Yesterday's Future 2✔️

31. The D-Night

6:44pm,
Coker's estate,
Ibadan, NG

The moon cast its gentle glow upon the Coker's estate, where the festivities continued long after the reception party had officially ended. Tents were elegantly erected on the lawns, their interiors adorned with a mesmerizing tapestry of twinkling fairy lights, while the air buzzed with more merriment, lively conversations, and the vibrant rhythm of Nigerian music. The tantalizing aroma of jollof rice and an array of savory soups wafted through the air, irresistibly tempting even the fullest of stomachs.

Many of the guests had returned to their houses after the wedding reception at Florence's Park. Only a select few, the closest friends and relatives of the newlyweds had retreated back with them to the estate. It was here that Simi found herself, amidst the overflow of the celebration.

With a determined resolve, she grasped the almost empty vodka glass in her hand, the remaining drops of liquid swirling like liquid courage down her throat. The fiery sensation ignited a rush within her, infusing her with newfound bravery. In a decisive move, Simi placed the glass on the nearest table, its clinking sound fading into the background of chatter and music.

Her heart raced as she exhaled and stepped into the vibrant scene, the pulsating energy of dancing and singing enveloping her senses. Her eyes eagerly scanned the jubilant crowd, searching for familiar faces.

First, her gaze fell upon Adam and Yara as they made their entrance into the tent from another side, laughing and talking. Simi felt a twinge in her heart, but she quickly pushed the feeling aside. This was not why she came here. She had come to celebrate Tiara's big day and, more importantly, to find the closure she had sought for so long.

And then, there they were, Ada, Bode, Tari, Tina and Jameel, huddled together on one side of the festive tent, their bodies grooving to the infectious rhythm as they talked and laughed. A wave of relief washed over her when she spotted them, a sense of familiarity grounding her amidst the whirlwind of emotions.

But her gaze shifted, and at the edge of the dance floor, stood Tiaraoluwa, the radiant bride, glowing with happiness, and accompanied by her newly married husband, Mayowa, in his impeccably tailored black tuxedo. They were gracefully bidding their final rounds of appreciation to the guests, before disappearing into their own world.

As she watched them, she admired the way they moved together, and their steps synchronized with the harmony of their bond. It was a mesmerizing sight, leaving her to wonder if she would ever experience such a profound love and happiness in her own life, if she was ever going to get married and have such a blissful wedding ceremony like this.

Simi and Tiara had already crossed paths at the earlier reception party, exchanging warm kisses and pleasantries, and even taking beautiful photos. Simi wasted no time in expressing her apologies for arriving late and missing out on performing at her wedding. Despite Tiara's reassurance that it wasn't a big deal anymore, Simi couldn't shake off her own disappointment and regret.

But now, looking at the bride, she couldn't help but be captivated by her angelic beauty, in her breathtaking wedding gown that commanded attention and admiration from all who beheld it—the details, the pearls, the glittering fabric and the perfect off shoulder style. Their eyes instantaneously met, Tiara gestured for her to come over with her hand and Simi mustered a heartfelt smile as she approached the newlyweds, feeling a mix of emotions. On one hand, she was thrilled to have made it in time for Tiara's wedding. On the other hand, she couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy whenever she saw Adam with Yara.

Somewhere behind them, Yara, brimming with excitement, tugged at Adam's arm with an irresistible force. Reluctantly, he followed her, allowing himself to be led to the center of the makeshift dance floor, under the sparkling lights. As they moved to the rhythm, Adam leaned in, his voice barely audible above the music, and asked if she was enjoying herself. Yara's eyes gleamed with joy as she spun gracefully, her voice filled with uncontainable glee.