Dreams to vows

Chapter 3: Unexpected Encounter

Heyyyyyyyy lovely readers I'm introducing our male protagonist in this chapter 🤭💃💃💃 Aren't you excited 🤩🤗

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Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. - Naeem Callaway

POV: Priscilla

The city was bustling as I made my way to the upscale hotel hosting the networking event Amanda told me about.

My nerves were on edge, but I knew this was an opportunity I couldn't afford to miss. I had spent the morning rehearsing my elevator pitch, hoping to make a lasting impression on potential clients and employers.

The event hall was filled with professionals mingling and exchanging business cards.

I felt a pang of intimidation but steeled myself, reminding myself that I belonged here just as much as anyone else. I grabbed a glass of sparkling water from a passing waiter and took a deep breath.

As I navigated the room, I noticed a tall, well-dressed man standing near the buffet table. He had just finished speaking with a man I recognized to be one of the chief speakers of the event.

His height, just over six feet, lent him an air of authority and confidence. His skin, a rich, deep brown, was smooth and flawless, complementing the warm undertones of his complexion.

His features were sharp and well-defined: high cheekbones, a straight nose, and a strong jawline that hinted at both strength and sensitivity.

He wore a meticulously tailored navy blue suit that fit him perfectly, accentuating his broad shoulders and athletic build.

His accessories were minimal yet sophisticated. A silver wristwatch with a black leather strap adorned his left wrist, the simple design highlighting his taste for understated luxury. His cufflinks, small and discreet, were engraved with a subtle pattern that caught the light when he reached out to shake hands or gesture during conversations.

As he moved through the event, his demeanor was both approachable and confident. He greeted people with a warm smile, his white teeth contrasting beautifully against his dark skin.

His voice, deep and resonant, carried a tone of assurance and charm, making each interaction memorable.

The way he carried himself, with a mix of grace and purpose, made it clear that he was not only handsome but also a man of substance and character.

As our eyes met, he offered me a friendly smile. I returned the smile, feeling a flicker of curiosity.

"Hi, I'm Priscilla, Priscilla Bassey," I said, extending my hand as I approached him.

"John Coker" he replied, shaking my hand firmly. "Nice to meet you, Priscilla. Enjoying the event?"

"Trying to," I admitted with a laugh. "It's a bit overwhelming."

John chuckled. "I know the feeling. These events can be a bit much, but they're great for making connections."

We chatted for a few minutes, exchanging small talk about the event and our respective fields.

I learned that John was a civil engineer with his own thriving firm. His success was evident, but he spoke with a humility that put me at ease.

"So, what brings you here?" John asked, taking a sip of his drink.

"I'm looking to make connections for my consulting business," I explained. "I recently graduated and am trying to get my foot in the door."

John nodded thoughtfully. "Starting your own business is a brave move. What kind of consulting do you specialize in?"

"Business growth and development for small to medium-sized enterprises," I said, feeling a surge of excitement as I spoke about my passion. "I want to help businesses thrive with effective strategies."

"That's impressive," John said, his admiration evident. "Starting out can be tough, but it sounds like you have a clear vision."

As we continued talking, I found myself enjoying John's company. He had a way of making me feel comfortable, and our conversation flowed effortlessly.

I was pleasantly surprised by his sense of humor, which added a light-heartedness to our interaction.

"So, how did you get into civil engineering?" I asked, genuinely curious.

John grinned. "It's a bit of a long story, but I've always been fascinated by building things. My father was a contractor, and I guess you could say it runs in the family."

I laughed. "That's a lot more straightforward than my journey. I've always been passionate about business, but it took me a while to figure out exactly what I wanted to do."

John raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in his eye. "And have you figured it out now?"

"More or less," I said, matching his playful tone. "But ask me again in a few months, and I might have a different answer."

Our banter continued, and I felt myself relaxing more with each passing minute. It was refreshing to connect with someone who understood the challenges of starting a business while also bringing a sense of humor to the table.

Just as i was about to ask John more about his projects, a server passed by with a tray of appetizers. In an attempt to grab one without looking, I accidentally knocked the tray, sending a few pieces tumbling to the floor.

"Oh no!" I exclaimed, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "I'm so sorry!"

John burst into laughter. "Don't worry about it. Happens to the best of us."

I couldn't help but laugh too, my embarrassment melting away in the face of his good-natured reaction. "Guess I need to work on my coordination."

John grinned. "Or just stick to less hazardous activities at networking events."

As the event began to wind down, John glanced at his watch. "I should probably head out soon, but it was great meeting you, Priscilla. I'd love to hear more about your business sometime."

I felt a mix of disappointment and hope. "I'd like that too."

We exchanged business cards, and as I tucked his card into my purse, I felt a spark of excitement. John had been a surprising highlight of the evening, and I was curious to see where our connection might lead.

"Take care, Priscilla," John said with a warm smile. "I'll be in touch."

"You too, John," I replied, watching as he walked away.

As I left the event and headed home, I couldn't help but reflect on the unexpected encounter. John's easygoing nature and genuine interest in my ambitions had made a lasting impression. I felt a renewed sense of optimism, not just about my career prospects, but about the possibility of new connections and opportunities.

That night, as I lay in bed, I found myself smiling at the memory of our conversation. It had been an awkward yet humorous interaction, but it had also been a reminder that sometimes, the best things come when you least expect them.

With John's business card on my nightstand, I drifted off to sleep, eager to see what the future held.