Afro Gospel R&B sensation Abieyuwa ‘Yuwa’ Osagie, in dire need of a break this Christmas, seizes the opportunity for a quiet hideaway at her brother’s newly purchased American home before working on her new album. Star Center back, Xander ‘D Shield’ Mitchell, dealing with unwanted negative publicity, longs for a respite before joining his new football club in the coming year.
Unbeknownst to them, both Abi and Xander find themselves in the small tranquil, coastal town of Luxe Noir, seeking solace and rejuvenation. Through chance encounters, shared laughter, and the enchantment of the Christmas season, a deep connection blooms between them on their unexpected hideaway.
Yet, as the holiday season draws to a close, they must confront a pivotal decision. Will they kindle a genuine romance, conquering the challenges of fame and distance, or will they walk their separate paths while cherishing the memories of their unforgettable Holiday Hideaway?
Character Visuals
Excerpt
God heard my prayer because soon after we were handed some instructions and the gathering began to disperse, someone got Xan’s attention. I started inching away, headed for the table that had the name tags. My flight was halted when his hand darted out and blocked me. His grasp was solid yet gentle as his thick fingers encircled my waist. When he glanced over at me with a hint of a smile, there was something in his gaze that made my stomach clench. The person walked away, and Xan turned to me.
“Not so fast. Noelle or is it Abi? I’m not clear which.”
His deep voice assured me that I wasn’t in control of any aspect of my being. I did notice it was laced with a slight irritation that almost caused me to giggle. It seemed like he didn’t take kindly to being played. However, I hadn’t played him, and I was about to explain when he continued.
“Fake names? That’s so high school…”
His eyes roamed my frame hungrily, then settled back on mine with an intensity that made me take a breath. He was so handsome, and it would be a shame if I had to tell him about himself if he made another insinuation that I was immature or deceptive.
“Let me stop you there before you put your other foot in your mouth,” I said, cutting his next statement off. “Actually, it’s both.”
His eyes widened as he took a small step back. “Excuse me?”
“Noelle and Abi are both my names,” I replied, shifting my weight to one hip.
Surprise flashed across his face for a split second before the smugness crept back in. He was so confident, almost cocky in his reprimand, that I enjoyed seeing the seconds of uncertainty in his expression. It gave me a satisfaction that warmed my chest.
“You see, Noelle is my middle name—the ‘stranger danger’ vibes name. But Abi…” I said, leaning in a little closer and maintaining eye contact, “Abi is my first name—the ‘familiar safe’ vibes name.”
He let out a small laugh and shook his head before asking in disbelief. “You for real?”
I shrugged. “As a heart attack.”
Sights & Sounds of Holiday Hideaway
Mood Music
Unoma Nwankwor 