JOJOH

JOJOH❤️‍🩹1

"Am I that unattractive or what?" I asked my friends, Patricia and Ester.

"Why are you asking that?" Patricia responded.

"This is the problem with Tanzanians; you ask them a question, and they reply with another question instead of answering." I snapped at Patricia.

"Because we don't understand what you mean, Jojo."

"Anyway, here's the thing… Boss Grayson is still messing with my head. The more I try to move on, the more I fall for him."

"I already told you to bewitch him, but you're too stubborn… How long will you keep suffering? If you can't confess to him because he's your boss, use charms—he'll chase you instead," Ester suggested.

"Witchcraft is your problem. I can't do such nonsense," I dismissed her.

"Well, I have nothing else to advise if you think it's nonsense."

"Come on, Ester, let's be serious here. We need to help our friend; she can't handle this alone. And considering Grayson is our boss, it's obviously tough because he doesn't like getting too close to employees. I think you should just take the risk, Jojo," Patricia advised.

"Mmmh… What if I lose my job?"

"He wouldn't fire you just because you confessed your feelings."

"Let's drop this topic; it's just a fantasy. It will never happen," I said sadly.

"Your problem is that you have no stand. When it gets unbearable, you'll admit it yourself. Anyway, let's go; time is running out," Ester pushed us.

Patricia and Ester were my close friends and also my colleagues. That day, they had come to pick me up so we could attend the birthday party of our boss's child. Grayson, my crush, was our supervisor in his father's company. I liked him, but I wasn't sure if it was just infatuation. There was no way I could confess to him; he barely interacted with people. Plus, I was certain we could never be together. But my heart… my heart was so stubborn.

I quickly finished getting ready, and as we walked out of my room, we found my mom sitting in the living room watching a movie.

"You take forever to get ready… keeping your friends waiting," Mom commented.

"She has to be extra, Mama. Maybe today she'll get a ring on her finger," Ester teased. I shot her a warning glare.

"A ring from who? Aren't you going to your boss's kid's birthday?"

"Yes, Mama. I was just joking because she took forever to dress up," Ester replied, making everyone laugh—except me.

"Let's go, guys. We're running late," I hurried them.

"Oh, really? You wasted all the time, and now you're suddenly in a rush? Let me talk to your mom first," Ester insisted. I sighed and sat back on the couch. Fine, let's be late for that party.

"Ester, let's go. We'll talk to Mama next week," Patricia tried to intervene.

"Why are you guys in such a hurry? Do you even know what I want to tell her? Let me be! If you're impatient, go ahead without me," Ester said dramatically.

"And what is it that you want to tell her?" Patricia asked.

"I just wanted to tell Mama that her daughter is in love with her boss. And imagine, the boss told us not to bother bringing gifts for his son's birthday, but Jojo here ignored the announcement and still carried one."

"She loves your boss, or she's dating him?" Mom asked, staring at me.

I was furious. Why did Ester have to expose me like that? What was the point of telling my mom? I pulled her outside immediately, leaving my mom in shock.

"What is wrong with you, Ester!?" I confronted her once we stepped out.

"How is it wrong to tell your mom you love someone? Maybe she could help," she defended herself.

"Jojo, just ignore her. You know how she is. Let's go; we're getting late," Patricia chimed in.

"She's annoying! What was that, really? Now, what will my mom think of me?"

"I'm sorry, Jojo. Let's just go," Ester apologized.

We ordered an Uber to take us to our boss's house, where the party was happening. When we arrived, we were warmly welcomed. There weren't many people—just our coworkers and the boss's family, which included his father (our main boss), his mother, and their son, Grayson, our supervisor.

The party wasn't extravagant. It was just about eating, drinking, and cutting the cake. I hesitated to give the gift I had brought. They hadn't even asked for presents! And Grayson had made it clear that no one should bring one. How was I supposed to take it out now?

Then, Boss Grayson took the microphone and said there was something he needed our help with—but only female employees could participate. We all agreed, though we had no idea what it was.

He brought a plate with folded papers and asked each of us to pick one. There were six papers—matching the number of female employees present.

"Guys, I'm getting married next month, and I need your help organizing the wedding. Each paper contains a specific role. For example, drinks or food. Whatever is written on your paper will be your committee," he explained.

I felt my heart shatter.

So, Boss Grayson was getting married?

God… the pain.

Patricia looked at me with pity. This news was too painful for me. But what could I do?

One by one, people started reading their roles aloud. Someone got the decoration committee. Ester got the drinks committee. Seeing them go ahead, I opened mine to see which team I was assigned to…

TO BE CONTINUED…

JOJOH💔

Part 2

"Bride to be…!!" I read in shock. Was this really written on my card? Bride to be? How? Was I the bride? I looked around, confused, only to find everyone staring at me too.

"Guys… what does your paper say?" Boss Grayson asked Patricia and the two other ladies who hadn't yet revealed their roles. They read theirs out loud—Patricia was on the food committee, and the other two were in charge of security and reception. Meanwhile, I just stood there, completely lost. I couldn't stay quiet anymore—I had to ask!

"Boss, excuse me, I have a question!"

"No need to excuse yourself, just ask," Grayson replied.

"I don't understand…"

"What exactly don't you understand, dear?"

"From the beginning, you told us you were planning a wedding and that, as your close friends, we would help organize it. But I don't see myself on the committee… My card literally says bride to be! What exactly am I supposed to do?!"

Grayson laughed before speaking.

"First of all, sorry for the shock! Yes, I'm planning a wedding, but honestly, I don't have a bride yet. So, I asked my parents if they were okay with me choosing a bride today… and since your card says bride to be, well, that means you're the chosen one!"

I stood there, questioning whether Grayson was even serious. Is this guy for real? A fiancée chosen through a random selection process?! Were they messing with me? Meanwhile, Patricia and Ester were smiling like crazy.

This was a BIG SURPRISE for me. How could I get the man I loved this easily? No struggle? No effort? Or was this just a new kind of heartbreak for me? My brain went blank—I didn't know whether to speak or just keep quiet. I grabbed my bag and walked out. I couldn't handle being there any longer.

Patricia and Ester followed me outside.

"Jojo, where are you going?" Patricia grabbed my hand.

"Patricia, I don't understand anything… What is this?!"

"What's so shocking about it?" she asked. "This is your biggest chance! You have feelings for Grayson but have been too scared to tell him. And now, out of nowhere, you get this amazing opportunity—why are you acting confused?"

"Alilililili… wedding bells are ringing!" Ester started ululating in excitement.

"Exactly! Jojo, you should be thanking God!" Patricia agreed.

"Leave me alone! Do you really believe this is serious? Besides, Grayson can never marry me!" I protested.

"Ester, do you understand her?"

"Nope, I thought you did!"

"She's acting all shy now when just yesterday she was crying about wanting him! Now that she has him, she's hesitating? Seriously, Jojo? Do you think Boss has nothing better to do than plan a fake challenge like this? Just admit that this caught you off guard! But don't start making excuses—otherwise, we'll get emotional too. And you know how we get when we're emotional!"

"Guys, I'm not okay… I just need to go home."

"Fine, go, dear. We'll tell everyone that you just got a little overwhelmed… Safe journey home, our dear bride to be! Hahaha!"

I got into an Uber and went straight home. The moment my mom opened the door, I hugged her tightly and started crying. She was shocked.

Just then, my phone rang—it was Boss Grayson. I hesitated, then picked up.

"Hey, Jojo… Did you get home safe?" he asked.

"Yes, I did," I replied.

"Good." He hung up.

"What's wrong, Jojo? What happened?!" my mom asked.

"Mama, I'm in love with someone."

"Mmmh… And what's the problem?"

"I feel like I can never be with him."

"Can you just explain clearly? I don't like riddles!"

"Mama, I love my boss."

"Hmm… But isn't your boss an older man?"

"No, his son is the one managing the company, so we also call him 'Boss'."

"Oh, so he's the one Ester was talking about? So, what's making you cry then?"

"I feel like I can't be with him! If only I hadn't gone to that party… It felt like being shown gold that I can never own."

"Can you stop talking in circles and just tell me what happened? Did you get fired?"

I took a deep breath and explained everything—the party, Grayson's bride selection challenge, and how I ended up being the chosen bride to be. I told her how scared I felt.

My mother looked at me and spoke gently.

"My child, first, calm your heart. I know what's worrying you. But remember, there are good people and bad people in this world… kind hearts and wicked souls."

"What do you mean, Mama?" I asked, confused.

"You need to talk to your boss and confirm whether this is truly what he wants."

"Mama, I'd just be wasting my time… Why do I love someone I can never have? Why is my heart doing this to me?!" I cried.

"Jojo, don't give up on yourself so easily. Why don't you deserve love like everyone else? You're human too. Why shouldn't you love someone?"

"Go to bed, dear. Tomorrow, we'll talk properly."

"Okay, Mama," I sighed, heading to my room, still feeling lost.

Days turned into weeks, and I found myself slipping into a routine I hadn't anticipated. Grayson and I continued to grow closer, though I still kept my guard up. Our conversations were easy, the silences comfortable, and the moments of laughter felt genuine. Yet, despite all of this, I couldn't shake the unease that lingered in the back of my mind. Was I just fooling myself, thinking that this could work?

Grayson never pushed me for anything more. He let me take things at my own pace, giving me the space I needed while still showing he cared. And that, in itself, was something different. It was refreshing to know that I didn't have to constantly worry about where things stood between us. But even with his patience, there were moments when my doubts threatened to take over.

One morning, Grayson called me into his office unexpectedly. I walked in, slightly nervous but trying to maintain my usual composure. He was sitting behind his desk, looking as calm and collected as ever, but today there was something different in his eyes. A seriousness that made me pause for a moment.

"Jojo, I need to talk to you about something important," he said, his voice steady but there was a hint of urgency beneath it.

My stomach twisted. "What's going on, Grayson?"

He leaned forward, clasping his hands together. "It's about the future of the company. There are some changes coming, and I need your help. I know this isn't the ideal time to discuss this, considering everything else we've been talking about, but this is big, Jojo."

I nodded, feeling a mix of anxiety and curiosity. "Of course, anything you need, I'm here."

Grayson paused, his gaze intense as he considered his words carefully. "It's not just about business, though. It's about trust and decisions that will affect all of us. I need someone who will have my back, someone who's not afraid to make tough choices. Are you willing to be that person, Jojo?"

The weight of his words hung in the air. I had no idea what he was really asking, but the intensity of the moment sent a shiver down my spine. I wasn't sure if this was about the business or something more personal, but I knew it was important.

"I'll do my best, Grayson," I said, trying to mask the uncertainty in my voice.

He smiled faintly, the tension easing slightly. "I knew I could count on you." Then, as if suddenly aware of how heavy the conversation had become, he changed the topic. "I'm glad we're talking, Jojo. You're smart, capable, and I think you'll be a great asset here."

I left his office feeling a mix of emotions. I wasn't sure what Grayson was really asking, but I felt a strange sense of loyalty toward him. I wasn't sure if it was because of his leadership, his kindness, or something deeper that I couldn't yet name, but I knew that whatever happened, I wanted to be a part of his world.

That evening, after the workday was done, Grayson invited me for a walk. We stepped outside the building, the cool evening air brushing against my skin. It was a quiet night, with the city lights casting a soft glow around us, and for a moment, everything felt still, like we were the only two people in the world.

Grayson turned to me, his face serious once again. "Jojo, I know I haven't exactly been transparent about everything, but I need to ask you something. It's important."

My heart raced. I tried to keep my voice steady, though I was nervous. "What's going on, Grayson?"

He stopped walking, his hands in his pockets as he looked at me with an intensity that sent a shiver down my spine. "I'm not asking for your commitment, Jojo. Not yet, at least. But I need you to understand something. There are things about me that I haven't shared, things that could change everything."

My mind was racing. I wasn't sure if I was ready for whatever he was about to say, but I could tell this wasn't something he could ignore anymore. "What do you mean?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

Grayson looked around, making sure no one else was within earshot. He leaned in a little closer. "There are people in my life who won't approve of this. Of us. There are... pressures I've been trying to handle on my own. But I need you to know that this is real, Jojo. This isn't just a game for me."

His words hit me like a ton of bricks. I wanted to ask more, to demand answers, but something in the way he said it stopped me. I could see the vulnerability in his eyes, a side of him I hadn't seen before. It made me realize that, despite everything, he was just as scared as I was.

"I don't know what you're going through, Grayson," I said softly, "but if you want me to be a part of this, you have to trust me too. I can't keep doing this if I don't know where I stand."

He nodded slowly, taking a deep breath. "I know. And I will, Jojo. I will, I promise."

We stood there for a long moment, neither of us saying anything, the weight of the conversation hanging between us. Then Grayson broke the silence.

"I just need you to know, whatever happens next... I'm not going to let you go. Not without a fight."

The intensity in his voice made my heart skip a beat. I wasn't sure where this was going, but I knew one thing for certain: Grayson wasn't someone who gave up easily. And in that moment, I wasn't sure if I was ready to walk away either.

As we stood there, the world seemed to fade around us. The quiet hum of the city, the distant sound of cars passing, all of it became background noise to the unspoken conversation we were having. I didn't have all the answers, and neither did Grayson. But we both knew that something was happening between us. And maybe that was enough for now.

We didn't speak again for a few minutes, just standing in the cool night air. I felt like we were both waiting for something, maybe a sign, maybe the courage to take the next step.

Finally, Grayson spoke again, his voice softer now, almost as if he was speaking to himself. "Jojo, I don't want to pressure you. But I also don't want to lose this chance. Not with you."

I didn't respond right away. I wanted to say something meaningful, something that would change the course of things, but I didn't have the words. I could only nod, a small gesture that said more than I was willing to admit.

We stood together, the silence enveloping us, as we both faced whatever lay ahead. The future was uncertain, but for the first time in a long time, I didn't feel so alone in it.

I returned to the office to continue with work... my colleagues eagerly asked what I had been talking about with boss Grayson 😳 I told them I'd tell them later, but for now, we should focus on work and gossip. Can you believe they even went ahead and told Grayson that I liked him? 😅😅🙌 When it was time to sign out, I slipped away, not wanting to share anything. My mind was filled with so many things, I didn't want to complicate it more 😔😔.

When I got home, I received a message from Grayson:

"JOJO, WHY DO I FEEL LIKE I'M FALLING IN LOVE WITH YOU ALL OF A SUDDEN 🤔🤔 OR IS IT GOD'S WILL TO BRING US TOGETHER? Please, think about it seriously. My parents have already blessed my idea of marrying you. If you're ready, talk to your parents, and then we can set a date to go for the engagement rings. As for the wedding, we can plan it together, right Jojo?"

I replied with "I'll think about it 😔😔."

At home, my mom had returned from work. I greeted her, and she immediately noticed I wasn't quite myself.

"What's wrong? You don't seem happy."

"I'm fine, Mom, really."

"I know you better than that. What's going on?"

"I'm just tired from work."

"No, tell me the truth. What's happening?"

"Mom, I don't even know what to do. I feel like I'm at a crossroads… It's clear that Grayson really wants to get married, but I'm not sure he can marry me. And I don't know how to tell him the truth."

"My child, the truth always sets you free. If he truly wants to marry you, then you need to be honest with him. You can't know how he will respond unless you tell him the truth. He needs to make his own decision based on what you say. Don't just assume how he'll feel. Be honest, Jojo."

"I'm so scared, Mom." 😭😭

"Fear of what? You need to tell him the truth. If possible, do it today, don't wait any longer."

"I'm too tired today, Mom. He's tired from work too. I'll just tell him when I can find a moment to speak."

"Okay, my dear. But remember, you must tell him the truth."

I sent Grayson a message, asking if we could meet up whenever he had a chance. I had a lot to tell him, and he quickly asked me to send him my location 🙄🙄🙄 so he could come right away. I had no words left. I wasn't prepared for this, and on top of that, he's my boss. How could I refuse him? 🤦🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️. My stomach started to ache, and I was shaking. Everything felt like it was happening so quickly, and I wasn't ready at all, but there was no turning back now.

When Grayson arrived at our house, I welcomed him and introduced him to my mom as my boss because our relationship hadn't been that serious yet 😔😔. We decided to sit outside in the garden so I could tell him what was on my mind. I offered him a drink to help ease the tension 🍷.

"Jojo... tell me, I'm listening."

"Okay, boss. First of all, I'm sorry for disturbing you. I know you've had a long day at work, but I really appreciate you making the time to come. Thank you so much."

"Don't worry about it. Maybe what you have to tell me is more important than rest right now, so I'm here."

"Okay, boss. I just need to be honest with you about myself."

"Alright, I'm ready to listen. Go ahead, don't worry."

At that moment, my heart was racing. I didn't even know where to start… 😢😢

I took a deep breath, struggling to find the right words, but I had to say it.

"Grayson... I know you have feelings for me, and I care about you too, but there's something I've been hiding from you... something that scares me... I have HIV." 😢😢

Grayson looked at me, completely stunned.

"I... I don't know what to say, Jojo... How long have you been living with this?"

"About a year now... and I was afraid of telling anyone, especially you. I thought you'd never want to be with me if you knew."

"Jojo, I care about you deeply. Your health doesn't change how I feel about you. We'll work through this together."

"But Grayson, I can't ask you to be with someone like me... it's too much. What if you get sick too? What if I'm not good enough for you?"

"Jojo, you are more than good enough. I'm here for you, all of you. We'll take every step carefully, and I'll support you in every way possible. Nothing changes how I feel about you."

Tears filled my eyes as I looked at him. Could this really be happening? Could someone like Grayson love me despite my fear and the truth I was hiding? It was more than I ever imagined.

"Are you sure, Grayson? You're not just saying this to make me feel better?"

"I'm sure, Jojo. I'm not going anywhere. You've been through so much already. Let me be here for you."

And so, we began a new chapter in our lives. It wasn't easy, but we faced it together, one step at a time. Grayson didn't care about my HIV status, and slowly, I learned to accept myself again. We made plans for the future, but above all, we knew that love had no limits. With Grayson's support, we both grew stronger and more hopeful about what was to come.

In the end, love wasn't about perfection or what we could see on the outside—it was about being there for each other, no matter the obstacles. And so, Jojo and Grayson's love story found a way to flourish, even amidst fear and uncertainty. 💖

THE END 🥰🥰