CHAPTER 34

The event hall was mind-blowing, a haven that spoke luxury and class. Above everyone were the sparkling chandeliers like stars. Its bright light shone over the crowd of elegance and style. A glance at the accurate arrangement of the flickering candles, the orderly ornaments positioned on top of round tables with neat shiny covers, and the sweet melodies that filled the air were all evidence of a perfect detail well planned.

The fresh scents of roses that filled the air, plus the expensive deodorants, gave a lasting impression to our breaths.

My glare roamed to the podium situated ahead of me, it wasn't left out in the luxurious decorations and lighting. It looks like standing on it would take you to a different dimension. The sight of the erect microphone sent cold shivers down my spine and it refreshed my memory of the previous day. Sweat buds began to gather on my forehead despite the numerous air conditioners and proper ventilation in the hall. My hands grabbed my purse tightly as if my life depended on it.

The other attendees walked around freely with loud chatter and soft laughter as they familiarized themselves and exchanged pleasantries, oblivious to the trauma I was going through. Their confidence was on the high side, making me feel like an outcast among them.

By my side was Adrian, calmly sitting with his eyes glued to his phone screen. He cared less about what was happening around him because he was used to the environment. My eyes were still fixed on him when he lifted his face abruptly, and we made eye contact. I looked away instantly afraid to behold the loom that filled his eyes, a quiet reminder of the performance I couldn't run away from.

The noise in the background slowly vanished as the host took the microphone and drew the hall's attention to himself without much effort. After an opening remark from him, as expected he called on his wife to address the audience.

“I deeply appreciate you all for taking time out of your busy schedule to attend this insightful seminar hosted by the Jerkins family. As we all know the host speaker will take the stage first to dish out value to you before any voluntary contribution. With that being said, with a thunderous round of applause let's welcome my wife, the face of the Jerkins family, to the podium”.

She was a young, vibrant-looking lady gleaming with pride and confidence. As she ascended the little stage stairs, the crowd cheers from the crowd increased until she took the microphone and signaled for silence.

Her voice was steady and intriguing with the adequate ingredients to command a perfect speech. The atmosphere began to gain more weight as she continued to play with words with an air of certainty. Her tone was polished and efficiently calculated. Her presentation was good, too good it was clear that she practiced and rehearsed a thousand times in front of a mirror. She spoke with flair, overly gesturing and giving smiles while punctuating her sentences. The audience was cooperative to some extent giving out nods when warranted but with a lukewarm spirit too subdued to be sincere. A polite applause was released when she concluded it was too casual without genuine enthusiasm.

The host climbed the stage the second time unnecessarily stressing the already made presentation by his wife.

“Another round of applause for the face of the Jerkins family. That was a fantastic and excellent performance just as expected”. He shouted beaming with smiles. “You can agree with me that no one does it as she does.”

Afterward, he called on Adrian to take the microphone. He looked back at me and beckoned me to go for it.

“Why are you still sitting here? It's time.” He mumbled.

I tried so much to take a deep breath, maybe that would calm my nerves but my lungs only got tightened with every trial, refusing me to exhale.

“Please don't let me do this,” I muttered, my voice shaking.

“Jenny, don't make this harder than it is. Just get up and do the needful.” He replied with a stern voice.

I grew nervous as seconds passed away. Grabbing my dress, I froze for a while, my throat running dry. I gulped hard, trying hard not to choke because the air felt too heavy, leaving me grasping for boldness. I gave Adrian another glance. Maybe he could change his mind at the dying minute, or just maybe a miracle would happen, but his face was as prompt as ever, screaming anticipation. There was no way out now. The time I despise was here.

I walked to the podium with trembling legs every step making me feel like I was going to collapse. As I positioned myself behind the microphone the spotlight seemed too blinding. The shuttering and light flashing from the cameras that the world was going to know whatever the outcome may be. I grabbed the edges of the microphone for support, and for some seconds, I felt like I could disappear from the eyes glued on me, awaiting my failure and shame.

The host walked briskly towards me to address the audience again, his voice laced with envy and resentment.

“Okay, I think there is a switch here. Mr Adrian would rather prefer his wife, his queen, to speak on his behalf just like mine did.”

“Queen indeed,” I whispered in fury.

“Do you think you can do this ma'am?” He asked his tone carrying mockery.

I maintained a steady face and took the microphone from him without satisfying him with the reply he needed. It is said that the best answer for a fool is silence. He walked away quietly leaving me alone to fight my battle. I heaved a deep sigh and tried my best to summon up all the courage in the world within my reach.

Out of the blue, as I opened my mouth in an attempt to speak, something unexpected happened.