Over and Over

Mnnui

KANO,
NIGERIAN.

LAYLA'S POV

Later that evening after all the guests left, leaving me alone with the girls.

We decided to move to the living when Hakeem and his friends arrived.

I sat on the plush white sofa in the living room, my friends chatting animatedly beside me, their laughter bouncing off the high ceilings.

Across the room, Hakeem stood with his own circle of friends, his deep voice carrying a charming authority that seemed to draw everyone in.

He laughed often, effortlessly, his smile softening the sharp lines of his jaw.

But i knew better than to be charmed.

As the night came, our friends dispersed.

He escorted our friends to the door with his usual grace, exchanging warm goodbyes.

I lingered in the living room, grateful for the quiet that followed. I  leaned back, letting out a breath i hadn't realized i was holding.

When he returned, his steps were measured, deliberate, and his voice broke the silence. "I thought you went upstairs already," he said, his tone gentle but curious.

My gaze darted toward the massive windows that lined the room, their glass panes reflecting the darkness outside.

I didn't want to admit it, but the vast, unfamiliar view unnerved me. Instead, i offered a half-hearted excuse, avoiding his piercing gaze.

He tilted his head slightly, his expression softening as if he understood more than i had said.

But he didn't press me. Instead, he smiled faintly and extended his hand. "Let's go."

I ignored his outstretched hand, standing abruptly and leading the way.

The stairs loomed ahead, their polished surface gleaming under the chandelier's light. I hesitated for a moment, then began climbing, my steps slow and cautious.

Behind me, Hakeem's chuckle was soft but unmistakable. "You're walking like you're climbing Mount Everest," he teased, his voice laced with amusement.

I stiffened but said nothing, my fingers brushing the cool railing for support.

He stayed a step behind, his presence steady and unyielding, as though he was ready to catch me if i faltered.

When we finally reached the room, it was as imposing as the rest of the house—massive, with dark and light grey tones that made the space feel both luxurious and intimidating.

Hakeem gestured toward the adjoining bathroom.

"You should freshen up," he said casually, his tone free of any expectations.

"I'm fine," i replied curtly, avoiding his gaze.

He shrugged, disappearing into the bathroom without another word.

The sound of running water filled the silence as i wandered into the room's library, my fingers trailing over the spines of neatly arranged books.

NARRATORS POV

Lost in her thoughts, she didn't hear his footsteps when he emerged, damp hair clinging to his forehead, a towel slung loosely around his waist.

When she finally sensed a presence behind her, she turned abruptly, her heart leaping into her throat.

Her eyes widened as she took in the sight of him, shirtless and far too close.