NIQ MHLONGO
Mistaken Identity
I’m at the Home Affairs in Centurion this morning. I realise I need to do the passport photos and photocopy some documents. I go to the nearby shop. Everything wil cost R115. I remove my mask for the photo shoot. The photographer/shop owner thinks I’m a long lost friend of his from Mamelodi.
“Thabang, long time no see. How many years, twelve? You also have a white beard.”
The man goes on and on. I realise he is a talkative fellow. I’m in a hurry. I can’t even tell him I’m not Thabang.
“Are you still going out with Koketso?”
“Yes.”
“I met her once in Wonderboom six years ago with your two girls. I guess they are old by now.”
“Sure. How much do I owe you?”
“Don’t even ask man, you’re my homie. You don’t need to pay.”
“No man, take it. I insist.”
“I can’t take your money.”
I don’t want to argue too much.
I leave the shop immediately.