Caught Between Mr. Right And A Night Of Desire

Chapter 13

Fast forward, it was now  December and the air was thick with excitement, festive energy filling the streets of Free State. Kananelo sat on a low stool in Dipuo's family yard, her hands busy peeling potatoes while her thoughts wandered. The past six months had been a whirlwind—between work, motherhood, and wedding preparations, and it felt like she hadn't had a moment to breathe. But now, sitting among Dipuo's cousins, laughter bubbling all around her, she felt a momentary calm.

The aroma of meat grilling over open flames and the rhythmic chatter of women working side by side reminded her of the traditions she grew up with. This was familiar—this sense of community, of a family gathering to celebrate milestones. But despite the joy around her, Kananelo's thoughts drifted to Masego. He had grown so much, his features slowly molding into a face that now looked more and more like his father's. Each time she looked at him, the memory of that one night—so fleeting, so unexpected—came rushing back, leaving her with a mixture of gratitude and unease.

She sighed, momentarily pausing to stretch her back. "I miss him," she thought, her heart aching for Masego. It had only been two days, but the emptiness of not seeing his little face in the mornings felt heavier than she had anticipated. Her mother would bring him on Saturday, but even that felt too far away.

"Girl, are you still peeling potatoes? We've moved on to onions!" Dipuo's cousin, Lebo, teased, pulling Kananelo out of her thoughts.

She chuckled, shaking her head. "Sorry, I'm distracted. It's been a long day."

"I'm sure it has. With a baby and a busy job, you must be exhausted. But don't worry, we'll make sure you're fed well before tomorrow!" Lebo winked playfully, her hands expertly chopping onions as the others laughed.

Kananelo smiled, appreciating the liveliness around her. Despite everything, moments like these reminded her of the good things in life—the friendships, the love, the shared joy of celebration. She glanced over at Lwandile, who was chatting animatedly with some of the other women. Lwandile's own baby, Amahle, was now four months old, and they often shared stories of sleepless nights, diaper changes, and the never-ending balancing act between work and motherhood.

"You know, I didn't think I'd ever be able to leave Amahle behind," Lwandile said, catching Kananelo's eye. "But Zolani has been so great, and honestly, I needed this break. Even if it's just for a couple of days."

Kananelo nodded, understanding completely. "I know what you mean. It feels strange not having Masego with me. I keep thinking I'll hear him cry or see him, but... nothing."

Lwandile smiled gently. "It's okay to miss him, but it's also okay to take time for yourself. Besides, our babies are in good hands. Your mom is incredible with Masego, and Zolani has Amahle covered. Let's enjoy this moment."

Kananelo took a deep breath, letting Lwandile's words sink in. She was right. These few days were a rare opportunity to relax and focus on celebrating Dipuo's big day without the constant hum of responsibility. She looked over at Dipuo, who was glowing with happiness as she oversaw the preparations for her traditional wedding.

Dipuo had changed her mind about the white wedding, opting instead for a beautiful and intimate Sesotho celebration. Tomorrow, the Magadi negotiations would take place, and on Saturday, the wedding would follow—an event that had everyone excited. It felt surreal that her friend was finally getting married, and the significance of this moment wasn't lost on Kananelo. Dipuo had found her person, and as much as Kananelo was overjoyed for her, it was impossible not to feel a twinge of longing for herself.

After all, it wasn't just her body that had been transformed in the past year—her heart had been irrevocably changed too.

"Are you ready for tomorrow?" Kananelo asked, breaking away from her thoughts as she caught Dipuo's eye.