** ** Anna’s POV ** **
“Aside from the fact that I have a little headache, the church service was one of the best things I have experienced in life.” Megan confessed the moment we stepped into the lodge.
“Haha! I second that, it was a blast. Who knew African churches were such a vibe, I might just become religious if I stay here a few more weeks.” I laughed.
“Wouldn’t even blame you,” Megan said and giggled. “And your friend is really cool, you sure are the best judge of characters.” She praised me, and I blushed.
“You mean our friend, you seemed closer to her today than myself.” I joked.
“Chill, we can share.” She said in a pleading tone and I laughed. This new found friendship between Megan and I seemed to change the game, we were bonding like we have been pals since forever.
“Anyways, any update from Mr. Blackwood?” Megan queried.
I pressed my lips together and waved my head. “Unfortunately no, I tried reaching him while we were in the Uber this morning but he didn’t take my call and he didn’t call back. I guess he doesn’t want any interaction, or maybe he is busy with some other stuff.” I tried to convince her that everything was alright.
“Do you think he is mad at me?” Megan asked softly, fear and regret visible in her eyes.
“For what? Why would he be? He has no reason to be mad at you, regardless of his position as your Boss. Don’t tell me that you are worried about that.”
Megan gave a nervous smile and shook her head. “I can't help it, I have known Mr. Blackwood for two years now, he can be ruthless when he wishes to be.”
I scoffed and shook my head. “He can't do nothing, girl… It was all his fault to begin with. Forget about the big Boss, could you help me pull down my zipper?” I requested as I stood in front of the mirror, struggling with the gown.
“Sure.”
She walked up to me and gently began pulling down the zipper, I felt her fingers glide down my skin and my body reacted on its own, making us chuckle. Her touch was ticklish and I felt the hairs on my body standing.
“So… since there is no official assignment, I guess we have the evening to ourselves. What do you suggest?” Megan mentioned.
“Hmm,” I sighed and headed to the wardrobe. “I was already thinking about that, Ugochi mentioned that they were having a rooftop party tonight and it was open to all, so maybe we can go have fun. Who knows? Mr. Blackwood might also be there.”
“Oh I hope not,” Megan replied quickly, expressing her fear of meeting MB. I just don’t get why she is scared, he is the one who owes her an apology, or was there more to this than I have been told?
“So, you are coming?” I asked enthusiastically. I actually loved the idea of a party; we have been here for almost three days and no more fun experience just yet.
“Of course, count me in.” Megan didn’t hide her excitement either.
“Alright then, our lunch will be here soon. We can dress up for the party afterwards.”
** **
Megan and I got off the lift and onto the roof. As soon as I stepped outside, I felt a strong energy flowing through the air. My body felt the pulsing beat of Afrobeat music, which made my heart beat fast in expectation. The warm air of Botswana at night filled my lungs with the delicious smell of grilled meats and spices.
“Holy… Shit!” I muttered and we both froze as our eyes met the party.
“Seconded.” Megan said quickly and I chuckled.
What I saw was nothing short of beauty. With colorful lights, music, and movement, the rooftop held a stunning show. Under a sky full of stars, a lot of people danced and moved to the beat. I had never been in a room so filled with black people, I just felt lost at that moment. The people there were dressed in a wide range of colors, from traditional African clothes to more modern Western styles.
There were also a few white people in the party, I was starting to think we were the only whites here, I guess I was wrong.
We were both dressed to kill tonight. Megan’s glittery mini gown fit her like a second skin. Her long black hair fell over her shoulders and framed a face filled with excitement. I could guess what she felt at that moment, being amongst so many people with the same color of skin as herself.
I wore a black silk gown that flowed beautifully around my body and emphasized my curves without showing too much. I let my hair hang open and wavy, with a little necklace around my neck, complimenting the gown.
“What do you think?” I asked for confirmation.
Megan turned to me with a smirk. “About the party? Well, I have a feeling we are going to rock all night and go back with a hangover.” She laughed.
As we ventured further in, I came to the conclusion that this party was different from any I had been to in New York City, I was really excited for the experience. The crowd had a different energy and vibe.
Megan gave me a fun push, her eyes sparkling with joy. A sly grin spread across her face as she asked, "Ready to get down, girl?"
I quickly nodded, with my heart beating fast with excitement. “First, we need a drink and I happen to know a friend.” I smirked.
Megan and I laughed and immediately headed towards the bar area. I noticed Megan staring at the DJ as we walked past and I had a feeling she wouldn’t be sleeping in our room today.
** **
An hour into the party, I was starting to feel tipsy already. The alcohol here seems to be stronger than the one back in New York City and it didn’t take long before it hit me. Megan and I were giggling all night.
I suddenly paused as it felt like I had MB walk out of the party and back into the building. “Hey, give me a second.” I said quickly to Megan and began to walk away.
“Hey, where are you going?” the half-drunk Megan queried.
“I will be back!” I yelled through the noise and rushed into the room.
I could see the person’s back as he was about to enter the elevator. “Mr. Blackwood!” I called out loudly.
He paused and turned around, and the excitement on my face turned to disappointment. Okay, he was a white man quite alright, he just wasn’t Mr. Blackwood.
!