Shadow of love episode 44

I wanted to go to her and say hi but on a second thought, I turned and made way to where the important guests were. I greeted as I walked cause I knew most of the people there. The people I didn't know, were introduced to me and we always ended up with the phrase, "I hope we work together soon".
I would smile and move on to the next person, using my eyes to search the area for William.
Someone tapped my shoulder and immediately I turned, she enveloped me in her arms. Her small figure told me who it was and I smiled.

Anna: Good evening. You look very beautiful.

I smiled and looked at her. She was dressed in a black flowing gown. Her low cut hair had a golden spray by the side. Her make up wasn't heavy as usual and she looked young and beautiful.

Me: You're looking beautiful yourself.

She giggled and I hugged her again. She held my hand immediately and began to take me back the same way I had come.

Me: Hey. Wait.

She stopped and turned to me, her eyes, bright with excitement.

Me: I'm on heels.

Anna: I know. I want you to meet my cousin. I've told her a lot about you and she's been dying to see you. Thank God you're here.

Me: And I hope they're good things you've been saying?

Anna: Of course. You're good so why won't I speak goof of you anywhere? Come, I saw her around this place.

I followed her and yes, you're right. She took me straight to Franca. She was with some guys and they were laughing hysterically.

Anna: Hi sis.

Franca turned to us and her eyes settled on me. She looked surprised.
I waved at the guys with a smile and I could notice them stare shamelessly at me.

Anna: Sis, meet my friend, Pamela, the one I've being telling you of. Pamel, meet my cousin sis, Franca.

I didn't know how to take that introduction. But one thing was clear, she wasn't angry and I was surprised. She was either going to snub me or become a friend again.

Me: Hi

She enveloped me in a hug and my eyes became misty. I held her, prolonging the hug until Anna cleared her throat.
We disengaged from each other and Franca wiped her tear while I struggled with mine.

Franca: Anna, actually, this is Kaima. The girl that used to visit our home when you were little, when you normally came during the long vacation. I know you won't remember her. We ended up being roommates until we got separated.

Anna: Wow. This world is really a small place.

Franca: True.

Anna: Alright. I'll leave you two together now so that William doesn't start looking for me.

Franca: Anna, I've told you about this relationship with........

Anna: See you later Sis.

And she was off. Franca hissed and turned to the guys. She excused herself and led me to a quiet lobby where we sat down. A waitress was passing by so we picked a glass of wine each.

Franca: You're looking very beautiful.

Me: Thanks. You too ain't looking bad.

She smiled and sipped from her glass. She looked very slim but also beautiful, like she was now into modelling. I don't know why people will put themselves through lots of troubles all in the name of modelling.

Franca: How has it been for you? You look like you've achieved a lot for yourself.

Me: All thanks to God. I manage my dad's business empire now. What about you?

Franca: I'm into modelling now. The ambassador of DeLegit women clothing line.

Me: Never heard of that but I'm happy for you. You know, Lois also has a clothing line.

Franca: Lois. That name rings a bell. Right. My replacement right?

I smiled at her use of words. Replacement. Glad she knew that word existed. Not when she replaced me with some silly girl, mixed with alcohol and cigarette.

Me: And you know, this William, he was the neighbour we never got to meet.

Franca: Serious?

Me: Yes. He lived with his best friend. We only got talking after you left.

Franca: Wow. Then I missed out on a lot. Actually, I'm also here because I'll be endorsed as the face of his hair cream company next week. All thanks to Anna that got me the connection.

Me: Wow. She and William must be very serious then

Franca: Not true. He's just using her. And she knows that. I've talked and talked but she is so stubborn.

I was tempted to ask her about Anna's parents then I remembered her own parents. They had moved out of the estate after that misunderstanding I had with Franca.

Franca: Tell me, what do you think?

Me: My dear, I wouldn't ask u to bother her over this issue hastily. Talk to her about......

Franca: Help me. She sees you as a better friend. Please will you talk to her for me?

Me: I don't know. I have history with William so......


The MC spoke into the microphone, his voice blasting through the hidden speakers, welcoming everyone to the party. I looked at Franca and we both stood up and began to walk to the large hall that was beautifully decorated. We stood just beside the entrance, like, we were almost the last people in the hall. The MC ushered William in and he came up to the stage, neatly dressed in a white suit and blue shirt inside. He had a new haircut, bottom line, he was his usual cute guy. I heard someone beside me gasp and I turned to see two girls. They were both fair and beautiful. They began to speak to themselves

G1: You're right. He's really cute. So finally, he fell for you

G2: I won't say that. I actually fell for him but now, I have him in my webs. He's all mine.

G1: Then, how come he didn't invite you?

G2: Well, he's a lot busy. Planning an event as big as this can make you forgetful a times.

G1: You're right. But I'm sure you noticed the little girl that was with him when we got here. I believe this guy just used you and has dumped you. Sorry

G2: You know what, I regret bringing you here. You're the worst kind of friend there is.

MC: .................. beautiful, hardworking, cute, CEO of De Bernards, Miss Pamel Bernards.

I snapped out from eavesdropping on the two girls. I had used their discussion to block out William's welcome speech. I don't even know why I'm been called. I looked at Franca as everyone turned to look for me, she hugged me and gestured for me to walk.
Over the years, I've appeared before lots and lots of crowd. My mother, my mentor, had taught me to walk with my head up. Then Lois, had taught me the catwalk that made me a figure in the business world.
Before I could put up my business smile, a path had being cleared for me to the front.

I began my graceful walk to the stage, waving at the faces I recognised like I was in a fashion show abi beauty pageant. I got to a point and stopped waving. I had seen his face. He was staring at me with surprise and fascination. I remembered why I had come, to vent my anger on him, that is, after signing the papers.

I got to the stage and ignored his outstretched hands which I'm sure he had stretched, expecting a hug.
My board of executives were already on stage and someone I guessed to be William's company lawyer was also there with files in his hands.

I had gotten an applause from the audience and it was just right to speak to them

Me: Good evening you all.......