*Chapter 4: The Gala**
The grand ballroom glittered with extravagance, every inch of it screaming wealth and power. Amina entered on Obinna's arm, her steps hesitant but graceful. Her dress clung to her uncomfortably, and the weight of every gaze in the room felt suffocating. Obinna's grip on her wrist was firm, a silent reminder of who controlled her now.
"Smile," he murmured, his voice low but sharp. "You're here to make me look good."
Amina forced a smile, her heart pounding. She scanned the room, desperate for a distraction, something to keep her mind off the nightmare she was living.
As the evening wore on, Obinna paraded her around like a trophy. His business associates praised her beauty, their words laced with condescension. She nodded politely, biting back the urge to scream.
At one point, Obinna leaned in close, his breath warm against her ear. "You're doing well," he said. "But don't forget this is just the beginning. You'll learn what it means to be mine."
Amina's stomach churned, but she kept her composure. She excused herself to the restroom, needing a moment to breathe.
In the shadows outside the ballroom, Kofi was watching. He had tracked Amina to the gala, his heart breaking at the sight of her forced smiles and Obinna's possessive grip. He clenched his fists, rage bubbling beneath his calm exterior.
He needed a way in, a way to reach her without drawing attention. But this wasn't his world he was out of his depth among the silk suits and crystal chandeliers.
Still, he wasn't leaving without her.
Back in the ballroom, Amina returned to Obinna's side, her nerves frayed. The night dragged on, and as the clock struck midnight, Obinna leaned in again.
"It's time to leave," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument.
The ride back to the mansion was silent. Amina stared out the window, her mind racing. She thought of Kofi, of his promise to find her. She couldn't let herself lose hope.
When they arrived, Obinna escorted her to the bedroom. He closed the door behind them, his eyes dark with intent.
"You've done well tonight," he said, stepping closer. "Now, let's see how well you can fulfill your other duties."
Amina's chest tightened as she backed away. "I'm not ready," she said, her voice trembling.
Obinna smirked, his confidence unshaken. "You'll get used to it. You don't have a choice."
Before he could touch her, the sound of glass shattering downstairs interrupted them. Obinna froze, his gaze snapping toward the door.
"What the hell?" he muttered, storming out of the room.
Amina's heart raced as she locked the door behind him. She didn't know what was happening, but for the first time, she felt a spark of hope.