Still

Chapter 2

Khanyisile's POV:

I arrived home, swiftly changed into comfy leggings and a hoodie, and headed back out to my car. My next destination was Nkanyezi's house, where a fun night with my "sister from another mother" awaited. I knocked on the door, calling out, "Mzala!" Nkanyezi's bright smile greeted me as she swung open the door and pulled me into a warm hug.

We exchanged pleasantries, and I followed her into the house, asking about drinks. Nkanyezi chuckled, "Not yet, my friend!" I playfully protested, opening the fridge to grab a water bottle. Nkanyezi teased, "Haibo wena, this is not your mother's house!" I shot back, "But what's yours is mine, right?" We both burst out laughing, our banter a testament to our easygoing friendship.

As we settled in, Nkanyezi mentioned her brothers would be arriving soon. I smiled, knowing a night of games, laughter, and good company lay ahead. Little did I know, this evening would also bring a surprise that would change the course of my life...

As Nkanyezi and I chatted, I couldn't help but share my encounter with the handsome stranger at the grocery store. "Yoh mzala, that guy... I'd give it to him every day if he asked!" Nkanyezi burst out laughing, "Haibo wena mtase uyahlanya!" (You're crazy, friend!) We both giggled, and I sighed, "It's a pity I'll never see him again."

Just then, the kitchen door swung open, and Nkanyezi's brothers, Muziwakhe and Nkosinathi, walked in, greeting me with warm smiles. "Hey stranger!" Muziwakhe said, and I replied, "Hey big bro!" As we exchanged pleasantries, another person entered the room, and my eyes widened in surprise. I tapped Nkanyezi's thigh, whispering urgently, "It's him, it's him!" Nkanyezi looked confused, "Who's who?" I whispered back, "The guy I met at the mall!" Nkanyezi's eyes widened in surprise, "What! That's my older cousin Phila!"

The room seemed to pause, and I felt my heart race with excitement. What were the chances that the handsome stranger I met at the grocery store was Nkanyezi's cousin, standing right in front of me? The universe was playing a interesting game, and I was eager to see how this night would unfold.

I couldn't take my eyes off Philasande, Nkanyezi's cousin, as he walked towards us with a charming smile. "Hey sis," he greeted Nkanyezi, who replied, "Hey Phila." The introduction was made, and Philasande's eyes met mine, "Pleased to meet you, Khanyisile." I felt a spark as our hands touched during the handshake, and I couldn't help but notice the way he looked at me, his gaze lingering a little longer than usual.

As we unpacked the snacks, I tried to focus on the task at hand, but I couldn't ignore the feeling that Philasande's eyes were still on me. I glanced up, and our eyes met again, exchanging a brief, charged moment. Nkanyezi and her brothers were engrossed in their own conversation, oblivious to the subtle tension between Philasande and me. I felt a flutter in my chest, and my heart raced with anticipation. What was happening here? And why did I feel like Philasande was seeing right through me?