THE BETRAYAL © Grace O.O Part 6 Serena took a leave from work the next week. Every day, she would cry and cry till she got tired. She lost appetite and wouldn't talk to anyone. Titi convinced her to move in with her for the meantime till she recovered. After a month, Serena decided to move on with her life. She buried herself in work and paid no attention to romance. One day, she was watching a reality show on TV with Titi when her phone rang. When she saw it was James, she didn't pick. "Who's it?". Titi asked. "A friend. I don't want to talk to him yet". "My friend, pick that call. What's wrong with you? Please let go of Tony and embrace your reality". Titi said, obviously pissed at Serena's attitude. Reluctantly, she picked the call. "Hi James!". "Hey Serena. How are you?". "I'm fine. How about you?". She asked. "I'm doing well baby". They spoke about family and career before James suddenly asked of her fiance. "Oh, it's complicated". "What do you mean?". "We broke up". Serena said. There was a long silence. "I'm sorry about that. How are you coping?". He finally spoke. "Trying to be fine. But I know I'd be alright". "You're a strong woman, you will get over it. If you need someone to confide in, I'm here for you. Don't hesitate to talk to me". Serena chuckled. "Don't let me bother you. I'm fine". "I insist. Come to think of it, I'd be coming over to Ibadan for a conference. Maybe we could hang out then". "I won't...". James cut her off. "No excuses. I'm not taking no for an answer this time". "Okay o, I've heard you". She said smugly. They talked some more before finally bidding each other goodbye. When she dropped the phone, she was smiling. "What did he say that made you smile like this?". Titi teased. "Leave me jor!". She laughed. "Not until you tell me what he said". "Okay. He wants to take me out this weekend". Serena said. "That's wonderful. I'm happy for you". "I didn't say I was going". "Why won't you? My friend, please prepare o". Titi said laughing. ** She didn't hear from him again till Friday evening. She was at work when his car came in. "I'm sorry I didn't call again. I've been busy lately". He started after they had exchanged pleasantries. "No qualms. I'm good, how are you?". "I'm fine dear. When would you be free tomorrow?". He asked. "By 1pm". "Right, how about we meet tomorrow by 3pm?". "That's okay". "Send me your address so I can send my driver to pick you". "Alright, thank you". "I've not done anything yet, and you're already thanking me. Baby girl, relax o. I'd see you tomorrow. Till then, take care of yourself and stay safe". James said. "I will, James. And you too". After the conversation, she typed the address and sent it to his WhatsApp. *** "You're looking stunning, dear". Titi told her. Serena had dressed up in a yellow and black polkadot gown that reached her knees. She wore a pair of black sandals to match. Her braided hair fell down to her shoulders giving her a sophisticated yet gentle look. "Thank you Titi". There was a knock at the door at that moment. The ladies exchanged an excited look. "That must be the driver. Let me go and get the door". Titi volunteered and went off. She soon returned with a young man. "James! I can't believe you came yourself". Serena yelped. James pulled her into an embrace and held her face tenderly. "Well, I came. Are you ready?". "Yes I am. But before that, let me introduce my friend to you. Here's Titilayo". She turned to Titi who was smiling shyly. "Titi, please meet James". They shook hands briefly. "It's really good to meet you in person. Please take good care of her". Titi said. "Trust me, she's in safe hands ma'am". James chuckled. "I hope so. Serena, take care and enjoy yourself". Titi winked. "I will baby. Thank you". They left the apartment and walked to where he parked his car. He opened the door for her. "Oh James, don't be funny". "You're a princess, you must be treated as such". He replied. Serena laughed. "You're not serious jareh". James got into the car and turned on the ignition before driving off. Distance away, someone was watching. ________________ To be continued... Who is this stalker that's monitoring Serena? Watch out for the next part! #_pen_of_grace