nathan longed to share the news not only with his parents and friends but with the entire world. Yet, Sharon sensed that although Jessica was physically present, her heart resided elsewhere. Perhaps she was envisioning Michael instead of Nathan.