Chapter 58: 058: African Horizons

After some minutes, just as they were about to finish breakfast, a message notification buzzed on Sophia's phone. Checking it, she saw a message from Richard expressing his happiness about Kourtney joining the trip.

"Wow that's great, I'm so happy Kourtney will be joining us on the trip. I'll make sure to make adjustments to our trip preparations to accommodate her and make it a comfortable trip for her. Thank you for changing your mind, it means a lot to me," the message read.

As his words warmed her heart, Sophia couldn't help but wonder about the details of the trip. Where exactly was Richard planning to take them? She couldn't shake the feeling that it might be somewhere far away, perhaps even out of the country. She decided to ask him, wanting to clarify the details.

"How many days is the trip?" she typed, her fingers hovering over the screen.

Richard's response came swiftly, "It's just a three - day trip. We'll leave on Friday and should be back on Monday, at the latest, the following week Tuesday. I know Kourtney has school and you have work, so I tried to keep it short. I apologize in advance for any inconvenience."

Sophia smiled at his consideration, typing back, "It's okay, Richard. Borrowing us for a few days won't hurt. I could use a break from the daily routine, and I'm sure Kourtney will enjoy it too."

Sophia then asked, "Where exactly are we going?" she typed wanting to know where they were going for the trip.

"It's a surprise," came Richard's mysterious response.

Sophia, feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty, insisted, "But I need to know so I can prepare. What should I bring? What kind of clothes should I pack?"

After a moment's pause, Richard finally revealed, "We're going to Africa."

Sophia was taken aback by his answer. "Africa? Why Africa?" she asked, surprised by the unexpected destination.

Richard explained, "I have some business dealings there that I need to attend to. Usually, I go alone, but this time, I want you to come with me. I want to share this wonderful experience with a wonderful person like you."

Sophia was touched by his words. "Thank you, Richard. I feel honored that you've considered me," she replied, her heart filled with gratitude. "I've always wanted to go to Africa. This is a perfect timing for me. I never thought I'd have the chance to visit, let alone with my daughter. I'm so grateful."

Richard's response was filled with happiness. "I'm glad I could make one of your dreams come true. You won't regret coming with me. There's so much I want to show you and talk to you about. I promise you'll have an amazing time."

As Sophia read his words, she felt a sense of excitement and adventure building within her. The thought of exploring a new continent with her daughter by her side filled her with joy.

As excitement filled the air, Sophia turned to her daughter, Kourtney, and broke the news of their upcoming trip. "Kourtney, guess what? Mom and you are going to visit Africa in a few days!" she exclaimed, unable to contain her joy.

Kourtney, though unsure of the details, could sense her mother's excitement and couldn't help but mirror it. She knew that wherever they were going, it was going to be an adventure. With a beaming smile, she let out a joyful "Yeeeee!" at the dining table, thrilled at the prospect of a new adventure with her mom.

Abigail, who had been listening to the conversation, was taken aback by the unexpected news. "Africa? You mean you're going to Africa?" she asked, her surprise evident in her voice.

Sophia nodded, her excitement palpable. She showed Abigail the text messages from Richard, confirming the planned trip. Abigail was amazed. "Wow, that's incredible! How exciting!" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Africa is such an amazing place. You're going to have the time of your lives!"

Sophia smiled, grateful for her mother's support and excitement. The thought of exploring Africa with her daughter and creating lasting memories filled her with happiness. She couldn't wait for their adventure to begin.

The following weekend, on the day of the trip, Abigail drove Sophia and Kourtney to the airport. As they arrived, Abigail escorted them to the entrance of their departing flight. After exchanging heartfelt hugs with Sophia and Kourtney, Abigail turned to Richard, who was waiting at the entrance of the private jet.

"Richard, you have to take care of them and bring them back in one piece," Abigail said, her tone firm yet filled with maternal concern. "Their safety is your responsibility now, and it doesn't expire until you bring them back to my doorstep."

Richard smiled warmly, accepting the task. "I promise, Abigail. I'll make sure nothing happens to them. Not on my watch," he reassured her, gratitude shining in his eyes. "Thank you for trusting me with Sophia and Kourtney. I won't let you down."

Abigail shook her head, correcting him gently. "I didn't release them, Richard. Sophia made the choice, and I respect her decision," she said, her voice filled with pride and love for her daughter.

With a final wave goodbye, Abigail watched as Richard, Sophia, Kourtney, and the flight crew boarded the plane. She stood alone in the airport, watching as the plane soared into the sky.

As the plane disappeared into the horizon, Abigail whispered a silent prayer for their safe journey. As she could only hope and trust that they would return home safely, filled with wonderful memories of their trip to Africa.

Midway into the flight, as Sophia and Kourtney sat together in the plane, with Kourtney visibly shaken by the turbulence they had just experienced. Sophia could see the fear in her daughter's eyes, and she knew she had to reassure her.

She embraced Kourtney tightly, feeling her daughter's trembling body. "It's okay, sweetheart," Sophia whispered soothingly. "What we just felt is completely normal during a flight. There's nothing to be scared of."

Kourtney looked up at her mom, her eyes wide with fear. "But it felt so scary, mommy," she said, her voice quivering.

Sophia wiped away a tear from Kourtney's cheek, planting a gentle kiss on her forehead. "I know, sweetie. But I promise you, everything is okay. We're safe up here," she said, trying to sound as reassuring as possible.

Kourtney snuggled closer to her mom, finding comfort in her embrace. "Okay, mommy," she said softly, her fear beginning to subside.

Sophia smiled down at her daughter, a sense of pride swelling in her heart. "That's my brave girl," she said, brushing Kourtney's hair away from her face. "Just hold on tight to me, and we'll be landing before you know it."

As the plane continued its journey, Sophia held Kourtney close, whispering words of comfort and love. And nearly an hour later, Kourtney tugged at Sophia's sleeve, her words barely above a whisper, "Mom, I need to pee."

Sophia, engrossed in her thoughts, didn't hear her at first. "What, sweetie?" she asked, turning to her daughter.

"I need to pee," Kourtney repeated, a hint of urgency in her voice.

Realizing the situation, Sophia waved to one of the flight attendants. "Is it okay to undo the seat belt?" she asked. "My daughter needs to use the restroom."

The flight attendant nodded, indicating that it was fine. Sophia helped Kourtney unbuckle her seat belt, and they made their way to the plane's restroom.

After a few minutes, they returned to their seats. As they settled back in, the flight attendant served them their second appetizer of the flight. As they ate, a realization dawned on Sophia—she hadn't even asked Richard where they were heading in Africa.

"Richard," she called out, trying to catch his attention.

Richard, who was seated a few rows ahead, turned to her. "Yes, Sophia, what is it?"

"Where in Africa are we going?" Sophia asked, curiosity getting the better of her.

Richard smiled. "We're heading to Nigeria," he replied. "We should be there in a few hours."

Sophia was surprised by the answer. Nigeria was known for its rich cultural heritage and historic artworks. She couldn't wait to explore the country with Kourtney.

In less than three hours, the plane touched down, signaling the start of their African adventure. As they descended the plane stairs into the Lagos heat, Sophia carried a sleeping Kourtney, the unfamiliar sun beating down on them. She hurried to the awaiting black van, grateful for the shade it provided.

"Welcome to Lagos, ma'am," the driver greeted warmly as they approached. "Would you like some biscuits and water for the journey?"

Sophia smiled gratefully. "Yes, please. That would be wonderful," she replied, accepting the offer.

The driver handed her the snacks and water, and Sophia thanked him before they drove off into the city. As they navigated through the bustling streets of Lagos, Sophia couldn't contain her excitement. Her expectations and imaginings of Africa were unfolding before her eyes, filling her with a sense of wonder and anticipation.

Upon arriving at their destination, the driver helped them unload their bags. At the hotel reception, the attendant recognized Richard immediately and welcomed him back to Nigeria.

"Welcome back, Mr. Richard!" the attendant greeted with a smile. "Did you bring me a gift this time?"

Richard smiled warmly and handed her a beautifully wrapped present. "Of course, I couldn't forget you," he replied graciously.

The attendant's eyes sparkled with gratitude as she accepted the gift. "Thank you so much, Mr. Richard! You're always so generous."

"It's really no big deal," Richard humbly responded. "I'm just glad to be back."

After the exchange, Richard asked for the key card to his usual suite.

"Do you have the key card for my usual suite?" Richard politely inquired.

The attendant nodded, handing him the key card. "Yes, Mr. Richard. Here you go. Thank you again for the gift."

Richard smiled, thanking her once more, then turned to Sophia. "Shall we head to our suite?" he asked, gesturing towards the elevator.

As they were about to leave for their suite, the attendant turned to Richard and asked if Sophia was his wife. Richard's answer stunned Sophia. He replied, "Yes, she is." Sophia stood there, surprised by the revelation. She had not expected Richard to introduce her as his wife, and the realization left her speechless.

As they rode the elevator up to their suite, an awkward silence settled between them. Sophia couldn't help but shoot a few glances towards Richard, wondering why he had introduced her the way he did. When they reached their floor, the doors opened, and they stepped into the luxurious hotel suite. Sophia then gently laid Kourtney, who was still peacefully sleeping in her arms, on the bed.

Turning to Richard, Sophia couldn't contain her curiosity any longer. "Why did you introduce me as your wife to the hotel attendant?" she asked, her voice soft but tinged with confusion.

Richard's gaze softened as he looked at Sophia. "Because that's who you're going to be," he replied, his tone gentle yet firm. "That's my plan for us."

Sophia was taken aback by his words, her heart skipping a beat. She searched his eyes for any sign of hesitation or doubt, but all she found was sincerity and determination.

"I... I don't know what to say," Sophia stammered, her mind racing with a whirlwind of emotions. "I mean, we've only known each other for a short time, and..."

Richard placed a finger on her lips, silencing her. "I understand your hesitation, Sophia. But from the moment I met you, I knew you were special. I want to build a future with you, to make you happy every day for the rest of our lives."

Sophia felt a warmth spread through her heart at his words. She had never expected to hear such a declaration from him so soon, but she couldn't deny the feelings stirring within her.

"I need some time to think about this, Richard," Sophia finally said, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's a big decision, and I want to make sure it's the right one for both of us."

Richard nodded understandingly, his eyes never leaving hers. "I understand, Sophia. Take all the time you need. I'll be here, waiting for your answer."

With that, Richard took her hand and led her to the balcony overlooking the bustling city of Lagos. They stood in silence, the warm African sun casting a golden glow over them, as Sophia contemplated the future that lay ahead.