The Last Time We Said Goodbye

A day in December

Ntando's response made me smile. "I see, don't worry, I got you, baby. Everything will go according to plan. Trust me." I felt a flutter in my chest as I read his words. I had always trusted Ntando, and our secret moments together made me feel special. "I always trusted you, mos," I replied, feeling a sense of comfort and familiarity.

As I waited for Ntando's next message, I couldn't help but think about our past moments together. The memories of our almost-intimate encounter flashed through my mind, and I felt a warmth in my heart. I knew that our friendship was more than just friends, and I looked forward to seeing him at the Christmas party.

The days ticked by, and Christmas was getting closer. I was still waiting for Ntando's party plan details. On December 23rd, I decided to visit Ntando. As I walked up to his doorstep, I could hear music coming from inside. Ntando opened the door with a big smile. "Hey, Langa! What's up?" he asked, giving me a warm hug.

We spent the afternoon chatting and laughing, talking about our favorite holiday traditions. Ntando's little sister Lihle was playing in the background, and his mom was busy in the kitchen. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.

As the sun began to set, Ntando pulled out some freshly baked cookies. "Try one!" he said, offering me a warm cookie. I took a bite, and the sweet flavors tasted amazing. Ntando smiled, looking happy that I liked them. We chatted and snacked for a while longer, enjoying each other's company.

As I got ready to leave, Ntando walked me to the door. "Hey, I'll see you soon, okay? We'll finalize the party plans tomorrow," he said, giving me a gentle smile. I nodded, feeling excited. "Can't wait," I replied, smiling back at him. As I walked home, the stars were beginning to twinkle in the night sky, and I felt happy, knowing that Christmas was just around the corner.

I was beyond excited as I chatted with Ntando on the phone. "Hey, beautiful! Tomorrow's the day you've always wanted," he said, his voice filled with enthusiasm. I couldn't help but squeal with delight. "Yes, yes! I'm so excited! I can't wait! When is it starting?" I asked, barely containing my anticipation.

Ntando chuckled on the other end of the line. "It starts at 8 pm, but I need you to be here by 7 pm so we can catch up a little before everyone arrives." I nodded, even though he couldn't see me. "Okay, I'll make sure to be there on time. Bestie, don't worry!" I said, trying to wrap up the call as my mom was getting impatient in the background.

"Mom's calling me, gotta go!" I said to Ntando, trying to hurry the conversation. But before I could hang up, my mom's voice pierced through the background noise. "So, are you really going to spend Christmas Day with that boy?" she asked, her tone laced with concern.

I rolled my eyes good-naturedly. "Yeah, I'll be there the whole day, Mom. The party starts at 7 pm. Why are you stressing yourself, Mother?" I replied, trying to reassure her. My mom's expression turned serious. "I'm just worried, my child. Just take care of yourself. Many people get hurt out there, and I don't want that to happen to you," she said, her voice filled with maternal concern.

I smiled and walked over to her, giving her a reassuring hug. "Mom, I'll be fine. I promise to be careful and stay safe. You don't have to worry so much," I said, trying to calm her fears. With a final squeeze, Just then, my dad walked, "What's going on here?" he asked, noticing the concerned look on my mom's face. "Langa's going to Ntando's party tomorrow, and I'm worried," my mom explained. My dad smiled and put a reassuring hand on my mom's shoulder. "She'll be fine, don't worry. She's a big girl now," he said.

My brother Cwenga, who was sitting on the couch, chimed in. "Yeah, Mom, let her go have fun! It's Christmas, after all!" he said, grinning at me. I smiled back at him, feeling grateful for my family's support.

My mom sighed, but eventually nodded. "Okay, just be careful, and have fun," she said. I let out a whoop of excitement and hugged her tightly. "Thanks, Mom! I promise I'll be careful!" I exclaimed. With that, I headed off to my room to start getting ready for the party, feeling excited and happy for the fun night ahead.

"I wore my favorite Christmas outfit - cargo pants, an oversized t-shirt, and my shiny new kicks. The smell of delicious food filled the air as Mom busied herself in the kitchen, whipping up her famous Christmas salads. My little brother Cwenga was bursting with excitement, playing outside with his friends in his brand new outfit.

As I walked into the kitchen, Mom handed me a big bunch of carrots. "Can you grate these for me, sweetie?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with warmth. I smiled and got to work, chatting with her as we cooked together.

At 6 pm, Mom called out, "Dinner's ready!" We all gathered around the table, and Dad cleared his throat. "I have something important to say," he announced. "I'm so proud of you, Nombulelo, for taking care of the kids while I was away working. You're an amazing mom." Mom and Dad shared a loving glance, and we all felt happy.

I stood up, my heart full of determination. "Don't worry, family," I said. "We'll get through tough times together. I promise to work hard and make you proud. We'll have a better life, and we'll never be stuck in this small place forever." Everyone cheered, and we enjoyed our Christmas feast together.

As the evening drew to a close, I glanced at the clock. "I need to head out," I said reluctantly. Dad nodded, "Okay, baby, take care." Cwenga shouted out, "Be careful, sis!" as I headed out the door, feeling loved and supported."