Chapter 20: Chapter 20

FROM GOOD TO BAD!

"Of course not! It's just an invitation. I'm truly sorry mate, but his boy is expecting me," Jason replied. "But on the bright side though, I now owe you two favors. You know, for kicking butts for me against Milverton the other day and the fact that I'm being a joykill."

"Yeah, you can forget about the first one. As for this, we are gonna reschedule. Have fun!"

"Thanks for being such a gentleman!" Jason said mockingly. Then he punched Jack on his arm and ran away.

''Ouch, that hurts! You are gonna pay!"

"You mean you can flex your muscles but they can't take a simple punch?" Jason shouted back from a distance.

Soon, it was evening. Jemimah just finished talking to Sophie on the phone as regards what to wear.

She tried on a knee length, sleeveless gown with an army green background and an oversized jacket. It was simple but chic. 'This hair of mine needs a little touch.'

The makeup on her face was light and smooth. It brought out her inner glow. She enjoyed being pursued. It is what endeared Jason to her. He knew how to keep the chase interesting.

Meanwhile Jason stood in front of a gigantic mirror in his newly acquired mansion.

He didn't know what to wear to the party. 'A tuxedo would be too formal.'

He needed Jemimah to be comfortable around him. Everyone invited had to come with their partner. Something more casual should be just fine. But what exactly?

Suddenly, his sister barged into the room with a tray on which was a glass of water. "Ah, poor thing! You look as handsome as ever, Jay Baby."

"The heavens won't come crashing down if you knock before entering, will they? What if I am naked, Selena?"

"Say whatever you like. But we have got no time for arguments.''

''What do you mean by 'we'?"

''My love, when have you been able to do anything important in your life without my help?''

"Okay, it's time for you to leave my room."

"Really? Just because there is a reflection of some strands of hair on your face in a fancy suit does not qualify you to make a fool of yourself, Big Head. Not on my watch!"

"I regret telling you about Jemmy. And I'll be fine. Just find something else to do."

"Now shut up and take this glass of water I am offering you. Drink it and thank me!'' She gave an order.

So Jason collected the glass and took a sip. "I'm not going to say thank you!"

''Now, that's more like my arrogant brother! Kindly keep this tray somewhere it won't fall. We have to start working on your appearance.''

"Aren't there workers in this house to do that?"

"Your little angel is a medical practitioner, right?" Selena couldn't care less about his question.

"Yeah, I've mentioned that only a countless number of times!" he replied sarcastically.

"Whatever! But do you also know what particular group of educated workers has continued to put on all manner of coats, suits, tuxedos, top hats; waist coats and suspenders for many centuries now?''

"None that I can think of."

"Wrong! Think again."

"Oh Selena! My brain does not waste its precious time on such useless information."

"Oh,'useless' he says! But then again I'll let this pass only because of your date. The simple answer is, 'medical practitioners'!"

"Wait a minute, that's not even true!"

"Is it not?"

"Yeah it isn't. If you do not want me to wear a tux, just say it. There's no point constructing such a humongous lie just to smear a group of hardworking individuals in the mud!"

"Fine, Nelson Mandela. Just take it off. I'll be back in five!"

After about an hour and a tiring speech, Jason decided to drive himself. Selena kept emphasising to how stupid and dangerous his decision was.

She remained with him until they were only blocks away from Jemimah's address. Then she alighted the vehicle and stopped a taxi.

Jemimah's phone began to ring. She answered nervously.

When she walked out of her door, a man stood in front of a sublime automobile holding a rose flower in his hand. He was wearing a jacket on a white shirt and black trousers. He held a phone with the other hand.

She walked closer to him and they hugged each other.

"You are very beautiful," he remarked.

She thought he was handsome too. "Thank you."

"For what exactly?"

"For being so chivalrous."

"Oh! That? It's nothing."

"No, it is. You are a good person. Not just to me, but to everyone."

"Really?" Jason was surprised that those words were coming from her. Prior to her accident, she thought the worst of him.

"Yeah, for example, nobody would have blamed you for scoring the other day."

"I'm sure a number of fans do."

"Listen to me, Jason! My point is this, you sacrificed a goal to help save that goalkeeper's life." She focused on his face. "You are such a big name and it hasn't gotten into your head.''

"It isn't a big deal. People are successful and responsible everywhere. Why should I be any different?"

"I am in love with you, Mr. Footballer." She whispered to him. Her eyes focused on his face.

Jason was rapturous. He was short of words. "What I feel for you is indescribable! I literally adore you," he said at last.

She leaned on his chest for about a minute. And all of a sudden, memories of the day they first met came flashing back!

There was a change in her hitherto happy but nervous countenance. Jason knew that something was wrong.

Jemimah recalled the fact that he tried to entice her with his money. Then, she quickly withdrew from the embrace and continued to step backwards.