Scarlett Ngcobo

Chapter 59

A month later...

Today, is my big day. My dream is finally coming alive. Khanyisile’s Dance and Music academy, is up and ready.
Everything is above board and the best thing is that, I already have 15 students. I was not expecting so many people to take me serious. Maybe the dance documentary worked to my favour. Tonight we will be launching and I have to give a speech. Definitely not ready for that part.
Things have been very hectic this month. Me preparing everything for tonight and handling Kele’s bachelorette party. In less than a month my best friend is getting married! I'm happy for her but also sad at the same time. That means I have to find someone to rent her room or find a smaller apartment.
Lutendo also had to quit his job. His uncle passed away, and left the hotel to Lutendo. My man is a hotel owner! He had to learn the ropes of being a hotel owner. Learning the staff, introducing himself to them. He couldn't juggle all of that and his responsibilities at Smith's Financials.
Another weird thing that happened, was Jessica calling me to apologize. I think I fainted internally. I still don't trust her. I'm not being made a fool this time around. I've been burned more than twice, not happening again. I'll act civil towards her, but we don't have to be friends. She had a problem with me. I finally got to meet, Lutendo’s older brother and the one who comes after Lutendo. Such fun people, only Jessica is weird.
I called Kele to remind her to pick up our dresses when she knocks off. Today I wanted professionals to do my makeup! I called the salon to confirm our time.
There was a knock on the door.
“What!”
“Surprise!”
“Mpumi? Msizi? I thought you two said you won't be able to attend?”
“Why would I miss my baby sister's dream come true launch?”
“Are we really going to talk by the door? I'm hungry MaKhanyis, what's for lunch?”
“Wow, Msizi. Not even a hug?”

Msizi had made himself comfortable on my couch, eating like the king he thinks he is.
“MaKhanyis, uphi uSbari?” (where is my brother-in-law?)

Mpumi laughed.

I threw a dishcloth at his direction. “Obviously at work. Have you forgotten that indoda yam’ is a hotel owner? Have you?”
“Weee Jesu! Are you going to remind us all the time that, ‘indoda yakho’ is a hotel owner?”
“Every chance I get mntaka Mah. Every chance!”

Bonginkosi decided to join us.
“Looks like the whole squad is here.” I gave everyone their drinks.
Msizi was telling us that he has met “the one”. I've lost count of how many times I've heard, this one is the one!

I was on the phone talking to Lutendo. The looks my brothers were giving me. I went to the balcony to speak in peace.
“Only my mom and Dakalo are here. Ronewa suddenly fell sick, so that's why only mom and Dakalo came.”
“It's okay my love. I understand. Your mom is here.”
“How are you feeling? How's the nerves?”
“Now that you mention the nerves, I'm getting nervous”.
“Don't stress, everything is going to be perfect. I love you, say hi to your siblings.”
“I love you too...”

“Okay, ma’am, we're done.”
I turned and looked at myself in the mirror.
“I love it! This is exactly the look I was looking for. Thank you.”
Time was not on my side. I wore my burgundy bodycon dress. Open back and a high slit. There was a bouquet of white roses on the bed and a card;

Today, dreams are coming true.
I hope these roses put a smile on that beautiful face.
I left something for you in your closet, hope you like it.
Dark chocolate...

I found a pair of red, ankle strap stilettos. This Venda boyfriend of mine knew me well. Another box fell out of the closest. I crouched down to put the contents back in. I walked barefoot to the balcony carrying the box. Today I was finally closing this painful chapter.
I threw everything in the braai stand, poured paraffin and lit some matches. I stood back and watched all my happy yet sad memories burn. Zayn and Keabetswe, were no longer a part of me.
“Chommie what's that smell?”
I just stood there staring at the flames.
“Finally letting go?”
I nodded.
Once everything was in ashes, we went back inside. I put on my shoes and grabbed my sling bag.
I looked at Kele, in her short dusty pink square neck bodycon dress. “You look gorgeous chommie.”
“Let's enter them babe!” Kele