Chapter 35

• We made our way back home in silence, the weight of the truth burdening my thoughts. My once bright face now wore a mask of sadness and contemplation, caught between the desire to protect Ayo and the guilt of withholding the truth. How could I be the one to shatter his heart and steal away his newfound joy? Ayo deserved this moment of happiness, a respite from the trials he had endured.
• Inside the cab, Ayo couldn't contain his excitement, his voice filled with unabashed delight. "My guy, that girl is stunning," he exclaimed, his enthusiasm palpable.
• I mustered a fake smile, my heart heavy with the knowledge of Cynthia's true intentions. "I told you that you would like her," I replied, trying to maintain a sense of normalcy.