Not Your Typical Fairytale (Complete)

Chapter 2

As my father's stern gaze pierces through me like a laser beam, I feel a shiver of apprehension run down my spine. He's laying into me with all the fury of a stormy sea, his words crashing against me like relentless waves.

"Ayola, how could you be so reckless? Kissing another girl in public like that, for everyone to see!" His voice booms through the room, filling the space with an intensity that makes me want to shrink away, to disappear into the floorboards like a scared little mouse.

But my mother, ever the mediator, steps in with all the finesse of a seasoned diplomat. "Now, darling, let's not be too harsh. Ayola's just exploring her boundaries, trying to find herself in this confusing world."

I glance down at my feet, feeling like a chastised puppy being scolded for chewing on the furniture. My father's disappointment weighs heavy on my shoulders, like a burden I can't seem to shake off no matter how hard I try.

"Exploring her boundaries? Is that what you call it?" My father scoffs, his tone dripping with disbelief. "This is not some game, Ayola. You need to understand the consequences of your actions."

I bite my lip, resisting the urge to snap back at him like the defiant teenager I am. But beneath his tough exterior, I can see the worry etched into his features, the fear of what might happen if I continue down this reckless path.

"I know, Dad," I mutter softly, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to cause trouble."

"If you know then why the hell would you do such a thing Ayola. Your mother and I work very hard for you to repay us like this. Causing a scandal!" My father yells furiously while my mother keeps looking around making sure that the passerby's do not hear us or even listen in on what is happening right now. We are in an empty classroom at least.

"Honey, come now. She has apologised. Ayola is just a teenage girl trying to find her way in today's world. I am sure it will never happen again. Right?" Mom asks turning to me, it is a promise I cannot make but I smile and nod anyway, anything to get out of this conversation with them... One of many, might I add.

Ah, the dreaded principal's office—it's practically my second home. Not that I give a toss most times. Today though, I'm chilling at home for the December hols, while Mum and Dad are off gallivanting in Dubai for their fancy business stuff. Typical.

But guess what? My bro, Aphiwe, is jetting in later today, and I'm buzzing to see him. It's been ages since we've hung out, and I've been counting down the days. Seriously, I've missed the guy like crazy.

As I lounge in my room, flicking through Instagram like it's my job, I can't help but feel a twinge of excitement. The thought of Aphiwe's arrival sends a surge of anticipation through me. I can practically hear his booming laugh and feel his bear hugs already.

Yeah, sure, I may come across as this spoilt, know-it-all princess on the outside, but deep down, family means everything to me. Aphiwe's like my rock, you know? He gets me in a way that no one else does.

So, as I sit here, eagerly awaiting his arrival, I can't help but smile. This holiday just got a whole lot brighter, and I'm ready to soak up every moment of it with my bro by my side.

"What time is Aphiwe landing? Should I cook or will you and him go out tonight?" Mah asks, stirring something on the stove, her apron tied snugly around her waist. I give her a casual shrug, not entirely sure myself.

"Ay, I'm not sure. Let me give him a buzz and find out," I reply, reaching for my phone. Mah nods and disappears back into the kitchen, leaving me to sort out the details.

Mah—she's more than just a housekeeper; she's been like a mother to me for as long as I can remember. I respect her and love her like family.

Dialing Aphiwe's number, I'm met with his cheeky voice on the other end. "Ayo, you do know I'm landing today, right?" he teases, his tone laced with amusement.