Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga
The revellers at the joint moved freely between the counter and the hall, drawn to the vibrant stage where Chiedza and the City Combination Band performed. Conveniently located in the heart of Harare, the spot attracted patrons from all corners of the city. Taxis waited outside, ready to take people home.
Thursday marked the beginning of the weekend at the Joy by Joy Sports Bar And Night Club. Chiedza was one of the rising stars who alternated the stage with other prominent musicians. James and his friends had just finished a late-night work session, finalizing a tender submission due the next morning at 10 am. James, a young entrepreneur, had started his electrical company with his college mate, Blessing. After completing his apprenticeship, James had decided to form his electrical installations company. The two friends had met while James was enrolled as an apprentice with the Municipality of Harare.
To unwind, James and his friends decided to grab some drinks and enjoy the music. As James stepped away from the bar counter, his eyes locked onto the stage, where Chiedza was performing the popular song “Ruva Rangu.” Their eyes met, and Chiedza flashed James a smile as she continued singing. James was captivated by her African print dress, which accentuated her bright yellow skin.
Despite needing to be at work early the next morning to ensure his team submitted their tender bid, James found himself stuck to his stool, mesmerized by Chiedza’s performance. He couldn’t resist checking out her Facebook and Instagram profiles. Impressed by her background – she had completed her A-Levels but pursued music instead – James felt drawn to her passion and talent.
Chiedza’s music was characterized by her ability to cover other musicians’ songs flawlessly. James recorded videos of her performance and shared them on her Facebook profile, subtly declaring his presence. His posts spoke volumes about his intentions, even before the show ended.
James didn't linger to see Chiedza again, his design for their encounter already taking shape. He bid farewell to his partner and friends, and they each drove off into the night. James headed home to Warren Park, where he lived with his father's family. The 10-minute drive from the city center flew by, with the melody of "Ruva Rangu" still echoing in his mind, even as Winky D's latest release, "Pese Pese," played on the radio.
As a young entrepreneur, James had stabilized his income, but he remained cautious with his finances. He saw no need to move out of his family's house, fearing loneliness. The comfort of familiar surroundings suited him just fine.
The next morning arrived, and James was ready to submit his tender bid. Time flew when he had a goal in sight. He arrived early at his office, a converted old townhouse with a spacious front yard adorned with flowers and a neatly manicured lawn. The ambiance reflected the vibrant spirit of young entrepreneurs.
After successfully submitting the tender bid, James felt a sense of relief wash over him. He took a moment to reflect in the quiet of his office. Curiosity got the better of him, and he checked his Facebook account. Chiedza had requested friendship and commented on one of his posts. The silent connection between them energized James, prompting him to send Chiedza a message.
Without hesitation, James left a message with his phone number, expressing his willingness to discuss her music. The wheels were in motion, and James eagerly awaited Chiedza's response.
Continued
As James sat at his office, he couldn't shake off the feeling that he had found someone special in Chiedza. But, he knew that convincing his family wouldn't be easy, given the societal perception of musicians as being "loose."
The day progressed with the usual hustle and bustle of customers inquiring about prices and installations. Around lunchtime, James' administrator announced that their WiFi bundles had depleted. James realized he hadn't checked his mail or Facebook since sending Chiedza a message.
Chiedza's image suddenly popped into his mind, and he felt an overwhelming urge to check his messages. He clicked on his Facebook page and was bombarded with notifications and messages. As he scrolled through, he prioritized the important ones.
Coincidentally, Chiedza had just finished freshening up after the previous night's show and was scrolling through her messages. Both James and Chiedza noticed they were online at the same time, and the anticipation was palpable.
To Be Continued...
Stay tuned for the next part of the story!
- Will James and Chiedza’s connection blossom into something more?
- What secrets lie behind Chiedza’s captivating voice?
- How will James balance his entrepreneurial ambitions with his growing feelings for Chiedza?
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