From a few meters you could see a big mall and a big billboard with the words chicken inn main written on it. Upon arrival, we were ushered to the parking lot and parked our car next to Rebecca's. At the look of all four cars parked closely to each other, everyone had arrived and maybe waiting for us. Everyone had settled to a cozy spot, chicken,pizza, juice glasses and coffee cups on the table welcomed us to the group . Watching from a distance you could tell the group was a mix of personalities, introvert, outgoing, calm , social , but all equally excited for others.
Hailey and Tony, School sweetheart whose connection was evident in the way they moved and talked. Hailey in short and a mini top and Tony casual tee and jeans made them look like tourist. They spoke softly to each other, their shared history creating an unspoken bond.
Rebecca and Allan, the most outgoing couple in the group, chatted animatedly with anyone within earshot. Rebecca born of vibrant personality, Allan with easy charm and athletic build was the perfect compliment for her. They were the social glue of the group, making sure everyone felt included.
Contrasting them was Jessica and rob , the introverted of the group. Jessica with here serene demeanor, sipped her coffee quietly, observing the group with a gentle smile, Rob tall and slightly reserved sat close to her. Their casual attire reflected their preference for comfort and simplicity.
Mingling between two extremes, Peter and Tara,who struck a balance between sociable and reserved. As we made entrance towards the table, everyone stopped and glanced at us. Some with mouth wide open , others in shock of who my partner for borrow was. Joseph was dressed in a relaxed button down shirt and jeans looking effortlessly handsome and he seemed equally pleased to be there. I introduced Joseph to the group, settled in with the rest as we ate and enjoyed each other's company.
As we finished eating, Rebecca clapped her hands to get the attention of everyone. "Alright everyone! Are you ready to hit the road?" A chorus of agreement followed and the group made their way to the parking lot, each couple heading to their own car. I felt a thrill of anticipation as I slid into co-drivers seat as Joseph glanced over at me, his eyes warm. "Ready?", I smiled , my nerves settling as I replied "Absolutely".
One by one , the cars pulled out of the parking lot, forming a small convoy as they headed towards the destination. The journey ahead promised more laughter, bonding and perhaps more surprises.
Little by little, I got to know Joseph, his personality, likes and flaws though just a little, and I could tell, he's a guy who needed someone as a genuine friend not of his title or where he comes from, but him as joseph. He's strong yet weak though he tried to hide it from me. From analyzing the stories he gave, he's a man seeking to be loved genuinely. He had said so much about him and he had only one question for me. "Have you ever loved anyone Bella? And I mean the kind of love that makes you want to protect the person, want to live next to them and never let go?" He pulled up the car by side of the road and looked at me with warm but deep eyes like he was searching for my soul and I knew he was serious about the question." Why would you ask? " I was tensed and uncomfortable from the question. I took a deep breath, gathering courage I held his hand as I asked , "Are you in love with someone?" I looked at him, curiosity in my eyes. He swallowed hard trying to find the right words. " There's someone I've been thinking about a lot lately. Someone who's become really important to me.shes amazing. She's Beautiful, smart, and kind.Every time I see her my day just get better."
"she sounds wonderful Joseph. You should definitely tell her how you feel ." Taking a deep breath, he said softly " That what am trying to do.. I've been trying to find the right moment, the right words, but it's hard because am scared of what might happen."I reassuringly squeezed his hand . " Joseph, if she's as Wonderful as you say , she will be lucky to have you. Just open up to her , you never know." He took my hands in his , his grip gentle yet firm. "Thanks Bella. I would love to be your friend, if it's okay with you." " Definitely" I said. He leaned forward for a hug.sensing his need for closeness, I opened my arms and he slid into my embrace. The center console between us seemed to disappear as we held each other tightly. His arms wrapped around my back , pulling me close , while my arms around his neck breathing in his beautiful scent , finding comfort too in his steady rhythm of his heartbeat against my chest. Joseph rested his chin on my shoulder his hands gently rubbing my back in slow soothing motions. In this hug , we felt an unspoken understanding pass between us. The troubles and the worries of the outside world faded away, leaving only the profound sense of safety and comfort we found on each other's arms.
I really needed the hug. Sometimes all you need is a hug from someone who mean it. "I really needed it , thanks Bella" He tried to man up but I could see his eyes wet. We hit the road minutes later , silent the whole journey. I tried to think and reflect on the hardships we go through that we can't talk about , not to the people close to us .
"Have you noticed a car trailing us? "I asked as soon as we got to the resort." You mean there was a car trailing us and you didn't tell me? "I thought I was just being paranoid. Who would trail us anyway? A bunch of broke students with nothing but knowledge to offer," I joked alittle. Everyone had just gathered around the grand entrance with a mix of excitement and anticipation waiting to be ushered inside. A host came outside the gate, issued each one of us with a security key and walked us up to our villa.
The villa was a masterpiece of luxury and comfort.It was a peak season, every other villa was fully booked and some occupied, others waiting to be occupied during the week. It's expansive structure featured five rooms, each room uniquely decorated according to the preferences provided by the couple before hand. I remember Rebecca asking me what I would like my room to look like in my dream house.As we entered the villa,we were greeted by another host who led us to our rooms. All the rooms were upstairs.
The first room was Rebecca and Allan's ."Here you are" ,the host announced, opening the door to their room.Rebecca gasped.The room was a perfect blend of both their taste,a subtle mix of her love for vintage decor and his preference for sleek ,modern lines."it's beautiful," Rebecca whispered , stepping inside and running her fingers over the antique dresser. The second room next to Rebecca's was Jessica and Rob's ,and the door opposite to that was Peter and Tara's. The floor above that had two rooms, opposite to each other. The door on the right was ours .As the host opened the door,I felt so overwhelmed by a mix of emotions. The room was stunning.we stepped inside dropped the bags and turned to Joseph,a smile playing on his lips." It's beautiful.you have quite a taste for interior design." We explored the room, taking in every detail.it had an intimate sitting area by a large window overlooking a huge swimming pool.The room was packed with mahogany king sized bed that dominated the space , covered with soft , luxurious linens, a dressing table, a small coffee table by the balcony and , a 72 inch screen. "I may say I love the minimalist style, warm colors,and accommodative atmosphere." Joseph stated.The tension between us was undeniable, each moment of closeness sending sparks through the air.
As we settled in, the other couple s were already making themselves at home in their own personalized rooms, filled with a comfortable hum of conversation and laughter.