THEFT OF HIS INNOCENCE (Title inspired by Jahaziel’s song “Theft of My Innocence”)

 PART 2 – THE COMPROMISE 

Instead of turning to his parents for guidance after the incident, Chipweteko sought refuge in the counsel of the family's housemaid, Anaphiri. Anaphiri, harboring a soft spot for the boy known for his mischief, reluctantly agreed to partake in his scheme. As dawn broke and they ventured to school, Chipweteko's heart was a drum of anxiety, beating loud with uncertainty about the unfolding day.

Upon their arrival, Anaphiri, cloaked in modesty and masquerading as Chipweteko's mother, convened with Mnthetsamwano. The headmistress, her gaze as stern as an eagle's and her voice carrying the weight of authority, initiated the meeting with a tone of disappointment,

"You have been summoned due to your child's misbehavior; this being his first transgression, I shall extend leniency."

Anaphiri, maintaining her composure, offered apologies on Chipweteko's behalf, ensuring Mnthetsamwano of his regret and promise to amend his ways. Remarkably, the headmistress failed to see through Anaphiri's disguise as the housemaid of Chipweteko’s family, and the meeting progressed.

"His deed warrants more than suspension; expulsion was on the table. Advise your child, lest his actions lead him down a path of ruin," she elucidated.

With a mere warning, Chipweteko was dismissed to return to his classroom, where his friends Ajako and Azawo awaited him, their anticipation hanging in the air like a thick fog. They were taken aback upon recognizing Anaphiri, not Chipweteko's true mother. Ajawo, with eyes as wide as saucers, marveled at the audacity of Chipweteko's plan. 

"How could you dare?" Azawo probed further, 

"What if the headmistress discovers her true identity?" 

Chipweteko, buoyed by the success of his ruse, assured them with a confidence that belied the gravity of the situation.

“The meeting is over and she did not realize, and here I am” Chipweteko responded with confidence in the success of his scheme.

The classroom, abuzz with whispers, was silenced by the Math teacher's authoritative command. The day resumed its usual rhythm, and upon. Chipweteko and his friends made their way home, their spirits lightened by the day's events. Azako diverted to a local video show seeking a brief escape in the release of the newest movie.

This act of deception, though seemingly successful, wove a tangled web around Chipweteko, a web that threatened to ensnare him with its looming consequences. Unbeknownst to him, his sister, also a learner at the school would soon become an unwitting participant in this intricate dance of deceit. Upon returning home, his sister's innocent inquiry about Anaphiri's presence at school sent a chill down his spine;

"I saw Anaphiri today at school leaving the headmistress's office. What was she doing there?" she asked curiously.

Anaphiri, caught in the crossfire of her own loyalty and fear, blurted out in panic, realizing the precariousness of their secret.

“Kodi ndiye kuti sindingabwele kusukulu kwanuko?” Anaphiri blurted out, concerned. 

She knew Dela, knew about her visit, the parents would eventually find out the reason behind it, jeopardizing her position as a maid. The secret had to remain between Anaphiri, Chipweteko, and Dela.

On one hand, Chipweteko feared the severe consequences he might face, including a beating from his father, a punishment unthinkable. Determined to keep the secret, he sought ways to prevent Dela from revealing anything to their parents.

“Iwe umafuna Anaphiri asabwele ku sukuluko?” He agreed with Anaphi

“School ndiyako chani?" Chipweteko retorted, hoping to deter his sister from pursuing the matter further, and it worked.

Dela, Chipweteko's younger sister, was not only beautiful and intelligent but also fiercely protective of her brother. Proud of him, she often boasted about him to her friends. Despite her admiration, she enjoyed challenging him and even took a peculiar satisfaction in seeing him disciplined for his mistakes, believing it would encourage him to improve and take responsibility. Her love was complex, marked by shared tears and empathy whenever Chipweteko faced punishment.

“Ndimangofunsa” She responded to the harsh talk of Chipweteko. But the story was far from over. 

To be continued...

Written by Oliver Kasito Jnr