On the other hand, in the Njemanzes' opulent gardens, Edward and Michael sat together, engaged in a conversation about work and related matters.
Edward suddenly leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Michael. 'Son, why didn't you pick me up from the airport?'
Michael shifted in his seat, glancing briefly at his father. 'Didn't Mum tell you why?'
'She did, but I want to hear it from you,' Edward insisted.
A female servant approached with a tea set, placing it on the marble table between them. Edward's gaze wandered to Jessica, who was sitting nearby, enjoying some fruit. 'Come here, Jessica,' he called, gesturing for her to join them.
Jessica hesitated, her eyes flicking to Michael. 'Uncle... Michael may not want me here.'
'My father wants you here, not me,' Michael controlled himself from sneering at Jessica.
Jessica approached cautiously, placing the fruit bowl on the table and taking a seat. 'Uncle, is there something you wanted to talk to me about?'
Edward sipped his tea, his expression softening. 'You're my future daughter-in-law. Why would you feel afraid?'
Michael's lips twitched into a brief, mocking smile. 'Do you have another son besides me?'
'You are my only son,' Edward replied. His voice sounded gentle, yet there was an underlying dominance.
'Michael, we have been betrothed since childhood... You can't do anything about it, idiot. If I were you, I would start planning for our marriage,' Jessica retorted in frustration before storming off.
Once Jessica left, Edward turned to Michael and said, 'Michael, I've known the Nnajis for a long time. Emmanuel and I grew up together. We are close friends, as you know...'
Michael interrupted, looking down to sip his tea. 'Father, are you starting a history lesson? I'm well aware of your friendship with Emmanuel. I'm not interested in your history class right now. Save it for another day.'
'Marriage is a business. You have to marry Jessica. When our families unite, we will become a powerful force and thrive for at least another century,' Edward explained, leaning back in his chair.
Michael shook his head slightly, his voice rising. 'That's what you want, right? What about your son's opinion?' he challenged.
'We are on the same page here,' Edward responded.
'Oh, Dad, but I don't agree with you on this. I won't marry Jessica. Besides, our family has always been at the top in this country,' Michael declared, turning his head away. 'We own this country! With our wealth, we decide who becomes the president of Nigeria. We have properties in the most exclusive areas of Abuja, including Asokoro, Maitama, Wuse, Garki, and Gwarimpa. We also own properties in other cities in Nigeria, acquired through hard work. We don't need Emmanuel. He's only influential in Imo State, not here in Abuja. We obtain lands from the president, for which we pay billions. Out of the hundreds of competitors, we always secure them. We will always remain on top. We owe no one; we pay for everything we receive,' he explained, shaking his head lightly.
Edward's expression turned disappointed. 'In other words, you've made up your mind not to marry Jessica? Fine, Michael, but you won't marry just any girl you see on the street. She must come from a reputable background,' Edward emphasised.
Michael understood his father's meaning but chose to remain silent. After Michael retired to his room, he began signing the documents he had brought home.
A little while later, Patricia knocked on the door and entered. 'Son, are you sure you won't give Jessica a chance to be your woman? She's a good girl, you know.'
Just as Michael was about to reply, he heard the rhythmic sound of high heels on the marble floor, signalling Jessica's approach. Then, with an enigmatic expression, she appeared at the door, wearing a stunning long red dress, her beautiful hair cascading down like a waterfall. She possessed a captivating beauty that could entice any man, but Michael's feelings were not swayed by mere appearances. Appreciating beauty is one thing; choosing a life partner is another.
'What are you still doing here? It's already late,' Michael pointed at the clock in his room. 'Go home already.'
'No, I'm not going anywhere. You can rent a house for yourself,' Jessica retorted, crossing her arms. 'If you ask me to leave at this time of the night, then whatever happens won't be ignored by your family, considering our long-standing friendship. In the end, my troubles are your troubles.' With that, she turned and left.
'She's right,' Patricia said with a shrug. Just as she was about to leave the room, she paused. Turning back to face Michael, she pointed at the files and advised, 'You should go to sleep as well. Leave the files for tomorrow... Goodnight.' With that, she turned again and left, closing the door behind her.