Chapter Seventy-Two
Jacob nodded, carefully stirring the mixture as Debbie blended the tomatoes and bell peppers into a smooth paste. She poured the paste into the pot and added spices thyme, curry powder, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt.
As the mixture simmered, Debbie marinated the chicken with a blend of spices and set it aside. “How’s it looking?” she asked Jacob, peeking into the pot.
“Smells amazing,” he replied, his mouth watering.
Debbie added the washed rice to the pot, stirring it to coat each grain with the rich, spicy tomato sauce. She added some water, lowered the heat, and covered the pot, letting the rice cook slowly.
“Time to prepare the plantains,” Debbie said, handing Jacob a knife. “Slice them into thin rounds.”Published by Nôv'elD/rama.Org.
Jacob carefully sliced the plantains, trying to match Debbie’s precision. She heated some oil in a frying pan and began frying the plantain slices until they were golden brown and crispy.
While the plantains fried, Jacob helped Debbie grill the marinated chicken. They chatted and laughed, enjoying each other’s company as they worked together.
Soon, the aroma of jollof rice, fried plantains, and grilled chicken filled the kitchen. Debbie checked the rice, fluffing it with a fork. “Perfect,” she said, beaming.
They plated the food, arranging the jollof rice, plantains, and chicken artfully. Jacob’s stomach growled in anticipation. They carried their plates to the dining table, sitting down to enjoy the meal they had prepared together.
“Wow, this looks amazing,” Jacob said, taking a bite of the jollof rice. The flavors exploded in his mouth, and he couldn’t help but moan in delight. “This is incredible, Debbie.”
Debbie smiled, pleased with his reaction. “I’m glad you like it.”
They ate slowly, savoring each bite and relishing the time spent together. The kitchen was filled with warmth, laughter, and the delicious smells of their meal. After they finished eating, Jacob leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile on his face.
“Thank you, Debbie. That was one of the best meals I’ve ever had.”
Debbie blushed and leaned over to kiss him. “I’m happy you enjoyed it. I loved cooking with you.”
Jacob pulled her into his lap, wrapping his arms around her. “We should do this more often,” he said softly.
“Definitely,” Debbie agreed, resting her head on his shoulder. “Cooking together is fun, and the result is always delicious.”
They sat there for a while, enjoying the moment and each other’s company, grateful for the simple pleasures of life.
_-_-_-_-
The day of graduation arrived, and Evelyn wanted to make a lasting impression. She chose an exquisite dress that she and Antonio had picked out together during a luxurious shopping spree. Her dress was a floor-length, off-the-shoulder gown in a deep sapphire blue that accentuated her figure perfectly. The fabric shimmered under the light, adding an ethereal glow to her appearance. She paired it with silver stiletto heels, the straps adorned with tiny crystals that sparkled with every step she took.
Her accessories were equally impressive. She carried a sleek, silver clutch that matched her shoes and wore elegant drop earrings encrusted with diamonds. Around her neck was a delicate diamond necklace that Antonio had surprised her with, its simplicity highlighting her natural beauty. Her makeup was flawlessly applied, with a bold red lip and a smoky eye that made her blue eyes pop. Her hair was styled in loose waves, cascading down her back and giving her a timeless, glamorous look.
Debbie looked stunning as well, albeit in a more understated way. She wore a chic, knee-length red dress that hugged her curves in all the right places. The dress had a sweetheart neckline and a flared skirt that gave it a flirty, fun vibe. She and Jacob had gone shopping together for her outfit, and he had helped her pick out a pair of black heels and a matching clutch. Her jewelry was minimal but tasteful, with a pair of gold hoop earrings and a simple bracelet. Her makeup was fresh and youthful, with a soft pink lip and a hint of shimmer on her eyelids. Her hair was styled in a sleek ponytail, giving her a polished yet playful appearance.
The graduation ceremony was a grand affair, held in a large auditorium filled with proud families and friends. As the names were called and students walked across the stage, Evelyn’s heart raced with excitement. She won three awards, her hard work and dedication recognized in front of everyone. When her name was called, the crowd erupted in applause, and Antonio couldn’t have been prouder. He insisted on taking pictures with her on stage, his arm wrapped around her waist. They looked like a power couple, their wealth and presence turning heads and eliciting whispers of admiration.
Debbie, too, had her moment of glory, winning an award that showcased her talents. Jacob was by her side in an instant, capturing the moment with photos and showering her with praise. Their bond was evident to everyone, their smiles genuine and filled with love.
Jacob, being Antonio’s most trusted man, shared a close bond with him. They had planned something special for Evelyn, and the excitement was palpable. After the ceremony, as the party continued, Antonio took the stage once more, a microphone in hand. The room fell silent, all eyes on him.
“Evelyn,” he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion, “From the moment I met you, my life changed for the better. You’ve brought me joy, love, and a sense of purpose I never knew I needed. Today, in front of everyone we care about, I want to ask you something very important.”
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box, dropping to one knee. Gasps filled the room as he opened it, revealing an exquisite diamond ring that sparkled brilliantly under the lights. “Will you marry me?” he asked, his eyes never leaving hers.
Evelyn’s eyes filled with tears, overwhelmed by the moment. Debbie, unable to contain her excitement, screamed, “Say yes, girl!”
With tears streaming down her cheeks, Evelyn nodded vigorously. “Yes, Antonio, yes!” she cried, her voice choked with emotion.
The room erupted in cheers and applause as Antonio slipped the ring onto her finger. He stood and pulled her into a tight embrace, both of them laughing and crying with happiness, followed by a deep kiss. Jacob, watching the scene unfold, leaned over to Debbie and whispered, “We’re next.”
Debbie squeezed his hand tightly. “I can’t wait, babe. You’re the best thing that has ever happened to me,” she replied, her eyes shining with love. They shared a tender kiss, sealing their promise to each other.
Antonio, always thinking ahead, invited Debbie to join them for an after-party at their home to celebrate Evelyn’s achievements . He also invited Ricardo, a close friend who had helped save Evelyn when she was abducted by Reina. Evelyn invited Alex to the party. Immediately she sighted him, she got to him and thanked him so well. He was someone who took her in his house when she needed him regardless of not knowing who she was. She thanked him again and explained everything to him, she apologized for lying about her identity and begged for his forgiveness.
“It’s nothing, Emi… No No, Evelyn… I forgot. I’m sorry. “He said as he scratched his head with his fingers sillily.
“Lol, it’s fine, I completely understand,” Evelyn said laughing out loud.” Thanks again for everything, enjoy the party… Oh wait… I should call my babe to thank you” She said with a broad smile. Antonio got to them and Evelyn introduced Alex to Antonio, he thanked him for everything and told him to meet him if he needed help with anything.
As more guests arrived at the party, Evelyn recognized Ricardo and rushed over to thank him properly.
“Ricardo, I can’t thank you enough for what you did. You saved my life,” she said, her voice filled with gratitude.
Ricardo smiled warmly. “I’m just glad I could help, Evelyn. You’re a family now.”
The party continued well into the night, filled with laughter, love, and the promise of a bright future.
Evelyn and Antonio’s engagement marked a new chapter in their lives, one filled with hope and endless possibilities..
Antonio raised his glass for a toast, his voice carrying over the gathered friends and family.
“To us,” he began, his eyes locking with Evelyn’s. “To my pregnant wife,” he continued, causing Evelyn to blush and cover her face shyly.
“To Ricardo, who helped save her life,” he added, nodding to his friend.
“To Jacob, my right-hand man,” he said, raising his glass towards Jacob.
“And to Debbie, a loyal friend to my fiancee.” Debbie, overwhelmed with emotion, screamed, “Aww!”
“To those who have passed and to those who have helped us along the way,” he concluded, his voice solemn and heartfelt.
Everyone raised their glasses, clinking them together in a moment of unity and celebration.
As they celebrated with their closest friends and family, they knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, stronger than ever.
The end.