When Zinhle arrived home she found Nokwanda waiting for her. Nokwanda could see her friend was troubled, and gave Zinhle a big hug. She hated to see her crying. They went inside the house, made strong black coffee, and Zinhle lay on the couch, hugging herself, like she was feeling cold.
“Chomi I was worried about you. I tried to reach you on your cell at work. They called me to say that they didn’t know where you were, but you were not fine when you left. Tell me what happened.”
“I messed up chomi. I let the person I love go. I’ve lost him for good. For what? A stupid dinner I had with Busiso. And I hate Zama for what she did. What was she thinking? She is just jealous.”
“Baby girl, slow down. We have a whole day. Just tell me what happened from the start.”
“Why did she do that to me? I thought I could trust her. She acted like an angel. Then she called Simphiwe and told him I was at dinner with Busiso. Why didn’t she call me first to find out what was really happening? Now he wants nothing to do with me. What will I do chomi? I can’t lose him; he means so much to me,” wept Zinhle. “I can’t understand – how she could do that?” It was like Zinhle was talking to herself now.
“Simphiwe is a good guy. He is just hurt and now I see that you really love him. I am actually sorry about the conversations I dragged you into, about rich guys, you know….” Nokwanda smiled at Zinhle. “You must fight for him because that guy deserves your love and you deserve his. Yes, we have made mistakes but you are a good person. I am so happy you are my best friend now. Wipe those tears and take this hug, then you will have to think about how to win his trust instead of crying. You’re a fighter.”
They both smiled.
“You know that you are crazy but I am lucky to have a friend like you in my life. In fact you are my sister, not my friend.”
Zinhle sat for a while, not talking. Nokwanda was right. I must fight for him now that I have put myself in this mess, she realised. I will do anything to win him back.
***
Tell us: Why do you think Zama betrayed Zinhle?