The small café tucked inside one of Lagos’ quiet bookstores had become Claire’s sanctuary. The smell of fresh coffee, aged paper, and warm spices from the nearby market created a comforting atmosphere that helped her focus. She sat at her favorite corner table, laptop open, typing the latest chapter of her secret novel while keeping one eye on 10-month-old Alex Jr. sleeping peacefully in his stroller beside her.
A kind, deep voice interrupted her flow.
“Excuse me, is this seat taken? Everywhere else is full.”
Claire looked up to see a tall, well-dressed Nigerian man in his mid-thirties. He carried a stack of books under one arm and a cup of coffee in the other. His smile was warm and genuine, with intelligent eyes behind stylish glasses. He introduced himself as Dr. Chinedu Okoro — a re
