A WEB OF DECEIT ✔️

chapter 50

Thelani

A few months have gone by, and things have really started to fall into place for me. I’ve finally gotten my own office space—*my* office, where every detail, from the sleek modern desk to the soft glow of the floor lamp, was chosen by me. It feels surreal. Starting my own business wasn’t just a leap; it was like stepping into thin air and hoping I wouldn’t crash. The sleepless nights, juggling countless client meetings, second-guessing every decision... God ,I still shudder thinking about it.

I spent those early days hustling—wearing all the hats from accountant to marketer to salesperson—trying to prove I was more than just a cog in my former company's wheel. Some clients weren't convinced at first. They saw me as a former employee trying to make it on my own. But, thankfully, others saw my potential. A few of my loyal clients followed me when I left, and that was the lifeline I desperately needed. Their trust was my foundation.

It wasn’t easy, but slowly, word began to spread.
Have you heard? Thelani’s going solo, and she’s good. My phone wouldn’t stop buzzing, emails piled up, and the pace was relentless—but in the best way possible. It’s funny how you pray for success, but when it comes, it feels like a tidal wave you can barely keep up with. Now, I’m juggling back-to-back meetings, and new clients are knocking on my door almost every day. With all this growth, I knew I couldn't do it alone anymore.

That’s when I hired Mbali as my receptionist. She had just given birth, and her boyfriend, unfortunately, lost his job, so they were in a tough spot. I couldn’t bear the thought of them struggling, especially with a newborn. And besides, Mbali is more than just help—she’s a *force*. She brings this infectious energy to the office. Even when the day is a complete disaster, Mbali manages to make me laugh, cracking jokes or pulling some hilarious stunt. Having her here feels like having a ray of sunshine lighting up the room.

Today, though, is special—it’s not just another workday. *It’s my birthday.* I haven’t been this excited about my birthday in... *I don’t know how long*. Usually, I’d spend it holed up in my apartment, pretending it’s just another day. Maybe I’d treat myself to a cupcake and a glass of wine, but there’d be no celebration—just me, my thoughts, and a fleeting sense of loneliness. But this year is different.

This year, I have someone—I have Nkosikhona.

He’s been everything I never knew I needed. He just... *gets me*. And I know he’s been planning something big for tonight. He's been sneaking around lately, whispering to Mbali and sending suspicious texts when he thinks I'm not paying attention. I pretend not to notice, but I see the way his face lights up with excitement when he thinks of his plan. Whatever it is, I know it’ll be perfect.

Nkosikhona always goes out of his way to make me feel special. It's in the little things—like when he randomly shows up at the office with my favorite coffee, or when he leaves notes for me to find later, filled with sweet little reminders of how much he cares. He's thoughtful, and for once, I don't feel like I'm navigating life on my own.

Tonight, I’m stepping into something new. It’s not just about the business or the success I’ve been chasing for so long—it’s about the people I’ve gathered around me. It’s about feeling loved and celebrated. I don't know what Nkosikhona has in store, but for the first time in years, I’m ready to celebrate me

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Nkosikhona

It's Thelani's birthday today, and I've got something huge planned. I can hardly contain my excitement. Mbali helped me with the ring-thank God for her. She's the only person who could secretly get me Thelani's ring size without her getting suspicious.

It's been about seven months since Thelani and I started dating, but I've never been more sure of anything in my life-I need to make her my wife. She's everything I've ever wanted and more. I don't even care about the complications anymore. My dad? Yeah, he still wants nothing to do with me, but I'm done trying to win his approval. I have something much more important in my life now.