“Factorization. You know everything about maths, Sboniso. What’s all this about?” She asks me.

We are at the library. It’s after school. She’s now in casual clothes, as she is a border. She’s wearing a black jean, a blue polo tshirt, that’s a bit faded and black slippers.

“I just wanted a way to be close to you. As a friend.” I confess.

“I don’t need friends. Don’t befriend me, because you feel bad about how your girlfriend treated me.” She frowns.

“I didn’t..I just think you’re interesting, Lusanda.” 

“Oh whatever. You just want a poor girl to toy with, whenever you’re bored with your own girlfriend. I’m not up for games, I came here to study. To pursue a better life for my family and I.” 

“I know. I won’t deviate you from your plans, Lusanda.”

She stands up and shoves her books in her schoolbag, she glances down at me. Her eyes shining with unshed tears and pain. 

“I’m sorry, Sboniso. I can’t hang out with you. I don’t want trouble, with Cynthia.” She apologizes.

“Let me take you out! Please. After that, you can kick me to the curb. If you don’t say yes, then I’ll camp outside your dorm.”

She laughs.

“Just one day.” She says.

“That’s all I’ll ever need.” I reply. “Sit down, please.” I continue

She stares at me, saying nothing. Finally she sits down and smiles gently at me.

“Factorization. Where do we start, genius?” She says.