Firstly, I must confess that storytelling is not my greatest strength. However, I vividly recall sitting beneath one of those campus canopies, savoring the gentle night breeze as I awaited the arrival of my beloved—or so I believed.
At first sight, I knew I was enamored and felt compelled to present my case with haste. With her short hair and chocolate complexion, she captivated my attention entirely. She had chosen vibrant colors that day, ensuring her radiant smile was unmistakably visible. Although I've never been particularly shy, on this occasion, my confidence was undeniably tested. I took bold strides and, with a broad smile, tapped her friend's shoulder—Grace. Yes, her friend's name was Grace, someone I had previously known from my class. Grace was truly beautiful, so much so that I had already ruled myself out. Coincidentally, I had just emerged from a probability class and knew better than to approach Grace. Yet, I have always believed in the art of creating something exquisite from beautiful beings.
I do not subscribe to the notion of losses. Thus, on that day, I resolved that she would become my friend. Her warm smile as she saw me and turned to embrace me elevated my confidence from ten to an astonishing one hundred and five percent. Being in our first week within the campus arena, I was acclimating to the culture of hugging, and my, did I relish every single embrace. I was poised for a second hug, but her extended hand conveyed it all: not today, and perhaps never.
However, being a loquacious individual, I was quick to comment on the impeccable alignment of her stylish top, which harmonized beautifully with her skin tone and her short, white-painted hair. "John," I introduced myself, observing her smile sheepishly at my compliments. Grace, John, and now Victoria, in her regal element. I must admit, her name was well-suited to her demeanor and personality. The time had come to depart to our respective hostels, and she promptly offered me her contact number—an achievement, I thought.
I initiated communication immediately, discussing the next class, high school, and so forth. We shared wholesome moments getting to know each other, and I was indeed ready to purchase some Kitenge from my HELB allocation and embark on a family.
As the sun began to set, I counted my blessings and marveled at my victory with Victoria. It was then that I called her to invite her for dinner at our favorite spot, 'Comrades.' She politely declined, and I had another idea in mind—a nighttime stroll as we reveled in the serenity and breezes.
Initially, she hesitated, but she eventually agreed to join me. It was then that I received my first hug, and we laughed the night away beneath some canopies. I handed her the bouquet of flowers I had handpicked and watched her smile beautifully as she went to her hostel. It was a perfect start, little did I know the storm that was brewing.
A broken glass with permanent scars, and pieces though beautiful never to be whole again...
