Binary Hearts

97| Colliding Paths 🛤️🚁

Victoria Island glittered under the Lagos sun as Tunde and Adeola's matching outfits caught the attention of passersby. As they parked the Audi Q7, Tunde pulled out his phone and called his stepmother, Mrs. Adeyemi. The phone rang only once before she picked up.

"Tunde! Are you here already?" her voice was filled with warmth.

"Yeah, we just arrived," Tunde replied, locking eyes with Adeola, who seemed nervous despite her composed exterior. "Where should we meet?"

Mrs. Adeyemi's voice was quick and decisive. "Meet us at Shiro. It's one of the best restaurants in Victoria Island-very upscale. I know you'll love it."

Shiro, one of the most expensive and elegant restaurants on the island, was famous for its exotic Asian fusion menu and extravagant decor. Tunde hung up the phone and turned to Adeola. "Ready?"

She nodded, though her heart raced. "Let's do this."

Inside Shiro, the atmosphere oozed sophistication. Elegant chandeliers cast a warm glow over the intimate seating areas, and the aroma of high-end cuisine wafted through the air. As they walked in, Adeola couldn't help but admire the impeccable design-huge oriental vases, plush velvet seats, and walls adorned with intricate carvings.

"Wow," she whispered under her breath.

"Impressed?" Tunde teased, grabbing her hand confidently, sending a shiver down her spine. She loved his assertiveness, even if it was just for show.

Tunde scanned the room and soon spotted Mrs. Adeyemi seated at a corner table, accompanied by two women. As they approached, Adeola noticed the younger woman-a beautiful girl with a sleek bone-straight wig, probably the CEO's daughter. Beside her sat Zara, Tunde's stepsister, now grown into a stunning young woman.

"Tunde!" Mrs. Adeyemi waved them over, her smile wide.

Adeola couldn't help but blush when Tunde gently squeezed her hand as they walked toward the table. He leaned in and whispered, "You look stunning, by the way."

They arrived at the table, and Tunde was quick to greet the women.

"Mrs...." He hesitated, trying to recall the name of the CEO seated next to his stepmom.

"Lawal," Mrs. Adeyemi cut in smoothly, saving him the embarrassment. "Mrs. Lawal."

Tunde nodded and turned to Mrs. Lawal with a charming smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Lawal."

"The pleasure is mine, Tunde," Mrs. Lawal responded with equal grace, her eyes twinkling. "I've heard so much about you. Congratulations on your success."

"Thank you. I've been fortunate," Tunde replied, shaking her hand firmly, then turning his attention to her daughter. "And you must be..."

The girl, clearly mesmerized by Tunde's handsome features, paused before responding, "Cynthia. It's nice to meet you."

Adeola watched with a hint of amusement as the girl visibly blushed, completely taken with Tunde. But Adeola quickly redirected her focus, greeting Zara with a warm smile. "Zara! You've grown so much."

Zara grinned, looking delighted. "Adeola, right? It's good to see you! Oh my God, I love this pen!" she exclaimed, as Adeola handed her a sleek, high-end fountain pen, which Zara admired instantly.

"A little gift," Adeola said with a wink. "Call it a thank-you for welcoming me."

Zara chuckled. "Thanks, in-law!" she teased, causing Adeola to laugh.

Tunde pulled out Adeola's chair, his hand resting lightly on her waist as he guided her into her seat. The small gesture sent a ripple of warmth through Adeola's body. She blushed, unable to contain it, as she saw the approving look on Mrs. Adeyemi's face.

Once seated, the conversation flowed effortlessly. Mrs. Lawal leaned in. "Tunde, your passion and drive in the business world are truly admirable. I was actually hoping to introduce you to my daughter, but it seems like you're already taken," she said with a laugh, glancing at Adeola.

Tunde, ever the smooth talker, smiled. "Thank you, Mrs. Lawal. Your daughter will no doubt find someone amazing. I'm sure of it." He glanced at Cynthia, who was still smiling, though a little disappointed.

"And what's your name?" he asked Cynthia, pretending not to have heard it earlier.

"Cynthia," she said, her eyes gleaming. She giggled softly, her cheeks flushing slightly as their eyes met.

As the conversation moved on, Adeola couldn't stop herself from staring at Tunde. The way he interacted with people, his calm confidence-it was all so attractive. When Tunde caught her gaze, he smiled and poured her a glass of juice. Without thinking, Adeola fed him a small bite of food, earning a playful groan from Mrs. Adeyemi.

"Enough with you lovebirds!" Mrs. Adeyemi joked, causing the entire table to burst into laughter. "Some of us are single here!"

Meanwhile, in South Africa, Adaora and Chidi were living the high life. They'd spent the weekend enjoying luxurious beach resorts, dancing at the hottest clubs, and relaxing by private pools. Now, they lounged at a high-end restaurant with a spectacular view of the ocean.

"This weekend has been amazing," Adaora said, gazing out at the sunset. "But we should probably head back to Lagos. Tomorrow's Monday."

Chidi frowned. "Come on, we're having fun! Let's take a few more days off. I'm the CEO-I can handle it."

Adaora chuckled. "I get it, but I can't afford to. People will start asking questions if I don't show up. You know how things are."

Chidi sighed in defeat. "Alright. We'll head back in the evening then. But before we go, I want to take you somewhere special."

Back in Lagos, Tunde and Adeola wrapped up their dinner. After exchanging pleasantries with Mrs. Lawal, Cynthia, and Zara, they made their exit. Tunde's hand rested naturally on Adeola's waist, and they looked every bit the couple they were pretending to be. They slid into Tunde's Audi Q7 and began the drive home.

Meanwhile, Adaora and Chidi touched down in Lagos, their short but eventful trip behind them. Adaora leaned in for a kiss, which quickly escalated, her hands running through his hair as Chidi pulled her closer. Just as things heated up, a knock sounded on the door.

"Adaora!" Bam Bam's voice called out.

Adaora jumped back, her eyes wide. "Oh my God! Hide!" she whispered, as she hurriedly pushed Chidi into the nearest closet.