"When fear and love collide, hearts get hurt. Khanyisile has been burned too many times to count, and she's sworn off love for good. But then her best friend's charming cousin, Philasande, enters her life, and she's torn between her desire for conne...
Sunday. The day I've been dreading and anticipating all at once. I'm finally going to text Philasande and ask to meet up. My mind races with worst-case scenarios as I hesitate over my phone. What if he says no? What if he's moved on? What if... I force myself to push those thoughts away, not wanting to entertain the doubts creeping in. I like him, and I know I'll regret it if I don't take this chance.
My hands tremble slightly as I type out the message, deleting and rephrasing it multiple times before finally hitting send. Now all I can do is wait. And worry. My stomach twists into knots as I imagine our conversation. Will we resolve our issues, or will it end in disaster? I try to distract myself, but my mind keeps wandering back to Philasande and the what-ifs.
Philasande's simple "okay" sent my nerves into overdrive. I couldn't believe how much anxiety a single word could evoke. In an attempt to calm my racing thoughts, I busied myself with preparations for our meet-up. I showered, slipped into a maxi denim dress and heels, and hastily styled my hair. A light layer of makeup followed, but my hands trembled as I applied it. My mind kept wandering to the unknowns of our conversation.
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I pulled into the parking lot, parked my car, and switched off the engine. As I sat there, I couldn't help but scoff at myself. Why was I so nervous about meeting Philasande? I shouldn't be trembling like this, I thought, trying toustrated me. I shouldn't be this invested in someone who may not even feel the same way.
As I stepped into the restaurant, my eyes scanned the room, locking onto his chiseled features. He wore that signature sexy, brooding look that made my pulse quicken and my skin prickle with desire. I felt a sudden urge to close the distance between us and surrender to his intensity.
I made my way to the table, my heels clicking on the floor. As I approached, Philasande stood up, his towering frame making me feel petite even in my highest heels. I felt a flutter in my chest as our eyes met. "Hi," I greeted, trying to sound casual despite my racing heart.
"Sawubona, Khanyisile," he replied, his voice dripping with warmth and a hint of something more. The way he said my name sent a shiver down my spine, and I felt myself melting into his gaze.
