"THE PRETENDER"
Chapter one
''The beginning''
Angela Musonda. A pretty and intelligent 14 year old girl was born in the city of Lusaka at the University Teaching Hospital. Being the last born in the family she was always treated as a princess. Her father Mr. Musonda was a businessman and her mother was a stay at home wife. Life was good for the family as the family businesses were doing fine. Mr. Musonda had invested heavily on the stock market. He had bought shares in major and lucrative firms such as Lafarge Cement, National Breweries and Zambeef. The shares he had bought were giving him a good return. He ensured that the shares would give the family a life time of good returns. He also had built houses in Kabwata and Chilenje South. He was a shrewd man. Always following the happenings on the stock market to identify new investment opportunities. Mr. Musonda was not a religious man. He was too liberal. He rarely went to church. The few days he went to church was as a result of being dragged by his wife. Mrs. Musonda was a pious woman; always wanting to raise the family on Christian values. She detested her husband's liberal views on raising the family. She was always fighting her husband over his drinking habits. Mr. Musonda always loved a glass of wine after a meal much to the annoyance of his wife. He was not a disciplinarian; always choosing to overlook the children's shortcomings. They always argued on how to raise their kids. Of their four children; only Grace was close to Mr. Musonda. Angela at first detested her mother's strict upbringing of her and the siblings but she later saw how valuable it was.
Angela's siblings were John, Peter and Grace. Grace was the oldest, while John was the third born. It was alleged by the family that grace and John resembled their father while Angela and Peter somewhat resembled their mother. Both Grace and Angela were so beautiful. This was creating acrimony between the sisters. Of course, Angela was considered endowed than Grace. She was curvier than the elder sister; fairer than Grace who considered her as a little spoilt brat. This led them not to be close in their early years. At Primary school when Grace was in seventh grade, Angela was in second grade. They attended private school. Angela was smarter than the elder sister and always used to come out tops in class much to the annoyance of her sister grace. "Why can't you be like your young sister? She is always coming out on top in her class!" their father could always yell on top of his voice at the end of each term when collecting their report cards. Mr. Musonda and his family lived in an upmarket and plush neighborhood of Chalala. He did not want to raise his kids like the average Zambian family. He had huge plans for them. He wanted them to excel in life. He wanted them to have the best that life could offer. He wanted them not to suffer as he suffered when he was growing up.
Anderson Banda was the son of Agrippa and Enelesi Banda, the family originated from Katete District from a village called Kachikhomo. His parents were so poor such that they could not afford to buy him school shoes at primary school. Andy's life was full of pain and misery. His future looked so un-inspiring. Many a times he could go to sleep on an empty stomach. The boy was surrounded by such horrible and imaginable hopelessness. He always imagined that life would always be like that. However, his mother and father always made sure that he draws closer to God and his books. These they concluded were the only hope for a brighter future for their son. They made sure he never missed Sunday service. Anderson was baptized as an infant. The boy was a genius at school. He was first in his class from first grade. Despite being poor; the Banda household was the envy of their village thanks to their brilliant son. Both his parents were very pious. When Andy was 13, the family's fortunes had somehow improved. Mr. and Mrs. Banda had worked so hard at his farming business to improve the economic status of his family. He had invested in the growing of tobacco, cotton and groundnuts. However, the growing of tobacco was somehow controversial at church; considering him now being a church elder. Questions were always raised in the church council meeting by fellow elders who always questioned his morality as an elder and yet a grower of tobacco. It was such a delicate matter for him. On one hand it was the biggest income earner for the family while on the other hand it was forbidden by the church.
Andy had passed the grade seven exams with flying colors. He had gotten 850 marks which made him to be the highest scorer in the whole Eastern Province. They sent him to Chassa High School in Sinda District; a Catholic School known for producing the best minds in the province. "Go and be what God had always wanted you to be my son" his mother told him when he was departing for school. Being a boarding school, Andy knew just how tough life would be ahead. He had never gone out of Katete all his life. This would be his first time for him to be away from his village and he was so excited. Here was a poor boy from the village who was ready to conquer the academic world. The people from his village had wished him well. They gave him all that they could afford: groundnuts, chickens, soap and other essentials for school. There was this feeling that by having a child from the village educated, the benefits would accrue to the village from where the child hailed from. Who knew what the future held? Andy was most grateful to everyone who rendered him the much-needed support. What made Andy to be the envy of the village was not just his academic success; he was a morally upright young man. While his contemporaries were smoking weed, drinking beer and chasing after girls; he was either at church attending bible classes or singing in the choir. Many girls were hoping to have him as a lover but their efforts were in vain. All his peers from primary school had either impregnated or gotten impregnated. A sorry sight in the village as those affected by pregnancies would rarely finish their schooling. His mother had always told him to avoid girls at all costs. She did not want her son to end up like the other boys in the village who did not want to advance their education but rather get married and stop school. Andy did not have a girl though there was a girl he admired so much in the choir but did not have the guts to tell her. He was the choir master and chief composer for the choir which made him to be highly esteemed by the girls. He could compose such melodic tunes for the choir which made him popular in the church. The girls however could not get to be romantically involved with him. Besides he was such a loser when it came to love issues; he was very timid and lacked the skills to approach a girl.
He dropped at Sinda stop. It was a newly created dusty town on the Chipata -Lusaka Road which had been part of Katete town. The conductor helped him to get his luggage from the boot and stood on the road side waiting for the ride which would take him to the school; a distance of 8 kilometers. How excited he was to be going to boarding school. He could not wait to meet new people. He was happy it was a boys' school; he had a painful sense of shyness which always made him to be uneasy in the presence of a girl he liked. Andy waited for transport for almost half an hour. A van came. After they negotiated, he jumped on it. The road was so bumpy and there were pot holes all over the road with dust rising violently as the van made its way to the school. He went straight to the deputy heads office so that he could take him to the boarding master to allocate the hostel. Anderson had heard about the mockery at boarding school. He was ready for it. He had heard how grade eight pupils were mistreated by the senior boys. Some could be beaten mercilessly by the big boys. After the formal introductions; he was taken to the hostel where he would be in that year. It was quite clean and quiet; ideal for studying.
When Andy went to grade 9, Angela had passed to go to grade 8. They were worlds apart. Grace was now in grade 12. Both were at S.t Mary's Secondary School. Grace was such a stubborn girl. At break time she could smoke weed with her girlfriends near the school grounds. She detested the discipline that the Catholic sisters were trying so hard to instill in her. How she longed to be at Kabulonga girls! There she thought there was a bit of lax in strictness. Her young sister got wind of her smoking and drinking habits. 'Don't ever open your dirty mouth of yours about what you have seen me do at school; what you have seen remains here, get it?'' Grace could always threaten her young sister. Angela was scared to report her elder sister to her parents. ''Here! Try some girl'' said Grace to her kid sister as she handed her a joint of weed to smoke one day during break. ''No thanks, am okay'' answered. 'Come on girl, just try to pull this joint, it will blow you off'' assured Ambience, Grace's friend. Angela was now undecided. The joint of weed was tempting. She could not resist it. She took a few puffs and coughed terribly. 'That's my baby girl!'' exclaimed Grace. Angela was dazed. She just realized how strong weed was. She vowed never to smoke it again. Grace was now a gang leader at school. She ensured that she attended every variety show where music was being played and booze was readily available. She was a party animal who carefully concealed her hooliganism from her parents. Only Angela knew what was happening. With her wild ways, her performance at school went down. She flanked in 6 out of 8 subjects in the end of term tests. To make matters worse she was caught smoking weed and summoned to the deputy heads office. "What do you think this is? Your grandfather's school?" asked sister Albertina with a serious look on her face. "What do you have to say about this?" continued the sister. "I think you are expelled! You can now leave my office; am going to call your parents! Stupid girl! Now get out!" yelled sister Albertina. "You know what? I don't give a damn about you or this stupid school; you can all go to hell!" rudely answered Grace while raising her middle finger. Sister Albertina was in total shock. She wondered why they had kept such a dangerous rebel who could have been a bad influence on the other girls. She decided to give Mr. Musonda a call. "We have decided to expel your daughter from school!" said the deputy head with a serious tone in her voice. "What? How dare you! Where do you get such guts to expel my daughter?'' Retorted Mr. Musonda. "Mr. Musonda if I were you, I should be asking as to why Grace has been expelled instead of being rude to me okay!" said sister Albertina. "Okay, you tell me what my daughter has done to deserve such ill treatment" interrupted Grace's father. "We caught your daughter smoking weed near the school grounds; she had been on our radar for some time and now we caught her!" confidently said the deputy head. "Don't tell me!" answered Mr. Musonda with shock. "Yes, just ask her nicely, she will tell you and I must tell you that your daughter is so rude and stubborn, am afraid her behavior cannot be condoned at this school" said the deputy. Angela's father just cut the line without saying anything. He was shocked beyond belief. He wondered as to why he had not seen it. Now he somehow understood why his wife detested her daughter so much. She was such an embarrassment, considering that she was the first born. He could not wait to see her so that he pumps sense into her thick head. Mr. Musonda narrated the whole ordeal to his wife who was not much surprised at the news. She started to blame her husband for spoiling Grace.
There was commotion at home when Grace arrived at home. Her face was downcast. She was so ashamed of herself. She was the most troublesome of the four kids for Mr. and Mrs. Musonda. Her two brothers were at boarding school. They were shocked to hear of their sister's predicament. How could she? They wondered. She was given a good beating that night by her father after such a long time. Mr. Musonda realized just how right his wife has always been. She had always been telling her husband to be stricter with the children but he always paid a deaf ear to her pleas. Grace locked herself up in her bedroom for two days without eating. She resented her father for whipping her with the belt. She did not want to talk to anyone. "Let her rot in there! Who cares? Stupid girl!" Yelled Mr. Musonda. "Honey! Please don't say that, she is still our daughter. Let's see how we can find a school place at another school dear; I hope she has learnt her lessons" said Mrs. Musonda with a worried look on her face. Grace realized her mistake. She was told to change her circle of friends. Her parents went to Kabulonga girls and found a place for her in grade 11; a grade lower than she was in S.t Mary's. It was not long before she made friends at school. Her dad now increased his monitoring of her activities especially her school work. Mr. Musonda wanted her daughter to excel. He hired a private tutor to start tutoring her in preparation for the exams the following year.
Andy now applied himself to books. He wanted to excel and be the best at school. He realized that the other students were equally as good. They were not pushovers. Some of them came from as far as Lusaka and the Copper-belt provinces. These were sons of the rich. They had everything that money could buy. To them food was not a problem. They never bothered to line up for food at the dining hall. The meals there were so pathetic especially the beans! It was poorly cooked. Of the seven days; pupils were only treated to chicken and meat two days in a week and every pupil looked forward to those days! Anderson wanted to be the best in class. He loved mathematics and science. He wanted to be the best in these subjects as most of the pupils in the class dreaded these subjects. The rich kids from the cities were really struggling in math. They offered Andy some money and other goodies such as soap in order for him to take them in math. They considered him to be one of the coolest dudes to chill out with. He was such a reserved chap; always letting others sing his praises. Even the senior pupils respected him so much. They could see so much potential in him. Greatness awaited him and all could see that in Andy. He was the most disciplined pupil in his class. He was the class monitor and he diligently did his work to the satisfaction of all this class mates. He used to study a lot; he was the first to go for prep and the last to leave. On weekends, apart from playing soccer, he started learning the piano. Whenever he felt sad, he would resort to the school hall where there was an old piano, though old; it was such an exquisite piece of instrument. He started to teach himself and before long he had learnt to play a few tunes. Music seemed to have been flowing in his veins. It was so soothing to his soul. It made him forget his pain. Each time he played a tune, tears would flow down his cheeks. He could compose lyrics from the mind. No one knew that Andy had taught himself how to skillfully play the piano.
There was going to be a music talent competition. It was after the end of term tests. Andy had come out tops in all the subjects. In math he got 100% as well as in science, geography and history. However, Andy had hidden his musical prowess from everyone. No one was surprised by Andy's academic performance. It was clear for all to see that he was a genius. The school authorities expected so much from him. He had beaten all the pupils in eighth grade. Many just knew him by name but could not recognize him by face. He was such a simple looking young man. Few would notice him and yet he grabbed all the awards during the end of term tests. He had joined the school choir; however, for the musical talent competition; he so much wanted to take part in the piano playing competition. They were three in that category. The other two guys were in grade eleven and twelve respectively. They had been music students since coming to Chassa High. There was this Gideon whom everyone respected when it came to playing the piano. He was a star in his own right. He had been taught the piano by the most respected music teacher at the school; he was some sort of prodigy. The day of the competition was an exciting day for everyone. All were dressed in their best. The first category was the choral one. Each class was supposed to sing a song each and compete with other classes. Grade 11 G had had been winning the choral category since they were in grade 9. They always sung with so much passion and enthusiasm. Andy knew that competition was rough. He wanted to give the performance of his life on the final day. Everyone was looking forward to the piano playing performance. Of course, the hip hop section proved to be popular with almost every boy in the school. They loved the hip hop songs which were being played and the rappers. It had the largest number of competitors so far. Gideon having been the star of previous years in the piano contest was the first to step forward to showcase his skills. He wore a blue jeans, white shirt and snickers. He never looked much of a rock star. However, when he started playing his song, the atmosphere was so electrifying! The crowd went wild. He played the piano with so much energy, it was like magic the way he moved his hands, changing keys; much to the pleasure of his music teacher. By the time he was done with his song, the crowd was begging for more. It was a superb performance. Everyone knew that Gideon would win the contest just as last year with his counterpart Samuel coming second. That's how it has been for the past three years. A rude shock awaited them.
Anderson had always admired rock stars. He wanted to dress like them on stage. After Samuel finished. He had borrowed a black suit from his friend from who hailed from Lusaka. When his name was called, all eyes were on him. He had shaved his hair giving him that cool look and to top it all he had worn a bow tie. He looked more flamboyant than the other contestants. He had composed a really emotional song. It epitomized his pain, frustrations that he had faced in life. It was a song about the faithfulness of God in this life. He dedicated the song to his mum. No one expected his piano performance to be that good. How wrong they were! He played the piano so beautifully to the amazement of the music teacher whose mouth was wide open with shock. He wondered who had taught the boy such skills which even he had been struggling to acquire. The boy was a real genius. The music instructor could not believe his eyes. He had never seen a boy play the piano so good in all his 15 years he had been at Chassa High! The song was such a sad and emotional one. Tears were pouring on Andy's cheeks. Almost everyone was made to shed a tear or two.it was such a captivating performance. It was a song of a better tomorrow. Of suffering, pain and triumph. It inculcated a spirit of resilience and hope in all those that heard Andy play. To top it all, his falsetto voice was so captivating. '' Where did this boy come from?'' whispered the headmaster to his deputy. Everyone clapped for Andy as he stepped out of the stage. He wiped his tears as he waved and bowed back at the crowd. Everyone wanted to know who would win the piano playing contest. Everyone was on the edge of their seats waiting for the judges to announce the winners. They started with the other categories and ended with the piano contest which was considered to be the most prestigious of all the categories in the competition. Andy came second much to the disappointment of many pupils who were convinced beyond doubt that he would emerge the overall winner. Gideon still carried the day. Despite winning the contest; he felt he had lost the plot to Andy. He knew he was the one who deserved to win. He knew that Andy was the better piano player than him and this ticked him off. How could a mere eighth grade village boy be better than him?
Angela had learnt so much about life. She had so much pressure to have a boyfriend. Everyone in her circle of friends had a boyfriend. It was the coolest things to do. She longed to have a strong, well-built young man to hold her gently in his arms. She envied her friends. Tabitha and Juliet were her best girlfriends. They were like sisters. Having all of them pass to grade ten with flying colors; they had felt as if they had conquered the world. Both Tabitha and Juliet had boyfriends and were busy pressuring Angela to get herself one. ''You just don't know what you are missing my friend; at your age you need a guy to complete you'' assured Tabitha. ''You mean am missing something?'' inquired Angela. ''Yes! Just look at how miserable you look girlfriend! You must be a virgin, aren't you?'' asked Juliet. ''Yes, am and I intend to stay that way till am married'' said Angela. ''What? A virgin in this day and age? Come on girl, that is not is not cool at all! Go out there and taste just how sweet men are'' said Tabitha mockingly. This went on and on for a long time. Angela's girlfriends hooked her with one boy from Kabulonga Boys. He came from Woodlands. His parents were rich and this impressed Angela. The girls had some principals of their own. They always wanted to go out with classy and rich guys. They wanted to go out with guys who drove expensive cars. They never wanted to hang out with poor guys from the compounds. They were known in the whole school as the most elite of girls who never associated anyhow with anyone. They were a bunch of judgmental, proud and arrogant girls. Tabitha and Juliet were the worst. Angela was much better as she knew that it was not everything that glittered that was gold. Deep down her heart she knew that there were some good girls in their class who were interesting to be with despite coming from humble backgrounds.
Angela had a friend by the name of Judith. She was an intelligent girl despite coming from the compound. She was coming from Kalingalinga. Angela admired her so much for her courage and determination against all odds. She was determined to succeed academically no matter what lay in her way. Angela befriended Judith. They used to share notes and other study materials. With the passing of time; they became so close much to the annoyance of Tabitha and Juliet. ''Where were you last weekend? We bounced twice at your place!'' inquired Juliet. ''I went out, oh by the way do I have to tell you where I go all the time?'' retorted Angela. ''What's this attitude of yours coming from girl friend? Are you tripping or what?'' furiously asked Tabitha while trying to pull Angela's arm. ''Will you let go of my arm? Since you are interested to know where I went; well, I went to Kalingalinga to see my friend Judy'' answered Angela with a sarcastic look on her face. ''Don't tell me! Since when did that poor wretch become your friend? Girlfriend you need to watch your roll. You are going against the girl code we created!'' interrupted Tabitha who was getting incensed by each passing minute. ''Judy is not a wretch, when will you stop judging people and start looking at people for who they are huh? I thought I have friendship with sensible people but I think I have been wrong!'' furiously muttered Angela as she walked away. Juliet's and Tabitha's mouths were agape with shock. ''She did not say that did she? Asked Tabitha. ''She just did my friend'' reluctantly answered Juliet. For the next two weeks, their friendship would suffer a breakdown. They were failing to see each other eye to eye. Angela was now found with Judith. All the girls at S.t Mary's were wondering what was happening to the once famous trio. Angela now realized that she was missing a lot. She saw how simple township girls lived. She had so much to learn from them. She thought she knew it all but here was this girl from the compound teaching her a lot of things about life and yet she had tried with her friends to look down on her. Judith and Angela became inseparable from then onwards. Tabitha and Juliet were angry with their friend whom they accused of abandoning them for a cheap girl from the compounds. It was eating them up to see Angela and Judith smile and laugh together in class and during break time. They planned to do something about it. They could not afford to lose their friend to that supposed low life. It was a Monday morning when they hatched their plan to confront Angela and her new friend. They had been exchanging nasty looks in the math class earlier on. Angela got closer to Judith and started chatting with her. They got closer as they chatted. Angela even put her arm on Judy's shoulder and this incensed the girls even more. She was doing it deliberately to annoy them.
When the siren went off for the 10:00 hours break, Angela and Judith went out arm in arm towards the school grounds. She knew that her friends would furiously follow them but she did not care at all. She had brought some food for her new friend Judy and she wanted to share with her. She too had brought some food to eat with her friend. ''Look what I have brought for you'' said Angela as she opened her lunch box. ''Wow, that's very appetizing! Exclaimed Judy. ''Hope you will like the food my friend!" answered Angela with excitement. ''I also prepared something for you; here take a look'' said Judy while opening her lunch box. ''wow! That must taste nice, let me have a bite please; Hmmmmm, I just love food prepared by other people!'' said Angela with a mouthful of food. She could not resist Judy's food. It was bread and eggs served with vegetable salads. A healthy meal. It was something for a change for Angela who had been hooked to junkie foods thanks to Tabitha and Juliet who loved eating unhealthy foods. ''Oh, oh, here comes trouble! Whispered Judy to Angela. Tabitha and Juliet were headed to where they were sitting. One could tell from their faces that they were annoyed and meant business. ''You! Can you get lost for now? We want to have some serious talk with Angela'' rudely said Tabitha. ''And who are you to be ordering me around? Retorted Judy. ''Whoa, whoa, are you speaking back to my friend? Can you believe it? This non entity talking to you like that? Get the hell out of here before I slap you!" warned Juliet. ''You can't scare me! Who do you think you are? I can put you in your place if you don't know who am!" retaliated Judy. ''It's okay Judy, please give me a minute; will be done with these clowns'' answered Angela as she restrained her friend. Judy reluctantly walked away. She too had an attitude. She never tolerated anyone to look down on her just because they came from the suburbs. She knew she was better than them academically and that was what counted the most.
''So, what is going on? Have you gone crazy? You can't stop rolling with us all because of that loser!'' said Tabitha. ''What is wrong with that if I roll with her? Can't you mind your own business? Let me make this straight to you, that girl you are seeing over there Judy is one of the most beautiful people I have ever come across in this school ever since I came here at S.t Mary's. I would advise you to stop judging people till you get to know them better. Judy brings out the best in me unlike you two brats who have been weighing me down all this time'' said Angela with a defiant look on her face. Her friends had nothing to say. They all just looked at each other in shock. ''If you don't mind, please find your way out of here'' said Angela. Tabitha and Juliet walked away with their faces covered in shame. Angela had reached a very critical stage in her life. She had so many questions in her mind. Spiritual related questions which required answers urgently. What she liked the most about Judy apart from being a simple girl was the fact that she loved church so much. Unlike her who went to church all because her mum took her there; Judy knew why she went to church. She was a God-fearing girl. Angela admired her for that. Unlike Tabitha and Juliet who were busy pressuring her to go and have sex with her boyfriend; here was Judy who encouraged her to keep her virginity for her husband. Judy breathed some fresh air into her life. All her weekends were spent at Judy's place in Kalingalinga. There her hair could be plaited for free, any style she loved. By compound standards Judy and her family were well off. They lived in their own wall fenced house. This Angela perceived. They were not poor per se as her friends had imagined her. Angela loved the compound. Life there seemed to be interesting unlike the suburbs where they were closed up. In the suburbs they never had the luxury of knowing their neighbors. In the compounds everyone seemed to be your neighbor. You could ask for salt, relish and mealie- meal if you ran out in the compounds and that just made life pleasurable. Life was full of fun despite the hardships that people went through. No day was a dull day; everyday was full of excitement for the compound dwellers and Angela never wanted to miss out on this. By now Judy's family had gotten to know Angela. Her dad wondered what attracted a girl from the suburbs to her daughter. He understood when he learnt that they were classmates at school.
Angela went for a date with her boyfriend. He had borrowed her dad's car. A posh BMW convertible. Sam wanted to impress Angela. It would be their first date. However, Sam had a dark past. He only used girls for sex. He had hoped to have sex with Angela on their first date. In fact, there was a bet with his friends. He had bragged to his friends that he would be between Angela's legs on their first date. His friends laughed at him as they placed the wager. He wanted to prove them wrong. Angela had a body to die for and that just sweetened the whole bet making deal. Sam had told Angela to pick her from the road across their gate at exactly 9 hours. She wore a blue peddle pusher and pink top. She wanted to look the best for him. She was busy applying makeup when her phone beeped. It was a text message from Sam. He was outside the gate. He hooted. ''Where are you going? And who is that hooting and making noise outside the gate?'' asked Grace. ''That is my friend, bye, see you when I come back'' said Angela as she dashed out. Grace wondered who was waiting for her kid sister outside. She had not known her sister to have a boyfriend. It was strange. She decided to ignore it. If her kid sister had gotten herself a boyfriend she would know. ''Hey beautiful! Wow; you look so cute, please hop in darling'' said Sam after giving her a peck on the cheek. Angela was chaffed. This was her first boyfriend and he was so handsome. She loved him so much. She felt lucky to have him and she knew her mates would be admiring her for having such a hot guy for a boyfriend. '' So how are your parents today?'' Inquired Sam as he gently squeezed her thigh. She smiled a bit though she was wondering as to why Sam was too quick to touch her. '' Angela you are so beautiful you know that?'' asked Sam. ''I know, my mum and dad always tell me that'' answered Angela. '' they do? Wow! Your parents must be the best in the world huh?'' continued Sam. He was peeping through her bra. Inside where two round shaped breasts. They were firm and pointed. Sam could not wait to caress them. He could not wait to suck them. Sex on the first date was inevitable for Sam. All the girls he had dated before Angela had given it to him and had begged him to give it to them more. He concluded Angela would be the same. He planned to spoil her with care and attention and that he was sure would do the trick. He was a lustful young man. His manhood was getting erect as they drove to the place for their date. He could not resist touching Angela's breasts. ''Wow! You have the most amazing breasts sweetheart'' whispered Sam. '' What are you doing? Instead of focusing on the road you turn your focus on my breasts? How stupid are you? Don't you know we can crash?'' yelled Angela. '' Relax darling, we can't crash'' assured Sam. Angela was so annoyed. No one had dared touch her breasts before. She kept quiet as they alighted from the car. Angela was wondering in her mind if at all Sam really loved her or if he just wanted sex from her.
''Baby what is the matter? Asked Sam despite knowing what was pissing off his girlfriend. ''Nothing'' answered Angela. Sam was now doing all he could to impress his girl. He brought out a necklace and put it around Angela's neck. '' Wow! It's so beautiful'' shyly answered Angela. The necklace must have cost Sam a fortune she thought. They kissed. Sam could not believe it. The kiss had brown him away. He wanted more of Angela's lips. He held her tightly and gave her another passionate kiss. He was getting aroused by each minute. ''Baby slow down, I should not have kissed you, just look at you now, you are now too horny'' said Angela with a worried look in her eyes. ''Eish, you are so hot! My blood pressure was rising darling; was almost having a heart attack'' said Sam jokingly. His penis was fully erected and it could show on his trousers. He hoped to make love to her in the car. She would love it he concluded. She was a virgin Sam perceived. He could not wait to be the first to deflower her. However, Angela had other plans. Despite loving her boyfriend so much; she was not going to stoop so low as to give him sex. She wanted to maintain her virginity. She had heard of just how mean guys were and she was not going to be the victim as other girls. She had come to know. The date was going on well. Angela could not get enough love from her boyfriend. It was too much. He was pampering her with so much love and care. He was such a charmer. He always said the right words at the right time and she could not believe she had him in her life. She only hoped he would not change so that they could be together forever. He had bought her chocolate and flowers. She loved them so much. The date was full of laughter, giggles and smiles. Angela had never been happier in her life, Sam was a gentleman, and she could not imagine being away from him in her life. He was the love of her life; so, she thought. How wrong she was!
It was getting late now. ''Babes we must be getting home, it's getting late, my parents will start asking about me'' said Angela with a smile. ''Baby…relax okay. We have come with a car. Don't worry will take you home. Our date is just getting more romantic; don't you think?'' assured Sam. ''Okay if you say so, let's extend it for half an hour'' said Angela. ''Come on my love, this is just 6pm; we can leave by 7pm, what's the rush? You are a big girl now'' assured Sam. Unknown to Angela; Sam had an ulterior motive for wanting to leave at 7pm. He knew that by that time it would be dark; a good time to have sex with his girlfriend. He had planned things so well such that Angela was too blinded by the fake love he was showering her with. She could not see like a deer which blindly enters in the lion's den ready to be chewed. Sam was slowly achieving his plan. He had placed a huge wager that he would bed Angela in his BMW convertible. He had carried enough condoms. As he sipped his cold beer, he wickedly smiled to himself knowing that he would be $200 richer when he gets back home. His buddies were sure that Sam would fail to bed Angela on their first date. He could not wait to squeeze those bums. As he lustfully looked at her; he imagined her naked. He could not wait to see the goodies that lay underneath that peddle pusher. Angela had a body to die for and Sam wanted to lay his hands on her. She had no idea what lay ahead of her. As the time was ticking Sam was getting hornier. He could not wait to lay his finger on his girlfriend. If he had succeeded; it would have been the news of the day back home with his foolish buddies. It was now dark and chilly; perfect atmosphere for Angela to get laid so he thought. "Baby we must be getting home, look it's now dark. I have even extended the period for us to be here. It's now quarter to 8. Dad would be mad at me'' said Angela with a worried look on her face. ''Don't worry love, will take you home as faster as I can'' assured Sam. They kissed passionately. She put her head on his chest to feel his warmth as he held her tightly in his arms. She felt loved.
They held each other as they went to the car. They were arm in arm. Here was the man that Angela loved so much. Her first love; it felt so sweet to be in love for Angela. She had never felt like this before for anyone. He squeezed her bums. ''Ouch! You are so naughty baby! '' said Angela as she screamed sweetly. It was so tickling to her. She felt so romantic as no one had squeezed her bums in that way before. She quickly grabbed the car keys and ran towards the parked car. He ran after her. He felt it was his lucky day and he could not wait to lay his hands on her. The green lights where there that Angela was ready to be laid. '' Here comes the monster!'' screamed Sam as he tried to catch her. They both laughed as she entered the car and locked him outside. ''Babe! Would you please open the door?'' asked Sam as he signaled to her. '' No, I won't!'' answered Angela with a giggle and smile on her face. She was enjoying every moment of teasing her boyfriend. Suddenly she let him in. she knew he was feeling so cold from the way he was holding himself. They passionately kissed. This time around. He gently rubbed his fingers on her private part to feel it. It was warm and juicy there. Angela was so aroused. She was thinking so hard as to whether to give in or not. It was in a car for God's sake! She could not cheapen herself like that. ''Let me help you love'' said Sam as he tried to help her undress. ''What are you doing!?'' furiously asked Angela as she pushed his hands away from her. '' Baby I want to make love to you, please make me the happiest man on earth by making love to me!" demanded Sam whose manhood was fully erected by now. ''What will we prove by having sex Sam? In a car for that matter? Do you really value me as your girl? Inquired Angela. Sam kept quiet for a few minutes. He was pierced to the heart. He never valued her and he knew deep down his heart he knew he never truly loved her. He was just carried away by her beauty.
Sam tried so hard to convince Angela to have sex. She proved to be a hard nut to crack. Angela was not going to lose her virginity in her boyfriend's car. She valued her body so much. Sam had no other option but to force himself on her. He pinned her on the front passenger seat after adjusting it. ''Let go off me!'' screamed Angela as she tried to free herself from his grip. Being a muscular man; he was sure that he would get the job done. He held her two hands with his right hand while trying so hard to unzip her peddle pusher. She bit one of his fingers as she desperately tried to free herself. ''Ouch! You stupid girl!'' yelled Sam as he let go a bit. She poked one of his eyes and kicked him so hard in the groin. It was so painful. The pain was so excruciating! Sam mourned as he held his groin area in pain. That was the opening Angela was waiting for. She realized that it was now or never! She opened the car door from the driver' seat and ran as fast as she could. She quickly ran outside and jumped onto a bus going home. Her heart was pounding so heavily. She had never been so scared like she was that night. Passengers in the bus could not understand why Angela was panting so much. ''Are you alright?'' one commuter politely asked her; a lady in her mid-forties. ''Am okay madam'' reluctantly answered Angela. She dared not tell anyone what had transpired back at the eatery. She was still in shock. Angela wondered how Sam who had seemed so sweet in the morning could turn into such a despicable monster. She now hated him so much. Angela vowed never to forgive him! She also decided to break up with him. She cursed the day she met Sam and she vowed never to see his face again! When Sam reached home, he uttered some unpalatables, ridiculing Angela for refusing to sleep with her. He lost his bet and his friends made a laughing stock out of him the whole of that week. Angela was the first girl to have turned down his sexual overtures. Sam was so shocked that she managed to refuse him access to her most prized possession. Even though he loathed her; he somehow admired her. He concluded she did not belong to his league. What Sam wanted in a woman was submission to anything weird and crazy that he demanded. He decided to move on and never try to reach out to her again.
Angela was in such a bad mood at school. She withdrew herself from her friend and confidant Judith. Her only close friend could not perceive what was bothering her friend. Judy was now trying so hard to find out what was wrong with her friend. She wanted to help her. She requested they meet at the school grounds. Angela was there earlier than Judy whom she saw from a distance. Her countenance changed. She knew she needed someone to share her deepest thoughts and emotions with. She knew she could count on Judy for counsel and direction. ''Hey'' whispered Angela as Judy drew closer. ''Hey, what's up?" asked Judy with a concerned look on her face. ''Nothing much, I just feel like ending my life! Even killing someone with my bare hands!'' exclaimed Angela. Judy could see just how angry she was. Tears started rolling down her cheeks. Judy stooped down and hugged her. After that he gave her a handkerchief to wipe her tears away. ''Can you keep a secret?'' asked Angela with a piercing look in her eyes. '''Sure, why not? You are my friend after all; friends must keep each other's secrets after all, go on what is it, am all ears dear'' assured Judy. ''it's a long story but I will make it short. My ex-boyfriend Sam almost raped me! Oh God; what did I do to deserve such?'' Said Angela amid sobs. ''What? You mean that boyfriend whom you told me Juliet and Tabitha your friends hooked you up with?'' asked Judy with a shocked look on her face. ''Yes, I thought he was a good guy, how I could I be so naive?'' asked Angela with so much anger in her tone. She was almost blaming herself for what had transpired. ''Please calm down dear, it's not your fault, he is such a moron! He is not man enough, no wonder I don't date, most men are just dogs!'' said Judy. She encouraged her to be strong and focus on her books since end of term assessments where around the corner. Angela was now finding closure with the help of Judy her friend.
During the holidays they could study together. They used to spend time at each other's places. Life for Angela was getting back to normal. She had ejected herself from the dating scene through inspiration from Judy who proved to be a real blessing to her. Even her parents started to notice the positive changes that were coming into Angela's life. ''I can see that you don't hang out with those girls Tabitha and Juliet, what is happening dear? You are always found in the company of Judy; am impressed with the way you two carry yourselves; what has happened to you darling? Inquired Mrs Musonda one day as they cooked in the kitchen. ''Ma, Judy is my best friend, she always brings out the best in me'' assured Angela with a smile. Her mum had never seen her daughter so happy in a long time. She concluded Judy had a positive impact on her daughter. She was always talking about the things of God; even initiating evening bible study at home. Mr. Musonda could not believe what he was seeing in his daughter. She was now a committed member of the church. All this was due to Judy. Angela had become a Christian through the efforts of her best friend Judy. They both were smart students. They both wanted to go to the University of Zambia. Judy wanted to pursue medicine while Angela wanted to pursue Economics.
Grace, Angela's elder sister was such a troublesome girl as usual, by now she had completed her high school. Her dad Mr. Musonda wanted to employ her in one of his many business firms. He had always wanted his kids to be financially independent. He wanted to leave a legacy of hard work. However, she was not the smartest when it came to studies. She preferred partying to studying. She was always at loggerheads with her mum who hated her party animal habits in her first-born daughter. However, Grace had a good side which everyone in the family loved- she was a good chef and the family could not get enough of her appetizing meals. Grace just loved to cook. ''Why don't you enroll as a chef? You are so good after all'' said Angela. ''Me a chef? Why would I be a chef of all careers? Whom do you take me for? You think you are so smart huh?!'' yelled Grace. She always found it easy to lose her temper on her young sister who was always getting all the accolades than her from their parents when it came to academics. Grace had no plans to be a chef. She had always admired nurses. She wanted to be one. Despite fearing the mathematical calculations involved, she was ready to give it a try. She decided to get application forms from the University Teaching Hospital nursing school. Her father helped her to fill them. Mr. Musonda was proud of his daughter. He could see that she was seriously considering becoming someone in life. Peter would get six points at grade twelve to later go and pursue Medicine at the University of Zambia. John would also perform badly at grade twelve and fail to go and pursue Engineering at the Copper belt University. He loved smoking weed and partying. He had become a ruffian.
Anderson Banda had come out the best student at Chassa Boys' Secondary. He was given an automatic scholarship to study Economics at the University of Zambia. He was so excited as he left the school to head back to the village in Katete district. When he left, his passion for music had been rekindled. He had learnt how to play lead guitar, piano and drums. He was a music genius now. He eagerly wanted to form a band with his friends from the school who hailed from the same village. He had been introduced to rock music from his rich school friends from the cities of Lusaka and Kitwe. They loved him so much and they admired him too for his talents despite his poor background. They found he was a cool guy to hang out with. He was such a down to earth guy. They kindled Andy's passion for music. He loved bands such as Leeland, Coldplay and For King and Country. They just made him to fall in love with alternative rock music. He decided to form a band which would be singing just like them. His friends gave him a huge collection of music from these bands. With the little savings that he had made; he decided to purchase a few nice clothes and shoes. He liked tight jeans and snickers; simple and smart in a cool way. He decided to change his hair style a bit. He never wanted a bigger make over just something new and fresh. When he arrived in the village, he was the talk of the day. The son who had gone to study had come back with very good grades. His mum had told everyone in the village that her son would be going to university much to the delight of all the villagers. There would be a welcome party for Andy! Everyone was happy and could not wait to catch a glimpse of the hero who had dared change the complexion of his village. He had succeeded where others had failed. Andy was the first one from his village to be given a place at the University of Zambia. Neighbors brought so much food to the party which would be held at Mr. and Mrs. Banda's residence. A bull was slaughtered, traditional beverages were prepared. It would be a day of feasting to welcome the great son of the soil. Teenage girls could not wait to catch a glimpse of the much talked about young man. Rumors had been going round among the village girls about how handsome Andy was. Their parents had high hopes that he would choose one of them for a wife. Immediately news broke that he was headed to university, many a heart sunk. They realized that he would marry a fellow educated girl at campus in the city.
The day of the party was a Saturday. The food had been prepared the previous night together with the beverages. Of course, there would be no alcoholic drinks considering that Andy and his parents were Christians and would never entertain any sort of beer drinking at the party. It was meant to be a party of just celebrating Andy's academic success. Almost the whole village came. There was much fan fair, with traditional gospel songs being sung by the women and girls. The village elders sat in front with Mr. and Mrs. Banda with smiles all over their faces. There was Andy; seated like a prince next to his father. His eyes carefully gazing the crowed. All eyes were on him, especially the girls. They admired him so much. Each one of the girls wished Andy could propose marriage to them. He kept smiling at them. After everyone was gathered; Andy's father stepped to the front; having cleared his throat he started to make a short speech. ''Indeed, we wish to thank all of you who have come to our son's welcoming party, he is not only our son but yours too. We thank God for being merciful to us when we sent him to secondary school and now, he has graduated with flying colors!'' said Mr. Banda amid cheers and exclamations from the crowed. ''Please help us celebrate his acceptance to study at the highest learning institution in Zambia, without further ado, let me introduce my son Anderson in front to say a few words to us!'' excitedly said Mr. Banda. There was a round of applause as Andy came in front of the gathering. He hesitated a bit before starting to speak. He looked around and saw bright faces eagerly waiting to hear what he was going to say. He could see kids seated on the ground; barefoot, young girls seated on mats wearing traditional wrappers. There were a couple of old men and women seated near a fire all wanting to hear what he was about to say. ''I must thank you, all of you gathered here at this party. Thank you for your prayers, your material support during the five years I was studying at Chassa High. Am urging all the young people gathered here that the sky is the limit, with God's grace we all can be greater than anything we could ever imagine! All that we need to do is to work hard and leave the rest to God. As I go to the University, am asking for your prayers, it's not easy to be there'' said Andy with an emotional tone. The crowed was moved to tears as he spoke his mind. It was a powerful speech. It encouraged someone in the crowed; especially the young people to work hard and aim for the stars. If Andy who was one of them could do it, they too could achieve even more. After Andy's short speech, there was a deafening silence. All eyes were fixed on him; the young man who dared challenge both the young and the old to be more than they could ever imagine in their miserable lives. He went to where the food was being served; he was given a glass of a traditional drink called Thobwa with the rest of the elders and raised the cup for all to see. ''To success!'' said Andy as he proposed a toast. ''To success as you go to university!'' answered the crowed in unison. Dancing followed the speeches as tasty meals were being served to all who were present that evening. Andy was the first to open the dance floor. He was a skillful dancer too. He danced the night away with much applause from the women. His mother joined him in wriggling their waists; dancing skillfully to traditional Chewa songs. Had it not been for the fact that the Banda family were Christian; they could have hired the Gule wa Mkulu masquerade to entertain the revelers that night. The whole gathering jumped to the center and started showcasing their dancing skills. With sweat dripping under their armpits; the revelers danced the night away; being a night with a full moon, it would imply that the celebrations would continue till the early hours of Sunday. The food was enough for everyone and people ate as much as they wanted. Andy realized just how much he was loved in his village. He would be eternally grateful to all the people in his gesture. He knew hardships lay ahead of him. He was like a beacon that had brought hope to his kinsmen in his village. He had raised the bar very high to which all the young people would aspire to. He never wanted to disappoint his people after giving them so much hope. Only God knew what lay ahead of him.
The following morning Andy failed to accompany his parents to church. He was awoken by the rooster. It was past 5 am. His eyes were so heavy with sleep. He tried for a few seconds to open his eyes but to no avail. In six months, time he would be leaving for the University. Life in the village proved to be boring. Always doing the same things was driving him crazy. He had no music instruments to practice with. He sought permission to travel to town. The pastor at the town congregation who was a good friend of his parents invited Andy to go and stay with him. He was a bachelor. He also wanted to give him a small job as his private secretary. How excited Andy was when he was told by his mum that he would be given a small job at the church in town. He embarked on the journey to Katete urban. He jumped on the van with his bag on his back. To his surprise when he arrived at the church; he found an old piano which was being used during Sunday worship. He felt so good. He perceived divine providence in the journey. ''So, you are already here Anderson? How did you travel son?'' asked Reverend Phiri as he helped him with the bag. ''Thank you, pastor, can I play the piano sir? Just for a few minutes?'' politely asked Andy. '' Yes sure, why not son? Go on; but do you know how to play it? I have found it so difficult to learn it my son'' said Reverend Phiri with a shudder. ''Let's see Sir'' said Andy as he sat on the stool. Having stretched himself a bit; he began playing the piano. It was so gracious and pastor Phiri could not believe it that the boy who would work for him was a skilled piano player. He sung the hymn ''amazing grace'' as he showcased his skills in front of his pastor. The previous piano player for the church had been transferred to another town as a civil servant. There was a gap which pastor Phiri had thought would never be filled. Just by looking at how the young man was playing; one could tell that he was better than the previous pianist for the church. Reverend Phiri now wondered which job to give Anderson; to be the church pianist or his private secretary. ''Wow! Impressive! I was not told you are such a talented pianist'' exclaimed Reverend Phiri. ''Oh, I just try sir'' humbly answered Andy. The young man agreed to be both the private secretary for Pastor Phiri and the church pianist. After all his piano duties only were needed during Sunday worship services. That meant that from 9 am to 5pm Andy would work as private secretary from Monday to Friday. After 6pm on each day, he would be practicing his piano and other instruments for two hours. The young village boy would prove once more just how valuable he was to people around him. The young man proved to be a blessing to the Reverend Phiri and the entire congregation. As Pastor Phiri was taking him to his quarters, he was so happy. How he wished Andy would stay for good with him. He was a bachelor and he longed for company. Perhaps the boy would start teaching him how to play the piano. The room he was given was spacious and cozy. The bed was so big. It was an old hardwood bed probably left by the early missionaries. It was much better than the grass bed he was sleeping on back in his father's house. The reverend was a good cook. He prepared supper; nshima with beef and vegetables. ''hmmm, you are such a good chef Rev'' remarked Andy. ''Thank you, my friend. At least there is someone who appreciates my cooking. Am so happy to have you here. I was so lonely'' said pastor Phiri with a grin. He had not married before. Some church members had always wondered as to why they should be led by an unmarried pastor. To them they felt he would not be able to counsel married couples. That was when he first arrived. He had now spent five good years at the congregation and he was counting. That evening they spent it laughing and chatting. Reverend Phiri's face beamed with joy. He felt he had found someone reliable who could help him in his ministry. After saying their prayers, they both retired to their abodes. The reverend fell asleep within minutes due to the fatigue during the day. He had worked hard. Andy was struggling to sleep. His thoughts wondered here and there. He thought about his parents back in the village. He thought about his life at the University of Zambia. He wandered what it will be like. He did not want to stress about it. His thoughts now where on where his musical direction would go.
Andy had slept like a baby. He was refreshed. Perhaps the bed had everything to do with his good night's sleep he wondered. After stretching himself he went to the kitchen to get a broom to start sweeping. Reverend Phiri was already awake. He was studying in the study room. ''Good morning, Sir" greeted Anderson. ''Good morning pal, how was your night? I hope it was okay'' said Reverend Phiri with a smile. He was jotting down some notes for his sermon on Sunday. He normally woke up early each morning whether it was a Monday or Sunday. He loved his study room which had tens of theological books on dusty shelves. ''Can I make tea for you Sir?'' Asked Andy. ''Yeah, sure my boy'' answered the reverend. Andy prepared the most appetizing breakfast for both of them. He of course ate after he had swept the house. The reverend was impressed with Andy. He saw he was a boy who liked to pay attention to detail. The house was squeaky clean and pastor Phiri was happy. He rarely swept the house; at best thrice a week. No wonder the book shelves were too dusty. Andy made sure all the areas were cleaned. It was now past 8 am. ''Would you please help me in writing notes down after you eat your breakfast?'' asked Pastor Phiri. ''Yeah, sure; why not? Is that not the reason why am here?" asked Andy with a grin. Andy started to work that morning. Already his pastor was able to see the difference. Reverend Phiri would preach on tithing the next day at church. Andy role was to research verses in the bible that dwelt on the subject. An unpopular subject to many congregants. They felt the pastor was going too far each time he tackled the subject. Andy did a good job and prepared his thoughts as comments accompanying the verses. ''Impressive!'' exclaimed Reverend Phiri when he saw the work that Andy had done. It gave the pastor much inspiration to handle the sermon the following day.
Andy quickly rushed to the church in the afternoon. The praise team would be rehearsing that afternoon. He introduced himself to the members. They quickly liked each other. There were four girls and five guys. Their singing was pathetic. Their vocals were off key and no one had ever told them. Andy started with vocal projection training. They did not have a professional pianist. He would go on to take that role. He tuned their voices until they improved. That day music made sense to everybody. There was this sense of feeling that Andy was heaven sent. Just the way he was hammering the keys on the piano could tell that he was such a professional. He had immersed his soul into the music. He played it from the bottom of the heart. Everyone could see that. Andy was such a perfectionist. He would make the praise members sing the same song over and over just to perfect it. Some members that day were offended that a stranger was commanding so much influence on the praise team. The following day was such a bomb! The church could not believe their eyes. The music was so sweet. The voices so blended. They sung ''amazing grace'' so graciously. The congregants were moved. The singing was like the icing sugar on top of a cake; it made Reverend Phiri's preaching to be better understood. The message was well received by the church members. Andy had finally cemented his position in the praise team. He now wanted to teach another guy or girl how to play the lead guitar. Being open minded, he also wanted to learn how to perfect playing the drums from the drummer. They both offered to teach each other's musical instruments. Andy was wondering in his mind whether to form a band separate from the praise team. He knew how much opposition he would face. He was never satisfied with the direction of the music for the praise team; he wanted a musical direction leaning towards a rock and worshipful sound, some heavy beats here and there, some fast tempo to the rhythm. All this was missing in the current form of the praise team.
The most beautiful girl in the praise could not keep her eyes off Andy. She was falling in love with him. Her name was Marvis. She had a chocolate brown complexion. She was such a hotty and the other guys in the praise team had tried woo her but all in vain. She was a tough nut to crack. Andy was not even aware of it. She kept her feelings to herself. She just loved the way Andy played the piano and other musical instruments. She had always imagined herself marrying someone who was so talented in music. Andy was now looking like the ideal man despite his humble background. She felt with her by his side; he would be someone great in life. She too had just completed her grade twelve and was going to do teaching at the University of Zambia. She could not get him out of her mind. She could not believe it; she had fallen head over heels for Andy. She could always look forward to see him at the rehearsals. Marvis was now always the first to arrive at the church just to have some good time with Andy. By the way Marvis was the first-born daughter of the church secretary. They were a well-known family in Katete, they were quite rich and influential in the church. Andy now had the tendency of waking up early in the morning to play the piano in church. He could practice playing the hymns chosen for the Sunday service. Those could be emotional moments for him, he could just be alone playing the piano with tears rolling his eyes. He could play for at least an hour. Reverend Phiri did not understand it at first. He wondered why Andy could wake up so early just to play the piano. The pastor loved it though.it inculcated in him the habit of worshiping very early in the morning after hearing how Andy was playing the piano; playing the hymns that Reverend Phiri; who could be moved to tears each time Andy played. Andy played so melodically and skillfully.
Andy had not fallen in love before. This was new territory for him. The girl was cute to start with. He did not want to show that he was desperate for her. Being a cutie; he knew she had so much pride. He wanted to tread so carefully. He too wanted her for himself. He knew she liked him and he wanted a perfect opportunity to launch his manifesto. They were drawing closer to each other. However, he always remembered his mother's words that girls were trouble and the best he should do was to stay away from them. But he was not ready to stay away from this one. After all he had never felt this way for any other girl. Besides Marvis was a good Christian girl. He wanted to give it a try. Maybe it would work out, who knew? Two months passed without him telling her how he felt. She was losing patience with him. If she had been a man, she could have gathered up courage to tell Andy about her love for him. She was getting so pissed now. She had given him all the green lights but she felt he was too dumb to pick them. She wandered what was going through his mind. By now she could be left with him after each rehearsal with the hope that maybe he would tell her how much he wanted her. One evening he was escorting her home. It was getting late as they walked arm in arm. The evening looked promising for Marvis. She had high hopes that the man she had now fallen in love with would finally tell her that he loved her too. ''So, tell me, will you teach me how to play the piano Andy?'' asked Marvis with a deep look into Andy's eyes. He smiled. He stopped and held her in her waist with both hands. '' Yes, I will teach you; just promise me that you will pay attention. You…. know there is something I have been wanting to tell you Marvis'' started Andy with a stammer. She was now more attentive. ''What is it, Andy? You are now scaring me'' said Marvis with a serious look on her face. '' The thing is that I have fallen in love with you dear; I want you to be my girl'' said Andy while holding her. ''Really? Why did you not tell me all this time? I kept on showing you how much I wanted you but you could not see it. You made me look so foolish Andy'' complained Marvis. ''Please keep quiet, you talk too much'' said Andy as he firmly held her bums closer to himself and gave her such a passionate kiss. How she loved it! She realized just how a good kisser Andy was. They hugged after he had reached her home. She could not believe what had just happened that evening. She kept thinking of him. She was now more madly in love with him. She wanted to keep him for himself forever. If he could propose marriage to him, she could accept. He was her prince in shining armor. They were now an item. Everyone in church was aware of their relationship. They were role models to young people in church. There was so much anticipation in the church for these two love birds now that they were about to go to university. Marvis' parents had always wanted a big wedding for their daughter. They were even ready to foot part of the bill for the wedding if Andy would marry their daughter after university.