Bare Skin

The first rays of dawn filtered through the curtains of Thandi’s bedroom, casting a soft glow on the neatly arranged space. The alarm clock buzzed gently, stirring her from sleep. Thandi stretched and sat up, taking a moment to gather her thoughts before swinging her legs over the side of the bed. Her morning routine was a well-rehearsed dance, each step performed with precision and care.

She padded to the bathroom, the cool tiles a sharp contrast to the warmth of her bed. The mirror greeted her with a familiar reflection, one she had come to know intimately. She reached for her makeup bag, a collection of carefully chosen products that lined the counter. She began with a light moisturizer, smoothing it over her skin in gentle, circular motions. Next came the foundation, applied with a practiced hand to even out her complexion.

As she worked, Thandi’s mind wandered to the day ahead. Meetings, presentations, and deadlines filled her schedule, each demanding her full attention. She added a touch of blush to her cheeks, a hint of colour that brought life to her face. Her eyes, framed by perfectly drawn eyeliner and mascara, sparkled with a confidence that belied the thoughts swirling beneath the surface.

With her makeup complete, she moved to her closet, selecting an outfit that exuded professionalism and style. She dressed quickly, the fabric of her blouse soft against her skin. A final glance in the mirror confirmed that she was ready to face the world.

She stepped out of her apartment building, the crisp morning air a refreshing contrast to the warmth inside. The streets of Lusaka were already bustling with activity, the city coming to life with the promise of a new day. She walked briskly to the nearby bus stop, her heels clicking rhythmically on the pavement.

The bus arrived promptly, and she boarded, finding a seat by the window. As the bus pulled away, she watched the familiar sights pass-by: street vendors setting up their stalls, children in school uniforms hurrying along the sidewalks, and the ever-present flow of traffic. The hum of the engine and the gentle sway of the bus provided a moment of calm before the day’s demands took over.

As she settled into her usual seat by the window, she noticed a familiar face across the aisle. It was Mr. Banda, a quirky older gentleman who had been riding the same bus for as long as she could remember. With his mismatched socks, colourful bow ties, and a penchant for striking up conversations with strangers, Mr. Banda was a well-known character among the regular commuters.

Today, he wore a bright yellow bow tie that clashed delightfully with his plaid shirt. He caught Thandi’s eye and gave her a cheerful wave. Unable to resist his infectious energy, Thandi smiled and waved back.

“Good morning, Thandi!” Mr. Banda called out, his voice carrying over the hum of the bus. “Another day, another adventure, eh?”

Thandi nodded, her smile polite but reserved.

“Good morning, Mr. Banda. Yes, another busy day ahead.”

 

Mr. Banda leaned forward, his eyes twinkling with curiosity.

“You know, I’ve been watching you for a while now. You always seem so put together, but there’s something in your eyes today. A little sadness, perhaps?”

Thandi’s smile faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered.

“Oh, it’s nothing, really. Just a lot on my mind.”

Mr. Banda wasn’t easily deterred.

“Sometimes, talking about it helps. You know, I once had a pet parrot who could sense when I was feeling down. He’d squawk until I told him what was bothering me. I’m not a parrot, but I’m a good listener.”

Thandi chuckled at the thought of Mr. Banda’s parrot, but she shook her head.

“Thank you, Mr. Banda, but I’m fine. Just the usual work stress.”

Mr. Banda nodded, though his eyes remained thoughtful.

“Well, if you ever need to talk, you know where to find me. Sometimes, sharing a burden makes it lighter.”

Thandi ignored the offer, pulled out her phone, scrolling through emails and checking her schedule. The morning sun cast a warm glow through the window, illuminating her face as she focused on her tasks. Occasionally, she glanced up, taking in the vibrant scenes outside. The city was a tapestry of colours and sounds, each moment a snapshot of daily life.

As the bus neared her stop, Thandi gathered her belongings, preparing to disembark. She stood up, giving Mr. Banda a grateful smile.

“I appreciate that, Mr. Banda. Have a great day.”

“You too, Thandi. Remember, even the strongest trees need a little support sometimes,” he called after her as she stepped off the bus and joined the stream of commuters heading towards the office buildings. The energy of the city was palpable, a blend of anticipation and routine.

Thandi’s office was a short walk from the bus stop, nestled in a modern high-rise. She entered the building, greeted by the familiar faces of her colleagues. The lobby buzzed with activity, a microcosm of the city’s larger rhythm. She took the elevator to her floor, the quiet hum of the machinery a prelude to the day’s work.

As she stepped into her office, she felt a sense of readiness. The commute had given her time to transition from the quiet of her home to the dynamic environment of her workplace. She was prepared to tackle the challenges ahead, her mind focused and clear. But as she settled, she couldn’t help but think about Mr. Banda’s words. There was warmth in his concern that touched her. However, a series of well-orchestrated events scheduled for the day, quickly refocused her mind again.

Her office was a sanctuary of modern design and efficiency, perched high above the bustling streets of Lusaka. The wide window that dominated one wall offered a panoramic view of the city, its skyline a mixture of contemporary high-rises and historic buildings. The morning sun streamed through the glass, casting a warm, golden light across the room.

Her desk was positioned to take full advantage of the view, allowing her to glance up from her work and feel a momentary escape from the pressures of her job. The desk itself was a model of organization, with neatly stacked files, a sleek laptop, and a few personal touches - a framed photo of her family, a small potted plant, and a motivational quote that read, “Believe in yourself.”

The walls were adorned with a few pieces of abstract art, their vibrant colours adding a touch of creativity to the professional space. Shelves lined one side of the room, filled with industry journals, reference books, and awards that testified to Thandi’s hard work and dedication.

The office was quiet, save for the occasional hum of the air conditioning and the distant sounds of the city below. It was a place where she could focus, her thoughts clear and her mind sharp. The view from the window was a constant backdrop to her daily routine, a silent witness to her journey of self-discovery and growth. Yet, despite the calm and order of her surroundings, there was an undercurrent of tension that she couldn’t quite understand.

Then a call came in. It was Mr Moonga her boss. The meeting was called up earlier than scheduled.

Thandi sat at the head of the conference table, her laptop open and a stack of reports neatly arranged beside her. The room was filled with her team members, all waiting for the meeting to begin. At the far end of the table sat Mr. Moonga, her boss, a man known for his keen eye for detail and high expectations. She took charge with her usual poise, outlining the agenda, her voice clear and confident.

“Today, we’ll be discussing the progress of our latest marketing campaign and reviewing the performance metrics from last quarter.”

She navigated through the presentation with ease, her slides filled with data and insights. Her ability to analyse complex information and distil it into actionable strategies was one of her greatest strengths. She highlighted key trends, identified areas for improvement, and proposed innovative solutions to enhance their outreach.

Mr. Moonga listened intently, occasionally nodding in approval.

“Your analysis of the market segmentation is impressive. Can you elaborate on how we can leverage these insights to target our next campaign more effectively?” he asked.

Thandi smiled, prepared for the question.

“Certainly, Mr. Moonga. Based on our data, we’ve identified three primary demographics that show the highest engagement with our brand. By tailoring our messaging to address the specific needs and preferences of each group, we can increase our conversion rates significantly.”

She proceeded to outline a detailed plan, complete with projected outcomes and potential challenges. Her thoroughness and foresight were evident in every aspect of her proposal. The team members exchanged glances, clearly impressed by her meticulous preparation and strategic thinking.

 

As the discussion continued, Thandi’s ability to field questions and provide insightful answers further demonstrated her expertise. She was not only knowledgeable but also adaptable, ready to pivot and refine her strategies based on feedback.

Mr. Moonga leaned back in his chair, a look of satisfaction on his face.

“Excellent work, Thandi. Your dedication and hard work are evident in every detail. I have no doubt that with your leadership, this campaign will be a great success.”

 “Thank you, Mr. Moonga. I appreciate your support and the team’s efforts. Together, we’ll make this campaign our best yet,” she said with a surge of pride at his words, yet still maintaining her composed demeanour.

The meeting concluded with a round of applause, a testament to Thandi’s leadership and the respect she commanded from her colleagues. As she gathered her materials, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Her intelligence and hard work had once again proven their worth, driving the team towards success.

Meetings were a stage where she shone brightest. She presented her ideas with clarity and conviction, her voice steady and assured. Her colleagues admired her poise, often seeking her advice and guidance. Yet, amidst the accolades and achievements, Mr Banda’s quiet whisper remained in her mind.

*

That afternoon the sun cast a warm glow over the office as Thandi’s team gathered in the break room for a casual drink-up Mr Moonga organized. It was a chance for everyone to unwind and celebrate the successful completion of their latest project. The room buzzed with laughter and conversation, the clinking of glasses adding to the festive atmosphere.

Thandi stood by the wide window, her gaze fixed on the cityscape below. The view that usually brought her a sense of calm now felt distant and unreachable. She held a glass of sparkling water, her fingers tracing the rim absentmindedly. Despite the cheerful environment, a familiar sense of insecurity gnawed at her.

She watched her colleagues mingling effortlessly, their laughter ringing out in the room. They seemed so at ease, their interactions natural and unforced. She couldn’t help but feel like an outsider, her polished exterior masking the turmoil within. She had always relied on her intelligence and hard work to navigate her professional life, but social situations like this left her feeling exposed and vulnerable.

As she stood there, lost in her thoughts, a voice broke through her reverie.

“Hey, Thandi. Everything okay?”

She turned to see Muchende, her kind and perceptive colleague, standing beside her. His expression was one of genuine concern. Thandi forced a smile, hoping to deflect his attention.

“Oh, hi Muchende. I’m fine, just enjoying the view.”

Muchende wasn’t convinced.

“You seem a bit distant. Is something bothering you?”

Thandi hesitated, her instinct to maintain her composed facade battling with the urge to confide in someone. She took a sip of her drink, buying herself a moment to gather her thoughts.

“It’s nothing, really. Just a lot on my mind.”

Muchende nodded, his eyes never leaving hers.

“You know, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes. We all do. If you ever need to talk, I’m here.”

Thandi felt a lump form in her throat. Muchende’s kindness was a stark contrast to the self-doubt that plagued her. She wanted to open up, to share something that had been building inside her, but the fear of being seen as weak held her back.

“Thanks, Muchende. I appreciate it.”

Muchende walked away to join the others. Thandi turned back to the window. The city below seemed to blur as tears welled up in her eyes. She took a deep breath, willing herself to stay composed. The mask she wore felt heavier than ever, but Muchende’s words lingered in her mind. Maybe, just maybe, it was time to start letting it slip.

*

As the workday ended, Thandi felt a mixture of exhaustion and relief. She gathered her belongings and made her way to the bus stop, the evening air cool against her skin. The bus arrived, and she boarded, finding her usual seat by the window. The familiar hum of the engine and the gentle sway of the bus provided a momentary respite from the day’s events.

A few stops later, Mr. Banda climbed aboard, his bright orange bow tie standing out against his navy-blue jacket. He spotted Thandi and made his way over, his face lighting up with a warm smile.

 “Good evening, Thandi! Mind if I join you?”

Thandi returned his smile, grateful for his cheerful presence.

“Of course, Mr. Banda. Please, have a seat.”

Mr. Banda settled into the seat beside her, his eyes twinkling with curiosity.

“How was your day, my dear? You look like you could use a good chat.”

Thandi sighed. She hesitated for a moment, then decided to take a leap of faith.

“It was… challenging. I had a work event this afternoon, and I just felt so out of place.”

Mr. Banda nodded, his expression encouraging her to continue.

“Sometimes those social gatherings can be tough. What made you feel out of place?”

Thandi took a deep breath, her fingers fidgeting with the strap of her bag.

“I don’t know, Mr. Banda. I just… I see my colleagues, so confident and at ease, and I can’t help but feel like I’m not good enough. Like I’m hiding behind this mask of makeup and professionalism, but inside, I’m full of doubts.”

Mr. Banda listened intently, his gaze never wavering.

“Thandi, it’s perfectly normal to have doubts. We all wear masks in some way, trying to present our best selves to the world. But it’s important to remember that you are more than just your appearance or your achievements.”

Thandi felt a lump in her throat, her eyes welling up with tears.

“I know, but it’s hard. I feel like if I let my guard down, people will see how insecure I really am.”

Mr. Banda reached out and gently patted her hand.

“Thandi, vulnerability is not a weakness. It’s a strength. It takes courage to be honest about your feelings. And those who truly care about you will appreciate your authenticity.”

Thandi wiped away a tear, feeling a sense of relief wash over her.

“Thank you, Mr. Banda. I guess I just needed to hear that.”

Mr. Banda smiled warmly.

 “Anytime, Thandi. Remember, you are a remarkable young woman, and you have so much to offer. Don’t let your insecurities hold you back. Embrace who you are, flaws and all.”

As the bus neared her stop, Thandi felt a newfound sense of clarity. She stood up, giving Mr. Banda a heartfelt smile.

She stepped off the bus, her heart lighter than it had been in a long time. Her childhood was a tapestry of vibrant memories, woven with the threads of love, laughter, and resilience. She grew up in a close-knit family in a small town on the outskirts of Lusaka. Her parents, hardworking and devoted, instilled in her the values of perseverance and kindness from a young age.

As a child, Thandi was curious and imaginative, always eager to explore the world around her. She spent countless hours playing in the fields near her home, her imagination transforming the tall grasses into enchanted forests and the clear streams into magical rivers. Her younger brother, Kato, was her constant companion, and together they embarked on countless adventures, their laughter echoing through the countryside.

Her mother, a schoolteacher, nurtured her love for learning. She would often find her curled up with a book, lost in the pages of far-off lands and fantastical tales. Her father, a skilled carpenter, taught her the importance of craftsmanship and attention to detail. He would let her help in his workshop, showing her how to shape wood into beautiful creations.

School was a place where her intelligence and determination shone brightly. She excelled in her studies, always eager to absorb new knowledge. Her teachers recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue her dreams. Despite the challenges that came with growing up in a modest household, her parents ensured that she had every opportunity to succeed.

However, the loss of her grandmother, who had been a guiding light in her life, left a deep void. It was during this time that Thandi began to develop the emotional resilience that would later become a cornerstone of her character. She learned to mask her grief with a brave face, a skill that would follow her into adulthood.

Her university years were a transformative period. She attended the University of Zambia in Lusaka, a bustling campus that became her second home. The transition from her small town to the vibrant city was both exciting and daunting, but she was determined to make the most of this new chapter.

From the moment she set foot on campus, she was captivated by the energy and diversity around her. The university was a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and perspectives, and she eagerly immersed herself in this dynamic environment. She chose to major in Business Administration, a field that combined her analytical skills with her passion for leadership and innovation.

Her dedication to her studies was unwavering, and she quickly became known for her insightful contributions in class. She spent long hours in the library, poring over textbooks and research papers, always striving to deepen her understanding. Her professors recognized her potential and often sought her out for research projects and academic discussions.

Despite her rigorous academic schedule, she still made time for extracurricular activities. She joined the university’s debate team, where she honed her public speaking skills and learned to think on her feet. The thrill of crafting compelling arguments and engaging in intellectual sparring matches was exhilarating.

However, one night while in her second year, dramatically changed her life. It was during a night of the annual university gala, a highly anticipated event where students dressed in their finest attire to celebrate the achievements of the past year. She had been looking forward to the gala for weeks, excited to spend the evening with her friends and classmates.

She had chosen a beautiful dress for the occasion, a deep blue gown that complemented her complexion. As she stood in front of the mirror, she decided to go for a more natural look with her makeup, wanting to highlight her features without overdoing it. She felt confident and ready to enjoy the night.

The gala was held in a grand hall, adorned with twinkling lights and elegant decorations. She arrived with her friends, and they quickly joined the crowd of students mingling and dancing. The atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter and music.

As the evening progressed, Thandi found herself in a conversation with a group of students from her business class. Among them was a young man named Peter, known for his charm and charisma. She had always admired his confidence and ease in social situations. They chatted for a while, discussing their courses and future plans.

At one point, Peter’s friend, a girl named Linda, joined the conversation. Linda was effortlessly beautiful, with flawless skin and a radiant smile. She wore a striking red dress and had her makeup done to perfection. As she approached, Peter’s attention shifted noticeably towards her.

“Wow, Linda, you look amazing tonight,” Peter said, his eyes lighting up. “You always know how to make an entrance.”

Linda laughed, a melodic sound that seemed to captivate everyone around her.

“Thanks, Peter. You don’t look too bad yourself.”

Thandi felt a pang of insecurity as she watched the interaction. She had always prided herself on her intelligence and hard work, but in that moment, she felt overshadowed by Linda’s effortless charm and beauty. The conversation continued, but Thandi found herself retreating into her thoughts, her confidence waning.

Later that night, as she stood by the refreshment table, she overheard a group of students talking.

“Did you see Linda tonight? She’s stunning,” one of them said. “I wish I could pull off that look.”

Another student chimed in, “Yeah, she’s always so put together. Some people just have that natural charm.”

Thandi’s heart sank. She had always believed that her personality and achievements were enough, but the comments she heard that night made her question her own appeal. She felt plain and unremarkable in comparison to Linda and others who seemed to effortlessly draw attention.

From that night on, Thandi began to rely more heavily on makeup. She meticulously studied beauty tutorials, learning how to contour her face, apply eyeshadow, and perfect her look. Each morning, she spent extra time in front of the mirror, crafting a polished appearance that she hoped would make her feel more confident and charming.

While her new routine did boost her confidence, it also became a mask that hid her true self. Her reliance on makeup was a way to shield herself from the insecurities that had taken root that night at the gala.

*

Thandi arrived home, Mr Banda’s voice still vibrating in her ears, her mind swirling with thoughts and emotions. In the quiet sanctuary of her apartment, she allowed herself a rare moment of vulnerability. She carefully removed her makeup, each swipe of the cotton pad revealing the bare skin beneath. As she looked at her reflection in the mirror, she saw a different version of herself - softer, more introspective. She took a deep breath, feeling the tension begin to melt away from her shoulders. Tomorrow would bring its own set of challenges and opportunities, but for now, she embraced the stillness, finding comfort in the simplicity of her evening routine.

*

The next morning, Thandi woke up feeling refreshed, the early light filtering softly through her curtains. The air was crisp and cool, carrying the promise of a new beginning. She stretched languidly, savouring the rare sense of peace that enveloped her.

After a soothing shower, she stood in front of the mirror, her makeup bag untouched on the counter. The steam from the shower had fogged the glass slightly, creating a hazy frame around her reflection. She wiped it clear, revealing her face in its natural state. She gazed at her reflection, noticing the dark circles under her eyes and the natural curve of her lips. There was a raw honesty in what she saw, a beauty that came from authenticity rather than perfection.

She took a deep breath, feeling a lightness in her chest. She smiled, a genuine smile that reached her eyes and lit up her entire face. The mask she had worn for so long was gone, replaced by a sense of acceptance and self-love.

The day outside was bright and clear, the sky a brilliant blue. Birds chirped cheerfully, and the city buzzed with the energy of a new day. She felt a renewed sense of purpose as she dressed, choosing an outfit that made her feel comfortable and confident.

As she walked into her office that day, the usual hustle and bustle greeted her, but she felt different. She was still the creative, capable professional she had always been, but now she was also Thandi - a woman who embraced her imperfections and wore her heart on her sleeve. Each step she took was lighter, each interaction more genuine. She was ready to face whatever challenges came her way, knowing that she no longer needed to hide behind a mask of made up beauty.