AINBAN (2)

Age is nothing
but a number.
AINBAN
Richard K. Dibetso
Published by FastPencil Publishing

First Edition
Copyright © Richard K. Dibets0 2014
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any
form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording, or otherwise, without the prior consent of the
publisher.
Sale of this book without a front cover may be unauthorized. If
the book is coverless, it may have been reported to the publisher
as "unsold or destroyed" and neither the author nor the publisher
may have received payment for it.
http://fp.fastpencil.com
Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents
In the beggining...........................................................................................9
The Bonding................................................................................................ 13
The Guidance .............................................................................................19
Banquet........................................................................................................ 31
The Talk ...................................................................................................... 45
Retreat......................................................................................................... 59
The Leap ......................................................................................................67
How everyone met....................................................................................79
Year 2011. .................................................................................................... 93
The Sensation...........................................................................................109
Desiree ........................................................................................................ 111
Bad Year......................................................................................................113
Freshmen Year ..........................................................................................115
Festive Seasons.........................................................................................117
Innovation Year.........................................................................................119
NOTES.........................................................................................................121

Dedicated to... (To be continued at a later stage)
❧

I'am indebted to the following people with their help and
support: ...(To be continued at a later stage)
❧

1
In the beggining
It's only the beginning now
a pathway yet unknown
At times the sound of other steps
sometimes we walk alone
The best beginnings of our lives
May sometimes end in sorrow
But even on our darkest days
The sun will shine tomorrow.
So we must do our very best
Whatever life may bring
And look beyond the winter chill
To smell the breath of spring.
Into each life will always come
A time to start anew
A new beginning for each heart
As fresh as morning dew.
Although the cares of life are great
And hands are bowed so low
The storms of life will leave behind
The wonder of a rainbow.
The years will never take away
Our chance to start anew
9

It's only the beginning now
So dreams can still come true
Gertrude B. McClain
It was winter morning of 2010, everything was going well with-
out a hitch. Nature in winter is a time of struggle and beauty.Plants
shut down, making food, animals migrate to warmer climates and
humans snuggle up and choose to stay indoors. The 2010 winter
season was different for South African citizens as they were host-
ing one of the biggest tournaments in Football; the World cup.
It was very amazing and exciting for both the country and the
African continent at large. It was only five weeks to go before the
beginning of the tournament which made the matters worse.
It was also an exciting year for a 15-year-old boy named Joseph
Graffanelo, the wonderful and innocent 9th grader. A God-fearing
young man with a mesmerizing charm. A boy with a narrow, ob-
long face with angular cheekbones and a pointed chin. With light
brown Chinese eyes, which by the meanings of 'eye colours' indi-
cate a strong and independent person who feels a deep connec-
tion to nature and the earth. A tall growing skinny guy with a cof-
fee colour skin-toned along with his "always in the rush" walk and
most importantly with a blissful smile. He was a chatty guy who
was almost laughing at everything.
In his beloved church called "The Ark of the covenants"; he was
one of the choir members of the church singing under the turn-
er category. Their choir was named "The Genesis" indicating the
first historical wonderful choir of their church. The choir name
was inspired by the lack of choir experience since their church
was opened decades ago; so that name was the irony of that expe-
rience and the beginning of new things. Joseph was committed to
that choir. He loved it dearly. He would skip everything just to go
to the practice; the other singers were as committed and talented
as Joseph and everything seemed flawless for them.
On a journey along the interesting choir with its gifted singers
who were famished to meet the standards of one of the best choirs
in their province of Gauteng. During that enthusiastic year, there
was an 18-year-old beautiful young lady named Portia, the most
stunning and sexy woman with a beautiful voice. The first at-
10 Age is nothing but a number.

tracting thing about the girl was her dental smile along with her
nice and unique two-sided dimples. She was blessed with long at-
tractive brown hair. Her walk was as if she is trying to perfect
it every time she walks. Most importantly she had a chocolate
unique skinned-tone and a humble free spirited personality.
She was born in a Pedi ethnic group where the culture was a
precedence and she, without a doubt, piqued Joseph’s interest.
The first time she stepped inside that practicing hall the two
shared an appealing look that Joseph as a man who is full of him-
self call “the love at first sight“. Not knowing the mere fact that
when you accidentally share a look with a girl it doesn't always
mean there exist a spark between the two of you.
But the little boy was so convinced that the look was indeed love
connection. He developed immediate feelings for Portia; he could
not say a word about that at all to anyone or to Portia as well. He
had a normal fear that every boy has. A fear of approaching a girl
which is a common feeling that every boy has and it is normal be-
cause it is a fear inherited from the great grandfathers. After sev-
eral weeks, he realized that he is cheating to no one but himself,
he then approached Portia one Sunday after the church service.
“Hello, lady,” said Joseph to the lady.
“Hello, brother,” replied Portia, giving Joseph her intense atten-
tion, wondering what Joseph could be looking for.
Joseph then put his Bible on the unoccupied chair outside the
church as the service had just ended. Portia’s actions feigned a
message that she was in a hurry, although she knew deep inside
that she had long wished for this moment to come.
Joseph, with a very blissful smile after being answered so gently
by Portia, shook her hand and introduced himself to Portia. That
was the moment they both wished it could last forever though
it was just a mere handshake. It was from that afternoon that
Joseph’s dreams changed. And it was also from that afternoon
that Portia’s dreams became Joseph. The two couldn’t resist the
charms they both exhibited for each other.
“Methinks you’re in a hurry,” said Joseph with a mere grin.
“Oh, yeah, I can say that…but--,”
“But you have time,” interjected Joseph with a question.
“Yes, I do,” Portia affirmed.
It was then when Joseph and Portia had a very long, fervent con-
fabulation. Despite the fact that Joseph felt the difficulty of talking
In the beggining 11

some of the things with Portia as a result of his age being the bar-
rier, he could be a man enough to lead such a very long, interesting
conversation with that pulchritudinous lady he had ever met. As
boys will always remain, boys, Joseph wanted nothing more than
the contact numbers of Portia. Although he was afraid to ask for
them, he manned up and swallowed his fear and asked for the con-
tact numbers which Portia gave out after a long enquiry wanting
to know where Joseph and what Joseph wanted to tell him over the
phone which he could not say that moment. But at the end Joseph
as a boy with characteristics of a man won the fuss as he stated his
authority.
Later on, that day Joseph didn't have enough money to buy air-
time but since he couldn't wait to hear that beatific voice of Portia
the guy made a plan and finally got the money to buy airtime that
would, at least, last them longer. Then at about 10 pm Joseph final-
ly called Portia the lady answered the phone gently and friendly as
she was.
"Portia, hello"; she said.
"Hey Portia this is Joseph the guy from the church," Joseph said
full of credence.
Then they continued having a simple conversation like any other
normal people without any yank movement. But Joseph blew it
during their chat,the guy didn't know what to say as he choked out
of nowhere just like that because the alluring chick was so friendly
with him and the guy didn't expect that.
" Ummm, Ummm" ; Joseph sounded with a long pause.
There was an awkward moment for several minutes then Joseph
decided to tell the lady that he is just happy that they had a
nice lengthy conversation. Then after that, the two had none to
talk about anymore as Portia was weirded out by the boy's long
pause and panic attack. That's when they decided to call it a night,
though it ended awkwardly but Graffanelo felt proud that he spoke
with that stunning choir member, as it was the beginning of the
voyage towards a good but strange relationship with his choir-
mate.
As the journey continues...

2
The Bonding
"Twins have a special bond. They feel safer with each
other than with their peers." Jeanne Phillips.
We all know that bonding is perhaps a vital factor in improving
and maintaining a relationship but doesn’t happen nearly as much
as it probably should. Bonding combines in a unique way the phys-
ical and emotional intimacy, the joining of touch and emotions.
Bonding goes hand in hand with communication which is the key
to every relationship; the likes of a friendship relationship, roman-
tic relationship, colleague relationship etc. As Joseph and Portia
were starting to bond as good friends.
It was finally a happy moment for Joseph to have won a very
fuss with a lady he loved dearly. Seeing Portia giving in to him felt
so heavenly . There was never a happy moment in Joseph’s life as
there is now. Joseph knew that he is a friend to Portia, and Portia
meant something more than a friend to Joseph.
“Love will find a way,” thought Joseph, “to bring us together and
make us one.” He added.
Joseph always knew that in his life’s difficulty, age plays a huge
role. Only if there was not anything like age in life, all people all
over the world would be happy. That would only occur when peo-
ple were not ageing but were remaining young adults forever.
Joseph’s nights started to go by slowly. He would wake up in the
middle of the night and look at the time and find that it is 01:49 am.
Joseph knew that from that hour of the night until the fowls crows
he would be thinking about Portia. Joseph decided that the kind
13

of lifestyle he was living was hindering him the opportunity to be
happy. One morning the old boy took a phone and dialled Portia’s
number.
“Hello, this is Portia, who am I talking to?” answered Portia with
a very low, sleepy and gentle voice.
“Hi, it is…” Joseph was struck by a very sudden fear as if he got
caught committing a crime by the policemen. He just panicked.
“Are you still on the line?” asked Portia. Joseph, propelled by
fear, hung up the phone. He then took a very deep breath. On the
course of the day, Joseph mainly swallowed his fear and redialled
Portia’s number again, and that time they talked, Joseph told Por-
tia who he was.
“Oh, I didn’t think you could.” Said Portia, taken by surprise,
“I couldn’t hold back anymore. It has been few days since you
and I talked.” Said Joseph.
“Yes, it has surely been. So, Joseph, what can I do for you?” asked
Portia.
“Not anything, but to allow me to see you. I miss you so badly.”
Said Joseph.
“Wow! I did not really expect that, hey. But anyway, I’m available.
You can come today.” Affirmed Portia.
After their lengthy conversation, Joseph warmed the water and
took a quick bath. As soon as he finished with everything, he
boarded a taxi which took him to his aimed destination. Portia had
been preparing food for her visitor. Joseph arrived sans any prob-
lem. His arrival stirred a great deal of excitement in Portia as well
as in himself for having finally seen the one he dearly loved. Out of
excitement Portia and Joseph hugged each other tightly.
It was a moment of hearts communicating and relating. The
bodies exchanged the warmth of love. The breathing rates of ei-
ther of them slowed down. Silence became loud in the room. It was
the first time they embraced each other. They later on released
each other from their arms. They slowly detached from each other
and slowly pulling back. Their arms slid against each other and in
the end, their fingers clinched on each other. They looked at each
other’s eyes intently. As they got back to their right minds, they
both sat down at once, still in silence, not knowing what to talk
about.
“Do you want something to eat?” asked Portia.
“Sure, if there is any.” Replied Joseph.

“Of course, there is.” Followed Portia with a soft laughter. After
having a meal, they both talked about so many things, various
topics in their talks. If there was something that could really set
Joseph free, then that thing would be love. If there was someone
who held the key to set Joseph’s lonely heart free, then that would
undoubtedly be Portia.
Joseph went home when evening came. Portia accompanied him
to the taxi rank where he caught a taxi to his domicile. It was from
that day that they began calling each other, wishing each other
good nights and most of all, praying for each other that God may
spare their lives.
Joseph felt like he could run out to the street and scream and
shout and just tell the world, “Oh! I found that someone. I found
that one I always dreamt about.”
They had not yet fallen in love, but Joseph always felt that she
was his.
“You know I wish that all women all over the world could be
loved as much as I love Portia. I really, really wish that they could
all be needed and wanted as much as she is.” Thought Joseph.
Sometimes Joseph could say this to himself, “ Brother, you are
really lucky. You’ve got a woman that loves you. A woman that
needs you. A woman that pleases you. A woman that does every-
thing on earth that a man could dream on. You’ve got a woman
that keeps you strong. A woman that means so many things in so
many ways.”
But he also knew that the words he kept telling himself could
turn out to be not as true as he thought. He knew that love could
go out without being returned. You could love someone who prob-
ably wants you to be a friend.
“But if this was not so, could that hug have lasted that longer?
Could our bodies have communicated so fervently? Could silence
really have ruled our midst?”
Joseph knew that there was a force that was really in authority.
A force that brings the world together. And that force could really
be nothing else but love. He never believed in the true power of
love until he experienced it. Joseph’s life became more of a dream
than of reality. He spent much of his time thinking about Por-
tia. Portia, as well, on the other side of town, spent more of her
hours thinking about Joseph. They got into each other’s minds.
They possessed similar thoughts. Portia finally acknowledged the
The Bonding 15

feeling she had for the little boy. It was when they started to con-
nect.
As the connection continued to grow; one morning Portia made
a huge mistake of asking about Graffanelo’s age over the phone.
“Jose, I have to ask you this question,” said Portia politely.
“No problem you can ask me anything you want,” said Graffanelo
confidently.
“Ok how old are you ?” asked Portia curiously.
That was the last question ever that Joseph expected from the
alluring lady, the guy immediately choked and ran out of words.
Joseph didn’t want anything to do with his age at that moment; he
wanted to lie about his actual age just to secure Portia for himself.
But the thought popped in that if he tells Portia lies she will even-
tually find out and that might ruin everything they currently have
which is the great bond.
“Joseph are you still there?” asked Portia surprisingly.
“Yeah I’m still here it is just that the question caught me off
guard I didn’t expect it at all. I think it it is still early to exchange
about personal stuff. Don't get me wrong I'm not running away
from your question I just feel like it is not yet the appropriate time;
I hope you understand.” said Joseph.
“No, it's totally cool, no problem. I genuinely understand,” af-
firmed Portia.
At that moment, Joseph was not himself anymore. He was so fu-
rious and frustrated about the whole "how old are?" question. He
knew the exact age difference between him and Portia. It was kin-
da embarrassing to an extent that he wanted to get a fake Identity
document fast before they reach a point of exchanging their per-
sonal traits.
“Wow! That’s awesome. You are a year older than me.” said
Joseph.
“Yeah! That’s the amazing part about this” said Portia.
“Anyway, I have to hang-up I’m kind of tired,” said Graffanelo
with a sad sound.
They both hung up their respective phones, but Portia felt a lit-
tle tension after that call; the first awkward phone call ending ever
since their first one. Graffanelo, on the other hand, was disap-
pointed about not telling the truth once and for all. he decided to
leave it as it was until they are both ready to talk about it.

3
During Dawn.
The little Jose was so stressed about the whole thing of
being asked of his age since Portia asked him yester-
day morning. The boy was overthinking about it asking
himself questions that don't even make sense.
"What the hell is wrong with me?” wondered Joseph."Am I de-
ceived or something? Why on earth would I fall in love with a lady
older than me?" continued Joseph. This was one of the hardest
time for the boy, he was not himself at all. Portia on the other
side of town was also amazed by the boy's reaction to the ques-
tion about his age. Later on, during the day, Portia decided to give
the little J a phone call but then a thought popped in that the call
might not be a good idea after the boy weirded her out during yes-
terday's dawn. Portia then decided to text the guy.
“Morning Joseph. About yesterday's call did I offend you about
something; I know that I don’t know you that much yet but I felt
that you were down about something. Where did I wrong you?"
asked Portia with a confused sound. Joseph read the texts, but he
didn’t know how to respond to it because he knew that the 'age
conversation' -was the reason his mood changed like a sudden
change of weather.
"Hmm no I was just tired that's all, you did absolutely nothing to
me" declared Joseph.
“Okay I really hope that you were really tired because I urge you
to tell me anything that affronts you, I don't mind at all" declared
Portia.
17

“Okay no (biggie) I will do that in case I have something to tell
you that really distresses me but at this moment, I'm fine you did
absolutely nothing to me" affirmed Joseph.
Even though Portia knew that something was wrong with
Joseph she did what any good friend would do, she just let it
go and waited for Joseph to spill the beans whenever he was
ready. The bond was going well between the two until the age was
brought up and screwed everything up for Joseph mentally, but
that was not the end of the peregrination.
"My age is just a number but happiness is priceless, so I won't
count how old the lady is but instead I will count all the happiness
I can have with her," thought Joseph looking at the mirror.

4
The Guidance
“A man’s pride can be his downfall, and he needs to
learn when to turn to others for support and guidance.”
Bear Grylls
We all have those friends who are always there to guide us, com-
fort us and most importantly to be honest with us, those are real
friends to keep. Joseph also had those kinds of friends who were
always there for him but in a crazy and abnormal way but even
though they were nuts they were always there for each other.
One morning Joseph’s phone rings and it was a call from one of
his friends.
“Joseph hello” he answered.
“Hey, Jose it has been a long time. Are you game for chilling
tonight ?” Nicole asked enthusiastically.
“Yeah man it’s absolutely fine for me so will Jon be there too?”
Joseph asked.
“You know the man, he will be there, we are nothing without
him,” Nic said; sarcastically.
{ Joseph laughed}
“Okay, cool man. I will see you guys later it has been a
while” said Joseph; looking forward to their meeting.
Later on, the guys met and it was absolutely awesome every-
thing was going well. It was just friends having their boys talk.
As the conversation continued Nicole noticed something strange
about Joseph. Yes, Joseph seemed happy but that was not the
usual happy Joseph. Nicole then decided to ask the little Jose if
there was anything wrong.
“Hey dude, are you fine ?" asked Nicole.
19

“Ya, I’m cool man.No, stress.Why”? Joseph affirmed and asked in
pretense.
"Jonathan ain't you realising something strange about this
dude?" Nicole asked; curiously.
"Ya, I think Joseph is demented meaning he is either excited or
distressed about something." Jonathan highlighted
Joseph went on and on telling them that he is good but the boys
didn't buy it at all, they kept on telling him to show them the poop
maybe they might help him to clean it up. Joseph, then he finally
decided to just tell them.
"Tell us man, what the hell is wrong with you?@ Nicole ques-
tioned. @Yeah man spills the damn beans" Jonathan added.
Joseph then encapsulated the whole situation he was then fac-
ing with his stunning and pulchritudinous choir mate. And the
guys were as dazed as if people who were walking around in a
daze.
{Long pause by both Jonathan and Nicole}
"Guys come on you can't keep quiet like this, at least, say some-
thing!" Joseph said looking amazed.
"All I have for you is tons of high 5s and 10s, that's awesome
man!" Nicole replied enigmatically.
"Hahaha Thanks, Nic" responded Joseph with a soft laughter.
You see Nicole was that kind of a boy who would do anything
just to sleep with a chick and he was giving any guy a respect
for doing that. He had a good knowledge about the whole dating
and being a bada*s when coming to girls. He was a tall gentleman
whose voice was a squeak as that of a growing child. Although he
was 21 years old, he never surrendered any argument. One would
hear his voice from a distance. He was good at almost every sport
but he did great at football with his long legs. He would brag about
how they won at work in soccer. It was undoubted that he used his
tall legs to exhibit his football aptitude.
Jonathan, on the other hand, was a good boy who believed in
romance, love and destiny like Joseph. He was an 18-year-old lad
who spoke less. His brownish incisors were rarely seen as they
were covered by an upper lip whenever he spoke or laughed. He
laughs softly with a low tone. A boy with great humility, calmness
and at peace with himself. Jonathan received many compliments
from both acquaintances and strangers for his huge snowy, white
eyes growing out of his dark skin colour.

As they were busy praising their friend about the girl and seeing
her pictures from Jose's phone matters aggravated. They wanted
to meet the girl right way but Joseph couldn't agree.
Joseph then emphasized the whole situation of the girl being
both the choir and the church mate. The boys in their own way as
always were there for him.
"So what's your takeaway on this guys?" Joseph asked.
"Hmm, first of all, I would like to congratulate you on finally get-
ting rid of that silly fear of yours and deciding to approach her just
like that; secondly, the platinum rule doesn't allow you to date her."
replied Nicole being brainy as always.
"What the heck is the platinum rule?" asked both Jonathan and
Joseph.
"Ahh come on guys the famous rule from the Bible, I thought you
guys are purely Christians." wondered Nic.
The rule is the famous rule found in (John 13:34) which states
"Love one another. Just as I loved you, you are also are to love an-
other." This rule was basically derived from the first, the Golden
rule which is found in (Matthew 7:12) which states :Do to others
what you would like them to do to you."
The difference between the two rules is that the Golden rule ba-
sically says we must treat others the way we want them to treat
us, whereas the Platinum rule understands and accommodate the
fact that not everyone wants to be treated the same. It says that
we must treat people the way they want to be treated regardless
of how we might want to be treated in similar situations.
The Platinum rule is much more empathetic, sensitive moral
guideline than its forerunner, the Golden rule; which ignores the
wishes and preferences of the recipients.
So people decided to change the Platinum rule to make it more
fancy and interesting so that it can fit in the dating game. Their
version is "Don't eat where you poop" meaning you cannot date
or sleep with anyone that you see each and every day, the likes of
colleagues, choir members, roommates etc. So Nicole found this
version from the American CBS Sitcom How I met your mother
which was presented by the cast Barney Stinson. The series was
screened from 2005-2013 in CBS channel and South Africa's etv.
Nic then decided to explain the rule to his two best friends with
exact 9 steps that occur to show that such relationship never work
The Guidance 21

out in the end and lead to those unceasing sufferings as those in-
volved would constantly see each other.

5
The Platinum Rule
"Boys the rule always occurs in 9 exact steps and it al-
ways occurs to everyone who ignores it," said Nicole.
Step 1: Attraction
Everyone knows that attraction is instant and undeniable. At-
traction occurs naturally and no one can ignore it. Joseph became
attracted to Portia the moment she steps in the choir hall practise,
it only took him less than a minute to be attracted by that lady.
That's how instant attraction is.
Step 2: Bargaining
Bargaining is when you start confessing to someone close to
you; a friend or a colleague about your entire attraction. And
mostly you will ask for the advice but you will want nothing but a
"go for her" respond from your friend or colleague. Even though,
Joseph skipped the bargaining stage because he told neither his
friends nor choir mates about his attraction towards Portia. He
kept it to himself because he was afraid to be judged and discour-
aged.
Step 3: Submission
This is when the person acts towards the attraction. Submission
happened when Joseph decided to approach Portia that day after
church where they had a lengthy conversation and asked for noth-
ing but her numbers. This is basically the stage where especially
boys decide to let the fear go and instantly approaches a girl, it
usually takes longer for those who are slow. Sometimes it might
not even happen because other guys out there are burning when
it coming to approaching girls. Those are the boys who usually let
the fear still their funk.
23

{ Joseph interrupts Nic before proceeding}
"Wait a minute Nic I understand your rule doesn't allow me to
date Portia as she is my choir mate. But look at the brighter side
once we date, I will see her every day and I will be spending a lot of
quality time with her while singing together." Joseph emphasized.
"Yeah J there are always advantages and that one is step 4 of the
Platinum rule." highlighted Nic.
{ Nicole continued with Step 4}
Step 4: Perks
A perk is a special privilege or a side benefit. Like Joseph said,
" Look at the brighter side...". Perks are those advantages that
you think they will make a relationship work out very well. They
make you feel confident and undoubtedly about the entire rela-
tion, perks make people focus more on good things that might oc-
cur other than bad things. It is the good thing as being positive is
very important.
{Nicole pause a bit for a while}
"What is wrong now Nic, I was enjoying your little lecture"? said
Jonathan full of sarcasm; "Yeah Nic we love you when you preach
for us, why a sudden pause?" added Joseph.
{ Jonathan and Joseph laughed}
"Come on boys; I paused because now I'm reaching the emo-
tional breaking steps in the platinum rule and this my friends al-
ways occurs in many relationships. I want you guys listen to me
and listen attentively. I'm not saying they are going to happen to
Joseph and Portia, but I guarantee you that they occurred in a lot
of relationships. Understood?" said Nicole, with a straight face.
"Yeah bro we get you," said Jonathan and Joseph sounding
shocked.
"Good" replied Nicole.
{As Joseph continued with is Ultimate rule, Jon and Joseph were
a bit shocked and listening attentively}
Step 5: The tipping point
The tipping point is a point whereby everything becomes too
much now. In a relationship you will find your partner becoming
too clingy, doesn't give you space to breathe. The boring part is
that you can't run away from them because they are your col-
leagues or even choir mate. When your partner becomes too
clingy that's when you get weirded out by them and you start to
regret it. But because you can't just dump them out of proportion

you are forced to survive this. The worse part is that you are see-
ing them each and every day; if you are colleagues it is extremely
worse and it is too boring with a capital letter "B".
{Joseph interrupts}
"This is insane Nic, nothing like that will ever happen to Portia
and me."
"Yes like I said it happened in a lot of relationships, but I'm not
saying it will happen to you bro." said Nicole.
"I don't think Joseph will experience that bro, I believe in him"
supported Jonathan.
"Ok fine guys, can I continue now? There are still 4 steps to go"
asked Nicole.
"Sure continue" replied both of them.
{Nicole continued}
Step 6: Purgatory
This is a stage where one of you will realise that they made a
huge mistake by taking the relationship into consideration without
thinking about the disadvantages. This is when one of you is really
fed up with seeing you every time. Sometimes it might be because
you are flirting with one of your colleagues forgetting that you are
dating another colleague, at this point the relationship is no longer
fun anymore. You start pretending to one another just to make it
work and it is really hard living in pretense.
You will find him/her going back to a friend asking " Why did
you let me go on with this?" forgetting that during the Bargaining
and the Perks stages you were so in love to an extent that you
didn't want anything but a go-ahead from a friend.
Step 7: Confrontation
This is the time in a relationship whereby one of you is fed up or
maybe both you are fed up. It is the stage in a relationship where-
by all of us doesn't like; "The talk" stage, it's always start sweet.
Your partner will be like "Baby we need to talk" you know by
those 4 words that you are screwed, we always talk, but we don't
specify. Why all of a sudden we have to make time for something
that we always do?
{ The guys all laughed}
"Yeah man everybody hate those 4 words bro," said Jonathan
laughing with Joseph.
{ Nicole laughed and then continued}
The Platinum Rule 25

You know how the conversation starter will be so sweet and
comforting, but you will sense a horrible BUT. It will be like "You
know I like you or even love you, you really are a great man/
woman other men/ladies will be so blessed to have you but, un-
fortunately, I'm not one of them. We are pretending as if this works
and both of us see that it really doesn't." And obviously, the recip-
ient of this message will start being sad trying to save the rela-
tionship, saying that he/she can do anything just to save this, but
unfortunately mostly when it's done it is done, there is no turning
back.
Step 8: Fallout
After ending the relationship, you are reaching the most frus-
trating step of the platinum rule. The fallout; this is basically when
it is very difficult for you to cope with work, church, school etc
because you see your ex every day now, you feel like resigning or
running away from them it is just so difficult for you to endure.
This is when you regret the day you met the entire person; it
gets very awkward because the entire person it's right there each
and every second, every meeting, every discussion time and much
more depending on the field that you guys work together. But It
will get better as time goes on.
Step 9: Coexistence
Not all of us reach this stage, but most of the people reach
it successively. Coexistence is when you realise that you have to
move on with your life because you can't quit your job or a choir
because of your ex. You have to finish off what you have started
and once you reach this step successively we consider you as one
of the strongest people in the earth. It takes time for a wound to
heal but once it is healed it will never go back.
{Nicole concluded his platinum rule}
" Boys those were the 9 exact steps that occur during relation-
ships like Joseph's, and, to be honest, my friends they will eventu-
ally happen to Joseph whether he like it or not," said Nicole
"No no, Hell noo you can't just do that to our friend, why do you
discourage him like that?" asked Jonathan furiously.
" I'm being honest Jon, We can't let him go on with this the plat-
inum will screw him up" continued Nicole.
"I'm going for her bro, there is no rule that will stop me from
going after Portia, If people follow rules they will always settle for

less; I don't want to settle for less. I want Portia am I clear?" asked
enraged Jonathan.
"Crystal!" replied Nicole.
"Good J go for what you want bro" advised Jonathan.
"Ok guys it was nice chatting and chilling today we have been
here for a long time now, it is time to bounce". said Nicole. "Yeah
Nic is right we have to go," added Jonathan.
"Ok cool guys I will see you around it was nice chatting with you
guys and Nic thanks a lot for taking your time and energy by telling
us the rule;it really means a lot."said Joseph.
"That's what friends are for" replied Nicole.
That's when the guys separated and went to their homes. Leav-
ing Joseph with questions of whether to go for Portia or not. But
as a boy with authority, he decided to continue with his peregri-
nation.
The Platinum Rule 27

6
Portia's side
On the other side Portia was having a decent conversa-
tion with herself about her sag with Joseph.
"So I kinda like this guy but I have a strong feeling that his
younger than me and beside I have a boyfriend now and I didn't
mention him; you know what? I will tell him about the boyfriend
once he become clean and honest about his age."thought Portia
looking at the roof.
29

7
Banquet
"Everybody, soon or late, sits down to a banquet of con-
sequences." Robert Louis Stevenson
It is really nice sometimes as a family once in a year to invite
some of your friends,family,acquaintances etc to come and have
a peaceful banquet. Banquet is actually an elaborate and formal
evening meal for many people. Joseph's parents used to do this
once or twice yearly just for fun.
The good thing about the Graffanelo's is that they don't really
invite that many people, usually they are about twenty(20) or less
during this meal. Because they are not that rich to afford a ban-
quet of many people like other first classed families; they are just
middle classed family who likes to keep it small and affordable
because after all is the thought that really counts. Joseph was
asked by his mom to invite his friends. Joseph then went to tell
his friends about the banquet, he met them to where they usually
meet at their usual sports bar . Joseph got them there chilling
waiting for him.
"Hey guys, oh Nic you didn't go to work today?" asked Joseph
surprisingly.
"Oh no, today I'm off bro" replied Nicole.
Joseph then decided to invite them to the family dinner which
as a man whom full of himself call it the "Banquet".
"Cool guys you are cordially invited to the Graffanelo's Banquet
next Saturday night" revealed Joseph sipping his cold drink.
"There we go again; what is Banquet now"? asked Nicole. "Brainy
J at his best" admired Jonathan in a sarcastic way.
{ Nicole laughed; Joseph continued}
31

"Ah guys banquet is the formal evening meal usually consist of
many people" emphasized Joseph with a soft laughter.
"So why didn't you just keep it simple, like saying a dinner?"
asked Nicole.
"Nope I'm awesome remember so my awesomeness doesn't al-
low me to call it a "dinner" replied Joseph.
"Ok then, I'm not working during that day, what about you Jon?"
said Nicole. "I will also be free so its onnnnnn" replied Jonathan
enthusiastically.
"Awesoomeeee stuff guys; Ok guys I gotta rush to a choir prac-
tise and I also want to invite Portia to the Banquet as a friend".
"What? Oh let me not judge,"said Nicole. "Alright bro we will see
you after choir practise I guess," affirmed Jonathan.
"Cool stuff,see you later then."replied Joseph standing up and
going straight to his choir practise; where she will meet Portia af-
ter such a long time without seeing her.
Jonathan and Nicole were chilling together discussing matters
of the day and life, everything was going well without any yank
movement. Until Nicole remembered something that Jonathan
told him over the phone last night.
"Bro about the thing you wanted to tell me last night, can you
kindly do it now?" asked Nicole politely.
"Yeah I wanted to ask for an advice about this other chick bro,
I kinda like her but I'm afraid that I might get stuck in a friend
zone. Eish you know what I mean right?" asked Jonathan. "Yeap;
absolutely, most definitely,"affirmed Nicole.
"So how can I run away from a friend zone bro?" asked Jonathan
eagerly.
"You know Jon was not being stuck in a friend zone is as easy as
being stuck in a friend zone."asked Nicole.
"Really?"Jonathan asked full of laughter.
"Yeap, something that a lot of guys don't know is that attraction
is fickle, meaning it changes frequently and I've said it many times
now that it happens instantly. So what I'm trying to say is that the
decision of being friend zoned it happens during attraction" ex-
plained Nicole.
"Ok, I'm listening"affirmed Jon.
"Cool, I'm going to tell you how a lot of guys end up in a friend
zone and remember this are my opinions and they work all the
time" emphasized Nic.

• Attraction
This will always be the first thing in every potential relationship.
The reason you might end up in a friendzone relationship is that
the attraction might be only one sided, meaning you the only one
who's attracted to the girl and apparently she's not. This might be
because you are creepy, annoying and just not good enough for
the girl.
• Getting too close
Getting too close to a girl on platonic grounds will never help
you, my friend. You might think that is the best way for her to get-
ting to know you well and yes she will get to know you well but
unfortunately as a friend.
• Lack of sexual chemistry
If you are sexually attracted to her, you must show her bro like
from the beginning, don't act like some sort of a pushover or door-
mat or else you will ruin your chances.
• Thinking you too good for her
This happens a lot of times especially to guys who lacks self-
confidence and enthusiasm. Maybe you meet a way hotter girl and
you be like "she's too good for me". So instead of hitting on her
you secretly lusts for her and give up on pursuing her. So if you
think you too good for her then I'm afraid you will get friend zoned
and she will be telling you about guys like me, she will be chang-
ing guys in front of your face just like that and this will demoralise
you emotionally. Never think you too good for a chick bro, I mean
NEVER EVER!.
{ They both laughed due to Nicole flirting himself as always}
{ Nicole continued}
"Now I'm telling you what to do in order to avoid it and remem-
ber in my own opinion that always works" highlighted Nic.
• Be a unique friend
Meaning be her friend without behaving like her other friends,
don't talk nonsense for hours and don't spend a lot of time talking
about her problems. Talk about the places she visits, movies she
Banquet 33

watched, the kind of music she likes and most importantly her
plans for the weekend, talk date talk to make her sense the chem-
istry in the air.
• Try to talk to her when she's alone
When she is with her friend just greet and pass because you
can't really hit on a girl when she's surrounded by a bevy of
friends. But when you get her alone make sure you use the oppor-
tunity fruitfully, chat her up, make sure you turn on your charm
and impress her because that might be the last time you see her
alone,so go all out. But don't rush things, don't be like "you are
beautiful, I like you and I want to date you" that's lame bro unless
you are 12 years old. Make it obvious that you like spending time
with her alone in whatever way but don't tell her that you like her
just yet.
• Compliment her
Compliment her when she deserves it, flatter her pants off if she
looks good, tell her she looks hot. If she catches staring at the hint
of her cleavage, don't panic and start apologising like a lunatic just
laugh and tell her sorry that you couldn't resist it. Add sexual re-
marks and you will never get friend zoned.
• Touch her and treat her like your girlfriend
Grab her hands when crossing the street and open doors for her
when it just the both of you. When you are in a restaurant pull the
chair for her, make her feel like a queen and she'll love the atten-
tion I mean they always do. But when her friends are around don;t
give her any preferential treatment make her realize that she's on-
ly special to you when you guys are alone.
• Make her feel special and exclusive
Just gift her something small and special but tell her to keep it
as a secret. Creating secrets with her you build sexual chemistry
and suspense that will lead to romance.
• Ask her out and change the topic
When you ask her out don't do it directly it will create a lot of
awkwardness. Just ask her out while you guys are conversing and

see how she responds and within a second change the topic fast.
It will seem like a joke but it will make her wonder if you really
want to date her or not. Don't make things awkward by waiting for
a while before saying something, just keep it real,funny and simple
and yet reveal all the dirty thoughts in your mind but don't over do
it.
{Nicole concluded}
"Like I said Johnny this are just my own opinion bro and they al-
ways work for me, usually, I do this stuff just to get in their pants
and after that I loose contacts," emphasized Nic.
"This incredible bro but I'm not the sociopath like you, I will not
use this tips just to get in their pants. I will use them to make her
my girlfriend, anyway, where do ou get this stuff" highlighted and
asked Jonathan.
"I'm observant,I read books and some of them I create them us-
ing my observation and most importantly I asked people who are
older than me." explained Nicole.
"Wow that is amazing, anyway, I got to go and prepare for to-
morrow's test see you." said Jonathan.
"Awe no problem, I also want to rest"
They both left after such a long lecture as always by Nic,
Jonathan went home and practise some of those stuff as she was
serious about the entire girl.
Banquet 35

8
Choir Practise
Soon as the practicing hour came, Joseph couldn't wait
to meet Portia. He knew clearly that Portia was really
the reason he was still alive. He always thought that
without Portia, there is no life whatsoever for him. Por-
tia was too different from all the girls that Joseph ever
met. She was so magical. Something was really differ-
ent about this girl. Joseph felt like he knows Portia ful-
ly. He felt like there's nothing that he never knew about
Portia. But as we all know that in life we all get caught
in the middle of a dilemma, Portia didn't know whether
she should tell Joseph about her better half or not.
As Joseph got there, he luckily found that Portia was the first
person to turn up at the practice.
"Oh, hey lady." said Joseph grinning.
"Hey you Jose. How are you, dear?" said Portia hugging Joseph.
"I'm so well. Has anyone not arrived yet?" asked Joseph as they
detached.
"Not any. I'm the first, you're the second," said Portia.
After having their long conversation, as usual, choir members
kept on arriving one by one, two by two. As there will always be
those kinds of members at ever church who are 'strict', such con-
versations like of Joseph and Portia will always be interrupted by
those 'strict' members.
"Joseph and Portia, we're not here to flirt, but to serve." said Lil-
lian, their choir leader.
37

"Yep, we're coming. We're on about something important," said
Joseph, aiming to tell Portia about the banquet.
Portia beamed at Joseph for the response. She did not know
what Joseph meant by 'something important'.
"Jose, what's that 'something important' which we're on about?
You enjoy poking fun out of me right?" said Portia.
"Not whatsoever, Porsche," said Joseph, arranging his counte-
nance. "Porsche, would you mind joining me and my family at the
feast next Saturday?" added Joseph.
"Feast, Jose? How many people will be there? And what will your
parents say?" asked Portia surprisedly.
"You know what they'll say? They'll say that they had the most
heavenly feast in the presence of an angel that you are," said
Joseph as they were stepping into the hall.
"Okay, I'll do so just to be a blessing at your feast." said Portia
laughing with Joseph.
The practice began, everyone focused in his/her voice. As it is
witnessed by many that when love is doing its thing, no one can
resist it. It was really love that made the practice hours seem long
to Joseph as he couldn't wait for another good-bye hug from Por-
tia. It was conspicuous to other church mates that it was more
than 'God's love' that existed between the two. As the hours are
uniform, the time came and they arrived at the end of the practice.
Joseph was the first person to go out, and deliberately, Portia was
the last to close the hall door.
Off they went. Joseph, jokingly, told Portia that he is impatient
for the feats.
"So am I, Jose." replied Portia.
"I will appreciate your presence." added Joseph.
As they walked, a point of diversion came, and they indeed share
the good-bye hug Joseph waited for.
Each one went his/her own way. They couldn't stop looking at
each other. It was impossible to do so. Portia wanted to tell Joseph
about her boyfriend, but it was truly hard to do so. Portia, mature
as she was, couldn't afford to spoil the fun they had.

9
Saturday Night
As time keeps moving, Saturday came, and Joseph's
mother started preparing for the evening. Portia, loyal
as she was, made it to Joseph's home. Amongst all the
invited guests, Portia was the first one to arrive early.
She was dressed in a black Cross Over Skater, with
black Linx Mesh Panel Heels shoes. She held a cherry
handbag as she was walking in the yard. The light,
glowing colour of her skin looked as marvellous at it al-
ways did. She mesmerised Joseph. The decent move-
ment of Portia was as if she was walking on a red carpet
going to receive a beauty award. At that juncture, there
was nothing else in Joseph's life, but a gasp. He did not
really believe that Portia could ever take the occasion
into consideration. Although Joseph's father was an old
man, he, notwithstanding, got enchanted by Portia's
looks, though he did not really exhibit that. Men will al-
ways be men.
"Hey Jose," saluted Portia.
"Hey Porsche," said Joseph, "my mom is in the house, let’s go and
greet her please."
Sans hesitation, Portia did as requested to.
They went in indeed and Joseph introduced Portia to her par-
ents. They spent half an hour getting to know each other. Portia
started calling Mrs. Graffanelo mom. That really thrilled Joseph.
39

Joseph’s mother was happy with the fact that Joseph invited his
friends. Moreover, Portia is a lady that is calm and she is always at
peace with herself and with everyone
"Mom, I can see that you're still busy, can I please help you?"
asked Portia politely.
"Of course, my girl," said Joseph's mother while grinning.
Portia asked Joseph to put her handbag in a safe place. She
helped Joseph's mother with cooking. They talked about many
things, laughed together. It was Joseph's dream coming true. He
wished Jonathan and Nicole were there to share on his ecstasy.
Jonathan came along with Nicole. The first thing they saw on
their arrival was the beam showcased by Joseph's face. They
sensed something was really great.
"Hey yo' Jose," said Nicole.
"Hey Jonny and Nic," said Joseph.
"Something really good must have really happened to you," said
Jonathan.
"Oh yeah? Well, I guess she is that 'something really good' that
happened to me. She's helping my mom in the house to finish up,"
said Joseph.
The talk continued between them. Jests were made, they all
laughed. Fortunately, Portia and Mrs. Graffanelo were done with
everything. People had started gathering. It was all fun. Nicole and
Jonathan have not yet seen Portia. They all wondered how she
looked to can preoccupy Joseph. They all wanted to see her.
"Hey, you guys. Jose, the food is being served in the dining room.
You can all come in now," said Portia.
"Sure, we are right after you," said Joseph.
"J, is she the one? Damn right she is. That one is apparent, bro."
said Nicole, captivated by Portia's looks.
"She even calls him 'Jose', wow, you must be ecstatic, man,"
added Jonathan
{Joseph laughed}
"Now, where do your 'theories' apply here, Nic? Sure thing, Jon-
ny, I am." said Joseph as they all stood up and went into the
house. There were neighbours, close relatives, and colleagues of
the Graffanelos. It was really all good. If there was something that
you would like to hear from Joseph about that moment, he would
tell you that it was 'moment of gold'. At the dining room Nic, the

logician became the quietest human being on earth in that dining
room. He seemed to have not invented the ‘Do not be shy around
people’ theory.
After the meal, the two boys went out. Joseph remained in the
room with other visitors; he picked up the dishes and put them
in the basin, as Portia was not familiar with the house. When he
finished he went out to join Nicole and Jonathan who were sit-
ting on the rock that was nearly at the corner of the yard. It was
big enough to accommodate a maximal number of four people.
They sat down. Nicole started the conversation about Portia, fol-
lowed by Jonathan who supported whatever compliment stated by
Nicole with regard to Portia.
"J, the girl is hot," said Nicole.
"She is not your contemporary; you must address her as a lady.
She is older than you," retorted Joseph, pretending to be irate.
"Oh, I'm sorry man, the 'lady' is hot," said Nicole.
"J tonight is the night. You will show us how manly you are," said
Jonathan teasingly to Joseph.
"I don't have to prove to you that I am a man. She is already in
the palm of my hand," replied Joseph as they all laughed.
It was a very long conversation they had outside, disagreeing
with some of the statements. In fact, that is how boys are, they will
not always agree on one thing, but they will express different per-
spectives.
In the house, Mrs. Graffanelo was asking Portia different ques-
tions, one after the other. She even asked her what her African
name was.
"Lesego. That's my African name," said Portia.
"Okay. That sounds great. I will use that name as it is quickly re-
membered," said Mrs. Graffanelo.
She kept on asking Portia questions on how did she know Joseph
and what made them become close. Portia had to explain, telling
Mrs. Graffanelo that they go to the same church, attend the same
choir, Joseph sometimes visits her. As a mother, she got really un-
settled with the fact that Joseph secretly visits Portia. She pre-
tended to be happy for everything that she heard from Portia. She
finished up cleaning where they ate and went outside. She called
Saturday Night 41

Joseph to a side, just behind the room where they were dining and
talked to her.
"Joseph, how long have you known Lesego?" asked Mrs. Graf-
fanelo, with a stern tone.
"Who's Lesego, Ma?" said Joseph, added.
"That girl, Portia" replied Mrs. Graffanelo.
"Oh! It's about six months now," said Joseph.
"I don't want you to ever dash your foot in her yard. You're still
young to do that. Now go to your friends. I hope you heard me lu-
cidly," she said, angrily.
Portia heard every little detail of their conversation, and she got
dejected. Her evening was spoilt.
When Mrs. Graffanelo came she didn't stay.
"Ah, mama, it's already late now. I must go," said Portia
"Take yourself provisions that you will eat when you arrive."
"No, ma. I had enough, thanks."
"Lesego, I insist that you have some provisions, my daughter."
"Ah, ma. Okay. I will then."
Mrs. Graffanelo dished up for Portia. When she was through
she called Joseph to accompany her. But dejected as she was, she
didn't want anything to do with Joseph. She insisted that she will
be fine. She bade Joseph and his friends goodbye and left.
Joseph and his friends were aware that she was not herself. They
heard the conversation Portia had with Mrs. Graffanelo when she
insisted on going alone. They didn't want to know more. Joseph
thought he will call her when he is alone.
"J, it is getting later now, dude. I think we should leave," said
Jonathan.
"Yeah, we must leave now J," added Nicole.
"Yeah, sure. Let me accompany you, guys," he replied.
He accompanied them. He was so down. His friends realised that
but didn't want to raise it. They signalled each other not to talk
about it. They talked about many things and Nicole and Jonathan
were the only ones who talked a lot. They arrived at the point of
divergence. Joseph went home, and straight to his room, went to
bed and lay there. He wanted to unwind a little. He thought he
would call Portia after an hour, but the forces of sleep were too
strong to keep him asleep.

Saturday Night 43

10
The Talk
"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, it
goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that
goes to his heart." Nelson Mandela
Life is just an amazing journey, no one is given a good or bad life
all of us are given life. And it's up to us to make it good or bad. As
Joseph was feeling as if his life is or will be bad without Portia.
It was Sunday morning just after the long Saturday night where
the Graffanelo's had a banquet. Everything was going well until
Mrs. Graffanelo confronted Joseph about not going near Portia's
yard again while Portia heard every detail of their conversation
then she got dejected and left, which made Joseph be sad. Joseph
slept like a baby that night to an extent that he couldn't hear his
phone ringing when Portia was trying to call her all morning.
Joseph woke up and got about 3-5 missed calls from Portia with-
out any voicemail. Then he decided to return her call.
{Portia's phone ringing,she answered it}
"Hi Jose why were you not answering your calls, are you
okay?"asked Portia
"How the hell can I be happy when you left us just like that last
night, what happened exactly? Because clearly you can't just de-
cide to leave just like that without any further explanation,"asked
Joseph furiously.
"Wow Joseph,what with high-pitched tone?" asked Portia
sounding surprised.
"Oh!Eish I'm really sorry hey, didn't mean to be rude, anyway
what is that you wanted to tell me?" Joseph apologised and asked
Portia with a more polite sound.
45

"I wanted to tell you something really important and also I want-
ed to explain why I left last night, so can we kindly meet today
right after church?" Portia emphasized
"Eish I wasn't feeling coming to church today, I'm really tired"
replied Joseph.
"Ahh come on Jose, since when you started bunking church
now? Can you, at least, think about it because we really need to to
talk" begged Portia?
"Eish okay then I will think about it but I can't promise you any-
thing, hey, anyways I gotta go, see ya." replied Joseph then he de-
cided to conclude their phone call conversation.
Joseph didn't want to go to church that Sunday due to fatigue
caused by preparations for the banquet Saturday night and the
fact that Portia decided to leave suddenly didn't sit the guy well.
But as he had a soft spot for Portia he didn't take much to think
about it, he just woke up and do some chores then start preparing
for church.
On the other side of the house, Joseph's parents were discussing
Portia's incident.
"So why did you tell Joseph not to go to Portia's anymore?" asked
Mr. Graffanelo with a confused tone.
"I don't understand what's that Joseph is trying to pursue be-
cause it is all in his eyes that he is in love with her. There's no
'friends' connection there." emphasized Mrs. Graffanelo.
"Maybe you analysed it too much, I'm sure that Joseph knows
that she cannot date that girl. And besides they both are choir and
church mates, I don't think they might ruin that for themselves"
highlighted Mr. Graffanelo.
"You never know dear this kid really loves taking chances espe-
cially at Joseph's stage they don't really care much about conse-
quences of dating your colleague." replied Mrs. Graffanelo "And I
think Portia might be older than Joseph" she continued.
"Maybe we should sit him down and discuss this matter with him
politely,what do you say?" suggested Mr. Graffanelo.
"Sounds like a fantastic idea for me, anyway, its Sunday let's
wake up and clean last night's mess. What a long night we had!!"
Mrs. Graffanelo said while standing up preparing herself towards
cleaning the mess.
Mr. Graffanelo left in the room speaking with his thoughts about
his only son Joseph.

"Honestly, I'm proud of him for eyeing such a beautiful girl, wow
I thought my son was a gay, phew; what a relieve!!." he thought.
"But if the girl is really older than him,I'm afraid as his father I can't
allow that" he continued with his thoughts.
Joseph was so exhausted that Sunday morning but because he
would do anything for Portia that made him be firm and start
preparing for church. The guy was so stressed about the warning
that her mother gave him about Portia whom her beloved mom
call "Lesego" as she prefers the African name. "When love has ar-
rived there is no turning back, forward is where I'm going, I don't
want to even think about pausing with Portia. My mom really has
to accept that I'm a young adult now." thought Joseph wearing his
favourite formal clothes going straight to church.
On his way to church, Joseph got a phone call from one of his
friends Jonathan.
{Phone ringing}
"Joseph Hello" he answered.
"Hey Jose what up brother,I was checking if you are okay homie
last night you were sour about the Portia incident,"Jonathan said
sounding sincere.
"Yeah bro I'm good,I'm even on my way to church now as we
speaking." replied Jonathan.
"Church? Wow after that long banquet Saturday night, ain't you
worn out?" asked Jonathan with a shocked sound.
"I'm way too tired brother, the thing has Portia convinced me
otherwise she said she want to talk to me about something ur-
gently." emphasized Joseph.
"That's where you wrong man you can't just do everything that
Portia requests you to do. Don't show that girl how much you love
her or how much you are afraid to lose her you are not even dating
for God's sake, So when are you going to ask her out? Like when
are you going to tell her how you feel about her?" asked Jonathan.
"Hey Jon I'm on my way to church I can't talk about such things
right now,can we do it, later on, please."requested Joseph.
"OK! Cool, then but please stop acting like Portia's puppet, be a
man for once. And don't forget to tell her how you feel about her
today after church. Enjoy church man, pray for me as I'm going to
sleep again I'm so dosed off."
"Alright man praying for you is what I will do as always.Bye!"
replied Joseph laughing.
The Talk 47

They both hung up their respective phones Joseph continued
his journey to church while Jonathan continued sleeping.

11
At Church
During that Sunday's service, their Pastor's theme was
"Do it now". Joseph felt like the pastor was somehow
pointing the words directly to him.
"One day you will wake up and there won't be any more time
to do things you've always wanted to do so rather do it now than
later" advised the Pastor. "Thinking about it won't do it, dreaming
about it won't do it, but only doing it does it so do it now because
the future is promised to no one". continued the Pastor. At that
point Joseph wanted to stand up immediately and go straight to
Portia and tell her how he feels about her without even thinking
about what people will say or react towards his actions, but as a
man of honor he didn't want to interrupt the service so he decided
to be more patient for the service to end.
Then finally the service concluded then Portia went straight to
Joseph but the boy was still busy with his daily routines of packing
the church equipment. "Joseph you will get me outside,"said Portia
then Joseph nodded to Portia then continued with his work. The
Pastor confronted Joseph about not paying full attention during
the service.
"Jose is everything okay with you today?" the Pastor asked wor-
ryingly. "Because you were not fully concentrating today." contin-
ued the Pastor.
"Oh yes! everything is okay Pastor I'm just tired because last
night we had a family feast so I had a lot to do with preparations
and I had to wake up today's morning to clean up the mess. So this
is nothing other than being exhausted Pastor," explained Joseph.
49

"Okay son that explains why your mother is not around." af-
firmed the Pastor.
Then finally, Joseph and Portia met to talk about whatever they
wanted to talk about.
"Hey Jose how was the service for you?" asked Portia.
"The service was good as always, the message was superb even
though I'm tired at least I grabbed one or two lessons today, what
about you?" replied and asked Joseph.
"It was awesome as always, anyway let me get straight to
it."affirmed Portia.
"Okay cool." replied Joseph full of credence.
"Jose the reason I left yesterday is that I heard you and your
mom's conversation about you not coming to my place ever again
so that didn't suit me well at all as I love spending some of my time
with you." explained Joseph.
"Oh, that! Don't worry about it, my parents can't really choose
friends for me, I think my mom was just panicking because of your
born-stunner," replied Joseph flattering Portia as always.
{Portia laughed}
"OK, I guess I will take that as a compliment thank but you have
to take this a little more serious because I don't want to cause
quarrels between you and your parents."highlighted Joseph.
"Relax! Everything is okay with me and my mom. You got none
to worry about." affirmed Joseph.
"OK cool that concludes our little conversation I guess I will see
you around." affirmed Portia leaving Joseph.
Then Joseph decided to confront her about his feelings.
"Portia wait!!" requested Joseph seeming edgy.
"What? is there anything you forgot to tell me?"asked Portia.
"Yes! you know after today's message about doing it what you
have always wanted immediately, I realized that there's no more
time to waste," explained Joseph.
"Oh...k" Portia nodded.
"Portia you are an amazing lady, the first day I saw you attracted
me and I think I fell in love with you that moment but I didn't
want to confess that during our first meeting because it would've
seemed a little weird and creepy. As I continued spending time
with you the spark grew bit by bit, I felt in love with you more
and more. Being around you felt so heavenly. My point is you really

are a wonderful and loving person and I would like to be your
boyfriend as in date you. So what do you say?"
{Longest pause by Portia}
"Hmm you know what, now you must be exhausted after a long
service, can I call you later and meet so that you will give me your
reply?" suggested Jonathan.
"Yes that would mean a lot because now you really caught me
off guard, let me go home and rest then we will continue with this
later." affirmed Portia.
The two separated and went to their respective homes.
At Church 51

12
At Joseph's Home
After his sudden confrontation of his feelings to Portia;
Joseph feared to get an immediate answer he decided
to give Portia some time to go home and get a bit of a
rest then they decided that they shall meet again later
on. Joseph then went home to lie down a bit. As he was
preparing to lie down her mom called her to talk for a
little while.
"Jose could you come here please, your dad and I really want to
talk to you about something urgent." asked Mrs. Graffanelo Polite-
ly.
"Ah, mom can't it wait? I'm really tired," asked Joseph with a mere
sound.
"No my boy, let's just do it now and get it over with." replied Mrs.
Graffanelo.
"Okay! I’m coming."
"Joseph my son you’re Dad and I have been discussing your sit-
uation with Lesego. And we don't think it’s a good idea for you to
date her due to consequences that might happen if things don't go
well between the two of you," affirmed Mrs. Graffanelo.
"Ahhh come on mom, none is really happening between me and
Portia whom you refer her as 'Lesego' we just good friends who
just like to spend time together." replied Joseph.
"Jose my son come on...; come on...; come on...; we not that old
or dumb we can tell when something is more than a friendship re-
lationship I mean we've been their son it’s not like we skipped your
current stage to be where we are today. We can see that you in
53

love with her with our naked eyes, so don't try to fool us here
okay?" interjected Mr. Graffanelo.
“But Dad..." Mrs. Graffanelo interrupted Joseph. “Shut up and lis-
ten."
"Joseph I'm going to tell you the good and bad things of dating a
girl or woman who’s older than you." informed Mr. Graffanelo.
GOOD THINGS
Experienced: Older women may not be as toned as they once
were and they might not be as perky in the various spots they're
supposed to be perky in. They
don't beat around the bush. They know exactly what they want
and they will manipulate you mentally and physically to get it. A
man is terrible when it comes to taking the time and effort to fig-
ure out what a woman really wants. An older woman has learned
not to waste precious time waiting for the man in the shining ar-
mor to sweep off her feet. If she has accepted that it “ain’t gonna
happen,” then she will let you do what to do and where to do it.
{Joseph interrupted his dad.}
"You know what dad not now,I really can't do this now so
please..."Said enraged joseph walking out of the dinner room.
Joseph's mom yelled at Joseph but the stubborn boy ignored
them and went straight to his room.
"Baaaaaaang" sounded Joseph's door.
"Damn it stupid boy don't do that to my door." said enraged Mr
Graffanelo.
"Children of today damn,they are just so impossible,they never
listen,what the hell is wrong with them?"Asked Mr. Graffanelo.
"Give him time dad I think he is in that puberty stage, he is just
full of hormones lets give him a break to rest, we will see him lat-
er." Suggested the polite Mother.
Mr. Graffanelo agreed with her wife that's when they decided to
leave the boy alone. As they were still hanging out together some-
one knocked at the door and that person was Jonathan.
{Joseph's mom answered the door}
"Oh hey Jon, how are you?" Greeted Joseph's mom.
"Hi, Ma is Jose around?" Asked Jonathan.
"Yes he is around but he is still sleeping, he said he is very tired...
Can I take the message?" Informed and asked Mrs. Graffanelo.
"No, its fine I can come back later it is not that big of a
deal."Affirmed Jonathan.

"No, wait there's something that I need to discuss with you re-
garding Joseph if you don't mind?"Mrs. Graffanelo asked Jonathan
politely.
"Okay!" Responded Jonathan with an insignificant sound.
"I know it's not my place to ask you this but I really have to know
the truth for safety reasons." Emphasized Mrs. Graffanelo.
"No mam I don't mind at all you can ask me freely." highlighted
Jonathan.
"Okay! Listen; what's really happening between Joseph and
Lesego? Mrs. Graffanelo asked.
"Uhmmm... Uhmmmm" sounded Jonathan with a long pause.
"Come on son, be honest with me for God's sake." Begged
Joseph's mom.
"Ah, Ma but its really not my place to answer that question, why
don't you ask Joseph himself?." replied Jonathan.
"Are you that stupid?"Yelled Mrs Graffanelo.
"Noooo" responded Jonathan.
"So it's obvious that I asked him and his respond were they are
just church mates and good friends which I don't buy it at all." Af-
firmed Mrs. Graffanelo.
"Ah, Ma if Joseph says there is absolutely nothing happening be-
tween them then I guess we don't have a choice but to believe
him."Advised Jonathan.
"At this moment I just wanna know your sideview,what do you
say about Portia and Joseph's incident?" Asked Mrs. Graffanelo.
"They are choir mates that's all that I know mom honestly con-
firmed Jonathan.
"Okay! Then no problem. P.S the truth will come out soon as it
always does, thanks for your time Jon. Enjoy the rest of your Sun-
day afternoon."
That was then the conclusion of their lengthy conversation
about the infamous situation of Portia and Joseph.
{Later that day Portia and Joseph met to proceed with their
ealier conversation}
"Hey Porche there we are meeting again, so are you ready to
give me your respond?"Joseph asked.
"Yeah I think I'm ready, okay Joseph I really like you maybe I even
love you, you are such an amazing guy...."
{A random guy interrupted them}
At Joseph's Home 55

"Hey Babe I didn't think I would see you this side of town, how
are you?"the guy greeted.
"Uhmm okay dude with all due respect you are disturbing us
here, we are in a middle of something I'm sure you can notice that
right?" explained Joseph.
"Portia who is this guy?" Joseph continued.
"Wait a minute small boy, who do you think you are to tell me
how busy you are? Worse part with my girlfriend? Are you outta
your mind?" the furious guy asked.
"Whaaat? your what? Portia tell me, is this crap true?" asked
Joseph with a furious sound.
"Hmm I really don't know what to say guys can you, at least, calm
down and act as mature adults." responded Portia.
"Huh? mature adults? Come on Porche this Jos what-what boy
of yours look pretty much like a toy boy to me." The guy continued
with his insults.
"Donald stop with your insults, what the hell is wrong with you?
Stop acting like a child please." said enraged Portia.
"Joseph this is Donald my boyfriend I wanted to tell you about
him but I couldn't get the right moment," Portia explained.
"What? are you kidding me?" Joseph asked.
"No I'm not but I can explain..."
{Joseph interrupted her.}
"You know what Portia its fine," Joseph said that while walking
away from them.
"Joseph wait" begged Portia but the angry boy didn't want to
even think about it. He continued walking away.
"Come on babe, let him go," said Donald.
"You know what Donald, I really can't deal with you now," said
Portia walking away from the random guy who disturbed their
conversation and only to find out that he is the boyfriend. Donald
left Portia alone and continued going wherever he was going.
Later that night Joseph was angry and frustrated he didn't know
what to do or say. He couldn't even eat that thing happened during
the day didn't sit him well. That Sunday was simply not Joseph's
day fighting not only with his mom but with his dad and Portia.
The boy was busy writing his secret acrostic poem about Portia.
SECRET ACROSTIC POEM OF JOSEPH ABOUT PORTIA
Listening to my heartbeat

Endlessly screaming and shouting your name
Sweet fantasies your pretty face causes me
Endearing and delightful movements of you leave me smiling
alone
Glow of your dazzling face leaves me helpless and drooling
Outgoing personality that stirs up my feelings so much
Possessing every space in your heart is my aspiration and long-
ing
Outstanding lady is what you are; every man's type
Running with you to eternity is my impending objective
Taking care of you and loving you is my intention in life
Inside of me I have something that is burning
Admiration and Adoration are what I have for you
NB: First letters of every line when combined make up a name
that is: Lesego Portia
At Joseph's Home 57

13
Retreat
"The perfect tranquillity of life, which is nowhere to be
found but in retreat , a faithful friend and a good li-
brary." Aphra Behn
After Joseph wrote the poem with a broken heart, the anger that
was enraged by what he just saw made him throw the poem on the
floor and it went under his bed. He then decided to go out to re-
fresh his mind by going to chill with his friends.
Jonathan and Nicole were at their usual spot waiting for Joseph
to arrive while they were waiting there were having their own
conversation.
"Oh Jon remember that conversation we had about your poten-
tial girlfriend,few days before the banquet?" Nicole asked.
"Oh ja the one you were giving me advices of how to runway
from a friend zone relationship?" Replied Jonathan
"Ya that one,how did it go with that girl? Is she your girlfriend
right now?"Nicole continued
"Ah noo we not dating, she's just no my type."Replied Jonathan.
"She's not your what!? Oh I totally get this usually when some-
one especially a male says something like 'not my type'.It simply
means one of 2 situations occured. Firstly its either the girl turned
you down or secondly its either the tips I gave you didn't work
out...Uhmm no they usually work it simply means you didn't use
them properly? Am I lying?" Nicole asked.
"Hahhhaha come on Nic, its not like that. None of those hap-
pened to me." affirmed Jonathan.
{Nicole gave the guy the "be honest with me look".}
59

"What with the look? Ohk fine. I don't want that chick to be my
girlfriend, I want it to be casual thing."Affirmed Jonathan.
"Wow really? I'm impressed." Replied Nicole.
"You are one luckier person ever my friend because today I'm
gonna tell you how to not make a girl your girlfriend."Nicole con-
tinued.
"Hahhhahha come on dude; there's no such...do they ever work
though?"Jonathan denied and asked Nicole.
"Hahha my friend the question you must asked yourself is 'do
they ever not work?'. "Nicole replied with a big laughter.
{They both laughed...while they were laughing Joseph arrived.}
"Hey guys."Greeted Joseph
"Hey bro" replied Jonathan and Nicole simultaneously.
"What you guys up too?" Joseph asked.
"Good thing you are here I was about to tell our friend here how
to not make a girl your girlfriend." Explained Nicole
"Oh thats sound fascinating."Jonathan nodded.
"Yeap so lets do this." Replied Jonathan enthusiastically.
How do you keep a girl from being your girlfriend.
• Rule number 1.
Never get them wet-meaning don't let her shower at your place.
• Rule number 2
Keep them away from sunlight: Don't ever see them during the
day.
• Rule number 3.
Never feed them after midnight: Meaning she doesn't sleep over
and you don't have breakfast with her ever.
"Boys is as simple as that." Nicole concluded.
{Jonathan and Joseph laughed miraculously.}
"Boys come on this is serious don't laugh." Emphasized Nicole.
"The thing is I think I did all of the above things with that mistery
chick Nic!" Jonathan informed.
"Eh What? That means she's officially your girlfriend bro." Nicole
responded.
While Joseph was with them, they noticed that he was not him-
self and they asked him what was going on.
“Zikhiphani mfwethu?” asked Jon.

“Ah bra it’s nothing, just have a lot on my mind.” said Joseph.
“I know, its Portia isn’t it!!” said Nic loudly.
“Why do u have to say that out loud bra? And how did you know
that it’s her? Replied Joseph surprisingly.
“I just knew from that look on your face that it’s a girl.” Said Nic.
Then Joseph decided to tell them about the incident of what had
happed with Portia. They all looked astonished with their mouths
open wide.
“ I thought that was innocent and was inlove with you Jose! Said
Jon.
“I guess she saw me as “ just a friend” imagine a friend dawg!!”
said Jose.
“Well I was surprised that how come a girl that hot and ravishing
have no boyfriend.” Said Nick.
“Bro you are seriously not helping, you only just making things
worse.” Said Jon.
"Agh its fine Johnno, it may be that im still heartbroken but there
is nothing I can do Portia herself did not have the guts to tell me
about her stupid boyfriend, she just decided to make me a fool in
front of that dude." said Joseph.
They always say boys are like onions once you keep peeling
them, they will make you cry. Well in this instance it was quite
the opposite. Jose just couldn’t handle it anymore. He woke up
thinking and reliving that moment when he saw Portia’s boyfriend.
Sometimes he didn’t even get out of his room, staying inside even
on weekends, but when it was sunday the poor guy would wake
up and dress up in his Sunday attire and put on a fine and act like
everything was just fine. He knew eventually that he would have to
bump into Portia but he always ignored her even when portia tried
by all means to talk with him, he didn’t even care.
It was conspicuous to Joseph that he was really loved, though
overlooked. He realised that Portia was starting to bring herself to
him. It is universally known that it feels so good when someone
who once let you down starts to chase after you. That’s what
Joseph was doing; neglecting Portia’s every kind of way of trying
to fix the incompatibility she had with the lad.
The world, for Portia, was really starting to invert; not anything
seemed to turn out quite well. What was funny was the mere
fact that Portia, who used to reiterate the words that Joseph was
young, seemed to have forgotten that the boy was truly young.
Retreat 61

She felt that without Joseph around her, she is not really a thing.
She felt that she needed Joseph to give her the chance to make
things right betwixt the two of them; she pledged to herself that
she would love him in that age of miracles, meaning an old female
devoting to a younger lad. She believed Joseph made her feel that
they could go far beyond the measurable distance.
That is how life is and will always be that you may feel this way
about someone who feels the totally different way about you, and
eventually feels the way you used to feel about her. Did Joseph
use to feel that way or still does feel the way he always felt about
Portia? When someone rejects or ignores your phone calls then
it brings a completely different message that things are not the
same anymore. Humans’ way of thinking evolves, so does the feel-
ings neglected.
Did Portia know what she was dragging herself all along into by
fooling around with Joseph’s way of feeling? Did she not thinking
the moment of sadness would come into her life when she was im-
plored like a queen? She apparently didn’t know. She was led by
what leads Joseph now; ignorance.
“I’m now on top of the game,” the chap would think, beaming.
That’s surprisingly what Portia usually did. She thought she was on
top of the world, forgetting that the earth rotates. The earth in-
deed rotated and she found herself hanging below the earth, and
Joseph standing right on top of it.
“Joseph, you are now being favoured by nature,” his friends
would extol him. He delighted in every praise he received from his
friends, forgetting that by the wings of time feelings fly away.
The little did Joseph know that he was dragged right inside a
friend zone. It is hardly noticed by the guys who are inlove with a
specific girl.

14
Portia's Boyfriend warns
Joseph's valiant
On a Monday afternoon Joseph decided to go to the
store. His parents always left him some money for
bread, which he sometimes did not use. Instead of buy-
ing bread, he would just eat food that was left previous
night. He mostly spent the money on airtime as he was
keen on the the social networks.
That afternoon he went out, heading for the store at which
there were boys who used to gamble. Soon as he got there, he
bought his airtime and recharged his cellphone right there.
He was about to leave the store when he heard an unfriendly
voice calling to him from the midst of the gamblers who hur-
dled around the dice board. "Small! wait for me. I wanna have a
word with you." When he turned around to look who he was talk-
ing to, he realised it was Portia's boyfriend. He trembled with fear,
but feigning bravery. Joseph did not know Portia's boyfriend's
name at first. But as he surveyed the gamblers, he realised that
they call him Donald. That's when he knew his name. What scared
Joseph more while he was waiting for Donald was that Donald was
losing. Joseph did not realised that because he knew how to play
the game, but because he heard the comments and conversations
that from time to time emerged from the gathered gamblers.
"Donny, you're delaying that guy." said the fellow gambler.
Joseph did not know what awaited him. The ambivalence he had
about Donald was immense. Donald stood out of the crowd and
approached Joseph.
63

"Small, did you look at yourself? You're still young. Very young,
but your deeds exceed your age. What I want from you is simple. I
want you to get off Portia's back. I don't want to hurt you. I believe
this man-to-man conversation will not be overlooked. I don't want
to afflict you over a girl. Did I make myself clear" Donald asked
Joseph angrily.
"Yes. Crystal clear.Even at church I do not talk to her recently."
said Joseph with great fear.
"Let me leave you in peace. Bear this in your mind that next time
I'm not going to leave you in peace but in pieces. "said Donald with
a friendly tone.
Joseph's Monday was utterly ruined. He lost interest in every-
thing. He was downhearted by the winds he heard from Donald.
On that same Monday evening Joseph was fed up about this
whole Portia thing. He only wanted to just move on with his life
and start focusing on his winter exams and to put more effort
in his Mathematics subject as it was one of his 9th grade weak-
nesses. "They say time heals all wounds what they forget to add is
that it leaves some nasty scars behind and those nasty scars are
sometimes painful reminders of the past." Joseph speaking with his
thoughts.
That night he remained indoors busy with his Mathematics
studies. He chose to forget a bit about what I can call "her obses-
sion, mysterious girlfriend". "Sometimes we give ourselves unnec-
essary stress." thought Joseph. "I'm only 15 all I have to do is to fo-
cus on my books and get excellent results that will lead me to my
favourite high school, the following year." he continued.
It was a week before the world cup tournament to begin. Their
schools were closing on Friday the 4th of June 2010 which was a
bit earlier than usual due to that tournament. As Joseph was busy
preparing for his Mathematics exam, he got a text from Nicole
asking him to come and chill. The boy texted him back telling him
that he won't be able to hangout until Friday. Nicole was lonely
that week because both Jonathan and Joseph were otherwise en-
gaged with their winter exams.
Portia called Jonathan and ask him to meet at a tuck-shop to ask
him about certain things that were urgent. Jonathan was very oc-
cupied with his Matric exams preparations but when a girl of Por-
tia's caliber calls any boy they run sans hesitation.
{Jonathan arrived at the tuck-shop}

"OK! Jon let me not waste your precious time and get to it right-
away. I want you to convince your 'little' friend to return my calls."
said Portia in a disrespectful manner.
"OK wait! That's an insult. Why the 'heck' would you call him my
'little friend'? And worse after what you have put him through you
still insult him?" replied Jonathan.
"I'm not insulting him, I'm just being honest. The boy is younger
than me. You should be the one who is chasing me not him." af-
firmed Portia. "Anyway can you kindly convince him to answer or
to return my calls because I really want to explain everything to
him and make him understand why I did what I did." she contin-
ued.
"OK! First of all no matter how young the boy may be. We both
know that you're in-love with him. Secondly I will try my best to
talk to him but I can't promise you anything." affirmed Jonathan.
"OK! Thanks alot for trying. And please don't tell him about the
insults." she nodded.
"Don't worry. I got this" confirmed Jonathan.
The Friday night arrived marking it the first night after the clos-
ing of the schools and seven days before the World cup tour-
nament begins. The boys were gathered around at their usual
sports-bar. Nicole was ecstatic because it has been a week without
seeing his favourite boys.
"Hey boys what up? How's everything? How did y'all write your
exams?" Nicole asked the boys.
"Ahh mine were good I guess but you know how the results
are, They always turnout different from how you feel." muttered
Jonathan.
"Oh that's great, I guess hoping for the best it is, what about you
Jose?"Nicole continued.
"Hahha! You know my rule Nic. You know how I operate. I don't
talk until I get my results. That's helps me alot from not having
any expectations." emphasized Joseph.
Jonathan knew he had to tell Joseph about the favour that Portia
asked him to do. But the boy didn't want to affront his beloved
friend. That night everyone was talking about the upcoming World
cup. The expectations and predictions they had for the tourna-
ment were shared by the assembled boys and some drunkards.
Out of a sudden Portia and Donald showed up at the sports-
bar. Donald bought himself a quart bottle of Hansa Pilsener and
Portia's Boyfriend warns Joseph's valiant 65

bought Portia a 440ml can of Sprite. Jonathan and Nicole saw
them with a blink of an eye because both were facing at the bar-
tender and Joseph was facing them making it hard for him to no-
tice.
"Oh my God!" nodded Jonathan.
"Whaat?" asked Joseph shockingly.
"You really don't wanna see what is happening behind your
back." suggested Nicole.
"What the heck is happening behind my back?" asked Joseph.
"Nothing buddy. Nothing is happening." muttered Joseph.
{Joseph decided to turnaround}
"Nooooooo!"yelled both Nic and Jon trying to stop Joseph from
turning around.
When Joseph turns around he noticed something strange and
not comfortable for him. It was Portia and Donald kissing.

15
The Leap
"That's one small step for man, one giant leap for
mankind." Neil Armstrong
If you love something but you reach a point whereby you have to
let it go, let it go and If it was meant to be it will eventually come
back peacefully. Things can fall apart or threaten to, for many rea-
sons and then there's got to be a leap of faith. Ultimately when
you're at the edge you have to go forward or backward, if you
choose forward then you have to go all out.
This is the story of Joseph Graffanelo deciding to take the leap
of faith from his relationship with Portia. The story begins from
the sports-bar where Joseph and his friends notice Portia kissing
his then secret boyfriend Donald.
"Oh God! Wait a second. Is that Portia?" asked Jonathan sur-
prised.
"Yeah bro what do you expect? I respect that Donald guy. I can't
believe that he is the one who is banging that pulchritudinous
chick." embraced Nicole.
"I though Portia had much of a self-respect. I always thought she
was this girl with great morals. I guess it is nothing but the truth
when they say you can't know each and every trait of a human-
being." muttered Joseph
"It can take you years to build trust and respect but only a
minute to break them. And in this instance my respect for Portia is
broken." adds Jonathan.
"Hey morons stop acting like dushbags. There's nothing wrong
when it comes to kissing with your partner publicly. As long as
67

they love each other, then what's the to fuss about?" asked Nicole
rhetorically.
"It's easy to just open your mouth and say stuff like that because
you clearly don't know how I feel right now." Joseph muttered.
"Yes. Only the pot knows how hot the fire is." adds Jonathan.
"The thing about you boys, is that you lack knowledge when it
coming to love." replied Nicole.
"OK! Dr Nic what is love? Explain it to me." Joseph yelled. "Yep
let him explain to us since he acts like a master in this." Jonathan
continued.
"Glad you asked." affirmed Nicole. "I'm gonna quote it from one
of my favourite dating coaches 'Marius Panzarella' from his 2007
Smart dating course. The different kinds of love." he informed
them
The different kinds of Love.
• Non love: This is when you feel nothing for a person at all. You
don't even want to be their friend.
• Liking: This when you feel attracted to a person, but not
enough to act upon it.
• Infatuated Love: This is when you have a huge crush on some-
one but don't even know much about other person at all.
• Empty Love: Couples that do not love each other but stay to-
gether nevertheless due to financial, religious or family rea-
sons.
• Romantic Love: Think love affairs. Two people have passion
and interests in each other, but not commitment. They are on
the game to play not to commit.
• Companion-ate Love: Companion-ate love is a kind of love
that entails both intimacy and commitment but no passion.
Think the married couple who have lost their sex drive.
• Fatuous Love: A kind of love marked by complacency in the
relationship that entails passion and commitment but no inti-
macy.
• Consummate Love: True love. It entails all. I mean passion,
commitment and intimacy. This kind of love is rare.

" So I want you Jonathan to choose one from this types of
love and match it to that Joseph have for Portia." Nic informed
Jonathan. "Hmm...Honestly my friend. Your love for Portia ac-
cording to Nic's list is the Infatuated Love. You had a huge crush
for that girl but you didn't know much about her." Jonathan ex-
plained to Joseph pointing at Portia who was chilling with his
boyfriend at the other side of the sports-bar. "I guess its true
guys. I was infatuated by her without even learning about her
character first. But why would he choose that gambler though? I
guess it is because of the age gap." Joseph muttered. "Wrooooong.
Wrong! It is not the age my guy. I told you from the beginning
that the only thing that really matters is attraction. Attraction cuts
through everything no matter what age. Portia is attracted to that
due bro. Attraction is indeed fickle." emphasized Nic. "What do I
have to do now, go and confront her right now? In front of that
looser!" Joseph asked.
"No you really don't have to do that now, maybe tomorrow when
she is alone." advised Jonathan.
After that Friday night Joseph was at peace with his situation
about Portia. He learnt one important lesson from Nicole that it is
not about the age gap but attraction. Another thing thing it is not
how you love her that counts but how much she likes you.
The days went by. The nights came and go. The preparations
were exquisite, the African people were ecstatic about the event.
Entrepreneurs were happy about the tournament. That year was
the great financial year for the Department of tourism. Each and
every tourist was keen to meet the late Iconic Nelson Mandela.
The father of the South African nation.
11/06/2010
The world cup commencement day arrived. The first game was
South Africa vs Mexico at Soccer City Stadium situated at Johan-
nesburg.Nicole that day decided to go and watch the game live at
the stadium, because he wanted to experience the opening cere-
mony and see the legendary R.Kelly performing with the Soweto
Spiritual Singers their song called The sign of a victory.
Early in the morning the choirmaster of the Genesis summoned
the members to inform them about the changes regarding their
practising schedule.
"Okay! Guys let me not waste your time and get to it, because I
know some of you are planning to go to the stadium. The reason
The Leap 69

I called you here is very simple and straightforward. There will be
no choir practises from today 11/06/2010 till 10/07/2010. I want
you guys to enjoy this national vacation and beside I also have
some family matters that needs to be solved during this vacation
period. To make myself clear. I didn't say there would'nt be any
church services. I only said there won't be choir practises. Please
don't switch my words guys. Thank you and take of yourselves,
Drive safely. Till we meet again on the 10th July 2010." the choir
master concluded.
The choir members were excited, the farewell hugs and kisses
were exchanged. Portia also asked Joseph to wait for him and fi-
nally Joseph agreed after such a long painful time.
"Okay Jose I would like us to make peace on this. What happened
has happened it's all in the past right now. We can't dwell in the
past while the present moment is here, what matters its now. For
the world cup spirit sake, let us make peace pretty please. I'm re-
ally sorry things didn't work out for us in terms of relationship av-
enue. But we can make it work by remaining as good friends. If you
don't mind of-course." asked Portia politely.
"I don't think so Portia...I think I will be fine without being
friends with you." confirmed Joseph
"Oh okay" she said, sobbing.
Joseph went home to watch the opening ceremony of the World
Cup and after an hour the first World Cup fixture began. After a
shaky first half dominated by Mexico, Siphiwe Tshabalala corraled
a long pass down the left side in the 55th minute and fired the ball
across the goalmouth over Mexican goalkeeper Oscar Perez and
into the far, top corner.
But Mexico pushed forward and tied the score in the 79th
minute when a cross-field pass fell to Rafael Marquez at the far
post. Marquez deadened the ball with his first touch and then lift-
ed it over the charging goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune.
That was when South Africa tied with Mexico. The next match
was on the 16th June 2010, it was the hosts vs Uruguay at Loftun
Versfeld Stadium situated at Pretor
The most awaited evening came 16th June 2010, when everyone,
the old and the young, was expecting to see the hosts of the 2010
Fifa World Cup perfoming. People in all the corners of South Africa
sat with their families with all their undivided attention fixed be-

AINBAN (2)

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (11)

Similar to AINBAN (2)

Similar to AINBAN (2) (14)

AINBAN (2)