Rose



After what felt like an eternity, the airplane gracefully descends announcing my arrival in Mozambique. As I stepped onto the tarmac, a mix of emotions wash over me. The warm rays of the Mozambican sun envelops me like a comforting embrace, and a sense of relief spread through my entire being. A radiant smile broke across my face; I can’t believe I had made it here. The weight of my burdens seems to lift off my shoulders, at least for the moment.

The driver, a kind-looking man, offered to help with my luggage. “Where you headed?” he asked politely. “White Shark Resort. Are you familiar with it?” I inquired, hoping he could take me there.

He nods with a glimmer of recognition in his eyes, and we set off on our journey.

As we left the airport, I resisted the urge to turn on my phone and connect with the outside world. For now, I want to savour this newfound freedom in solitude. I bought a new SIM card, but the phone remained off, the quietness a respite from the constant notifications and pressures of my old life.

Approaching the cottage, I caught my breath at its beauty. “It’s stunning,” I whispered, my heart swelling with appreciation for this moment of tranquility. The driver smiles warmly as he opens the car door. “Yes, it is. I hope you enjoy your stay in Mozambique,” he said kindly, handing me his business card for when I might need a ride. I thank him, feeling grateful for his kindness, and watched him drive away.

Inside the cottage, I marvel at the shark-themed decorations, finding charm in every detail. It feels like a sanctuary—a place where I can finally be myself without judgment or expectations. I gently place my bag on the bed in the master bedroom, feeling a sense of peace washing over me.

In the bathroom, as droplets of water trailed down my skin, I closed my eyes and took a deep, cleansing breath. This was my chance to heal, to leave the past behind, and to rediscover who I truly am. The weight I had carried for so long began to dissipate with each exhale, leaving me feeling lighter and unburdened.

The first I got do was get in the shower, dressed in a cozy towel, I wander into the kitchen without a care in the world. Opening the fridge, I pick a handful of plump grapes and a bottle of fruity juice, indulging in their juicy sweetness. Sitting on the bed, I switch on my phone and saw the flood of WhatsApp messages from my worried sister. I replied with a simple text, assuring her that I was fine and safe. Another name caught my eye on the screen—Senzo’s. But there were no messages from him, which brought both relief and a pang of sadness. Perhaps he didn’t even notice my departure, or maybe he did and chose not to reach out.

Turning off my phone once more, I focuse on the television, letting the freedom of the moment wash over me. This was my chance for a fresh start, a life without the shackles of worry and regret. I made a silent promise to myself to embrace the boundless possibilities that lay ahead and to live with open arms and an open heart. From now on, I am determined to chart my own path, guided by my own emotions, desires, and dreams.