Chapter 18: 17
A FACE IN THE CROWD
17.
I trudged back to my room, surrounded by chaos.
The knock at the front door was a welcome distraction.
Katlego's voice echoed through the hallway.
"Baby, I'm here."
He let himself in, concern etched on his face.
Upon seeing the mess, his expression turned to shock.
"What happened, Presh?" he asked, rushing to my side.
I collapsed into his arms, tears flowing freely.
"My sister... she did this."
Katlego held me close, letting me cry.
After a while, he gently lifted my chin.
"Crying won't solve your problem, my love."
"Let's go get another dress. The driver will arrive soon."
I sniffled, feeling defeated.
"I don't want to go anymore."
Katlego's smile was reassuring.
"You know that's a lie."
He helped me up, leading me outside.
We headed to the mall, despite my reservations.
In a store, I found a stunning red dress.
Mermaid-style, just like my ruined one.
Katlego's eyes sparkled as I emerged from the dressing room.
"Beautiful," he whispered.
The price tag made me hesitate.
But Katlego handed over his card without flinching.
"I'm helping my future wife," he said, smiling.
I insisted on paying him back.
But he refused.
We arrived back home at 5:45 pm.
As I dressed and applied makeup, Katlego's impatience grew.
"Can I see it already? I'm dying to see it, please!"
I chuckled, admiring my reflection.
A little makeup enhanced my natural glow.
I took a deep breath, ready to face the evening.
"Coming!" I called out, smiling.
Katlego's eager face appeared at the doorway.
His eyes widened, drinking in my transformed look.
"Wow, Presh... you're breathtaking."
My heart skipped a beat.
This man, always making me feel loved and cherished.
"Thank you," I whispered, taking his hand.
Together, we headed out to the gate.
Kat: The driver is here. Don't let anything ruin your night, my African queen.
I blush. My man is good with words.
.
.
.
As we stepped into the car park, Meetsi Mokotso awaited us, resplendent in his tuxedo and red tie.
"Ah, Precious, you're a vision," he said, his eyes sparkling.
The red gown Katlego chose complemented Meetsi's attire perfectly.
We looked like a celebrity couple, turning heads.
Meetsi offered his hand, and I took it, feeling elegant.
The elevator whisked us to the grand hall.
Soft jazz melodies enveloped us.
Classy, sophisticated people mingled.
But I was captivated by the artwork.
Vibrant paintings, sculptures, and installations transformed the hall into a vibrant tapestry.
Meetsi introduced me to numerous guests.
I struggled to keep up with names.
Art enthusiasts, collectors, and socialites.
Champagne and hors d'oeuvres circulated.
Meetsi leaned in.
"I have a surprise for you, black beauty."
The term "black" initially made me pause.
But Meetsi's warm smile and genuine admiration put me at ease.
He led me to the "New Talent" gallery.
My jaw dropped.
A replica of Meetsi's piece, crafted by me,with my signature, hung on the wall.
People admired it.
But one lady's question caught my attention.
"Mr. Mokotso, is this one of your works?"
Meetsi beamed.
"No, my apprentice here created this. She's very talented."
Gasps and murmurs spread.
Prominent guests approached me.
Asking questions.
Requesting my contact information.
No business cards.
I shared my number.
Meetsi smiled.
"Precious, your piece has been sold for 1 million Botswana Pula."
I was stunned.
Meetsi explained.
"You own 70% of the sales price."
The amount.
700,000 BWP.
To be credited to me within 48 hours.
Overwhelmed.
I glanced at Katlego.
His proud smile.
Meetsi patted my back.
"You're a natural, Precious."
I felt it.
Validation.
Recognition.
My art.
My passion.
Respected.
Valued.
The evening unfolded like a dream.
Meetsi's guidance.
Katlego's support.
My art speaking for itself.
In this grand hall.
Among these sophisticated strangers.
I found my place.
My voice.
My art.
I couldn't stop thanking Meetsi on our way back, my heart overflowing with gratitude. As we parted ways, I rushed home, still on cloud nine. The moment I stepped inside, I dialed Katlego's number, eager to share every detail.
"Hey, baby! You won't believe what happened tonight!" I exclaimed.
Katlego listened attentively, his happiness radiating through the phone.
"Can I take you out tomorrow? Please!!!" I asked, barely containing my excitement.
Katlego chuckled.
"Who am I to say no to the richest lady in Gaborone tonight?" he teased.
I burst out laughing.
"Yes, that's me! I'm taking my man out tomorrow."
Katlego's tone softened.
"Can you call me that again? You've never called me an endearment before."
My heart skipped a beat.
"You're my man, my love, my darling, and my sweetest pie," I whispered.
Katlego's sigh was contented.
"Wow! I'm filled. No dinner tonight. No breakfast tomorrow either."
We shared a loud, joyful laugh.
After our conversation, I headed to my room, reminding myself to get a technician and new padlock tomorrow. The mess from earlier still lingered, but I'd tackle it in the morning.
For now, I dressed my bed, completed my night routine, and snuggled in, phone in hand. I chatted with Tshepo and "my man" – I'd updated Katlego's contact name.
Relieved to have the house to myself, I locked the front door, feeling safe and secure.
As I drifted off to sleep, a smile still plastered on my face, I knew tomorrow would bring new beginnings.
Tonight, I was fulfilled, happy, and loved.
.
.
A loud knock woke me up from my beauty sleep. It's past 7am on Sunday morning. Who's that?
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone