A dinner invitation that was nearly declined became the cornerstone of a love story—how #MannyGotHisChikus.
Once upon a time, in a now-defunct restaurant called Panache, a mutual friend Mr. Femi invited Manny to join a group of friends for dinner. It was a Friday night, and with a handful of eager out-of-town visitors to entertain, Manny decided to make a quick appearance. Accompanied by his best friend, Manny assured him they would stay for only 30 minutes before heading out for some Friday night fun. But fate had other plans.
At the dinner table, Chikus stood out like royalty, exuding the poise and grace of Khaleesi herself, the Mother of Dragons. She immediately caught Manny’s eye. In that moment, time seemed to freeze as he marvelled at her timeless beauty and radiance. Like Jon Snow, he truly knew nothing of what was about to unfold. Chikus’ infectious smile captivated him, compelling him to abandon his promise to his Best friend.
Two hours later, before leaving, Manny boldly asked for Chikus’ number, under the pretense of supporting the business where she worked. However, it wasn’t until the pandemic lockdown that their bond truly began to form. What started as a long-distance, platonic friendship (though Manny was already not-so-secretly smitten) blossomed into something more when they both found themselves single.
This “something more” grew into deep conversations about building a future together. Despite enduring back-to-back personal tragedies, they found strength in each other, supported by prayer and the love of their families. With God and their loved ones on their side, the stars aligned, guiding them like the three wise men to Bethlehem. Their path forward was illuminated, leading them to the altar of Holy Matrimony, where Manny and Chikus will pledge their love and devotion, ready to start a family before God, friends, family, and community.
Part one of this romantic comedy, titled #MannyGotHisChikus, is coming to a close. But stay tuned for part two, the adventure: #MannyHasHisChikus. Rumor has it, this next chapter will hit a neighbourhood near you, with John Boyega rumoured to star as Manny and Tessa Thompson as Chikus.