Here is the story with Chapter 7 removed:
Thelma and Jason's relationship continued to blossom, and they found themselves lost in each other's eyes. They spent every spare moment together, exploring Abuja's hidden gems and laughing together.
One evening, as they strolled through the city, Thelma's friends, Favour and Oyin, joined them. Favour, a fashion designer, was bubbling with excitement about a new project she was working on. Oyin, a journalist, was typing away on her phone, researching a story.
Thelma introduced Jason to her friends, and they welcomed him warmly. As they chatted, Thelma noticed Emmanuel watching them from across the room, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.
Emmanuel sauntered over, a charming smile on his face. "Hey, guys! What's going on?"
Thelma's friends exchanged a knowing glance. "Just discussing the latest fashion trends," Favour said, winking at Thelma.
Emmanuel's eyes lit up. "Fashion? I'm all about fashion! I've got a few business ideas I'd love to share with you, Favour."
As Emmanuel launched into a lengthy discussion about fashion and entrepreneurship, Thelma's mind began to wander. She noticed Jason's eyes glazing over and decided to intervene.
"Hey, Jason, want to grab some ice cream with me?" she asked, smiling.
Jason's face lit up. "Sounds like a plan."
As they walked away from the group, Thelma turned to Jason and whispered, "Sorry about that. Emmanuel can be a bit much sometimes."
Jason chuckled. "It's okay, I think he's just trying to impress you."
Thelma's cheeks flushed. "Oh? And why would he do that?"
Jason's eyes locked onto hers, his gaze piercing. "Maybe because he's noticed how amazing you are."
Thelma's heart skipped a beat. "Oh?"
As they walked to the ice cream parlor, Thelma couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. Was Jason developing feelings for her? And what about Emmanuel? Was he just being friendly, or was there something more?
As they enjoyed their ice cream, Thelma's friends joined them, and the conversation turned to Emmanuel's latest business venture.
"I've got a great idea for a fashion brand," Emmanuel said, his eyes shining with enthusiasm. "I just need some investors to get it off the ground."
Favour's eyes narrowed. "That sounds like a great idea, Emmanuel. But don't you think you've got a lot on your plate already?"
Emmanuel's face fell, but only for a moment. "Oh, I've got it all under control. I've just got to find the right people to partner with."
Thelma exchanged a skeptical glance with Jason. She wasn't sure if Emmanuel confidence was justified or if he was biting off more than he could chew.
As the evening drew to a close, Jason walked Thelma home, his arm casually slung over her shoulder. Thelma felt a sense of comfort and security with Jason that she hadn't experienced in a long time.
"Thanks for tonight," she said, smiling up at him. "I had a great time."
Jason's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled. "Anytime, Thelma. I'm always happy to spend time with you."
Thelma's heart skipped a beat as Jason leaned in, his lips brushing against her cheek. She knew, in that moment, that she was falling for him.
But as she watched Jason walk away, she couldn't shake off the feeling that Emmanuel was watching her, his eyes fixed intently on her.