MR. DEEN

Fifty Five| This Is Us Now

D E E N

The bustling streets of London were a world away from the warmth and vibrancy of Nigeria, but duty had called me here. As I gazed out of the window of my hotel room, I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. Today was Vanessa's birthday, and I wasn't there to celebrate it with her. But I had a plan, a surprise that would make up for my absence, until I could figure out how to get back to Nigeria.

I had already spoken to Vanessa's parents, who were more than happy to play along with my scheme. They knew how much she meant to me, and they understood the sacrifices I had to make for my job. They promised not to spill the beans and assured me that they would do everything in their power to make this surprise extra special.

I had spent days meticulously selecting the perfect gifts for Vanessa. I wanted to make sure she felt loved and cherished, even from thousands of miles away. I had arranged for a bouquet of her favorite flowers to be delivered to her doorstep, along with a handwritten note expressing my love and regret for not being there. But that wasn't all.

I had also arranged for a delivery of the latest iPhone, a symbol of our constant connection despite the physical distance. I knew how much she had been eyeing that sleek device, and I wanted to give her something that would make her smile, even in my absence. And to top it all off, I had secretly transferred a substantial sum of money into her bank account – a staggering $200,000. I wanted her to know that distance meant nothing when it came to spoiling her.

As the day wore on, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation mixed with nervousness. I knew Vanessa would be thrilled by the surprise, but I also knew that she was feeling a little down about my absence. I had sensed it in her voice during our daily phone calls, and it tugged at my heartstrings. I wanted to be there for her, to hold her close and make her feel loved. And tonight, I would finally be able to do just that.

After a long day of meetings and a seemingly endless stream of emails, I hurriedly packed my bags and made my way to the airport. The flight to Nigeria felt like an eternity, but every minute brought me closer to Vanessa. The excitement of the surprise kept me going, even as exhaustion threatened to take over.

As I sat in the backseat of the car, my heart raced with anticipation. The driver maneuvered through the bustling streets of Lagos, honking at the occasional reckless drivers, and navigating through the chaotic traffic. But amidst the chaos, I was lost in my own world, engrossed in the phone call with Vanessa.

"... I would have had dinner at Kohinoor, but I'm not all that strong and I really don't want to start thinking of a dress because I didn't even shop for anything new," she said, and exhaled. "My mum's setting the table right now, I guess. Just a quiet dinner, and I go take my last injection tomorrow morning."

"Aww my love, everything's going to go well tonight I promise, you really don't have to overthink."

"Babe, please I want you here. My birthday is boring. I mean, I've had many birthday wishes from followers on IG and X, but I want you here. Where are you?"

"Guess."

"Did you travel for another business trip?"

"I travelled."

"Again?"

"Yes, love."

She groaned. "Where to now?"

"Are you sure you can't guess where I am, love?" I asked, a mischievous smile playing on my lips.