Last night, I decided to visit my usual bar in Mchinji Malawi, for a solo drink. While I know many people there, they typically respect my space, which I appreciate.

A familiar face offered to buy me drinks, but I politely declined, not wanting to deal with the potential complications. Despite this, we ended up sitting together and chatting, with me still politely declining drinks. He turned out to be a funny and argumentative guy who welcomed a good debate, which I found quite refreshing!

As we were talking, a thrift shoe salesman passed by with an incredible pair of boots. My exact style. I was instantly smitten! They fit perfectly, and I couldn’t stop thinking about how much I wanted them. I told the salesman that I couldn’t afford them because, you know, I’m a broke writer.

My drinking buddy noticed my interest and, to my surprise, offered to buy them for me as an early birthday gift. My birthday is not for another two weeks.

I happily accepted the boots! Earlier he had sort of called me fat, but then quickly said he’s into “big girls”. Needles to say I gave him the feminist speech on women’s bodies and he was very sorry. He even thought I was about to leave but I wasn’t thinking of that because he was great company.

I suspect the other reason he bought me those boots was because he wanted to apologise.

Well, apology accepted!!

Today, I’ve been admiring my boots, thinking about when I’ll get to wear them. Perhaps on a rainy or chilly day. It was a delightful surprise, and I’m thoroughly enjoying my new boots!

They might be the best pair of boots I’ve ever owned.