Again chapter 18 D (Long chapter ahead)

I also have to warn Valerie, but that goes against every rule of brotherhood we've ever established. The boy code runs deep, but Valerie would hate me if she knew something was brewing and I didn't tell her. She'd never forgive me for keeping her in the dark while danger circles the people she loves.-Kamsi

slow down -Bobby Valentino this chapters 🎵

Kamsi's POV

I can't tell which one shocked me more the way he snatched my phone from my hands like a predator claiming prey, or the way he hurled that glass across the room until it exploded against the wine cabinet in a shower of crystal fragments and amber liquid.

The sound still echoes in my ears,

This wasn't the plan. Everything is spiraling out of control, spinning faster than I can catch it.

I need to reach his therapist like right now. My fingers itch to grab my phone, to make that call that might pull him back from whatever edge he's dancing on. But the phone sits between us on the sticky wine cabinet surface, and Diadem's eyes haven't left my face since the glass shattered.

I'm too scared to speak. Every word feels like it could be the wrong one, the match that lights the fuse he's already lit inside himself. The silence stretches between us, thick with unspoken threats and the weight of friendship being tested beyond its limits.

I also have to warn Valerie, but that goes against every rule of brotherhood we've ever established. The boy code runs deep, but Valerie would hate me if she knew something was brewing and I didn't tell her. She'd never forgive me for keeping her in the dark while danger circles the people she loves.

I have to think properly, carefully. One wrong move and everything explodes.

-

Valerie's POV

I stare endlessly at my phone screen, watching the three dots appear and disappear like a digital heartbeat. "Kam🤍 is typing..." keeps flashing, but why is it taking so long?

The tropical breeze from our paragliding adventure still clings to my skin, carrying the scent of adventure and freedom. Around me, the others are packing up gear and laughing about our successful flights, but my attention is glued to this screen.

I keep staring, waiting for those words to finally materialize. The message doesn't come in, and anxiety starts creeping up my spine like ivy on a wall. I squeeze my eyes together, forcing myself to breathe, when finally a text buzzes through:

Kam🤍: Hi love, I dropped my phone for a bit it slipped out of my grasp! Sorry for leaving you unread.

Something feels off about the message. Too formal, too careful. Not like his usual playful texts that make me smile without thinking.

V👸: Ooh, I was scared that you just opted out like that. Don't do that again! Let me know if you need to do something tell me so I don't think you disappeared like that again.

Kam🤍: Yes my queen, gotta run. I'll fill you in later. Just take care, tell Nneoma I said hi. Don't forget I love you 🤍🫶

V👸: I love you too 🫶

But even as I type the words, something cold settles in my stomach. I can't help but feel weird, like there's something going on that Kamsi isn't talking about. It shouldn't be about another woman I don't think so. Kamsi loves me too much for that kind of betrayal.

But if it's not another woman, what has him typing and deleting messages like he's walking through a minefield?

-

Back at Wale's - (Gee’s gc )

The afternoon sun streams through Wale's floor-to-ceiling windows as notifications buzz through the group chat that keeps them all connected across continents and time zones.

Chukwudera: Someone amongst us has been quiet? What are you up to, man? This one is a gone man...

Wale: Nneoma had therapy. She needed a moment to chill out. I had to make sure my baby was okay she cried so much she fell asleep in my arms.

The weight of those words settles heavy in the digital space. Even through text, the exhaustion and protectiveness in Wale's message is palpable.

Chukwudera:That's a lot. Sorry, man. I'm happy you're there for her. Please take care of her. Been there – therapy can break you down before it builds you back up. She'll need you more than she can say. You were there for me too when I was going through therapy. That's when I knew I found my person in you! Just know I'm here if you need to talk.

Wale: Alright man, thank you. I know you've got me for life. Also, please bring the rest of the clan back. Still trying to decide if we should have dinner here or have Chef Oby come cook a three-course Nigerian meal. We could have barbecue, pool party – just us. The guys can chill till tomorrow's homecoming party. What do you think?

Chukwudera: I think I like the latter. Chef Oby can cook! You can have those fireworks for Nneoma to cheer her up! I feel for her, really.

The typing indicator appears under Wale's name, staying there longer than usual as he processes everything.

Wale:  I love you, bro. Eww, never thought I would say this to you! This is brilliant I'll do this. I was already setting up the cinema room. Since I sent the workers home for the weekend (they deserve some rest), I'll pump up the water ducks and fill the water guns. Call Chef Oby for me ask everyone what they want and send it to Chef Oby as the menu. Can you do that for me?

Also thinking of going on a mini vacation with Nneoma to Brazil while she works remotely. We haven't spent this much time together like this for a long time. I'm really excited.

Chukwudera: Man!! That's a lot to take in at one go. I fear I'm going to be so bored without you!

Wale: Don't worry, idiot. I'll make up for it by beating your ass in court 🤣 Check in with me in the next 5 minutes to ensure we have everything covered.

-

Chukwudera's POV

I gently slide my phone into my pocket, the smooth device warm from constant use. Around me, the shopping district buzzes with afternoon energy designer boutiques with their gleaming windows, the soft chatter of other shoppers, the distant hum of luxury cars navigating the pristine streets.

Valerie has been smiling at her phone intermittently, but there's something different about her expression now. Something tighter around her eyes that wasn't there during our paragliding adventure. Nneoma warned me to step back, so I'll have to respect that boundary, but when this crush dies down, I'd love to have V as a friend.

She hasn't left Marvelous's side since we came here escorted him to the restroom with Yu, went paragliding with him like a protective sister. I love that Nneoma has loyal friends she can fall back on. It's such a privilege to have that kind of support system. She clearly loves Nneoma and treats Marv like her little brother.

I need more friends like her in my circle. Me and Wale are basically brothers we've run the tracks together through rain and sun, played countless games, shared losses that taught us resilience. We've trained under stormy skies and in blazing heat, building not just our bodies but our bond. All the wealth we have wasn't just luck; it was compounded years of intense hard work plus God's blessing. Our families were already well off, and we thank God for that strong foundation.

Wale has a fashion store for luxury items set up in Dubai. We launched it together after people kept complimenting our kicks, so we explored the market and did all the necessary groundwork. That reminds me Nneoma and Wale could model for the brand! But Wale said to keep his and Nneoma's relationship private, so I have to respect that. Still, I'll ask Nneoma. She knows the right buttons to press, and I think we'd sell out faster with her involved.

I also think about V, Marv, and Yu. Haven't really heard much from Yu except when they're roasting people or Diadem. I feel for that guy, but it serves him right. If you know you don't like the girl, why string her along under the pretense of being friends? I certainly don't do that to my friends. If he saw Nneoma as just a friend, once would be a mistake not repeatedly.

One thing I've noticed about Nneoma is she's going to tell the truth even when it's not in her favor. She talked about how she was crazy for waiting, how she more or less forced Diadem to make out with her. It takes guts to admit you're wrong, but Diadem, on the other hand – that guy needs to be careful. Wale might beat him to a pulp if he so much as lays a finger on Nneoma. I won't stop him either. Some people need to be taught a lesson.

I tell V, Marv, and Yu about the dinner party. Everyone seems happy about the plan. Marv and Yu mention needing suits.

"I got you," I say, gesturing toward the high-end menswear boutique across the street.

Valerie's face lights up despite whatever was troubling her earlier. "I need a dress."

"I got you too," I grin. "We're going shopping."

After what seems like an eternity of trying on clothes, examining fabrics, and debating colors under the boutique's crystal chandeliers, everyone seems happy about the dresses and suits they've picked. The sales associates buzz around us with champagne and expert opinions, treating us like the VIPs our credit cards prove we are.

I start smiling when Wale texts me that everything is ready Chef Oby has started cooking. Chef Oby is in her thirties, has two kids (a boy and a girl), and a happy marriage. Wale tells me she and Nneoma are together in the kitchen, with Nneoma helping out. He also tells me to have V pick out a dress for Nneoma.

V panics immediately. "Nneoma has high fashion taste! Is this a surprise?" she asks, her eyes wide with the pressure of getting it right.

I chuckle. "Not really."

We head back inside the boutique, and as we're walking through the evening wear section, V spots something that makes her stop dead in her tracks. It's a deep wine-colored dress with a single strap that sits slanted across one shoulder. The fabric flows like liquid silk, and it has a slit that climbs dangerously high up one thigh.

"Damn, this is Nneoma!" V breathes, holding up the dress like she's discovered treasure.

Yu closes Marv's ears dramatically and whispers, "I won't be surprised if Wale throws her on the table and has his wicked way with her. Remember, Nneoma said Wale loosened her hair himself!"

"Whew!" I shake my head, grinning. "When I tell you Wale is head over heels in love with Nneoma Diadem can't even hold a candle to that kind of love."

We all pick out shoes to complete the looks. Nneoma's are Jimmy Choo silver heels that catch the boutique's lighting like liquid mercury. Damn, everything about tonight is going to be perfect.

-

Nneoma's POV

I watch from the kitchen's large windows as V, Yu, and Marv pull up to the house like they went shopping at three different high-end stores. Shopping bags from designer boutiques spill out of the car, and their excited chatter carries through the glass.

Marv rushes over to me first, his arms wide for a hug. I tighten my hold on him my little brother just has a way straight to my heart. He acts too mature for his age, a side effect of growing up surrounded by adults who treat him like one.

Wale loosened my hair earlier and washed it for me with such gentle care that I melted. Now I'm wearing his white t-shirt that smells heavenly like his cologne mixed with clean cotton and something indefinably him. I paired it with bum shorts that no one can see, and I made him wear my pink fuzzy slippers while I claimed his black ones. We look ridiculous and perfect.

Marv pulls back from our hug to address the room. "Thank you," he says to Wale, Chukwudera, me, V, and Yu with the solemnity of someone much older.

V hugs him back, but he notices my slightly blurry eyes immediately. He comes back to me, concern creasing his young features.

"Big sis, are you okay?" he asks quietly.

I nod, not trusting my voice completely.

He hugs me again, tighter this time. "Don't cry, okay? Everything is going to be okay. You've got me too."

He's so mature for a kid, carrying wisdom that sometimes breaks my heart. Wale has started playing music something smooth and soulful that fills the house with warmth. The sound system he installed makes every note crystal clear.

I check in with Chef Oby, who's orchestrating magic in the kitchen. Pots simmer on the massive stove, and the air is thick with the aroma of perfectly seasoned Nigerian dishes that make my mouth water.

"Everything okay?" I ask.

She waves me away with a flour-dusted hand. "Go get dressed your man is starving! I'll be alright. I've got to head to the grill outside."

"Thank you!" I call after her, grabbing V's hand. "Come on!"

I drag V inside Wale's bedroom with all her makeup products spread across his dresser like an artist's palette. The room smells like him – that intoxicating mix of expensive cologne and clean masculinity that makes me want to bury my face in his pillows.

"Relax, girl, I got you, girl," V says in her practiced Indian accent, adjusting her glasses with professional precision.

She starts on my foundation, but when I begin asking when we're going to finish, she shoves a slice of cucumber in my mouth.

"Now shut up and let me do your makeup," she commands, completely in her element. "Hand me your foundation and your compact powder."

When she's finally done, all I can say is "Wow." I look stunning my features enhanced but still recognizably me, glowing like I'm lit from within.

I help her into her dress next. It's a gorgeous red number, simple yet elegant, tight on the upper body then gathered at the knee before flaring out. I've never seen anything that highlighted V's curves so perfectly.

"Girlllll," I breathe, "Shakira sang 'Hips Don't Lie' for you! You're so endowed and beautiful, V!"

"Thank you, so are you," she says, but her smile is radiant.

I help her pack her hair into an updo, then use the hair straightener to curl sections so they bounce and cascade like water over her shoulders. The effect is romantic and sophisticated.

"I also help her into her heels  our signature Jimmy Choos. I can't believe it. What was once out of my reach is finally within my grasp."

I pack my own hair up next. It's shoulder-length, pretty long and thick from good genes and better care. I create an updo but leave some length at the base, curling it so it frames my face. The silver floral earrings I choose have big bangles with floral pendants that catch the light every time I move.

"Wow," V and I say together, staring at our reflections.

We do a quick video, twirling and laughing like we're living in our own music video. I use the song "We Were All Girls Together," and the moment feels perfect – friendship and sisterhood and the magic of getting ready together.

"I'm so happy I ran into you at the toilet that day," V says suddenly, her voice soft with emotion. "You're my first office friend and the best office-turned-sister friend."

I hug her tight, feeling the same gratitude flood through me.

Wale and Yu are chatting in the hallway when Yu spots me first and gasps audibly.

"Wow, Nneoma, you look stunning! Valerie, wear dresses more! Jesus, look at all that goodness – you look divine!"

"Yes, she needs to!" I agree, squeezing V's hand.

Yu clears his throat and tugs V away with exaggerated urgency. "Come on, let's go check on Marv and Chukwudera."

As they walk away, he mouths to me: "Your man is going to eat you for dinner."

I start blushing furiously.

He also mouths: "You look stunning, honey. I can understand why."

-

Wale's POV

I am weak in the knees. This woman is beautiful beyond words she leaves me breathless and mesmerized every single time I see her dressed up, or even when I'm just waking up in the morning to find her face on the pillow next to mine.

My future daughters need a beauty like Nneoma as their mother. The thought hits me with startling clarity and certainty.

I stare as words fail me completely. She notices my speechlessness and smiles shyly.

"Do you like it?" she asks, uncertainty flickering in her eyes.

"Like?" I finally manage. "I love it. I love you. You're impeccable."

I position her in front of the full-length mirror, my hands on her waist as we both look at our reflection. "It's taking everything in me not to get inside you right here while you're watching yourself, seeing how our bodies blend together."

Goosebumps spread like wildfire across her skin at my words. I can see them racing along her arms, her neck.

"Please, Wale, after dinner," she whispers, her voice shaky with want. "I owe you that."

I kneel down to help her with her shoes, slipping the silver heels onto her feet one at a time. Before I slide the second one on, I kiss her foot soft, reverent, intimate. Her body jerks at the contact, a sharp intake of breath escaping her lips.

My hands keep moving up her legs, tracing patterns on her skin, but her voice comes out shaky: "Wale, let's reserve this for tonight."

"Yes," I agree reluctantly, pulling back.

She runs downstairs because she doesn't trust me to keep my hands to myself, and honestly, she's right not to.

---

The house buzzes with music flowing from every room, the sound system creating the perfect atmosphere. Chef Oby's food sends incredible aromas through the air jollof rice, suya, grilled plantains, and other dishes that make my stomach growl with anticipation.

Outside, the sky turns a darker shade of deep purple, and the stars begin to twinkle brighter against the velvet canvas. The outdoor lighting I had installed casts everything in a warm, golden glow.

That's how I know we're set for an amazing evening.

---

Barbie as Narrator

I need a round table discussion with all these characters immediately! I love chapters where Diadem wasn't the one talking we get to see the whole picture instead of just his twisted perspective.

Let's unpack this: Kamsi is caught between loyalty to Diadem and protecting Valerie. Poor Kamsi is walking a tightrope that's about to snap. Wale and Chukwudera's bond runs deep as oceans that's real brotherhood right there.

And V's hips? Man oh man, she should dress up more often! Kamsi might sprint here all the way from Edinburgh if he saw her in that red dress. I like Chukwudera's mature take on his feelings for V – that's how real men operate when they respect boundaries. Mtchew!

"Nneoma looks impeccable," Wale says, and whew! That man is gone, completely whipped, and we love to see it. The night looks promising with all this romantic tension brewing.

But I'm still curious about what storm Diadem is cooking up. That man is planning something, and it's probably more dangerous than anything Chef Oby is preparing in that kitchen.

In D'banj's voice: "It's about to go down!" And honey, Diadem is cooking up a storm that might be much more explosive than Chef Oby's three-course meal.Did I hear Brazil trip ??? Daymmnnn wale keeps surprising me

Please, people, read and like – it's encouraging for writers to see that love! The tension is building, the characters are falling deeper into their complicated relationships, and something tells me this beautiful evening is about to get very, very interesting.

See you later! 😘