Friday night crept up on Nora faster than she had anticipated. Throughout the day, she oscillated between excitement and apprehension about Adrian's performance. She had told herself it wasn't a date, just a casual outing to support a friend. Yet, as she stood in front of her closet, agonizing over what to wear, she knew this evening meant more than she cared to admit.
In the end, she settled on a simple yet elegant outfit: a knee-length black dress paired with comfortable heels and a light scarf. Her hair was neatly pulled back, framing her face, and a touch of makeup completed the look.
The venue was a small, intimate space in the heart of Lagos, known for its relaxed atmosphere and live music nights. The warm lighting and rustic decor gave it a welcoming vibe. As Nora walked in, the faint hum of conversation and soft clinking of glasses filled the air.
She spotted Adrian near the stage, tuning his guitar. His eyes lit up when he saw her, and he made his way over.
"Nora, you made it," he said, his voice brimming with enthusiasm.
"I said I would," she replied, smiling. "I'm curious to see what all the fuss is about."
Adrian laughed, a sound that made her stomach flutter. "I hope I live up to your expectations."
The room filled quickly, and soon the lights dimmed as the evening's performances began. Adrian's set was the last, and Nora found herself enjoying the other acts while also sneaking glances at him. He seemed completely at ease, chatting with other performers and the audience, his charisma evident in every interaction.
When Adrian finally took the stage, the crowd erupted in applause. He looked confident yet humble, his guitar slung across his chest.
"This next song is one I wrote recently," he said into the microphone, his voice smooth and inviting. "It's about finding unexpected connections in a world that sometimes feels too chaotic."
As he began to play, Nora felt herself being drawn into the melody. The song was soulful, a blend of hope and vulnerability. His voice carried an emotion that felt personal, as though he were speaking directly to her.
When their eyes met mid-performance, her breath hitched. The intensity of his gaze made her feel exposed, yet she couldn't look away. She realized then that Adrian wasn't just talented; he had a way of making people feel seen.
After the set ended, the crowd erupted in applause, some people even giving him a standing ovation. Adrian thanked everyone and made his way back to Nora, who was still sitting in stunned silence.
"So," he said, sliding into the seat across from her, "what did you think?"
Nora blinked, gathering her thoughts. "You were amazing. I mean, really. You have a gift."
Adrian grinned, a faint blush creeping up his cheeks. "Thank you. That means a lot."
As they talked, the conversation shifted from music to life, dreams, and fears. Adrian shared stories about the struggles of being a musician the late nights, the financial instability, and the self-doubt. In turn, Nora opened up about the pressures of her career, the expectations of her family, and her struggle to balance ambition with personal happiness.
"You know," Adrian said after a while, "I think you're braver than you realize."
Nora raised an eyebrow. "How so?"
"You've built this incredible life for yourself, despite everything. That takes courage."
His words struck a chord, leaving Nora momentarily speechless. She had always seen herself as practical, driven, and determined but brave? That was new.
The night wound down, and the crowd began to thin. Adrian walked her to her car, the cool night air wrapping around them like a cocoon.
"Thanks for coming tonight," he said, his tone softer now. "It really meant a lot to me."
"I'm glad I came," she replied, her voice equally quiet.
They stood there for a moment, the silence filled with unspoken possibilities. Adrian took a step closer, his eyes searching hers. For a moment, Nora thought he might kiss her, but he simply smiled and stepped back.
"Goodnight, Nora."
"Goodnight, Adrian."
As she drove home, Nora couldn't stop replaying the evening in her mind. Adrian's words, his music, the way he had looked at her it all felt like the beginning of something she hadn't allowed herself to hope for in a long time.
Yet, even as she felt the stirrings of something new, a part of her remained cautious. Love, she knew, wasn't always a fairytale. But maybe, just maybe, Adrian was worth the risk.