A WEB OF DECEIT

chapter 8

Thelani

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The day Sonto introduced me to the idea of having a blesser, I couldn't stop thinking about it. My financial situation was dire, and my options seemed limited. I knew it was a risky path, but desperation was a powerful motivator.

Before the meeting, Sonto helped me get ready, rifling through my wardrobe with a critical eye. “You need to wear something that shows off a bit more,” she suggested, holding up a dress I had bought for a special occasion. It was more revealing than what I usually wore, but I was willing to try anything that might make the meeting go smoothly.

I looked at myself in the mirror, feeling a little out of my element but determined to make this work. Sonto applied makeup with a steady hand, giving me tips on how to appear confident and charming.

“You’ve got this, Thelani,” she assured me with a smile. “Just be yourself, but don’t be afraid to flirt a little.”

With a deep breath, I nodded, steeling myself for the evening ahead. When I arrived at the restaurant, my nerves were on edge, but I tried to appear composed. Sonto had told me to meet the businessman at a quiet table in the back, where he was already waiting.

He stood as I approached, extending a hand with a warm smile. “You must be Thelani. It’s a pleasure to meet you,” he said. His voice was smooth, and his eyes assessed me with a mix of curiosity and interest.

“Nice to meet you too,” I replied, trying to keep my voice steady as I shook his hand. We both sat down, and I took a moment to steady my racing heart.

The conversation started with small talk, the usual getting-to-know-you questions. He was a successful businessman, he told me, and often traveled for work. Despite his charm, I couldn't shake the feeling that this was all a transaction.

“So, tell me about yourself, Thelani. What are you studying?” he asked, his tone polite and interested.

“I’m in my second year of accounting,” I said, grateful for a topic I could discuss confidently. “It’s challenging, but I’ve always been good with numbers.”

He nodded, seemingly impressed. “I admire your dedication. It’s not easy balancing studies with work, I imagine.”

I forced a smile. “It’s definitely been tough, especially lately.”

He leaned forward slightly, his expression sympathetic. “That’s where I come in. I’d like to help you, ease some of those burdens, in exchange for your company.”

His words were both a promise and a proposition. I hesitated, feeling the weight of the decision before me. This was the moment that could change everything.

“I appreciate that,” I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. “I’ve been struggling a lot, and your help would mean a lot.”

His smile widened, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. “I’m glad to hear that. I think we can have a mutually beneficial arrangement.”

As the evening went on, we discussed the details, laying out expectations and boundaries. It felt strange, negotiating the terms of this new reality, but I reminded myself of why I was doing it.

When the meeting ended, I walked out of the restaurant with a mix of emotions. Relief at having found a solution, guilt for the compromises I was making, and a flicker of hope that things might get better.

Sonto was waiting for me at the residence, eager to hear how it went. “So, how did it go?” she asked, her eyes shining with curiosity.

“It went well,” I replied, feeling both exhausted and relieved. “He’s willing to help me out.”