Chapter Five: "Aunt Pauline's Dating Service"
Zoe had almost managed to escape Mr. Kibet's business deal when Aunt Pauline struck again with a different kind of business—one that involved matchmaking.
"Zoe, darling, it's time you met some new people," Aunt Pauline said, pulling out a glittery binder labeled "The Best Men of Nairobi."
Zoe stared in horror at the thick binder filled with photos of various men, most of them wearing what looked like the same suit from a 2005 wedding. "Aunt Pauline, please. I'm fine. I'm not looking for anyone right now."
"Nonsense! Everyone needs someone," Aunt Pauline insisted. "I've already made a few calls. You're meeting Paul tonight. He's a good man. A real man, Zoe."
Later that evening, Zoe found herself sitting at a candlelit table with Paul, who appeared to be trying way too hard to impress her by quoting motivational quotes from random Instagram pages.
"I believe in following your dreams," Paul said, looking deeply into Zoe's eyes. "You know, like the elephant who knows it's meant for the wild but is stuck in a zoo."
Zoe's eyebrow twitched. "...I think you mean the elephant who's stuck in a zoo because it's a zoo?"
Paul blinked. "Exactly. So, when can I expect you to become my... elephant?"
Zoe could only stare at him, unsure if she was about to cry or laugh.