Chapter 4

THE NIGHT WE MET 2

CHAPTER 2

Tayo parked by the water, view of the island glittering. "You okay with this?" he asked, turning to Aisha. Her smile was answer enough. They talked – work, dreams, fears – the night shrinking to just them.

As they chatted, Tayo's fingers brushed against Aisha's, sending sparks through her fingers. She didn't pull away, and he took it as a sign to keep going. They talked about everything and nothing, the city lights twinkling like stars above.

Eventually, Tayo turned to her, his eyes serious. "Want to see the real Lagos?" he asked, a mischievous glitch in his smile. Aisha's heart skipped. "What did you have in mind?" she asked, playing along.

Tayo's grin was answer enough. He started the car, and they drove through the city's pulse, ending up at a hidden beach on the outskirts. The waves crashed, and the stars shone bright. Aisha felt alive.

They walked the shore, sand between toes, talking until the first light of dawn crept in. Tayo turned to her, his voice low. "This night... it felt like something, right?" Aisha nodded, her heart loud.

Tayo leaned in, his lips brushing hers. The kiss was soft, curious, and full of promise. Aisha kissed back, the world narrowing to just them.

As the sun broke, Tayo pulled away, smiling. "I'll walk you home." Aisha nodded, her heart still fluttering.