The modern lights cast a warm glow over the intimate ambiance of La Terrasse Restaurant, one of the top five fanciest restaurants in the city, where Shadrach and Adepa had met, sitting across from each other, deep in conversation on a Saturday evening.

Adepa looked radiant, her long, flowing hair cascading over her shoulders, and her spicy Ankara dress adding a touch of elegance. Shadrach, looking just as good in his simple Lacoste T-shirt and black chinos, couldn’t help but feel enchanted by her presence as they enjoyed their dinner together. He had not wasted time hitting her up and suggesting they hang out during the weekend, and she equally had not hesitated in accepting the invitation. So far, everything was going swimmingly.

“Nahh, I might have said it already, but I need to say it again. You look absolutely stunning tonight, Adepa,” Shadrach gushed, a bright smile on his face.

Adepa offered a grateful smile while she touched her cheeks like a shy little child. “Awwww! Thank you, Shadrach. You’re too kind.”

Their waiter approached, taking their orders and refilling their glasses with water, before leaving them to continue their conversation in the intimate atmosphere of the restaurant.

“You’re welcome, you’re welcome. So, if I might ask,” Shadrach began, his curiosity piqued, “what inspired you to become a journalist?”

Adepa leaned back in her chair, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. “Well, it’s a bit of a long story, but I’ll try to give you the condensed version.”

“No problem, I’m all ears.”

She took a sip of her glass of water before continuing. “So, uh… growing up, I was always fascinated by storytelling. My dad used to buy me lots of books, read a couple of them to me before bedtime, that sort of thing. I remember how impactful some of those stories were. Aesop’s Fables in particular always got me thinking, you know. The story of the Boy Who Cried Wolf, the Tortoise and the Hare, those classics. And the old man always used to tell me that stories can be used to entertain, sure, but they’re also to inform people about certain things and… hopefully provoke them to action. And that’s when my fascination turned into passion.

“Whether it was through books, movies, or the news, I was drawn to the power of words to inform, inspire, and provoke change. But it wasn’t until I was in senior high, and on an excursion to Ada, that I witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by some of the marginalized communities. I wondered to myself, who’s gonna tell their story, who’s gonna be their voice to get them out of their difficulties? I think that was my epiphany moment; that was when I realized the true importance of journalism. And from then, I decided I was going to pursue journalism.”

Her eyes sparkled with passion as she spoke. “I wanted to give a voice to those who have been silenced, you know. Shine a light on the issues that matter most, and hold those in power accountable for their actions. You see, Shadrach, journalism, to me, is not just a profession; it’s a calling. A great way to make a difference in one’s part of the world, one story at a time. And it’s been great so far. My work helped the city council focus on improving the Titus district up north with their rubbish dump situation, brought awareness to that neglected woman with quadruplets… it’s been an honour, and I don’t plan to stop anytime soon.”

Shadrach listened intently, captivated by Adepa’s passion. Her sincerity soaked up every syllable from her lips. “That’s incredibly inspiring, Adepa,” he nodded, genuinely impressed. “It takes a lot of conviction to pursue this career with such passion and purpose. And you’re right; it’s definitely made an impact. And you definitely have so much more to offer. That report on the mother with the quadruplets was one hell of a game-changer. You’re special, for real.”

Adepa smiled, touched by his response. “Thanks. It hasn’t always been easy. Of course, you’ll step on toes now and then, but knowing that I have the opportunity to make a positive impact in another person’s life keeps me going.”

Shadrach nodded as he took a sip from his glass of water.

“So, now that I’ve shared my story with you, it’s time for you to do vice versa—what led you to become a legal analyst?”

Shadrach paused for a moment, considering his response.

“Well… I have to admit, it’s a bit of a winding road,” he started slowly. “I’ve always had a fascination with the law and how it shapes society. Even as a child, I found myself drawn to stories of justice and fairness, whether it was from books, movies, or real-life events. For example, ‘To Mock A Hummingbird’? Best movie ever. Atticus Finch really inspired me. But the weird part is, I never wanted to be a lawyer.”

Adepa raised an eyebrow.

He nodded, a smirk on his face. “Yeah, I know, I know. It sounds weird, right? How can I love things pertaining to the law and not wanna be a lawyer? It’s twisted, mohm. But chale, standing before judges and all that courtroom drama, that’s just not my thing. I’ll watch it and learn from it, but nah, I don’t wanna be in the middle of it. I thrive on analyzing legal events, breaking them down, and making them understandable to the public. I’ve found a niche in explaining the complexities of the law in a way that resonates with people outside the legal profession.”

Adepa nodded. “Hmmm, that’s interesting. Very interesting.”

“Yeah. And you’d be surprised, my knowledge has actually led some lawyers to seek my help. Not for courtroom strategies, of course; that would be career suicide for them. But, you know, insights that can help them communicate better with their clients or even with the press. I can’t reveal their identities; they’ll probably sue me, hahaha. But it’s been so rewarding to bridge that gap between legal jargon and everyday language.”

Adepa smirked, having laughed at the suing joke. “That’s really good to hear,” she commented, genuinely touched by his story. “It’s clear that you’ve found your niche, and you’re flourishing in it. Sima Hills is lucky to have you in your field. Especially Sima Hills lawyers.”

Shadrach laughed. “Thank you, Adepa. I’m really privileged to do what I do. I’m so grateful I didn’t have to lock myself down to the courtroom to pursue my passion. I’d probably wilt there.”

“Are you sure, though? You wouldn’t have been too bad a lawyer ooo.”

“Oh, nah, forget. I’d be trash. Absolute trash…”

***

The night was still young, but the little date had come to an end. It had been a wonderful time, however, and as the two chatted while approaching Adepa’s car, their bond had been strengthened by this short but magnificent time together.

Adepa unlocked the door and turned to face him, a warm smile lighting up her face.

“So, uh, it was really lovely getting to know you better tonight, Adepa,” Shadrach started, his voice soft but sincere. “You’re a really special woman. And I’m not just trying to flatter you; I truly mean it.”

Adepa chuckled, brushing a strand of her long, flowing hair behind her ear. “Thank you, Shadrach. I could say the same about you. This evening was… so good. Really meaningful conversations. I enjoyed it.”

Shadrach nodded, then hesitated for a beat before speaking again. “We should do this again sometime. I mean, if you’re up for it.”

Adepa quickly replied with an eager nod. “Absolutely. I’d love that. Just say the word, and I’ll be there.”

Shadrach’s heart couldn’t help but skip a beat. “I’m definitely holding you to that.”

“Good, good.” As Adepa opened her car door and slid into the driver’s seat, she glanced up at him one last time. “Goodnight, Shadrach. I’ll let you know when I get home. And don’t keep me waiting too long for that follow-up.”

Shadrach laughed, taking a step back. “I won’t. Don’t worry about that. Goodnight, Adepa. Drive safe.”

With a small wave, Adepa started the engine and pulled out of the parking lot. Shadrach stood there for a few moments longer, watching her leave, a soft smile still lingering on his face.

As her car disappeared from view, Shadrach sighed excitedly. He had a strong feeling that something special was on the horizon. Meeting Adepa, hearing her story, and sharing his own—it felt like the beginning of something meaningful, a connection that could grow into something extraordinary.

“Well, let’s see how it goes,” he murmured to himself as he headed to his car.

***

Adepa pulled into her driveway, her spirits still high from the wonderful evening she’d spent with Shadrach. Humming softly to herself, she stepped out of the car, locking it behind her before making her way into the house.

Once inside, she kicked off her heels and set her purse on the console table. She stretched her arms above her head, still humming, and headed toward her bedroom, mentally cataloging her plans for the next day.

“Okay,” she murmured to herself, “so church in the morning, and maybe brunch after that… I’ll definitely have to do the early service if I wanna do brunch. But that means waking up early… urrghhh!”

As she reached the hallway leading to her room, her thoughts turned back to Shadrach. She smiled and shook her head lightly. “I can tell he likes me,” she muttered, her tone a mix of amusement and contemplation. “It’s so obvious. But let’s not rush things, Adepa. Give it time… let’s see where it goes.”

Her phone in her hand as she moved to her room, she began typing out a text:

Just got home safely. Thanks again for tonight—had a great time. 😊

As her fingers hovered over the send button, her other hand opened the door and hit the light switch.

Light instantly flooded the room.

She looked up…

…and saw him.

In his menacing dark attire, his face obscured by a mask that only made his piercing eyes more terrifying.

And with a wickedly sharp ninja star in hand.

Adepa’s phone slipped from her grasp.

A scream tore from her throat, filling the room with raw terror.

And suddenly, the ninja star sliced through the air.

Landing in her neck and silencing her.

What the hell??!! Doomblade went after Adepa? And he’s killed her? Unbelievable! What is it with this dude?