My happily ever after gone wrong.

BY BONGEKA DLADLA

The narration:

This story is mainly about Kungentando(Ntando) Mathenjwa a 17 year old who's doing
her last year in high school. Ntando lives in Mpumalanga with her mother (Faith),
father (Nkosi) and her younger sister (Okuhle) who's 12.

Ntando...

I wake up on a Monday morning, make up my bed and go take a shower then get ready
for school. I quickly pack my books then lock my room, I always keep it locked my
mom has given up on telling me to leave the room unlocked as she claims that no one
can enter it without my permission.
I run to the kitchen and find mom setting up the dining table with dad helping her
out. I just join my sister and pull a chair so I can sit.

Faith : Ntando aren't you gonna greet us?

Ntando : eish sorry mama I thought I greeted.
Okuhle : (rolling her eyes) yeah right.
Ntando : And then what's up with you?
Okuhle : Ntando you never greet, you always grab a chair and get your tiny ass
seated.
Nkosi : Kuhle mind your language!
Okuhle : I'm sorry.
Faith : You two, quickly eat your transport is already outside.

We had our breakfast and ran to the car, then off we went to school. Our driver is
always silent it's like he has no voice. All these years of schooling maybe I've
only heard his voice thrice, he hardly talks. Okuhle on the other hand is a
completely spoilt brat, she's always playing games on her phone or on social media,
always asking for an increase in her "weekly" allowance and she just can't do
anything for herself, she can't even fry an egg. I always try to talk to mom about
this but she's always like "Kuhle is just a baby"
Next year she's gonna be in high school but she's got nothing to show for it, she
annoys the hell out of me. I arrived at school and said bye to Okuhle since her
school is a bit far from mine.
I met my friend Alisa by the gate, I think she was waiting for me.

Alisa : (hugging me) hey girl I missed you this weekend.

Ntando : well, I was with Luca, we spent the weekend together.
Alisa : I really hate how he's keeping you away from me.
Ntando : Lisa he's my boyfriend so he should be spending his time with me Vele.
Alisa : and what about me? Your best friend?
Ntando : we're always here together at school, he's gonna be in varsity for this
whole year I had to see him before he leaves and he might only come back in June.
Alisa : okay well fair enough. So how are you two gonna cope though?
Ntando : I've never been in a long distant relationship but I guess I just gotta
give it a try and hopefully our love is strong enough.
Alisa : I so don't wanna be you right now. Come on let's go.

We went to assembly then afterwards we went to our respective classrooms. I was

absent minded the whole day, I kept on thinking about Luca, will I really survive
with him that far away from me? What if he changes, sees prettier girls in varsity
then falls for them? I'll be left all alone with sorrow, I just can't let that
happen. I'll make sure we always stay in contact, he has to tell me where he's at,
what he's doing with whom. Time really flew, it was already home time, I said my
goodbyes to Alisa then got in the car, Okuhle was already picked up. When I arrived
home I went to wash my uniform and offered to do Okuhle's as well, she was very
surprised. I never wash her clothes or do anything for her I guess I'm a horrible
big sister. I wanted to keep myself busy so I can forget about this thing of Luca
being far from me. I later got a call from him, we talked for two whole hours,
maybe he won't change on me. I heard a car pulling by I looked through my room's
window. It was mom coming back from work, I quickly locked my room and went to
start making supper. When she got in the house I was still figuring out what to
cook.

Faith : As usual.
Ntando : Sorry mama I just dozed off as soon as I finished washing my uniform.
Faith : Same explanation everyday. Go and fetch the plastic bags in my car, forget
about cooking I brought takeaways.
I ran to her car and took the plastic bags.
Faith : Warm the food so long. I'm going to take a quick shower, your father will
be back in no time. Where's Kuhle?
Ntando : probably in her room playing games.
Faith : Lemme go give her her sneakers.
Ntando : What sneakers?(pointing at a box in one of the shopping bags?) So these
are hers?
Faith : yes, she asked for them last week I only got time to buy them today.

She then walked to Kuhle's room. I heard Okuhle screaming in excitement, she must
really love her new kicks. I warmed up the food and my father got in as I was
setting up the table.

Nkosi : My daughter.
Ntando : Hey dad, how was work.
Nkosi : same old, same old. Dealing with unsatisfied, arrogant family members just
because you couldn't save the patient in time.
Ntando : perks of being a doctor dad.
Nkosi : just stop talking and bring me my food, I'm starving.
Ntando : Aren't you gonna go bath first?
Nkosi : I'll bath after eating. So it's takeaways again?
Ntando : yes.
Nkosi : you and your mother are starting to be lazy now. But let me eat.

Mom and Kuhle soon joined us and we all ate our food. After eating mom did the
dishes while I did my homework in my room. After doing my homework, I chatted with
Luca on Whatsapp, he ended up video calling me, we spoke for a very long time then
I opted to sleep.
5 a.m my alarm made the most annoying noise, I switched it off and got out of bed,
then got ready for school. Well this morning it seems like I'll be having cereal
for breakfast, mom is having her day off so she's fast asleep, dad has already left
for work and Kuhle is just chilling in the kitchen busy with her phone.

Ntando : Little Missy aren't you having breakfast?

Okuhle : Aren't you gonna make one for me kanti?
Ntando : what? Oh hell no sisi forget.
Okuhle : (sulking) I guess I'm not having any breakfast then.
Ntando : suit yourself.
Okuhle : (walking out) I'll just buy something at the school's canteen. I'll be in
the car.

She went to wait in the car. I finished my food then washed my bowl, took my bag
then went to the car, our driver drove us to school. On our way I got a call from
Luca, I smiled to myself then answered the call.
The way I was blushing Okuhle kept on stealing glances at me, as soon as I ended
the call...

Okuhle : Ntando you have a boyfriend?

Ntando : How is that any of your business?
Okuhle : It's just a fair question.
Ntando : Mind your own stuff.
Okuhle : Well I'll tell mom.
Ntando : (with a stern voice) don't you dare! I'll rip your tiny throat apart.

She just kept her mouth wide open in shock of my words, I think I might've
frightened her a bit but I couldn't care less. Knowing Okuhle she might tell mom
for real, she's too nosy for my liking. I arrived at school and looked for Alisa, I
found her by the canteen busy eating muffins.

Ntando : Already hungry?

Alisa : you have no idea.
Ntando : Why didn't you have any breakfast at home?
Alisa : I did have breakfast but I'm already hungry.
Ntando : know what? Lemme join you.

I also got 2 muffins for myself with grape juice. We ate then reported for
assembly, after that off to our classrooms. Honestly speaking, doing Matric is
hard, all this work, annoying teachers always on our case about life after Matric
ah so boring, I just wanted to be out of school already. I was doing Science so we
always had lots of work but surprisingly enough I didn't know what I wanted to
study the following year. I couldn't wait for June so I could get to see my
boyfriend, I missed him a lot.

It was March already and some guy had been asking me out, his name is Lwazi and
he's quite handsome but I never saw him that way, there's no way I was gonna leave
my boyfriend for him. Lately I had been feeling very distant from Luca, he hardly
checks up on me like he always did and he always claims to be busy but I'm sure
it's nothing. Well... Who am I trying to fool? Of course it's something to me.
Yesterday he posted a picture of him with 2 guys and 1 girl. I was fuming in anger,
I called him countless times with no luck and he still hasn't called me back.
Luckily it's Saturday if it was a school day, I'd be totally out of it. I'm
starting to develop trust issues right now, what if that girl in the picture is his
new girlfriend? Is that why he's been ghosting me? I take my phone and try to call
him again, this time he answers.

Luca : hey baby I was just about to call you.

Ntando : Come on Luca we both know you are nothing but a lying bastard! So you
thought I wouldn't put 2 and 2 together? Huh? You thought I wouldn't know that the
girl in your story is your new girlfriend? Luca what do you take me for, you think
I'm your fool, just a girl you can lie to, use and toss aside like trash?
Luca : Ntando why are you so angry? What are you talking about I have no new
girlfriend
Ntando : whatever bye!

I dropped the call. I felt my hands shaking, I was beyond angry, my eyes were so
red and teary I felt like killing someone. I heard a knock on my door, I pulled
myself together then opened.

Okuhle : Ntando, Alisa is at the lounge waiting for you.

Ntando : Tell her to come here.

Within seconds Alisa was in my room.

Alisa : hey girl.
She made herself comfortable in my bed but then she realized I wasn't myself then
came closer to me.

Alisa : (with a concerned tone) hey Ntando what's going on? Are you okay?
Ntando : I'm fine
Alisa : no you not. You better start talking.
Ntando : it's Luca.
Alisa : what did he do?
Ntando : he posted his new girlfriend Lisa like how mind twisted can that guy be? I
thought him and I had something good going on. Don't judge me but I honestly
thought we were gonna get married, have our dream jobs, have kids and just be a
happy family but he has ruined all of that.
Alisa : that's nothing like Luca, Ntando have you even tried to hear his side of
the story?
I just gave her a death stare.
Alisa : what? It's a fair question.
Ntando : honestly, I didn't even try to give him time to explain himself.
Alisa : I knew it. Call him.
Ntando : what? Hell no there is no way I'm calling that guy.
Alisa : then I'll do it for you.
She takes my phone and calls Luca.
Ntando : wtf?!! Are you crazy?
She puts it on loudspeaker.
Alisa : hey Luca it's Alisa here, Ntando's friend we'd like to hear your side of
the story regarding you posting some girl, who's she?
Luca : um... Is Ntando with you there? Am I on loudspeaker?
Alisa : Yes to both your questions, now talk we are waiting.
Luca : okay um... Firstly I'm sorry Ntando for posting that picture coz I can see
it pissed you off but I've deleted it. Alisa on that picture it's me, 2 of my
friends that I met here in varsity and some girl who's a friend to one of my
friends. Ntando baby she's not my girlfriend I swear we are not even that close.
I'll never cheat on you I love you and I'm sorry again for getting yoh mad, it
won't happen again I promise you.
Ntando : um.... I hear you and I forgive you. I also didn't mean to blow things out
if proportion it's just that this distance between us drives me so crazy.
Luca : I understand. We're good?
Ntando : (smiling) yes we good.
Alisa : see? Marriage saved. Thanks for your time Luca.

She drops the call. I thank her then we go to the mall just for clearing of our
heads, we get to Spur and eat then we do some shopping, nothing massive though
since we didn't want to dent our savings. At 5 p. m we part ways. When I arrive
home I find mom already back.

Faith : oh sisi you are back?

Ntando : yes mama. I'm so tired I just wanna sleep.
Faith : no eating, no bathing. Yoh!
Ntando : I can do that tomorrow.
Mom just looks at me like I'm crazy or something, yoh I'm too tired to bath
bathong. On my way to my room I bump into Kuhle, she's on her phone as usual.

Ntando : hey! Watch where you going.

Kuhle : oh sorry, what did you get me?
Ntando : huh?
Kuhle : you carrying shopping bags so obviously you got something for your little
sister. Show me what you got me
Ntando : come on Kuhle, you always expect gifts from everyone while you also get
your allowance, I have money to spend on myself not on you. Now move.
Kuhle : I just knew it.

She moves and I make my way to my room. I immediately drifted to sleep. I was woken
by my phone ringing, it was 2 a.m yoh! Luca was calling just to checkup on me.
After the call I went back to sleep.
I woke up to a lot of shouting, I realized it was my parents. I quickly got off bed
and went to listen to what the fight was about.

Nkosi : (shouting) Faith I told you I broke up with her, what's with the million
questions kanti?
Faith : (also shouting?) then where were you last night? Huh? Why did you get in
here sneaking around like a love sick teenager? Not even Ntando behaves like this!
Nkosi when will you stop the cheating you've been doing since God knows when
Nkosi : (pointing at her) listen here woman, I won't entertain your nonsense I'm
tired of you.
Faith : So you're tired of me? Is it? Fine go live with your million flings I don't
care anymore!

With that said I heard some shuffling sounds and I peeked as their door was
slightly open, mom was packing! And she was packing her clothes.

Nkosi : what the hell are you doing?

Faith : I'm packing.
Nkosi : I can see that, why are you packing?
Faith : you can't be that dumb, I'm going.
Nkosi : to where? What about the kids? I can't stay with them all alone.
Faith : who said they are staying? I'm going with them.
Nkosi : they are my kids too, don't I have a say in this?
Faith : no you have no say when it comes to me and my kids. Now move!

She had packed her clothes, I think she only took important stuff. I ran back to my
room and sat on my bed dumbstruck. So my dad has always been a cheater and I'm only
finding out about that today? Why did mom put up with his cheating though? He
disgusts me right now I just can't face him. I stayed in my room waiting for mom to
come and tell me to pack well it was only a matter of time before she does that.
Within seconds she was in my room, packing my stuff. I had to act dumb.

Ntando : mom why are you packing my stuff?

Faith : we're leaving.
Ntando : but mom we can't be visiting right now let's wait till the holidays.
Faith : we're not visiting anyone we're going to stay at a hotel for a while.
Ntando : why? What happened? Are Kuhle and dad coming with us?
Faith : no only Kuhle is coming with us.
Ntando : what about dad? He'll stay here alone?
Faith : I don't care, plus he'll probably get himself plenty of company for all i
know.
Ntando : what's that supposed to mean?

And she snapped!

Faith : (shouting) Kungentando stop with the useless questions! Take your bag let's
go!

Okay, no bathing, no nothing. Kuhle was already waiting for us in the lounge, she
looked confused as hell. Dad was sitting on the couch with his face facing down and
his arms resting on his thighs. When he saw us he immediately stood up and started
apologizing to mom, mom just ignored him.

Faith : come Kuhle let's go.

Ntando : you okay Kuhle?
Kuhle : Ntando what's going on? Why are we leaving dad?
Ntando : shh! Let's just go.

We got into ma's car then she drove off. Well dad didn't try enough to stop us, I
was highly disappointed in him shame no lies there. We arrived at the hotel and
booked for a month, okay! We were given keys to our hotel room then we went there.
It was a pretty chilled and cool hotel, nothing fancy or too much. Mom has been
quiet for this whole time, I unpacked our clothes while she went to bath. Kuhle was
so quiet she didn't want to ask the wrong questions at a wrong time. Kuhle and I
just sat there in awkward silence till mom came out of the bathroom. I decided to
also go have a bath, I just wanted to escape the unsettling moment we had going on.
I took the longest bath ever. When I was done I found Kuhle in the room playing
mobile games.

Ntando : where's mom?

Kuhle just shrug her shoulders. I decided to call her but her phone went straight
to voicemail. Maybe she just went out to get some food. It's now 8 p.m and it's
only now that mom comes back. When we looked at her she was not at all herself. She
looked like she was drunk, oh no! My mom and alcohol? This can't be real. Well yes,
it was real, she couldn't even stand nor walk properly, she stank of alcohol. She
just threw herself on the couch. I was so disappointed in mom, she had never
engaged herself with alcohol before and I was mad at her for letting dad's cheating
loot her into alcohol. I never knew her to be that weak. I really did not know that
woman I was seeing but she was definitely not my mother. Kuhle just looked at me
with shock written all over her face, I've never seen Kuhle that quiet in her life
and I was getting really worried about her. Mom really became selfish, if she
didn't wanna think of me then she should've at least thought of Okuhle, she's too
young to be witnessing such behavior from her own mother.

Days went by really fast and mom was becoming worse, she couldn't do anything
without a bottle of her favorite Heineken beside her. I was slowly starting to
resent my own mother, she had turned into a completely different person. Focusing
in school while living with mom became more difficult so I decided to move back
home and I took Kuhle along with me. I told myself that I'd rather live with my
cheating father than my alcoholic mother who has never said a word to us ever since
we moved to the hotel. When mom was out probably drinking her lungs off in some
tavern I packed my clothes and Kuhle's.

Kuhle : where are we going Ntando?

Ntando : home.
Kuhle : is mom coming with us?
Ntando : no she's not.
Kuhle : but why?
Ntando : it's complicated.
Kuhle : why has mom suddenly changed? She's no longer loving and caring like
before. Why has she suddenly turned into a drunkard? Does she even still loves us?
Why in the first place did we move out of home? Ntando please tell me the truth.

I sighed then decided to tell Kuhle about dad's cheating and how it has affected
mom but I also told her that living in the hotel with mom was no longer good and
healthy for us, it wasn't a safe environment for us and she understood. We caught a
taxi home. When we arrived, dad was just sitting on the couch watching soccer. His
face lit up immediately when he saw us, he ran to us and hugged us for dear life.

Nkosi : my daughters! I missed you guys so much. Oh I'm so sorry for putting you
through this difficult situation. I'm deeply sorry. Where's your mother?
Ntando : she wasn't there when we left.
Nkosi : does she even know that you're here?
Kuhle : she doesn't and it's better that way.

With that said she went to her room with her bags. I also went to my room with my
bag. Everything was exactly the way I'd left it. It kinda felt good to be home
although it was never gonna be the same again. From that day everything in my life
changed, my life changed for the worst and it's like I had no control over it. My
marks in school dropped so bad that I failed my Matric. I hated school, I didn't
wanna go back. I told myself that I'd find a job somewhere. My father unfortunately
had become really sick due to stress and had to be dismissed from work. That surely
put a strain on all three of us. I never heard from mom since we left the hotel.
Kuhle suffered from depression, she no longer went out with her friends, she was
always locked up in her room. I always tried to cheer her up but she'd make it
clear that she didn't want me near her in fact she wanted no one near her. Things
got really bad at home and I had to do something about it. I started applying for
jobs but everywhere I tried I just had no luck. I was not accepted in even cleaning
jobs nor waitressing. No one needed a maid, I felt hopeless. I tried looking for my
mother at the hotel where we'd left her but she had long moved out to lord knows
where. At some point I just broke down, what was I supposed to do? At home I was
the only one who seemed to be strong enough to come up with a plan of surviving. I
started roaming around streets stopping people and cars asking them for money but
people are very stingy when it comes to their money, the money I'd get wouldn't be
enough even for buying a bag of rice. I was really out of ideas. A very crazy idea
crossed my mind, I didn't like it but I had no other choice. I had to date some
rich man who'd give me money just so I can survive. But where was I gonna get that
man? I decided that the easy way of getting money was through sex working, trust me
I hated the idea but I really didn't seem to have much of a choice and I had heard
that it's fast cash.

One night I decided to doll myself up, wore the shortest dress I had and wore
heels, I just let my natural hair loose I had really beautiful, long, healthy hair
so that worked to my advantage. I made sure I looked attractive enough to be
noticed by big money spenders. I took my bag then locked my room just as I was
about to leave the house I met my dad limping by the passage probably on his way to
watch TV.

Nkosi : Ntando where are you going looking like that?

Ntando : Dad I have to do something to get money.
Nkosi : I hope you're not saying what I think you are saying.
I just looked down in total shame, how was I gonna tell my father that I've decided
to be a sex worker? But he had to understand that I needed this, for our survival.
He needed to go to the best doctor who'd heal whatever illness he had and Kuhle had
to attend therapy, we had to survive. I so badly had to do this, not for myself but
for them.

Ntando : Dad I have to do this and you are not going to stop me.
Nkosi : no don't say that I'm.. (he coughed so bad he almost lost balance I quickly
ran to hold him) I'm sure there must be some other way to make money.
Ntando : I've tried everything, I just need to try this way too. Bye father I'll
see you in the morning.

He tried stopping me but I was not gonna be stopped by anyone nor anything, I had
no other choice plus I had nothing more to lose than what I've already lost in my
life. I arrived at the station, where other girls wait to be picked up by their
clients. I stood there like a frozen chicken, scared as hell. Other girls seemed to
be really free and it's like they enjoyed their work, I guess they had gotten used
to this life. There were girls of many different sizes from really thin, moderate
thin, thick and immensely thick. They wore all sorts of revealing clothes and their
faces were overly made up you'd swear paint was spilled on them. Others were even
sniffing on cocaine, they offered some to me, told me it'll help me loosen up but I
just told them I was fine.
The cars started showing up in numbers and I'm not talking about just any cars, I'm
talking about real beasts, luxurious cars. Men who drove those cars were all in
suits. Girls started getting picked up in numbers and lastly a car pulled by me.
The guy driving the car pulled down the windows then smiled at me, I nervously
looked away then started shaking like hell. I instantly regretted ever coming to
that place.

Guy : (still smiling) aren't you gonna come in?

Okay he looks really weird with all the smiling he's doing.
Ntando : aren't you gonna come out and open the door for me like a gentleman?
He smiled even more then got out of the car. Well I really tried pulling myself
together there. He went to the other side of the car while holding my hand then
opened the door for me. I got in then heavily sighed. He also got in then drove
off.
Ntando : so where are we going?
Guy : my house.
Ntando : ow!
Guy: what? You thought I was gonna take you to some hotel room?
Ntando : I honestly didn't think of anything.
Guy : you new?
Ntando : (shyly) yes.
Guy : I can see that. I'm Lwazi by the way.
Ntando : I'm Kungentando but just call me Ntando.
Lwazi : nice to meet you Ntando.
Ntando : are all the other guys nice as you are?
Lwazi : (smiling) are all the other girls talkative as you are?
Ntando : what? Me? Talkative? Oh no I'm not.

Lwazi slightly laughed then continued focusing on the road. We arrived at his
house, it was pretty huge but nothing extra or over the top. We got out of the car
and he led me into the house.

Ntando : nice home you have here.

Lwazi : thanks. Would you like anything to drink or maybe eat?
Ntando : let's just get down to business so I can leave early.
Lwazi : well we won't be getting down to any business for today.
Ntando : hawu then why am I here?
Lwazi : I also don't know but I'd really like to spend the night with you, no funny
stuff though.
Ntando : and I'll get paid for that?
Lwazi : of course.
Ntando : well okay then. Get me a juice.

Lwazi smiled then went to get me my juice, he got himself one too. We just chilled
getting to know each other better he even told me that he was a manager of some
media company then he offered me his clothes to sleep in. I firstly went to shower
then I wore his clothes. We slept in his room, he held on tight to me the whole
night. Well I didn't expect that at all but at least I didn't get to have sex with
some freak who'd leave me with pennies.
I woke up in the morning, Lwazi was still very much fast asleep I had to wake him
up.

Lwazi : (with his eyes still closed) don't tell me you're going so early.
Ntando : I have to go though.

He got up, yawned then stretched himself. I swear this, right here was not the same
guy from last night. Right now he looked more like a baby.
Ntando : how old are you?
He looked at me like I'm crazy.
Lwazi : where's that coming from?
Ntando : I'm just curious.
Lwazi : I'm 28. You?
Ntando : will be turning 18 soon.
Lwazi : wow you're such a baby.
I just rolled my eyes at him then went to shower. He once again offered me his
track pants with hoodie and his slides. We had breakfast then he took me home. I
scored myself R3 000 just for spending the night with him, okay not bad at all. I
got in the house, dad was asleep on the couch. I woke him up.

Nkosi : (yawning) oh Ntando you're back? What time is it?

Ntando : a little after 6. Why are you sleeping on the couch?
Nkosi : I was waiting for you
Ntando : but dad I told you I'll only be back in the morning. You're sick you
should be resting in bed, getting warm.
I helped him to his room then went to make him food. When he was done eating I also
made Kuhle food then took it to her room. As usual she didn't wanna talk to me so I
just left her food next to her bed. I went to my room and just thought about my new
life, I was surely not proud of it but whatever.... Just as long as I survived. I
knew I was gonna get judged I just wondered what Luca and Alisa would say if they
ever heard of my new life, but honestly speaking they were the least of my worries.
I got some rest as I had to work at night. When I woke up I decided to take my
phone in my drawer which had not been in use for months, I switched it on. I had
tons of messages and missed calls mainly from Luca and Alisa then only 5 from my
mother. I decided to call my mother back but the number was no longer in use. I
thought of dialing Luca and Alisa but I just realized I needed to close that
chapter of my life. This is the new Ntando and I don't want anyone who's gonna be
judging me or trying to pursuade me otherwise about my life choices. I went to
charge my phone then took a bath. After bathing I got myself ready, I first had to
pass by the mall to get suitable clothes for my new job, if I can call it that. I
fixed myself something to eat then went to say my goodbyes to dad and Kuhle. I
bought few dresses and a whole make up kit, some lingerie and a whole other stuff
just so I can "fit in". I went to the station and I asked some girls to help me out
with dressing up and my make up, when they were done I honestly didn't feel too
comfortable in myself. Well I guess that's the price I gotta pay to get paid,
right? Other girls were already waiting for clients and I went to join them. Some
lady came over to me. She looked like she's on her early 30s, wearing just a bikini
with high silver heels on, had a very expensive looking weave and she had make up
on her face, too much for my liking.

Lady : hey there.

Ntando : hi.
Lady : I've never seen you here before, you new?
Ntando : yes.
Lady : what's your name?
Ntando : I'm Ntando.
Lady : nice to meet you Ntando I'm Nelly. You look young though. Why are you here?
Ntando : Well, why are YOU here?
Nelly : it's just a job I really enjoy doing.
Ntando : same here.
Nelly : um... Okay. Shout if you need any clients, I know all the big money
spenders so I can easily hook you up.
Ntando : I'm fine, thanks.

She raised her arms in surrender then walked away as her client had arrived, there
were actually two men in the car. Wow! She's a real hoe. I waited and waited till
all the other girls were gone, I was about to leave in despair when suddenly I saw
Lwazi's car pull over.

Ntando : what are you doing here?

Lwazi : (smiling) I'm here to fetch you.
Ntando : two nights in a row? You need a cuddle again? Come on now.
Lwazi : I don't see any problem there.

He got out of the car then opened the door for me. I got in. We drove to his place.
There was some romantic dinner vibes going on there, I was just puzzled.

Ntando : and then?

Lwazi : have a sit. I've prepared us some dinner.

He pulled a chair for me and I sat.

Ntando : I'm sure other girls definitely don't receive this kinda treatment though.
Lwazi : that's the thing. You're not "other girls" you are you. You don't deserve
to be treated the same way as they are, you're too precious to me.

What did this guy mean by that? I hope he doesn't wanna make me his girlfriend or
something, not that I'd mind but he's just way out of my league he'll probably play
me. Okay, here I am thinking of a relationship that might not be even on his mind,
I'm such a fool.

Lwazi : You okay?

Ntando : yes. Are we ever going to eat?
He smiled at me then dished up for both of us, we ate in silence and the food was
really good. After eating he washed the dishes while I was watching TV, he then
came to join me.

Ntando : so why are you being so nice to me? You don't even know me.
Lwazi : I just really like you Ntando and I don't like the kind of job you're
doing, it's not good for you.
Ntando : it's the only way I can get to survive though. I need to take my father to
the best doctor and my sister needs therapy so I have to do this.
Lwazi : you no longer need to do this, I'm here now. I'll take care of you.
Ntando : what?! No I can't let you do that. I'm sure you're gonna expect something
in return.
Lwazi : actually, I won't.
I looked at him with a disapproving look.
Lwazi : or maybe I will.
Ntando : I knew it. What do you want?
Lwazi : I want you to be my girlfriend.
Ntando : that's how you approach a girl?
Lwazi : is there anything wrong with what I've just said?
I just laughed at him. With him constantly begging me I just finally gave in and
agreed to be his girlfriend. I didn't even break up with Luca but here I am
agreeing to be someone else's girlfriend. But I'm sure Luca is way over me now.
Lwazi was happy to become my boyfriend, since that day I didn't have to raise a
single finger, I had people doing everything for me when he wasn't around. I moved
in with him and I was slowly deattaching myself from my dad and sister but I just
for once needed a break from them, or else I'd end up getting depressed too. It all
started by me visiting them daily, to three times a week, to once and to none.

It was a very hot afternoon and I was sitting by the pool, taking pictures with my
new phone that Lwazi recently got me, I was also sipping on cocktail while wearing
my swimwear. I needed some food so I called Senzy, our helper, I just couldn't
shout and tell her to bring me food.
Ntando : (calling Senzy) bring me some food, you'll see what you can prepare for
me.
I dropped the call.
In no time she was here with my food.
Ntando : (with a disgusted look on) and what's this?
Senzy : (looking down) your food ma'am.
Ntando : take this Rubbish and feed it to your dogs. Get me real food.

Senzy went back into the house to make me food. She came back with a fruit salad
and yogurt, much better. I ate taking my time while she waited for my bowl then I
gave it to her. She walked away. Soon After Lwazi came back from work, he shouted
my name.
He always does this.

Ntando : (shouting) at the pool!

He made his way to the pool.

Lwazi : (smiling) so this is where you're hiding? I don't blame you though it's a
very hot afternoon.
I just smiled at him then he bent to kiss my cheek.
He went back to the house to change and came back in his shorts only.

Ntando : you know that the whole yard is full of workers right?
Lwazi : so?
Ntando : you can't be showing off that sexy body, the ladies in here will start day
dreaming about you.

Lwazi just laughed it off, he honestly saw no problem in this whole thing. I
decided to brush it off, for now. We had fun, Lwazi even taught me how to swim. At
about 6 p.m we went to shower then I went to Senzy in the kitchen.

Ntando : Senzy do I always have to remind you that at 6 you prepare dinner?
Senzy : I was about to start cooking I just first had to...
Ntando : (not letting her finish) I don't want your excuses! Just cook!

Lwazi made his way to the kitchen.

Lwazi : what's going on here? Babe is everything okay?
Ntando : (forcing a smile) yes everything's good, we were just having a lady's
chat.
Lwazi : okay, um... Ntando can I talk to you about something?
Ntando : sure, let's go to our room.

We went to our room, Lwazi was shaking, he had a serious look on. Whatever he
wanted us to talk about looked really serious. Oh no! What if he wanted us to break
up maybe he has a wife or some Fiancé. He finally broke the silence.

Lwazi : (clearing his throat then looking straight into my eyes but later looks
down) I'm sorry and I know I should've told you earlier. Please don't leave me
after telling you this.
Ntando : Lwazi just talk already.
Lwazi : I have a daughter.

What?!!! He has a daughter? I know we've only started dating like couple of months
ago but still he should've told me sooner. I was so not ready for some baby mama
drama or playing step mother on the damn brat. I really had no idea how to react to
this whole thing.

Lwazi : she's 10.

That old? Oh no! She's definitely going to make my life a living hell.

Ntando : So where is she now?

Lwazi : she lives with her mother but her mother recently lost her job so she's
coming to live with us now.
Ntando : (shouting) you mean she's coming here? Oh no she can't. Can't she live
with her grandparents or something?
Lwazi : I can't let my daughter live with grandparents while I'm here and you're
here too, it's really not like you have anything better to do with your time plus
she'll be at school most of the time.

Wow! So that's what Lwazi thinks of me? Some useless piece of trash with nothing to
do with her life? I guess he's right though, all I do is spend his money and shout
at his workers.

Ntando : fine, she can come.

He smiled at me, I forced a smile back.

Ntando : so when is she coming?

Lwazi : this Friday.
Ntando : that soon? But that's only 2 days to come.
Lwazi : (defeated) but you've just said she can come.
Ntando : sorry I just didn't expect to be a step mom that soon, but okay

I went to help Senzy with the cooking for the very first time since I came to live
here, she was so surprised I could tell. As soon as we were done cooking I prepared
the table and called Lwazi for dinner. We ate then Senzy did the dishes. the
workers stayed in the cottage so they only went to their homes during their resting
days.
We went to bed and switched off the lights, within seconds Lwazi was fast asleep
but I couldn't sleep. I kept on thinking about a child whom was gonna be living
with us in two days to come, I was so not ready for the headache shame. I hated her
already, she was gonna get all the attention from Lwazi and probably the baby mama
will use the child as an excuse for coming here to see Lwazi. I finally dozed off.
Lwazi's alarm woke me, it was 5 already. He clearly did not hear it so I switched
it off and woke him up.

Lwazi : (with his eyes still closed) don't tell me it's 5 already.
Ntando : yes Lwazi it's 5, wake up now you gonna be late for work.
Lwazi : (sulking) this is not fair, I'll just call in sick.
Ntando : that's actually a good idea.
Lwazi : so now you don't want me going to work?
Ntando : I want us to spend the day together plus it's even raining outside, you'll
say you caught flu.
We chilled in doors for the whole day and we gave the workers a day off.

Next day(Friday)

Ah the brat was getting picked up by Lwazi. He came back carrying bags, too many
for just one child. He walked in followed by a woman who looked exactly like the
child she was with. Lwazi looked at me kind of ashamed then I looked at him with a
questioning look.

Lwazi : babe this is my daughter Amahle and her mother Sizipho, guys this is my
girlfriend Ntando.
I just stood there not knowing what to say.

Zipho: (smiling) nice to meet you Ntando and thanks for letting us come stay with
you guys. Times are really tough but don't worry I'll be out of your hair soon.
The nerve of this woman, she's busy thanking me for something I had no idea about.
Lwazi was just standing there not knowing what to do with himself and as for that
bastard child of his, she was staring straight at my eyes like she's expecting some
sort of warm welcome or something.

Ntando : Lwazi.
Lwazi : Baby
Ntando : (with a calm yet angry tone) what's going on here?
Lwazi : (with a shaky voice) Zipho asked to stay with us till she's back on her
feet and I think that will actually help Amahle to settle in more quicker here with
her mother around.
Ntando : and you decided not to tell me?
Zipho : she didn't know?
Ntando : woman just shut up!
Amahle : hey mind your tone, that's my mother.
Ntando : wow so the brat can speak?
Zipho : don't call my baby a brat, who do you think you are? Lwazi better reprimand
your woman before I mess her up.
Lwazi : whoa! Please just stop this. Zipho come I'll show you to your room.
Zipho : come Amahle let's go.

I couldn't believe it. How could he? He's really disrespecting me right now and I
have no say since this is his house. I went to make myself something to eat. All
three of them made their way to the kitchen like some kind of happy family.

Lwazi : what are you making there? Please also make some food for us, we are
starving. What would you guys like to eat?
Zipho : just sandwiches for Amahle and I with some juice.
Lwazi : same for me.

I just looked at them, placing orders thinking I'll do what they are telling me to
do. I finished making my food and went to the lounge to watch TV while eating. They
later joined me with their food, I guess miss Zipho played the wife after all and
made them their food. They kept on chatting about old high school days and
laughing, that really pissed me off I didn't even finish my food I just put it in
the fridge and went to the guest room and scrolled on Instagram. Lwazi didn't even
come to check up on me, I slept there.
Next morning I woke up, made the bed and went to take a shower I just decided to go
out for some shopping. I finished up getting dressed, I didn't see the three in the
house. I wonder where they'd gone so early. I made some cereal for myself and ate.
I took my bag, just as I was about to go out I was met by the laughter of Lwazi,
Zipho and Amahle, they were wearing gym wear and looked all sweaty.

Lwazi : hey babe. We really had fun jogging I swear these two are so weak they kept
on telling me to slow down, I'm never jogging with you guys ever again.
Zipho : oh come on, we weren't that bad, right Amahle?
Amahle : dad is just being dramatic as always.
They continued laughing and chatting about their jog.
Lwazi : Ntando you should join us next time.
Zipho : (laughing) I thought there wasn't gonna be a next time though.
Lwazi : well I might just try and fit you in guys next time.

I just looked at them playing happy family.

Lwazi : babe you're awfully quiet, are you okay?

I just ignored him and went out. I got into one of his cars and just as I was about
to drive out he stopped me.
Lwazi : eish babe Zipho asked to drive this car.
Ntando : why?
Lwazi : she's going for some shopping Amahle needs few things for her new school
and she wants some stuff for herself too.
Ntando : I thought she was broke.
Lwazi : I gave her my card.
Ntando : wow okay.

I got off his car and decided on taking a cab. I arrived at the mall and firstly
went at Wimpy for a proper breakfast. I then went to get myself clothes, some I
didn't even need but I bought them anyways. I then went to the park. I sat under
the tree next to the river while having my ice cream, I took some pictures and
uploaded on Instagram with a caption "some alone time just to clear my mind". Some
girl approached me.

Girl : Hey.
Ntando : hey.
Girl : why are you sitting alone, can I join you?
Ntando : sure you can and I just needed a breather.
Girl : I see. I'm Vukile but Vuki will be okay.
Ntando : I'm Kungentando and Ntando will be okay too.
Vuki : (smiling) Good to know you. You in college or varsity?
Ntando : None actually.
Vuki : same here.
Ntando : and why's that?
Vuki : I failed my Matric, you?
Ntando : I also failed my Matric. It was just not a good year for me, a lot
happened so that caused a massive distraction on me.
Vuki : I on the other side, I was really not good in any of my subjects all I ever
wanted was to become a singer and dancer.
Ntando : so what's stopping you from achieving all that?
Vuki : my parents are against that, they want me to go back to school next year but
I just don't see myself doing that. I'm even looking for a job so I can save money
to further my dreams and just move out of my parents' house.
Ntando : wow you seem to have it all figured out.
Vuki : yeah I actually do. What about you? Thinking of furthering any dream?
Ntando : I've always wanted to do physiotherapy or psychology but I'm no longer
sure about anything.
Vuki : Just because you failed Matric it doesn't mean you can no longer become what
you've always wanted to be. Just go back to school and give it your best shot,
don't allow yourself to get distracted again, just focus on the end goal and the
outcome of your schooling. You live with your parents?
Ntando : ah things are complicated with my family so I live with my boyfriend and
that's a story for another day.
Vuki : I see. Come on now cheer up and give me your number, we might need each
other some day.

I smiled at her and we exchanged phone numbers. She was really nice and I liked
her. After our chat I decided to go back home. When I arrived there, the happy
family was chilling in the pool, that damn woman had the nerve to wear a bikini in
front of my man. I decided to put a stop in that nonsense. I went there and grabbed
her by her hair and threw her in the pool. She started screaming, she was drowning.
So she can't swim! Lwazi quickly jumped in the water and saved her. She was crying
hysterically and I could tell she was just being dramatic, that Amahle of theirs
pushed me into the water. That brat had a real nerve I swam out of the pool.

Lwazi : (shouting) Ntando why did you do that? What if she drowned to death? Huh?
What would you have done? You do know that you could've went to jail for murder?
Ntando : oh come on Lwazi she's just being dramatic.
Lwazi : I can't believe you.
He kept on hugging Zipho who was sobbing silently while giving me death stares here
and there. I just went inside the house to take a shower. I took a long ass shower,
I thought about what Vuki said and she was right I really needed to go back to
school and further my studies plus it was not too late to enroll for my Matric
again. I quickly got out of the shower and as soon as I was done getting dressed up
I took my laptop and looked for vacancies in nearby high schools, luckily only two
schools were still accepting Matric learners. I sent my application online then
waited for their response. They'd probably reply by tomorrow. I decided to take a
nap still at the guest room, I didn't wanna face the happy family. I was woken up
midnight by hunger, I went to make something to eat. I bumped into Lwazi and just
as I was about to pass him, he took my hand and made me face him. He looked at me
for a while with pity in his eyes. I looked at him back with no sense of emotion.

Lwazi : I'm sorry.

Ntando : for?
Lwazi : ever since Zipho and Amahle moved in I know I've been distant from you.
It's just that I wanted to make them feel comfortable staying here so they can
settle in properly.
Ntando : it's fine.
Lwazi : I love you.
Ntando : I know.

I hugged him, only because I wanted him to leave me alone. I continued to walk to
the kitchen then I made myself a sandwich with milk. After eating I went to the
guestroom and scrolled down Instagram till I dozed off. I was woken up at 8 in the
morning by a call. It was the school I've applied in. They wanted to see me on that
very same day. I quickly got up, made the bed then went to bath. After bathing I
wore my black jeans with white shirt and white sneakers then took my bag along with
necessary documents. I went to the kitchen and found Zipho having breakfast, I
guess Amahle had gone to school and Lwazi to work.
I greeted her warmly but she ignored me, not that I care. I ate my cereal then
walked out to the garage. I took one of Lwazi's cars and drove off. I arrived at
the school and I was accompanied by the guard to the principal's office. She
welcomed me and went through my documents, no adult was needed since by law I was
an adult myself. I was allowed to start ASAP as to cover the work that had been
already done. I thanked her then walked out to the car. I decided to go to the mall
and I got myself my school uniform and stationary. I went to get takeaways then I
went back home. I was so happy I kept on smiling to myself in the car. I arrived
home and went to warm up my food then left some for Amahle and Lwazi, the witch? I
didn't give a fuck about her. She walked into the kitchen.

Zipho : So this is all you do?

Ntando : excuse me?
Zipho : I mean it seems like all you do is spend my baby daddy's money. Do you have
any passion?
Ntando : I don't see the need to answer your stupid questions. Just stay away from
me.
Zipho : and you think you're better than me. Lwazi doesn't love you. He'll come
back to me, after all we have a child together.

I ignored her and that seemed to piss her off, she took my food away and put it in
the bin, I guess she desperately needed my attention. Still, I ignored her and just
went to watch TV. She took the remote and switched it off, I went to the guest room
and lied on the bed while busy on my phone. Luckily, she gave up.
It was afternoon already, Amahle was back from school along with Lwazi. I went to
warm up their food and gave it to them. Lwazi smiled at me and Amahle said she'd
rather stay hungry than to eat food coming from me. Ah, that brat... No matter how
hard I tried she'd still have her mother's attitude.
I decided to tell Lwazi about my acceptance to repeat my Matric. He was proud of me
and very happy. That night, I slept with him in our room. I was willing to forgive
him and try to get along with his daughter but that seemed like something that was
gonna take time to finally achieve.

Next morning.... I woke up really early, I woke Lwazi too. We showered together
then I ironed my school uniform and his clothes too. I was smiling like a retard as
I wore my uniform and I'd steal glances at Lwazi and see how happy he was to see me
smiling. I went to the kitchen and found Senzy already making breakfast. I told her
to relax as I'd continue with breakfast. Amahle came with Zipho to the kitchen
already in her uniform, I guess I'm not the only early bird then. I dished up for
everyone but Zipho and Amahle made their own breakfast while I ate with Lwazi.
Lwazi seemed to really not like Zipho's behavior so he told her to stop it or leave
his house. I was so happy that he finally put her in her place. Lwazi took Amahle
and I to our schools. He kissed me goodbye and drove to Amahle's school. I got in
the school premises with so much confidence, I really looked good in my new uniform
it suited me perfectly.
I went to the principal's office.

Mrs Mlaba : (smiling) it's good to see you Kungentando. Come let me show you to
your class.

We went to my class and it sure had many learners in it but luckily there was
already a seat put for me. I was introduced to my class teacher Mr Smith, he looked
welcoming and friendly. I felt good about this school, my classmates were also
welcoming. I took a seat and the lesson proceeded. The lessons were quite
interesting. During lunchtime I went to buy my lunch in the school's canteen and
ate while looking at my peers walking around, laughing, chatting others even
standing with their boyfriends, I smiled to myself as I thought of Luca, we always
walked together during lunch. I finished my lunch then went to study in my
classroom. Mr Smith got in class and he smiled at me then walked over to me.

Mr Smith : Kungentando, right?

Ntando : Yes Sir.
Mr Smith : Jonas will be just fine.
Ntando : oh no I prefer Mr Smith.
Mr Smith : okay whatever suits you then. Why are you busy with your books during
lunch? Aren't you gonna eat?
Ntando : I've already had something to eat Sir I just wanna use every minute I get
to catch up.
Mr Smith smiled at me then left.

Home...
. Amahle, Lwazi and I were eating our food then Zipho showed up.

Zipho : hey guys. Hey baby (kissing Amahle's forehead)

Ntando & Lwazi : hey.
Zipho : how was your first day Ntando?
Ntando : it was actually good.
Lwazi : Zipho why are you suddenly so nice to Ntando?
Zipho : oh I just realized how bitchy I've been towards her and that's unethical
since she'll be staying with my daughter here.
Lwazi : okay fair enough.
Ntando : I appreciate that Zipho. I mean... We're both adults so fighting is really
not a good thing.

Zipho and I smiled at each other. Well I haven't fully forgiven her I just told her
that for my own peace of mind. I noticed how quiet Amahle is, she's such a peaceful
child she hardly says a word to anyone nor laughs. After eating I took our dishes
and washed them. I went to do my school work then later joined Zipho, Lwazi and
Amahle on the lounge, they were watching some comedy. There was some really awkward
silence as we were watching the comedy, I wanted to laugh at some funny moments but
hey it was so damn uncomfortable I just decided to go to bed and sleep. Lwazi
followed me moments later.

Lwazi : you sleeping already?

Ntando : yah I'm a bit tired plus school tomorrow.
Lwazi : okay come closer then.
I went closer to him and we cuddled till we both fell asleep.
Next morning I woke up along with Lwazi and we made the bed then showered together.
I ironed my school uniform along with his clothes then we got dressed. Senzy was
already setting the table for breakfast. After breakfast I decided to go call
Amahle as we were already running late. I knocked on her room but I got no response
so I decided to barge in. There was no sign of her, there was a note on her bed it
read as follows " Lwazi We are very sorry for leaving like this. We just realised
how our presence brought discomfort to you and your girlfriend. We won't be a
nuisance anymore, you won't see us ever again. I hope she makes you happy and
treats you good." I was beyond shocked. How can Zipho be so selfish. If she wanted
to leave then she should've left Amahle with her father. I checked Amahle's closet
and indeed all her clothes were gone. I rushed to Lwazi and showed him the letter.
He immediately went crazy, he was fuming with anger.

Lwazi : here you take a bus or taxi to school. I'll see you later.
He gave me a R200 note then took his car keys and went out literally running. I
took my backpack and went to catch a bus to school. I was so late. I got in class
and Mr Smith gave me a death stare. I went over to him shaking.

Ntando : I'm so sorry for being late sir I got caught up with something at home. It
won't happen again.
Mr Smith : no lunchtime for you as punishment. You'll remain here in class.

I nodded then went to my place and took out my books then the lesson proceeded.
Soon it was lunch and everyone went out. I remained in class with Mr Smith. He kept
on stealing glances at me as I was busy with some school work. It kinda made me
uncomfortable.

Mr Smith : (clearing his throat) come here.

I reluctantly stood up and went to stand by his table.

Mr Smith : a bit closer.
I moved closer to him.
Mr Smith : (pointing at his lap) now sit here.
Ntando : um... Excuse me Sir?
Mr Smith : I didn't take you for the deaf type.
I just stood there facing the floor not daring to make eye contact with him.
Mr Smith : okay fine. Stand there. Have you ever been told how beautiful you are?
I just shifted uncomfortably then nodded.
Mr Smith : you are even so well structured.

Okay, his compliments are so damn unsettling I don't know how to react but one
thing I know is that this whole thing is inappropriate and unacceptable.

Ntando : Sir I don't appreciate your remarks. I'm your learner that's way out of
line
Mr Smith : (slightly laughing) we're both adults here. I think you know where I'm
going with this.
Ntando : I don't understand.
Mr Smith : playing dumb, aren't we?
Ntando : Can I go?
Mr Smith just smiled then said I can but he'll get what he wants sooner or later. I
rushed out of class and went to grab something to eat then soon it was time to go
back to class. At least Mr Smith's lesson had passed, I felt a slight relief.
After school I was waiting for Lwazi to come pick me up then it later crossed my
mind that he might not be coming so I caught a taxi home.
Days have passed and Zipho is still nowhere to be found, Lwazi has even involved
the police in this. He has been so distant and he's hardly home. I don't know
whether it's still only Amahle that he's worried about or it's both. Mr Smith is
still putting his uncomforting behavior and when I told him I'd report him to the
principal he threatened to get me expelled since he's the deputy principal. I can't
even tell Lwazi about it. But at least he hasn't tried to do anything funny.
Sunday night...
Lwazi comes home looking drained and angry as usual. He sits on the couch and I
decide to go warm his food then I take it to him.

Lwazi : Thanks.
I took his jacket, the one he was wearing and his bag and put it in the laundry
basket. I then prepared a bath for him. I went downstairs and found him asleep on
the couch. I took his plate and washed it then went to him and woke him up.

Ntando : (shaking him) babe wake up.

Lwazi : no I'm tired. I need this sleep.
Ntando : I prepared a bath for you, you can sleep after bathing.

He sulked and dragged himself to the bathroom. I locked all the doors and switched
off the lights then went to our room, he was already in bed.

Ntando : well that was quick.

Lwazi : come here.
I went to lie next to him in bed then he pulled me closer to Lie on his chest.

Lwazi : thank you.

Ntando : For?
Lwazi : I know how distant and cold I've been lately but you still didn't give up
on me. I don't know if I would've survived this whole thing without you by my side.
I really appreciate your support.
He kissed my forehead.
Ntando : (smiling) I'll always have your back. I just hope they find Amahle soon.
Lwazi : the police have a lead they're following on.
I quickly shifted and looked at him with excitement.
Ntando : well that's good right? Why aren't you happy then?
Lwazi : I just don't want to raise my hopes up.
Ntando : oh I see.
Lwazi : let's sleep. We both have an early morning.

We said goodnight to each other then drifted to sleep.

In the morning I woke up and showered then woke Lwazi up so he could bath too. I
prepared my uniform and his clothes, we wore our clothes then went to have
breakfast. After breakfast Senzy told me to not worry about the dishes. I took my
bag then said goodbye to Lwazi.

Lwazi : wait I'll take you to school today.

Ntando : ow okay, hurry then.
He took his bag then we went to his car and he drove off. I arrived in school and I
bumped into this guy who's in my class, Eric. He smiled at me, I decided to smile
back at him.

Eric : hey.
Ntando : hi.
Eric : have you made any friends around here?
Ntando : not really.
Eric : well then can I be your friend?
Ntando : but you do have friends.
Eric : they can be your friends too.
Ntando : but they're all guys meaning I'll be the only girl.
Eric : I don't see anything wrong there. Come on you gonna have tons of fun with us
plus we also have study sessions from time to time.

I thought about it for some time then finally gave in. My life's boring so I could
do with some friends. I wonder how Lwazi's gonna react but I'll ensure that he
knows they're just friends. Them being guys doesn't have to be a big deal. We went
to our class then the lesson started after that Mr Smith's lesson followed. Total
torture to me. He was overly nice to me even when I hadn't done his work he'll
still be nice. My classmates started spreading rumors that I was having an affair
with our class teacher.
During lunch time Eric with his friends Mike, Sanda and Brian came over to me.

Eric : any introductions needed?

Ntando : nah no need I know all of you.
Brian : Now come before the muffins get finished.
Ntando : but we can always get something else to eat.
Sanda : oh hell no we won't survive a day without muffins.
Ntando : all of you always eat muffins?
Mike : yes now enough with the talk. Pack your stuff let's go.
They helped pack my things then we went out to buy muffins with a smoothie, strange
meal I know but hey I have to fit in.
We had our lunch over a conversation and I must say they're really fun to be
around. Their girlfriends came over to us, I couldn't help but notice their
horrible stares at me. Eric decided to introduce them to me.

Eric : ntando this is my girlfriend Ariana, Mike's girl Nicky, Sanda's girl Kelly
then Brian's girl Thuli. Guys this is our new friend Ntando.
Ariana : So Ntando are you that lonely to hang out with our boyfriends?
Ntando : pardon?
Ariana : you heard me right. I don't want you near Eric.
Eric : okay Ari there's no need for that. She's just our friend.
Ariana : still I don't want her near you.
Eric : come let's go talk about this.
He stood up and pulled Ariana on the side.
Kelly : same goes to you Sanda I don't want her being your friend.
Sanda : oh come on now stop with the drama. You not gonna tell me who to be friends
with you not my mother nor my wife.
Kelly just stood there with her mouth wide open in embarrassment then walked away.
The other two girls didn't seem to have any problem with me though and that was a
good thing. We went back to our classes and I kinda felt bad that I caused conflict
between Eric and Ariana so I decided I'd go apologise to Ariana after school.
Lessons took place and we got lots of homework. After school I went to Ariana.

Ntando : hey Ariana.

Ariana : what do you want?
Ntando : I just came to apologise. I didn't mean to come between you and Eric. We
just friends nothing more. I'd never steal him from you I have my own boyfriend.
But for the sake of peace I'll stay away from him as you wish.
Ariana : good.

She then walked away. Bitchy much. I found Lwazi already waiting for me then I
hopped in the car and told him all about the drama that took place today. He just
told me to stay away from all these guys. When we arrived home Lwazi told me to get
ready he was taking me out for dinner. As much as I had a lot of work to do I still
needed to get some fresh air so I quickly went to shower then wore my boyfriend
jeans with a white oversized T-shirt and my kicks then took My sling bag. He didn't
change we just went off. We arrived at a restaurant he had booked a table in. He
opened a chair for me to sit, I smiled at him then sat. He also sat on his then the
waiter came over to us with our food. Okay, already ordered for us I see. We had
our food and it was sooooo good, the music here was soothing this whole environment
was just romantic. We had champagne along with dessert.

Lwazi : (taking my hands into his) Baby.

I looked at him. His eyes were full of fear and were welling with tears.

Ntando : My love.
Lwazi : we have to break up.
Ntando : What?!!!
Lwazi : I'm so sorry.
Ntando : why? What did I do? Don't you love me anymore? Tell me what's going on
baby you can't just leave me like this? What will I be without you?

Tears rolled down his cheeks then he took his phone and showed me a message from
Zipho. "If you wanna see your daughter and have a relationship with her, dumb that
girlfriend of yours. If you fail to do that I'm afraid you'll never see Amahle."
Zipho is one mind twisted bitch I hate her.
Lwazi : I have no choice please understand.
Ntando : you just can't man up! That's your problem. So you took me to some
romantic dinner to break up with me? You're so insane.
Lwazi : I'll give you a day to figure yourself out then you Can leave.

He stood up then went out wiping off his tears. I couldn't hold it in, I cried my
eyes out I didn't care what people thought or said. After a while I walked out of
the restaurant, I found Lwazi waiting for me outside. I didn't say a word to him, I
called a cab. Within seconds it arrived and I got in. He arrived home soon after
me. I went upstairs then started packing my clothes. I packed every single thing I
owned in this house. Lwazi got in the room and sat on the bed, he looked at me with
sadness all over his face.
Lwazi : I'm sorry.
He started sniffing, so he's crying again.
I just ignored him.
Lwazi : where are you gonna go? I can book you into a hotel.
Ntando : I don't need you feeling pity for me. I can fend for myself.

He went silent. I finished packing then walked out of the room with my bags. I
called a cab and it arrived. I went out of the house, left him there crying. I
kinda felt bad for him but no I shouldn't be. I arrived at home. It has been a
while. I opened the gate and went to the main door and knocked. A woman opened for
me, she looked like she was in her early 40s.

Ntando : hi.
Woman : Ntando? Is this you? Wow you've grown so much.
Ntando : sorry but I don't think I know you.
Woman : I'm your aunt, Fikile. Your father's sister.
Ntando : how come I've never heard of you?
Fikile : your father and I were never that close. I lived with my husband in KZN.
Ntando : and what brought you here?
Fikile : we divorced. I took my daughter with. She also lives here.
Ntando : can I get in now?

She moved from the door and I got in.

I looked around the house and I was quite impressed. You could tell that a woman
lived there, it was homely and welcoming. I then felt shame showering on me, my
father and my sister, I was even ashamed to ask about them.

Fikile : I'm sure you're wondering about your father and your sister.

I cleared my throat then faced the floor.

Ntando : um.... Yes where are they?
Fikile : your father has been in hospital for quite some time now and Okuhle is in
a mental health centre where she's being monitored closely.
Ntando : oh, any news on my mother?
Fikile : we've never heard from her.

I kinda felt at ease, I thought the worst honestly.

Fikile : you still have your room, Zama uses Kuhle 's room.
Ntando : Zama your daughter?
Fikile : yes, I think you two will get along.

I nodded then went to my room and it looked neat just evident that no one has been
using it for A very long time. I unpacked all my clothes then changed my bed
covers. I heard a knock, it was my aunt.

Fikile : I'm going to bed. Sleep well.

Ntando : goodnight.

She closed the door and went to sleep. I also changed into my pyjamas then blocked
Lwazi everywhere then I slept. I woke up In the morning and got ready for school. I
found my aunt in the kitchen with a girl whom I assumed was Zama.

Ntando : Good morning.

Fikile : morning sisi. This is your cousin Zama and Zama this is Ntando the one I
told you about
Zama : oh hey.
Ntando : hi nice to meet you. So how old are you?
Zama : I'm 16.
Ntando : grade 10 or 11?
Zama : 10 actually. Ow! We go to the same school.

I looked at her uniform, it was exactly like mine. That was good. My aunt was
wearing her nurse uniform. At least she works.

Fikile : girls set up the table, breakfast is almost ready.

We set up the table and soon after we were eating.

Fikile : I'll take you to school, I still have some time before my shift starts.
After eating Zama and I washed the dishes then we took our bags and drove to
school. Aunt gave us both R20 for lunch. Zama went to her class and I also went to
mine. Then it suddenly kicked in, I hadn't done any of the work Mr Smith gave us,
at least I know he's not gonna go all ballistic on me.

He got in class and greeted us then demanded his work. Everyone had done it except
for me. As usual he just smiled at me and the lesson went on normally.
During lunch as everyone got out Mr Smith told me to remain in class. I did as
instructed and he stood up and locked the door. Okay, I'm getting shaky why did he
just lock the door? He came and sat on my table then smiled at me, I swear this man
is crazy. I didn't smile back, I just looked away. He brought my face closer to his
and instructed me to look at him, I didn't. His smile was then replaced by a very
intimidating look. I shivered. I've never seen him with that look on.

Ntando : Sir can I go?

Mr Smith : Go where?
Ntando : I need the toilet.
Mr Smith : you not going anywhere till I get what I want from you.
Ntando : and what's that?
Mr Smith : I want a taste of you.
Ntando : (moving away from him) Huh? No! Are you crazy?! A taste of me? How? Oh
God!
He just laughed at me.
Mr Smith : (still laughing) you should see your face right now. Come on just a
little fun.
Just then Mr Smith tried to force himself on me, I managed to grab a vase next to
my table and I hit him on his head, he collapsed on the floor. I ran and took the
key on his table and unlocked the door and ran to the principal's office.

Mrs Mlaba : Kungentando what's wrong? Why are you running like you've just seen a
ghost?

I just continued breathing heavily then sat on a chair. She gave me some water and
I gulped down the glass.

Mrs Mlaba : now tell me what's going on?

Ntando : it's Mr Smith.
Mrs Mlaba : yes...??
Ntando : he...he...
I couldn't talk. Mrs Mlaba gave me a "I'm waiting for you to talk" look.
Ntando : he tried to force himself on me.
Mrs Mlaba had her mouth wide open then she looked at me with shame and guilt in her
eyes.

Mrs Mlaba : please don't tell this to anyone.

Ntando : what? Why?
Mrs Mlaba : Mr Smith has raped few girls in this school and one of them once
reported him to her family and unfortunately after that the girl was reported dead.
I sat there in shock, she can't possibly think that Mr Smith caused the death of
that girl.
Mrs Mlaba : yes it was him.
Ntando : why aren't you doing anything about this?
Mrs Mlaba : I can't. His family owns this school. I'll lose my job.
Ntando : well I won't be silenced.
Mrs Mlaba : don't say I didn't warn you.

I stood up then walked out. I bumped into Eric.

Eric: Hey, you okay?

Ntando : I'm fine.
Eric : you seem to be avoiding me though.
Ntando : look Eric, you and I can't be friends. I can't be the one breaking you and
Ariana apart. So please move I wanna go.
Eric : wait...
I just pushed him and walked away. I looked for Zama and found her with her
friends, I signaled her to come to me. She came to me running and smiling.
Zama : Hey sis.
Ntando : Hey. It's good to see you here.
Zama : don't you have any friends? Why are you walking alone?
Ntando : I actually have no friends and I'm cool with that.
Zama : come chill with us.
Ntando : nah I'll pass. Have you eaten?
Zama : Yes I have.
Ntando : you tell me if anyone's bothering you, okay?
Zama : (rolling her eyes) you really sound like a true big sister right now, I can
take care of myself relax.
Ntando : fine. Let me get going then. I'll see you after school.
Zama : mom will come fetch us.
Ntando : okay. Bye.

We hugged and I walked to class. Mr Smith was packing his things, looks like he
wasn't badly hurt after all. I just passed my class and waited for him to walk out.
He soon walked over to his car and drove out of school, he seemed to be in a hurry
or maybe he was just running away.
Since that day Mr Smith has never came to school ever again. Months passed, I wrote
my final exam and I passed my Matric with 3 distinctions and that was more than
enough for me after all that I've been through. My aunt had been good to me, she
supported me like her very own daughter and Zama and I got along so well we even
went out together on weekends she also passed her grade 10 exceptionally well. So I
was packing my bags getting ready for varsity, I'd been accepted at UJ and I'm
heading there today, my aunt will be taking me there. I walked out of my room and
found Zama and aunt already waiting for me by the lounge. Zama was in tears and
aunt had a proud smile on.

Ntando : Zama don't cry now, I'm not dying I'm just going to Joburg to study.
Zama : I'm just gonna miss you.
We hugged for what felt like forever then my aunt spoke
Fikile : Well enough now Ntando has to go, it's a long drive.
We broke our hug and they helped me with my bags. As we got in the car Zama asked
to go with us, aunt agreed. We all got in the car then drove off. We stopped in
town to buy some food and we ate in the car while aunt was driving. We took a lot
of pictures and videos. We later arrived in Joburg. I looked around with so much
joy. Zama was red in envy.

Zama : wow! Mom I also wanna study here.

Aunt just laughed at her. We got off the car and they both hugged me and we said
our goodbyes. A security guard helped me with my bags and showed me around, did all
the necessities and soon I was in my room. My roommate was not yet in, she was
expected to come the following day. I settled in and took a nap. I woke up very
late at night and saw that my aunt had tried to call me as well as Zama I quickly
got back at them and told them I'd settled in well. I liked the scent of freedom, I
got up hungry and realised I had no food, luckily aunt had gave me some money
enough to last me a month. I ordered in and my food came within 30 minutes, good
thing McDonald's was close by.
I ate my food then resided back to bed. My classes were only starting on Wednesday
and today is Monday, I was woken by a knock. I opened the door yawning and saw a
girl who was about my age carrying a suitcase and a huge bag.

Girl : (smiling) hey you must be Kungentando my roommate.

Ntando : yes.but just call me Ntando.
Girl : cool I'm Lunathi but Luna will be just fine.
Ntando : nice meeting you. Let me help you.
I took her bag and walked her in.
Luna : mmm this room is nice. I think you and I are gonna get along just fine. Do
you party?
Ntando : not really.
Luna : why?
Ntando : honestly speaking I don't know why.
Luna : well now baby Luna's here to save you.
I just laughed, she looks like a lot of fun shame. Maybe now my life will have some
vibe. I went to shower then Luna suggested we go do some groceries. I got dressed
in my blue skinny jeans and baby blue baggy vest and scandals.
I took my bag then we went out. We firstly had breakfast then did grocery shopping.
At around 2 pm we were already in our room just chilling and having a light
conversation over some ice cream. Nice life I tell you.

Luna : how about we go out tonight? Party and just go wild? Just to celebrate our
freedom.
Ntando : As for going wild I'm not sure but we can go out. Any place in mind?
Luna : we can check places online.

We searched all vibey places nearby and we found this place called 'The Night Owls'
Luna seemed to like it.

Ntando : I'm not too sure about it. Even its name is so damn unsettling.
Luna : I think that's what makes it more attractive, its name. I mean look at that
view everything about it is so beautiful and it screams VIBE!

She finally managed to pursuade me to go there. We took a nap then woke up later to
get ready. We showered then I wore my short red jumpsuit with my red sneakers then
tied my braids into a bun, I did them before coming to Joburg. Luna was wearing a
short black dress with black baby heels, she had a weave on. We went out. We
arrived at the place and there was a lot of noise there, loud music and people
dancing their asses off. One thing caught my attention though, the smell of braaied
meat. We found a table then ordered meat. Luna ordered cocktails for us. Our meat
came and we ate while sipping on our cocktails. Luna then ordered some more
beverages for us, alcohol specifically. She started getting tipsy and stood up to
dance. I was also getting tipsy so I lay down on the alcohol and just drank lemon
water with ice, that eased the alcohol a bit. I looked at Luna having the time of
her life then I looked at the time, it was almost 00:00 so I grabbed Luna's hand
then we called a cab. We arrived in our room after about 20 minutes, at least Luna
was able to walk by herself. As soon as we got in Luna jumped into bed, I laughed
at her when I realised she had dozzed off. I took off her shoes and covered her
with a blanket. I changed into my sleepwear then switched off the lights and slept.
In the morning I woke up and found Luna already up, she was making breakfast.

Ntando : up already?
Luna : I've even showered and cleaned I'm surprised you didn't hear me cleaning.
Ntando : Let me go shower then.
Luna : I'll make your bed you can go.
Ntando : ow thanks.
I went to shower then wore my casual clothes and we had breakfast.
Luna : So what are we doing today?
Ntando : Classes are starting tomorrow so I think it's only fair we just chill in
our room, nothing hectic.
Luna just nodded disappointed. I swear this one likes fun. We chilled in our room
the whole day.
Next day.... We both had an early class and days after that I was so busy with
school and my aunt called everyday to check up on me. Physiotherapy was really no
child's play. One day I got a call from aunt telling me my father was out of coma
and my sister was getting discharged from the mental health centre. I was beyond
happy and I couldn't wait to see them.
Soon the first semester was over and I was going home, I wanted to surprise them. I
got Zama and Kuhle bracelets along with anklets. I arrived home and found my aunt,
Zama and Kuhle watching TV. Kuhle looked so healthy and like her old self again.

Ntando : hey everyone. Guess who's home?!!

Kuhle and Zama ran to me and attacked me with hugs. My aunt came and hugged me too.

Fikile : ow my baby I'm so happy to see you.

Ntando : I wanted to surprise you guys.
Kuhle : Wow! You're so grown. I could hardly recognise you.
Ntando : you've grown too. How are you feeling now?
Kuhle : I'm good sisi. I've even went back to school and I'm doing very well.
Ntando : that's good to hear. I got you and Zama something.
Zama : oh my God! What is it? Hurry please show us.

We just laughed at her impatient ass.

I took out their bracelets and anklets and they screamed in joy.
Zama : I so love these mmmmm. Mom remember you didn't want me having them? Well
shame having a cool big sis is awesome.
Fikile : Mxm whatever. Lemme go dish up.
Kuhle and Zama went with me to my room and helped me unpack. After that we went to
have supper. We had a very good talk and I told them all about Joburg. Kuhle and
Zama insisted on sleeping with me in my room.

Zama : So sisi can I ask?

Ntando : sure.
Zama : so have you found..... You know someone?.
Ntando : Someone?
Zama : Yah like a boyfriend?
Ntando : Oh no.
Kuhle : Why?
Ntando : no one has interested me in that kinda way yet.
Zama : so you are actually looking?
Ntando : Not really but hey if I find a guy I like then I'd go for it.
Kuhle : mmmm SBWL being you right now.
Ntando : (laughing) hey! Who are you and what did you do to my little clueless
sister?
Kuhle : oh come on Ntando I've always been like this.
Ntando : So Zama...
Zama : oh no I'm so not ready for this let's sleep.
I laughed at her.
Ntando : you have a boyfriend?
Zama : well... He's not really my boyfriend but I kinda like him. He's on
friendzone for now.
Kuhle : And sisi she always talks about him. Like how she likes his smile, how he
pronounces her name and his accent yoh all day everyday it's Saun.
Zama : what?! No I don't talk about him all the time. Ntando she's lying.
Ntando : What race is this Saun guy?
Zama : (looking away) he's Indian.
Ntando : huh?
Zama : Indiya Ntando uSaun indiya!!
Kuhle and I just laughed our asses off. Zama is really full of surprises shame.
Ntando : and does Fikile know about her son in law?
Zama : she'd die of heart attack. So hell no!
We talked some more and slept at 2 a.m.
We were woken up by Aunt in the morning when she was going to work

Fikile : girls I'm going to work now. Ntando I've transfered you some money so you
guys can just go have fun today, you deserve it.
We all jumped in joy, I swear this one is for keeps. She just shook her head and
went out. We started doing funny dance moves then quickly cleaned around the house
then bathe. We wore denim shorts and black T-shirts with sneakers. We called a cab
and off we went. We firstly stopped at Wimpy and had breakfast then we went to do
some shopping after shopping we went to the amusement park and had lots of fun. We
went back home at around 5 in the afternoon. Aunt was not yet back. We just bathe
and took a nap. We were later woken up by aunt telling us supper was ready. We went
to have supper then watched a movie but aunt went to bed early as she was tired
from work. We chatted, watched some more movies, made popcorn and had ice cream
then dozzed off on the couch. We woke up to loud noise like pots were falling or
something. I opened my eyes only to find aunt busy making noise with pots.

Ntando : aunty what's up with so much noise now?

Fikile : trying to wake you lazy birds up. Don't you have beds?
Ntando : we dozzed off while watching a movie.
Fikile : wake up and clean this house then. I want it spotless.
Kuhle : but aunty it's still very early how about we just go to our rooms and get a
proper sleep?
Zama : wow that's actually a very good idea.
Fikile : you wish. Now get your lazy selves up, I'm going out and when I arrive I
need to find this place clean with a scrumptious home cooked meal waiting for me.
Is that clear?
Ntando : yes aunty.

Aunt Fikile went out carrying her bag with her car keys on her hand. We dragged
ourselves and cleaned around the house then went to bath, ate then started cooking.
It took us hours to figure out what to cook then we later opted for lasagna,
samosas, some salads, lamb chops and roasted chicken. We sure made lots of food.
After cooking we went to watch movies and aunt got in, followed by my father. He
looked healthy and like his old self again, I couldn't hold back my tears. Both
Kuhle and I ran to him and hugged him for the longest time. We then broke the hug,
aunt was just standing there looking at us smiling like a retard. I went over to
her and hugged her too.

Ntando : so that's why you were so persistent in us getting the house spotless and
cooking?
Fikile : of course!
Zama : well then let's go dig in!
We warmer and up the food and dished up for everyone.
Nkosi : wow you girls really outdid yourselves here. Can we just eat already?
We all laughed at him and said grace then ate as a perfect family that we were,
except my mom was not there. I must say the food was really good. I thought we made
enough food but no my we all wanted more so aunt just ordered some pizza with
samosas and we once again dug in. We went to the lounge and talked for ages then
later we all went to bed since we talked till late. It was really good sleeping
knowing that my father was back and healthy again, I just couldn't stop thinking
about my mother though but again, she was selfish enough to not bother looking for
them so why should I care? Next morning we all went for some family picnic at the
park next to the lake under a huge tree, we had lots of fun, took tons of pictures
and videos, I posted them on social media. Everyone kept on complimenting us,
commenting what a perfect family we were and how they wished to have a family like
mine, if only they knew about my absent mother. One comment really caught my
attention though, it was from an anonymous account "so that cheat of a man is still
alive". I thought maybe it was from one of my dad's ex flings, because it couldn't
possibly be from my mother, she was never into social media to start with. Or maybe
she's changed, maybe she now does things she never used to do. I was really
disturbed, I hardly noticed we had arrived at home.

Zama : sisi are you okay?

Kuhle : thanks Zama I was even scared to ask her.
Ntando : yah yah I'm fine, what's up?
Zama : you seem very distracted. Talk to us.
Ntando : it's really nothing guys come on.
Kuhle : well okay then. Zama come we have to wash dishes.
Zama : oh don't start with me Kuhle you know it's your turn. Why do you always have
to invite me?
Kuhle : I just like your company. Now come please.
Zama : and you don't like Ntando's company?
Ntando : good question.
Kuhle : okay I like both companies. But I know Ntando won't agree to keep me
company while getting the dishes done, but you on the other hand, you never say no
to me.
Zama just shook her head and walked out of my room with Kuhle. I decided to use
that time to dig deeper into "anonymous" her wall was empty, no posts or anything.
I just knew this person must've created this account to stalk me. I wasn't going to
tell anyone about this till I find more info about this account. I sent anonymous a
message.
Ntando : hey who are you?
Anonymous : I see you decided to text, like I thought you would.
Ntando : are you stalking me?
Anonymous : maybe.
Ntando : but why?
Anonymous : it's the right thing to do.
Ntando : mom, is this you?
Anonymous : do I look like your prodigal mother?
Ntando : well I don't know how you look like and how do you know about my mother's
disappearance?
Anonymous : I know everything about you.
Ntando : please tell me what you want from me.
Anonymous : all in due time.
Ntando : what do you mean by that?

And anonymous went offline, I was now left more curious than ever. I really needed
to know who this was,but how? I'm no hacker or PI. I can't even afford one. I
couldn't possibly ask for money from my aunt she'll wanna know what it's for so
I'll just have to wait till anonymous contacts me again. Holidays flew by and soon
I was back in res.
I was getting ready for my class when my phone rang, I quickly unplugged it from
the charger and answered.

Ntando : hello.
Caller : nice voice you have my dear.
Ntando : sorry who's this?
Caller : remember my last words to you?
Ntando : I don't even know you so how could I possibly remember your last words?
Caller : all in due time.
Ntando : wait, you're anonymous? Who the fuck are you and what do you want from me?
I'm gonna report this to the cops If you don't start speaking and just fucken' tell
me who you are.
Caller : (laughing) oh come on stop with the empty threats.
Ntando : ah fuck you!
I dropped the call. I continued packing my books.

Ntando : (to myself angrily) this fucker is starting to really piss me off. What
the hell does this person want from me? I don't even have any enemies that I know
of. Maybe I pissed someone off while I was still with Lwazi but come on who could
that possibly be? Oh no! Maybe it's Lwazi himself, but why now? I left him a long
time ago! None of this makes sense. I'm starting to really go crazy.
Luna : and I really think you going crazy. Why are you talking to yourself?
I stood there in shock, did she hear everything I just said?
Luna : hello Ntando!
Ntando : did you hear everything I just said?
Luna : um... Nah I just heard the last part.
Ntando : what was the last part you heard.
Luna : the one you were saying you are starting to go crazy.
Ntando : (sighing) Oooh better.
Luna : are you okay?
Ntando : (walking out in a rush) yah! See you later!
Okay that was close. I have no choice I'll have to ask some IT nerd to track
anonymous for me. I got to class and the lecture was long and boring. I had two
classes and soon I was done. I went to the IT department and looked around, saw a
group of students sitting and talking about computers, websites and some new app
they wanted to invent. I wasn't gonna go there, no so I continued looking around
till I spotted a guy sitting alone, he looked kinda busy on his laptop. I TOOK a
deep breath then went to him.

Ntando : (smiling) hey.

Guy : (facing his laptop) hi.
Ntando : I'm Ntando, you are?
Guy : (still on his laptop) um... What?
Ntando : (closing his laptop) I said I'm Ntando, what's your name?
Guy : oh sorry I'm Yanga.
Ntando : good to know you Yanga.
Yanga : Likewise Ntando.
I sat next to him awkwardly and just stayed silent.
Yanga : I'm sure you didn't come here to just ask my name.
Ntando : (awkwardly smiling) yeah sure.
Yanga : so what can I do for you?
Ntando : (stuttering) uh... What? Do... do for me? How... how did you know I needed
something from you?
Yanga : (slightly laughing) that's just something anyone can say when a stranger
approaches them and sits next to them.
Ntando : yeah right. Why didn't I think of that? Of course. Yah.
Yanga : Ntando quickly speak please I have a lot to do.
Ntando : oh sorry. So um... I need a small favor from you.
Yanga : a favor from a stranger? Okay interesting, what is it?
Ntando : I need your skills.
Yanga : my skills? What skills?
Ntando : you do IT, right?
Yanga : oh no, why would you think that?
Ntando : I mean you are here on the IT department, aren't you? Or maybe I'm the one
who's lost?
Yanga : no you not lost I'm just here waiting for a friend of mine, he's the IT
student I'm just an Engineering student.
Ntando : oh really? Okay sorry then. I guess I'll have to find someone else. Sorry
for wasting your time.
Yanga : wait, don't go. I'm sure Marcus can help you.
Ntando : your friend?
Yanga : yes, he'll be here any minute now.

We waited for Marcus while having a light conversation. Turns out Yanga is Xhosa
and a very good guy, smart too. A guy approached us and Yanga stood up then they
guy hugged, I assumed it was Marcus.

Yanga : Marcus this is Ntando, Ntando this is my friend Marcus.

Marcus : you didn't tell me you now have a girlfriend dude. Hey Ntando nice to meet
you.
Yanga : oh no she's not my girlfriend, we just met. She actually needs your help
with something.
Marcus : oh and what's that?
Ntando : I need you to hack some account for me.
Marcus : okay, that's all?
Ntando : and track this number.
I gave it to him as well as the account username.
Marcus : is this person troubling you?
Ntando : this person just keeps on sending me messages, and this morning even
called. I don't know who it might be.
Marcus : you okay though? I mean this must be torture for you.
Ntando : yah I think I'm fine. When do you think you can get this done?
Marcus : it'll probably take few hours. Gimme your number so we'll stay in touch.
I gave him my number.
Ntando : hey Yanga lemme put my number on your phone.
Yanga : what for now?
Ntando : maybe one day you'll also need a favor from me.
We swapped phones and exchanged numbers. Marcus just took his bag and went off.
Ntando : and then? Weren't you gonna go together?
Yanga : he probably just got jealous.
Ntando : why?
Yanga : we exchanged numbers, clearly he likes you and wants you.
Ntando : what? No I doubt that. We just met, he can't possibly like me.
Yanga : whatever you say, but I know my friend he's into you. Let's go.
We stood up and went out. We part ways and promised to stay in touch, I kept on
thinking about what Yanga said, does Marcus really like me? It won't hurt to just
have fun with him besides it's been a while since I last dated someone. I quickly
brushed off that thought, I really don't need any boy drama. I arrived in my room
and found Luna asleep, I went to shower then cooked and woke Luna up.
Ntando : Luna did you attend any of your classes today?
Luna : yah I just had only one class.
I dishedup for us and we ate. Luna then did the dishes. I received a message from
Marcus, he was telling me to meet him tomorrow at a nearby café, I agreed then I
decided to text Yanga, I wanted him to also be there luckily he agreed.

Luna : hey Ntando I'm going out with few friends, wanna come?
Ntando : nah I'm tired I'll probably study a bit then just sleep.
Luna : okay then bye!
Ntando : have fun!
Luna : that goes without saying!
She went out and I just smiled to myself. I liked Luna but she wa just not the type
of person I'd make my friend, we are exact opposites. I studied a bit then watched
a movie and dozzed off, I was woken up by Luna's noise. I looked at the Time and it
was 2 a.m. She was so drunk, a guy was helping her get into bed.

Guy : um... Sorry I just drove her here since she was in no state to be going
alone.
Ntando : oh okay but how did you get past security?
Guy : just don't worry yourself about that.
Ntando : so are you her boyfriend?
Guy : um... You can say that but we've just met, still getting to know each other.
By the way I'm Swazi. Goodnight.
He then went out, he did look kinda uncomfortable but maybe it's only because of
the circumstances we met under. I went back to sleep. I woke up pretty late, it was
almost time for me too meet with Marcus and Yanga called.
Yanga : hey where are you? I'm waiting for you outside.
Ntando : oh snap! You are so punctual. I'm about to go shower right now I just woke
up. But I'll be done in no time.
I dropped the call before he could say anything then ran to shower. In no time I
was getting dressed in my denim short skirt and white vest then wore scandals and
took my sling bag then went out, Luna was still fast asleep. I arrived outside the
gate and found Yanga sitting on the sidewalk, looking annoyed as hell.

Ntando : hey I'm so sorry but I'm here now.

Yanga : whatever let's go.
Okay, we short tempered aren't we? We walked to the Café, Marcus was already there.
He looked surprised to see Yanga.
Marcus : hey guys, Yanga my man I didn't know you were also coming.
Yanga : Ntando insisted I come with her.
Marcus : did she think I'll bite her or something?
Ntando : nah I just wanted him to also be around.
Marcus : oh okay, aren't you gonna order something? I would've ordered for you but
I don't know what you like so...
Ntando : nah it's fine.
I called the waiter then ordered cappuccino with muffins for both Yanga and I.
Marcus : what about me?
Ntando : come on if you wanted to order you would've done that when you arrived
here. Plus, I'm the one who asked Yanga to come with me so it's only fair I order
for him too.
Marcus : but I'm sure he can order for himself.
Ntando : I don't think he minds though.
Yanga : y'all need to stop talking about me as if I'm not here, and Ntando thanks
you so sweet.
I smiled at him. Marcus kinda got pissed a bit but whatever. Our food came and we
ate.
Ntando : so you found anything?
Marcus : yah so this anonymous is a guy and his name is Max Mazibuko.
Ntando : never heard of him before, don't you Know what he wants?
Marcus : no but this is him.
He unlocked his phone and showed me this Max guy's picture, he looked familiar, I
looked at him closely. No it can't be!
Marcus : what? Do you Know him?
Yanga : Ntando do you know this guy? Did he hurt you?
Ntando : this is Swazi.
Yanga : who's that?
Ntando : my roommate's boyfriend. I saw him last night he had brought Luna. Wait,
what does he want from me? Why did he say he was Swazi then? Why did he give me the
wrong name, what does he want from me?
Marcus : how long has he been dating your roommate?
Ntando : he said they've only just started to know each other.
Marcus : maybe he dated her just to get closer to you, I always see this in movies,
it happens.
Yanga : yah you right. We need to know what this guy wants from Ntando. He might be
even dangerous, who Knows?
Ntando : he looks too young to be dangerous.
Yanga : you can ever be too sure. Marcus please continue digging abiut this guy.
Marcus : okay I'll do that.
Obviously after that moment I want okay, I still couldn't tell Luna though. Yanga
and Marcus tried to cheer me up, we went for ice cream then went to the game
reserve. It was insane, Yanga trying to impress me then Marcus wanting to do more
than what Yanga has done. It was entertaining to watch though, but I didn't wanna
be the reason they fight so I made it clear to both of them that I liked them as
friends,they should stop trying so hard. In the evening I went back to my room and
Luna was already cooking supper.

Luna : hey stranger you are really rare to find these days, you giving me the
diamond vibes.
I just laughed at her and went to shower then came back and wore my pyjamas then we
had supper.

Luna : so what have you been up to?

Ntando : ow um... Nothing just school.
Luna : and where were you today?
Ntando : just out for some air.
Luna : don't tell me you have some secret boyfriend you not telling me about.
Ntando : of course not. I just met two guys and we now friends.
Luna : now that's weird.
I just stood up and went to wash our plates. I didn't know how to react around
Luna, how could I possibly tell her that her newly found boyfriend is my stalker?
I went to bed afterwards and boom! Goodnight text messages from both Yanga and
Marcus, bury me now!! At dawn I was woken up by Marcus's call.

Ntando : oh God Marcus, why so early though?

Marcus : I have news for you and I just couldn't wait any longer but I had to tell
you.
Ntando : what is it?
Marcus : this Max guy used to live in an orphanage, he then later got adopted by a
Siboniso Ntsele who seems to be your uncle.
Ntando : huh? What? That can't be true I don't have an uncle.
Marcus : yes you do. I'm afraid you have to meet with Max maybe he'll give you the
answers you need. I'll give you his real contact details.
Ntando : um okay Thanks Marcus.

I dropped the call and was just more confused than ever. What's really going on
here? I received a text, Marcus had sent me Max's number. I hesitantly dialed the
number then called him. It rang for a while then he answered.

Max : hello.
Ntando : hi.
Max : Max speaking.
Ntando : yah I know.
Max : (clearing his throat) wait, is this...?? Um.. Who's this?
Ntando : yes stalker, you recognised my voice, don't you?
Max : I don't know what you're talking about.
Ntando : please drop the act Swazi or Max or whoever you are.
Max : where did you get my number?
Ntando : let's meet at Level Café at 10 a.m today.
Max : why?
Ntando : just be there.
I hung up. It took some damn guts for me to do that hey. After that I couldn't
sleep so I just scrolled on social media to keep my mind busy. Soon, it was 9 a.m
and Luna had already gone for class. I bathe then wore my black sweatpants and
white vest with white sneakers and took my purse with. I arrived before Max, so I
ordered an orange juice for myself, he was 30 minutes late. He took a sit and kept
looking around clearly displaying his uncomfort.

Ntando : so finally we meet, Anonymous.

Max : why am I here?
Ntando : what do you want from me? Why did you stalk me?
Max : you don't need to know that now.
Ntando : and why did my uncle, which I never knew about adopt you?
Max : how did you know about that? You hired someone to dig on me?
Ntando : who are you? Why are you so obsessed with me?
Max : I can't tell you that.
Ntando : (snapping) don't fuck with me! Talk!
Max : (also snapping) Ntando don't talk to me like that, am I clear?
Ntando : why? You don't get to tell me that. Why do you think you deserve my
respect?
Max : (angrily) because I'm your brother dammit!
Ntando : (shocked) what?! But how?
Max : yes I'm your brother.
Ntando : no that's not possible. I don't have an older brother, I'm the first born.
My parents only have daughters, 2 daughters.
Max : mom and dad had me when they were too young, they couldn't look after me, so
your father suggested I get aborted and my mother disagreed with him so they broke
up but then unfortunately my mother died when I was very young so I was taken to
the orphanage but I still used my mother's surname since her family also wasn't
well off financially and I was kept a secret from you guys. That's why uncle
Siboniso adopted me. He couldn't let me stay in an orphanage like I had no family.
Your father wanted nothing to do with him after that, that's why he's never been
present in your life, aunt Fikile knew about me too, your father cut all ties with
his family after they all suggested he lets me into his life. Apparently I'd ruin
his perfect family and break his marriage. I grew up with so much anger Ntando, I
wanted to hurt him and just destroy this perfect family of his which was clearly
more important to him more than me. You seemed to be an easy way into destroying
him. I mean, you are all alone here in varsity with no protection from your family.
He never loved me nor cared about me, he denied me the chance of having a mother
and a father, a chance of being a big brother to you and Okuhle. I wasn't even sure
what I was gonna do after all the stalking I was doing to you.

I was in tears shocked to death. He realised this and took my hand.

Max : I'm sorry I didn't mean to stalk or scare you. I wasn't gonna hurt you. I
know you never knew about me so I was just trying to find a way to get to know you
and feel more involved in your life but I just went the wrong route about this
whole thing. Please forgive me.
Ntando : (wiping my tears) no it's fine don't apologise it's fine I totally
understand. I can't believe dad can be that evil. I wonder what my mother would say
if she heard this but then she's not present so...
Max : your mom? Um... Where's she?
Ntando : I don't know but that's a story for another day.
Max : (clearing his throat) ow okay.
Ntando : what is it? Are you fine?
Max : yeah sure perfect.
Ntando : okay so are you planning on availing yourself at home any time soon?
Max : I'm not sure that's a good idea. What if he still doesn't want me?
Ntando : that's nonsense. End of semester you'll have to come with me home and I'm
not taking no for an answer.
Max : sounds cool then.
Ntando : so what do you do for a living?
Max : I'm actually a chemical engineer.
Ntando : wow okay nice.
Max : I recently bought a house not far from your school. I just thought that if
things eventually work out you can come stay with me.
Ntando : ow that's so sweet of you. Now tell me do you really like Luna?
Max : Luna is too young for me I just asked her out so I can be a bit closer to
you.
Ntando : ouch she'll be hurt.
Max : I know but I'm sure she'll understand.

We chatted for a while then my beloved big brother took me shopping, how nice! We
even went to his house and I must say, he has good taste, his house is so huge and
classy not at all a man's taste I was really impressed. He promised to stay in
touch when he dropped me off. Who thought having a big brother would be so good! I
got into my room and found Luna busy with something on her laptop.

Luna : mmmm someone found herself a blesser! So much shopping bags. Who is it girl?
Ntando : (laughing) my big brother blessed me.
Luna : I didn't know you had one. You've never mentioned him before.
Ntando : well now you know I have one.
I tried on all my clothes, then one outfit really caught Luna's attention. It was a
short red dress with glitter around the waist.
Luna : now that's really good, wow!
Ntando : yes only because you like showing off some skin. I don't even like it you
can have it
Luna : really?
Ntando : yah it's yours now take it.
Luna : (jumping to me with a hug) you're the best! Thank you thank you!
I just smiled at her.
Luna : Swazi will go crazy when he sees me in this.
My smile was wiped off by shame as I thought of the heartache she was still to
endure.
We ordered pizza for supper, after all big bro had given me some cash. I had even
forgotten to inform Yanga and Marcus about my meeting with my brother and my phone
was off so I charged it and turned it on. I had missed calls from both of them and
a text from Max wishing me a goodnight. I smiled and decided to text Yanga first
telling him all about Max and my day then I did the same with Marcus. They were
both shocked but happy for me.

Days passed and Yanga started asking me out, at first I refused but then as he
didn't give up I finally gave in, we went on few dates then I realised how much I
really liked him, he was a gentleman and he cared a lot about me. After a week full
of dates we started dating and Marcus told us he no longer wanted anything to do
with us, that's how mad he was, apparently he also really liked me but was just too
scared to tell me because he feared he might scare me away. I felt bad for him but
I liked Yanga not him. After that day, we never heard of Marcus ever again.
It was a Saturday afternoon and I was in Yanga's apartment, we were sitting on the
couch watching a romantic movie while snacking on some popcorn, my head was on his
chest and his one arm around me while the other held popcorn. Yanga kept on
brushing my hair and kissing my forehead, I could barely focus on the movie, his
touch sent shivers all over my body, I couldn't explain how he made me feel but on
that moment I was sure I loved him, I smiled to myself and said... "I love you"
without even realizing I'm actually saying it out loud. Yanga suddenly moved and
looked at me with shock and a smile.

Yanga : you love me? Really?

Ntando : yes I love you.
Yanga : (hugging me) ah God knows how afraid I was to tell you that, Ntando I love
you so much.
We hugged for a while then kissed, and smiled to each other then continued watching
the movie. Soon it was time for me to go.

Yanga : do you really need to go though?

Ntando : what do you mean? It's late now.
Yanga : (with pleading eyes) please stay the night. I'll freeze of cold without you
by my side of bed.
I just laughed at him then went to dut on his lap and gave him one hell of a good
kiss, I could tell he wanted more when I pulled out from the kiss and stood up.
I took my bag and he quickly stood up and held my waist.
Yanga : where do you think you are going?
Ntando : hayibo!
Yanga : (taking my bag) you are not going anywhere. Finish what you started.
I smiled at him then he pulled me to his room, and y'all know.

I woke up in the morning, my phone was ringing and I answered, it was my aunt.

Fikile : Ntando are you good?

Ntando : yes aunty just still asleep.
Fikile : so late? Don't you go to church?
Ntando : eish...
Then Yanga shifted, put his arm around me.
Yanga : (with his deep voice) who's that?.
I put a finger on his lips signailling him to keep quiet.
Fikile : And who's that? Didn't you say you were sleeping?
Ntando : Flip! (stuttering) I... Um...
Fikile : Ntando are you with a boy there?
Ntando : oh no! Of course not! Why would I do that?
Fikile : then who was that?
Ntando : um... Aunty I'll call you back, gotta go bye!
I hung up.
Ntando : shit!
Yanga : well I'm sorry I didn't know that was your aunt.
Ntando : nah it's fine, no big deal.
Then my phone rang again, still it was Fikile calling, I rejected the call. Then
dad called, okay hectic! I rejected his calls too. Zama called, I also rejected her
calls then sent her a text telling her how aunt heard Yanga talking while I was on
the phone with her, Zama knew about Yanga so she told me how she'll cover for me,
when I asked how she just told me to leave everything to her, lifesaver! Yanga and
I went to shower together, magical! We then wore warm clothes since it was
freezing, he gave me his sweatpants and sweatshirt, even socks and his slippers. We
went to have breakfast then chilled all day indoors. It's always a battle when it's
time for me to go so I ended up spending another night with him in his place. I
went back to my place Monday morning since I had classes to attend and I couldn't
help but notice how sad Luna was, she hardly said a word to me all day. At night
when we were both minding our own business I decided to just talk to her.

Ntando : Luna.
Luna : yes?
Ntando : are you okay?
Luna : um... Yah I'm fine why?
Ntando : you don't seem fine to me.
Luna : well...
Ntando : talk.
Luna : Swazi broke up with me.
Ntando : did he tell you why?
Luna : that's what kills me, he didn't tell me why. He just told me to move on and
forget about him.
Wow, sad.
Ntando : I'm so sorry to hear that hey, maybe it's for the best.
Luna : yah maybe.

I kinda felt bad for her so I just went to hug her then went to my bed and slept.
Lately I've been thinking of introducing Yanga to my family, after all I have a
really good feeling and there's no way they'll be against our relationship I'm old
enough now and he's a very good guy but I just dont know how to tell him and thing
is he's from Eastern Cape and I'm from Mpumalanga so we live very far from each
other, that sucks but hey I firstly need to go with Max home so he'll meet his
family as I promised we would. I was getting ready to go meet Yanga at the Café, I
got dressed in my baby blue strapless unitard and white sneakers then took my
peach crossbody bag. Within minutes I'd arrived at the Café and Yanga was already
there waiting for me, as soon as he saw me approaching he stood up with a huge
smile and his eyes full of love, gave me a warm hug then kissed my cheek and pulled
a chair for me to sit, I smiled at him then thanked him, see? I told y'all how much
of a gentleman he was.

Yanga : I hope you don't mind I've already ordered for us.
Ntando : what did you order for me?
Yanga : your favorite, waffles with syrup, a slice of carrot cake and strawberry
milkshake with extra mallows and sprinkles.
Ntando : (smiling) you a dime.
Yanga : and you're my forever.
Ntando : (laughing) ah please stop.
He took my hands and looked deeply into my eyes, his eyes were very bright, that
made my heart skip a beat.
Yanga : I'm serious Ntando I love you and you are my today, my tomorrow and my
forever.
Ntando : Yanga I love you too, so much and I'm really grateful I got you as my
boyfriend.
Yanga : that's why I've been thinking.
Ntando : about?
Yanga : I think it's time you met my family.
Ntando : ow, really?!
Yanga : yes but only if you don't mind, I mean I don't wanna rush you or pressurize
you. If you not ready it's fine.
Ntando : (playfully hitting his arm) don't be silly, of course I'd like that and
I've been actually wanting to tell you the same thing.
Yanga : oh wow! I guess it's true when they say great minds think alike.
We smiled at each other and our food came, looks so yummy! We didn't hesitate we
just dug in.
Yanga and I decided to arrange a huge meet up where he'll bring his family and I'd
also bring mine here in Joburg since we live far from each other, after all the
semester was already over so we'd have that meet up during Christmas but it'd be a
surprise to our families we didn't wanna get them all freaked out. We just had to
come up with a plan of how to get them to Joburg.

Max was helping me with my bags, time to go home!! Luna had left yesterday. We put
the bags in his car and he drove to the gas station, I went to get us some food for
the road then came back and got in the car, he drove off. Apparently we liked the
same music so we jammed to Kiana Lede's album the whole way. We finally got home
and got our bags out of the car. Zama and Kuhle came to me running, they gave me
the biggest hugs ever, I was so happy to see them.

Zama : (whispering) Ntando, don't tell me this is Yanga.

I just laughed at her and they helped us with our bags. I could tell Max was a bit
nervous but he put up a brave face on.
We got in the house and Zama shouted.
Zama : Mama!! Ntando's here!
Fikile came to the living room and hugged me then looked at me.
Fikile : wow! You've even gained some weight. Look at that hair, wow you are even
glowing.
Ntando : Aw come on Aunty I've always been this way.
Okuhle : she's right, you are more beautiful now and I'm gonna be exactly like you,
see? I've also grown.
We all laughed at her then aunty looked at the door.
Max was just standing there looking around the house.
Fikile : and who's that fine young man?
Ntando : where's dad?
Fikile : he should be back from work anytime now. Aren't you gonna tell me who he
is?
Ntando : you gotta wait till dad comes back. Come girls take my bags to my room.
I showed Max to the room he'll be using.
Max: Ntando I don't think this is a good idea maybe I should just go.
Ntando : uh-uh not gonna happen.
Then Kuhle came to the room running.
Kuhle : Sisi dad's here.
Ntando : okay we're coming.
Max : okay, let's do this.
We stood up and went to the living room. Dad turned to us and his eyes immediately
landed on Max, I could tell he recognised him his mouth was wide open.
Max : hey dad.
Dad was still tongue tied. He suddenly stood up and gave Max a big hug, he even
broke down into tears, Max broke down too. I couldn't help it, I cried too even
aunt cried. Zama and Kuhle were just confused.

Nkosi : Fikile meet your nephew, Kuhle meet your big brother and Zama meet your
cousin Max.
Kuhle : huh? I have a big brother? Since when?
Zama : wow!
Fikile : I'm so happy to finally meet you my boy, I didn't think you'll be so
grown.
Kuhle : wait, I'm still shocked guys don't move on now. Am I dreaming or what?
We all just laughed at her.
Max : (smiling at her) yes I'm your brother.
Kuhle jumped to him and hugged him tight.
Kuhle : having a big brother is gonna be so cool. Morons will try to pick on me
I'll just be like,"hey you morons I'm gonna call my brother and he'll sort you out"
We all laughed at her, my sister had really grown up, she's no longer that self-
absorbed spoilt brat she was when mom was still around, she's more open now.
Nkosi : now Ntando tell me how you guys found each other.
Max and I looked at each other and laughed.
Fikile: what's so funny now? Talk.

I narrated the whole story to them. My aunt and I warmed up the food as she had
already cooked, we all dined and ate while chatting and laughing here and there, it
was indeed an amazing evening. Later we all went to bed, Yanga called and we spoke
for a while then I slept.
In the morning I woke up pretty early and made breakfast for everyone. Zama was the
second to wake up and she helped me with breakfast.

Zama : so...??
Ntando : what?
Zama : when are we meeting Yanga?
Ntando : ah please stay out of my business you're a baby.
Zama : oh hell no I'm old.
Ntando : firstly tell me about you and Saun.
Zama : (licking her lips) ah my Indian charmer.
Ntando : (with a disgusted look on) euww, you're so gross.
Zama : (laughing) he's so good though.
Ntando : he's good how?
Zama : In every possible way Ntando, he drives me insane yerr!
Ntando : don't tell me you are having sex with him.
Zama : (avoiding eye contact) um... Well..
Ntando : oh my God Zama! I hope you know what you doing.
Zama : chill I'm a big girl and Saun is a really good guy, he's a gentleman, so
matured and he loves me sisi awww.
I smiled to myself, that's exactly how I felt about Yanga, I was so in love with
him bathong.
Zama : whooo! Someone's whipped! Come on now tell me about Yanga.
Ntando : oh God! Where do I begin? Yanga is a very good boyfriend like he is the
best ever.
Zama : no Saun's the best ever.
Ntando : you shut up and listen yoh!
Zama : okay continue.
Ntando : I was planning on getting you guys in Joburg on Christmas so you'll meet
him and he'll also bring his family to Joburg.
Zama : wow! And how are you gonna do that?
Ntando : I think I'll need your help there.
Zama : um...
Ntando : please I know you probably already have some plan in mind.
Zama : okay, how about you get someone who'll pretend they are from varsity, that
person will call uncle and tell him to get to Joburg because you are in some sort
of trouble then we'll convince uncle to go with aunt and we'll follow them on our
own.
Ntando : no definitely a horrible plan, try again.
Zama : okay then how about you tell uncle you are nominated for some school award
and you need all of us there to support you?
Ntando : now that might work. Lemme go call Yanga Thanks you are the best.
I ran to my room leaving Zama in the kitchen to finish with breakfast, I unplugged
my phone from the charger and saw a good morning message from Yanga and smiled then
called him. He answered instantly.

Yanga : miss me already?

Ntando : you know I do but that's not why I called.
Yanga : ouch I'm hurt.
Ntando : (slightly laughing) I actually have a plan Well Zama came up with a plan
on how to get my family in Joburg on Christmas.
Yanga : so fast? Okay I'm listening.
I told him the plan and he loved it. He ended up saying he'll tell that to his
family too.
I went to shower and wore my short summer dress and slippers then went to have
breakfast, everyone was already up.

Ntando : hey family. Nkosi and Fikile why aren't you dressed yet?
Fikile : look at you all grown up and calling us by our names.
Nkosi : we took the day off.
Ntando : oh I forgot y'all work in the same hospital. So how was your first night
home brother?
Max : it was very lovely thanks sis.
Kuhle : (sulking) I wanna eat.
Zama : then eat.
Kuhle wasted no time, she dug into her food. We all ate our food in peace, you
could tell we were all starving no one was talking you could only hear the sound of
forks and plates. After eating I washed the dishes. I went to the living room where
they were all watching TV. I sat on the couch in Between Zama and Kuhle.

Ntando : so um... At school they are hosting this award ceremony and I'm nominated
for the most hardworking 1st year student.
Fikile : wow! Really? I'm so proud of you Ntando. Now that's my brother's daughter.
Kuhle : and I'm not your brothers daughter?
Fikile : (laughing) you are both my brother's daughters awu.
Nkosi : you worked hard my daughter we are so proud of you.
Ntando : thanks guys.
Max : so when is this award ceremony?
Ntando : um... 25 December.
Fikile : what? But that's on Christmas.
Ntando : yes aunty it is on Christmas.
Max : we have no choice though.
Nkosi : Max is right we will have to go regardless.
Fikile : I'm sure it'll be worth it. We'll go Ntando don't worry.
Kuhle : are we also going with you?
Zama : of course we are.
Fikile : Zama uyaphapha yoh!

I laughed at her and we winked at each other, our plan had worked. Max gave me that
"I wonder what are you up to" look and I quickly moved my eyes away from his. I
went to my room and my tails Zama and Kuhle followed me. They jumped on my bed.
Ntando : and why are you two following me?
Kuhle : I just like being around you.
Zama : same here but hey what are we gonna wear?
Ntando : where?
Zama : (quoting) at the "award ceremony"
Ntando : just anything you like wearing.
Kuhle : oh there's no way. I wanna be like Zendaya, have you ever seen her red
carpet outfits?
Ntando : but you, my little sister are nothing like Zendaya. So you'll wear
anything proper, both of you have really nice clothes I don't know why you are
nagging right now.
Zama : just wanted an excuse to go shopping.

Then Max entered.

Max : hey girls, don't you want us to go out, maybe do some shopping and eat junk
food?
Zama : oh God lifesaver!
Kuhle : wait for me I'm just gonna change
Zama : me too!
They ran out to their rooms.
Ntando : I hope you know what you've just started, they'll milk you dry.
Max : (laughing) well I don't mind. Now tell me about this "award ceremony". Where
are you exactly taking us Ntando?
Ntando : I don't know what you talking about brother, now get out I wanna change.
He laughed at me as I pushed him out and closed the door. I changed into my black
mom jeans and white T-shirt and black sneakers, I mosturised and sprayed then
combed my afro and tied a bun, I might be doing braids today I'm really tired of
having to comb my hair. I then took my sling bag with and took my phone then got
out, they were already waiting for me.

Ntando : Aunty aren't you guys coming with us?

Fikile : no your father and I have to get to the hospital some emergency just came
up.
Ntando : okay bye then. We walked out to Max's car.
Zama and Kuhle were so excited, these two really like going out. Max asked us where
we wanted to go first, I just let Zama and Kuhle decide. We went for shopping
first, I just took 2 unitards, 1 boyfriend jeans, 2 hoodies and 1 sweatshirt along
with 2 slides. Zama and Kuhle took everything you could think of, Max paid and our
next stop was the salon, I did long box braids while Zama and Kuhle had long gray
knotless braids. We then did our nails, I kept mine white, short and simple and the
other two went all diva and got bright long nails, yoh! They had no idea what they
were getting themselves to. We finally finished and Max was waiting for us in the
car, he quickly dropped the call as soon as we got in the car.
He tensed up, then we went to eat, while eating Kuhle complained.

Kuhle : yoh I can hardly eat with these.

Zama : me too, I wonder what possessed me to get such long nails.
I just laughed at them, serves them right.
We got takeaways for aunt and dad. It was already late so when we got home I went
to shower and Yanga and I texted, we talked till midnight then I slept.

Days flew and now it's the 24th of December, the day we are heading to Joburg. Dad
insisted we go on the 24th so we won't be late for the ceremony on the 25th as it
was supposedly bound to start at 17:00. We packed our stuff and got into dad's
car, it was bigger so it accommodated us all. Yanga and I stayed in touch, he had
told me his family was on their way to Joburg too. I was a bit nervous and Zama
noticed, she just took my hand into hers. We soon arrived at the lodge my father
had booked for us. We arrived there pretty late, we ate and those who needed to
bath, did so but as for myself I just went to bed. Zama and Kuhle joined me, we
were sharing the room. I was woken up at 10:00 a.m by Zama.
Zama : we have all bathe and ate, wake up.
Ntando : wow I really slept hey.
Zama : I don't blame you sisi, you needed that. Today is your big day.
Ntando : please stop talking like I'm getting married or something.

I went to bath while Zama made the bed, this one is a real sweetheart. I dressed
into a casual dress and my slippers then went to eat. The whole family was just
chilling by the pool. I watched them happy and laughing with no idea of why they
are really here.
I was disturbed in my thoughts by my ringing phone, it was Yanga.

Yanga : my forever.
That got me blushing instantly.
Ntando : my love, how are you?
Yanga : honestly speaking I'm nervous as hell.
Ntando : same here yoh!
Yanga : but there's no turning back now.
Ntando : yah I know. So what should I wear?
Yanga : anything, I know you'll still look good.
Ntando : ah you though. Bye for now.
Yanga : love you!
Ntando : whatever.
I hung up. I went to my room and tried looking for an outfit, I was struggling. I
decided to call Zama and Kuhle I know these two will quickly come up with
something. As expected they came to my rescue, they chose a black strapless a bit
below the knee dress which was belted around the waist with black baby heels and
some accessories to brighten up my dress then a silver clutch bag.

Zama : see? You'll look good here.

Ntando : but don't you think it's a bit too much?
Kuhle : we need dad, aunty and Max to think you're going to the awards ceremony,
right? And you need to dress up for that kind of event.
Zama : eish sorry Ntando but I told her. She didn't tell anyone though I made her
promise.
Ntando : I did expect you to tell her relax. Wait guys we have to buy flowers for
Yanga's mother, a bottle of whiskey for his father and maybe chocolates for his
little sister. I have to impress you know.
Kuhle : how are we gonna get out then?
Zama : and aren't whiskeys expensive?
Kuhle : and you must get the most expensive bouquet and chocolate like Ferrero
Rocher or something like that.
Ntando : how do you guys know all this stuff.
Zama : what can I say? You just lucky you have us.
I just shook my head and took my bag then changed into scandals but kept my casual
dress on. I told Zama and Kuhle we were going to the mall and we used the back door
to go out, just so no one can see us walking out. The mall was nearby so we walked
there and I went to get the bouquet, whiskey, chocolate and decided to get Yanga a
watch though he wasn't on my budget. I ended up getting these two matching
bracelets. We went back to the lodge and sneaked inside then went to our room.

Zama : wow that was quick, we sneaked out and back in like pros.
Ntando : you always think life is a movie. Let's go join the fam.
We went to the pool and sat down, dad was going on and on about an introductory
ceremony for Max to the ancestors and aunty on the other hand couldn't wait to go
on stage when I receive my award, yoh so much shame in me. Soon it was time for us
to get ready, I took a bath and quickly finished and went to get dressed, I
couldn't stop thinking of how they'd all react, yoh I'm so not ready for this.
Yanga texted me telling me to calm down, he knew I was probably scared to death. I
tried to relax a bit, Zama and Kuhle were already dressed so they waited for me in
the room, busy telling me how this whole thing might actually work out. Soon, I was
done and we went out, Max along with dad and aunt were already waiting for us in
the car, we got in, I could tell they were curious about the gifts I was carrying
but no one dared to even ask. I told Max the venue and they all looked surprised,
they obviously didn't expect this event to be held at a restaurant but still they
kept their mouths shut. We soon arrived there and very few cars were there and I
could tell that raised some suspicions to them, we went inside and found Yanga and
his family already waiting, he had apparently told his family they'd be firstly
grabbing a bite before heading to the event. I directed my family to the table in
which Yanga and his family were in. We sat down and I greeted. Aunty gave me a
questioning look and I just looked away. Yanga came to my rescue, he finally spoke.

Yanga : I know y'all are probably wondering what's going on here. Oh sorry, I'm
Yanga this is my mother Nomonde, my father Mthunzi and my sister Zesande.
Fikile : Ntando what's going on here?
Yanga : I'm Ntando's boyfriend.
Fikile : huh?
I looked at everyone at the table, they were all just shocked.
Nomonde : so this is some way of you introducing yourselves to the families?
Yanga : yes ma.
Mthunzi : wow!
Nkosi : you kids, so Why did you lie? Ntando told us about some awards ceremony.
Mthunzi : and that's what Yanga told us too.
Max : honestly speaking though I knew something was up.
Zesande : but y'all have to admit this was an excellent plan, you guys are smart.
Zama : I actually came up with this idea.
Ntando : Zama please shut up.
Kuhle giggled.
Fikile : by the way I'm Fikile, Ntando's aunty then this is her father Nkosi, her
brother Max, her sister Okuhle and her cousin who's my daughter Zama.
Nomonde : lovely to meet you all.
Yanga : mom do you mean that?
Nomonde : Aw Yanga of course I do.
Yanga : that's a relief.
I sighed out loudly and everyone just laughed. I then gave all of them their gifts,
they actually liked them. Turns out, this did work out after all. We all ordered
and ate, the families got along pretty well and Yanga kept on stealing glances at
me making me blush. I asked to be excused, I went out, few moments later Yanga
showed up.

Yanga : (holding my hands) and you, my love are now officially my wife.
Ntando : (laughing) now that's absurd and you know it. We not there yet.
Yanga : I honestly didn't expect that to go so well.
Ntando : yah I feel you there.
Yanga : I'm really happy we now can be openly be in a relationship. I just know
you're the one.
Ntando : cheesy much?
Yanga : (blushing) ah stop. And thanks for thinking of the gifts thing, your dumb
boyfriend didn't even think of that, your family must think I'm really dumb.
I just laughed at him, we kissed and went back inside holding hands. Zama gave me
"the naughty look" and I just laughed at her. We enjoyed the rest of our evening
and the elders exchanged numbers, Zesande seemed to be getting along with Zama and
Kuhle and I was beyond thrilled. We later went back to the lodge and in the car I
kept getting interrogated, yoh nightmare. We finally arrived at the lodge and I
quickly went to shower then jumped to bed and covered myself with a light bed cover
as it was a bit warm. I just didn't want anyone disturbing my peace by asking me
more questions. I heard the door open and I tensed up, oh God I hope it's not aunty
or dad or Max.
Zama : Ntando are you really asleep or you're just hiding?
Ntando : how did you know I was hiding?
Zama : well I would've done the same thing too.

Then Kuhle came in running.

Kuhle : Ntando hide aunt's coming here.
I quickly covered myself again and Zama pretended to be getting ready for bed. The
door opened.

Fikile : girls, is your sister already asleep?

Zama : yes ma I'm sure she's really tired.
Fikile : or maybe she's just trying to avoid us, I'll talk to her in the morning.
Goodnight.
She then walked out. I uncovered myself and sulked.
Ntando : I'm so not ready for morning ah.
Kuhle and Zama came to me and gave me a hug, my two lovies aw. They changed into
their sleepwear and got into bed, I sent Yanga a goodnight text but he couldn't
reply since he was offline, I dozed off.

I woke up and went to shower, Zama and Kuhle were still asleep. After showering I
woke them up then I made the bed while they went to bath. I then went to wake
everyone up, told them we had to leave early. During breakfast...

Fikile : Ntando I see you.

Ntando : um... What do you mean?
Fikile : You are rushing us just so we won't have enough time to talk about last
night.
Ntando : that's not true.
Max : I like him for you.
Ntando : who?
Max : Come on now drop the act.
Nkosi : will you please give her a break? You and your aunt are suffocating my
daughter.
Zama : wow so uncle you approve of Ntando and Yanga being an item?
Nkosi : why wouldn't I? I mean that boy is clearly from a very good, decent family
and I can tell he has pure intentions with my daughter. Ntando you have my
blessings.
Kuhle : whoa dad! You speaking as if they're getting married.
Fikile : I don't see why they can't just get married. It's clear they love each
other.
Zama : Ntando are you ready for that?
Max : obviously she's ready otherwise she wouldn't have introduced us to her in
laws.
Ntando : oh my God you guys are being extra right now. No one's getting married,
I'm still in school remember?
Zama : so?
Kuhle : yah many people continue with school even after getting married.
Ntando : let's get going, long drive ahead of us.
Nkosi : as if you'll be the one driving.
Ntando : oh dad I'll be getting my license soon.
Max : wow that's good news.
Ntando : I know right.

We packed our bags and off we went. We arrived home pretty late even though we
departed Gauteng very early. As I was in bed, Yanga video called me.

Yanga : hey pretty face.

Ntando : (smiling) hey ugly face.
Yanga : ouch that did hurt.
Ntando : (laughing) sorry handsome.
Yanga : much better. So how's your family taking this whole thing?
Ntando : baby you won't believe they're even talking about marriage, they really
liked you.
Yanga : surprisingly enough my family's also talking about starting with the
wedding plans.
Ntando : dude what's up with them and rushing us?
Yanga : well....
Ntando : what?
Yanga : I don't see why we can't just get married.
Ntando : you're joking, right?
Yanga : nah I'm serious babe. I mean, we love each other and our families approve
so there's absolutely nothing stopping us. Just be my wife and let me be your
husband.
Ntando : Yanga is that supposed to be you proposing to me through a video call?
Yanga :(smiling) is it working?
Ntando : (laughing) you are so bad at this.
Yanga : but you love me either way. So are we getting married?
Ntando : this is crazy but okay fine! Let's get married.
Yanga : perfect! Gotta go tell the fam so they can start with lobola.
Ntando : wait, so late? Aren't they asleep or something?
Yanga : trust me they won't mind being woken up for such good news. Bye babe!

He hung up, wow! So I'm getting married? This is so crazy but hey love does make
you do crazy shit. I dozed off.
That next morning I woke up and told my family and as expected they were very
excited, Zama and Kuhle even started searching online for dresses they were gonna
wear.
Soon lobola negotiations took place and they went pretty well. So traditionally I'm
now Mrs Nyembe. The date of the wedding was set to be 03 July, great! Just a week
after my break from school.

I soon went back to school as holidays were over and it was good being with Yanga
everyday. We spent most of our time studying and planning the wedding, we had asked
our families to leave everything to us. We wanted to have a wedding of our dreams.
We were in a restaurant having lunch and talking about the venue and the theme of
our wedding, we were viewing some venues online.

Yanga : I really think this place is the one though.

Ntando : no it's too intimate. I want a venue huge enough to accommodate 200
people.
Yanga : oh no! Women are so extra.
Ntando : come on babe, this is gonna be my one and only wedding I'm not gonna get
married again so I deserve this, don't you think So?
Yanga : I guess you're right.
Ntando : okay how about this one then?
Yanga : yah I like it. Even the reception area is fit enough for the kind of
wedding we want.
Ntando : the theme?
Yanga : I was thinking....
Then suddenly Marcus made his way to our table.

Marcus : mmm must be nice.

Yanga : dude what do you want?
Marcus : you won't find peace.
Ntando : Marcus please go.
Marcus : Yanga I really thought we were best friends but clearly I was wrong. You
took Ntando from me knowing very well how much I loved her.
Yanga : wait, I didn't take her away from you plus you never told me or her that
you were into her. I loved her and told her. Turned out she loved me too. Don't
blame me, I did nothing wrong.
Ntando : so please go.
Marcus : your stupid wedding better make you both happy.

He then walked away.

Yanga : you okay?

Ntando : yah I'm good. This guy is just crazy.
Yanga : don't mind him, come here.
He pulled me closer to him and hugged me then kissed my forehead.

School was exceptionally good, my relationship was amazing, my life was just
perfect oh and by the way I had moved in with Yanga in his apartment and I had no
choice but to turn down Max's offer to come stay with him but I still visited him
on weekends. During Easter holidays we went to Eastern Cape and it was pretty fun,
I enjoyed my visit there. I even got to meet his aunts, uncles and cousins. Two
cousins of his though , Musa was acting really strange around me and Naledi was
bitchy but whatever. All the elders loved me and that was just a cherry on top. We
came back after a week and continued with our studies.
The first semester was over and we both went back home, the wedding was in a week
so more work still needed to be done. I arrived home and I was so happy to be
there. As soon as I put my bags down in my room, Zama and Kuhle started talking
nonstop.

Zama : I can't wait to fit my dress, I'm gonna be jaw dropping.

Kuhle : I'm so glad we're the bridesmaids I mean, we'll be literally the stars of
the day.
Zama : tell me about it oh and Ntando I hope you don't mind but I invited Lisa and
Saun along with his 2 other friends.
Kuhle : Is that friend of his, Brian gonna be there?
Zama : you and Brian have some confusing vibes going on, what's up?
Kuhle : oh um... Nothing's up we are just cool friends.
Ntando : will you two shut up now?
Zama : oh sorry. We didn't even see you there, when did you get here?
Ntando : ha ha ha very funny.
Kuhle : so are you excited?
Ntando : that's like the only thing on my mind right now, a week from now I'll be
someone's wife like how crazy is that?
Zama : I wish this wedding was mine and Saun's.
Kuhle : Saun doesn't look like the marrying type.
Ntando : (laughing) why are you saying that?
Kuhle : it just doesn't suit him and I don't think he's interested in marriages and
stuff.
Zama : oh and Brian is a marrying type?
Ntando : who's Brian now?
Kuhle : no one.
Zama : Brian is Kuhle's secret boyfriend.
Kuhle : Lies!
Ntando : wow you have a boyfriend now?
Kuhle : of course not.
Zama : then why do you guys always stare at each other, smile at each other and
walk together in school like all the time?
Kuhle : Okay, I like him but I don't know if he likes me the same way.
Zama : I know he does.
Ntando : how old is this Brian guy?
Kuhle : 18.
Ntando : and you're 15.
Kuhle : so?
Ntando : he's going to varsity next year and I don't want you getting hurt you
know.
Kuhle : it's not like we'll promise each other heaven and earth.
Zama : make the guy your boyfriend then.
Ntando : yoh Zama you're such a bad influence.
They laughed and we went to start cooking supper. Soon after we had finished
cooking Aunt and dad made their way in from work and they hugged me.

Fikile : whoooo my baby I'm so happy yoh! You need to see my dress, I look 20 when
I'm in it.
Nkosi : I think my sister is getting ahead of herself now.

We all laughed and sat down and had supper. Zama, Kuhle and I stayed up to watch
movies while the elders went to sleep as they had early hospital shifts the
following day. We dozed off on the couch as per usual. Aunty didn't wake us up as
she always does and we were rather surprised about that. We woke up at 8 and they
were already at work. I got a morning call from Yanga. We went to bath then cleaned
around the house then we had breakfast.

Zama : y'all remember at 12 we have to go check out the venue, right? Make sure
everything's ready for next week. Ntando your dress is ready, will you go for
fitting today?
Ntando : yah I might as well do that today.
Kuhle : it's almost 11 so let's go get ready then.

We got ready and requested a cab then off, we firstly went for my dress fitting. My
dress fitted me perfectly and I was very happy with it. We then went to the wedding
venue. It was so huge and just perfect, I really loved it. I told the caterers all
that I needed to be done on the venue and gave them the menu of the day. Good thing
the elders were the ones paying for all this. We then went to grab pizza as late
lunch. I was happy I had everything figured out for my big day. We arrived home at
around 4, Max's car was outside. Oh cool, so he's here.
Kuhle ran into the house with so much joy, she was really fond of Max. We got in
the house to the sight of Max and Kuhle hugging. Kuhle was sure not letting go.

Max : okay I think that's enough hugging now baby sis.

Kuhle : sorry I'm just so happy you're here. So what did you bring for me?
Max : go fetch your gift as well as your sisters' in my car, here are the keys.

She took the keys and went to Max's car in full speed. She came back with 3 small
gift bags.

Max : the red one is for you, the blue one is for Zama and the purple one is for
Ntando.

We opened our bags and he had gotten a necklace with matching bracelet and earrings
for me, a watch for Zama and a new phone for Kuhle.

Kuhle : wow bhuti thank you so much! Yoh I love it and it's the latest model.
Max :only the best for you.

Zama stood up and walked to her room, I could tell she didn't like her gift. I
followed her.

Ntando : hey you okay?

Zama : (faking a smile) yah I'm fine.
Ntando : I know you not. You don't like the watch, do you?
Zama : just that you know I don't like wearing a watch I'm more of a bracelets kind
of girl but he didn't know that so I don't blame him.
Ntando : we can exchange gifts then.
Zama : no there's no need for that.
Ntando : come on. I have enough bracelets I don't need more.
Zama : (smiling) you know I love you right?
Ntando : who wouldn't love me?
She laughed and that melted my heart. We swapped the gifts and continued chatting
then went to start cooking. Kuhle and Max were still bonding. Zama and I set the
table as aunt and dad had arrived, we dished up for everyone and we all ate. Max
said he had something to tell us but he'd only tell us after my wedding and I must
say it sounded very serious, we were all wondering what it could be.

Day of the wedding....

This day had finally arrived and I must admit I'm so happy and nervous at the same
time. My aunt had been by my side this whole time, she was truly a great mother
figure to me, I think it's safe to say that she has filled my mother's void. Zama
and Kuhle are busy taking videos and pictures of each and every moment of this day.
They are already dressed and I must admit they chose their dresses well, I'm glad I
let them take charge in that department. I did my make up and my hair, I'm already
dressed I'm now just waiting for the moment whereby my father comes and walks me
down the aisle.

Soon my father comes and kisses my cheek.

Nkosi : you ready?
Ntando : I'm ready.

He takes my hand and walks me out of the room, we make our way to the hall and I
see crowds of people, I look forward and see my handsome husband, he's smiling like
a retard. I can't help but smile too, then my eyes land on Luna, wow so she came! I
see Luca, what?? I see Alisa, she came too wow! Then I spot Lwazi with Zipho and
Amahle. I don't know if some people are here to rejoice with me or to just wish me
bad luck but it's whatever I'm marrying Yanga and there's no one who can stop that
from happening. I'm relieved that at least Marcus is not here. My father lets go of
my hand and hands it over to Yanga then shakes his hand and nods his head. Yanga
and I are now holding hands and staring deeply into each other's eyes, we're in our
own world it's like no one else exists, it's only him and I in our own paradise.
Slow piano chords and violin play. His eyes are full of love, his hands are so warm
and he tightens the grip as assurance that he's not going anywhere, I now believe
it. I'm truly his forever and he's my soulmate. We'll be together till our hearts
stop beating. Tears of joy roll down both our cheeks and I wipe his, he wipes mine
then we both smile at each other. We didn't even wait for the pastor to tell us, we
kissed. He kissed me like there's no tomorrow, like kissing me was the only thing
keeping him alive, I knew we were gonna be together till the very end of time. We
were brought back to earth by huge applause and ululation. I got a bit shy when I
realised that I've just done what I did infront of my elders. We said our vows
through our kiss and everyone saw that. He put my ring on then kissed my hand, I
put his on too. Kuhle threw rose petals everywhere while Zama held the tail of my
dress as I went to change my dress. I changed into a simple yet classy dress that
still allowed me to move around and dance. My husband was waiting for me by the
door and we went to the reception area and we ate, speeches were done and we hit
the dance floor. Lwazi came to me while Yanga was in the bathroom.

Lwazi : hey.
Ntando : hi.
Lwazi : I'm sorry for how things ended between us.
Ntando : that's water under the bridge and I'm happy we broke up, look how the
universe has blessed me.
Lwazi : I'm happy for you, you really deserve it. All the best in your marriage and
I know that guy will treat you well, he loves you.
Ntando : thank you.

He then walked back to his family. Luca kept on stealing glances at me. I couldn't
see Alisa anywhere though and I was really looking forward to speaking to her. I
decided to go look for her. I saw her outside with Marcus. Okay... How do these two
know each other? And how come I didn't see Marcus inside? Just then Luna joined
them and she kissed Marcus. Are they dating? Just then I felt a tap on my shoulder,
I turned and saw Yanga.

Yanga : what are you doing out here?

Ntando : look over there.
I pointed at those 3.

Yanga : is that Luna? Who's the other girl? And Marcus, what's he doing here?
Ntando : that other girl is Alisa she used to be my best friend back in high
school.
Yanga : how are they all connected?
Ntando : your guess is as good as mine but I saw Luna kissing Marcus maybe they're
dating.
Yanga : wow! Let's leave them, come let's go inside.

He held my hand and we went back inside but I still had a very bad feeling about
this. Max didn't look good at all, he was a bit shaky. Maybe it had to do with what
he wanted to tell us after my wedding.
Soon the day had come to an end and we were on the road to Eastern Cape, I had to
be introduced to the ancestors as the Nyembe bride. I spent the weekend there then
went back home. All weekend Musa kept giving me unsettling stares and Naledi was
just bitchy as always.
Max called us all to the dining table, so we were gathered there.

Max : I don't know how this will make you guys feel or see me but I'm not proud of
it too. This has been eating me inside for a very long time now.
Nkosi : what's going on son?
Max : I don't Know how to say this but I'm really sorry. I was just angry at you
dad, I was angry at everyone for just abandoning me like I had no value, like I
meant nothing. I thought it was her fault that you didn't want me in your life so I
killed her.
Fikile : Max what are you taking about?
Ntando : bhuti who did you kill?
Max just cried.

Nkosi : Max talk!

Max : (stuttering) I.... I...
Fikile : stop stuttering and talk who did you kill?
Max : Faith.
Ntando : (with a breaking voice) which Faith?
Max : your mother.
Kuhle : (crying) no no no no you didn't do that bhuti I know you didn't.
Max : I did. I kidnapped her, the plan was to torture her, make her feel the pain I
always felt growing up but unfortunately her health was not that good so torture
led to her death. It was all a mistake I never meant to kill her.

Everyone just went silent, we were all shocked. Kuhle just stood up and went to her
room, Zama followed her. I was zoned out. My father looked like he was about to
burst, Fikile on the other hand just had her eyes wide open with her hands covering
her mouth and I, I was just emotionless. I didn't know how to feel, yes I had
accepted that I'll never see my mother ever again but I never thought she was dead,
and that my brother might be the one behind her disappearance. After a while, dad
finally spoke.
Nkosi : (with a stern voice) what did you do to her body?
Max : (swallowing hard) I burnt it.
Fikile : oh God I'm not staying here for this.

She stood up and went to her room.

My father started pacing up and down, tears rolled down his cheeks. He was fuming
with anger and all in all he was sad and disappointed.

Nkosi : (banging the table) I need you out of my house!

Max : I'm so sorry father I...
Nkosi :(shouting) I said now!

He shouted so loud that I, from my chair, jumped a bit. Max didn't hesitate, he
packed his bags and went out. My father went to his room. I was left alone in there
completely zoned in my own thoughts and I was interrupted by my phone ringing, it
was Yanga.

Ntando : (with a sad tone) hey.

Yanga :baby are you okay?
Ntando : not really.
Yanga : why? What's up?
Ntando : not over the phone babe I'll tell you next week when I see you.
Yanga : okay. I love you.
Ntando : I love you too, gotta go.
Yanga : okay bye. Be okay for me.

I just nodded as if he could see me and hung up. I went to my room, I couldn't
sleep. I kept thinking about what Max had told us, I don't Know why but I just
couldn't cry. Maybe I did make peace with the fact that I'll never see mom ever
again in my life.
Life had to go on and my dad had still not forgiven Max, I don't blame him though.
Honestly, I wasn't mad at Max I sort of understood where he came from and everyone
just found that strange.
The holidays were over and I was back, in our apartment. Yanga told me how after
our studies I was expected to move in Eastern Cape with him and his family till we
were both financially stable to afford our own house.

Ntando : why don't we just stay in this apartment till we buy our own house?
Yanga : I tried talking to the elders about that but they told me how a married
woman should stay with her in laws and you only go there to visit so they thought
being close to your new family might do you some good.
Ntando : is that what you also think?
Yanga : look babe what I think right now really doesn't matter. We just have to
obey their rules.
Ntando : yoh I don't like this one bit. I guess I'll have to find a job there in
Eastern Cape after graduation.
Yanga : you are not supposed to work for at least a year or for as long as you are
still staying there.
Ntando : oh no! Now that's bullshit and you know it. I'm not gonna be a housewife,
forget it.

I then stood up fuming with anger and left him there calling my name telling me to
come back. I couldn't believe what he had just told me. I called my aunt and told
her all that Yanga had told me. Guess what? She agreed with the elders, she also
tried making me understand this whole crap but I wasn't gonna listen to her shit
too so I hung up. Perks of marriage, huh?
.
.
.
.
.

Years passed and Yanga and I had both graduated. It took dad some time to forgive
Max but he eventually did. Zama was doing her 3rd year in jewelery design and Kuhle
was on her 1st year in Optometry. Our house back in Mpumalanga had been renovated,
more bed rooms, a large pool, more bathrooms, a cinema room and a cottage room,
Max, dad and Fikile were responsible for all that work. Yanga had found a job here
in Eastern Cape and I, on the other hand was just gonna be a housewife for the
whole year.
We've been here for only 2 days and I was already having a hard time.

Nomonde : Ntando when are you giving us grandchildren?

I almost choked on my coffee as we were all seated down watching TV and having
coffee.

Yanga : ma don't rush us please. We still have a lot to achieve before having kids.
Nomonde : Can't Ntando speak for herself?
Yanga : she can but don't ask her such questions, you can see how uncomfortable
you've made her feel.
Nomonde : wow okay, let me shut my mouth then.

I looked at Yanga and smiled at him. I was happy at how he handled that, it proved
he had my back.
Apparently Yanga's cousin, Musa had recently been fired due to coming to work drunk
so his father suggested he stays with us for a while hoping a change of scenery
might do him some good. I was so not looking forward to that but I had to pretend I
was okay with that just to avoid drama.
Yanga's mother was in her prayer meeting while both him and his father were at work
so I was left all alone with his jerk cousin. I tried by all means not to bump into
him, I just stayed in my room. I heard a knock, what does he want now?

Ntando : (shouting) Musa please go away I'm in no mood to entertain you and your
shit!
Musa : you know I'm gonna get in anyways, right?

With that said, he got in and closed the door.

Ntando : what do you want?

Musa : I'm just bored so I thought you and I could have some fun.
Ntando : Musa you and I aren't friends so please go away. Get out.

Just as I was about to stand up to open the door for him, he pulled me back to sit
on the bed. He now had an intimidating look on.

Musa : I've put up with your attitude for far too long. Don't you see that I'm
treating you so shitty just because I'm trying to avoid my feelings for you? Do you
know how hard it is to watch you being all lovey dovey with my nerd cousin while I
love you this much? You clearly have no idea.

I was shocked to death, what was he saying? How can he be in love with me? No he's
insane. I tried pulling away from him but he tightened the grip on my arm.

Ntando : let go of me you bastard! You are a psycho.

Musa : you can call me whatever you want but today I just can't hold myself. I have
to do this.
Ntando : what are you talking about? Let go of me!

He stood up and pushed me to lie on the bed, I tried fighting him but he was just
too strong for me. He started stripping me naked, I shouted begging him to leave me
alone but my words and screams seemed to be in vain. He kept telling me he was
sorry but he didn't stop, I slowly went out of energy and just lost hope. When he
was finally satisfied, he got dressed and ran out of my room to God-knows-where. I
lied still on my bed completely frozen thinking maybe this is just a dream, I'm
still gonna wake up. I finally got up, mother-in-law was back so I had to get my
perfect makoti skills back on track. I was battling in my thoughts thinking if I
should tell Yanga about what had happened or not. Mamezala noticed I was a bit off.

Nomonde : Ntando are you okay? You don't look good at all.
Ntando : ow um... Just a minor headache ma.
Nomonde : Go rest a bit, maybe you'll wake up feeling better.
Ntando : okay ma.

I went to my room and just stared myself at the mirror, I felt dirty like I needed
some sort of cleansing. I changed the bed covers and went to have a nice, long
relaxing bubble bath. After the bath I expected to feel better but I still smelled
like him, I was still dirty. I didn't know what to do, I just cried. I cried till I
couldn't no more. I took some sleeping pills and within minutes I dozed off. I was
woken up by Yanga's forehead kisses, even through this whole thing that had
happened I still smiled,yes that's how much effect Yanga has on me. He always makes
me feel better, he's my happy place. I smiled as I got up.

Ntando : (hugging him) my forever.

Yanga : I missed you.

He then kissed me.

Ntando : I missed you even more.

Yanga : so what did you get up to today?

That question brought all the pain I've been trying to avoid, the thought of Musa
having a feast in me filled my eyes with tears. Tears started streaming down my
face, I couldn't control them but I still didn't know how to tell my husband that
his cousin had raped me. I imagined the conflict that might take place in this
family if this ever comes out, I'd officially be the one who had broken the family
apart.
Yanga looked at me with so much worry, he didn't ask me any questions, he just
pulled me closer to him for a very comforting long hug filled with so much untold
emotions and comforting silence. I finally calmed down.

Yanga : now tell me, what's going on?

Ntando : nothing, I just missed you.
Yanga : come on babe we both know that's not all.
Ntando : I'll tell you when I'm ready. Come let's go have dinner.

I could tell he still wanted to say something but he decided to let me be. We got
at the dining table but only Yanga's parents were there, we sat and said grace.

Yanga : Musa is not joining us?

Mthunzi : he's not in his room maybe he went out or something.
Nomonde : I hope he's not out drowning himself on alcohol. He's supposed to be on
his best behavior so he can prove to his father he's changed and matured enough
now.
They continued talking and talking while I couldn't even put one spoon of food in
my mouth, I just wanted to go away far from this place. Musa got in and I felt my
body tense up as he made eye contact, he was sober. He said he needed some air just
to clear his mind. I couldn't bare him at all, I stood up and went to bed. Moments
later Yanga got in bed too, he didn't say anything. He knew once I decide not to
talk, he should just let me be but still be there for me. He cuddled me till I fell
asleep.

For the next few days, I was completely distant in such a way that I'd wait for
everyone to be gone in the house before I come out of my room. One of those days,
when I had thought everyone was gone I got out of my room only to find that Musa
was in the kitchen. I froze, he smiled at me and came closer to me, I couldn't move
I just stood there prepared for the worst.
He started caressing me and I ran to my room and locked it. I was shaking like a
leaf. I wanted to forget about this, I started thinking about everything. My
mother, the life I lived after she disappeared and how my sister mad my father got
sick, Lwazi, Luca and everything horrible that had happened in my life. I cried so
bad I got hiccups. I decided to take sleeping pills, I needed to rest.
Unfortunately I overdosed sleeping pills and headache pills. I lost my balance and
smashed the vase to the floor, I broke and I fell to the ground then I started
losing consciousness and the rest was like a dream to me, I was no longer there.

Narration:

Musa followed Ntando to her room but unfortunately couldn't get in since she had
locked the door. He heard a loud smashing sound like a glass had fallen and broke
to the floor.

Musa : (shouting) Ntando! Are you okay? What's going on there?

He got no response so he decided to look for the spare keys, he knew something
wasn't right. He finally found the spare keys to all the rooms in the house then
tried unlocking the door using all the keys till the door finally opened. He froze
to death when he saw Ntando lying on the floor lifeless, with a broken vase next to
her. He drooped the keys to the floor panicking. He ran to the lifeless Ntando who
looked pale. He started shaking her.

Musa : no no no Ntando wake up! Don't do this to me. Look I'm sorry please wake up
please.

He started crying then it clicked to his mind that he had to call an ambulance so
that's what he did. After a while the ambulance arrived and Ntando was taken to the
hospital. Musa called Yanga and informed him about what had happened. Yanga drove
like a maniac to the hospital, he ran into the ward Ntando was at but unfortunately
he was not allowed in just yet.

Yanga : Musa what really happened?

Musa : (with a breaking voice) I just found her lying on the floor so I called an
ambulance when I realised she wasn't waking up.

Yanga was pacing up and down. The doctor came to him.

Doctor : hi I'm Doctor Griffiths. Are you family?

Yanga : I'm the husband, that's my cousin. So tell me how's my wife? What happened
to her?
Griffiths: your wife overdosed on sleeping and headache pills. This looks almost
like she was trying to commit suicide. Do you perhaps know what might be the cause?
Is she under some emotional breakdown or stress?
Yanga : no, Ntando is not the suicidal type. She's strong, she can withstand any
challenge. You must be mistaken.
Griffiths : oh I see. We've drained the drugs out of her system and she's really
lucky to be alive. She's still asleep though. Overdosing on pills is really
dangerous.
Yanga : thank you doctor. Can I see her now?
Griffiths : of course. Go on in.

Yanga went in and left Musa there feeling pity for himself. He just went back home,
he was so not ready to face Ntando knowing exactly that this was all his fault.

Yanga : (holding Ntando's hand) hey sleeping beauty. I can't believe I almost lost
you. I wouldn't have forgiven myself if that happened. I know these past few days
you haven't been okay but I turned a blind eye on that. I'm sorry, I promise you
once you get out of here I'll have more time for you. I love you and wanna have a
very big family with you. If this place is not good for you then we'll go, you'll
only need to say the word and I'll do it. Anywhere you wanna go, we'll go.
Ntando : how about Finland?
Yanga : now you're being extra.
Ntando : (laughing) you said anywhere.
Yanga : I didn't even realise you had woken up.
Ntando : (smiling) hey handsome. Now this is something I'd really like waking up to
on the afterlife.
Yanga : you do know you're not being funny, right?
Ntando : how about that big family now?
Yanga : You're insane, not in a hospital bed and you still need to recover.
Ntando : but I'm fine.
Yanga : an overdose? Baby why would you do that?
Ntando : I didn't even realise I was overdosing I just wanted something to heal my
headache and at the same time I wanted to get some sleep.
Yanga : please don't ever scare me like that. I was worried sick about you.
Ntando : I promise I won't, ever again.

They kissed and the doctor got in with discharge forms. Yanga signed them and
helped Ntando get dressed into her normal clothes. They went home and Musa had
already told the 'rents about what had went down. Nomonde couldn't help but fuss
over Ntando.
At the dining table Yanga decided to make an announcement.

Yanga : So Ntando and I are moving.

Mthunzi : moving? To where?
Ntando : Back to Joburg.
Nomonde : I don't get it, why?
Yanga : we've been having challenges settling in here and we've just gotten used to
Joburg, it's more homely there.
Mthunzi : so where are you gonna be staying?
Yanga : I still have my apartment, good thing I didn't sell or rent it out.
Nomonde : Yanga is it you speaking or it's Ntando? She finally convinced you to
move?
Yanga : ma my wife is not settling in here and I think it's clear to all of you
just how unhappy she is in this place. But no, it's both our choice.
Mthunzi : you have my blessings.
Ntando : Enkosi tata.
Mthunzi : (laughing) you speak Xhosa now? Yoh Swati ndini.
Ntando : (smiling) I try.
Musa : I'm also thinking of going back home.
Nomonde : yoh what's with you kids and running away from us?
Musa : I just need to get my life back in track, I mean I'm old and I can't be
jobless for long.
Mthunzi : that's a good thing. I'll call your father and let him know.
Nomonde : Mthunzi why are you allowing all of them to just leave?
Mthunzi : they are grown ups and they can make their own decisions, we just have to
support them.
Yanga : we'll still visit mama don't worry.
Nomonde : Your sister is coming next week.
Yanga : the first semester is over already? Wow!
Ntando : I'm sure she'll want to see Zama and Kuhle.
Nomonde : ah you know Zesande and how clingy she gets.
Yanga : I still can't believe that her and Zama agreed on doing the same course.
They probably think Jewelery design means you'll make designs for Miss Universe
crowns and all but in actual facts it's way more than that.
Ntando : Aw baby I'm sure by now they know that and the fact that even after 3
years of doing this course they hadn't thought of changing it they must really love
it.
Yanga : how about we organize just a week's trip for the 3 of them? They deserve
it, they work so hard to get good grades.
Ntando : then I'm definitely joining them. I also deserve a holiday bathong.
Yanga : (slightly laughing) we can have our own holiday.
Ntando : (smiling) Now that sounds like a plan.
Nomonde : would you two please disappear from our sight? Go make babies in your
room not in front of us.

They all laughed but Musa kept on feeling guilt overshadowing him as he saw how
carefree Ntando was, it was almost like she had forgotten about what Musa had done
to her.

Before sleeping, Yanga and Ntando packed their bags just to make things easier for
themselves as they were gonna leave very early. They then called it a night.
Next morning they woke up very early and showered then packed the rest of their
stuff. Ntando went to the kitchen to make light breakfast for Yanga and herself.
Nomonde made her way in the kitchen.

Nomonde : were you guys about to leave without a goodbye?

Ntando : of course not ma.
Nomonde : then why are you all dressed up and your bags are on the lounge
Yanga : we were gonna come say goodbye after having breakfast, we just didn't want
to wake you up.
Nomonde : So when are we gonna see you again?
Ntando : we not sure of that but hopefully soon ma.
Nomonde : lemme go call your father.

Nomonde went to fetch Mthunzi and Yanga and Ntando said their goodbyes. Musa helped
them to the car with their bags. Yanga had forgotten his phone in his room so he
went to get it. Musa used that opportunity to apologise to Ntando.

Musa : Look Ntando I know no apology is gonna make up for what I did to you but I'm
really sorry. I just have this demon that arises inside me from time to time, it
gets me to do bad things and it controls me. I truly regret what I did to you. I
hope you can be able to forgive me one day and thank you for not telling anyone
about this.
Ntando : I've forgotten about that, you do the same.

Musa just nodded and Yanga was back, they got in the car and waved goodbye to the
parents and off they drove to Johannesburg.
After a very long drive they finally arrived at their apartment. They were too
tired to do anything plus it was already late so they just changed the bed covers
and fell asleep.
Next morning they woke up and got a bath. Yanga had asked for a transfer at work
from Eastern Cape to Gauteng since he was still gonna work at the same company just
a different branch and it was approved. Ntando started with the job hunting, it was
not easy since she had no experience in Physiotherapy she only had a degree but
fortunately enough for her she scored herself some few interviews. She prepared for
her interviews like crazy. Two of her interviews went well and one was a total
bummer, she was still positive though. She had been promised that they'd get back
at her after a week or so. She started preparing for the girls' trip, it was
supposed to be a surprise for them. They were going to have a week in Durban. She
called all three of them and asked them to come visit her at her place, they
happily agreed. On Friday Friday they came to Joburg and she fetched them at the
airport using Yanga's car since they had taken flights. The girls were so happy to
see Ntando, they grabbed takeaways on their way home. When they arrived, Yanga was
watching TV, they went over to him and hugged him.

Yanga : Wow so much energy from you guys, Ntando what did you feed them on your way
back?
Ntando : they're just happy to see us, is that a crime now?
Zama : wow this place is nice and cosy but when are you guys getting your own
house?
Zesande : it has to have a pool please.
Kuhle : and a cinema room please.
Zama : while you're at it please don't forget my room has to have its own bathroom.
Zesande : I think all rooms should have bathrooms actually.
Kuhle : I can already imagine how huge it's gonna be.
Ntando : listen to you little brats making demands as if you gonna sponsor us with
serious cash.
Zama : but Ntando come on we deserve that.
Yanga : and yoh guys are gonna get all that soon. I've actually started saving for
our dream home.
Ntando : and when was I gonna find out about this?
Yanga : you see babe, these kids have just ruined your surprise.
Zama : ow so you were gonna surprise wifey? You are such a romantic, sorry Ntando
we just ruined a surprise.
Ntando : y'all haven't even put your bags in your room but you've said about a
million words already.
Zesande : and we didn't even realise. Let's go girls. I'm guessing we'll just have
to find the room on our own.

Ntando shook her head smiling. The girls went to their room while Ntando warmed up
the food they had bought. Yanga helped putting the plates, forks and knives on the
dining table. The girls came back and they all ate. Zama was the loudest as usual
and Zesande was her usual bubbly self and Kuhle was just their supporter adding
here and there. Zesande was doing her 3rd year in Jewellery design just like Zama
but she was in Stellenbosch University and was a year younger than Zama while Kuhle
and Ntando were in Wits University. Zesande even thought of transferring to. Wits
too and Yanga agreed to help her with that. Ntando then broke the news of the trip
she had planned for them, they were leaving on Monday. They were so excited as
expected.
The following day they decided to use some of their savings to do some shopping.
They spent the whole weekend with Ntando as Yanga was swamped with work. On Monday
they took an early flight to Durban and they were sure they were gonna have a time
of their lives. Ntando made them promise that they'd take care of each other and
that one would not get out of the other's sight. They departed and Ntando suddenly
missed them. When she got home Yanga was there and had both their bags packed.

Ntando : and then? What's up with the bags? Why aren't you at work?
Yanga : you so remember that I promised you a trip of our own, right?
Ntando : wait, weren't you kidding on that?
Yanga : baby you really need to start taking things I say seriously and I mean
everything.
Ntando : wait, you just emphasized the last part, does that mean...??
Yanga : (smiling) yes I was serious getting us our dream home but for now let's get
going.
Ntando : (excitedly) oh my gosh this husband of mine. Where are you exactly taking
me?
Yanga : just around the corner.
Ntando : then what's up with the huge bags? It's almost like we are never coming
back.

Yanga just smiled at Ntando and they took their bags to Yanga's car. They got in
the car and Yanga drove off. They passed some really good houses, you could tell
that rich people lived there. Yanga stopped the car outside some huge house and
opened the door then got out, he also opened the door for his wife. Ntando got out
very confused.

Ntando : Yanga
Yanga : welcome home my love.
Ntando : oh no you didn't.
Yanga : yes I did.

She attacked Yanga with a huge hug, she even cried.

Ntando : I honestly didn't think you'll buy the house so soon. Like how? Why didn't
I notice a thing?
Yanga : (laugjing) that's because your husband is very sneaky and careful.

They went inside the house. It had a huge pool, balcony, everything you name it. It
was a 6 bedroomed house and as per request each bedroom had its own bathroom, then
1 huge bathroom, a kitchen, dining room, lounge, a cinema room, an attic and a
nursery. Ntando froze when she saw the nursery.

Ntando : already getting ready for the future I see.

Yanga just laughed at her then continued showing her around. He then took their
bags to their bedroom, it was so huge it even had a walk-in closet that was so huge
it could fill 1000 people. The house was even fully furnished.

Yanga : I was actually thinking of giving the apartment to the girls since their
school is not far from it so they can just stay there.
Ntando : that's actually a good idea.
Yanga : wow I thought you were gonna disagree with me there.
Ntando : come on now I'm not bad guy.

Just then Ntando got a call, she was told she had gotten the job and had to start
immediately, meaning the following day she had to start working at the hospital.
She was so excited, double joy in one day wow! She called her aunt and father to
let them know. They were really happy for her. Yanga took her out for some
pampering. They were so happy together and even a blind person would see just
howuch they loved each other. Ntando was sure she had found her happily ever after.

Next day Ntando woke up very early and got ready for work, she also prepared
Yanga's clothes. She then made breakfast for Yanga but she didn't eat, she was too
excited to stomach anything. Yanga took her to work. When she got in the hospital
she went to the receptionist and introduced herself.

Receptionist : okay Dr Nyembe nice to meet you, I'm Nokwanda. Sorry we don't have
much time to talk, it's really busy here there was some major accident so please
make yourself home. Ask around for HR offices.

Then she disappeared from Ntando's sight. Wow! Doctors and nurses were pacing up
and down running like headless chickens. More and more people came in the hospital
getting pushed to wards, they were badly injured. Ntando found that sight
fascinating. She thought of changing professions, she knew she wanted to be a
medical doctor but for now she had to stick to Physiotherapy. She asked around and
finally found the HR office and was taken through necessary protocol and singed all
that needed to be signed then was shown to her office with all her working gear.
She spun around on her chair for some time inhaling her success, she even took some
selfies for Yanga and showed him her office. After settling in, she went to attend
to her first patient. She had a really long day but she enjoyed every single moment
of it. She skyped the girls and they were having lots of fun, they were so excited
about the house and happy for Ntando for getting a job of her dreams.

Years passed and Ntando still had her life on track,she had just got her
qualification as a medical doctor since she decided to continue with her studies in
Medicine. Yanga and Ntando now had a daughter, Paris and they named her that
because she was conceived in Paris, she's now 5. Zama had gotten married to Saun
and Kuhle was engaged to her varsity lover, Sakhile then Zesande on the other hand
was still single. One good thing though is that they'd all made it in life, they
were successful in their careers. Fikile was seeing another man and Nkosi remarried
but Ntando and Kuhle weren't so close to their step mother. Musa was in and out
rehab for drug abuse and other mental health issues. Max, appeared after a long
time he had disappeared.

It was on the 25th of December, the whole family (Ntando's family and Yanga's
family) was having a Christmas lunch at Ntando's and Yanga's house outside. There
was laughter, delicious food and love was filled in that environment. Paris kept
running around, she was such a bubbly child who was loved by everyone. Suddenly
Gunshots were heard, everyone hid and screamed, others even got under the tables.
Yanga jumped to save Paris but he was too late she had already been shot on her
head, he ended up getting a bullet too on his chest.
Who do you think the culprit/s was/were?

Ntando...

Just when I had let my guard down, the forever bad luck attacks again. I no longer
have anything to live for. My happily ever after had gone wrong.

Narration:

I guess y'all can guess what happened afterwards.

NEVER LET YOUR GUARD DOWN, YOU'LL NEVER KNOW WHEN YOUR ENEMY WILL STRIKE.