Whispers of the heart

CHAPTER 3

The hospital corridors echoed with the muted sounds of footsteps and hushed conversations as I navigated my way to the elevator. The day had taken its toll, leaving me drained and wanting it to end already. As I approached the sliding doors, the harsh neon lights of the hospital entrance spilled into the lobby, marking the transition from the world of healing to the realities of life. My phone buzzed in my pocket, and I fished it out to find a missed call and a text message from an all-too-familiar number – Mbongeni. How I abruptly left yesterday of our still lingering in my mind.

Missed Call - Mbongeni

Text Message - Mbongeni: Sipho, we need to talk. Can we meet somewhere?

I sighed, a mix of emotions churning within me. The night before had been a blur. A hurried departure, words left unsaid, and emotions left hanging in the air for him though. I hesitated before responding, my thumb hovering over the keyboard.

Me: What's so urgent, Mbongeni?

The familiar three dots indicating that he was typing appeared on the screen, and I braced myself for the impending conversation.

Alex: We can't leave things like this, Sipho. Can we meet? I need to talk to you...

I wonder things is he on about.

Me: Fine. Let's meet the following Saturday.

Mbongeni: We work at the same place cant we meet during your break?

Me: You know I don't like mixing personal business and professional. Let keep it to Saturday before I change my mind.

Mbongeni: That's works. See you there.

I pocketed my phone, a mix of determination and trepidation settling within me. This week went by faster then usual, cant God slow done time. No matter how I can try and delay this met up with Mbongeni, I know I have to face him one way or another. I wore a form-fitting, knee-length, emerald-green wrap dress that accentuated her curves with a tasteful V-neck, hinting at allure without revealing too much. The dress, paired with nude heels, elongated her legs, giving her an air of confidence. I adorned my neck with delicate gold jewelry – a pair of dangling earrings that swayed gracefully with every movement and a thin, layered necklace that drew attention to her neckline. I opted for a classic wristwatch. On my way out I picked up my medium-sized handbag that complemented my outfit, completing the look with a subtle yet captivating scent. I had let my braids loose, ensuring that it didn't cover my face so that I can draw attention to my make-up, I opted for soft glam today as it's just lunch with Mbongeni. When I get in the car I alert him that I'm on the way and he calls me, stating that I should come to his house.

The sun dipped below the horizon as I made my way to Umhlanga, the coastal breeze carrying a sense of anticipation. Arriving at Mbongeni's house, I felt a mix of nerves, and unsure of the revelation that awaited. Mbongeni greeted her at the door, a somber look in his eyes that hinted at untold sorrows. As they settled into the living room, the atmosphere held a weight.

"Sipho," Mbongeni greeted and I greet back. He lend me to the dinner area of the house and went to fetch me a drink. I thank him and take a seat. Mbongeni's gaze shifted nervously, and he took a deep breath before speaking.

Mbongeni: Sipho, we've known each other for a long time, and I've been thinking a lot lately. I care about you more than just a friend. I was wondering if you'd consider being with me, romantically.

Sipho: Mbongeni, I appreciate our friendship, I really do. But I don't see us in that way. We're both dedicated to our careers, and I value the camaraderie we share as colleagues and friends.

Mbongeni: (persistently) Sipho, I know we're busy, but I can't deny the connection we have. I think we could make it work, balance our personal and professional lives.

Sipho: (kindly) Mbongeni, I cherish our friendship too much to risk it. And for one I know you not over your ex-fiancee that you lost two years ago.

Mbongeni: (Gets up from his chair) I am!!

Sipho: You not and besides you are promised to someone else

Mbongeni:

Sipho: I ca... (He quickly speaks)

Mbongeni: Sipho, I've just been feeling this way for a while, and I needed to be honest with you about it.

Sipho: (sympathetic) I appreciate your honesty, Mbongeni. I truly do. But sometimes, acknowledging our feelings doesn't necessarily mean acting on them. I value what we share, and I hope we can continue supporting each other in our careers and as friends.

Mbongeni nodded, a mix of understanding and disappointment in his eyes.

Mbongeni: (softly) I get it, Sipho. But just don't make your decision now, I will give you time.

Before I could answer I heard the main door opening. "Mbongeni, uphi?" shouted a voice.

"Excuse me" Mbongeni said

I hear in them talking but I'm not sure what they are saying. They come into view. Mbongeni and comes in the dinning area followed by his father. His father greets and then he looks at me questioningly.

"I think I should leave" I say to no one. I take my bag and hurry out of the house, I see Mbongeni's mother in the other car outside with a woman the seat behind her. I huff and see Mbongeni coming towards my car, I start the engine and I watch in the car mirror as he disappears.