BUILDING A HOME.

CHAPTER 1.

At Lesley's house.
Lesley pull out of Connie then rolled out of bed
,he looked at his fiancee's thighs and shook his
head.

Connie: (breathlessly) That was amazing babe

but I got to go to work.
Lesley: don't wait for me tonight. I'm not coming
back home.
Connie: Where are you going? We have plans
Lez.
Lesley: Kere I'm not coming back. I'm sorry but I
miss my gents.

He looked at her thighs again and groaned in

annoyance.

Lesley: You are getting comfortable and it's

irritating me.
Connie: It's early in the morning and we just
made love. Why are you mad?
Lesley: I signed you up at the gym for two
months. You better go because I'm tired of
looking at your thighs.
Connie: What's wrong with my thighs?
Lesley: They are too fat. I don't understand you
connie watseba. When I asked you to move in I
thought you were going to respect the rules of
this house but all you do is sit on that couch and
watch TV and you eat everything you don't pay
for. Le gona you know that Edgar's pays peanuts.

Connie pushed down the sheets and got out of

bed. She walked to Lesley and stood in front of
him.

Connie: You were fine with how I look when you

asked me out. Secondly you are the one who
convinced me to apply for a job at Edgar's.
Lesley it's not possible to just wake up and
realize that I'm not attractive anymore ,what
changed?.
Lesley: I didn't say you are not attractive. I just
want you to lose a few pounds.
Connie: For what exactly? I love the way I look.
Lesley: You don't turn me on anymore.

He walked to the bathroom and shut the door.

Connie looked down at her body and tears welled
in her eyes. She got out of their bedroom and
went to the separate bathroom.

At Kathy's.

The minute her husband closed the bathroom

door ,Kathy picked his phone and unlocked it.
She went through his inbox then moved to
WhatsApp.
Kathy: Let's see what you have here.

She clicked on his conversation with his assistant

and started reading from the beginning. Most of
their conversation was about meetings and files.
She put the phone back on the bedside table.
Gabriel got out of the bathroom minutes later.

Gabe: Hey babe.

Kathy: Hi.
Gabe: You should be making breakfast.
Kathy: I will get to it but can we talk.

Gabriel opened the wardrobe and took out his

outfit then he sat down on the bed.

Gabe: Yeah?
Kathy: What's going on between you and Sarah?
Gabe: (annoyed) Nothing! She's just my
assistant and she's been my assistant for two
years. Why do you keep asking me this question
Katherine?
Kathy: I was just asking. Why are you getting
defensive?
Gabe: You annoy me because you keep asking
about this like you don't trust me.
Kathy: I mean Sarah is beautiful and she's a
woman with class. It's hard for me not to think
about you and her when you spend your whole
day with her.
Gabe: Baby you are my wife and mother of my
kids. I won't cheat on you. I take my vows
seriously. I spent a lot of time with her because
she's my assistant and she has to be with me all
the time.
Kathy: What about us Gabe? You never take a
day of to spend a day with us. It's always work!.
Gabe: What do you mean I don't spend time with
you? I take you out every friday.
Kathy: What about Melissa and Katlego? You
always want to dump them with your mother or
Connie. You never spend time with the kids
because you always put your work first.
Gabe: (sighed) I will take them out this weekend
I promise. But everything i do i do for you and
them.
Kathy: I know babe. I'm sorry for lashing out.

Kathy leaned towards him and kissed him.

Gabriel stood up and walked to the wardrobe.

Few hours later at Edgar's.

Connie clicked her tongue as she remembered

the conversation with her fiancé.
Connie: Next!.

As she started scanning the customers clothes

,her friend open her mouth to gossip.

Palesa: Do you remember the guy I told you

about?
Connie: Do you ever shut up?
Palesa: Allow me to talk ausi ,I can't work in
silence. Anyway the guy turned out to be some
kind of a gangster'nyana. So we were doing it
really good when a bunch of guys broke in and
demanded their money on him.
Connie: (laughed) Really Pali wena you always
attract bad guys man. What if the guys molested
you?
Palesa: Ai never! You are not okay Connie what's
wrong?
Connie shrugged and smiled at the customer.

Connie: Cash or card?

Customer: Cash.
Connie: (to pali) Eish it's Lesley. This morning
he got mad at me and he told me that I was too
fat. Friend he even signed me up at the gym can
you believe it? I'm not even fat ,I still have a flat
stomach.
Palesa: Let's talk about this when we knock off.
I'm sorry friend.

After knocking off they walked to the taxi rank as

they talked about Lesley.

Palesa: What did Lesley do this time?

Connie: (sighed) He said I'm too fat and I don't
turn him on anymore. He even said I earn
peanuts when I eat everything in the house. I
can't believe he even said that to me.
Palesa: I told you that Lesley is not serious about
you Connie. I mean it's been two years since the
guy proposed. He always dismiss the wedding
topic.
Connie: He's still budgeting.
Palesa: It's been two years my friend. What the
hell is he budgeting? Police officers earn a
enough money to pay the bills, if he was really
budgeting he would have married you a long
time ago. Ebile Katherine got married before
you.

Connie gritted her teeth at the mention of her

little sister.

Connie: Don't tell me about Kathy. I don't mind

being engaged for too long as long as I'm happy.
I'm just pissed off ka this thing of Lesley of
bodyshaming me.
Palesa: See? Lesley needs a good slap. I don't
understand why you let that guy walk over you.
This is exactly why I'm still single.
Connie: Maybe I should just go to the stupid
Gym to avoid endless arguments.
Palesa: (in disbelief) Really? You are just going
to let him decides for you? I can't believe this.
Connie stop being Lesley's puppet.
Connie: (annoyed) just forget I said anything.

They sat down on the benches and waited for a

taxi.

Later at Emily's.

Lesley carried Lerato to bed and got on top of

her. Emily pushed him off and sat up.
Emily: We have to talk.
Lesley: Can we talk later?
Emily: No Lesley I can't play this game with you
anymore. You have to tell Connie about us.
Lesley: Are you crazy? I love her.
Emily: It's not love if you are cheating on her. If
you don't tell her I will ,I'm too old to be
sneaking around.
Lesley: If you tell her I'm going to kill you Emily.
Don't test me!.

Emily closed her mouth shut and laid back down

on the bed and spread her legs.

Emily: Do what you want and leave.

Lesley: The only reason I'm here it's because
Connie is terrible when it comes to sex. She's
lazy and heavy. so you better obey because I pay
for this lavish life you are enjoying.

Lesley took off Emily's panties and started eating

her out. After thirty minutes he pulled up his
pants ,buckled up his belt then picked up his car
keys on the floor.

Emily: You are not sleeping over kanti?

Lesley: No. O ntenne. I'm going home to my
fiancée and don't forget what I said Em, if you
dare open your pretty mouth I'm going to kill
you. Do we understand each other?
Emily: Yes!.
Lesley: Good girl.

He kissed her cheek and walked to the door. He

opened and slammed it closed afterwards.
BUILDING A HOME.

CHAPTER 2.

At Lesley's.

Lesley opened the door and got in. Since it was

already late he expected to find his fiancee
already home. He walked closed the door and
headed straight to the pots.

Lesley: (yelling) Connie!!

Connie came running to the kitchen.

Connie: Was it really necessary to yell? Akere
I'm just in the bedroom.
Lesley: Why are the pots empty?
Connie: I didn't cook.
Lesley: Why didn't you?
Connie: You said you weren't coming home so I
decided to save the food you keep complaining
about.
Lesley: I don't like your tone Connie. Is that how
you're supposed to talk to me?

Connie gritted her teeth.

Lesley: Don't ever forget where you are coming

from. I picked you up when your parents passed
and dusted you off. Ke gore Connie I made you
who you are today! The diamond ring on your
finger was bought by my hard earned money.
Don't ever give that stinky attitude.
Connie: (shocked) You made me who I am
today? Lesley you asked me to marry you not the
other way around. You should have saved your
damn money if you didn't want to marry me ebile
what's the point of this ring of yours if you don't
want a white wedding?.
Lesley: You know what Connie, it was a mistake
coming back here. You are so annoying.
Connie: Fine go back! Go back Lesley and don't
come back. Akere you do whatever you want? Go
back!.

Lesley clicked his tongue and got out of the

house and slamming the door afterwards. He got
in his car then unlocked his phone. He dialed
Katlego and called him.

Kat: Sure man I was expecting your call.

Lesley: What's up?
Kat: Are you busy?
Lesley: No I just got out of the house ,I should
have know that being committed is a pain in the
ass. I swear man Connie drives me insane.
Kat: (laughed) You wanted it so deal with it. Just
come to chesanyama to cool off. I'm with the
guys and we got the drinks.
Lesley: Sure I'll be there in fifteen minutes.

Meanwhile in the house.

Connie opened the fridge and took out her

leftover sandwich and a drink then walked back
to the bedroom. She heard her phone ringing in
her pocket. She took it out and answered.

Connie: Ausi?
Kathy: Eish Connie I need a favour.
Connie: ok shoot.
Kathy: Can you babysit for us tonight. Gabe and
I have to go to a business fuction and we can't
leave the kids alone. His mother is out of town so
you are our only option.
Connie: I just got home from work Katherine.
Kathy: I know it's a short notice but please
Connie I'm begging you.
Connie: Fine!.
Kathy: Thank you. Gabe will be there in few
minutes to fetch you.
Connie: Why did you come yourself. Kathy you
know that your husband is not fond of me.
Kathy: Nonsense. Gabe is a sweetheart.
Connie: (groaned) You are a nuisance Bye.

She hung up and and sat down on the bed and

started eating.
At Emily's.

Emily laid down on her bed thinking about her

secret relationship with another woman's fiance.
She jumped when she heard car bells just outside
her yard. She opened her window and heaved a
sigh of annoyance when she saw Lesley's car. She
put robe and walked outside.

Emily: Why are you back here?

Lesley rolled down the window and blew a

smoke of cigarette.

Lesley: Go and get dress. We are going to

Chesanyama.
Emily: I'm not going there. You can't just come
here and start making demands.
Lesley: (annoyed) Emily I'm not afraid to come
out of this car and drag you. Save yourself
torture and go get dressed.
Emily: Where's connie? Isn't she supposed to be
the one going with you?
Lesley: Let's forget Connie.
Emily: I hate this Lesley. Connie is my friend and
I feel terrible for doing this to her.
Lesley: Em I don't have time to talk. Go and
change before I lose my shit!.

Emily turned around and walked back to her

house. She shut the door and walked to her
bedroom. Her phone rang, she swallowed before
she answered.

Emily: Hey.
Palesa: Hi can I come over tonight?
Emily: No I'm going out.
Palesa: Oh who are you going out with?
Emily: No one.
Palesa: You know I noticed strange things about
you Em and I hope I'm wrong. I'm your friend
but you keep hiding things from me. I will find
out Emily because I always do.
Emily: I'm not hiding anything.
Palesa: Then tell me the name of the person who
gave you the money to renovate your matchbox
house because you don't work.
Emily: Okay palesa that's enough! Bye.

She hung up on her. She heard Lesley hooting

outside and she rushed to get dressed.

At Lesley's.
Connie took her toiletry bag and a clean dress
then walked to the living room where Gabriel
was waiting for her.

Gabe:Thanks for doing this.

Connie: It's not like I had a choice.
Gabe: ....
Connie: I mean you and Kathy never think of me
Gabriel. I'm just an available aunty who's always
going to look after your kids.
Gabe: Bathong!
Connie: Ever sat down and think that maybe I
have plans? Maybe Lesley and I are busy mmm?
Gabe: Connie why are you mad exactly because I
know it's not about babysitting the kids?

Connie put on her shoes and glared at Gabriel.

Connie: Don't act like you care when you don't!

Gabe: Excuse me!
Connie: Let's just go to your palace and babysit
the little royals.
Gabe: No seriously you are overreacting Connie!
What the hell is wrong with you? Kathy said you
were fine watching our kids for the night why are
you getting mad at me?.
Connie: Let's just drop this.
Gabe: No we are not dropping anything. You
never liked me wena you are just jealous of
Katherine and our marriage seriously Connie
she's your sister!.
Connie: I'm not jealous of you and Kathy. I have
problems to deal with and I wouldn't want to
waste my time getting jealous of you Gabriel.

She walked to the door and opened. Gabriel

sighed before he followed her. They both got in
the car and Gabe drove them to his house.
Gabe: Connie?
Connie: What?
Gabe: I hate this bad blood between us.

Connie kept quiet.

Gabe: Kathy want us to get along.

Connie: There's no bad blood between us Gabe.
It's just your asshole self that's making us argue
all the time.
Gabe: I'm sorry. Can we fix this right here?
Connie: Fix what? Your whole family hates me
and your mother even called me the witch aunty
who's out to hurt her grandchildren and you and
Kathy stood there like you didn't hear her mara
now you are begging for my help.
Gabe: What were we suppose to say Connie?

Connie laughed in disbelief.

Connie: Really Gabe? I'm Kathy's sister! You
could've at least defended me. I had to defend
myself in front of your parents when you and
Kathy had fun...you know what stop the damn
car!
Gabe: No you need to calm down!.
Connie: Gabriel stop the fucking car!!.
Gabe: (snapped) Stop being a bitch Connie and
shut up! My mother's hate towards you has got
nothing to do with me. Don't yell at me like I'm
your friend. I'm not afraid to slap the shit out of
you to teach you a lesson. This is my car and I'm
older than you so respect me!.

Connie opened the door of the moving car and

attempted to get out. Gabe stopped the car and
turned to look at her in horror.

Gabe: Are you crazy! Do you want to die?

Connet: I told you to stop the car. I'm not going
to babysit tell Kathy I said I'm sorry. I hate you
Gabe.
Gabe: (softly) Okay Connie please let's just talk.

Connie closed the door shut and leaned back to

the seat.

Gabe: What's wrong?

Connie: Nothing expect the fact that you
disappointed me.
Gabe: What?
Connie: In high school you and I were friends
Gabe and when you went to collage you forgot
about our friendship.
Gabe: What does that have to do with this? Are
you holding a grudge against me because I forgot
our friendship? This is stupid Connie.
Connie: I was still talking Gabriel. I'm not even
mad at you Gabriel ,I'm mad at the world for
making me suffer.

BUILDING A HOME.

CHAPTER 3.

Connie: I was still talking Gabriel. I'm not even

mad at you ,I'm mad at this world for making me
suffer.

Gabe kept his mouth shut and continued driving.

Connie sighed and leaned against the window.
Connie: Do you remember you and I used to
date?
Gabe: Connie please....
Connie: I'm just reminding you Gabriel. It's not
something to worry about ebile ,we were just
high school kids.
Gabe: Why are talking about this?
Connie: I'm talking about it because those days
were my happiest days. We would bunk school
and go to the park with Katherine.

She laughed a little.

Connie: I miss those days. I miss being happy.

Gabe: What's stopping from being happy now
Connie? You are engaged and maybe you are
ready to start your own family.
Connie: (chuckled) Hah don't make me laugh
Gabe. I've been wearing this ring for two years.
Lesley is dragging his feet.
Gabe: Are you struggling financially? .

She shook her head.

Connie: I don't know the reason behind his

hesitation.

The car stopped at the gate and Connie got out.

She saw Gabriel still sitting on the seat and
frowned.

Connie: Aren't you coming in?

Gabe: No I'm getting late.
Connie: Okay then bye.
She shut the door and walked to the gate. Kathy
flashed her a smile at the Gate and hugged her.

Kathy: Thank you sis for this. The kids are inside
watching TV.
Connie: it's fine. Your husband is waiting!.

At chesanyama.

Lesley parked his car and got out. He walked to

the other side of the car and opened the door for
Emily. They both walked inside where the party
was at.

Lesley: okay I'm going to join the guys. You can

go chill with the ladies.
Emily: (in disbelief) Excuse me!
Lesley: I'm serious Em.
Emily: Why did you drag me here if you were
going to just leave me with ladies I don't know?
Lesley: I buy everything for you Emily. Airtime,
Dstv and I even buy you pads and don't forget
that i renovated that small house of yours and
even built a bathroom. Don't give that bullshit
because I practically own you baby ,you are mine
so do me a favor Emily and go sit with the ladies
there.

Emily felt like exploiting but she followed

Lesley's orders and went to join the ladies.
Lesley watched her leaving in satisfaction and
walked to the guys. They fist pumped then Kat
handed Lesley a drink.

Thato: Who was that?

Lesley: That's Emily, I gave here lift here.
Thato: Where's Connie?
Lesley: Why are you asking about Connie when
I'm telling you about Emily?.
Thato: I'm just asking because you're not here
with her.
Lesley: (snapped) You should stay out of my
business Thato. Just because Connie's sister is
your brother's wife doesn't mean you should
always stick your nose into my business.

Kat tapped Lesley's shoulder and shook his head

in disapproval.

Kat: I called you here to cool off not to cause

fights.
Lesley: No this guy is annoying and why is he
even here. Isn't he suppose to be with his age
mates. Exe Thato Voetsek! Leave.
Kat: Lez that's not cool. This guy bought the
drink, he has the right to be here.
Lesley clicked his tongue and sipped his drink.
Thato's eyes followed Emily and shook his head.

At Kathy's.

Connie walked in the house and looked around.

It's been so long since she set her foot in their
house. She walked to the living room and smiled.

Connie: knock knock knock!!.

"Aunty" The kids both yelled and ran towards

her.

Julie: Aunty Connie! You are here!.

Connie: (laughing) I thought your mother told
you that I was coming to watch you.
Hlompho: mama never tell us anything. Are
going to sleep with us tonight?
Connie hugged them and sat down on the couch.

Connie: (grinned) Yes I'm going to sleep here

tonight Hlompho. Did you miss me?
Julie: Yes. You are nice and you don't shout at us
like aunty Puleng does.
Connie: She shouts at you?
Julie: Yes she does. When she sleeps here she
tells me that I'm old enough to wash the dishes.
But I like you aunty Connie.
Hlompho: Me too.

Connie kissed their cheeks.

Connie: I like you guys too. I'm going to put

these in the guest room. Behave okay? I'll be
back.
She walked to the guest room feeling her mood
rising. Kids were her weakness, she loved them
more than anything in the world , too bad Lesley
doesn't want them.

At Chesanyama.

Emily kept staring at Lesley who looked like he

was having fun. She chose to sit at the corner to
avoid looking awkward. She unlocked her phone
and checked the time.

Emily: Ten o'clock!? Seriously lesley?.

She marched to them and pulled Lesley by his

forearm.
Emily: Take me back! You can't just force me to
be here and leave me alone. Seriously? Its ten
o'clock and I should be sleeping at this time.
Lesley: I can't take you home Em...I'm drunk.

Katlego finished his drink and placed the empty

bottle on the table.

Kat: Come on. I'll take you home.

Emily: Thank you so much.
Kat: No problem. Guys watch this guy okay. Let's
go Emily.

They walked out of the building.

BUILDING A HOME.

CHAPTER 4.

The following day at Kathy's.

Connie laughed at Palesa's usual exaggerated

stories. She sat up on the bed.

Palesa: So you are at your sister's as we speak?

Connie: Yeah. They asked me to babysit for them
last night. They probably got home really late
last night.
Palesa: How much are they paying you?
Connie: Nothing. Hau Palesa kathy is my sister
and her children mean a lot to me. I can't expect
them to pay me.
Palesa clapped her hands on the other side.

Palesa: Iyoh! Connie stop being everybody's last

option. Your sister remembers you only when
she needs something from you and you told me
that her in laws hate your guts.
Connie: I know but she needed my help and the
kids were happy to see me.
Palesa: (sighed) Connie weh just focus on your
life and stop trying to fit in where you don't
belong. E le gore what did Lesley say about this
babysitting thing?
Connie: We argued last night and he stormed
out.
Palesa: What?
Connie: He does whatever he wants Palesa I
can't stop him.
Palesa: And you are not worried? he could be
cheating on you Connie.
There were voices coming from the living room.
Connie listened to them trying to figure them
out.

Palesa: Connie stop being so naive and stupid.

Lesley is probably busy with loose girls while....
Connie: (snapped) Every relationship has
problems Palesa. You wouldn't even understand
because you're single.
Palesa: just because I'm single doesn't mean I'm
stupid.
Connie: I have to go.

She hung up on her and put on her robe. She

wore her sleepers and walked of the room. She
bumped into someone on her way to the
bathroom.
Connie: Sorry.

Puleng stared at her and flattered her eyelashes.

Puleng: Gabe and Kathy never told me you were

here.
Connie: They asked me last night to babysit for
them. How are you Puleng?.
Puleng: I'm good like always. I'm here now you
can go Pack up the things you came with then
leave.
Connie: I came here for my nephew and niece
and I will leave when I feel like it.

Puleng flipped her hair and clicked her tongue.

Puleng: (chuckled) You think we haven't figure

out your intentions. You want to Gabriel! How
shameful.
Connie: I want Gabriel? Why would I want my
sister's husband when I'm engaged. Puleng I
know you hate me but don't ever accuse me of
such things.
Puleng: I would leave if I were you. You are not
welcomed here after the stunt you pulled.
Gabriel chose your sister because she's so much
better than you. Look at you!.

Connie took a deep breath in then exhaled after

that she walked passed Puleng and went to the
bathroom.

At Emily.

Emily woke up and patted her side of her bed.

She felt nothing and immediately opened her
eyes. Disappointment washed over her as she
came to the realization that she she was just a
one night stand.
She got up from bed and picked up her clothes
on the floor. She wore her silky robe and walked
out of the room. An aroma of coffee hit her as
she made her way to the kitchen.

Emily: (smiled) I thought you left.

Kat: Good morning. I made you coffee.

He handed her the mug and she sat down.

Katlego folded his arms and leaned back to the
chair.

Kat: Emily stay away from Lesley do you

understand me?
Emily: Excuse me?
Kat: Stay away from Lesley. He's your friend's
fiance and as a woman you should know that it's
not nice being used and cheated on.
Emily: What does that have to do with you? You
don't even know Connie personally, you just
heard about her.

Katlego shook his head in disbelief.

Kat: Lesley doesn't care about you. He's just love

your pussy and how easy you are.
Emily: (angry) Did you sleep with me so that you
can call me names afterwards.
Kat: I fucked you because I was in the mood last
night. I'm not that heartless. I'm just telling you
the truth ,stop whatever you are doing with
Lesley because you won't like the consequences.

Emily glared at him.

Emily: Who are you to tell me what to do?

Kat: Just someone looking out for a sister.
Connie doesn't deserve this. I have little sisters
at home and I wouldn't want them to experience
the pain Connie will experience when she finds
out that her trusted fiance is cheating on her.
Emily: (rolls eyes) you are going to tell her?

He stood up and picked up his car keys on the

table.

Kat: I'm not going to tell her. I'm not a fan of

delivering bad news but truth has a way of
coming out. I had an amazing night last night.
Thanks.
Emily: Fuck you! You think you are better than
me? You weren't that good anyway. Lesley is
better.
Kat: (laughed) I'm sure Connie will be glad to
hear that.
He walked out of the house. Emily screamed in
frustration and threw her mug against the wall.

At Kathy's.

Connie put her dirty clothes in her bag and

picked up the toiletry bag on the bed then walked
out of the guest room. She walked to the kitchen
and found everyone settled around the table. Her
eyes met Gabe's mother and she immediately lost
her appetite.

Mmapule: Heh! We've been waiting for you to

come out of that room. I can finally enjoy
breakfast without Gabe breathing down my neck
for not waiting for you.

Connie looked at her for few seconds before she

greeted.
Connie: Good morning. I can't join you for
breakfast I'm late. Bye kids.

Hlompho and Julie waved at her with brightest

smiles.

Julie: Please visit again aunty Connie.

Connie: (smiled) I will but I will tell you when
I'm coming okay?

They both nodded. Everyone watched their

interaction and Mmapule muttered something
under her breath. Gabe finished his coffee and
stood up.

Puleng: And then where are you going?

Gabe: I'm taking Connie home.
Puleng: We are having breakfast mos. You know
your way home right Connie?
Gabe: Puleng stop it.

Connie looked at Kathy who was eating not

giving shit about what was happening. She
sighed and walked to the door. Gabe followed
her and they both got out of the house. Gabe
immediately grabbed her arm but Connie yanked
it back.

Connie: This is the last time I'm coming here. I

don't know what I did to your mother and your
sister but I don't deserve this Gabriel.

Gabe ran his hand over his face in frustration.

Gabe: I'm sorry Connie.

Connie: Your sister thinks my intention is to
seduce you and your mother thinks I'm going to
hurt the kids. Kathy really disappointed me.
She walked to the car and waited for Gabe to
unlock it. Her foot was tapping furiously against
the ground.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 5

At Lesley's.

Gabriel parked his car at the gate and Connie

looked at him for few seconds.
Connie: Let this be the last time we see each
other. I want nothing to do with you and your
family. I had enough of their abuse.

Gabe's face fell.

Gabe: I apologized Connie. You can't say that

after you promised my children that you'll visit.
Connie: Promises were meant to be broken. If
they really want to see me you can bring them
here without stepping inside my house.
Gabe: Connie...
Connie: (snapped) Stop! All you had to do was at
least tell your family to stop bothering me but
no, you and Kathy pretended as if you weren't
seeing anything like all these years.

She opened the door and got out yanking her

overnight back on the seat then slammed the
door. Lesley closed the curtains after seeing
Connie coming towards the house. He walked to
the door holding his beer and waited.

Lesley: Who was that?

Connie closed the door after getting in and faced

her fiance.

Connie: Who was who?

Lesley: I saw you coming out of a fancy car. Are
you cheating on me Connie?.
Connie: I'm the one that has to ask that question.
You've been going out as you please lately and I
kept quiet. Don't ask me questions Lesley.

Lesley grabbed her neck and kissed her hard

then pushed her off.

Lesley: You are mine!

Connie: (wiped off her lips) That was Gabriel's
car and he dropped me off here because I was at
his house last night babysitting. You annoy me
Lesley watseba! What happened to not jumping
into conclusions?.

Lesley swallowed his guilt and embarrassment.

Lesley: I'm so sorry my love I thought....

Connie: Even if I was cheating on you it
shouldn't bother you because you said it straight
to my face that I was fat and not appealing
anymore.
Lesley: (softly) Baby I'm sorry. I was wrong
okay?. I wanted you to lose weight I didn't mean
to offend you. I love you so much and everything
I do is for you.
Connie: Lesley I'm tired of being played okay.
I'm tired of being everybody's door mat.
She pulled a chair and sat down.

Connie: I've been engaged for two years ,you've

been dragging your feet with this whole marriage
thing. Keng are you having second thoughts?
Lesley: No Connie things are just hard. I have no
money, I do but not enough to cover your dream
wedding.
Connie: (annoyed) I told you that I'm fine with
anything. I just want a small ceremony where I
could wear my white gown and exchange our
vows in front of a pastor and witnesses.

Lesley kept quiet. Connie stood up and walked to

their bedroom. She changed into her uniform.

At Emily's house.
Emily sat on the bed and answered a call from
her father.

Him: (shouting) When are you coming home

Girly?
Emily: Goodmorning.
Him: Don't good morning me! Is this the reason
why you dropped out of collage and refused a job
offer from your uncle? You wanted to stay away
so you can open your legs for money!.
Emily: Papa why are you accusing me of such
things?
Him: Your mates are happily married Emily. You
keep on disappointing your uncle and I. Come
home by the end of this week before i come there
and drag you.

Emily yanked her hair in frustration.

Him: E le gore where are you staying?
Emily: I rented a room here.
Him: Who's paying for it?
Emily: Me. I got a job in town. Papa I'm not
selling my body for money I promise.
Him: Are you serious my girl?

Emily faked a laugh.

Emily: Yes Rra I got a job and I'll start sending

money home for groceries.
Him: Don't worry about money for groceries. I
still have the pension money. I just want you to
be a decent girl so that you could get me a son in
law. You are turning thirty and you are still
single.
Emily: I met someone but we are not official yet.
Stop worrying about Papa I can take care of
myself.
Papa: Okay go lokile (it's fine) Bye.
Emily: Bye papa.

Her father hung up. She sighed, fell on the bed

and covered her body with a duvet. Her mind
flashed back to the conversation she had with
Kat and clicked her tongue.

At Kathy's.

Gabe slammed the door startling everyone in the

sitting room. Kathy stood up all dressed up and
walked to her husband.

Kathy: Babe?
Gabe: Take the kids and go wait in the car
Katherine.
Kathy grabbed the kids and then waved at her
sister and mother in law. She looked at Gabe for
the last time and got out of the house.

Gabe: (sigh) Puleng , Mma I thought we put the

past behind us?
Mmapule: If it's about Connie then don't
bother!.

Gabe walked to the chair and sat down.

Gabe: You are hating Connie for no reason...

Puleng: (laughed) That Connie must have
slapped you with her panty and made you this
stupid. Connie killed your child Gabriel and she's
going to keep doing that if you let her inside your
home.
Gabe: (snapped) There is no evidence. Kathy was
meant to miscarry. Just because Connie cooked
that day doesn't mean she poisoned the food. She
wouldn't do that to her own sister.

Mmapule clapped her hands.

Mmapule: Are you sleeping with her?

Gabe: Excuse me?
Mmapule: Akere you are defending her like she's
your wife.
Gabe: You can't hold a grudge against her
without a proof that the food was poisoned. We
all ate the food didn't we?

Mmapule looked at her daughter and they both

shook their heads in disbelief and
disappointment.

Mmapule: You used to date Connie back in high

school akere? She's probably angry and jealous
that you married her sister not her then she came
after your kids. She's a witch and a murderer.

Gabe clenched his jaws in irritation.

Gabe: You turned Kathy against her. Kathy is the

only family Connie is left with. Puleng ,Mmapule
no man!.
Mmapule: (laughed bitterly) Gabriel wake up my
son. People can't be trusted. Just because she's
Kathy's sister doesn't make her a good person.
First borns tent to be bitter when their sisters get
married before them.

Gabriel stood up and clicked his tongue.

Gabe: I'm going to work. Stop turning Katherine

against her sister. Connie doesn't deserve this.
You are making me a bad person Puleng and you
mma stop being paranoid.
He walked out of the kitchen feeling worse about
himself. He got out of the house and shut the
door. When he got in his car he looked at his kids
in the review mirror then sighed.

Gabe: You should go apologize to Connie for

being selfish and not thinking about her feelings.
Kathy: (frowned) What are you talking about?
Gabe: I'm talking about this morning Katherine.
You and I watched Puleng and Mmapule
insulting her and we did nothing like always.

Kathy rolled her eyes.

Kathy: Don't worry, Connie is a big girl and what

Mmapule said was not meant to offend her. She
was just trying to tell her about the value of time.
Gabe: Unbelievable!!.
Kathy stared at Gabe and scoffed.

Kathy: Gabriel since when did you start being

Connie's bestfriend?
Gabe: She's your sister Kathy!.
Kathy: I know and I know that she's not mad.
Gabe: Clearly you know nothing about her. One
day you will need help and Puleng will never
help you and who are you going to cry to?
Connie? I hope she kicks you out of her house
Katherine. Puleng is changing you and I don't
like it. I apologized to Connie and she was more
than angry.
Kathy: We are getting late Gabriel.

Gabe clicked his tongue and started the car.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 6

Two days later at Lesley's.

Connie smiled as she answered a call from Emily.

She sat down on her bed and relaxed.

Connie: I just came back from work. This is

exactly what I needed, a calm conversation with
my closest friend.
Emily: (chuckled) Ai nna I don't see myself
working my arse off when I have a pussy.
Connie laughed.

Connie: You'll get sick. Sleeping around is not

safe my friend.
Emily: I'm just messing with you. How are you
mara Connie?
Connie: I'm doing good Emily. Lesley called his
mother over and we'll set the wedding date when
she gets here. Finally I get to marry the love of
my life.
Emily: (cleared throat) Are you sure that's what
you want?
Connie: I've been waiting for two years. Of
course this is what I want.
Emily: Oh lucky you friend.

Connie smiled and played with her ring.

Connie: Wena? Are you seeing someone?

Emily: um what?

Connie chuckled knowingly. She knew that

Emily was not going to tell her anything. She was
always secretive.

Connie: What's his name?

Emily: (faked a laugh) I'm not seeing anyone
Connie. You can ask palesa if you don't believe
me. I'm not lucky as you.
Connie: Don't worry you'll get someone. Hey I
can get Lesley to hook you up with one of his
friends.
Emily: No no no I'm okay Connie. Listen as
much as I'd like to chit chat ,I have to get back to
the pots.
Connie: Okay bye.
She heard voices from the living room and she
squealed in happiness. She got off the bed and
rushed out of the room to the living room. She
grinned and engulfed MmaLesley in a warm hug.

Connie: Oh my god it's been so long.

MmaLesley: (smiled) I agree but I'm here now
and I can't wait to discuss the wedding. I've been
waiting for this day but Lesley has dragging his
feet. Where is he anyway?
Connie: Still at work but he'll be here soon. You
can have a sit ,I'll take your bags to the guest
room.

MmaLesley laughed at Connie's excitement and

sat down on the couch while Connie grabbed her
bags and walked to the guest room.

At Kathy's.
Gabe shut his laptop and rubbed his eyes. Her
daughter got in their room and ran to her.

Gabe: Hey sweetheart.

Julie got onto Gabriel's lap and gave him her

toothless grin.

Julie: Mommy said come to eat.

Gabe: I'll be there honey I have to take shower
first.
Julie: Okay...but daddy when is aunty Connie
coming to visit. She promised to visit.
Gabe: Soon.
Julie: Can we visit her tomorrow at her house?
Gabe: Julia your aunty is always busy okay?
She'll be here before you know it okay. Go back
to the sitting room and eat okay. I love you neh?
Tell your little brother I love him too.
Julie kissed Gabe and got off his lap and
dramatically stomped out of the room. Gabe ran
his hands down his face in frustration then stoop
up from the bed.

At Emily's.

Emily opened the door and let Lesley in. Lesley

placed the large box of pizza on the counter and
grabbed Emily by her hips then kissed her.

Emily: Lesley..

Lesley sneaked his hands in Emily's shirt and

squeezed her boobs.

Lesley: I missed you.

Emily: (snapped) Stop it!.
Lesley: Hau what's wrong? You are definitely not
on your period, why are you stopping me?
Emily: We have to talk.
Lesley: Why do you always want to talk Em. I'm
trying to pleasure you here and wena all you
want is to fucking talk. Talk then I'm listening.
Emily: Let's go sit down.

They walked to the table in the middle of the

room and sat down on the chairs around it.

Emily: I received a call from Connie.

Lesley's heart started beating rapidly against his

ribcage.

Lesley: Yes?
Emily: She told me that you are going to get
married. Lesley what's the point of this if you are
still going to marry Connie at the end?
Lesley: Emily I told you this was a no strings
attached type of a relationship. There's nothing
to worry about. We can keep seeing each other
without anyone knowing.
Emily: So I'm just going to be your thing to play
with?

Lesley huffed in annoyance.

Lesley: What do you want me to do then?

Emily: Don't marry Connie. You told me that you
weren't happy in your relationship because of the
lack of the intimacy. Why do you still want to
marry her if you are going to keep cheating on
her?
Lesley: (laughed) The nerve you have girly. Em
don't forget that you and I are not friends. We
are helping each other, I'm helping you
financially and you help by sexually satisfying
me.

Emily clicked her tongue.

Emily: Phela you can't fuck me good and expect

me not to fall in love Lesley, I'm a woman and I
crave the feeling of having someone to wake up
next to everyday.
Lesley: What does that have to do with me?

Emily got up from the chair and walk around the

table to Lesley. She straddled his lap and started
grinding against him. Lesley pulled her face
towards his and crushed their lips together.

Lesley: (whispering) We better hurry before my

mother calls.
Emily got off him abd started stripping her
clothes off. Lesley took off his pants and boxes
and smirk when she saw Emily submisively lie
down on the floor and spread her legs wide open.

At Kathy's.

Gabe walked in the sitting room shirtless. She sat

down next to his wife and started dishing up.

Mmapule: You can't just walk around half naked.

Gabe: I'm sorry to disappoint you Mma but this
is my house.

Puleng chucked.
Puleng: You are so scalptered and hot dear
brother that's why women like Connie like
throwing themselves at you.

Gabe clicked his tongue as he watched Puleng

high five with his wife and both of them laughed.

Gabe: And then Kathy what's funny? Aren't you

ashamed of yourself for laughing about
something so disgusting as this in front of the
kids?
Kathy: Bathong!
Gabe: So Connie is going to be our everyday
topic now?

Kathy faked a smile and brushed Gabriel's thigh

underneath the table attempting to calm him
down.
Kathy: We were just laughing Babe.
Gabe: (annoyed) Oh really? Puleng stop talking
about Connie in front of the kids. You already
possessed my wife with your evil spirits but let
my kids go. They love their aunt. Le gona when
are you leaving?.

Mmapule clapped her hands in disbelief.

Mmapule: Gabriel my boy there's no need to kick

us out. We were just having a conversation.
Gabe: You mean gossiping? Seriously mma there
are kids in the house. Hlompho and Julia can't
adapt that kind of behaviour. I love you but
you....

Kathy pinched Gabe hard. Gabe removed her

hand and glared at her.
Kathy: You are overreacting.
Gabe: (sighed) I want peace Katherine.
Sweethearts why don't you take your plates and
go eat in your room? Don't make a mess okay?

Hlompho and Julia took their plates and walked

up the stairs to their room.

Gabe: Kathy you are being so stupid if you think

Puleng is going to always be on your side.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 7
Months later..

Connie and Palesa grabbed their handbags and

got out of Edgers. They started talking as they
made their way to the taxi rank.

Connie: (breathed out) I'm so glad we knock off

early on Saturdays.
Palesa: Me too. Phela I have a blind date this
afternoon and I don't want to keep the poor guy
waiting.
Connie: You and blind dates.
Palesa: Don't judge! Let me enjoy life. When I
settle down I'll be able to tell if a guy is good or
bad for me. No offence friend but I don't want
guys like Lesley.

Connie kept quiet.

Palesa: You've been planning this wedding of
yours for months. Not that I'm not happy for you
Friend but I don't think you should continue
with this. Your relationship is dead and buried
six feet under.
Connie: I love him.
Palesa: But does he love you? The signes are
there Connie. He comes home late, he doesn't
want to fuck you and he always makes excuses.
Connie: His mother talk to him about that and he
apologized.
Palesa: Ai you are so stupid Connie. For
goodness sake stop letting these people play with
your heart.

Connie suddenly felt rage hitting her with full

force. She stopped walking and held palesa's
wrist.
Connie: (snapped) You never liked Lesley
Palesa! Do you want to explain that to me?
Palesa: Why are you telling at me Connie? I'm
your best friend and It's my responsibility to
show you the right path when you are blind as
hell. Lesley is not the one, forget the damn
marriage and move on!.
Connie: And how do you know if he's bad for me
Palesa? Have you ever been in love? Don't talk
bullshit when you know nothing about me.
Palesa: Open your eyes Connie! I'm your best
friend don't ever expect me to sugarcoat the
truth.

Connie looked around only to realise that people

have been watching and listening to them. She
tightened her hold on her handbag strap and
walked passed Palesa. Even though Palesa was
mad as hell she knew how much Connie needed
her.
Palesa: Wait! Connie we are not done talking!.

She ran after her and they both got in an empty

taxi. Connie placed her head against the window
and sighed.

Palesa: Stop this nonsense Connie and listen to

me. This has to stop!.
Connie: Ke Thomas makgola ka go bona (I'll
believe it when I see it).
Palesa: (laughed in disbelief) Really and what are
you going to do? You'll probably forgive him and
start planning the non existent wedding of yours.
His mother can see it too Connie that's why she
packed her bags and left you to plan the wedding
alone.
Connie: (clicked tongue) Okay.
Palesa: Iyoh I give up. When you finally discover
the truth you know where my house is. I'll be
glad to comfort you because you are my other
half and I love you.

She folded her arms and waited for passengers to

fill the taxi so they could get home.

At Bogopa inc.

Gabriel adjusted his tie and stood up from the

chair. He looked around the boardroom then
nodded at his assistant who also stood up.

Gabe: That will be all ladies and Gentlemen.

Sarah please clear this up and meet me in the
office. Meeting adjourned.

He shook hands with the board members then

walked out of the room and to the office. He felt
so exhausted and all he wanted was to go home
and take a long bath. He got in his office and his
personal phone started ringing on the desk.

He walked to the desk and picked it up.

Gabe: Hello?
Puleng: (crying) Gabri..brother I need your help.
Gabe: Puleng? What the f...you're crying. What
happened?
Puleng: I need fifty thousand rands urgently.
Gabe: Fifty! Puleng do you know how much that
money is?
Puleng: Y-yes. Please Gabe I'm desperate.

Gabe felt the urge to scream out loud.

Gabe: What do you need it for?

Puleng: (whispering) Abotion.
Gabe: Excuse me!
Puleng: I found out that I'm pregnant and I don't
know the father. Please don't tell Mmapule.
Gabe: Yei wena you can't sleep around and
expect me to clean up your mess. You are on your
own this time.
Puleng: Oh really? Fine then I'll just ask
Katherine. What's yours it's hers.

Gabe slammed his fist on the desk.

Gabe: Go ahead Puleng. You are older than me

but you are so stupid and irresponsible. I wonder
what Thato is going to say when he finds out
about the shit his older sister is doing.

He hung up and walked around the desk and sat

down. Sarah got in minutes later.
Later at Lesley's.

Connie opened the door and got in the house.

She closed the door. The first thing she noticed
were her bags in the middle of the kitchen. She
frowned.

Connie: Lesley!

She walked further to the living room but her

steps halted when she heard muffled moans and
things falling down. Palesa's words came rushing
back and her heart started beating faster.

Connie: (Yelling) Lesley! Why are my bags in the

kitchen?

She walked to her room and open the door. What

she saw made her heart fell to the bottom of her
stomach. Emily moaned on top of her lungs as
her second orgasm hit her like a ton of bricks but
she snapped out her blissful moment when she
heard a loud familiar sob.

Connie: Lesley! Emily!.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 8

At Lesley's.

Connie: Lesley! Emily!.

Lesley turned around faster than lightening and
covered himself with the duvet while Emily fixed
her hair. She got out of bed butt naked and
walked to her friend.

Emily: Connie...friend..I can explain.

Connie: (crying) Really? You want to explain
what exactly? The fact that you slept with my
fiance or the fact that you betrayed your friend?

Lesley licked his lips not feeling sorry at all. He

got out of bed and stood in front of Connie.

Lesley: I'm sorry you had to find out like this.

Emily and I love each other and we didn't mean
to break your precious heart. Since it's still early
you can manage to catch a taxi to your sister's
akere? Plus we already did you a favor by
packing your belongings.
Connie raised her hand and slapped Lesley
across the face and charged at Emily. Lesley
rubbed his cheek and got between the two.

Lesley: (snapped) What the hell are you doing?

You know I could arrest you for assault Connie!.
Connie: How could you this to me? She's my
friend Lesley.
Lesley: We don't choose who we fall in love with.
Connie: Emily you really disappointed me. You
ruined our friendship because of this cheating
bustard!

Emily cleared her throat and folded her arms.

Emily: Don't pin the blame on me Connie. Lesley

made his choice just accept it and stop being
dramatic.
Connie: How long has this been going on?
Emily: A year.
Connie: (choked) What?
Emily: Kere a year Connie. We've been sleeping
together for....

Connie yanked Emily by her hair and punched

her. Emily fought for herself and they both fell
on the floor. Lesley screamed at them in anger
and yanked Connie off Emily.

Lesley: (shouting) I don't want you anymore.

This madness of yours it's going to get you
arrested. Don't test me Connie I'll beat the shit
out of you.
Connie: I dare you Lesley beat me!

Lesley grabbed her by her wrist and dragged her

out of the bedroom then to the kitchen. Connie
had no energy to fight, she just let Lesley drag
her with tears flowing. They both stopped at the
kitchen and Lesley pointed the bags.

Lesley: Take your shit and leave! I'm done

playing mr nice guy Connie. Those shitty sets of
cups are all in the bag and I don't even give a
fuck if they break.

She wiped her tears and walked to her bags. She

picked up her bags and dragged the other one
out of the kitchen. When she got to the door she
turned around and looked at Lesley then took off
the ring on her finger.

Connie: (smiled sympathetically) We've been

together for ten years Lesley and those years
were not the best years of my life but I stayed
with you because I love you so much. This ring I
thought It was a promise to keep me with you
and make me happy but I guess promises are
meant to be broken.

She walked to the table and place the ring on it.

Connie: Good luck Lesley you'll need it.

She walked to the door and took her bags then

opened it. She stepped out and slammed the
door. She dragged her bags to the gate and got
out of the yard.

Meanwhile in the house.

Lesley walked back to the bedroom and climped

on the bed with Emily.

Emily: (guilty) Is she gone?

Lesley: (sighed) Yeah. Let's forget Connie and
cuddle.
Emily: I meant to tell her about our relationship.
I didn't want her to find out like this.
Lesley: (annoyed) Em please. I don't want to talk
about Connie or anything related to her.
Emily: Okay I heard you.

She leaned forward and captured Lesley's lips in

a deep kiss. They embraced each other and the
world around them disappeared.

At palesa's.

Palesa cleared their dirty dishes on the table

laughing about something KB said.
KB: Hei wena Pali you don't know how
desperate some people are. I'm glad you invited
me over and cook for me.
Palesa: Yeah well I don't like going out to the
fancy restaurants just to eat when I'm a great
cook. Never.
KB: Listen I never got to apologize for that day.
Those guys are just trouble makers..

Palesa sighed deeply as she soaked the dishes in

a sink.

Palesa: If I find that you are gambling or you are

some sort of a criminal Kabelo I'll kill you. Do
you understand? I don't play like that nna.
KB: (Laughed) Oh really?

Palesa turned around and glared at him. Kabelo's

laughter died down as he realised that Palesa
wasn't joking.
Palesa: Kanti you think I'm joking? I'm not
joking with you KB. I'm serious as hell. If I ever
find out that you are doing something against the
law you'll feel my wrath. Phela I don't mess
around. Ask yourself why I chose to be single in
the first place.
KB: I'm not doing something illegal Palesa geez.
Palesa: (smiled) I'm just making sure. Since you
want me to give you a chance you have to know
what you're getting yourself into. I have anger
issues and I'm not afraid of jail so if you dare do
something I'm against you'll h....

Her phone interrupted her rant. She wiped her

hands against the side of her Jeans then took it
out of her bra. She checked the caller's id before
answering.

Palesa: Friend?
Connie: (sniffling) Hi. Are you busy?

She looked at Kabelo and sighed.

Palesa: No. Do you need something?

Connie: I'm in a taxi and I'm coming over.
Palesa: What happened Connie? Did Lesley do
something?
Connie: I can't talk right now Palesa. I'll explain
everything when I get there. Sharp!.

She hung up and Palesa looked at the phone in

disbelief and worry. She walked to Kabelo and
sat down on the chair.

Palesa: You have to leave Kabelo. My friend is

coming over.
Kabelo: What! But we weren't even done with
the date.
Palesa: (annoyed) You mean sex? Really.. you
thought I'll just let my guard down and let you
fuck me after the second date.
KB: But we almost did it that time mos.

Palesa gritted her teeth.

Palesa: This is the last date ebile. You are

starting to annoy me. You have to leave!.

Kabelo stood up and raised his hands in defeat

then walked to the door. He opened and got out
of the house.

Minutes later.

Palesa opened the door for Connie and helped

her out with her bags. She shut the door and
walked to the lounge. Connie sat down on the
couch and broke down.

Connie: (crying) You told me and I didn't listen.

I found him with Emily on our bed Palesa.
Palesa: (shocked) What.?
Connie: They both packed my bags and Lesley
kicked me out. Ten years down the drain Palesa.

Palesa pulled her in her embrace and brushed

her back.

Palesa: Emily is the bitch that Lesley cheated

with? I'm going to rip that girl into pieces. Don't
cry my friend, people like Lesley don't deserve
your tears.
Connie: Emily out of people mara Palesa?
Palesa: Listen to me Connie ,Everything happens
for a reason. Forget that motherfucker and focus
on your life. You are a good person and you
deserve someone who's going to treat you right
not some dipshit of a fiance and stupid ass
britches like your sister and Emily. I'm here for
you my Friend.

Connie squeezed Palesa tighter as a tiny smile

make a way in her face.

Connie: Thank you so much Pali.

Palesa: (smiled) Feeling better?
Connie: I'll live.
Palesa: You know what, I have a bottle of wine in
the fridge that I planned to drink it with Kabelo
but he turned out to be a scambag who's hungry
for sex. Let me go fetch it.

She stood up and went to the kitchen. She took

out the bottle in the fridge then took out the
glasses in the cabinet then walked back to the
lounge. She sat down and poured themselves.
They both raised the glasses and toasted.

Palesa: To being single.

Conner: To being single.

They both sipped the wine and leaned back to

the couches. Connie's heart was heavy but she
managed to smile like nothing happened and
that's what made Palesa happy and proud.

Later that evening.

Kathy watched Puleng as she paced back and

forth.

Kathy: You're making me dizzy.

Puleng: I need money Katherine please help me.
Kathy: I don't have fifty thousand rands Puleng.
Puleng: Use Gabe's card to withdraw. He's your
husband.
Kathy: Excuse me? Ausi Gabe is my husband not
a bank account. If he doesn't want to give you the
money then there's nothing I can do.
Puleng: Seriously? Kathy you are a woman.
Please understand.

Kathy massaged her temple in annoyance.

Kathy: Why don't you just keep the baby?

Puleng: (snapped) I don't know it's father. I
don't want a bastard child!.
Kathy: Keep your voice down. Hlompho and
Julia are upstairs.
Puleng: Please Kathy.
Kathy: I'll see what I can do.
Puleng pulled her in a tight hug.

Puleng; Thank you Kathy. You're a lifesaver.

They pulled out of their hug when they heard the

front door opening. Gabe got in exhausted as
hell. He walked to the fridge and took out a
bottle of water then walked to the lounge.

Gabe: Puleng you're testing my patience. What

are you doing here?
Puleng: Gabe I came to visit my sister in law.
Please stay out of my business.
Gabe: Katherine my money is our money okay
but doesn't mean you can hand it out without
talking to me.
Kathy: I didn't...Babe she's your sister.

Gabe sat down on the couch.

Gabe: I gave Puleng a huge amount of cash for
her Abotions unknowingly ,I'm not going to let
her fool me this time.
Puleng: (snapped) What kind of a brother are
you?
Gabe: The responsible one and a caring one. I'm
not giving you money for Abotion Puleng. Go
find a job and stop opening your thighs for
money.

Puleng furiously grabbed her handbag on the

couch and stormed out of the lounge.

BUILDING A HOME
CHAPTER 9

The following day at palesa's.

Palesa stirred the soft porridge as she thought

about what Connie told her the previous day. She
turned around and looked at her tired looking
friend.

Palesa: Friend?

Connie yawned and flashed her bestfriend a fake

smile.

Connie: sorry i woke up late. My body feels still

and not used to sleeping alone.
Palesa: Eish Lesley is a dog watseba. Can you
please finish this ,there's something I need to
take care of at town.
Connie: Okay but aren't you going to eat?
Palesa: Porridge will have to wait this is way
more important.
Connie: Okay.

Connie stood up and walked to the stove. Palesa

handed her the spoon and walked to her
bedroom. She put on her shoes and took a plastic
and stuffed it in her pocket then walked back to
the kitchen.

Palesa: I'll be back before you know it.

Connie: Okay I'll put yours in the oven. Thanks
for letting me stay here.
Palesa: (smiled) You're my friend. I can't just let
you be homeless when I have a house. I'll see you
later okay?
Connie: Sharp.
Palesa walked out of the house and closed the
door behind her. Connie switched off the stove
and walked to the lounge and relaxed on the
large couch. Her phone rang disturbing her
peace, she picked it up and answered.

Connie: Hello?
Gabe: Hey Connie how are you?
Connie: I'm good Gabriel. How are you?
Gabriel: Good. I'm sorry for calling you this
early but Julie has been nagging me to call you.
Connie: Is she there with you?
Gabriel: Yes. (Whispering) Here you said you
wanted to talk to your aunt. Bring the phone to
me when you're done.

There were shuffling sounds before Julia started

talking.
Julie: Aunty Connie!.
Connie: (laughed) Hey Juju. You sound excited.
Julie: I missed you Aunty. You said you were
going to visit but you didn't.
Connie: (sighed) I'm sorry my love ,I've been
busy.
Julie: But you are going to visit one day right?
Connie: Of course honey I will when I get time
okay? But you can always ask daddy to borrow
you his phone right?
Julie: Yes aunty.
Connie: Where's your little brother?
Julie: He's with mommy.
Connie: It's sunday. Aren't you going to church?
Julie: No Daddy is going to work and mommy
doesn't like going to church.
Connie: But you always pray don't you?
Julie: I pray for you everyday. I always ask god
to protect you and to make aunty Puleng your
friend.

Connie's heart shuttered as she started realizing

that her niece is old enough to noticed Puleng's
hatred towards her.

Connie: Thank you baby. I will pray for you too.

Julie: Bye aunty. (Yelling) Daddy!!.

Connie hung up and tears blurred her vision.

At Lesley's.

Emily got on top of Lesley and kissed him ,Lesley

stirred awake and smiled at Emily.
Emily: This feels good! You know being together
without Connie getting in our way.
Lesley: Yeah. We should go to your place and get
your things.
Emily: You want me to move in?
Lesley: (rolled eyes) yeah obviously.
Emily: Its too soon.
Lesley: (annoyed) Bathong. You just said this
feels nice ,what were you referring to?
Emily: Waking up next to you.
Lesley: Exactly! Don't you want to wake up next
to me everyday Em?
Emily: I do Lesley but what if your mother comes
over and finds me here? What is she going to
say?
Lesley: This is my house. My mother will not say
anything.
Emily: (sighed) Fine we will go tomorrow. I just
want to enjoy this Sunday in bed.
Lesley: (smiled) Me too.

He pulled Emily's face and kissed her. They

broke apart when they heard a knock on the
door.

Emily: Are you expecting anyone?

Lesley: No. Maybe it's the neighbors.
Emily: (worried) What if it's Connie?
Lesley: Connie will never set her foot here after
what happened yesterday. Go and open. I have to
take a shower and go out.
Emily: Out where?

Lesley kissed her and got out of bed. He walked

to the bathroom leaving Emily with questions.
Em kicked off the sheets and walked to the
wardrobe. She took Connie's robe and wore it
then walked to the kitchen. The person on the
door kept banging it loudly.

Emily: (yelling) Don't break the door hle! We are

coming!.

She opened the door and gasped when she saw

palesa holding her waist.

Emily: um...err. Pali? What are you doing here?

Palesa: No what the hell are you doing here
wearing Connie's morning gown?

Emily said nothing. Palesa pushed her inside and

got in before she closed the door.

Palesa: Oh so Lesley is the one who has been

blessing you? Aren't you ashamed of yourself
Emily?.
Emily: Did Connie sent you here?
Palesa: No she didn't. You are such a Jezebel
watseba! Don't worry I'm going to beat the devil
inside you today. I'm going to deliver you.

She yanked Emily with the robe and started

choking her. When she saw her face turning blue
she gave her one last squeeze and let her go.
Emily fell down on the floor and coughed out.

Palesa: Ke tla go bolaya nna(I'll kill you) and I

dare you to tell your boyfriend! I'm not afraid of
jail.

She took out the plastic out of her pocket and

Emily squeezed her eyes shut thinking that
Palesa was going to choke her with the plastic
but she felt her cold breeze hitting her naked
body as Palesa undressed her.
Palesa: This robe belongs to my friend. I was
going to take Lesley too but he doesn't belong to
her. You and Lesley are going to reap what you
sew. Le ntlwaela masepa.

She shoved the robe in the plastic and opened

the door. She walked out and slammed it shut.
Emily massaged her neck and got up. She ran to
Lesley's room in fear and guilt.

Later that morning at Kathy's.

Puleng closed herself in the bathroom and

answered her phone.

Puleng: Eish I told you not to call me Andile!

Andile: Babe did you get the money?
Puleng: No! Make a plan Andile I tried
everywhere.
Andile: Then where am I suppose to get fifty
thousand. Those guys are going to kill us if we
don't pay back.
Puleng: (snapped) You are the man you should
make a plan! I didn't say borrow money from
dangerous loan sharks. What were you thinking
Andile?
Andile: you said you wanted a huge house didn't
you?
Puleng: Yes but....

There were glass shattering sounds and Puleng

jumped in fear.

Andile: Puleng don't make me mad. Find Twenty

five thousand rands and I'll find twenty thousand
rands. We both wanted the house right?
Puleng: (clicked her tongue) I'll make a plan.
Andile: I love you okay?
Puleng: I love you too.

She hung up and walked to the toilet and flushed

nothing then walked out of the bathroom.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 10

At Kathy's.

Puleng walked out of the bathroom and closed

the door. She breathed out and walked to her
brother's bedroom. Kathy watched her husband
as he tied his own tie.
Kathy: How long are you going to stay mad at
me?

Gabriel turned around and glared at his wife.

Gabe: I don't have time to be mad at you

Katherine.
Kathy: Then why the silent treatment Gabe?
Gabe: (annoyed) No. I'm just giving you some
space to discuss our money with Puleng.
Kathy: Really now?

Gabe strengthened his suit and walked to the

dressing table.

Gabe: If I ever find out that you withdrew money

from the family account for Puleng I
will....you're really testing me Kathy.
Kathy: Babe Puleng is desperate and I'm willing
to help her. She would have done the same for
me if I were in her situation.
Gabe: So you like Abotion now? You support this
bullshit!?.
Kathy: (annoyed) Seriously Gabriel? If it was
Connie you were going to help her. You were
going to withdraw millions just for her!!.
Gabe: What does Connie have to do with this?
Kathy: I don't know Gabe. You tell me!.

Puleng knocked on the door and let herself in.

Puleng: (interrupting) Yes if it was Connie he

was going to swim in the ocean full of alligators
and sea creatures just for her.
Gabe: What the fuck are you doing in our room
Puleng?
Puleng: You are such a hypocrite wena Gabriel!
Gabe glanced at his reflection for the last time
and picked his bag and keys on the dressing
table.

Gabe: Katherine I want you to listen to me

carefully, Puleng or anyone in related to aren't
going to be there for you like you think they
would. Families turn against each other kanti
don't you see what's happening out there?
Puleng: (snapped) You are so selfish Gabriel yoh.
I'm your sister but you don't give a damn about
me.
Gabe: Puleng nna I don't have a problem with
you. I just wish maybe you chose a different
lifestyle.

Puleng walked to the bed and sat down.

Gabe: Ebile you're coming to my room and you
sit on my bed. O ntlwaela gampe Puleng (you
disrespect me).
Kathy: Babe please let's just help her out please.
Gabe: Puleng go and take care of the kids. Akere
we pay to do that. Some sister you are! You are
earning for taking care of your brother's kids.

He clicked his tongue and looked at Kathy.

Gabe: I'm going to work and when I get back I

want to find the beautiful and smart Katherine I
married not this.
Kathy: (rolled eyes) Bye babe.

Gabe walked out of their room and went to his

children's bedroom. Meanwhile in the bedroom
Puleng fell on the bed and groaned loudly.
Puleng: Gosh I'm in trouble Kathy you have to
help me. If I don't get fifty thousand I'm going to
die.

Kathy adjusted herself on the bed and stared at

Puleng in confusion.

Kathy: What do you mean you are going to die?

Puleng: I'm not pregnant ,my man and I owe
someone and he's going to kill us if we don't pay.
Please don't tell Gabe or Mmapule about this.
Kathy: (snapped) I defend you to Gabe kanti it's
all a lie? What's wrong with you Puleng?
Puleng: please sister in law I'm begging you. You
know I don't have money.

She sat up and reached for Kathy's hands. She

held her and looked at her straight in the eyes
letting her see all her fear and vulnerability.
Puleng: I don't want to die.
Kathy: (sighed) Who is this man you owe
Puleng?
Puleng: That's not important right now Kathy.
Please are you going to help me?
Kathy: Can I think about it?
Puleng: What's there to think about? I'm about
to die Katherine!.
Kathy: How will I even help you without talking
to Gabe about this? I don't want to disobey my
husband.
Puleng: Sisters help each other Kathy. Gabe
doesn't have to know about this.

Kathy closed her eyes feeling under pressure.

At Lesley's.
Lesley walked out of the bathroom with a towel
wrapped on his waist. He frowned when he saw
Emily smearing cream on her neck and rubbing
furiously.

Lesley: Hey let that neck go. Are you okay?

Emily: (snapped) Do I look okay to you?
Lesley: I was just asking Em because what you're
doing is not what I'm used to. Who was at the
door?
Emily: It was Palesa and she almost killed me! I
told you that moving in is a bad idea. What if she
comes back here and finish me off?

Lesley shook his head and took off his towel.

Lesley: I will sort her out.

Emily: that doesn't make me feel better Lesley.
Lesley: Emily you love me don't you? Come here
and stop worrying about morons like Palesa. I'm
a cop remember? I can easily lock her up for
assault and harassment.

Emily put the cream on the dressing table and

walked to the bed. Lesley pulled her to his lap
and kissed her.

Lesley: I'm going to enjoy having you here. No

more sneaking around.
Emily: mmmh I like the sound of that.

Lesley grabbed her ass and gave it a hard slap

earning a whimper from Emily.

Lesley: That's my girl!.

Later that day Lesley took a large transparent
plastic and started shoving Connie's old panties
and bras in it. He even turned the wardrobe
upside down looking for their old pictures of
Connie and her late parents. Emily got in the
room and folded her arms.

Emily: And then?

Lesley: I'm getting rid of old memories.
Emily: (smiled) That's good babe. Are you going
to burn them or throw them in the community
garbage bin?
Lesley: (smirked) I have a better option.

Emily walked to him and kissed his neck then

wiggled her ass out of the room. Lesley chuckled
and continued with his work.

The next day at Edgar's.

Connie stretched her body in exhaustion and
looked at Palesa who was chewing a gum not
looking tired as her. She looked at another
cashier next to her.

Connie: Yeses I'm so tired. Don't you have an

energy drink in your bag or something?
Her: No. It's so unlike you. You are usual
active..ai but I don't blame you, I hate it when
there's sale in the shop. There are many
customers.

Connie groaned in annoyance as she looked at

the line. She scanned the customers clothes and
thanked her then called the next customer.

Connie: Next!
Lesley placed the plastic on the counter and
folded his arms as Connie's face turned sour.

Lesley: (laughed) Ausi you are wasting my time.

Connie: Lesley what are you doing here? What
are these?
Lesley: These are your junk you forgot to take
when you left. I don't want you anymore Connie
stop what you are doing and come fetch the rest
of your stuff. And wena Palesa stop harassing my
girlfriend or I will arrest you.

Palesa stop what she was doing and looked at

Lesley. People were watching and Connie felt so
humiliated.

Palesa: What are you hoping to achieve by

humiliating Connie?
Connie grabbed the plastic on the counter and
ran to the bathroom. While Lesley smiled at
Palesa and got out of the store.

Palesa: (to the customers) Can you please do me

a favor and go to that till. Thank you.

She followed Connie to the bathroom.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 11

At Edgar's.
Connie placed the plastic bag down and held the
toilet seat as she vomited everything she ate.
Palesa stood by the door and stared at her.

Palesa: Friend are you okay?

Connie walked to the basin and washed her

mouth.

Connie: Yes I'm fine. The sight of Lesley just

messed me up.
Palesa: Are you sure? You were just vomiting?
Connie: Yes I'm fine friend. Don't worry let's just
get back to work.

They both got out of the bathroom and got back

to work.

At Thato's.
Thato opened the door for his mother and
walked back to the living room.

Mmapule: son?

Thato grabbed the remote and changed the

channel ignoring his mother.

Mmapule: You're such a brat!

Thato: Don't you have a house? Ma why are you
always here?
Mmapule: Can't I visit my own son?
Thato: (annoyed) I don't mind you visiting me. I
just hate that you always want to control
everything. This is my house and I have a right to
bring whoever I want.
Mmapule: I just want you to find the nice
obedient girl not these whores you always bring
here. Look at Gabe ,he chose the right woman.

Thato laughed.

Thato: I'm not Gabriel and I'm not sure if he's

happy that you turned Kathy like Puleng.
Mmapule: What's that suppose to mean?
Thato: Katherine doesn't listen to Gabe
anymore. She doesn't care about his opinions.
The only thing she wants is to please you. If I
ever decide to settle down don't come into my
house and become a parasite.

Mmapule's mouth hung agape in shock.

Mmapule: Yoh the disrespect! Thato I'm still

your mother.
Thato: But we have the right to tell you the
truth. You are a control freak. I'm sorry but it's
the truth. Gabe had enough of you and so have I.
Mmapule: (shouting) Oh now that you have
money you think you're all that? Bona I'm still
your mother and I'm still going to judge your
decisions and I'm still going to chase those
whores you bring here.
Thato: This is my house!.

He stood up and switched the TV off then threw

the remote on the couch. He looked at Mmapule
and sighed in annoyance.

Thato: I'm going to sleep I'm on night shift.

Mmapule: mmmh.
Thato: Aren't you suppose to get up and leave?
Mmapule: I'm going to leave when you leave.
Thato: suit yourself.
He walked to his room and threw himself on the
bed. He grabbed his phone and unlocked it then
a message caught his attention.

"I need twenty five thousand rands. It's an

emergency"-puleng.

He clicked his tongue and locked his phone.

Later at Palesa's.

Connie paced around the bathroom as she waited

for Palesa to come in. Palesa opened the door
holding three pregnancy tests.

Palesa: You might be pregnant. When was the

last time you got your period ebile?
Connie: Maybe last month..I don't know Palesa.
I've been stressed about Lesley and forgot about
my own self.
Palesa: Take them.
Connie: What if I'm pregnant friend? I never
pictured myself raising a child without a father.
Palesa: There's only one way to find out. You
have nothing to worry about, you can take Lesley
to court if he doesn't want to support the child.
Connie: Eish why is this happening to me
though?
Palesa: Connie take the damn tests and stop
wasting time.

Palesa handed her the tests then got out of the

bathroom. She walked to the lounge and kept
herself busy with her phone. Her phone rang and
she groaned before she answered.

Palesa: Hey what do you want.

Kat: You and I need to talk.
Palesa: What's there to talk about?
Kat: Us!.

Palesa laughed in disbelief.

Palesa: Katlego there's no us okay?

Kat: Come on Palesa please.
Palesa: Katlego you told me that you didn't want
anything serious then all of a sudden you start
talking about the future...what the hell?
Kat: I didn't mean to. I'm outside i need to see
you.
Palesa: Outside?

She walked to the kitchen and peaked through

the curtains.
Palesa: Fine!

She opened the door and got out. She walked to

the gate and opened it. Katlego got out the car
and moved to the back seats. Palesa sighed and
got in the car.

Palesa: I'm living with my friend now and I don't

want this to happen again.
Kat: I'm sorry about the last time.
Palesa: I heard you Kat.

Katlego pushed Palesa against the window and

kissed her.

Palesa: (annoyed) This is what I hate about you

Kat. You never want to talk, your idea of talking
is sex.
Kat: I'm just kissing you Pali that's all. I'm
serious I want us to talk.
Palesa: Talk then.
Kat: Okay. Palesa it was hard for me okay. It was
hard to pretend that I didn't catch feelings when
i did.
Palesa: Then why didnt you tell me? You just
disappeared and you even stopped calling.
Kat: I'm sorry but I was afraid of rejection.
Palesa: (laughed) You are such a coward watseba
Katlego.
Kat: I know I fuck around sometimes but I've
never been rejected before and i was afraid it was
going to break me.
Palesa: Then if I reject you now?

He bit his lips and brushed Palesa's thighs.

Kat: Are you?

Palesa: What do you think?

Kat leaned in and licked her lips then whispered

against them.

Kat: (whispering) Please don't. I missed you Pali

and don't break me. Pretty please.
Palesa: If you mess up again we are done
Katlego. Do you understand me?
Kat: Yes.
Palesa: Good. I have to go back to Connie.
Kat: (confused) What do you mean Connie? Is
she staying with you?
Palesa: Yes.
Kat: Don't tell me Lesley kicked her out.
Palesa: Yes he did and how do you know about
this?
Kat: Palesa I hang out with Lesley sometimes
and he brings girls with him.
Palesa: He kicked her out and he embarrassed
her at work today. Call me tonight.

She opened the door and got out of the car.

At Kathy's.

Puleng got out of the house and answered her

phone.

Puleng: Hello
Andile: Hurry the fuck up with the money
Puleng.
Puleng: I don't have it.
Andile: That's official then. We are going to die.
Puleng: Just sell back the house and pay back the
loan shark. I'm fine with the shack.
Andile: Do you think I haven't tried that?
Puleng: I'm out of ideas then.
Andile: I'm coming there with my bags akere you
are hiding at your big and powerful brother's
house. I'm coming to hide there too. Dragon will
never find me at that side of town.
Puleng: What no no don't c...

She looked at her phone in disbelief then she

started panicking.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 12

The same evening at palesa's.

Palesa walked into the house and paused at the
silence.

Palesa: (yelling) Connie!

When nobody answered she frowned and walked

to her bedroom. She knocked two times and let
herself in. Connie was sitting on the edge of the
bed looking at the pregnancy tests.

Palesa: Friend?
Connie: (chuckled) Pali I'm pregnant.
Palesa: Really?

She nodded and stretched her arm to show her

friend the tests.
Palesa: (concerned) How do you feel?
Connie: I don't know. I mean I'm mad that this
baby is Lesley's but I'm kind of happy that I have
a mini me growing inside of me.
Palesa: (smiles) If you're happy then I'm happy.

Connie smiled and rubbed her belly. Palesa

walked to the bed and sat down with her.

Palesa: it's good that you're happy because I

wouldn't want you to hate your baby because of
that stupid man. Are you going to tell him?
Connie: Yeah he deserves to know.
Palesa: What if he rejects the baby?
Connie: (sighed) You know what if he rejects his
child then he has to sign off his rights of the
child. I hate it when men reject their kids then
when they grow up they come crawling back with
tails between their legs demanding to see the
kids.
Palesa: Yeah it sucks.

At Kathy's.

Puleng sat down on the chair around the dinner

table and started bitting her nails nervously.
Julie watched her silently and giggled.

Julie: Aunty Puleng looks funny.

Gabriel raised his head and stared at his older

sister.

Gabe: Is everything okay?

Puleng: What do you think?
Gabe: Puleng I asked you a question.
Puleng: Yes everything is okay.
Gabe: If you have a problem talk it out. Don't
just bite your nails like that ,you're freaking my
children out.

Julie swallowed a spoonful of food and grinned

at her dad.

Julie: Daddy?
Gabe: mmh?
Julie: Can you call Aunty Connie like you did the
other day?

Kathy frowned.

Kathy: Your dad called Connie? Why would he

call her?
Julie: (smiled) he called her that other day
mommy.
Kathy and Puleng stared at Gabe. Gabriel
continued to eat not even caring about his wife's
deadly stare.

Kathy: (snapped) What business do you have

with my sister Gabriel? Were you trying to ignite
the spark from high school?
Gabe: Don't talk to me like that in front of my
kids.
Kathy: I'm asking you Gabriel ,why did you want
from my sister?

Gabe stood up and took his plate and walked to

the kitchen. Kathy looked at Puleng then stood
up and followed her husband. The minute she
got in the kitchen she folded her arms.

Kathy: Gabriel.
Gabe: Why are you starting unnecessary
arguments Kathy?
Kathy: I want to know why my husband is busy
with my sister. Is that a crime?
Gabe: Julie asked me to call her because she
wanted to talk to Connie.
Kathy: And you expect me to believe that?
Gabe: (snapped) Believe whatever the fuck you
want Katherine. I don't even care if you don't
believe me. You don't respect me anymore akere
your husband is Puleng.
Kathy: Excuse me!
Gabe: I'm tired of you trying to dominate me. I
wear the pants in this marriage do you hear me?
Kathy: (angry) If you want to be with the bitch
you can be with the bitch! Puleng and Mmapule
were right!.

She turned to leave but Gabr grabbed her by the

neck and pinned her against the sink. He stared
straight in her eyes and gritted his teeth.
Gabe: You have a disgusting attitude and It's
getting on my nerves Kate!. I'm trying to be a
good husband to you but you keep pushing my
buttons. Puleng is wrecking your marriage and
your so damn blind to realise that. I'm telling
you this for the last time Katherine ,lose the
fucking attitude.
Kathy: Beat me Gabe! Beat me.

Gabe let go of her and walked back to the sitting

room. Kathy breathed out and touched her neck
then she heard a knock on the door. She walked
to the door and opened.

Kathy: Hello.
Andile: Hi. Is this Gabriel Bogopa's house?
Kathy: (smiled) Yes I'm his wife. How can I help
you?
Andile: I'm your sister in law's boyfriend and I'll
be staying with you fo a while.
Kathy opened her mouth to object but Andile
pushed her aside and got in with his bags. Kathy
closed the door and followed him to the sitting
room.

Andile: Good evening everyone. Hey babe.

Puleng clenched her fist.

Puleng: Andile what are you doing here? that

was not part of the plan.
Andile: No no we are in this together and I have
to be where you are all the time.

Gabe leaned back to the chair and laughed. He

looked at Andile and wiped off his tears.
Gabe: Puleng take your hobo looking boyfriend
and get out of my house. I'm tired of being
disrespected in my own home. This is not a zoo
okay? Don't force me to use my fists or gun to get
you out of here.

The following day at Lesley's.

Emily changed the channel on the tv and sipped

her coffee. Lesley walked to her and kissed her
cheek.

Lesley: I'll see you later. Cook chicken.

Emily: Okay.

He walked to the kitchen and grabbed his car

keys on the counter then walked to the door. He
opened and found Connie already at the door.
Lesley: What are you doing here ?
Connie: (breathed out) I'm pregnant.
Lesley: I don't care. I knew you were going to try
this shit to get me back. Grow up Connie!.
Connie: I'm pregnant Lesley and I don't have
time to play around and don't want you back.
Lesley: Then leave Connie with your so called
pregnancy.
Connie: (calmly) Okay then we'll meet at court
after I give birth so you could sign off your rights
to the child. You disgust me!.

She turned around and walked to the gate. Lesley

watched her opening the gate and getting out
then he clicked his tongue.

Lesley: Attention whore!.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 13

At the station.

Kat watched Lesley smiling at his phone the he

clicked his tongue. He walked to him and
scowled at him before he spoke.

Kat: Can you borrow me your phone mine is

dead.
Lesley: Sure.

He turned his chair and handed Katlego his

phone. Kat switched it on and Emily's half naked
picture flashed on the wallpaper. He laughed in
disbelief.

Kat: I thought you said you weren't with this girl.

Lesley: Why do you have a problem with Emily?
Did she reject you or something?

Kat clicked his tongue.

Kat: Sometimes I wonder why I'm even friends

with you. You are an asshole.
Lesley: (smirked) Don't let jealous make you
utter those awful words my friend.
Kat: Palesa told me that you kicked Connie out.
Lesley: (annoyed) Palesa is forward man. She
should mind her own business.
Kat: You've been with Connie for Ten years man.
How can you just dump her for a slut like Emily.
Lesley stood up and came face to face with Kat.

Lesley: Dont talk about my woman like that!

Kat: Men like you are the reason why all men
have a bad name. I dont understand why you
tossed the poor lady away with no reason. You'll
remember her I'm telling you.
Lesley: Bona, if you want Connie just go and
smash her and stop disrespecting me at my
workplace. I dont even know what you see on
Connie ,she's bad in bed.

Kat clenched his fists.

Kat: If I wasn't in love with Palesa I was gonna

make Connie my wife then love and cherish her
like she deserves.
Lesley: (laughed) Okay suit yourself.
Kat: (annoyed) you annoy me watseba! Karma is
coming for you.
Lesley: I dont understand why you have to put
yourself in a bad mood for the things that do not
concern you.

The captain got in and started yelling at them.

Captain: You do not get paid for talking shit at

work! Get back to work!!.

At Kathy's.

Kathy took a hose to water the plants in the

garden when she heard moans coming from the
car. She put the hose in a pot of flowers and
walked to the car then knocked on the window.
Puleng got off Andile and fixed her hair then
rolled down the window.
Kathy: (snapped) What the hell!
Puleng: I can explain.
Kathy: Really Puleng? I thought Gabe told you to
leave with your boyfriend!.
Puleng: Sister in law hle! We had nowhere to go
so we slept in the car.
Kathy: I don't care Puleng! This is unacceptable.
You had sex in the car inside my yard. What if
Hlompho or Julia saw this?
Puleng: (ashamed) I'm so sorry.

Kathy peaked inside the car and clicked her

tongue.

Kathy: Aren't you ashamed of yourselves? As old

as you are!
Andile: Yo my sister we heard you. We'll leave
your precious home.
Kathy: Get out before my husband finds you
here.

She walked away. Andile pulled up his pants and

Puleng moved to the passenger seat then picked
up her panties.

Puleng: What now?

Andile: We can't go back home.
Puleng: Then where to Andile? I'm tired of
running from Dragon the loan shark.
Andile: I know babe. I'm going to make a plan I
promise.
Puleng: (snapped) Stop promising me things you
can't keep!

Andile grabbed his phone on the dash board and

logged into Facebook. He searched for
backrooms for hire then showed Puleng.
Andile: We can rent this one.
Puleng: We don't have money remember? We
still have to save Fifty thousand rands to pay
Dragon. Use your head Andile!. Do you even
know this place?
Andile: At least I'm thinking of something.
Puleng: (sighed) I'm going to move back in with
Mmapule. You'll sort yourself out.
Andile: Sort myself out? I'm moving in with you.
Puleng: Mmapule doesn't like you Andile and
she'll never allow you to stay at her house.
Andile: Then let's go back home. We can deal
with Dragon.

Later that day at Bogapa inc.

Gabe dialled Connie's numbers then called her.

She answered almost immediately.
Connie: Hello Gabe.
Gabe: Hey. Are you free this Saturday after
work?
Connie: No. What do you want?
Gabe: I'm thinking of bringing the kids over.
Connie: I thought your beloved sister was
watching them for you.
Gabe: (sighed) I kicked her out. Listen I'm only
bringing them because they miss you not because
Kathy and I have plans. You made it clear when
you said you don't want to babysit for us.
Connie: That's not going to be possible Gabriel.

Gabe leaned back to his chair and breathed

deeply.

Gabe: Why not?

Connie: I'm longer staying with Lesley. I live
with Palesa and I don't want to crowd her house
with kids!
Gabe: Geez Connie why are you mad at me?
Connie: (calm) I'm sorry it's not my fault. You
can drop them at the park and we'll spent time
there.
Gabe: Thank you.

He hung up and closed his eyes in frustration.

At Lesley's.

Emily wore a sexy lingerie and walked to lined

up Rose petals from the kitchen leading to the
bedroom. She heard the knock on the door and
squealed in excitement.

Emily: Hold on I'm coming.

She pressed her lips together and ran to the
bedroom ,she took her expensive perfume
sprayed the pillows the checked the time. She
wore her gown to cover the lingerie then ran to
the kitchen to open the front door. Mmalesley
stared down at Em and got in the house.

Mmalesley: Hello mma.

Emily nervously fixed her gown and lowered her

head.

Emily: Agee.
Mmalesley: who are you? Where's Connie?
Emily: (confidently) I'm Emily and I'm lesley's
new girlfriend. Connie is long gone!.
Mmalesley: Lesley will have to explain this
because this absolute madness.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 14

At Lesley's.

Emily sat down on the couch and folded her

arms with an attitude. Mmalesley glanced at the
clock on the wall and clicked her tongue.

Mmalesley: E le gore when is he getting here?

Emily: Soon!.
The door handle clicked and then the door
opened. Mmalesley stood up and met her son
halfway.

Lesley: Mma?
Mmalesley: (shouting) I leave for few months
and this is what I find? You and Connie were
suppose to be planning the wedding. Why is this
trash here claiming to be your new girlfriend?
Lesley: (sighed) Can you please go and sit down.
I will explain everything.

Mmalesley huffed and walked back to the couch.

Lesley walked to the opposite couch and sat
down beside Emily.

Lesley: Connie and I were not happy so I let her

go.
Mmalesley: You let her go? What kind of
nonsense is that Lesley?
Lesley: (snapped) I fell out of love with her.
Emily is the woman I intend to marry can't you
be happy for me?
MmaLesley: (laughed) Wonders shall never end!

Lesley ran his hand over his face and looked at

Emily. Mmalesley glared at Emily.

Mmalesley: What do you have to say for yourself

wena! Aren't you ashamed of yourself for ruining
Lesley and Connie's marriage?

Emily scoffed.

Emily: We fell in love and there's nothing you

can do or say to change that.
Mmalesley: oh really?
Emily: I deserve to be happy too.
Mmalesley: I'm so disappointed in you Lesley.
Connie is a good woman and she's been through
a lot. How can you easily replace her?

Lesley opened his mouth to snap at his mom but

quickly shut it when Emily got in his lap kissed
him. Mmalesley watched in disbelief and disgust
then stood up.

Mmalesley: Where's Connie staying now?

Lesley: At her friend's.
Mmalesley: (shook her head) I'll never accept
you as my daughter in law and wena Lesley, you
better sit down and think about this.

She walked out of the living room. Emily and

Lesley looked at each other and they both heard
the front door slamming shut.
Later that evening At Palesa's.

Connie placed the remote on the table and

yawned. She looked at her friend before standing
up.

Connie: Aren't you going to bed?

Palesa: Mmh I'm not really tired. You can go and
sleep ,you need to rest.
Connie: Okay Goodnight.
Palesa: Night.

Connie walked to her room and grabbed her

phone. She sat on the bed and her phone started
ringing. She frowned and answered.

Connie: Katherine.
Kathy: Hello Connie.
Connie: Hi little sis. Is everything okay?
Kathy: Do you have feelings for my husband?
Connie: (shocked) Excuse me!
Kathy: Answer the damn question!.

Connie removed the phone from her ear and

stared at it in disbelief then put it back.

Connie: Of course not. What the hell Kathy?

Kathy: Then stop calling him like a desperate
whore!.
Connie: (angry) Katherine are you talking to me
like that?
Kathy: Don't pull the big sister shit on me
Connie, stay away from my husband. You had
your chance in high school!.

Connie clenched her fist in anger.

Connie: You know what Katherine, you are such
a bitch! You and I were so close but you changed
after you married your precious Gabriel and
started new relationships with his family. Go
ahead and treat me this way!..

Kathy kept quiet and listened to Connie as she

continued.

Connie: The only reason why I was talking to

your husband was because I asked Julie to ask
Gabriel his phone when she wants to talk to me
but since you have a problem with me I'll just
stay the hell away from your family like I
should've done a long time ago.
Kathy: Oh stop sulking! Connie why don't you
just get married and have your own life that does
not involve me. Julie and Hlompho are my
children and they don't need you!.
Connie: Don't worry ausi I won't bother you
anymore. I have my own child on the way.

She hung up the phone and went through the

contacts. She blocked Gabe's numbers and lied
down on the bed.

Connie: I'm done with this shit!.

Meanwhile in the living room.

Palesa leaned back on the couch and laughed at

the show she was watching. She heard a knock
on the door and groaned in annoyance.

Palesa: Just when the show was getting

interesting.
She clicked her tongue and walked to the door.
She opened it and Kat got in. He closed the door
and pinned Palesa against it kissed her, his
hands traveled in between her thighs.

Palesa: mmm...I told you that I was living with

Connie.
Kat: (huskily) Shhh be quiet.

He picked her up and Palesa wrapped her legs

around his waist and held on as Kat hungrily
devoured her lips.

The following day at Kathy's.

Gabriel groaned in irritation and answered his

phone.

Gabe: Sarah oh my god why?

Sarah: I'm so sorry Gabe but...
Gabe: You're in charge Sarah I can't come to
work. I'm not feeling too good.
Sarah: Really?
Gabe: Yes bye Sarah and thank you.

He hang up the phone and pulled the sheets.

Kathy stirred awake and wrapped her arms
around Gabe's torso.

Kathy: Babe?
Gabe: Mmh.
Kathy: Aren't you suppose to be getting ready to
go to work?
Gabe: I'm tired Kathy and I still have to take the
kids to the park to spent a day with their aunt.
Julie has been nagging me all week.
Kathy: (clicked her tongue) Don't even bother. I
told Connie to stay away from you and my
children.

Gabe turned to her.

Gabe: You did what?

Kathy: I told her...
Gabe: I heard you Katherine! What the hell did
you do that for?
Kathy: (shouting) Because she wants you and
you want her too! You married me Gabriel!.

Gabe sat up on the bed and swallowed back half

of his anger.

Gabe: I was doing that for the kids and I don't

want your sister. I'm trying to fix the mess you
created Katherine. You ruined your relationship
with your sister because of your childishness and
heavy jealousy.
Kathy: Am I not allowed to be jealous Gabriel?
Did you forget what Connie did to me?

She sat up and looked at Gabe with tears

streaming down her.

Kathy: (crying) I would have had three kids if

Connie didn't cook that meal. You're defending
her when she killed my child!.
Gabe: Are you sure it was her? We all had that
meal Kathy. We all ate and nothing happened to
us.

Kathy got out of bed.

Kathy: I will never forgive her let alone let her

step into this house again!.
She ran to the bathroom and shut the door.

Gabe: (yelling) Katherine!.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 15

Weeks later at Palesa's.

Connie laid her head on Palesa's lap and sighed

as Palesa massaged her scalp.
Palesa: What's going on between you and Gabe
anyway?
Connie: Nothing.
Palesa: Connie..
Connie: Serious Pali there's nothing going on.
We just want peace akere, is it a crime?
Palesa: (sighed) No but why would Katherine
insult you like that though. She must have sensed
something.
Connie: Yoh Palesa I said nothing is going on.
She's just mad at what happened years ago and it
wasn't even my fault.

Someone knocked on the door and the ladies

looked at each other.

Palesa: Are you expecting someone?

Connie: Huh this late? No.
Palesa stood up and walked to the door. She
opened the door and Mmalesley smiled at her
then walked in. She followed Palesa to the
lounge in silence.

Mmalesley: I'm so sorry for coming this late.

How are you my girls?
Connie: (smiled) We are good Mma and you?
You can sit down.

She sat down and faked a smile at Connie.

Mmalesley: I'm not good Connie. When are you

coming home?
Connie: Home?
Mmalesley: I know what Lesley did was wrong
but you shouldn't have ran like a coward.
Connie: I didn't run. Your son kicked me out
after I caught him in bed with my friend!.
Palesa looked at her friend then walked out of
the lounge to give them privacy. Mmalesley
grabbed Connie's hands and squeezed them.

Mmalesley: Then why didn't you fight for your

marriage. You were suppose to be getting
married Connie.
Connie: (shouting) Your son is cruel Mmalesley
and I don't think I'll ever forgive him for what
did to me!. He cheated on me ,he kicked me out
and he even rejected his child when I told him
that I was pregnant.
Mmalesley: You're pregnant? Thank the lord.
Now you have a reason to save your relationship
with Lesley. I don't want that girl as my daughter
in law.

Connie sat up straight on the couch and glared at

Mmalesley.
Connie: You have to accept her akere your son
chose her.
Mmalesley: How can you be this stupid Connie.
You're giving up?
Connie: Yes and I'm tired. Can you please leave.
Mmalesley: Connie...
Connie: Please.

Mmalesley stood up and walked to the door.

Connie ran her fingers through her hair and laid
on the couch.

At Kathy's.

Gabriel sighed as he braided Julie's hair.

Hlompho stirred awake in his lap and yawned.
Hlompho: Daddy?
Gabe: mmmh?
Hlompho: Why is mommy mad at you?

Gabe kissed Hlompho on the cheek and got him

off his lap.

Gabe: Don't worry about it boy.

Hlompho: But you don't smile anymore.
Julie: Mommy is mad at aunty Connie not
Daddy.
Gabe: How did you know about that Julia? I told
you that it was rude to eavesdrop adults'
conversation didn't I?
Julie: Sorry.

Kathy got in the room and held her waist in

annoyance.
Kathy: it's their bed time!. Go to bed Julie!.

Gabe stood up and walked passed Kathy and got

out of the kid's room. Kathy followed him and
they stood in the middle of the corridor.

Kathy: Babe?
Gabe: Two weeks without talking and months
without touching. What the hell is wrong with
you kathy?
Kathy: Don't make this my fault.
Gabe: No I'm tired of you. I'm up to here with
your mood swings. I'm your husband not a
puppet you can control.

Kathy breathed out in anger and shoved Gabe

away. Gabe laughed in disbelief and raised his
hand.
Gabe: If it wasn't a crime to beat up women is
south africa I would've slapped the shit out of
you. You're so disrespectful and annoying
Katherine.
Kathy: (shouting) Why don't you just beat and
satisfy yourself?
Gabe: I'm leaving. You know my numbers so call
me when you're ready to be my wife.

He clicked his tongue and walked into their

room. He took his car keys on the dressing table
and got out. Katherine watched him leaving and
rolled her eyes.

At Lesley's.

Lesley stared at the pile of dirty dishes and

groaned in annoyance. He walked to his
bedroom looking for Emily.
Lesley: (yelling) Baby! Emie?

He opened the door and found her lying on the

bed laughing at something on her phone.

Emily: Hey love.

Lesley: Why didn't you wash the dishes. It's time
for bed and the dishes are still in the zinc.
Emily: I'm sorry I forgot to wash them.
Lesley: Go and wash them before Mma comes
back.

She stood up and dragged her feet to Lesley. She

wrapped her arms around him and kissed his
neck.

Emily: (whispering) Dishes are not fun how

about we do something else.
Lesley: We'll do that when you're done.
Emily: (snapped) Kanti didn't you say you love
me Lesley? Why should I slave in the kitchen
when your mother is around?
Lesley: I slave in the station to support the both
of us. Have you ever heard me complaining?
Don't make me mad Em!.

Emily unwrapped her arms and walked to the

kitchen.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 16
At Lesley's.

Mmalesley opened the door and got in the house.

She looked at Emily washing the dishes and
walked to her.

Mmalesley: Mme?

Emily soaked the dish cloth in the water and

turned to Mmalesley.

Emily: Mma?
Mmalesley: Akere you made yourself the wife of
this house ,leave those dishes and make a cup of
chamomile tea. I need to calm my nerves.
Emily: (annoyed) Mma It's late and I promised
Lesley that I'll come straight to bed once I'm
done with the dishes.
Mmalesley: You have a lot of time in the world to
have sex with my son ,I'm only asking for a cup
of tea. Plug the kettle ,I'll be waiting in my room.

Emily sighed and wiped her hands. Mmalesley

walked out of the kitchen and went straight to
Lesley's room.

Mmalesley: (shouting) You lied to me about

Connie!. How can you kick the poor girl out
Lesley? I did not raise you to become a whore of
a man.
Lesley: Mma please can we not do this now?
Mmalesley: I raised you alone Lesley after your
father ran from his responsibilities and now
you're following his footsteps. Is this the thanks I
get after raising you ,taking you to school and
grooming you into a man?
Lesley got off the bed and walked to his mother.
He placed his hands on his mother's shoulders
and looked at her.

Lesley: Stop meddling into my business Mma!.

Stressing yourself about my problems is not
good for your heart.
Mmalesley: I want grandchildren and I can't just
let you reject your own child. You better fix your
problems with Connie and make her trust you
again before I take matters into my own hands.

Lesley stared at her suspiciously and repeatedly

shook his head.

Lesley: Don't even think about it.

Mmalesley: Akere you can't even control what's
in your pants, a sangoma is a good idea at the
time like this.
She clicked her tongue and got out of the room.

At Bogopa inc.

Gabe sat on the chair in his office as he downed a

bottle of whiskey. He tried Connie's numbers for
the seventh time then groaned in frustration.

Gabe: (laughing bitterly) She blocked me.

He untied his tie and took off his shirt then

smiled at the new idea that popped into his head.
He put his phone on the desk and dialed Connie
again using his office phone.

Gabe: (loudly) Connie!.

Connie: Who's this?
Gabe: Your fucking sister's husband. Connie?
Connie: Gabriel? Are you drunk?

Gabe sipped his drink and slammed the bottle on

the desk.

Gabe: Eish Connie your sister is a pain in my ass.

I'm at the office as we speak and I don't think I'll
be able to stand up. Connie I need h-help.
Connie: (snapped) Gabriel didn't I make myself
clear when I said you should stop talking to me?
Katherine doesn't like it and I told you that I
don't want anything to do with you. Le gona how
could you call me this late. Are you crazy Gabe?.
Gabe: (sighed) I want to apologize for
everything. And this time I mean it.
Connie: I heard your lame apology hundred
times. I'm hanging up ,you're starting to irritate
me.
Gabe: Wait!.
He leaned his head back and sighed.

Gabe: Don't!
Connie: You're so annoying you know that?
Gabe: I'm sorry but I don't have anyone to
bother. (Whispering) I don't have friends.
Connie: Call your employees and bother them. I
want to sleep.
Gabe: You're my friend aren't you?
Connie: (laughed) You're full of jokes. Go home
and fix things with your wife before she comes
here and accuse me of sleeping with you.

At Palesa's.

Palesa munched on her popcorn and listened to

Connie's conversation with Gabe. Connie looked
at her and rolled her eyes.
Connie: Aren't you tired?
Gabe: Physically no but emotionally yes.
Connie: Then rest and stop calling me with
different phones.
Gabe: I will. I just wanted to apologize for me
and for Kathy.
Connie: Apologizing for Connie is useless when
she doesn't feel sorry at all. Let's save ourselves
some problems and stop talking. You should
really go home.
Gabe: (chuckled) Okay Goodnight.
Connie: Goodnight.

She hung up and leaned back on the couch.

Palesa moved closer to her and playfully hit her
shoulder.

Palesa: Maybe you should just go and fuck Gabe

to teach your sister and Lesley a lesson.
Connie: (snapped) Hey! Yeses! I can't do that.
Palesa: Yoh I was just kidding hau but you
should really sit down with Kathy and Gabe and
clear the air. Tell Kathy that you're not after her
husband. You and Gabe were close before he
married Kathy mos.
Connie: Yeah but I distanced myself because of
Mmapuleng.

Palesa stretched her arm and brushed Connie's

tummy.

Palesa: Hopefully this one in here will bring you

peace. You deserve it.
Connie: (smiled) yes I do.

The following day.

Puleng stretched her body and opened the car
windows then shook Andile.

Puleng: Babe? Wake up.

Andile: (groaning) Gosh this is not how I
planned my future.
Puleng: how long are going to keep living in the
car and taking showers at the Gym Andile? Let's
just sell the house since we are not living in it
then pay Dragon back.
Andile: Everything will be okay love I promise.
Puleng: Stop promising me things that you can't
keep. You and I are not working Andile ,how are
we going to pay Dragon? Where the hell do you
get the money anyway?
Andile: (annoyed) Let's not talk about the money
and go to the gym.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 17

Months later at the hospital.

Lesley wiped off the gel on Connie's tummy and

threw the wipe in the trash bin. He reached
Emily's hand and gave her a tight squeeze.

Lesley: Are you okay.

Emily nodded and stared at Connie's tummy.

Emily: You'll find me in the car.

She kissed his cheek and got out of the ward then
soon the doctor followed her and closed the
door. Connie sat up on the bed and pulled down
her sweater.

Connie: Why did you bring Emily here?

Lesley: She's my girlfriend.
Connie: When I allowed you to be around me it
was because of this baby I'm carrying. I didn't
say you should bring your whores to witness
everything.
Lesley: (calm) Emily is my unborn son's
stepmother Connie. She has the right to be here.

Connie laughed in disbelief and folded her arms.

Connie: You're still a son of a bitch!. Do you

think I deserve this Lesley?
Lesley: Connie this is not the time nor the place.
Connie: Okay then let her come on every
appointment then akere she's the future
stepmother. Let's see how she going to like
watching another woman excited over a baby
that she shares with her man.
Lesley: Let's go!.

Connie got off the bed and grabbed her handbag

on the floor.

Connie: No thanks I'll just catch a taxi.

Lesley: No child of mine will ride in a sticky taxi
full of strangers.
Connie: (scoffed) I can't believe you actually
thought that I will let you control me just
because I'm carrying your child.
Lesley: I'm serious Connie.
Connie: What do you want from me Lesley
because you cheated on me and kicked me out?
Why do you suddenly want to play happy family
with me?

Lesley ran his hands over his face.

Lesley: You're overthinking this Connie. I just

want what's best for my son.
Connie: (calm) You come with me to every
appointment and you also buys what I crave.
Isn't that what's best for your unborn son?

Lesley kept quiet and Connie took it as a chance

to continue.

Connie: I appreciate it all but don't forget that

I'm just your baby mama. Don't keep Emily
waiting.
Lesley: (snapped) Why are you so damn
stubborn Connie. I'm offering you a free ride to
your place because I want you and our child
safe!. I'm not trying to hit on you okay?.
Connie: I said I don't want it. I'll just take a taxi
home or ask Palesa to fetch me with Kat's car.

Lesley roughly yanked her by her shoulders and

screamed at her face.

Lesley: Stop being so stubborn.

Connie: What is the meaning of this Lesley. I'm
pregnant for heaven sake!. You can't just man
handle me like that. Ebile o mpakela stress.
(You're even stressing me out).

Lesley slowly let go of her and walked out of the

ward. Connie followed him to the parking lot and
they both got in the car.

Later at Kathy's.
Kathy set the final plate on the table and
grinned. She sat down next to Thato and
Mmapule.

Kathy: When is your woman getting here Thato?

Thato: She will be here soon.

Mmapule leaned towards Hlompho and kissed

his cheek.

Mmapule: Happy birthday my boy.

Kathy stood up and rushed to the door after she

heard the door bell and opened. Sarah got in
with a gift bag and gave Kathy a friendly hug.

Kathy: Welcome.
Sarah: Thank you. Sorry I kept you waiting.

They both walked to the sitting room and Sarah

walked to Thato and kissed him.

Sarah: Good evening everyone. Happy birthday

Hlompho.

Hlompho grinned and shyly bit his finger nails.

Hlompho: Thank you aunty. Can we eat the cake

now?

Gabe chuckled quietly and looked at the empty

chair. He stared at Hlompho and shook his head
but before he could say anything, julie butted in.

Julie: (excited) Not yet. Aunty Connie is not

here.
Hlompho: Didn't mommy day she doesn't want
her here?
Julie: She's my favorite person in the world, I'm
not eating your cake until she gets here. Daddy
did you invite her?

Gabe glanced at Katherine.

Gabe: Yes baby I did. She'll be here soon don't

worry.
Julie: Thank you daddy. You're my favorite too.

Everyone kept their mouths shut as the tension

rose in the room. The door bell rang and Julie
got off the chair and ran to open. She jumped on
her aunt as soon as she opened the door.

Connie: Juju!
Julie: Come quick Aunty we are going to eat the
cake. Everyone is here.
Connie: (whispered) Everyone?
Julie: Uh huh!.

She dragged Connie's hand and walked to the

sitting room. Kathy stared at her as she struggled
to sit down because of her heavy self. Sarah
stood up and helped her.

Connie: Thank you Ausi. Hello everyone and

happy birthday sweetie.
Hlompho: Thank you aunty.

Sarah sat down and smiled at Connie feeling a

little envious.

Sarah: How far are you?

Connie: Three more months to go mgirl but I'm
already struggling.
Sarah: (to Thato) she's gorgeous isn't she? I
heard that pregnancy does wonders to women.

Thato chuckled in amusement as he finally

catched on to what Sarah wanted. Mmapule
laughed bitterly and turned to Connie.

Mmapule: It must be nice having your own child

neh?
Connie: (calmly) The best feeling in the world.
Mmapule: Too bad that fiance of yours left you. I
knew he wasn't going to settle for less.
Connie: Well that doesn't change anything does
it?
Mmapule: (bitterly) I wonder how would you
like it if someone poison your food and kill your
damn child.
Gabe and Kathy's heads turned to Mmapule in
horror. Gabe internally cursed.

Gabe: Both of you shut up!. Seriously

Mmapuleng you are going to attack her at the
time like this? Julie and I invited Connie here,
she's the guest so stop harassing my guest in
front of my children.

Connie smirked at Mmapuleng and leaned

comfortably.

Connie: That's right. I'm just a guest no need to

attack me.
Hlompho: Aunty is it true that you'll be having a
baby?
Connie: Where did you hear that?
Hlompho: I heard from Julie.
Connie: Yes I'll be having a baby. You are going
to protect him aren't you Hlompho?
Hlompho: (giggled) Yes.

Kathy stood up and motioned Connie to follow

her. They both walked out and went to the
passageway. Kathy held her waist and looked at
her.

Kathy: Why didn't you reject Julie and Gabe's

invitation?
Connie: Why would I do that? I'm Hlompho's
aunt. Wouldn't it be rude not to come to your
own nephew's fifth birthday?
Kathy: (sighed) Don't disrespect my mother in
law. I haven't even forgiven you remember?.
Connie: yeah I remember that. I don't want to
argue for the sake of my baby so I'll just go back
to the sitting room and eat the goodies.
Kathy: Connie?
Connie: Yes?
Kathy: I don't share.
Connie: (scoffed) Okay.
Kathy: For the last time please don't disrespect
my mother in law.

Connie ignored her and walked back to the

sitting room. This time Andile helped her sit
down and Puleng glared at her.

Meanwhile at the corner.

Dragon parked his car and reloaded his gun. His

three goons got out of the car with their guns and
waited for their boss.

Dragon: When someone takes time to pay we use

violence right boys? Andile went far by breaking
the rules for a stupid lady. We are going to him
and his whore a lesson and don't forget to take
care of distractions.

The buffy and scary looking men with scars and

tattoos nooded and led the way to Kathy's house.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 18

At Lesley's.

Emily furiously washed the dishes as she

replayed the scene at the hospital. She envied
Connie because she was carrying what almost
every man desired. Lesley silently dried the
dishes and walked to the lounge. Emily finished
and followed him.

She sat down next to Lesley and nervously bit

her lip.

Emily: We have to talk.

Lesley: I know. I'm sorry for dragging you to the
hospital.
Emily: it's okay. But that's not what I wanted us
to talk about.
Lesley: (frowned) Then what is it?
Emily: I don't think we should use condoms
anymore.
Lesley: Huh?
Emily: My vigina has been itching and there are
even red and swollen pimples down there. I
think I'm allergic to condoms.
Lesley: (sighed) Is this about Connie?
Emily: Of course not!.
Lesley: Yes it is. Really Em? I don't think you
should feel envious of Connie. I chose you
remember? Besides I don't think I can afford
another baby.

Emily cocked her eyebrows.

Emily: What's that suppose to mean?

Lesley: You're not working and I'm just an
officer of the law. I don't earn much to support
two children.
Emily: I can't believe this!.
Lesley: Babe we can't have a baby yet.
Emily: (snapped) Do you even love me wena
mara? I mean you don't want to marry me nor
even impregnate me.
Lesley: What?
Emily: Remember Lesley there are lot of fish in
the ocean. I'm going to bed.

She marched to their bedroom and slammed the

door closed then grabbed her phone and sat
down on the bed. She turned on the mobile data
on her phone and logged into Goggle and
researched "How to get a man to impregnate you
without him knowing?".

At Palesa's.

Palesa went through her call log and sighed in

frustration. It's been a week since she heard from
Katlego and it was beginning to stress her out.
She swallowed her pride and called him but then
a woman answered the phone.

Her: Kat's phone hello?

Palesa: Who's this?
Her: Kanti who did you wanted to talk to.
Palesa: Girly give Kat the phone I want to talk to
him.
Her: Unfortunately he's asleep.
Palesa: (snapped) Who the fuck are you?
Her: No who the fuck are you calling my man at
this time?

Palesa laughed in disbelief her anger going sky

high.

Palesa: What do you mean your man?

Her: Stop calling Katlego do you understand me?
Palesa: Little lady don't piss me off ,Katlego is
my man don't tell me shit.
Her: Hei wena don't...
There were shuffling in the background followed
by Katlego yelling. Palesa patiently held on the
phone and listened.

Kat: Baby I'm so sorry.

Palesa: I'm going to slice your balls when you get
here. Who was that Kat?
Kat: That was my crazy one night stand from a
year ago. I'm at the club and I'm a little bit
drunk.
Palesa: (snapped) Since when do you hang out
with your one night stands and give them your
phone?. Didn't you say you love me?
Kat: Oh my God babe I love you so much. I'm
sorry I promise I'll come over tomorrow.
Palesa: This is the last chance. If you mess up..
Kat: ...we are done. You already made that clear.
Palesa: What did you even save my numbers as?
Kat: (cleared his throat) Baby girl.
Palesa: (screamed) Are you kidding me Katlego!.
Don't make me regret my decision of giving you a
chance. You know what save them as Wifey.
Kat: (laughing) I love you so much.

At Kathy's.

Happy birthday to you .

Happy birthday dear Hlompho. Happy

birthday to you.

Hlompho blew the candles and cut the cake.

Connie drank her juice feeling satisfied and
happy with how everything was going. Gabe
stared at her and smiled at how chubby she
looked.

Gabe: Hey Connie, how are you and the baby.

Connie: (smiled) We are good. I can't wait to
have this little one in my arms.

Sarah cooed adoringly and Puleng clicked her

tongue in annoyance.

Puleng: Can we just get this over and done with.

I'm tired of hearing about Connie's baby.
Gabe: (annoyed) Well I'm glad you're in the rush
to get out of my house. I don't want you and your
boyfriend to sleep over.

Puleng rolled her eyes. Meanwhile outside

,Dragon placed his gun on his waist and adjusted
his leather jacket to cover It. He looked at his
boys and smirked.

Dragon: Be nice. You know my definition of nice.

He rang the bell three times and waited. A
minute later little Julie dragged the door open
and the men got in.

Dragon: (smiled) Hello sweetheart.

Julie stared at them in confusion.

Julie: Who are you?

Dragon: We are uncle Andile's friends.

They walked passed her and made their way to

the sitting room. Dragon cleared his throat and
Sarah ,Andile and Puleng froze on their seats.

Dragon: Evening.
Gabe felt uneasy feeling at the bottom of his
stomach and stood up.

Gabe: Who are you? Julia!.

Julie came running to the sitting room and Gabe

protectively grabbed her hand.

Gabe: I'll be opening doors for the guests from

now on okay?
Julie: Yes. These scary men are uncle Andile's
friends.
Gabe: Puleng?

Dragon chuckled lightly and sat down then took

out his gun and placed it on the table.

Dragon: So you're the successful Gabriel

Bogopa. Owner of Bogopa inc. You really worked
hard to get were you are didn't you Gabriel. Too
bad I'm going to have to take it all away because
your smartass sister thought it was a good idea to
get mixed up with people like us.
Gabe: What do you want?
Dragon: For now I think half a million of rands
will do then next you can you sign off your shares
of your precious company to me.

Puleng grabbed Andile's hands and tears started

rolling down her cheeks.

Puleng: No please don't do this!.

Dragon: (chuckles) You don't get to decide Puli
puli. I'm tired of playing black mampatile with
you and shadow. Did he tell you that he used to
work for me?.
Puleng: What?.
Connie gasped as the baby kicked and grabbed
Sarah's arm. Thato looked at her in concern and
begged Gabe for help with his eyes.

Sarah: Are you okay?

Connie: (freaking out) I want to go home. I had
nothing to do with this. Gabe!!.

Dragon stood up and pointed his gun at Gabe

and the two men pointed theirs at Hlompho and
Julie while the last one playfully drew circles
with his on Connie's tummy.

Dragon: Shadow see what I meant when I said

I'm going to destroy everything you worked for
huh? Too bad these innocent people are going to
suffer for you sins.

Everyone in the room screamed in fear. Gabe

cursed at himself for leaving his gun in his room.
Dragon: Now we are going to do this the nicest
way possible. Sit down Gabriel or say bye bye to
your kids!.
Gabe: Don't shoot my kids. Man take your
shadow and leave we have nothing to do with
this. Puleng!.

Puleng trembled in fear and watched her brother

sitting down defeated. Julie and Hlompho were
crying in fear and Mmapule looked like she was
about to pass out. One of the goons opened his
mouth and dangerously ordered them.

Him: Take out your phones and placed them on

the table. Nobody is leaving this place until we
come to an agreement. If you try shit and act
smart ,we are shooting the pregnant lady and the
kids. You don't wanna witness that do you?.
Everyone took out their phones and placed them
on the table. Katherine reached for Connie's
hand underneath the table and tightly grabbed it.

Connie: I need to pee!.

Dragon handed the man his gun and gathered

the phones on the table while chuckling.

Dragon: Oldest trick in the book. You are dying

tonight my dear if I don't get my money. You see,
shadow likes to act like he's smart to double
cross me. Today he's quiet like someone ripped
out his tongue.
Connie: (crying) Please let me go home. This is
not good for my child.

Gabriel grabbed the knife Hlompho used to cut

the cake on the table and before even a second
passed there were string of curses followed by a
gun shot. Connie and the kids screamed the
loudest as the blood oozed out of Gabes upper
arm.

Connie: My God!.
Dragon: (snapped) close your fucking mouth!
You don't listen Gabriel. Didn't he say not try
shit!!.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 19

The same night At Kathy's.

Gabriel held on his bleeding arm and hissed in
pain. Julie ran to him and hugged him. Mmapule
,Puleng ,Andile and Kathy were all rooted on
their seats scared as hell.

Dragon: (chuckling) Wow I should've known this

was going to be easy. Shadow aren't you going to
say something?
Andile: I told you I was going to pay you and you
even rejected the house. How the hell am I
suppose to pay with you pointing guns at
innocent people?.

Connie worriedly stared at Gabe whose blood

were pooling on the floor. Her tears started
flowing as she imagined losing her baby. She
furiously yanked her hand away from her sister's.

Connie: (shouting) Is this what you two wanted?

To get us killed!.
She looked at Puleng and continued shouting.

Connie: Your brother got shot and we are all

about to die because if your stupid ass greed!.
Aren't you even ashamed of yourselves huh?.

Kathy wiped her tears and locked eyes with her

husband.

Kathy: Are you okay baby?

Gabe: (faintly) I'm bleeding for heavens sake. Do
I look okay Katherine. This will hunt the kids
forever.
Kathy: We can use the money in a trust fund.

Puleng sniffled and looked at her youngest

brother.
Puleng: Yes mom and Thato can contribute.
Please help us so we can get them to leave. Gabe
is going to die due to blood loss if we don't pay.

Gabe felt too weak to talk or even to keep his

eyes open. Thato got off the chair with arms
raised in the air and tended to Gabe.

Dragon: Where the fuck do you think you're

going?
Thato: I'm a doctor please let me help him.

Dragon dropped the phone on the floor and

stomped on them then looked at his boys. He
shook his head and took the juice in the jar then
poured it on them ,completely destroying the
devices.

Dragon: If he doesn't sit down in the next thirty

seconds shoot him!.
Thato swallowed and sat back down. Julie got off
his dad and ran to Connie crying.

Julie: (crying) Aunty what's happening to daddy.

Why aren't you helping? Why is mommy and
everyone just sitting there?.

She laid her head on Connie's bump and sobbed.

Connie brushed her back not knowing what to
say.

Dragon: (sighed) It's already late and I want to

go home to my wife and eat the mouthwatering
meal so you better pay up before I kill your slut
Shadow!.

Meanwhile at the neighbor's.

The woman from the next door wiped her hands
off and took her plate to her daughter then
pushed her wheelchair out of the kitchen.

MmaThabo: I think something is going on at the

neighbor's.
Masedi: Gabriel isn't someone to use a gun. I
don't think it's them mma.
MmaThabo: (hummed) I'm going to check.
Masedi: Mma it's late to go out and I don't think
it's safe to go out at the time like this. You don't
what troubles those rich people go through to get
their riches. It's probably their demons catching
up to them. Let's just go to sleep.

MmaThabo looked at her daughter in disbelief

and walked away from her. Masedi shouted from
her wheelchair.

Masedi: Mma we!.

MmaThabo walked to the window and peaked
through the curtains. She saw lights still on at
the neighbor's and shook her head then walked
back to her daughter.

MmaThabo: The lights are still on but nothing

looks suspicious. Maybe it's the other neighbors
or maybe that gun shot sound came from the bar.

She pushed the wheelchair to their bedroom and

minded their own business.

At Kathy's.

An hour passed and even Hlompho fell asleep.

Dragon licked his lips and grinned widely
admiring his work. His boys stood behind the
chair he was sitting on watching everyone
trembling.
Dragon: Forget dinner ,this is more fun. Tebza
go lock the door ,we are camping here tonight.
Him: Sure bozza.

Connie watched the man going to the door and

her stomach started growling. She looked at
Gabe slowling fading away as Hlompho clung on
him.

Connie: Gabriel? Open your eyes. Kathy why

aren't you doing something? Mmapuleng?.
Mmapule: (whispering) Shut up Connie ,you
want to die?

Connie looked at Puleng then Andile and choked

up a sob.
Connie: If I lose my baby...this is my first child
please have a mercy and let me go. Please don't
you have kids at home ,how would you feel if
your children were being held hostage with
weapons? And you shot Gabriel! Why did you do
that.

Dragon massaged his temple and clicked his

tongue.

Dragon: This lady is getting on my nerves. This

is your last warning sweetheart.

Connie: The man is dying and you refuse to let

the doctor treat him!. Let Thato treat him and let
everyone that is innocent go. You can deal with
Puleng and Andile al...

Dragon looked at Tebza and the other men and

beckoned them to lean on him. He whispered the
orders into Tebza's ear and leaned back on the
chair. Tebza walked to Connie and gently
nibbled her earlobe.

Tebza: I heard that heavy pregnant women are

way too good in bed but since we are in this
situation I'll just bend you on the table and fuck
you...wouldn't that be great?

Connie's breath hitched and everyone froze up as

Tebza's large palm connected with Connie's
cheek. Julie screamed as the man removed her
from Connie.

Tebza: You are just like Gabriel. You're stubborn

as shit!. When someone tells you to shut your
hole of a mouth you listen okay because the
consequences are too hard to handle.

Connie silently cried holding her cheek.

Connie: I'm sorry please don't!.

Tebza grabbed Connie by the collar of her dress

and ripped it. Connie pushed him off trying to
fight for herself. Sarah and Thato both stood up
to help but the men blocked their way and
pointed them with guns.

Sarah: No no don't do this to her please let us go.

This is Puleng and her boyfriend's fault. We were
just here for the party.
Dragon: You want to be next? Shut your mouth!.
Tebza I think she'll listen let her go.

Tebza: (laughed) I was looking forward to

penetrate you, hard luck then. Keep your mouth
shut if you don't want this to happen again.
He walked back to his boss leaving Connie crying
and really humiliated. Puleng swallowed back
her tears in guilt and held on Andile for dear life.
Julie ran to her aunty and hugged her ,covering
her with Gabe's blood.

At Palesa's.

Palesa paced around in the kitchen trying

Connie's numbers for the tenth time.

Palesa: I don't know if I should be worried or

angry at you Connie. Why isn't your phone going
through. Call me back when you get this
message.

She sat down on the couch and drank her third

cup of coffee. She tapped her foot against the
floor worriedly and dialed Kat's numbers.
Kat: Baby?
Palesa: Katlego are you close with anyone from
Bogopa?
Kat: Yeah well Thato is actually my buddy.
Palesa: Gabe's younger brother?
Kat: Yeah.. why?
Palesa: Can I have his phone numbers? I can't
get ahold of Connie so I want to call him to make
sure Connie is alright.
Kat: Okay I'll send them. I love you okay and I'm
sorry about today.
Palesa: I know. I love you too. Please send the
numbers.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 20

Dragon stood up from the chair and walked to

Gabe.

Dragon: Hey man no hard feelings okay.

He pressed the wound on Gabe's arm and Gabe

hissed painfully.

Dragon: I want you to pay your sister's debts so

we can get the hell out of here. Can you do that
for me Mr Bogopa?

Gabe opened his mouth and closed it. Kathy

stood up and with her hands up high
surrendering and walked to her husband.
Kathy: If he pays are you going to let us go?
Dragon: Depends.
Kathy: Excuse me! We had nothing to do with
this. You shouldn't have involved us in the first
place. What is wrong with you? Fucking coward.
Dragon: (chuckled) You're definitely not talking
to me.

Connie tightened her arms on Julie and cried

silently as she listened to Kathy risking her life.

Kathy: Puleng got herself into this mess. Why

don't you take her and her boyfriend outside?
Dragon: If you don't shut up Lady...
Kathy: (snapped) You shot my husband! I'm not
scared of you. You're gonna rot in jail for this I
swear on my parents' graves.
Dragon pressed the barrel of the gun against
Kathy's forehead and stared at her.

Dragon: You're one brave bitch aren't you?.

You're just like the once that I killed.

Kathy kept quiet. Dragon smirked and brushed

his thump lightly on Kathy's bottom lip.

At Palesa's.

Palesa yanked off her headwrap as Thato's phone

failed to go through.

Palesa: Jeses! Why aren't they answering their

phones. Connie I'm going to murder you for not
calling me!.
She stood up and walked back to her room. She
took off her gown and climped on the bed. Her
phone started ringing and she immediately
picked it up.

Palesa: Hello?
Kat: Any luck?
Palesa: (sighed) No. I'm worried Katlego because
this is so unlike Connie. I mean if her battery is
dead she would've made a plan to call me and tell
me about it. Something feels wrong I swear to
God.
Kat: Maybe she decided to sleep over and forgot
to tell you.
Palesa: No Connie will never forget to tell me.
She's pregnant Katlego and I have a bad feeling
about all of this.
Kat: What can I do to help?

Palesa closed her eyes and sighed.

Palesa: Please find Gabe's numbers for me. Are
you on duty I don't want to disturb you.
Kat: Don't worry about that. I'll look for Gabe's
numbers and I'll call you back when I got them
okay. Try to get some sleep.
Palesa: Okay.

She hung up and huffed in annoyance. She

couldn't even shake off the bad feeling at the
bottom of her stomach.

At MmaThabo's.

MmaThabo kissed Masedi on the forehead and

got out of bed. She put on her sleepers and
wrapped a towel around her waist then got out of
the bedroom. She uncharged her phone and
turned on the flash light.
MmaThabo: Let's hope I'm wrong.

She unlocked the front door and got out of her

house then headed to the neighbors. Since it was
really late the whole neighborhood was quiet.
MmaThabo walked faster and breathed out in
relief when she reached Gabe's gate.

MmaThabo: (silently praying) The lord is my

Shepard.

She opened the gate and got in then switched off

the flash. She bent down and took off her shoes
and walked to the door. She was about to knock
when she heard a loud slap sound followed by a
sob and few muffled pleas.

MmaThabo: (whispering) Oh my God!.

She placed her ear against the door and listened
then she quickly ran out of the place and left the
gate open. When she got inside her own yard she
dialed 10111 and called the cops.

Meanwhile at Kathy's.

Kathy sobbed holding on her stinging cheek.

Dragon: I don't usually hit women but you are

getting on my nerves. This your last chance mrs
Bogopa. Tell me the account numbers and
remote pins akere you don't wanna die ebile you
should just give all your bank cards and convince
your husband to sign off his shares.

Kathy crawled to Gabe and pressed on the

wound on his arm trying to stop the bleeding.
She sniffled and placed her head on Gabe's lap.
Dragon: Cute!.
Kathy: (begging) Hle Mr Dragon we had nothing
to do with this.

Andile stood up and sighed in defeat.

Andile: Okay okay.

Dragon: Wow look who decided to talk.
Andile: I'll pay you back tomorrow i promise.
Dragon: (angry) I'm tried of your empty
promises shadow! I want the money now.
Andile: It's in the bank!.
Thato: We are suffering when the money is it the
bank!!.

Andile glanced at Dragon's hand that was

holding the gun and lunged at him. Tebza pulled
the trigger and shot him and everyone started
screaming. The police sirens screamed from afar
and Puleng rushed to Andile crying.

Puleng: Baby!.

Dragon panicked and rushed to the windows and

looked outside.

Dragon: (yelling) Which one of you called the

fucking cops?

All he received were sobs from everyone.

Tebza: I can't go back to jail no no no.

He placed his gun on back on his waist and ran

to the kitchen but the police were already close.
Suddenly there were two gun shot sounds
followed by loud screams.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 21

Years later at Gabe's.

Thato pulled his brother into a warm embrace

and they both sat down.

Thato: Abuti (big brother) How are you holding

up?
Gabe: I'm fine Thato. There was no need to visit
ebile.
Thato: Don't say you're fine when you're not.
Gabe: What do you want me to say then? I lost
my wife years ago and I still can't get over it.
Thato: That's because you never mourned her
death. Bottling up your emotions will not do you
any good, I'm a doctor I know that.
Gabe: I'm not bottling up anything.
Thato: Then why are you neglecting the kids?
Sarah told me that you're even overworking
yourself and you're always in a bad mood. Don't
forget that you're not the only who's hurting.
Hlompho and Julia lost their mom and Connie
lost her sister.

Gabe kept quiet.

Thato: I'm here to drag you out of the house. You
need to fresh air. It's been years bro and you
know that none of that was your fault.
Gabe: (sighed) I didn't say it was ,I just wish I
did something. Can we not talk about it.
Thato: (smiled sympathetically) So night club?
Gabe: Yeah sure but I'm not going to drink.
You're right I do need a fresh air.
Thato: That's my brother.
Gabe: Let me go change into something casual.
Help yourself in the kitchen.

He turned around and walked out of the lounge.

Thato shook his head as his mind flashed to that
sorrowful day.

Thato: May your soul rest in peace sister in law.

At Connie's.
Connie opened the door for Palesa and they both
walked to the chairs in the kitchen and sat down.
Palesa waved at the kids in the lounge and
looked back at Connie.

Connie: I don't if I should be mad at Gabe or be

worried. He completely cut himself off with
anything in the world.
Palesa: (sighed) Maybe he really need support.
Losing a loved one is hard Connie and you know
that. I'm always with you and we are each other's
rocks of support but do you...
Connie: Yes but Gabe has Thato but he's pushing
everyone away including the kids. Julia called me
a week ago begging to come over with Hlompho,
she said their dad doesn't have time for them.

She turned around and looked at Hlompho

laughing with his sister and cousin.
Connie: At least he did a great thing to find
Hlompho and a nurse assistant.
Palesa: Maybe you should talk to him.
Connie: No.
Palesa: Why not?
Connie: (annoyed) He needs to let it all out alone
,I'm not talking to him in fact I'm not stepping
into that house ever again.

Palesa huffed in defeat and folded her arms.

Palesa: How are things between you and Junior's

dad?
Connie: When it comes to coparenting Lesley is
good shame and he really loves his son but I hate
it when he wants us to bond as a family really? A
family? That man and I are not together to be
bonding.
Palesa: (laughing) Maybe Emily is showing him
flames.
Connie: Kanti they are still together? Iyo the way
Lesley loves spent most of his days here made
think that his relationship with Emily is long
over.
Palesa: Ai no the relationship is far from being
over ,remember Emily used to be our friend and
we both know that she's not easy to break up
with.

They both laughed and Connie's phone rang. She

took it out of her bra and answered it.

Connie: Sorry friend. Hello?

Thato: I'm taking Gabriel out. Can the kids sleep
over at your house.
Connie: They were planning to stay akere their
father does not give shit about them.
Thato: (sighed) Give him time he's still hurting.
Connie: And I'm not? Thato Katherine was the
only family I was left with (sniffling) I'm trying
to be strong for the kids as they take me as their
second mother. Do you know how hard is to tell
Hlompho that he will never be able to walk again
and that their mother is not coming back. Julie
sometimes wake up in the middle of the night
crying and I know it's because she's still haven't
forgotten about that incident.
Thato: (guilty) I'm so sorry Connie I didn't mean
it like that. You and Gabriel really need to talk
about this because I can tell it's bothering you.
Connie: (breathed out) I'll go to his office
tomorrow.
Thato: Thank you Connie and I'm really sorry. I
wish there was something I could do but you
know the kids don't like it at my house.
Connie: It's okay. Taking care of them is not
hard anyways besides I love them. I'll talk to you
tomorrow sharp.
Thato: Sharp!.
Connie hung up and put her phone on the table.
She massaged her temple and looked at Palesa.

Connie: I guess I'll have to talk to Gabe and this

time not as my boss.
Palesa: Good.

Palesa checked the time on the wall and gasped.

Palesa: Yoh! I didn't realise it was this late. I

better go my friend. Goodluck with your talk
with your brother in law.
Connie: Thanks for checking up on me.

Palesa stood up and walked to the door and

walked out. Connie walked to the lounge and
picked up Junior's toy cars on the floor then held
her waist.
Connie: (snapped) What did I say about leaving
the toys on the floor Junior?
Junior: I'm sorry mommy it will never happen
again.
Connie: Alright it's time for bed kids. Julie baby
please go and lock the door.

Julia ran to the door and Connie smiled at

turned Hlompho around with his chair and
wheeled him to the bedroom.

The following day at Lesley's.

Emily placed the tray in front of Mmalesley and

his uncle.

Uncle: Aren't you going to pour it for us. Ai

you're so lazy little girl man.
Emily bent down and poured the tea into their
mugs.

Mmalesley: Thank you my girl.

Uncle: Sit down. We have something to talk to
you about.

Emily dragged her feet to the couch and sat

down then Lesley's uncle cleared his throat.

Uncle: We are here to talk about the

grandchildren.
Emily: Weren't you suppose to come later when
Lesley is home?
Mmalesley: No no Lesley doesn't have to be
here. We wanted to talk to you.
Emily: Okay?
Uncle: You've been with Lesley for a very long
time right? So we are surprised when we see no
grandchildren run around the house. I can see
that nothing is disturbing you because you're
unemployed.
Emily: (scoffed) You're not getting
grandchildren from me until your son pays
lobola. Aren't you even ashamed of yourselves.
You're cornering me demanding children when
you're not making a move ka lobola.
Uncle: Excuse me!.
Emily: Lobola first then marriage after that you
can get your grandchildren. Right now just keep
yourselves busy with Connie's son. I'm going
back to my bedroom I don't have time for this.
Enjoy your tea.

She walked out of the kitchen and got in her and

Lesley's bedroom. She got on the bed and
unlocked her phone ,she dialed her friend's
numbers and called.
Her: Let me guess. You have bad news.
Emily: You have no idea. Friend I'm up to here
with those people!. I'm still going to be use the
pills and Lesley yena is going to have to get used
to plastic until he put the rock on my finger.

They both bursted out laughing.

Her: Make him propose phela my friend. Lot of

women do it these days.
Emily: How?
Her: Buy yourself a rock and put it on your
finger. He'll feel guilty that you bought it
yourself and he'll buy it for you.
Emily: (laughing) You reckon?
Her: I'm telling you.
Emily: Okay I'll try it. Bye.
Her: Bye.
She hung up and laid down on the bed with the
mischievous smile on her face.

BULDING A HOME

CHAPTER 22

In Gabe's office.

Gabriel massaged his head and took a cup of

coffee from Sarah then walked to behind the
desk and sat down.

Gabe: Goodmorning sarah. My schedule.

Sarah: (sighed) Morning. You a meeting with the
shareholders and with Connie in the next 30
minutes.
Gabe: Connie? Who is going to watch the
reception when she demands meeting le gona
what does she want to talk about.

Sarah cleared her throat and Gabe groaned in

annoyance knowing that she had something to
say.

Gabe: Talk.
Sarah: Thato told me to add her on your
schedule. You and Connie have to talk.

She pulled chair and sat down.

Gabe: How the hell am I suppose to look at

Connie in the eye after my own sister caused her
sister's death. Sarah you and everyone should
just stop trying to help me. I don't need help
okay?.
Sarah: I didn't say you do...
Gabe: You and Thato talk about me and I know
the uncles are not going to be for business, they
just want to force me into something I don't
want.
Sarah: (sighed) Maybe they just want to make
sure you're okay.

Gabe threw his head back and groaned in

frustration.

Gabe: Let's just stop talking about me because

my head already hurts from the hangover.
Sarah: Okay I'll let you be. Connie will be here
soon and I know you're going to need more than
two hours to talk. Likely you're free after the
meeting with your uncles.
At Mmapule's.

Puleng took a break after mopping the floor and

sat down beside her mother. Since she was not
working she decided to keep herself busy with
the chores. Mmapule wiped her hands and
walked to her.

Mmapule: When you're done you should start

with the pots.
Puleng: Aowa really mma?
Mmapule: Puleng you are a thirty four year old
single lady and you're not working and you even
stay at you're mother's. Don't dare complain
when I provide for you. I don't work lenna ,the
money is from Gabe and who knows when he's
going to decide to cut us out.
Puleng: I wish he could just forgive me.
Mmapule: (sigh) Katherine is no more and it's
going to take Gabriel a long time to forgive you
since you're the cause of Kathy's death.

Puleng lifted the bucket of dirty water and

walked back in the house. Mmapule watched her
leave and shook her head.

Later that day.

Connie folded her arms and rolled her eyes in

annoyance while Gabe avoided her eyes and
sipped on his coffee.

Connie: Gabriel.
Gabe: Constance.
Connie: (shouting) It must be nice being you
neh? You just neglect your own children and
focus on this junk of yours. Do you know how
hard it is for the kids? They need their parents.
Gabe: Connie this is a working place. Can we talk
about this later.
Connie: No. I'm not leaving until we talk.
Gabe: Fine I'll start spending time with them
then.
Connie: That's not enough Gabriel. They need
your support especially Hlompho. You can't just
leave them with countless babysitters they don't
like and you're making my life hell too because
I'm not their mother. You have to sit down with
them and clear things up ,I can't do that for you.

Gabe turned around with his chair and faced the

other way.

Connie: Look at me!. Gabe?

Gabe: Get back to work. I need to be alone
Constance.
Connie: Stop calling me that!. I know it's hard
for you but you have to get help Gabe. How the
hell are you going to stay strong for the kids
when you're falling apart?
Gabe: (snapped) Get back to work Constance!.

Connie stood up and walked around the table

and stood in front of Gabe.

Connie: You're selfish Gabriel. I'm trying to help

you but you keep pushing me away.
Gabe: I said I will start spending time with the
kids didn't I?
Connie: You can't be with the kids like this.
You're cold and an asshole now Gabe.
Gabe: (angry) Now you're really insulting me
Connie.
Connie turned around and started sniffing
feeling like taking her own life.

Connie: Firstly it was my parents then Lesley

dumped and Katherine died. Don't I deserve
some peace and happiness?.

She turned around and faced Gabe with her eyes

filled with tears.

Connie: (sobbing) Julie knows Gabe and she

doesn't smile anymore.

Gabe swallowed his pride and stood up then

pulled Connie into his arms and then let her cry.

Gabe: Shhh! Stop crying I'm sorry okay?.

Connie pulled out of the embrace and wiped her
tears then fixed her hair.

Connie: Please Gabriel. I'm trying to be there for

your kids as their aunt but they need you more
than ever.
Gabe: I know.
Connie: No you don't.
Gabe: (frustrated) What do you want me to do
then?
Connie: Sell your house and buy a new one. All
of you will never move on if you keep staying in
that house.
Gabe: I can't. We created memories in there.
Connie: stop being selfish and start thinking
about the kid's wellbeing. They are not happy in
there. That's why they're always at my house and
you should let it go too. This is the last time we
are talking about this. I'm not going to teach you
how to be a better father. You annoy me Gabe.
She walked to the door and opened it after she
clicked her tongue and slammed it shut.

At the police station.

Lesley checked his phone for a notification while

drinking his coca cola. He choked on the drink
after viewing the notification.

Lesley: What the hell?

Katlego swallowed his food and stared at him.

Kat: What is it?

Lesley: Emily withdrew ten thousand from my
bank account.
Kat: Yeh? You gave her your card?
Lesley: Yes is something wrong with that?
Kat: (laughed) Looks like it. If you gave her your
card willingly then why are you shocked when
she withdrew few rands?
Lesley: Few rands? Kat I said ten thousand.
Kat: Eh you should just call her and ask. You left
Connie for this so deal with it.

Lesley clicked his tongue and stood up. He

walked to the parking lot and called Emily.

Emily: (cheerful) Hey my love.

Lesley: (shouting) What the fuck did you need
ten thousand for Emily? I buy you everything.
Emily: I bought myself a cheap diamond ring
akere you are not planning to marry me.
Lesley: What?
Emily: I'm not getting younger. I can't keep
calling myself your girlfriend. I have a reputation
to maintain.
Lesley: With whose money. Emily return that
ring do you hear me before I lose my mind. I
have a kid to support goddammit.
Emily: (laughing) Baby you're joking right? Do
you want me to embarrass myself? I already
posted it on Facebook and WhatsApp status.
Lesley: Don't make me lose my mind Emily.

He hung up and stomped on the ground in anger.

In the evening at Kathy's.

Gabe walked out of the guest bedroom holding

the keys and walked to the master bedroom. He
unlocked the door and got in and Katherine's
scent immediately hit him. He walked to the
dressing table and picked up Kathy's picture.
Gabe: We never fixed things Katherine.

He placed it back on the table and walked to the

closet. He opened Kathy's of the closet and
stared at her clothes. He looked at the coat that
matched with the dress that Kathy was wearing
the day she died and broke down for the first
time since that day. His phone rang startling
him. He wiped off his tears and took it out of his
pocket then answer it.

Gabe: Connie now it's not a good time please.

Connie: I wanted you to bring Hlompho's extra
underwears I'm sorry. Are you okay?
Gabe: I want to pack your sister's clothes but I
can't do it. Do you want them?
Connie: I don't want to come there Gabriel. Ask
Thato to pack them for you and bring them at my
house I'll burn them myself.
Gabe: Thank you. I'll be there in an hour. Thanks
for watching the kids.
Connie: If you don't feel like driving don't do it.
Take a taxi okay?
Gabe: Yeah sharp.
Connie: see you then.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 23

In the evening at Connie's.

Connie watched Julie playing with her food and

sighed. She knew that it was hard for her but she
didn't realise that she hasn't completely healed
yet. She swallowed her last bite and her eyes
softened.

Connie: Is something wrong with the food Julie?

Julie: No aunty.
Connie: Then why aren't you eating baby girl?
Are you okay?
Julie: I miss mommy.
Connie: I miss her too but you know that she's
watching over us right?
Julie: (softly) Yes but my teacher likes to ask us
to bring our moms at school and I'm sad because
she's not here anymore. Daddy can't pretend to
be mommy because they will laugh at me.
Connie: But I told you that I'll be glad to go with
you to school right. I'm your aunt Julia ,you
shouldn't be afraid to tell me these things okay.
Your mom is not here anymore but you know you
can rely on me right?
She nodded. Connie placed her hands on the
table and grabbed Julie's and gave her and tight
squeeze.

Connie: Junior is still young and he doesn't

know how to ask for help but I still help and I
still help Hlompho by pushing his fancy
wheelchair even though he's capable of doing
that for himself. What I'm trying to say is that
you shouldn't be scared to talk to me and ask me
to help you okay?
Julie: But daddy told me not to bother you.
Connie: (chuckles) Daddy didn't mean it like that
okay? You promise to come to me when you want
to talk about girls things right?
Julie: uh-huh!.
Connie: Eat your food now. Everything will be
okay and don't worry about mommy okay ,she's
fine but not here anymore okay?.
Julie: Yes.

Connie let go of her hands and looked at

Hlompho.

Connie: You okay there sweetie?

Hlompho: Yes aunty. The samp is delicious.
Connie: (smiled) Thank you baby I tried my best.
Daddy will be here soon.
Hlompho: But I don't want to leave. You don't
want us here aunty?
Connie: I love having you here Hlompho. Your
dad is coming to bring your undies. You are
going to go back when he fixes something first
okay?
Hlompho: Okay.

They heard the knock on the door and Connie

stood up and walked to the kitchen. She washed
her hands in the zinc and opened the door. Gabe
got in holding a bag. Connie stared him down
and closed the door.

Gabe: Hey.
Connie: You look horrible. Did you drive here?
Gabe: Yeah I'm capable of driving a car Connie.
Connie: I know. Go see your kids.
Gabe: I thought you said I should bring
Hlompho's things and go back.
Connie: You don't want to see your own
children?
Gabe: I didn't say that...
Connie: They are in the sitting room eating. I
told you that I wasn't going to teach you to be a
father Gabriel, stop avoiding them. Go and
answer Julia's questions.
Gabe sighed and walked to the sitting room.
Hlompho saw him and wheeled himself in front
of him and raised his hands with the brightest
smile. Gabe lifted him and hugged him before
putting him back on the chair.

Gabe: Hey kids.

Hlompho: Daddy.

Julie turned to Gabe and smiled at him then

started talking.

Julie: Aunty told me that it was okay to take her

to school.

Gabe pulled a chair and sat down.

Gabe: I told you not to bother your aunty.

Julie: (arguing) But she said it was okay.
Gabe: Baby please. I don't want Connie to be
burdened and I don't want her to feel like
she's....

Connie got in and quickly butted in.

Connie: It's okay.

Gabe: No it's not. Julie baby we will talk when
you come home okay ,you too Hlompho. Junior
it was nice seeing you.

He placed the plastic on the table and stood up.

Connie frowned and turned around with him.

Connie: Gabriel what are you doing? Where are

you going?.
Gabe: In the kitchen. Let's go!.
They both walked to the kitchen where Gabe
immediately started shouting at Connie.

Gabe: Why did you tell Julie that you will go

with her to school as her mother?
Connie: I didn't say as her mother.
Gabe: No Connie it's a bad idea.
Connie: Why?
Gabe: You know why. Tell her you can't do it. I'll
go with her.
Connie: Seriously?
Gabe: Julia is a kid..she doesn't know anything.
Connie: Gabe stop being selfish and think about
the kids. Julie told me that the other kids are
laughing at her. I'm tired of always taking about
this.

They both got startled by the knock on the door.

They looked at each other.
Gabe: Are you expecting someone?
Connie: No.

Connie walked to the door and opened. Lesley

fixed his shirt and furiously got in.

Lesley: The fuck is he doing here?

Gabe: Excuse me?

Lesley and Gabe glared at each other. Connie

poked Lesley on the shoulder and folded her
arms.

Connie: Why didn't you call?

Lesley: is it wrong to surprise visit? I asked you a
question Connie. What is he doing here?
She laughed in disbelief.

Connie: That's none of your business Lesley.

Learn to respect other people.
Lesley: I can't believe you let him here after he
put our child in danger. I don't want him here.
Connie: Who are you to decide that? Weren't
you suppose to be ordering Emily at home?
Lesley: I'm Junior's father and I don't want this
mutt closer to my son...

Gabe yanked him with his collar and punched

him.

Gabe: Just because you are a damn police officer

doesn't mean you should take your frustration
out on me. You are really looking for trouble
aren't you?
Connie pushed them apart and clicked her
tongue.

Connie: (shouting) This is my house do you

understand me? If you want to beat each other
go outside. Lesley go and see your son and get
out of my house and lwena Gabe you should step
out because I'm tired of your anger and
stubbornness. I had enough with you Lesley
,didn't you leave me kanti?.

They both kept quiet and Gabe fixed himself and

walked passed Connie and got out. Connie stared
at the door and glared at Lesley.

Lesley: (sighed) It better be the last time I see

that guy Connie.
Connie: I'm glad he punched. You're a coward
mara waphapha. Why did you even act like that?
Lesley: What?
Connie: Focus on Emily and leave me alone.

The following day.

Lesley woke up and stared at Emily sleeping. He

rolled on top of her and kissed her.

Emily: mmmh.
Lesley: Baby?
Emily: Mmmh.
Lesley: I love you.

Emily opened her eyes and stared at Lesley.

Emily: I love you too.

Lesley: Please return the ring.
Emily: I can't do that. You know I can't do that.
Lesley: why not?
Emily: I already bragged about it.
Lesley: (snapped) Don't make me mad!.

Emily turned around and closed her eyes and

slowly mumbled.

Emily: You chose me remember?

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 24

Later that day at Bogopa inc.

Connie was on the phone when she saw Julie
walking behind Gabriel with her school uniform
holding a box of pizza and two cans of coke. She
flashed a smile at her and minded her business.
Gabe and Julie got in an elevator to Gabriel's
office and sat down on the couch.

Gabe: How are you?

Julie: I'm good daddy and Hlompho is good too.
His leg is working but the other one is not. Will
he be able to walk?
Gabe: I don't know love. We can ask his nurse
when we go back home okay?
Julie: We are not going to auntie's?
Gabe: You can go there to visit but you and
Hlompho need to come home. I want to be able
to see you everyday.
Julie: (sadly) Are you sad that mommy is no
more?
Gabe swallowed thickly since he never wanted to
talk about Katherine with his kids. He took the
coke from Julia and opened it.

Gabe: I am but I know that mommy will always

be in our hearts. You and Hlompho should be
happy and always know that mommy is watching
over us in heaven.
Julie: (giggling) Auntie Connie said the same
thing.
Gabe: That's because your aunt is smart.
Julie: Does this mean you will always spend time
with me?
Gabe: Yes. I work everyday but i promise I'll
make time for you and Hlompho. Phela you are
my children and I love you.
Julie: We love you too daddy.
Gabe: Let's eat.
Julie: Where's the other auntie?
Gabe: Which one?
Julie: The one that kiss uncle all the time.

Gabe chuckled and sipped his drink.

Gabe: That's auntie Sarah.

Julie: Yes that one. Where is she?
Gabe: It's lunch time baby so she went out to eat.
Julie: Why isn't auntie Connie eating?
Gabe: Maybe she's eating as we speak.
(chuckling) eat your pizza.
Julie: Okay. But you and auntie are always
yelling at each other. I don't like it.
Gabe: We will stop. Eat so that I'll be able to take
you back before you get late.
Julie opened the box and grabbed a slice then
feasted on it. Gabe smiled at her and grabbed his
own.

Gabe: I'm sorry i wasn't there for you and

Hlompho. I'm a bad father aren't I?
Julie: Nope. You bought me lunch and we are
eating together. You are the best.

At the station.

Kat leaned over the desk and drew a cross on one

of the pictures that were scattered on the desk
and looked at the captain.

Kat: I think he's the one.

Captain: We don't want to just jump into
conclusions Diale.
Kat: (annoyed) At least I'm trying to find clues
unlike Lesley's who's just standing there like a
statue.
Captain: We'll look into this clearly later. Go to
lunch.

Katlego turned around and got out of the office

dragging Lesley with him.

Kat: (chuckling) Is Emily feeding you dust, you

look like shit?
Lesley: She bought herself an engagement ring
with that ten thousand I told you about. You are
my only friend Katlego you have to help me.
Kat: Help you how?
Lesley: Talk to her.
Kat: Hei ndoda I'm not involved. Don't forget
that my woman is Connie's best friend. What the
hell is she going to say when she finds out that I
helped you to talk to your woman?
Lesley: We are buddies mos.
Kat: (calm) But you have to understand where
I'm coming from man. Palesa won't like this and
don't like to be a middleman Lesley. I'm sorry
man you are on your own on this.
Lesley: Aw come on.
Kat: Kanti who's the man in your relationship?
You sound like Emily is the one calling the shots.
Lesley: It's not like that. Just put yourself in my
shoes man ,what were you going to do when you
get a bank notification notifying you that twenty
thousand rands were withdrawn from your
account then when you get home you find that
Palesa bought herself a ring and a wedding
gown?
Kat: No Palesa is not insane. We talk about these
kinda things, we don't just purchase plus I don't
give her my card. She likes being independent.

Lesley sighed and enviously stared at Kat.

Lesley: Maybe she should start looking for a job.
Kat: Goodluck trying to convince her. Your
problem is that you don't listen when someone is
warning you. Show that Emily of yours that you
are a man not her. I'm going to eat in my car.
Lesley: Sure.

Katlego snorted and walked to his car.

*****

Connie dropped Junior's hand and unlocked the

door. They both walked in and she shut the door.
She put her handbag on the kitchen counter and
sat down on the floor then took off her shoes.

Connie: How was school?

Junior: Fun.
Connie: Really?
Junior: Yes. I finished colouring my book before
everyone and teacher said I'm a good boy.
Connie: You are baby. Are you hungry?
Junior: Yes.
Connie: I will order food. Go and watch cartoons
,I'll call you when the food gets here okay.
Junior: Okay.

Junior dropped his school bag on the floor and

ran off to the living room. Connie yawned
tirelessly and stood up. She unzipped her bag
and took out her phone. She ordered a pizza and
called Palesa.

Palesa: Friend?
Connie: Aowa I miss you Lisa. You should visit
when you have time.
Palesa: I will ebile I've been dying to hear about
this issue with Gabe.
Connie: I think everything is sorted for now.
Palesa: Really?
Connie: Yes. Today he had lunch with his
daughter and I think that's a huge thing friend.
Palesa: So wena?
Connie: Me?
Palesa: Bathong Connie!. Is there any beard
you're seeing that I should know about?

Connie threw her head back and laughed loudly.

Connie: No. I'm fine with having no beard my

friend. I still need to heal.
Palesa: Heal from what? It's been years and you
need to get laid. Don't tell me about healing
wena!
Connie: I don't need to get laid Palesa. I'm
looking for something serious but not right now.
Junior still has to grow up.
Palesa: You love making excuses. Just know that
I'm here when you are ready for injebe.
Connie: (laughing) Okay I'll always remember
that. Sharp neh?
Palesa: Tell Junior I said hi. Sharp!.

She hung up and laughed a little at Palesa's

dramatic self.

At Lesley's.

Emily dished out for Mmalesley and Lesley then

gave them their plates after that she walked to
the bedroom to answer her to call her friend.

Her: Hi.
Emily: The plan failed. Lesley wants me to return
the ring.
Her: Say no.
Emily: Saying no won't change anything.
Her: Then find a side man.
Emily: I want marriage not a man. You don't
listen when I talk to you wena.
Her: Akere you can use that man to threaten
Lesley to marry you. Don't be stupid Emily and
use your brain for once.
Emily: When will I even start...
Her: Don't worry about that. My man has a
single friend by the name of Joe ,I can talk to
him to hook you up.
Emily: What if it backfires?
Her: That's easy. I'll accompany you to a strong
sangoma and i promise he'll do his things and
Lesley will propose by force.
Emily was about to respond when Lesley got in
the room holding his plate.

Emily: I'll talk to you tomorrow my friend. Hey

baby.
Lesley: We have to talk.
Emily: I'll return the ring.
Lesley: I know. I want you to get a job Emily. I
can't pay the bills alone in this house.
Emily: What? I thought we agreed that I'll be a
housewife.
Lesley: Kanti are you a married woman wena?
Are you somebody's wife? You are getting a job
and that's that.
Emily: Excuse me!!.
Lesley: I'm done talking.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 25

Lesley: I'm done talking.

Emily stared at him in disbelief and clapped her

hands.

Emily: I don't know who told you gore you can

control me. Who do you think you are Lesley?
Firstly you refuse to marry me then you force me
to get a job after you and I made an agreement
that you'll financially support me for the rest of
your life.
Lesley: Aren't you ashamed of yourself. Women
are out there working their butts off to make a
living and wena all you want is to get married
and milk me dry.
Emily: You promised me!.
Lesley: I say anything I feel like when I'm about
to cum so do me a favor and start looking for a
job.
Emily: I hate you.

Lesley chuckled and moved to the side of the bed

and placed the plate on the nightstand.

Lesley: Oh really?

He walked to her and pushed her on the bed then

got on top of her.

Lesley: Quit lying to yourself. You and I love

each other and this small argument will never
break us apart. Tomorrow morning you are
going to the internet cafe to make a CV then
come to the station to certify it. I'm not playing
around Em ,we need money.

Emily opened her mouth to argue and Lesley

took it as an opportunity to shove his tongue into
her mouth. Emily immediately welcomed him
and wrapped her long legs around Lesley.

Lesley: You stopped taking the pills?

Emily: (breathlessly) Marry me first then do it
raw.
Lesley: So you are going to force me to marry
you everytime I try new things?

She pushed him off her and sat up on the bed.

Emily: I'm not forcing you. I've been waiting for

you to make a move but I'm tired.
Lesley: I was going to pay lobola for you but you
took my money and bought yourself an expensive
ring.
Emily: (snapped) it's a fake diamond ring.
Lesley: You spent my money on a fake ring. You
know what forget about the job hunt ,tomorrow
morning I want you to go back to that shop you
bought this fake thing and return it.
Emily: They don't refund.
Lesley: What?
Emily: I'm going to keep it.

Lesley stood up and paced around the room.

Lesley: You know that I have to send Connie two

point five to buy Junior what he needs. How am
I suppose to do that when you keep chowing my
money.
Emily: Babe it's only this month. Tell Connie
that you're broke.

He clenched his jaws suddenly feeling like

slapping the hell out Emily. He unzipped his
pants and released his manhood in frustration
then walked to the bed. Emily licked her lips in
excitement and reached under the pillow. She
pulled out a condom and tore the plastic with her
teeth.

Lesley: (annoyed) Tell her about sex ,she'll even

do the job for you but when it comes to work
motho just becomes lazy and grumpy.
Emily: I'm too old to pretend as if I don't want it.
We will talk about this tomorrow when we're
both calm.

Lesley took the rest of his pants got on the bed

and into Emily's arms.
The following day.

At Gabriel's.

Gabe sat down on the bathroom floor and ruffled

Hlompho's wet hair.

Hlompho: I know how to wash my body daddy.

Gabe: I'm just looking out for you.

He poked Hlompho's ribs and he bursted out

into full fits of giggles.

Julie: Daddy?

Gabe turned to Julie and smiled at her.

Gabe: Yes baby?
Julie: I don't like people coming here in our
house anymore.
Gabe: Nobody comes here Julie ,it's only
Hlompho's nurse and he only comes twice a
month to check him.
Julie: But he's not nice. He only checks Hlompho
but he doesn't talk to us.
Gabe: (sighed) But you said you don't want a
babysitter mos Julia.
Julie: (whispering) Can we go to auntie's.
Gabe: No.

Julie's smile fell.

Julie: Why not?

Gabe: Connie's probably sleeping as we speak.
It's late Julie and it's not nice to bother people
when they are asleep.
Hlompho scooped a bunch of bubbles and blew
them at his sister.

Hlompho: We can go tomorrow right daddy?

Gabe: You kids! Fine but I'll have to talk to your
aunt first. She works all day and she gets tired.

Julie: You are the boss.

Gabe: So?
Hlompho: Tell her not to work. Make her relax.
Gabe: Heh?
Hlompho: Tell her she can't come to work
anymore daddy.

Gabe pinched the bridge of his nose.

Gabe: You want me to fire her. She has to work
to make money. We all need money Hlompho.
You can visit auntie on weekends.

Julie smiled mischievously at the new idea that

popped into her little brain.

Julie: Maybe you should ask her to come and

stay here with us.

Gabe stood up.

Gabe: Finish there ,I'm not asking anyone

anything.
Julie: But we all love auntie. Do you not love
her?
Gabe: What?
Julie: You hate auntie.
Gabe: (frustrated) No I don't.
Hlompho: (grinned) You love her?
Gabe: Ooh my god!. It's way passed your
bedtime ,finish and get out of the tub. I don't
hate Connie.
Julie: Then why don't you say you love her? We
love her but if you can't say you love her that
means you hate her.
Gabe: Fine I love her because she's a nice
person!. (Mumbling) These kids are going to be
the death of me.

He bent down and picked up the towels on the

floor then wrapped them on his kids' hair.

Gabe: Julie get out of the tub.

He picked up Hlompho and walked out of the

bathroom with Julia following them. He placed
Hlompho on the bed and took off his wet shirt.
Hlompho: Sorry I got your shirt wet.
Gabe: It's okay boy. Hurry up and get dressed
Julie ,it's way passed your bedtime. You're going
to be late to school if you don't sleep now. You
wasted time asking me useless questions.

At Connie's.

Connie fixed her skirt then shoved two apples in

Junior's school bag then shook him.

Connie: Aw baby...are you asleep?

Junior: Mmmh.
Connie: But you are dressed and you have to be
at school.

Her phone beeped and she unzipped her bag and

took it out. "I'm taking Junior to school today"
she read the text and quickly typed "ok" before
she put her phone back in her bag.

Connie: your dad will take you to school today

okay. You can nap ,I'll wake you when he gets
here okay.

He nodded.

Connie: That's my good baby boy. I just hope

Gabe wouldn't bite my head off when I'm late.

She sat down on the other couch and huffed in

annoyance as her mind flashed back to the
conversation she had with Palesa. She couldn't
even deny it ,she needed a man but the thought
of being tossed aside heartbroken made her step
back. She wasn't sure if she was ready to get back
in the saddle yet. She needed time to focus on
herself and her son before inviting another
person in. She snapped back to reality when
Junior stood up and took his school bag after
hearing the car hooting outside.

Junior: Daddy!.

Connie stood up and grabbed her handbag then

followed Junior out. She locked the front door
and walked to Lesley's car.

Connie: Hey.

Lesley opened the passenger door for Connie but

Junior got in. Connie smiled politely and opened
the back door and got in.

Lesley: You good?

Connie: Yes thanks...you?
Lesley: (smiled) Yes. Hey little champ.
He started the car and drove. He cleared his
throat thinking of starting a conversation.

Lesley: I hope Gabriel Bogopa pays you enough

to buy Junior some stuff. I can't this month.

Connie folded her arms.

Connie: How come?

Lesley: You know my mother lives with me and
Em and there are lot of things i have to buy.
Connie: Are you sure?
Lesley: (annoyed) Of course I'm sure. You don't
believe me?
Connie: I'm not interested in believing you or
not Lesley. All I want is a valid reason why you
can't buy your son a simple pair of jeans. I hope
you didn't give Emily all your money. I work but
I can't raise Junior alone when you're alive. You
should draw up another budget plan since you're
now living with your mother.

Later in the woods.

Emily moved away the tree leaves and sighed.

She looked at her friend and groaned in
annoyance.

Emily: Kana you always come here that's why

you're not tired.
Itu: I'm doing this for you so please don't annoy
me.
Emily: (annoyed) How long are we going to keep
walking under these thorny trees and keep
jumping the bushes?
Itu: We are getting there. I hope you are sure
about this, this is like bewitching someone.
Emily: Le gone how much is this korobela?
Itu: I'm not allowed to tell you the prices. My
friend that sangoma is strict and powerful.

Emily kept quiet and walked in paranoia as the

twigs they stepped on were the only sound they
heard and it was even late.

Itu: You are lucky I'm accompanying you. I came

here alone when I was four weeks pregnant to
get abortion muti.
Emily: Can you keep quiet! I'm trying to think.

BUILDING A HOME
CHAPTER 26

Itumeleng and Emily took off their shoes and got

in the small hut in the middle of the forest. The
sangoma beckoned them to move closer. With a
deep scratchy voice he slowly told them to sit
down.

Him: How can I help you?

Emily leaned closer to Itu's ear and doubtfully

whispered.

Emily: Are you sure he knows what he's doing?

Itu: Shut up!.

The sangoma cleared his throat and folded his

arms.
Him: I don't appreciate you coming into my
personal space and disrespecting me. If you
don't want to speak you can turn around and
leave this instant.
Itu: We apologize. My friend is lo...
Him: Let her speak for herself.

Emily nervously bit her lip and checked the man

out. Even though he wore smelly animals skin
,he was quite handsome.

Emily: My boyfriend and I have been dating for a

long time but he's doesn't want to marry me. I'd
understand if he had money problems but he's a
police officer and I think he just doesn't want to
marry me so...
Him: Oh trouble in a relationship. Is the ex the
problem or?
Emily: Of course not.
Him: Is your sex life boring?
Emily: (clears throat) No of course not. I just
want something that will make him love me
enough to marry me.

He stood up and walked around the ladies.

Him: Mmmh so you want me to give you

korobela?

Emily blushed in shame and embarrassment.

Emily: Yes.

He walked to his shelves and grabbed a tiny

bottle with a green string and a sharp knife then
kneeled down in front of Emily and Itu. He
grabbed Emily's hand and cut the middle of her
palm with the knife. Emily screamed her lungs
out and pulled back her hand.

Emily: (hissing in pain) Why..why did you cut

me?
Him: Here ,take this and make sure no one in
your family sees it do you understand.

He grabbed her bloody hand and squeezed it.

The blood drops fell on the floor and Emily
sobbed in pain. Itumeleng watched the scene
uncomfortably and rubbed her friend's back.

Emily: It hurts.
Him: When you get home ,take this knife I cut
your hand with and chop the leaves in this bottle
then boil them. Pour the water in a bottle.
Emily: Do I have to drink the water.?
Him: (chuckled) Yes.
He stood up and reached for a small plastic with
a black powder inside. He tore a newspaper and
covered the plastic then handed it to Emily.

Him: Make sure to add two spoons of this into

his bathing water and a little in his food. After a
day or two he's going to bow to you and kiss your
feet.
Emily: (smiling) Than...

He raised his hand to stop her talking. He

pressed his thump and index finger together as a
sign of money. Emily reached into his bra and
took out five two hundred notes then placed it on
the grass mat.

Him: Good!. Leave.

The ladies both stood up and rushed out of the
hut. They put on their shoes and walked away.
Emily blew air in her wound.

Emily: Why didn't he use bones? Most Pedi

traditional healers use bones to communicate
with their ancestors. He looked kinda suspicious,
why did he cut my hand?
Itu: Wena that man is not a south African and I
don't think we should be talking about this in the
middle of the forest. We better hurry up and
catch a taxi before the sun set.

They both walked through the thick trees to the

main road. Emily was still bleeding and she bent
down and poured soil on her hand to stop the
bleeding.

Emily: I can't stop bleeding.

Itu reached inside her bag and took out her
headwrap and handed it to Emily.

Itu: If you mess up Emily ,that blood you shed in

that hut will come to hunt you.
Emily: Mess up how le gona?
Itu: If you come clean to Lesley and mention the
poor that he bewitched him.

She wrapped the headwrap around her hand and

they both stood at the bus stop.

At Mmapule's house.

Mmapule tried Gabriel's phone for the third time

and gave up. She walked back to the kitchen and
sat down next to Puleng who was eating pap with
milk.
Mmapule: His phone doesn't go through. I won't
be surprised if he blocked me.
Puleng: What do you even what from Mma?
Mmapule: We are out of food so I wanted to ask
him to send us more money.
Puleng: That's a bad idea. You can't keep asking
Gabriel for money knowing that he doesn't want
anything to do with us.
Mmapule: He doesn't want anything to do with
YOU not me. I'm his mother and he told me that
he will never let me suffer when he's still alive.

Puleng kept quiet. Mmapuleng called the

company phone and it rang twice before Connie.

Connie: Bogopa inc how may I assist you?

Mmapule: Hello..this is Mrs Bogopa can I speak
to Gabriel Connie?
Connie: He's in the meeting at the moment. Can
I take a message?
Mmapule: Connie it's me hle.
Connie: I know ,can I please take a message?
Mmapule: No. Tell him to call me when he gets
home.
Connie: Okay have a nice evening.

At Bogopa inc.

Connie sighed and checked the time ,two

minutes left to knock off. Her personal phone
rang and she quickly checked it.

Connie: (whispering) Gabriel?

She answered and placed the phone against her

ear.
Connie: Yes?
Gabe: Don't leave yet. I'm out of a meeting and i
need you to come to my office ,I want to discuss
something with you.
Connie: O-okay? You're not going to fire me are
you?
Gabe: (chuckled) No.
Connie: (sighed) Okay I'll be there.

He hung up and Connie quickly put her phone in

her handbag and waved at Sarah who were just
passing. Ever since that incident Sarah and
Connie became a little close and they often have
lunch together at work.

Sarah: See you tomorrow.

Connie walked closer to her.

Connie: Aren't you suppose to knock off with
Gabe at the same time.
Sarah: I have an appointment with Thato yoh
Gabe will have to understand. Phela I haven't
been myself the past few weeks and I think I
might be pregnant.
Connie: (smiled) Wow. I'm sure you're excited.
Sarah: I am and I really hope I'm pregnant this
time.
Connie: I'd love to chit chat but lenna I have to
go to Gabe's office and discuss few things with
him.
Sarah: Oh. Sharp then.
Connie: Yeah.

She walked to the elevator and it closed the door.

Few minutes later she got out of the elevator and
walked to Gabe's office ,he pushed the door open
and got in closing it shut.
Connie: Hey.

Gabe swallowed the water he was drinking and

turned around to face Connie who awkwardly
stood there.

Gabe: Sorry ,please sit down.

Connie: I'm not in the mood to argue.
Gabe: We are not going to argue. I just want us
to talk about Katherine's belongings. You know
that this is the only place we are going to talk
freely because you don't want to come to my
house and I can't come to yours with your Ex
always breathing down my neck.
Connie: (sighed) Lesley is not the boss of me.
Gabe: Sit down.

Connie sat down.

Connie: Hurry up. I don't want Junior to stay
there until sun set.
Gabe: So the clothes.
Connie: Since we have no one to hand them to
,it's the right thing to burn them.
Gabe: I can't.
Connie: Gabe it's been three years. Let it go.
Gabe: I know but you out of all people should
know how hard it is.
Connie: (sighed) Gabriel..
Gabe: Just come over and pack them please plus
Hlompho and Julie will be happy to see you.
Connie: Your house has bad luck Gabe. I'm not
coming there ,be brave and pack the clothes. We
will burn them together with your children.

Gabe sighed and close his eyes.

Connie: If you still want to live in that house at
least cleanse it. Andile and Katherine died there
and it will be hard for the kids to get over it if
they continue living there.

Gabe kept quiet and listened to her with his eyes

closed.

Connie: Everything will be fine and you know it.

At eight o'clock in the evening.

Emily opened the door at Lesley's and got in. She

closed it and tightened her grip on the bag strap.
She faced both Mmalesley and Lesley and
cleared her throat.

Emily: Good evening.

Mmalesley placed dropped her spoon in the
samp and stared at her.

Mmalesley: Where are you coming from?

Emily: I was out with my friend. Sorry I forgot to
tell you.

Lesley noticed blood on the fabric covering her

hand.

Lesley: What happened to your hand?

Emily: I got mugged and they slit the middle of
my palm but I'm fine.

Lesley stood up and rushed to her. He gently

grabbed her hand and looked at it.

Lesley: Did you see their faces?

Emily: No but they took thousands of rands from
my bag.
Lesley: sit down I'm going to fetch the first aid.

Lesley ran to their bedroom and Emily walked to

the chair and sat down. Mmalesley clicked her
tongue.

Mmalesley: You probably got hurt when you

were whoring. Too bad my son is blind to see
how disgusting.
Emily: Leave me the hell alone!.

BUILDING A HOME
CHAPTER 27

Two days later at Lesley's.

Emily hummed softly as she prepared dinner for

her boyfriend and his mother. She stirred the
beef stew and looked behind her back to check if
anyone was watching. She smirked and reached
inside her pocket to take out the powder she got
from the sangoma.

Emily: I'll be your wife soon.

She was about to open the plastic when the door

was furiously kicked open and Lesley got in. She
quickly fisted the plastic and faked a smile.

Emily: Hey babe.

Lesley: Hi.

He passed her and walked to the living room.

Emily took the lid and closed the pot then
followed him.

Emily: Is everything okay?

He sat down.

Lesley: What makes you think everything is not

okay?
Emily: You never talk to me like how you're
talking to me right now. Did something happen?
Lesley: I had an argument with Connie.
Emily: About?
Lesley: (snapped) About the money. You know
that Junior goes to a private preschool and
Connie pays for it.
Emily: Connie pays ,why are you worried.?
Lesley: Yes Connie pays but I have to buy
everything else for Junior and I won't be able to
this month because of your selfish ass. Why can't
you listen to me once in a life time and return the
ring Emily?
Emily: I told you that it is impossible!.
Lesley: (annoyed) You painted me as a bad father
to Connie.

Emily turned to Lesley and clicked her tongue.

Emily: I don't give a damn about what Connie

thinks and neither should you.
Lesley: Do you hear yourself wena? Junior is my
son.
Emily: So now you're just gonna rub it on my
face that you have a child and I don't?
Lesley: (snapped) stop being childish Emily!.
You know what stay with your childish ass and
enjoy your food alone.

He stood up and stormed out. Emily watched his

figure slowly disappearing and gritted her teeth.

At Connie's.

Connie handed Palesa and Junior their plates of

food and slumped her body onto the chair.

Connie: Watseba lesley makes me so mad! I can't

believe he spent all of his salary with that slut....

Palesa gave her a warning stare and they both

looked at Junior.
Palesa: That was a very horrible word okay?
Anybody that say that word burns in hell and you
know hell is not a nice place right J?
Junior: oops!.

Connie smiled apologetically at her son and then

looked at Palesa to Continue her rant.

Connie: He spent the money with Emily and

forgot that he has a son now I have to pay for the
fees and buy winter clothes for Junior. I'm so
broke Lisa.
Palesa: Tell Gabriel to pay you for raising his
kids.
Connie: (annoyed) Was that the best you could
come with? I'm serious Palesa.
Palesa: (sighed) Did you talk to him?
Connie: Yes and he kept apologizing and making
excuses.
Palesa: Kat and I were gossiping one day in bed
and he told me that Emily withdrew money from
your ex's account and bought herself an
engagement ring.
Connie: (laughing) You don't say!.
Palesa: Kere Katlego told me that Lesley asked
him for help. I told you that Emily was going to
show him flames.

They both laughed.

Connie: At least god is fighting for me.

Palesa: Hey. When was the last time you talk to
Gabe?
Connie: Two hours ago, why?
Palesa: Nothing. If you don't seduce that man I
will do it for you.
Connie glared at her and hit her on the head
,Junior found the whole scene funny so he
bursted out laughing.

Connie: Gabe and I are not going to...jeez

Palesa!
Palesa: Ouch!
Connie: Gabe is my sister's husband.
Palesa: Katherine is dead mos.
Connie: (snapped) Palesa!.
Palesa: That was too disrespectful I'm sorry. But
friend you have to move on.
Connie: Yes but I'm not going to do it with Gabe.
Palesa: But you have a strong connection and
you were dating in high school.
Connie: We did only because of a bet.
Palesa: If it wasn't for Mmapule's wicked selfish
to force him to marry Katherine instead you two
would've made beautiful kids and Katherine
would still be alive.

Connie pinched the bridge of her nose.

Connie: Akere he was stupid to let his parent

dictate his life. Le Katherine was selfish and
cruel too to date someone that was mine.
Palesa: (chuckled) Shame that's village life I'm
telling you. I'm glad things like arrange marriage
don't happen nowadays.
Connie: (sighed) Me too.

They ate in silence. Connie relaxed her face and

sighed when she realised how that Gabe topic
made her upset.

The following day at Thato's.

Sarah opened the door and Gabe got in with five
huge files. Sarah wrinkled her nose in dislike
then shut the door.

Sarah: I'm pregnant.

Gabe: Congratulations my dear future sister in
law but you can't avoid doing your job.
Sarah: Yeses Gabe...why these many files
though?
Gabe: (chuckled) I have to take Hlompho to a
doctor. He kept complaining about his leg.
Sarah: Is he okay? Where's he?
Gabe: in the car with Julia.

Thato walked in the kitchen and he and Gabe fist

pumped.

Gabe: Congrats bro.

Thato: (smirked) Thanks bro. Bogopa men don't
shoot blanks.

They both chuckled.

Thato: Thanks Gabe. I'll finally have my first kid.

Sarah: I better go get ready for work. I have the
strictest boss ever.

She took the files from Gabe and walked out of

the kitchen. Gabe and Thato pulled out the high
chairs and sat down around the kitchen island.

Thato: Mom called.

Gabe: When?
Thato: Last night. She told me that you don't
support her anymore.
Gabe: (scofed) I sent her money every month.
The fuck was she talking about.
Thato: I think she's not spending it alone. Puleng
might be staying with her.
Gabe: (annoyed) Puleng must get a job man!. I
don't work my ass off for her!. I only support
mom because she gave birth to me and raised
me. I don't want anything to do with Puleng.

He slammed his hand on the table and stood up.

Gabe: I have to get Hlompho checked. If mom

calls again tell her to call me and I'll meet her so
she can complain properly.
Thato: Calm down!. You need to learn to take it
easy bro.
Gabe: I'm fuckin calm little bro!. Tell Sarah to
get done with those files. I'll see you tomorrow.

He walked to the door and opened. He got out

then slammed it closed. Walking to his car, he
did breathing exercises to calm himself and
opened the car then got in. He looked at
Hlompho in the backseat snoring lightly then
smiled.

Gabe: Still okay baby?

Julie nodded and leaned back on the passenger

seat then Gabe closed the door.

Gabe: Can I ask you something?

Julie: mmmh?
Gabe: I need you to be honest with me
sweetheart. Do you promise to be honest?
Julie: Yes daddy.
Gabe: Good girl. Baby are you happy at home?

Julie opened her mouth and closed it.

Gabe: You're not happy there are you?

Julie started crying. She unbuckled the seat belt

and jumped to her dad's lap and laid her head on
his chest.

Julie: Because it's not a nice place daddy. There's

blood on the floor.
Gabe: (whispering) You know I love you right?
And I'll do everything to make you happy right?
But I don't know what to do anymore baby. I
want us to move to a new house but I'm afraid
it's going to be hard for you to adjust.

Julie raised her head and Gabe wiped her tears.

Gabe: I'll do whatever you and Hlompho because

I don't like seeing you sad.
Julie: Then let's go to another house where
there's no blood and men with guns.
Gabe: (sighed) We'll talk about it when we get
home.
Julie: Okay.
Gabe: Don't be sad okay?

She nodded and Gabe kissed her then she

crawled back on the passenger seat.

Julie: (smiling) Auntie Connie looks like

mommy.

Gabe laughed and started the car.

Gabe: O thomile (you're starting).

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 28

At the hospital.

Gabe thanked the doctor then walked out of the

hospital carrying Hlompho and holding Julie's
hand. Julie licked her dry lips and whined.

Julie: Daddy?
Gabe: Baby?

She brushed her stomach and grinned.

Julie: I'm hungry.

Hlompho: Me too.
Gabe: What do you feel like eating?

He let go of Julie's hand and took out keys in his

pocket then unlocked the car.

Julie: Can we have pap this time?

Once there were in the car they buckled up

themselves then Gabe scratched his head.

Gabe: You want pap?

Julie: Yes daddy.
Hlompho: I want pap too. Auntie cooked pap
one day with chicken stew for us.

Julie looked at Hlompho and they both grinned.

Hlompho: I don't think daddy knows how to
cook pap. Mommy didn't like cooking it too...
Julie: Daddy?

Gabe chuckled.

Gabe: Really kids?

Julie: (giggling) You don't know how to make
pap do you?
Gabe: I know exactly how to make pap. Don't
underestimate me Julie.
Julie: No you don't. Search it on goggle or ask
auntie for help. But why didn't you learn to cook
pap daddy?
Gabe: Your mommy didn't like it.

They fell into a comfortable silence until

someone knocked on the window. Gabe lowered
the window then clicked his tongue in annoyance
when he saw Lesley's annoying face.

Gabe: Officer.
Lesley: Gabriel Bogopa.
Gabe: Did I do something?
Lesley: No but you and I have to iron things out.
Get out of the car.
Gabe: Did you actually follow me here man?

Lesley grinned.

Lesley: I'm not a dumb motherfucker Gabe. Why

would I even follow you?
Gabe: Then what do you want officer? Aren't you
suppose to be chasing criminals?
Gabe looked at the kids then opened the door
and got out of the car. He shut the door and
leaned against the car.

Gabe: How can I help you officer?

Lesley: Stay the fuck away from my family.
Gabe: Excuse me!.

Lesley pushed his hands against the car

completely caging Gabriel.

Lesley: I don't want to see you with Connie ever

again.

Gabe roughly pushed him back and he stumbled

backwards then Gabe walked closer and pointed
him with his index finger.
Gabe: First of all don't ever talk to me like that
and secondly I don't give a shit about what you
say, I'm still going to keep coming because that's
not your house and Connie is not your woman. I
can't believe you actually thought I'd let fuck
with me and keep quiet.

He clicked his tongue.

Gabe: You're lucky I'm with my kids otherwise

you would've been lying on the floor with your
lips bursted.
Lesley: Is that suppose to scare me? You think
you're tough just because you're muscular?
Gabe: Stay the hell away before I beat you up
,report you to your boss for harrassment then
sue your ugly pants off.

He turned around and opened the opened then

got in. He closed it gently and looked at the kids.
Gabe: I'm sorry guys. That man doesn't like me
and I just could control...let's just go home.
Julie: It's alright daddy. You're a good boy.

Gabe bursted out laughing.

Gabe: Julie I'm a man bathong.

Later at Lesley's.

Mmalesley opened the door and got in Emily and

Lesley's room then closed the door. She wrinkled
her nose in disgust.

Mmalesley: (in disbelief) you're so untidy little

no no man.
She took her broom and swept under the bed
then to the nightstand and also dusted the
dressing table accidentally knocking off the
special spices. She heard a gasp then turned
around.

Emily: (snapped) What are you doing here? Do

you know that this is an invasion of privacy
Mmalesley. Do you know I could get you
arrested for this?
Mmalesley: I'm cleaning akere you can't do it for
yourself. Le gona what is this?

Emily rushed to the powder that spilled on the

floor and yanked the broom out of Mmalesley's
hands.

Emily: This are my late mother's ashes!!

Mmalesley: Why do you keep your mother's
ashes in a plastic bag?
Emily faked crying and fell on the floor.

Emily: Because I don't have a little vase to

keep...mara Mmalesley how can you do this to
me?
Mmalesley: I'm sorry I didn't know. At least it's
not mixed with soil..you can sweep it back into
the plastic bag.

She quickly rushed out of the room leaving Emily

with her crocodile tears. Emily stood up and
walked to the door. She slammed it closed then
cussed.

Emily: The old fucking hag of a witch!!.

She took out her phone out of her bra then texted
her friend. " I need you to accompany me to the
sangoma again. That old hag messed up the
potion."

In prison.

The warden pushed Dragon into another cell

then locked the door.

Warden: Akere you think you're the boss beating

up wardens, this is your fucken new home and I
have a feeling that you might like it very much
since it has psychopaths like you.

Dragon scowled at the warden acting

unbothered. He watched her leave then he heard
throats being cleared. An indian short man with
scars smirked at him then the other one with
tattoos all over his torso raised two middle
fingers.
Him: Sup!.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 29

Dragon watched the men closely and nodded at

then them moved to the bed. The tattooed man
rushed to stop him.

Linga: The fuck you think you're going?

Dragon stared at him and then to the bed.

Dragon: I'm going to sleep.

Linga: Bed huh? What brings you here
motherfucker?

The scar man walked to them and yanked

Dragon backwards and turned him around.

Raj: You must have done some pretty big shit to

get transferred to this hellhole.
Dragon: I'm not looking for trouble man just let
me go and rest.

Linga chuckled and patted his shoulder.

Linga: That warder forgot to tell you?

Dragon: Huh?
Raj: You don't just get the bed for free here. You
work for it you little shit and since this is our
territory, we get to choose what you're going to
do to please us.
Dragon frowned not liking where the
conversation was heading.

Raj: The name is Raj ,this is my brother Linga.

Who are you?
Dragon: Dragon.

Raj and Linga laughed.

Linga: You don't look like a dragon to me ,you

are not tough looking. You actually look kinda
feminine.
Dragon: You're not going to fuck me if that's
what you're thinking.

Linga tripped him and he fell on the floor. He

and Raj kneeled on his sides and smirked at him.
Raj: I think I'm going to enjoy having you here
Dragon.
Linga: But your name annoys me so I'm going to
call you baby from now on do you understand?
Raj: You are our bitch ,our wife and if you dare
disobey us or even deny us ,you're going to die.

Dragon flurred his nose in anger and sat up.

Dragon: I'm not afraid of you and I'm not going

to be anyone's bitch. I'm going to sleep and
there's nothing you can say or do to stop me.
Raj: Fine. You're going to be here for a long time
and you'll need us.
Linga: You see no one messes with me or Raj in
this place ...
Dragon: I don't care!.
Since Linga is the one with anger issues he
grabbed Dragon by the neck and squeezed it. His
other hand moved to the front of his pants and
cupped his manhood.

Dragon: (groaning) Stop!

He used his hands and punched Linga and that

fueled his brother's anger as he moved behind
him and held his arms back. They dragged him to
the corner of the room where it was a little bit
darker.

Raj: (Snapped) Behave!!.

Linga: Submit!.

They let him go and Dragon hurriedly protected

his butt. Both men looked at him and laughed.
Raj: He's hard.
Linga: He likes this. You're one weak harmless
Dragon. We'll protect you baby only if you
become our wife.

Dragon breathed heavily and massaged his neck.

He was painfully hard and that made him
uncomfortable since there weren't anything he
could do to relief himself.

Dragon: I'm not into men.

Raj: Baby this is hell and we don't give a fuck
what you're into. You simply sacrifice your
asshole for protection. I guess you're used to
being bigshot where you came from.
Dragon: I don't want trouble.
Raj: This is just the beginning. They are going to
be all over you at lunch and it's going to get
worse in the restrooms. They'll fuck you.
Linga walked to the bed and laid down then Raj
followed him and laid of his own bed. Soon the
lights were out and Dragon sat on the corner not
even craving to sleep.

Raj: Come to bed baby!.

He scooted closer to the wall and pulled his

knees to his chest. He started to miss the first
prison he was in. He shared a cell with a twenty
year old boy who raped a three years old baby. At
least it he didn't bother him as much as the two
brother are going to.

At Gabe's.

Julie left Hlompho in the TV room and walked to

the kitchen to Gabe. She walked to him and
cleared her throat.
Julie: Baby?

Gabe turned around and looked down at Julie.

Julie: Daddy can please borrow your phone to

call auntie Connie.
Gabe: Okay but please don't say things you are
not supposed to say.
Julie: Okay.

Gabe wiped his hands and reached inside his

pocket then took his phone out. He dialled
Connie and called her. The phone rang few times
before she answered.

Connie: Gabriel?
Gabe: Hey. Are you alright?
Connie: Mmmh you?
Gabe: I'm good. Julie wants to talk to you.

He handed Julie the phone and she immediately

placed it against her ear and excitedly greeted.

Julie: Auntie!.
Connie: Hey juju.
Julie: Auntie I hope you're okay and I miss you
so much.
Connie: I miss you too. How's Hlompho and
school?

She walked out of the kitchen still talking and

headed to her bedroom.

Julie: Hlompho is okay and it's so much fun at

school. Hlompho has many friends at school
,they like pushing his chair and telling him jokes.
Connie: Really? What about you?
Julie: I don't have friends at school auntie.
Connie: What? Why not?
Julie: (giggling) They say I talk to much. But I
don't mind having no friends at school.
Connie: You don't have friends at home either
mos.
Julie: I do. Hlompho, daddy and you are my
friends.
Connie: Aww Julie. But don't you get lonely?
Julie: Nope!. I talk with the teachers. Auntie?
Connie: Yes?

Julie breathed out and got inside her room and

closed the door.

Julie: That uncle followed us to the hospital and

yelled at daddy.
Connie: Which uncle?
Julie: The police officer. Junior's daddy. He told
daddy to get out of the car and yelled at him.
Connie: Were you eavesdropping?
Julie: Daddy forgot to close the windows so we
heard. He said daddy should stay away from you.
Auntie don't let him.
Connie: (sighed) I'll talk to him okay. Don't
worry.
Julie: (smiles) Thank you auntie. I have to go
give daddy his phone. He's cooking pap for us.
Connie: Oh!. Okay julie thanks for calling okay?
Julie: Goodnight.
Connie: Goodnight. Tell Hlompho I said hi.

Connie hung up and Julie got out of her room

and walked down the stairs to the kitchen.

At Connie's.
After hanging up Connie immediately dialled
Lesley's numbers and called him.

Lesley: Connie.
Connie: Why did you tell Gabe to stay away from
me?
Lesley: What?
Connie: Don't make me mad Lesley! Emily is the
one you should be possessive of not me. Where
do you get the nerve that big?

Lesley kept quiet.

Connie: You're getting really annoying these

days. Firstly you refused to give me money this
month then you go harass innocent people.
Lesley: Kanti Connie are you and Gabriel
together?
Connie: (laughed) How's that any of your
business?
Lesley: You can't date your sister's husband.
That's disgusting.
Connie: And dating my friend behind my back is
not?
Lesley: That's different.
Connie: Bona Lesley I don't care about your
opinions. Stay out of my business and focus on
controlling Emily since she's out of control. Oh
and make sure you transfer money into my
account before I take you to court.
Lesley: (shocked) What are you talking about?
Connie: You let your girlfriend use Junior's
money to buy herself an engagement ring.
Lesley: Who told you that?

Connie hung up the phone and walked to the

kitchen. She poured herself water and downed
the whole glass.
The following day at Lesley's.

Emily poured the muti in the water and then she

added a bath bomb to mask the smell. She smiled
in satisfaction and got out of the bathroom. She
walked to their bedroom and shook Lesley
awake.

Lesley: mmmh?
Emily: (smiling) Goodmorning love. You're
going to be late if you stay in bed like this. I
already prepared a warm bath for you.

He sat up and yawned then leaned in and kissed

Emily.

Lesley: you're such a sweetheart.

Emily: it's my duty to take care of the person I
love more than anyone in the world.
Lesley: (smiled) i love you too.

He got off the bed and kissed Emily for the last
time before he exited the room.

BULDING A HOME

CHAPTER 30

A week later.
Connie took a deep breathe then knocked on
Gabe's front door. The door opened and Connie
looked up meeting Gabe's cold eyes.

Gabe: Hey.
Connie: Hi.

He stepped aside and Connie got in. After

closing the door they both walked to living room.
Connie sat down on the couch and Gabe stood in
front of her with his arms crossed.

Gabe: I thought you said you were never going to

step your foot into this house.
Connie: I'm here to help you.
Gabe: (scoffed) Help me how. Le gona this late?
How did you even get here?
Connie: Taxi. Take me to your bedroom. The one
you slept in with Katherine. I need to pack
Kathy's belongings since you can't do it yourself.
Gabe: It's not like that.
Connie: I don't have time Gabe. I forced myself
to come here so don't waste my time. I need you
to give me permission to go to that room and
pack the clothes.
Gabe: Okay. Let's go.

Connie followed Gabe to the bedroom and the

both stood in front of the door.

Gabe: Let me go get the key.

Connie: Where are the kids?
Gabe: Doing their homework. Just stay there
while go look of a key.
Connie: Okay.
She watched him disappear into another room
and minutes passed then he came back holding a
key. He unlocked the door and they both got in.

Connie: It smells like her.

Gabe: Yeah. I never slept here since...
Connie: It's okay. Did you manage to get another
house?
Gabe: I've been talking to an estate agent Thato
introduced me to and she showed me various
houses to choose but I couldn't even decide
between a double storey or just a normal house.

He sat down on the bed and Connie walked to

the closet and opened. She pulled out three
suitcases and placed them on the floor. Gabe
watched as she took out Katherine's dresses and
gently folding them.
Gabe: Don't you think donating the clothes
would be a good idea? I mean there are clothes
that she only wore once.
Connie: I don't think Katherine would've liked
that. Don't forget that she was selfish and greedy
Gabriel. I don't want the clothes to hunt
innocent people.
Gabe: (scoffed) There's no such thing.
Connie: Mmmh okay. She bought them with
your money so you decide. I'm just going to pack
them only.

Hours later Connie zipped the suitcases and

sighed in relief. "Daddy!" They both heard
Julie's voice calling and they rushed out of the
room dragging the bags. Julie ran to Connie and
hugged her.

Julie: Hi auntie. Where's Junior?

Connie: He went to visit his daddy.
Julie: Oh. But is going to move in too?

Connie and Gabe looked at each in confusion.

Connie: No sweetie.
Julie: Oh that's okay as long as you're here. I
better go tell Hlompho that you're going to stay
with us.

Gabe gently grabbed her forearm and looked at

her in the eyes.

Gabe: Baby your auntie is not going stay with us.

Julie: Aren't this her bags.
Gabe: (shook head) No. I'm sorry.
Julie: (sadly) Oh. I thought she was going to stay
here. But you're going to move in when we move
to the new house right auntie?
Connie looked at Julie who was in verge of tears.
Her heart was so heavy and she felt like she had
no choice.

Connie: Can I think about it Sweetie?

Julie: (nodding) Yes. Are you sleeping over?
Connie: I'm sorry.

Julie finally let her tears fall. She mumbling a

quiet okay and hugged Connie then walked back
to her room. Connie looked down at the bags.

Connie: They need a mother Gabriel. Did you see

how happy Julie was when she thought I was
moving in.
Gabe: Connie....
Connie: I feel bad. This is one of the reason why
I didn't want to come here because I knew Julie
was going to beg me to sleep over ,but I had no
choice.
Gabe: I'm sorry Connie I didn't know she was
going to be like that. I'll talk to her.
Connie: it's fine. Bye.
Gabe: What?
Connie: You thought I'll stay for a little while?
I'm leaving Gabe. I don't want to disappoint
Julie again.
Gabe: So you're running away? Julia will have to
get used to this. Things can't always go her way.
Connie: (snapped) Grow a pair and move on
Gabriel. You can't always make excuses. Your
kids need a mom.

Gabe ran his hand over his face.

Gabe: I'm not ready.

Connie: It's been three years. What are you
waiting for?
Gabe: You're judging me like you're any better.

Connie clicked her tongue and dragged the bags

down the stairs.

At Lesley's.

Emily watched Lesley as he swallowed the food

she prepared. She tilted her head and smiled
widely.

Lesley: This is so delicious babe.

Emily: Thank you love.

Mmalesley took the last bite and stood up.

Mmalesley: You outdid yourself tonight.
Emily: Thank you Mma.

She walked to the zinc to wash the plate. Emily

smiled at Lesley and reached for his hand then
looked at Junior.

Emily: Is he going to sleep over?

Lesley: Of course. I want Junior to get used to
this place. Connie's house is not only his home
,this is home too.
Emily: (annoyed) I know but he has to stay for
only a night Lesley. You know how his mother is.

Junior licked his fingers and shyly looked down.

Junior: Thank you auntie.

Emily: you're welcome little man. Now go and
wash your own plate like a good boy you are.
Junior stood up and walked to the zinc.
Mmalesley smiled at him and took his plate and
washed it for him. Meanwhile Emily grabbed
Lesley's hand and dragged him to the bedroom.

Emily: I'm yours tonight.

Lesley locked the door and grabbed Emily by the

neck aggressively devouring her lips. They
moved backwards until Emily hit the edge of the
bed with the back of her knees. She fell on the
bed and Lesley immediately got on top of her.

Emily: I missed this so much.

Lesley kissed her neck but he suddenly felt weak

and nauseous. He got off her and held on his
head.
Emily: What's wrong?
Lesley: Just feel like I'm going to throw up.
Emily: I thought you liked the food.
Lesley: I did. I think it has something to do with
not cleaning my stomach more often.

Emily rolled over and grabbed a bottle of clean

water on the nightstand and handed him.

Emily: Drink up maybe you'll feel better

afterwards.

Lesley took the bottle from her hands and open

the cap then downed half of the bottle. Emily sat
up and crawled behind him. She started
massaging his shoulders.

Emily: How do you feel?

Lesley: Fine. Don't worry.

Emily guilty massaged him. She only hoped it

wasn't the muti she mixed his food with. She felt
him turning around and he pushed her back on
the bed and kissed her softly. Emily smiled into
the kiss and welcomed Lesley.

The following day in prison.

Dragon covered his butt as the water ran down

his body. He knew he wasn't safe when he took
off his overalls. Clearly every prison wants to
fuck the newbies. Luckily he wasn't the only one.
He heard voices talking about him.

Voice1: I'd love to tap that ass. He's fresh and I

heard that he beat up the warder. Maybe I
should punish him. I'd love watch him writh
under me.
The man laughed.

Voice2: Goodluck with that. I heard he's the

LiRa's bitch.

He quickly turned off the water and got out of

the shower. He didn't like Linga and Raj but at
that time he wished they could show up and
rescue him. The men blocked his way.

Him: Not so fast.

Dragon: (calmly) You do not want to mess with
me.
Him: Oh really? What are you going to do? Beat
me up?
Dragon: Fuck you!.
He pushed the man back and both men laughed
at his attempt to fight back.

Him: You're one fierce man aren't you baby boy?

"That one is off limits Jerry" He heard Linga's

voice behind him and he sighed in relief. The
man raised their hands in surrender and left
Dragon with Linga.

Dragon: I didn't need your help.

Linga: (smirked) You looked terrified for a
second there.
Dragon: I just want to serve my sentence in
peace.

Linga threw his head back and laughed.

Linga: You don't get peace in hell. You remind of
Raj when he first got here. I had to fuck him for
protection now he's fine on his own but he's still
my bitch too.
Dragon: Isn't he supposed to be your brother?
Linga: (chuckled) He's my brother because we're
both Pakistan. He's not my biological brother.
Why don't you bent down and pick up your
pants?
Dragon: No thanks.

Linga clenched his jaws.

Linga: I'm not going to tell you twice. Bend the

fuck down and pick up your pants before I lose
my mind.

Linga walked behind him and waited for him to

bend down so he can easy check him out.
At Lesley's.

Mmalesley combed Junior's hair and tied his

shoelaces.

Mmalesley: Now you're good to go.

Junior: Daddy is going to take me to school
again?
Mmalesley: (smiled) Of course boy boy.

Meanwhile in the bedroom.

Emily shook Lesley roughly.

Emily: Oh my God!. Baby?

She pressed her fingers on the side of his neck
checking his pulse rate.

Emily: Lesley!.
Lesley: Keng? (What)
Emily: I shook you and you weren't responding.
Lesley: I heard calling.
Emily: Arent you going to work? And don't
forget that you have to take Junior to school.

Lesley yawned and sat up.

Emily: I'm going to run a bath for you. Don't go

back to sleep.
Lesley: Fine.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 31

At Bogopa inc.

Gabe watched everyone exit the boardroom and

he sighed in relief. "Stressful morning?" He
heard a female voice behind him and turned his
chair around.

Gabe: Mrs khoza.

The woman smiled at Gabe and pulled her skirt

down then sat down on the chair beside Gabe's.
Her: Call me Goodness. Mrs Khoza is my mother
in law.

Gabe chuckled.

Gabe: Oh. Yeah it's a stressful morning really

Mrs..I mean Goodness. Some other days you just
wake up stressed with no reason at all.
Goodness: Yeah I totally agree.
Gabe: I never knew you attended these kinda
meetings with your husband.
Goodness: Being a housewife is not as fun as
other women makes it to be.

Gabe stood up and offered his hand to Goodness.

She took it and stood up.

Gabe: Was it your choice?

Goodness: No. I studied Journalism and I
couldn't get a job due to high unemployment rate
in South Africa.
Gabe: that's understandable.

They both got out of the boardroom and walked

to the elevator. The door closed and Goodness
shook her head at something that popped in her
mind.

Gabe: Is something wrong?

Goodness: I don't mean to pry but are you and
your sister in law in a sexual relationship?

Gabe choked on his saliva and quickly composed

himself.

Gabe: No.
Goodness: Oh. So is there someone you're
seeing. I heard from my husband that your wife
died three years ago ,my condolence by the way.
I was wondering why you're still single at this
time.
Gabe: Are you practicing your journalism on me?
Goodness: What?
Gabe: Why are you asking me these type of
questions?
Goodness: Oh my god I'm sorry. I didn't mean
to...
Gabe: Stay away from me and stay out of my
business Mrs Khoza. I worked so hard to get to
where I am and I won't let some nosy stranger I
just met mess with my head.
Goodness: I said sorry.
Gabe: I heard you. Just don't this to someone
else. Some people aren't this nice. They would've
slapped you the moment you opened your
mouth.
The doors opened and Gabe gave Goodness one
last look.

Gabe: I'm your husband's boss and you should

watch how to talk to me. You and your husband
better not gossip about me again before he lose
his job.

He clicked his tongue and walked out of the

elevator to his office. He opened the door and
groaned in annoyance when he saw his brother
with his mother.

Gabe: This is my workplace bathong. You can't

just come and get in my office without talking to
me.

He walked to the couch and sat on the opposite

side facing Mmapule and Thato.
Mmapule: Hello Gabriel.
Gabe: Mma.

He glared at Thato silently asking him why he

brought his mother in his office.

Thato: She said she needed to talk to you.

Gabe: That doesn't explain why you two broke
into my office. And aren't you suppose to be
pampering your pregnant girlfriend.
Thato: I had to drive mma here so I'm leaving.

He stood up and walked to the door. Gabe and

Mmapule watched him getting out and shutting
the door after him.

Mmapule: (smiled) How are you?

Gabe: I'm good Mma and you?
Mmapule: I'm not good Gabriel I'm actually
disappointed in you.
Gabe: Excuse me?
Mmapule: How can you hate your sister for
something that she didn't know was going to
happen. Don't forget that she lost a lover too.
Gabe: Is this about the allowance?
Mmapule: Of course it is. It's not enough.
Gabe: That's because you live with Puleng and
she uses the money to buy her things. Mma how
can you baby Puleng? She's older than me for
heaven sake.
Mmapule: (snapped) So I'm suppose to let her
suffer because she's older than you and Thato?
Gabe: No. Open her eyes!. She has to learn to be
independent. She can't always rely on us. Tell
her to get a job and support herself.
Mmapule kept quiet.

Gabe: (sighed) Puleng is a grown woman.

Mmapule: I heard you.
Gabe: I was just making that perfectly clear. I
have work to do Mma. Call me when you want to
talk.
Mmapule: Okay but please sympathize with your
sister.

She grabbed her handbag and walked out of the

office.

At the park.

Lesley leaned back on the seat and yawned.

Lesley: Man we've been watching this guy for
hours. He doesn't have anything to do with the
murder case.
Kat: Shut up and watch.
Lesley: (chuckled) You're obsession with this guy
is kinda funny.
Kat: Just like your relationship with Emily.

Lesley stopped chuckling and glared at Katlego.

Lesley: Don't talk about Emily.

Kat: I'm just saying.
Lesley: And don't forget I forgave you for
smashing her behind my back.
Kat: (scoffed) You weren't even dating back
then.you were sneaking around with her behind
Connie's back. Don't tell me shit and watch the
guy closely. There's something suspicious about
this park.
Lesley: Of course there is. Many people were
murdered here. Maybe we should drive away.
Kat: Drive away? We are on duty.

Kat put the binoculars down and scratched his

head.

Kat: This part of the job makes me hate working

with you. You're lazy and you complain too much
like you don't even get paid.
Lesley: shut up wena.
Kat: Anyway did you convince Emily to get a
job?
Lesley: I changed my mind.
Kat: What? Why?
Lesley: Because I'm planning to ask Connie to let
Junior stay with us. That way Emily will be able
to learn how to be a mother before I get her
pregnant.
Kat: Do you think Connie will agree?
Lesley: she doesn't have a choice.
Kat: Whoever bewitched you is probably dead.
Connie will never agree to let her marriage
wrecker watch her son.
Lesley: He's my son too mos.

Kat clicked his tongue and looked at the guy they

were watching getting in his car.

Kat: Do you think he recognized us?

Lesley: No. Let's follow him.

Later in prison.

Dragon walked back in his cell feeling satisfied

and full. The warder unlocked the bars and
pushed him inside. He walked in to his side of
the bed ignoring murderous looks from his cell
mates. He heard the metal door close shut.

Linga: Baby?

Dragon ignored him and climbed on the bed. He

turned around and his eyes met the Pakistan
boys'.

Raj: What crawled up your butt and died? Got

penetrated?

He laughed and got off his own bed and walked

to Dragon. He pushed him on the bed and got on
top of him. Dragon pushed him but he felt him
grab both of his hands and pinned them above
his head then went for his lips. He bit on the
bottom lip and when Dragon opened his mouth
to scream he shoved his tongue into his mouth
and leaving a lolly. He got off him and walked
back to Linga.

Raj: Have some lolly pop.

Dragon: (snapped) You could've handed me the
lolly instead of forcing it in my mouth.
Raj: That's how we do things in this place. We
fuck not create some sort of a friendship. You're
lucky we want you otherwise you would've been
dead.

Dragon wiped his mouth and sucked on the lolly.

Dragon: Where did you even get this?

Raj: From Linga.

Dragon watched the other man whose eyes were

closed and his body sprawled on the bed. He
wondered what brought these men in prison.
Dragon: How did he get here?
Raj: Do you want him to kill me for telling you. I
might be a criminal but I don't want to mess with
Linga. He's not even asleep. Ask him yourself.

Dragon shook his head and laid back down on

the bed. Falling asleep was the scariest thing for
him ever since he got thrown inside. The fear of
Linga and Raj double penetrating his ass kept
him up at night.

Linga: (hoarsely) You don't wanna know what

got me here baby.
Dragon: Are you talking to me?
Linga: Who's baby in this place?
Dragon: I don't know. Maybe the walls.
Linga: You've got a pretty loud disrespectful
mouth Little dragon. Keep provoking me.
Dragon's widened.

Dragon: I'm sorry please don't do anything to

me.
Linga: (sarcastically) Sure.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 32

Saturday morning.

Connie fixed her tight dress and checked herself

in the mirror. The past few weeks have been so
stressful for her and she was glad that she was
finally going to get a break and release some
tension.

Her phone rang.

Connie: (answering) Lisa.

Palesa: Hey. Did you know about the party?
Connie: Thato called last night and told me
everything.
Palesa: Oh!.
Connie: Kanti aren't you invited?
Palesa: I am. I was just surprised nje. It's been so
long since I went to an engagement party or any
part at all.
Connie: Me too but I owe myself some fun. I'm
even fitting myself as we speak. I bought a dress
a month ago.
She heard Katlego's voice in the background.

Palesa: You know what, I'll see you later at the

party. I need to do something real quick.
Connie: (scoffed) Don't leave any marks. Bye.

She hung up and took off the dress. She put on

her baggy pants and a huge Tshirt. She heard a
knock on the door. She got out of her room and
walked to the kitchen to open the door. Lesley
got in and slammed the door shut afterwards.

Connie: What do you want?

Lesley: I want you to let Junior live with us
permanently.
Connie: I'm not crazy like you Lesley. I will
never let Junior live under one roof with that
whore.
Lesley: He's my son!.
Connie: Junior spent a week at your place
already. What more do you want?
Lesley: A week is not enough.

Connie folded her arms.

Connie: Tomorrow I want Junior here Lesley.

He's my son and I screamed my lungs out to
bring him to this world. Don't you dare tell me to
give up my son.
Lesley: (shouting) You're selfish Constance!
Junior is happy there because he has a mom ,a
dad and a grandma.
Connie: Ei wena watch your mouth. This is my
house Lesley don't dare raise your voice at me in
my own home.
Lesley: I'm not afraid to drag you to court!.

Connie laughed.
Connie: Go ahead. I wonder what are you going
to use to pay the lawyer since your so called
Emily manage your bank accounts. Get the hell
out of my house and don't come back unless you
have something that makes sense to say.
Lesley: Bona Connie....
Connie: (snapped) Kere get out of my house
Lesley!. Oh if you don't bring Junior here
tomorrow I'm going to come fetch him with a
sangoma. I'll even beg him to make you grow
breast since you think you're a very good mother.

Lesley turned around at the mention of a

sangoma and opened the door. Connie watched
him walked out of the door and she closed the
door.

Connie: (clicks tongue) Men!.

At Thato's.

Sarah hugged her cousin and let her and his

girlfriend inside the house.

Sarah: Welcome!.
Jeff: Thanks for the invite cuz. This is my
girlfriend Itumeleng. We just moved in together.
Sarah: Oh hi!.

Itu smiled and looked down at Sarah's bump.

Itu: Hey Sarah. Nice to meet you.

Sarah: Likewise.
Itu: Congratulations by the way...um on the
engagement and the pregnancy.
Sarah: (smiled) Thank you. Follow me.
They walked to the living room where Mmalesley
was decorating with Puleng and Thato.

Sarah: Everyone meet my cousin Jeffrey and his

girlfriend Itumeleng.

Everyone waved at them and Itu immediately

walked to the couch and sat down. Jeff sat next
to her and she leaned closer to his ear.

Itu: Looks like we got here early.

Jeff: Ai other people will come later. We are
family akere.
Itu: (annoyed) You dragged me out of the house
for this. The party is later Jeffrey.

Puleng cleared her throat.

Puleng: So what do you do Itumeleng?

Itu: I'm currently not working.
Puleng: Oh.

She felt uneasy and out of place as everyone

continued with their conversation. She put her
leg onto another and folded her arms.

In prison.

Dragon heard the metal doors open and he jolted

awake and got out of bed. His body felt normal
and he sighed in relief. He looked at the other
beds and saw Raj braiding Linga's long hair.

Warder: Come on prisoner. You have a visitor.

He frowned. The warder beckoned him to follow

with his index finger. Dragon followed him. He
offered his arms and the warder cuffed him.
Warder: Very good.

The walked down the long corridor and he

opened the room. There were chairs and tables
in the room and he saw his wife sitting there. The
warder let him go and he walked to his wife. He
sat down and faced her.

Dragon: Hi.
Her: Are they treating you good?
Dragon: (nodding) I eat and shower two times a
day so yeah I'll call that a nice treatment.
Her: Oh that's better. The kids miss you so
much.
Dragon: I miss them too and I missed you so
much. Why didn't you visit?
Her: I was angry Dragon and I...
Dragon: You're here. Does that mean you're not
angry anymore? Things weren't suppose to go
that far.

She sighed and reached inside her bag. She

pulled out a large envelope and placed it on the
table.

Her: I actually brought this.

Dragon: What is it?

She bit her upper lip leaned back on the hard

chair.

Her: Divorce papers. I can't do this anymore

Dragon. I don't even know when you're getting
out of here. I'm lonely and I can't support the
kids alone.
Dragon: What?
Her: I met someone and I love him so much.
He's great and he's a great father.
Dragon: You moved on?

She sighed and sympathetically smiled at him.

Her: I'm sorry. I hope you do the same when you

get out. I need you to sign for me please. Set me
free.

She reached inside her bag and took out a black

pen. The warder came closer and unlocked the
cuffs. Dragon breathed out and signed then
stood up. He got cuffed again and they walked
back to the cells. When the doors open he rushed
to his bed and laid down then covered his body
with the blanket. He pretended as if he was alone
in the cell and bowled his eyes out. Linga and Raj
looked at each other in confusion and shrugged.
Linga: Is he crying?
Raj: Yes.
Linga: As old as he is?
Raj: Maybe we should just comfort him with our
di***

Linga walked to him and yanked the blankets off

him. He roughly turned him around.

Linga: Baby! We don't cry in here. Shut up

before I give you something to really cry about.

Dragon sat up quickly and punched Linga on the

face. Linga bit his tongue and spat the blood on
the floor then slapped Dragon so hard. He
pinned him onto the bed.

Linga: Hey!!
Dragon: (crying) You don't know what I'm going
through please.
Linga: You punched me motherfucker!.
Dragon: I'm sorry I didn't mean to. My wife
divorced me...
Linga: Is that why you're crying like a baby?

Raj walked to them and sat on Dragon's bed.

Dragon: I'm sorry!. I promise I'll never do that

again.
Linga: You're behaving like a pu*** shut up!.

Dragon wiped off his tears and suddenly he felt a

hand blocking his mouth from behind and Linga
reached for his pants.
Linga: We gonna make you feel good. Make sure
to shut your mouth. If you fight us you'll get
hurt.
Raj: I'm going to remove your hand and I want
you to promise to be a good boy.

He nodded and Raj removed his hand.

Dragon: Please no. Don't do it.

Linga: Shhhh..don't make noise. That warder
will be here if to let us out for brunch so you
better behave and we'll be quick.

He cupped the front of his pants and massaged.

Dragon closed his eyes in fear and
embarrassment and squirmed.

Raj: stop squirming!.

Dragon: (snapped) I just got divorced and you
wanna rape me.
Linga: You became my wife the day you got here.
I let you sleep peacefully and I also watch over
you at the showers. Right now my brother and I
are trying to comfort you and you call it rape.
The fuck is that you want?

In the Evening at Thato's.

Connie got out of Gabe's car and gasped at

crowd. The place was crowded and the music
was loud. She pulled down her dress and offered
her hand to Julie while Gabe carried Hlompho
out of the car.

Gabe: Wow! Thato really went all out.

Connie: It's amazing isn't it?
Gabe: (nodding) Yep. Go inside I'll be there
soon.
Julie dragged Connie inside and Gabe around
the car. He opened the boot and took out
Hlompho's chair.

Gabe: Did Julie charge it like I told her to?

Hlompho: Yes she did Daddy.

He put it down and helped Hlompho on it. After

buckling himself up Hlompho drove himself and
Gabe walked behind. He smiled proudly at
Hlompho.

Meanwhile in the house.

Connie greeted Sarah and Thato then

congratulated them. She saw Palesa drinking at
the corner and walked to her.
Connie: (yelling) You look good!.
Palesa: You too. This party is going to be lit. I
can feel it.
Connie: I know!

She turned around and watched Julie hugging

her uncle then sighed in relief. She walked to the
table that had glasses filled with drinks and
grabbed the glass then walked back to Palesa.

Palesa: Let's go dance!

They walked to the dance floor and danced a

little before Itu bent down and twerked.

Palesa: Who's this girl?

Connie: it's my first time seeing her.
Palesa: If her lover is here ,he must be dying in
embarrassment.
They both laughed and Connie downed the
drink.

Connie: I need a strong one friend. Lesley is

stressing me out. I'm going to ask Sarah.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 33

The same night at Lesley's

Lesley: We'll go sit in the living room and watch
TV. You can bring our food there.
Emily: Okay babe.

Lesley and Junior walked to the living to join

Mmalesley. Emily smiled deviously as she made
her way to the pots. Her phone rang and she
answered.

Emily: Friend. How's the party?

She heard the noise in the background slowly die

down.

Itu: It's lit my friend. I wish you were here!

Emily: Even if I was invited I wasn't going to
show up.
Itu: Why not?
Emily: Because Connie is there and she still
hates me for stealing her man.
Itu: Oh. I don't really know her...
Emily: She dark in complexion ,she has wide
hips ,normal sized boobs and large ass.
Itu: (chuckled) There are lot of ladies that match
the description Emily.
Emily: Ask around Itu.
Itu: Forget it. I called you to check if the special
herbs were working. Did he propose?
Emily: Propose my foot! No he didn't Itu and I
feel like I wasted my money and I think that man
is tired of seeing my face.
Itu: Try adding three spoons then.
Emily: (gasped) What if I kill him..
Itu: Don't talk nonsense wena it's going to work.
Emily: How do you know that? You never used
this remember
Itu: Trust me.
Emily clicked her tongue in annoyance.

Emily: (whispering) If it kills him mmmmh Itu.

Itu: I gotta go back inside mkgotsi we'll talk.
Emily: Okay sharp.

She put her phone back in her pocket after

hanging up then took out her special plastic. She
took a spoon on the kitchen counter and scooped
a spoonful of the dark potion and mixed it with
the stew in Lesley's plate. She jumped back when
she heard a voice behind her.

Junior: What is that auntie?

She quickly put the plastic in her pocket and

blew air on the sides of the plate to get rid of the
evidence.
Emily: What's what?
Junior: You put it in the pocket.
Emily: You think you're clever wena neh? What
are you doing in the kitchen?
Junior: I'm thirsty.
Emily: Go get water. Don't ever sneak up on me!.
Junior: I can't reach.

Emily clicked her tongue and turned to the zinc.

She turned on the tab and poured water into a
plastic glass then handed it to Junior.

Emily: Drink up and leave. If you tell your dad

about my spices I'm going to dump you to the
streets so you can get hit by cars. Do you
understand me?
Junior swallowed the water and nooded. Emily
took the glass from him and slammed it against
the counter.

Emily: I'll bring your food there. GO!.

(Whispering) if he dares open his mouth I'll have
to ask Itu to accompany me to the most powerful
witch doctor tsk!!.

At Thato's.

"You go girl" palesa yelled as she watched Julie

doing voshos on the dancefloor. She stood up
from the couch with her drink and walked to her
boyfriend who was chilling with Thato and other
men she didn't know.

Kat: Hey babe.

Palesa: Have you seen Connie?
Kat: The last time I saw her was when she was
with you. Is everything okay?
Palesa: just that Connie is lightweight and she's
probably crying in the corner or hiding in the
bathroom in embarrassment.

Thato pulled Palesa down and she fell onto Kat's

lap.

Thato: I saw her talking to my brother. She's

safe.
Palesa: She was probably spewing shit. Dang
she's going to have my head tomorrow.
Thato: Nah don't worry. Chill with us and you'll
be good.
Palesa: Okay. Anyway Thato since you're the
owner of the house and the host ,can you please
tell me about the twerking lady.
The guys chuckled.

Thato: Itumeleng is her name. She's Jeffrey's

girlfriend. Jeffrey is Sarah's cousin by the way.
Palesa: Oh.

Meanwhile outside

Jeffrey pulled Itu by her forearm and pinned her

against the nearest wall. Itu hissed.

Itu: Ouch!
Jeff: I can't believe you flashed your butt for men
back in the house. What's wrong with you?
Itu: I was just dance baby you don't need to
overreact.
Jeff: You only twerk for me Itumeleng not those
bastards and you're my guest. How the hell is
Sarah going to look at me after you embarrassed
me?
Itu: Fine I'm sorry.
Jeff: Are you wearing panties?
Itu: What does that have to do with anything?

Jeff pulled itu's dress up and she squeaked and

tried to push him off.

Itu: Not here.

Jeff: People are inside ,there's nothing to worry
about.
Itu: (hissing) Jeff!.

He shut her up with a messy kiss. Since where

they stood was dark he didn't have to worry
about whoever was watching.
Jeff: You can't twerk and expect me to not get
excited.

He unzipped his jeans and pulled them down

above his knees. Itu cried out when she felt him
dive into her without a warning.

Jeff: Keep your mouth shut before you draw

attention.
Itu: Everybody is in the house!!.

The following morning.

Connie slowly opened her eyes and massaged her

throbbing head. Her head was spinning and she
groaned in pain. She slowly started to move her
body to get out of bed but something held her
down.
Connie: What the hell.

That moment she started to notice that she

wasn't at her house. She carefully turned around
to look at what or who was holding her. It was a
man and he was facing the other way.

Connie: (whispering) Oh god! I hope is not who

I think he is...

She removed the blankets and looked at the

man's bare back that was full of tattoos.
"Dammit" She heard him groan and hissed in
pain. When he turned she let out a scream.

Gabe: Shut up Conni! Yeses my head!.

Connie: Did we?
Gabe: Did we what?
Connie: (snapped) Gabe!
Gabe: We didn't have sex if that's what you're
asking. I don't take advantage of drunk women
not matter how aroused and drunk I am.
Connie: Then why the fuck are we on the same
bed?
Gabe: I don't know...because I was drunk and
you begged me to stay.

He reached on the nightstand and checked the

time. It was currently four o'clock in the morning
and everyone was still sleeping.

Connie: Oh my God I can't believe this.

Gabe closed his eyes wanting to go back to sleep

but Connie pinched him and glared.

Connie: Get out!

Gabe: Really? I thought we were old people
Connie.
Connie: You are my sister's husband and if
anyone barge in here it's going to look bad.
Gabe: Nobody will barge in here. This is my
room.
Connie: It's Thato's house.
Gabe: Connie if you don't want to shut up then
leave motho wa modimo cause I want to sleep.
It's four in the morning.

She yanked the sheets off her and squealed in

embarrassment when she saw that she was only
in her undergarments. Luckily for her Gabe's
eyes were shut.

Connie: Where are my clothes?

Gabe: You vomited on them so they are in the
bathtub. I don't know how you're going to leave
with only a bra and panties. You have a lot of
drama wena Connie.
Connie: Excuse me!.
Gabe: Ouh! Sleep ,I'll make a plan tomorrow.
Connie: Tomorrow!
Gabe: Today.

Connie swallowed her pride and laid back.

Connie: (whispering) I'm sorry little sis.

She covered herself and held the sheets tightly

against her chest.

Gabe: Just be glad it was me who you shared a

bed with Constance. If it were some stranger we
would be singing a different tune.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 34

After that conversation ,Connie never went back

to sleep. She turned around and watched the
sleeping male beside her. He was too close that
his breath hit the side of Connie's neck. She tried
to move away but she changed her mind as she
imagine her butt touching something forbidden.

Connie: (whispered) Gabe! Move away.

She huffed in annoyance and gave up. Her phone

vibrated on the bedside table. She stretched her
arm and grabbed it. "I can't believe you didn't
tell me your plans." She read the text from Palesa
and rolled her eyes.

Connie: (replying) I don't know what you're

talking about. And thanks a lot for letting me
leave with Gabe. I'm stuck in bed with him right
now.

She sent the text and put her placed her phone
back on the table.

Connie: Gabe wake up it's late!.

Gabe: mmmh?
Connie: Wake up. We have to help Sarah and
Thato clean the house.
Gabe: Connie you know everyday I wake up and
go to work. When I knock off I have to take care
of the kids and then work again. I never have
time for me.
Connie: Why don't you find a helper?
Gabe: Hlompho and Julia don't want strangers
in the house. They are still paranoid.
Connie: Sorry.

Gabe closed his eyes and pulled Connie even

closer. Her body tensed and she panicked.

Connie: Gabe!.
Gabe: Yoh Calm down Connie I'm just trying to
sleep.
Connie: You can't cuddle me when you're still
married to my sister Gabe. All of this is wrong.
Gabe: (annoyed) You're really uptight ,it's not
like I wanna fuck you Connie jeez. I don't even
understand why you're freaking out because you
slept with me before and you know how each
part of my body felt on your body.
Connie swallowed hard.

Gabe: Please relax and let me sleep. I feel so

comfortable right now and I don't want to let go.
I'm not a pervert and you trust me mos.
Connie: Okay fine.
Gabe: Good girl.

Connie breathed out and relaxed but not

completely. She felt Gabe's large hands on her
hips squeezing her and his breath against her
neck. "Lisa was right, I need to get laid" she
thought silently and closed her eyes savoring the
moment until the door flew open and Julie got in
followed by Mmapule.

Julie: Auntie!.
Connie covered her head with the duvet and
Gabe calm sat up and welcomed Julie in his
arms.

Mmapule: What were you two doing Gabriel?

Gabe: Goodmorning.

Mmapule clapped in disbelief and held her waist.

Connie slowly uncovered herself and stared at
Mmapule.

Mmapule: Goodmorning ya masepa. Julie get

out of the room ,I want to talk to your father.

Julie quickly ran out of the room and Mmapule

walked to the door and closed it shut.

Mmapule: What is the meaning of this?

Connie: it's not what it looks like I sw....
Gabe: Mma what are you doing here? Why didn't
you knock?
Mmapule: I'm glad I didn't knock. Aren't you
ashamed of yourself wena Connie for going after
your sister's husband. Ke gore you couldn't even
wait for Katherine to die so you could jump in
her husband's bed and take her place.

Connie gritted her teeth at the mention of her

sister's name. Gabe kicked off the sheets and got
off the bed. He walked to the closed and took out
a morning gown.

Mmapule: Gabriel!.

He took out another one and threw it at Connie.

Gabe: you can wear that one until your clothes

dries off. Connie and I didn't sleep together.
Mmapule: Then why is she on your bed?
Gabe: Do I owe you an explanation? Mmapule I
respect you so much but please don't question
me. Don't mention Katherine because you make
me so angry.

Mmapule watched Connie quickly put on the

gown and walked to her. She raised her hand and
slapped her then grabbed her hair. Gabe rushed
to them and yanked his mother off Connie and
started shouting.

Gabe: (shouting) I told you that we didn't sleep

together. What more do you want? Le gona why
did you slap her?.

The door opened and Sarah and Thato got in.

Thato: What's going on?

Connie: Your mother slapped me because she
thought I slept with Gabe. You know what I'm
tired of your mother...

She marched to her but Sarah blocked her way.

Mmapule stared at Gabe fuming and clicked her
tongue.

Mmapule: You couldn't even wait for ten years to

unzip your pants huh? I'm so disappointed in
you Gabriel and I'm sure Kathy is disappointed
too.
Gabe: (snapped) Stop mentioning Katherine!. I
came here to enjoy the engagement party but you
had to show up early in the morning without
knocking at the door and started making
accusations. I don't even know why I'm
explaining myself. You've been decisions for me
and judging my choice. I'm sick of it and I'm sick
of you.
Mmapule: (scoffed) You're even disrespectful.
She must have bewitched you ,who
knows...maybe she's the one who called the
thugs to kill Katherine so that she can have you
all for herself.

Connie pushed Sarah aside and went for

Mmapule.

Connie: (shouting) Your daughter is the one who

caused my sister's death!. Don't ever accuse me
Mmapule Bogopa. You are older than me but I'm
not afraid to beat you up. Who do you think you
are.

She yanked off the doek on Mmapule's head and

hit her with it. Mmapule backed away and glared
at Gabe.
Mmapule: You disgust me and also Katherine.
She must be turning in her grave.
Thato: Mma!.

Gabe grabbed Connie's hand and dragged her

out of the room. Julie and Hlompho were in the
other room listening to everything. Gabe opened
the door and let go off Connie's hand then
walked to Hlompho.

Gabe: (calmly) We are leaving.

Gabe picked Hlompho up and Connie walked to

the side of the bed and wheeled out the chair.

Gabe: I'm sorry Connie. I promise I never meant

for this to happen.
Connie: I know. I don't regret coming here ,I just
regret drinking too much.
They exited the room and met Thato on the way.

Thato: I'm sorry about ma please just stay and

have breakfast.
Gabe: We'll eat at home. I'll call you later bro.
Sorry about all of this.

He looked down at himself and looked at Connie

then chuckled.

Gabe: We didn't even shower. I'll come fetch the

clothes when she's gone. Come on guys let's go.

Meanwhile at Lesley's.

Emily sprinkled the herbs in Lesley's noodles

and poured three drops of the liquid in the juice.
She put on her fake smile and walked to the
living room where Lesley was watching TV.

Emily: You're breakfast love.

Lesley: You're spoiling me watseba.
Emily: Akere I'm practicing to be a wife, you're
going to marry me soon.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 35

Connie watched Gabe's car drive away and

turned around to her best friend. Without saying
anything she just pulled Palesa into her embrace.
Palesa: That bad?

She pulled away and nodded. They both walked

to the door and Connie pushed the door open.

Palesa: Ke gore you left in a hurry and you forgot

your keys yeses Connie I hope what you're about
to tell me it's not as bad as i think it is.
Connie: Let's just get inside. I have to take a long
warm bath before i take a nap.

They walked inside and Connie closed the door.

Palesa waited as her friend walked to the Zinc
and poured herself a glass of water. After few
sips she sighed and leaned back against the wall.

Connie: I got drunk and I woke up in bed with

Gabe but we didn't have sex I swear Lisa.
Palesa: Is that what made you this sour?
Connie: No. We woke at four in the morning but
we went back to sleep. The time Mmapule
barged in Gabe was cuddling me and it looked
really bad. She started insulting me saying that I
wanted Katherine to die so I can take her
husband. She even had the nerve to slap me so
hard in the face.

Palesa gasped and cocked her head.

Palesa: You let her slap you?

Connie: What was I suppose to do cause Sarah
prevented me to do anything.
Palesa: Eish.
Connie: (softly) I understand that Mmapule was
angry to walk in on us like that but she had no
right of accusing me of wanting to kill my own
flesh and blood. Katherine is the one who had a
problem with me not the other way around.
She smiled painfully.

Connie: I don't understand why all of this is

happening to me. I mean firstly i was forced give
up my boyfriend for Katherine so Gabe could
court her and later marry her because apparently
I had no brains to take over Bogopa inc with
Gabriel. Secondly I got accused of poisoning
Katherine and killing her unborn child and let
me not forget that Lesley kicked me out after
cheating on me, thirdly they held us hostage and
killed my sister because of Puleng and I get
blamed for that?.

Tears streamed down her face and she tried to

smile as she wiped them off.

Connie: Lesley wants Junior to stay with them

permanently and the last thing i want is to be
going up and down and running back and forth
in courts fighting for Junior's custody. I'm
emotionally tired Palesa like really really tired.

Palesa walked to her and hugged her close.

Palesa: (calm) I had no idea you felt like this all

these years. Why didn't you tell me this Connie?
Connie: I didnt think it was that important. I just
wanted to be happy and let my son grow in a
healthy environment.
Palesa: Then stick with people that make you
happy. Forget Mmapule and her evil daughter
man.
Connie: It will be best if i stay away from
Gabriel.
Palesa: Why don't you take a vacation just to
take your mind off things?
Connie pulled off and rolled her eyes at Palesa.

Connie: I don't even have money to take out

Junior Palesa ,how am I going to afford a
vacation?
Palesa: Um... why don't you save money and go
to GoldReefCity?That's the most fun place ever
and i think Junior would like that a lot.
Connie: I'll think about it.
Palesa: (smiled) awesome! It'll be good for you i
promise. Go take a shower while i make
breakfast.
Connie: Thank you.

She walked to the bathroom and closed the door

behind her. Palesa sighed in annoyance as she
replayed everything Connie said. She couldn't
believe Mmapule for her childishness, yes seeing
your son in bed with your daughter in law's sister
looked bad but she should've handled the matter
like an adult instead of using violence and
Katherine's death to shame Connie.

Palesa: What a bitch!.

She plugged the kettle and boiled water for tea.

At Thato's.

Sarah took out Connie's clothes in the bathtub

and put them in drier. She clapped in disbelief
and the door opened. She turned around and
held her hips.

Sarah: Really your mother was not fair.

Thato: (sighed) I think we should just keep our
mouths shut and not get involved.
Sarah: Aowa if she treats Connie like that, how is
she going to treat my cousins or even me Thato?.
Thato: We don't even know what happened
between Gabe and Connie...
Sarah: (annoyed) I don't even care! Your mother
slapped Connie without hearing her side of the
story. Connie literally said she wanted nothing to
do with the Bogopa's but you and Gabe kept
dragging her back into your family. Don't forget
that Hlompho and Julia love Connie to death and
they always want to see her.
Thato: Shhh!
Sarah: (scoffed) She's downstairs. I saw how she
was looking at Jeff last night. She didnt want
him here and i don't get how she gets to make
decisions.
Thato: You're just mad because Connie is your
friend.

Sarah's eyes widened in disbelief.

Sarah: of course I'm mad. She accused her of
calling the thugs to kill Katherine can you believe
that?
Thato: Babe just stay out of this please. I don't
want you to stress the baby. I'll talk to Mmapule
because she had no right to make accusations
especially about Katherine's death.
Sarah: (sighed) This makes me feel bad because i
Connie the drinks.
Thato: None of this has got nothing to do with
you.

He got out of the bathroom and walked down the

stairs to the kitchen. He watched Mmapule
cleaning the kitchen like she didn't do anything
wrong.

Thato: Connie could get you arrested you know?

Mmapule turned around.

Mmapule: For telling her the truth?
Thato: For hitting her. You had no right to lay
your hands on her. You didn't even let her
explain ,you just jumped into conclusions.
Mmapule: So you accept their stupid
relationship?
Thato: I don't think they are in a relationship.

She put the broom down and held her hips.

Mmapule: That's what they told you!. I can't

believe you would accept something as
disgusting as that.
Thato: Mma please stop harassing Constance.
You accused her of killing her sister and that was
out of line Mma. Don't forget that Katherine was
Connie's only family. Stop accusing people
without knowing the real story.
Mmapule: We all know that Connie would do
anything to get into Gabe's pants.
Thato: How are you so sure about that? I mean
we never heard anything about Connie seducing
Gabe or Gabe seducing Connie. (Sighed) You
just have a problem with her. Connie and Gabe
are older than me and i respect them a lot to just
accuse them of something they didn't do.

Mmapule kept her mouth shut.

Thato: Please never do something like this again

because this is my house and I don't want
unnecessary drama in my house that will after
my fiancee and our child. You can leave the
broom ,I'll clean.

He bent down and picked it up. Mmapule looked

at Thato for few seconds before she stormed out
of the kitchen.
*****

Emily moved her hips on top of Lesley as he

pounded into her. She screamed on top of her
lungs as she felt herself getting closer.

Emily: Don't stop!.

All of a sudden Lesley's movements stopped and

she groaned in frustration. She turned around to
yell at him but screamed instead when she found
him just lying there with his eyes closed.

Emily: Baby?

She got off of him and lightly shook him. She

started to panic when he didn't respond. She
knew how much Lesley loved sex and he couldn't
just leave her without orgasming and pretended
to be dead.

Emily: (yelling) Les! Baby please wake up!.

She got off the bed and picked up her dress that
she carelessly threw on the floor and put it on
then opened the door. She ran out of the
bedroom to the lounge screaming for Mmalesley.
Mmalesley stood up alerted and grabbed
Junior's hand.

Mmalesley: What happened?

Emily: (crying) We were just in bed and all of a
sudden Lesley passed out!.
Mmalesley: Stay here with Junior. I'll go check
on him.
She sat down on the couch still crying and Junior
sat beside her and awkwardly played with his
fingers while Mmalesley hurried to Lesley room.
She ran to the bed and shook Lesley.

Mmalesley: Lesley!.

She touched the side of her neck for a pulse rate

and sighed in relief. She reached inside of her
bra and took out her phone. She called an
ambulance and told them their address.

Mmalesley: Who pass out during sex anyway.

Emily what did you to my son...

She picked up Lesley's boxers on the floor and

sat him up. She struggled to put them on him but
managed at the end. She went back to the
lounge.
Emily: Mma?
Mmalesley: The ambulance will be here soon.
Emily: What's wrong with him?
Mmalesley: (snapped) How am i suppose to
know? You sleep with him don't you?
Emily: I dont know what happend. I swear on
my mother's ashes.

Later at the hospital.

Lesley smiled at Emily as she pampered him and

worrying for nothing.

Emily: Are the pillows comfortable?

Lesley: (chuckled) I said everything is good
didn't I?
Emily: What did the doctor say?
Lesley: He said something about exhaustion and
that I needed to rest.

Emily sighed in relief. For an hour she thought it

was the muti she fed him but what Lesley said
made her happy and that meant she was safe to
continue feeding him until he get down on one
knee and ask her to marry him.

Emily: Thank god! I love you so much and I

wasn't ready to let you go.
Lesley: I love you too. Go home and get me
clothes. They'll discharge me later.
Emily: Oh Okay.

She leaned down and kissed his lips then

excitedly walked out of the room.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 36

Months later.

Gabe moved around the kitchen tiredly trying to

make dinner for the kids. Managing a company
was hard for him ever since Sarah took a
maternity leave. Julie watched her dad and
sighed.

Julie: Daddy?

Gabe turned around and looked at her.

Gabe: Yes baby?
Julie: Are you okay? You don't look okay.
Gabe: I'm okay Julie I'm just tired ,that's all.
Julie: Oh. I thought maybe you didn't like
staying in this house.
Gabe: (smiled) If you and Hlompho are happy in
this house then I'm also happy. Now go watch TV
with Hlompho I'll call you when dinner is ready.
Julie: Okay.

Gabe ran his hand over his face and groaned.

The knock on the door startled him since not
many people know his new home. He wiped his
hands and walked to the door. He opened the
door and his mother and uncle got in.

Mmapule: Gabriel.
Gabe: What are you doing here?
Mmapule: Kanti aren't we welcomed here?

Gabe turned around and walked back to the

stove. He took the wooden spoon and continued
stirring the stew. Mmapule motioned his brother
to sit on the high chair in the middle of the
kitchen.

Him: Gabe!.
Gabe: Malome (uncle).
Him: It's a good thing that you moved on but
weren't you suppose to tell us?

Gabe switched off the stove and walked to the

kitchen island. He sat on the chair and looked at
his uncle in confusion.

Gabe: What are you talking about?

Him: There's a lady you're seeing and you didn't
bother telling us. Why is that?
Gabe: I'm not seeing anyone.
Him: But there are rumors and also pictures
taken. I know you're handling the business very
well but I will not allow you to bring girls we
don't know in your office. Those rumors will
spread and we will lose our loyal investors.

Gabe massaged his temple.

Gabe: I'm not seeing anyone and i don't let just

anyone into my office malome I promise.
Mmapule: Wena Gabriel you don't think at all.
Don't you know that your actions affect other
people?
Gabe: Mmapule I don't want to hear a word out
of your mouth. You don't like to see me happy
and you like reminding me of the past.
Mmapule scoffed and folded his arms. Gabe's
uncle took out his phone and scrolled for few
seconds before he handed Gabe the phone. Gabe
dropped his eyes to the picture of him and the so
called lady.

Gabe: Kimberly and I are not in a relationship

and she never set her foot in Bogopa inc.
Him: It doesn't matter. I want to know what's
going on between you two.
Gabe: We are in a sexual relationship and it has
nothing to do with the family.

His uncle stood up and helped Mmapule stand

up as well then he took his phone from Gabe
then looked at him with a serious face.

Him: You better hurry up and court the lady then

marry her so the kids could have a stepmother.
You are not getting any younger Gabriel and you
can't be the kids' mom and dad.
Gabe: (snapped) This is my life and I'm not
going to do whatever you demand malome.

His uncle folded his arms.

Him: You have three months to make up your

mind. I'm tired of watching the company losing
money because of you. You always postpone
meetings ,you miss conference calls and you
can't even go on a trip for business meetings
because you always worry about who's going to
stay and look after the kids. I talked with your
other uncles and we agreed on this. If you don't
want to remarry then you'll be forced to step
down as a CEO of Bogopa inc.

Gabe's mouth hung agape in shock.

Gabe: I'm the one that rose the company from
it's grave. How can you threaten me like that? Le
gona who's going to take over when you force me
to step down because Thato is not interested in
anything business related?
Him: Well since I'm the youngest brother of
Bogopa I'll be gladly to take over akere you're
not serious about your life wena.
Gabe: (firmly) That is my company.It's my
inheritance and you have no right to take it away
from me. I can fix my fucked up mistakes but you
can't force me to step down just because I'm not
ready to remarry.

Mmapule exhaled and smirked at Gabe.

Mmapule: Your uncles want what's best for the

company and family.
Gabe: (shouting) This family is messed up.
You're selfish and demanding. I don't even
understand why you still live in the past. I can
manage the company without a wife.
Him: I'm just trying to look out for you as your
uncle.
Gabe: Get out of my house and never come
back!.

They walked to the door, opened it and got out.

Gabe slammed his fist against the table. He took
his phone out of the pocket and called Kim.

Kim: Hey.
Gabe: Are you busy?
Kim: Um no.
Gabe: Okay come over after an hour.
Kim: Okay I'll see you then.

He hung up and put his phone back in the pocket

then took out plates and started dishing up.
The following day.

Julie looked at Kim and continue eating her

breakfast. Even though Gabe was proud of
himself for letting go of the past he still felt
uncomfortable with other people around his
kids. His relationship with Kimberly was
complicated and he wanted it to be like that but
Kimberly had her own ideas since she woke up
early just to introduce herself to the kids.

Kim: You're pretty little thing Julia. How old are

you?
Julie: I'm nine years old.

Gabe finished drinking his coffee and grabbed

Kim's hand and pulled her to the passage.
Gabe: Who told you to go introduce yourself to
my children?
Kim: I was about to leave and I bumped into
your daughter. There's nothing wrong in
introducing myself Gabriel.
Gabe: You and I are not even serious Kim. Stick
to what you're good at and stop confusing my
kids.
Kim: (chuckled) You don't want them to know
that you have replaced their mother?
Gabe: Take your shit and get out of my house.
We'll be meeting at the hotel from now on.
Kim: Babe but I...
Gabe: Don't call me that. Leave Kimberly and
stop posting pictures of us together. We are not
in a relationship.

The white lady glared and walked back to the

kitchen. She took her handbag and stormed out
of the house.
*****

Emily sat down on a rock under a tree and held

her head. Itu stood in front of her in concern.

Itu: Kanti what happened to I'm going to be

married soon?
Emily: That sangoma is a scam!.
Itu: Huh?
Emily: The muti doesn't work Itumeleng. I've
done everything he told me to do. I made sure
Lesley bathed with it and I even mixed it in his
food. I'm still not married.
Itu: Then tell him to marry you then.
Emily: You think I haven't tried?
Itu: Then go buy a wedding dress I'll help with
everything else.
Emily: How's that going to help?
Itu huffed in annoyance.

Itu: Don't you watch TV? You throw a surprise

wedding celebration. He will have no choice but
to agree to marry you. That's the only way Emily.
Emily: No.
Itu: Then you're not desperate.
Emily: Eish your ideas are always stupid. If I
continued with the muti I'll end up killing him.

Itu furrowed her eyebrows as she thought of a

better plan.

Itu: Fall pregnant.

Emily: (laughed) No marriage no baby
remember.
Itu: Ai then you don't know what you want
Emily. Just accept that Lesley will never marry
you. Be his vat en set girlfriend and enjoy it. You
did say Lesley took a long time to propose to
Connie so you're not different.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 37

Connie placed her handbag behind the desk and

sat down on her chair. Her friendly behavior and
the softness of her tone is what made the other
employees of Bogopa inc like working with her.
She smiled at everyone walking passed and some
of them even waved at her. The only person in
the company she had to remain serious in his
presence was Gabriel.

Connie: Good morning sir.

Gabe nodded and placed his phone in his pocket.

She turned around with her chair and started
arranging Gabe's files.

Connie: Here are your files.

Gabe: Thank you. Meetings?
Connie: You have a meeting with your uncles in
the next thirty minutes and ....
Gabe: Cancel the meeting. I had enough with the
Bogopa's.

He grabbed his files and walked away. Connie

frowned but shook it off. When Gabe got in his
office he took his phone and called his little
brother.

Thato: Bro?
Gabe: I'm going through some shit man.
Thato: What happened?
Gabe: Mma and Malome came over and
threatened to take over the company if I don't
remarry all because they saw a picture of me and
Kimberly.
Thato: shit!.
Gabe: And I don't even know how long they
talked about this. Uncle was serious man and he
even said I have three months to make up my
mind.
Thato: They don't have the right to take what's
rightfully yours mos.
Gabe: (groaned) I don't want see myself at court
fighting for this company man. I just want peace.
Thato: I'm sorry bro. I wish there was a way I
could convince them to let you go.
Gabe: Thanks but I'm not going to let them
dictate my life. If I have to kill to keep this
company I will but I'm not going to court. I'll
talk to you later okay?
Thato: Sure.

Later At Jeffrey's.

Itumeleng fiddled with her long nails watched

Jeff eating. Jeff swallowed and folded his arms.

Jeff: What?
Itu: Mmh?
Jeff: Akere you're staring at me like i did
something to you. What is it?
Itu: (nervously) Do you remember my friend
Emily?
Jeff: Yeah?
Itu: Her boyfriend doesn't want to propose even
though they've been dating for years. So i
promised that i'll help her.

Jeff gritted his teeth.

Jeff: The poor man is still waiting for the right

time to marry her. Why did you even promise to
help her Itumeleng? How are you going to help
because this is between your friend and her
man?
Itu: Joe.
Jeff: What does Joe have to do with this?
Itu: Akere he can hook up with Emily to make
her man jealous enough to propose.
Jeff: Do you think I'll propose after finding out
that you fucked another man?
Itu: This is not about us Jeffrey!.
Jeff: Itumeleng can't you like mind your own
business? I mean i understand that you want to
help your friend but this is not the way to do it
motho wa modimo.
Itu: (annoyed) Just talk to your friend and don't
worry about me. Joe is getting a divorce mos why
are you this worried?
Jeff: Joe and Goodness are fixing things.

He stood up and grabbed his suitcase.

Itu: It doesn't have to...

Jeff: (snapped) If I find out that you talked to
Joe you'll know me well Itu. Joe and Goodness
have been through shit and they deserve a break.

Itu kept quiet.

Jeff: And you better not try these stupid ideas of
yours on me because you will not like the
consequences.

He walked to her and kissed her forehead then

walked out of the house. Itu clicked her tongue
in annoyance and stood up.

At Bogopa inc.

Connie excitedly grabbed her bag to leave but

stop on her tracks when a woman walked
towards her. She put her bag down and put on
her signature smile.

Connie: Welcome to Bogopa inc.

Kim: Hello..um Connie. I'm looking for Gabe.
Connie: It's lunch time ma'am. Do you have an
appointment?
Kim: I don't need an appointment to see my
man!.
Connie: This is how things work in this place.
You have to have an appointment to see the CEO
not just barge in because he's your man.
Kim: Do you know who I am?

Connie folded her arms.

Connie: I don't even want to know. It's either

you wait here and let me call Gabriel and ask
about you or you leave.
Kim: Call him.

Connie gritted her teeth and called Gabe.

Gabe: Aren't you suppose to be having lunch?

Connie: I was on my way but your lady is here
and she wanted...
Gabe: Who are you talking about Connie?

Connie removes the phone from her ear and

looked at Kim.

Connie: What is your name miss?

Kim: (annoyed) Kimberly. Hurry up!.

She put the phone back on her ear.

Connie: Kimberly. Should I let her in or?

Gabe: What is she doing here? Tell her I'm busy.
Connie: Okay.

She hung up and grabbed her bag then stood up.

She walked around the desk and looked at Kim.

Connie: He's busy. Have a nice day Kimberly.

Kim watched her leave and clicked her tongue.
She took out her phone and called Gabe. When
Gabe rejected her calls and stomped on the floor
and typed him a message. "I'm sorry about this
morning. I didn't know introducing myself to
your kids was a big crime. Very childish if you
ask me" She sent the text then walked out of the
reception.

At Lesley's.

Mmalesley shoved a handful of popcorn in her

mouth and chewed loudly. Emily took the remote
and increased the volume.

Mmalesley: My ears are sensitive Emily!.

Emily: Well I don't like how you eat Mmalesley.
I love this show and I can't hear what they are
saying because you keep chewing loudly.
Mmalesley: If you had a job you wouldn't have to
deal with me.
Emily: Kgante when are you leaving?
Mmalesley: (scoffed) Whenever I want.

Emily clicked her tongue. Mmalesley stared at

her and her gaze dropped to her fingers and she
laughed.

Mmalesley: I'm glad you got rid of your junk.

Emily: Excuse me?
Mmalesley: The fake ring you bought yourself. I
can't believe you actually thought Lesley will
marry you. I told you that destroying Connie and
Lesley's relationship will not do you any good.
Emily: (annoyed) Mmalesley leave me alone.
Mmalesley: Only good deeds are rewarded little
lady. You can't do something bad as taking your
friend's man and expect praises from heaven.
Emily placed the remote down and stood up.

Mmalesley: Nna I'm just waiting for him to cheat

on you and kick you out like he did to Connie. If
he managed to do that to Connie it means he
won't even hesitate to repeat it to you.
Emily: (snapped) Lesley loves me!.
Mmalesley: I didn't say he doesn't. He did love
Connie too remember?.

Emily stormed out of the lounge and walked to

her room. She grabbed her phone on the bed and
switched it on. A text from itu popped up. She
frowned as she read it "You are on your own Em.
I don't want to fight with my man because of
you"".

Emily: Fuvck you!.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 38

Emily clicked her tongue and called Itumeleng.

Itu: You got my text?

Emily: E le gore what do you mean I'm on my
own?
Itu: I can't help you anymore, that's what I
meant Emily.
Emily: Aren't we supposed to be friends?
Itu: (in disbelief) Just because I said I can't help
you no more you're already doubting our
friendship.
Emily: You're not a good friend Itumeleng. You
promised to help remember?

She heard Itu sigh on the other side.

Itu: Joe is married.

Emily: I thought he was getting a divorce.
Itu: Jeff said he's fixing things with his wife.
That's the reason why I can't help you. I don't
want to complicate things between Joe and his
wife.
Emily: Do you another man who can help?
Itu: (snapped) I said I'm helping you with this
anymore Emily. I was fine accompanying you to
a sangoma but this time I'm not getting involved.
Emily gritted her teeth in anger.

Emily: Then what am i suppose to do?

Itu: Talk to your man and tell him how you feel.
Emily: (scoffed)Talk to my man? Itu do you want
me to seem desperate?
Itu: You are desperate mos. Lesley already
knows that you are desperate akere you bought
yourself a ring.
Emily: Thanks for nothing!.

She hung up the phone and tossed it aside.

****

In the evening Kim drove around town with a list

of schools written on a piece of paper. She
circled the last one and smiled.
Kim: This has to be the one.

She parked at the gate of the school and got out

of the car. Bunch of kids were getting out of the
school and running to their parents's cars so she
hurried to the guards.

Kim: Good evening gentlemen.

She tried to get inside but the guards blocked her

way and she frowned.

Guard: I'm sorry ma'am we can't let you in.

Kim: Why not? I'm here to pick up my boss's
kids please I'm running late.
Guard: Name?
Kim: My name is Kimberly ,I'm picking up Julia
and Hlompho Bogopa.
The guards paged through the book and looked
at Kim.

Guard: I'm sorry ma'am but we can't let you take

the kids. Sarah Ntsana and Gabriel Bogopa are
the only ones allowed to leave with the kids.
Kim: (snapped)Sarah took a maternity leave and
Gabe is busy at the moment I'm his assistant i
know his schedule.

She checked her wrist and stomped on the paved

ground.

Kim: I'm running late!.

Guard: We have to call their father to confirm.

Kim's mouth hung is disbelief.

Kim: I already told you that...

The guard walked away with a phone against his

ear. Kim nervously bit her nails and looked at the
other parents walking out of the gate.

Kim: Can you believe this?

Minutes later the guard showed up with Julie

and Hlompho following him. They stood in front
of Kim and she smiled brightly.

Guard: Their father is not answering his phone

so I need the kids to tell me if they know you.

He looked at the kids.

Guard: Do you know this lady?

Julie: Yes. She was with Daddy at our house this
morning.
Guard: She said your daddy sent her to pick you
up.
Julie: Okay.
Guard: Okay you can sign here ma'am and then
you'll be allowed to take the kids.

Kim walked to the table where parents were

signing the kids out then signed. She walked
around Hlompho's wheelchair and pushed it ,she
glared at the guards.

Kim: Let's go Julia.

Julie followed her and Hlompho to her car and

they all got in. Julie looked around the inside of
the car and smiled.
Kim: Are you all comfortable?

The kids both hummed in agreement. She smiled

and started the car then drove away from the
gate.

Julie: Are you daddy's friend miss Kim?

Kim: Yes Julie. We are actually more than
friends. I might be your stepmother in the
future.
Julie: What's that?
Kim: More like a second mom.
Julie: We already have a second mom though.
Can a person have three moms?

Julie looked at Hlompho and he shrugged in

confusion.
Kim: (chuckled) You can ask your daddy when
we get home alright but we are going to stay in
the car for a while since he has the house keys
alright?
Julie: Alright.

At Lesley's.

Lesley pushed the door open and got in. He

smiled when the delicious aroma hit his nostrils.
He walked to the table and sat down.

Emily: aren't you going to change first before

eating?
Lesley: Hey ma. Hello babe.
Emily: Lesley..
Lesley: I'm hungry Em and I don't have time for
that.
Mmalesley dished for all of them and Lesley
immediately dug in. Emily watched him chewing
and cleared her throat.

Emily: Babe?
Lesley: Mmm?
Emily: Since you and I haven't had a moment to
talk ,I thought maybe we could talk right here
and iron things out.
Lesley: Ohk. What did you want to talk about?
Emily: Marriage.

Lesley dropped his spoon and looked at his

mother then Emily.

Emily: I want us to get married Lesley. We are

not getting any younger and I'm tired of playing
the live in girlfriend.
Mmalesley stood up and picked up her plate and
a glass of water.

Mmalesley: I'm going to eat in the living room.

Lesley: Thanks mma.

They both watched her until her shadow

disappeared then they looked at each other.

Lesley: Not right now.

Emily: (annoyed) We've been dating for four
years Lesley.
Lesley: I know that.
Emily: Then why are you dragging your feet. Do
you still love me?
Lesley: Of course I do.
Emily: Then why don't you prove it by marrying
me? My family has been waiting for letter from
your family Lesley..
Lesley: I don't have money Em. You know I have
a child and I have to support him and le gona my
mother also needs me financially.

Emily stood up, wiped her mouth then clicked

her tongue.

Emily: I lost my appetite.

She pushed the chair back and stormed out of

the kitchen. Lesley picked the piece of meat and
shoved it in his mouth then sighed in worry.

Meanwhile at the school.

Gabe's vains popped out as he yelled at the

guards in anger and worry.

Gabe: What do you mean a lady took them?

Guard: She said she was your assistant and you
sent her to pick up Julia and Hlompho.
Gabe: I didn't sent any lady wena man! Why
didn't you call and tell me about this?
Guard: We did Mr Bogopa you were...

He raised his hand and shushed the guards then

called Sarah.

Sarah: Gabe?
Gabe: Did you pick up the kids?
Sarah: No. I thought I told you that i needed the
leave Gabe.
Gabe: I know. I'm sorry for bothering you.
Sarah: Did something happen?
Gabe: No. Maybe they are with their aunt.
Sarah: Okay sharp then.
He hung up and called Connie. He waited for few
seconds then Connie answered on the third ring.

Connie: Hello?.
Gabe: Is Julie and Hlompho there with you?
Connie: No. Wait you don't know where the kids
are?
Gabe: (sighed) No. I'm at their school and the
guards are telling me that a lady picked them up.
You and Sarah are the only ladies I trust you with
my kids.
Connie: Gabe i didn't pick up the kids and I'll
never do that because you know i don't have a
car. You have to find them Gabriel.

He hung up and looked at the guards.

Gabe: How can you let a stranger take my kids!.

Guard: She said she was your assistant. .
Gabe: (snapped) if something happen to my kids
I'm going to sue this school. Do you the name of
the lady?
Guard: I wasn't here when she said her name but
we can check the signatures.

She opened the book and handed it to Gabe.

Gabe took it and looked for Hlompho's name.
The signature wasn't exactly a signature. It was a
name written in messed up font.

Gabe: That bitch!.

He handed the book back to the guard.

Gabe: I can't believe you would let something

like this happen. I don't want my kids to just go
with anyone do you understand me? Only i can
pick up my kids from now on.
He clicked his tongue and walked to his car. He
opened the door, got in and slammed it closed
afterwards then drove home. For the first time in
his life he arrived home in less than 30 minutes
at the speed he stuck on. He saw Kimberly's car
on the drive way and gritted his teeth.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 39

Gabe got out of his car and walked to the gate.

He took out the keys and unlocked the gate then
walked to Kimberly's car. He silently opened the
boot and took out Hlompho's wheelchair then
shut the boot closed. Unfolding the chair ,he
pushed it to the backseats and knocked on the
door.

Gabe: Open the doors and let my kids go

Kimberly!.

He unbuttoned his suit jacket and waited for

Kim. Kim smiled at the kids and slowly opened
the door. She got out and opened the door for
Julie and Hlompho. Gabe carried Hlompho out
of the car and placed him on his chair then
handed Julie the house keys.

Gabe: Go wait for me inside.

Julie took the keys and held on her backpack

strap tightly then walked ahead of Hlompho.
Hlompho looked at his dad and dropped his gaze
then drove himself to the gate. When the gate
closed Gabe took two steps and yanked Kim
foward with her long hair. She stumbled and hit
his chest.

Kim: Oww!.
Gabe: Who the hell told you to go after my kids?
Kim: You're hurting me!.

Gabe twisted his hand and fisted her hair. Kim's

head rotated with Gabe and she hissed in pain.
Gabe brought his face closer and stared at her
with pure disgust and rage.

Gabe: I need you to listen and listen good. Those

kids are mine do you understand me Kimberly?
Nobody is allowed to leave with my kids except
me and few family members. Who the hell do
you think you are taking my kids and bringing
them home?.
Kim: I'm sorry. I was just trying to help.
Gabe: Did I say I want your help Kimberly?
Huh?

He let go of her hair and pushed her away.

Gabe: Where did you even find their school

because i don't remember telling you my
business.?
Kim: But I thought we had a real thing going on.
Gabe: Is that why you introduced yourself to my
kids? Because you thought we had a real thing
going on. If I remember correctly you said you
weren't looking for anything serious.
Kim: I know but things drastically changed
Gabriel.
Gabe: When got into this arrangement we swore
that we will never involve emotions. You told me
straight to my face that you are only sexually
attracted to me.
Kim kept quiet.

Gabe: I can't believe you went to pick up my

kids. Those are my fucking kids Kimberly!. I
don't know you completely and I don't trust
you!.
Kim: (snapped) You can't just play with my
feelings Gabe. You led me on.
Gabe: I let you on? Really Kim?
Kim: I mean I'm a lady and i....
Gabe: Dont pull that psycho shit on me
Kimberly!. I never let you on and I don't
remember giving you permission to act like a
loving stepmom on my kid. If you try your
psychopathic nonsense again I'll do more than
just pull your hair. I never want to see your face
here again. Go to your Mercedes and never show
your ass here.
Kim rushed to her car and got in. She slammed
the doors and started the car then looked at Gabe
one more time ,she rubbed her chest and drove
away. Gabe walked to the gate and opened it
wide then walked to his car and got in. When he
got into his house he sat down in front of his
terrified kids and took a breath in.

Gabe: Julie ,Hlompho what did I tell you about

strangers?
Julie: (arguing) But daddy she said you asked
her to fetch us..she was here yesterday.
Gabe: Julie some people are not nice. I told you
that only Sarah and I fetch you.
Hlompho: I'm sorry Dad we didn't know.

Gabe sighed.

Gabe: I'm not mad at you kids, I'm just mad at

this whole situation and that woman. I was
scared okay? Please never allow someone you
don't know to take you anywhere.
Julie: Okay it will never happen again I'm sorry
daddy.
Gabe: I'm going to order takeaways since we
already ran out of time. Prepare the plates and
juice please. Hlompho find a good movie put on
our favorite show I'll be back.

They both nodded and Gabe walked to his room

and called Connie.

Connie: Please tell me you found the kids.

Gabe: I did. It was a big misunderstanding don't
worry.
Connie: Okay. Please be careful next time. Tell
them i love them okay?
Gabe: Okay. Goodnight Connie I'll see you at
work tomorrow.
Connie: Okay Goodnight Gabe.

He hung up and blocked Kimberly's numbers

then ordered food for himself and the kids then
tossed his phone on the bed.

The following day at Bogopa inc.

Connie dusted the desk and the chair then sat

down comfortably. She saw Kim smiling at the
guards and internally groaned. She folded her
arms and waited for her. Kim walked closer to
the table and placed a large gift bag on the desk.

Kim: Hello Connie. Do me a favor and give this

to Gabriel, tell him is an apology gift.
Connie: Okay I'll do that Kimberly.
Kim: Oh and lose the fucking attitude.
Connie: Excuse me!.
She flipped her hair and walked away. The other
workers watched her swaying her hips left and
right then exited the reception area.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 40

At Bogopa inc.

Gabe yelled at his mother on the phone as he

made his way into the building.
Mmapule: I'm your mother Gabriel.
Gabe: What exactly do you want from me?
Mmapule: Respect!. Your uncles were right ,ever
since Katherine died you've been out of control.
Gabe: Aren't you ashamed of yourself? You yell
at me every single day ,you judge my decisions
and after that you demand money from me.
Mmapule: I'm not judging you Gabriel. I just
want what's best for you.
Gabe: What exactly do you think it's best for me?
I'm almost forty and I don't want a babysitter.
Mmapule: We only decide when it concerns the
company.
Gabe: You don't even know anything about the
company. Goodbye mma.

He hung up and walked to the reception and he

noticed Connie's not so happy expression.
Gabe: Morning.
Connie: Morning.

She bent down and picked up the gift bag and

handed it to Gabriel.

Gabe: What's this?

Connie: Kimberly brought it. She said it is an
apology gift.
Gabe: Connie do me a favor and not accept
anything from Kimberly.
Connie: Umm...
Gabe: Toss it in the bin. My files?

Connie packed the files and handed them to

Gabe. Then took the gift and dumped it in the
bin underneath the desk. Gabe flashed her a
smile and walked away.
Later at Palesa's.

Palesa paced back and forth in her bathroom and

counted to five. She walked to the medicine
cabinet and pulled out the pregnancy tests she
bought. She looked at the first one and her face
fell.

Palesa: Come on...

She looked at the second and the third then

slumped her body on the floor. Ever since she
and Katlego decided to take a huge step in their
relationship and move in together she's been
craving a little taste of family but she never had a
heart to talk it out with Katlego.

She got up and took out her phone in her pocket

then called Kat.
Kat: Babe I'm working..
Palesa: When you got off from work come
straight here. Please.
Kat: Is everything okay?
Palesa: Yes. Just come home. I want us to talk.
Kat: You're scaring me Palesa. You never call just
to tell me that you want us to talk later.. tell me
the truth.
Palesa: (sighed) No no there's been something i
wanted us to talk about that's all.
Kat: Okay I'll come straight home. I have to get
back to work.
Palesa: Okay sharp.

She hung up before he could say anything and

facepalmed. She walked to the kitchen and made
herself a cup of tea.

At Lesley's.
Emily opened the door for Itumeleng. They both
walked to the living room and sat down on the
couch.

Itu: This better be important.

Emily: I think the sangoma gave me a wrong
portion.
Itu: (frowned) What are you talking about?
Where's Mmalesley?
Emily: To the stores. I'm talking about korobela
from the sangoma Itumeleng.
Itu: Why do you think it's a wrong muti. He
knows what's best mos.
Emily: Then why isn't it working?
Itu: Emily I thought you gave up on your
marriage thing. When are you going to let it go
Emily?
Emily: That's not important right now. I think
the muti paralyzed Lesley.
Itu: How? Where?
Emily: (snapped) It paralyzed his manhood
Itumeleng. He can't do it anymore.

Itu leaned back against the couch and let out the
loudest snort followed by muffled laughter.

Itu: (laughing) Maybe it's the side effect. Don't

worry girl it'll be over soon.
Emily: Then why are you laughing?
Itu: It's funny because you don't listen. You
should learn to appreciate your man for the little
things he does for you.
Emily: You advised me to go to a malawian
sangoma mos.
Itu: Firstly that man is not a malawian and
secondly you asked me for help because you were
desperate.
Emily: How do I help him Itu?
Itu: Stop feeding him muti otherwise you'll be a
one unhappy and unsatisfied woman on earth.

They heard the clearing of someone's throat and

snapped their heads to the doorway. Emily
almost had a heart attack when she saw
Mmalesley standing there with her hands on her
hips.

Mmalesley: You're feeding my son herbs and

korobela wena?
Emily: what are you doing here? How did you
get in?
Mmalesley: The door was open and this is my
son's house. Now talk little lady.
Emily stood up and walked to Mmalesley.

Emily: I'm not feeding Lesley anything

Mmalesley.
Mmalesley: (scoffed) Akere you are busy talking
with your friend about my son's poor
performance in bed that you caused with your
evilness.

Itu stood up and rushed passed Emily and ran

out of the house. Mmalesley shook her head and
clapped.

Mmalesley: I always knew that you are a very

bad girl but I didn't think you'd want to kill my
son. I'm busy wondering why my Lesley is always
depressed and sick looking Kanti no man witch
Emily is busy frying him with korobela. Don't
worry my girl he will be here later and I'll tell
him this nice tale.
Emily bit her nails and looked around. She was
so close to pissing herself. She grabbed the vase
on the tv stand and threw it at Mmalesley.
Mmalesley screamed as it hit her head and then
she collapsed on the floor.

Emily: Mmalesley!!!!.

In the evening at the parking lot.

Kimberly watched Gabe buckled up Hlompho

and Julie from a distance and smiled. She
watched him put the Wheelchair in the boot and
closed it shut then got in the car. When the car
drove off she waited for five minutes before she
started her own car and followed him.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 41

At Lesley's.

Lesley opened the door and got in the house. The

house was surprisingly quiet and he felt like
something was wrong. He walked to the pots and
they were clean and empty. He sighed.

Lesley: Mma!! Babe!!.

Emily came running to the kitchen with her head

bandaged. She sobbed and wrapped her arms
around Lesley.
Lesley: Hey hey what happened?
Emily: (crying) we...we got...two men broke in
and they hit us. They almost raped me Lesley.
Lesley: What! Where's Mmalesley?

Emily wipped off her crocodile tears and

sniffled.

Emily: in the bedroom. She's unconscious.

Lesley kissed her forehead and brushed her back.

Lesley: It's okay love. I'm going to get them

alright? Did you see their faces?
Emily: They were wearing masks.
Lesley: Aww I'm sorry I wasn't here to protect
you. Go and get ready i'm taking you and
mmalesley to the hospital.

She panicked a little and forced a smile then

slowly walked to their room. Lesley bit his lip
and walked to Mmalesley's room. He opened the
door and got in.

Lesley: Mma?

Mmalesley hissed in pain as she sat up on the

bed. She looked at Lesley with the deadliest look
ever and sighed.

Mmalesley: You should go and pack that witch's

clothes and send her back to the hell hole she
came from because i don't picture myself living
with a murderer.
Lesley: (confused) Huh? What are you talking
about. Are you okay?
Mmalesley: Do i look okay Lesley?
Lesley: No mma. Who are you tal....

"She's not telling you the truth" Emily yelled

opening the door. Lesley looked at the two
women and gritted his teeth.

Lesley: What is going on?

Emily: She attacked me Lesley!. I was afraid to
tell you.
Lesley: What? Mma!.

Mmalesley scoffed and clapped her hands in

disbelief.

Mmalesley: Wonders shall never end!.

Lesley: What happened Mmalesley? Why are you
all bandaged up?
Mmalesley: Ask your witch!. I told you that this
girl of yours was not good for you. You threw a
diamond and picked an old dirty rock Lesley. I
can't believe she would accuse me of such a thing
after attacking me with a vase. I caught her
talking about the muti she's been feeding you
and how it paralyzed your private parts.
Lesley: What!.

Emily dramatically fell on the floor and cried

loudly then screamed at Lesley.

Emily: Your mother never liked me. You know

she would do anything to get me out of the
house. She wants to destroy everything we built
Lesley please believe me.
Lesley: Shhh!. Get up. We are going to the
hospital to get you checked.
Emily: (gasped) You don't believe me do you?
Lesley: Of course I do.

Mmalesley shook her head in disbelief.

Mmalesley: Thoro yaka e tee ya mpalela morena

(my only son failed me lord). She finally got you
Lesley.
Lesley: Please go and freshen up mma I'll be
back.

He bent down and picked up Emily on the floor

then got out of the room.

At Kim's.

Kim hugged her fluffy pillow as she hummed to

the phone. She crossed her legs on the bed and
listened attentively to her cousin.
Kim: Oh so their aunty is the receptionist at the
company. Connie is her name right?
Him: Yeah. She's very kind and patient. Anyway
why are you asking about my colleagues and boss
Kimberly?
Kim: (giggled) Gabriel and i started dating so I
wanted to know things about him without asking
him.
Him: Okay I guess that's harmless.
Kim: The kids love me and I wouldn't mind to be
their stepmom.
Him: You're whipped already?
Kim: Gabe is yummy. I'll call you tomorrow
okay. Thanks for the info cuz. Goodnight.
Him: Night.

She hung up and opened the drawer. She took

out her notepad and pen then started planning.
The following day at Palesa's.

Kat zipped up his leather Jacket since it was a

little chilly outside and looked at his dull looking
Girlfriend.

Kat: Babe?
Palesa: Mmmh?
Kat: Are you sure you are okay? It's not like you
to be this quiet.
Palesa: I'm fine Katlego don't worry about me.

He walked to the bed and sat down beside her.

Kat: I'm worried Baby please talk to me. I know

you're not fine.
Palesa: (snapped) How many time do I have to
repeat myself Katlego!.
Kat: Wow.

He stood up and walked to the door. He looked

back at Palesa and smiled a little.

Kat: I love you and I hate this. I've been patient

with you Palesa but now you're getting on my
nerves. I thought we trusted each other in this
relationship...(sighed) you know I'll always
support you even if you killed someone.

Palesa guilty looked down and tears started

flowing. Kat walked back to her and lifted her
chin then wiped the tears.

Kat: You can tell me baby.

Palesa: (clears her throat) I want a baby.
Kat: What!

She looked down and sniffled. Katlego's mouth

hung agape in shock.

Kat: you're serious.

Palesa: How can I joke about something like
this?
Kat: Because you told me that you didn't want
responsibilities like that Palesa. You know how
much that shit hurt me?
Palesa: I wasn't ready and I'm sorry....
Kat: You changed your mind?

He stood up and held his head.

Palesa: Kat...
Kat: You're not fair Palesa. You said you didn't
want a baby and now you want it? I was suppose
to be happy about this but I'm not Lisa because
you always want things to go your way. When I
want things you always argue but when you want
things i have make it happen without
complaining.
Palesa: I'm sorry.
Kat: (sighed) I can't believe this.
Palesa: I'm sorry.
Kat: It's okay. I have to go to work okay. When I
get back we gonna make that baby okay?

Palesa blushed and looked down.

Kat: Okay?
Palesa: Yah.

At Bogopa inc.
Connie waved at her colleagues and started
dusting the dirt off the table and chair then sat
down. She arranged Gabe's files and placed them
on the table then her phone started ringing. She
unzipped her handbag and took it out then
answered.

Connie: Hello?

The line remained silent.

Connie: Hello? Who's this?

She huffed in annoyance when nobody said

nothing. She hung up and put it back in the bag
then she smiled at her boss.

Gabe: Morning.
Connie: Hey. Your files.

Gabe gently grabbed them and smirked at

Connie.

Gabe: Fix your shirt.

Connie: Huh?

She looked down at herself and blushed when

she saw few buttons of her shirt unbuttoned and
her cleavage showing.

Connie: (Whispered) Sorry sir. It will never

happen again.

Gabe nodded and walked away.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 42

At the hospital.

Emily sat on the couch nervously biting her nails.

She watched as the doctor examined Mmalesley's
head and gulped. The doctor walked to the
medicine cabinet and came with a box of pills.

Doc: Drink these thrice a day after breakfast

,lunch and dinner. You'll be fine.
Mmalesley: Thank you doctor.
Lesley: Wait Emily didn't you say something
about your head. Doc please check her too.
Emily stood up fast and interrupted.

Emily: I'm fine. Can we leave?

Lesley: Em?
Emily: (snapped) My head is fine. Let's leave!
Thank you doctor what what.

She grabbed her handbag and walked passed

them. Mmalesley scowled at Lesley and grabbed
the pills from the doctor then followed. Lesley
awkwardly scratched his head.

Lesley: (chuckled) Women neh?

Doc: My wife used to be like that when we were
expecting our second child.
Lesley: Oh. Thank you doc ,I better be on my
way.
He walked out of the door and headed to the
parking. Meanwhile in the car Mmalesley turned
her body and started shouting.

Mmalesley: Wena girly you're going to rot in hell

do you understand me? I can't believe you fed
my son korobela and turned him against me..let
me tell you something my girl ,Lesley will never
marry you as long as I'm still alive do I make
myself clear?
Emily: (scoffed) You think you are the boss wena
neh? I'm Emily and I will never let an old hag
like you mess up my plans and who do you think
you to shout at me?

Mmalesley folded her arms and glared at her.

Mmalesley: Let's see how you long you can stay

in this relationship of yours with Lesley. Akere
you fed tradition herbs and he can't satisfy you
anymore ,let's see how long!.
Emily: There are lot of sharks in the ocean.

The car opened when she was about to lunge

herself at Emily. Lesley buckled up and turned
his head back at Emily.

Lesley: You okay there love?

Emily: I'm sitting at the backseat Lesley!.
Lesley: (sighed) it's the last time.
Emily: I hope so. Anyway what do you want to
eat? I'm starving.

Mmalesley rolled her eyes.

Mmalesley: When we get home you're going to

cook and sprinkle some love portion akere it's
your new style. I'm cooking for you today Lesley.
Lesley: You two should calm down. Seriously!.
Mma I know you don't like Emily but can you
please stop with your accusations..and Em please
learn to keep your mouth shut. This is my
mother and I won't let you disrespect her.
Emily: Excuse me!!.
Lesley: I'm done talking.

He started the car and drove out of the parking

lot.

At Bogopa inc.

Connie walked into Gabriel's office and slammed

the files on the desk. Gabe furrowed his
eyebrows at Connie's behavior and looked at her
straight in the eyes.

Gabe: What's wrong?

Connie: (sighed) I'm sorry. Eish I've been
receiving strange unknown calls Gabe and I'm
getting worried.
Gabe: Huh?
Connie: The person doesn't say anything. They
called seven times and I don't know what to
think.
Gabe: Are they calling on the company phone or
your personal phone?
Connie: Both.

She walked to the couch and sat down. Her

phone started ringing and she yelped. Gabe got
off his chair and walked to her. He took her
phone and answered.

Gabe: Who's this?

The person kept quiet. Gabe huffed in
annoyance.

Gabe: Whoever you are stop calling this phone.

Stop calling Bogopa inc do you hear what I'm
saying?

He roughly hung up and handed the phone back

to Connie.

Gabe: Block those numbers and get back to

work.
Connie: They keep calling.
Gabe: Then switch off your phone Connie. This
person is bored.
Connie: You like taking things lightly Gabriel.
What if is Dragon?
Gabe: (snapped) Impossible.
Connie: Fine!.
She clicked her tongue and stood up. Gabe look
at her walking to the door and called out.

Gabe: Connie?

Connie slumped her shoulders and remained still

like a pole.

Connie: What?
Gabe: Sorry.
Connie: (scoffed) You're a very bad boss Gabe.
I'm your assistant and also your receptionist but
you don't even appreciate me. What if that
person comes in here and kill everyone? What
are you going to say about that?
Gabe: Nobody is coming here Connie.

Connie opened the door and got out of the office.

Later at Lesley's.

Emily opened the lid and checked on the samp

she was cooking and smiled. She closed the lid
and continued stiring the chicken stew.
Mmalesley looked at her at the doorway and
laughed.

Mmalesley: You probably want me to die so you

can add korobela in that pot. You're really a she-
devil Emily. I'm going to stand here until you
finish there and I'm going to dish up for my son.

Emily turned around and looked at Mmalesley

from the bottom to the top and top to the
bottom.

Emily: Suit yourself mosadi wa modimo.

Mmalesley: You should know that this family is
protected by the blood of jesus and that korobela
of yours will turn into a delicious spice.
Emily: (laughed) You're really funny Mmalesley.
It won't be long until Lesley kick you out of here.
You're old and you should be staying at your own
junk of a house instead of bothering me. This
drama is not good for your health. Go back home
and take care of your sugar diabetes and maybe
smoke smoke some taxi.

Mmalesley clicked her tongue.

Mmalesley: Imsulting me won't make me leave.

Emily: Whatever.

*****
Connie tightly grabbed her handbag as she
waited for the bus. She checked the time and
smiled at the picture of Junior on the wallpaper.
Her love for bus rides was unconditional and she
looked forward to ride everyday.

Connie: See you soon baby.

Meanwhile Kimberly took off her shades and

looked at Connie from a distance.

Kim: (smirked) would you look at that? The dirt

I've been looking forward to get rid of.

She stepped on it with a full speed and drove.

She intentionally turned her car and pretended
to be losing control of the car. She drove towards
Connie and gritted her teeth. Connie saw it
coming and screamed her lungs out.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 43

Connie held on her chest and sighed in relief

when the car's tires screeched and stopped. She
silently thanked the lord and walked towards the
car. She knocked on the window and Kim
lowered it down and put on her shades.

Connie: What the hell is wrong with you!?

Kim fixed her shirt and flipped her long hair.

Kim: This was just a nice warning Connie. Stay
the hell away from Gabriel and the kids.
Connie: (laughed in disbelief) Hee who do you
think you are wena?
Kim: Your sister's replacement. I'm not usually
this nice Connie so be careful next time. Better
get a car before I really hit you with this car.
Connie: Are you threatening me?
Kim: Like i said ,this is just a nice friendly
warning Connie. Gabriel and I are going to get
married and i don't want a parasite like you
going as it pleases at my house and around my
stepchildren.

She started the car and drove off. Connie stood

there in disbelief and clapped her hands. She
looked around the place before taking out her
phone and called Gabe.

Gabe: Hello?
Connie: Why did you bring a white lunatic
around Hlompho and Julia Gabriel? That
woman is dangerous.
Gabe: What are you talking about?
Connie: I'm at the bus stop. Come and fetch me.
We really need to talk.
Gabe: I don't understand Connie....

She hung up and waited.

Meanwhile at Lesley's.

Lesley sat down on their bed and opened his

laptop. He logged into the internet and searched
"how can you tell if your African girlfriend is
bewitching you". He read the replies and sighed.

Lesley: Eish!.
He grabbed his phone and called Katlego.

Kat: Hey man call me later I'm in the middle of

something.
Lesley: Spare ten minutes bro Emily is starting
to become a problem.
Kat: Yea what happened?
Lesley: She attacked my mother....I don't know
man because Emily said Mmalesley attacked her.
I don't know who to believe.
Kat: Your mother is a great woman and she
raised you ,she wouldn't lie to you would she?
Lesley: No man she's not a liar. (Sighed) She
confused me when she told me that she caught
Emily talking about how the muti she's feeding
me is not working.
Kat: Dump that women and stay single Lesley
akere nothing is working out. I told you that
Emily is not a good women but you didn't Listen.
I hate "I told you so" thing but you really need to
hear it. I told you that dumping Connie and
humiliating her was...
Lesley: (snapped) Are you going to mention
Connie everytime i tell you my problems?

He heard the footsteps closer to the door and

cleared his throat.

Kat: Akere I want you to realise how stupid you

were to dump her.
Lesley: I'll see you tomorrow at work. I have to
go.

He hung up and waited for the door to open.

Emily got in carrying a plate with a glass of juice.

Emily: I brought you food.

He forced a smile and closed his laptop then
stood up. He took the plate from Emily and
patted the side of the bed. Emily sat down and
handed him the glass.

Emily: I'm sorry.

Lesley: For?
Emily: For the way i behaved at the hospital.
Lesley: It's okay.

He played with the spoon inside the plate and

looked at Emily.

Lesley: Why didn't you bring your spoon?

Emily: I made this for you.
Lesley: Mmmh.
He scooped a spoonful of samp and moved the
spoon towards Emily's mouth. Emily smiled
nervously and looked away.

Emily: What are you doing?

Lesley: Feeding you.

Emily opened her mouth and Lesley shoved the

spoon into her mouth then started eating. He
watched her chewing and swallowing then
smiled.

Emily: You're acting weird. Is everything okay?

Lesley: I'm just trying to be romantic. Is that
wrong?

Emily shrugged her shoulders and Lesley

smirked at her. He knew how uncomfortable
Emily was and that confirmed his suspicions.
Emily: Ummm Babe can I ask something?
Lesley: Yeah.
Emily: Do you see a future with me?
Lesley: Of course and I'm going to pay lobola for
you soon.
Emily: Really?
Lesley: Yes. I love you remember?

Emily stood up and hugged him.

Emily: I love you too.

At the bus stop.

Connie got in Gabe's car and furiously shut the

door then Gabriel drove off. The tension in the
car was bothering Gabe but the way Connie was
angry he thought better than to fuel her anger.

Connie: Wena Gabe you don't Listen when I'm

talking you. Ke gore you rather get hurt than to
believe someone's warnings.
Gabe: What did I do?
Connie: I wish I could slap the hell out of you.
Your girlfriend nearly hit me with her car on
purpose and she threatened me. She had the
nerve to tell me to stay away from Hlompho and
Julia because you two are going to get married.
Gabe: My girlfriend?
Connie: I'm talking about Kimberly. I don't like
to involve myself into your business but this time
I'm getting involved because it has everything to
do with my niece and nephew.
Gabe: Kimberly? But I'm not dating her.
Connie: I don't care Gabe. She thinks you are
going to marry her. I don't want that psychopath
around Hlompho and Julia and I'm mad at you
for inviting her into our lives.

Gabe gritted his teeth.

Gabe: I told her to stay away from me Connie.

Connie: She did that but now she's going to
bother me and the kids. Bona neh solve the shit
between you two and leave me and the kids out
of it.
Gabe: Connie I'm serious Kimberly and i were
just messing around and I told her to back off
after she picked the kids from school without
talking to m...
Connie: She what? Why are you irresponsible
Gabe?
Gabe: Don't dare insult me like I knew Kim was
a psychopath.
Connie: Then what do you want me to do Gabe?
congratulate you?
Gabe kept quiet and continued driving.

The following day at the station.

Gabe leaned forward and sighed in annoyance.

Officer: Do you have any proof?

Gabe: Are you kidding me? She's stalking me
and my kids.
Officer: Any witnesses?
Gabe: I'm losing my patience man. I told you
that...

The captain quickly interrupted.

Captain: What's going on?

Gabe: I'm here to report someone for
harassment and this man doesn't want to help
me ,he keeps asking useless questions. Please
assist me.
Captain: Let's go talk in my office.

They both walked to the office and Captain

opened the door and he and Gabe walked inside.
Gabe internally groaned at the sight of Lesley in
the office.

Lesley: Gabriel. Decided to pay us a visit?

Gabe: I'm not here to joke around officer. I need
help.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 44

A week later at the mall.

Palesa and Katlego carried plastic bags to the

car. She sighed in relief when Katlego loaded all
the plastics in the boot.

Katlego: Did we forget something?

Palesa furrowed her eyebrows and thought for a

second.

Palesa: Sanitary pads and doom. I don't

remember paying for them.
Katlego: I'll check them in the plastics.
She watched Katlego rummaging through the
plastics and her phone rang.

Palesa: I'll go answer this in the car. Please go

get them if you don't find them in there.
Katlego: sure babe.

She answered her phone and brought it closer to

her ear and she opened the door and got in the
car.

Palesa: (excitedly) My friend.

She shut the door and leaned back against the

seat.

Connie: How are you. It has been so long

watseba.
Palesa: I'm good and you?
Connie: I'm good. So much happened last week
but I'm still breathing. Can we do lunch next
week?
Palesa: Okay when?
Connie: I don't know maybe on Saturday since
I'm not working.
Palesa: Fine by me. I have so much to tell you
Connie: Kana you are the gossip queen.
Palesa: (laughed) Shut up. This time it's about
me.
Connie: Oh.

She paused when she saw Katlego with the

corner of her eye.

Palesa: You know what friend please call me

later , some unwelcomed guest are coming my
way.
Connie: Okay. Stay well alright.
Palesa: You too.

She hung up and looked out of the car window.

She stared at Katlego laughing with Lesley and
Emily and they were coming towards their car.
After few minutes they stood outside the car and
Emily leaned against it. Palesa got out of the car
and closed the door.

Palesa: Hello.
Lesley: Hey Palesa. Long time.

She faked a smile and hooked her arm around

Katlego's.

Emily: Hey friend. You're scarce these days.

Palesa looked at her and kept her smile on her
face to minimize the rage burning in her gut.

Palesa: Life is busy.

Lesley pulled Katlego aside to talk about work

stuff and Emily finally quit pretending. She
looked at Palesa and clicked her tongue.

Emily: I see you are still bitter for your friend. As

old as you are you're still childish.
Palesa: Excuse me wena who do you think you
are talking to me like that?
Emily: All that happened it's in the past Palesa
move on.
Palesa: For your own information I already did.
You are just embarrassing yourself right now. Le
gona who told you that I'm mad on Connie's
behalf?
Emily: Then why can't we be friends?

Palesa laughed and clapped her hands in

disbelief.

Palesa: I don't befriend backstabbers Emily. I

love my man and my freedom. I don't ever want
to go jail for murder because someone had the
guts to take my man.
Emily: I love Lesley too so please....
Palesa: I don't care about what happened
anymore, I taught you a lesson and that was
enough to satisfy me.

She walked to the car and opened the door then

got in. Emily clicked her tongue and walked to
Lesley's car.

At Connie's.
Connie looked down at Hlompho's artificial leg
that Gabe struggled to get it for a month. She
crouched down in front of his wheelchair and
held his hands.

Connie: Baby don't you want to stand up?

Hlompho: (shaking his head) No thank you
auntie.
Connie: Why not?
Hlompho: (smiled) I love this chair. It's cool. I'll
get up when I go to bath and sleep. But I'm
happy that daddy got me this because I can get
myself an icecream at school.

Connie pinched his cheeks earning an adorable

giggle and walked to the kitchen where Julie was
playing with Junior. Junior laughed his heart out
as Julie tickled his feet.
Julie: Auntie can we get biscuits after lunch?
Connie: Only if you finish your food. Junior
won't get anything because he doesn't finish his
food.
Junior: (giggling) I finished my food this
morning mommy! Julie no more tickles!!.

Connie walked to the fridge and opened. She

took the juice ,cheese ,polony and lettuce out for
the kid's sandwiches and put them on the kitchen
island. Suddenly her phone vibrated in her
pocket, wiping her hands she took it out and
answered.

Connie: Hello?
Mmalesley: Connie my girl.
Connie: Oh mmalesley le kae?
Mmalesley: I'm good Connie how are you?
Connie: Good. What can I do for you mma?
Mmalesley: I just wanted to check how you are
doing. We miss the little guy hle.

Connie looked at Junior on the floor and sighed.

Connie: I'll ask Lesley to fetch him on Friday

night.
Mmalesley: Ohk dankie my girl. Eish I wish it
was possible to turn back the clock watseba.
Connie: I don't understand...
Mmalesley: Can you please give Lesley a chance
hle? Well if you are not seeing anyone.
Connie: Everyone deserves a second chance
Mmalesley but i don't love Lesley anymore. You
and i are still going to be a family because of
Junior but I'm not going to give Lesley a chance.
Kganthe is he not dating Emily?
Mmalesley: (cleared her throat) Well i rather not
talk about her. Greet Junior for me my girl.
Connie: I will bye.

She put her phone back in her pocket and started

making the sandwiches.

Later at the hotel.

Kim fixed her coat and walked inside the room

Gabe told her to meet him at. She closed the
door and smiled at Gabe who was sitting on the
bed holding a bottle of champagne.

Kim: Love.

She untied the straps and let the coat drop on the
floor revealing her new purple lingerie. Gabe
folded his arms and stared at her in annoyance.

Gabe: Put on your coat and sit down.

Kim stared at him in confusion before she
walked to him and straddled him. Gabe roughly
shoved her to the bed and squeezed her neck.

Gabe: How many times do I have to tell you to

stay away from me and my family Kimberly?
When are you going to Listen?
Kim: What...let go Gabe. Is this one of your
kinks?

Gabe let her go and put the bottle on the bedside

table and turned to Kim.

Gabe: I never put my hands on a woman

Kim..never in my life. My wife used to make me
so mad but learnt to calm down but you keep
pushing my damn buttons. You are getting on my
nerves and the cops don't want to help so i
thought why not take matters into my own
hands.
Kim: Gabe what are you talking about?
Gabe: Your father is a rich man and he often
boosts about how well behaved you are. I hate to
burst his Bubbles really.

Kim nervously bit her lip as she bent down and

picked up her coat. Gabe chuckled softly and
turned around. He pulled a large envelope.

Gabe: When I ran out of ideas god shone a light

and reminded me of the CCTV I installed at my
house especially my bedroom and the kid's.

Kim's eyes widened in horror.

Kim: You took a video of me!!.

Gabe: You underestimated me wena Kimberly. I
finally found a way to get you off my back. I
already feel sorry for your father. I wonder what
he's going to say when he sees his good
daughter's sex pictures trending on the internet.
I told you gore o ntlwaela masepa.

Kim snatched the envelop and tore it open. She

took out the first picture and gasped. She stared
at her nude picture on top of Gabe but his face
was blurred. She marched to him and slapped
him across the face. Gabe also back handed her
and stood up watching Kim sob.

Gabe: (sighed) God forgive me. You can keep

those pictures ,I have original copies. Stay away
from me and my family if you want to keep your
reputation.
Kim: How can you do this to me!!.
Gabe: You started this Kimberly. You took things
way too far when you started going psycho on me
and Connie. I'll be watching you ,if I ever hear or
see you close to my kids or Connie I'll look for
your father and set up a business meeting. I
brought you a champagne...you can take it as a
gift for after tears.

He walked to the door and shut it close.

Later at Thato's.

Sarah rubbed her tummy as she watched her

fiance dancing to his own song while doing the
dishes.

Sarah: I'm not crippled you know.

Thato wiped his hands and walked to the table.
He sat down on the chair next to Sarah's and
started rubbing her tummy.

Thato: I don't want you to tire yourself and this

little one out. I'm your fiance and also your
doctor so your wellbeing concerns me.
Sarah: I'm only four months pregnant.
Thato: That doesn't change an....

A knock sound interrupted them. Thato looked

at her and raised his eyebrows.

Sarah: Did you invite someone over?

Thato: No. I'll go check.

He stood up and walked to the door. Opening it

he cocked his head at the sight of Mmapule with
her luggage.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 45

He stood up and walked to the door. Opening it

he cocked his head at the sight of Mmapule with
a luggage.

Mmapule: Ngwanaka.

Thato opened the door wide and Mmapule

dragged her luggage inside. He closed the door
and followed her. Sarah stood up and followed
them to the lounge confused. Sitting down,
Mmapule put her handbag on the coffee table.
Mmapule: I'm sorry for dropping by this late. I
had to take a taxi because Puleng took the car.

Sarah looked at Thato and cleared her throat.

Sarah: (smiled) What brings you here mma?

Mmapule: Oh I'm here to take care of my
daughter in law to be akere you're pregnant.
Sarah: But I'm only four months pregnant
Mmapule.
Mmapule: It doesn't matter akere you are
working.

Thato sighed and interrupted.

Thato: Sarah doesn't work for Gabe anymore.

We agreed that she stays home until she gives
birth then she'll look for a job the following year.
Mmapule: Oh so who took her position as
Gabriel's assistant?
Thato: Connie currently works as Gabe's
assistant and receptionist ,you know Gabe has
trust issues.
Mmapule: Puleng is currently unemployed. She
should be the one to work in the company not
useless people like Constance. Gabe should stop
fooling around that girl and employ people who
deserve to work there.

Thato laughed in disbelief.

Thato: Connie is qualified to work there and

she's doing a great job.
Mmapule: I'm going to talk with your uncles to
convince Gabe to give his sister a job. I'm child
and I can't suffer when you and Gabe live
comfortably. I'm going to stay with you until
Sarah gives birth.
Thato: That's not necessarily Mma.
Mmapule: (annoyed) Why is it not necessary
Thato? You don't want me here do you?

Sarah crossed her arms and looked at Mmapule.

Sarah: With all due respect Mmapule we don't

want someone who's going to put a lot pressure
in our relationship. I still remember how you
slapped Connie and I don't want that kind of
violence in my house. I respect you a lot mara I
think it'll be better if you stay at your house.

Mmapule forced a chuckle and patted her short

hair.

Mmapule: I was only correcting her. I respect

tradition Sarah.
Sarah: Men are often forced to marry their
sister's in law after they lost their wives and
that's tradition.
Thato: (sighed) Since it's already late. You can
sleep over and I'll take you back home tomorrow.
Mmapule: Watseba I was so excited to get here. I
can't believe you are chasing me out of your
house Thato.
Thato: Mma please...

She stood up and walked to the kitchen. Sarah

looked at her fiance.

Sarah: I don't want Mmapule here. She used to

hate my guts even before she met me so she
sleeps over tonight only.
Thato: I feel bad babe. She came here with her
heavy bags.
Sarah: I know but she's going to make my life
hard when you go to work.
At Connie's.

Connie opened the door and Gabe made his way

in. Connie scrunched her nose as the smell of
Gabe's cologne mixed with alcohol hit her with
full force.

Connie: How many glasses did you drink?

Gabe: Few. Where are the kids?
Connie: In the living room. You are not a drinker
why did you drink?
Gabe: I needed a confidence to blackmail
Kimberly. What are we having for dinner?

Connie ignore him and closed the door. Gabe

walked to the living room and smiled at the kids.

Hlompho: Daddy!.
He kissed Julie and ruffled both Junior and
Hlompho's hair and sat down. Connie walked in
and sat down next to Gabe.

Connie: (whispered) I'm proud of you. I know

how happy Hlompho is for his leg. You are a
good father but don't come at my house stinking
alcohol again Gabe.
Gabe: Sorry and thank you.
Connie: About Kimberly....
Gabe: Let's go talk about it somewhere else.
Sorry kids we are going to the kitchen to discuss
adults issues but we'll be back okay?

They walked back to the kitchen and Connie

stood by the door while Gabe leaned back
against the cupboard.
Gabe: I used our sex pictures to blackmail her.
Connie: This makes me so uncomfortable
because women don't back down easily. She's
going to stop now but what if she comes back
later? I'm already involved in this and I don't
want that woman to go after Junior.
Gabe: (sighed) That was the only way to get her
off my back. The cops don't want to help
especially that stupid ex of yours. He keeps
telling me about evidence, where the hell am I
going to get evidence ya gona?.
Connie: Did Kim look threatened or?
Gabe: (chuckled) Yeah. Don't worry about her
anymore, I think she'll stop her madness for a
while.
Connie: That's better.
Gabe: Yeah let's go eat.

Connie glared at him.

Connie: You're demanding food mara you don't
Listen to me.
Gabe: I'll listen next time I promise.

The following day at Lesley's.

Mmalesley opened her bible and read few verses

and got down on her knees beside the bed and
closed her eyes.

Mmalesley: (praying) Dear God ,I thank you for

blessing me with another day and also for
protecting my family. Please forgive our sins and
deliver us from temptations. I need you lord
Jesus and I need you to have mercy on my son.
Amen.
Lesley: Amen!.
She opened her eyes and turned around ,she
smiled at Lesley who was standing by the door
and beckoned him to come in.

Lesley: Good morning and happy sunday mma.

Mmalesley: Morning. Where's Emily?
Lesley: Still asleep.
Mmalesley: No go and wake her up. We have to
do the laundry. The blankets in this house are
dusty Lesley and your girlfriend doesn't want to
wash them alone.
Lesley: Okay I'll go wake her up.

He walked out of the room and opened the door

of his own. He sat on the edge of the bed and
shook Emily.

Emily: Five minutes. Le gona why are you

waking me this early.
Lesley: It's laundry day.
Emily: I swept the whole yard yesterday. I'm still
tired and I deserve to rest.
Lesley: Mmalesly can't wash your clothes Emily.
Wake up and go help her. I can't believe you got
this far with your laziness.

Emily kicked the sheets and got out of bed. She

dragged her feet to the wardrobe and took out
her gown.

Emily: Chores are for wives.

Lesley ignored her and stood up.

Lesley: I have to go to the bank. So I'll see you

later.
Emily: Yeah bye. I love you.
Lesley shut the door and Emily sighed in
annoyance then took off her gown. She walked to
the bed and got inside the sheets.

At Thato's.

Mmapule hummed as she stirred the soft

porridge. She smiled happily and dished inside
small bowls then put them inside a tray. She
carried it to the living room where Sarah and
Thato were sitting.

Mmapule: Soft porridge is good for pregnant

women watseba.
Sarah: Really?
Mmapule: It helps with the nausea akere.

She placed the tray on the coffee table and sat

down and picked up her bowl.
Mmapule: I already added sugar.
Thato: (smiled) Thanks mma.

Sarah and Thato took their bowls and started

eating. Mmapule smiled when she saw how they
were enjoying her porridge and cleared her
throat.

Mmapule: Thato?
Thato: Mma?
Mmapule: Please ask Gabe to forgive Puleng and
give her a job bathong. Gabriel should let go of
the past ,family is important.
Thato: Forgiveness should come from the heart.
I can't force Gabriel to forgive Puleng le gona we
don't even if he has forgiven her yet.
Mmapule: At least tell him to give her a job.
Puleng is working as a stripper while her family
owns a huge company.
Thato: (annoyed) Puleng chose to be a stripper
Mmapule, we never forced her to make bad
choices. If she was serious about her life she
would've asked for money to finish school and
get a job.

Mmapule opened her mouth to argue but Thato

snapped at her.

Thato: Quit babying her! I'm tired of hearing you

begging for her.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 46

At Bogopa inc.

Kim watched Connie getting out of a taxi and

breathed out. She pushed the door of her car
open and got out then shut it closed.

Kim: (yelling) Hey Connie! Wait up.

She ran to Connie and stopped in front of her.

Connie halted her steps and folded her arms.

Kim: Hi.
Connie: How can I help you Kimberly? I'm
already late.
Kim: You have nothing to worry about since you
and Gabe have a close relationship, he'll let you
off the hook.
Connie: If you have nothing to say to me please
move Excuse me.
Kim: (sighed) I wanted to apologize for what
happened the other day.
Connie: Oh for almost running me over with
your car or for stalking Hlompho and Junior?
Kim: Acually I want to apologize for everything.
I didn't know that my actions were...
Connie: (scoffed) You knew exactly what you
were doing. You're only apologizing because
Gabriel came to you and taught you a lesson.
Let's never talk again because you are nothing
but a crazy lady who can't take no for an answer.
I have to get to work.
She tightened her grip on her handbag and
pushed passed Kim. She walked to the large door
,greeted the guards and got in.

Few minutes later in Gabe's office.

Gabe tapped the pen on the side of his head as

his uncle made himself comfortable on the chair
opposite his. Out of all his uncles he disliked the
youngers the most.

Gabe: How can help you Malome?

Malome: We had a family meeting last week with
your mother and the family asked me to stick
around to check if you are doing good. When it
comes to finances everything is well and I also
like the marketing strategy, very clever Gabriel.
Gabe: (annoyed) I'm the Chief Executive Officer
of this company and I know what's good and
what's not. Don't come here and start acting like
you are the boss.

His uncle looked up to him and shook his head.

Malome: Watch your mouth Gabe!.

Gabe: Watch my mouth? Really?. You people
should stop trying to get involved into my life. I
made it clear that day that i wanted nothing to
do with you because you are selfish ebile you
love money too much. You didn't even bother to
visit dad when he was in the hospital. You were
probably waiting for him to die so you can
inherit the company..hard luck because he left
the company to me. This whole building belongs
to me and my kids and also my future
grandchildren not you!!.

His uncle stood up and slapped him across the

face and Gabe accidentally bit his tongue
drawing blood. He took a tissue on the table and
wiped his mouth.

Malome: (snapped) I'm way older than you and I

won't tolerate your disrespect.
Gabe: (pointed at him) Take your old self and go
home malome because you are nothing but a
greedy selfish man. I'm not afraid to tell you
anymore. I'm actually tired of being bullied and
controlled like a puppet in this family. You won't
get a penny do you understand me? Le gona the
wife you want me to marry forget about her. I'm
going marry someone when i feel like it.
Malome: (shouting) Boy watch how you are
talking to me. I can see that these millions of
money you think you are making is messing with
your head.

Gabe stood up and pointed at the door.

Gabe: I want you to turn around and get the hell
out of my office before I call security to drag you
out. Just because you are older than me by ten
years doesn't mean I will let you disrespect me.
Respect is not for mahala ,you earn in nx.
Malome: Let's see how the elders are going to
say about this.
Gabe: I don't care about your elders. I'm a grown
man and i don't need dictators in my life.

His uncle furiously marched to the door and

opened it. He walked out and slammed it closed,
Gabe breathed out in relief and his lips stretched
into a large smile.

At Jeffrey's.

Emily sipped the juice as Itu went on and on

about how happy she was. Emily placed the glass
down and and got her leg on top of the other.
Emily: I think Lesley is losing interest.
Itu: What makes you think that?
Emily: He doesn't give me money anymore. No
more gifts and kisses. He doesn't even make a
move on me anymore, I'm always the one to
initiate sex ai.
Itu: Maybe something is wrong.
Emily: Wrong my foot. I tell him I love him
everyday and he always finds an excuse to say it
back.

Itu picked up the glass and sipped the juice.

Itu: Maybe his mother had something to do with

this.
Emily: Yeah. Eish I'm lonely and also frustrated.
If he's not going to pay attention to me then I'll
find someone who will.
Itu: Whatever you think is right I will support
you but when it backfires please count me out.
Emily: (rolled eyes) You already made that clear
when you left me alone to deal with Mmalesley.

The front door opened and Jeff got in carrying a

box of pizza. He walked to the ladies and kissed
Itu on the forehead.

Jeff: Hello Emily.

Emily: (smiled) Hey handsome.

Jeff placed the box on the table and walked out

of the kitchen leaving the ladies alone. Itu folded
her arms and glared at her friend.

Itu: You have a history of taking your friend's

men Emily but don't try the shit on my man do
you understand me?
Emily: HahaHa I was just messing with you hau.
Itu: Bona if you ever look at my boyfriend like
that or call him something like that again I'll
bury you Emily. You take people's kindness for
granted wena. Good men are hard to find these
days and I don't want to lose mine because of
you.
Emily: Akere it depends on self control.
Itu: (snapped) Akere you are sangoma's
customer wena. I'm telling you for the last time
Emily ,if you try to seduce Jeffrey I will bury
alright?

Emily rolled her eyes and opened the box of

pizza and took out a slice.

Later at the club.

Puleng counted the money her customer gave her

and slapped him so hard.
Puleng: R150! Do you think my virgina worth
one hundred and fifty rands. Don't make me mad
boy.
Him: well I only have R150. I bought you drinks
with the rest mos.
Puleng: Did I ask you to buy me drinks? I'm not
stupid wena I know you thought of robbing me.
Pay up boy.

The boy reached inside his pocket and pulled out

his wallet. He took out few hundred notes and
handed them to Puleng. The boy closed the
wallet and rushed out of the room. Puleng's
phone rang in the middle of counting her money.
Answering ,she placed it against her ear.

Puleng: Hello?
Mmapule: Where are you?
Puleng: I'll be home soon mma I promise.
Mmapule: (snapped) Come home Puleng. I want
the car and I'm tired of this job of yours.
Puleng: I'm trying to bring something in the
house wena you're complaining.

The call cut off and she sighed in annoyance.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 47

Friday Afternoon.
Connie packed Junior's backpack and handed
him an apple. She turned him around and
hooked the bag on his back.

Junior: Are you going to be alone when I leave

mama?
Connie: Auntie Pali and I are going out to eat .
Junior: Oh I'm going to miss you.
Connie: I'll miss you too, I thought you liked it
at daddy's.
Junior: I like it there but i don't like auntie.

Connie kissed his cheek. She smiled when she

heard the knock on the door and rushed to open.
Lesley got in and Junior ran to him and jumped
on him.

Lesley: Hey little guy. Hello Connie.

Connie: Hey.
Lesley: You look good. Where are you going?
Connie: Out.
Lesley: Out where? I hope you are not going out
with Gabe because you will get hurt by the ladies
that are stalking him.
Connie: Look who's talking, the cop that wasted
Gabriel's time and refused to help.
Lesley: I don't want us to fight in front of Junior.
Connie: We are not even fighting. You just want
to control everything wena Lesley. Have fun
baby neh and please greet gogo for me okay?

Junior nodded and Connie folded her arms and

glared at Lesley.

Connie: Bye Lesley.

Lesley: You have a stinky attitude these days.
Gabe ruined you ebile you gained curves.
Connie: Haha I always had these curves you are
seeing and Gabriel had nothing to do with them.
You know what this happiness and satisfaction is
called? It's called God's grace akere we
appreciate other people.
Lesley,: Mxm.

He carried Junior out of the door and slammed it

closed. Connie smiled and rolled her eyes then
her phone started ringing. She answered it and
placed it against her ear.

Connie: Don't tell me you've changed your mind.

Palesa: Haha no girl but there was a little change
of plans.
Connie: Palesa!!.
Palesa: Just listen.. so now that is way past lunch
time I thought maybe we could go to a club and
enjoy ourselves.
Connie: Night club? It's been so long since i set
my foot into that place.
Palesa: You need to relax Connie ,you work a lot
and you deserve a break. Nna i just want to drink
my stress away. The baby making is such a
failure.
Connie: (sighed) Give it time ,God knows my
friend and please be careful. You don't want to
drive your man away because of this.
Palesa: Eish i know. So are you in?
Connie: Whose car are we using?
Palesa: Katlego's. We are going with him phela.
Connie: (annoyed) Now I'm going to be a third
wheel.
Palesa: Don't worry he's going to bring his
cousin, I don't even know him ,he just said he's
going to visit.
Connie: Perfect.
At Jeffrey's.

Itu looked at Jeffrey's suspiciously and clicked

her tongue at the memory of Emily lusting after
her man. She crawled to the edge of the bed
where he was sitting and started rubbing his
shoulders.

Jeff: Are you okay? You've been too quiet and it's
worrying me.
Itu: Can I ask you something?
Jeff: Yah.
Itu: If I ever cheat on you will you find it in your
heart to forgive me?

Jeff turned around and frowned at her.

Jeff: What the hell are you asking me something

like this Itumeleng?
Itu: Calm down I was just asking. Will you
forgive me?
Jeff: (sighed) Why would you even cheat? Babe
what's going on?
Itu: Never mind. Eish I just don't want to lose
you.

Jeff stared at her worriedly and held her face

with both of his hands.

Jeff: You're not cheating on me are you?

Itu: Of course not. Emily is just messing with my
head.
Jeff: Your friend is bad news and I don't want
here anymore Itumeleng. I'm telling you this for
the seventh time.You are asking me nonsense
because of her.
He quickly pecked her lips and stood up from the
bed and beckoned her to follow.

Jeff: Come on. You said you cooked.

Itu: Yeah.

Itu sighed and got off the bed. They both walked
to the kitchen and Itu remained stressed and
picturing Emily enjoying her man.

Hours later at Connie's.

Connie locked the door and walked to Katlego's

car. Opening the door ,she got in the back seats
and hugged Palesa who was already sitting
comfortably.

Connie: Hey.
Kat: Sure Connie. This is my cousin Roy.
Connie peaked at the passenger seat and smiled.

Connie: Nice to meet you Roy.

Roy: Likewise. I heard a lot about you ,from your
bestfriend of course.

Connie leaned back on the seat and the car took

off. She felt an uncomfortable knot in her
stomach and she sighed in worry.

Connie: (To palesa) Are you sure this is a good

idea?
Palesa: Please relax friend we are not going to
get wasted. If you feel like going home we will
leave I promise.
Connie: Okay.

At Lesley's.
In the middle of the night Emily woke up and
peaked at her boyfriend to check if he was really
asleep. She moved her hand under Lesley's
pillow and pulled out his phone. To her surprise
his phone was unlocked so she quickly clicked on
to messages.

Emily: Let's see what you have here.

After sniffing around and invating Lesley's

privacy she sighed in annoyance.

Emily: If you are not cheating then why aren't

you paying attention to me like you used to?

She switched off the phone and slid it

underneath the pillow then removed the sheets
off Lesley. She slowly took off his boxers and
started rubbing him. Lesley stirred awake.
Lesley: What are you doing?
Emily: You know exactly what I'm doing Lesley.
Lesley: Stop creeping me out in the middle of the
night and go back to sleep.
Emily: (crying) You don't love me anymore do
you?
Lesley: What are you talking about?
Emily: You don't touch me anymore mos Lesley.
Lesley: Oh so you are crying for sex. Is that why
you're trying to molest me in my sleep.

Emily kept quiet.

Lesley: Go back to sleep. Goodnight.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 48

Lesley: Go back to sleep. Goodnight.

Emily wiped her tears and shook Lesley roughly.

Lesley: You are starting to irritate me Emily. It's

late motho wa modimo I need to rest.
Emily: Can we please talk.
Lesley: We are already talking akere.

He sighed and sat up. He rubbed his eyes and

leaned against the headboard.
Lesley: You are confusing me when you ask if I
still love you Emily. If I didn't love you i was
going to tell you mos.
Emily: I hear what you are saying Lesley mara
are you still in love with me.
Lesley: Yes!
Emily: Then why are you treating me the same
way you used to. You don't cuddle me anymore
,you don't eat my food and you don't even make
love to me. What am i suppose to think?
Lesley: Akere you are not being honest with me.
I don't trust you anymore Emily. It's not because
i don't love you anymore it's because you are a
crook wena and you are very obsessive and
dangerous. There I said it.

Emily bit her lip and folded her arms.

Emily: What are you talking about?

Lesley: (scoffed) You think i don't know that
you've been sneaking behind my back to
sangomas.
Emily: You believe what your mother said? She's
lying.
Lesley: You are still denying it. Bona when you
come back to your senses please tell me so that
we can talk about the reason why you were busy
feeding me love portion that didn't even work.

He laid back down on the bed and covered

himself with the sheets. Emily got off the bed
and put on her robe then unlocked the door.

Lesley: Where are you going?

Emily: I'm going to sleep in the guest room.
Lesley: Oh Goodnight then.

She walked out and slammed the door shut.

The following morning at the guest house...

Connie was woken up by her phone ringing. She

fished under the pillow and pulled it and
answered it with her eyes closed.

Connie: Hi.
Palesa: Oh thank you. Where the hell are you
Connie?

She opened her eyes and looked at her

surroundings. She gasped in shock and looked
under the sheets. She was naked.

Connie: Oh god!.

She tried standing up but winced at the piercing

pain in her cooking.
Palesa: Connie?

She hung up and looked around. The door

opened and Roy got holding a brown paper bag.

Roy: You're awake.

Connie grabbed the sheets and covered her body.

Roy: (chuckled) Already saw enough last night.

Connie: What is that suppose to mean. What the
hell happened last night? Why am i in bed
naked?
Roy: You don't remember? We picked you up
and went to a club with Palesa and my cousin.
Connie: (snapped) I know! What i want to know
is where the hell i am and what am i doing with
you? I barely know you Roy.
He walked to the bed and sat at the edge.

Roy: We came here and we slept together. I don't

understand why you're freaking out because you
begged for it.
Connie: I begged for it? I don't remember
coming to whatever this place is with you!.
Roy: Calm down.
Connie: You fu**d me against my will. How can i
be calm about this?
Roy: We were both drunk and we both wanted it.
Connie: I stuck to juice last night because i know
that i have a problem with alcohol. Le gona how
can you take an advantage of a drunk lady?

She got off the bed and started picking up her

clothes on the floor.
Roy: Look I'm sorry i didn't know i was
committing a huge crime by taking care of you.

She put on her panties and then her jeans.

Connie: Did you even use a condom?

Roy: Yeah.
Connie: You even came prepared. I can't believe
this. Where is this place?
Roy: (sighed) We are in a guest house.

She put on her shirt and started looking for her

shoes. Roy cleared his throat and Connie turned
to look at him.

Roy: Here are the pills.

Connie: Pills for what?
Roy: Headache. I'm just trying to be nice.
Connie snatched the bag and put on her shoes.

Connie: Next when you get a lady drunk please

never fu** her especially when she is older than
you and knows nothing about what the hell is
going on.

She took her phone on the bed and walked out of

the door. She dialled Gabe's numbers and called
him.

Gabe: Hello?
Connie: Hi...Sorry for calling this early. Never
mind.
Gabe: Wait don't hang up!.

Connie breathed painfully as she made her way

out of the building to the gravel road.
Gabe: You don't just call me Connie. Is
everything okay.

She shook her head and swallowed a lump on her

throat.

Connie: I'm so stupid. I know you are busy and

it's still early but i don't know how to get home, I
don't have money and you are my only hope
because i don't feeling like facing Palesa right
now. You can come with the kids. Eish I'm sorry
about this Gabe.
Gabe: Where are you?

She looked around and cleared her throat in

embarrassment.
Connie: At the guest house not far from Club
Heaven.
Gabe: Okay I'll be there.

He hung up and Connie stood there. Few

minutes later Roy walked to her and tapped her
shoulder.

Roy: I can take you home you know..

Connie: No thanks. Someone is coming to fetch
me. You should go back to Palesa's.
Roy: Connie please i...
Connie: It's okay. Someone is coming to fetch me
and don't ever mention last night again or this
club.
Roy: (snapped) Why are you acting like a child!?
I did you a favor and quenched your thirst when
nobody wanted you gona now you are acting like
I'm a bad guy.
Connie turned around and slapped him.

Connie: Don't ever talk to me like that. You did

me a favor wena? Who said i wanted you to?
Who said i need to quenched my thirst le gona
who said I'm sexually thirsty? Don't ever try to
bullshit me again. Cocky asshole!. Now i know
why i felt uneasy last night. It was god trying to
warn me about you!!.

Roy bit the inside of his cheek and walked away.

He walked to the parking lot and got in his car
then drove away. Connie waited for more
minutes and smiled when she saw Gabe's car pull
over at the other side of the road. She ran to it
and hopped in.

Gabe: (mimicking her) Why are you

irresponsible Gabriel? Remember?
Connie: Let's not do this.

She looked behind and smiled apologetically at

the kids.

Connie: Hey kids sorry about this.

Gabe: Why were you at the club in the first
place?
Connie: Gabe not now? Thank you for coming. I
don't feel good and i don't smell good to be
having a conversation.
Gabe: Mmmmh.

Later at Palesa's.

Palesa held her hips as she yelled at her

boyfriend.
Palesa: Was this your plan? To match them up?
Kat: No geez calm down Palesa. Call her again
and ask.
Palesa: She's not answering her phone. I
shouldn't have convinced her to come with us.

They heard a car driving in.

Palesa: That has to be Roy. Maybe he knows

where she is.

The door opened and Roy got in with a

disheveled face.

Palesa: Where's Connie?

Roy: You know what bro next time you set me up
with someone try to get me someone who....
Palesa: What!
Katlego sighed and looked at Palesa.

Kat: Roy came to visit and i didn't want him to

feel like a third wheel. I didn't mean any harm i
promise.
Palesa: So where is she? Where did you two run
off to last night? We looked for you everywhere.

Roy rubbed his face and slumped his shoulders.

Roy: We went to a guest house and had fun. This

morning your friend started going crazy on
saying i took advantage of her.
Palesa: You slept with her?
Roy: (shrugged) It's not a big deal.
Palesa: (snapped) It is a big deal. Connie doesn't
just sleep with anyone. She only sleeps with
people she's in love with them. Oh my god I'm
such a horrible friend.

She turned around and walked to her room. She

tried calling Connie again and it went straight to
voicemail.

Palesa: Can i come over? Please i need to

explain..oh my god i went to a toilet and when i
came back i found you gone i promise friend.
Call me when you get this message.

At Gabe's.

Connie kneeled in front of a toilet and vomited.

Gabe got in and shook his head at her.

Gabe: Are you done?

Connie: (nodding) Sorry.
Gabe: This makes me wonder where the hell you
left Junior.
Connie: Lesley took him yesterday.

He handed her a glass of Luke warm water and a

pill.

Gabe: I told you to go easy on alcohol. You

remember what happened when you drunk? You
woke up in my bed and fought with my mother.
Connie: I didn't touch alcohol Gabe. Someone
must have spiked in my juice.
Gabe: (sighed) Come straight to the kitchen
when you are decent. I can't keep seeing you
with only a bra and panties. Totally
inappropriate.

He opened the door and got out of the bathroom.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 49

At Gabe's

He opened the door and got out. When he was

about to close it Connie called out to him.

Connie: Gabriel?

Gabe peaked inside.

Gabe: Yes?
Connie: I think i was raped.

Gabe pushed the door and got in then crouched

down on the floor to Connie's level since she was
sitting down.

Gabe: Huh?
Connie: Last night. I think that guy raped me.
Gabe: Can you tell me exactly what happened
because you keep leaving other things.
Connie: We were dancing and Kat was drinking
le Roy and Palesa. I didn't even touch alcohol
because of that incident the other day ,i only
drank Juice. I don't know what happened after
that because i woke up naked with my body sore
and Roy told me that we slept together. I don't
just sleep with men Gabriel i swear...I think Roy
spiked my drink and forced himself on me.

Tears started rolling down her cheeks.

Connie: And this is really embarrassing because
i'm old enough to take care of myself. I can't even
report him to the cops because his cousin
Katlego is a Sargent and there's no doubt that
he's going to take his cousin's side.

Gabe wiped her tears and wrapped his arms

around her.

Gabe: There's gotta be another way to get that

guy arrested. I'm sorry this happened to you.
Connie: (sniffled) Maybe i'm cursed Gabe. I
don't know what to do...

She broke off the hug and looked down in shame.

Gabe: Since you already took a shower we can

just go to the hospital to get you tested for
HIV/AIDS and STI akere we don't know if that
guy is clean. Did he use condom?
Connie: He said he did but i don't think so. I'm
on pill so i don't think i should expect unwanted
pregnancy.
Gabe: Are you okay? You know down there? He
didn't go messy on you did he?
Connie: (embarrassed) Mxm.
Gabe: Connie I'm serious. There's no reason to
be embarrassed. I want to make sure you're
alright. You know i care about you right?

Connie nooded and Gabe leaned in and kissed

her forehead. Connie wrapped her arms on his
waist and sighed in sadness. "Daddy!!"
Hlompho's yells startled them. They both stood
up and Gabe walked out of the bathroom leaving
Connie to put on her clothes.

Gabe: Yes Hlompho.

Hlompho: Auntie's friend is at the kitchen.
Gabe: You opened the door!
Hlompho: Julie did but she asked who was it
before she opened. It's auntie's friend Palesa.
We know her.
Gabe: (yelling) Palesa is downstairs Connie.

He walked to the kitchen with Hlompho and sat

down on one of the high chair in the kitchen.
Palesa sighed in relief when she saw Gabe.

Gabe: Morning.
Palesa: Hi. Is Connie here?
Gabe: Yeah. Julie can you please go and watch
TV with Hlompho.

She stood up and followed Hlompho to the living

room. Gabe turned around to check if they really
left then looked back at Palesa.
Gabe: What the hell happened last night? Connie
is crying in the bathroom because she thinks that
guy of yours raped her. What really happened
Palesa?
Palesa: (gasped) W-what?
Gabe: Palesa?
Palesa: I don't know Gabriel. We were just
dancing and i got pressed. I told Connie that i
was going to the bathroom and when i got back i
found her gone.
Gabe: Do you know anything about this Roy
guy?
Palesa: All i know is that he's Katlego's cousin.

Gabe ran his hand over his face.

Gabe: She's crying in there Palesa do you

understand? Your boyfriend knows his cousin
and i'm very sure he knows exactly what kind of a
man his cousin is. Your boyfriend is cop and as a
cop he has to find the truth.
Palesa: (sighed) Does she know i'm here?
Gabe: Yes but i don't think she's going to come
down here. Let me go show you the bathroom
she's in.

They both got off the chairs and walked up the

stairs.

At Lesley's.

Mmalesley dished the mabele soft porridge into

four bowls and set them on the table then sat
down. Junior and Lesley picked up their spoons
and started adding sugar and Emily wrinkled her
nose in distaste.
Emily: You know i don't like mabele.
Mmalesley: (scoffed) if you don't like mabele you
can make yourself tea mara know that there is no
bread. Is it delicious nana?

Junior nodded and shoved another spoonful of

porridge into his mouth.

Lesley: Don't forget that we have something to

talk about. Ebile that reminds me ,we have to
look at open vacancies akere ,you have to help
out too. Those blesser and blessee days are over.
Emily: I don't have skills and qualifications
Lesley. I never went to college and you know
that.
Lesley: I'm going to help you apply to places
where they only require a matric certificate.

Emily clicked her tongue and forced herself to

eat.
Lesley: (To Junior) Hurry up akere. We have to
go to the mall and buy you a lot of clothes and
shoes.
Junior: And toys and also a big pizza!!.

Lesley and his mother laughed.

Lesley: Yeah toys and a big pizza too.

At Gabe's...

Palesa pushed the door of the guest bedroom

open and walked in. She looked around in
amazement and made her way to the bathroom.
She knocked on the door.

Palesa: Friend can i come in?

Connie: (yelling from the inside) Yeah!.

Palesa opened the door and got in. She sadly

smiled at Connie who was in the bathtub filled
with Bubbles.

Palesa: I'm sorry. I didn't know that Roy was bad

news.
Connie: You're right ,you didn't know.
Palesa: Are you okay?
Connie: (sighed) Yeah but I'm confused and
angry at myself for not trusting my gut.
Palesa: Katlego will investigate this ,that's if he's
not involved in this thing. You shouldn't have
taken a bath ,we need the evidence.

Connie shrugged.
Connie: Yeah i know but i couldn't help it ,i was
disgusted friend. You should've heard the things
he said to me this morning. He told me that he
did me a favor because nobody wanted me. I'm
sad about him taking advantage me but what
makes me feel worse is that he really wounded
my self esteem.
Palesa: You're beautiful Connie. Don't let
bastards like him look down on you ,having a big
body shouldn't let you think you are less
beautiful ,I mean you don't even have a huge
belly.
Connie: All i need to do is to test for AIDS and
STI. This whole thing is stressing me Lisa. I'm
even embarrassed because Gabe knows about
this.
Palesa: He's going to help you mos Connie.
Connie: Can we not talk about it anymore.
She got out of the tub and grabbed the towel on
the floor. She wiped herself with it then wrapped
a dry one around herself.

Palesa: You're going now?

Connie: No. I'll go later when my nerves are
calm. Please be careful Palesa ,I'm not saying
your boyfriend is a liar or anything.
Palesa: I know.

Later at the restaurant.

Jeff leaned back and sipped his drink as Itu

laughed outloud to her phone call with her
mother.

Itu: Don't joke about things like that ma. I'll call
you later.
Her: Are you busy kgane?
Itu: I'm at the restaurant with Jeff.
Her: Sharp my girl. We'll talk tomorrow.
Itu: Sharp.

She hung up and put her phone back in her

handbag.

Itu: Sorry about that.

Jeff: It's okay. As I was saying ,we definitely
needed this.
Itu: Yeah. Babe?
Jeff: Yeah?
Itu: I'm sorry about the other day. Emily just
likes stealing her friend's men and she felt like a
threat.
Jeff: Akere i told you that she's not a good
friend. Stop worrying about her. I'm not
interested in her.
*****

Connie relaxed as Gabe's car drove out of the

hospital. She sighed and looked at the kids eating
hotdogs at the backseats.

Connie: I don't understand why they don't just

give the results at the same day. I want peace.
Gabe: You'll get peace Connie. The struggles ,the
heartbreak and the sadness will be over. Don't
worry happiness is coming soon.

Connie stared at him and chuckled.

Connie: Let's hope so.

She turned around and looked at the kids.

Connie: Are you two okay there.

"Yes" they both answered and Connie smiled.

She thought about how it will feel to be finally
happy. She smiled as she imagined herself
glowing and enjoying life like those happy
women she sees at work.

Connie: Thanks for being here Gabriel.

Gabe: (smiled) Always.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 50
The same day later that afternoon.

Emily sat at the edge of the bed and started

oiling her legs. Lesley got in the room after
tugging Junior in.

Lesley: We have to talk.

Emily wiped her hands with the towel and

looked at him.

Emily: About what? You spent the whole week

giving me a cold shoulder, snapping at me and
not even touching now when finally get to rest
you want to talk. Fine talk Lesley ,accuse me of
witchcraft.
Lesley: You like playing innocent neh? Why did
you use muti on me Emily?
Emily: What do you think wena?
Lesley: (snapped) I asked you a question!.
Emily: Well I'm tired of being your girlfriend
Lesley. I'm old enough to be playing house with
you. I thought maybe if I give you time you can
save money to marry me but no you didn't even
bother.
Lesley: This about marriage?
Emily: Of course it's about marriage!. We've
been together for three years minus the year you
used me to cheat on Constance. I showed you
signs and i even told you. You promised to pay
lobola Lesley. I wanted us to get married so i
could give you a children. Don't come to me with
an attitude blaming me for wanting you to love
me enough to marry me.
Lesley: So you think it was okay to use dangerous
herbs on me. What if i died Emily ,what if that
portion ended in the wrong plate like Junior's.
Emily: It was wrong for me to use it and please
forgive me for that but i needed you to love me.
Lesley: I love you mos.
Emily: Your love is not enough because you don't
want to make me your wife.
Lesley: (sighed) Emily you know...
Emily: Why don't you want to marry me?
Lesley: It's not about you Em. I don't have
money.
Emily: I don't care! All i want is to be Mrs
Hlongwane even if we just sign at court without
having a white wedding.

Lesley kept quiet and Emily smiled sadly.

Emily: Maybe we should see other people. It's

clear that you don't love me.
Lesley: What? No!.
Emily: Then make up your mind Lesley. If you
continue with this game of yours you will find me
gone when you get back from work one day.

She stood up and walked to the wardrobe and

pulled out her undergarments.

Sunday morning at Palesa's.

Palesa barged in the guest room and started

packing Roy's belongings. She then walked to the
bed and shook him.

Palesa: (Yelled) Yei wena!.

Roy looked at Palesa in confusion before sitting

up.
Roy: What the hell are you doing in my room?
This is invasion of privacy.
Palesa: (laughed in disbelief) a re invasion of
privacy. Boy this is my house and i want you to
leave. I can't stay with someone i don't trust
under the same roof.
Roy: This house belongs to my cousin.
Palesa: Says who? This is my house do you
understand me and you don't give me your stinky
attitude in my own house especially after taking
advantage of my friend.
Roy: (snapped) I didn't do anything to your
friend. She gave me permission to touch her. I'm
not a rapist.

Palesa clicked her tongue.

Palesa: Okay then please freshen up and get out

of my house.
Katlego got in the room and looked between his
cousin and girlfriend.

Katlego: What's going on?

Roy: Your girlfriend is kicking me out.

Katlego looked at Palesa in disbelief.

Kat: Seriously Palesa?

Palesa: As a man of the law you should have gone
out by now and investigating. My friend got
raped and you are still here standing up for your
so called cousin who spiked Connie's drink and
raped her.
Kat: Stop accusing him without a proof.
Palesa: (scoffed) Go look for proof that he didn't
do it. I barely know him and i didn't even know
you had a cousin until on Friday. It's either you
are lying to me and you're in this whole thing or
you are just stupid Katlego.
Kat: (snapped) Watch your tone!.
Palesa: You know what, I'm going to take a
shower, go see Connie and when i come back i
want to find this guy gone.
Kat: Where is he suppose to go?
Palesa: The very same Guest house he took
Connie to.

She pushed Katlego aside and walked out of the

room.

At Lesley's.

Emily walked to the kitchen and started making

breakfast. After few minutes the rest of the
family walked in and settled around the table.
She placed the glasses on the table and a tray of
sandwiches.

Emily: Good morning.

"Morning" They greeted back and she sat down.

Mmalesley: Today is going to be a good day. You

just woke and decided to make breakfast for us..
Emily: Actually i wanted to apologize for
everything. I was wrong to attack you and
disrespect you the way i did. I was ashamed for
being caught like that and i didn't know what to
do.
Mmalesley: (sighed) Nna my girl i just want to
know why you did all of that? I mean all you had
to do was talk to Lesley and ask god for whatever
you needed. You didn't have to consult
traditional doctors for fake herbs.
Junior looked up and smiled at Emily.

Junior: This bread is yummy thank you auntie.

Emily: (cleared her throat) You're welcome.
Anyway i wanted to go back home for a week just
to clear my head and it's been so long since i last
saw my dad.
Lesley: When will you be back?
Emily: I'm leaving tomorrow and I'll be back
next week.

Lesley looked at her in confused face and stood

up leaving his food on the table. Emily sighed
and followed him. They got in their room and
Lesley shut the door closed.

Lesley: You want to leave me?

Emily: Bathong i'm only going to visit my dad.
Lesley: Then why did you suggest we see other
people?
Emily: Please Lesley i'm not in the mood to fight
with you.

Lesley yanked her towards him and kissed her.

Emily pulled away and looked at him.

Emily: I think we need to be away from each for

a while. It will benefit us and strengthen our
relationship.
Lesley: Are you kidding me?
Emily: You can't stop me from going for only a
week Lesley. Being away won't change my
feelings for you. Let's go eat.

She opened the door and got out.

Later that day at Connie's.

Connie hugged Palesa and let her inside. They
walked to Connie's room and sat on the bed.

Palesa: How did it go?

Connie: They said the results will arrive on
Wednesday. Is he still at your house?
Palesa: I told him to leave this morning. I'm
sorry we brought him into your life.
Connie: None of this is your fault Palesa.

Palesa's eyes caught an unfamiliar fabric on the

bed and picked it up.

Palesa: Is this Gabe's shirt?

Connie: Yeah. He borrowed it to me yesterday.
Palesa: You two are in a one complicated
relationship.
Connie: (rolled her eyes) We just understand
each other that's all.
Palesa: keep lying to yourself. The only reason
why you don't want to jump on him is because
he's your sister's husband.
Connie: Yes and no.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 51

2 MONTHS LATER...

Connie tapped a pen on her table and sighed in

exhaustion. Her phone dinged and she quickly
switched in on and checked the text. She smiled
and called Gabriel.

Gabe: Hi.
Connie: You confuse me watseba Gabriel. You
told me you'll be busy all day that's why i'm stuck
in the office.
Gabe: Are you bored?
Connie: Yeah. When are you coming back?
Gabe: (sighed) A little later. The meeting was
successful and we managed to donate more than
the amount we discussed and the owner of the
shelter was very grateful. Right now I'm stuck in
traffic ,I think an accident occurred or
something.
Connie: And then who's going to pick up the
kids?
Gabe: They'll have to ride a bus and that means
you and Junior have to sleep over.
Connie closed her eyes and sighed.

Connie: Sleeping over at your place is bad idea.

Gabe: (scoffed) You slept over a lot of times. You
are just avoiding the tension between us.
Connie: I don't know what you are talking about.
Gabe: You know what ,when i get back we'll sit
down ,have a glass of wine then talk. We are
adults and we both know that something
changed between us.
Connie: (mumbling) Fine. We'll talk.
Gabe: Good girl. Listen finish whatever you're
doing there. I'll see you later.
Connie: Okay sharp!.

In Joe's office.

Emily got in Joe's office with her cleaning

supplies.
Emily: Afternoon sir.

Joe took off his spectacles and checked Emily

out. He could tell that she wanted her him by
how she was staring at him.

Joe: Hey. Um you can start at the corner ,I still

need to finish checking these papers then i'll
leave you to your job.
Emily: (smiling) Thanks.

She pushed the vacuum to the corner and started

working. Joe finished with his papers and leaned
back against the chair. He watched Emily often
bending downing and her skirt lifting up
revealing lacy panties and a small tattoo under
her butt cheek.
Joe: (cleared his throat) Do you like working
here?

Emily turned around and smiled.

Emily: There's no discrimination here and the

money is enough to pay the bills.
Joe: (chuckled) Come here!.

Emily put the duster down and switched off the

vaccum cleaner. She cautiously walked to Joe's
desk and stood in front of it.

Emily: Yes?

He stood up and walked around the table. He

stood behind Emily and sneaked his hands
around her waist then whispered in her ear.
Joe: I like your tattoo. It's perfect where it is.
Emily: (blushing) Really?
Joe: Yah. Can i touch it.
Emily: I-I don't think it's a good idea. You're
married and you are also my superior. It's not
really inappropriate.
Joe: I'm only touching the tattoo. I'm not a
pervert or anything but i kinda know your little
crush on me. Jeffrey and i talk you know.
Emily: It's not really a crush. I just needed
someone to distract me when i was fighting with
my boyfriend.

He gently kissed beneath her ear.

Joe: (whispering) Can i touch?

Emily nodded and Joe sneaked his hand under

her skirt and started tracing the place where he
saw the tattoo. Emily bent down on his desk and
Joe smirked.

Joe: What are you doing?

Emily: (embarrassed) Um..I just thought we
were...

Joe walked to the door and locked it then he

unbuckled his belt and took off his pants. He
walked to his chair with only his boxers and
opened the drawer. He took out a packet of
condoms.

Joe: (licked his lips) Come here baby and show

me what you got. No strings attached okay. You
are really hard to resist.

She walked to him excitedly. She was supposed

to feel bad about what she was about to do but
the thought of finally getting Joe after spending
months fantasizing about him got her giddy.

Later at Palesa's.

Palesa hummed as she dished for herself and

Kat. She covered Katlego's plate with another
plate and put it in the oven. She groaned in
annoyance when someone knocked on the door.
She walked to the door and opened.

Palesa: What are you doing here?

Roy rolled his eyes.

Roy: Can I come in?

Palesa: Kere what are you doing here? I can't just
let you inside after the stunt you pulled that day
ebile you annoy me so much because you have a
loud disrespectful mouth.
Roy: You disrespected me too. You called me a
boy Palesa and i didn't like that.
Palesa: What do you want?

Roy folded his arms and stared at Palesa.

Roy: I can't tell you while standing outside cold

as hell. Let me inside before Katlego finds me
here.

Palesa moved aside and Roy got in. They both sat
down on the chairs and Palesa looked at Roy
expectantly.

Palesa: Talk.
Roy: You don't know me but you already hate me
guts. Here's the proof you wanted. I managed to
convince the manager of that guest house to give
it to me.
Palesa: What took you so long?
Roy: (sighed) Your boyfriend refused to let me
talk to you.

He placed the USB drive on the table and folded

his arms.

Roy: We were both drunk and i didn't rape her.

We kissed and things went too far. When i got a
job at Bogopa i got so excited and the first person
i told was Katlego. He promised to hook me up
with one of his female single friends and when i
saw Connie i thought maybe she was the woman
he was talking about. I just want to work in
peace and maybe make few friends not haters.
Palesa: (sighed) Are you even Katlego's real
cousin??
He bit his lip and avoided eye contact.

Palesa: You lied!.

Roy: No jeez! He lied. Don't involve me into
your problem.
Palesa: If you are not his cousin then who the
hell are you to him?
Roy: Just ask your boyfriend okay? I have to go
before he finds me and beat me up.

He reaches in his pocket and took out a small

piece of paper and placed it on the table then he
stood up.

Roy: This is my address.

Palesa: (confused) What would i need your
address for?
Roy: (calmly) Answers.
He smiled at her and walked to the door then
turned around.

Roy: Please show Connie the footage. She can

give the cable at work.

He opened the door and got out then gently

closed the door. He quickly got in his car and
drove out of the yard.

Later in the evening at Gabe's.

Connie checked the time and groaned in

annoyance. She looked at Junior and Hlompho
who were sprawled on the rug fast asleep and
sighed in worry. Julie walked in the living room
eating a hair dryer.
Julie: Auntie when is daddy coming? We had
dinner and I'm ready to go to sleep.
Connie: Give me the dryer and go wear a bonnet.
Your dad will be here soon.

She handed her the dryer and walked up the

stairs to her room. Connie heard the car pulled
down outside and sighed nervously. She waited
for few minutes and was opened. Gabe got in
holding his suit jacket.

Gabe: Sorry. How long have you been waiting?

Connie: (yawned) Too long.
Gabe: Traffic. I'm sorry. Aw power babies.
Where's Julie?
Connie: In her room nursing her hair. Did you
have something to eat?
Gabe: Mike and i bought pizza. I have to go
shower and we will talk.
Connie: I changed my mind. We don't need to
talk.
Gabe: Haha jokes!. Put the kids to sleep ,I have
to freshen up. I'm not comfortable with a sweaty
body.

He walked up to the staircase. Connie walked to

Junior and Hlompho and gently shook them.

Connie: Let's go to bed. You're going to break

your necks if you continue sleeping here. Come
on kids.

She walked the kids to Julie and Hlompho's

room. She kissed their cheeks and walked to
Julie whose eyes were heavy with sleep.

Connie: Goodnight baby. You can see daddy

tomorrow okay?
She walked out of the room and went straight to
Gabriel's room. She sat on the bed and slightly
jumped when the door of the bathroom opened.

Connie: Can you at least cover the lower part in

the bathroom. I don't want to see you naked.
Gabe: I won't take off my towel.

He sat down next Connie on the bed.

Connie: You said you wanted to talk.

Gabe: You're nervous.
Connie: (sarcastically) Thanks for pointing that
out. Can we just pretend like we feel nothing.
You're my sister's husband.
Gabe: Is that your excuse? Are you going to deny
your feelings because of that? Katherine passed
away three years ago and only few months are
left to make that four. I know how much you
loved her and i love her so much too but you
always knew that we had unfinished business.
Connie: Gabe...
Gabe: Tell me you don't feel anything for me and
i promise i will leave you alone.

Connie kept quiet and Gabe gently stroked her

cheek and looked at her straight in the eyes.

Gabe: Tell me.

The same evening at Lesley's.

Lesley uncovered Emily's eyes and she gasped at

the decorations in the room. Rose petals on the
floor ,scented candles lit and freshened the
room.
Emily: Oh my God what is this?
Lesley: Baby i know you and i didn't start our
relationship the healthy way but i couldn't help
but get drowned in your beauty. I'm sorry it took
me a long time to do this but I'm glad i chose this
day. I love you so much and I'd really love to
spent the rest of my life so please....

He got down on one knee and took out a black

velvet box. Emily gasped as Lesley opened the
box revealing a beautiful diamond ring.

Lesley: Make me the happiest man in the

universe by becoming my wife.

BUILDING A HOME
CHAPTER 52

He got down on one knee and took out a black

velvet box. Emily gasped as he opened in
revealing a beautiful diamond ring.

Lesley: Make me the happiest man in the

universe by becoming my wife.

Emily covered her mouth as a chocked sob

escape her lips. She nodded repeatedly and
stretched her hand.

Lesley: Is that a yes?

Emily: (sniffled) Y-yes of course i will marry you
Lesley.
Lesley took out the ring out of the tiny box and
pushed it on her ring finger then stood up. Emily
wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed
him.

Emily: I love you so much. Thank you.

Lesley: I love you too.

He pulled her for another kiss and Emily started

unbuttoning his shirt.

Emily: Where's Mmalesley? Junior?

Lesley: Mmalesley went home for a little while
and Junior is with his mother.

They fell on the bed and Lesley immediately got

on top of Emily. Emily pushed the image of Joe
out of her head and kissed Lesley harder.
The following day at Gabe's.

Connie was woken by Gabe's phone ringing on

the bedside table. She groaned in annoyance
when she felt him move to reach it but quickly
recovered and blushed at the memory of
yesterday.

Connie: (whispered) Oh god...

Gabe answered the phone and placed it against

his ear.

Gabe: Mike?
Mike: You have to get here man. Your uncle is
here causing havoc in your office.
Gabe: What?
He unwrapped his arm around Connie and sat
up.

Gabe: Who let him into my office? Kgane why

can't this man listen mara. Call security to get
him out of there.
Mike: He's threatening to sue us. The company is
incorporated Gabe and it's going to be easy for
him to sue us. He's claiming to he the founder of
the company.
Gabe: (laughed in disbelief) Mike get the man
out of there. I'll face him in court if he wants to
sue the company.
Mike: What are you still doing there?

He glanced at Connie who was already looking at

him in worry.

Gabe: I'm still busy.

Mike: Better hurry before he does a lot of
damage.
Gabe: (annoyed) If he doesn't want to leave call
the cops. I'm tired of that man. I'll be there a
little later, tell Joe to take care of everything. You
can handle the rest of the meetings.
Mike: Sharp.

He hung up and sighed in annoyance.

Connie: What's wrong?

Gabe: Uncle is trashing my office at the moment.
Connie: Why though?
Gabe: He wants to be part of the company. He
wants to take it away from me but i don't want to
talk about my uncle right now. You don't regret
last night do you?
Connie: (shaking her head) But i feel guilty
because you...
Gabe grabbed her face and kissed her. He laid
her back on the bed and got on top of her but
that moment got ruined by a loud scream
followed by "Daddy!! Auntie! Julie hid my leg!!

Gabe: (yelling) Give him his leg back Julia! Don't

make me come there!.

Connie chuckled and got out of bed and walked

to the bathroom.

Connie: As your assistant i think it'll be best if

you hurry up so you can talk to your uncle.
Gabe: I'm tired of Bogopa men Connie yeses and
Mmapule is probably encouraging my uncle to
demand money and ownership of the company
from me.
Connie: Call a family meeting and talk to them.
He won't listen if you deal with him alone. I'm
sure there are some of the family members that
are going to back you up.
Gabe: (sighed) I doubt it.

Connie shrugged and opened the bathroom door.

Gabe got out of bed and massaged his temple
when he heard Hlompho's scream. He put on his
robe and got out of the room.

At Jeffrey's.

Itu fixed Jeffrey's tie and her phone rang. She

kissed his lips and picked up her phone.

Itu: Emily hey.

Jeff rolled his eyes and Itu walked away from

him.
Emily: Lesley proposed!.
Itu: (screaming excitedly) Oh my God that's
amazing friend. When did he propose?
Emily: Last when i got back from work i found
the house spotless and decorated with flower
petals that led to our room.
Itu: Wow romantic.
Emily: I just wish he proposed sooner before i
opened my legs for Joe...
Itu: (snapped) What! He's married Emily. How
could you? Goodness has suffered enough! Le
gona how can you sleep with your boss?
Emily: Gabriel Bogopa is my boss. Joe is just my
manager and what happened was a huge mistake.
Itu: If Gabriel Bogopa find out about your office
affair you both are going to lose your jobs.
Emily: Stop overthinking this. Nobody saw us.
Itu: Stay away from Joe. He's married and Lesley
just proposed.
Emily: Can't deny that Joe is good. He knows
how to use his thing.

Emily scoffed.

Emily: It's not my fault he can't keep his zip up.

Later that morning at Bogopa inc.

Gabe got out of his car and Connie followed him

carrying files and they made their way to the
reception. Connie placed the files on the table.

Connie: Morning Roy.

Roy: Morning. I hope Palesa gave you the USB.
Connie: USB? What for?
Roy took the files and turned around with the
chair and packed them nicely then came back
with the new ones.

Roy: Here. You demanded evidence to get me

arrested for rape right? So the evidence is in the
USB.
Connie: Shhh
Roy: I didn't do anything to you Connie. Watch
the footage and you'll see the truth. Have a nice
day.
Connie: You too.

She walked to the elevator and got inside.

Meanwhile in the office ,Gabe folded his arms
and glared at his uncle.

Gabe: Let's not waste each other's time malome.

What in the world do you want from me?
Malome: All i wanted was to talk to my nephew
but this disrespectful man threatened to call the
cops on me. Is this the reason why you refuse to
let me handle the company? You wanted
outsiders?
Gabe: Michael is the COO of this company and
yes uncle i wanted outsiders because you are
controlling and you have no skills when it comes
to business. I need you to leave me and this
building alone.

His uncle stood up and looked at him.

Malome: (snapped) I'm going to call the elders to

discuss this.

He walked to the door and opened ,Connie

greeted and got inside Gabe's office.
Connie: Morning Mike. Wow your uncle looked
so mad.

She placed the files on the table and opened

them.

Gabe: He'll have to suck it up because he's not

getting anything. I know him Connie and he's
not going to give up. I guess i have to attend the
stupid family meeting and get it done and over
with.
Connie: You have meeting with the builders at
two o'clock and conference call with Mma maji
from the shelter later at half five.

Mike smiled.

Mike: Thanks Connie.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 53

Later that day at Bogopa inc..

Emily watched Joe talking to Mike and licked

her lips hoping for him to call her over. She
grabbed her handbag and walked out of the
building. She sighed in annoyance when she saw
Connie getting in Gabe's car.

Emily: Lucky bi***

She saw a beautiful thin woman coming towards
her and braced herself.

Goodness: Hey (she looked at her name tag)

Emily. Is Mr Khoza still here.
Emily: You are?
Goodness: His wife Goodness. Um is he still
inside?
Emily: (bitterly) Of course. Nice meeting you
Gracious.
Goodness: It's actually Goodn....

She waved her off and walked away. Goodness

frowned in confusion then walked into the
building. She met up with Mike on the way and
got in the elevator to the offices. She knocked
twice on Joe's door and let herself in.

Goodness: Babe!.
Joe stood up and walked to her. He grabbed her
face and kissed her then they walked to the couch
and sat down.

Joe: What brings you here? I was coming home

mos. I just needed to pack up and...
Goodness: (smiled) I couldn't wait. I have some
good news.
Joe: Tell me.
Goodness: I'm pregnant!.
Joe: Oh.
Goodness: Oh? Joseph what do you mean oh?
We've been struggling to convince and when god
finally bless us you say oh. Is everything okay?
Joe: (sighed) I just didn't expect a baby sooner.

She laughed in disbelief.

Goodness: O re sooner. Joe me struggling to fall
pregnant has been a problem in our marriage.
It's going to be our first baby. I thought you'd be
happy. The only reason i came here was to fetch
you so we could go and celebrate but since you
aren't happy I'll just leave the car and take a taxi
home.
Joe: I'm sorry baby i'm just stressed and i didn't
expect you here.
Goodness: (annoyed) You are not stressed Joe.
I'm leaving you'll find me home.

She stood up and Joe grabbed her wrist and

pulled her onto his lap.

Joe: (whispering) Sorry Mrs Khoza. I'm happy

we are finally going to have a complete family.
Goodness: Oh really?
Joe: Yes. Go wait for in the car. I need to clear
the desk.
Goodness: Okay.

He kissed her lips and let her go. Once the door
shut closed Joe held his head as guilt washed
over him.

Joe: What the hell did i do?

He stood up and walked to the desk. He put the

files away and picked up their framed wedding
picture and his wedding band out of the drawer
and placed them on the desk. He slid the ring on
his finger and took the keys then get out of the
office.

Meanwhile outside...
Emily walked to Gabriel's car and knocked on
the passenger side window and waited. The
window rolled down and Connie frowned.

Connie: Hi. How can i help you?

Emily: (smiled) Oh hi Constance. I just wanted
to give you this..

She took out her lipstick in her handbag and

handed it to Connie with her left hand
deliberately showing off her ring.

Emily: I found it at yours and Gabe's office while

i was cleaning. I think it belongs to you.
Connie: Thanks but i don't use lipsticks. Maybe
it's someone else's.
Emily: Oh.
She put it away and Connie finally noticed a ring
on her finger and smiled kindly at her.

Connie: Congratulations. Your ring is beautiful

by the way.
Emily: (giggled) Thank you. Lesley finally
proposed! He shouldn't have you know. Men are
sweet hey.

Connie just smiled and watched her leave. She

felt sorry for Emily and angry at Lesley for
stooping low. No women deserved to wear
another women's left overs.

Connie: None of my business.

She took out her phone and called Palesa. It rang

for few minutes before she answered.
Palesa: Sorry friend i was cooking.
Connie: How are you?
Palesa: Good and you?
Connie: Good. I heard from Roy that you have
USB containing proof that he never took
advantage of me.
Palesa: Oh i forgot to tell you about it. How
about i come over tonight so we could see it
together?
Connie: (sighed) Okay. But I'm still at work right
now. I'm waiting for Gabriel to finish up so we
could leave.
Palesa: Okay i'll see you then.

She hung up and Connie leaned back against the

seat and closed her eyes with the brightest smile
on her face.

At the petrol station.

Lesley and Katlego talked about the proposal as
they waited for the petrol attendant to fill
Katlego's tank.

Kat: She said yes after wasting her time all these
years. She really loves you.
Lesley: Yeah she does. I guess I'm a lucky guy
when it comes to women.
Kat: Yeah but you are a bastard because you play
with good women.
Lesley: (annoyed) Let's just change the subject
before you start preaching Connie's name.
Kat: Haha I hope Emily is not your next victim.
Lesley: I love that woman and I don't think I'll
survive if she dies or break up with me.
Kat: Yep! You are seriously whipped.
Katlego drove out of the station and headed to
Lesley's to drop him off.

An hour later Connie held her son's hand as she

twisted the key on the keyhole. She pushed the
door and they both got in the house. Junior ran
to the living room and switched the TV on while
Connie took off her shoes ,place the bags on the
table.

Connie: (Yelling) Do you want me to make you

noodles while we wait auntie Lisa to get here?
Junior: Are you going to make that only?
Connie: Kgane what did you want for dinner
Junior?
Junior: Noddles but with potatoes and sausages
this time please mommy.
Connie: Okay.
She took the bags and her shoes then walked to
her bedroom and changed her clothes, grabbed
her laptop then went back to the kitchen and
started making dinner. Few minutes passed at
Palesa knocked on the door. Connie smiled and
opened it.

Palesa: Hey.

She opened the door wider and Palesa got in.

She sat down on one of the chair around the
table.

Connie: (sighed) I slept with Gabe and i agreed

to try a relationship. I feel like I'm betraying my
sister.
Palesa: (smiled) You have a good heart Connie
that's why you feel like that. I'm happy you
decided to put yourself first. Like a i said the
other day ,you deserve to be happy.
She shrugged.

Connie: Oh! Emily is finally engaged.

Palesa: Really? How do you know?
Connie: She came to me and showed off her ring.
I'm happy for her watseba i knew thought her
relationship with Lesley can last.
Palesa: Emily is full of tricks. She probably
bought that ring herself and put it on.
Connie: (shaking her head) Not this time. Let's
forget Emily and see the so called proof Roy gave
it to you. I don't trust that guy he probably
changed something.

Palesa handed her the USB and she opened her

laptop then inserted it. She went through his
files and clicked on the footage.
Palesa: Is that Katlego?

They watched as Roy followed Katlego inside the

room and talked with him for few minutes. No
sound was heard since they were talking lowly.

Palesa: I wonder what he's telling him.

Few minutes passed and they saw Roy getting

out of the room and stumbling back inside
holding a drink with Connie.

Connie: Roy looks really drunk here.

Palesa: Yah but what is Kat doing with you
there? Oh God.

Connie's eyes widened when she saw Katlego

taking off his jacket. They watched as folded his
leather jacket and placed it on top of the bedside
table.

Connie: I don't understand anything here..

Palesa: Look!.

They saw Kat getting out of the room and getting

back inside with a two men. One of the man
shook Kat's hand and walked to half asleep Roy.
He checked his temperature and said something
to Katlego.

Connie: (crying) I can't... switch it off!!.

Palesa switched it off and covered her mouth in

shock.

Connie: Two men? Roy said we slept

together...why would Katlego do this?
Palesa: Oh my god he's...he got paid to let men
use you and R...We have to see Roy.

Connie stood up after hearing the microwave

ding. She took out the noddles out and placed
the bowl on the table.

Palesa: Can i sleep over. I don't think I'm safe

with Katlego anymore. The man i slept with for
years was sneaking around prostituting girls
behind my back? I'm sorry Connie.
Connie: It's okay. I'm not infected or anything.
We'll have to keep quiet about this and take this
to the station but we have to talk to Roy...
Palesa: He gave me his address just in case i
needed answers. Wow who knew I've been
sleeping with a snake all these years. To think i
love that man more than any man I've been
with...
The following day at Palesa's.

Palesa got in the house and sat down on the

couch next to a very furious looking Katlego.

Palesa: I slept over at Connie's.

Kat: (Angry) You could've at least sent me a
simple SMS Palesa. Do you know how worried i
was?
Palesa: I'm sorry. It will never happen again. Did
you have breakfast?
Kat: No. I don't have an appetite. I'll see you
later okay?

He kissed her lips.

Kat: I love you.

Palesa: I love you too.
Kat stood up and walked out of the lounge to the
kitchen then he opened the front door and got
out of the house. Palesa let out a sigh of relief
when she heard his car driving away. She ran to
her room and started rummaging inside the
drawers looking for Roy's address. She found the
piece of paper with Roy's address chewed and
rolled into a disgusting wet ball.

Palesa: Oh my god!.

She took out her phone in her pocket and texted

Connie to ask Roy for a meet up after work.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 54

At Bogopa inc...

Connie watched the elevator doors close and

rushed to the reception desk where Roy was
working. She placed her bag on the desk and
smiled nervously at Roy.

Connie: Hi.
Roy: You saw the footage didn't you?
Connie: I didn't watch everything so i'm still
confused. Can we talk at lunch time? I'll ask
Palesa to meet us at the restaurant nearby.
Roy: I don't think it's a good idea. I don't want to
get too involved in this Connie. I wasn't suppose
to get up in the first place.
Connie: I need answers.
Roy: (sighed) Okay fine but don't involve me
when you go to the cops because i can't afford a
lawyer.
Connie: Let's just talk and we'll decide from
there. Thank you.

She turned around and took out her phone then

called Palesa.

Palesa: Did you get the address?

Connie: No but he agreed to talk at lunch time.
Let's meet at wimpy at lunch time and we'll talk
about this. Roy knows things and they are going
to help me understand what happened that
night.
Palesa: I think i should confront Katlego about
Roy's address. I put the little paper Roy written
his address on inside my drawer but i found it
chowed this morning.
Connie: This is starting to feel dangerous Palesa.
I think i'll have to tell Gabe so he could help me.
It's clear that Cops of this place are corrupt
because i remember when Gabe went there to
report some women for harassment they quickly
brushed him off and refused to help, can you
believe that?
Palesa: Joh! Ai if we don't move fast Katlego is
going to be suspicious.
Connie: Yoh friend let me get to work neh i'll see
you at lunch.

She hung up and got in the elevator. Emily came

running out of nowhere and got in with her.

Emily: Morning.
Connie: Morning Emily.
Emily: How's life treating you? You look a little
different.
Connie: Different how?
Emily: You gained weight. Your boobs are huge
and let me not get sta....
Connie: (annoyed) Thanks life is treating me
well.
Emily: I didn't mean to offend you. I was just
trying avoid silence and awkwardness.

Connie turned to her.

Connie: Emily you don't owe me anything okay

so don't force yourself to talk to me when you
clearly have nothing to say. I'm sure there are
something you can think about rather than
looking for a way to piss me off.

The elevator dinged and the doors opened.

Connie: Have a nice day.

She stepped out of the elevator and headed
straight to Gabe's office. She walked to her desk
and took out her laptop then switched it on. The
USB was still connected so the footage contained
playing. Gabe turned around and closely looked
at Connie.

Gabe: Are you sure you're okay?

Connie: (forced a smile) I'm okay Gabriel thank
you.

A tear rolled down her cheek as she watched the

men sexually assault them. She watched herself
helplessly lying there with Roy by her side.
When she felt arms circulating her she shut the
laptop closed.

Gabe: What's going on Connie?

Connie: It's the footage i got from Roy. He got in
from that guest house. He didn't do anything to
me Gabe ,it was Katlego all along.
Gabe: I don't understand
Connie: It seems like he sells women. It won't
even shock me if he owns that club. He let men
use me so he could earn money. Right now what i
don't understand is why Roy lied about sleeping
with me? Was he trying to cover for Katlego or
maybe he was blackmailed or threatened.

Gabe turned her chair around and wiped her

tears.

Gabe: We'll get to the bottom of this okay?

Connie: I don't want you to get involved Gabe.
Gabe: Then who's going to help you out Connie?
I'm here baby ,we just got together but i know
you trust me.
He leaned down and captured her lips.

Gabe: I don't think people like Lesley can help.

You still have those papers from the hospital
right? The one with HIV/AIDS results and STI...
Connie: Yes and i still have that report ya drug
test.
Gabe: Good! That's good enough evidence that
you were assaulted. For witnesses you have to
talk to Roy. I'll always be here for you Connie
don't forget it.
Connie: Thank you!.

She took out the USB and cut a piece of tissue

then wrapped it with it. She pulled her shirt and
slipped it inside her bra.

Connie: (sighed) I hope this thing ends hle..I was

ready to let it go.
Gabe: It will. Wow I never thought Katlego was
such a bastard. Thato is really font of him.
Connie: I'm worried about poor Palesa. She
really loves him and they've been together for
years ebile Palesa wanted to have kids with him
but god knows everything that's why he kept
preventing her from getting pregnant.

In Joe's office.

Emily got in Joe's office in a hurry and closed the

door. Joe turned around and smirked.

Joe: Lock it.

Emily: I think it's unnecessary because I'm not
going to sleep with you again.
Joe: Why not?
She raised her hand and twirled it around
showing her ring.

Emily: I'm engaged and i don't want to break my

man's heart.
Joe: I'm also married mos.
Emily: Then why can't you go to your wife? She
should be the one sneaking in here and
pleasuring you.
Joe: Remember how good it felt when you were
under me on the very same desk moaning a
mess? Are you ready to give up all that because
of a mere ring? We are helping each other Emily.

He got up from the chair and walked to the door.

He locked the door and stood behind Emily.

Joe: Mmh? You don't want to feel that good

again?
He gently nipped her earlobe and unzipped her
dress. Emily let him undress her then turned
around. Joe grabbed her by her naked hips then
started kissing her neck as she worked on his
pants.

At the restaurant.

Connie and Roy joined Palesa on the table at

lunch time and they went through their menus.

Roy: You watched the footage, can i have my

USB back?
Connie: Not so fast. I have to copy it in my
laptop first so i can have proof to give to the
cops. Ebile i wanted answers from you Roy
hence the meeting.
Roy: No i don't want trouble Connie. No cops.
Palesa laughed in disbelief.

Palesa: You were giving me an attitude

malobanyana now you are acting like a scaredy
cat. We are going to involve the cops because
Connie got sexually assaulted I don't know what
the hell happened because to you because i didn't
watch everything.
Roy: But i had nothing to do with the rape!.
Palesa: Keep it down.

Connie folded her arms and looked at Roy.

Connie: Who are you to Katlego because I'm sure

as hell that you are not his cousin..
Palesa: Please work with us Roy.
Roy: (Angry) You blamed me for rape. Who
knows what you're gonna do after i tell you
everything huh? I don't want trouble ladies
you're going to have to do this alone. I already
risked my life by getting the footage. If Katlego
find out about this he's going to kill me.
Connie: (snapped) Then work with us and you'll
get protected by the police.
Roy: I'm leaving.

He stood up and walked out of the door. The

ladies ran out after him and stopped him before
he could get in his car.

Connie: Roy! Wait!.

Roy: (sighed) Fine. I owe him and i promised to
do anything for him since i had no money at that
time so he gave me a job.
Connie: To assault ladies?
Connie and Palesa looked at each other when he
kept quiet.

Connie: Ye?
Roy: No i told you that I'm not a rapist. He gave
me a job to satisfy both men and women then
he'll forgive my debts.
Connie: Umm what?
Roy: To work as a man prostitute Connie. I think
i already reveled too much and embarrassed
myself so please don't involve me when you go to
the police and please bring back the USB when
you are done with it. It has personal files.

He got in his car and slammed the door. Palesa

looked at Connie in horror.

Palesa: What the hell did i get myself into.

Meanwhile not very far from the restaurant.

Katlego watched Roy's car drive off and Connie

walked back inside the restaurant with Palesa.

Lesley: The women we are looking for is not in

this place...what are you staring at?
Kat: Nothing. You're right she's not here.

Later at Palesa's.

Palesa got in the house and took off her shoes.

She walked to the living room and found Katlego
sitting on one of the couches with an emotionless
face.

Kat: (calm) What's your business with my

cousin?
Palesa: Huh?
Kat: Kere what's your business with Roy Palesa?
Palesa: I don't understand what you're asking me
babe.
Kat: Why was his address in your drawer and
why the hell did you go to meet up with him at
that restaurant?
Palesa: (gasped) You followed me!? Why are you
even mad at this? I should be the one getting
mad because you went through my stuff and
chewed the paper and you also followed me.

Katlego stood up and Palesa stood her ground

and crossed her arms.

Kat: What do you know?

Palesa: What i know is that you are a very big fat
liar. You lied about Roy being your cousin. Why
did you lie about that and what else are you lying
about?
Kat: (snapped) Where the hell did you get this
bullshit? I never lied about anything Palesa.

Palesa clicked her tongue.

Palesa: Why are you shouting?

Kat: (sighed) I'm sorry. I just want you to tell me
what were you doing with Roy. What did he say
to you?
Palesa: Nothing. He didn't say nothing except for
the fact that he never assaulted my best friend.
Kat: (impatiently) What else did he say?

Palesa walked passed him, he grabbed her wrist

and yanked her back roughly twisting It in the
process.

Palesa: (hissed) Ouch! You're hurting me..

Kat: What else did he tell you?
Palesa: Nothing!!.

He let her go and gasped when he saw Palesa

massaging her red arms with a terrified look on
her face.

Kat: Oh my God babe i didn't mean to.

Palesa: (pointing at the door) Get lost Katlego.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 55

Kat: Oh my God babe i didn't mean to.

Palesa: (pointing at the door) Get lost Katlego.
He reached out his hands to hug Palesa but she
flinched away.

Kat: I'm sorry.

Palesa: (calm) I told you nicely that Roy didn't
tell me anything. he's your cousin isn't he? you
should go and ask him instead of manhandling
me to get answers.
Kat: It was wrong of me to grab you like that. I
just got mad because you refused to give me what
i wanted.
Palesa: I think you move back in your house.
Kat: What?
Palesa: You heard me.
Kat: Are you breaking up with me because of
this? just because grabbed you roughly?
Palesa: (snapped) You twisted my wrist. You
almost broke my arm Katlego. I can't let you live
here after showing me a complete horrible side
of you.
Kat: I renovated this house! you can't kick me
out ,I pay the bills in this house Palesa. you
depent on me!.

Palesa covered her mouth in disbelief then

walked to her room. Kat followed her and got in
their room then shut the door.

Kat: I'm not leaving.

Palesa: Okay.

she walked to the dressing table at drag the chair

to the closet. she climbed on top of it and
grabbed a traveling bag on top of the wardrobe
then got down from the chair.

Kat: What are you doing?

Palesa: Since you think you are the owner of my
house i'll excuse you.
Kat: Babe you're overreacting. I apologized.
Palesa: Then please do me a favor and go to your
own house.

He stood up and walked towards her. He took

the bag out of her hands and dropped it on the
floor before grabbing Palesa by her hips and
kissed her neck.

Kat: (whispering) I'm sorry and i don't want to

leave because i love you. please don't make me
leave. at least tell me we'll be okay even if we live
far from each other.
Palesa: Mmh N-no. Let me go please Katlego.
Just leave.

She watched as his face morphed from hurt to

anger.
Kat: Fine!.

He opened the door and got out then slammed it

shut. After hearing his car driving away she ran
out of the bedroom to lock the front door.

At Connie's.

Connie looked out of the window when she heard

a car parking at her gate. She took a peak at
Junior who was focusing on the TV and looked
back outside.

Connie: (yelling) Your father is here.

she closed the curtains and went back to her

pots. She heard a knock from the door and
closed the pot. She opened the door and Lesley
got in with Emily following him.
Lesley: Hey Connie. Sorry for coming this late ,I
had to take Emily out.
Connie: It's okay. Come in.

They got in and sat down on the chairs around

the table in the middle of the kitchen. Connie
switched off the stove and started dishing up.

Connie: (Yelling) Junior your father is here!

come and eat before you leave.

Junior came running from the kitchen before he

sat down. Connie set the plates down ,Emily
cleared her throat.

Emily: We actually ate at the restaurant.

Connie: (annoyed) I know. I just want to make
sure Junior leave with a full stomach.
she handed Junior spoon before she took her
plate and put it in the microwave.

Connie: Go eat in the TV room.

Junior: Okay mommy.

He got off the chair and took his plate and went
to the lounge. Connie sat down and smiled at
Lesley.

Connie: Congrats. The ring is beautiful.

Lesley: Thanks.
Emily: (boasting) It was the only expensive ring
left in that....

Connie internally thanked the lord when her

phone rang interrupting Emily. she smiled as
Gabe's name flashed on the screen.
Connie: Hey. where are you?
Gabe: I just got home. how did the meeting go
with Roy?

She stood up with her phone pressed against her

ear and walked out of the kitchen.

Connie: Not how i expected it to go. I can't talk

about it right now. Lesley is here to fetch Junior.
Gabe: I'm coming to fetch you. We need to talk
about this issue and i miss you.
Connie: Okay i'll be waiting for you. I miss you
too.

She heard shuffling and "We miss you auntie!"

from Hlompho and Julie in the background. she
smiled happily and walked back to the kitchen.
Connie: Sorry about that.

Junior walked in the kitchen and handed Connie

his empty plate.

Junior: Thanks mommy.

Lesley: Let's go buddy.

He hugged Connie's knees and waved.

Junior: Bye.
Connie: I'll see you next week okay baby? ask
daddy to borrow you his phone when you want
to talk to me okay?
Junior: Okay.
Connie watched them getting out of her house
and sighed. she walked to the microwave and
took out her food then sat down.

At Joe's.

Goodness hummed as she shoved a spoonful of

spiced rice into her mouth. she noticed that her
husband's mind was far away then snapped her
fingers.

Goodness: Joseph!
Joe: (sighed) I'm sorry. what did you say?
Goodness: I didn't say anything. is it going to be
like this every day? are you always going to zone
out at the dinner table?
Joe: I'm sorry I'm just stressed baby.
Goodness: I called ma this morning and told her
the good news ,she begged me to come home this
week.
Joe: That's actually a great idea. I'll drive you
there but i won't spend the night.
Goodness: Seriously Joe?
Joe: I have too much work Goodness.

she stood up and took her plate to their

bedroom. she sat on the bed and started eating.
A stain on his husband's dress shirt caught her
eyes in the laundry basket. she put the plate on
the bedside table and walked to the basket. she
pulled out the shirt and pink panties fell on the
floor ,she frowned and picked them up.

Goodness: (gasped) What the hell!

she lifted it and sniffed it.

Goodness: Definitely not mine.

she clicked her tongue and shoved the panties in

her pocket then folded the clothes nicely.

Hours later that night.

Katlego grabbed Roy by her collar and slammed

him against the door.

Kat: You told Palesa about our business when i

simply told you not to.
Roy: I didn't!
Kat: Then what were you doing with her at the
restaurant?
Roy: I was going to have my lunch break there
when i met her. I swear i didn't tell her anything.
Kat: If you open your mouth I'll kill you Royalty
moremi because not only i will lose the love of
my life ,I'll also lose my badge and reputation.

He pushed him away and Roy stumbled

backwards.

Roy: Then why don't you work with people who

offer themselves willingly instead of drugging
girls and having men sexually harass them.
Kat: You better keep your mouth shut. I'm your
boss ,your master and you don't get to ask me
questions.
Roy: I heard you please leave.

He clicked his tongue and get out of the house.

Roy let out a sigh of relief and massaged his
temple.
The following day...

Kimberly watched Gabe and Connie getting in

the car with the kids in her disguise and clicked
her tongue. She checked the time and drove away
in satisfaction.

Kim: (smiling) At least he didn't have the guts to

move on.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 56
Gabe pulled up alongside the gravel road and
looked behind them. Connie frowned and
mimicked his actions.

Connie: What's wrong?

Gabe: (smiled) Nothing. I was just paranoid
don't worry about it.
Connie: Do you think we are being followed.?
Gabe: I thought so but i don't think someone is
following us. Are you okay kids.

They both nodded and the car roared back to life

and he drove off.

At Lesley's house.

Lesley pushed Emily to the bed and got on top of

her. Emily awkwardly giggled and pushed him
off.
Emily: Aren't you suppose to be getting ready to
go to work?
Lesley: (sighed) Did i do something wrong?
Emily: No Lesley I'm just not in the mood. I'll
make it up to you i promise.

She sat up quickly and fixed her hair.

Emily: I have to get ready for work. I don't want

to get fired when i worked hard to get that job.
Lesley: I thought you hated it.
Emily: Y-yeah i still do but it pays well so i had to
suck it up. Besides people there are kind and
friendly so im not really unhappy.

She stood up and walked to the dressing table

and started doing her make up. Lesley sighed in
defeat and walked out of the room to Junior's.
Lesley: Hey buddy
Junior: Goodmorning daddy. Are you going to
work?
Lesley: (nodding his head) but not now. Are you
good?
Junior: Yes but i miss grandma. When is she
coming?
Lesley: Next week.

He walked to his bed and sat down.

Lesley: Can ask something about mommy?

Junior nodded.

Lesley: Where does mommy go when you come

here?
Junior: Nowhere daddy..oh she goes out with
auntie Palesa.
Lesley: Oh so she only goes out with women?
Junior: (giggled) No. Sometimes uncle comes to
fetch her and she sleeps there.

Lesley internally cursed.

Lesley: That's good. At least she doesn't get

lonely right?
Junior: Mmmh. Uncle has a playroom in his
house and we love to play there that's why i
asked you to buy many toys so i could take them
with me when i go with mommy.
Lesley: (smiled) Oh was that the only reason
Junior?
Junior: Yep.

Later at Bogopa inc.

Connie blewed air in her cup of coffee and made
her way to her shared office. She bumped into
Goodness and smiled politely at her.

Goodness: Hi Connie.
Connie: Hey. What brings you here?
Goodness: I'm here to see hubby. Is he in his
office.
Connie: Board meeting ended thirty minutes ago
so i think he might be in his office right now.
Goodness: Thank you.

Connie walked to her office and Goodness made

her way to Joe's. She was about to know when
she heard muffled moans coming from the office.
She knocked on the door and waited.
Inside the office Emily quickly got off Joe and
started putting on her clothes. Joe quickly fixed
his tie and his pants then whispered to Emily.

Joe: Get to work. Act normal.

Emily unzipped her dress and took the duster.

She walked to the couch and started dusting it.
Meanwhile outside the office Goodness tapped
her foot against the floor impatiently and
knocked for the second time.

Goodness: Joe? I know you're in there!.

Joe: Hold on babe...

He walked to the door and unlock it then opened

it. Goodness got in and sniffed the air.

Goodness: Hi girl.
Emily forced a smile and waved at her then got
back to her work. Goodness walked around the
large table and pulled a chair back then sat
down.

Goodness: Why was the door locked?

Joe: What?
Goodness: The door Joseph why was it locked?
You can't lock the door when someone is
working here...
Joe: It wasn't locked.
Goodness: It was locked. Aren't you ashamed of
yourself Joseph I'm pregnant and you are busy
cheating on me.

Joe looked at Emily.

Joe: Please excuse us Emily.

Emily rushed out of the office and slammed the
door closed. Joe walked closer to Goodness and
gently held her hands, she yanked her hands out
of Joe's grip.

Goodness: (shouting) Why do you keep ruining

our marriage? Do you have any idea how many
chances I gave you?
Joe: Calm down Babe. This is my workplace you
can't keep coming here and jumping to
conclusions.
Goodness: So you aren't sleeping with that
cleaner? I know i exactly what i heard.
Joe: Babe please....
Goodness: Please ya eng?
Joe: I'm not sleeping with her I promise you.
Goodness stood up and smiled when she
remembered Emily's panty then looked at Joe.

Goodness: I'll see you at home. I think i wasted

my time coming here.
Joe: Babe i swear i'll never cheat on you again.
Goodness: It's fine. I'll see you at home.

She walked to the door and got out.

At the mall.

Kim sat down on one of the chairs in a restuarant

and smiled at her friend.

Kim: How are you?

Friend: Good. You?
Kim: Things are not working out. I don't think
Gabe will ever fall for me.
Friend: (laughed in disbelief) I told you that no
strings attached relationships never work out.
You shouldn't have thrown yourself at this guy of
yours. There are many white guys you can go out
with. What's so special about this Gabriel of
yours?
Kim: His game in bed is on point. He's addictive.

Her friend laughed.

Friend: That shouldn't make you stalk him.

Kim: I wasn't. I just wanted to see if he's found
someone new.
Friend: And?
Kim: I don't think he's seeing someone. The only
thing stopping me from approaching him is the
threat he made the last time we spoke.
Friend: Sweetie try someone new and don't go
for an African man.
Kim: Thanks for ordering for me.
Friend: Kim...
Kim: Shush if you are going to keep judging me.

She picked up the drink and sipped it.

That evening at Gabe's.

Connie packed the clean plates nicely in the

cupboard.

Hlompho: I'm full!!.

Julie: Me too.

They walked out of the kitchen and ran to the

living room. Gabe's phone dinged and he
unlocked it. He tapped on the text and his eyes
widened.

Gabe: (laughed in disbelief) The nerve of this

man.

Connie sat down on the chair and turned to him.

Connie: Your uncle again?

Gabe: No. It was Mmapule telling to come to
home for a family meeting tomorrow. Apparently
uncle told the family that i hit him. He went too
far this time.
Connie: Yoh! Be careful Gabe. Your uncle seems
like the kind of guy who would do anything to get
what he wants.
Gabe: (chuckled) I can't believe this. I'll go to the
stupid meeting..I want him to tell them when I'm
present.
He stood up and walked behind Connie. He
turned her chair around and kissed her.

Gabe: This whole thing makes me frustrated and

horny.

His hand grabbed her boob and started

massaging.

Connie: Mmh that feels....

"Daddy!!" They both groaned in annoyance.

At Palesa's house.

Opening the door ,Palesa let Roy inside and

closed the door.
Palesa: How can i help you?
Roy: Why did you rat me out to Katlego. He
almost killed me Palesa!.
Palesa: I didn't say anything Roy.
Roy: Please don't tell him anything Palesa. Kat is
a dangerous cop and he won't hesitate to kill me.
Palesa: He twisted my wrist.
Roy: (gasped) Are you okay?

He glanced at her arm.

Palesa: I'm fine.

Roy: Thanks for not telling him anything. Tell
Connie to not tell him anything and keep that
USB safe.
Palesa: Okay.
Roy: Goodnight.
He walked to the door and opened, Palesa bit her
lip and called out to him.

Palesa: Roy!

He turned around and smirked.

Roy: Yes?
Palesa: Thanks for the evidence.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 57
The following morning at Gabe's.

Gabe slid out of Connie and gently kissed her.

Gabe: Morning.
Connie: What a nice way of waking up.
Gabe: I wish we could stay indoors this whole
day since is Saturday but i have to go to that
stupid family meeting and set my uncle straight.
Connie: I totally forgot about that. Nna i still
have a case to open. I dragged my feet for too
long and i want Katlego behind bars.

She got out of bed and walked to the long length

mirror and stared at her reflection.

Gabe: He's going to jail. He committed a crime

akere. I don't understand why would he risk his
job for prostitution.
Connie: Some people are greedy.
Gabe: What's the story with this Roy guy.

Connie turned around and walked towards the

bathroom.

Connie: He's a prostitute. He owes Katlego and

the only way to pay him was to work for him.
Come join me in the shower.

Gabe got out of bed and followed Connie to the

bathroom.

At Joe's.

Goodness sat on the couch with a remote

controller in her hands and changed the channel.
Joe walked in and set next to her.
Joe: Are you still mad at me?
Goodness: Who said i was mad?
Joe: I know i cheated on you before but i
promised to change didn't I? I'm working on it
babe...
Goodness: (Angry) You cheated when you
claimed to love me. How can you cheat on
someone you love? You men think that women
are some toys you can play with. If i was the one
who cheated you would have packed my bags and
kicked me out. Your mother and uncles begged
me to give you another chance to fix your
mistakes and i did that Joseph so don't tell me
you're working on it ya nonsense.

She stood up and walked to their room then

came back holding Emily's panty.

Goodness: I found this in our laundry basket.

What do you have to say for yourself?
Joe's eyes widened in horror. He stood up
wanting to explain but Goodness raised her hand
to stop him.

Goodness: Don't even bother. I'm tired of your

excuses and meaningless apologies. I'm going to
pack my bags and go to my mother's until i give
birth then I'll come here to visit with divorce
papers.
Joe: Divorce? No please Goodness. It was a
mistake..
Goodness: I don't want to hear your excuses
Joseph. Tomorrow I'm leaving.

She shoved the panty in her gown pockets and

went to their room.

Later at Mmapule's.
Gabe sat down on the couch next to Thato and
Puleng and faced the rest of the family.

Gabe: (calm) Why am i here?

Mmapule: Akere wena you beat up your uncle.
I'm so disappointed in you Gabriel. Firstly you
cheat on Katherine with her sister ,you
disrespect me and lastly you beat up your uncle.

Gabe turned to his younger uncle and scoffed.

Gabe: Did i beat you up wena?

When his uncle kept quiet he turned back to his

mother.

Gabe: Why would i hit this man le gona?

Malome you are too old to be calling family
meetings to feed the family your lies. Ebile
you're lucky i haven't reported you for harassing
me and my employees.

His other uncle cleared his throat.

Him: All we wanted was someone to help you out

in the company.
Gabe: I have a COO and a manager and each
department have a manager. My company is not
even a family business. I don't even care If you
don't think I'm not capable of running my own
business. You're busy sniffing into my business
when you should be reprimanding Puleng for
selling her body like sweets.

Puleng stared at Gabe and clicked her tongue.

Puleng: It's my body and nobody can tell me

what to do with it. I'm old enough to make my
own decisions. You Bogopa people think you
have full control over us.

Gabe stood up.

Gabe: (pointing at his uncle) If you set your foot

in my company i'll give you a real reason to call a
family meeting. You annoy me so much watseba.
I don't even know why i wasted my time and
energy.

He got out of the house and slammed the door

closed.

At Gabe's.

Connie put the phone on loud speaker and listen

to Junior talking.
Junior: Mommy is Hlompho there with you?
Connie: You are on loud speaker baby. Julie is
also here.
Junior: Daddy promised to buy me lots of toys so
i can play with in the playroom when i come to
visit.

Hlompho swallowed his food and leaned closer

to the phone.

Hlompho: You'll let me lead you right? I'm older

than you.
Junior: But i want to be the...what? Mommy
daddy wants to talk to you.

Connie rolled her eyes in annoyance.

Connie: Give him the phone.

She got up and walked to the kitchen.

Lesley: Hi.
Connie: Hello. How can i help you Lesley?
Lesley: There's something that Junior told me
yesterday and it bothered me.
Connie: Just get straight to the point.
Lesley : Don't you think taking my son to visit
your boyfriend will confuse him? I'm his father
and i want to remain like that.

Connie laughed in disbelief.

Connie: Mehlolo e rata batho (wonders shall

never end). Lesley have you ever heard me
complain about Junior coming at your house
where you live with your girlfriend? Junior only
visited three times.
Lesley: I don't want Junior at Gabe's do you
understand me?
Connie: Yoh! You think I'm Emily neh? Lesley
wee i don't listen to you do you understand me?
If Junior wants to see his cousins then I'd happy
to let him see them. Don't piss me off ka your
bitter heart.

She hung up and walked back to the living room.

An hour later later Gabe got in the house talking
on the phone.

Gabe: Okay I'll come to fetch you...yeah

Mmapule loves the Bogopa's too much. I'll see
you tomorrow Auntie.

He hung up and walked to the couch. He sat

down and wrapped his arm around Connie's
shoulders.
Connie: How did the meeting go?
Gabe: Good. Auntie Florence is coming to visit
tomorrow
Connie: Your mother's sister?
Gabe: (nodding his head) Yes.
Connie: Does she know I'm here? I don't want
her to think I'm....
Gabe: She knows.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 58

Gabe: Good. Auntie Florence is coming to visit

tomorrow
Connie: Your mother's sister?
Gabe: (nodding his head) yes
Connie: Does she knows I'm here? I don't want
her to think I'm..
Gabe: She knows.
Connie: I don't know Gabe. Your family hates my
guts and i don't want your aunt to find me here
and start insulting me.

Gabe leaned back on the couch.

Gabe: Aunt Florence is not bitter like the

Bogopa's. If she decides to insult you then I'll
just show her the door.
Connie: Really?
Gabe: Yah.

She stood up.

Connie: I made samp and stew for dinner ebile
Hlompho has been eating snacks while we were
waiting for you. Come on guys let's go to the
kitchen.

They stood up and walked to the kitchen where

they settled around the table.

Julie: We have decided.

Connie and Gabe turned to her.

Gabe: Decided what?

Julie: Hlompho and I decided that we don't want
you to drive us to and from school all the time.
We want to ride the bus like other children
daddy.
Gabe: Are you comfortable in the bus?
Hlompho: Yes. There are no bullies and they
share sweets.
Gabe: Okay I'll let you ride the bus from now on.

They silently ate their food. Gabe's phone rang,

he took it out and hung up when he saw it was a
private numbers.

Connie: Can you drop us at the mall before

picking up your aunt.
Gabe: Okay.

His phone rang and he looked at Connie who was

already staring at him.

Connie: Answer it maybe it's important

He sighed and answered it ,he stood up and

walked to the living room and sat on the couch.
Gabe: Hello. Who's this?
Caller: It's Kim please don't hang up.
Gabe: What do you want? Did i tell you to stop
calling me? You're even calling ka di private
numbers
Caller: Can we put the past behind us and start
over. I miss you so much.

He laughed in disbelief

Gabe: I don't know what you want from

Kimberly ,I told you that I don't want anything
to do with you. Quit being a nuisance and leave
me alone.

He heard sniffles in the background.

Gabe: And i know you've been following me. If i
catch you again I'll show your precious dad the
footage. Go find another man you can pour your
unconditional psychotic love on.

He hung up and walked back to the kitchen. He

sat down and started it. Connie decided to not
ask anything and continued eating.

The same evening at Lesley's.

Emily wiped her hands off and walked to the

living room and sat down. She glared daggers at
Junior.

Emily: Ke gore Connie doesn't teach your son

manners huh?

Lesley turned to her.

Lesley: What are you talking about?
Emily: Akere when we are done eating we wash
the dishes.
Lesley: Junior is a kid. He can't wash the dishes
and he can reach the zinc. Don't take out your
stress on my son please

Emily clicked her tongue.

Emily: I'm not anyone's maid.

Lesley: You know what, I'll wash his plate.

He smiled at Junior before standing up and

walking to the kitchen. Emily's phone buzzed.
She switched it on and saw an SMS from Joe.
Emily: (reading the SMS) My wife found out. We
can't continue because she's already thinking of
divorcing me.

She clicked her tongue and deleted the SMS.

Emily: Tell your father that i went to bed.

Junior: Okay.

The following day at Palesa's.

She logged out of Facebook and finished her

coffee. Someone knocked on the door.

Palesa: Who is it?

Kat: It's me!.

She rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

Palesa: What do you want?
Kat: My stuff.

She stood up and walked to the door. She opened

the door and Katlego got in.

Palesa: You know where they are so go ahead.

Katlego stuffed his hands into his pockets.

Kat: We have to talk. You can't just kick me out

because you think i had something to do with
Connie's carelessness and for lying about Roy
being my cousin.
Palesa: Katlego go and take your belongings and
get out of my house.
He grabbed Palesa by her shoulders and roughly
shook her.

Kat: I didn't do anything i swear.

Palesa struggled to get out of his grip.

Palesa: Let me go you're hurting me!

He let her go and walked to the bedroom where

he left his clothes and the rest of his stuff.

Palesa opened the door and put 10111 on speed

dial. Kat came back from the room holding his
bags.

Kat: You're going to regret this Palesa. I haven't

done anything to you except love and respect
you. You women are ungrateful piece of rubbish.
He dragged them outside and Palesa quickly shut
the door and locked if. She massaged her
shoulders and let out a sigh of relief then called
Connie.

Connie: Hey friend.

Palesa: Hi. Did you manage to report Katlego?
Connie: I'm going to open a case today. I have
enough evidence to get him arrested. You sound
different, is everything okay?
Palesa: He was here.

She sighed before continuing.

Palesa: He grabbed my shoulders roughly and i

thought he was going to hit me. I can't believe
I've been sleeping with a monster.
Connie: Akere he was just pretending. It's going
to be okay friend. People like him don't get far in
life.

She sighed.

Palesa: Are you still at Gabe's?

Connie: Yeah. Did you want something?
Palesa: No. Let me know when you come back
from the police station.

Later that morning.

Goodness drove out of the sangoma's yard with a

satisfied smile on her face. She drove home and
opened the door. She found Joe typing away on
his laptop and passed him. She walked to her
bedroom and sat down on the bed. She took out
Emily's panty and chanted as she poured
something on it.

Goodness: This will teach you to leave other

women's husbands alone.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 59

Later that day.

Connie kissed Gabe goodbye and walked inside

the store and started looking for clothes to pick.
Connie: Is there anything you like in this store?

Hlompho and Julie shook their heads.

Julie: This looks like adults store auntie. Can we

go somewhere else.

She held their hands and walked out of the store.

Julie: Auntie can i ask you something?

She nodded smiling.

Julie: Do you like daddy?

Connie: Yes i like your daddy Julie. Very much.
Hlompho: That means you are going to stay with
us everyday right?
Connie: I'm still going to visit a lot of times. Your
dad's auntie is coming to visit so i won't visit a
lot like i used to.

Hlompho huffed in disappointment

Hlompho: We love having you in the house. You

cook nice meals and you also make time for us.
We will visit you if you don't. Is that okay?
Connie: It's okay.

They walked in a restuarant nearby and sat down

before ordering ice creams. Few minutes passed
and they saw a lady coming towards them with
ice creams.

Kim: Here are your ice creams.

Connie stared at Kim without blinking.

Connie: You work here?
Kim: It's one of my dad's small businesses so I'm
just helping out. You took the kids out i see.
Connie: Yes.
Kim: At least you are a loyal auntie keeping your
sister's kids safe. You are good person Connie.
Connie: Thank you!.

She crossed her arms angrily at the lack of

response

Kim: Hi kids. Do you still remember me?

Hlompho and Julie looked at Connie for

approval.
Connie: Kimberly can we help you?I believe you
have a lot of work to do.
Kim: Just wanted to make sure Gabe didn't move
on.
Connie: Unfortunately he did.

She took out hundred Rand note and placed on

the table and picked up her ice cream then the
kids followed.

Connie: Keep the change.

At Palesa's.

Palesa dialled Connie's numbers and let it rang

for few minutes before she answered.

Connie: Hey. Sorry i couldn't call. I'm at the mall

with the kids.
Palesa: It's okay. How did it go at the police
station.

She heard Connie sigh.

Connie: It was horrible friend. They thought i

was lying. You know Katlego is Lesley's best
friend right? He lashed out on calling me a liar
and body shaming me. I showed them the
evidence and the report from the hospital and
they said they are going to keep it at the station
while they investigate the Club.
Palesa: At least they are promising something.
Connie: How are you mara friend?
Palesa: I'm heartbroken ,lonely and a little guilty
about this whole situation.
Connie: I'll come at your place after work
tomorrow.
She smiled and held on the phone.

Palesa: Thanks babe. O ntlele le mahenyahenya

(bring me goodies).
Connie: I will. We'll talk neh.
Palesa: Sharp!.

She hung up and laid in bed satisfied.

At Gabe's.

Connie got in the house hours later holding lots

of shopping bags. Julie fixed her shades and
helped Connie with one of the bags.

Julie: I had fun.

Connie: Me too.
Hlompho: Me three.
Julie rolled her eyes sassy.

Julie: There's no such.

Connie put the take aways on the kitchen table

and walked further into the house. She saw a
woman eating while watching the TV and walked
to her.

Connie: Dumelang Auntie Florence.

Florence put her plate on the table and stood up.

She wrapped her arms around Connie.

Florence: It's been so long. I last saw you at your

sister's funeral. How are you?
They pulled apart.

Connie: I'm good auntie. How are you?

Florence: I'm also good. Gabe told about you.

Connie sat down on the couch anxiously and bit

her bottom lip. Florence joined her on the couch.

Florence: I'm not judging you Connie. Love is a

great thing my girl and i don't want to get in your
way.
Connie: Thank you aunt Florence.
Florence: Where are the little grandchildren?

Connie leaned back on the couch and peaked in

the kitchen.
Connie: Still in the kitchen going through what
we bought. Speaking of which let me go pack
this. Enjoy your food Auntie and thank you for
visiting.

She stood up with her bags and got in Gabe's

bedroom.

Connie: Your aunt is nice.

Gabe turned around from his laptop and stood

up.

Gabe: She is isn't she? Nothing like my mother.

Connie: (chuckled) I was ready to pack my bag
and leave.

He wrapped his arms around her waist and

brought closer before kissing her lips.
Gabe: Judging from the bags ,I see you had fun.
Connie: Yes we had so much fun. Oh and we met
Kim at the restaurant, thankfully i didn't let her
ruin my fun

She placed the bags on the floor and got on her

tiptoes to kiss Gabe.

Conniie: I'm going to shower. I bought take

aways.
Gabe: Okay I'll go prepare the table then.

BUILDING A HOME
CHAPTER 60

Connie: I'll go shower. I bought the take aways

Gabe: Okay I'll go prepare the table then.

Connie smiled and made her way to the

bathroom. Gabe got out and went to the kitchen
where his aunt was talking to Julie and
Hlompho.

Gabe: Hey guys. Did you have fun at the mall

with your aunt?

Julie gestured at her new hairstyle.

Julie: Yes daddy. I look beautiful with my new

hairstyle.
Gabe: Yes you do. What about you Hlompho?
Hlompho grinned and raised his thumps up.

Hlompho: I ate a lot and I'm satisfied. I don't

want to eat more

Gabe walked to them and kissed their forehead

then they ran up the stairs to their room.
Florence smiled and patted Gabe on the
shoulder.

Florence: I'm proud of you Gabriel. Not

everyone can handle kids alone and I thank the
lord that your kids are as humble as you are.
Some fathers would've abandoned their kids at
the shelters or with other family members but
wena you still chose to be a father to them even
when your wife passed on. Some would've even
fed them with materialistic things instead of
attention and love.
Gabe reached for his aunt's hand and placed his
on it.

Gabe: Believe me aunt Flo I'm not as perfect as

you describe me. I nearly abandoned my kids
because i felt like i betrayed Katherine and i
didn't deserve anything that belongs to her but
Connie set me straight everyday with the hard
truth.
Florence: (chuckled) What a wonderful angel.

Gabe walked to the plastics and took out the take

aways Connie brought. Florence took out the
plates and spoons then they both set the table.

The same evening at Joe's.

Goodness hummed nicely as she washed the
plates she and her husband used for dinner.

Goodness: Watseba sometimes you just know

how to handle a person.
Joe: Huh?
Goodness: Sometimes you just know exactly how
to handle so nuisance in your marriage.
Joe: I don't understand...

She wiped off the last plate and her hands then
sat down on the chair.

Goodness: Nobody will mess with me anymore.

Joe closed his laptop and stood up.

Joe: I'm going to put this back in the bedroom. I
want us to bond with the baby.
Goodness: So you only want to bond with the
baby?
Joe: Bathong Goodness kante who's the carrier
of the baby? I'm trying to make peace and wena
you just want to start unnecessary arguments.

Goodness crossed her arms.

Goodness: Men who cheat don't even deserve

peace. They don't deserve love ,Respect and food
to feed their hungry stomachs. They deserve to
die for making women stupid and worthless.

Joe's jaws hung open in shock.

Joe: (Snapped) I understand that you are angry
with me but don't let this anger of yours make
you do or say things you'll regret later.
Goodness: I'm just telling you this. It doesn't
mean I'm angry.
Joe: You know what, I think I'll let bonding time
pass.

She furrowed her eyebrows.

Goodness: Unbelievable! Just because my words

hurt you and made you feel guilty for cheating on
me doesn't mean you just abandon the baby and
his mother. Go and put the laptop and come back
here.
Joe: Nah I'd rather not die in my own house.

He walked to his room. Goodness clapped her

hands and laughed in disbelief. Joe opened the
door of his bedroom and started looking for a
charger to charge his laptop and a soaked
looking panties caught his eyes. He squatted
down and picked it up then sniffed it.

Joe: Bathong!. What is she still doing with

Emily's panties.

He took it and dumped it in the trash bin then

charged his phone.

The following day at Lesley's

Emily combed her hair as she listened to Lesley

talking about him having a bad day.

Lesley: Nna I think Connie just want attention

watseba. I don't understand why she can't let go
of the past. She's probably doing this to Kat to
get back at me.
Emily turned to him and scoffed.

Emily: Not everything is about you Mr

Hlongwane. Hurry up before Junior misses the
bus .
Lesley: Ha ha then why would she do this?
Emily: Do what exactly?
Lesley: She's accusing Katlego of sexual assault.

Emily gasped.

Emily: Mos Kat is her friend's man?

Lesley: She even came with a so called evidence.
Nna I don't believe it. She must have video
shopped if that's even possible. What even makes
me more suspicious is that it took her two
months to come to the station.
He used his index fingers to mimick Connie.

Lesley: She heard the nerve to say ,I was so

confused because he drugged me. I had to find
evidence first.
Emily: Mmmh Connie is brave neh.
Lesley: Too bad the captain refused to let me
handle the case because I'm close to the suspect.
I would've placed Connie behind bars for being
such a liar.

He glanced at himself in the mirror for the last

time.

Lesley: She annoys me. She's a liar and I'm

afraid Junior might take after her. Let's go.
He grabbed his car keys and Emily grabbed her
bag. He opened the door and found Junior
standing at the door with a frown.

Lesley: Hey buddy. How long have you been

standing here?
Junior: When i come back from school. I will tell
the bus driver to drop me at uncle Gabe's house.

Lesley looked at Emily then back at Junior.

Lesley: Huh?
Junior: Mommy told me that people who talks
bad things about others are not good people so i
want to go home to mommy because you don't
love her and you talks bad things about her.

He turned around with his school bag and

rushed to the front door. Lesley followed him.
Lesley: Your mother did a bad thing and i was
telling your aunty about it. We are good people
son.
Junior: What did mommy do?
Lesley: That's for adults but I'll explain it to you
when you grow up. Don't listen to adult's
conversations okay?

He nodded.

Later that morning at Bogopa inc.

Emily got in the bathroom and slammed the door

closed. She took off her dress in a hurry and the
her panties followed. She used her hand to fan it
as it burnt like nobody's business.

Emily: What's happening?

She looked at her Cookie and gasped when she
saw it swollen and red like blood. She sobbed
quietly wetted her panties in the basin then tried
to keep the burn away.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 61

She looked at her cookie and gasped when she

saw it swollen and red like blood. She sobbed
quietly wetted her panties in the basin the tried
to keep the burn away.
Meanwhile in Gabe's office..

Connie closed her laptop and stood up fixing her

skirt.

Connie: The reason i hate this skirt it's because it

gets wrinkled everytime i sit down okare
someone chewed it and spat it out.

Gabe turned to her and checked her out.

Gabe: You women like to complain. mos the skirt

hugs your curves perfectly.
Connie: Ai excuse me i have to use the bathroom.

she pushed the chair back and walked towards

the door. Gabe called out to her.
Gabe: Babe?

She turned around.

Gabe: Go out with me tonight.

She snorted.

Connie: You're even demanding. Okay as long as

your aunt can manage with the kids.
Gabe: She will.

She opened the door and got out of the office

then went to the bathroom. Her footsteps halted
when she heard painful cries of help.

Connie: (knocking on the door) Hello?

Emily screamed louder from inside.

Emily: Help me!.

Connie opened the door and screamed when she

stepped on blood on the white tiled floor.

Connie: Yoh!

She ran to Emily and helped her stand up. Emily

continued crying holding her painful vagina.

Connie: What happened?

Emily: (crying) I don't know Connie please take
me to the hospital.

She clunged to her. Connie sat her down on the

toilet seat and ran out of the bathroom. Her
colleagues watched her running in the corridor
covered in blood. She got in her office and Gabe
stood up in alert.

Gabe: Connie!
Connie: Call an ambulance Gabriel someone is
dying in this building.

she ran to the drawers and took out a first kit and
packet of pads. She ran out and went to the
bathroom.

Connie: Don't worry Ausi help is on the way. Tell

me where does it hurt? is it miscarriage?

Emily shook her head and spread her legs.

Connie peaked and covered her mouth in shock.

Connie: Yo nna mmawe! what is this Emily?

Emily: (crying) Is it an infection?
Connie: I don't know. Your vagina looks like it's
about to burst ,you be able to use the pad
because you might make it worse.

She took off her long coat and covered Emily

with it they helped her out of the bathroom to
where she can be easily found.

At the mall.

Sarah picked few more clothes and a pregnant

woman behind her tapped her shoulder.

Her: Hi. You already know the gender?

Sarah looked inside her basket and chuckled.

Sarah: No. I'm hoping for a boy.

The woman brushed her tummy.

Her: Nna this one is my fourth child so my

husband and i are happy with any gender. let me
go pay.

Sarah smiled at her and continued. When she

was done paying she got out of the store and
bumped into Itumeleng.

Sarah: Girl!.

They hugged.

Itu: I thought I was following a wrong person

kana. how are you?
Sarah: Good. you?
Itu: I'm also good

They both walked to the restaurant.

Later at the hospital.

Connie paced furiously as Lesley rejected her

seventh call.

Her colleagues looked at her expectedly.

Colleague: Did he pick up? Maybe he's on duty.

Connie: (annoyed) He's rejecting my calls.
watseba this man annoys me.
Colleague: Try him again.

Connie called him again and he answered.

Lesley: Call me again I'll block you Connie.
Connie: (scoffed) Emily is at the hospital!.
Lesley: What?
Connie: You disgust me wena Lesley. I thought
you were a grown man. you are angry about
things you aren't even sure about..nobody in this
world disgust me like you do.
Lesley: Connie which hospital is she at? le gona
what happend?
Connie: She's at the private hospital. there's only
one in this place. Gst here ASAP.

She hung up.

Colleague: You have issues with this guy neh?

Connie: He takes people's kindness for granted.
she sat back down on the bench. A doctor came
out of the ward and stood in front of them.

Connie: Doctor is she okay?

Doctor: That was something unusual but we've
managed to stop the bleeding. she'll be fine.

Connie sighed in relief.

Connie: Can we see her?

Doctor: Unfortunately she doesn't want anyone
to see her right now.

Connie frowned and watched the doctor leaving.

Her colleague grabbed her arm

Colleague: I wouldn't want anyone to see me

after the public embarrassment lenna. let's go.
Connie: (sighed) Okay.

They walked out of the hospital and saw Lesley

getting out his car and running to them.

Lesley: What happened?

Connie: We don't know. There is something
wrong with her vagina.

He furrowed his eyebrows in confusion.

Lesley: She was fine this morning...is she okay?

Connie: She doesn't want to see anyone.

He held his head.

Lesley: Then what am I supposed to do now?

Connie: Go back to the station and handle the
pending cases. you can come back later.

She got in her colleague's car and she drove off.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 62

Lesley watched as the car drove and walked

straight into the hospital. He stood at the desk.

Lesley: Hello.
The receptionist smiled respectfully.

Her: Hello sir.

Lesley: There was a lady admitted here hours ago
by the name of Emily. Can I see her?

She paged a book as she popped her gum and

nodded.

Her: Of course. The first door on the right.

Lesley: Thank you.
Her: You're welcome sir.

He went to Emily's ward, a nurse came out of it

holding a tray of injections.

Lesley: Hello Ausi are we allowed to get inside?

Nurse: Are you related? She doesn't want to see
anyone.
Lesley: I'm her fiance. She's stubborn i know her
but i need to see her.
Nurse: I have to check with her first. We can't
just let anyone in.
Lesley: (snapped) I'm not just anyone. I'm her
fiance and a man of the law

He took out his badge and flashed in her face.

Lesley: The name is Lesley.

The nurse got back in the ward room and came

back.

Nurse: You can go in.

He got in and sat down beside the bed then held
Emily's hand.

Lesley: Baby..How are you?

Emily shrugged.

Lesley: what happened? Connie called me.

Emily: I don't what was wrong. my vagina
started itching and burning then it swelled and
got really unbearable.
Lesley: I got tested last month and I'm clean.
What could've been the problem then?
Emily: Nobody knows Lesley.

Lesley kissed her forehead.

Lesley: As long as you're okay now. You have no
idea how scared i was. le gona i was thankful
because captain let me come here. The station is
a mess. Ever since Katlego got suspended when
they started with the investigation everyone
started suspecting one another.

He leaned down and kissed Emily's lips.

Emily: I can't believe anyone saw me like that.

Tomorrow I'm getting discouraged but i don't
think I'll go back to work anytime soon.
Lesley: Don't mind them. it's not your fault you
got sick.

At Thato's

Mmapule gathered her different wools to knit.

She got in the living room and sat next to Sarah.
Mmapule: What is Thato doing?
Sarah: He's cooking in the kitchen.
Mmapule: He's cooking? kante weren't you
suppose to be the one cooking? you go to the
mall and come back to relax while my son goes to
work at night? Thato should be resting not doing
your job.
Sarah: Thato volunteered to cook Mmapule.
Mmapule: Ai wena Sarah you are lazy. just
because you are pregnant doesn't mean you are
crippled. I don't understand why Bogopa men
like to let women bully them. You quit your job
at four months of being pregnant to be this lazy?

Sarah turned to her.

Sarah: Mme this is my house okay...

Mmapule: Correction this is my son's house.
Sarah: (Angry) Correction sisi Thato and I
bought this house together. You just got here
today but I'm already tired of you. Why do you
like to take control everything wena? can't you go
control your loose daughter and get out of our
lives.
Mmapule: Don't talk to me like that.
Sarah: I'm going to talk to you however i want
akere you don't respect me. Just because you
managed to turn Katherine into your puppet
perfect makoti and tormented Connie doesn't
mean I will let you walk over my head. This is my
house and i would've dragged you with your
doeks out of the house a long time ago but Thato
needs to spend time with you.
Mmapule: I refuse to let my future daughter in
law disrespect me like thi...
Sarah: Well get ready to be disrespected. This is
not Mmapule's house. It's Sarah and Thato's
house so you go by my rules and you respect me.
if you can't do that you can get out with your
opinions.

Thato got inside the kitchen.

Thato: I heard arguments from the kitchen.

what's going on?
Mmapule: Teach your women respect!.

Sarah stood up and looked at Thato.

Sarah: Your mother annoys me with her

disrespectful opinions.

She got out of the living room and Thato sat

down next to Mmapule.
Thato: Kante why do you keep starting
unnecessary drama mma?
Mmapule: Unnecessary drama? I was only
telling her that she should be the one cooking not
you.
Thato: I love cooking for her and she's pregnant.
I have a right to spoil my own fiancee.
Mmapule: You are ruining her.

Thato shook his head.

Thato: Don't ever visit if you're only here to

criticize us and stress Sarah.
Mmapule: I'm your mother. I'm still going to
visit.
Thato: Not anymore. i know understand why
Gabe never wants to see you at his place.
Mmapule: That's because he wants to cheat on
Katherine without anyone correcting him.
Thato: Haha! Katherine is no longer with us so
Gabe is free to move on.

She clapped her hands and continued knitting.

Thato: This is the last visit. I'm going to get

ready for work. when I come back i want to find
you ready.

He stood up and walked out of the kitchen.

At Gabe's later that night.

Connie sat in front of a mirror and started

brading her hair. Gabe out of the bathroom.

Gabe: We'll go out another day.

Connie: This thing ya Emily drained my energy
ebile.

He sat on the bed.

Gabe: Kante what was the problem exactly?

Connie: I don't know. I've never seen something
like that in my entire life. She was scared. I've
never seen her scared before Gabriel. she
probably thought she was dying.
Gabe: I wonder how's Lesley.

She put on her bonnet and got out then walked

to the bed. She dropped her robe and crawled on
to the bed.

Connie: Ha. He annoys me too much because he

kept rejecting my calls when i wanted to let him
know that Emily was admitted.
Gabe: An excuse of a man. I'd rather not talk
about him right now.
Connie: Oh really...

He brought Connie onto his lap and kissed the

side of her neck.

The following morning.

Connie got out of bed and walked to the

bathroom. Her phone rang waking Gabe up.

Gabe: Connie! phone!.

Connie yelled from the bathroom.

Connie: Answer it.

She relieved herself and opened the tabs to ran a
hot bath for themselves then got out of the
bathroom. Gabe hung up the phone.

Connie: Who was it?

Gabe: (clicking his tongue) Your neighbor. A re
they found Junior sleeping at the gate still
wearing yesterday's clothes this morning. I
thought his father was at home looking after him.
Connie: What! That mean he didn't even eat.

She put on her shoes and handed Gabe his gown

and the car keys then they both got out of the
room. Florence was already up sweeping the
floors.

Gabe: Auntie please get them ready for school.

I'll explain later. Goodmorning.
Connie: Please close the tabs in the master
bedroom.
Gabe got in the garage and Connie dialed
Lesley's numbers ,it went to voicemail.

Connie: (shouting) Bona you are an

irresponsible father ebile I don't want to see you
because I'll scoop out your eyeballs and when
I'm done I'll kill you. How could you do this to
your own son. le gona where are you?

She sent the voice note. Gabe drove out of the

Garage and Connie opened the door and got in.

Connie: Why didn't they call yesterday?

Gabe: They saw him this morning. It means he
walked to your place and arrived late.
Connie wiped her tears and Gabe drove to the
gate then got out, opened it and got back in the
car and drove heading to Connie's house.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 63

Parking in front of Connie's gate, they both got

out of the car and went to the neighbor's.

Connie: (knocking) Hello mme!.

Her neighbor opened the door and let them

inside. They sat on the couch.
Gabe: We apologize for coming here looking like
this.
Neighbor: It's okay i would've ran in my
underwear if this happened to my baby. E le gore
how can this happen when you are alive Connie?
Connie: Akere Rrago Junior and I agreed to
coparent. He took Junior this week to spend
time with him at his place and he promised to
return him the following week. This has been
going on for a while Rra and i got comfortable
knowing that my son is safe with his father.

Her neighbor clapped his hands.

Neighbor: That was so irresponsible of his

father. There are people who abduct children
and murder them. You should talk to Rrago
Junior.
Gabe grabbed her hand and squeezed it.

Gabe: Where is he?

Neighbor: He's with my wife. I'll go fetch him.
Connie: Thank you for your kindness and for
taking him in.
Neighbor: Of course.

He stood up walked out of the room and came

back with Junior covered by a warm blanked
followed by a middle aged woman. She greeted
and Connie ran to her son and engulfed in a tight
hug.

Connie: Are you okay baby?

Junior: (nodding) I'm sorry.

She held his hand then looked at her neighbors.

Connie: Thank you so much.

Gabe stood up ,shook the man's hand then they

got out of the house and got in the car.

Connie: What led you to sleep at the gate when

you know that it's not safe?

Junior's tears let loose and curled into a ball at

the backseats.

Connie: Someone could've snatched you and sold

you to monsters you know that?
Junior: I'm sorry...
Connie: Le gona you should've went to the
neighbor's to call me and ask me to come fetch
you. Where was your father when all this
happened.
He sniffled and wiped his tears.

Junior: When i got back from school i found the

gate locked so i waited outside for daddy. I got
scared when nobody opened the gate for me so i
went home.
Connie: What! Lesley was not home?
Junior: Daddy always comes home late but i find
auntie already there when I get back from
school.

Connie's throat closed up and she covered her

face.

Gabe: Auntie was hurt and she had to go to the

hospital. Isn't Granny home?

Junior shook his head.

Gabe: Your father was supposed to come home
to be with you. Don't cry because it's not your
fault but don't ever try to take matters into your
own hands Junior because this place is
dangerous do you understand?
Junior: Yes i understand uncle. I'm sorry for
upsetting you mommy.

Gabe started the car and drove them to his place.

Meanwhile at the hospital

Lesley stretched his stiff body from sleeping on a

tiny couch and checked his phone. He found 10
missed calls and one voice note from Connie and
clicked his tongue.

Emily: (yawning) What's wrong?

Lesley: Nothing. just Connie annoying me.
Emily: I think you should go home. I'll call you
to come fetch me.

He stood up and grabbed his jacket then kissed

Emily on the forehead.

Lesley: I'll see you then.

He got out and few minutes later Joe got in. He

sat on the couch and looked at Emily in concern.

Joe: Are you okay?

Emily: You shouldn't be here. My fiance just got
out.
Joe: I'm your boss and i have a right to be
concerned Emily.
Emily rolled her eyes.

Emily: You are just here to make fun of me. Go

ahead
Joe: I'm not that childish. Are you okay?
Emily: No I'm not okay. My vagina had an
infection and I think you infected me.
Joe: Haha you have got to be kidding me. I've
always used a condom Emily...
Emily: (snapped) Then who did? this happened
after you told me that you couldn't do it anymore
when you convinced me to cheat on my fiance
Joe: I didn't convince you to cheat. You just
couldn't resist the temptation. You being sick has
got nothing to do with me, you probably slept
with your bosses before.

Emily sat up from the bed and pointed the door.

Emily: Get out!
Joe: Emily that's not a....
Emily: Get out!!

He stood up and got out. A nurse came in and

Emily laid back on the bed.

Later at Lesley's.

Connie knocked furiously on the door.

Connie: Ye wena Lesley! let me in!.

The door opened and Connie let herself in.

Lesley: What's wrong with you these days.

Connie: No what's wrong with you leaving your
son all alone?
Lesley: What are you talking about?
Connie: Where were you last night?
Lesley: I slept at the hospital akere you know
Emily is sick.

Connie slapped him across the face and started

shouting.

Connie: All you care about is your stupid Emily

who got herself in the mess to begin with. When
you were at that hospital all night did you stop
and wonder where was Junior and what was he
eating. You left my child for the same trash that
ruined our relationship ,you chose her for the
second time this time Lesley.
Lesley: You knew that Emily was sick. I thought
you took him because i was gonna spend the
night at the hospital.
Connie: Did you discuss it with me that you were
going to spend the night? I called you and even
left you a message but you didn't bother check
your phone because Emily is your god and she's
always on your mind.
Lesley: (guilty) Is Junior okay? where is he?
Connie: You are his father you should know
that!. He waited for you to come home but you
didn't Lesley ,my poor baby walked all the way to
my place and slept at the gate. Do you know how
messed up is this? You are so irresponsible!

She turned around and walked to the door,

Lesley grabbed her arm and she slapped him
again.

Connie: Don't touch me!. From now on you are

going to see you going to start visiting Junior not
the other way around ebile you get to spend only
one day with him and leave. You are an Excuse of
a man.
She clicked her tongue and got out of the house.

At Palesa's.

Palesa made herself a bowl of noddles and sat in

front of a TV, someone knocked on the door and
she went to open.

Palesa: Who is it?

"Roy" A person answered from outside and she

opened the door.

Palesa: Hi.
Roy: Hey i thought i wasn't going to find you
here Kante you don't work on Saturdays?
Palesa: I do but we knock off early. Come in.
They got in the house and she closed the door.

Roy: You probably know why I'm here.

Palesa shook her head and started eating.

Roy: I still haven't got my USB and i hardly see

Connie at work. please ask her to bring it back.
Palesa: Sorry about that. I'll talk to her.
Roy: Please do that.

He stood up and went to the door. He opened

and saw an officer and someone who might be
the detective.

Roy: Good afternoon.

Detective: I'm Detective Maja
He showed off his badge. Palesa put the bowl
down and walked to the door.

Roy: How can we help you?

He unzipped a plastic bag and took out pictures

of Roy and Palesa.

Detective: You are connected to a Katlego and

this case we are currently investigating. you are
going to have to come with me to the station.

Palesa's eyes widened.

Roy: But we did nothing wrong. you can't arrest

me!.
Detective: You're only needed for questioning.
You have to work with us in order to find
Katlego.
Roy looked at Palesa and mouthed " See why i
didn't want Connie to go to the cops"

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 64

The same evening at Gabe's.

Connie got in the house still talking on the

phone.

Connie: Your son is irresponsible Mmalesley.

Akere I would've taken Junior with me if I knew
he was going to be with Emily the whole
night...Yes talk to him and tell him to....

she stopped talking when she saw Mmapule

relaxing on the couch sipping on her juice.

Connie: Mmalesley we'll talk Tomorrow mma

bye.

She hung up.

Connie: Dumelang!.

Florence smiled at her and Mmapule's face

changed.

Connie: Where are Gabe and the kids?

Florence: The kids are in Julie's bedroom and
Gabe must be in office working.
Connie: Oh. is dinner ready or should i prepare
it?
Florence: It's okay my girl I'll cook.
Connie: In that case I'll go see where i can assist
Gabriel.

She left. Mmapule finished her juice and looked

at her sister.

Mmapule: Kante Connie lives here?

Florence: That's not what Gabe told me. she's
just visiting and she'll leave on sunday.
Mmapule: Then why is she behaving like the lady
of the house kante is she sleeping with Gabe?
Florence: (annoyed) They are in a relationship.
Gabriel loves her and the kids do too. E le gore
why do you want to know so much about them?
Mmapule: I'm just shocked. Connie has no right
to act like the lady of the house and bring the
whole orphanage here.
Florence: Haha stop being bitter sisi you are old.
She brought her son because of some personal
issues that i won't ask about. I'm going to get
started with dinner. you are welcomed to help
out.

They went to the kitchen.

Florence: Remember to behave because Gabe

only let you in his house because of me.
Mmapule: Mxm

Meanwhile in the bedroom.

Connie took off her shoes and placed her
handbag on the dressing table. The door opened
at Gabe got in.

Gabe: You're back.

Connie: (nodding) I looked for you in your
office...
Gabe: I was with the kids just to clear my mind.
Your ex is a trash of a man.

He walked to her and kissed her.

Connie: I didn't know your mother was going to

come over today.
Gabe: I'm sorry it slipped my mind.
Connie: The look she was giving me. I never did
anything to her watseba she just hates me for no
reason. I know it's not because of Katherine.
Gabe: My mother is naturally bitter. I'm her son
but she doesn't want anything to do with me so
don't worry baby.

Gabe got on the bed and motioned Connie to

come closer. she climbed the bed and laid her
head on Gabe's chest.

Connie: I'm happy.

Gabe: Haha really?
Connie: Yes and i don't want anything to me....

Her phone rang. she smiled and answered.

Connie: Chommie?
Palesa: Hi. Yoh i just came back from the station
for interrogation.
Connie: Did they find the molester?
Palesa: Find him? Yoh Connie the bastard went
into hiding. Instead of seriously looking for him
they are busy questioning us.
Connie: (gasped) Mos if he not arrested gona we
are not safe. He might come after me Lisa
Palesa: I'm sure he skipped the province. He
won't play in this place knowing that the cops are
looking for him. He committed a crime and he
humiliated the police force. I'm sure the cops are
working with private investigators and
undercovers. Phela he's dangerous because he
was smuggling drugs. He was using the club as a
cover.
Connie: How do you all of this wena?
Palesa: Akere I'm supposed to be the girlfriend.
They attacked me with questions regarding the
drug dealing so i figured they found something
while they were investigating the club.

Connie covered her mouth in shock.

Connie: Ijoh!.
Palesa: Nna I'm just you're going to get justice.
Connie: Neh
Palesa: Bona I have to go make tea for the poor
Roy.
Connie: He's there?
Palesa: Haha yeah and he's a bit shaken because
he thought he was going to get arrested. He's just
a little guy mann.

Connie laughed when she heard Roy

complaining at the back.

Connie: Sharp.

She hung up and Gabe immediately pinned her

on the bed.
The following day at Lesley's.

Lesley wheeled Emily out of the bedroom to the

kitchen. He grabbed her mug and handed her.

Emily: Thank you.

Lesley: You're welcome.

She sipped the tea.

Emily: Did Connie take back her son?

Lesley nodded and the tension rose.

Emily: What's wrong?

Lesley: You can't just get an infection out of
nowhere Emily. what are you not telling me?
Emily: What are you trying to say? I'm here
sitting on a wheelchair and you accuse me of
cheating.
Lesley: I didn't even say anything about
cheating. I want to know where in the world you
got the infection from?
Emily: It's not even an infection. The doctor said
they had no idea what they were dealing with.
Lesley: so that's your excuse?

She quietly sipped on her tea. someone knocked

on the door and he went to open. Mmalesley got
in with her luggage.

Lesley: Mma!
Mmalesley: I thought it was a right thing to give
you space mara I should've known you were
going to neglect Junior. Connie called me last
night and told me everything. Kante what's
wrong with you Lesley?
She got in and frowned when she saw Emily on a
wheelchair.

Mmalesley: And then wena? Connie told me you

were sick not injured.
Lesley: Yeah she's sick mma.
Mmalesley: Wonders shall never end. Go put
these bags in my room.

Lesley dragged the bags away and Mmalesley sat

down and pour herself a tea.

Mmalesley: What happened my girl?

Emily: My vagina started aching and bleeding.

She added sugar and sipped her tea.

Mmalesley: Get well soon but once your vagina
heals be loyal and stop sleeping around. These
are the results of cheating le Lesley should stop if
he's cheating because STI & STD exists ebile the
worst of it ke AIDS.
Emily: That's not it.
Mmalesley: Then what is it?
Emily: I think it's witchcraft.
Mmalesley: Akere you don't give your lives to
Jesus. He should be the one protecting mara you
generation of today likes taking matters into
your own hands. Don't forget that you didn't give
yourselves the lives and bodies you have. It's all
God so don't tell me ka di witchcraft.
Emily:....
Mmapule: It must be so painful that you had to
sit on a wheelchair.
Emily: You don't have to rub it on my face. I
heard you.
Lesley came back and sat down.

Mmalesley: Wena i didn't raise you to neglect

your children.
Lesley: I thought Connie picked him up because
I was sleeping over at the hospital.
Mmalesley: We don't do that my boy. A real man
takes care of his children.
Lesley: I made a mistake mma and I'm sorry.
Mmalesley: You should go apologize to Connie
not me.
Lesley: I will.

she smiled and sipped her tea.

Later that morning.

Roy parked his car in his yard and got out. He
walked to the boot to take out the bags from
grocery shopping. Four guys jumped the gate
and got in his yard

Roy: Woh woh let's not get...

They started punching him and kicking him.

when they were done they took out his wallet and
hit him with it when they found it empty then
they ran away.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 65
Roy got up from the ground and dusted himself.
He took the bags and walked in the house.

Roy: I can't believe this.

He put the bags on the table and went to the

bathroom. He looked at his reflection ,he wiped
off the blood off his bottom lip and got out. He
took the house and car keys then got in his car
and drove off.

At Gabe's.

Connie went to the dining room after her

morning routine and found Mmapule drinking
tea with her legs on top of a table.

Connie: Bathong i just cleaned the table..you

can't just put your feet on the table.
Mmapule: Who are you to tell me what to do?
This is my son's house.
Connie: That doesn't give you the right to do
whatever you want.

Mmapule clicked her tongue and continued

sipping her tea.

Connie: Le gona how can your legs reach the

table?

She held her waist and glared at her. Gabriel got

in followed by Florence and the kids.

Connie: Gabriel please talk to your mother.

Mmapule removed her feet from the table and

smiled innocently. Connie sighed and sat down.
Florence: Remember what i said last night sisi.
There are kids here.

They all sat don't sat except for Florence. she

went to the kitchen and carried the trays of bread
and plates then readied the table.

Connie: Don't forget I'm leaving today.

Mmapule: About time!.
Gabe: If you continue with this you will find
yourself out Mmapuleng. (to Connie) I think we
need to talk after Lunch.
Connie: Okay.

Mmapule grabbed a slice.

Mmapule: You're so comfortable with your

sister's leftovers. Ke gore Connie why can't you
see that you are a failure in life? Nna i never
liked you because you are type of a girl who
doesn't like working hard to get things.
Everything is mahala to you. You get a job ,a man
and this luxury life for free even the kids aren't
yours but you already act like a mother to them.
Gabe: Kids go play outside.

The kids left their food and went outside.

Connie: Don't worry Gabe she's not worth it.

Mmapule: Vele I'm not worth it because the
truth hurts.

Florence shook her head.

Florence: Watseba I never wanted this to come

this far mara you are quick to judge when you
went after my husband on our honeymoon and
seduced him. Shame on you Ester!. These kids
are happily in love and you out of all people
should be happy for them. What kind of a
grandmother are you doing this in front of your
grandchildren? I'm sorry my children for this. I
didn't know your mother had a problem with
Connie.

Mmapule stood up and went to the guest room

she stayed for the night and grabbed her
handbag then went back to the dinning room.

Mmapule: Goodbye.

She got out of the house and Connie went out to

call the kids.

Later that day at Palesa's.

Palesa dubbed Roy's wounds with a soaked
cotton.

Palesa: Why didn't come straight here?

Roy: I was embarrassed.
Palesa: Embarrassed ya eng. You're hurt. Why
didn't you go to the cops.
Roy: (hissing in pain) Because I know those guys
were sent by Katlego and what will going to the
cops do because Katlego is nowhere to be found?
Palesa: Maybe you should just move in with me.
You can help me with the rent.
Roy: That's not a good idea.
Palesa: Yoh this kid! Do you want those guys to
come back and kill you? I also don't feel safe here
that's why i want you to move in. I'm not asking
you to consider moving in because of
inappropriate reasons ,I'm way older than you.
Roy looked away feeling a little embarrassed.

Roy: I'm sorry i didn't mean it like that.

Palesa: It's okay. Look at me.

Roy turned back to Palesa and she pressed the

wound on his cheek.

Palesa: They really beat you up. Do you want me

to bandage your face.

He shook his head and laughed a little.

Roy: I can't go to work all bandaged up.

Palesa: Hey! you're stretching your lips. You are
bleeding ebile.
Roy: Haha sorry. I can just lick the blood away
don't worry about it.
Palesa stood up and went to the kitchen and
came back with two glasses of juice and handed
Roy one.

Roy: Thanks. Kat knows i ratted him out and if

he finds me I'm dead.
Palesa: He won't risk coming here.
Roy: Akere he can send people to kill me. He
literally told that he'll kill me if i open my mouth
Palesa.
Palesa: That's why you should move in as quick
as possible. You can go out only when you go to
work.
Roy: You call that living?
Palesa: It's better than being bitter once in a
while.

He sighed.
Roy: Maybe i should quit and go back home.
Palesa: He'll kill you easily there. Le gona who
you going to?
Roy: My drunkard of a mother. She's the one
who made me get involved with Kat ka di endless
debts.
Palesa: I'm sorry.
Roy: Nah it's fine.

He sipped his juice.

Roy: This was suppose to be a good year for me.

I finally got a job to pay off the debts and leave
the filthy club then find a nice lady and settle
down.

Palesa laughed.
Palesa: Settle down? You're only 24 years old.
Commitment is not easy. See how things ended
between Kat and I. I'm still heartbroken when
I'm speaking like this. I love a nonsense of a
man. To think I was ready to give that guy kids.
But if you are ready to deal with that you can find
a nice lady who's going to respect and love you
akere.

He nodded.

Roy: That was before this Katlego saga. Can i

sleep over?
Palesa: Can i trust you?
Roy: Haha what would i do to you?
Palesa: I don't know.
Roy: You can trust me.

They drank their juice in comfortable silence.

At Lesley's.

Lesley laid beside Emily and breathed out

heavily after a mind blowing blowjob.

Lesley: You are good baby but you didn't have to

do that. you're hurt remember.
Emily: I wanted to.

She laid her head against the pillow.

Emily: Babe?
Lesley: Yes?
Emily: Can we put this whole thing behind us?
Lesley: The whole thing?
Emily: I'm talking about the issue with my
vagina. I promise I'm not cheating on you.
Lesley: Mmh okay. Are you hungry?

She nodded and Lesley pulled up his pants and

walked out the door. Emily's phone vibrated and
she switched it on. it was a text from Joe.

Joe: I'm sorry. I didn't mean any of that. That

was inconsiderate of me.
Emily: (texting) It's fine. just don't ever attack
me like that.

she switched off her phone and put it under the

pillow.

BUILDING A HOME
CHAPTER 66

A WEEK LATER

Roy got in the house with half of his luggage and

smiled at Connie who was sipping on her Juice.

Roy: Hi.

Connie put her glass on the table and turned to

Roy

Connie: Palesa told me you were moving

in..welcome
Roy: Thank you. It's better living with someone
because we don't know Katlego's second move.
Connie: Yah.
She cleared her throat and glanced at Palesa

Connie: Listen i want to apologize for wrongfully

accusing you. I feel bad because you are actually
a nice guy who was forced into this nonsense.
Roy: It's okay Connie. You were confused and i
also apologize for lying to you.

He stretched his arm for a handshake.

Roy: Truce?

Connie grabbed it with a smile and shook it.

Connie: Truce.

Palesa looked between them and grinned.

Palesa: Would you like some juice?
Roy: Um let me go put my bags in the room first.
Palesa: Ai lwena you own a lot of things. Men
aren't suppose to this much.
Roy: Haha jokes!.

He chuckled and dragged his bags to his new

bedroom. Connie sipped her juice.

Connie: He has rabbit teeth Haha and it's funny

because they look like yours.

Palesa playfully hit her head.

Palesa: Shut up. You were still saying ka Lesley.

Connie: Lesley is annoying watseba. He likes
making demands and le gona i hate that he wants
to control me when he threw me out like trash.
He left Junior alone that other night but now
he's shifting the blame on me saying that I'm
focusing on building a life for other people and
neglecting Junior.

Palesa rolled her eyes.

Palesa: Nna I'm still waiting for Karma to deal

with him akere he takes people for granted. Yena
le Emily. I want them to feel the pain you felt ten
times stronger.
Connie: But i think the infection dealt with
Emily nicely man.

They laughed.

Palesa: You don't say. Do you think it's from her

sleeping around or Lesley sneaking around
behind her back?
Connie: Both of them aren't loyal.

Connie looked behind her and smirked.

Connie: Roy neh? What's your plan Lisa?

She rolled her eyes and sipped on her juice.

Palesa: First of all there's no plan and I'm not

even looking for a relationship now. I still love
that bastard and I'm not happy with it. Secondly
Roy is ten years younger than me and it wouldn't
even work.
Connie: it's not as crime to assume.
Palesa: besides i see him as a younger brother.

At mall.
Emily got in Joe's car and leaned back against
the seat. She put on her sunglasses as a disguise.

Joe: Nobody will see you.

Emily: I'm not taking any chances. Phela if your
wife catches us I'm dead and you are getting a
divorce.
Joe: Goodness went to see her mother. Relax.

He grabbed her by her chin and kissed her then

placed his hand on her thigh. Emily broke the
kiss.

Emily: Let's not get ahead of yourselves. We are

in the parking lot and my vagina is still bleeding
at the moment.
Joe: Fine.
Emily: Why did you want us to meet here? You
could've just given me call to come to your office
before we knock off.
Joe: Sneaking around in offices will get us in
trouble. It's not like nobody knows what we are
doing. Those guys that work with the security
system watches us....
Emily: (screamed) What!
Joe: I begged them not to tell Gabriel or
Michael.

Emily's phone dinged. She unlocked it and an

SMS came thorough. She sighed.

Emily: Take me home.

Joe: Is everything okay?
Emily: Yah Lesley prepared dinner for us so i
have to hurry up before he become suspicious.
Joe raised his lower body up and reached inside
his pocket. He took out a piece of paper and
handed it to Emily.

Emily: What is this?

Joe: It's my address. I'll call you when Goodness
goes out and you can take a taxi and come over.
Emily: I like taking risks. Take me home then.

Later that evening at Gabe's.

Florence wiped the last dish and walked to the

dining room where Julie was doing her
homework on the table.

Florence: Your father told me that your tenth

birthday is coming up this Saturday. Are looking
forward...
Julie: No. He forgot to tell you that i never
celebrated my birthdays ever since mom left us.
Florence: She's in a better place but you don't
have to make yourself not enjoy everything
because of that.

Julie continued doing her homework.

Julie: I thought maybe auntie Connie was going

to stay for a while but i was wrong. She's going to
leave us because we are not her children. Junior
is.

Gabe got in and frowned hearing this.

Gabe: That doesn't change anything Julie.

Julie: Then why can't she stay here daddy? We
need her.
Florence: I'll go see what Hlompho is up to.
Gabe smiled at her and sat down beside Julie

Gabe: Auntie is not ready to move in yet but we

can't force her can we?
Julie: I know she left because of grandma.
Gabe: No she didn't leave because of her. She
was only going to spend a week here then
leave....what's on your neck?

He looked closer and Julie covered what looked

like a bruise on the side of her neck with the
palm of her hand.

Gabe: What's that?

Julie: Nothing.
Gabe: Why are you lying to your own father.
That doesn't look like nothing. I'm going to ask
for the last time. What in the world is that
Juliana?

Julie put her pen down and ran out of the dining
room. Gabe sat there confused. He got up and
walked to her room. He tried to open but the
door was locked.

Gabe: Juliana? Come on baby open the door now

before i break it down.

He twisted the knob.

Gabe: Julie?

He put his ear against the door and listened to

her quietly sobbing.
Julie: (replying from inside) I'll tell you
tomorrow.
Gabe: That won't work Julie. This is my house
and we go by my rules. We don't lock doors here
if we have problems and we don't hide away
from our problems. Open the door now before i
break it Juliana and please don't test my
patience.

At Palesa's.

Palesa licked her fingers and clapped her hands.

Palesa: Where did you learn to cook like a pro?

Roy chuckled.

Roy: I was taught by my mother before she

became a loser.
Palesa: It almost tasted like what I used to eat
when i was a child. My father would cook beans
and added what he called his secret recipe and
the food would taste like paradise.

Roy smiled and swallowed.

Roy: Your father sounds like a good father.

Palesa: He was. At least that what's i thought.
Hey finish up there so we can lift the final box.
Roy: I'm a man ,I can carry it myself.
Palesa: (chuckled) You are still a child in my eyes
so I want to help.

He wiped his hands and they both stood up and

went for the box containing Roy's bedroom
things. He lifted it up and stumbled backwards.

Palesa: You need my help don't you?

He nodded and Palesa carried it with him to his
bedroom then placed it down. The box opened
up and a picture fell. Palesa picked it up and
looked at it closer then handed it to him.

Roy: Thank you.

Palesa: Yah sure Goodnight.

She got out of the room in a hurry.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 67
Roy: Thank you.
Palesa: Yah sure Goodnight.

She got out of the room in a hurry.

The following morning at Gabe's.

Gabe sat on Hlompho's bed and stared at him as

he tied his shoes.

Gabe: Son?

Hlompho turned around fast.

Hlompho: Yes dad. Is everything good?

Gabe: No. Everything is not good Hlompho
because I don't know what's wrong with your
sister. She refused to talk to me and that got me
upset.

Hlompho shrugged.

Hlompho: Nna i don't know anything

Gabe: Is someone bullying her? Did they
threaten you both to
not tell me?
Hlompho: I don't know anything dad. There are
not bullies at school or in the bus. I don't know
in her class.
Gabe: I hope you are telling me the truth son
because i don't like someone lying in my house.
Hlompho: I will never lie. If i see or hear
something i will come to you first like always.

Gabe ruffled his short hair.

Gabe: Let me go see if she's ready.
Hlompho: Okay. You'll find me in the dinning
room.

They both got out of his room and Gabe went

straight to Julie's.

Gabe: Are you ready to go?

Julie: (nodding) Let's go.
Gabe: You know i don't appreciate this at all. I
hate not knowing what's going on with my kids
Juliana. You can always talk to me you know that
right.

Julie forced a smile.

Julie: Yes i know that.

Gabe followed her out of the room and to the
dinning room where Hlompho was helping
Florance set the table.

Florence: Gabriel let's go talk in the kitchen

ngwanaka. You can start eating without us kids.

Gabe followed his aunt to the kitchen

Florence: I see this thing with Julie is stressing

you out.
Gabe: It does. I will get to the bottom of this. I
have enemies out there aunt Flo and I'm afraid of
them hurting my kids so this worries me more
than the word itself.
Florence: I'm leaving today ngwanaka but i have
to go see Thato first since i don't know where
your hooligan of a sister is. I suggest you tell
Connie about this. She's a great woman, I saw
how good she was with the kids. Find a way to
convince her move in.
Gabe: I don't really like burdening Connie with...

Florence placed her hand on his shoulder.

Florence: She's the kids' aunt and stepmom so

don't worry about burdening her. Ask her to
have a chat with Julie first before convincing her
to move in.
Gabe: I will. Thanks aunt Flo.

She smiled.

Florence: Anytime. Let's go enjoy our breakfast

phela you will find me gone when you get back.
Gabe: Don't say it like that auntie.
Florence: Haha let's go.
They went back to the dining room.

At Palesa's.

Palesa shifted uncomfortably when Roy got in

the kitchen humming.

Roy: Morning.
Palesa: Hi.

She sipped her coffee avoiding the awkwardness.

Roy poured himself one and added milk and
suger then sat down.

Roy: Would you like me to drop you off at your

workplace. It'll save you money for taxi fare.
Palesa: No thanks I'll just...
Roy: I take no for an answer.
Palesa: Okay thanks. I better go do my make up
and nails and other things.
Roy: What? What do you need nails for?

Palesa stood up and hurried to her room.

Roy: O-kay. Not my business.

Later at the parking lot..

Goodness got out of her car and walked towards

Emily who just came out of the building.

Goodness: Hi.

Emily looked behind her.

Emily: Oh you're greeting me?
Goodness: Do you see anyone here besides us?
Emily: sorry I didn't mean to be rude.

Goodness folded her arms.

Goodness: How's your vagina?

Emily: Excuse me? How do you know about my
personal issues?
Goodness: (scoffed) Listen Emily that was just a
nice warning do you hear me? Kante you thought
I'll never find out that you are sleeping with my
husband. You thought I'll never find out that you
open your filthy legs for him on the desk he
works on to bring mula home? Well listen here
girlfriend you've messed with the wrong wife.
I'm still going to ruin your vagina since you can't
let it be used by one person.
Emily's mouth hung open.

Emily: Who do you think you are talking to me

like that?
Goodness: You're still asking after the little itch
you went through. If my husband comes home
smelling like your stupid cheap perfume I'll come
over at your fiance's and kill you in front of him
when I'm done with you i will cut your vagina
and give it to Joe to continue using it since I'm
going divorce his A**.

Emily grabbed Goodness by her neck and

strangled her. Goodness pushed her away then
slapped her.

Goodness: I hope we understood each other.

She clicked her tongue and went to her car then
got in. Emily looked around and her colleagues
were passing by.

Emily: What are you staring at!?

The same evening at Palesa's.

Roy blocked Palesa's way as she attempted to run

to her room again.

Roy: What's wrong with you?

Palesa: I don't have time for this.
Roy: I just got here and I don't deserve to be
treated this way. Do you want me to move out? I
can do that if I make you uncomfortable.
Palesa: That's not what...
Roy: (snapped) Then what is it? You started
acting weird after seeing that picture. If you have
something to say to me please say it. Being
ignored hurts Palesa.

Palesa looked at him with glossy eyes.

Palesa: Please go fetch that picture and we'll

meet here.

Roy looked at her in confusion before standing

up and went to his bedroom. Palesa also went to
her room and rummaged in her drawers. She
went back to the lounge holding her old photo
album. Roy got in with the picture and sat down
next to Palesa.

Roy: I don't understand anything right now.

Palesa took the picture from Roy and looked at

it.
Roy: it's my dad.
Palesa: Were you two close?
Roy: (shaking his head) My mom hid him from
me. She told me that he was married. I only went
to his funeral and that was when i got his
pictures.

Tears started flowing from Palesa's eyes.

Roy: Hey are you okay? Why did you bring your
album here? I honestly don't understand what's
going on
Palesa: He was my Father too.
Roy: (laughed) Palesa that's not a funny joke. We
don't know each other

He stood up, Palesa grabbed his arm.

Palesa: Please just sit down. I'm telling you the
truth.

Roy sat down and Palesa gave him the album. He

started going through Palesa's childhood
pictures.

Roy: uh..Um I don't know what to say. This is

too much i swear this is too much.
Palesa: You're not going to leave right?

Roy kept quiet and flipped the pictures again

Palesa: Royalty? You're not going to leave right?

Roy: No. We are going to figure this out but not
today. This is way too much info for one day.
Palesa: Okay i agree.
Roy: umh I need a drink. Ai actually I'm going
out.
He stood up.

Roy: I'm so embarrassed i told you about my

filthy things. You watched guys me on that tape
and i might be your little brother who is a whore
oh my gosh. I'm sorry i don't even know what
I'm saying and i also lied....what if we got drunk
one night and ended up I don't know...

He started hyperventilating and shaking like a

leaf.

Palesa: Hey calm down. It's okay..

She embraced him tightly and rocked him back

to forth.
Palesa: Go to sleep. Don't think about this okay.
We'll figure it out in the morning okay?
Roy: okay.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 68

On a Saturday morning.

Palesa dragged her feet to the lounge where Roy

was already waiting for her with a cup of coffee.

Palesa: Morning
Roy: Goodmorning
Palesa: I didn't know you were looking forward
to have this talk.
Roy: The sooner we talk about it the quicker we
can come up with ideas how to live as siblings.

She sat down and Roy handed her her mug.

Palesa: Okay maybe we should do a DNA test

just to be sure i mean even if we are not
biologically related...
Roy: There's no way that man is my stepdad. You
can see the similarities Palesa.
Palesa: I want confirmation though.
Roy: Fine. What's the next step after the DNA
test?

Palesa shrugged.
Roy: This thing annoys me you know. It annoys
me because I have to go back to my mother's and
ask her questions. It would be better if we met
years ago before i got involved with your ex and
his club.
Palesa: (annoyed) Getting mad at this won't get
us anywhere. Today it's the right day to bond. I
want to know you um as your housemate and
umm you know half sister.

They looked at each other and Roy cleared his

throat and sipped his coffee.

Roy: I'm not good at this.

Palesa: We can try right? I spent all these years
without any family members and i was even
desperate to fall pregnant so that i can have
someone to call my flesh and blood. And then i
find out that you might or you are my half
brother. It scares me but it also makes me happy.
Roy's eyes softened.

Roy: (smiled) You kinda give the big sister vibes

you know. You're bossy.

They both laughed.

Palesa: So what do you like?

Roy: Um i don't have any hobbies but i used to
love to paint as a child. We had a huge garden
and I used to go with mom when she wanted to
plant or water the plants and I'd memorize how
the plants looked and painted them.

Palesa smiled.

Palesa: Wow you should go back to it. I'd love to

see you paint. How did your mom become an
alcoholic? It's okay if you don't want to talk
about it.
Roy: She had this obsession with materialistic
things and she had competition with all women
in our neighborhood. She started spending all
her money on unnecessary things, like doing her
hair and nails and also renovating the house that
was already renovated. To cut the story short
,she owed a lot of money lenders and they took
our furniture so she went to alcohol to relieve
stress.
Palesa: I'm sorry.
Roy: Nah it's fine. Enough about me. Let's talk
about you.

They spent the whole morning talking about

their childhood and personal interests.

At Gabe's.
Everyone sat at the dinner table and silently ate
their food after eating Julie took the plates away
and Hlompho cleaned the table with Junior's
help.

Junior: Why is Julie sad?

Hlompho: I don't know. Now that auntie is here
she'll talk about what's bothering her.

Connie and Gabe excused themselves. She

looked at Julie washing the dishes.

Connie: Ai it looks like whatever it is ,is a huge

thing.
Gabe: I think someone is bullying her. You can't
have scratched on the side of your neck for no
reason at all. That's highly impossible. Did you
talk to her last night?
Connie: She said she was going to tell me today.
Gabe huffed in annoyance.

Gabe: You have to force it out of her. I can't talk

to her because it makes me angry. I'll
accidentally lash out at her and scare her away.
Connie: Okay I'll talk to her.
Gabe: Thanks babe. I have to go to that meeting.

He kissed her and said goodbye to the kids then

got out to get the car. Connie sighed and walked
towards Julie.

Connie: Julie when you are done washing the

plates come to your bedroom ,I'll be waiting for
you. Don't make a mess Junior, I know you phela
wena. Listen to Hlompho.
She went to Julie's room and sat on the bed.
Minutes later Julie got in.

Connie: Sit on the floor in between my legs.

Julie did as she was told and Connie started

braiding her hair to relax her.

Connie: When i was your age ,I met a young girl

who spoke Isizulu at our school. She was a tall
for her age and she used that to beat other kids
claiming to be older than them.

She chuckled at the memory.

Julie: Did she beat you too?

Connie: Yes ,she beat everyone in our class
including the boys and said if we ever tell the
teacher she'll bring her soldier dad to school.
Julie: What did you do then?
Connie: Nothing until one day she insulted us in
Isizulu, she took Katherine and my lunch and
mixed it with soil then she also took my R5 coin.
I told my mama and she came to school and told
our class teacher and they dealt with her.

She let her head go and turned her around to

face her.

Connie: Do you think she would have left us if

we didn't report her?
Julie: No.
Connie: That's right sweetie. She would've
continued bullying other kids. Bullying it's not a
nice thing and when it happens to you you have
to tell the teacher or daddy and me.
Julie:...
Connie: If you keep quiet about it that person
will keep coming back and making your life
awful. Please tell me who's bothering you.
Julie: It's vanessa and her crew.
Connie: Why are they beating and scratching
you?
Julie: She likes bragging about how her mom
makes her nice meals and her dad brings her to
school. She was making fun of me about mom
and i slapped her then she organized girls from
her neighborhood to bully me after school
Connie: Oh honey!. I'm sorry it happened to you
but you shouldn't have slapped her. Violence is
not a way to solve problems Julie.
Julie: I know auntie and please don't tell daddy.

She wrapped her arms around Connie.

Julie: He's going to yell at me for slapping
Vannessa. I'll go apologize for slapping her if you
promise to make me a nice looking sandwich.
Connie: I promise. Let me see the scratch.

She broke off the hug and Connie checked the

scratches

Connie: I'll go get the ointment wait here.

She got out and Julie grinned happily and waited

for her to come back.

Hours later at Joe's.

Goodness helped MmaJoseph bring her bags

inside.
MmaJoseph: Be careful they are heavy.
Goodness: Oh.

Goodness took them to the guest room and came

back to find MmaJoseph already watching the
TV.

MmaJoseph: Where's Joe?

She shrugged her shoulders.

Goodness: Ebile i don't care about his

whereabouts.
MmaJoseph: E le gore how can you not care
about your own husband?

She sat down.

Goodness: He's cheating on me. The only reason
I'm still here it's because of this child I'm
carrying. I told you that your son will never
change and you kept begging me to give him
chances.
MmaJoseph: Don't go accusing my son without
any proof. He told me that he changed and he
started reading his bible.

Goodness laughed in disbelief.

Goodness: Reading his bible didn't help him

with anything. Once a cheater always a cheater
Mma and i won't stay here and keep giving him
chances when he's not serious about our
marriage.
MmaJoseph: (clapped her hands) There's
something you're lacking that's why he keeps
cheating. A real wife fix her flaws to keep her
husband. No marriage is perfect my girl.
Goodness stood up.

Goodness: Nna I don't care about your opinions.

I'm tired of Joseph. After I give birth I'll pack my
bags and file for a divorce. I can't stay with a
man who doesn't respect me or even see my
worth.
MmaJoseph: Lena le na le matepe (you are
ungrateful).
Goodness: Instead of starting arguments and
defending your son you should teach him how to
be a real man. He's not even ashamed of himself
for leaving his pregnant wife alone to be with
prostitutes.

She got out of the lounge.

MmaJoseph: She didn't even offer me tea. How

disrespectful.
Later at Gabe's.

Connie covered her mouth in shock as Palesa

narrated the whole story.

Connie: Yoh!
Palesa: Yoh indeed Chomz. You should've seen
his face when he looked at my album.
Connie: God is good. I mean you have always
wanted family. Mara the scary thing I keep
thinking about right now is ,what if you two
caught feelings and got in bed.
Palesa: (laughed) It's funny because Roy thought
about it and started hyperventilating. That
wouldn't have happened.
Connie: So how are you feeling about this new
info?
She sighed.

Palesa: Overwhelmed. I'm happy and also

worried somehow.
Connie: Don't worry my friend you'll do just
fine.
Palesa: I hope so. I better go make dinner neh.
We'll talk tomorrow
Connie: Sharp!.

She hung up and smiled brightly.

BUILDING A HOME.

CHAPTER 69
At Gabe's

Palesa: Overwhelmed. I'm happy but also

worried somehow.
Connie: Don't worry my friend. You'll do just
fine.
Palesa: I hope so. I better go make dinner neh.
We'll talk tomorrow
Connie: Sharp!.

She hung up and smiled brightly. The door

opened and Gabe got in...

Connie: Hey you're back.

Gabe nodded and walked to the bathroom.

Connie furrowed her eyebrows in confusion.
Connie: (Yelling) Are you okay in there?
Gabe: (Yelling from the inside) Yes!

She shrugged and opened a bible app in her

phone and started reading. Minutes later Gabe
came out looking worse than before

Gabe: Did you talk to my daughter?

Connie: Yeah but are you sure you're okay?
Gabe: (snapped) I said yes didn't I Constance?

Connie crossed her arms.

Connie: Constance? Gabe I'm only asking

because you don't seem fine to me. I can't just
keep my mouth shut and wait for you to snap at
me.
Gabe: Everything is fine Connie? I'm fine.
Connie: Mmmh.

Gabe got on the bed.

Gabe: Okay I'm sorry for snapping at you.

Connie: You know communication is the key
right? You knew that i was going to ask about
your meeting when you get home so you could've
just told me that you don't want to talk about it if
it makes angry instead of lashing out at me like
I'm a little kid.

He sighed.

Gabe: I'm really sorry. That meeting went

horrible because of the bad reviews. I don't even
know who write stuff about the company because
they started mentioning Kim and her
shenanigans and other things.
Connie: So in other words you've lost the deal.
Gabe: Yeah.

Connie placed a kiss on his forehead.

Connie: You'll be fine. You never let the

company down.
Gabe: (smiled) Thanks babe.

At Joe's.

Joe tiptoed in his bedroom in the middle of the

night and found Goodness sleeping on the floor.
He took off his clothes and climbed on the bed
Goodness: Ke gore you don't even care about
your unborn child. You just go as you please. Do
you know that your mother is here?

He sat up and switched on the lights.

Joe: I thought you were sleeping. You should

rest Goodness. The baby needs...
Goodness: What do you know about a baby
wena? Are you the one carrying the baby? Are
you pregnant Joseph?
Joe: Bathong!.

Goodness also sat up.

Goodness: Where are you coming from?

Joe: I was with the guys and i lost track of time.
Goodness: Why are you lying to me Joe. Why are
you even here?
Joe: What do you mean why am i here? This is
my house.
Goodness: Okay

She laid back down. Joe crawled to the edge of

the bed and sat down.

Joe: I promise i was with the guys.

Goodness: Says a married man who has love bite
on his neck and smells like ladies cologne. You
think I'm stupid wena Joe neh?
Joe:...
Goodness: You still cheat on me even when i do
my best to satisfy you. You broke our vows and
your mother still stands on your side. Gabotse
you think I'm only scaring you ka divorce. I can't
take this anymore. Why did you go back to
Emily?
Joe:....
She clicked her tongue.

Goodness: You think toying with my heart is

going to benefit you? You don't even give a dang
about my wellbeing. You're just stressing me out
nje.
Joe: I think you are overreacting. You are the
one stressing the baby because you like to
assume things that aren't there.
Goodness: So that hickey there is from a
mosquito bite?
Joe: Exactly!.

Goodness pulled out her phone under the pillow

with tears blurring her vision and sent her older
brother an SMS to come fetch her tomorrow.

Goodness: Goodnight.
Joe: Are you crying?

She ignored him and Joe switched off the lights.

The following day

Palesa and Roy came out of the hospital for their

DNA test and got into Roy's car.

Roy: Do you want to go straight home or...?

Palesa: Home. I'm so tired and all i need is my
bed ,I work too much and it was hard convincing
Yvone to cover for me.
Roy: Yeah you are better. Mr Bogopa is surely
going to fire me tomorrow.

He drove out of the parking to the main road.

Palesa: After getting the results i want to meet
your mother.
Roy: No.
Palesa: Why not?
Roy: We don't get along. She's going to chase
you out and insult you afterwards. I told you
about her yesterday Palesa and i think you're
moving too fast.
Palesa: Moving too fast jwang? Roy this is not a
romantic relationship where you have to wait
years to meet the parents. This is us. It's me
wanting to know my little brother. Even though
we are still waiting for the results i can feel that
you are biologically related to me.
Roy: That's not the point...woh!

He looked on the review mirror to see the car

that hit them at the back.

Roy: Oh Gosh.
Palesa looked behind.

Palesa: What's going on?

Roy: I think we are being followed by Katlego's
man. I know them and i use to see them back at
the club giving Katlego money.

Palesa screamed as the bullet took off the mirror

at her side.

Palesa: (screaming) We are going to die!.

Roy: Calm down! They are just trying to scare us.
Just stay down and we'll get home.
Palesa: That's completely kaak Roy!

She laid her head on Roy's lap and he increased

the speed. The car kept following.
Roy: I'm stopping.
Palesa: What no!.

He slowed the car down and stopped alongside

the road.

Palesa: (shouting) Are you crazy!!

Roy: I'm going to see what they want. I know
they want us to be scared and if i continue
running they'll kill us Palesa.

He pulled out his gun from behind the seat.

Palesa: Kante what's going on?

Roy: Stay in the car.
He slammed the door and walked to the car that
also parked behind his. Palesa watched in worry
and saw Roy coming back. He got in the car and
started it.

Palesa: I deserve an explanation.

Roy: I gave them the USB and begged them to
leave us alone.
Palesa: The why in the world did you take a gun
for? I can't believe you are into gangsterism
and....
Roy: Wow!. Just because i took a gun doesn't
mean anything. Stop accusing me wrongfully
Palesa. You thought I'd just go with you to the
hospital unarmed after being beaten and
threatened by Katlego's people?

Palesa kept quiet.

Roy: You don't trust me I get it. Maybe the
results won't even change anything.
Palesa: I'm sorry. This is new for me Roy and i
have trust issues. I didn't mean to paint you as a
villain.

Later that day at Lesley's.

Emily kneel in front of the toilet and threw up

everything she ate. She stood up and rinsed off
her mouth then went back to the dining room
where Mmalesley was setting the table.

Emily: Yoh don't dish up for me Mmalesley i

have an upset stomach.
Mmalesley: Nonsense. There's panado in the
cabinet you can swallow one pill after having
dinner.
Lesley got in the dining room and sat down.

Lesley: You look pale. Are you okay babe?

Emily: I haven't cleaned my stomach in years so I
just threw up everything.
Lesley: Maybe you should go the hospital. I
heard from my colleague that...

He got interrupted by a knock on the door.

Lesley: I'll go open.

He stood up and went to open the door. Less

than three minutes later he came back to the
dining room followed by Goodness.

Goodness: Evening bathong I'm so sorry for

coming without informing anyone.
Mmalesley: It's okay mma. Who are you kana?

Emily forced a laughed.

Emily: Goodness what are you doing here?

Goodness: Good question. I think the answer
need everyone to sit down.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 70

Emily forced a laugh

Emily: Goodness what are you doing here?

Goodness: Good question. I think the answer
needs everyone to sit down.

Mmalesley and Lesley looked at each other in

confusion.

Lesley: Okay Um Goodness who are you here for

actual. This is my first time seeing you honestly.

Goodness turned to Emily and pointed at her

disrespectfully.

Goodness: I need you to stay the heck away from

my husband. Do you understand me Emily? I'm
tired of you ruining my marriage.

Mmalesley let out a disbelief laugh.

Mmalesley: Heh!
Emily: I'm not after your husband.

Goodness walked to her and flicked her

forehead.

Goodness: Since witchcraft doesn't work on you.

I'll make you lose your job by reporting you for
office affairs with my husband and then when
I'm done I'll come here again to kill you with my
bare hands. Have a nice evening everyone.

She turned to the door and walked out.

Mmalesley took her plate and went to eat in her
bedroom.

Lesley: (Angry) You cheated on me with a

married man?
Emily: No babe she's lying. I love you why would
I cheat?
Lesley: What's his name?
Emily: I'm not cheating....
Lesley: (snapped) He's the one that gave you the
infection isn't he? I'm here trying to be the best
man for you and you go ahead and cheat on me.
Don't dare lie to me Emily. You always had
somewhere to be and i was so blinded i couldn't
tell that you were lying to me.

Emily reached for him, he stepped back and she

started crying.

Emily: (crying) How can you believe a complete

stranger over your fiancee Lesley? How can you
accuse me like this...
Lesley: A complete stranger wouldn't come here
with a false information.
Emily: Can't you see that she's trying to ruin
what we have?
Lesley: Give me your phone.
Emily swallowed hard before she ran off to the
bedroom. Lesley followed her and found her
sobbing on the bed

Lesley: Why are you crying e le gore? You open

your legs for other men right? Why are you
crying instead of rejoicing for breaking my loyal
heart?

Emily sat up and wiped off her tears.

Emily: I promise I'm not doing anything with her

husband. Her husband is my boss and one day
she found me cleaning his office and assumed
that we slept together.
Lesley: That won't change the fact that i still
want your phone.
Emily unlocked her phone and gave it to Lesley.

Lesley: Thank you.

He got out of the room and shut the door. Emily

continued to sobbing knowing that Lesley would
go far by hacking into her private files.

The following morning at Joe's.

Goodness handed her mother in law a cup of tea

and plate of biscuits then sat down next to Joe.

Joe: I'm sorry about last night. I should've told

you where i was going instead of just storming
out.
Goodness: Don't worry about it. You're just used
to it akere.
MmaJoseph shook her head.

MmaJoseph: That is no way to talk to your

husband.
Goodness: Mma with all due respect this is my
mouth and i can use it however i want. I'm not
going to respect someone who doesn't respect
me. Joe doesn't deserve my respect, forgiveness
and love.
MmaJoseph: Don't act you haven't cheated
before. You women of today like to act like
victims when you are the cause of the problem.
Joe: Mma!

Goodness sipped her tea and looked at her

Goodness: I've never cheated on someone before

because I know the meaning of Love and i
respect my vows. I vowed to God and witnesses
that I'd love Joe till death do us part and I'll also
stay with him in health and in sicknesses but it
seems like I have to break the vows because I'm
tired of the disrespect and sleeping with a heavy
heart every night. I'm not going to stay here and
respect the Pedi tradition ya gore lebitla la
mosadi ke bogadi. Never!

She stood up ,grabbed her mug then walked out

of the kitchen.

MmaJoseph: How can you keep quiet when she

disrespects like that?
Joe: I'm the one that messed up. I always have
,please don't get involved mma.
MmaJoseph: Aowa if she wants to leave she can
leave. We don't owe her anything mos.
Joe: Can we change the subject.

MmaJoseph clicked her tongue.

At Gabe's

Connie tied her headwrap and put on her large

earrings. Gabe got in the bedroom and paused.

Gabe: I didn't know you like this style.

Connie: I decided to try something different
today. Anyway i wanted to talk about this moving
in thing.

She stood up and pulled Gabe by his tie and

started tying it.

Gabe: I understand if you don't want to move in.

I know your break up with Lesley still lives with
you and i completely understand that baby
Connie: No um well I've decided to let go of the
past you know. I love waking up next to you and
Julie and Hlompho really wants me here
Gabe: What are you saying?
Connie: I've decided to move in by the end of
this week.

He leaned down and kissed her, his phone rang.

He picked it up on the bed and answered.

Gabe: Bro.
Thato: Come to the hospital now. There's been
an accident.
Gabe: What?
Thato: Right now Gabe!
Gabe: Okay I'm coming but tell me what's going
on.
Thato: I don't know what actually happened
because I just go home but Sarah says there's
been a fight and Mmapule stabbed Florence.

Gabe gasped.

Gabe: Okay I'll be there as soon as possible

He hung up and grabbed the keys on the

dressing table.

Connie: What's going on

Gabe: Catch a taxi to work. Florence is admitted
in hospital.
Connie: (shocked) What happened?
Gabe: My mother stabbed her. I'll see you later.
He got out of the room. Connie held her jaw in
shock and disbelief.

Connie: (clapped her hands) Iyoh. Drama ya

Bogopa.

Later that morning at the hospital.

Gabe paced around at the hallway in the hospital

Gabe: I mean I don't understand this at all. How

can two old people fight for as petty as revealing
a secret and one end up stabbing the other.

Thato held his head

Thato: I'm done with Mmapule. She could have

stabbed my fiancee and killed our child.
Seriously!
He brushed Sarah's tummy. A doctor got out of
the ward and passed them.

Sarah: Looks like we are going to be here for a

very long time
Gabe: Connie is probably stuck in meetings she
doesn't know how to handle yeses. I really hope
Aunt Flo is alright. E le gore where on earth is
Mmapule?
Sarah: I called the police and they took her.
Thato: Uncle is going to get her out. Mmapule
has no heart and I'm even ashamed to call her my
mother.

Meanwhile at Palesa's.
Palesa heard the neighbors screaming and ran
outside. She found Roy's car in flames and ran
inside the house

Palesa: Roy! Royalty!

Roy got out of the bathroom ready to go.

Roy: I'm read....

Palesa: Your car is burning! Someone set your
car on fire.

They both ran outside where the neighbors were

trying to stop the fire with soil. Roy ran to it and
it exploded and set him and the neighbors flying
to the ground.

Palesa: (shouting) Oh Lord! Gst away from it!

She ran to them and helped them stand up.

Palesa: Are you all okay?

Roy: My car exploded! Who's doing this.

The neighbors dusted themselves

Palesa: Did you see someone getting here?

Neighbor: No. I've been outside since six in the
morning.
Roy: I think they set a ticking bomb to explode
this time. If I didn't wake up later than usual we
would've been dead Palesa.
Neighbor: Call the police.

Roy ran his fingers in his hair.

Roy: That won't help with anything since we
know exactly who did this. At least we are still
alive. This guy is a piece of sh**

He walked back to the house and Palesa stood

there watching the car burning

Palesa: Wonders shall never end.

Neighbor: I think you should go check on your
boyfriend.
Palesa: Yeah.. He's my brother not boyfriend.
My boyfriend is the one who did this. Please call
the police I can't take this anymore. Just
yesterday we almost got hijacked.

The wife dialed the police and Palesa walked

back to the house.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 71

The wife dialed the police and Palesa walked

back to the house. She found Roy sitting on the
couch with his face buried in his hands.

Palesa: I'm sorry

He raised his head and sighed.

Roy: I feel like this is just a beginning Palesa. I

mean if this guy managed to get in the yard and
set my car to explode what do you think he'd do
after? probably burn us with the house.
Palesa sat down beside him and awkwardly held
his arm. Roy squeezed it

Palesa: I'm sorry this is happening to us. This

was suppose to be a great month for us. I mean
we just found out that we are related.
Roy: I can't wait for the day the useless cops
catch Katlego. Now my car is burned down and i
don't even know how I'm going get us to work.
Palesa: (calm) Taxi is the only option.

Roy suddenly engulfed Palesa in a hug.

Roy: I don't want to sleep here tonight. We are

going to die if we sleep here.
Palesa: Then where do you want to go Roy?
Roy: I don't know maybe a hotel. we are going to
spend the night at the hotel.
Later at Lesley's.

Lesley got in the room from work and found

Emily gently folding his shirts.

Emily: Welcome back home.

Lesley took out her phone and handed it to her.

Lesley: Here's your phone.

Emily: (nervously) I told you i wasn't cheating on
you.
Lesley: You don't even know what i found in
your phone but you're already jumping to guilt
trip me
Emily: I wasn't. You should learn to trust me
Lesley. when i tell you that I'm not cheating
please believe me.
Lesley: I'm sorry.

Emily smiled and leaned in to kiss him, lesley

faced the other way.

Lesley: I still don't trust you. I'm going to find

the truth and if i find out that you are cheating
on me Emily, you're going to feel my wrath.

He got out of the room. Emily unlocked her

phone and texted Itu to meet up the following
day.

At Palesa's.

Roy led the officer to the living room where

Palesa was impatiently waiting. They both sat
down
Officer: Good evening.
Roy: Did you catch Katlego?
Officer: We are still doing the investigations
because there's no sign of him.
Roy: (Angry) Newsflash! he's still around
terrorizing us. He sent guys to hijack us and he
set my car to explode this morning. We almost
died this morning and all you do is investigate.
You better do something Sir because I'm tired of
living in fear.
Officer: As i said we are still investigating and i
promise we'll find the guy...
Palesa: Then what about us? Will we get protect
from him?

The officer jotted something on his notepad.

Officer: Did you recognize anyone from the

hijacking?
Roy: Yes. They all work at Club heaven as
bartenders and some of them are umh clients.

He glanced at Palesa and bit his lip in

embarrassment.

Roy: You have to do something.

Officer: I'll let you know when we find
something to use against him.

Roy groaned in annoyance and the officer stood

up and got out.

Roy: We are definitely dead.

Palesa: God's with us. He protects you know..
Roy: (nodding) I just want to laugh ,smile and
sleep in peace.
Palesa: Do you want me to make you something
to eat?
Roy: I'm not hungry.
Palesa: I don't care. you haven't had something
to eat since morning.
Roy: I'm just a loser with no car. I don't need
food to comfort me.

Palesa sighed in impatience.

Palesa: Do you want to cuddle then?

Roy: What?
Palesa: It's okay if you want to cry. You're my
little brother and i don't want to bottle things up.

She wrapped her arms around him and brought

his head on her chest.

Roy: I'm not going to cry but this feels

comforting enough.
Palesa: You're all i have you know?
Roy: I know.

The following day at Bogopa inc.

Emily closed the bathroom door and took out the

pregnancy test she bought then called Itu.

Itu: Hi friend.
Emily: I messed up.
Itu: What are you on about?

She kept quiet and listened if anyone was in the

bathrooms with her.

Emily: (whispering) I think I'm pregnant.

Itu: Is that why you wanted us to meet up? le
gona what do you mean you messed up? I
thought you were fine with starting a family with
Lesley
Emily: I cheated and I'm scared that the baby
might not be Lesley's. I'm even afraid to test just
to confirm.
Itu: Bona let's meet so you can tell me about it.
Emily: Okay.

She got out of the bathroom and washed her

hands then went back to work.

Meanwhile in Gabe's office.

Connie checked Palesa's text on WhatsApp and

gasped when she saw a picture of a burnt car and
a text explaining.

Connie: Oh dear. Babe look at this!

She got off her chair and ran to Gabe's table. she
leaned over and showed Gabe.

Gabe: Yoh this Kat is dangerous. We have to go

get the rest of yours and Junior's stuff.
Connie: Oh poor Roy. I wonder how he's doing.
Maybe it's the reason why he's absent.
Gabe: The whole police force is lazy, corrupt
bunch of slackers. They should've arrested the
guy the minute the heard about the assault
instead of suspending him to do their so called
investigation.
Connie: Maybe they are purposely dragging their
feet. They could be as dangerous as Kat.

She walked back to her desk.

Connie: I have to watch my back. I didn't think

Kat could be a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Gabe: I really hope they are fine.
Connis: Me too.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 72

3 WEEKS LATER

At Lesley's

Mmalesley drank sipped her tea and looked at

Emily's boobs then down to her belly.
Mmalesley: You and Lesley need to talk and fix
whatever is going on before it affects the baby.

Emily turned to the sink and put her mug in then

walked passed Mmalesley. Lesley got in minutes
later and greeted his mother.

Mmalesley: Kante are you two fighting?

Lesley: it's just that Emily is not being honest
with me.
Mmalesley: Is that the only thing stopping you
from being happy about her pregnancy? You
know he's carrying your second child right?
Lesley: She's cheating on me and i don't want to
get my hopes high only to find out that the child
is not mine.
Mmalesley: Are you sure she's cheating or you
just believe that girl?
He sighed and pulled back a chair. He sat down
and faced his mother.

Lesley: Mma if a stranger comes to you and tells

you that your child is dead. You'd believe them
right?
Mmalesley: What does death have to do with this
Lesley?
Lesley: There's no smoke without fire Mma.
Somebody can not just barge into someone's
home and start making accusations. It was clear
that Goodness was hurt by Emily and she wanted
her to stop ruining her marriage.

Mmalesley shook her head at Lesley.

Mmalesley: So you think she's cheating?

Lesley: Yes.
Mmalesley: Then what are you going to do about
it. You should confront her and ask for a DNA
test if you have doubts that the child is yours
because your uncles and i were talking about
going to her home to pay damages and Lobola. I
don't want you to marry someone who's going to
make you unhappy to the point where you start
thinking of hanging yourself. We watch reality
shows and we can see what's happening with
today's generation. I want you to go to Emily
,talk to her and ask her why she's cheating on
you if that's really what she's doing.

Lesley closed his eyes and massaged his temple.

Lesley: Fine I'll go talk to her. I'm just angry that

she keeps lying to my face every time i ask.
Mmalesley: That's because you go to her yell. I
don't like Emily but i learnt to accept her because
you love her so please fix your problems because
I'm tired of the tension.
She walked to the sink and started washing her
mug. She saw Emily's and clicked her tongue.

Mmalesley: Oh and tell her to come wash her

mug. I'm not her maid nna. Goodnight

Lesley stood up and went to his room. Emily was

already getting ready for bed. He closed and
locked the door then went to the bed.

Lesley: We really need to talk.

She scoffed as she wrapped her head with a doek.

Lesley: Emily you can't blame me for not being

happy about you being pregnant. A lady came
and claimed that you are sleeping with her
husband. How do you expect me to be happy
about the child that might be Goodness's
husband's?
Emily: What more do you want from me Lesley?
I gave you proof didn't I? You went through my
phone and found nothing.
Lesley: You think giving me your phone to go
through in order to find proof is good enough?
Emily: (snapped) Then what is it that you want
Lesley Hlongwane?

Lesley's eyes widened at Emily's outburst. Her

phone rang and he snatched it before Emily
could answer. Emily watched as he answered and
put it on loud speaker and said nothing.

Caller: Hi Em are you there?

Emily cleared her throat.

Emily: Yes hello sir. How can i help you?
Caller: Hey listen so I'm not going to come to
work tomorrow. I'm going with Mike and
Gabriel to one of the most important meeting so
i need to see you now. Can i come to fetch you?
Emily: What do you need to see me for?

There was a small pause before he replied.

Caller: I miss you. I haven't seen you nor even

felt your li...
Lesley: Who the hell are you? Why are calling my
woman?

The call was immediately cut short and Emily

took her phone and walked to the bed. Lesley
yanked her back and she fell on the floor.
Lesley: Was that the bastard you're cheating on
me with?
Emily: That was my boss.
Lesley: Yes the one you open your legs for in his
office Emily. You lied to my face and kept seeing
him.

Emily rubbed her sore butt and started crying.

Emily: It's a misunderstanding Babe you have to

believe me. I love you and I'd never hurt you
intentionally. Please i swear.
Lesley: What's his name? Is he Goodness's
husband?
Emily: Babe please listen...

He grabbed her by the doek and fisted her

covered hair.
Lesley: Answer me!
Emily: Yes. His name is Joe but we are not doing
anything.

Lesley let her to and got out of the room.

At Gabe's.

Julie handed Connie a plate and she wiped it off.

Connie: How's school?

Julie: Good.
Connie: Just good?
Julie: uh huh. There are not bullying me
anymore so It's good.
They both wiped off their hands and went back
to Florence and Gabe. Julie walked passed them
and went straight to the living room.

Connie: How's your shoulder aunt Flo?

Florence: Getting better my girl. Ai Mmapule is
not well mentally watseba. Don't let her come
over here again Gabriel.

Connie sat down.

Connie: Nna all i wanted was a....

A knock on the door interrupted her.

Connie: I'll go open.

She stood up and went to the door. She opened
and rolled her eyes at the sight of Lesley.

Connie: What are you doing here?

Lesley: Is Junior still awake?
Connie: It's late Lesley. People are about to go to
bed..
Lesley: I just want to see my son for only couple
of minutes Connie.

Connie stepped aside and Lesley got in. She shut

the door and led him to the dining room.

Lesley: Dumelang!.
Florence: Agee buti.

Gabe just nodded and Connie went to the living

room to call Junior. He came running and
jumped on his dad.
Lesley: Hey champ. How are you?
Junior: I'm great daddy.
Lesley: You're coming with me akere?

Connie arched her brow.

Connie: Excuse me? I don't remember discussing

that with you Lesley.
Lesley: Akere my mother is home. You don't
have to worry about who's going to watch Junior.
Connie: I don't care Lesley. You should have
called first to inform me. Do you want to go with
him baby?

Junior nodded and Connie sighed.

Connie: Don't ever do this again Lesley. This is
what we call nuisance.
Lesley: I'm sorry. I'll return him tomorrow.

He went out carrying a happy Junior. Connie's

phone dinged and a text message came through
from Palesa telling her to watch the news.

Connie: Palesa just told me to watch the news.

Something is going on.

Gabe and Florence followed her to the living

room and switched to the news channel.

Meanwhile at Palesa's.

Palesa clapped her hands in disbelief.

Roy: I don't believe he hung himself. Kat had lot
of enemies Palesa and one of them did this.

He hugged her tighter as she sniffled.

Roy: It's okay to cry for him. You loved him.

Palesa: He still paid guys to assault you and my
best friend. I don't even know how to feel. All i
ever wanted was for Connie to get justice. I
didn't want him to die.

She stood up and wiped her tears.

Palesa: He probably committed suicide to avoid

going to jail. How could he though?
Roy: Don't do this Palesa. This is not...
Palesa: At least we'll be free. Let me go mourn in
peace. Don't follow me.
She walked to her room and slammed the door
shut. Roy held his head and sighed.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 73

She walked to her room and slammed the door

shut. Roy held his head and sighed. He stood up
and went to Palesa's room. The door was
unlocked so he let himself in.

Roy: Sis?
Palesa sobbed in her blankets. Roy took off his
shoes and got into the covers with his sister. He
wrapped his arms around her and gently circled
his palm on her back.

Palesa: I told you not to follow me.

Roy: (sighed) Katlego doesn't deserve your
precious tears Palesa. I understand that you
loved him but you don't have to torture yourself
because of his selfishness if he really took his life.
Listen ,Kat chose to mess up his and other
people's lives and unfortunately you fell for him
and fantasized about having a future with him
but he didn't deserve your love and loyalty.

Palesa laid her head on his chest and sniffled.

Palesa: Sorry I'm such a mess. I should be the

one comforting you not the other way around. I
hate feeling like this you know ,it's just reminds
me of the pain i felt when mom and dad passed
on. I'm afraid to lose more people i care about.
Roy: It's okay to feel like this but always
remember that Kat doesn't deserve all of this.
Will you be okay alone?

She looked up to Roy with her swollen eyes.

Palesa: Yeah. I'll come to your room if it gets too

overwhelming.
Roy: Okay. Goodnight sis.
Palesa: sweet dreams.

He got out of the bed and walked out of the

room. As soon as he got out of the room a wave
of uneasiness hit him like ton of bricks.

Roy: (yelled) Don't forget to lock the door!.

The following morning at Gabe's.

Connie watched Gabe preparing himself for a

meeting and clapped her hands in disbelief.

Connie: I still can't believe what i saw on the

news. I thought Lesley's was enough but Yoh I'm
yet to hear ka bo Katlego. I wonder how Palesa is
at this moment.
Gabe: It's either she's heartbroken or glad that
the man who ruined his brother's and best
friend's lives is no more.

She stood up and walked to Gabe.

Connie: Do you think he killed himself because

the cops were after him or maybe he felt
betrayed by someone he loved?
Gabe: Connie that man paid men to take
advantage of you. I'm not in the mood to think
about what on earth made him kill himself. Yes
nobody deserves death as punishment but he
knew exactly what he was doing when he did all
of those things.

He looked himself in the mirror and smiled in

approval.

Connie: I feel guilty Gabriel.

Gabe: Babe come on.

He cupped her cheeks and kissed them

Gabe: You didn't put a gun on his head and

forced him to take a rope and hang himself.
Cheer up.
She smiled a little.

Connie: Goodluck on your meeting.

Gabe: I hope it goes well this time. Whoever
tried to sabotage us the last time doesn't have a
chance this time.
Connie: I guess I'll be left to file things up.
Gabe: That's my girl.

He kissed her and walked to the bed and picked

up his suit jacket.

Gabe: I'll have breakfast on the way. I'll see you

later alright?
Connie: Yeah. Goodluck.
Gabe: Thank you.
He walked out of the room and said goodbyes to
Florence and the kids downstairs then went to
the garage and took the car out.

Later at Bogopa inc.

Connie listened to her co workers in the

bathrooms gossiping and bad mouthing her.

Her: Like i don't understand why she has to be

clingy around Gabriel. We all want that bachelor
mos, he's single and he looks ready to mingle.

They laughed and she heard them hi fiving.

Her: is it me or she gained a lot of pounds?

Other: She definitely gained. Bo Connie are the
ones making women disrespected. Why isn't she
exercising.
She quickly flushed and opened the door of the
toilet and simply walked to the basin to wash her
hands.

Connie: Don't stop talking because of me.

Continue with whatever you were saying i don't
mind...actually i do mind. What does my weight
have to do with you? Why does it bother you that
I'm big and curvy?

The ladies avoided her eyes in shame.

Connie: Even though you're nice and thin with

model bodies you're still rotten inside.

She shook her head and laughed a little.

Connie: You're busy fantasizing about your boss
and gossiping about your coworker in the
bathrooms. Aren't you ashamed of yourself
ladies?

She wiped her hands and walked out leaving the

girls in guilt and shame.

At Lesley's.

Mmalesley met Junior halfway and carried his

school bag for him. He skipped as they made
their way to the house.

Mmalesley: How was school?

Junior: Fine. They taught us a lot of things and
I'm tired.
Mmalesley: You can rest after eating neh?
He nodded and they got in the house. He sat on
the chair and looked at Mmalesley preparing him
food.

Junior: Koko?
Mmalesley: Yes?
Junior: Why do i have two moms and two dad's?

Mmalesley choked and started coughing.

Mmalesley: Where did you learn that?

Junior: Auntie told me that...
Mmalesley: Heh! Emily told you that? No Junior
you only have one dad and one mom okay boy?

He nodded.
Mmalesley: When you grow older you'll
understand. Don't listen to auntie Emily
anymore okay? Don't disrespect her but do not
listen to whatever she tells you anymore okay?
Junior: Ok.

She cut the sandwich in half and poured him a

glass of Juice.

Mmalesley: Here. Enjoy your food and you can

go take a nap afterwards.
Junior: Thank you koko.

She smiled and ruffled his head.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 74

At Lesley's.

Mmalesley: Here. Enjoy your food and you can

go take a nap afterwards.
Junior: Thank you koko.

She smiled and ruffled his head. Junior took his

plate and walked out of the kitchen. Soon the
door opened and Emily walked in with Lesley.

Mmalesle: I haven't even started with dinner.

Lesley walked to the fridge and took out a bottle

of water then looked at his mother
Lesley: I bought us a pizza don't worry. It's in the
car I'll go fetch it.
Mmalesley: Thank you ngwanaka. You saved me
watseba

He walked out of the door and Mmalesley glared

at Emily.

Emily: Is everything okay mma?

Mmalesley: Where did you get the nerve to play
mother to Junior?
Emily: huh?
Mmalesley: O re huh?
Emily: Mma I don't understand.
Mmalesley: Why did you tell him that he has two
mothers and two fathers?
Emily: I meant me and Gabe akere we are dating
his parents bathong Mmalesley its not even a big
of a deal.

Mmalesley crossed her arms and looked at her in

the eyes.

Mmalesley: Connie and Lesley should be the

ones to tell him that. Can't you see that you are
confusing the child. What is Connie going to say
when she hears about this?
Emily: I meant it out of respect Mmalesley not to
confuse him.
Mmalesley: Connie is his mother and you are his
aunt Emily. What if things change between you
and Lesley or Connie and Gabe? What's going to
happen to Junior?
Emily: .....
Mmalesley: You are expecting a baby and I'm
sure you will never allow someone else to tell
your child about the relationship between his
parent's lovers. Leave the job to Connie and
Lesley.

She clicked her tongue and got out of the

kitchen. Emily shrugged and went to her room.

The following morning at Palesa's.

Roy pushed a bowl of cereal towards Palesa and

ate his in silence. Palesa murmured a thanks and
cleared her throat.

Palesa: Sorry about last night.

Roy: Yah well there's no need to apologize.
Crying is normal and everyone needs to cry once
in a while.
Palesa: Hey I've been meaning to ask you about
the car.
Roy: There are some guys I know ,I'll go ask
them to help me get it out of the yard and take it
wherever they feel like. It can't get fixed mos.
Palesa: I'm sorry i know you are not used to
public transportation.
Roy: It's okay sis i have money from working as
uhm you know what and i wanted to pay mom's
debts with it but i think buying a car it's a great
idea. I'm tired of working for someone who
doesn't want to take care of herself.
Palesa: Why don't you call and check up on her.

He sighed and took his phone out then called his

mother. The phone rang few times before she
answered.

MmaRoy: Boyza!. You left me Royalty in huge

mountains of debts. I hope you are calling to tell
me that you are coming to fetch me because I'm
about to be homeless.
Roy massaged his temple.

Roy: (snapped) You're drunk! It's six in the

morning mama and le gona why didn't you take
the money you bought alchohol to pay your debts
with it?

He put the phone on loud speaker and placed it

on the table. Palesa covered her mouth in shock
when MmaRoy let out a loud disgusting burb.

MmaRoy: You are my only son but you don't

respect me Royalty. I'm your mother and I gave
birth to you. You should take care of me.
Roy: Why are you doing this to yourself? Alcohol
will kill you.
MmaRoy: You'll bury me akere boyza?
Roy: I'll come see you on Saturday. Don't drink
or let men use you mama. Bye.

He hung up and closed his eyes in frustration.

Roy: She's now addicted and i don't know how to

help her.
Palesa: She's letting men use her?
Roy: Akere she also gambles and I'm sure as
heck that she gambles everything away including
her body.
Palesa: (sighed) Maybe she needs some support.

Roy shrugged and continued eating.

At Bogopa inc.
Emily presses the button on the elevator and it
closed. Joe stared at her lustful and grabbed her
by her hips.

Joe: I missed you.

Emily roughly pushed his hands away.

Emily: Why did you call me that day Joe? I was

with Lesley and he heard everything. Just
because your marriage with Goodness has fallen
apart doesn't mean i want mine to. I specifically
told you to text me not call. What's wrong with
you?

Joe furrowed his eyebrows.

Joe: I'm sorry. It wasn't my intention.

Emily: I'm pregnant and i want to fix things with
Lesley so whatever we used to do in your office
has to end.
Joe: What? You're ending it because you're
pregnant?
Emily: No. Because i love Lesley and i want to
start a happy family with him.
Joe: What if the child is mine?
Emily: (snapped) Shut up it's not yours. Focus
on your Goodness and her unborn child.

The doors opened and she rushed out before Joe

can stop her. She bumped into Connie on her
way.

Connie: I'm sorry are you okay?

Emily: I'm fine. You should watch where you're
going next time.
Connie: You bumped into to me not the other
way around.

She walked past her and Emily swallowed before

yelling.

Emily: Wait!.

She ran in front of Connie.

Emily: I'm sorry Connie that was rude.

Connie: It's fine. Was that the only thing you
wanted to say?
Emily: I wanted to apologize for backstabbing
you. We used to be close and i ruined that with
my heavy jealousy. I'm sorry for breaking your
heart and ill treating you.

Connie arched her brow.

Connie: Do you think sorry will wipe away all the
painful memories you and Lesley caused? You
and Lesley shattered my heart. You took it out
and stepped on it. I knew that i wasn't going to
be everyone in this world but i never thought my
friend would betray me the way you did Emily.
Emily:....
Connie: (shaking her head) I have to get started
with with what i get paid to do.
Emily: I know this lame apology won't fix things
but i just wanted to tell you how sorry i am. If
though I did you wrong you haven't changed
Connie. You are still kind and you rushed to help
me when i was bleeding in that bathroom.
Someone would have left me there to die but you
didn't. I'm sorry i took your kind heart for
granted.

Connie's eyes softened.

Connie: I moved on and I'm happy. Getting
angry at you will only stop me from moving on.
The past is the past. Just don't go after other
people's men, have some self respect.

She patted her shoulder and smiled before

walking to the elevator. Emily sighed and walked
away.

Later at the bus station.

Roy checked the time for the fifth time and

groaned in annoyance.

Palesa: Your impatience is starting to bother me

Roy.
Roy: I better hurry up and buy a car. I can't take
the waiting anymore.
Palesa: Be patient.

Someone stood next to him and the smell of his

cologne made his boy freeze. He slowly looked
up to him and quickly turned his head away.

Roy: (whispering) Let's take a walk.

Palesa was about to protest when he grabbed her

by the wrist and dragged her away from the
people.

Palesa: What's going on?

Roy: That is following us and i recognize his
scent. We have to go back. Call Connie and tell
them to wait for us or else we are going to die
here sis.
Palesa: What.
Roy: Come on hurry.
Palesa: Why didn't you tell me that we are being
followed?
Roy: I wasn't sure. I thought i was just paranoid.

Palesa took out her phone and texted Connie as

they made their way to the nearest restaurant.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 75

Later that evening at Palesa's.

Palesa placed her bag on the kitchen counter and
let out a sigh of relief. Roy paced around in
worry.

Roy: That guy is the one of the customers.

Palesa: Huh? Ohh
Roy: Yah. I don't know what he wants from me
but I'm going to find out. I know he's related to
Kat somehow and he probably think I'm the one
who drove him to suicide.
Palesa: Eish we have to report him to the cops.
Roy: They are not going to do anything.

Palesa's phone rang and she answered.

Palesa: Connie?
Connie: Are you guys okay though?
Palesa: I'm still spooked but yeah we are fine. Be
careful okay. That guy is connected to Katlego.
Connie: I will. When is this going to end mara?
Listen I'll talk to you tomorrow okay.
Palesa: Sharp.

At Gabe's.

Connie hung up and walked to the couch and sat

down.

Gabe: Trouble seems to be following Palesa

lately.
Connie: it's because of Katlego and the poor
Palesa didn't know that Kat was a crook Gabriel.
Gabe: If this guy tries to come here I'll
personally str....
Connie: Shh the kids are around.
His phone vibrated. He checked and found a call
back from Puleng. He kissed Connie's cheek and
walked to the bedroom where he called her.

Puleng: I knew you were going to call back

Gabe: What do you want?
Puleng: I want you to tell me why on earth did
you get mma arrested? That woman gave birth to
you Gabriel? What's wrong with you?
Gabe: Did you forget that the very same woman
stabbed aunt Florence?
Puleng: Your money is driving you crazy and you
think you have a full control over the family.
Gabe: Sarah is the one who called the cops and if
she didn't i was going to. Wantena Puleng
because you don't care about right things, it's
always the disgusting and bad things you fight
for.
Puleng: You are heartless. Mma spent two nights
in jail. Aren't you ashamed of yourself?
Gabe: No I'm not and stop sending me lousy call
backs.

He hung up and threw the phone on the bed. He

walked back to the lounge where Connie was
talking to Florance.

Connie: Yah Gabriel's female employees are

disrespectful and they don't even hide the fact
that they are lusting after him.

Gabe cleared his throat.

Gabe: What?
Connie: Nothing. I just heard ladies gossiping
about me in the bathrooms. It's not a big deal
Gabe: Who were they?
Connie: Let's just let this go.
Gabe: Connie
Connie: Please.

At Lesley's.

Lesley pulled the duvets and got in the sheets.

Emily stood by the door and watched him.

Lesley: Watseba you have the nerve to show up

here after double crossing me.
Emily: I told you the truth Lesley. I'm not
sleeping with Joe.
Lesley: Tell that to the walls. After you give birth
we are going for a DNA and then we'll see from
there.

Emily walked around to his side of the bed and

kneeled down.

Emily: I swear please believe me

Lesley: I believed you when you lied to me about
not practicing witchcraft. I don't trust you Emily
Emily: (crying) Lesley...

She stood up and climped on the bed. She got on

top of Lesley and cried on his chest.

Emily: I love you so much and I'll never

intentionally hurt you. Believe me

Lesley kept quiet. His eyes softened and he

raised Emily's head and kissed her then wiped
her tears.

Lesley: Get some sleep. Goodnight.

Emily got off of him and rolled to her side of the

bed.
The following day.

Lesley drove around the different area and

spotted a guy rushing to work.

Lesley: (stopping him) Hey! Can i have a word.

The guy immediately panicked.

Him: I didn't do anything.

He walked towards Lesley's car and stood close

to the window. Lesley lowered the window
further.

Lesley: Do you by any chance know where

Goodness lives?
Him: Goodness Khoza?
Lesley: I don't know her surname but i know
she's married to Joe.
Him: That's her. She lives by the corner. The
third house with the nice lawn. That's where she
lives.
Lesley: Thank you. Have a nice day.
Him: You too.

The guy walked away and Lesley smiled in

satisfaction.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 76
The guy walked away and Lesley smiled in
satisfaction. He drove his car to Joe's and parked
at the gate. He checked time and switched the
car and got out. He went inside and knocked on
the door.

Lesley: (knocking) Kô ok

The door opened and MmaJoseph got and fixed

a towel on her shoulders.

MmaJoseph: Agee Rra

Lesley: Agee. Is this where Joseph and Goodness
Khoza stays?
MmaJoseph: Yes. Who are you wena?
Lesley: My wife is a friend of Goodness so I'm
here for her. My name is Lesley Hlongwane.

MmaJoseph chuckled and stepped aside.

MmaJoseph: You can come in Rra I'll go call
Goodness and Joe. I'm sure they'll be happy to
see you.
Lesley: (sarcastically) Yes they will.

She showed Lesley the sitting room and walked

away. Lesley sat on the chair and looked around
Joe's house, he nodded in awe.

Lesley: Not bad at all.

MmaJoseph came back to the sitting room

followed by Goodness and Joe. Goodness's eyes
widened and she cleared her throat.

Goodness: Hey. What are you doing here?

Lesley stood up and walked towards the couple.

Lesley: Thank you for opening my eyes
Goodness. You were right about Emily sleeping
with your husband.
Joe: Excuse me!

Lesley gently pushed Goodness aside and

punched Joe right on the nose. MmaJoseph
screamed as Lesley grabbed Joe by the collar and
punched him again.

Lesley: This thing of not being satisfied by your

wife and going after ours is going to end today.
You have the nerve to call Emily and impregnate
her..
Goodness: What!

Joe pushed Lesley off and slapped him.

Joe: (shouting) Who do you think you are
coming to my house and beat me up? What on
earth are you even talking about? Get out of my
house!
Lesley: Stay the heck away from my fiancee do
you hear me. If i find that the child Emily is
carrying is yours I'm going to make sure
Goodness is carrying mine by the time she's
sitting on a mattress mourning you. You piece of
rubbish!

He shoved Joe and walked passed MmaJoseph.

He got out of the house and slammed the door
closed. Meanwhile in the house Goodness held
her waist as she screamed at Joe.

Goodness: I never thought I'll feel this kind of

pain in my entire life. Not only cheated Joe you
also lied and impregnated the girl. I'm pregnant
for pity's sake.
MmaJoseph took out her handkerchief and
wiped Joe's bloody nose.

MmaJoseph: Report that man before going to

work.
Joe: There's no use. He's a cop and i also hit him
Goodness: And you know that he hit you for
something you did. Aren't you ashamed of
yourself.
Joe:....
Goodness: I'm asking you!

MmaJoseph glared at Goodness.

MmaJoseph: Can't you support your husband

mara Goodness. You can't just believe strangers
and not your husband.
Goodness: MmaJoseph please leave me alone.
Just keep your mouth shut because you're always
defending your son like he's a saint. You heard
what that man said ,he said exactly what i told
you. I'm going to pack my bags.

She clicked her tongue and went to her room.

MmaJoseph's mouth remained agape.

MmaJoseph: Joe!
Joe: Not now. Goodness babe I can explain!

He went after her and MmaJoseph clapped her

hands in disbelief.

At Bogopa inc.
Roy got off the phone call and leaned back
against the chair. He saw Gabe getting out of the
elevator and walking towards him.

Gabe: Roy.
Roy: Sir.
Gabe: No formalities this is personal. How are
you and Palesa? Who was that guy? Don't lie to
me this time.

Roy looked around for eavesdroppers and

cleared his throat.

Roy: He's one of Katlego's loyal customers. He's

known of being a prostitute lover.
Gabe: So you....
Roy: (nodded) Only once. That day with Connie
and me. It's him.
Gabe: Yoh. He could be after Connie too
Roy: Yes.
Gabe: Can we talk after work. I'd like to get to
the bottom of this
Roy: Of course.

Gabe nodded before walking back to the

elevator.

Later at Palesa's.

Palesa handed Roy his bowl of popcorn and sat

beside him.

Palesa: It's been so long since i watched this type

of genre.
Roy: Thriller it's better than horror.
Palesa: If it gets too much please change it to TV
shows.
Roy: Sure.

He leaned back and scooped a fistful of popcorn

and shoved in his mouth. Palesa jumped when
she heard a loud know on the door.

Palesa: (whispering) Royalty....

They put the bowels down and stood up. Roy

walked in front of Palesa to the door.

Roy: Who is it?

They heard a slow drunken voice say something

incoherent outside the door. Roy pulled the door
open and facepalmed when his mother fell on the
floor like a sack of potatoes.
Roy: Bathong! How did you find this place? Le
gona how did you get here mma
Palesa: Mma?
Roy: Eish!

He bent down and pulled his mother to her feet.

She laughed and pointed at him.

MmaRoy: You thought you could abandon me!

Hey Roy I'm fine on my own.
Roy: What is wrong with you?
MmaRoy: Jwale who's this? Is she one of your
whores? Ai you are the man my boy.

Palesa gasped in offence.

Roy: (snapped) This is my sister! The one you

forgot to mention i have!!
They pulled her inside and closed the door.
MmaRoy sat on the floor and took out a tiny
bottle of Gordon's and took a sip. Palesa saw
Roy's fed up face and snatched the bottle away
from MmaRoy's hands.

Palesa: No alcohol allowed in my house.

MmaRoy: Excuse me? This is my body and my
money.

She slapped her chest to emphasize.

Palesa: And this is my house! Roy get her a glass

of water.
MmaRoy: Hei wena who do you think you are
ordering me around?
Palesa: The owner of this house that's who. Stop
taking advantage of Roy! If you think you are
going to misbehave and drink alcohol in my
house you are fooling yourself. Ebile you are
staying here so i can put you back on the line.

Roy came back with a glass of water and they

forced it down her throat then left her in the
middle of the kitchen.

Roy: She's not staying here Palesa. You don't

know how she is.
Palesa: I know how to deal with people like her.
Roy: This is a bad idea I'm telling you.
Palesa: Roy just watch the movie and stop
worrying about nothing.

At Lesley's.

Emily packed her overnight bag and threw it out

the window then dragged a stool next to the
window to climb on. She fixed her skirt before
climbing. There was a loud scream before she hit
the ground. She fixed her weave and grabbed her
bag the ran to the fence. Mmalesley watched her
from her bedroom window and laughed.

Mmalesley: Wonders shall never end!.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 77

Lesley's phone rang as he took a detour to his

place. He pressed answer and connected it to
bluetooth.
Lesley: Hello?
Mmalesley: Kere Makoti is running away Lesley.
Lesley: What? What are you talking about?
Mmalesley: Motho just took her small bag and
jumped the window. She's probably running to
that makhwapeni of hers.
Lesley: Bathong what's wrong with....wait isn't
that her?

He slowled his car and looked closely at the lady

covering her face. He drove towards her and
parked the car then lowered the window.

Lesley: Wena wa ntlwaela. Where are you going

Emily?

Emily jumped at her fiance's voice. She forced a

smile and shifted a little.
Emily: Akere I'm going to visit my dad.
Lesley: Hei wena get the hell in. Don't piss me
off Emily ,you were going to see Joe weren't you?
Emily: Excuse me?
Lesley: (Angry) Take your rags and get in the
car!

Emily shamely opened the passenger door and

got in.

Lesley: Are you crazy wena?

Emily: I was going to visit my dad.
Lesley: Do i have stupid written on my face?
How can you go visit your dad at this hour le
gona without telling me. You even jumped the
window. Don't dare deny it because Mmalesley
was watching you.
Emily:....
Lesley: Wena i don't even know why i love you.
O ntena gore (you annoy me so much)
Emily:....
Lesley: Are you going to defend yourself or are
you going to just stare at me like you have no
idea what I'm talking about?

He clicked his tongue when Emily remained

silent and drove away.

At Gabe's.

Connie walked in Hlompho and Junior's room

and kissed them Goodnight then got out. She
closed the door slowly and turned around.

Florence: You look exhausted.

She smiled weakly.

Connie: I think i need to take a break. I've never
even taken a leave a work. My body needs to rest.
Florence: Are you sure that's all?
Connie: Yes.
Florence: Oh okay. Then sleep well my dear.
Connie: Goodnight mma.

She walked to Gabe's room and found him

already in bed with his eyes closed. She locked
the door and crawled to bed. She planted a kiss
on his lips.

Gabe: Mmmmh
Connie: Can we talk?
Gabe: About?

He sat up and Connie sat in front of him.

Connie: How would you feel about having a third
child?

Gabe choked on his saliva.

Gabe: Connie it's too early to have a baby talk.

Connie: Too early? I've been getting pregnancy
symptoms Gabriel.
Gabe: What? Kante didn't you say you were
using contraceptives?
Connie: (Snapped) Gabriel!
Gabe: Connie calm down. I'm not fighting, I just
want to understand.
Connie: You don't want a baby do you?

She got out of bed with tears streaming down her

cheeks. Gabe also got out worried.
Gabe: Connie i didn't say anything. You're
overreacting.
Connie: Is it because I'm fat?
Gabe: Bathong. Connie I love you like that. I like
you big. You're not even fat. What the hell is
going on?
Connie: I don't know. I feel like you history is
gonna repeat itself.

Gabe walked to her and grabbed her by her

shoulders.

Gabe: I don't understand why you're acting like

this. Yes maybe you're pregnant and it's the
hormones. I completely understand but don't
ever try to compare me to Lesley.
Connie: That's not what i meant. You are clearly
not ready for another child and to be honest it
kinda hurts because I'm already pregnant.
Gabe: What?
Connie: I found out a week ago.
Gabe: (snapped) Excuse me! Why didn't you tell
me?

He laughed in disbelief.

Gabe: Were you testing me Connie?

Connie: You don't want a child Gabe that's what i
wanted to know.
Gabe: We are in a relationship Connie not a
stupid play house. You were suppose to tell me
the moment you found out. You hid from me
because you assumed the worst? I'm not Lesley
and i hate that you keep allowing him to stop you
from moving on. I never said i don't want a child,
I was just worried that we might be rushing
things.
Connie: I'm sorry. I should've told you.
Gabe: Yes you should have. We can work this out
love there's no need to worry.

He got in bef and beckoned Connie using his

index finger.

Gabe: We are going to have a child together. We

have money and a home.

The following morning at Palesa's.

Palesa took out her laundry and walked out of

her bedroom. She knocked on Roy's door.

Palesa: I'm going to do the laundry. Bring your

dirty clothes outside. I have to make it fast
because it looks like it's going to rain later.

Roy opened the door and folded his arms.

Roy: Mma can't stay here. I thought about it all
night.
Palesa: I thought we talked about that.
Roy: Eish Palesa she's a mess.
Palesa: She's your mother and I've been craving
a mother and daughter relationship. This is my
chance. Go sort out your clothes.

She turned around and went outside. Roy

grabbed his Tshirt and got out the room. He
bumped into his mother at the door

MmaRoy: Kana who's that girl?

Roy: Your stepdaughter. She's dad's first born.
MmaRoy: Oh ngwana ga Meiki (Meiki's
daughter).
Roy: This is her house and if you misbehave she's
going to kick you out.
She clicked her tongue and walked away.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 78

MmaRoy: Kana who's that girl?

Roy: Your stepdaughter. She's dad's first born.
MmaRoy: Oh ngwana ga Meiki (Meiki's
daughter)
Roy: This is he house and if you misbehave she's
going to kick you out.
She clicked her tongue and walked away. Roy
sighed and went outside where Palesa was
washing. He handed her his T shirt.

Palesa: Is this the only one?

Roy: No but I'm not going to let you wash my
clothes like you are my maid. Le gona you
shouldn't wash clothes when it's chilly like this.
Palesa: I have to go to the mall later and
tomorrow i won't be able to do the laundry
because I'm going to church with your mother.
Hopefully she'll listen to the word of God and let
go of alchohol.
Roy: I didn't know you were Christian.

Palesa cleared her throat.

Palesa: And i feel guilty for that.

Roy: Mama has no self control Palesa and I'm
sure she's going to take a bottle of beer to church
and humiliate you there so save yourself some
embarrassment and go alone.
Palesa: (sighed) She's going to die because of
alchohol abuse. This is not healthy Roy.

Roy folded his arms and leaned against the

washing machine.

Roy: She doesn't listen to me so why bother

opening my mouth to someone who's just gonna
brush me off? I told you that letting her stay with
us is a bad idea. You'll never get a mother and
daughter relationship from someone like her.
Trust me.

He turned around and walked back inside.

Palesa's phone rang and she quickly answered it.
Palesa: Hun
Connie: I'm pregnant.

Palesa dramatically gasped and walked away

from the machine to hear her properly.

Palesa: Get out

Connie: I found out a week ago and i just wanted
to confirm before telling you and Gabriel.
Palesa: Oh my goodness! I'm so happy for you.
How did Gabe react?
Connie: That's the thing Palesa he didn't react.
He just told me that it's too early to have a baby
talk. What's that suppose to mean anyway?
Palesa: Are you serious?
Connie: I'm so disappointed right Lisa and i can't
even look at him in the eye.
Palesa: Maybe it's the shock Connie. I mean why
wouldn't he want a child when he can clearly
afford himself?
Connie: Who knows. Maybe he doesn't see a
future with me. I better prepare myself for the
worst because i don't know what's on his mind
right now.
Palesa: I'm always here when you need me akere
you know that?
Connie: Yah friend thank you. Sharp.
Palesa: Sharp.

At Gabe's.

Gabe stood by the door and watched Connie

switching off her phone. Her back was turned
the whole time. Gabe walked in and sat on the
edge.
Gabe: (snapped) So we tell the world our
problems now?

Connie jumped from the fright and stared at

Gabe with wide eyes.

Connie: Were you listening to my conversation?

Gabe: It doesn't matter. I can't believe you
painted me as a loser to your friend. Haven't i
proven myself enough that I'm not that scumbag
of a boyfriend. Really Connie? You had to pour
your heart out to Palesa and tell her that you'd
prepare yourself for me to do the same thing
Lesley did to you.
Connie: (Snapped) What was i suppose to think.
You are not happy with the baby Gabriel admit
it.

Gabe got off the bed and went to the door and
closed it shut. He turned to Connie.
Gabe: So you just assumed that I was not happy?
Connie: You gave me no reaction. What kind of a
man tells a woman that's it's early to have a child
when he's been shoving it without protection?
Gabe: Don't talk to me like that Connie. Do you
know why i reacted that way? You never asked
me ebile. You just jumped to conclusions
Connie: Why did you react that way then?
Gabe: I asked you to talk to me first when you
have a problem Connie. Why would you run to
your friend and paint me as a bad guy?
Connie:....
Gabe: I'm just uneasy with this pregnancy
because I'm familiar with miscarriages. I don't
want to be happy only to be disappointed later
not that I'm hoping for the worst but things
happen Connie. I celebrate when the baby is
born. But you disappointed me.
He turned around and opened the door then got
out. Connie covered her face and groaned into
her hands.

Later at the mall.

Joe sat on the stool and watched Goodness shop

with a woman she just met. He took out his
phone and called Emily.

Emily: Why are you calling me?

Joe: How's the baby?
Emily: (laughed) None of your business. The
baby is not yours remember and i told you that I
was working on my relationship with Lesley. You
should do the same with Goodness. Stop
harassing me. Bye.
She hung up and Joe stared at the phone in
disbelief.

Meanwhile in the parking lot.

Mike walked out of his car talking on his phone.

Mike: No I'm not coming soon nana. I have back

to back meetings with Gabriel and the investor. I
can't just stop coming to work just because you
don't like staying with aunt. I'll call you later.

He hung up and frowned when he saw a lady

being manhandled by two muscular men. He ran
towards them

Mike: Leave the lady alone.

They shoved Palesa to the ground and walked
away. Mike helped her stand up.

Mike: Are you okay? What did they want from

you?
Palesa: (annoyed) They want me to pay for my
dead ex boyfriend's debts. Hey you look familiar.

He chuckled.

Mike: I work at Bogopa inc. How come i never

saw you before.
Palesa: I don't go out a lot. I'm Palesa by the
way. I'm friends with Connie
Mike: Michael. Unfortunately i can't say it's nice
to meet you. I was going to take my order at
KFC. I can give you a lift to home if you don't
mind.
Palesa: Sure I'm fine with that.
She dusted herself and followed Mike to KFC.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 79

A YEAR LATER.

Connie and Gabe looked at each other as they

said their vows. Florence wiped her tears of joy
as the pastor pronounced them as husband and
wife.

Pastor: You may now kiss the bride.

Gabe cupped Connie's cheeks and kissed her.
Everyone ulluated except for Lesley who was
sitting at the backseats. Puleng jabbed her with
her elbow.

Puleng: You look unhappy.

Lesley: Leave me alone Puleng.
Puleng: Bathong Lesley i thought you were over
Connie. Why did you ask me out if you're still
stuck on Connie?

He ignored her and looked around for Emily. He

clicked her tongue when he saw her playing lovie
dovie with Joe.

Lesley: You'll find me in the car.

He stood up and walked out of the hall. He
walked to his car and leaned against it. He took
out a cigarette and lit it then pushed it in
between his lips. Puleng shook her head as she
made her way to him.

Puleng: Watseba keng..I think you and i will

never work. I hate being with someone who
wouldn't let go of the past. I let go of the things i
used to do so i could find true love and settle
down.
Lesley: Who said I'm still stuck in the past?
Puleng: You look angry and you've been clicking
your tongue ever since the wedding started.
Lesley: I was mad at Emily and before you ask
it's none of your business. Are you getting in the
car or going back inside?
Puleng: Mxm
She clicked her tongue and walked back inside
where the music was blasting. Palesa hugged
Connie and Gabe.

Palesa: Congratulations guys. I've been telling

you wena Connie gore this one is yours.

They laughed.

Palesa: Let me go drown in alcohol. Enjoy.

She walked away and someone in the crowd

grabbed her arm and dragged her away from it.
Palesa let out a sigh of relief when Mike grinned
at her.

Palesa: You scared me.

Mike: Sorry. I couldn't let you leave without
talking to me.
Palesa: Kante wena aren't you suppose to be
congratulating your coworker?
Mike: Gabe and i will talk. Here!

He handed her a glass of wine. Palesa took it and

gulped it down.

Mike: You look like you need to have fun.

Palesa: (laughed) You are not getting me to bed.
I'm going to dance, care to join me?
Mike: Sure.

She dragged me back to the crowd and started

dancing with him.

In the evening at Mmapule's.

Gabe kissed Connie for the last time and got off
of her. The handle started juggling and Connie
gasped in horror.

Gabe: Don't worry it's locked.

He got off the bed and grabbed his robe and

wore it while Connie covered herself with the
duvet. Gabe groaned in annoyance as the person
started knocking. He walked to the door and
unlocked it then opened.

Gabe: How can i help you Thato?

Thato: A white woman is in the living room and
she's demanding to talk to you.
Gabe: (confused) A white woman? Are you
talking about Kim?
Thato: Yes.
Gabe: Why did you let her in?
Thato: I didn't. Sarah told me that she saw Mma
welcoming her in. Mmapule is capable of
anything so you better go and find out what she
wants. Sorry in advance.

Gabe looked back at the annoyed Connie.

Gabe: I'm sorry.

Connie: Lenna let me get dressed and go check
on Mofenyi.

He sighed and followed Thato to the living room.

The living room was crowded with the Bogopa's
and Gabes uncles from her mother's side. They
were all waited.

Mmapule: Finally. Ke gore Gabriel you waited

until your wedding day to show us your true self.
He stood beside Florence who was carrying a
sleeping Mofenyi.

Gabe: What are you doing here Kim? I thought I

made myself clear that i want nothing to do with
you.

Kim turned to him.

Kim: (crying) Why did you marry Connie and

not me?

"Aren't you ashamed of yourself Kimberly?" The

room went silent as Connie emerged from the
room.

Connie: (Shouting) I may be nice all the time and

maybe be a little friendly with you sometimes
because your father is the investor at Bogopa inc
but newsflash honey. I don't play when it comes
to my husband. Your have the nerve bigger than
this house watseba. On my wedding night? Wipe
off your crocodile tears and le...
Mmapule: Let the girl talk Connie!

Connie stared at Mmapule in disbelief.

Connie: You brought her here didn't you?

Mofenyi started crying due to the noise and

Connie walked to Florence and scooped her up.

Gabe: (pointing at Kim) Wena go and find

yourself a damn man who you can harass. And
you elders don't you have homes to go to? The
wedding is over and we told you that we didn't
want something big anyway.
Florence cleared her throat.

Florence: Maybe we should leave now rather

than later.
Connie: Good idea. I'm going to go take my bag
and wake the kids up.

Gabe followed her to the bedrooms and Kim

looked down in embarrassment.

Gabe's uncle: I'm disappointed in you Mmapule.

I thought you've changed. Little girl please stand
up and leave. Don't ever come back okay?

Kim got up fast and ran out of the house.

Mmapule poured and crossed her arms.

At Lesley's.
Lesley leaned against the wardrobe as he yelled
on the phone.

Lesley: Were you acting like that to make me

jealous. If that was your plan then you've failed
miserably my sister!
Emily: (laughed) I don't care about you Lesley. I
don't even have time to make you jealous.
Lesley: Why did you leave me for Joe Emily?
After everything i did for you?
Emily: Are you serious?
Lesley: I want every cent i spent on you Emily!!.

He hung up and held his head in frustration.

Mmalesley pushed the door in and walked inside
Lesley's bedroom.

Mmalesley: (shaking her head) I brought you

tea.
Lesley: I don't like tea in the evening.
Mmalesley: It's chamomile and it'll help you
sleep. You have to forget that Emily of yours and
continue with Puleng. Ai Lesley i told you...
Lesley: (snapped) Don't!

The following day.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 80

The following day.

Connie got off the bed and checked the baby cot
beside their bed. She sighed in relief when she
found Mofenyi still asleep. She got back on the
bed and gently shook Gabe.

Gabe: Mmh?
Connie: Why did Kimberly come at your
mother's house out of the blue Gabriel?

Gabe opened his eyes and looked at her.

Gabe: I don't know. I haven't even talked to Kim

for months. I'm also surprised.
Connie: I don't want that near you or the kids.
She nearly ran me over with her car remember?
Gabe: I don't know what you want me to say
because i did everything in my power to get her
off our backs. The cops won't do anything.
Connie: What if she's here to take my baby.
Think about this Gabe...why would she come
after the wedding?
Gabe: She won't take anybody.

He sat up.

Gabe: Don't think about things like that

especially when we'll be leaving next week. The
kids will be safe with Aunt Flo.
Connie: Fine.

She got on top of him and kissed him.

At Palesa's.

Roy shook Palesa awake and crossed his arms

impatiently. Palesa held her throbbing head and
opened her eyes.
Roy: You got drunk last night. You promised you
wouldn't get drunk Palesa.
Palesa: I'm sorry. I'm fine and i didn't mean to
drink the whole bottle Royalty i was just happy
for my friend.
Roy: I don't want you to become mma. She
brought someone over last night.

Palesa quickly sat up.

Palesa: What?
Roy: I'm not sure. I caught a scent of a manly
cologne that's not mine nor your friend Mike.
Palesa: Can you go check her. I have to nurse my
head

As soon as Palesa disappeared to the bathroom

Roy got out of the room and walked to his
mother's. The door was slightly opened so he
pushed it and got in.

Roy: (covering his nose) Eish Mma!

He looked down on the floor and there were

bottles of alcohol and used Condoms and tiny
used cigarettes. He looked up on the bed and
there was a man lying on top of his mother
snoring loudly.

Roy: (Shouting) MmaRoy! Get up! What's the

meaning of this?

He heard a gasp behind him and turned around

only to find Palesa with her mouth wide opened.

Palesa: No no not in my house!.

She marched to the bedside and roughly pushed
the man off MmaRoy while Roy bent down and
picked the bottles.

Palesa: Get out!

MmaRoy: (yelling) This is invasion of privacy. Le
gona couldn't you find yourself a dang man to
bother girly.
Palesa: This is my house! Unless you want to find
yourself on the streets where those mashonisa
will easily target you, you have to get up and
clean the house. And wena this is not a brothel
Get out!

The man got out of the bed in his nakedness and

Palesa looked away.

MmaRoy: Kante don't i deserve to be happy

Roy?
Roy looked at her and clicked his tongue.

Roy: You disappointed me again. This is not your

house and why are you still selling your body
when Palesa and i provide anything for you?
MmaRoy: It's not about money. It's about me
finding happiness.

They watched the man put R50 on the bedside

table and walked out of the room.

Palesa: I'm even embarrassed on your behalf.

Roy let's leave her to clean up. Nna mmago o
mpaletse (your mother disappointed me)

They got out of the room and MmaRoy pulled

the duvet over her head. Meanwhile in Palesa's
room, Roy sat on the bed and watched Palesa
combing her hair.
Roy: You were too cozy with Mike last night.
Palesa: I don't like him like that. Stop snooping
around in my business Roy...
Roy: (laughed) Says someone who wants to know
everything about the girls i hook up with.
Palesa: Mike just got free from his marriage and i
don't think he's ready to move on yet.
Roy: Did he tell you that?
Palesa: I just know about his divorce. He didn't
have to tell me that le gona. Akere when
someone just got divorced deserves to heal.
Roy: Women your age throw themselves at men
and you are still thinking for someone instead of
going for it. You'll die single wena.

Palesa took off her shoe and threw it at Roy.

At Joe's.
Goodness walked in the house and found Emily
painting her nails while her son scratched her
daughter. She dropped her bag and picked her
daughter up.

Goodness: (snapped) Are your ears blocked?

Emily looked up and met with Goodness's angry

face and her daughter's cries filled her ears.

Emily: They are just babies.

Goodness: Just babies? Your son scratched my
daughter's face. Joe!!
Emily: Nobody is home. It's just me.
Goodness: What?

She took out her phone and called Joe.

Joe: I'm busy.
Goodness: Okay bye.
Joe: Wait! How can i help you Goodness?
Goodness: (shouting) Why didn't you tell me
that Emily was the babysitter? Why would you
leave my child with her? Her son scratched my
daughter Joseph.
Joe: (laughed) You're overreacting.
Goodness: You'll never see mimi again. I let
Emily come between us but i won't let her
mistreat my son.
Joe: You divorced me not the other way around.
I don't understand why you're angry at me.
Goodness: (crying) That's because you put me
through hell Joe and i hate the fact that my weak
heart still loves you.
Joe: You still love me?
She hung up and picked her bag and her
daughter's bag then looked at Emily.

Goodness: Bewitching you was just a waste of

time but i know that God is watching over us and
soon he'll wipe off my tears and by wiping off my
tears i mean dealing with you.

She carried her daughter and walked out of the

house and to the car. She put her daughter on
her seat and put the bags on the passenger seat
and cried harder.

Later that day at Lesley's.

Mmalesley watched as Lesley drown himself in

the bottle of liquor he bought specially for
heartbreak. She walked to him and took it away
from him
Mmalesley: No son of mine will waste away
when I'm alive.
Lesley: Can't you just let me grieve in peace.
Mmalesley: We grieve for the dead only. Stop
this nonsense! Emily was not the one and i know
you are not just drowning in alcohol because
Emily left you. It's because Connie got married
and you regret ever kicking her out of this house
akere?
Lesley: (snapped) You know nothing about my
love life!

Mmalesley shook her head and walked to the

sink and poured the whole bottle in it.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 81

The same evening at Gabe's.

Junior and Hlompho cleaned the table and took

the dirty dishes to the sink where Julie was
washing. Connie sighed in relief when Mofenyi
dosed off in Gabe's arms.

Florence: Kana where are you going to your

honeymoon?
Gabe: Thailand. We're going to spend a week
and come back because you know Mofenyi is
clingy and we don't want to trouble you.
Florence: Mos I'm happy to babysit for you
akere.
Connie: We know aunty.
Someone knocked on the door.

Connie: Are you expecting someone?

Gabe and Florence shook their heads. Connie

stood up and walked to the door then opened.

Connie: Goodness?
Goodness: (sniffling) I'm sorry for showing up
here when we are not even close Connie but i had
no one to run to. You are the only person i can
call a friend right now.
Connie: Aw sisi please come in.

She walked in and Connie closed the door.

Connie: (to the kids) Let go of the dishes I'll
wash them. You can go to your rooms now.

Julie wiped her hands and followed Hlompho

and Junior to their rooms. Gabe's brows
furrowed when she saw Goodness walking in to
the dining room with a tear stained face.

Goodness: Dumelang!.
Florence: Agee my girl. Gabriel I'm going to bed
and i think you should go put Mofenyi to bed
before she breaks her neck.
Gabe: You're right. Hello Goodness.
Goodness: Congratulations on your wedding by
the way.
Gabe: Thank you.

He stood up and followed Florence up the stairs

leaving Connie alone with Goodness. Goodness
sat down while Connie walked to the kitchen and
came back with a jar of juice and two glasses.

Connie: You don't look too good. E le gore

Where's Mimi?
Goodness: I left her in the car.
Connie: What? Goodness it's not safe. Did you at
least lock it
Goodness: My car has trackers and high security
system and yes i locked it Connie.

She poured herself juice and downed it before

explaining.

Goodness: I know i divorced Joe but seeing

Emily enjoying herself at a house i used to call
home with a man i used to call my husband that i
still love hurts Connie.
Connie: That's exactly how i felt when she was
with Lesley.
Goodness: (sighed) I don't know what to do
anymore. I can't let Mimi be bullied by Emily's
son like seriously. Joe always reminds me that
I'm the one who divorced him not the other way
around everytime i complain about Mimi being
scratched in the face and that's like a slap in the
face Connie ,salt on my wound.
Connie: Hei Emily Emily bathong. Did she look a
little remorseful mara?

Goodness shook her head.

Goodness: Okare she enjoys my pain.

Connie: You know what ,Emily is going to get
exactly what she deserves. For hurting me, you
and Lesley even though he deserves it just a little
bit. As a woman she should think about what
she's doing and ask herself if she's going to like it
when another woman do the same to her.
Goodness: Thank you so much for understanding
what I'm feeling.
Connie: Don't sweat it. Forget Joe and Emily
because you deserve better. Joe le yena will reap
what he sowed.

The following day at Bogopa inc.

Mike shook his head as the manager of the

financial department showed him all the
financial records.

Mike: Seriously i don't understand anything

here.

Gabe got in and massaged his temple in

frustration.
Gabe: Can one of you explain what in the world
is going on?
Him: The records aren't adding up.
Mike: You're in charge of the mula Josh. What's
not adding up here?
Him: (scratching his head) Someone has been
stealing from the company. They probably hired
an IT expert because there were literally no
evidence until we investigated further. I talked
with Joseph first and he told me that he'd talk to
you and handle it.
Gabe: (snapped) What! Someone had been
stealing and nobody bothered to tell me?
Him: Like i said sir I talked with Joe.
Mike: He didn't tell us anything Josh. How did
they get passed the security system?

He stood up and faced them

Mike: I think the person might be an employee
here. It's impossible to get passed the security
especially when you don't work here. It's
probably the same person who stole the business
ideas and sold them to the competitors and
messed up the deal.
Gabe: Who could that be?

Josh walked to the drawer and pulled out a

plastic bag.

Him: I found this in my office the day i found out

about the thief.

He handed it to Mike and Mike handed it to

Gabe.
Him: I didn't touch it and i didn't show it to
anyone. Maybe you could get it checked for
evidence.
Gabe: Good thinking. I want the person fired
and sued as soon as we find him or her. Thank
you Josh. We'll leave you to continue.

They walked out of the office and closed the

door.

Gabe: You handle the investigation. You know i

have get ready for my honeymoon
Mike: I can't believe someone would betray us. I
thought every employee is loyal in this place. I
mean the company is huge Gabriel
Gabe: Don't say a word about this. We don't
want the culprit to suspect anything do we?
Mike: No we don't. I have one suspect already
and i hope I'm wrong about him.
At the mall.

Puleng scrolled through her facebook page as she

stuffed her face with icecream. Her phone rang
and she clicked her tongue and rejected the call
as soon as Lesley's name flashed on the screen. It
rang again and she answered.

Puleng: What do you want?

Lesley: I want to apologize for how i treated you
Puleng.
Puleng: Bona Lesley i don't want to know what
happened between you and Connie or Emily but
that doesn't mean I'm going to allow you to treat
me like your play thing.
Lesley: That's why i called ,to apologize.
Puleng: I hope you mean it.
Lesley: I do. Can i see you later?
Puleng: No.
Lesley: I'm sorry baby please. Just for five
minutes gona.
Puleng: Okay.

She hung up and paid her bill then got out of the
restaurant. She bumped into someone on her
way and fell down.

Him: I'm sorry are you okay?

Puleng: Yeah I'm f...You! How are you out of Jail
after killing my sister in law? Do you what you
put us through?

Dragon shamefully looked down. Puleng's tears

rolled down her face as she remembered the
incident from years ago.
Him: It was an accident and I'm sorry. I know
my sorry won't bring back your sister in law but I
learnt my lesson and I...
Puleng: (crying) Shut up! You destroyed my
relationship with my brother and you also killed
my Andile. We were going to get married and
thanks to you he's dead!.
Him: Puleng....
Puleng: Don't say my name!

She turned away and ran to her car.

Later that day at Joe's.

Emily got her son dressed and waited for Joe to

finish up then they got out of the house and got
in the car.
Emily: This is amazing. It's been a long time
since i ate out. Lesley was stingy and he never
bothered to buy me a simple pizza.

Joe ignored her and drove out of the yard.

Emily: Are you okay?

Joe: Yes.
Emily: Are you sure?
Joe: Why did you mistreat Goodness when she
came over yesterday?
Emily: I didn't do anything to Goodness Joe. She
came to fetch Mimi and started yelling at me for
letting my child scratched hers I mean How's
stupid is that?
Joe: She's the mother of my child Emily okay? I
don't want her to permit me from seeing my
daughter.
Emily: You can just take her to court end of
story.

Joe sighed in annoyance and kept his mouth

shut.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 82

Two days later.

Emily sat down next to Joe in the boardroom full

of managers from different departments and the
top management. She leaned closer to Joe's ear.
Emily: (Whispering) what's going on?
Joe: I don't know.

Mike cleared his throat and everyone went silent.

Mike: As you know ,the past few months we had

an issue and lost the deal that was going to work
for all of us. We didn't lose because of our poor
performance or the lack of creative thinking but
we lost because someone stole our ideas and sold
them and that made us look stupid. Now the
purpose of this meeting is to let you know that
there's a rat in this company and that rat is
making us lose money which might make you
find yourselves unemployed.

There were murmuring and incoherent

complaints. Gabe stood up and glared at
everyone on the table.
Gabe: Whoever stole the money and our
business ideas will feel my wrath. Who do you
think you are going against me when I gave you a
job to feed and clothe you, bloody ungrateful
bastard!

Everyone kept quiet and Gabe crossed his arms.

Gabe: Josh found a pin in his office and we got it

checked and we found whose fingerprints are on
it and I'll deal with them later. For now i want
you to know that I'm not the one to be messed
with when it comes to my company. Consider
yourself fired if you mess up. I won't beg
someone to work for us when there are millions
of educated people.

A woman raised her hand.

Her: Who's the culprit? Are we all in trouble
sirs?
Mike: No.
Gabe: Meeting adjourned.

Everyone got out. Gabe stayed behind with Mike

and Mr grobler

Mr Grobler: How did you find the finger prints?

Mike: (chuckled) Let's just say i know my way
around here. I'm the COO after all.
Gabe: This whole thing annoys me.
Mr Grobler: We need to talk Gabriel. It's
personal
Gabe: If it's about your daughter I'm not
interested. I'm married and your daughter
doesn't have a self respect.
They got out and Gabe saw Joe and Emily talking
next to Joe's office and beckoned them to follow
him.

At Gabe's.

Connie put Mofenyi to sleep and went to the

kitchen. She poured herself juice and pulled out
her phone and called Goodness.

Goodness: Hello mme.

Connie: Hi. How are you?
Goodness: Not so good. I'm going to die Connie
this stress is too much.
Connie: What stress?
Goodness: I have to pay the rent and you know
I'm not working. The money Joe send is for
Mimi and i can't use it.
Connie: Go back home Goodness. Being here is
going to depress you. Spend few months at your
mother's until you get back on your feet. Living
in a shack with a child and also dealing with a
heartbreak is not healthy.
Goodness: How are you?
Connie: Good. I wanted to ask you to join me
and Palesa for girls night but you don't have to.
You have too much to deal with.

Connie heard someone knocking on the door and

looked around for Florence.

Connie: Someone is at the door. I'll call you

later.
Goodness: Sharp.

She hung up and walked to the door. She pulled

the door opened and Puleng got in.
Puleng: Hi.
Connie: Puleng? What are you doing here?
Puleng: Dragon is out of jail.
Connie: What? Let's go sit down.

They went to the living room and sat down.

Connie: What do you mean he's out of jail?

Puleng: I saw him a day before yesterday at
roaming around the mall.
Connie: Did he look like he broke out of jail?
Puleng: He was decent. Maybe he's on parole.
Connie: I don't think he's going to bother us
again.

Puleng cleared her throat.

Puleng: The real reason why I'm here is to ask
for your blessings.
Connie: Huh?
Puleng: Well Lesley and i are interested in each
other so i wanted to make sure you are okay with
it.

Connie chuckled and soon it turned into a loud

full laughter.

Connie: Sorry. I don't understand why you're

asking me permission to date my ex instead of
Emily. I don't care about Lesley or who he dates
Puleng.
Puleng: You're my sister in law so i wanted to
make sure you are comfortable with me dating
your ex because there are going to be many
family gatherings and I....
Connie: Go for it. I don't mind. Akere Lesley is
always in the house le gona to see Junior.
Puleng: Thanks. I better get going.

They stood up and went to the door. Connie

opened it and Puleng got out. She closed the
door and clapped her hands in shock

Connie: Iyoh!.

At Bogopa inc.

Emily rubbed her sweaty palms together

nervously as Gabe paged throw a huge file
containing old pictures of Joe and Emily's having
sex in the office.

Gabe: I wanted to humiliate you two in the

boardroom earlier but that's inhuman isn't it?

He looked at Joe.
Gabe: I trusted you Joseph Khoza. I thought you
were loyal and reliable but no you are a little
sneaky disgusting crook.
Emily: But that's not fair! Having sex in the
office is not being a crook or...
Gabe: (snapped) Shut up! You broke the
company's rules and you even paid MY
employees to keep their mouths shut about this
and not only did you have sex in the office and
cheat you also stole from me Joseph.
Emily: What? Is this true?
Gabe: You can't ask each other at home after you
pack your belongings and get the heck out.
You're suspended Emily and Joe consider
yourself fired my man.

He pushed the paper work in front of him

Gabe: I don't even know why I'm being this
sweet Joe. You don't even deserve to sign
nothing because you got yourself fired.

He pulled back his paper.

Gabe: Get yourself a lawyer because I'm suing

you for theft and for bribery in my company.
Take your baby mama and leave.
Joe: Sir it was only...it wasn't me!

He grabbed the pin and played with it.

Gabe: Isn't this yours?

Joe: It is but it doesn't mean anything.
Gabe: We investigated. We have professional
investigators Joe. We found your finger prints
everywhere. You are even stupid to use coffee as
a hacking device. I'm not going to tell you twice
Joe. Leave!

Emily furiously got off the chair and marched out

of the office. Joe followed her.

Emily: (Angry) Don't worry we'll take him to the

CCMA. I understand why he suspended me but
wrongfully dismissing you was extreme.
Joe: it's no use
Emily: Unless if you stole from the company.
Joe:...

She stared at him in disbelief.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 83

Emily: (Angry) Don't worry we'll take him to the

CCMA. I understand why he suspended me but
wrongfully dismissing you was extreme.
Joe: it's no use
Emily: Unless if you stole from the company
Joe:....

Emily stared at him in disbelief.

Emily: I hope you didn't steal anything from the

company Joe. Do you even understand what's
happening?
Joe: Let's go talk in my office Emily. You're
causing a scene.
Emily: (snapped) Used to be your office. You just
got fired!

Their colleagues turned their heads. Joe grabbed

Emily's wrist and dragged her to his office.

Emily: What's going to happen to me?

Joe: I have couple of saving in my bank account.
Surely we can survive until i get a new job.
Emily: He's suing you!.

She started pacing around the office.

Emily: You didn't think this through did you? Le

gona why would you steal when you earn enough
to survive Joseph?
Joe: (snapped) Stop making noise when you are
the one who drove me to steal from the company.
You demand a lot Emily and support two
children plus your allowance wasn't enough, I
hardly had money to buy myself pair of socks!
Shut up and help me pack before lunch time. I
don't want anyone to see my downfall
Emily: You got yourself in this whole mess Joe.
I'm not going to pack nothing for you. I'm
disappointed in you. I never told you to be
ungrateful and steal from your bosses.
Joe: (sighed) Stealing was bad but i promise
we'll get this through.

Emily held her head and tears of frustration

started falling down her cheeks. The phone on
Joe's table went off and he grabbed and placed it
on his ear.

Gabe: You have fifteen minutes to pack up and

get the heck out of my business. I have more
firing and hiring to do so we'll need the office.
Goodluck Joe.
He hung up. Emily wiped her tears and ran out
of the office. She bumped into her colleagues on
the way until she got out and headed to the
parking lot. She stood by Joe's car and called her
friend.

Itu: Hey Emily.

Emily: (crying) Chommie. Things aren't working
out
Itu: What's going on? Did something happen?
Emily: I just got suspended for violating the
company's rules. My boss found out about our
office affairs and also fired Joe for stealing the
company's funds and selling their ideas.
Itu: (Exclaimed) What?
Emily: He's suing Joe and we won't have money
to pay for the house. Can i please stay with you
when we lose the house?
Itu: This is not my house le gona Emily you have
a habit of seducing other people's men so even if
i had a say in this house i wasn't going to let you
live with me.
Emily: I thought you were my friend...
Itu: No no don't emotionally blackmail me
Emily. You created this whole thing. You and Joe
better fix it. I'll always be your friend.
Emily: How can you do....
Itu: You dumped a cop. Sharp.

The call cut off and Emily stared at the phone in

disbelief. She saw Joe coming towards her
carrying a box full of his stuff.

Joe: We'll sort this out babe i promise.

Emily: What are we going to do when we no
longer afford to pay for the house?
Joe: Suspension only last for three months in
this company so we'll live off your salary until i
find a job.
Emily: Are you kidding me right now?
Joe: What do you want me to say?
Emily: It's like you don't feel bad for being a
lying thief. Unlock the car right now before i
explode. Eish now we have to go take Josiah out
of the day care before you won't be able to afford
it anymore Joe!

He unlocked the car ,put the box in the boot then

got in the driver's seat.

Emily: Borrow me your phone.

He took it out and gave it to her. She went

straight to the phonebook and clicked on
Goodness's name and called her.
Goodness: Joe please leave me alone...
Emily: Calm down wena it's me.
Goodness: What do you want?
Emily: Go find a job to support your child
because Joseph just got fired.
Goodness: Why?
Emily: You can ask him when you meet up with
him. Just find a damn job Goodness and stop
asking questions.

She hung up and handed it back to Joe.

Joe: (snapped) What's wrong with you? Do you

really tell the world our problems?
Emily: Goodness is not the world. She's your
baby mama. You disappointed me watseba.
Later at Joe's.

Emily opened the door and Goodness marched

inside. She walked to the living room where Joe
was on his laptop. She slammed the laptop
closed

Goodness: (shouting) If you weren't greedy and

a whore of a man you wouldn't have lost me and
your job Joe. How on earth are you going to
support your children?

He stood up and glared at her.

Joe: You can't come to my house and insult m....

Goodness: Our house which you'll lose after few
months!
Joe: I'll find a job.
Goodness: (sighed) I'm unemployed. What will
Mimi and Josiah eat and wear in the meantime
Joe?
Joe: Like i said, I'm going to find a job geez!

He took his laptop and walked away. Goodness

shook her head and walked out of the house.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 84

The following morning.

Connie opened the door and Emily made her way
in. She looked around the house in envy and
crossed her arms. Connie wiped her daughter's
drool and stared at Emiily.

Connie: Hei mme. What can i do for you?

Emily: Hi. Nice house.
Connie: Thank you.
Emily: Are you going to offer me something to
drink or?
Connie: Tell me what you want first then you'll
get the drink you desperately want.

She swallowed and looked down at Mofenyi.

Emily: She looks like Katherine.

Connie: Emily you are wasting my time. If you
don't want to talk then please leave.
Emily: (clears her throat) I'm actually here to ask
you a favor.
Connie: Ask me a favor? Emily you are talking to
Constance.
Emily: I thought you and i were fine akere i
asked for forgiveness.
Connie: Follow me.

She closed the door and followed her to the

living room. They both sat down on the couch.

Emily: Your husband fired Joe and suspended

me.
Connie: Oh.
Emily: You didn't know?
Connie: I don't work at Bogopa inc anymore
Emily. Gabe didn't tell me anything. Le gona
what do you want me to do?
Emily: Please convince him to think it through.
Joe has two kids Connie ,you're a mother you
have to understand.
Connie: Emily my husband runs a business. He's
a fair boss and he won't just fire someone for no
reason.
Emily: You don't know how it feels.

Connie massaged her temple.

Connie: Joe is a thief and he deserves to be

punished. You wasted your time coming here
Emily, I'm not going to help you.
Emily: I know why you don't want to help me ,
you're still mad about Lesley right?
Connie: (laughed) Why would i be mad? I'm
married and happy. Lesley is also happy with my
sister in law.
Emily: (bitter) So you are happy with your
sister's left overs?
Connie smirked

Connie: Yes i am. I'm happily married and I'm

not chasing after other women's husband. I'm
not a homewrecker like you Emily sk don't come
here with your nonsense.
Emily: Please ask Gabe not sue Joe...we'll lose
the house Connie.
Connie: Emily you know where the door is.

She stood up and pointed at the doorway. Emily

swallowed a lump on her throat and walked out.

At Goodness's.

Joe got out of his car and headed to Goodness's

door carrying a large box of pizza and two litres
bottle of Coca-cola.
Joe: (Yelling) Goodness!

The door opened and Goodness stared at Joe in

disbelief

Joe: Hi
Goodness: Hello Joseph what are you doing
here?
Joe: I'm here to see you and Mimi. Can i come
in?

She moved aside and Joe got in. He put the food
on the table and sat down. Goodness closed the
door and sat down with him. Joe noticed the
boxes and frowned.

Joe: What's with the boxes?

Goodness: I'm moving out.
Joe: I thought you had no problem with staying
in a shack.
Goodness: I don't have money for rent. And
that's not the reason why I'm moving out. Why
didn't you call to let me know that you're coming
over?
Joe: I thought you had no...
Goodness: Does your baby mama know you're
here?
Joe: No but that's not important.

He smiled as Mimi's snores got louder on the

bed.

Joe: I bought food.

Goodness: I think you should save money
instead of carelessly spending it on fast food. You
just got fired yesterday.
Joe: (annoyed) Why are you so ungrateful? I'm
trying to be a good man to you Goodness. I'm
tired of the tension between us.
Goodness: Joe thank you for pizza but i really
have to finish packing. My cousin will be here
later to fetch us so please excuse me.
Joe: Kante where are you going?
Goodness: Back home. There's nothing left for
me here. If you want to see Mimi you can come
to visit or just fetch her to spent few weeks here.
Joe: You don't have to leave.

Goodness folded her arms.

Goodness: I made a decision you are not going to

change my mind. This is about me ebile not you.
I don't want to stay here and watch you with the
lady that ruined our marriage. I want to find a
job and do something with my degree instead of
depending on a man. You wasted my time.
She stood up and walked to the door and opened
it. Joe stood up and walked out. He sadly made
her way to the car and got in.

Later at the restaurant.

Emily hugged Itu and sat down.

Emily: Sorry for a short notice meeting. I wanted

us to talk about a way forward.
Itu: Emily please don't involve in your problems.
Emily: Please Itu you have to help me. We are
going to get evicted. Connie refused to talk to her
husband.
Itu: What did you expect akere you hurt the poor
girl.
Emily: She forgave me.
Her eyes wondered behind and saw Lesley
laughing with Puleng drinking champagne.

Itu: What
Emily: It's Lesley.

Itu turned around and shrugged before she

turned back to Emily

Itu: I'm glad he moved on.

Emily: (snapped) Whose side are you on?
Itu: I'm not going to agree with whatever you say
Emily, I'm not that type of a friend. I'll always
tell you the truth even when it hurts. You messed
up when you dumped the man who truly loved
you for casual sex at the office with a married
man who turned out to be a thief!.
Emily:....
Itu: Put on a brave face and handle the heat.
The waitress came to them and Itu ordered.
Instead of ordering Emily stood up and walked
straight to where Lesley and Puleng were.

Emily: This looks cute.

Lesley's smile faded.

Emily: This is what you settled for? A prostitute?

Puleng: Excuse me!
Lesley: What are you doing here?
Emily: I see you drinking champagne and being
all showy. Are you trying to make me jealous?

Lesley held back a laugh and shook his head in

disbelief.
Puleng: I feel so embarrassed for you. Your
friend is waiting for you there. Let's take the
bottle and go drink in the car.

Emily felt her blood burn in jealousy and her

tears threatening to fall. Itu hid her face with her
purse already feeling the second hand
embarrassment

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 85

Emily felt her blood burn in jealousy and her

tears threatening to fall. Itu hid her face with her
purse already feeling the second hand
embarrassment.

Emily: (Shouting) Why would you replace me

with the damaged goods?

Puleng stood up with an attitude and pointed her

finger at her.

Puleng: Call me that again I'll wash your face

with this soup missy don't mess with me! Save
yourself and your friend from embarrassment
and leave this restaurant.

Emily grabbed Puleng by her boobs and Puleng

slapped her so hard that the other customers
gasped in shock. Itu came running to them and
dragged Emily outside.
Itu: (snapped) Have you gone mad? Emily how
can you attack Puleng like he took your man
when you are the one who left Lesley? Even if he
was still your man a little self respect was
required.
Emily: If you have nothing to say to me then
leave me alone Itumeleng you are the worst
friend anyway.

Itu chuckled a bit before dragging her by her

chin.

Itu: If you thought i was going to support you in

this nonsense you are wrong my sister. You left
Lesley for Joe now that he has lost his job you
want to attack Lesley's woman in order to get
him to accept you back with open arms. If you
want to leave you can leave but I'm not going to
stand and watch you embarrass yourself and clap
hands for you like fighting for a man is an
achievement. Shame on you.
She clicked her tongue and walked back inside
the restaurant and walked to Lesley's table.

Itu: I'm sorry about Emily. I don't know what's

wrong with her. I hope she didn't hurt you.
Puleng: No I'm fine thank you for your apology.
Your friend has issues and i suggest you talk to
her before she gets herself into a lot of trouble.
Iru: I will. Enjoy your date.

She walked out and found Emily crying against

the car. She unlocked the car and got in then
waited for Emily to pull herself together. Emily
opened the door and got in then closed.

Itu: Do you even love Joe or you're just with him

for his money and sex?
Emily: Of course i do.
Itu: if you did Lesley and Puleng wouldn't have
bothered you. You hurt Lesley when you slept
around behind his back and now it bothers you
when he finds someone to fill the empty void?

Emily kept quiet.

Itu: Emily people are building homes and wena

you're busy hurting other people. You
backstabbed Connie now look at her now ,she's
married and happy with her husband and kids.
What are you hoping to achieve by hurting these
people?
Emily: You're acting like you are better than me
when you also go to clubs and sleep with other
men. What a hypocrite!
Itu: Jeffrey is the love of my life and i take his
love for me seriously. I also go to clubs with him
so shut your damn mouth. You hurt Goodness
forgetting that you are a woman and you
wouldn't want someone to hurt you like you hurt
her.

She started the car and drove out of the parking

lot. She played music and sang along to avoid
talking to Emily.

At Palesa's.

Palesa smiled as she watched Roy smiling with

his phone. She lowered the volume on the TV
and cleared her throat.

Palesa: You're in love.

Roy: No I'm not.
Palesa: You're smiling with your phone. What's
her name?
Roy: Naledi but I'm not smiling because of her.
I'm smiling because of this.
He turned his phone in Palesa's direction and
Palesa took it. She looked at the picture of a car
and squealed in excitement

Roy: I know right, I've been saving and I'm going

to add the money with the one we got from
selling Mama's house and the one i claimed. Do
you like it?
Palesa: Yes.
Roy: I do too. I'm tired of riding taxis.

Someone knocked on the door and Roy went to

open. MmaRoy emerged from her bedroom
holding two dresses.

MmaRoy: Can you do me a favor and wash this

for me my girl?
Palesa: It's late and why didn't you wash them
yourself in the morning MmaRoy?
MmaRoy: Mxm why did i even bother....

Roy came back to the living room followed by a

furious looking lady.

Her: (shouting) I know you in here Mike!

Palesa: Hey! Excuse me this is my house and you
can't just barge in here and start shouting like a
mad woman.
Her: You must be his new girlfriend. Are you the
one who convinced him to sell the house?

MmaRoy looked at Palesa and looked back at the

lady.

MmaRoy: Your Mike doesn't live here.

Her: Shut up wena you know nothing! Bona
Palesa tell Mike that his money will finish and
he'll regret selling the house.
Palesa: It's his house and you don't have the
right to make demands since you are the one who
divorced him. Mike was right ,you are crazy. Get
the heck out of my house before i damage your
nose.

She clicked her tongue and turned around then

walked to the door.

Roy: I hope Naledi doesn't turned out to be that

type of a woman.
Palesa: Some women don't respect themselves
you know ,I mean showing up at someone else's
house and yelling for your ex husband is insane.

The following day at Bogopa inc.

Gabe played with his pen as Mike and Mr
Grobler argued over new business ideas.
Someone knocked at the door and Gabe stood
up.

Gabe: Your ideas are both great and merging

them will save us a lot of i told you sos.

He walked to the door and opened. His new

assistant he'd be sharing with Mike got in
wearing a black tight dress.

Her: Goodmorning Sir I'm Didi.

Gabe: Welcome.

He turned back to his chair and Didi walked to

the desk Connie used to work at and placed her
bag.
Didi: Goodmorning gentlemen.
Mr Grobler: Morning. I'll leave you to discuss it
with Gabe.

He got out and Mike smiled at Didi.

Mike: Mr Grobler made a good choice.

Gabe: Let's hope.

He looked at Didi.

Gabe: I'm Gabe and this is Mike and I'm sure

you already know and I'm also sure that you can
handle working for the both of us.
Didi: Yes sir of course.
Gabe: Stick to formalities and do your work
correctly and that will make us happy. Welcome
to Bogopa inc.
Mike stood up with a file and walked to her table
then put it there.

Mike: You'll be handling our Emails and also our

meetings. Our schedules are in the file ,make
sure you record them and memorize them
because this is a huge company and we want no
mistakes.

She smiled and glanced at Gabe's ring finger

then back to his his face.

Didi: Thank you. I won't disappoint you sirs.

At Joe's.

Emily opened the fridge and counted the

remaining eggs and shut it door closed. She
walked to the kitchen where Joe was playing
with his son.

Emily: Aren't you suppose to be looking for a

Job or a lawyer because Gabe is serious about
suing you.
Joe: Give me a break Emily. You act like I'm the
only one without a job.
Emily: I got suspended not fired. You better get
yourself together because I'm going to leave if we
lose this house.
Joe: (disbelief) Oh that's your definition of love?

Emily crossed her arms.

Emily: You expect me to drown in debts and

starve to death?
Joe: Akere i said we are going to get through this
together. Why are you talking about leaving?
Emily: Because i can't watch my son grow in
broken poor home. We are only left with six
eggs.
Joe: They are enough and it's not like i don't
have anything in the bank.

Emily turned around and walked to their room.

Joe followed her and put the baby in the cot then
grabbed her by her hips.

Joe: You love me and love conquers all Emily. I

love you too baby.

He kissed her lips and broke off when his phone

rang. He let go off Emily and answered his
phone.

Joe: Jeff my man!

Jeff: I heard you got fired after stealing. What's
wrong with you man?
Joe: (sighed) Can we not talk about it. I already
have Emily to lecture me.
Jeff: Let's meet tomorrow at half four.
Joe: Sure

He hung up and Emily stared him from toe to

head.

Emily: Be a man and beg Jeff to let us stay at his

house when we get evicted. Don't be useless
Joseph.

She walked to the connected bathroom and shut

the door.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 86

At Bogopa inc.

Gabe shut his laptop and got up from his seat

then looked at Mike on the other desk.

Gabe: I have to get home real quick. Can you

handle the rest of the meetings?
Mike:Yeah of course. Emergency?
Gabe: No. The honeymoon remember, Connie is
dragging her feet with the preparations.
Mike: Okay i got you man.
He walked out and Mike took out his phone
completely ignoring Didi and called Palesa.

Palesa: Hi.
Mike: You sound like you are not in the mood to
talk
Palesa: I just got home from work so I'm tired.
Mike: Okay. How are you though?
Palesa: I'm good.
Mike: (sighed) I did something didn't I?

He glanced at Didi who was deep in her work.

Palesa: Your ex wife was here and she made

quite a scene.
Mike: What?
Palesa: She thought you were in my house.
Listen Michael please tie your dog because i
don't want her to burge in my house ever again.
Mike: I'm sorry but Reb and I aren't talking
anymore so i don't know what she was trying to
do. Maybe she heard that you and i are talking
and got...
Palesa: (laughed) Talking?
Mike: Akere we have something going on...so
maybe she got a little jealous.
Palesa: I hope she doesn't become a problem.
Mike: Rest okay. I'll call you later.
Palesa: Sharp!.

He hung up and sighed. Didi scratched her chair

to get Mike's attention.

Didi: Sir?
Mike: Yes?
Didi: Can i ask you something?
Mike: Okay?
Didi: When did this company start? I mean i
barely know the history of this company because
there's nothing on the media.
Mike: Gabriel inherited the company from his
father and the rest you can ask Gabriel himself.

At Jeffrey's.

Jeff handed Joe a bottle of beer and sat down

beside him on the couch.

Jeff: Man what drove you that far?

Joe: I have responsibilities.
Jeff: You didn't have too many responsibilities
when you were with Goodness. Man Emily is
ruining you life why can't you see that?
Joe: My responsibilities has nothing to do with
Emily. I have two children remember?
Jeff: You have no job now because you stole from
the company because of your so called
responsibilities. She's going to leave you soon
and you're going to regret tearing Goodness's
precious heart into tiny pieces.

He ignored him and downed the beer. Jeff shook

his head and leaned back on the couch. The door
opened and Itu got in

Itu: Babe we are out of on...oh hi Joe.

Joe turned to Itu and faked a smile and waved a

little.

Joe: Hello.
Itu: We are out of onions so I'm going back to
the mall to buy them.
Jeff: Sure. Be safe out there.

She leaned down and kissed him then took the

keys on the table and got out.

Joe: Listen can you do me a favor?

Jeff: What's up?
Joe: I know that I won't have money to pay for
the house so i was wondering if you could let us
stay for a while at least until we get back on our
feet because I know we are going to get evicted
soon.
Jeff: (sighed) I already had this conversation
with Itumeleng and I'm sorry i have to refuse.
You better soet yourself out because I can't help
you this time
Joe: We are bros
Jeff: But you don't take my advises. You like
doing things on your own and when they
backfire the first person you run to is me.
Joe: Come on man then please just loan me some
money to take Emily out....
Jeff: Are you kidding me right now. You don't
take things serious Joseph ,I just told you about
Emily.

He stood up and pointed at the door.

Jeff: I have a lot of work to do so let's finish this

conversation tomorrow
Joe: Are you kicking me out?
Jeff: I have to be busy Joe and i don't feel like
talking about your Emily right now.

Joe grabbed his keys and walked to the door. Jeff

sighed in relief when the door shut closed
Later that evening at the mall.

Itu got in the car and reversed it out of the

parking and her eye caught sight of Emily getting
out of an expensive shoe shop and honked at her.
Emily ran to the car with her son on her back.

Itu: Hi.

She opened the door and she got in. She got her
son off her back and dragged him to her lap.

Emily: You're such a life saver.i don't have

money for a taxi fare watseba
Itu: You just got out of an expensive shoe store.
Aren't you suppose to be saving money?
Emily: (chuckled) Dont worry about that hun.
Akere i have to spend Joe's money before Gabe
sue him. It will be such a waste to let Gabe take
everything when he already has millions.

Itu shook her head and drove her car.

Itu: I'd be happy to pray for you when things go

downhill for you.
Emily: Why are you so negative Itumeleng?
Itu: You annoy me because you think the world is
yours. You always get away with anything and
that irks me but i know your day is coming. Dont
bother responding because I'm not in the mood
to argue with you.

Emily rolled her eyes and focused on the road.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 87

That night at Jeffrey's.

Jeff leaned back against headboard and watched

Itu as she tied her hair in front of a mirror.

Jeff: You've been quiet ever since you came back.

Itu: I just feel bad.
Jeff: What's making you feel that way?

She put on her bonnet and walked to the bed.

She climbed onto it and laid her head on
Jeffrey's chest.
Itu: We are happy and living the life we always
wanted while other people are suffering out
there. I met Emily at the mall and gave her a lift.
She was coming from the shoe store with her son
and they bags she had...yoh!
Jeff: (annoyed) Emily is so inconsiderate and i
don't think she loves Joe. Joe le yena is so stupid
to play with Goodness's heart. He deserves this
too.
Itu: I just feel sorry for Emily's son because
Goodness yena will take good care of Mimi.
Jeff: Joe has to learn a lesson. I'm not going to
let any of them in my house.
Itu:....
Jeff: I know Emily is your friend but Joe is also
my bestfriend and I'm not about to carry
someone else's burdens and help them when they
got themselves messed up.
Itu: I understand where you're coming from but
what about Tshego?
Jeff: He's their son. They'll have to figure it out
akere Joe went ahead and impregnated Emily
when his wife was already pregnant so he'll have
to find a way to take care of him. I'm not getting
involved Itumeleng and I don't want to have this
conversation again.

He pulled her chin and kissed her.

Jeff: You have a big heart and you always to find

the best out of anyone. I love that about you but
babe some people deserve to suffer for hurting
other people. You know that right.
Itu: I know.

He kissed her and pulled the duvet to cover

themselves.

The following morning at Gabe's.

Connie laid in bed with Mofenyi in her arms and
stared at Gabe as he tied his tie.

Connie: Your sister was here the other day.

Gabe: oh. What did she want?
Connie: She came to ask for blessings but you
were already at work so she told me.
Gabe: (laughed) Ai at least she's growing up.
Connie: She asked if i was okay if she dates
Lesley.
Gabe: Excuse me! I hope you said no Connie
Connie: Love I'm not with Lesley anymore and i
don't see a problem with her dating him because
everyone deserves true love.
Gabe: Connie that guy dumped you and kicked
you out for crying out loud. It's obvious that he'll
do the same thing to my sister.
Connie: Puleng quit selling her body to be a good
woman for Lesley. Lesley le yena changed
Gabriel. Give them a chance

Gabe sighed.

Gabe: Your Ex doesn't respect me and i hate the

fact that he'll always come here ,not as Junior's
father but as my brother in law. That's messed
up Connie.
Connie: (cleared her throat) That's not all.
Gabe: Don't tell me they are getting married.
Connie: Puleng met Dragon at the mall.
Gabe: (snapped) What! Why are you telling me
this now Constance?

Mofenyi woke up and bursted out in tears. Gabe

walked to the bed and took her out of Connie's
arms.
Connie: It's not a big deal because he served his
sentence akere
Gabe: Four years in jail is nothing. He killed
Katherine!
Connie: (snapped) Then what do you want me to
do Gabriel? What are you going to do about it?
Let it go because there's nothing to do about it.
Gabe: He killed my wife and mother of my kids
so don't tell me to let it go. I would've still had a
wife if he....

Connie got out of bed and faced Gabe.

Connie: She was my sister and I've decided to let

the past go. You don't have to constantly remind
me that I'm just a replacement here. Why did
you marry me if you don't consider me as your
wife?
Gabe: You know that's not what i meant...
She covered her mouth as a sob escaped her lips
and tears streaming down. She ran to the
bathroom and shut the door. Gabe put Mofenyi
in her cot and went to the bathroom where
Connie was trying to fix her face.

Gabe: Babe?
Connie: This is the reason why I didn't want to
tell you about Dragon because i knew it was
going to bring back the memories and remind me
of my place here.
Gabe: I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you feel
this way.

He wiped her tears and kissed her.

Gabe: I hate to see you like this. You are not a

replacement, I love you. I'll be in the bedroom if
you need me okay.
He pecked her lips and got out of the bathroom
and closed the door. He sat on the bed and
tickled Mofenyi who let out tiny adorable
giggles.

Julie: (Yelling from the other side of the door)

Dad can i come in?
Gabe: Yeah.

The door opened and she got in twirled.

Julie: Goodmorning how do I look? Aunty

bought me this skirt and I've been saving it for
today.
Gabe: You look fancy.
Julie: (giggled) Phela i have to look fancy if I'm
going to stand in front of a crowd and present my
speech. Hey little sis.
She kissed both of Mofenyi's cheeks.

Julie: Tea is ready. Where's aunty?

Gabe: (sighed) In the bathroom. Let's go down
then.

He stood up and followed Julie out.

Later that morning at Joe's.

Joe held a piece of new lingerie and pair of

stilettos in Emily's face with rage.

Joe: We are about to be poor and wena you

spent my money on this junk!
Emily: Akere i was trying to be romantic and
make our night amazing so we can forget that we
have problems.
Joe: Emily can't waste money on lingerie and
shoes when you know we are going to need for
groceries. These heels cost R700 and i don't even
want to get started on this piece of junk. Tshego
still wear diapers and you know expensive they
are.
Emily: (snapped) I didn't tell you to still from
Gabe and get yourself fired. Don't blame me for
trying to forget the crisis we are going through at
this moment.

Joe threw the lingerie on her face and shouted.

Joe: What kind of a woman are you? Why are

you so inconsiderate and stupid! I stole because
my money wasn't enough to satisfy us because
you kept chowing it with expensive things like
you worked for it when your work was to scrap
the floors.

Emily raised her hand and slapped Joe across the

face.

Emily: Don't ever disrespect me like that!

Joe threw her stilettos on the floor and grabbed

her by her neck and started suffocating her.
Emily kicked her legs and tapped Joe's arm few
times. He let her go and Emily fell on the floor
completely silent. He crouched down and shook
her.

Joe: Emily? No no.

He placed his two fingers at the side of her neck

and sighed in relief when he found her pulse
then Tshego started crying in the bedroom. He
carried Emily to the bedroom and laid her on the
bed then picked up Tshego.

Joe: Let's go make you something to eat.

He got out of the room and closed the door then

walked to the kitchen.

At Bogopa inc.

At lunch time Mike took his car keys and looked

at Gabriel and Didi.

Gabe: Aren't going to eat with me?

Mike: My little sister has been dying to try a new
restuarant at the mall so I'm taking her.
Gabe: (smiled) That's sweet. Tell her i said hi.
Mike: Ok. I'll see you both after lunch.

He walked to the door and got out. Gabe took

out his phone and called Connie when it went to
voicemail he left a message.

Gabe: I'm sorry about this morning babe. I swear

i didn't mean to make you feel useless. I love
you.

He sent the message and placed his phone on the

desk with a heavy sigh.

Didi: I don't mean to pry but how long have you

and your been married?

Gabe started at her with a startled expression.

Gabe: You're still here Kanti?

Didi: I'm on a diet so no lunch today.
Gabe: Okay. I don't discuss my marriage with
anyone Didi.
Didi: But I'm your assistant and I can help you
because you look like you and your wife have
problems.

Gabe stood up and took his phone and keys.

Gabe: You were hired to manage our emails and

meetings and other things not to dig up gossip. If
you still love your new job Didi you will stick to
what you were hired for. I'm not sweet like Mike
,I will fire you if you continue with your
unprofessionalism.

He walked to the door and got out. Didi covered

her mouth in shock and stood up. She walked to
Gabe's desk and grabbed the picture frame of
Gabe and his family then smiled in envy.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 88

Later at Joe's.

Emily massaged her sore neck as she woke up

from her unconscious state. She got out of bed
and walked to the dressing table. She gasped
loudly when she saw red marks around her neck.
The door opened and Joe got in carrying his
sleeping son.

Joe: You're awake?

He walked to the side of the bed and laid Tshego
in his cot then walked behind Emily and kissed
the marks around her neck.

Emily: How long have I been out?

Joe: Few hours.
Emily: Why did you strangle me Joseph? You
almost killed me!

Joe turned her around and looked at her in the

eyes.

Joe: Don't ever lay your hands on me again

Emily. Do you understand me?
Emily: (shouting) I slapped you because you
insulted me Joe. I have a right to be respected.
Joe: Shut up. You'll wake Tshego.
Emily walked to the door and forcefully opened
it then stormed out. Joe followed her out and
yanked her back.

Joe: I'm the man of this house and I'm tired of

your attitude. I won't stand here and allow you to
spent my money when we close to losing
everything. We are in a relationship Emily and
what you do with the money will affect us in the
future.
Emily: Future? We don't have a future together
Joseph because I'm leaving you.
Joe: Excuse me?
Emily: I can't do this anymore.

Joe stared at her in disbelief.

Joe: Emily what are you trying....

Emily: It's over Joe.
Joe: I'm sorry about earlier i didn't mean to lose
control.
Emily: It's not about earlier. You and i aren't
going anywhere ,we are not working..
Joe: (laughed) Wow bravo! You are not even
hiding the fact that you are a gold digger. Fine
you can leave whenever you want but make sure
you leave my cards ,car keys and Tshego. You can
visit him whenever you want because i won't
allow my son to live in the streets.
Emily: Just like that?
Joe: You thought i was gonna beg you? I'm not
Lesley or one of your past exes Emily. I don't beg
a woman especially who i wasnt strongly
connected to.

He turned around and walked back in the

bedroom leaving Emily with her mouth hung
open in shock and regret. She went to the living
room and called Itu.
Itu: Hi.
Emily: Hey. I need a favor
Itu: What's up?
Emily: I just broke up with Joe and i need a place
to stay until i get back on my feet.
Itu: So what do you want me to do? I told you
that my place is off limits Emily. I don't want to
get involved in your shenanigans with Joe.
Emily: Please...
Itu: Book a hotel room for a week and look for a
place in the meantime.
Emily: I don't have money to pay for a hotel
room Itumeleng.
Itu: Use the same money you used to buy
expensive shoes Emily.
Emily: Yoh!
Itu: I have to take care of my man. Call me when
you have something that makes sense to tell me.
Sharp.

She hung up before Emily could say something.

Emily: (whispering) When days are dark friends

are few.

She clapped her hands and crossed her arms.

At Gabe's.

Connie carried Mofenyi to her and Gabriel's

bedroom. She halted Junior's steps.

Connie: Tell Juliana to get started with lunch.

There's packet of chips in the lower cabinet. I
have to put your little sister to sleep.
Junior: Okay mama.

She smiled and got in the room. She put Mofenyi

in her cot and walked to the dressing table. She
sat down on the chair and opened a drawer. She
took out her locket and opened, inside there was
an old picture of her and Katherine.

Connie: I miss you so much. I wish we got along

before you left the world.

She closed the locket and clipped it around her

neck. The door opened and Gabe got in looking
healthy as always.

Gabe: Babe?

He walked behind her and looked in her eyes on

the mirror.
Gabe: I called you but you didn't answer. I said
I'm sorry about this morning.
Connie: I got your message. I love you too
Gabriel ,I know you didn't mean that but it's
hard for me to talk about Katherine because i feel
like it's my fault that she was always angry.
Gabe: Connie, Kathy and i didn't fix thing either.
Don't beat yourself up babe.

She stood up and wrapped her arms around

Gabe then captured his lips.

Connie: How was work?

Gabe: The new assistant Grobler hired is going
to be a nuisance.
Connie: Yah?
Gabe: (smirked) I missed working with you. You
knew exactly what I needed.
She tilted her head as Gabe kissed her neck. Her
fingers moved the front of her husband's
trousers and unbuckled his belt while his arms
sneaked around her waist and brought her closer
to him.

Later that evening at Joe's.

Joe opened his laptop and wrote an apology and

emailed it to Gabe then started looking for open
vacancies. Emily got out of the bathroom and
moved towards the bed where Joe was and
dropped her towel.

Emily: I think we need to talk Joe.

Joe turned to her and his bulged out when he

met Emily's naked Glory.
Joe: We have nothing to talk about. You said you
are done and I've made peace with it.
Emily: I was just angry.
Joe: But you thought i was going to beg you to
stay. I'm not like that Emily.

Emily walked to him and took the laptop and

placed it on the bedside table then straddled
him.

Joe: What are you doing?

Emily: shhh.

He got her off him and stood up.

Joe: Put on something and go to sleep. I'm not in

the mood for your childish games.
Emily: I'm sorry.
Joe: What we have is not a stable relationship.
We got together because of Tshego. Yeah the sex
is great but we don't feel anything for each other
except a sexual attraction and it's not healthy at
all.
Emily: What do you mean? You don't want me?
Joe: Goodnight.

He took off his socks and got in the sheets. Emily

bent down and picked up her towel in shame.

The following morning.

Gabe walked in his shared office and greeted

Mike and Emily.

Didi: I transferred an Email from Joseph Khoza

into your personal Emails sir.
Gabe: Thanks.
Mike: Do we have meetings today?
Didi: Yes. At 12:00 with the builders. That's
pretty much all for today.

Gabe looked the other way in annoyance.

Gabe: The first thing you have to do when you

get here is tell us about our meetings instead of
waiting for one of us ask, you were
unprofessional yesterday and now you are not
even organized.

Mike shot Gabe a confused stare.

Mike: Uhh?
Gabe: Nothing to trouble yourself with.
Didi swallowed and guilty looked down. She
murmured a tiny sorry sir before getting back to
work.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 89

3 WEEKS LATER.

At Joe's.

Joe wiped his hands and answered his phone.

Joe: Hey man

Jeff: How are you holding up man?
Joe: What do you mean?
Jeff: I heard that Emily called it quits.

Jeff walked to his room and sat on the bed then

grabbed a picture frame of him and Goodness.

Joe: Yeah but I'm glad we are not together

anymore. She's manipulative and kind of toxic
Jeff: Did she take Tshego?
Joe: No. Tshego is asleep as we speak. Emily is
unpredictable and nobody knows what she might
do to get money, I don't want my son to be part
of her schemes.
Jeff: What if she takes you to court?
Joe: She won't. We talked about it and since she
wants no responsibility she didn't argue.

He heard him chuckling on the other side.

Jeff: I'm glad you're doing better man. Seems
like your former boss forgave you man.
Joe: (sighed) I know and I'm guilty for stealing
from such a great man.
Jeff: Mara are you looking for a job?
Joe: I did but there weren't good offers le gona i
couldn't leave Tshego alone. I'm going to do
something with the money I've been saving to
buy Goodness a car before she divorced me.
Jeff: Emily doesn't know about it?
Joe: No. I didn't want her to milk me dry Jeffrey.

Tshego stirred awake and Joe smiled at him

Joe: Listen man my son just woke up. We are

going to visit Mma so I'll take to you later
alright.
Jeff: Sure.
He hung up and Joe picked Tshego up and
walked to the kitchen to make him something to
eat.

At Bogopa inc.

Didi rushed to the elevator where Gabe was. She

got in and pressed closed. Gabe folded his arms
with a serious face.

Didi: May i ask you something Sir?

Gabe: Go ahead.

She flipped her hair and looked at Gabriel.

Didi: Does this job require business vacation? I

mean I've never heard you talking about going
on a business trip.
Gabe: I usually go on a business trip with
Michael.
Didi: So where does that leave me?
Gabe: Didn't you go through your job
description?

The elevator lights switched off and it came to

stop. Didi let out a screech and clung on Gabe.

Gabe: Calm down!

He took out his phone and switched on the flash

light. He calmly pressed an emergency.

Gabe: We just have to wait 15 minutes.

Didi: (exclaimed) Fifteen! I have claustrophobia.
I can't do this....
She breathed heavily and Gabe crouched down
on the floor and helped her calm down. He
checked network on his phone and growled in
frustration.

Didi: Is this the first time...

Gabe: It happened once. Calm down, nothing
bad is going to happen to us.
Didi: I should've taken stairs

They backed to the wall and waited. Didi noticed

that Gabe's ring finger had no ring and smiled.

Didi: You're not wearing your wedding band..

Gabe: (annoyed) My wife made it her necklace.
Didi: You should buy one soon before giving us
single ladies a chance to devour you.
She lifted her skirt up and got on top of Gabe
and gave him a kiss on the chin. Gabe roughly
pushed her off and flashed the light in her eyes.

Gabe: (snapped) What the heck was that? You

think this is a fictional story neh? You think this
is "Assistant seduced boss and they fell in love"
type of book. Where do you get the nerve to
make moves on me?
Didi: Um....eh..I didn't mean to...Sir please I'm
sorry.

Gabe stood up and calmly folded her arms.

Gabe: A day without my wedding band you

thought you had a chance with me? I love my
wife and i won't let just a mere assistant
disrespect. You know what when we get out of
here i want you to go to your table and pack up
your things. There are many people out there
who are dying to have your job and they won't do
anything to jeopardize it.

The lights switched back on and the elevator

moved. Didi shamefully fixed her skirt and wiped
off her tears then stood up.

Didi: I'm sorry sir please.

Gabe: Firing you will give you an opportunity to
go home and learn manners and self respect.
Didi: (crying) It won't happen again i promise.

The doors dinged and opened. Gabe got out and

saw Mike talking to one of the stuff members. He
walked to them and cleared his throat.

Gabe: Ask Grobler to find us another Assistants.

Didi is fired.
Mike: What? You can leave Josh.
When the guy walked away Mike noticed Didi
crying silently heading to their office.

Mike: Firing stuff will cost us money Gabriel.

What did the poor girl even do.
Gabe: (calm) She sexually came at me.
Mike: What does that even mean?
Gabe: She grinded on me and kissed me. I don't
feel comfortable with that Michael. It's extremely
inappropriate and disrespectful. She knows I'm
married yet she made moves on me.
Mike: seriously? She looks so innocent though
Gabe: Those innocent ones are the most
dangerous ones. I love Connie and if she finds
out about this she's going to flip.
Mike: I'll go to Grobler and release another post
for assistants.
Gabe patted his shoulder with a smile.

Gabe: Thanks man.

Later at Gabe's.

Connie laughed as Sarah narrated her story in

labour ward. She dipped another cookie Puleng
brought in a coffee.

Sarah: But it was all worth it.

Palesa: Ai nna i don't think I'll survive labour
ladies.
Connie: Hah wena Lisa you are the strongest
woman i know besides Roy and Michael would
be there to hold your hands.
Palesa: Mike and I aren't that serious.
Connie smirks and sipped her coffee.

Connie: I'm so glad we got to meet up and talk.

It's nice laughing with my bestfriend and sisters
in law.
Puleng: Yeah this is nice. Hey Sarah How's
Mmapule treating you?

Sarah chuckled.

Sarah: She can be too much to handle but Thato

set traps for her. If she gets too much she's going
to old age home.

They laughed. The door opened and Gabe got in.

Gabe: Watseba bare when life gives you lemons

you just gotta go to your wife and demand your
band back because....oh we have guest.
Connie laughed

Connie: That bad huh?

Gabe: Yah. I need my ring back, I'll get you a
new necklace. Hello ladies.
Connie: Okay just not now okay
Gabe: Excuse me bo mma I had a bad day as you
can see.
Connie: Go rest I'll call you to dinner.
Gabe: Thanks babe.

He walked to the stairs. The ladies continued

chatting and enjoying their day.

Meanwhile at the club.

Emily gulped her third glass as she watched Itu
danced with her man. She looked at all the men
at the VIP section with admiration.

Emily: (yelling) Itu!

She stood up shakily and walked to Itu and

Jeffrey.

Emily: Aren't you going home?

Itu: We are still having fun.
Emily: Why isn't Joe here?

Jeff looked at her in disbelief.

Jeff: Because he has a son to take care of. You

can leave if you want to.
She felt someone grabbing her arm and looked
behind her. One of the man from the VIP section
flashed her a gummy smile.

Him: Wanna get out of here?

Emily: (blushing) Sure.

Itu and Jeff's mouths hung open in disbelief.

BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 90

The same night at the club.

Emily walked out with the man she's been eyeing
at the VIP section. The guy handed her his jacket
and Emily blushed as put it on.

Emily: Where are we going?

Him: My place, my hotel room. You don't mind
do you?
Emily: Not at all.

They walked to his car and he opened the door

for Emily and she got in. He also got in and
started the car.

At Gabe's.

Connie looked at her hips and chuckled a little

then looked back at her husband who was
already in bed staring at her.
Connie: My hips are too wide. I think I visit the
gym
Gabe: I think you are good as long as you don't
have a saggy big belly I'm fine with your body.

Connie threw her head bag and laughed.

Connie: I know but it's not healthy to not

exercise.
Gabe: You can jog with me every morning babe
that will be better. Come to bed

She walked to the bed and climbed then got in

the sheets.

Connie: Puleng changed like for real this time.

Gabe: You think?
Connie: Yeah. She's nice and matured this time.
Gabe: I'm glad. I'm willing to put the past behind
us and move on, I know she still think i hate her
that's why she went completely silent when i got
in earlier.
Connie: Maybe you too need to talk. I can ask
her to meet up with you so you can talk
Gabe: Tell her to come straight to my office.

He leaned down and kissed her.

Connie: (smiled) I love you.

Gabe: I love you more.

The following day at the hotel.

Emily was woken by commotion outside and

looked beside her. The guy was snoring lightly
with his back facing her. "I'm his wife and I think
I'm allowed to go in" she heard a loud angry
female voice shouting and shoot the guy.

Emily: Hey wake up!

He opened his one eye and yawned.

Him: mmmh?
Emily: Something is going on outside.
Him: Don't worry. I'm a regular here and I'm
used to the noise.You were hot last night

Emily giggled and brushed his abs.

Emily: You too handsome. I hope this is not the

last time we see each other.
Him: It won't unless you have a rich hubby
waiting for you at home
Emily: Unfortunately I'm single at the moment.

Someone knocked on the door and Emily

furrowed her eyebrows.

Him: Room service probably.

He stood up and put on his gown then walked to

the door and opened. He was met with a harsh
slap from a woman and she pushed him aside
and got in.

Her: Is this her? How can you do this to me

Thabiso? I waited for you all night Kante you are
busy with this prostitute!
Emily: You gotta watch your mouth ma'am. I'm
not a prostitute.
She walked to Emily and punched her on the
nose. Emily protected her face as the woman
continued to beat her.

Her: (to her husband) Wena don't even think of

coming closer because I'm not afraid to beat you
up too.

Her hands went around Emily's neck and

squeezed it tightly.

Her: I will kill you today. You've messed with the

wrong wife. I know girls like you ke lena le
tshelang banna ba rema di AIDS (You are the
ones who infect our men with AIDS).
Emily: Le..t me g...go!

Her husband pulled her away and Emily got off

the bed and grabbed her clothes and weave on
the floor then got out the room naked. People
watched her as she got dressed in the hallway

At Palesa's house.

Roy watched Mike closely and glanced at his

sister whose focus was on Mike.

Roy: I used to dislike you but you are actually a

nice guy.
Mike: Oh thanks. I'm sorry my ex wife harrassed
you that day.
Roy: It's okay. Not your fault at all sir
Mike: Let's leave formalities at work now I'm
just your sister's boyfriend.
Roy: Sure Mike.

He stood up and looked at Palesa.

Roy: I better get back to work. Lunch break is
about to end and i don't wish to be fired.

Palesa and Mike chuckled

Palesa: Come straight home later I need your

help with something.
Roy: Okay.

He took his car keys and walked out of the house.

Palesa stood up and straddled Mike

Palesa: I get lonely these days.

Mike: How about you sleepover at my new place
tomorrow?
Palesa: (gasped) You managed to get someone to
buy your old house?
Mike: Yes hun i move fast phela mina. I want you
to be the second person to step inside.
Palesa: Who was first?
Mike: My little sister but don't worry she doesn't
live with me. She moved back to res
Palesa: It was not going to be a problem. I live
with my brother akere.

He kissed her chin and lips then checked the

time.

Mike: Lunch was delicious but we have to go

back to work. Come on I'll give you a ride to
work.
Palesa: Thanks.

He got off him and fixed her skirt.

Palesa: (Yelling) Mma we are leaving! Don't let
anyone in please!

She took the dishes and put them in the sink then
followed Mike out.

At Joe's.

Emily checked her reflection on her pocket

mirror and knocked on the door. Joe opened the
door and Emily's eyes immediately went to her
son sucking on a pacifier in Joe's arms.

Joe: Hi.
Emily: Hey.
Joe: Who beat you up?
Emily: Not important right now. Can i at least
sleep over for a night? I promise I'll leave and
never bother you again unless it's about Tshego.
Joe: You never cease to shook me watseba Emily.
When are you going to stop being childish? You
have a son for pity's sake!

He turned around and walked back in the house.

Emily got in and shut the door.

Joe: Where have you been sleeping these past

weeks 'cause you don't smell great right now?
Emily: Joseph please...
Joe: I'm asking you
Emily: It doesn't matter though
Joe: Mxm.

He handed Tshego to her and Emily took him

and planted a kiss on his chubby cheeks.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 91

He handed Tshego to her and Emily took him

and planted a kiss on his chubby cheeks. Joe
stared at her red neck and her bloody nose.

Joe: You know what i can look after Tshego. You

have to go clean yourself up ,you look messed up
and disgusting. You can have the left overs when
you're done.

Emily stood up and gave Tshego back to Joe and

walked to the bathroom. When the bathroom
door closed shut Joe picked up Emily's bag on
the floor and took out her phone. He went
through her contacts and screenshot her uncle's
and father's phone numbers then sent them to
himself then deleted the screenshots. He went to
his bedroom and put Tshego in his cot then
started dialing the numbers.

Him: Hello?
Joe: Hello is this Emily Moroka's uncle?
Him: Who's asking?
Joe: Joseph. I'm the father of Emily's child
Him: Emily has a child?
Joe: Yes but that's not what i want us to talk
about. Your niece is out of control and her toxic
behavior is going to affect Tshego ,our son.
Him: It has been three years without seeing her
so i don't know what you want me to do.
Joe: Convince her to come back home. It's clear
that city life is messing her up. I don't want my
son to grown up only to find that her mother is a
whore and a crook.
Him: I don't even have her numbers...
Joe: Don't worry malome I'll sent them to you.
Sharp
Him: Sharp.

He hung up and SMSed him Emily's numbers

then peaked inside Tshego's cot.

Joe: Your mama will be fine boy!

Tshego let out string of incoherent words and

Joe chuckled.

Joe: That sound like an agreement to me. I'm

glad we are on the same page champ.

He picked up his stuffed Animal toys and put

them inside then Walker out of the room to the
bathroom and knocked on the door.
Joe: Come straight to the kitchen when you're
done.

He walked to the kitchen and minutes later

Emily sat down besides Joe and he pushed a
bowl of noddles with two boiled eggs to her
direction.

Emily: Noddles? Really Joe?

Joe: If you don't want them I'd be happy to...
Emily: Nevermind. Why are you helping me Joe?
Joe: I still feel guilty for strangling you that day
and you're still the mother of my son and can't
bare to see you waste away.

Emily looked down at her bowl and picked up

the fork.
Joe: So where have you been staying?
Emily: At hotels.
Joe: You've lost few pounds. Are you okay?
Emily: Yes I'm okay I'm just stressed Joseph.
Gabe is not saying anything about my job and i
only have twenty rands in my bank account.
Joe: Maybe you should go back to the village.
Looks like city life is not for you.

The following day at the park.

Connie bent down and held her knees as she

breathed heavily. Gabe walked back to her and
chuckled.

Gabe: You are so dramatic Connie

Connie: This is the last time I'm doing this.
Gabe: Akere when your body burns it means this
thing is working.
Connie: It's Five In the morning Gabe and
nobody is here. Let's go back home and relax in
bed.
Gabe: Whatever you want Love.

He bent down and Connie hopped on his back.

Connie: I'm glad nobody is here to see what we

are doing. Put me down if you get tired. I don't
want to break your back with my heavy body.
Gabe: Babe you get on top of me everyday and
my body is still fine. Stop shaming yourself
,you're beautiful. Now let's go and relax in bed.

He walked back home and Connie clung on him

with a tiny smile on her face but her thighs were
so sore and almost ruined her mood.

Gabe: We are almost home.

Connie: Yes I can't wait.

A car passed them and a lady inside watched

them in jealousy and bitterness. Kim drove her
car faster with her bottom lip between her teeth.

At Jeffrey's

Itu rushed to the door as the person behind it

kept knocking. She pulled the door open and
Emily waved at her.

Emily: Hi.
Itu: Are you insane Emily? Do you need
psychological help?
Emily: Huh?
Itu: Akere you left with a married man last night
and left us to pay for your drinks.
Emily: I'm here to apologize friend i was bored
because you were busy with Jeff.
Itu: (snapped) Yes because he's my man and i
didn't force you to come to the club with us. You
decided to tag along because you needed to ruin
someone else's marriage.
Emily: Itumeleng....
Itu: No I don't want a friend like that. I dont
want to be friends with someone who doesn't
know the difference between right and wrong.
You are always messing up and you don't learn
from your mistakes

Emily opened her mouth to say something and

Itu raised her hand to shut her up.

Itu: The only reason you are here is to ask me for

a place to stay or money but the answer is not
Emily and goodbye.
Emily stepped back with a with her eyes filled
with tears and a face full of pain.

Emily: Goodbye Itumeleng.

Itu shut the door and Jeff walked in the kitchen.

She rushed to him and hugged him then started
crying.

Itu: I feel so heartbroken Jeffrey. She looked so

hurt like i betrayed her.
Jeff: Shh it's okay but Emily needs to learn to be
a better person. You are going to get over this i
promise.
Itu: I feel like i made a mistake.
Jeff: Let her fix herself and she'll come back
when she feels worthy of being your friend.

Later at Joe's.
Joe blew Bubbles on Tshego's face and start
washing his tiny feet. He heard the front door
opening and closing then faint footsteps coming
to the bathroom. The bathroom door opened and
Emily got in

Emily: Oh you're in here.

Joe: Is everything okay?
Emily: I don't want to talk about it. Can i borrow
your phone i need to call my dad and ask for
money. I need a place to stay because Itu turned
me down like I'm not her friend.
Joe: I'm still busy.
Emily: I'll wait.
Joe: You have to go back to the village and stay
there. You need to give yourself a break.
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 92

Joe dried Tsego with a towel and followed Emily

to the living room. They both sat down and Joe
covered his son with a warm blanket.

Joe: I called your uncle.

Emily: um what?
Joe: Yeah. I took their numbers in your phone.
Emily: What do you mean their numbers?
Joe: I didn't just take your uncle's, I took your
father's too.
Emily: (Angry) Where do you get the right to go
through my phone?
Joe: I'm trying to help.
Emily: Did I say i needed your help?
Joe: Your uncle told me that it has been three
years since he last saw you. You have to go home
and spend at least few weeks before getting back
to work.
Emily: (snapped) Shut up! You invaded my
privacy Joe and now you're acting like you know
what's best for me when you clearly want
nothing to do with me.
Joe: If I didn't want anything to do with you i
wouldn't have let you shower here and sleepover
last night.
Emily: You were suppose to do that because I'm
your son's mother!. I told you that i was sorry for
wasting your money and breaking up with you.
Why can't you give me a second chance Joseph?
Everybody deserves a second chance.
Joe: You're toxic Emily. You destroy everything
you come across so I can't give you another
chance to ruin me again. I'm trying to be a better
father to Tshego and I don't want you to mess me
up.

Emily stood up and paced around with her tears

streaming.

Joe: You don't take rejection very well i see.

Emily: Everybody turned their backs on me Joe.
Itumeleng wants nothing to do with me.
Joe: I haven't. I'm willing to do anything for you
because you gave me a son Em but you have to
swallow your pride and go back to your father
first.
Emily: Piss off Joe! I don't need you.

She grabbed her handbag and walked to the

door. Joe shook his head as the door slammed
shut. She walked out the gate and her phone
started ringing.

Emily: Hello?
Uncle: Motlogolo (niece)
Emily: (Annoyed) If you called to beg me to
come back home or to lecture me then hang up.
Uncle: How are you?
Emily: I'm fine. What do you want Malome ,you
never call?
Uncle: I'm worried about you Emy. The father of
your child that you never told us about told me
that you're out of control. You were always
rebellious as a child and I'm worried to know
that you haven't changed.
Emily: (sighed) Joe was just exaggerating. I'm
not out of control. My life is actually going as
planned.
Uncle: I'd like to come there one day to visit you
with your father. He's lost his sight and he's been
wishing to see you for the past three years
motlogolo.
Emily: No no you can't come here malome I'm
sorry. I'll call you later bye.
Uncle: Emy akere....

She hung up and stopped a taxi then fixed herself

as the passengers opened the door for her.

At Gabe's.

Connie paged Julie's book and a letter fell off.

She picked it up and and continued paging. She
cocked her head at her and read what was
written on the book.

Connie: Juliana?
Julie pouted and folded her arms with an
attitude as Connie read what Julie's teacher
wrote on the page requesting a meeting with
Gabriel.

Connie: Firstly you give me an attitude and then

you give me your book full of your teachers
messages. What did you do?

Julie glanced at the card in Connie's other hand.

Connie gave her her book book back and opened
the card.

Connie: This is a love letter mos Juliana

Julie: We were just playing aunty it's not a big
deal.
Connie: It's a big deal Julie. You are eleven years
old and you know nothing about dating. Is this
the reason why your teacher demand a meeting
with your father?
Julie: I don't know.
Connie: Is your supposed boyfriend in trouble
too?
Julie: Yes.
Connie: You know what ,I'll let Gabriel deal with
you because he's the one who has to go to the
meeting. Now let's go back to the dining room
and wait for him

They walked out of the room and went to the

dining room where Hlompho and Junior were
playing with Mofenyi.

Hlompho: Aunty I'm starving.

Connie: Your dad will be home soon baby be
patient.

Someone knocked on the door and Connie went

to open. Emily got in and smiled a Connie.
Emily: Hi.
Connie: Hey. What are you doing here?
Emily: Is your husband home?
Connie: No. Why are you asking Emily?
Emily: I need to know if I still have my job or
should start looking. Your husband is selfish and
he thinks the world revolves around him
Connie: (laughed in disbelief) You come to my
house and insult my husband. Who do you think
you are Emily?
Emily: I'm just saying. I didn't come here to fight
ebile. I came here for my job.
Connie: Then please leave because you are being
disrespectful right now.
Emily: Just tell him I came by.

She turned around and walked away and Connie

shut the door.
The following morning at the club.

The club owner tapped Emily's shoulder and she

opened her eyes.

Owner: You have to leave.

Emily: Oh sorry i didn't mean to sleep here.

She fixed herself and stood up. She caught the

sight of a man she was with yesterday and
walked to him.

Emily: Hi. Thabiso right?

Him: Um yeah...oh! Listen I'm so sorry my wife
caught us.
Emily: Why didn't you tell me you were married
and that you work here?
Him: I didn't think it was important because you
looked eager to bed me
Emily: Excuse me! Didn't you say that you
wanted to see me?
Him: That was before my wife caught us. I'm
sorry but we can't continue with whatever
happened.
Emily: You are a piece of rubbish.

She turned around and walked out of the club.

She swallowed a lump on her throat before
taking out her phone and calling Joe.

Joe: Emily.
Emily: I'm sorry about this morning and i need
you to come pick me up at the club.
Joe: That's where you slept?
Emily: Joe please...
BUILDING A HOME

CHAPTER 93

2 YEARS LATER.

Palesa wiped her tears as she stared herself in

the mirror. She couldn't believe her eyes. She
looked back at Connie and more tears fell down,
Sarah came in.

Sarah: Ai ai Palesa not again. You are running

your make up and we are running out of time.
Palesa: I'm sorry I'm just overwhelmed
Connie: Its okay friend we understand. Sarah fix
her one more time before her hubby to be start
panicking.

Sarah powdered her face one more time and they

got out of the room. Roy whistled as soon as his
sister got out.

Roy: You look amazing sisi. I'm so happy you

found true love.
Palesa: Thank you Roy. I'm happy too, now take
me to my husband.
Roy: With pleasure.

He offered his arm and Palesa gently took it and

they walked down the isle. Sarah and Connie
walked to the seats at the front and sat down.

Connie: I've been waiting for this day watseba..

Sarah: (laughed) I don't wanna lie ,me too. There
aren't weddings nowadays waitsi, it's always
funerals and baby showers

As soon as Palesa stood in front of her husband,

he quickly reached for her hand and squeezed it.

Pastor: Today we are gathered here to celebrate

the wedding ceremony of Palesa Mmako and
Michael Chauke....

He went on and few seconds later they said their

vows and kissed. Everybody ulluated in
excitement. At the back of the hall sat Emily who
disguised herself with a veiled maroon hat and
huge sunglasses. A lady next to her tapped her
shoulder and leaned towards her ear since the
music was blasting.

Her: She's beautiful isn't she?

Emily: Yes she is.
Her: Are you perhaps related to her because I've
never seen you in any event at Chauke's?
Emily: We used to be classmates. Hey i think
that man wants to talk to you.

The lady turned around and Emily stood up and

walked outside. She saw Joe taking to Jeff and
hid behind his car and eavesdropped.

Jeff: ....I don't think it's going to be that hard.

Just be positive and go there. I'll go with you if
you want.
Joe: Thanks man but i think i have to do this on
my own.
Jeff: If you test positive just now it's not the end
of the world. Mara where did you contact this
thing mon?
Joe: Isn't it obvious?
Emily accidentally stepped on a can of coke and
tripped then let out a high pitched scream.

Joe: Unbelievable! You were eavesdropping!

What's wrong with you woman?
Emily: I heard what you said and i can't believe
you slept with me knowing that you got infected
with something deadly Joe.
Joe: (snapped) You came to my house and used
my weakness to your advantage now you want to
blame me for something you aren't sure about!
We both know that you are the one who might
have infected me!
Emily: Excuse me!

Jeff got between then and shook his head.

Jeff: This isn't a place nor time to talk about this.
I suggest you go home and talk. I'm going back
to my wife inside.

They both watched Jeff walk back to the hall and

looked at each other.

Joe: What were even doing outside?

Emily: That's not important right now. Let's go
to your house and talk.
Joe: Goodness has the keys and she's inside.
Who invited you anyway?
Emily: Goodness has the keys. Kante aren't you
the man of the house le gona she's nothing to
you.
Joe: Emily don't waste my time.
Emily: We used a condom that night mos and i
don't even have HIV or STI.
Joe: Are you sure about that? You sleep around
for money Emily and I was so stupid to end up in
bed with you after i promised myself to stay away
from you. I shouldn't have even offer to be your
shoulder to cry on.
Emily:....
Joe: I'm going to book an appointment with the
doctor and get myself checked because it hurts
when i pee and if i found out that you left your
disgusting disease on me i will kill you.

He clicked his tongue and walked back inside.

He sat next to Goodness and kissed Mimi on the
cheek.

Goodness: Wasnt that Emily who just got in?

Joe: Don't even mention her name. Thanks for
asking me to be your plus one, it's so refreshing
to see two people tying the knot. Reminds me of
our wedding.
Goodness: Unfortunately you were a whore of a
man and ruined our marriage.
Joe: I shouldn't have brought it up.

He reached for Tshego's hand and played with

his fingers as they watched Mike and Palesa slow
dancing.

Later that day.

Connie walked to the couple and dragged Palesa

away. They laughed and danced together.

Connie: How does it feel to be a married woman

Mrs Chauke?
Palesa: Scary.

They laughed.
Palesa: I'm glad Mike's family is kind and
generous otherwise i wouldn't have said yes
when he asked me to marry him.
Connie: (smiled) I'm so happy for you. You
deserve this after everything Katlego put you
through.
Palesa: Yeah Chomz sometimes when God takes
people or things from us we get hurt and start
hating him when his intention is to protect us
and prepares us for something way better.
Connie: Spoken like a true married woman.
Palesa: (laughed) Shut up.

Later that day at Joe's.

Goodness opened the door and Emily made her

way in with an attitude.
Goodness: Tshego is sleeping.
Emily: Who said I'm here for Tshego. I'm here
for Joe. Your stinky attitude it's going to make
you the lady of this house.
Goodness: Connie is happily married and
spending her rich husband's money and i got my
dream job, house and a car and wena you are
miserable and desperate for any men's attention
so he can financially support you. Nna the only
reason I'm here it's because i wanted to check on
Joe since he told me that he wasnt feeling well.
Your stupid illiterate words don't hurt me Emily
,I won and you lost.

She chuckled and folded her arms. Emily's ran

dry and no word popped into her brain. Joe got
in the kitchen and frowned at the tension

Joe: Emily.
Emily: Let's go talk somewhere else because it
looks like there's no privacy in this house.
Goodness: Don't bother I'll excuse myself. A late
meal in the new restaurant wouldn't hurt.
(Yelling) Mimi come on we are going out!.

She grabbed her keys and her daughter came

running to the kitchen. She opened the door and
they both got out. Joe dragged Emily to the
living room and they sat comfortably on the
couch.

Joe: What are you doing here?

Emily: I can't believe you let Goodness here after
e...
Joe: Let's talk about the real issue Emily. Why
did you seduce me if you knew that you were
sick?
Emily: I'm not sick.
Joe: I did a research and i found out that the
symptoms i have are for STI and i never had that
in my life.
Emily: You should've gone to the doctor to verify
instead of putting the blame on me.
Joe: I don't care if you sleep around but sleeping
with me after probably giving yourself to
thousands men it's a no for me. I need you to
stay the heck away from me okay. Call me only
when whatever you want to talk about it's about
Tshego. Do we understand each other?
Emily: Now you're shaming me for trying to
survive? Wow Joe.
Joe: You know what Get out of my house!

Emily got up and furiously walked to the door.

She got out and slammed it shut. Joe let out a
sigh of relief when he heard her slamming the
gate and he switched on the TV.
Joe: Curse you Emily Moroka!.

The following morning at Gabe's..

Connie took out the cake she baked for Gabe out
of the fridge and Julie and the rest of the kids
held on their gifts and walked to Gabe's office
room.

Hlompho: (whispering) Do we knock or should

we wait for him to come out?
Connie: Open the door. We are barging in.

Hlompho twisted the door open and Mofenyi got

in first.

Gabe: I told you guys that i didn't want any

disturbance.
Them: (singing) Happy birthday to you!
Happy birthday to you happy birthday dear
daddy happy birthday to you.

Gabe's lips turned into a wide grin.

Gabe: Aw you guys are so cute.

He stood up and kissed Connie on the lips and

hugged each one one of the kids.

Julie: I know you have everything you wanted so

we made you things.

He opened Julie's gift first and Connie placed the

cake on the table. He opened each one of the
kids' gifts.
Gabe: Thank you guys. I almost forgot it was my
birthday.
Connie: Now it's time for you to open your last
gift from your amazing wife.
Gabe: Kante the cake wasn't the only gift from
you?
Connie: Bathong what do you take me for?
Gabe: I'm going to open it in front of the kids?
Connie: You are such a pervert.

She took out a box from her gown pocket and

handed it to Gabe. He carefully unwrapped it
with the kids watching and opened the box.

Gabe: The fifth one

Connie: (laughed) Yes baby!
Gabe: I hope it's a boy this time.
He engulfed her in a hug and kissed her forehead

Gabe: You kids knew before me?

Julie: Auntie said it was a surprise to we kept it
from you. Don't worry you aren't the only one
who didn't know. Mofenyi is also clueless.
Gabe: I love you guys. Let's go eat this cake in
the kitchen before Mmapule come here
unannounced.

He picked up the cake and followed everyone out

of the room to downstairs.

THE END.