I had been to the Ikeja City Mall countless times before, but this particular visit would forever be etched in my memory.

It was the start of December, the air was filled with the festive spirit, and the mall was bustling with shoppers. I was busy scrolling on Instagram and didn't look up as I walked. Suddenly, I bumped into someone, and my phone went flying out of my hand.

Jesus Christ! I shouted in my head. 

I gasped and was ready to cause a scene in that mall if anything had happened to my screen. But as I bent down to pick up my phone, I looked up to see the most handsome man I had ever laid eyes on.

He had a warm smile, the type of eyes that put me immediately at ease. I felt a flutter in my chest, and I could barely form a coherent sentence.

"I'm so sorry," he said, his voice as smooth as velvet. "I hope I didn't break it."

"No, it's fine," I replied, my voice barely a whisper. "I'm just a little clumsy sometimes."

"Well, I'm glad it's okay," he said. "My name is Adewale, by the way."

"Nice to meet you, Adewale," I said, extending my hand. "I'm Cynthia”. 

We fell into an easy conversation, and I quickly found myself charmed by his wit and intelligence. He complimented me on my outfit, and I could feel my cheeks flush with warmth. He even paid for everything I bought that day.

In my head, I was already wondering how a man this good could be single. I felt like I had found the one for me.

We exchanged contact information, and I couldn't stop thinking about him as I got home. He texted me that day, and we stayed up all night talking. It was the kind of conversation you have with a stranger and you feel like you've known each other for years.

We went on a date the next night, and I was even more smitten with him in person. He was funny and attentive, and I felt a connection with him that I had never felt with anyone else.

We spent the rest of the week together, going to the movies, having long talks, and just enjoying each other's company. I was falling for him hard and fast.

On New Year's Eve, he invited me to his house to celebrate. I was so excited to finally meet his family.

When I arrived, I was immediately welcomed by his parents and siblings. They were all so warm and friendly, and I felt like I fit right in.

I spent the evening helping in the kitchen, chatting with his family, and enjoying the festive atmosphere. I was feeling so happy and optimistic about the future.

Later that night, Wale and I kissed at the stroke of midnight. I felt like I was on top of the world.I spent the night at his house, and we had an amazing time together. We talked about our dreams and plans for the future, and I felt like I had finally found someone who understood me.

When I left the next morning, I was feeling more in love with him than ever before. I couldn't wait to see him again.

But a few weeks later, things started to change. He started replying to my texts late, and he didn't call as often. I started to worry that I had done something wrong.

One night, I texted him and didn't get a response for hours. Finally, he called me back from a different number.

“Heyy it's Wale" He said over the phone. 

I was confused, and I asked him why he was calling  me from a different number.

He chuckled and said " I just got back from my trip and thought I'd drop you a line."

"Your trip?" I repeated, frowning in disbelief. "Where did you go?"

"The UK," he said nonchalantly. "I know I should have told you, but I didn't want to ruin the vibe between us."

Ehh UK bawo, what is this boy saying??? Hope it's not the United Kingdom he's talking about sha 

"Which UK” I asked.  "What vibe, Wale? I thought we were in a relationship."

His tone turned flat, devoid of any warmth or emotion. "We were friends, Cynthia. Nothing more."

I swear I died and came back to life in my head.

"Friends??! After coming to your house to meet your family? I even removed my nails to wash plates for your mom. 

I could hear my voice trembling and the room suddenly felt hot. 

"Yes," he confirmed. "And I appreciate your help with the party. 

His words struck me like a physical blow. 

He sighed, and continued “I never led you on. I never made any promises. We were just having fun."

Tears welled up in my eyes as I felt my heart shatter into a million pieces.

"Just having fun? That's all this was to you?"

"Yes, "And I hope you had fun too." With that, he ended the call. 

I felt as if the floor beneath me was dissolving, and I had to clutch at the edge of the table to keep from falling.

As i sat there, a single thought clawed its way to the forefront of your mind:

"Never again, Never again will I take a man seriously in December” 

December is bad for dating.