SONGS FOR THE BROKENHEARTED

ALL THAT SHE IS... 4

Exams are almost over but this week was especially stressful, so, when Jide proposed going out to relax I jumped on the offer like hot Jollof rice.

He made me choose the place we would go to since I was so eager and I chose "Red". I've heard about it a few times and I've always wanted to check it out. I heard it has a Swimming pool, snooker, a really cool vibe, and the best part is their food. I heard their food is really good, especially their crab pepper soup and peppered snail, they had me at crab pepper soup.

We got to the place and upon arrival, the lounge was exactly as anticipated and more. Opposite the entrance lies the bar, quite a distance from the door, with modern, minimalist art lining the walls. To the left, a doorway leads to the outdoor lounge with a swimming pool and snooker tables. A smaller bar is nearby, convenient if the main bar gets busy. Outside, a distinct, mellow soundtrack contrasts with the inside, setting a laid-back vibe. Tables inside face lush green, grass-textured walls, adding a fresh touch. The place is lively but not overcrowded, with a chic, sophisticated ambiance that instantly draws you in. And we were drawn in.

"Wow, this place looks really good" Jide says and I smile because I can tell he like it

"I am so thankful that it did not disappoint my expectation" I said admiring the place as we walked down to the bar

"Hello, where can we change?" I asked the staff standing beside the bar. She directed us to the door just outside by the side and we went to change into our swimwear but not forgetting to reserve a table and order before going

By the time we changed and came back out, our table was ready, and the smell of spicy peppered snail and crab pepper soup was already teasing our senses. I couldn't help but steal a bite before Jide even sat down, savoring the heat and the perfectly balanced flavors.

"This," I said, holding a bite towards Jide, "is why they had me at crab pepper soup."

He leaned forward, letting me feed him, and closed his eyes as he tasted it. "I can see why. This is dangerous," he laughed. "Looks like I'm going to have to make sure you don't take the whole pot."

"Please, try me," I teased, grabbing another bite for myself.

After our impromptu tasting session, Jide led the way outside, and the mix of music, laughter, and soft lights reflecting off the pool made it feel like a world apart. I kicked off my sandals, eager to dip my toes in, while Jide wandered over to the pool table, his competitive smirk already in place.

"Want to play a game with me?" he asked.

I laughed, sitting on the pool's edge, dipping my feet in the cool water. "You know I'd lose, right?"

"Maybe, but I could teach you a few moves."

He took a shot, sinking two balls effortlessly, glancing back at me with that playful look. "Come on, it's easy."

I rolled my eyes, but as soon as he gestured, I got up and joined him. He handed me the cue stick, positioning my hands carefully, his arms around me as he guided me through a few beginner shots. He was very close to me, I could feel that he was close to me. It was not the first time he had been this close to me so why is my body heating up in a funny way?

"Think you got it?" he asked softly, making me shiver a little.

"With this kind of teacher?" I grinned, giving a mock shrug. "Maybe." acting like he was not affecting me strangely.

After a few rounds, he got competitive, and I decided it was time for my escape. "The last person in is a rotten egg!" I laughed tossing the cue stick on the table and sprinted toward the water, splashing in before he could react.