A WEB OF DECEIT ✔️

chapter 51

Thelani

After the warm welcome from Mrs. Mkhize, I turned toward Duduzile, who didn’t seem as excited to meet me. She extended her hand in a cold, business-like manner, her grip firm but lacking warmth. Her eyes barely met mine before she turned her attention back to her glass of champagne, taking a slow, deliberate sip. The chill in the air between us was undeniable, but I chose to ignore it. I didn’t want to cause a scene, especially not tonight.

Just as the awkward silence between Duduzile and me began to stretch uncomfortably, Mbali—my saving grace—appeared, cutting through the tension like a ray of sunshine.

“Oh! There you are!” she exclaimed, bouncing toward us in her usual energetic manner. Her bright yellow dress swirled around her as she hurried over, turning heads with her infectious joy.

Before I could even greet her, she clapped her hands and shouted, “Okay, everyone! Attention, please! It’s time for a toast!” She grinned widely, eyes sparkling as she grabbed a glass of champagne from a passing waiter.

The guests quieted down, and Mbali cleared her throat dramatically, standing tall with her glass raised. “Ladies and gentlemen,” she began, her voice full of enthusiasm. “I, Mbali Mthethwa, have known this gorgeous bride-to-be for *years*—way before she started wearing fancy dresses and attending these fabulous parties!” She winked at me, causing a ripple of chuckles to spread through the crowd.

“We’ve been through everything together—from bunk beds at the orphanage to late-night study sessions. I know this woman better than anyone. So when she told me she’d found the love of her life, I knew this was big. Thelani doesn’t just fall for anyone!”

I couldn’t help but laugh, feeling a rush of warmth as everyone looked at us. Mbali always had a way of bringing the spotlight to me while making it all feel natural.

“Now, Nkosi,” Mbali turned her gaze on Nkosikhona, her face turning mock-serious as she pointed a finger at him. “You’ve got yourself a real gem here! But let me tell you something, my friend—if you *ever* hurt Thelani, you’re going to have to deal with *me*!” She punched the air playfully, causing everyone to burst into laughter, even Nkosikhona.

He raised his hands in surrender, smiling. “Noted, Mbali. I’ll behave, I promise.”

Mbali beamed, her bubbly personality filling the room with joy. “Good! Because let me tell you—this girl has been through too much, and seeing her happy like this? It makes my heart *burst* with joy. I’m so proud of you, Thelani, for everything you’ve become. You deserve all the love in the world.”

Her eyes softened as she looked at me, and I couldn’t stop the tears from welling up. I mouthed a ‘thank you,’ feeling overwhelmed with gratitude for her unwavering support.

“To love, to friendship, and to new beginnings!” Mbali declared, raising her glass high.

Everyone echoed the sentiment, clinking their glasses and taking sips. The tension that had been simmering earlier dissolved into laughter and chatter as Mbali’s lighthearted toast melted away any lingering awkwardness. Even Duduzile seemed to relax, though she still stayed relatively quiet.

The night carried on with dancing, food, and endless laughter. Mbali kept everyone entertained with her jokes and silly antics, brightening every moment she touched. I felt lighter with each passing minute, the anxiety of meeting Nkosikhona’s family starting to fade.

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**Later that Night**

The night was winding down, and as the last few guests made their exit, I found myself standing on the balcony, taking in the cool night air. The stars twinkled above, and the city lights below glimmered like scattered jewels.