Once Upon A Sultan ✅

Chapter 18.

-ZAINAB SHAMAKI'S POV-

Maroudi, Nigeria.

Nadine and I are complete opposites. Or so I'd like to believe.

The only thing she and I have in common is probably the black skin. Aside from that, I don't think there's anything we have in common.

Even at that very moment, one glance at the two of us and you'll see the difference. She is much taller than me—honestly, at this point everyone is taller. However, thanks to the heels I have on, I didn't look that short in front of her.

Nadine donned a tarmac abaya—a simple look but truth be told, she pulled it off pretty well. Her hair was loosely covered with a veil and there were a few tendrils framing her face. Her face held minimal makeup, but like always, she looked good.

If only she has the same attitude.

I on the other hand had on a mauve side tie blazer and slit front pants. Because that's what I mostly wear at work, more than half my closet contains similar outfit. As always, my hair was in the same straight lob cut.

We are truly opposites in appearance to begin with.

A scoff from her side snapped me out of my mini trance. Blinking, my eyes met hers. Her lips were parted slightly, before they curled into a scowl as if she couldn't believe she's seeing me there. I could tell from the look that took over her facial expression that she would start unnecessary drama right now.

I don't have the energy for that to be honest. Dealing with Azeez is enough for one day.

Releasing a barely visible harsh breath, I pushed my legs forward and stepped out of the elevator. I fully intended to walk past her and leave the place quietly. But, I should've known she wouldn't have that.

A hand clasped around my arm, a bit too tight for my liking. I didn't have to turn to know who it belongs to.

I stopped, rolling my eyes in the process.

I guess walking away quietly isn't an option anymore.

"You think you can just walk away?" She questioned, turning her face to look at me. Her tone alone showed every but of anger and hatred she has towards me.

Too bad I feel the same towards her; maybe even more. Turning around to glare at her, I spoke. "Let go" I kept my voice low, not wanting anyone to eavesdrop on what we'll talk about.

We're currently in the lobby where various people are. With the scandal involving us, the last thing we should give them is a public show. I don't know about her, but I don't want my face in the face of the next gossip again. I'm already dealing with enough.

Her narrowed in slits, but she eventually pulled back—her acrylic nails no longer digging into mypoor flesh. She then took a step away from me, but still remained a bit too close for my liking. "What are you doing here?" She questioned, or more like snapped.

I arched a brow. "What are you doing here?" I figured since she won't let me walk away in peace, I might as well get on her nerve.

She wants violence, I would give her that.

She scoffed, crossing her arms and her expression remained pinched. "I am here to see my husband" She sneered.

My lips tilted upwards in amusement, as I turned around to face her fully. "Are you sure that's the best thing to do right now?" Personally, if I were her and have been rejected publicly, I won't show up where he is for the sake of my leftover pride.

But it appears she believes otherwise.

She rose one of her brows, and gave me a glassy stare. "And why the hell not?"