Binary Hearts

22| Surprises 🤗🥳

Adaora woke up early the next day, feeling rejuvenated and excited about her plan. She headed to the kitchen to prepare Edikaikong soup and semo, using the ingredients Chidi had bought for her the previous day. She laid out the periwinkles, ncob, dried fish, goat meat, catfish, and crayfish, along with other essential spices and vegetables.

As she started cooking, she played Ayo Maff's music on her phone. The lively beats and catchy lyrics filled the kitchen, and she found herself dancing along as she prepared the meal. The aroma of the soup began to fill the air, mixing with the upbeat rhythm of the music.

"I no go lie, you dey enter my eye, you make me feel alright, every day and night..." Ada sang along, her voice blending with Ayo Maff's.

The kitchen was soon bustling with activity. Ada began by cutting peppers and tomatoes, her knife moving swiftly as the vibrant colors piled up on the cutting board. She set a pot of water on the stove and added the goat meat legs, seasoning them with curry and thyme, letting them boil to tenderness.

Meanwhile, she carefully cut the periwinkles with her small cutlass, wincing slightly when she nicked her finger. Quickly, she tied her hand with a wrap of cloth to stop the bleeding and continued cooking.

She rinsed the ncob thoroughly and sliced the ugwu leaves into thin strips. Ada then added a generous amount of palm oil to the pot, followed by locust beans, stirring until the mixture was fragrant.

The periwinkles and ncob went in next, their flavors melding into the rich, bubbling soup. She added the dried fish and goat meat, each piece releasing its unique aroma into the broth. As the soup simmered, Ada tasted it, smiling at the perfect blend of spices and ingredients.

Next, she moved on to the semo. This was trickier for her, and she decided to call Tunde for help.

"Hello, Tunde," Ada said when he picked up.

"Hey, Ada. What's up?" Tunde replied cheerfully.

"I need your help with something. How do I cook semo?" Ada asked.

Tunde chuckled. "You're cooking something delicious, I see. I'll come and eat some of it."

"Sure, you're one of the reasons I cooked it," Ada replied playfully.

Tunde then explained the process step by step. "First, boil some water. Then, gradually add the semo flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until it thickens."

Ada followed his instructions, her heart fluttering as they talked. "You're really good at this, Tunde. Did you learn catering or something?"

Tunde laughed. "Not really, but I do enjoy cooking. Just keep stirring, you're doing great."

Finally, the semo was ready. Ada dished the Edikaikong soup into two flasks and wrapped the semo in nylon, planning to surprise Chidi with his favorite meal as a thank you for his kindness.

She called Chidi. "Hello, Chidi. I have a surprise for you," she said.

"What's that? Hint me," Chidi asked curiously.

"You'll see. Just send me your address," Ada replied, keeping the suspense alive.

Chidi sent his address immediately, and Ada packed the flasks and headed out. When she arrived at Chidi's mansion, she was awestruck by its size and grandeur. The property was guarded by 16 security personnel, adding to its imposing presence.

Meanwhile, Tunde was happily rounding off at Spike Technologies in the island and decided to head to Ada's house. When he arrived, the gateman informed him that Ada wasn't around but allowed him in. The aroma of the food filled the house, and Tunde couldn't wait any longer. He rushed to the kitchen and was surprised to see it fully stocked with foodstuffs.

"Wow!" Tunde said to himself, rubbing his palms together in pleasure.

At Chidi's mansion, Ada parked outside and was shocked to see the formidable billionaire Mr. Okoye himself coming out with six bodyguards. She couldn't bring herself to get out of the car and immediately dialed Chidi's number, but he didn't pick up. She kept dialing, growing increasingly anxious.

One of the bodyguards knocked on her window. "Ma'am, how can I help you?" he asked in a thick voice.

Ada got down from the car and said, "I'm looking for Mr. Chidi Okoye."

The bodyguard led her closer to the gate where Mr. Okoye was standing. He cleared his throat and asked strictly, "Who are you?"

Before Ada could respond, one of the bodyguards informed Chidi about her presence, and he immediately rushed outside. "She's my guest," Chidi said to his father, who looked at Ada with a scrutinizing gaze.

"Follow me," Chidi said, grabbing Ada's hand.

"I have something in the car," Ada said, heading back to get the flasks. She returned and they both went inside the gate.

Ada was greeted by the lush green surroundings and a perfectly blue C-shaped swimming pool. The house was a modern masterpiece, with sleek lines and large glass windows that offered a view of the beautifully landscaped gardens.

Inside, Chidi asked, "I hope my father wasn't too strict on you."

Ada smiled. "No, he was just... intimidating."

Chidi laughed. "He tends to have that effect on people."

They sat down in the living room, and Ada began to dish out the food she brought. Chidi was surprised to see his favorite meal right in front of him. Tears rolled uncontrollably down his eyes as he began eating.

"Ada, this is incredible. Thank you so much," Chidi said, his voice choked with emotion.

"I'm glad you like it. I just wanted to show my appreciation for everything you did yesterday," Ada replied sincerely.

Chidi tried to compose himself. "You have no idea how much this means to me. It's been a long time since I've had a meal like this."

Ada reached out and gently squeezed his hand. "You're welcome, Chidi. I'm here for you."

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, Chidi savoring each bite of the meal. The emotional weight of the moment hung in the air, unspoken but deeply felt.

After a while, Chidi looked up and smiled. "You owe me another date, you know."

Ada laughed softly. "I think I can manage that."

As they finished the meal, Chidi's appreciation was clear. He thanked Ada repeatedly, his gratitude evident in every word. For Ada, it was a moment of connection, a chance to see a different side of Chidi and to show her care in a meaningful way.