That night, the two girls spoke all night over WhatsApp, and without even noticing, they were flirting and sending each other little suggestive messages.

“You look happy,” Themba said, as they got ready for school the next morning.

“I am happy,” Phumeza smiled, tucking in her worn-out shirt.

“I saw you with Tshego, the hottest girl in school,” Themba said.

“She’s older than you, Themba,” Phumeza laughed.

“By a year,” Themba shrugged.

“Sies, Themba!” Phumeza laughed again.

“Put in a good word for me,” Themba winked.

“I doubt she’d be interested in you.”

Phumeza left him behind and walked to school. She couldn’t wait to see Tshego.

They sat together in class. They had a lot more in common than they had realised. They enjoyed each other’s company. Some girls were even jealous of the friendship they shared.

“I wonder what she has that Tshego wants.”

“That girl doesn’t deserve to talk to Tshego.”

She’d heard all the rude remarks the girls said, loud enough for her to hear.

***

Time went by and they’d gotten closer.

One day they were in Tshego’s bedroom. Tshego had bought Phumeza a dress. She tried it on.

“It looks good on you,” Tshego said, hugging her waist.

“Thanks,” Phumeza blushed.

Their lips were now closer to each other without them realising. Phumeza rushed her hands on Tshego’s hair, they kissed. It felt like everything Phumeza had ever wanted for her first kiss.

“I love you, Phumeza,” Tshego said.

“I love you, too,” Phumeza smiled.

They kissed, and moved towards the bed, Phumeza’s legs hitting the bed. Tshego pushed her onto the bed.

“Can we wait?” Phumeza asked, as Tshego undressed her.

“Why?” Tshego asked.

“You can’t be with me,” Phumeza told her.

“Why? We love each other,” Tshego said.

“Someone like you can’t be with someone like me,” Phumeza frowned.

“What’s wrong with you?” Tshego asked.

“Come with me,” Phumeza stood up.

Tshego followed.

***

Tell us: Do you think Tshego would disapprove of Phumeza’s lifestyle?