Bab 15: 14
A FACE IN THE CROWD
14.
Katlego's goodnight kiss and hug lingered on my skin as I watched him drive away.
The morning sun peeked through my window, signaling a new day.
I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as I prepared for my apprenticeship.
The invitation, neatly printed on cream-colored paper, lay on my dresser:
"Meetsi Mokotso Studio
Bokamoso, Gaborone
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Apprenticeship Program"
I grabbed my bag, double-checking the contents:
Sketchbook, pencils, paints, and a portfolio of my work.
Outside, I hailed a cab and gave the driver the address.
"Bokamoso, please."
The driver nodded, expertly navigating Gaborone's morning traffic.
As we turned into Bokamoso, the scenery shifted.
Manicured lawns, sleek homes, and tree-lined streets unfolded before me.
The cab stopped in front of a stunning house.
A wooden sign bearing Meetsi Mokotso's logo hung above the entrance.
My heart skipped a beat.
This was it.
My apprenticeship began today.
I paid the driver and stepped out, taking a deep breath.
The morning air was crisp, filled with promise.
I walked up the path, my feet echoing on the stone pavement.
I walked into the elegant reception area, expecting warmth.
Instead, the white secretary's gaze made me feel like an unwanted guest.
"We don't do charity here," she said, her voice dripping with disdain.
I stood tall, my confidence unwavering.
"I know. I'm the new apprentice, Precious Lesedi Sechaba."
Her expression changed from disgust to surprise.
"Oh! You?" The rudeness was palpable.
"The apprenticeship is for artists with talent," she sneered.
I smiled politely, but firmly.
"With all due respect, I'm here for Meetsi Mokotso, not you, miss. If there's any need for an evaluation of my talent, he should do that himself."
Just then, the front door swung open, and Meetsi Mokotso appeared.
He was everything I'd imagined: handsome, charming, and captivating.
My cheeks flushed as our eyes met.
But he merely glanced at me and walked away, disappearing into a door labeled "Studio."
I was taken aback.
Should I follow or wait?
I hadn't even greeted him.
Rude, yes, but my mind was still on Katlego.
"Wait!" I called out, feeling embarrassed.
Meetsi paused and turned around.
"I'm sorry if I was rude," I apologized. "I'm Precious Lesedi Sechaba, your new apprentice. Sorry for the wrong first impression."
He nodded curtly.
"Okay."
But he didn't invite me in.
I stood there, confused.
The secretary snickered, clearly enjoying my discomfort.
Then, the studio door opened again.
Meetsi stared at me, an amused glint in his eye.
"Is that the studio you came for apprenticeship?"
I shook my head.
"No, sir."
He chuckled.
"Come inside."
I released the breath I'd been holding and followed him.
As I entered the studio, I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation.
.
.
.
Weeks passed, and I settled into my apprenticeship with Meetsi Mokotso.
His quiet nature and love for peaceful serenity created an ideal learning environment.
No prying questions, just observation and practice.
I'd watch him paint all day, then replicate his work when he left.
He'd mark my pieces, offering silent feedback.
Learning from him was a treasure.
His passion for painting people and animals fascinated me. He's a professional at life-like portraits and animal depictions.
Celebrities' portraits filled the studio, each one a masterpiece. It's a huge studio. More like an art exhibition center.
I dreamed of achieving similar success.
Meetsi's paintings sold for millions at art exhibitions.
Today, as I was painting his replica, Meetsi approached me.
"Have this," he said, handing me an invitation.
An art exhibition!
I was going with him!
"Thank you so much, sir! You don't know how important this means to me. I love it!"
I jumped up and down, barely containing my excitement.
Almost hugged him before remembering myself.
Meetsi left without a word, as usual.
I called Katlego, eager to share the news.
"Guess what, baby?" I asked, barely containing my excitement.
"You're ready to marry me?" Katlego teased.
I laughed.
"Silly boy, I'm going to an art exhibition with M.M!"
Katlego's tone turned serious.
"Really? When's that?"
"This Saturday."
Suddenly, I remembered our plans.
"Oh goodness, I totally forgot! We're meeting your family this Saturday too."
Katlego reassured me.
"It's a one-time opportunity. It's rare to come by. It's your time to shine. Utilize it, make connections, and become the next Meetsi Mokotso of our time."
Touched by his understanding, I apologized again.
"I'm so sorry, Kat. I know how important it is for you, for us."
Katlego's response warmed my heart.
"I'll tell the family something important came up. Go, make us proud."
With Katlego's blessing, I felt invigorated.
This art exhibition was more than just an event.
It was my chance to shine.
To make connections.
To become the artist I've always dreamed of being.
Friday evening, I packed up my things, ready to leave the studio.
Luciana, still icy, handed me a present bag.
"From Meetsi Mokotso," she said curtly.
I took the bag, curiosity piqued.
Inside, I found a stunning red mermaid dress, a pair of black stiletto heels, and a sleek black designer bag.
Perfectly tailored, the dress fit my measurements exactly.
A text from Meetsi read: "Send me your address; my driver will pick you up tomorrow."
I quickly sent him my address, excitement coursing through my veins.
Tshepo was online, and I couldn't wait to share the news.
"Tshepo! Guess what? Meetsi Mokotso sent me a gorgeous dress and accessories for the exhibition tomorrow!"
Tshepo's response was immediate.
"Wow, that's amazing! You deserve it."
I asked, curiosity getting the better of me.
"Tshepo, how do you know Meetsi Mokotso?"
His response revealed a surprising connection.
"He's my childhood homie."
I did the math.
Meetsi Mokotso was in his early thirties.
Tshepo must be older.
Our conversation flowed easily.
Tshepo shared stories of their childhood adventures.
Meetsi's rise to fame.
Their enduring friendship.
As we chatted, Katlego called.
"Hey, baby! How's it going?"
I filled him in on the dress and Tshepo's connection to Meetsi.
Katlego chuckled.
"Seems like he's your crush. He's all you talk about these days." He's definitely jealous. I know Katlego's moods already.
I smiled, feeling grateful. Grateful that someone sees me beautiful. Beautiful enough to be jealous and scared that someone else will snatch me away from his hands.
Me: Are you jealous?
Katlego: me jealous? I'm not!
He's lying. Katlego is not a good liar. When he lies, he's loud.
Me: you shouldn't be, I'm all yours.
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
stone