LOVE IN THE VILLA
Anita Montgomery@anitamontgomery006358
3 months ago
The streets of Amagodu Abriba were a beautiful sight to behold. The lamp posts stood in a row, shining their LED lights on the town's people strolling in the night. Fliers for weddings, funerals, and retirement ceremonies hung on the walls, and the rough wall graffiti somehow beautified the streets. Everything was perfect, maybe too perfect, Genevieve thought as she stared at the beautiful town, carrying a basket of coconuts on her head with the help of a folded cloth the old woman from the town hall had given her to cushion the weight.
But amidst the unfamiliar surroundings, Genevieve found herself drawn to this new town's charm. Noticing she was lagging behind the procession of adults carrying their baskets overflowing with vibrant textiles and eclectic goods, she quickened her pace. The rhythmic rustling of fabrics and soft chatter of the crowd enveloped her, and she felt an overwhelming urge to immerse herself in this haven. She was determined to tour every nook and cranny, to soak up the warmth and love that seemed to permeate every corner of this enchanting place. As she walked, she pondered her place in this town. Would she ever belong here? What was her purpose? She wondered, her mind wandering to the possibilities. Was it to discover love again? She scoffed inwardly, hastening her step. No one could ever fill the void left by Jonathan, not even Osiri, whose memory she pushed aside with a resolute shake of her head.
As the journey came to an end, Genevieve's eyes landed on a house by the roadside, its familiar architecture eerily reminiscent of the Ota's home. The dimly lit bulbs seemed to whisper a warm welcome, as the soft glow from the street lamp posts danced across the yard, casting a magical ambiance. The space was alive with the vibrant energy of the townspeople, their boisterous laughter and animated conversations drowning out all other sounds. Genevieve stood in awe, captivated by the profound love and connection that radiated from this community, their bonds transcending familial ties.
Just then, a warm, melodious voice broke through the din, addressing her. "Hi there." Genevieve's gaze narrowed, drawn to the stunning brown-skinned young lady whose lips curved into a gentle smile. "Good evening," Genevieve stuttered, her voice barely above a whisper. The woman's smile broadened, illuminating her features. "You must be Genevieve. I'm Ola." Her voice was like honey, smooth and soothing. "Jayjay and Joseph can't stop talking about you," Ola added, her smile faltering for a moment as she responded to a distant call.
Genevieve's composure regained, she replied in a calm, measured tone, "Nice to meet you, Ola." A warm smile spread across her face as she offered, "Happy wedded life in advance." Ola's laughter erupted, a joyous sound that mingled with the evening air.
"Thank you," Ola replied, her voice barely above a whisper, as she flicked her long braids backwards with a shy smile. "Guess I'll see you tomorrow." With that, she glided away to meet the lady who had summoned her, leaving Genevieve to bask in the warmth of their encounter.
Genevieve's smile lingered as she joined Mary in the wedding preparation room, where the air was alive with the hum of excitement. "Genevieve, finally! I thought you'd never arrive," Mary teased, patting her cheeks with a playful touch. Genevieve's eyes scanned the room, taking in the whirlwind of activity. "I helped the older women with the bride's gifts," she explained, her gaze darting about. "Where's Jayjay?" she asked, a hint of mischief dancing in her voice.
Mary's lips pursed, a telltale sign that she was harboring a secret. "I don't know, he should be around somewhere," she replied, her tone laced with a hint of evasiveness. Genevieve's eyes narrowed, sensing that Mary was hiding something. But before she could press further, her attention was diverted to a familiar figure standing on the balcony above, their eyes locked in a fleeting moment of recognition.
"Are you okay?" Mary asked, concern etched on her face, but Genevieve nodded, her mind racing with the implications of what she had just seen. Mary, sensing her distraction, smirked mischievously. "You better be, because I'm about to drag you around to meet the family and friends." Genevieve sighed, exasperated by Mary's relentless attempts to socialize her. "Let's get Ola's nzú powder first, then we'll tackle the relatives," Mary said, grasping Genevieve's hands with a determined grip.
"What's that for?" Genevieve asked, her curiosity piqued as she trailed behind Mary. "For good luck, love, and a lucky marriage," Mary explained, her eyes sparkling with amusement. Genevieve whined in defeat, realizing she was no match for Mary's persistence. But she vowed to resist next time, her mind already plotting a counterattack.
*. *. *.
Genevieve's huge doe eyes locked onto her reflection in the spherical mirror on the wall, her gaze mesmerized as Mary meticulously clipped silvery hair clips into her tresses, transforming her into a vision of loveliness for Ola's wedding. With each delicate touch, Genevieve's beauty unfolded like a blooming flower. She stared, entranced, at her mirrored self, her features enhanced by the subtle, angelic makeup Mary had applied with precision. The soft, golden light danced across her face, illuminating her porcelain skin and accentuating the gentle curves of her cheeks.
As Mary finished the final touches, Genevieve's fingers trailed across her face, her manicured nails grazing her skin with reverence. "I look beautiful," she whispered, her voice barely audible, as if afraid to shatter the magic of the moment. Mary's grin radiated warmth and sincerity. "Of course, you've always been beautiful, Genevieve. You just needed a little help to reveal it."
Just then, Jayjay burst into the room, his excitement palpable. "Hey!" he exclaimed, his eyes widening in awe as he took in Genevieve's transformed appearance. "You look stunning!" he complimented, his voice filled with genuine admiration. Genevieve's cheeks flushed, her smile blossoming like a rose in bloom.
Genevieve's smile unfurled like a delicate petal as she rose to her feet, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "Thank you, Mom," she said, her voice laced with affection, as she addressed Mary. Mary's gaze softened, a wistful expression flickering across her face. "I wish..." she trailed off, her voice barely above a whisper, as the long-suppressed desire for a daughter welled up in her heart.
Jayjay's outstretched hands broke the tender moment, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Take my hands, let me be your tour guide," he said, his smirk hinting at secrets and surprises. Genevieve's response was a dramatic eye-roll, accompanied by a dismissive snort. "Fool," she teased, her lips curling into a playful smile.
As Genevieve stepped into the wedding hall, she was struck by its grandeur. The opulent space was unlike anything she had ever seen, its sheer scale and luxury leaving her breathless. The aisle, transformed into a tropical garden, was adorned with plastic roses that seemed to bloom in every direction. The majestic chandelier, a crystal behemoth, hung low, its light bulbs casting a regal glow across the room. Every detail, from the chairs to the tables, interior decor, and designs, exuded refinement and wealth.
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