AFRO TO HIS BEATS

CHAPTER 13

TOLANI'S POV

Walking into Noir felt like stepping into a stylish dream. The warm lighting cast a golden glow over the bustling restaurant, and the rhythmic pulse of Afrobeats blended perfectly with the laughter and chatter of our group. I could already see our reserved table in the cozy corner, adorned with elegant white roses and flickering candles.

"Nkechi, are you ready for this?" I asked as I slid into the plush seat next to her. She looked stunning in a fitted royal blue dress that perfectly complemented her radiant pregnancy glow. "Oh, I'm beyond ready!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Tonight, we're not just planning a baby shower; we're crafting an event that will redefine luxury!"

"Let's go, Queen!" Rema cheered as he took a seat across from us, a wide grin on his face. "What's the theme again? Hollywood: Royal Met Gala, right?" "Yes!" Nkechi replied, practically vibrating with energy. "We're going for a rich red and royal blue color palette, with gold and silver accents everywhere. Think diamonds—real diamonds!"

Crayon, already digging into the menu, raised his eyebrow. "Real diamonds? Now you're just making things complicated." "No, no, I mean diamond-like accents!" Nkechi clarified, laughing. "But we can definitely make it feel glamorous, like a true red carpet event." "Mocktails!" Ayra Starr chimed in as she slid into the seat beside Nkechi. "Custom mocktails named after you, Michael, and the baby. How about something called 'The Royal Glow' for Nkechi?" "I love it!" Nkechi clapped her hands. "And we could have something like 'Little Prince' or 'Princess in Waiting' for the baby!"

"Yes!" I added, getting into the spirit. "And let's make sure the menu is gourmet but accessible. A mix of upscale bites and comfort food, like truffle fries and gourmet sliders. Not to forget a Nigerian menu" "Don't forget the desserts," Lifesize Teddy interjected, a mischievous glint in his eye. "We need a dessert bar with an array of sweet treats, maybe even a mini cake that looks like a crown." "Now that's how you do it!" Rema laughed, leaning back in his chair. "I'm down for a royal cake."

Nkechi's excitement was palpable. "And for souvenirs, we can feature exclusive designer items! I mean, Ayra's Maybelline line, Tolani's Dior line, and some Rare Beauty and Fenty Beauty products. Imagine the gift bags!" "Gift bags that are basically designer loot bags?" Crayon asked, eyes wide. "I'm sold!" "And don't forget an artist merch shopping area," Rema added. "We can have space for everyone's merch. It'll be like a mini festival, all while celebrating your new royal arrival." Nkechi beamed, clearly overwhelmed by the support and ideas. "I can't believe how amazing this is coming together. With all of you, it feels so special."

As the waiter arrived with our appetizers—crispy calamari, bruschetta, and sliders—Fireboy couldn't contain himself any longer. "So, are we talking a full-on red carpet? Like, are we doing interviews or something?" "Interviews? For a baby shower?" I giggled, shaking my head. "But why not? Let's add some glam and fun!" "Totally!" Fireboy said, eyes shining with mischief. "Imagine the paparazzi! 'Celebrities Gather for the Royal Baby Shower of the Year.'" Nkechi laughed heartily. "Alright, alright, maybe we won't go that far. But I love the idea of a red carpet entrance, with everyone dressed to the nines!" "Let's get some of those crazy photobooths too," Crayon suggested. "You know, the ones with the fun props. It'll be a blast!"

As the food arrived, we dove into the conversation, our laughter filling the air. We shared bites of delicious appetizers while brainstorming the perfect playlist for the event, mixing classic hits with modern Afrobeats. "I'm thinking a live band, too," Ayra said between bites of bruschetta. "They can play a mix of everything, and we can have a dance floor set up. It'll be like a mini concert." "Yes! And let's have a dance-off," I suggested, my excitement growing. "We could even give prizes for the best moves!" Nkechi nodded enthusiastically. "And a photo booth for candid shots with the best props. Just imagine all the memories we'll create!"