UMCEBO

Chapter One

He drove the grey Honda accord turning his

back on the city of gold. He never liked visiting
this city and he only visited it only for business
and leisure? Was there leisure for people of his
colour? All the beautiful places, the glorious
places and attraction sites of the country had
big boards – keeping him – them away from
full leisure and fun. So, what other reasons
could have brought him to the city either than
business?
The city lights were big and bright it was always
busy with people going up and down to make
ends meet. They accepted the crumbs from
‘baas and madam’ and families back home in
the rural areas were expecting a share of those
crumbs. Men left wives and children to earn a
living and the women raised children back
home alone. Some returned home and some
returned home as corpse and some never
returned home.
What did people of his colour own in the big city?
Absolutely, nothing! Two room houses, four
room houses in overpopulated townships?
Violence was everywhere in the country but at
least in rural areas the black man had little pride
of owning livestock, an enormous yard and
gardens even horses.
“Wongikhonzela enhlizweni yakho,”
Mhlabunzima Xulu, sang along with Bhekumuzi
Luthuli. He was alone in the car. The two
families sent him alone to Pretoria-
Witwatersrand-Vereeniging. They both heard
the name city of gold and they sent him.
He whistled, moving his small short haired head
back and forth as he entered Natal, he was
thinking about the order made by baas Bekker
and his partners. Were they going to be able to
enter Mthembu’s homestead and purloin his
high-priced possession? Mthembu was not just
an ordinary village man. He was a member of
Iskebhe, a secret organization in rural areas
that dealt with thieves of mostly livestock. “But
Ntaba Mnguni is stronger. We’ll work something
out,” he spoke out loud trying to be hopeful.
This was one of the biggest orders not only
because Mthembu had what they needed but
also the number of the order.
How do you purloin three bulls and two cows
from one man in one night? Mhlabunzima had
tried to talk Bekker out but they had much faith
in him – in them. They told him ‘jy sal dit maak’
but when he left their place of meeting. He
didn’t believe they’ll make it.
After long hours, he finally drove through the
wired gates of his home –KwaXulu. In the
whole village of Nqutshini located Embangweni,
only two families had cars and this car he was
driving, it didn’t belong to his family alone but
their partnered family – Mnguni. They were
given the car by baas Bekker and his partners,
to make life easier for them. Mhlabunzima was
the only one who can drive and so, it appeared
as if the car belonged to him or his family. But
only these two families knew the car was
shared.
He parked the car under the car shelter, recently
built. They previously kept the car at the village
store because the owner had the garage until
they built this shelter for the car.
He grabbed his small bag from the passenger
seat and he yawned, he didn’t have the desire to
talk with his father or anyone at the moment but
he only had the desire to rest.
“Mhlaba! I knew it was you. Pass-by here,” the
rough voice of his father called him coming
from his father’s two rooms’ brick house.
He released a stressed sigh and walked up to
his father’s house, his house was on the highest
ground overlooking the rest of the homestead.
His house was closer to his grandmother’s hut
– the grandmother’s hut facing the cattle kraal
that was in the centre of the yard – the yard
was not straight but the houses and huts were
built in an order that a traditional Zulu home
should be built. The yard was in circular form,
built on a slopping ground facing the east.
“Gxabhashe, couldn’t you have waited until I
have taken a nap?” he asked showing his head
on the door. His father was seated on the floor
leaning on the sofa and laying down his dagga
on paper to have it dried.
The dark skinned grown man – Goba Xulu
looked up at his son, “no, I can’t wait. Come in
and don’t show your head like that.”
He walked inside the house and sat down, “I
travelled well baba and as you can see I came
back in one piece.”
He nodded but his eyes were with the dagga,
“yes, I can see and now, tell me, how the
meeting went. What do they want this time?”
“This time they want three bulls and two cows,”
he laid the order before his father and sighed
when he saw the same worry he had when they
told him.
“That’s outrageous. Do they want us to get
caught and be killed?”
“They said they have faith in us. We can pull this
off,” he rubbed his worried eyes with his fingers
and stress rose.
Kusakusa Xulu entered his father’s house, he’s
the first born out of the three siblings and
Mhlabunzima is the last born. He saw the car
driving through from his homestead that was
closer to his home where he grew up. He
moved out of the yard and built closer to home
when he got married. He’d been married for
three years and had two children.
“I saw the car I thought I should come by,” he
sat on the single sofa and he could tell they’d
started discussing the trip. They couldn’t have
called him that’d been one of the reasons he
decided to come home.
Xulu looked at his eldest son, “you did well by
coming because your brother has just told me
the impossible.”
Kusakusa stared at his brother and the
displeasure in his heart grew. He never
understood why his father chose the child as an
heir to their family business. He was the eldest
and deserving. He’d been here helping his father
raise his two siblings. He saw everything, from
when they had nothing but a site with trees and
weed. He worked along with his father and they
built their home – just the two of them.
Mhlabunzima was just a baby on his nappy and
his sister Ngenzeni – she was only two years
old. But his father chose the child?
“I don’t know if we’ll be able to pull it off,”
Mhlabunzima said to his brother. He knew very
well that his brother hated his guts but he’d
always pretended like he doesn’t know. He’d
never told him to his face and that had always
kept his hope that maybe – just maybe he was
wrong.
“We have the greatest witchdoctor on the team
and so, what can stop us?”
Xulu smiled, “you’re always hopeful Kusakusa
but this is too much to take from one man. I
think we should call the Mngunis and discuss
this. Are we really going to take five cattle from
Mthembu?”
“He’s our next target, baba and this means we
should take from him,” Kusakusa said. He’d
always tried to show his father that he was a
better decision maker than his brother.
Mhlabunzima never did something without
thinking it over and sometimes this delayed
decisions being taken on time.
“I know but we should think this through. A bull
is not something light to steal from a man and
if you’re taking more than two,” he flinched his
bright eyes for his brother. His older brother had
always been desperate to be praised by his
father, “that’s why we need to reconsider and
we need to include the other family.”
“Are you taking that decision?” Kusakusa asked,
annoyed, “I thought father is still a decision
maker here.”
Mhlabunzima’s furrowed his brows, “we’re in
discussion here and I am not taking any
decision.”
“He’s right Kusakusa we’re discussing and I
think since the job is this difficult I have to go
with you this time around,” Xulu announced and
both his sons looked at him in shock. It’d been
a while since he joined them on the field. Him
and Mnguni – no longer join them regularly.
“That will not happen, baba!” they both raised
their voices in unison.
Xulu looked at them like they were crazy and
they didn’t look away, “are you telling me what
to do now?”
“No, but you’re an old man now and this job is
for us to handle,” Mhlabunzima defended and
he eyed his brother for support. After the
support from Kusakusa that their father should
not go with them, he still didn’t listen.
“We should send Ngenzeni to Mnguni to inform
him that you’re back,” Kusakusa suggested
staring at his brother after they decided to
respect their father’s decision to join them.
He nodded, “but I want to rest I am really tired.”
“We’re all tired,” he said and stood up leaving
them to do what he’d decided he’s doing – that
sending his sister.
Mhlabunzima glared at his father but he didn’t
entertain his glare, “I am going to rest no one
will come between me and my sleep,” he
grabbed his bag and headed to his house. His
brother wanted things to go his way but when
the other person tried to practice the same – he
would be angry.

The night to purloin bulls and cows from

Mthembu arrived as they’d planned. Mnguni had
promised to ‘ukubaqinisa’ using his muthi. He
arrived an hour later with his son when
Kusakusa called for him. Mhlabamunzima was
forced by his brother to wake up and plan the
attack with the Mngunis. He was pissed but
because of the elders he had no choice but to
wake up and talk with them.
Mnguni performed the rituals the next day and
he also used muthi to ensure they won’t appear
before the owner should it happen they get
caught in the yards. The men had made full
proof plan and they had decided they were
taking all these five cattle from one man –
Mthembu.
“You should ensure that no matter what
happens you don’t get hurt because if you can
get hurt who’ll drive this truck for us?” Xulu eyed
his son after getting off the truck.
Mthembu’s home was by one of the main gravel
roads of the village. The neighbouring homes in
the village were not further apart but they were
closer to one another. Mhlabunzima left the
truck on the side of the main road, closer to the
entrance of Mthembu’s home. The truck had
the trailer of cattle pen where they had
calculated five cows would fit – all these assets
were generated by their bosses.
Mnguni was not with them like he normally
doesn’t join them because of his physical
disability. He was a disable man – he used one
arm and hand, his left arm was cut off from
elbow. He hardly joined them on the missions.
“I am always careful, baba and it’s you that I am
worried about,” he said and they followed
Kusakusa who was leading them to the cattle
kraal. Mthembu’s yard was simple like most
village yards – all kraals are in the middle of the
yard. And tonight, the men in mission were five
in numbers, three Xulu men and two Mnguni
men. ‘The smaller the number – the better’, this
rule had maintained harmony of their
operations.
“Don’t worry about me. I am still in good shape.”
It was after 10pm and the whole village was
eerie silent, no lights and no noise. The villagers
had been given electricity a year back but they
were still those who were not familiar with it
and some – they were scared of the dangers
that came with electricity – some enjoyed
benefits of electricity. While some, were just
hidebound.
But Mthembu was a man with an enormous
yard and large number of livestock – lots of
houses as he was a polygamous man with
children. He was an important member of
society and so, his yard was lit. It was no secret
in the village that there were night riders who
took cattle from village men. They were not
sure of the names, they were only speculating.
“Spikili enter the kraal with the bucket,”
Mzomubi – Mnguni’s only son instructed
Mhlabunzima (Spikili) after opening the cattle
kraal without alerting the livestock. They never
address one another by their real names
because they were at times not visible to the
people they’re stealing from but their voices
could be heard. “We will enter after you or when
you need assistance.”
They all wore black overalls as their uniform,
black gloves and oddly – white gloves. He
entered the kraal with a bucket of cattle feed
and because Mthembu’s yard had the light, they
didn’t light their own torches. He easily spotted
the black bull and slowly he lured it out using
the feed. He shook the bucket and poured the
feed on the ground.
It followed him slowly, slowly, slowly and they
were out of the kraal after counted minutes.
From the kraal, out the gates and from there he
chases the bull into the livestock trailer. He
waited for Mzomubi to load the cow he had
managed to lure out. He went back again for his
turn – with sensitive ability of smell the cattle
have, the exchange of entering the kraal
happened between only Mzomubi and
Mhlabunzima while the others were on alert.
“Avoid the calves, spikili,” his father advised
almost raising his voice as his son entered for
the second time but he was too late. When
Mhlabunzima entered for the second time, he
couldn’t see the calf he stepped on it making
cattle be alert with the noise.
“What have you done now, you, fool!” Kusakusa
shouted at his brother like he had been waiting
for an opportunity to have him mess up. They’d
been doing a clean job and Mhlabunzima – the
perfect son messed up!
Mzomubi held Kusakusa’s arm, “calm down!”
Mthembu – the big wealthy cruel man of the
village he was alerted by the noise of his cattle.
He was inside the comfort of his hut sleeping
alone that night and this made it easier for him
to wake up. He took out one of his secret
weapons – a pistol gun.
When he walked out of the hut into the yard,
Mthembu doesn’t see any faces or any bodies
near the kraal but he can hear commotion and
his cattle are making noise, running out of the
kraal. The kraal’s gate is opened. He’s confused
out of his mind. “Where are these people?”
“Ivimbe!” (Stop it!)
He heard a loud shout from a voice he couldn’t
recognise. He stood tall by his door looking at
the mess – his cattle up and down in the yard
but without seeing the people chasing the cattle.
His body boiled, his armpit got wet from anger
fuelled up by this mess, “ningixolele bo
Mvelase,” he apologised to his ancestors before
firing the gun in the air in their yards and
without thinking that he could fire at his cattle,
he opened fire straight to the entrance of his
yards. Screams, come from the side of the yard
where his daughters and wives’ hut are located.
“Stay inside!” he shouted for his family. He was
not intimidated by these men he can’t see. He
was still standing tall trusting the firing machine
on his hand.
“Run!” Kusakusa screamed for his teammates
and luckily they were all going for the gate at
the shocking sound of the gunshot.
“Don’t run you cowards show yourself!”
Mthembu screamed and he fired again. He
moved closer when he heard a loud groan
reflecting pain. He was sure he had shot
someone and so, he ran down trying to avoid
crossing paths with his cattle. He couldn’t see
who’d been shot but he could hear men arguing
they should run without looking back and he
fired again. And within minutes, he heard a car
drive off but without seeing the car. He cursed
and wondered… who did he shoot?
UMCEBO

Chapter Two
“That fat old hag has a gun, how?”
Mhlabunzima shouted and he wiped off the
sweat off his forehead. He never liked showing
off panic and emotions of helplessness. He
was a strong and a proud man but sometimes
things didn’t go his way and emotions got
better hang of him. He glanced at his father
who was seated on the passenger seat with
Mnguni uncle. His brother was at the back with
Mzomubi nursing him. Mzomubi was the one
shot. Mhlabunzima was very hurt when he
realised his friend was hurt and he dragged him
out of the premises on his own. But luckily he
was shot on the thigh.
Xulu huffed worryingly, “I never thought he has
a gun,” he looked back at his eldest in the back
of the truck. He trusted Mzomubi’s father he’d
be treated without people noticing he was shot.
Mthembu was going to ensure the whole village
knew he shot a man and everyone should be on
the lookout for that injured man.
“How’s the pain Mzomubi?” Mhlabunzima
asked out loud.
Kusakusa raised his head instead, “he was shot.
How should the pain be?”
His jaw tightened, his brother was a real demon
in his life and at times he had wished he could
turn his back on everything and focus only on
politics. How could his blood hate him so much?
He had always showed him nothing but respect
but he provoked him every change he got,
“Mzomubi?” he pretended Kusakusa didn’t
interfere.
“Xulu omncane, I am still feeling rather hot but I
can feel the pain getting stronger and stronger,”
he spoke through clenched teeth.
Mhlabunzima pressed tight on the accelerator,
“are we taking him to his father first,
Gxabhashe?” he seek counsel from his father.
“Yes, he’ll be waiting for us.”
Kusakusa hissed, wasn’t his brother supposed
to be smart? “That’s the dumbest suggestion
Mhlabunzima because we have to ensure the
cattle are in hiding first because if we go to
Mnguni with the cattle we’ll be caught.”
Xulu looked back at his son, “your brother was
seeking help from me!” he shouted maddened
by his son.
“I am sorry, baba.”
“Your brother is right, Xulu omncane, let’s not
drive straight to my father. I will manage I
wasn’t shot in a critical body part,” Mzomubi
supported Kusakusa.
The drive continued, in silence. The streets
were quiet there was not even a single person
on the streets. The operation would have gone
smooth if he didn’t make this mistake – how
could he have not seen the calf? He has cost
them, two cows and one bull. The trailer had
only two bulls. His mind was a mess of
thoughts as he drove the truck up the hill to the
sub-village where they were going to keep the
bulls until they were delivered to the owners.
“Do you think they’ll accept these two bulls
only?”
Xulu could see his son was stressed, “this is not
your fault and so, you don’t have to stress –”
“Baba, how can you say it’s not his fault? He
messed up!”
Xulu didn’t argue with his son but he closed the
small window giving Kusakusa access to their
conversation, “your brother is –”
“He’s right it’s my fault.”
Mnguni uncle sighed, “anyone could have made
that mistake,” he said. They’d advised Xulu not
make Mhlabunzima his heir because it would
cause commotion between the two brothers
but he never listened.
They arrived at their keeping place – deep in the
Mnguni forest. Mnguni took over the business
of stealing livestock from villagers from his
father. He grew up into this business, his family
wealth came from this business and when the
business grew he needed people to work with.
He needed people to help him and there was no
better person to recruit than Goba Xulu. The
poorest man of the village who’d been cast out
of his family homesteads by his father – Xulu
refused in the beginning but Mnguni convinced
him.
They left Mnguni uncle watching over the bulls
and they took the car to Mzomubi’s home
leaving the truck behind.
When they presented Mzomubi before his
father – his father didn’t panic. He took his son
to his healing hut. Mnguni was the well-known
witchdoctor in the village. He had little to no
illnesses that he couldn’t heal. The people
trusted him with their problems, physical and
spiritual.
“There’s no need to worry Mhlabunzima,”
Mnguni chuckled, between the three Xulu men.
Mhlabunzima was most worried about
Mzomubi – he was his best friend. Mnguni was
fond of Mhlabunzima compared to the
impulsive older brother and he didn’t have a
problem with the friendship. Their friendship
began before Mnguni recruited Xulu to be his
partnered family in business.
“Nobody expected a gun,” he said looking
closely to the old man’s work. He was using his
one hand to remove the bullet and Kusakusa
was assisting.
“Yes, but he’s the member of iskebhe. He
should own weapons.” He sighed, finally
showing them the bullet, “now, his life is no
longer in danger.”
“Those are wonderful news, you’ll recover, boy.”
Xulu consoled the highly sedated Mzomubi. He
only nodded. Mnguni showed them out, “we
should meet when the sun is up. I think my boys
will do the delivery before the village wakes.”
The two old men shook hands, “yes, go and rest
we’ll face the men tomorrow. They have to
accept two bulls.”
Xulu joined his sons in the car and with no
further word shared – Mhlabunzima drove out
of the premises.
>>>
It was Monday during lunch break at Nqutshini
primary school, Zinhloso Mnguni was standing
under the tree at the back of the crowd of pupils.
They were pushing each other to buy snacks
from the sellers. Pupils who were mostly young
adults Zinhloso was a young adult herself –
doing standard 3 at the age of twenty-one years.
She had begged her father for a long time to let
her attend school like other girls her age in the
village. But her mother didn’t want her to attend
school; she had reasons that Zinhloso would
embarrass her and the Mnguni family. Her
mother didn’t want her to be around the
community much.
Zinhloso was standing alone because she didn’t
have friends. How could a person like her make
friends? Even in class she didn’t share the desk.
“Hm, hm, that’s why I feel like vomiting there’s
this girl here,” a sharp voice of a girl named
Isabel teased Zinhloso. She had her fingers
holding her nose and looking at Zinhloso up and
down.
Most girls hated Zinhloso – for? Being the most
beautiful girl in the whole village? She never
understood why they hated her because she
didn’t have the power to snatch their boyfriends
from them even with her beauty. Which guy
would tolerate her illness?
Imani, Isabel’s side kick laughed, “it’s funny her
daddy is the mighty healer but he can’t even
help his daughter.”
“Inyanga ayizelaphi phela, oe,” Isabel said and
they laughed with her friend. Their loud voices
even attracted the other learners. They were
laughing at Zinhloso being bullied by two
capable young adults. Most learners entered
school late because of being racially excluded.
It was mostly boys who were schooled and also,
they were schooled until Standard 5 in the
village. It was no shame to see a grown woman
in primary school people understood the
situation.
Zinhloso had her eyes on her hands and tears
were falling down. Her father had done
everything to help her but it never worked.
Some nights she used to cry inside her hut that
her father was able to help almost everyone but
his daughter. She never liked this situation –
this illness.
“Can’t you see you guys are too old to be
bothering her?” One guy interfered seeing that
Zinhloso was now crying.
Isabel rolled her eyes, “ey awukwahle wena
nekhanda elikhulu. What should we do if she
has a bad odour? We want to buy food here and
she’s making the whole place smell.” Everyone
laughed.
“Everybody knows she’s sick but you’re
pretending like you’re new here –”
“Oh, please she’s not sick but she just doesn’t
like bathing,” one girl on the crowd said and her
comment made others further laugh.
“She thinks spraying expensive perfume will
stop the smell –”
Zinhloso got tired to listening to their unkind
words and she ran away from the crowds. They
laughed harder at her for running away calling
her a stinking coward. She sat down behind the
water tank and she cried. She hated this school
and the learners but what other choice did she
have? None! The village had only one school –
the primary school and she wanted to learn like
everyone.

After school she walked alone as usual from

school to home. The school wasn’t far, the
distance wasn’t tiring. She always walked alone,
her sisters were no longer in primary school but
they were attending high school in township.
They travelled by bus. She entered late at
school than her sisters because her mother
didn’t want her to attend school. Her mother
had clearly stated that she should stay at home
because she was going to embarrass them at
school. She stayed until her father gave her
permission to also go to school.
They were four, the two older sisters Nobuhle
and Ziwinile, then Zinhloso after them and their
only brother the last born – Mzomubi. Their
parents were married to each other, Zinhloso
was close to her father than mother.
She spotted her father under the avocado tree
inside their big family yard and she quickly
rushed to him. She didn’t even put her bag
inside her hut. The sisters had a three bedroom
house, only bedrooms, no other rooms but
Zinhloso didn’t sleep with them in the house
because Ziwinile complained of the odour from
Zinhloso. She had to move out and left the two
of them in the house. She slept in her own hut
closer to her sisters’ house.
“Baba, sawubona,” she smiled sitting on the
bench closer to her father.
Mnguni was having traditional beer alone after
attending to his son’s wound. He had ensured
that Mzomubi remained inside his hut without
coming out. He didn’t want anyone seeing him,
“my beautiful daughter, how are you?” he smiled
back and brushed his daughter’s head.
She had big tied up afro, “I want to know how
are you and how’s my brother?” she asked – it
didn’t matter to her that her two siblings didn’t
like her. She knew her older sister loved her and
she was good with that. Who would love to
have an embarrassment for a sister anyway?
“Did something happen at school? You never
have a problem answering me when I ask you
how are you?” he looked at his daughter and he
spotted pain on her eyes but quickly masked
the pain with the smile.
“Nothing –”
He held her hand, “I am your father don’t lie to
me.”
She started crying all over again. She passed
well at school because she was bright unlike
her sister Ziwinile who wasn’t bright and it took
her years to finish Standard 8. Nobuhle was
also bright – she was doing Standard 10.
“They haven’t stopped bullying me, baba –” she
told her father what happened at school
through tears and this broke the old man’s heart.
But it didn’t ease the fear he had in his mind and
soul about Zinhloso. “I am tired of them, baba!”
“Don’t cry, MaMnguni,” he brushed his
daughter’s back.
She didn’t stop crying, “baba, they hate me. I
know my illness is unbearable –”
Mnguni shook his head, “no, I am sitting here
with you and I love you as your father. Those
girls are mean and you shouldn’t take
everything to heart.”
“How, baba? I want to be normal like everyone.
Why can’t you help me? I also hate myself
sometimes.”
“Can’t you see you’re the most beautiful girl in
the whole village? You’re beautiful even above
the kings’ fifteen daughters!” he tried to console
her but his daughter didn’t stop crying. This
made him realised these school mates really
hurt his daughter, “don’t you think you should
stop school?”
Zinhloso wiped her tears and looked at her
father, “I love going to school and to learn. I
want to be the one to help you read letters when
Nobuhle leaves home.”
“Your brother will read letters for me but you
should stay at home because they’re
discriminating you,” Mnguni tried to convince
his daughter. His wife might have been right
when she didn’t want her to start school.
“What should I do at home all day, baba?” she
asked with a shaky voice. What could be hurtful
than being discriminated against? The children
at school never accepted her – the community
never accepted her even when she had to go to
the river she wasn’t accepted. Her own family
never accepted her. Where could she find the
cure so she would be normal?
“No man will marry me, baba and you don’t
want me to join your business, so what would I
do at home?”
Mnguni hated seeing his daughter crying she
was too precious to him, “you’ll relax, be my
precious daughter and get whatever you want?”
“Why can’t we ask another traditional healer to
help me, baba? I want to go to school?” she
looked down broken. Her whole life she’d never
been truly happy and love – she had only felt
true love from her father. She looked up at her
father and she could see he was still not
considering taking her to another healer. And
this made her cry harder like a little girl.
“This is why I never wanted her to attend school.
You see now she’s crying because these
learners don’t want to associate themselves
with her –” Mrs Mnguni stopped talking when
her husband glared at her. The avocado tree
was closer to the four room brick house that
had a kitchen, a living room and two guest
bedrooms. She was inside preparing food for
her husband when she heard her daughter
complain to her father.
“The child is speaking to me as her father
because she trusts me and you’re interfering! If
she wanted to talk to you she was going to tell
you not me,” he shouted at her and his wife
bowed her head. She put the food on the bench
before him – full home-grown chicken and
steam bread.
“If you’re done, leave your father and come eat,”
Mrs Mnguni said to her daughter and she left
the duo.
Mnguni cut out the pieces of chicken with his
hands and he pointed at the food for his
daughter, “eat with your father. I know your
mother has spinach for you and your sisters.”
“Thank you, baba,” she said happily and she
wiped her tears. They don’t eat meat as equal to
their father and brother. Their diet was mostly
vegetables. She loved meat a lot and when
others had vegetables – her father would share
his meat with her. The father and daughter ate
their food, Mnguni led the conversation away
from the topic of Zinhloso and her illness and
school. Deep down he hoped his daughter
would take his advice and stop going to school.
He didn’t want to take the option of sending her
to another healer for help. He could never do
that but if it was the last choice he had – he
would give his last born girl what she wished
for…
UMCEBO
Chapter Three

"What are you cooking?" Mhlabunzima asked

his sister.
She eyed her brother and continued chopping
the vegetables, "are you hungry already? Why
are you inside the kitchen because you hardly
come this side. You don't even know how the
food is made," Ngenzeni - the only sister of the
Xulu brothers said to her younger brother.
Mhlabunzima chuckled and grabbed the chair.
Kwagogo - the hut their father built for their late
grandmother. They cooked in this hut and
mostly, they held family meetings in this hut.
This was the most important hut in the yard. It
didn't matter that their grandmother never lived
in this hut. It was special.
"I know how to cook, I just don't like it," he lied
and by the long laughter from his sister. He
knew she had figured out he was lying to her.
"Dad can cook and Kusakusa can cook, the
problem is you! I feel sorry for your wife." She
teased him even though she knew he was
single and had been single for years.
Sometimes she never understood why women
didn't want her brother. He was handsome. He
wasn't the tallest man but the shortest man,
skinny and dark skinned like their father but he
was the most handsome in their family. He may
be a tiny man but he had strength and charisma.
He was the people's person, the loveable
political man. Others didn't love him for his
political interest; they feared him but others
loved him only for his political interests and
views.
"Do you think I will ever get a wife?" He asked
his sister, his voice laced with sadness. He
would also love to get married one day, have
children and a wife like his brother but where
would he get the woman to love him enough to
marry him? Over the years the women he'd been
with were good at badmouthing him after the
relationship. But what confused him, during the
course of the relationship they were addicted to
him - especially addicted to his specific body
part. Everytime he would hear things said about
him by his ex, things that were not true.
Ngenzeni laughed, "yes, of course it's not like
you've been a bachelor all your life. You've had a
share of your crazy women."
Mhlabunzima laughed, she wasn't wrong,
"you're right that's why I deserve a calm woman
now and someone who'll also help you around
here because you hate men."
"I have my reasons."
"I know, you think we lack brains."
She glanced at him, "don't you?"
"No, we don't," he argued. He hardly stayed for
over fifteen minutes with his sister but today he
felt lonely and needed to talk to get his mind off
things.
"You were going to take five cattle from one
man in one night and so, tell me how's that
having brains?"
He smirked- sometimes they shared the same
thoughts with her but they mostly didn't see eye
to eye but it was better because his sister didn't
hate him like Kusakusa. "We think alike because
I was also against the idea but I was
outnumbered."
"I bet that foolish friend of yours and his father
were also against you."
"Mzomubi is not foolish," he defended him. He
knew she hated his friend and his father
because they were against Ngenzeni having
opinions on the business matters. They
believed she had to sit it out because of her
gender but their father liked involving her in
discussions for her opinions. Sharp opinions. At
times Mhlabunzima thought his father wished
Ngenzeni was a man.
"Oh, he is and his father is such a failure as a
traditional healer. How can he fail to cure his
daughter?"
He frowned, "his daughter? I only know his
eldest daughter because she has a child with
one of my comrades."
"Don't you know his youngest daughter has
umsanka? Nobody wants to associate
themselves with her," she shook her head in pity
and she began cooking her stew, "her situation
is very pitiful."
He widened his eyes, "why is Mnguni not
helping her?"
"I don't know I heard even your foolish friend
doesn't like his own sister."
"I am sure you heard wrong. Why would he hate
his sister?"
Ngenzeni laughed, "you think highly of him."
Before he could even voice his opinion the
telephone rang loudly in his house and he ran
out of the hut to attend it. And luckily he found
it still ringing.
"Mhlabunzima speaking, hello," when
articulating English he was good and with
Afrikaans he was best.
"You're speaking to Mr Hendricks, Mhlaba."
He smiled, "baas, what an honour. We've been
waiting for your call. Should we move the cattle
now?"
"Yes, but I come bearing bad news."
He sat down on the sofa closer to the telephone,
"what's wrong, baas?"
"Your baas Bekker was shot dead this morning,"
he said, sadly shocking Mhlabunzima, "he was
on his way to work and we suspect a business
rivalry."
"How can they kill such a good man?" He sat
down defeated. In this business they dealt with
difficult men but Bekker was understanding and
considerate. And he was dead? How?
"Yes, people are vile but don't you worry we'll
find the culprit." He promised. "For now, we
should continue to work and if we have any
changes and developments we'll notify you."
Just like that? Things were going to continue?
What about grief and mourning? Weren't they
hurting? But it wasn't for him to question his
bosses, "of course, we shall meet in a few
hours." He said and disconnected the telephone
call. He was stressed about the three hours
drive he had to take with his brother. His friend
wasn't fit because of being shot and this meant
he was stuck with Kusakusa. He walked out of
his house and moved around the yard. He stood
by his garden- he didn't like cooking and didn't
care about cooking, would probably never care
about cooking but he liked growing crops and
looking after the crops. They had a bigger
garden because they don't have the graves' side
yet. They moved to this site from their old home.
There were only four of them. Three siblings
and their father. Kusakusa had added three
more members into their small family - his wife
and children. They haven't had anyone die in
their family but where they come from their
family members had died and were buried in
the family grave site. People in their village
buried their dead family members in the yard,
not elsewhere.
"I wonder where is that woman who gave birth
to me?" Mhlabunzima asked out loud.
Xulu appeared behind the mango tree, he was
tall and skinny "you never ask about your
mother and you don't even have a memory of
her. You were a baby when she left."
He was startled by his father, "Xulu, what are
you doing in my garden?"
"You're growing these vegetables for everyone
not for yourself," he said and walked out of the
garden, "why are you thinking about your
mother?"
"Baba, Hendricks called, we have to move the
bulls. I didn't tell him that we're only bringing
two bulls. He's under the impression that we
have everything they ordered," Mhlabunzima
ignored his father's question. He wasn't in the
mood to discuss his thoughts with his father.
Xulu didn't force his son to talk about his
mother. None of his children ever wanted to talk
about their mother. "Alright, take your brother
and leave right away."
"There's another thing," he followed his father,
"Hendricks told me that Bekker was killed this
morning on his way to work."
"It can't be! Why didn't they kill Hendricks?"
He widened his eyes, "baba!"
"What? He's the one with a vile heart and racist ,
not Bekker."
"I know but don't wish death on him, we're in
business with him and we don't want them to
die," he said and rushed to his house. Even
traveling with Ngenzeni would have been better.
His sister in-law Ruth welcomed him into her
kitchen, "are you here for your brother?" The
chubby light skinned pretty woman asked
Mhlabunzima.
He sat on the bench, "yes, but where's my niece
and nephew?"
She smiled at him, "they left with their father but
I am sure they're on their way back now."
"Alright I will wait."
Ruth served him food while he waited for her
husband and she left him inside - there wasn't
much to speak with him. She knew him being
here meant her husband was leaving.
Mhlabunzima drove away after saying goodbye
to the kids. He informed his brother about the
death of Bekker.
"That's sad and I wonder who'll take over him,"
Kusakusa said.
That was all his brother was worried about?
Positions! "I am sure it's his brother," he
commented and surprisingly his older brother
agreed with him. The drive wasn't as bad as he
thought it would be but he still preferred to drive
with his friend.
******
Zinhloso entered the kitchen and only her plate
of food was left on the table. The kitchen was
empty and she could hear the voices coming
from the living room.
After her father had advised her to stop going to
school she didn't but the girls in school didn't
stop bullying her. And she returned from school
sad - she took her uniform and all her school
material and burned her things. Her mother was
very happy to see her burning her things but she
couldn't care less about her mother. She
wanted her father but Mnguni wasn't home. He
left because of his healing work. She wasn't at
peace whenever her father wasn't home.
"Ay, ay, why are you sitting here with us?" Mrs
Mnguni shouted at her daughter. She was
having dinner with her three children. They
didn't call Zinhloso when food was ready like
they normally did when her father was around.
She shyly looked down, "I thought it's dinner
time and we eat together."
"Eat together? Give us peace and go eat alone!
You want to suffocate us and we won't even
enjoy our meal, huh?" She further shouted at her
daughter.
"But I sit here when there's dad."
Her mother pointed around and Mzomubi
interfered, "do you see dad here?"
"Go, go, and leave us in peace!" She pointed to
the exit leading to the kitchen. Zinhloso left
them to their peace.
Nobuhle looked at her mother, "Zinhloso is your
daughter why do you treat her so bad?"
"I am your mom, don't you dare question me!"
She pointed at her with her finger.
Her sister Ziwinile looked at her; "would you be
happy if that's your child? She's an
embarrassment."
"She didn't bring this upon herself and mom,
don't forget that this illness comes from your
family," Nobuhle reminded her mother, annoyed
by her treatment towards her younger sister.
"Don't speak with mom like that!" Mzomubi
shouted.
Mrs Mnguni glared at her eldest, "leave my sight
this instant!" She pulled her grandson's wrist as
Nobuhle was attempting to leave with her son,
"leave my grandson here!"
She left her son behind and when she didn't find
Zinhloso inside the kitchen she left the house to
look for her inside her hut…
UMCEBO

Chapter Four

Zinhloso sat on her bed with her plate of food, “I

miss you already, baba,” she wiped her tears
and stared at her food. Why was life unfair to
her? What bad had she done to the world and
its people? She ate her food and wondered –
why they’d never poisoned her? They’d be home
with her for weeks without her father, cooking
and dishing up for her. They hated her – why
they never killed her? Her own mother hated her
guts and her siblings also. Her mother hated
her so much she never allowed her to cook and
clean, the only chore she was allowed her to do
– fetch water. She would tell her she doesn’t
want unclean food and so, she never taught her
cooking. She told her she wouldn’t clean the
house properly and would leave a foul smell.
Zinhloso was incapable of doing basic chores,
besides being a slob Zinhloso was never given
an opportunity to.
She was startled by Nobuhle entering through
her door.
“What are you doing here?”
Nobuhle looked around her sister’s hut – today,
the hut is clean and airy. She knew and
understood her sister was a slob, so much that
her father saw the need to hire someone who
would clean up her hut and properly wash her
clothes. Not even their brother had someone
doing these things for him only Zinhloso. She
was incapable of properly looking after herself
growing up, it got better at sixteen years. She
would bath properly and used all the bath soaps
and lotions – body oils her father bought for her
but they didn’t stop her bad body odour. Her
sister suffered from intermittent pungent odour.
The Doctors gave the term – fish odour
syndrome for her illness. The odour was
intermittent but it was never bearable to the
person next to her whenever it reeked. This
disorder excluded her socially as she didn’t
have friends and she didn’t want to partake in
any social gatherings. The disorder started
when she reached puberty.
Her mother used to put her on a strictly
vegetables and fruits diet but her father gave
her meat so she wouldn’t be left out.
“Is it wrong if I want to sit here with my sister?”
Nobuhle sat on the bed with her and she pulled
the pillow. The pillow case had the pleasing
fabric softener.
“Go back to your family and eat, I want to be
alone.”
She held her hand, “they’re also your family but
it’s just that they’re not kind but I know deep
down they love you.”
She laughed with a head shake, “I am no longer
a kid anymore Nobuhle I am a grown woman,
twenty-one years of age, remember?”
Nobuhle looked down ashamed, “I know but –”
“You don’t have to try and look for good in them
to convince me they like me because I know
they don’t and it’s okay,” she said trying to act
tough but deep down she knew she was not
tough. She was just a broken young lady.
“Why don’t you ask dad to visit granny for a
while because I know you get bored here?”
Nobuhle suggested, she knew Zinhloso liked
their maternal grandmother and she liked her as
much.
She shook her head, “I am alright, let’s eat” she
enjoyed the food, “I can tell you’re the one who
cooked.”
“Don’t you want to learn how to cook?”
“Can we not talk about me? You know mama
doesn’t want me inside her kitchen. I only go
there to take food and load water,” she said
with her voice raised and her sister widened her
eyes. She realised she was wrong, Nobuhle was
older by seven years and she was a good sister
to her. “I am sorry.”
“It’s okay, I am sure one day we’ll find the cure. I
will be a Doctor one day and help you,” she said
with a smile and Zinhloso returned the smile.
The two sisters finish up their food with
Nobuhle talking about school and Zinhloso
asking her questions about high school.
Nobuhle stood up with both their plates,
“goodnight then I will see you tomorrow when I
come back from school and we’ll go together to
fetch water because Ziwinile will be cooking.”
“Okay, sisi, goodnight.” She stood up and
changed into her sleepwear. She hopped into
her bed after locking the door and she
daydreamed about a better future where she’s
happy and living her best life in a free South
Africa.
>>>>
“Say what you want to say and stop glancing at
me,” Kusakusa said to his little brother. He was
having a cold drink on the passenger seat of the
truck as they drove into the Hendricks’ farm in
Durban.
Mhlabunzima cleared his throat, “do you ever
feel like we’re betraying our people?” he asked.
He frowned at him, “what do you mean?”
“We’re stealing from our own people and
stealing not just for ourselves but for the white
man,” he said and focused on the gravel road of
the farm, “we’re enriching our oppressors.”
“Mhlaba, don’t start with your political
nonsense!” he exclaimed annoyed. They all
hated that Mhlabunzima was part of politics
and he was not just a follower but a leader of
the youth in their community for South African
Freedom Party (SAFP) a well-known political
party.
“It’s not nonsense and this question has
nothing to do with politics.”
He glared at his brother, “what has our people
do for us? When your grandfather kicked our
father out of the family homestead for
something that happened, something that
wasn’t his fault, did they help us?”
“Yes, the king helped us. He gave our father
land.”
“Oh, nonsense! It didn’t come for free, we
worked for it Mhlabunzima. Nobody wanted to
help us, not even with vegetables from their big
gardens. They also stood with our grandfather
but dad had no hand in the death of our
grandmother,” Kusakusa said bitterly, “he was
home nursing his heartbreak while his mother
was dying without his knowledge.”
“I know but –”
“But nothing! Mnguni gave us a chance and we
have everything we have today because of this
business,” he glared at his brother but
Mhlabunzima removed his eyes from him, “do
you think we would have achieved what we
have now if I went to any of the big cities to
work and earn R10 and a food parcel? I would
send R6 at home and try to survive with the little
money left.”
“We wouldn’t be here but we would have
survived.”
He shook his head, “what’s wrong with you? Do
you want out of the family business, huh?” he
shouted. He hated his brother but he knew he
was needed in business. He had his role –
important role.
“No, but having a discussion doesn’t hurt.”
“Look,” he pointed the big green farm, “the white
man is working –”
“Don’t even start, they’re having tea and cakes
while we slave for them and they’re stealing
from us. Our livestock –”
“These things belong to them!”
He was frustrated by the lack of knowledge his
brother had. “What belongs to them? The land?
The Nguni cattle that they have in numbers?” he
asked angry at his brother, “do you think they
arrived with Nguni cattle on their ships? No!
We’re stealing these cattle from our people for
them to be rich!”
“Stop this talk, Mhlabunzima, Stop it and focus!”
He tightened his jaws and focused – his father
did what he had to do to uplift them from
poverty but Mhlabunzima never liked this family
business. He never even liked that his father
made him heir. His brother hated him for it. The
brother that raised him with his father, he hated
him – how could he have liked that position of
being an heir?
He wore his polite look for the bosses. They
were standing next to the truck, explaining the
situation to Mr Hendricks and Mr Petersen. By
the time Mhlabunzima finished explaining he
could see Mr Hendricks was angry but he didn’t
show it. Probably because one of them was
shot – he wasn’t sure but he was angry they
didn’t come with the order as they requested.
“Mm, Mhlaba, the situation was tough but you
managed to still come with these two bulls. You
did your best,” Mr Petersen said and looked at
his partner who didn’t look pleased at all.
Hendricks clicked his tongue, “are you new in
this job?”
“No, but it was a mistake –”
“Mistake, Mhlaba! Mistake?” Hendricks shouted
at him, “it’s been years and you’re not new in
this business. We don’t have money for
mistakes!”
“We’re sorry, baas,” Kusakusa jumped to save
his brother whom by the look of things he was
also angry now. Hendricks was insensitive he
wasn’t even enquiring about Mzomubi –
Mhlabunzima’s friend. He knew they were
friends.
Petersen tapped his partner on the shoulder,
“the man had a gun and this means they were
facing death but they still managed to bring two
bulls. Be grateful,” he said and looked at the two
brothers as his partner calmed down, “how’s
your friend? Is he recovering?”
“Yes, his father is doing the best he can.”
“That’s better,” they all turned their heads to the
grey Toyota that had parked next to Petersen’s
car. A tall slender woman stepped out of the car.
She was wearing black clothes and had
sunglasses. “That’s Mrs Bekker, she’ll be taking
over her husband’s position.”
The two brothers looked at each other in shock.
His wife! Mhlabunzima was confused as his
brother – they were both asking themselves.
Wasn’t she supposed to be at home grieving
her dead husband? Why was she the one taking
over and not her husband’s brother? They
returned to the earth when Bekker’s widow
greeted them.
Mrs Bekker had her eyes fixed on Mhlabunzima.
This was her first time meeting these men who
worked for her husband and her eyes can’t
seem to be off Mhlabunzima’s handsome face,
“yes, I will be taking over my husband’s part of
the business and I would appreciate if you treat
me like you treated him,” she said giving her
hand over to Mhlabunzima for a handshake.
He looked at the two male bosses and they
nodded, “yes, we’ll treat you like we treated him,
madam Bekker.”
Mrs Bekker was taken by surprised by his deep
voice, he spoke deep and slow. His voice didn’t
suit him. She expected a soft small voice, she
composed herself so as to not show the others
she was blown away by this young man. It was
inappropriate and the laws of the country didn’t
allow it, “thank you,” she also shook hands with
Kusakusa.
They moved away from the truck and sat under
the tree on the garden chairs. The maid brought
tea and sandwiches for them. The bosses freed
the two brothers to eat and have tea. And the
bosses left them eating to have their own
discussion about what had happened.
“What’s the way forward after this failed order?
We should go back home with answers.”
Mhlabunzima asked as they join them back on
the table.
“We have decided you need your own weapons
but we’ll only teach you, young men not your
fathers and uncle,” Hendricks said looking at
them.
“By weapons, you mean?”
“Guns,” Mrs Bekker answered instead looking
straight into Mhlabunzima’s eyes, “if an old man
has a gun in your village this means we should
train you and give you weapons but to protect
yourself from situations like these not to use
them anyhow.”
Petersen nodded, “yes, it’ll be for your own
safety not to use reckless. This job is critical
and it needs you to be more careful,” he said
looking at Mhlabunzima.
He looked down ashamed, “I am sorry, baas.”
Hendricks put the brown envelope on the table,
“we have decided this pay is enough for two
bulls since you didn’t bring us what we asked
for.”
Mhlabunzima opened the envelope and took the
paper they always included – the breakdown of
the transaction, handwritten. They counted the
money with his brother, “thank you and we’ll tell
our father and uncles about the weapon issue.”
He said and they nodded, “what should we do
about the incomplete order?”
“We should keep a low profile for now and
focus on having you young men learn how to
use a gun,” Hendricks said, “the next two
months we won’t be requesting anything and
should there be changes we’ll communicate.”
Mhlabunzima internally sighed, “thank you,” he
said and his brother said after him. They then
took their leave and Mhlabunzima who felt
uncomfortable with Mrs Bekker’s gazes was
happy they were now leaving. He didn’t expect
Hendricks would calm down that easily. It must
be the death of Bekker but his wife – her
husband hadn’t been buried and she was filling
in his shoes? He shook his head and started the
truck.
Kusakusa looked at his brother, “why didn’t you
tell them you already know how to use a gun?”
he asked. Mhlabunzima ignored him, he turned
on the music because he knew if he could
entertain him they would argue about his
political interests where he learnt how to use a
gun with his friend, Mzomubi…
UMCEBO

Chapter Five

Seated under the tree inside the yard of his

homestead, Mhlabunzima was having a great
time with his friends and comrades. He decided
it would be good to call his friends and relax,
even though they didn't know the difficult time
he'd been through he didn't care. He was
celebrating with them - his friend had
recovered, they didn't have any tasks for the
next two months and they made good money
from just two bulls. So, what was there not to
celebrate? It didn't matter that Mthembu was
busy searching for the thieves who stole his
bulls. He knew he wouldn't find them no matter
what.
"You think you're the ladies' man Robert but
you're wrong! They're with you for your political
status." One of the comrades threw shade at
Robert.
Robert was the baby daddy of Nobuhle
(Zinhloso's older sister) "What do you know?
You're a little boy," he said, mocking him and
the men laughed at him. They were having lamb
meat and dumplings with alcohol bought by
Mhlabunzima. He slaughtered the sheep for his
friends but also shared with his family - his
brother's family included. Mhlabunzima was the
only common man in the village who had sheep.
When he started having sheep as livestock he
gifted the king, making him the second man
with sheep in their village. His brother had
goats and and their father- cows and goats
which Mhlabunzima was an heir to and all the
wealth and business. Mhlabunzima also owned
a tuckshop in the village, it was located on the
main stop where buses took people. He had a
young man working for him. His plan was to
have his own things and not depend on his
father's wealth.
"At least I have a woman. Mhlabunzima has
been single for over a year now, right?" The man
defended himself looking at Mhlabunzima.
His visitors laughed at him, "women are
stressful," he said but it was no use hiding it
from them because they knew how the women
he'd been with badmouthed him.
"They say your manhood is disabled," Robert
said what the others were afraid to say to his
face and now that he'd brought it up they
laughed about it.
He only shook his head without being hurt
because he knew those were lies - lies he never
understood why these women told. He'd been
rejected by women before solely on those lies.
"Those mean creatures are lying but it's no use
saying it because I can't prove myself."
"There's something you must be doing wrong
for them to badmouth you as a lover," Mzomubi
said he wasn't laughing at him like the others
because he understood this hurt his friend. He
knew he wasn't hopeful that he'd ever marry
because other women didn't want him.
"I did nothing wrong!"
"I once asked Mthembu's daughter that you
were courting why she doesn't want you and
she said she heard one of your ex-girlfriends in
the river saying your manhood is short as
you're," one of his close comrades said and they
all laughed including Mhlabunzima.
"I don't even know what to say then because
this means they don't know the meaning of
short," he said and still didn't feel offended
because he knew that was a lie. If there was
something that didn't match, it had to be his
manhood and height. He knew for some women
his height was a problem and so, he changed
his approach and approached only short
women but it still didn't work out.
"But if I look at your feet I don't trust you," one
of his comrades said - laughter didn't end.
Mzomubi shook his head as laughter had died
down, "size we nescathulo nomthondo
kuhlangana kanjani?" (How does shoe size and
manhood mix?) He asked confused and they
laughed even harder.
"It's how they measure it," Robert said.
"Lies!" Others said in unison and they finally
moved from discussing Mhlabunzima's failed
love life.
Mhlabunzima took meat, "by the end of the
month all buses should head to Durban but how
are we going to convince villagers to join us on
this fight?" He asked and the atmosphere
changed to serious. Their faces were showing
sadness and others contempt.
"They'll not trust us when we tell them nobody
will die there," Robert said and they supported
him. They knew villagers hated anything to do
with politics because they feared they'd die.
"That's true, I guess we're forcing them to go
then," Mhlabunzima said with a dull
emotionless face.
His comrades eyed one another, they never
liked this approach of his but it always worked.
They trusted and liked Mhlabunzima because
he was a practical man but also a critical
thinker. Most people in the village were in awe
of him. But they couldn't help but like him
because he was charismatic.
"Do you want people to change lanes when they
meet us?" Mzomubi asked.
Mhlabunzima stared into space, "no but if we
don't fight for our freedom who will? We should
also try and do our best here on the ground so
our leaders will know we are with them."
"He's right." Robert said and they agreed in one
voice. Villagers would be forced to comply and
only instilling fear would make them comply.
Mhlabunzima looked at them, "so, we're all on
the same page?"
"Yes!"
They continued eating and drinking, the other
few men passing by joined them and
Mhlabunzima didn't kick them out but he
brought more meat for them. His father wasn't
home. Later, they saw people off with Mzomubi.
They were not as drunk as others were. He
didn't want his father to find drunk men in his
home. He only knew Mhlabunzima would be
having his friends and comrades not other
people but he couldn't turn them down when
they wanted to join.
Mhlabunzima walked his friend home after. The
sun was setting. "When is your father coming
back? We should meet and talk about this gun
training suggestion brought by our bosses. My
father is against it."
Mzomubi chuckled, "if only he knew you can
handle a gun and own a gun."
They laughed, "he would be shocked! I will
pretend I am clueless and I hope my brother will
follow suit."
He looked at his friend, "Mhlaba, how was
driving with him? I didn't ask."
"It was bearable," he said and before he knew it.
He was before Mnguni's gate. "I will not come
inside," he said but his eyes were looking at a
young short woman climbing up the guava tree.
He couldn't see her face but only her small body
on her short blue tunic.
He pointed in her direction with his eyes, "do
you have a visitor?"
Mzomubi looked at the direction he pointed and
his face had displeasure, "no, that's my father's
favourite daughter. The sick one."
He removed his eyes from the tree as she was
up, he could no longer see her, "oh! Let me leave
you. Look after yourself, we need you when
going to Durban."
"Don't worry," he said and they parted ways.

Mhlabunzima was singing on the road and

when he lifted his eyes. He tightened his jaws at
the sight of his aunt. He looked around and
realised there was no way he could change
directions.
"Mhlabunzima, my son, how are you?"
He stopped walking as his aunt greeted him, "I
am fine and how are you?"
"We're trying, how's my brother? I came the
other day to try and convince him that he must
come and see his father because he's sick,"
aunt Maria said.
"Why would he come? Grandpa disowned us
and said we were no longer his family. My
father suffered with my brother while they had
family. They raised Ngenzeni and I without any
help from family," he asked his aunt in a voice
laced with contempt. He hated his family with
all his might.
He was less than a year old when his mother
left his father. They were married but his father
being the last born, he didn't have the kind of
wealth his brothers had. His grandfather
wanted him to work hard to build his wealth like
the others had done but he was struggling. His
mother couldn't stay with a struggling man but
she left him for a richer man from the city of
gold. His grandmother couldn't bear to see her
last born suffer from heartbreak. She knew how
much he loved his wife and he was shuttered
when she left him with young children. She tried
to follow the lead . She had hoped she would
bring her back to him but she was attacked and
killed on the road. They found her body days
later. His grandfather was livid and out of anger
and hurt he disowned Mhlabunzima's father
and his children. He blamed him for the death
of his wife. Xulu and his children went around
asking for help because his father had strictly
told the relatives not to welcome them or he
would disown them. They didn't welcome them
in fear because the old man was their eldest
brother. The king gave them one hurt and land
to build their home. The Xulu family never
helped them even with food. Xulu's brothers
also turned their backs on them. Xulu tried to
ask for forgiveness from his father but he
wanted nothing to do with him.
Xulu worked piece jobs, also worked for the
king and after a year they were able to build a
hut with Kusakusa. He wanted to build a mud
hut but the king told him to build a strong hut
with bricks and make it bigger. He did that and
built mud huts after. They moved to their new
home and continued living poorly until Mnguni
intervened. Their living conditions improved and
they were now amongst the wealthy people in
the village.
Mhlabunzima didn't know his mother; he only
knew her from pictures.
"I know but that doesn't change that he's his
child. He was heartbroken by what happened to
mom," Maria tried speaking for her father, "he
misses his son and he asked about him
recently. Please talk to my brother and he will
listen to you."
"No, I won't get involved. Grandpa hates us, he
even hates us more as his grandchildren. I
won't say a thing to my father about him. I don't
even know why I am speaking to you because
you're the same as him."
Maria acted shocked, "no, I am not and I love
you but I was scared of dad."
"You're not scared now?"
"No, because I know he's regretful."
"I need to get home, it's late."
She stopped him from leaving, "when are you
getting married? You're twenty-eight years old
now and we would love to see a wife." She
asked, trying to change the topic.
He chuckled, "even if I get married I won't invite
you or your family." He said and left her right
away. He couldn't understand how this family
did things. His grandfather was asking about
his father now, why? His aunt was even asking
about marriage. They could've helped them in
secret back then if they cared about them but
they didn't. Even his cousins who wouldn't even
spare him a glance were able to greet him
recently. This always left him confused. What
changed?
==========
If we make 300 shares on this post we will get a
bonus tonight.
UMCEBO

Chapter Six

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

Iskebhe was the organization that fought theft

of livestock. They dealt with criminals brutally
and all the members of the organization were
feared and respected in the village. The
committee consisted of six members and
Mnguni was one of them.
He came back home and found a message that
there was an organization meeting the
following day. Mnguni being part of the
organization helped them a lot as a crime group
because he knew whenever there were other
thieves of livestock. He would work extremely
hard to find other criminals so the people would
not mind them. He knew some of the members
suspected him but they never had courage to
say it to his face.
"Baba, when are you coming back?" Zinhloso
asked her father. She was walking him to
Mthembu's home where they were meeting.
"I will come back before lunch time and after
eating you'll go with me to the forest. There's a
herb I need." He said taking his bag from his
daughter. They'd arrived at Mthembu's home.
She smiled, she always liked aiding her father in
the forest and helping him with seeking herbs
brought her joy. She would also find fruits to
enjoy in the forest. "Okay, I will be waiting for
your return then, bye Mnguni." She waved and
her father waved back.
He smiled and entered the yards he knew his
daughters would leave to get married one day
and he didn't mind having the other two leave
but not Zinhloso. The yard had the members
waiting and when Mnguni arrived they entered
the hut. They began the meeting by discussing
the previous meeting.
"Ey, what happened in my yard I don't
understand and I can't explain it but I will try," he
said and explained what happened that night,
"and when the sun was out I realized that they
took my two bulls."
"Hhawu!" The men were shocked and they were
without words.
Mnguni frowned, "if you say you couldn't see
them do you mean you heard their voices but
couldn't see their faces and bodies?"
"Yes, Mnguni, that's what I am telling you."
He nodded, "this simply means these people
consulted a witch doctor. There's no way you
couldn't see people with lights on." He said the
truth but they didn't know it was him - he was
that witch doctor. He couldn't dare tell them it
was him. Who would?
Mthembu nodded and the other men agreed,
"yes, I also thought of that and I have realized
there's no way I will find these people."
"Mnguni, didn't you have any clients who
wanted such muthi?" One of the men asked and
all eyes were with Mnguni. They all wanted to
ask him this question but they never had
courage to be the first to ask him. What if they
offended him?
He narrowed his eyes and shook his head, "I
normally have a lot of clients but I don't
remember having to prepare that kind of muthi
the past month." He answered and he
witnessed disappointment on their faces. He
knew they wouldn't question him further. They
needed him because he used to even help find
criminals using his capabilities as a witch
doctor. Some of the members never doubted
Mnguni for a second.
"This criminal is a mastermind and this means
we'll never find him."
The men agreed, "but every dog has its day."
Mthembu said with hate written on his face. He
lost a lot. Two bulls!
"I heard from my mother in-law from the
Ramashala village across the river that there's a
police man that will be brought to this side. He'll
be working in township and also neighbouring
villages to help with this issue," A member
shared the information and this information
brought hope to the men present, "she said this
man also helped them a lot in their village. They
had the same problem and it's suspected that
these men work for the Boers." He further said
and shocked every man in the hut. Mnguni was
also shocked. How did they find out? And would
they be able to get away from this policeman?
"How can they work for the enemy?" Mnguni
asked and there was confusion in the hut. Their
own people working for the oppressor!
"This means they hate us and I always
wondered how did Xulu change his situation so
fast?" The other man commented.
And before they even started accusing him,
Mnguni intervened. "hhayi, Xulu only had to do
right by his ancestors and things went well for
him. He came to me but because he's my client
I can't say the details and you also know that I
gave him a cow to help him start his own
wealth." He said and they didn't dwell much on
Xulu. "These criminals left nothing behind?"
Mnguni asked Mthembu.
"No, I shot one of them but the blood is no
longer there I didn't think of taking the blood
and bringing it to you."
He was relieved to hear that. Mnguni didn't
blame Mthembu for shooting his son he was
simply protecting his livestock. "Don't make that
mistake again," he said and looked at them all,
"anyone here. I am available to help."
They then discussed the minutes of the
meeting and they went their separate ways
before lunchtime.

"Baba, I have been wondering," Zinhloso

glanced at her father. She was carrying her
father's bag of herbs.
It was getting dark and they were coming back
from the forest. Mnguni still had a meeting to
attend with the Xulus.
"What have you been wondering my sweet
child?"
"I know you can take care of me for as long as I
live but can't you find something I can do? I am
no longer used to staying home," she pleaded.
Mnguni didn't even look at his daughter. He
knew he would be dealing with this since he
convinced her to stay at home. "I will think
about it but for now, go put those herbs in my
healing hut and bath, then have your dinner. I
have a meeting to attend." He opened the gate
and his daughter did as he asked.
When Mnguni walked inside the hut he found
the Xulus already waiting for him and his eyes
went straight to Xulu's daughter Ngenzeni.
"What is your daughter doing here Xulu?"
Mnguni asked and took his seat on the bench.
His son and brother were already seated with
the Xulu family. Ngenzeni was the only woman
amongst men.
"She's also here for the meeting I brought her
with me," he answered.
He shook his head, "She's a girl and shouldn't
be here. How many times should we debate
about this matter?”
“Let’s not further debate about it but stick to
business.”
Mzomubi looked at his friend, “but you should
have advised your father. My father also has
daughters but they’re not here.”
“I am a child and I have no say.” Mhlabunzima
said and looked at Mnguni, “baba, please let’s
start the meeting.”
“Why is your sister here? Is she also capable of
handling guns?”
Kusakusa looked at his father and then Mnguni,
“I think my father respects her opinions and you
know she’d shared valuable things before.”
“Then I should also call my daughter.”
“That’s not a problem!” Mhlabunzima said fast
– he knew this would give him an opportunity to
see Mnguni’s daughter that he doesn’t know.
He only saw her body not face and he’d been
wondering how this sick lady looked like. They
all looked at him as he quickly supported
Mnguni and he cleared his throat, “I am
suggesting this because it’ll end the fight.”
“Don’t do that dad, please. You’ll even include
Zinhloso if you call them,” Mzomubi talked his
father out but his father was looking at Xulu’s
daughter. She was quiet.
Mzomubi’s uncle raised his point, “brother, let
Xulu have his daughter present. You know he
raised these children alone and I am sure to him
they’re all the same. There’s no boy or girl.”
Mnguni only calmed down after his brother’s
words. Xulu’s situation wasn’t an easy one and
maybe this was the reason he liked bringing his
daughter at times. “I will let it slide but the
reason I don’t like involving her is, she’ll get
married one day and this means she’ll take all
our secrets to her in-laws,” Mnguni raised his
view, “what if our target one day would be her in
-laws what will happen?”
Xulu understood his view clearly now, “if you
had raised that up from the beginning I would
have understood not the reason that she’s a girl.
And I brought her tonight because I didn’t want
to leave her alone at home at night.”
“But I don’t even want to get married,” Ngenzeni
said with a sulk. She hated the topic of
marriage because of her mother and her father
always preached that she’d marry one day.
She’d never been with a man in her life and she
was thirty years old. Naturally men liked her but
she didn’t like them. She never understood what
they liked in her because she didn’t fit beauty
standards.
“We all never wanted to get married young lady
but look now,” Mnguni said and everyone in the
hut laughed. “Okay, we had a meeting with
iSkebhe today and serious things were
discussed there…” He filled them in about the
meeting. The important topic was the police
officer.
Xulu looked at his youngest son, “Mhlabunzima,
have you heard of this man?”
“It must be Molepo, he’s the famous police
officer I have heard of, from that village across
the river,” he answered.
Mnguni huffed, “I think he’ll be a problem to us.”
“Let’s wait for him to arrive first and get worried
then because it might happen that it’s not him,”
Kusakusa said.
Mzomubi nodded, “yes, maybe it’s not him but
we must be ready for any officer. I am sure we
have people who suspect us and we might be
investigated. We should stick to the story that
my father helped you baba Xulu because I am
friends with your son.”
“Yes, you’re right Mzomubi.”
Mzomubi’s uncle looked at his brother, “this
means we’ll face that bridge when we get to it
and now, we should discuss the guns issue.”
“I am against it,” Xulu said.
“Why? If men like Mthembu have guns, why
should our sons not have them?” the uncle
asked.
“They shouldn’t have them because they’ll
depend on them and guns will even make them
impulsive. One fight, they’ll take guns,” Xulu
raised his views.
Mnguni nodded, “you have a point Xulu but we
can’t say ‘no’ to our bosses because they’re
only trying to look out for us and the business.”
“Baba uMnguni is right dad. You can’t go to a
weapon fight without weapons, let them train
and have guns to protect themselves.”
Ngenzeni said to her father and she looked at
her brother. She knew Mhlabunzima had a gun
and it amazed her how he was good at
pretending. If she was in a good mood for
commotion she would have told her father
about this but tonight – she wasn’t even keen to
be here. She wanted her bed.
Xulu looked at his kids and back to Mnguni, “I
guess you’re right. We can’t be defenceless we
need to have weapons.”
“This means you’ll call Hendricks Mhlabunzima
and inform him you’re ready to take training,”
Mnguni said.
“Yebo, baba, I will do that.” He eyed his friend
and he gave him a short smile. They discussed
the importance of focusing on the gun training
and unwinding for the next two months before
they resume their work. Soon after, the meeting
was adjourned and Nobuhle and Ziwinile
walked in with food and drinks. Always, after
the meetings, they ate and had drinks. They
didn’t hold their meetings in one place.
Mhlabunzima looked at the two sisters and he
realised they were both not matching the body
structure of the sister he saw. He realised they
might be hiding her since she was a sick person.
How sad! How was she? Was she beautiful?
Ugly or just okay? Was she a sad person or
happy person regardless of her illness? How
strong was this illness? He stopped thinking
about this when his father asked him where his
mind was. He focused on the food and told
himself he would forget about trying to see
Mzomubi’s sister. It didn’t matter. Seeing her
wasn’t going to help her be cured he wasn’t the
Jesus the white man preached about to them,
Jesus who cured the sick.
“I will see you tomorrow at the tuck shop,”
Mhlabunzima said to Mzomubi as they were
heading out of the hut.
“Yes, I will come around, drive safe.”
They fist bumped and he walked behind his
siblings and father but he was looking around
the yard, “Donda!” he screamed as he almost
tripped.
“Look where you’re going!” Ngenzeni shouted at
him.
He groaned, his toe bumped into a stone, “I
am!”
“You wouldn’t be hurt if you were,” Kusakusa
said walking out of the gate first. Their father
only looked back at Mhlabunzima and he
composed himself. They all stepped inside the
car and Mhlabunzima drove Mzomubi’s uncle
first and Kusakusa next.
Kusakusa walked inside his kitchen hut and his
wife was still inside the kitchen, “where are the
children? I thought you would be sleeping by
now.”
She stopped washing the dishes and looked at
her husband, “the children are sleeping. Should I
dish up for you or you’re full?”
“I am full, stop working now and let’s go rest,”
he held her hand and dragged her out of the hut.
He locked and headed to his three rooms’
house.
“The children are sleeping in my hut,” she said.
“Okay, I will go get them.” His children normally
slept with their mother inside her hut but when
she was spending the night inside Kusakusa’s
house the children had their bedroom inside
their father’s house. They both slept there.
He left his wife inside their bedroom and he
went to get the children.
“How did the meeting go?” she asked Kusakusa
as he joined her in bed.
“It went well. It was decided we’ll start gun
training.”
She smiled, “that’s good this mean you’ll be
able to kill that brother of yours now.”
He looked at her shocked, “what did you say?”
“Mhlabunzima will take everything that belongs
to you and I think you need to remove him
early.”
“He’s my brother I can never have my brother’s
blood in my hands.” He shouted at her. How
could she think like this? Yes, he didn’t like his
brother. He hated him but he would never kill
him. He was his baby brother, he raised him.
She clapped once, “wow! You’re such a weak
man Kusakusa. You’re trying to tell me you’ll
watch as he takes everything?”
“I would rather watch than kill him.” He said and
he looked at his wife as she angrily pulled the
covers and lay on the bed giving him her back.
He was still in shock. How could this woman
think like this?
UMCEBO

Chapter Seven

"Sbu, come here!" Zinhloso called out her

sister's son - Sbusiso. She was under the tree
washing her father's herbs and roots. Sbusiso
was playing with blocks by the gates. Her
sisters and mother were also outside washing
spinach walks away from her. She found them
busy and also got busy away from them.
"Sbu, I am calling you!" Zinhloso shouted at the
boy as he was bluntly ignoring her.
"Ey, awungiyeke wena!" (Leave me alone) the
four year old Sbusiso shouted back at Zinhloso.
She didn't talk further after being disrespected
by the boy. She headed straight to her father's
healing hut where she wanted to ask him to go
and take her father's clean bags.
Nobuhle stopped washing spinach and looked
at her son. He was proceeding with playing as if
nothing happened. She walked up to the boy
angry.
"Is that the way you should talk to an elder?"
She asked pointing at Sbusiso.
He glanced at his mother unfazed by her anger,
"mama I am playing."
"That's not the answer to the question I asked
you."
"Leave that child alone and come back here!"
Mrs Mnguni shouted at her daughter. She had
stopped working but was looking at her
daughter.
Nobuhle looked back at her mother, "he
disrespected Zinhloso. She's older and that's
his mother."
"Akuyena umama wami loyana," (That's not my
mother) Sbusiso said pointing at Zinhloso who
was walking back to the herbs with bags.
Shocked, Nobuhle looked around the yard and
found a dry stick. She ran towards her son. It
didn't take much effort, she was holding his
wrist into her hand and she started whipping
him. "Why are you disrespectful, huh? Who
taught you that?" She shouted at him and he
didn't answer his mother but he screamed.
Mrs Mnguni pointed at Zinhloso who was
looking at her sister disciplining her son. "This
is your doing!"
"What did I do, mama?" She asked, confused.
"Don't backchat me!"
Ziwinile walked up to her older sister, "stop
hitting him now it's enough!"
"Didn't you hear what he said and how he spoke
to his mother!" She screamed, still whipping her
crying son. "He's disrespectful!"
"What's there to respect in her?" Ziwinile asked,
pointing back at Zinhloso. Zinhloso was no
longer minding them but she was packing her
father's herbs and roots.
"How can you say that? She's your sister!" She
had stopped whipping her son but holding his
hand.
When Zinhloso was done she took the bags and
left them arguing.
"I don't care!"
Mrs Mnguni came in between the two sisters
and with her own stick she whipped Nobuhle, "I
said leave my grandson alone!"
Two strong whips made Nobuhle let go of her
son and she ran away from her mother but Mrs
Mnguni didn't run after her. "Mama, you're
spoiling this child and he's disrespectful
because of you!" She raised her voice. She was
still shocked that her mother whipped her for
disciplining a disrespectful child.
Mrs Mnguni wiped her grandson's face with her
scarf, "gogo will give you chips my boy stop
crying." She smiled at the child, "go to the
kitchen I am coming."
When Nobuhle got pregnant, her parents were
very angry - her mother was angrier and when
the baby was born she didn't even hold the baby.
She announced that she would accept the baby
after the father had paid what's due to her.
Robert paid inhlawulo quickly and only then Mrs
Mnguni accepted the baby. She was even able
to hold the baby. Her husband accepted the
baby the minute he was born unlike his wife. He
failed to convince his wife not to do things the
way she was doing. She loved her grandson
more after his father did what was expected of
him.
"Leave the child alone." Mrs Mnguni warned her
daughter.
She shook her head, "Zinhloso is your daughter
-"
"Don't remind me because I know. Finish up
washing that spinach and stop talking
nonsense!" She said and walked to the kitchen
leaving Ziwinile glaring at her sister.
"Don't look at me like that," Nobuhle said,
heading back to spinach.
Ziwinile followed her, "I don't get why you like
arguing with mom. You know she doesn't want
the child to be whipped."
"Sbusiso is my child. I will do what I see fit. "
She said, bending down to the bucket.
"Well, you're not married, he's your parents'
son." Ziwinile said, annoyed.
"One day he will disrespect mom you'll see and
it'll be bad," she predicted and they continued
working in silence.

When all the drama was over and there was

nobody around the yard, Zinhloso took her
water bucket and she left for the river. On the
road she was singing maidens traditional songs.
She didn't want to think about what happened
back home. It didn't matter anymore. She just
needed to grow a thick skin.
"Hehehe, no wonder I have been in such a bad
mood. It was a signal that I was going to see
you," the rough voice said mockingly.
She didn't even have to raise her head to see
who was talking. She knew it was that annoying
ex-boyfriend of hers Joseph.
"Why are you wasting your time talking to me
then?" Just looking at his big oily face brought
displeasure in her heart and it made her wonder
what she saw in him two years back? But it was
all because of hurt.
He stopped walking and looked at her, deep
down she admitted the woman was very
beautiful. If only he could remove that disorder
she had, maybe he would have had a real
relationship with her. Most guys were
mesmerized by her beauty but they couldn't
date her for obvious reasons. He made a pact
with his squad that he would date and deflower
her. And truly, after six months of courtship he
managed to date her. "I am boosting your
confidence. I know after me you're still single
and no guy has even approached you."
"I am not going to waste my time with you," she
said and continued walking and she didn't care
about the insults that were following her from
that immature man she once dated. Their
relationship didn't even last a year but it only
lasted seven months. When it ended Zinhloso
realised that Joseph only wanted to sleep with
her because he ended things with her a day
after he took her virginity. She thought she was
genuinely loved by him. He had a soft tongue
and she fell into his trap.
After that one night, Zinhloso lied to her father
that she won't be going to the reed dance
anymore because they were discriminating her.
Her father wanted to take the matter to the old
women and have his daughter continue
attending the dance but Zinhloso cried that she
didn't want to go anymore. Her father gave her
permission to stop attending but her mother
was against it. Nobody in her family knew that
she was dating and had been deflowered. It
was her secret. She hated Joseph with all her
heart because he played her, played with her
feelings. She fell for it and got rewarded with
horrible painful sex. But she had gotten over the
heartbreak.
She got to the river and found young women
bathing, others washing clothes. They were
gossiping and laughing. Zinhloso didn't join
them but she sat on the stone and dipped her
feet in the water after greeting them. They
greeted back and proceeded with their gossip.
She listened to the gossip.
"I heard they will force us to join them," one of
the girls said.
"I wish they could force us. I want to see the big
city and take a break from seeing my mom's
face."
Their laughter shook the trees and birds flew
away, "I also don't mind getting on that bus. I
always enjoy looking at Mhlabunzima singing
struggle songs."
They giggled, "such a gentleman!"
"But when he wanted you, you rejected him,"
they laughed and looked at Mthembu's
daughter.
She shrugged, "people talk, I hope they won't
come home, I don't want to go there."
"You have brothers, they'll be their first option."
"Let's wait for the month-end," she said and they
all agreed. They moved from gossip and started
singing.
Zinhloso stood up from the stone and put the
bucket of water on her head. She left them
wondering if politicians would ever take the
country back. Mhlabunzima? Was he strong
enough to stand for them? How was he anyway?
She'd only heard of him - 'the tiny handsome
man.' She looked at herself and laughed, she
was also tiny. She knew he was friends with her
brother but her brother always told her not to
come anywhere near his friends. And she
always listened. Whenever his friends were
around she never showed her face. Zinhloso
didn't know some people from their village
because of socially excluding herself.
"I hope Mhlabunzima and his team, all groups
who are fighting, will succeed in this fight." she
prayed out loud and sighed.
"Katshana! Why did you go to the river alone?"
Nobuhle asked her sister, calling her by her
nickname.
She was called Katshana because her father
used to say she looked pretty and innocent like
a kitten, "I wanted to go alone. Is dad back
home?"
"Yes, he asked about you. Please don't tell him
what happened." She pleaded because she
knew what would happen should their father
know.
"Okay," she rushed to her hut. She'd been busy
the whole day, so she had to take a bath and
rest.

Nobuhle walked out of the door and she smiled

at Robert's nephew, "how are you boy?" She
asked.
"I am fine aunt Nobuhle and how are you?"
"I am fine, are you with Sbusiso's father?"
"No, but malume sent me to give this to you. He
said it's for Sbusiso."
Nobuhle's heart sank and she took the brown
envelope of money. Again! He brought money
again and he wasn't on sight. Robert has been
taking care of their son financially since he was
born. He ensured that the child lacked nothing
but since they broke up with Nobuhle a year ago
he stopped visiting his son and taking him to
his paternal home. Robert's mother didn't like
Nobuhle and her son, she was happy when she
broke up with her son. She never cared that the
boy stopped visiting them after the break up.
Nobuhle had been writing letters and sending
messages through Robert's nephew and sisters
that he should see his son but he never availed
himself. He never responded to the letters but
the last letter she wrote he responded and
promised to come. Nobuhle had fixed her son
and told him his father was coming.
"Is his father home?" She asked.
"Yes, they're busy with grandma. Where's
Sbusiso I will see him and leave aunty," he
asked and Nobuhle opened the door for him.
The two cousins had a good relationship. She
didn't know what to do and who to turn to. She
headed to her sister's hut. She knocked once
and she allowed her in.
The hut was messy and some clothes were on
the floor, "picking up clothes on the floor
doesn't take much time you know." She said
picking up clothes for her and she ended up
tidying around the room. It was airy but messy.
"I was going to take them after dressing up."
She said wearing her vest. She was seated on
the bed dressing up. "What's wrong, you seem
upset?"
She sat next to her and told her about Robert, "I
don't know what to do anymore. The child will
be hurt."
"I am sorry but don't you think you should talk to
someone? Maybe someone older from his
family -"
"Who because his family lives far from them?"
"It can be anyone he respects, maybe he'll listen
to that person."
Nobuhle kept quiet for a while, "yes, I will talk to
Mhlabunzima. Can you please go with me
tomorrow to Xulu's homestead? If we don't find
him there we'll go to his tuckshop."
She shook her head, "he's Mzomubi's friend and
he told me not to go anywhere near his friends."
"Oh come on! Don't mind that one and he won't
be there. You can even wait for me by the gates
then if you're that scared. Please, Katshana."
Zinhloso sighed, "okay, we will go when you
come back from school tomorrow."
She closed her eyes shortly, relieved, "thank you
and now, let me go attend this child. I have to
tell him his dad is not coming." She said and left
with hope.
UMCEBO

Chapter Eight

They were walking on the road talking and

laughing. Nobuhle was holding her hand.
"We're closer to his home now," Nobuhle said to
Zinhloso.
"It's not far from home. I thought we'll walk until
my feet get tired," she said.
Her sister chuckled, "no, I would never take you
far because you're lazy."
"I heard from some girls in the river saying that
Mhlabunzima and his team will head to Durban
and force people to go with them." She told her
sister. "Are they also going to force us?"
Nobuhle shook her head, "no, I don't think they
will force us because obviously our brother will
go besides if they want more people."
"I hope they won't come home."
Nobuhle laughed, "are you afraid we'll be forced
to go?"
"Yes and so, please tell Mhlabunzima not to
come home."
"You can tell him yourself there's their
homestead," she pointed to the home.
"Alright," she said but when they reached the
gate Zinhloso saw a big brown dog seated in
front of the hut. "They have a dog. I am not
going in." She stepped back from the gate.
Nobuhle huffed and pulled her, "the dog won't
do anything if we don't show fear."
"No!" She screamed and within seconds the dog
came to the gate barking. Zinhloso pulled her
hand from her sister's hold and she ran off.
"Stop running, it won't chase after you!"
She cried looking back at the dog that was
charging at her. She saw a guava tree across
the road and she quickly climbed the tree.
Nobuhle shook her head and proceeded inside
the yard. Mhlabunzima and his sister were
outside watching the action. They came out
when they heard screaming and barking.
"Stop laughing," Mhlabunzima said to his sister
who was laughing her lungs out.
She wiped her tears, "did you see how she ran?
Poor thing!"
"Who's she?"
"I don't know I didn't see her clearly but I think
it's her youngest sister," she answered pointing
Nobuhle with her eyes.
"I see," he said and waited eagerly. In his mind
he was thinking their father must have sent
them for something.
Nobuhle approached the two siblings slowly.
The dog was already next to its owner -
Mhlabunzima.
"Your dog almost finished my sister," Nobuhle
said to him after greeting.
He chuckled while Ngenzeni laughed, "no, she's
just a coward, my dog wasn't going to hurt her."
"If you say so," she smiled and looked at
Mhlabunzima straight, "I am here for you. I
would like to have a word with you."
His eyes passed by the guava tree where
Zinhloso was, "you'll leave your sister up in that
tree?" He asked and his sister headed back
inside the hut.
"Yes, she loves guavas and she's scared of
dogs so she won't come even if I convince her,"
she answered.
He nodded and pointed up in his house, "Let's
go to my house then." They followed each other
to the house.
He sat on a single couch and she sat on the
couch opposite him, "is something wrong? I
thought maybe your father sent you."
"No, I want to talk about my baby's father, your
comrade."
He smiled, "oh, Robert!"
"Yes, as you know him and I have a four year old
son. He was a good father since my son was
born," she laid her situation before him, "he was
involved physically and financially but things
changed after our break up. He stopped being
present physically. I have begged him to see the
child because he asks about him but he doesn't
bother."
"Are you serious?" He was shocked by what he
was being told. Robert, he knew, loved his son
and he was a present father. He spoke so well
and was proud of his child.
"Dead serious. I don't know how many letters I
have written to him and he never responded,"
she took out a letter from her pocket, "this is
the letter from him. He responded to my letter
promising that he'll come see the child but he
only sent his nephew to bring money."
"I am disappointed."
"I thought since his other family members live
far from here I should come to you and beg you
to talk to him for me," she said with sadness,
"Sbusiso knows him as his father and he
doesn't understand why he has stopped visiting
him and taking him to his home. My child cried
yesterday since he didn't come."
He rubbed his eyes, stressed by this issue,
"okay, I will speak to him."
She closed her eyes shortly, "thank you so
much. I know it's up to him to change but I am
grateful that you're willing to try."
"I am glad you came to me," he said standing up
after her.
"I thought of no one else," she followed him out.
His eyes went straight to the tree, "it seems
your sister is still up the tree."
She giggled, "I am not surprised."
"Tell her not to eat too much guavas because
she'll be constipated."
She cracked up laughing, "that's the gospel dad
is always preaching to her."
"How old is she?"
"Twenty-one."
He nodded with a smile that didn't last when
Nobuhle frowned at him, "nihambe kahle ke."
"Usale kahle nawe." She said goodbye to
Ngenzeni as she passed by. She met up with
Xulu by the gate and greeted him. She ran to the
tree.
"Get off now it's time to go," she looked up.
"That was fast, sisi I am still enjoying myself,"
she spoke while chewing.
"Mhlabunzima said you'll be constipated!"
She laughed, "how mindful of him," she picked
out a few more guavas and shoved them in her
pockets. She got off the tree.
"How did it go? And did you ask him about
month-end?" Zinhloso asked.
"No, you're the one who was supposed to ask
him."
"Why didn't you ask! You saw the dog chased
after me."
"Don't worry I will ask your brother."
"Okay and what did he say about Sbusiso?"
"He said he'll talk to him." She looked at
Zinhloso, "thanks for suggesting this even if
Robert doesn't change I will know I tried my
best."
"Yes." She said and shared her guavas with her
sister and they proceeded with their walk home.
******
They were driving back to the village.
Mhlabunzima took Mzomubi and Robert, they
went to Empangeni rail where they paid for two
buses. The buses that would take people from
their village to Durban.
"We should ensure that by ten in the morning
the buses are leaving the village," Mhlabunzima
said.
The two men agreed, "yes and you're not taking
my sisters because I will be there," Mzomubi
warned his friend.
"Yea, yea, we said one person per household."
"We hope that won't change comrade." Robert
commented and there wasn't a comment from
Mhlabunzima, "are you there?"
"Yes, I won't change." Mhlabunzima promised.
They proceeded driving discussing plans for
Friday which was in five days' time. They all had
the same goal they only wished they'd succed
convincing villagers without having to force
them.
Mhlabunzima stopped the car outside Robert's
home. He dropped Mzomubi off first, "I would
like to have a word with you."
He stopped opening the door, "what is it?"
"When was the last time you saw your kid?"
"Why are you asking me that question?" He
asked taken by surprise.
He stared back at him. He was seated at the
backseat, "his mother came to visit me. She
wad very hurt and told me the child has been
crying for your visit. She said you haven't seen
him for a very long time."
"What? That's not true! How could she lie like
that?" He raised his voice reflecting his anger.
How could she do this? He had written the letter
that he was going to send to her parents to ask
for her hand in marriage but Nobuhle broke
things off with him saying he didn't have time
for her because of politics and his work.
"She said you only take care of him financially
and I think that's not right. You should spend
time with your son while you still have the
chance to do that."
He looked at Mhlabunzima with a straight face,
"Nobuhle lied to you. I love my son and I know
him. A month doesn't pass - I ensure all his
needs are for. What more should I do?"
"Be fully presented as a father." He said
confused. Who was lying between them? And
why would they lie? This left him confused. And
by the look of things Robert was upset.
UMCEBO

Chapter Nine

Ngenzeni knocked on the door of her older

brother's house. She had greeted his wife and
children, and she had food with them.
"Come in!"
She pushed the door fully and she smiled briefly,
"sawubona, bhuti."
Kusakusa pointed to the brown single sofa, "yes,
to what do I owe the pleasure?"
"Can't a sister visit her brother?"
"She can but you only visit when there's
something happening," he predicted.
Ngenzeni looked down, she didn't know how his
brother was going to take this but she knew she
was going to be angry- what she wanted to
happen.
"Did you hear that Mhlabunzima and his
comrades they're taking buses and heading to
Durban?" She broke the news.
Kusakusa raised his eyebrow, "what's
happening in Durban?"
"It's politics, what else? I heard they'll force
people to get into the bus and head to Durban,"
she continued and witnessed the fire in her
brother's eyes. He was pissed and that gave her
satisfaction.
Over the years Ngenzeni had enjoyed causing
quarrels and rifts between her two brothers.
She wanted them to hate each other more, she
wanted them to always fight so that her father
would realise that he made a mistake by
appointing Mhlabunzima as his heir. She
believed she was more deserving of the
inheritance than both her brothers. She believed
she was smarter than both of them and if she
was a boy, her father would have chosen her!
And so, she thought if she could always cause
fights between the two brothers and make
them look like clowns before her father, that
would force her father to change his decision.
And make her heiress.
Kusakusa folded his hands into fists, "is he
insane? How could he plan something like
that?" He shouted.
"Maybe his comrades forced him into it."
"No, he wasn't forced into anything. I am certain
this was his idea!" He shook his head and
closed his eyes, "is father home?"
"Yes."
"And his son?" He glared at her.
Ngenzeni was excited, this anger was very good,
"he's not home."
"Go home I will be behind you. I will tell father
about this, maybe he'll stop him." He said
standing up and Ngenzeni left. He rushed to his
bedroom.
His wife entered while he was changing, "are
you going to your father? Your sister told me
why she was here."
"Yes, I am going to my father." He fastened his
white sandals. "I have to talk to him."
"Why are you telling your father?" She
whispered.
He looked at her confused, "I am telling him
because he has to know."
"Your brother is surely digging his own grave so
let him go there and die because boers will kill
them -"
"Stop it, mfazi ndini!" He warned her.
But she wasn't shaken, "no, you need to stop
being so weak and man up, fight for what's
yours!"
"Uyangidina ngathi sengizokulamanisa ngoba
ikhanda liyabila ngizogcina ngihlanya nami,"
(you annoy me. It seems I will give you a sister
wife before you make me crazy) he threatened
and left her quiet. He was angry and he knew if
there was the last thing he would do- that would
be killing his own brother. They shared the
same blood and the same womb. He would
never kill him for wealth.

"What brings you home? Do you miss us?" Xulu

asked his son.
Kusakusa sat on the bench closer to his father
outside his father's house, "I think you need to
find a wife for your son," he looked at his father
and saw the confusion, "that's why I am here."
"A wife? Why do you think I should find a wife
for him?" Xulu asked.
"That way he will keep busy and have a woman
to mind."
Xulu laughed, "your brother is capable of finding
a wife for himself if he wants to get married just
like you did."
"Mhlabunzima needs something to keep him
busy so that he'll stop this political nonsense."
He slightly raised his voice, "did you know they
plan on forcing people to go to Durban?"
"For what?"
"To fight for freedom as they put it!"
"That's absurd!"
"Our bosses don't know that Mhlabunzima is
part of a political organization. Don't you think
what he's doing is wrong? It's contradictory."
Xulu nodded, "I will talk to this boy when he
comes back. He'll not do that. I won't allow it."
He shouted.
Kusakusa stood up, "please baba speak to him.
If you need my help, send Ngenzeni. I will leave
now."
"Thank you for letting me know, son," he said
and sighed. What was he supposed to say to
this boy? He had spoken to him before but it
was clear he never listened.

Xulu was seated on Mhlabunzima's sofa in his

living room waiting for his return. He waited and
waited until he fell asleep. He was startled by
the door opening.
"Baba, what are you doing here?" Mhlabunzima
asked, closing the door.
Xuly pointed to the sofa and his son sat down,
"when I chose you as my heir I trusted you. I
trusted you'll have our best interest at heart."
He didn't understand where the conversation
was going and he wasn't interested in it. He was
tired after a long day planning and finalizing
things for the Durban trip all he wanted was his
bed. The time was after 11pm, "what's going on,
baba? Did I do something wrong?"
"What did I say to you about politics, huh?" He
shouted.
"Can we not fight about this again, please
baba?" He asked in a calm voice. "I am a grown
man and I can make my own decisions."
"Grown man! You're not even thirty years and
you don't even have a wife and children. You're
a grown man to whom, huh?" Xulu was livid.
Mhlabunzima didn't respond to his father, "I am
talking to you!"
"We have to fight for -"
"You'll not go there Mhlabunzima. If you're still
my son, called by name you'll do as I have said.
You're still a child," he stood up.
"Please, baba -"
"You'll be in trouble with the laws of the king. He
said no political fights."
"We won't fight and the king knows. He knows
we'll be fighting for our motherland. We won't
fight with people."
"Yes, forcing people is fighting and you'll go to
jail for this."
"No, I won't. Please hear me out -"
"I don't want to speak further as I have said." He
shut the door behind him.
And Mhlabunzima swore, "what should I do
now?" He asked, thinking deeply. He stood up
and went to bed with a solution that he would
not sleep home on Thursday!
In the morning inside the kitchen, Mhlabunzima
greeted his father and sister but only Ngenzeni
greeted back. Xulu took his tea mug and his
food, he left.
"Don't do this, bhuti. You see dad is upset."
He took the mug, "who told him?"
"Kusakusa told him. I don't know why he didn't
speak to you but he jumped to talk to dad."
Ngenzeni pretended not to know. She eyed him
but didn't see any anger. Wasn't he supposed to
be angry?
He chuckled, "I am not surprised."
"What will you do now?" Ngenzeni asked,
concerned about her younger brother's reaction.
He stirred the tea, "I will listen to him and not
go," he lied through his teeth and left his sister.
He wouldn't miss this for a second. Nobody
would come between him and his politics.
Nobody!
UMCEBO
Chapter Ten

****Chapter sponsored by anonymous****

He knocked again on the door and there wasn't

a response from Zinhloso. He sighed annoyed
now, "even if they want to pay thirty cows for
her I will never agree. How can she be a wife?"
Mnguni complained and walked to the hut's
window. He knocked on the window. Zinhloso
was a heavy sleeper and she wasn't a morning
person.
"Katshana, wake up man, it's your father!" He
shouted and didn't stop knocking. He couldn't
leave to do his work without seeing her and
telling her the important message he had for
her.
"Baba," she called out in a low tone.
"Open the door!" He headed to the door and he
found her yawning and stretching.
She rubbed her eyes, "baba, what time is it?"
She yawned again.
"It's eight in the morning and everyone in this
yard is awake."
She sulked, "I am sorry but it's not like I have
things to do in this yard."
"There are plenty of things to do here but you're
lazy," he said. His daughter took after her
maternal grandmother- she had the same
illness and was a slob as she was. Mnguni was
the one who cured his mother in law after she
had spent a lot of money and wasted time with
different traditional healers and Western
Doctors. Mnguni worked hard to find the right
mixture of herbs to cure her and he thought if
he did this it was going to gain him favour in her
eyes. But she never really liked him as her son
in law. She thought he was unworthy of her
daughter simply because he was disabled.
Mnguni was a good looking man, light skinned
and medium sized in body and height. And his
wife, she wasn't as good looking as him but she
had the perfect body structure- 'curves in right
places' they would say. That and her ebony skin
tone were the main things that attracted
Mnguni to her before getting to know her.
"What do you want me to do today, dad?" She
asked, still standing by the opened door and her
father outside the door.
"I want you and your sisters to stay inside these
yards. Under no circumstances should you go
outside the gates today, do you understand?"
Mnguni laid out an instruction for his daughter.
She nodded, "yes, I understand," she wanted to
ask for reasons but she knew that wasn't the
right thing to do.
"That's good I am leaving now, wake up and go
clean my healing hut. Sweep and mop it," he
instructed.
"I am in my days, baba," she lied about being on
her periods. She didn't enter the healing hut
when on her periods and today, she didn't even
feel like moving.
He nodded, "okay, wake up and bathe so you'll
eat. If I find you sleeping when I come back
there'll be hell to pay," he walked away. When
Mnguni had to make the cure for his daughter
he claimed the herbs he used had perished. He
promised to keep looking for it and it had been
years. Nobody suspected him that he was not
curing her deliberately because he loved his
daughter.
Zinhloso closed the door after her father had
left and she jumped back on her bed but she
didn't fall asleep right away. She remained
under the bed thinking.
"Girl, dad said wake up and bath, it's nine now,"
Nobuhle pulled the covers off her sister's body.
She was sleeping again and when she woke up
she got frightened, "thank you, sisi!" She jumped
off the bed.
"The lady who cleans for you has arrived too.
She's having tea with mom." She said walking
out with her sister.
"How nice! I hope no one has used my water."
Nobuhle laughed, "I don't think someone used
your water. There isn't any water besides
drinking water so use yours carefully. We'll only
go to the river in the afternoon."
"Okay," she took the bathing basin and headed
to the bucket at the back of the kitchen. And to
her surprise, she found Sbusiso playing. He was
busy washing his bricks and toy cars inside her
bucket of water. The water was dirty.
"What are you doing?" She screamed and lightly
slapped his shoulder and the young boy cried
like he was whipped.
"Ubani oshaya ingane futhi?" (Who's hitting the
child?) Her mother screamed and walked out of
the house. Sbusiso rushed to his grandmother
and held her skirts. He pointed Zinhloso, "why
did you hit him?"
"He made my water dirty with his stupid toys!"
She answered angrily.
"It's just water, why would you hit the child for
playing with water?"
Her sisters came out of the house, "it's my
water, a full bucket. I want to take a bath. What
should I do now?"
Mrs Mnguni lifted Sbusiso off the ground, "go to
the river and fetch another bucket."
"But dad said we shouldn't go out," Zinhloso
said, with tear glistening eyes.
"I don't care but you'll bath or lock yourself in
that hurt of yours but you're not eating my food
without bathing," Mrs Mnguni said.
"Mama, you can't do that because dad strictly
said we shouldn't go out," Nobuhle said.
"Yes, at least let her use drinking water we'll go
to the river later," Ziwinile supported her sister
this time around.
Mrs Mnguni shook her head, "no, if she wants to
eat she must go and fetch water then bathe.
And you better come back quick!" She pointed
at Zinhloso. "Or lock yourself in your hut."
Zinhloso stood there defeated. She loved food
too much and how could she go through the
day without food.
"Rather stay in your room and don't go,"
Nobuhle advised.
"How can I not eat?" She asked.
"You'll eat when dad comes back because she'll
see when we take your food to you in secret,"
Ziwinile advised.
Zinhloso shook her head, "no, I am going to the
river as your mother said." She angrily took her
bucket and left.
Ziwinile looked at her sister with panic, "stop
her, please! You know what will happen to mom
when dad comes back."
"Mom knows the situation but she keeps
mistreating her so I am no longer getting
involved," she walked inside the house.
Ziwinile tried to follow her but she stopped. She
was very sad for her mother. Their patents'
relationship was good, they loved each other
and they were happy. It was until Zinhloso
reached puberty - they fought about what was
right for Zinhloso and what wasn't right. Mrs
Mnguni started mistreating her daughter
because of her illness. And her husband would
fight her and beat her up whenever he heard
Zinhloso was mistreated by her mother. Their
marriage had soured only because his wife
mistreated their daughter.
"Zinhloso!" Ziwinile ran after her as she walked
out the gates.
Zinhloso didn't stop, "leave me alone!" She
screamed back and continued walking. She had
a small plastic bag with a bath towel and soap.
She was going to bath on the river and carry
water home. She was wearing a knee length
floral dress. The streets were strangely quiet
but she was too angry to even notice.
****
"Sobashiya abazali ekhaya
Siphume singena kwamanye amazwe
Lapho kungazi khona ubaba nomama,
Silwel' inkululeko
Sithi salana
Salan' ekhaya" Mhlabunzima led the song
slowly and the people in the bus sang along
with him. The first bus was full of the youth and
some of the old people. They took one person
per household as they decided. Most villagers
didn't give them trouble. They complied
because of fear.
The bus stopped on the entrance of the narrow
alleyway that was going to lead them to the
other side of the village. Mzomubi was in
charge of the full bus. Mhlabunzima's bus didn't
even have half the capacity. His father forbade
him to go and he left anyway.
They got off the bus, Mhlabunzima was with
Robert. And the others took different routes.
They needed to go - time was almost nearing.
"This is your ex's home. Do you want to go?"
Robert asked.
He laughed, "no, I am doing business and I don't
care about crazy women." He opened the wood
gate. They knocked on the hut.
"Open!"
His ex opened the door nervously, "what are you
doing here?" She asked with a shaky voice.
"Where's your brother? We want one family
member to go with us to Durban," Mhlabunzima
said to her.
"He got a piece job and so, he went to work."
She explained.
Mhlabunzima nodded with a smile, "that means
we're taking you."
She shook her head furiously, "please
Mhlabunzima we have history -"
He held her hand, "yes and because of that
history I will take you into my bus."
"Please, my grandparents -"
He stopped walking and looked at her, "if you're
not willing to go we're taking your grandmother
then."
"No, no, please!"
Robert looked at her, "you're dressed properly
it's like you were waiting for us." He said, "if you
refuse we're coming back later and it'll be very
bad. Come, Mhlabunzima will look after you for
the sake of your old relationship," he looked at
Mhlabunzima who glared at him.
"Not for the sake of our relationship I will look
after everyone and nobody will be lost. There's
no bus that will leave without any member of
our village. We'll also provide food." He
explained trying to calm her. He could see she
was scared.
She was dressed in tights and a t-shirt, "can I
tell my grandparents then?"
"We'll wait for you."
They waited, "I think old sparks will be
rekindled." Robert commented.
"Never, she's part of the crazy women who
badmouth me." He said and they laughed. She
came back, "she said she wants to talk to you
and I will go." They followed her and after
politely speaking to the grandparents they left
with her. The grandparents were actually scared
of them. They proceeded to other households.
UMCEBO

Chapter Eleven

Mhlabunzima and his comrades had left panic

and fear in the villagers. The old ones left
behind, prayed for their children. They burnt
sage and informed their ancestors about the
children's whereabouts, they pleaded that
children should come back to them safe.
And inside his bus, Mhlabunzima had managed
to calm the youth. His bus was full of the youth.
No grown people.
They were still in the village and he had just told
the driver to drive, after counting that - they had
only three seats left empty. He didn't want to
waste anymore time by getting three more
people. They needed to be in Durban before
1pm.
"Yinde lendlela esiyihambayo
Wash' uDube wathi sodibana nge freedom day!"
Mhlabunzima didn't stop leading the songs and
he was walking on the bus passage looking at
the passengers as they sang after him. Most of
them were singing with understanding and pain
written on their faces. And some were just
singing out of fear. They didn't know where they
were going and they were scared of the
unknown. What if they would die?
Still on the road, a young man was leading a
new song and Mhlabunzima was still on his feet
singing along. His eyes were attracted to the
small figure carrying a bucket of water on her
head.
"Driver stop!" Mhlabunzima screamed and he
rushed to the front. The other people standing
made a way for him.
"Where are you going?" Robert asked. The
singing had stopped, as the bus.
He looked back at him with a grin, "I am
bringing in another comrade."
"Don't even think about it because we won't
even breathe and we'll get in trouble with
Mnguni," one of the comrades warned after
seeing who was the girl carrying the bucket of
water.
"Yes, it's Mnguni's younger daughter," one lady
said but Mhlabunzima was already out.
He didn't care about Mnguni and he didn't even
care about his friend who was on the other bus.
The bus with Mzomubi was leading them and it
didn't stop. The drive carried on. When his
comrade said 'we'll get in trouble with Mnguni'
he automatically knew it was the woman he'd
been longing to see. He couldn't miss seeing
her, he couldn't live with seeing her back only,
again. When he saw her body structure he
suspected it was her but he wasn't sure.
"Awu, awu, angimshiyi ke lo," (I am not leaving
this one) he said walking slowly to Zinhloso
who had stopped walking. She was trembling
with her bucket still on her head. When
Mhlabunzima stood before her, the fragrance
that hit him coming from her was the fragrance
of peaches.
"Do you bath with peaches?" He asked as if he
had all the time in the world. He was lost in her
beauty. The round bright eyes blinked
repeatedly. There was innocence in her eyes
and the way she was looking at him, blinking at
him. It gave him a blood rush. Where was this
girl hiding? Why didn't he see her after so many
years of friendship with her brother?
"No - no," she stuttered but Mhlabunzima only
nodded. He was staring at her round cute face -
fair toned beautiful face with a chin dimple.
His eyes moved up to the bucket and he helped
her put it down. His thick rough hand held her
soft small hand, "oh little kitten, I am afraid I
can't leave you. I want you where I am," he
smiled genuinely.
"No, please don't take me. I am not supposed to
be here. Dad will kill me!" She pleaded in a
shaky voice. She was horrified. Her voice was
no different, it was polite even though she was
scared.
"Comrade, come on! Time is against us!" Robert
shouted, showing his face through the window.
He had forgotten about the eyes with him. They
were staring at him and without answering
Robert he hung his arm over her shoulder, "I will
take care of you." He promised and he chuckled
when her stomach grumbled.
"I am even hungry. Do you want me to faint
there?" She asked and her feet walked along.
She didn't scream or physically resist.
"I will feed you until you complain. You won't
even miss home because I'll be there. You won't
leave my sight," he said walking inside the bus
first. He stood on the first step and helped her
inside the bus, "I will face your father when we
return."
"And what about my brother?"
"Don't worry about him," he looked at the driver,
"you can drive. We won't stop for no one
anymore."
He walked further back with her where there
were three empty seats. He knew they did this
deliberately but he wasn't going to make a
scene about it.
The bus moved and Zinhloso was still in shock
of what had happened. She was really inside the
bus heading to Durban. What would her father
say? They won't come back early that was for
sure.
"I will leave you here and continue with my
work," he said with a polite smile but Zinhloso
only stared at him.
Mhlabunzima's ex-girlfriend Comfort- he took
from her home. She stood up from her seat and
cheekily stood before Mhlabunzima on the
passage, "why did you take her in? And why did
you even smile with her?" She asked.
But Mhlabunzima only shook his head and
avoided her, "let the song resume comrades
we're a complete army now," he announced and
the singing resumed. He sang along, stepping
his foott on the floor his finger pointing up while
his other hand had a lunchbox. He walked a
short distance and proceeded his action until he
reached Zinhloso's seat. She was still seated
alone looking at the youth in the bus.
"Don't you know the song?" Mhlabunzima asked
as Zinhloso wasn't singing. She didn't talk but
shook her head, "don't worry I will teach you
every song."
"What will songs help me with?"
"We'll pass the message to the boer through our
singing," Mhlabunzima said and placed the
lunch box on her smooth thighs. She was
wearing a floral dress. It revealed a part of her
thighs when she was seated.
"Have some food," he said and left her. The
singing continued, they had changed and were
singing traditional songs. An hour passed and
Mhlabunzima and Robert provided the
passengers with snacks.
Earlier he gave Zinhloso his lunchbox. He left in
the morning without eating and they carried
lunchboxes with Robert. He slept at Robert's
home.
He sat next to Zinhloso and gave her the snack.
He opened his, "are you scared?"
She glanced at him, "what do you think?"
"I think you are scared but you don't have to be
scared because I am here," he couldn't believe
he had finally met this woman. Under such
circumstances and he was blown away by her.
"When they start shooting at us how will you
protect me?" She asked.
"It won't come to that. Eat."
She looked at the food and back at him, "why
are sitting here? You should sit somewhere
else." She looked outside the window.
Before he could answer her, Mhlabunzima was
hit by a pungent odour and he quickly held his
breath but staring at her. She was shying away
and without thinking twice - his arm hung over
her shoulder he pulled her closer to him and
Zinhloso looked at him surprised. "I sat here
because you're the most beautiful woman in
this bus and why would I sit next to ugly people
while you're here?" He said trying to cheer her
up and Zinhloso laughed - her laughter was
sharp. He just smiled staring at her.
"You're really beautiful," he said when she was
done laughing.
She shyly looked down, "thank you." She had
never felt so good about herself in a long while.
She even forgot about the trouble awaiting her
back home…
UMCEBO

Chapter 12

The bus stopped at the parking lot. It'd been a

long but bearable ride from their village to
Durban. It was bearable because of singing but
mostly - because Mhlabunzima was there. He
was keeping her company in the bus and also
focused on his singing.
Zinhloso took her time seated on her seat and
her eyes were only gazing at Mhlabunzima. She
was mesmerized by his energy, she smiled at
the way he laughed and she was charmed by
the way he treated people. He wasn't hostile
when speaking to them but he was polite.
He stood before her and Zinhloso focused her
eyes on his full dark lips. You'd swear his lips
belonged to a woman.
"Are you even hearing what I am saying?" He
waved his hand before her face.
"Huh?" She snapped out of it. His smirk made
her heart beat even harder.
He looked back, "who are you staring at?"
"You, of course," she looked down shyly.
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "I am saying, we're
getting off now. Come, you won't leave my
side," he held her hand and helped her up.
"What if you leave me?"
He tightened his grip, "no, I won't do that and I
want to make myself clear."
His straight serious eyes changed the
atmosphere when he looked at her. She couldn't
stomach this look.
"No, look at me!" Mhlabunzima instructed,
"under no circumstances should you leave my
side even if you see a man of your dreams
there."
Mistakenly she got lost into his lips again, "yes,
don't worry I am sure he'll be right next to me
but I still won't let him distract me. And how can
I even have him? I am not worthy." She said
absentmindedly. The words came out smoothly.
Her words made the smart Mhlabunzima
jealous. He couldn't understand, did she have a
man in the crowd? Was that the reason she only
begged him for a second and didn't even throw
a tantrum? She followed him and entered the
bus without a fight.
"Okay, let's go!" He pulled her softly.
Only then she focused back on earth. She
became nervous when she saw her brother on
the ground.
Mzomubi swiftly moved to Mhlabunzima,
"what's the meaning of this? This is my sister!"
He shouted at him.
Mhlabunzima raised his hand but not letting go
of Zinhloso's hand, "yes, I know now but when I
took her into the bus I really didn't know." He
said and he shot daggers at the people he was
with. His eyes warned them.
"How could you not know?' Mzomubi was livid.
"I have never met her Ntanga." He didn't raise
his voice to his level because he knew he was in
the wrong.
He looked back at the people who were with
Mhlabunzima, "didn't you tell him?" He
screamed. He knew his father would be spitting
fire once he realised his daughter wasn't home.
"We thought he knew," Robert started and the
rest supported him. He didn't want to sell him
out not to the fire spitting dragon Mzomubi.
Mhlabunzima held his friend's shoulder but he
wriggled his hand off, "I will take good care of
her I swear."
He didn't take note of his friend's words, "why
didn't you tell him who you are!" He shouted at
her.
Zinhloso glanced at Mhlabunzima- if he could
tell a lie, why wouldn't she? "He didn't give me a
chance to speak." She answered and Mzomubi
walked away angrily.
Mhlabunzima stared at her, "did you just lie?"
He asked.
"Yes, I followed your footsteps." She said
without looking at him.
He laughed, "oh, yes, a man leads. You did the
right thing." He pulled her to his group after
seeing her short smile. Mhlabunzima looked at
the people and he whispered, "thank you for
saving me. He was really going to bomb me."
The people laughed, "we told you!" A young man
said.
"Yes, yes, now let's go join the others."
They formed one group and Mhlabunzima
spoke to them. Importantly emphasizing that
they shouldn't go alone but go in numbers. "And
if you need any help, please tell us. We'll buy
you food and so don't wander around to buy
things on your own." He said last.
They led the people into the stadium. She was
blown away by the number of people already on
the ground as they walked inside the soccer
field. It was full and she couldn't even see the
stage - if there was the stage.
"So many people?" She raised her voice,
speaking closer to his ear.
He looked at her, "yes, we're all fighting for one
thing - to have our country back."
Mzomubi came by and he gave Mhlabunzima a
small bag, "I will not help you when my father
deals with you." He warned him with a glare and
walked away.
The man who didn't easily get scared suddenly
got scared, "how angry would he be?" He asked
Zinhloso.
"I can't say."
He drew a long breath and they joined the
singing. It was a very large group of angry
citizens - they were singing, jumping and
clapping. Song leaders came from different
directions of the soccer field. The stadium was
surrounded by the SA-army. The soldiers had
big guns and this made Zinhloso scared. Why
did they have guns?
She looked at him but he was busy singing but
his hand was still holding her. She'd never met
such a passionate man. He was passionate
about his politics.
Later, Mhlabunzima looked at her, "aren't you
hungry?"
The boer was addressing the angry crowds.
They couldn't clearly see him but they could
hear him speaking - speaking his native
language and there was a translator. English
translator.
"Yes, I am hungry. I am always hungry and I am
sure everyone else is hungry too." She said and
spoke for everyone.
"Let's go buy food then," he pulled her away,
"what should we buy? I think something light
will be suitable and when we leave we'll buy a
proper meal."
"Yes, I think a hotdog."
He smiled and looked at her, "we're buying food
for our children."
She laughed, "our children?"
"Yes, I am the father and you're the mother." He
said with a generous smile and her gorgeous
kitten eyes worked their way to his heart.
"I didn't know."
He held her chin and her eyes blinked at him,
"are your eyelashes real?" He asked.
She looked down, her body was heating up.
When last did she feel like this?
"Yes." She responded.
"You're really beautiful."
"Thank you."
He held his breath and pulled her to the food
stall. They placed an order and while waiting
Mhlabunzima asked for one hotdog.
"Come and eat," he directed the hotdog to her
mouth. She opened up and he was surprised
she didn't refuse. By the time she was done
being fed their order was ready.
"Why don't we place an order for the proper
meal you spoke about and when it's time to
leave we'll just come and collect?" Zinhloso
suggested.
"That's a brilliant idea." He said and did as she
suggested.
They went back to the people and Zinhloso was
wondering where they got the money for this
trip? They distributed the food amongst their
group.
"Having you here turned out to be helpful,"
Robert commented looking at Zinhloso. And
she gave him a polite smile.
Mhlabunzima gave Zinhloso another hotdog,
"eat." He said and ate his. They were back on
their spot.
"But I have already eaten," she said, trying to be
decent.
"Eat again."
She didn't ask twice but she enjoyed the hotdog.
The food also made it all bearable.
Mzomubi searched for his sister and friend.
He'd been distracted by his sister's presence.
And his evil mind formulated a plan, he
destroyed, built another plan and finally decided
on a plan - he was angry.
He smiled when finally found them, "Zinhloso
come here." He said standing closer to the two.
His friend was still holding her hand and this
ensured him that he really didn't want her to get
lost. But that was what he wanted.
"Why are you taking her?" Mhlabunzima asked.
"She's my sister! Why are you even asking me?"
He pulled her away from him and walked away.
"Where are you taking me?" She asked, feeling
uneasy.
He pointed at the food stalls, "go and check
when the order will be ready?"
She looked at him shocked, "why? And why
should I go alone? I will ask Mhlabunzima."
"No, why? You've been there. So, go now!" He
shouted at her. "And when you are coming back,
come to me. Buy a cold drink for me."
She took the money and she looked around to
ensure to mark the place so as to not get lost.
She walked to the stall but she couldn't see
properly because people were bumping into her.
Some hit her as they jumped while singing. She
started panicking but she didn't turn.
Mhlabunzima looked at the time and realised
over an hour had passed and Zinhloso wasn't
back. He looked for Mzomubi.
"Where's Mzomubi?" He asked Robert.
He looked around, "he left saying he's heading
to you."
"He took Zinhloso and left," he looked around
but he couldn't see him. "I will look for him." He
looked around for him. Determined, he didn't
give up until he found him with a different group.
Singing.
He grabbed his arm, "where is your sister?" He
asked straight without asking the reason he
was no longer standing with them.
"Isn't she back to you? I spoke with her and told
her to go back to you." He said looking around
but deep down he was pleased that Zinhloso
was nowhere to be seen. This means she really
got lost like he wanted her to be.
"No, why did you tell her to go back to me
because you were supposed to bring her back
to me where you found her!" He shouted at him.
He was shocked. It'd been over an hour and she
didn't return to him. Where was she?
"Calm down, she said she'll manage."
"Are you insane? That's your sister and you
were careless. Look for her on the other side, I
will go to the other," he suggested.
Mzomubi noded and he pretended to be going
on the side Mhlabunzima pointed. He saw his
friend was panicking and he realised it was
because of his father but he didn't care. He
didn't want to go back home with Zinhloso. Life
would be better if they didn't find her.
Mhlabunzima was sweating and his armpits
were itchy. "Where will I find her?" He asked and
his heart pained. "Laze langishonela Jehovah!"
He kept looking around. The event was nearing
a close.
"Zinhloso!" He screamed but he knew there was
no way she would hear him, there was so much
noise. She would only hear him if she was
closer to him but his gut feeling told him she
was very far….
Chapter 13

Mrs Mnguni opened her daughter's hut. The

lady who cleaned up for her had left two hours
ago and Zinhloso wasn't inside her hut. Where
was she? Did she really go to the river? She
didn't ask her sisters whether she left or not but
when she saw her plate of food still on top of
the table she wanted to check on her. She knew
her husband would be coming back soon and
the first thing he would see when he entered the
kitchen was his daughter's plate. He would ask
questions - why hadn't she eaten her food?
Zinhloso was an extreme food lover; she
couldn't go for a day without food, especially
not breakfast.
She closed the door and headed to the garden
where Nobuhle and Ziwinile were.
"We zingane muphi udadewenu?" (Where's your
sister?) She asked, standing at the small gate of
the garden.
They eyed one another. They were both
surprised that she was only asking about her
after how many hours?
"Don't look at each other but answer me!" She
shouted.
Nobuhle rested her elbow on the hoe, "she went
to the river to fetch water."
"What? Is that child crazy? Why did she go to
the river because your father said nobody must
go out?" She screamed.
Her daughters witnessed the fear in her eyes
but they were confused. Was she having
amnesia? "But mama you said she must go or
else she won't eat." Nobuhle reminded her.
"And she lifted her stupid head and went to
river?"
"That's the only way she was going to eat. You
threatened her with food because you know she
wasn't going to -"
"Shut up!" Mrs Mnguni stopped Nobuhle from
further talking and she stopped.
Ziwinile looked at her mother, "what should we
do now? Zinhloso never goes to the river for
such long hours even if she was going to have a
bath there."
"Did she leave with a bath towel and soap?" Mrs
Mnguni asked. What would she do if this child
didn't come back?
"Yes, she was carrying it."
She held her forehead. Her husband never
listened to her even when she changed
Zinhloso's diet; she was only doing what was
best for her. She was her daughter, from her
womb she loved her but resentment grew when
her marriage soured because of her. It would
grow rapidly whenever she was lying on her bed
in pain because she was beaten up because of
her. It didn't stop- she hated it when people
gossiped about her daughter. She hated it when
they asked about her in social gatherings. She
knew they weren't concerned about her but they
were mocking her. She was being mocked just
like they mocked her about her mother in her
village when she was still a girl. Mnguni saved
them but he had failed to save his precious
daughter.
"Your father will be home soon so please go
and look for your sister," she instructed the two
sisters.
"What if we don't come back too?" Ziwinile
asked.
"Nothing will happen to you. Your brother and
his friends had long left. They must be in
Durban now," she said but she was very scared,
scared something must've happened to
Zinhloso or worse- but it was impossible that
they took her to Durban. Mzomubi would have
never allowed it.
"Please, hurry up!" She raised her voice and
clapped her hands for the two sisters.
Ziwinile dropped the hoe on the ground, "let's go.
She'll be in trouble if we don't go look for her,"
she said. Between her parents, she loved her
mother the most and was closer to her mother.
She respected her father.
Nobuhle followed her sister but she was upset,
"mom did this to herself and now we should all
panic because of her."
"Zinhloso wasn't supposed to go."
They walked out of the gates, "what was she
supposed to do? She was supposed to starve?"
"No but mom was eventually going to give her
food." She defended.
"When? When dad entered through the gates? I
don't understand a woman who hates her own
child."
"You would hate her too if you get beaten up
black and blue because of her. I also hate her
for that."
She shook her head, "no, in the first place I
wasn't going to do something that was going to
get me beaten up." She glared at her sister, "and
you should hate your father and not her, she
never asked for any of those things to happen."
Ziwinile remained quiet after her sister's words
but they didn't change anything. She still hated
her sister. She was the reason her parents'
marriage was no longer the same. And she was
hoping they would find Zinhloso - maybe
somewhere in the forest having guavas.
******
He had lost time counting and he couldn't stop
looking for her. Yes, he was scared of the
reaction he would get from her father but
mostly he didn't want to lose her. He was very
happy when he finally met her and there was
suddenly a possibility of losing her. How could
this happen?
"I can't lose her!" He headed to the food stall
where they placed an order. Where would she
go? Maybe she went to the familiar stall.
"Yebo; mama did that young lady I was with
come here?" Mhlabunzima asked.
The woman nodded with a smile, "yes; she
came back and asked about the order then she
bought a cold drink. She left."
"Did you see which direction she went?"
"No."
"Thanks." He looked back but couldn't see any
figure matching Zinhloso. He didn't stop. He
thought of heading back to Robert but his
intuition told him to continue looking and so, he
didn't stop.
He walked right in amongst the crowds and he
didn't stop looking around. He was walking but
his eyes were looking around and he bumped
into a human's body.
"Ey, watch where you're going!" Mhlabunzima
shouted.
"Mhlabunzima," her voice came out low like the
voice of a small scared child.
He widened his eyes and without thinking, he
pulled her into his arms. He hugged the life out
of her, "where have you been?"
"I was lost. I called out for you but you weren't
close," she said, hugging him even tighter. She'd
been searching for him or any person she could
recognise but she couldn't find any of them.
She was scared and devastated. Somewhere
deep in her heart she trusted that Mhlabunzima
would look for her but she wasn't sure if he was
going to find her. There were so many people
and he was here - right before her eyes. He
didn't disappoint her.
"I have been looking for you. Your brother said
he told you to go back to me but when I asked
at the food stall I was told you came by and
bought a cold drink," he let go of her and stared
into her precious eyes. He noted confusion as
her face fell.
Without being told, she realised what her
brother was trying to do but she was not
surprised. Mzomubi was probably the person
who would rejoice should she die.
"Yes, he said that but I was thirsty and I thought
I should go buy a drink."
"You should have told me!"
"I thought I was going to easily find my way
back but I got confused." She lied to him. She
was a daughter and she may not get an
opportunity of being a daughter in-law one day.
This meant she only had to keep her family's
dirt. She couldn't tell Mhlabunzima, who was
precisely a stranger to her, that her own mother
and siblings hated her. How could she? That
was the dirt of their family and it was her duty
to keep it hidden.
"Don't ever do that. I was so worried about you,"
he said and pulled her away.
He was worried about her? A man who wasn't
her father was worried about her. She smiled,
"thank you." She said and wondered what her
brother would say when she appeared before
him. How would he react?
UMCEBO

Chapter 14

"Oh, please don't be dramatic and cry," Ziwinile

said to her sister. They were coming back from
the river. They'd searched for Zinhloso and even
went into the forest but they didn't find her.
Nobuhle was crying. She was worried that
something had happened to her little sister. Her
sister was a beautiful young girl and everywhere
it was not safe for girls. Laws of the king were
no longer the same, prison was introduced and
things changed. What if her sister was suffering
where she was? Zinhloso was a young woman
but sometimes her shy nature made her a little
naive.
"She's my sister and I am not heartless like you.
I am a mother too," she said, wiping her face
clean as they entered the yards. Their mother
was under the tree washing some vegetables.
"Do you think mom will care whether she lives
or dies?" Ziwinile asked.
Nobuhle grabbed her fleshy arm, "how could
you ask something like that?"
"Why shouldn't I ask?"
"She's her daughter!"
Ziwinile pulled her arm away, "but she doesn't
treat her like her child. I think maybe she's not
her daughter."
"Stop it!" She shouted at her and Ziwinile
stopped talking.
Their mother looked at them, "why are you back
alone? Where's she?"
"We couldn't find her. We looked for her
everywhere but there wasn't any sight of her.
We asked people we met on the road but they
said they didn't see her," Nobuhle responded to
her mother.
Mrs Mnguni's heart rate went up, "where the hell
is this child?"
"Don't you think she's doing this deliberately so
that dad would be mad?" Ziwinile asked.
Nobuhle glared at her, "Zinhloso is not like that!"
"Everyone changes."
Mrs Mnguni looked at her daughters, "when
your father gets here you'll tell him Zinhloso
went out on her own." She suggested.
"Yes!" Ziwinile quickly agreed.
But Nobuhle shook her head, "no, you can't do
that. Dad will punish her."
"He will punish her but it'll not be severe. It'll just
be a few whips." Mrs Mnguni said knowing her
husband would do more to her than her
daughter. She was regretful. She shouldn't have
sent her out. But she was mad at her. She
wanted to punish her.
"Mom will get a much more severe punishment.
Do you want to hear your mother crying
because of your sister?" Ziwinile shouted and
out of respect for her mother Nobuhle didn't
raise her opinions but she walked away.
"Nobuhle!" Mrs Mnguni shouted but her
daughter didn't stop walking. "Go and talk to
her." She pointed to the direction she went and
Ziwinile followed her.
She held her face, "where's my child dear God?
Please bring her back home safely." She stood
up and hoped something would come up then
her husband would not come back home.

Mnguni was walking on the main road after a

long day. He needed to get home, have food
and rest after seeing his daughters. His children
were a good thing that came out of his
marriage with his wife. He knew back then that
as a mother, his wife wanted what was best for
their child but when things didn't go her way.
She started mistreating her own child. Mnguni
hated that. He spoke to her until he decided
he'd spoken enough. He'd shouted enough she
wasn't hearing words.
"Are they the same or?" Mnguni asked out loud
as his eyes laid on the water bucket on the
ground. He took the black water bucket and
looked underneath as he'd remembered that
Zinhloso once engraved her name under the
bucket so as to not have it mixed up with
anyone else's bucket.
He frowned seeing his daughter's name, "what
is her bucket doing here because she should be
home?" He asked and he put his bag of herbs
inside the bucket. He hung it on his arm and he
quickly went home. What was happening? He
left his daughters home, the youngest was still
sleeping and when he left he noted her bucket
had water. Her sisters had used their water and
even so, he told her sisters they shouldn't go
out. But he was seeing the water bucket of
someone who had water? What happened?
******
Robert walked up to Mhlabunzima and Zinhloso.
He looked at them suspiciously, "where did the
two of you disappear to?" He raised his voice.
The people were moving but not quietly, they
were making noise by singing and dancing as
they walked off the stadium. They had done
what they planned to do, what they came here
to do and now, it was time they headed back to
their homes. The fight wasn't over. It was still
ongoing and they weren't going to give up.
"She got lost and so, I had to go look for her."
Mhlabunzima glanced at Zinhloso she was
playing with her hands. Her head forced down
as she looked at her hands.
Robert removed his eyes from Zinhloso, "why
didn't you tell us? We were going to help you
look for her."
"I told her brother. Where's he? I must tell him I
found her because he must be worried."
Mhlabunzima looked around for his friend but
he couldn't see him.
Robert knew what was going on in that family.
They didn't like Zinhloso much, her brother
mostly but it seemed Mhlabunzima had no clue.
He was surprised that Mzomubi knew his sister
was lost but he was not bothered. He came and
ushered their people out with some other
members of their team.
Robert removed his eyes from Zinhloso as he
could spot panic, "don't worry about him but
let's go pay for food and transport it to the
buses. We don't want that lady thinking we
tricked her. Mzomubi will find his way to us."
"You're right. She'll panic, let's go," he didn't let
go of her hand. Robert told the people who were
with him waiting for Mhlabunzima to go along
and head to the buses.
Robert pulled Zinhloso away as Mhlabunzima
was paying for the order, "do you like him?" He
asked, straightforward.
"Huh?" She was taken by surprise. She had
never communicated much with her sister's
baby daddy.
"Do you like Mhlabunzima?"
"I only met him today. How can you ask me
that?"
"You're lying to him. To protect, who? Your
brother or their relationship?" He asked. He had
figured it out that Mhlabunzima didn't know her
brother wouldn't care even if she would drown
in the sea. He would gladly watch.
"I don't know what you are talking about,"
Zinhloso said and she looked straight ahead.
She ignored Robert. Mhlabunzima called for
them and they helped carry the food. One staff
member helped them carry what was left.
Zinhloso noticed his eyes were suddenly
bloodshot. He would clench and unclench his
fists and jaws. He was fuming at the sight of
her. And it was only because Mhlabunzima
found her. She was very hurt and bitter deep in
her heart. Most girls were loved and protected
by their brothers but not her. She had only one
brother who was actually younger than her but
he treated her like she wasn't his sister.
"You found her. Thank you," he said and he
tapped Mhlabunzima's back into a hug.
"Yes, I thought you were still inside."
"I wanted to come and look here, I decided to
take people." He responded and glared at
Zinhloso who only avoided eye contact.
"Alright, here take this to your bus we'll bring the
rest." He gave him food. It was after 17:30 and
this meant they would get home late at night.
He took the food, "some people are not back.
Double check with your bus and we'll go find
them." He said.
She was hurt that he was keen to look for other
people but he didn't look for her. He actually
wanted her to get lost.
"Okay."
Mzomubi looked at Zinhloso, "are you okay?"
"Yea," she knew he was buying a face.
Mhlabunzima pointed to the bus after Mzomubi
had left. He asked about the people who were
not back and she pulled Zinhloso with him and
two other comrades.
"Why don't you leave her inside the bus,?"
Mzomubi asked his friend as they headed back
to look for people.
"No, she's not leaving my sight again. I will take
whatever punishment from your father knowing
that I have her back. It'll be a hardest story if I
don't have her back," he said and pulled her
away. They walked back just the two of them.
Others went different directions.
"I don't regret bringing you here. I regretted it for
a second when I lost you. I was very happy
when I found you," Mhlabunzima said to her. His
voice was soft and deeper. He was in his
feelings again.
She didn't look at him as she smiled. What was
happening to her? "I was happy too when you
found me but I wasn't happy when you shouted
at me for bumping into you." She confessed.
He laughed deeply, "I am sorry I was very
frustrated and kind of scared."
"I know," she glanced at him for a minute but
when their eyes locked. It felt like a lifetime of
goodness. She couldn't deny it, the man was
graciously handsome. She liked that with him -
she didn't feel like a dwarf. He wasn't as short
as her but she didn't have to scrunch up her
neck to look at him. She only had to raise her
eyes.
"I know your father will be angry and he'll tell me
to stay away from you even though I took you to
gather in a social issue but I would like to see
you again." He said as they walked through the
stadium but they were fixed on talking to each
other.
"Please, don't. I can't be with you. I am sick and
so, let's focus on finding people," she said and
tried to walk away pulling her hand from him.
But Mhlabunzima tightened his grip, "so, what
do you think you're doing? You want to get lost
again?" He asked seriously.
"Sorry," she composed herself.
They walked in silence for a few minutes.
People were up and down, others were also
looking for their members. "Which school do
you attend? I will walk you there if you walk."
"I don't attend school, they bullied me because
of my sickness."
"What did the teachers say?"
"I reported for the first time but they did nothing.
Dad said I should stop. I got tired and stopped,"
she narrated.
"Which school?"
"Nqutshini primary school."
He asked relevant details about her class and
class teacher. She told him. "So, what time do
you go to the river? I will accompany you and be
on the lookout for snakes."
"I go whenever I need to go since I don't attend
school anymore," she said. "Mhlabunzima,
please!"
He smiled as she looked at him, "it's not like you
have a killing illness. I am sure we can find
someone who can cure you."
"I think because my father failed no one will."
She said dismissively.
"That's not true. When you go to the river,
please pass by the road at home. I will see you
and I will follow you if you're scared that people
will see us and tell your father," he pleaded but
Zinhloso ignored him. They focused on finding
people. They walked back to the bus with three
people they found. They were no longer talking.
Inside the bus Zinhloso took her three seats.
"Do we have everyone inside the bus? Please
check if the person you were seated with is next
to you." Mhlabunzima announced. Everyone
checked and they confirmed they were all
present. They gave the people food and the bus
started moving.
Zinhloso looked at her food and she started
eating sadly, slowly. She wasn't a slow eater but
she was sad that he didn't sit next to her with
his food.
*****
Congratulations on unlocking a bonus chapter
by participating on the task. Thanks.
UMCEBO

Chapter 15

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

Finally, he got home and the yard was quiet.

The streets were not as busy as they normally
were.
He knew he'd find them inside the kitchen.
Mother and two daughters were cooking and
his grandson was seated on the floor eating.
"Baba, sawubona." His wife greeted him and her
eyes were attracted to the bucket hanging on
his arm but she quickly removed her eyes.
He looked around the kitchen space,
"sanibonani," he greeted back and grabbed a
chair. He could sense panic from Ziwinile and
this told him something happened. He looked at
his daughter, "what's wrong my child?"
"I don't understand, baba." Ziwinile said.
"Why are you panicking?"
She smiled nervously, "it's nothing I will go take
the dishes outside." She left quickly.
He looked at his wife, "MaNtuli, by the road I
found this bucket."
"Oh, it's in good shape," she said acting dumb,
"what should I prepare for you? Tea or-"
"It's your daughter's bucket. Can't you recognise
it?" He asked staring at her.
"Hhaybo, so she left with her bucket!" She
cuffed her waist.
"She left? Where is she?"
Ziwinile walked inside the house with a dish of
washed dishes, "Zinhloso left and she didn't tell
anyone where she was going." Mrs Mnguni lied
with a straight face to her husband.
"Oh, she just left without telling anyone after I
said nobody should leave?"
"Yebo, baba. She left and I sent her sisters to
look for her but they didn't find her." She
proceeded with her lies.
"What did you say to her or what did you do to
her?" He asked.
"I did nothing Mnguni."
He looked at his two daughters and Nobuhle
spoke first, "I don't know what happened baba I
was only told to go and look for her." She
figured if they're were telling lies she would
choose what lies to tell.
He didn't believe them and he looked at his
grandson, "Sbu, where's Katshana?" He asked
the child and the atmosphere changed in the
room. He looked at his wife through the corner
of his eye and by the look on her face. He knew
she did something to his child.
Sbusiso looked at his grandfather, "mkhulu,
gogo said she must go fetch water because I
washed my cars using her water. It was dirty."
"Okay, that's all your grandmother said to her?"
"Yes, she said if she doesn't go she won't give
her food." He answered carefree.
"Where was your mother and Ziwinile?"
"They were there, outside," he pointed out the
door.
Mnguni smiled at him and brushed his head,
"thank you mkhulu." He stood up and glared at
his wife. He shook his head and chuckled. He
left without a word.
Ziwinile held her mother's arm, "mama, what
will happen now?" She asked and looked at
Sbusiso, "why did you say all that, Sbu?" She
shouted.
"Ziwinile, he's a child and I didn't tell him he
should lie. I didn't think he'll ask him." She said
and sat down. She couldn't even imagine what
was going to happen. It would be all because of
Zinhloso.

Mnguni walked around the village asking people

he was meeting but they all said they didn't see
her. He remembered where he found the bucket.
He entered the homestead nearby. There was
an old woman seated under the tree having tea.
The sun was hot but she was having tea.
"Aw, Mnguni, we're being visited by you?"
He smiled, "yes, I am actually passing. I came
here because I am going around asking about
my last born daughter, Zinhloso. I believe she
was last seen here because I saw her water
bucket on the road. She must have been
coming from the river." He explained.
"Oh, yes, the short one?"
"Yes, her."
"We saw her with my husband. They took her
and went with her. It was Xulu's son and his
friends," she explained, "I couldn't see her
clearly but my husband said it's your daughter."
He sighed - this was the best lead.
Mhlabunzima! He took his daughter? Where
was Mzomubi then? "Thank you so much
mama."
"Yes, they also took our granddaughter and
grandson but I believe Xulu's son will bring
them back safe" she said with a smile and
Mnguni nodded. He thanked her again and left.
He was fuming. How could Xulu's son
disrespect him like that? He took his child!
It didn't take him long to reach Xulu's home and
he found him inside his house seated on the
sofa listening to the radio.
"Mnguni!" He recognised him and showed him
inside.
He sat down, "Xulu, how are you? I am not fine."
"I am well, what's wrong?"
"I heard from people who saw it with their own
eyes that your son took my daughter. He went
with her to Durban."
Xulu slightly jumped off the sofa, "he did what?
Tell me you're joking!"
"My time is precious. I can't joke like that."
"Where was Mzomubi?"
He shrugged, "I don't know but I remember I
saw two buses maybe they weren't together
because Mzomubi wasn't going to agree to
have his sister inside that bus."
"I can't believe this boy went ahead and did this
thing. He went to Durban while I said he
mustn't," Xulu clicked his tongue. Mhlabunzima
was disrespecting his word.
"When he left where did you think he was
going?" Mnguni asked.
"I didn't even see him leaving Mnguni because
he didn't sleep here last night."
"He wasn't at my house either and this means
he was somewhere else." He said and he
looked at him intently, "I am very angry at him."
"Yes, as you should. If he gets here, do what you
must, stab him with your spear if you want but
don't kill him," Xulu gave him permission. He
didn't have the words to defend Mhlabunzima.
He went to Durban against his word.
"I won't kill him," he said and they waited
patiently. He didn't leave until late, Ngenzeni
even dished super for him. He waited. He
wasn't going to sleep without seeing
Mhlabunzima.
******
Zinhloso had been seated alone for the past
hour. They were still singing on the bus. They
resumed their singing right after they finished
eating. She'd been looking at them - at
Mhlabunzima.
It was dark outside and she didn't even know
the time. The bus stopped at the garage and a
few people got off to go to the bathrooms. She
remained seated.
"Do you want something?"
She raised her eyes and they locked with his
eyes, "no, I am good."
"Okay, sit here then if you don't want the
bathroom." He said and left her. Her mind
travelled back home. What was her father
thinking? He was obviously mad but did he
know who took her? And what about her mother?
Maybe she was rejoicing together with Ziwinile.
She snapped back into space when
Mhlabunzima sat next to her, "I got everyone
these," he gave her a packet of chips. He wasn't
actually planning on buying chips for people but
he thought it'd be awkward if he bought chips
for her only. These people would obviously
gossip.
"Thank you." She didn't hesitate but opened the
packet and began eating.
He chuckled, "I know this question will be
awkward but did you enjoy our trip?"
It was dark inside the bus but the streets light
gave lighting and so, Mhlabunzima could see
her smile, "yes, but don't tell my father I enjoyed
this trip."
"How can I do that?" He asked and they laughed.
"I really wonder what he'll do to me. I heard
you're his favourite child."
She tittered, "I also heard you're an heir to the
empire."
"Not my favourite topic," he confessed.
"Why? You should be happy?"
He laughed and stood up, "I wish I can be," he
said, "Can we change sides? I want to sleep. I
am very tired," he requested and Zinhloso stood
up. Mhlabunzima sat by the window but he
didn't lean on the window and slept. He laid his
head on her thighs.
Surprised, she looked up and everyone was
busy with a packet of chips. She didn't say
anything but had her chips. The people on two
seats opposite her were men and the people
who were seated at the backseat were also
men. And men, they were less likely to talk
much.
When she was done with her chips
Mhlabunzima was sound asleep and so were
most people in the bus.
Hesitantly, Zinhloso placed her hands on his
head and she massaged his bald head. She
closed her eyes and envisioned a better future
for herself and the people.
"When did you sleep?" Mhlabunzima asked after
shaking Zinhloso awake.
She realised by the uneven bumping of the bus
they were on the gravel, "I don't remember.
We're almost home."
"Yes, let me wake them up " he stood up and
Zinhloso made a way out for him without
standing up.
"Let's wake up comrades so we won't pass our
homes because we're sleeping," he raised him
voice and repeated his words. People woke up.
And within a few minutes they started getting
off one by one.
UMCEBO
Chapter 16

"It feels like I am losing you," he said as the bus

stopped at her stop. There were few people left
inside the bus.
"I will still be here and goodnight," she stood up
and he stood up after her. She walked looking
down as she felt people's eyes were on her. She
didn't want to look at any of them. The lights
were on inside the bus.
"Won't you be scared? The bus with your
brother is not closer." Mhlabunzima asked,
showing his head through the window. Zinhloso
was walking down.
She looked up, "no, I am closer when I am here.
Thank you." She said and walked faster, when
the bus moved she ran home. It was dark and
this filled her head with all sorts of scenarios.
The gate wasn't locked, she pushed it and
walked inside the premises. She was happy she
was back home safe and sound. She pushed
the door of her hut and she grabbed a jersey.
She rushed to the main house. She wanted to
see her father and sleep, she wasn't planning on
bathing. She was going to take a bath in the
morning. She didn't even want food but she
wanted to sleep right away but she couldn't
sleep without seeing her father and sister.
"Qo, qo," she pushed the kitchen door and she
found Nobuhle cleaning the kitchen.
"Katshana!" She happily rushed to her and she
hugged her tightly, "where have you been? I am
so happy you're back home." She didn't let go.
Zinhloso smiled, she knew her sister would be
happy to see her, "I am happy that I am back
home too." She said but her face changed to
dull when her mother walked inside followed by
Ziwinile.
Mrs Mnguni stood before her daughter and she
looked at her up and down, "where have you
been?" She asked in a low tone. She was too
close to her, "you're even smelling men's
expensive perfumes."
Ziwinile stood next to her mother and sniffed
her, "mom is right. Where were you?"
"I asked you a question!" Mrs Mnguni shouted.
"Mhlabunzima took me into the bus to Durban
on my way back from the river," she responded
quietly. She was still angry with her mother
even though she knew it was pointless. Her
mother hated her and there was nothing she
could do about it.
Her mother clapped once, "we're here worried
sick about you and you were in Durban!"
"Worried about me?" She asked but her tone
told her mother she was lying. Zinhloso knew
her mother would never worry about her. "Why
did you worry about me? I thought you wanted
them to take me so that I will get lost there and
never come back -"
Mrs Mnguni stopped Zinhloso from further
talking by giving her a heavy slap, "I am still your
mother and you weren't supposed to leave
home. Don't speak like that with me." She
warned, pointing at her.
Zinhloso held her cheek tightly and without a
word she turned to Nobuhle, "where's dad?" She
asked.
"He heard you're not home and left without
saying," Nobuhle responded.
She nodded and didn't care about her mother's
boring stare. She turned to the door.
"Where are you going, aren't you hungry?" Mrs
Mnguni shouted but Zinhloso didn't answer or
stop, she walked out. "She came back with
disrespect." She clicked her tongue and headed
back to the living room. Ziwinile followed her.
Mzomubi walked inside the living room and he
greeted his mother and sisters. He sat down,
"where's dad? Did Zinhloso come back? We
weren't on the same bus."
"Yes, she came back. Didn't you see your friend
taking her?" His mother raised her voice. She
was very annoyed and angry about this
situation.
"No, the bus I was in was leading." He
responded rubbing his eyes, "if it wasn't for
Mhlabunzima I wasn't going to come back with
her. All the drama she creates would have been
over."
"Mzomubi! Mzomubi! Don't you dare, do you
want your father to kill you?" His mother
shouted. She was shocked that he wanted to do
such a thing. That was why Zinhloso said she
wouldn't care even if she got lost. Did she think
they conspired against her?
"He wasn't going to find out, mama."
"You're more stupid than I thought. He was
going to find out!" Nobuhle raised her voice. She
couldn't believe she was born with such a vile
person.
"Mxm, I am sure now he's not home because of
his daughter. Why is she even the favourite?" He
looked at his mother.
"I don't know but she's my child. I don't want her
to get lost somewhere I don't know."
"What's wrong if dad is parenting his child? You
want him to mistreat her like you do?" Nobuhle
asked but Mzomubi didn't answer her. He stood
up and left, he was angry. His mood was ruined,
he couldn't even be happy they had a good trip.
She was laying on her back on her bed and with
a smile on her face she was reminiscing about
her time with Mhlabunzima. She was startled by
the door.
"Dad is not back yet?"
Nobuhle sat next to her, "no, please tell me
about your time in Durban." She said putting her
pillow on her lap. She listened as Zinhloso
narrated.
*****
He whistled his way up to his house. He knew
that tonight he was going to sleep peacefully.
They had a good trip and he met an amazing
woman. What could go wrong?
"Pass by Mhlabunzima."
His father's voice stopped him, "can I see you
tomorrow baba I am tired," he wasn't keen on
talking to him because he was going to shout
and ruin his mood.
"I want to talk to you."
Mnguni! He couldn't mistake his voice for
someone else's voice. He waited for him!
He opened the door and stood behind the door,
"sanibonani." He tried hard to be confident but
he was nervous.
"Why are you disrespecting me?" Mnguni stood
up and he stood before Mhlabunzima. He held
him by the collar of his white golf t-shirt. He
tightened his grip.
"I am sorry baba," Mhlabunzima felt like his
oxygen was sucked out of his lungs. How much
strength did this man have? With one hand he
was killing him.
"You're sorry! What if my child got lost? Were
you going to tell me you're sorry?" He growled.
Mhlabunzima was terrified of the look on his
face. He had turned red and his eyes were out,
he was extremely angry.
"I took care of her and when I took her I didn't
know she was your daughter. They told me
along the way and it was too late," he tried
explaining but he was suffocating.
"Mnguni stop talking to this boy, give him a
beating!" Xulu suggested. "How can he not
know his friend's sister? He's lying."
Mhlabunzima didn't get a chance to say another
word; he received a tight fist and swore his jaws
were misplaced. He staggered back and his
back hit the wall. "I am -" another punch lingered
closer to his eye and his vision blurred.
"You'll never go as far as looking in her
direction," the third punch spilled blood and that
was when Mnguni was satisfied. He held him by
his collar again and pinned him against the wall,
"did you hear me? Stay away from my
daughter!"
"Why are you talking as if I have romantic
feelings for her? I only took her to fight a social
issue," his words aggravated the situation. He
got double slaps. "I am sorry." He said in a low
tone.
Mnguni let go of him and he turned to his father,
"I will leave now. Thank you for welcoming me
and letting me stay till this late."
They shook hands, "uhambe kahle."
Mnguni glared at Mhlabunzima before leaving.
Xulu shook his head, "he was supposed to stab
you."
"You hate me. Why did you tell him to hit me?"
He asked, wiping the blood with his t-shirt.
"He was supposed to do more. Why did you
take his daughter?" He asked.
"I didn't know she's his daughter. I have never
met her but then again it's not my fault that he
has a beautiful daughter," he said, opening the
door.
His father followed him, "Mhlabunzima, don't
you dare! Don't look her way like her father had
said." He stood by the door.
Mhlabunzima didn't stop walking, "ngabe
iyogana uyise phela uma ngeke sayibuka
nokuyibuka." He commented and entered his
house.
He was outside the house holding a jug of
water and washing his hot face.
"Punches won't stop me from going after his
daughter. I don't care about any smell," he
spoke alone and entered back
UMCEBO

Chapter 17

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

He saw the light still on inside his daughter's
hut and he knocked on the door, "Zinhloso!" He
didn't hear a response and he knocked again,
"this child, Zinhloso!"
"I am here, baba," she said behind him, "I went
to the toilet and when I got home I was told
you're not home."
He turned to her and sighed in relief. He was
thankful that the child was back home where
she belonged, "yes, I was worried about you.
You didn't even think of fighting and screaming
when this boy took you."
"You know it's him?"
"Yes, I heard from people and I have been with
his father waiting for him," he said pointing the
way back to the house.
She followed her father, "what did you do to him,
baba?" She asked worriedly and she pretended
she wasn't feeling her father's stare. "I am
asking because he didn't know I am your
daughter and I have also never met him."
"You've never met him? He's your brother's
friend." He opened the kitchen door.
"He always said I shouldn't come near his friend.
I don't know his friends."
"That scoundrel!" He cursed and took a seat on
his sofa. They were still inside the living room
but Mzomubi wasn't with them. Mrs Mnguni
stood up and went to the kitchen. "It doesn't
matter Katshana, none of his friends are worthy
of even looking at you and your sisters." He
commented and they laughed.
His wife served him food and he didn't decline
even though he ate at Xulu's home. "What
happened, MaMnguni omncane? Xulu's son is a
hothead his father doesn't support this political
nonsense they're doing with Mzomubi."
"It's a good thing they're passionate about
freedom, baba." Nobuhle raised her opinion.
He looked at her, "and when do you think we'll
get that freedom? Our people's political parties
are fighting against each other. Should I remind
you that your brother and his friends are not
allowed in the village across the river?"
"I know but those people want to force people
to join their party."
He shook his head, "Katshana, tell me and
ignore your sister. She's defending these boys,"
he looked at Nobuhle with a warning stare, "I
shouldn't hear that you have a boyfriend there
since you're defending them now."
"Hawu, baba!" They laughed and Zinhloso
narrated to her father what happened.
"Why do you keep emphasizing he didn't know?"
"That's because I am back home and you
shouldn't create problems with your business
partners," she lied and her father nodded,
knowing he'd long done what he wanted to do
to him.
"Don't ever let anyone take you where you don't
want to go again," he said.
"Yebo," Zinhloso looked at Mzomubi as he
walked inside. He greeted their father and sat
down.
"Sbusiso?" He called the child who was
concentrating on the black and white small
screen TV.
"Mkhulu?" He called out but he didn't look at his
grandfather.
"Look at your grandfather when he's talking to
you, Sbusiso!" Nobuhle shouted at him and he
quickly focused on him.
"I don't want what you did to happen again.
Don't ever play with clean water. I will whip you
next time. Do you hear me?" He warned him.
"Yebo, mkhulu," he looked down.
"Say sorry to mamncane for making her water
dirty," he encouraged the child.
Sbusiso looked at Zinhloso, "I am sorry
mamncane."
"Okay," she said but she didn't care about the
apology; she was only getting it because of her
father.
Her father moved from the topic and he asked
Mzomubi about the trip. Mzomubi filled his
father in but he was nervous that Zinhloso was
going to tell him what he did. He kept glancing
at her but she was seated on the edge of the
sofa watching TV. Once he was done, Zinhloso
stood up.
"I am going to sleep now, nilale kahle," she said
and they wished her a goodnight back. She left
leaving her brother surprised that she didn't tell
the truth.
Ziwinile looked at her mother. Her siblings had
all gone to their rooms, "mama, can I sleep with
you tonight?" She asked but she was only
asking because she was scared for her. Her
father looked very calm but she knew this
wasn't the normal calm.
"Why do you want to sleep with your mother, is
your bed wet?" Her father asked before Mrs
Mnguni could answer.
"No, but -"
"Then go sleep inside your bedroom." He said
without looking at her but drinking his coffee.
Ziwinile stood up and left, she hated her father
for what he was doing to her mother. Her
mother didn't deserve all this!
Mnguni looked at his wife, "why do you hate
your child so much?"
"I don't hate her."
"If you don't hate her, how do you even know
which child I am talking about?" He asked and
Mrs Mnguni remained quiet. "What would you
have done if this child got lost and never
returned home?"
"I would have been devastated."
"Lies! You're lying to me just like you lied to me
when I asked you where my daughter was!" He
roared. He stood up when Mrs Mnguni
remained quiet. "You told my children to lie to
me after you've done such a cruel thing to my
daughter. You were going to starve her for
something your grandson did,"
"I was going to give her food-"
When the back of his hand lingered on her
cheek it sounded like thunder, "you're lying.
When we had these children we promised each
other we'll look after them and ensure they're
fed and clothed but you wanted to starve my
child. Don't I also work hard for this food? You
threaten my child with food because it seems I
am the only parent she has?"
"It's not like that, baba. I am sorry," she cried out.
Her cheek was still itchy with pain. She
screamed as he dragged her down with his
hand.
"What wrong has she ever done to you, huh?"
He asked and started kicking her with his boot-
covered foot. "I have been talking to you nicely
but you never listened. What has she done to
you?"
Mrs Mnguni was screaming in pain. She
couldn't even answer him as he was kicking her
like an animal. Her body would bump against
the sofa and the coffee table, these things
adding to her pain. How precious her marriage
was. The love and affection she got from her
husband, it was amazing but all that was gone.
He tolerated her, for the sake of their home they
built together. The sake of the vows. He had
also hoped she would change. After every last
kick, fists, and stick strikes he hoped she would
change and treat his daughter better but she
didn't change. He was tolerating her for the
sake of his physical needs that he could never
fulfil on his own. And maybe deep down in his
heart there was still love for her even though
she was vile to his child.
"If you mistreat her again I am going to send
you back to your mother's house where I found
you. You'll take your things and go back there,"
he said, panting. He stopped kicking her.
There were a few drops of blood, "I am sorry,"
she managed to say.
Mnguni walked out of the house. Mzomubi was
standing outside his hut smoking. He could
hear his mother screaming and the bitterness in
his heart grew for his sister.
"Hamba uyosiza unyoko wena!" (Go and help
your mom) Mnguni said and slammed the door
in his house.
Mzomubi threw the cigarette butt on the ground
and he rushed to the house. His mother was
curled up on the floor crying.
"Mama, should I take you to your hut? Or you'll
need hot water to bath?" He asked, helping her
up. He put her on the sofa. "It'll be better if you
get hot water and apply ointment on your body
before sleeping."
"Okay, you'll bring water to my hut."
He held her hand, "are you going to be able to
stand up and walk?" He asked.
"Help me," she held his hand and they walked to
her hut in silence.

Nobuhle and Ziwinile happily welcomed their

maternal grandmother. They took her bag to the
bedroom inside the main house. Nobuhle
quickly served her with food.
"I am happy to see you, my children. Nobuhle,
you're a fully grown woman now. When are we
getting a son-in-law?" She asked with a smile.
She loved her grandchildren wholeheartedly.
Nobuhle giggled, "for now I am focused on
studying grandma. He'll come along the way,"
she said and her grandmother laughed.
"That's good that you're doing something and
you, my beautiful child? Ziwinile, are you still
going to the reed dance?"
Ziwinile smiled back, "yes, and I am continuing
with studying too."
"That's also a good thing and where are your
brother and Zinhloso?"
"Zinhloso went to the river," Nobuhle responded,
"and bhuti is still sleeping. They were in Durban
yesterday."
"Zinhloso went to the river alone and so early?"
She asked surprised.
"Yes, she likes going alone. Nobuhle told her to
stop but she never listened."
She shook her head, "I will talk to her when she
comes back. She has sisters and she must not
go alone." She sips on her tea, "and where's that
father of yours and his wife?"
The two sisters looked at one another, "mom is
inside her hut and dad is working on his
patients." Nobuhle answered.
"I will see my daughter after eating," she had her
food while talking to the children and when she
was done they took her to their mother's hut.
Granny grabbed a chair and sat next to her
daughter's bed. Her hut was spacious and it had
beautiful wooden furniture, it was clean just like
how her daughter was. Her daughter wasn't like
her, she was a clean person and she wasn't lazy.
"What happened? He beat you up again?" She
asked sadly looking at her daughter. Her face
was swollen and so was her one eye. She
looked like she was in a lot of pain.
"Mama, how are you?" She tried to speak clearly.
"Answer me."
"Yes, it was over Zinhloso again."
Granny sighed, "what did you do to my
grandchild again? What's wrong with you?"
"It was a mistake mama."
"Leave this man and come back home with the
children." She suggested.
"I was in the wrong."
"It doesn't matter!" She shouted, "there's no
excuse for what he did and I don't get how you
let a man with one arm do this to you while you
have both arms." She stood up and removed the
blankets from her body. Her heart broke when
she saw her.
"He's my husband, I won't leave him."
"Don't be stubborn!" She shouted.
Mrs Mnguni shook her head, "no, mama."
"I will go get you painkillers," she said and left
her but she was angry. She had to talk to
Mnguni. It didn't matter what her daughter did
but she didn't deserve that….
UMCEBO

Chapter 18

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

She was walking on the streets wearing jeans

high waist shorts and a white long sleeve
stomach-out with black jelly shoes. She had
covered her head with a head wrap. She was
carrying her water bucket walking on a road she
didn't normally take when going to the river. But
she had a purpose. She didn't want to wait for
her sisters, when Nobuhle told her to wait she
refused. How was she going to see him if they
were there?
"Maybe it's too early? What if I actually don't see
him?" She asked out loud as she approached
the Xulu homestead. It was early in the morning
before 7am but the sun was already out. She
looked back but couldn't see not even the head
of the family. The yard was quiet. Zinhloso
passed slowly and disappointment washed over
her. This meant she woke up early for nothing.
She looked up at the tree and saw some
beautiful guavas, to pass time - maybe give him
a chance to wake up and see her, Zinhloso got
on the tree.
She got down without seeing anyone in the yard.
She put her guavas on the bucket and carried
on with her walk.
"Gege la gege ntaba zonke ziyangigegela, dudlu
mathambo kanyoko. Mawubona mina ubona
uthando!" (He was asking her out.)
The deep voice lightened up her morning and
brought out a smile that brightened her face but
she didn't stop walking. She walked slowly, a
charming walk she didn't know she had.
Mhlabunzima brought out the best in her - she
was even waking up early and bathing early just
to go to the river just to see him.
"Yazi ngaphambi kokuba ngihlangane nawe
amehlo ami abegcwele inkungu kodwa
mzukwane ngiqala ukukubona kwashintsha
konke lokho. Kwakhanya kwathi bha! Phela
ngangibona ingelosi uqobo lwayo," (Before I
met you my sight was foggy but when I first
met you it became clearer because I was seeing
an angel) Mhlabunzima appeared before her
with a charming smile. He looked fresh on a
black graphic tee and shorts, with black tekkies.
He was carrying his fighting stick.
When he appeared before her she wiped the
smile off her face and wore a serious look. She
looked at him up and down and proceeded
walking. She noticed a purplish shade on his
dark skin on his face. He was walking before
her, playing with his stick while smiling at her.
"Angikaze ngibubone ubuhle obungaka
nabakithi asebendela kwelamathongo
bayangihlebela ukuthi lobubuhle budingeka
laphaya emagcekeni oGxabhashe. Ngathi
ngiyakubona usukhwishiza emagcekeni akithi,
kukhona nokuncane kugxuma gxuma emva
kwakho, nhliziyo yami inganethezeka," (I have
never seen such beauty, even my ancestors
agree that you're needed inside the Xulu yards.)
he said holding his chest with an unending
bright smile, "awu, qoma phela ntombi
kesihambe le ndlela yothando." (Please accept
my love so that we'll walk the journey of love)
Zinhloso stopped walking, "kini niyidla
ngokhezo imbuya, ngesandla, noma ngothi?" (In
your household do you eat using your hands or
spoons? ***Direct translation***)
He remained standing before her. He looked
down with a head shake, "siyidla ngelegolide
ukhezo mntanomuntu. Nawe ke uma
ungangivulela inhliziyo yakho ube ngowami
koba ngelakho lonke lelo golide." (We eat with
gold spoons. If you can open up your heart for
me, my share of gold will be yours.) He
answered unfazed by her serious face. He
wasn't going to chicken out. Never!
She twisted her lips and continued walking,
"where were you? I passed by and couldn't see
you." She asked without giving an answer
whether she was accepting him or not.
He knew he wasn't going to get an answer
today. He laughed at her question, "I was
looking at you where I was. It was by luck that I
was already up. I was tired and do you know
what this means?"
She glanced at him, "what?"
"This means I was destined to be here, next to
you."
She stared at her feet, "you were lucky I passed
by."
He ignored the odour and hung his arm on her
shoulder. "I am happy to see you. You're the
first person I saw this morning and I would be
happy if I got to see your face every morning."
There weren't any adults on the road but a few
children carrying bread, milk. The children didn't
pass without looking at them.
"Bancane bobabili, bafishane futhi," (they're
both small and short) one girl said to her sister
she was walking with.
"Ehe, bahle kodwa futhi bagqoke kahle. Nami
masengimdala ngizogqoka njengaye usisi," (but
they're beautiful and dressed up nicely, when I
am older I will also dress up like her.)
Zinhloso giggled and Mhlabunzima only shook
his head. They took the road to the river. "How
did you sleep at night? Don't tell me you dreamt
about me." He asked.
Her laughter made the birds sing louder. She
was happy. "No, I didn't dream about you and
don't lie to me and say you dreamt of me.
Ungangisheli ngamanga."
"It's not a lie but when you think too much about
someone they end up appearing in your
dreams," he looked at her as she bent down to
take off her shoes. Her back was hairy where
skin was showing. Mhlabunzima didn't get his
eyes off her body.
"I didn't know about that."
"Think about me all day today and you'll see me
when you sleep," he said.
She walked out of the water with a full bucket, "I
am not promising but I will try."
"That makes me happy," he said and took out a
face cloth on his pocket, "let me help you."
He squatted down, "you're wearing jelly shoes
and if you wear them with wet feet they'll
become slippery and you'll fall."
"I have balance," she didn't admit he was right.
She normally didn't wear these shoes on the
river but she wanted to look nice.
"No, you should carry a small towel or wipe your
feet using inkatha," he said, wiping her feet.
Zinhloso was holding his shoulders for balance.
It was only them on the river. "I won't always be
here to help you." He helped her put on the
shoes and he put the bucket on her head after.
"Thank you."
They walked up but changed direction, "it's not
heavy?" He asked.
"No, it's not like you would have carried it for me
if it was heavy."
He chuckled, "you'll never know."
"What happened to your face? You're dark but I
can see different shades of colour."
He laughed, he'd even forgotten about his face.
It was painful but bearable, "your father did a
number on me last night."
"What! Really? How did you react?" She asked
surprised, she glanced at him and wished to
caress his face. How could he be so cruel?
"Didn't you tell him you didn't know I was his
daughter?"
"I told him but my father told him to stop talking
and beat me. He told me to stay away from you
but I won't," he kept playing with his stick.
"I am sorry. You should take care of your face."
She said and saw a grey dove.
"I will do that so that I will always look good for
you."
She giggled, "Xulu, look, there's a grey dove.
Why didn't you bring a slingshot?"
"Do you love eating birds?" He asked, looking
around for a stone. "Stop walking and don't
make a sound."
He found three stones, and said a short prayer
to uMvelinqangi. He wanted to impress her by
all means. He aimed and with one shot, the bird
was down. "You see? That was easy," he said
coolly like it was no big deal but deep down he
was very happy he was able to score at once.
Zinhloso laughed happily, "you're amazing!" She
walked behind while Mhlabunzima went ahead
to look for the bird. He returned with it. "Thank
you, I will braai it now when I get home."
He made a mental note to create a slingshot
just to get birds for her, "I should teach you how
to get birds without a slingshot. You'll do it at
home, create a trap for them."
"That would be lovely. I am looking forward to
that."
They kept walking and they met up with a few
people who would greet and pass.
When they were almost closer to her home,
Mhlabunzima stopped walking, "I will wait for
you here. Go inside and get me your school
report. Take your bird so they'll see you enter
with it."
"My report? Why do you need it?"
"Don't ask questions but trust me and give me
your report unless if you are shy that you're
failing," he teased her.
She laughed hilariously, "I never fail. Wait here,
you'll see." She headed home. Determined to
prove to him that she didn't fail. Her sisters
were going up and down, the yard had a lot of
patients.
"You're back, you're such a stubborn person,"
Nobuhle said to Zinhloso. She helped her put
the bucket down. "How did you get the bird?"
"I hit it with a stone."
"Really?" She asked not believing her.
She looked around, "yes, why does it seem
you're all busy?"
"Yes, there's grandma and she is making us go
up and down. She's also nursing mom."
"Okay, I will come back," she walked away
quickly. She heard her mother crying the
previous night and she blocked out everything,
allowing her body to rest.
She looked for her school report, when she
burnt her school things it was only uniform and
books of previous grades, not books of the
current grade.
She closed the door of her hut but looking
around, she walked out after ensuring nobody
was focused on her.
Mhlabunzima was still waiting, "that didn't take
you long," he took the report and looked at it,
"impressive!"
"I told you and it's busy today. They said
grandma is also home."
"Alright, I shouldn't keep you. I was happy to see
you today, thank you." He held her hand. They
were far down from the gate, "and I wish to see
you again. I don't know how but we should meet
again."
"Let's see what destiny will plan, uhambe kahle,"
she smiled and pulled her hand back. She
walked home. Mhlabunzima didn't turn to leave
but he stood there - looking at her walk.

Zinhloso found her grandmother having tea

inside the living room. She happily sat next to
her, "sawubona, gogo," she greeted.
Granny's lips curved into a smile, "oh, my little
girl. How are you? Look I am having a third cup
now and you're only coming back now."
"I went to the river."
"So, early and alone. Usuqomile yini?" (Are you
dating?) She looked at her suspiciously.
Zinhloso laughed, "no, who would want to date
me?"
"You're pretty and your grandfather married me
the way I was. You can find a man who'll accept
you," she encouraged her. She loved Zinhloso
the most because she was like her in almost
everything even being lazy, it was her. Whenever
she saw her, it was like she was looking at her
young self. She didn't want Zinhloso to think
she was unworthy of the love of a man.
"Maybe men from your time are not like men
from this generation," she said but deep down
she was hoping Mhlabunzima could be that
man.
"Men of your generation are more sensible but
they like war, political war. I heard Xulu's son
took you," she placed her cup down.
Zinhloso avoided eye contact by looking at the
TV, "yes, he did but he ensured I came back,
that everyone came back."
"Hm, I don't like what your mother did but I also
don't support what your father is doing to her."
She held her hand, "can't you talk to your father?
You're closer to him."
"What should I say to him?"
"Tell him to stop beating your mother, it's not
right."
"I am just a child. How can I involve myself in
their business? He'll tell me where to get off,"
she reminded her grandmother.
She sighed, "you're also right." She looked at her,
"when are you visiting me? Your sister told me
you no longer go to school."
"She can't come for a visit she has things to do
here at home," Mnguni answered before
Zinhloso could even answer. "Ninjani mama?"
Granny scrunched her nose, "why are you
mistreating my child?" She shouted at him,
"she's black and blue because of you. What's
wrong with you?"
"Did she tell you what she did?" He asked not
moved by her shouting.
"It's not an excuse for beating her. She's a
grown woman and if you keep treating her like
this I will take her," she warned.
"That would also be helpful, mama," he shocked
her by his words. Mnguni looked at his daughter,
"go and change your clothes, come to the
healing hut I need your help, Katshana.'
Zinhloso stood up, "yebo, baba." She looked at
her grandmother, "I will come back, gogo." She
rushed to her hut. She was wondering why he
needed her report and she easily gave it to him.
UMCEBO

Chapter 19

Looking at the report it made him proud and not

ashamed that he'd be advocating for her. How
could school teachers allow a learner to stop
coming to school just like that?
"Yes, it's sunny but there's a cold wind. This
means, winter is coming," Mhlabunzima said to
the security guard. The guard was taking him to
Zinhloso's teacher. He was a village man he
knew.
"Yes, I hardly see you here."
"I know I am here for an urgent matter."
The security guard knocked at the door. The
pupils were coping from the board and the
teacher was seated on her table marking books,
"baba, come in."
He walked in with Mhlabunzima, "mam, this is
Xulu's son and he's here for you."
The teacher stopped marking, "alright, let's go
to the staff room." She pointed the way out and
looked at her learners, "I will come back. I hope
when I come back you'll be done."
"Yes, mam!" They sang. She led Mhlabunzima
to the staff room. The room was empty, all
teachers were in classes. They sat down.
"How can I help you?"
"I am Mhlabunzima Xulu."
The teacher looked alarmed but she quickly
composed herself, "oh Xulu! I have heard of
you."
"I am glad," he gave her a smile and handed the
school report to her. "Can you take a look at
this."
The teacher read the report and she frowned,
"Zinhloso's report?" She asked confused.
"Yes, she was your learner but she stopped
coming to school because she was being
bullied. She was bullied for being sick, did you
know?" He asked, his tone was low but
intimidating. "Did you know that such a good
learner is no longer coming to school because
of bullies? Others in your class and other in
other classes?"
She looked down ashamed, "she once told me
and I spoke to those learners I didn't know she
stopped school because of them."
"Really? I thought when a teacher can't see one
learner she tries to find reasons why they're no
longer coming to school. Why didn't you do
that?" He asked trying by all means not to lose
his cool.
"I have been busy-"
"That's an excuse mam, she's been staying at
for a month now and you've been busy to find
reasons?" He remained steady because his aim
was not to fight.
"I thought she'll come back after getting a cure.
It's not easy for other learners-"
"Oh, my elder you're speaking rubbish now.
What if she doesn't find any cure? She must not
study even though she's capable?" He slightly
raised his voice, "I thought our oppressors are
Boers but you're actually doing the oppression
here? You're not even from this village." He
laughed and stood up.
"What does that supposed to mean?" She asked
nervously. "I will talk to the principal." She
promised as his look shook her knees. She
didn't want to be in trouble with these political
boys of this village. They had a reputation of
being violent.
"No, you failed to do that and I will do that
myself," he turned and didn't stop even though
she was shouting after him. Luckily, the
principal's office was next door. Mhlabunzima
knocked once and he got ignored.
"Don't do this! You'll disturb him, he's busy. I will
talk to him and ensure that Zinhloso comes
back." She pleaded with him.
"You had your chance but you didn't bother so
step aside," he said and knocked again. He
wasn't going to leave without talking to him, "it's
Mhlabunzima Xulu and I would like to have a
word with you sir."
His name worked for him because the door was
opened. "Xulu, come in!" The principal
personally showed him inside the office.
Zinhloso's teacher followed.
"Thank you," Mhlabunzima took a seat and
ignored the fact that the principal was actually
ignoring his knock.
"How can I assist you?"
"I am sorry that I came unannounced but it's an
urgent matter."
"No, it's okay I am used to it - yea" he didn't
finish his sentence about the villagers who
didn't like to follow protocol. What if he
offended him?
"Very well then," he put the report on top of the
table and he told him about Zinhloso's issue.
"Did you know about this? Your teacher knew
about it and she just told me Zinhloso should
come back once she's found the cure."
The principal looked at the teacher, "no, I wasn't
aware, Xulu, the treatment she's got is uncalled
for!"
"At least we're on the same page," he grinned, "I
would like to have her back in class
immediately. She's lost time, a month staying at
home,
"I suggest you go to her father and ask to have
her back in school. This school needs learners
who are actually passing so it'll have a good
record. I don't even want to see the reports of
her bullies. I know smart people don't bully
others. She must come back here or else we'll
close the school." He gave the principal a
friendly smile.
But the principal wasn't a fool. He knew it
wasn't friendly and he knew Mhlabunzima
meant every word. "That'll be done. I will
personally go to her father with her teacher."
The principal promised.
Mhlabunzima smiled happily, "that would be
awesome. Thank you so much," he gave him his
hand and they shook hands. He stood up and
looked around the office, "and I think it's time I
become part of SGB. I should be the voice of
the youth." He looked at them both and left
after thanking them for welcoming him. He was
relieved that he was successful.
One thing for sure, he meant business about
closing the school should they not bring
Zinhloso back to school.
"Thank you, baba, I found help," he said to the
security guard.
"Okay, go well son."

He was walking on the gravel road planning his

day in his head. He didn't even sleep with a
complete plan. All that he knew was - he had to
go to the school and tell them to bring her back.
He was prepared to go to war if needed and
luckily it didn't come to that. He'd long finished
school and even got a chance to study further
because his father could afford education then.
But he wasn't utilising his qualifications, to him -
they were quite useless because it wasn't
quality education that the whites got. His
people got the crumbs of education. But he still
encouraged the youth from his village to go to
school. It didn't matter to him whether you were
a girl or boy. You had to get an education. He'd
helped a number of youth by convincing parents
that they needed to attend school. He mostly
helped girls, because adults in the village
believed that they didn't need to be educated.
They only needed to know how to read and
write so they'd be able to read letters from their
husbands and write letters back to their
husbands. He didn't support that reasoning.
"Nobuhle? Hello, aren't you supposed to be in
school?" He asked as he met Nobuhle on the
road.
"Mhlabunzima, hi, yes I am supposed to be in
school but I have to go to the primary school
because there are things I need there," she
responded.
He nodded, "I see. It's good that I met you. I
didn't get a chance to actually tell you about my
conversation with Robert where your son is
concerned."
"Yes, of course. I came to the shop the other
day and you weren't there," she said.
"Sorry, I spoke with him and he denied
everything. He said he's a present father."
She widened her eyes, "that's a lie! How could
he lie like that? I really don't understand what's
wrong with him."
"I have a suggestion."
"Yes!"
"How about I organise a meeting between the
two of you?" He suggested, "you'll come to my
shop and find him there, then the two of you will
have a confrontation. You can ask your little
sister to accompany you."
"Oh, Mhlabunzima, that would be very helpful. I
don't know how to thank you," she smiled and
her eyes were attracted to Zinhloso's name on
the report he had in his hand but she couldn't
see the surname. Was that her sister's report?
"Don't worry. I will write the letter with details
and have it sent to you."
"Alright but whoever you send should only give
me or Zinhloso." She said.
He nodded, "noted and why are you alone today?
Why didn't she accompany you?"
"Oh that one is lazy. She's still sleeping. I left
dad promising to break her door and to send
cows away one day if a man wants to marry
her," Nobuhle narrated freely.
Mhlabunzima laughed, "poor thing. Let me not
keep you." He walked away and shook his head
with a smile about Zinhloso who was still
sleeping at 10am.

"Oh great! You're awake, have taken a bath and

are already eating," Nobuhle sat next to her
sister on the bench.
Zinhloso was under the tree eating while
listening to the radio. Her father's radio that
used batteries, "yes, and I am still sleepy. How
did you go?"
"It went well, I met Mhlabunzima on my way to
school."
She almost smiled but quickly composed
herself, "oh, did he say something?"
"Yes, about Robert. He'll organise a meeting and
I ask that you accompany me. He's actually the
one who suggested I should ask you."
Her heart did a happy dance. This meant she'd
get the chance to see him again. "It's okay we'll
go," she doesn't show the excitement on her
face.
Nobuhle stood up, "thank you," she looked down
at her sister, "and on his hand he had a school
report with your name on it but I couldn't see
the surname."
"Really?" She laughed, "that's a good thing. It
means we have another Zinhloso in this village."
"No, you're the only Zinhloso in this village," she
looked at her closely.
But Zinhloso didn't give it away, "you may never
know." She said and Nobuhle decided to let it
go. She left her.
UMCEBO

Chapter 20

**Unlocked bonus chapter***

Zinhloso was walking her grandmother to the

bus stop. Her grandmother was going back
home after a week and a few days of being with
them. She looked after Zinhloso's mother until
she was able to come out of her hut. She was
better and could move around freely again.
"I will miss you gogo. I enjoyed having you
around," Zinhloso said to her grandmother. Her
sisters were at school and her brother was
home busy with their father.
"Oh, my child, I also enjoyed being around you
children," she smiled. She didn't feel like leaving,
her daughter especially but she had to go home.
"You should ask your father if you want to visit."
"But gogo you heard what he said when you
spoke about it."
"Yes, I heard him but I am sure if you ask him
he'll agree unless you don't like visiting
anymore," she looked at her with a suspicious
eye, "and that will tell me you really have a
boyfriend that you don't want to get away from."
"No! I will ask him to come and you'll see I will
come." She said quickly. She didn't want her to
keep bringing the boyfriend matter. She was
noisy at times but Zinhloso liked her kind of
nosy. It was out of love and care.
"I will be happy. Look, this bus has arrived." The
bus stopped and Zinhloso assisted her
grandmother get on the bus. She waved once
she was up. She only headed home after the
bus had moved. She was quite sad now that her
granny was gone. It was good having her
around. She didn't get bored during the day like
before.

He parked the car outside the gate and he felt a

little shy that he was parking like this. It was like
he was already a son-in-law and should be
respectful.
His chuckle was audiod as he wondered how
Mnguni would react if could learn he liked his
daughter?
"What are you thinking about?"
Mhlabunzima was startled by his brother's
voice. Kusakusa was seated at the backseat of
the car. They were waiting for Mzomubi - they
were going for shooting practice. The practice
Mhlabunzima felt he didn't need but he had to
go along if he didn't want his father to know he
already had a gun.
"It's nothing important." He saw Nobuhle
walking out and he hooted once. "Can you
please pass by, sisi omdala!" He raised his
voice for her.
Nobuhle stopped walking and turned to
Mhlabunzima. She was going down.
"Sanibona, I am not even paying attention to the
car." She greeted, standing by the driver's side.
The two brothers greeted back, "I saw you
weren't paying attention and I am glad I saw you.
We're actually waiting for your brother."
"He's almost done. He's with dad."
"Alright, I called you here to tell you that let's
make it this coming Friday at 4pm. I don't know
if it's fine by you but it's fine by him."
Nobuhle nodded with a short smile, "that's not a
problem. It's also fine by me."
"Perfect! That's all then and this means I don't
have to write a letter anymore."
She laughed, "yes, let me get going, bye." She
proceeded with her journey after they'd said
goodbye back.
Kusakusa cleared his throat after a few minutes
of silence, "what's going on between the two of
you?"
"Two of whom?"
"Don't act childish, Mhlaba! You know what I am
talking about," Kusakusa slightly raised his
voice, annoyed.
"What interest do you have in my business?" He
asked sternly.
"I am your older brother don't ask me that," he
hissed, "you do need a woman to keep you
occupied and tamed but it can't be Mnguni's
daughter. Are you out of your mind?"
Mhlabunzima cunningly laughed, "I am already
occupied bhuti don't worry and just so you
know," he turned to look at him. Kusakusa's
eyes were laced with contempt but
Mhlabunzima wasn't intimidated. "There's no
woman who'll make me stop politics. No
woman will come between me and my political
commitment. You and dad should know that."
"Continue and you'll die young." He said angrily.
Mhlabunzima ignored him. They remained
silent as they waited.
Mzomubi walked out of the gates after three
minutes. He took the passenger seat, "I am
really sorry for keeping you waiting. I had things
to finish off."
"It's okay, let's go," Mhlabunzima started the car
and he drove down.
***
The car parked outside the gate and he got off
along with Zinhloso's teacher. They were with a
child who helped them with directions to
Zinhloso's home.
"Wait here boy, we'll come back." The principal
closed his car's door.
They opened the gates, "such a nice and
spacious yard," the teacher commented.
"Yes, village life is actually bearable it seems."
He commented looking around the yard. They
spotted Zinhloso coming out of her father's
healing hut.
"She's shocked to see us," the teacher
commented and she laughed, Zinhloso was
rooted in one place, still surprised.
The principal waved at her, "come here!"
She rushed to the teachers and she greeted,
"please come in." She showed them inside the
house and inside the house she led to the living
room.
"We're here to talk to your parents. The parent
who's ready should come."
Zinhloso curtsy, "yes, sir!" She quickly walked
off. When she returned, she was with her father.
She served them cold drink and left the elders
to talk.
After the meeting with Mhlabunzima, the
principal called his staff and he spoke to them
about the visit he had. They all advised him to
do as Mhlabunzima had said and in their
classes, they spoke lengthy about bullying. They
specifically touched on the issue of Zinhloso
stopping school because of bullies. The
principal recieved a letter from Mhlabunzima,
asking for his name not to be mentioned to
Mnguni.
"Is there something wrong? I no longer have
children in your school," Mnguni didn't even
bother asking how they were. "My youngest left
your school. Why are you here?"
The principal massaged his hands in respect,
"cha, Mzimela, we're here to fix things. You see,
your daughter is one of our top learners and I
wasn't aware that she's no longer coming to
school. Someone asked me if I was aware and I
was shocked."
"Didn't your teacher tell you about it?"
"It must have slipped through her mind. We're
humbly asking that you bring the child back to
school," the principal pleaded, "I have spoken to
my learners and made them understand they
can't ruin Zinhloso's future because she has an
illness. She deserves education like them."
"Yes, I am really sorry Donda for not taking this
matter seriously. I thought she was upset and
she would come back because I know she loves
school," the teacher said, "I didn't understand
the seriousness of the situation. We're kindly
asking for her to come back to school and
learn."
The principal nodded, "you're one of the few
men with daughters who had sent his
daughters to school. All of them, don't stop
Zinhloso. She might suffer more if her sisters
are educated and she's not."
The principal's words touched him. "I hear you
and I am thankful you came but what if they
bully her again?"
"We've told them bullies will be expelled. A
victim won't leave school while they continue
studying." Principal answered.
He nodded, "Let me call her and hear what she
has to say because this was her choice." He left
the teachers talking.
"Why are you not having the cold drink?" The
principal asked.
She shook her head, "I can't drink something
from a traditional healer. What if they added
Muthi there?"
"Don't be ridiculous!"
"No, thanks." She said and they remained quiet
until Mnguni returned with his daughter.
Zinhloso sat down - back in the living room and
her father told why her teacher and principal
were visiting. "I think you should listen to them
and go back to school. What do you think
child?" Mnguni asked his daughter.
"They'll bully me again, baba. What's the point?"
The principal took over and convinced her, he
told her about the meeting with other staff. He
told her about the new rule concerning bullying.
Zinhloso remained quiet for a while and she
looked at her father with her precious smile, "I
would like to go back to school. I will be able to
catch up on a month's school load."
The teachers looked at each in relief, "that's
very well and don't worry I have specifically
copied everything for you. I will give it to you
when you come back," her class teacher said,
"we'll go through it during break time and also
come to school early. You'll paste the copies on
your books."
"Thank you so much, mam." She said happily.
She didn't want to admit that not attending
school was making her miserable. She looked
at her father with a happy face. Her father
brushed her head. Mnguni thanked them and
they walked them out with Zinhloso.
"And where's your school uniform?" Mnguni
asked Zinhloso. They were walking back to the
house.
She kept quiet for a while and glanced at her
father, "baba!" She couldn't even say it. She
burnt the uniform out of anger.
Mnguni laughed, "you'll go buy new one with
your sisters this weekend."
"Thank you," she was happy and it didn't cross
her mind that Mhlabunzima was behind this…
UMCEBO

Chapter 21

She was busy sweeping the yard. She was

supposed to have gone back to school the next
day as it was still weekdays but she didn't have
a school uniform. Her sisters' uniform could
have never fitted her and even if it could have,
they didn't keep the old uniform but they gave it
to the needy learners.
She didn't have anything to do as her father
wasn't home. And so, she thought, 'why not
sweep the yard?' Her motivation had been
Mhlabunzima who said he would like to see her
'ekhwishiza.' How would she move around his
yard if she didn't start by sweeping her home's
yard? She couldn't sweep her 'husband's yard'
without sweeping her home first. She giggled at
the thought of Mhlabunzima being her husband.
She hadn't even accepted his love request but
she was already thinking of him as her husband.
"What happened?"
She stopped sweeping as her mother's
surprised voice disturbed her day dreaming.
"Ma?"
"Why are you sweeping the yard? You only like
fetching water." Mrs Mnguni asked.
Zinhloso was surprised at her choice of words.
Yes, she was lazy but her mother only allowed
her to fetch water. She didn't want her doing
other things, especially chores in the house. But
she didn't remind her that, "I am bored. I have
already fetched water three times."
"I heard from your father that you're going back
to school."
This was her mother's first time freely coming
out of her hut after the beating. She hadn't seen
her since and looking at her she didn't see any
bruises. She wondered - how her father was
beating her and why he thought beating her
would solve the problem. She wouldn't dare ask
him that question. She knew her place very well
and she didn't have the courage even though
she always wanted to ask him. 'Why was he
beating her mother?'
"Yes, I am going back."
"You burnt your uniform and now we should buy
you a new uniform. Can you see that you're
wasting money? You didn't even think of giving
that uniform to other children. It was new,
you've worn it for three months," She raised her
voice annoyed by her. "You do as you please,
you stop school when you feel like it and go
back when you feel like it. You're not the first
person to be bullied because of this body odour.
I was bullied too but I didn't even have it."
She looked down ashamed because her mother
was right about one thing. She was supposed to
give the uniform to other children because even
her old uniform wasn't in a bad shape.
"I will use my savings to buy the new uniform,"
she lied. She knew her father wouldn't let her.
She had a 5 litre tin where she was putting
coins. It started as a joke when she asked her
father to get a 'safe' for her like the one he had.
Her father asked what she would do with the
safe and she said she would be the first lady in
the village to buy a car. They laughed at her and
her father gave her a 5 litre tin, he told her it was
a money safe for young people. She could only
put money but couldn't take it out. And because
she was more naive back then, she believed
him but later she learnt that he was lying to her.
The tin wasn't full yet but half after five years.
She was sixteen years old when she started.
She didn't put money everyday but she put it
when she remembered to.
"That's a lie because even if you can be told I
am dying as your mother you'll never open that
tin," she predicted, "just like you didn't even
come to see me not once."
"See you where?" She asked, confused.
"I was beaten up black and blue by your father
because of you. All your siblings came to see
me but you didn't bother not even once! I gave
birth to you." She glared at her. She expected
Zinhloso would also come see her like the
others but she didn't.
Zinhloso looked at her mother without saying
anything. She didn't want to remind her again,
her mother once told her not to enter her hut.
She didn't need her there and so, Zinhloso never
entered the hut. She had no full idea how the
hut looked inside because it had been
renovated inside. It had new furniture bought by
her father for her mother. Zinhloso had the old
picture of the hut inside. It was always closed
because she would say she didn't want dust
inside her personal space. Her mother was a
very neat person.
"I asked you a question, why didn't you come?"
She shouted but Zinhloso only looked at her.
"You! You'll kill me one day. I am glad you can't
even cook because you would have poisoned
me a long time ago." She left Zinhloso standing.
She continued sweeping after she had
disappeared from her sight. She couldn't even
proceed with her daydreaming because she
was upset.
After she was done, she walked out through the
gates and before she could even reach the main
road she met up with her father. He was with
Mzomubi. Her father stopped walking and
Mzomubi proceeded.
"Where are you going?" He asked.
Zinhloso tried to think of something, "to the
tuckshop."
"Who gave you the money?" He knew she was
lying. She was probably going to get more
guavas because their tree had no guavas left.
"Show me the money."
"Baba -"
"Go back home. You act like a child. You never
learn. Just yesterday you were crying because
of constipation caused by these guavas and
you're going back." He pointed the way back
home. "I had to ask your sister to force you to
use enema injection. Go back home."
With a sulking face, she took her father's bag
and walked back home with him. She wanted to
go to the tree by Mhlabunzima's home, maybe
she was going to see him. Her father had to
come at the wrong time.
She got home and went to her hut, she gathered
her school books to kill boredom.

Friday, Nobuhle and Zinhloso left home as

people who were going to the tuckshop to buy
snacks when their mother asked where they
were going.
"Why are you dressed up nicely? We're just
going to the tuckshop." Nobuhle asked her
sister, looking at the black laminated glister
pants she was wearing with a blue shirt.
"No, these are my normal clothes."
"No, you wear these clothes when going to
town."
Zinhloso shrugged, "no, they no longer fit
properly that's why I am wearing them at home
now." She lied again. She was stupid, she was
supposed to wear something different because
she was with Nobuhle. She was relieved when
Nobuhle dropped the topic.
"Are you nervous?" Zinhloso asked.
"I haven't seen him in a long time."
"I know but don't show him that you're nervous."
She advised.
Nobuhle breathed in and out, "I won't."
They found Mhlabunzima waiting for them on
the veranda of the tuckshop. His eyes went
straight to Zinhloso. He was taken to the first
time he met her. He would never forget that day
in his life.
Nobuhle looked at Mhlabunzima then her sister.
She greeted Mhlabunzima but he didn't greet
back. He was staring at her sister, her sister
who was looking down like a shy new girlfriend.
"Xulu!" Nobuhle tapped his shoulder repeatedly.
He smiled at her pretending like he wasn't
zoned out, "I was thinking about how he'll
react."
"Who?"
"I actually didn't tell you that I didn't tell him he'll
be meeting up with you. He's waiting at my
office," he led them to the back. Mhlabunzima
was extending the shop he was planning on
selling white leghorn chickens and also have
the breed for eggs only.
"It's fine. We'll take whatever reaction we can
get." She said, "I am only thankful for your help."
"No problem." He looked back at Zinhloso, she
was following them behind. He smiled at her
and she smiled back.
He opened the office - it was small. It had a
desk and two chairs and a file cabinet only.
Robert stood on his feet as his eyes met with
Nobuhle's eyes. "What's going on, Xulu?" He
asked but his eyes were still fixed on her.
Seeing her again awakened the anger. He was
willing to dedicate his life to her - to them but
she dumped him.
"I thought since you both are telling me
different things I should organise this meeting. I
won't get involved but you'll talk your issues
out," Mhlabunzima said.
"You can't do that. Why didn't you tell me the
truth in the beginning?"
"That's because you were going to refuse."
"Yes, I was going to refuse!"
Mhlabunzima looked at Zinhloso and held her
hand, "I will take MaMnguni omncane and leave
you two to talk it out." He pulled her away and
closed the door behind.
"I am only agreeing to have this talk out of
respect for Xulu." Robert said, taking
Mhlabunzima's chair.
Nobuhle sat on the opposite chair, "what's
wrong with you? Why are you acting like this?"
"Didn't you dump me because I am a bad lover
who doesn't have time for you but only time for
politics and my work?" He asked, reminding her
what he said to him.
"But Robert, you were neglecting me because of
your other commitments." She argued. "I
couldn't see you for over a month."
"What was I supposed to do because we were
in the middle of war with the other village? I was
supposed to be stuck in between your thighs
while other men were out there fighting?" He
raised his voice. He didn't want this
confrontation.
She looked down, "that's not what I am saying
but I had every right to complain. Let's also not
forget your mother."
"What about my mother?"
"She didn't like me and she doesn't even like her
grandson."
"She doesn't have to like you. You're not money.
Your focus was supposed to be on me!" He
didn't stop his rant.
Nobuhle didn't shout back even though his
words were hurting her feelings. She never
shouted back at him. "It's fine. Let's talk about
Sbusiso, that's why I called you here. Why are
you neglecting your son?"
"How am I neglecting him? I look after him,
every month I give you money for his needs. I
buy things for him when I see something in
town. That should show you that I think about
him. He's my son," he answered, "how is that
neglecting him?"
"That's not enough. You're not present in his life.
He wants to see you and play with you as his
father, and have a relationship with you." She
said, "that's what fathers do."
"I don't have time for that."
"But you have time for your mom? You get busy
with her and neglect your son?"
He looked at the time on his wristwatch, "I don't
know what you want from me. I live with my
mother and if you agreed to marry me I would
be living with you and our son. Maybe we would
even have another child but you dumped me."
"Is that the reason you're not having a
relationship with him?" She asked, hurt. How
could he speak like this?
"Yes, how can I have a relationship with a child I
don't live with?" He asked and he saw that she
was hurt but she also hurt him by dumping him
after so many years. He spent years courting
her and they dated, it was a good relationship
but she ended it.
"Sbusiso is your blood," she said with her voice
breaking.
"I know that's why I am doing the duties of a
father and looking after his needs."
"It's not enough."
He sighed and he looked at her with soft eyes.
He held her hands, "let's get back together and I
will be the father you want me to be."
"If I don't agree you won't be the father I want
you to be?"
He shook his head, "no, I will continue doing
things as I am doing them. I will be a father the
way I see fit. I will do what you tell me only if
you're my girlfriend again."
Nobuhle was dumbfounded. She slowly stood
up and headed to the door without breathing
another word. Robert was only looking at her.
UMCEBO

Chapter 22
They were seated at the back of the tuckshop,
outside. There was a veranda, there was a
bench and a table recently made by the
constructors who were building chicken coops.
Mhlabunzima bought the land where his
tuckshop was and he built the shop from
scratch.
There was a container of russians and potato
fries, they were eating with bread. He sold the
russians and fries in the tuckshop.
"What are they building here?" Zinhloso asked
and she closed her eyes, holding her chest.
Food wasn't going down.
Mhlabunzima quickly passed the glass of cold
drink to her, "eat like a lady not like a man," he
commented loosely. He looked at her as she
had the drink, his hand was softly brushing her
back.
But Zinhloso got offended. When she was really
enjoying the food she didn't eat slowly, "thank
you." She said after having the cold drink. She
looked at Mhlabunzima's lap. There weren't any
crumbs of bread but her lap was messy with
crumbs.
He wasn't noticing what she was seeing,
"they're building coops for chickens."
"Uzodayisa olamthuthu?" (You'll sell leghorn
chickens?)
"Yes."
"Mmm," she said and licked her lips. She looked
at him as he laughed his lungs out, "what?"
"Why does it seem like I will lose business
before even starting if you like food this much?"
He was amused by her.
She giggled, "no, I will buy. I won't take for free.
My sister cooks it best with dumplings."
"And you cook it best with what?"
She shrugged, "I think I like being a business
woman too now," she said ignoring the topic
about cooking, "do you know my father bought
a tin for me and lied to me about it being a safe?
I wanted a safe like the one I saw in his house."
"Why did you want a safe?"
"I wanted to save money and buy a car." She
looked at him as he drowned into laughter. She
was admiring a man who laughed graciously.
"Why are you laughing?" She asked seriously
once he was done laughing.
"I am amused by your ambitions. Do you even
know how to drive?"
"No, I don't but I am a fast learner."
"Do you want to know how to drive? Your
brother is difficult. I have been trying to teach
him."
"Yes, I would love to know how to drive."
"It's okay, I will teach you and that will give me
more time with you," he whispered the last
words about spending time with her.
She happily screamed and she laughed when
Mhlabunzima looked at her in shock. Being shy
was out the window, "I am so happy."
"I intend to make you happy for as long as I
live," he said, softly.
She looked at the food on the table with a smile,
"this week I got a visit from the principal and my
teacher, they told my father that I should come
back to school."
"Oh, that's good and what did your father say?"
He asked, taking a bite on the russian.
"He asked me what I want and I told them I will
be coming back to school." She smiled.
Mhlabunzima was proud of the smile he was
seeing on her face. He didn't regret going to
that school and speaking to her teachers.
"That's perfect. I like people who listen," he
whispered the last sentence and he looked at
her. He ignored the confusion on her face, "this
means I will have to bring back your report
now."
"Did you have anything to do with their visit?"
She asked, staring right into his eyes. He didn't
shy away from her eyes. "Why are you quiet?"
He shrugged, "why are you suspecting me?" He
asked, showing no sign of guilt. He didn't want
to explain himself to her.
"It's because of your words and you taking my
report," she answered and he remained quiet.
She nudged at his rib and he choked from the
drink.
"Zinhloso!"
"What? Answer me," she didn't seem bothered
by him choking. She looked at the table. "I will
take your house keys and go then, you'll see
where you'll sleep." She tried taking the keys
and Mhlabunzima stopped her.
"You wouldn't," he laughed as they battled with
their hands. Zinhloso unexpectedly tickled him,
he laughed louder and she got the opportunity
to take the keys. But she dropped them when
her sister stood there - looking at them.
She quickly stood up, "you're done?"
"Yes, I am done."
Mhlabunzima also stood up, "how did it go?"
"He has crazy demands. Thank you so much for
your help Mhlabunzima," she handed her hand
to him. They shook hands.
"Don't mention it." He looked at Zinhloso who
kept glancing at her food as she moved to her
sister. "Why are you leaving your food? I won't
eat all this."
She laughed, "okay, I will take my potion," she
took the food and her drink.
"You'd swear she doesn't eat at home." Nobuhle
commented and they laughed with
Mhlabunzima.
"Leave me alone and let's go," she said and they
left Mhlabunzima. He stood there - looking at
them as they walked away.
"What's so funny that the two of you were
laughing about?" Nobuhle asked. She was also
eating with Zinhloso as they walked on the road.
"Eh, we were just talking about the incidents
that happened in Durban."
"So, the incidents required the two of you to
even play with your hands?"
Zinhloso frowned, "no, I was trying to take my
food and he was being a joker."
"I hope you are being honest and you're not
thinking of dating if you are not dating already,"
Nobuhle said, "your relationship will complicate
things between the two families because you
know how your father is. He'll go mad and
business can be ruined. He went there and
waited for hours for Mhlabunzima's return
because he took you."
"He would have done that to anyone, even
Robert, if it was him." She said, this
conversation was annoying her.
"I know but right now I am talking about
Mhlabunzima. These two families need each
other. So, you should think of that," she glanced
at her and she couldn't figure anything out
through her facial expressions. "Dad is serious
when he says he doesn't want you to get
married and I also think you're not fit, not
because of your disorder but you can't even fry
an egg. At 16 years you couldn't even properly
mop the floor. You used to leave the whole floor
wet. Village men don't hire maids. Your father
hired one just for you because you're incapable
of looking after yourself. Nkosikazi oyinuku
futhi akathandeki. Uyoyixosha indoda
ngobunuku."
Zinhloso remained quiet after her sister's
lecture. She didn't even ask about Nobuhle's
meeting. She didn't even know how she felt
about everything she'd said but she knew it was
no use thinking of having a relationship with
Mhlabunzima. Nobuhle was probably right
about everything. She was older and knew best.
"You're not going to ask how my meeting went?"
Nobuhle asked.
"I thought you would tell me without me asking."
She figured her sister was upset. Was it
because of what she said? This meant
Mhlabunzima really had an interest in her. Why
would she be upset? She really needed to keep
a close eye on her. "Robert said he'll be a fully
present father if we get back together."
"That's crazy!" She raised her voice and threw
the empty food papers away, "what are you
going to do?"
"I won't go back to him."
"Why did you break up with him, konje?"
"He was too committed to politics and his work.
He's just like Mhlabunzima. You can't separate
him from politics."
Zinhloso looked aside, ignoring what she said
about Mhlabunzima. She looked forward and
remained quiet because she didn't know what
else to say. She was certain she liked him and it
hadn't been long since they started spending
time together. She was attracted to him but
there were so many things on the way. Was it
best to not start a relationship with him? Didn't
she deserve love too? So, only clean and
diligent women were worthy of love?
"I didn't mean to offend you with everything I
said but I was just looking out for you. To save
you and our family from embarrassment. You
can't be a wife and wake up at 10 in the
morning. Uzobe uyokwenzani emzini we ndoda?
Uyolala, udle ushiye kanjalo?" Nobuhle said
before they entered the yards. She could see
Zinhloso was no longer okay. She wasn't talking
as she thought she would. "unless you can
change which I doubt will happen. Look at
grandma, she still wakes up at 10 or 11 in the
morning. She's still messy." Nobuhle really
wanted to have her sister not even think of
dating Mhlabunzima but she couldn't use her
disorder as an excuse. She strongly wanted to
mention it but she knew she would hurt her and
ruin their relationship. She couldn't see her
sister as a wife or even a mother. It was even
difficult to enter her hut in the morning if she
hadn't opened the windows. How could a
husband tolerate that odour, everyday? Her
blankets needed to be washed every two weeks.
Who would be washing them because she was
too lazy to even sweep her own room? She kept
these questions to herself?
She wanted her to stop talking but she couldn't
tell her. She was only grateful that they were
home. Zinhloso went to her hut without saying
anything else to her sister. She locked the door
and went under the bed covers, she covered her
whole body with the blankets. It was best she
proceeded being a loner.

After Nobuhle had left him with no word, Robert

stood up and searched for Mhlabunzima. He
found him at the back.
"Did you call Nobuhle and her sister here so that
you can spend time with Zinhloso?" Robert
asked, sitting next to Mhlabunzima.
He only chuckled, "how did it go?"
"She doesn't want to have a relationship with
me again," Robert took Mhlabunzima's drink
and he gulped it.
"Was that meeting about your relationship or
your child?"
"I can't have a full relationship with my son
while I don't live with him. His mother should
marry me and we'll be together as a family," he
said unashamed.
Mhlabunzima looked at him as if he was
waiting for him to tell him that he was joking.
Robert didn't, "you're really crazy. You're not the
first man to have a child while you're no longer
with the mother."
"It's easy for you to say. Just have a child with
Zinhloso and wait for her to complain about
your commitment to politics," Robert stared at
him, "and then she'll dump you just for doing the
right thing, fighting for the people."
"Okay, that's hurtful but it has nothing to do with
Sbusiso."
"Everyone should just let me do what I want to
do just like Nobuhle did the same," he raised his
voice annoyed.
Mhlabunzima raised his hands, "okay, do as you
wish but I hope your child won't resent you."
"Do you really want to have a relationship with
Zinhloso? Do you even know her?" Robert asked.
Mhlabunzima folded the empty food containers,
"I want a strong traditional healer. Someone
who's bigger than Mnguni."
"Are you crazy? Do you want to put a spell on
his daughter? He'll kill you that man," he held his
shoulder, "do you even know what he did to me
when I made his daughter pregnant? I almost
went crazy."
"Do you know the traditional healer or not?" He
looked at him, not shaken by his words. He
would take it all for Zinhloso.
"A healer like that is across the river but you
can't go there. I am sure you can't even send
someone on your behalf if you want a love
portion," Robert said.
He rubbed his forehead, "eish. What am I going
to do then because I need someone I can trust.
Someone who'll not go around telling people I
was there."
"If you're that serious we'll look for the healer
but not someone who will know you. I wonder
who doesn't know you because even in
neighbouring villages they know your name and
surname," Robert commented. He could see
Mhlabunzima was deeply thinking. "By the way,
Zinhloso is not the kind of girl you can make a
wife. She's not a homemaker. You'll easily get
tired of her."
"Okay, leave that to me to worry about and I
don't even know who said I want her like that,"
Mhlabunzima stood up.
Robert stretched, "I can see you do and don't
worry about me. I won't tell anyone about it and
I will pray for your sake because her father will
deal with you."
Mhlabunzima only laughed his way back to the
tuckshop. He was still not moved.
"Only poverty can scare me to death. Mnguni
didn't create his wife, his wife is someone else's
daughter too," he said quietly. Robert looked at
him as if he was crazy but he remembered
himself, he was determined to have Nobuhle
even though he was warned by people close to
him not to go for her. He couldn't deny it -
Mnguni had beautiful daughters.
***
Aunt Maria entered her brother's yards and
looking around she was amazed. He left home
with absolutely nothing but their clothes and
he'd managed to build this? How? Some people
said he was a thief and some said he was a
hardworking man but she didn't care about the
truth. He was living a comfortable life and that
was good.
"Sawubona, Ngenzeni where's your father?"
Aunt Maria asked Ngenzeni. She was washing
vegetables next to the garden's gate.
Ngenzeni glared at her aunt and she didn't
answer her but she proceeded washing
vegetables without speaking to her.
Maria was just trying her luck with her brother's
daughter. She knew she never spoke to her. Her
brothers were better because they could
answer her even though they showed they
hated them but they were able to talk.
She left the child and looked for her brother.
She found him at the back of his house,
smoking pipe tobacco.
"Smoking is bad for your health. You have even
taught the child to smoke. I saw Mhlabunzima
smoking too," She sat on the grass. The bench
her brother was seated on was small.
He stopped smoking, "what are you doing here?
Why did you even enter?"
"Goba, I am still your sister and I am older than
you. You need to listen to me," she said softly.
Her father was really pitiful and it was
heartbreaking to watch.
"We're no longer family. Only blood ties us
because blood ties can't be broken," Xulu said.
"Please go home and see him, he's seeing
mother and she's asking about you," Maria said
sadly, "we learnt that he wasn't only seeing her
now but she came to him in dreams even
before. Mom wants to see you, home. Please
go and talk to your father."
"I will only go if I also see mom. If I don't see her
telling me to go see her cruel husband I won't
go because you could be lying," Xulu said
clearly, "now, leave my yard Maria I beg you. I
don't bother your family with anything and so,
please don't bother mine."
Maria stood up, "you're my brother and I care
about you," she left after seeing her brother
would never utter another word.
UMCEBO

Chapter 23

Mhlabunzima saw a figure like his aunt inside

his family yard and to avoid her, he rushed to
his house. He opened his safe that was inside
his wardrobe and he put his money inside, he
laughed as he closed the safe. Zinhloso
crossed his mind.
"She wanted a safe!" He shook his head, "she
must be a business woman first, then and get a
safe." He smiled.
He moved around, tidying his house. He cleaned
the house for himself most of the time.
Ngenzeni cleaned for him when he wasn't home
and when she washed clothes, she washed
clothes for both her brother and father. But he
could also wash his clothing.
"What did your sister want?" Mhlabunzima
asked entering the kitchen. His father was
seated on his bench by the door. He turned to
his brother, "hawu, bhuti, you're here. How are
you?"
"I am fine, your aunt came to me after speaking
with father. I thought I should come by,"
Kusakusa responded.
He grabbed a chair and sat next to his father,
"what does she want?"
Ngenzeni was busy preparing food for them.
"She told me to come and see your grandfather.
She said your grandfather has been seeing your
grandmother telling him I should come home,"
Xulu told his children.
Ngenzeni looked back at her father, "I am sure
that's a lie. They know you care too much about
grandma."
"She's right I don't think they're telling the truth,"
Mhlabunzima supported his sister.
"And what if they're speaking the truth?"
Kusakusa asked.
Xulu huffed, "I told her I want mama to speak to
me too and only then I will come home."
"Are you prepared?" Mhlabunzima asked.
"I will listen only when mom says I should but I
don't want to go back to him," he said
absentmindedly, "how am I supposed to look at
him after what he did to me? He blamed me for
something I didn't have any control over."
The brothers eyed one another. Their father
was being emotional, "it was a really difficult
time baba but we're no longer there now."
Kusakusa said.
"I know but it's the wound that will never heal."
Ngenzeni swallowed the lump on her throat,
"don't forgive them, dad. No one helped us. My
other cousin asked me for money and I didn't
even talk back to her."
"You did a good thing," Kusakusa complimented.
Ngenzeni served them food, "Mhlabunzima you
should get married now so that I will have a
sister here who'll help me," Ngenzeni said giving
Mhlabunzima food.
He ignored the stares from his father and
brother, "why do you like bringing this topic up?
It's like you're tired of giving me food."
They laughed, "I am not tired. You're my little
brother but I need a sister because my older
brother took his wife and left."
"Yes, I took her and left like I was supposed to."
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "but she doesn't even
come around, just to cook tea for us like any
wife should."
"Yes, we don't even live far," Ngenzeni
supported Mhlabunzima.
"She's cooking for me and that's enough,"
Kusakusa said, if only Mhlabunzima knew! He
was grateful that they didn't live together
because by the look of things, his wife would
have poisoned his brother.
"Your siblings are right. She doesn't even come
to cook tea for me, at least. She only comes
when she wants vegetables in the garden," Xulu
commented and they laughed.
"In my garden, that should be mentioned."
"Saze savelelwa! Your garden, we know!"
Ngenzeni exclaimed and they cracked up
laughing.
Mhlabunzima sipped on the drink once laughter
had toned down, "I look after it alone and we
enjoy vegetables and fruits together."
"That's also a good thing. You're saving us
money," Kusakusa complimented, "how's it
going with asking for land from the king?"
Mhlabunzima glanced at his father and he
frowned at Kusakusa but he was focused on his
plate. "What land? Are you planning on moving
out from home, Mhlabunzima?" His father
shouted.
Kusakusa was startled by the shouting. He
looked at Mhlabunzima, "he didn't know?"
"Of course and you've ruined it!"
"What's going on? Mhlabunzima!"
"He's not moving out, baba. He's planning on
asking for land to plough, have vegetables and
fruits then sell at the street market in town,"
Kusakusa came to the rescue. His father was
ready to eat him up. "He believes he'll need the
land when freedom comes and he'll plant sugar
cane once blacks are allowed to plant sugar
cane."
Xulu sighed, "when will that freedom come?" He
asked, looking at Mhlabunzima.
"I don't know but things won't be like this
forever," he said and wondered how his father
would react when he told him he didn't want his
wealth. There was hatred attached to that
wealth.
"I hope so too," Ngenzeni commented and
couldn't figure out why Mhlabunzima wanted so
many things for himself? He already had the
shop which he was extending, he had sheep
and now he wanted land to plough. Why was he
greedy because he was already custodian of
their father's wealth. He had the power to
distribute the wealth according to his wish - that
was stipulated down.
He looked at his father and then his brother,
"baba, can you help me with something if you
know."
"What?"
"I need a powerful traditional healer who isn't
your business partner, Mnguni."
Kusakusa raised an eyebrow, "and then?"
"I have personal issues I can't discuss in detail."
He dismissed his brother and looked at his
father for a response. "It should be someone I
can trust."
"Madlizinyoka, you'll find him at Dlangezwa. I
will tell you his address. He isn't as powerful as
Mnguni but he's honest. A healer who's
Mnguni's match is across the river where you're
not welcome because of your notorious
political violence," Xulu said bitterly.
Mhlabunzima ignored his last words, "thank
you."
"Ngab' ukuthi usuthole intombi ufuna
ukuyidlisa," Kusakusa said and Mhlabunzima
swore at him, "I will punch you. I am older than
you. Mnguni didn't give you enough punches, I
see."
Xulu and Ngenzeni laughed. Mhlabunzima didn't
comment or laugh.
***
They got off the bus with plastic bags, Zinhloso
had a plastic bag of new uniforms, the full
uniform including shoes. She also had a hair cut,
they weren't allowed to plait their hair in primary
school. Her sisters plaited their hair because
they were no longer in primary school. Nobuhle
and Ziwinile had plastic bags of new clothes.
Nobuhle also had a plastic bag for her mother.
They were given money by their father.
"I had a good time and I can't wait to try on my
clothes. I will wear them at our neighbour's
wedding," Ziwinile said. Who wasn't happy after
a good shopping trip?
"Yea, I will also wear the shoes there because I
have the dress I haven't worn," Nobuhle looked
at Zinhloso, "are you going?"
"No."
The sisters stopped their conversation, Robert's
mother had stopped walking. She was looking
at them. Nobuhle to be exact.
"Sawubona, gogo kaSbusiso." Nobuhle greeted
her.
The grown woman clicked her tongue, "why are
you abusing my son?" She asked.
"I don't understand," Nobuhle frowned. Did
Robert tell her about their meeting? But even if
he did, that wasn't abuse.
"I raised Robert and his sister, alone. I didn't
have any help from anyone. His father died, who
was I going to cry to?" She placed her fist on her
waist, "but I can't say much about you. You're
failing to financially look after your son. My son
sends money to you every month. Your son is
taking a lot of his money," the old woman was
shouting and she didn't care about the people
who were passing by.
"Robert is his father and I am not working." She
said, defeated.
"Quit school and go find work. Umfazi omdala
kangaka ufunani eskoleni? School is for
children." She screamed, "I sent Robert to
school so he'll work for his home, not you and
your son."
"But the child is your grandson," Ziwinile
commented.
She pointed at her, "shut up! I am not talking to
you," she looked back at Nobuhle, "give my son
a break and fend for that child of yours. Wasuka
kini wazoyilanda kwami esendeni layise wayo
silele thina. Tsk! Nondindwa, ntombazane
engenasmilo." She spat and walked away.
Nobuhle sighed, she wasn't hurt by her words
anymore. She endured worse when she was still
dating Robert.
"You should stop forcing the child on them,"
Ziwinile clicked her tongue, angered by the old
woman. "They don't want him."
"What should I do then?"
"I don't know," Ziwinile looked at Zinhloso, "what
do you think? Why are you quiet? You've been
quiet. Is it because dad only gave you money
for the uniform? Or you wanted him not to give
us any money. It must always be about you?"
"I have nothing to say," Zinhloso said. If only her
sister knew! Her father gave her mother for her
uniform only and she asked him to give her
sisters money too so that they would buy
something for themselves and their mother.
She didn't want them to go with her only to buy
uniforms. He agreed and gave her money to
also give to them. Zinhloso gave the money for
her mother to Nobuhle. She knew her taste best.
"I think I will talk to dad," Nobuhle said and
glanced at Zinhloso. She didn't know if Zinhloso
was awfully quiet because of what she said to
her yesterday or if she was just moody. She
didn't even speak much in town, she wasn't
even excited about going to eat before heading
home. Why was she like this?
*****

NB: On the previous post the target hasn't been

reached. Before I posted she was already on
128 and so, it should be 928 for it to be targeted
reached when we add our reactions. It -/+29
reactions left
UMCEBO

Chapter 24

***Unlocked bonus chapter****

"How was your first day back in school my

child?" Mnguni asked his daughter. He was
inside the kitchen for the jug and he found
Zinhloso inside the kitchen surprisingly washing
dishes in the dishwashing basin. The basin was
on top of the table and the other bucket had
water for rinsing the dishes. Her mother wasn't
home - she was washing dishes because she
wasn't home. They normally washed the dishes
outside but the wind outside was cold. It was
the beginning of winter and she was coming
down with the flu.
She smiled at her father, "sawubona, baba. How
are you? I thought you're also not home."
"I am home. I am not doing consultations
today." He took the jug. He didn't ask what
happened as she was washing the dishes. If
that's what she felt like doing he had no
problem. This was also her home and she was
allowed to do what she felt like doing. It was her
mother who had a problem and he had failed to
control how she treated her. It would have been
better for him if he knew that Zinhloso wasn't
her biological child but she was her very own.
"School was good, they didn't give me any
problems and I have a lot of homework."
"Why aren't you doing the homework then?" He
asked, heading to the door.
"I should clear my head baba before taking my
books again. I will do my homework when I
come back from the river." She wiped the water
off the table. She was done.
"It's cold. Don't you have water at home?"
"It's not enough and I want to take the walk.
Stretch my bones, maybe I will be a little taller,"
she joked and her father left her, laughing.
When she was done and had packed the dishes
she wiped the water that spilt on the floor.
She left for the river. She had been really sad
about the reality of not being able to be with
Mhlabunzima. She couldn't get him off her mind,
she had a strong feeling that he wasn't like her
ex. He wasn't going to use her for sex - horrible
sex even!
She giggled alone, "what do I even know about
good sex. I did it once." She shook her head and
proceeded walking.
She stopped walking and tried to walk the other
way to avoid the two girls that had stood in
front of her but one lady held her hand. "What
do you want Jabu?" Zinhloso asked. She knew
the girl's name.
"Do you know Mhlabunzima and I used to date?"
Jabu asked Zinhloso cheekily. She was looking
at her up and down. Jabu was the ex-girlfriend
Mhlabunzima took from her home when they
were going to Durban.
"Even if I know, how's that any of my business?"
Zinhloso kept calm. She never wanted to be
ticked off because she was a horrible fighter.
She would mop the floor with her given a
chance to fight with her because she was
getting on her nerves and provoking her. She
was good at keeping her emotions in check and
ignoring people who were bothering her. She
once had a bad fight with a boy, she almost
badly hurt him and she decided there - to never
again.
"It should be your business because on the bus
to Durban you were busy laughing and eating
with him," she spoke like a jealous lover than ex.
"He's my leftovers and my advice to you - stay
away from him. He'll never satisfy you in bed."
Zinhloso looked down shyly. How could she
speak like this? The other girl giggled. "I don't
know what you are talking about. He was with
me because he didn't want me to get lost and
be in trouble with my dad," Zinhloso still
remained cool.
"I don't care but being with him won't do you any
good," she said cheekily, "a girl like you will be a
downgrade. From me, to you, no!" The other girl
laughed but Zinhloso only looked at her.
"When you're done leave my arm."
"Or else what?"
The other girl held Jabu's shoulder, "mnge, her
father is a witch. We don't want to be in trouble
with him."
Jabu clicked her tongue and let go of her hand,
"you'll never be happy with him. If you think he'll
make you happy, forget it. I can only feel sorry
for you. He loves politics more and you'll always
cry for attention. Every woman needs attention,
you'll not get that."
Zinhloso proceeded to the river. She wasn't sure
about everything else that Jabu said about
Mhlabunzima but she knew she would be happy
with him. He made her feel different, she had
low self-esteem but with him, her confidence
was better. He didn't even dwell much on her
disorder, he even tried harder not to show how
bad he felt it. He would touch any part of her
body instead of moving away. How could she
be miserable there? She wouldn't be but it didn't
matter, they weren't compatible. It didn't matter,
she was going to school and living a
comfortable life at home. She didn't need a man
to complete her. She headed home with her
bucket.
A boy rushed down to her before she could get
to the gate. He smiled and greeted her,
"sawubona, sis Zinhloso unjani?"
She stopped and her eyes were attracted to the
two birds on his hands, "yes, I am good and
you?"
"I am fine," he looked around, "malume sent me.
He said I must give you a letter and these two
birds."
She smiled shortly but the smile didn't last. It
must be Mhlabunzima. She held the bucket with
one hand, "put the letter on my jacket's pocket
and give me the birds."
"He said I should wait for a response," the boy
informed her.
"I will come back." She walked inside the yard
and she loaded the water inside the bigger
water container. She could hear her mother
shouting inside the kitchen.
"Nangu!" (Here she is.) Ziwinile said standing by
the back kitchen door.
Mrs Mnguni walked out. Nobuhle was also
inside the house, "which part of 'do nothing
didn't you understand?'" her mother shouted at
her. She was fuming, "you washed the dishes
inside the house, my table had water and I
found the floor wet. You didn't even properly
wash the dishes."
Ziwinile handed two bowls to her mother. Mrs
Mnguni showed her the dishes. It was only two
bowls and she was making a mountain out of a
molehill. Ziwinile and Nobuhle also did the
same mistake when washing dishes, one or two
wouldn't be properly washed but she never
shouted.
"I thought I should wash them because no one
was home and they were just there, dirty. There
were even flies in the kitchen," Zinhloso said.
"I was going to come back or your sisters would
have came back and washed them. That table
is made of wood, it doesn't need water," she
pointed back at the table, "I said don't do
anything because you ruin things. We didn't
have any beautiful things at home because your
granny used to ruin the furniture. You want to
do the same now, huh? You want my house to
be empty?"
Mnguni appeared before them, "what's the
commotion about?" He asked, he wasn't
standing closer but he could see them. He
heard the shouting from his healing hut but he
couldn't hear properly.
Mrs Mnguni looked at her husband, "you never
said I shouldn't shout at her. She ruined my
table. She was washing dishes I couldn't even
recognise my kitchen when I got here," she
exaggerated. The kitchen floor was damp and
her table was pale because of water. Nothing
else messed up.
"She was helping out, no one was home."
"I told her not to help because she messes my
furniture, my house." She talked back.
Mnguni huffed, "how is she going to learn not to
mess up if you don't teach how to do things
properly?"
"Didn't I do that when she was a teen but
failed?" She asked.
Zinhloso put her birds on an empty bucket and
she walked away.
"Where are you going Katshana?" Mnguni asked.
"River."
"Don't go alone wait for me. I am almost done
here!" Nobuhle shouted from inside the house.
"I want to go alone." She shouted back.
Mrs Mnguni looked at her husband, "did you see
that? I wasn't even done talking to her but she
walked away. Is she supposed to disrespect me?
She didn't even say sorry for what she did."
Mnguni shook his head, "the table will be fine."
He said and walked away.
Zinhloso sat on her bed with her bucket next to
her. She opened up the enveloped letter.
"Ntokazi enhle!
Sela le nhliziyo yami, uyithathile inhliziyo yami.
Uma ngicabanga wena umphefumulo wami
uyatuseka. Ubuhle bakho bungithinta emanonini,
ngithokoza kakhulu uma ngikubona
umamatheka, uphanyazise lezo nkophe zakho
ungafunga ukuthi ezokufakelwa. Uma ngivuka,
ngibona wena, uma ngilala ngibona wena. Hhayi,
kanti cha, angikhonondi ngalokho kodwa
ngiyachoma. Uhleli usemidlinzweni yami.
Kuyisifiso Sami eskhulu ukuthi ube ngowami.
My main aim for writing this letter is to ask you
to come to the tuckshop tomorrow after school.
There's a very important matter we should
discuss.
I am looking forward to seeing your beautiful
face.
Love - isoka lakho lakusasa."
She laughed and held the letter closer to her
chest. She could read Isizulu properly. She
learnt reading before going to school from her
father. He taught them, as his daughters how to
read. He couldn't teach them writing. Zinhloso
wasn't able to read English and Afrikaans.
She stood up and wiped the tears from hurt.
She didn't want to hurt herself by having hope
things would work out.
"I read the letter. Go and tell him that," Zinhloso
said to the boy with a serious face.
He quickly stood up from the rock, "but uncle
said you'll give me a letter."
"There's no letter for him,go and tell him what I
told you," she said and walked down, heading to
the river. She looked back at the boy and he
was running.

Nobuhle saw her father seated outside his

house with a sack of herbs. He was sorting
them out. She walked up to him with a cold
drink and a sandwich.
"Baba, take a break I will do that for you,"
Nobuhle said, putting the tray on the empty
bench closer to her father.
Mnguni sighed, "thank you my child."
She sat on the door stoep and sorted out the
herbs. She was used to this but mostly,
Mzomubi and Zinhloso helped him with his
herbs and healing job.
"I wanted to talk about something, baba."
He had the sandwich, "what do you want to talk
about?"
"I want to talk about Sbusiso and his family."
He glanced at her, "what about them? What did
they do now?"
"I have been trying to communicate with Robert
and tell him about Sbusiso because ever since I
ended things with him he's been only sending
money," she tried harder to put things in a
respectable manner. She didn't want to sound
disrespectful to him, "the child has been asking
when he's seeing him and when he's going to
visit home."
"Robert stopped seeing the child because you're
no longer in a relationship with him?" He stared
at her.
She looked down, "yes, and I asked
Mhlabunzima to help talk to him because
they're comrades and friends."
"Did Xulu's son help you?"
"Yes, he spoke to him but he denied not being
present in his life."
Mnguni chuckled, "he wants to look good before
the eyes of his comrades."
"Mhlabunzima suggested a meeting. He set it
up and we met. He made demands I can't
meet." Nobuhle said.
"What demands?"
"Baba -"
"Tell me what he said and don't lie."
"He said he'll continue sending money only if I
don't agree to get back with him. But I won't do
that," she quickly prevented him from being
angrier. She could see his expression had
changed, "we met his mother the day we went
to town." She told him about his mother
insulting her and everything she said to her.
"You see, I told you to stop dating that boy but
you kept going, going back and going back until
he made you pregnant," Mnguni reminded her,
"you disregarded my words because I know
nothing."
"No-"
"No, what, Nobuhle?"
"It's not like that I thought we had a future
together."
"What future? This future, the one you're living
now of running behind him?" He didn't raise his
voice. He had shouted enough about her dating
Robert. He hated their relationship.
"No, but what should I do now?"
"When he brings money for the boy, send it back
with a letter that it's all or nothing," Mnguni said
abruptly, "He should be fully involved or use that
money to buy his mother's petticoats. I won't
fail to look after my grandson. Akathengeli
unina amapitikoti afusege namasente akhe. Do
you understand?"
Nobuhle didn't expect such a suggestion. She
thought maybe he was going to want to talk
with them so that the child will have a normal
relationship with his paternal family. But maybe
it was time she let it go and accepted the truth,
"yes, I understand I will do that."
"Uyadakwa lo mfazi angimzalanga unondindwa
mina. Tsk!" He spat, "you'll find a man for you,
not that excuse of a man. When I tell you to
leave a boy, leave him. I don't want these
political boys."
Nobuhle didn't say anything else but she only
wondered about Mhlabunzima who seemed to
be having an interest in her sister. If she had
power she would have stopped them from even
starting a relationship. He was a good man but
not for her sister.
"And as an older sister, keep an eye on your
sisters. They must not follow your footsteps,"
he said, standing up.
"Yes." She focused on her task. She had to keep
an eye on them
UMCEBO

Chapter 25

***Chapter of participation - appreciation**

The boy found Mhlabunzima still standing on

the veranda. He was alone, people were coming
in and out of the shop. He stood before him
panting and he bent down, held his knees. He
breathed in and out.
"Why did you run? I told you don't run but don't
walk slowly," he gave the boy the bottle of water
he had in his hand.
He gulped the water, "malume, you don't
understand. She didn't give me a letter back."
"What? Why?" He held his shoulder, "calm down
boy and tell me what happened."
"I gave her the letter and the birds. She took
them and went inside. She was coming from
the river," he narrated calmly, "she went inside
the yard. I told her malume said, I should wait
for a response and she said she'll bring it."
He nodded, "and then what happened?"
"She came back minutes later and said and I
should tell you she read the letter." He huffed.
Mhlabunzima frowned, "she told you just that?"
"Yes, malume and I repeated that but malume
said I should come back with a letter and she
said there's no letter."
He kept quiet for a while, tapping his chin, "uhm,
so how did her face look?"
"When I gave her the letter and the birds she
smiled but when she came back, she was no
longer smiling. I don't know if she was upset."
He answered patiently. "Malume, I ran because
she went back to the river," the boy said fast as
he remembered an important piece of
information.
Mhlabunzima grinned happily, "good boy!" He
took the bag of goodies that was at the corner
of the veranda, "thank you. I trust you and I will
send you again next time."
The boy was happy, "thank you, malume."
He grabbed his fighting stick and he headed out.
If he was fast, he would find her in the river. He
couldn't sleep without seeing her and
understood why she wasn't responding back to
his letter. Did he write something to upset her?
He was respectful in the letter and said nothing
nasty and offensive. He couldn't figure out what
could have happened.
As he approached the river, Mhlabunzima could
hear the chatter about laughter coming from
the river. This meant, there were a number of
women there and maybe some were even
bathing.
He took a risk and crossed the boer's sugar
cane plantation to get to the alleyway she took
when going back home. Luckily, he wasn't
caught crossing. He waited patiently under the
tree.
She appeared alone. Wasn't that water bucket
heavy? Her face was relaxed, she didn't look like
she was struggling.
Mhlabunzima stood on the way where she
would see him no matter what.
"What do you want and what are you doing
here?" Zinhloso asked, standing before him. On
her way to the river, Zinhloso had Mhlabunzima
on her mind. She wanted to write back to him
and meet up with him but the voices in her head
were holding her back. She was also scared of
writing - was she going to write a sensible thing?
Reading and writing wasn't the same, reading
was easier. Her level of writing and forming
sentences on paper were still on a lower
standard. She had a part in her that told her she
would embarrass herself should she respond.
She didn't know what to do because she had a
lot of things going on in her head. It was
Nobuhle's words. His ex's words. Her miserable
life and disorder. Her difficult dad. It wasn't
easy for her to openly accept him.
"What did I do?" He asked and tried to take the
bucket off her head but Zinhloso held onto it
tightly, "I want to put it down so we could talk."
"No, there's nothing to talk about and remember,
you gave me birds. I want to go home and eat
them. Thanks," she tried to move forward but
Mhlabunzima didn't move.
"Why didn't you write back?"
Seeing the sadness on his eyes, the look that
was accompanied by a sad voice touched her
heart. She stopped wearing a dull face for him.
"move, this water is heavy. I won't answer you if
you don't move."
He moved and they walked at her pace, "give
me an answer then MaMnguni."
"I am doing Standard 3, I couldn't perfectly
scribble down the sentences I had in my mind."
She said honestly, "and I think we shouldn't be
together. It won't work."
"You can't predict that because you're not a
sangoma. I know it'll work out."
"What about our families? Things will be
complicated and my dad will be angry, he'll not
accept this," Zinhloso argued.
"We shouldn't worry about family and other
people for now but let's get together. Let's learn
things about each that we didn't know. I want
you to be mine and to hell with the ifs."
"My dis-"
"I said it doesn't matter." he stopped her from
talking about it. It was enough and he didn't find
it as the best excuse to reject him because of it.
"How are we going to communicate if I can't
write to you back?" She found another excuse.
"You can. I think you should try and make a
friend so that you'll say you're going to her but
come to me, that way I will teach you a lot of
things. You'll write like a pro."
She smiled. She couldn't even look at him
because of the bucket on her head, "it's hard
making friends. I will think of ways to go out."
He stopped walking, they were almost there.
"Please come and meet me tomorrow so that
we'll talk. It's very important," he swung his stick.
"Okay, I will come after school."
He looked up and looked at her, "your sister has
seen us I think. I should go. I will see you
tomorrow."
"Alright, bye," Zinhloso said and Mhlabunzima
turned. She met up with Nobuhle going down
with a bucket.
"You refused to wait for me because you
wanted to go with him?"
"No."
"Zinhloso if I ever see you with him again I will
tell dad." Nobuhle threatened.
"Did I tell him when you were with Robert?" She
asked calmly. She wasn't moved by the threat.
Nobuhle chuckled, surprised by her response,
"so, the two of you are dating?"
"Did you date Robert after two minutes of
knowing him? So, a guy can't walk with me but
it's okay when they walk with you?" She asked.
"I am not saying it like that but I am looking out
for you."
"Thanks, I can take care of myself." She
proceeded home. She didn't want to be rude or
disrespectful but she was getting on her nerves.
She was keeping a close watch on her while
nobody did that to her.
"If you want to go up and down and do work, go
water crops in the garden," her mother said to
her as she put the bucket down. She didn't say a
word but she went to the garden and watered
the crops. She was thinking about Mhlabunzima
- what did he want to discuss with her? Was
Nobuhle really going to tell her father?
"Mxm, she wouldn't dare!" She said out loud and
wondered what she would even say to her
father? "I would simply deny it." She finished
watering the crops and her mind was on her
birds. She wanted to make a fire and have them.
"What?" She widened her eyes at an empty
bucket.
"Mama, where are my birds?" She asked. Her
mother was busy cooking in the kitchen. "I left
them in the bucket."
"Your brother took them. He didn't know they
were yours."
"But you saw me carrying them, why didn't you
tell him?" She asked, heartbroken. They were
given to her out of love and Mzomubi took them.
"You didn't tell me to look after them."
She turned to the door, "as if you would have,"
she walked out and she looked for her brother.
She found him seated at the stoep of his hut.
There was a plate with bones next to him. It
was really her birds. "Why did you eat my birds,
Mzomubi?"
He looked up at her, "they were yours? I didn't
know."
"But you knew you didn't shoot them and so,
why would you eat something that isn't yours?"
Her voice rose up.
"Why would you make a big deal out of birds?
And where did you get them anyway?"
"They were my birds and next time ask before
you eat."
"Don't use that tone on me!"
"Why? You're shouting back at me and it's like
you forget that I am older than you. You're a
child here," she said and turned around,
"uhambe udla nje uyoze udle nentando ungazi
ngoba uyabufela nje." (You're just eating. You're
end up eating love potion without knowing)
The shock got Mzomubi off the stoep,
"yeyiwena! Usuyajola yini?" (Are you dating?) He
asked, following her but Zinhloso didn't talk
back. She entered the hut and closed the door.
She could hear him rumbling and clicking his
tongue. Her face sank on the pillow and she
cried. She cried for the two birds she didn't get
to eat. They were hers and that goon of a
brother ate them. His mother didn't stop him.
She won't even get to tell Mhlabunzima how the
birds were.
She composed herself and decided to do her
homework. She worked on her school work until
there was a knock on the door. She had turned
on the lights. She kept quiet and proceeded
writing.
"Zinhloso, come and eat." Nobuhle said.
She kept quiet. She didn't care about food
tonight. She wanted her birds and they ate them.
Her brother did a cruel thing.
"That's the first. She'll sleep without eating." She
said and walked away.
Zinhloso focused on her homework until she
fell asleep.
"Why didn't you eat last night?" Mnguni asked
Zinhloso. She was standing before him inside
the living room of his house. She was waiting
for money to use at school.
"I fell asleep while doing my homework and I
woke up in the morning," she accepted the
money and thank her father but he stopped her
from leaving.
"Did you eat now?"
"Yes, I did. Baba, I should go."
"Okay, your brother told me you said he'll end up
eating love potion if he goes around eating your
things," Mnguni looked at her closely. He
wanted to see her reaction.
But Zinhloso didn't react, she wasn't surprised
Mzomubi told him, "yes, baba I said that to him."
"Does that mean you have a man who's eyeing
you?" He asked.
"No, I was just messing up with his slow head.
Was he scared?"
Mnguni laughed, "he asked me to prepare a
concoction to vomit in the morning."
She laughed her face off, "did you prepare it?"
"Yes, he has vomitted already."
That changed her mood, she cracked up
laughing. It made her happy, "at least he
vomitted my birds." She left her father laughing.
After school, most girls were walking in groups,
and pairs. Some with their friends and some
with their classmates or family members who
schooled with them. But Zinhloso was walking
alone. She wasn't walking fast but slow.
A van drove slowly, beside her. She looked at it
and it was a police van. It stopped and Zinhloso
only stopped when the officer inside the van
greeted her.
"Hi, how can I help you?"
The man was tall and light skinned. He wasn't
bad looking, he had a sharp nose and thin lips, "I
am officer Molepe and I am looking for the
king's palace. I don't know if you could help
me." He looked at her with his mouth hanging.
Their village had the most beautiful women
across the river, bodied and tall. He liked them
like that but this small girl, she was different
kind of beauty.
Zinhloso didn't notice his stare, "I am afraid I
can't direct you but I can only take you there."
She knew this would delay her plans but this
was an officer. She looked around and luckily,
she saw a boy who lived closer to the king.
"Perfect, that guy lives closer to him." She called
her school mate.
"Thanks, and what's your name?'
"Zinhloso."
"I am not really good with Isizulu. What does the
name mean?"
"Intentions." She responded and explained to
the guy. She walked faster once the car had
passed by. She wanted to eat and go meet up
with Mhlabunzima.
"Once you are done eating. Come to me, I have
work for you," Mnguni said to his daughter. She
was seated on the main house veranda eating
and she was eating fast. She didn't want her
sisters to find her home.
"Yebo, baba." She finished up eating and
headed to her father. He gave her instructions,
firstly to sweep his healing hut and wash the
herbs. She quickly did that and once she was
done, she thought she could leave but it rained
instruction after instruction. It was all related to
her father's healing job.
"Ayi, baba, I am tired now. Don't we get a
break?" She said to her father with a sulk. She
was annoyed that she wanted to go and her
father was keeping her busy. She was even
given tasks that were supposed to be carried
out by her brother.
"You're tired, what have you done?" Mnguni
shouted at her.
She looked down, "I have done many things.
Can I go and buy a cold drink? There's a break in
every workplace."
"Other people don't get breaks in the
workplaces but go before you explode," he gave
her money from the altar of his healing hut.
They were inside the healing hut sorting out
medicines.
She smiled, "thank you. Nginenhlanhla ngithola
imali yabaphansi," (I am lucky I am getting the
ancestors' money)
Mnguni chuckled, "eyakho vele," (it's yours) he
whispered and Zinhloso didn't hear him. "Go
and return, don't go slow. We're not done,
tomorrow I am working again. We should finish
today."
"Yebo," she walked and passed by her hut. She
grabbed a wet towel that she didn't hang
outside in the morning. She wiped her armpits
and applied roll on again. She puffed perfume
and walked out.
"Ibhekephi leyo ndlela? Bengithi uyasebenza
laphana." (Where are you going?) Her mother
shouted. She was in the garden.
"Shop!" She hurried out. She didn't want to meet
up with high schoolers on the road.
UMCEBO (wealth)

Chapter 26

She stood behind the counter and she looked

around while waiting for the children before her
to finish buying. She couldn't see Mhlabunzima.
What was she supposed to do? He didn't tell her
what to do if she didn't find him on the front.
"Zinhloso, how can I help?" The shopkeeper
asked.
She smiled at the young man, "I need a cold
drink and biscuits." She handed the money, "and
tell me, do you get days off here?"
"Yes, here and there when bhuti Mhlabunzima is
not busy to sell for himself," he gave her the
order.
"Thanks and now, where is he?" She found the
courage to ask because it was only the two of
them inside the shop.
"He's at the back. They've finished building
chicken coops," he answered, "are you here for
him?"
"Bye," she waved and walked out of the shop as
a group of high school students entered. She
headed to the back and she found him walking
around. He was cleaning up after the
constructors.
He smiled as he realised her presence, "I
thought you were no longer coming."
"Dad has been keeping me busy. I asked for a
break and he gave me money." She looked
around, "I have seen high school students
coming in here I don't want any of my sisters to
see me if it happens they pass by to buy
something."
He stopped what he was doing, "we'll use that
back entrance. If you need me just use the back
if I am not at the front."
She followed him, "alright, I was really shy to
ask about you to your shopkeeper. I asked
when it was only the two of us."
He chuckled, "maybe I should just send cows
tomorrow to your father because I don't think
this hide and seek will work."
"Are you out of your mind? Don't do that. It'll feel
like an arranged marriage," she took the seat
and Mhlabunzima sat on the table, closer to her.
He wanted to look at her up close. "And he'll not
agree. Don't ruin things."
"Okay, for now I won't. Did you enjoy your
birds?"
She scoffed, "where? Because your friend ate
them. I went back to the river and did some
plant watering, and he ate my birds without
asking."
He laughed, "don't be mad I will teach you how
to trap them. Let's do it now, while we talk. I will
talk and do, you'll watch what I am doing. You
said you don't have time."
"Won't anyone come at the back?"
"No, I have placed a notice that nobody should
be at the back until building is done. I didn't
want children here specifically. They were going
to get hurt," he led the way back out after he'd
found a string.
"You're thoughtful."
"Does that mean I can be a good father to our
kids?" Mhlabunzima asked, looking back at her
with a charming grin.
She blushed, "stop it."
He started the tutorial of a bird trap, "you'll need
to have food then that's how you'll have the
birds come down." He said and shortly told her
which birds to be eaten and which ones not to
be eaten, "but you can always ask your brother
if it's safe to eat that bird or not."
"No, I don't trust him. He'll say it's not safe and
take it to eat it when I throw it away," she said
dramatically, making his stomach hurt from
laughing.
"You'll ask your father then," he said showing
her with a hoe - how to prepare the ground
where the bird will land, "I actually called you
here because I have a suggestion and I don't
want you to feel offended. I just want to help
you so that you can be confident and live a
normal life where you don't have to exclude
yourself but have a social life."
"Yes, what's your suggestion?"
"I want to take you to a traditional healer," he
paused and looked at her. There was sadness
on her face but it didn't last, he saw a pure
smile, "what do you think?"
"I have always wanted to go to a different
traditional healer who isn't my father but he
wouldn't let me," she said.
He was relieved that she wasn't offended. He
didn't want to make her feel bad about herself.
She was a nice and beautiful girl that would
never change because of disorder, "and then
we're done. Your bird will be trapped here and
you'll find it trapped, take it and enjoy it." He
gave her the hoe, "let me see you do your own
trap."
She eagerly took the hoe, "I will do something
that's the same as yours."
He chuckled, "okay, so, back to our main
conversation, I have planned that we should go
this Sunday. You'll come to the shop and we'll
go. I will drive."
She looked at him with a hopeful smile, "I don't
even know what to say."
"I want you to have no excuse stopping you
from being my girlfriend."
She laughed heartily and her breath suddenly
hitched as he held her hands showing her how
to properly tie the string on the stick. The heat
of his body made her swallow saliva. What was
happening? Was she really that into him already?
"Oh, it's done like this," she looked away from
his eyes that were staring at her.
"Yes, we should finish up here. I am sure your
cold drink is no longer cold," his voice came out
low. He could also feel the shift. She nodded
and focused on her trap, "are you going to be
able to come out on Sunday?"
"Yes, I will think of something." She smiled as
she was done, "It's almost perfect like yours."
"Yes, if you keep doing it, it'll be like mine. Let's
go back inside." He hung his arm on her
shoulder. "I can also make a slingshot for you."
She laughed, "yes," she closed the door behind
her. "Thank you for today."
They stood before the desk facing each other.
He held her hand, "I want you to know that I am
serious about you, about us. I really won't toy
with your heart. I am not a boy."
She shyly looked down, ashamed. Her body had
a way of ruining special moments but
Mhlabunzima pulled her into a hug. This
warmed her heart. She loved hugs, they looked
comforting when she saw them on TV but she'd
never got a hug. She closed her eyes and drank
him in as he held her tight, "ngizokuqoma uma
sengilaphekile," (I will your girlfriend after I have
been cured)
"It doesn't matter, I don't care about it." He held
her soft face into his slender hands.
"I care about it and it matters to me."
"Okay, okay," he hugged her again.
"Xulu!" A sharp knock, accompanied by
Mzomubi's rough voice separated the two.
Zinhloso was panicking, "what should I do
now?"
"Xulu!"
Mhlabunzima looked around and he pushed the
files' cabinet off the wall, "hide here," he
whispered and Zinhloso went down behind the
cabinet. "Come in!"
Mhlabunzima realised when it was late that he
was supposed to make her leave using the back
entrance where they entered. It didn't matter,
her brother was already inside the office.
"Ntanga, how are you? I wasn't expecting you."
They shoulder-hugged.
Mzomubi took a seat after Mhlabunzima, "yes, I
know but I was around and thought I should
check if you are here. I am really passing by," he
yawned and took the biscuits on the table, "you
eat these things now? Didn't you say they're not
nice?"
"I bought them for my sister. I was finishing up
here and going home," he answered and took
the papers on the desk, pretending to have been
working.
Mzomubi ate the biscuits, "okay, I was asking
about the guns. When are we going to clean
them? I don't want these boys to take us by
surprise. They have seen that people listen to
us and now, they want to force our people to
join their political party." He freely spoke, "if war
comes we'll need our guns ready they'll not
enter here. Kofa ofayo. The parents will think
we know how to use guns now because of the
training from our bosses."
"Yea," Mhlabunzima wanted to fully discuss this
with him but not with Zinhloso present. He
didn't want her to hear all these things.
"Yea, what? What's wrong? Are you with me?"
He looked around.
"It's nothing I am just stressed out about
business," he lied.
Mzomubi shook his head, "why are you
stressing yourself and working this hard
because you're an heir to your father's wealth.
You have to relax." He said, "I am the only boy at
home and I know my father's wealth will belong
to me because my sisters will get married. I am
not sure about Zinhloso but the other two will
marry. You're stressing while you were claimed
heir."
"You know how I feel about that. I don't even
want to talk about it." He dismissed him and
deeply, he laughed at him not being sure about
Zinhloso getting married. She was the one who
was surely going to get married. Black or blue.
"We should meet with Robert and the others,
talk about the issue we have with those boys.
They'll not come here."
They were sounds of something moving.
Mzomubi looked at the cabinet's side, "what's
wrong?"
"No, there's a mouse that's bothering me. Let's
go. I will walk you out."
He stood up and took the cold drink, "why don't
we move the cabinet and find this mouse."
He chuckled, "no, that's a lot of work. I will buy
something." He was nervous that he would be
stubborn and search for it. He would find his
sister instead of a mouse.
"Okay, I should go help that old man. I am sure
Zinhloso is crying now."
"Why would she cry?"
"She's the only one capable of helping him
endumbeni. She doesn't like working long hours
since I am not home she's surely going up and
down. I am sure she's complaining," Mzomubi
filled him in, "have you seen her around? I don't
know if she's dating now. I ate her birds without
knowing and she told me one day I will eat love
potion."
Mhlabunzima cracked up laughing. She didn't
tell him that information. Mzomubi looked at
him, "it's not funny. Who would date her? They
should leave her alone. I don't want to be
embarrassed."
"It's funny but I haven't seen her around. You've
never spoken about her before."
"There was nothing to speak about and there's
still nothing. I just don't want her dating," he
said. "When are we meeting?"
"Not this weekend I will let you know, though."
"Alright, let me go."
Mhlabunzima rushed back inside and Zinhloso
was already out. She was seated on the chair,
"what if I came back with him?" He asked.
She shrugged and stood up, "I don't know. It's
better you didn't come back with him. I should
go now. You looked at him taking my things -
again."
He chuckled, "what was I supposed to say? I
couldn't stop him. I will compensate you."
"I am going because I am your mouse," she
sulked and Mhlabunzima pulled her into a hug,
laughing.
"I didn't want to sell you out. I am not a sellout."
He smiled.
"You have a gun and you want to go and fight?"
Zinhloso stared into his eyes.
"You weren't supposed to hear that."
"But you'll go and fight when the time comes,
right?" She asked.
He caressed her face with the back of his hand,
"let's not start with that but focus on Sunday.
Go home now so you won't be in trouble. I will
go get your things."
She waited for him at the back and all that she
was thinking of - was her brother and
Mhlabunzima having a gun.
He gave her a litre of cold drink and biscuits. "I
am sorry for letting him take your things."
"The compensation is good, thanks." She
sighed. She didn't feel like leaving, "I will come
here Sunday morning."
"You'll find me waiting." He looked at her as she
walked away. He was hoping they would find
help. They had to.
"I was thinking you got lost," Mnguni looked at
his daughter as she walked through the gate.
They were burning waste with Mzomubi.
"I was tired, I didn't walk fast. Are you done,
baba?" Zinhloso asked. She was hoping he
would say he was done.
He shook his head, "you keep complaining
about being tired. Go and do your homework."
She smiled - perfect! "Thank you." She rushed to
her hut. She didn't have any homework but she
wasn't going to tell him. She relaxed with her
cold drink and biscuits. She was really hoping
things would go well for her on Sunday.
******
Officer Molepe got to the king's palace and he
thanked the boy. It'd been a day since he moved
from his village to work in the township and
neighbouring villages. He'd been introduced and
his biggest case - was the case of livestock
theft.
"You must be officer Molepe?" The king asked.
He was a large grown man, in his mid 50s.
They were seated under the tree on chairs. The
king had one of his induna with him. He was
expecting the officer.
"Yes, I have been assigned to investigate the
issue of livestock theft," he went straight to the
point. I hope I didn't keep you waiting, I was
lost."
"No, there's no problem. You're new here, it's
understandable," he said and glanced at induna.
He cleared his throat, "yes, wena wo-mthetho.
We have a big problem of theft and it's not a
new thing." He gave him details about how
villagers would lose their goats, cattle and even
chickens. They wouldn't find the livestock, it
was like the livestock wasn't taken by villagers.
"Yes, sometimes when something is stolen you
would hear people say we saw a cow like yours
that side," the king further explained, "but not in
this village. They get lost and never be found.
We don't know if they steal them and eat them
right away or they sell them."
Molepe wrote the information down, "so, you
don't have any suspects? I am sure people talk."
"There are number of people but sometimes
you end up not knowing who to believe," the
king said, "some time back, one man accused
his enemy. He lied just because he was his
enemy and wanted him to be in trouble."
Molepe nodded, he knew village men could be
typical. "Can I have names?"
"Goba Xulu and his sons are suspected but I am
not sure about him because I have seen him
work very hard but you can never know," the
king revealed, "and also, the traditional healer,
Mnguni but with him they suspect he supplies
these criminal with muthi."
"And it can happen that he's also a thief
because his father was also a thief." Induna
added. He added other suspects and he named
the two who were proven guilty. They provided
him with all the information he needed in order
to solve this case.
"I promise I will do my best and I will be coming
to the village often. If it means I should move
here to get to the bottom of this, I will need help
finding a place to stay." Molepe closed his note
books. He was offered refreshments and while
eating they told him history of the village. The
good and the bad, he wanted to understand the
place and its people. He wanted to know what
he was getting himself into. And he wanted to
ensure that he would catch this criminals. They
needed to be punished for their crimes.
*****
Today's challenge— we need 500likes/followers
from those who didn't participate the last time.
Please kindly like/follow the page🙏🏾 and we'll
get bonus chapter today when followers equals
to 2 393 because it's over 1.8k now… thanks.

Link:

https://www.facebook.com/112708264741531
UMCEBO

Chapter 27

He had met Mzomubi and he spoke to him

about the meeting they were supposed to have
with Mhlabunzima. Mzomubi didn't tell him
about the time and date, coming back from
work Robert decided he would pass by the
tuckshop. He would check if Mhlabunzima was
there or if he was home.
At the veranda of the tuckshop, there was a
woman standing there - she was medium in
height and body weight. He reminded him of
Mnguni, Nobuhle's father.
When Robert reached her, he saw the
resemblance to Mnguni and Nobuhle. She was
dressed in a navy floral pinafore dress and a
black head wrap.
Robert stood next to her and saw the back scarf
that was hung across her chest. He knew she
was a married woman, "it must be my lucky day
today. I am seeing such a beautiful woman."
Comfort Mnguni Biyela glanced at Robert. She
was standing at the veranda thinking of going
home but she didn't feel like going home. She
was back home after fifteen years of marriage.
She was married off at 21 years, lived her life
with the love of her life but now, she was back
home. She couldn't live with her mother-in-law
without her husband. She would die.
"You may be tall but I know I am older than you,"
she said. She had a deep charming voice.
Robert smiled at the sound of her voice. The
woman was even light skinned like Mnguni. She
must be his relative if not his sister, "I am sure
the age gap between us is not that alarming."
"Don't even think about it."
"Why not? I am 30 years old and I am sure
you're not that old."
"I am that old." She didn't want to tell him her
age. She was 36 years old.
"Vele ingubo endala ilala izingane," he said
charmingly and they laughed.
"I am someone's wife," she said but sadness
was written on her face as she said that. Robert
was tongue tied.
Mhlabunzima walked up to the tuckshop and he
was surprised to see Robert with Comfort. He
smiled and greeted the elder, "how are you? It's
good to see you again aunty."
She smiled, "Mhlabunzima, you've grown so
much and I heard this is your tuckshop."
"Yes, I am trying. I can see you're having a
conversation with the father of your niece's
son," he glanced at Robert wondering what they
were laughing about.
Robert and Comfort looked at each other
surprised, "really? I didn't know. He's Sbusiso's
father?"
"Yes, you also didn't know? This is Nobuhle's
aunt. Younger sister of Mnguni." Mhlabunzima
asked Robert.
He was still looking at her, "no, I didn't know but
I think I saw some resemblance."
Mhlabunzima looked at Comfort, "I am sorry
about your husband, I hope you'll heal in time."
"Thank you, Mhlabunzima, I will go now." She
glanced at Robert and left.
Mhlabunzima laughed, "don't tell me you were
approaching your ex's aunt."
"She's pretty."
"No, she's older and she's a widow."
"Widow?" He smiled, "that means her husband
won't bother me."
"You can't be serious. What about Nobuhle?"
He shrugged, "what about her? She doesn't
want me and there's nothing that can stop me
from going for her."
Mhlabunzima wasn't sure if everything was well
with Robert upstairs. "I don't know what is
wrong with you."
"I came here to ask about the meeting.
Mzomubi didn't give me details."
"It's on Monday, after working hours."
"Why not this weekend?"
"I am busy."
"Let me go and I hope it's not Zinhloso that
you're busy with," Robert looked at
Mhlabunzima as he laughed his way inside the
tuckshop. He headed home but he was thinking
about Nobuhle's aunt.

Zinhloso woke very early Sunday morning. She

had an idea of disappearing but her father
crossed her mind. If he wasn't home she was
going to leave but he was home. She dressed in
casual clothes and she loaded her blankets and
sheets on the huge metal basin. In between the
blankets she had a plastic bag with her other
clothes. Her mother and sisters were up,
Zinhloso took the wheel barrow and she put the
basin inside the barrow. She rushed to her
father's house.
He was outside busy stretching and yawning,
"Katshana, you're awake already. What's
happening?"
"I am taking my blankets to Sisi Khosi. They
have to be washed but I will wash blankets with
her," she informed her father.
He frowned, "you'll wash them with her? Since
when do you wash blankets?"
"I want to learn."
"Okay, have you had your breakfast?"
"No, I will eat at her home. I told her."
He shook his head, "stay and eat you can't
bother people and eat their food."
"But baba-"
"Do as I have said."
She turned and headed to the kitchen. He loved
detecting her, you'd swear she was his robot.
She entered the kitchen. Her mother and sisters
were going up and down.
"Food is not ready yet , give us space," Mrs
Mnguni said to Zinhloso before she could even
greet. Zinhloso turned back and left. She
ensured that her father didn't see her. She
locked her hut and left. The lady that helped her
lived a bit far and she didn't want to waste time
waiting for food.
"But I will be hungry," she said walking inside
the yards. The lady was having tea under the
tree, the winter sun was warm.
Zinhloso greeted her and she was surprised to
see her, "I am sorry for coming unannounced."
"What happened? You were supposed to send a
child to call me."
She smiled, "no, I need a favour. My blankets
are not that bad but I have somewhere I should
be. It's important. I didn't want my father to
know."
"You lied and said you'll wash blankets with
me?" She asked. She always pitted her, she was
treated differently in that family.
"Yes, please cover up for me. I will come back
here once I am done," she pleaded.
She nodded, "don't worry child. Go and we'll go
home together once you return."
"Thank you so much," she entered her hut and
she changed into a black skirt and blue top. She
quickly headed out but she didn't walk fast. She
didn't want to reach the shop sweaty.
She opened the back door and Mhlabunzima
raised his eyes, "hello."
"You should knock phela. What if you find me
with your brother one day?" He asked with a
warm smile.
She remained standing, "or if I find you with
your other girlfriend. If I knock, I will give you
enough time to hide her behind the cabinet."
He crackled, "I really don't know anything about
what you're saying now. I am impressed that
you came and you came earlier."
She grabbed a seat, "I don't want us to come
back late. It's winter."
"You're right. Have you eaten? I didn't eat. I
brought my food from home because I wanted
to come here early," he asked.
"No, I didn't get a chance to eat but let's not sit
here and eat. We should go," she pressured.
"No, eating doesn't take much time. Bring your
chair over and we'll eat," he instructed.
"But Mhlabunzima-"
He pointed to the space where she was
supposed to put her chair. "It's still warm."
She placed the chair next to him, "thank you,"
she took the spoon and they ate in one dish.
"Why do you have so much food?"
"I told my sister to cook extra because I have a
trip to take." They ate the food silently.
Mhlabunzima pushed the dish closer to her
because she was spilling some of the food on
him.
"Sorry," she stopped eating.
"It's okay," he wiped himself with a toilet paper,
"are you done?"
"Yes," she said, looking at it.
He shook his head, "eat and stop staring at the
food," he continued eating and after hesitating,
Zinhloso ate but she was trying hard not to
mess up.
"Your sister is a good cook."
He glanced at her, "and what about you?" He
asked and Zinhloso shrugged. He laughed, "this
means you cook horrible food."
"I wouldn't know," she had the juice, "okay, I am
full now I will wait for you."
They walked out using the back after they were
done. The car was parked at the back. They
stepped inside the car and Mhlabunzima drove
off.
Her face was pinkish and her stomach hurt
from laughing, Mhlabunzima was telling her
about his high school days. The trouble he got
into and mischief he did in both primary and
high school.
"Okay, I think children shouldn't take after you.
They'll be expelled." She said, laughing.
He looked her way, surprised, "so, are you
seeing a future for us? Where we'll have
children and raise them?"
She smiled shyly, "that was a slip of tongue."
She giggled when he scoffed.
She nervously got out of the car, "I can't believe
I am really here."
"Yea."
The yard wasn't as busy but there were two
patients waiting. Mhlabunzima and Zinhloso
joined the line. They sat on the benches and
they waited, patiently.
"I think you should enter alone in case you're
told family secrets there," Mhlabunzima
suggested.
She shook her head, "no, please come with me."
She pleaded and they followed each other
inside.
The traditional healer looked at them as they
sat down. He didn't greet back as they were
greeting but his shoulders convulsed and he
groaned. He made intimidating sounds that
freaked out Zinhloso. She held on tight to
Mhlabunzima's arm.
"I can't help you. Take your things and go," he
shouted with eyes widened.
The two looked at each other, "what? Why?"
Mhlabunzima asked.
"I said go!"
"Can you at least tell us if there's a cure?"
Mhlabunzima pleaded.
He looked at her Zinhloso, "there is. Her father
wouldn't have cured her grandmother. Now, go!
Don't even leave any money," he said, looking
freaked out himself. The two were forced up as
the traditional healer shouted at them. "I pity the
two of you," he shook his head as they headed
to the exit.
When they stopped walking he shouted, "go and
don't ever come here!" They quickly left the hut
with confusion.
UMCEBO

Chapter 28

**Unlocked bonus chapter**

He was quiet as if he couldn't hear her cry. She

cried the minute they drove off the healer's yard.
He didn't blame her. Who wouldn't cry? They
didn't get any help but they left with confusion.
He was sad that he was the reason behind her
tears. If he didn't suggest they go to a
traditional healer, she was never going to cry
these tears. She would be home doing whatever
she was supposed to be doing. But he wanted
to help; he couldn't understand why her father
wasn't helping her. Couldn't he assign other
healers if he couldn't do it?
"I am really sorry I didn't mean for this to
happen. I only wanted the best for you. I
thought we would find help," he said, holding
her hand. Zinhloso pulled her hand and wiped
her tears. She didn't say anything. They drove in
silence. Zinhloso could see he wasn't driving
straight home and she didn't ask anything.
Her mind was creating and building, what was
difficult for her father to find the cure? If that
healer said there was a cure that meant the
plant was still there. Why wasn't he trying
harder to find it?
He stopped the car in the middle of the village's
sports field. "I think we should do a few driving
lessons, just the basics before we go back
home. It's still early and we should use every
chance we get."
She looked at him with a smile on her beautiful
face. She had regained colour, "really?"
"I will teach you what is what and what it does.
Are you up for it?" He was trying by all means
possible to cheer her up.
She nodded quickly, "of course, I am up for it.
Why wouldn't I be?"
The lesson began. He explained every detail
and he ensured she understood everything. He
was looking at her every now and again, she
was focused. She was so eager to learn and
this made him more patient. She wasn't like her
brother. She was different. He enjoyed teaching
her, it wasn't because he loved her but it was
because she was a good student.
"Did you understand all that?" He asked.
She shook her head and asked a series of
questions. Mhlabunzima answered the
questions patiently. When he was done he
opened the car door.
"Let's leave after you've started the car. You
won't move it but you'll label everything I told
you. Tell me what is what and start the car," he
instructed standing on the ground.
She stepped off the car and took the driver's
seat. She sat comfortably and labelled almost
everything correctly. Mhlabunzima corrected
her where she was wrong. She then started the
car.
Proud, Mhlabunzima clapped his hands. They
took an hour with the first lesson. "That went
well. I will give you a picture of a labelled vehicle
and I will write in Isizulu so you'll understand.
Keep memorising in your spare time," he
promised.
Zinhloso threw her body into his arms and she
held him tightly. He held her back, "thank you so
much, for everything." She said from her heart.
"It's not much and we should go now," he held
her face looking at her with a clean smile. They
stepped back inside the car and Mhlabunzima
drove off.

When Zinhloso returned home, she wasn't alone

but she was Khosi - the lady that cleans up for
her. They were carrying washed blankets.
Zinhloso was dressed as she left.
"What do you want to say sis Khosi?" Zinhloso
asked her. She kept glancing at her like she
wanted to ask her a question.
She cleared her throat and spoke in a low tone
as they headed to the washing line, "when you
returned you had a specific scent lingering on
you. It was the scent of a man."
She didn't panic, "oh, and how do you know it's a
scent of a man? It could have been the scent of
a friend."
She laughed, "Zinhloso, I am older than you and
I actually know who that scent belongs to."
"What? How can you know?"
"How can I not know? We buy essentials at his
shop. He interacts with everyone. He loves
people," she narrated, "I tried hard to remember
and I remembered it's him who has that scent.
Were you with him?"
Zinhloso looked around but there wasn't
anybody around. "I won't tell anyone."
"I asked him to teach me how to drive.
Remember, I am saving for a car? I should know
how to drive if I want a car," she whispered. She
trusted her but not that she could tell her - her
secret. She wouldn't. She would keep her
relationship a secret until the time was right. It
wasn't a relationship yet but deep down she
knew it would turn into a relationship.
She smiled, "that's a good thing. He likes
helping people. If your father was a different
man I would have loved for the two of you to
date. You also deserve the love of a man sis.
You're no longer a child now."
Her heart was filled with warmth, "thank you
sis." They hung the blankets.
"Intokazi yalayikhaya ivele iyahamba nje ayisho
nokuthi iyaphi," (you just left without saying)
Mrs Mnguni appeared at the corner of the
house and Nobuhle was following her with a
bucket full of spinach. Ziwinile was following
with a bucket of water.
"I told dad where I am going."
"And you didn't see the need to tell me? I was
awake but you left. You didn't even eat because
washing blankets was important." She asked
with her hands on her figure. "I am talking to
you."
"I wanted to come back early."
"It's early now? It's after 3pm and you wanted to
come back early." She raised her voice, "your
father said you should eat before leaving but
you didn't listen. If you disrespect even your
father, who am I then to expect your respect?"
Zinhloso didn't say anything but she hung the
pillow cases.
"And I wonder where's this sudden interest in
chores coming from," she said and began
washing the spinach. Zinhloso and Khosi
finished hanging the blankets.
"Thank you so much for everything," she said,
walking her out. Her mother shouted that she
would come back after an hour..
"It's okay, don't hesitate if you need help, ask
and I think you shouldn't walk with me. Go back
home," she said thinking of her mother's words.
Zinhloso said her goodbyes and headed back
home.

"Where are you going with food because

everyone is eating that side?" Mnguni pointed to
the living room where his family was seated,
having dinner.
"I will eat in my hut. I also want to check if I
don't have homework or if I do."
"Go and eat with everyone. I told you to eat
before leaving but you didn't listen to me. I don't
know what has gotten over you," Mnguni
growled at her but he didn't get a response from
Zinhloso. She sat down with her family and they
had dinner together. She was quiet, Zinhloso
learned to eat fast because she never wanted to
sit with them until she was done eating. She
didn't want to look at their disgusted faces
when the odour intermittently smelt.
Nobuhle looked at Zinhloso, "Zinhloso we went
to the river but you weren't there. Where were
you washing these blankets?"
"At sis Khosi's side of the river by her home."
She answered without looking at her. She was
almost done eating.
"Ay, it's impressive that you're learning at such
an old age and I wonder what's the motive," Mrs
Mnguni looked at her daughter as she was
focused on her food. Zinhloso stood up with an
empty plate and she left them. Mnguni looked
at her as she left. He could feel that something
happened, she wasn't herself but he couldn't
guess.
Later that night, she was under the bed covers
but she couldn't sleep. She got off the bed and
opened the door. All the houses and huts had
lights off. She took her keys and headed to the
main house. Each member of the family had
their spare to the main house. She had the front
door spare. She carefully closed the door. The
living room lights were always left on and so,
she didn't have a difficult time seeing the
telephone number of the Xulu household. From
their conversations, Zinhloso learnt that the
telephone was kept in Mhlabunzima's house.
She dialled the number.
"Mhlabunzima, speaking."
His deep voice made her cores vibrate and she
gasped. This had never happened, "it's me." She
whispered and giggled. His chuckle was deep
and a bit rough, "were you sleeping already?"
"I woke up a few minutes ago. I fell asleep when
I got home. I was seated on the sofa thinking of
going out and take my food," he responded.
"I am glad I caught you still thinking because I
would have woken up for nothing," she held on
tight to the telephone and she put her feet on
top of the table. Something her mother forbade
even her father from doing. Nobody was
allowed to put 'their feet on her expensive table'
as she would say.
"Yini kwenzenjani usukhumbule indoda njalo?"
(What is wrong? Are you missing me, already?)
She shook her head as she realised she didn't
have a reason for calling, "I couldn't sleep and I
thought I should sneak out and call you."
"Ngyabonga, mtakwethu ngaze ngabaluleka,"
(thank you my dear for making me feel special)
She put her leg on top of the other leg. Her
cheeks ached from smiling, "okay, I will sleep
better now after I have heard your voice. Today
was a good day."
"I am sorry about what happened."
"Don't be, it wasn't your fault. We made hugs
progress,"
"We'll find someone else and won't give up,
right?" He asked.
"Yes, we won't give up."
"I am happy to hear that. Have a good night and
we'll communicate when we find the chance.
Thank you for the call."
"Good night," she disconnected the call and she
stood up a happy soul. She carefully fixed
things and sneaked out. She walked freely in
the yard as she headed to her hut. She slept
peacefully.
UMCEBO

Chapter 29

"Why should I be the one to personally go and

tell him?" Mhlabunzima asked his father. They
were inside his father's house with Ngenzeni, it
was Monday afternoon.
"Hendricks spoke with you Mhlabunzima."
"I will tell Ngenzeni what he said and she'll tell
him that message," he looked at his sister
hoping she would come to the rescue.
But she raised her hands, "no, I won't do that.
Why isn't his telephone connected?"
Xulu glared at Mhlabunzima, "I am your father
and I am saying go there."
"Baba, I should meet with my comrades."
"I don't care," he looked at him with a poker face,
"didn't you say he has beautiful daughters and
it's not your fault? Why don't you go so you'll
see that beauty?" He tried harder to convince
him.
Ngenzeni rolled her eyes, "you'll be insane if you
can date any of his daughters."
"Shut up!" Xulu warned her, "are you listening to
me or not, boy?"
"I will go," he stood up annoyed. What would
have been wrong if he forced his sister? He
didn't want to see Mnguni's face at the moment.
He walked to the Mnguni household. He was
fast, he wasn't supposed to be late.
He looked around and saw the grandchild
playing in front of the garden's gate. There
weren't any elders in the yard. He headed for
the kitchen entrance.
"Sawubona malum' uMhlaba!" Sbusiso waved at
him and Mhlabunzima waved back with a grin.
When he approached the kitchen he could hear
Mrs Mnguni shouting.
"You were late at school today because you
overslept and you came back from school only
to sleep," she shouted, "you only woke up now.
You'll eat and sleep again. I don't know what to
do with you."
He didn't get the response from whoever was
being shouted at. He knocked on the door and
there was only Zinhloso and her mother.
Mrs Mnguni smiled at him, "my boy, I haven't
seen you in a while. I only heard that you took
my child."
He cleared his throat, "yebo, mama, I am sorry
about that. I am here to see Baba. I have a
message for him."
She glanced at Zinhloso, "take your food and
leave," she said to her in a low tone but he
heard her.
"Hi," Zinhloso gave him a short smile. She left
him gaping. He didn't even respond to her
greetings. Wasn't he expecting to see her? Or
was there something wrong? She couldn't
understand.
Mrs Mnguni welcomed Mhlabunzima inside her
house and she headed out to call her husband.
When she returned, she served him with a drink
and scones. He ate while waiting for Mnguni.
"Xulu, how can I help you?"
Mhlabunzima greeted the old man as he sat
down, "Hendricks sent me. He said he needs
help with his son. He's been sick for a long time
now." He relayed the message, "he said he's
been calling your telephone but he's not going
through."
He looked at the telephone, "I don't know what
may be the problem but we have a child here he
plays with things. Please check it for me, boy."
He stood up and checked the telephone, "oh,
the wire was disconnected. He might have been
playing with it."
"Grandchildren are trouble. It's the child of your
comrade. I wonder if that's what you tell each
other in your meetings, that a father should do
half the responsibility," he said, glaring at
Mhlabunzima.
He cleared his throat, "no."
"I don't want any of your men near my
daughters and that includes you." He waited for
a response but it didn't come, "why are you
quiet?"
"It's nothing I am focused on the task at hand
but I heard you," he didn't want to argue with
him. He didn't want to give even the slightest
clue that he wanted his youngest daughter. "It's
done, let's call." He gave him the telephone.
And while Mnguni was busy on the line,
Mhlabunzima finished up the drink and scones.
They were talking in Afrikaans. He couldn't
leave without hearing what he would say to him
afterwards.
"Sawubona, Mhlaba," Ziwinile greeted him as
she walked in through the front door. He
greeted back.
Mnguni placed the phone down, "he's told me
his son is sick. I will have to go to Durban
tomorrow. Are you busy?"
"Not that much I can drive you."
"Good, tomorrow morning, come here and we
will leave right away ," Mnguni informed him.
He stood up, "alright, I will see you tomorrow."
"How's it going with training your friend?
Driving."
He shook his head, "not quite well he's taking
longer to know how to drive."
"Maybe he mustn't be taught by his friend he'll
understand better then," Mnguni said.
"Yes, that's a good idea. I will leave now." He
walked out of the yards without seeing Zinhloso
again.
At dinner, Mnguni looked at Ziwinile. They were
all seated on the sofas eating, "Winny, are you
done with exams?"
"No, baba I am not done. I am writing
tomorrow."
He looked at Nobuhle, "and you, Buhle?"
"I am done. I finished today."
He nodded, "we're going to Durban tomorrow.
One of the bosses' son is sick and he wants me
to treat him. I will need help, your brother has
things to do here at home I can't take him."
"Yebo, we'll go. Are we taking the bus?"
"Xulu's son will come here tomorrow morning.
He'll drive us."
"Okay, baba," she looked at Zinhloso and she
was focused on her food. She stood up once
she was done.
Mrs Mnguni glanced at her daughter as she
walked out, "baba, is Nobuhle going to manage?
You hardly take Nobuhle but her brother and
sister. What if she messes up?"
"She won't mess up. I can't take Zinhloso with
me, you know that," Mnguni said and they
proceeded to eat. "and where's she now?"
"In the kitchen," Ziwinile answered and Zinhloso
closed the door quietly.
"Is she done with exams?"
Ziwinile looked at the kitchen side, "it seems
she's gone."
"I wonder what's wrong with this girl these
days," Mnguni clicked his tongue.

She was still dressed in her pajama pants and

shirt. She was singing standing next to her hut's
window where she was creating a bird trap
before going to school. She knew nobody would
take the birds if they got trapped because her
brother wouldn't be home. She went to bed
upset and heartbroken, not because she was
desperate to go to Durban with him. She
wouldn't survive the trip with her father and
Mhlabunzima. But it hurt her that she was the
one helping him except for Mzomubi, she
wasn't good enough to go with him because
she would embarrass him. How perfect! He
knew what could help her but he wasn't doing
everything in his power to help her. Why? Who
in her family genuinely loved her?
She went down and fixed the string. A car drove
through the gates, the gates were already
opened for him. Mhlabunzima looked at her as
she worked, before he could say something to
her, her father arrived.
"Zinhloso?"
"Baba," she doesn't stand up to face him.
"I am talking to you, get up," he instructed. She
stood up but she didn't look at him. She looked
down, "stay at home and stop going up and
down. You've been going up and down a lot
lately. I don't know what you're busy with."
He looked at her head waiting for a response
but she remained quiet, "are you listening to
me?"
"Yes, I won't go anywhere."
"Good," he huffed, "are you not going to say
goodbye?" He hardly left without her wishing
him well if she was already up.
"Uhambe kahle," (travel safe) she said and
continued with her trap. She raised her eyes to
the car and he was staring at her. She smiled at
him and her heart was filled with joy, love and
hope seeing his face. He winked at her.
Zinhloso giggled happily. She quickly turned as
her father looked back. Mnguni proceeded to
the car.
"Bye, Katshana!" Nobuhle said and Zinhloso
waved at her. She rushed to her hut.
Mhlabunzima cleared his throat and looked at
Mnguni who was seated on the passenger seat,
"it seems your daughter is late. Why don't we
drop her at school and proceed?" He suggested
nervously. He remembered her mother shouting
about her being late yesterday. It seemed her
parents were always shouting at her for some
reason. Mnguni asked what time it was and
Mhlabunzima showed him. He sent Nobuhle to
tell her.
She found her tying her shoes, "Mhlabunzima
said you're late for school and so, we should
drop you off."
Zinhloso looked up, "I am not late."
"You're late. The school opens in fifteen
minutes and you're still home. Brush your hair
and come," she didn't leave. Zinhloso grabbed
her bag and followed her sister.
"Thank you," Zinhloso said and closed the car
door.
Mhlabunzima started the car, 'anything for you'
he said internally.
She looked outside the window as her father
started ranting about how early she woke up
but she was busy doing nothing important. She
remained quiet.
After dropping her off at school, Mnguni looked
at Mhlabunzima, "did my daughter make friends
on that bus to Durban?"
"No, baba, she was always with me," he didn't
even know where the conversation was going.
He glared at him, "you ruined things by taking
her to Durban. My daughter came back different
ever since she went to Durban."
"Maybe she just wants to fight for freedom too,"
Mhlabunzima commented carelessly and he
cleared his throat when Mnguni glared at him. "I
am sorry."
He turned on the music but played it on low
volume to kill the silence in the car.
UMCEBO

Chapter 30
**Unlocked bonus chapter**

Nobuhle sat next to Mhlabunzima on the bench

at the other side of the porch. The porch of the
big farm house of Hendricks. Her father was
discussing the illness in detail with Hendricks
and his wife. Mrs Hendricks looked quite sad,
Nobuhle figured it was because of her son
being sick. They had two children, the son was
the eldest and the daughter, she was married,
living with her husband and child.
"Can I ask you something?" Nobuhle whispered
to Mhlabunzima.
"There's no need to whisper they'll not even hear
us. We're not closer to them," he was actually
bored by this trip. He postponed his meeting
yesterday and today, he was in Durban. He
didn't have much choice; he had to comply.
"Okay, are you interested in my sister?"
He looked at her, "Ziwinile?" He played dumb.
"No, I am talking about Zinhloso."
He remained quiet for a while. Nobuhle even
thought he wouldn't answer her, "oh, are people
not allowed to talk to your sister?" He looked
ahead. Nobuhle was being forward but he didn't
want to tell her that. Maybe she was just being
an older sister. Protective of her sister?
"That's not what I mean and you know it. You
also know that, you don't just talk to someone
like that. Walk them from the river and leave her
home," she spoke but without looking at him.
"No, I didn't know but what I know is, there are a
number of things people can speak about."
She chuckled, "play dumb then but know that
my father will not accept that relationship.
You're really wasting your time with her. And
don't you think you should let her live her life?
You're twenty-eight years old and she's only
twenty-one. She's just reached the age of
marriage as per king laws and you're already
running after her."
"Mm, so you're wishing for a relationship for us?
I should only wait until she's twenty-five years
old?" He looked at her and he grinned as
Nobuhle got mad.
Mnguni went to his daughter and Mhlabunzima,
"Xulu you'll wait for us in the car and Nobuhle,
go take my pouch and the bag."
They followed each other to the car. He opened
the car boot for her and he relaxed inside the
car.
Nobuhle followed her father with the bags. She
was amazed by how big the house was. Didn't
they get lost? She felt the pain deep in her hurt -
these people left their countries and came to
their homeland to take everything from them.
They squashed them in places that even their
houses wouldn't fit. It was a bit better in rural
areas, they had yards and some livestock. The
townships had to be the worst. They were
slaving for these people in their own country.
She fully understood the anger and hate
politicians had for these people. She
understood why they were forcing people to
comply, they wanted numbers to fight against
this injustice. But the people were scared for
their lives.
Hendricks' son had swollen balls and warts. The
Doctors had failed to completely cure him. He
would be better for a few days and it would get
worse. He was bedridden.
"What are you going to use to cure him, baba?"
Nobuhle asked her father after being told what
the young man had.
"You'll see."
Mrs Hendricks opened her son's bedroom door.
He also didn't live with them but he had his own
house in the suburbs of the city of Durban. He
lived alone and most of the time he would come
home. He moved home when he got sick.
Her eyes set on the young man on the bed, his
skin was pale white. She didn't know if it was
from being sick or if it was his normal colour.
He had messy gold hair and gritty stubble that
was the colour of his hair. He looked up at them,
his eyes were ocean blue. He was quite
handsome.
"This is my son, John. I trust you Mr Mnguni.
Please help him, he's my only son," she said
with a breaking voice. Being a mother herself,
Nobuhle understood how she felt. "John this is
Mr Mnguni and her beautiful daughter, Buhle.
Her grandfather once came here with her when
she was still a little girl." She smiled at Nobuhle.
Nobuhle was surprised she could shorten her
name, meaning she remembered her name.
That was how her grandfather called her - Buhle.
She even called her beautiful.
"Hi," Nobuhle greeted with an unsure smile. The
man was sick, did he need smiles?
The colour on his pale face returned slowly as
his eyes were fixed on her smooth tan face. She
was a beauty he wasn't used to. He was used to
model like beauties. "Hello sir and Buhle. It's
nice to meet you. I have met your father before,"
his baritone voice kept the smile on her face.
"It's nice to meet you too young baas," she
didn't want to offend them by calling him by his
name.
John was fascinated by the big afro she had.
He wanted to ask if it was fake or hers but he
didn't want to sound weird. He looked at
Mnguni as he began asking him questions
related to his illness. He kept glancing at
Nobuhle before casting out an answer. Mnguni
gave his daughter instructions and he walked
out.
"Are you in pain young baas?" She asked.
John chuckled, "please call me John. I am not
my father."
"Of course, John."
He smiled, "you look lovely. What are you busy
with in your life?"
What was wrong with the mother and son?
Hendricks was said to be ruthless and racist
but his family was complimenting her beauty.
"Thank you. I am doing Standard 10."
"That's great, I wish you the best in your final
exams."
"Thank you."
He swallowed the words as her father returned.
Mnguni looked closely at Nobuhle as she mixed
imbozisi and other herbs, making a treatment
for warts. He couldn't see John was just staring
at his daughter. Mnguni knew his bosses were
in awe of him because of his healing gift and
ability to use witchcraft. They viewed him as a
mysterious man and they were somehow
scared he could use his abilities on them but
Mnguni wasn't there at all.
He was mixing everything before John and
telling him the name of the herbs and their
functions. He knew he would hesitate to take
his treatment if it was already made.
The last mixture was of umhlambamanzi mixed
with other herbs for his swollen balls.
"We will have to cook these separately then and
you'll take your first dose once it has cooled
down. We'll come back," Mnguni left with
Nobuhle. They searched for the kitchen. Mrs
Hendricks freed them to use it.
"I should tell Xulu's son that we'll sleep here. I
should see if he'll have any reactions to the
treatment," Mnguni said and left Nobuhle
cooking the herbs.
He found Mhlabunzima talking to one of the
servants, "Xulu, I said be in the car I looked
around for you."
"I am sorry. Are we leaving?"
"No, we'll sleepover. I have told Hendricks. I
have to see this boy tomorrow," Mnguni said.
Mhlabunzima wanted to explode. He had
important things to do back home, one of them
was searching for another healer for his
daughter. The daughter that looked like he
didn't want to heal but he was going all out for
white people. "Okay."
"Don't go too far." He turned and greeted the
young man Mhlabunzima was talking to. He
headed back inside the house.
Mhlabunzima kept clicking his tongue. They
were sleeping in the servants' quarters. The bed
was small and uncomfortable. Couldn't
Hendricks give them the best hospitality? He
was such a vile person. They were helping his
son but they were sleeping in servants' quarters.
Luckily, the room had a telephone.
Mhlabunzima dialled home. He knew it would
take time for his father to hear the phone. He
had his house keys. He tried again until the call
was answered.
"Xulu!"
"Yebo, gxabhashe, it's your last born."
"Mhlabunzima, I was worried about you. Where
are you and why didn't you come back home?"
Xulu asked, he sounded worried.
The warmth and the love of his father as his
parent was everything he needed, anytime and
any day. He cared for all of them, equally. He
only chose him as heir for reasons known to
him but Mhlabunzima was not ashamed to call
him - his father.
"Mnguni told me we'll be spending the night
because he wants to monitor Hendricks' son,"
he articulated. "I only got the telephone now.
We're not even sleeping in comfortable beds."
"What's taking Mnguni's son so long to learn
how to drive? He would have taken him
instead." Xulu snarled.
"I don't know he's stubborn and his father
suggested he should start learning from
someone else," he yawned.
"Ay, you did good by calling. Sleep, it seems
you're tired."
"Yebo, goodnight baba." He placed the
telephone down and he retired back on the
uncomfortable bed. His mind was back home
with Zinhloso. How were her parents treating
her? He couldn't understand and the two
scenarios where they were shouting at her were
embroidered in his mind. Was she meant to
always stay at home and lock herself in? Was
she not allowed to sit down inside their kitchen
and eat? Her mother told her to 'take your food
and leave' How was that normal?
Mhlabunzima fell asleep trying to think of ways
to learn the truth from her. How was he going to
approach her and ask?

Nobuhle knocked softly on John's bedroom

door. It was after breakfast and they were
leaving for home. Her father had concluded that
he was going to be good and well in a few days.
He didn't get any side effects or bad reactions
from the medicine. Nobuhle had wondered how
he got such critical illnesses.
"Kom binne!"
She cleared her throat and fixed her clothes
before opening the door. "John!" She called out
as the bedroom was empty. He was no longer
on the bed, that was a good thing.
"Balcony!"
She found him on the balcony with paint on the
table but she couldn't see what he was doing, "I
was sent to come and call you. My father is
leaving now."
He put the small wooden doves on the table
and he closed the paint, "okay, let me get up."
"Do you need any help?"
He laughed lightly, "I got off the bed on my own.
I don't need help but thanks."
"Alright, I will leave then."
He quickly held her hand, "no, no, wait," he
smiled as Nobuhle turned, "I got you something.
I want you to keep it. I made it myself," he
placed the two small wooden doves on the
palm of her hand. He had painted them black
and white.
He smiled at her as he looked at her confused
face, "this is my token of appreciation. Please
think of me when you look at it. I know you're
very far but I would love to have a friendship
with you."
She looked at him with charming eyes. She was
taken by surprise, "you know the laws. We can't
be friends."
"I don't care about laws. The difference between
you and I is only our skin colour. We breathe the
same air, have the same red blood and white
bones."
She laughed, "you're right I will keep it. Thank
you," she hugged him without thinking. John
happily hugged her back. He didn't expect such
a gesture but he loved it. It was awesome. They
got away from each other, they stared into each
other's eyes with smiles. John pointed to the
door and Nobuhle nodded, and they followed
each other. They were walking slowly because
of John who was still in discomfort.
"Young man, I am leaving now. Please take the
cure until you've finished it. You'll be fine and
good to go," Mnguni instructed again. He didn't
want him to make mistakes. He looked at his
mom, "they don't taste nice but he must finish
it."
"He will!" The parents said unison. Hendricks
took Mnguni and spoke to him aside.
John gave his hand to Mhlabunzima, "I didn't
know you're also here, young Xulu."
"Yes, I am here. You see, what women have
done to you? How were you going to live
without balls?" Mhlabunzima spoke freely and
they laughed. He knew the mother and son
weren't like the father. He used to hold
conversations with John when he was still living
with his parents.
"Don't mention it," he kicked Mhlabunzima on
the foot, they laughed and he pointed at
Nobuhle with his head. Mrs Hendricks had left
them. It was only the three of them.
"Oh, I see. Please, think about the trouble she
would get into. It won't be the same, it'll be
better for you and worse for her. It's your
forefathers who created the laws,"
Mhlabunzima said, catching up. Nobuhle was
just playing with her hands, not aware of what
they were discussing.
John had a pained look on his face as he knew
Mhlabunzima was speaking the truth, "I guess
you're right. I am glad I got to see you again. It's
been a while."
They shook hands again, "be better and do what
you were told."
"Very well."
Mnguni announced it was time to go and they
headed out after saying goodbye. Mrs
Hendricks gave them loads of gifts as her
appreciation.
Mhlabunzima was annoyed by Mnguni. Why
was he not healing his daughter?
UMCEBO

Chapter 31

He parked the car closer to the main house. He

wanted things to be easier when they
transported the gifts given by the Hendricks
family. When he saw the gifts he concluded that
Mnguni wasn't healing her because he would
get nothing from healing her. He couldn't
understand.
"Zinhloso! Ziwinile!" Nobuhle called out her
sisters. Zinhloso appeared first and Ziwinile
followed after, "sanibona, please help us
transport these things."
The two greeted back and they waited for
Mhlabunzima to open the boot. Mnguni greeted
his daughters and left them.
"Sanibona, bo sisi," Mhlabunzima greeted
standing behind Zinhloso. Nobuhle had left with
the box of dishes. The two sisters greeted back
and Ziwinile headed to the house with another
box.
"You look beautiful. If it was for me I would say
sit there and I will take everything you have to
take," Mhlabunzima said to Zinhloso. He gave
her the smallest package. She was dressed in a
baggy graffiti shirt and black tights, the tights
were showing a bit. The shirt was mid thigh in
length.
Zinhloso giggled, "stop it and why are you giving
me something so small?"
"I don't want you to do any hard labour. I will
carry two. Let's go," he pointed the way and they
followed each other.
"Katshana! Such a small thing," Ziwinile
complained as they met up with her at the door.
Mhlabunzima responded instead, "she's also
small so small people should carry small things
let her be."
Ziwinile widened her eyes, "aybo Mhlabunzima
uyamkhulumela?" (You're speaking on her
behalf?)
"Yes, I gave her the smallest package I felt sorry
for. Move along," he proceeded inside and
Zinhloso followed without looking at Ziwinile.
The living room had both parents, they were
talking. They didn't mind them.
"I will go to the river in the afternoon," she
whispered to him as they followed each other.
They were done with everything.
"Okay, pass by my homestead's road so that I
can see you."
She shook her head, "sengiyasaba phela manje
ukudlula ngakubo kwe ndoda. Ngiyahlonipha
manje. Sengizobaleka ngisho uma ngibona
ubaba wakho," (I am scared now to pass by
your homestead. I am respecting your home
now) she said shyly.
Mhlabunzima burst out laughing. His laughter
was so loud even the chickens ran away. He
had forgotten they were right inside her home.
Her father was just close by. Zinhloso fisted his
shoulder, "stop it!"
He held his mouth but couldn't stop laughing.
"Xulu!"
Mhlabunzima quickly stopped laughing as
Mnguni called out for him. "Bye, see you later.
Don't oversleep," she whispered and quickly
walked away.
Mnguni looked at him suspiciously, "ikukitaza
ngani ingane yami?" (What is my daughter
tickling you with?)
"No, she was talking about the car, telling me
she's saving for a car," he quickly thought of a
lie.
Mnguni stared at him for a good minute, "you're
brave to even laugh with her. I told you not to
look her way."
He cleared his throat, "I am sorry but you must
also tell her not to look my way then because
she was the one talking to me. It was pure
though nothing much," he said to get his
reaction but he wasn't crossed.
He gave Mhlabunzima money, "thank you for
driving me and also use the other money to
load petrol."
He took the money, "thank you." He left right
away. He wanted to rest and get ready for
meeting up with her later. He wouldn't miss
seeing her for anything.

Like she told him, she didn't take the route that
passed by his homestead. She didn't have the
courage. She walked to the river alone, the road
had a few young women passing by with water
buckets.
"It seems like we have met again."
She raised her eyes and saw the tall police man,
"it's you again. Did you find the king's palace the
last time?" She stopped walking.
"Yes, by the way I am officer Molepe." He
smiled and gave her his hand. "Were you born
and bred in this village or you moved here?"
Zinhloso shook his hand, "I was born and bred. I
can tell you weren't."
"Yes, I am from the village across the river but
recently moved this side. My name is actually
Jonathan. I remember you are Zinhloso " He
formally introduced himself. The women
passing by looked at them. "I don't know if you
mind me asking."
"Yes," she wondered if Mhlabunzima
remembered their meeting.
"Do you know a man by the name of Ntaba
Mnguni? I was told he's a traditional healer."
She frowned, why was he asking about her
father. "Do you need traditional help?"
He chuckled, "no, that's not what I need but I
want to know -"
"Sanibona, I have been waiting for you," he held
her hand and pulled her away, "I am sorry you'll
have to continue your conversation some other
time."
She didn't say anything, she didn't even look at
the man because Mhlabunzima was here. The
officer proceeded with his walk around the
village.
"Sengiwupopayi ke mina ngilindile kanti ume
nenye indoda," (I was looking like a cartoon
waiting for you and you're with another man.)
"Hee, he's not another man in that sense don't
be jealous," she said and pulled her hand away
because of people who were coming by.
He looked back, the man was still seen, "but
you're pulling your hand away because of him."
"No, because of the people approaching us and
that man is a police officer," she informed him.
"What did he want from you?"
"He asked about my father. I couldn't ask what
he wanted to know about him because you
came and disturbed the conversation," she
glanced at him.
He scratched his head, "I am sorry. What was I
supposed to do seeing you with a man?"
"Sorry, hawu bengingajoli phela. There are old
people coming." She said quickly.
He sent his hand on his pocket and he gave her
eclairs sweet. He quickly rushed to the bush on
the road side because of the old women
approaching them. The old women had fire
woods on their heads.
"Sanibona, bo mama," Zinhloso greeted them.
She walking slowly so Mhlabunzima wouldn't be
far from her.
"Yebo, ntombazane!"
"Umtshele ukuthi akahambise izinkomo
kuMnguni lowa ukuze engacashi uma esbona,"
(Tell him to send cows to your so that he won't
hide when he sees us) one of the women said
and the others supported. Zinhloso only looked
down without saying anything.
"Who is that boy anyway?" One woman asked,
they had passed Zinhloso.
"I couldn't see him. He ran off quickly."
She didn't move until Mhlabunzima was out of
the bushes. "Thank you for the sweets. Have
some, too."
"I don't like sweet things," he said and they took
the alleyway to the river. "You should tell your
father there's an officer asking about him."
"I will tell him. Have you seen my aunt? She's
back but I haven't gotten time to go to
grandma's house and visit her." They could hear
the louder chatter of women down the river. On
the side, there was a big log down. It was on the
small hill that was overlooking the river but they
couldn't see anything on the river because of
the trees. They sat on the log.
"I saw her at the tuckshop. You must go visit
her and your paternal grandmother who doesn't
smile," Mhlabunzima said.
She laughed, "don't be like that. She's a good
person."
"I know, she used to help us when we were poor
but she doesn't smile. Your maternal
grandmother smiles a lot," he faced her and he
played with her nose.
She giggled, "stop it!" She flinched.
"Schools will close for June holidays. This will
be a good time for you to learn how to drive," he
held her hand, "we'll go to the sportfield of the
neighbouring village and once you can read
English or Afrikaans, you will have to go write
so that you’ll have driving papers.."
Her smile brightened her whole face, "that will
be amazing."
"After these weeks you should at least know
how to move the car."
"I will know how to move the car. You'll see I am
a fast learner." She stood up, "I will go down and
come back with my water then we'll go." She
left him.
One young woman coming up with her water
was with Ngenzeni. He was surprised to see his
sister.
"Why are you here, Mhlaba?" Ngenzeni asked
and looked around. She saw nobody.
"Am I not allowed to be here?"
"You and coming to the river?"
He looked forward, "it's peaceful here I am
strategizing." He said and his sister followed
her friend but he could see she wasn’t
convinced..
"Your brother is such a nice person."
"Yini usuyamfuna? Ungalinge ngizomfunela
mina umfazi ngoba uyimpohlo. He has too
much time on his hands, he's sitting there."
Mhlabunzima laughed, he couldn't hear the
lady's response as they were far from him. He
stood up when he saw her coming.
"I saw your sister. She almost saw us together,"
Zinhloso said.
"It's a good thing she didn't see us, she was
going to tell Xulu and they were going to ruin
things before they even started," he moved the
tree branch that was going to hinder her. "I am
going home now to talk to my father about
suggesting another healer."
She stopped walking and faced him, "I see your
love in your actions but what am I going to give
you in return?"
"You'll give me your beautiful heart," he held her
waist and kissed her cheek. She opened her
eyes with a smile on her face. He walked her
home.

Mhlabunzima found his father inside the garden

searching for onions.
"Are you going to cook today?" He asked and
helped him pick other vegetables like carrots
and peppers.
"Yes, your sister asked me to cook for her. She
loves my food," Xulu responded.
"We all love your food Xulu."
"What were you doing in the river?" He stopped
what he was doing and looked at him.
Mhlabunzima continued looking for vegetables.
"Your daughter decided to tell you. Why would
she even report that?" Ngenzeni was something
else. She behaved like a child sometimes.
"You hardly go there, that's why she told me.
Yini, usunentombi?" (Do you have a girlfriend?)
"Not yet," he placed the vegetables down, "baba,
that traditional healer you told me about. He
didn't help me."
"Hawu, why didn't he help you?"
"He said he can't help me and he didn't even
suggest someone who could help." He looked
at his father. He was looking down listening to
him, "is there any other healer you know?"
"What's this thing bothering you? Do you need
to be personally there or is it something where
you can send someone on your behalf?" Xulu
asked.
They headed out of the garden with the
vegetables, "I think I can send someone on my
behalf."
"Do you have someone you trust beside
Mzomubi? Or your sister, send her across the
river. I think that's the only man that can help
you," Xulu suggested.
He kept quiet considering his suggestion. Who
could help him? He really needed to help
Zinhloso and give her her life back. He can't ask
his sister - she talked too much. She would tell
her father and their brother, and maybe even her
friends. .
"Yes, you're right I will do that, thanks." He
washed the vegetables for his father with the
conclusion that he would have to send
someone to go with Zinhloso to that village.
There was no other way.
UMCEBO

Chapter 32

After school, she didn't go straight home but

she headed to the Mnguni main homestead
where her father grew up. They were in the
same village but quite far from her home.
She wanted to see her aunt and cousin.
The homestead was bigger than his father's
yard. His grandfather built his home properly,
the houses and huts were in order - sons and
daughters separate and it was a beautiful home.
In this homestead lived more people and there
were a lot of houses and huts. Her
grandparents had ten children in total, five sons
and five daughters. The daughters, only two
were married and only three sons got married
and moved to build their own homes with their
wives and children. There were lots of
grandchildren from both remaining daughters
and sons. Her grandmother loved them all but
like any other parent, she didn't like it when they
had children out of wedlock.
"Yehheni, nali ikatshana le ndodana yami. How
are you my child?" Grandma Mnguni welcomed
her daughter. She was inside the kitchen hut
with her daughters. The hut was warm as the
wood and coal stove was turned on. They were
cooking.
"Sawubona, gogo, sanibona aunty," she laughed
as her grandmother pulled her into her lap like a
child. Her grandmother was seated down on the
straw mat. She played with her cheeks like she
was a child. Zinhloso didn't stop laughing.
"It's been a while Katshana. Your father is
keeping you busy there, you're no longer visiting
like before," her eldest aunt said, "I also saw
your maternal grandmother and she told me the
same thing."
"Yes, we're busy babekazi. But I thought I
should come and visit aunt Comfort. Dad told
me that she's back," Zinhloso looked around but
she wasn't with them. "How is she?"
"You did good, Sisi. She's not well but because
she's back home now she'll heal," answered her
eldest aunt.
Zinhloso had a good relationship with her
extended family members. A time back she
wanted to live with her paternal grandmother
because of the treatment she got home but her
father flatly refused. She couldn't go without his
approval.
"Yes, she'll be happy to see you. Your sisters
don't even come here. What are they doing with
your mother?" The granny asked, "your brother
visited when your aunt arrived. They were
supposed to go to town and get her with Xulu's
son but he couldn't make it. He said his
shopkeeper had to go home."
She smiled - Xulu's son had to be Mhlabunzima.
"They're always busy but I am sure they will
come."
"We're happy to see you. I hardly even see you
on the streets." The second aunt said to
Zinhloso and she gave her food. The aunts
didn't get along with Zinhloso's mother and so,
they never visited their brother's home.
"I always go out with purpose." She ate happily
while having a conversation with them. They
were catching up.
Zinhloso and her grandmother walked to
Comfort's hut.
"I heard from your father that Xulu's son took
you to Durban," Grandma looked at her.
"Yes, but I came back safely."
"That's good. Mina ngimthola nini
umkhwenyana? You're twenty-one years old
now." (When am I getting a son-in-law?) She
fished. Mzomubi had told her about the birds'
incident and what she said when granny asked
about Zinhloso and her sisters. He sounded
worried that she had started dating.
"Kuyabheda gogo. Who can come near me?
Everybody knows my problem."
Granny looked down sad, "don't think like that.
Your grandmother got married and her husband
loved her very much regardless."
"Yes, you're right gogo."
Granny knocked on the door and she told them
to come after a few minutes. Zinhloso could
see that she was crying but when she saw, her
facial expression changed. She smiled and
stood up.
"My brother's child! You've grown so much,"
Comfort hugged her niece. "Look at you! Such a
beautiful young woman."
"Thank you. How are you aunty? I thought I
should skip going home and come see you and
my boy." She smiled at her. Losing her husband
must've been really hard.
They sat on the bed, "I am trying my baby and I
am better that I am home. I can't imagine how it
would have been if I continued staying there."
"We're happy that you're back home. Life will be
good again," Zinhloso said and her aunt held her
hand tightly. They caught up, talking and
laughing until late. Comfort felt better, her niece
visiting made her happy.
She went to her grandmother. She was inside
her two room house. "Gogo, it's getting dark.
Can you call dad and tell him I will sleep here? I
don't want to go."
"Give me the telephone," she pointed to the
telephone that was closer to her.
Zinhloso dialled home and gave it to her granny.
Granny asked to speak to her son from her
daughter in-law. She didn't have a problem with
her son's wife, only her daughters had a
problem with her.
"Mama, how are you? I am busy here and I am
going crazy because it's 5pm now and your
granddaughter is not here," Mnguni sounded
worried on the line.
"That's why I am calling. Zinhloso is here with
us. She passed by because she wanted to see
her aunt," granny informed Mnguni.
He huffed, "what has gotten over her? She was
supposed to tell me mama and why isn't she
coming back, it's late now?" He raised his voice,
suddenly angry.
"Don't shout Ntaba, the child had a last minute
thought. She'll sleep here it's Saturday,
tomorrow."
"Useyangeyisa ngampela manje uZinhloso. She
has forgotten that I am her father!"
She shook her head and shouted, "stop it!
You're acting like the child is with boys but she's
home. This is her home and you'll see her on
Sunday because you're crazy."
"Mama -"
"No, no, usangene wena. Ingane ikubo. Bye, bye,
now." She put the phone down.
"Your father won't let you be your own person
and you're allowing him. He wants to shield you
and keep you under his wing like you're a child.
It's like he's scared there's someone who will
take you away from him." She shouted and
clapped once. She huffed and looked at her, "go
and bath my child and we'll go have dinner. Your
cousin will give you her clothes because you're
small like her."
"Yebo, gogo," she stood up and left. Here, she
didn't feel uncomfortable even when eating with
them. They treated her disorder like a non-
factor. You would never see them wearing
disgusted faces, even the children.

"Zinhloso didn't even tell you that she's going to

visit your aunt?" Mrs Mnguni asked, standing by
the kitchen door. It was after dinner, everyone
had retired to their spaces of sleep. Nobuhle
was cleaning up the kitchen.
"No, she didn't tell me."
"Ayi, idlobe le ngane. It's Saturday tomorrow,
you should go see your aunt and come back
with your sister," she suggested. "Mzomubi has
seen her I don't want them to say I am keeping
you from coming."
"Yes, we'll go. Goodnight mom."
"Goodnight."
She finished up cleaning. The telephone rang,
Nobuhle quickly went to answer it.
"Hello?"
"Is it you?" The baritone asked on the line.
She smiled and sat down, "yes, it's me. How are
you?"
"I am very well now that I am hearing the sound
of your voice." He said but he sounded rather
nervous.
She blushed, "why aren't you sleeping? Do you
want to talk to my father?" She was startled by
her mother walking in but she relaxed
remembering she didn't know Afrikaans and
English. She left school earlier.
"No, I actually wanted to talk to you but I wasn't
sure if it was you who was going to answer," he
said.
Her mother was just standing by the wall-unity
looking at her. Why wasn't she leaving? "You
were lucky it was me. How were you going to
ask for me if my father answered?"
"I wasn't going to ask, I was going to pretend
like I wanted to talk to him."
She laughed, "how's the treatment?"
"It's amazing I can walk without any discomfort.
Please, tell your father."
"Alright, I will tell him. I should go now, mom is
actually here with me."
He laughed, "and you're freely speaking?"
"She can't hear me." She said and they laughed.
"sleep well."
"Thanks and you too."
She put the phone down and looked at her
mother. "I heard the phone and came back. Who
was that?"
"It was Handricks' son. He was calling to tell
dad that he's better now and he can even walk
without any discomfort," she stood up.
"That's a good thing. Go to sleep now."
They closed the door and went their separate
ways. Mrs Mnguni went to her husband's house.
****
He was busy fixing the gate of his mother's
garden. The goats had entered violently and
messed up the garden. He just got home after
work and his mother asked him to help. His
mother was still inside the garden working.
"Mama, do you know Comfort Mnguni?" Robert
asked his mother.
She stopped working and looked at her son,
"yes, I know her, poor woman what happened to
her is sad. Where did you see her?"
"I saw her a week back at Mhlabunzima's
tuckshop. I didn't even know she was Nobuhle's
aunt," he said and tried to close the gate he had
fixed.
"Yes, she's her aunt. Didn't you see the
resemblance to Mnguni?"
He nodded, "I saw the resemblance but
sometimes people resemble each other without
being relatives."
"You're right. She's a pretty woman."
"Does she have children?"
"They had a son with her husband. I heard she's
back home because she doesn't get along with
her mother in-law," she filled her son in, "I don't
know why her mother-in-law doesn't like her
because she's a good child."
Oh! His mother spoke like this about Comfort?
Was this a sign? He couldn't tell her that
Nobuhle was also a good woman but she still
didn't like her. "We would never know why she
didn't like her."
"Yes, but she's still young. She can still find a
good man and it's good that she doesn't have a
lot of kids," she looked at her son suspiciously
as he nodded, "why are you asking about her?"
"I was asking because I didn't know her."
"I also don't have a daughter in-law. You're old
enough to bring a wife home, now and she must
be a pretty woman," she hinted at him but
Robert only laughed. She continued working, it
seemed her son had an interest in Comfort. It
would be interesting if they could have a
relationship. That little girl would be hurt - she
knew that for sure.
****

Can we please help our sponsor by liking her

post. It's a competition, she needs like to be on
the post she shared. What you need to do is -
only click the link and like/react. She needs
600likes/reactions and we'll get a bonus once
it's 743 likes/reactions. Thanks.

Link:
https://www.facebook.com/100011659146748
/posts/1797794607285827/?app=fbl
UMCEBO
Chapter 33

***Unlocked bonus chapter for modelling

contest***

The five of them were squashed up inside

Mhlabunzima's tuckshop office. It was late at
night, Mhlabunzima had long closed the shop.
They were busy cleaning their guns. They didn't
have time to play, they were preparing for
themselves - should war come. They should be
ready.
"We can't let those hooligans come here.
They're the ones who made a truce that they
won't enter our village and we also shouldn't
enter theirs," Mhlabunzima was angry. They'd
never thought of forcing people to join their
political party but a group of people from
another village wanted to enter their village and
force people? Not on their watch!
"What's wrong about this, is that they won't be
fairly campaigning but they'll be violent," Robert
clicked his tongue, "we can't let them come
here."
Mzomubi looked at him, "why would they even
campaign? They're not allowed here just like
we're not allowed there," he emphasized, "our
king and their king sat us down and they solved
this. They decided we should let it go."
"We should protect our families and the people,"
Mhlabunzima said and they agreed with him.
"Asiwafun' amagwala!" Mhlabunzima started
the song and his comrades sang along. They
stopped cleaning guns and clapped hands.
They sang loudly like a large group of people.
They sang with soul and spirit. They were
passionate about freedom. They were
passionate about a democratic country. They
were passionate about 'equality for all.'
Mhlabunzima locked the door of his office, "we
had a productive time. Those guns should stay
hidden in your homes."
"Yebo!"
"What will we do if our people want to join the
other party?" Mzomubi suddenly asked the
question they weren't thinking of.
They all kept quiet, "we'll deal with that when we
see it happening but for now, we focus on this,"
Mhlabunzima said and they supported him.
"aren't you going home?" He asked Mzomubi
who was following the two guys who were
heading to the other side.
"Ngisayobheka udali ngapha." He answered and
they laughed at him.
Robert and Mhlabunzima walked together,
"when are you checking yours? His sister to be
precise." Robert asked.
"Asks someone who's actually having his eyes
on his aunt. He'll be hurting his sister by dating
his aunt," he reminded him and Robert cracked.
"I don't care."
"Robert, I need your help. I know I can trust you,"
he glanced at him in the dark.
"Yes, talk to me."
"I did go to the traditional healer dad referred
me to but you won't believe what happened," he
said. He had to tell him the truth if he really
wanted help. "He chased us out and told us, we
should never come to him."
"Who's We?"
"Her and I."
"Who's Her?"
He groaned, "Robert! You know who I am talking
about and what if there's someone close? I
don't want to call names."
"You want someone who'll cure her illness?"
"Yes, that's what I want."
They stood in front of Xulu's gate,
"Mhlabunzima, what if you help her and she
doesn't date you but takes another man?"
The tall policeman crossed his mind, "I don't
know Robert but I believe she likes me. It's just
that women think there's value in keeping a
man waiting before agreeing to a relationship."
"It's always good to chase after her. It gives you
time." He said, "So now where do you want to
take her?"
"Dad said the best man is across the river but
you know we can't go there and she can't go
alone."
Robert huffed. Love was something else,
"Mhlabunzima are you really prepared to go
down this road? Are you prepared to face her
father? There's a lot you don't know about that
family and how they treat her. Do you even
know what you're getting yourself into?"
"I will see along the way Robert. I really want her
and I won't rest until I have it all, the love and
affection from her."
He understood how he felt. He also yearned for
Nobuhle's love and affection, he didn't stop until
he got her but with Zinhloso it was a different
case. There was something about her and her
father not helping her. He just didn't know,
"have you ever asked yourself why is her father
not helping her? Mnguni is known across
villages and he's the same man that helped his
mother in-law who had the same problem."
Mhlabunzima widened his eyes, "you're lying!"
"I am telling you the truth. Why is he not healing
his child that he loves so much? Nobuhle once
told me that she's the favourite child because
she's a rainbow baby," Robert filled him in, "her
parents had her after losing three pregnancies
and her father had suffered because of his
ancestors, then he had Zinhloso. She's an
intentional child. The parents intended to have
her but Mnguni is not helping her, why? It
doesn't make sense."
"It's just a mystery, Robert. Ngizomhlokoloza ke
mina ngenze le angafuni ukuyenza." He said,
determined. "I just don't know who can go with
her."
"Why don't you tell Zinhloso to ask the lady that
looks after her to go with her?" Robert
suggested, "I would say take my sister but she
might tell my mother I can't trust her."
"A lady that looks after her?"
"You see, I told you there's a lot you don't know.
I heard from Nobuhle that Khosi Biyela was
hired by her father to look after Zinhloso," he
explained, "she didn't explain much. She said
she looked after her and I didn't understand
either."
"Maybe because of her illness."
"What if he doesn't treat her like the other healer?
Are you going to stand that rotten fishy smell?"
Robert asked with a disgusted look on his face,
"I have never spent too much time with her but I
know. How do you spend so much with her and
even look happy?"
He shrugged, "it's intermittent Robert and we're
not standing here to discuss her odour. If he
doesn't help I will ensure I learn which herbs are
mixed and cure her myself."
"I wonder how you'll behave once you've gotten
in between her legs," he laughed and moved
aside as Mhlabunzima kicked him. "Talk to her
and she'll go with Khosi."
They shoulder hugged, "thank you so much,
Robert."
"I just hope your relationship with her brother
won't be ruined if the truth comes out that
you're dating his sister," Robert said.
He chuckled, "I also hope yours won't be ruined
and you won't be burnt." They laughed and went
their separate ways.
***
Ziwinile and Nobuhle got home, they were
welcomed happily. They didn't expect they
would also come - at times they had a cold
shoulder for their aunts because of how they
treated their mother. The eldest aunt didn't like
their mother even before she got married to
their father and the other four disliked her
based on how she treated Zinhloso. They had
begged their brother to allow Zinhloso to live
with their mother but Mnguni refused.
"Did I do something wrong?" Nobuhle asked
Zinhloso. They were on the river washing their
grandmother's clothes and sleeping blankets.
Nobuhle told Zinhloso to wash the blankets
because she had washed them before with
Khosi. She didn't have a difficult time washing
blankets because she had washed them before
as a teen. They were easier than washing
clothes. Her grandmother was always busy
doing some chores and garden work, her
clothes were dirty.
Ziwinile stayed behind to spring clean their
grandmother's house. It was what they normally
did for their grandmother when they visited.
Wash clothes, clean and cook for her then leave.
Zinhloso would fetch water with her aunts.
She looked at her sister, "something like what?"
She rinsed the second blanket on the running
water of the river. The first blanket and sheets
along with pillows were laid on top of small
bushes and short trees closer to the river banks.
They were hanged so they won't have to carry
wet heavy blankets on their way back home.
"I don't know but you've been distant and cold
towards me," Nobuhle revealed. It was only the
two of them on the river but they were not even
talking. Zinhloso was quietly doing her part and
Nobuhle tried starting a conversation but
Zinhloso didn't talk much. She would say a few
words and be quiet.
"No, I am not. There's just nothing to talk
about."
"That's not true. Is it because of what I said
about Mhlabunzima? I am sorry I didn't mean to
hurt your feelings if I did."
She shrugged and dragged the blanket to a
large basin. Nobuhle stood up from the rock
and she helped wring the blankets. "I am your
sister and I know you. I know he's great guy but
-"
"I'd rather we not talk about Mhlabunzima,
please," she quickly stopped her from saying
whatever she was planning on saying. She knew
she would talk about how unworthy she was
and she didn't need to hear that. They hung the
blanket. "I am done. I will help you wash the
clothes so that we'll go. It's getting really hot
now," Zinhloso suggested.
"Her clothes are really dirty so I am double
washing, do the second wash," she instructed
and Zinhloso complied. She glanced at her, "I
met Mr Handricks' son."
"Oh, and?" She looked at her.
She really wanted to talk to someone about him
but she couldn't talk to Ziwinile. She would
definitely tell their mother, "he's a very
handsome man," she smiled and Zinhloso
laughed, "he said I am pretty and he gave me a
sentimental gift when we left."
"Why does it sound like you like him?"
"Even if I do, nothing would happen between us.
He's a Boer and I am Black. I also have a child."
"I see your skin colour issue but having a child
would never stop a man who really wants you
from being with you," Zinhloso said. She had a
bigger problem but Mhlabunzima still wanted
her.
"Do you think so?"
"I know so."
"He also called the other night and luckily I
answered the telephone. He wanted to speak to
me. He said he was going to lie if someone else
answered," she was speaking softly, reflecting
how smitten she was by the man.
Zinhloso giggled, "he was taken by you and
you'll see, he'll make ways to have you but I am
scared of the cruel rulers. What if you get
caught and go to jail?"
She had a sad look, "I know. It'll all be a fantasy
Zinhloso."
"But freedom will come I am sure."
She laughed, "Mhlabunzima said maybe you
want to fight for freedom when dad asked him
if you made friends on the bus. You came back
a changed person."
"I do want freedom," she said sadly but she
didn't dwell much on it. She knew what he
meant by that but she wouldn't explain it to her.
They spoke about John, creating beautiful
sceneries of love between him and Nobuhle. By
the time they were done with washing the
clothes, their uncle had already come and took
the blankets with the wheelbarrow. They carried
clothes home.
"Are you leaving, already?" Grandma asked her
granddaughters. "I was very happy to see you
home and thank you for taking care of my
needs. My house is sparkling and the blankets
are clean."
"You even got Katshana doing some big
chores," Comfort said and they laughed. "What
did you wash?"
"I washed blankets."
"Hahahaha!" The aunts said in unison and they
clapped for her like they were clapping for a
child.
"We should go now gogo. Mom said we should
come back with Zinhloso," Nobuhle told her
grandmother.
Zinhloso shook her head, "no, I am not coming
back today."
"You can go without her. I told her father she'll
come back tomorrow. You'll tell your mother
that," granny said and she gave them a basket
of oranges from her tree and a box with a
chicken inside. They thanked her and left.

Sadness overwhelmed her as she entered her

home Sunday afternoon. She really didn't want
to come back but she didn't have much of a
choice. After putting her school bag in her hut,
she looked for her father. She found him with
his mother inside his house. They were eating
together, listening to the radio.
She sat down and greeted. The parents greeted
as if they didn't want to greet her back.
"I came to greet," she said, standing up but her
father stopped her. They finished up eating and
she was just looking at them. When they were
done, her mother took the dishes and left.
"What's wrong with you now? Why did you leave
without telling me, huh?"
"I remembered at school that I wanted to go
and visit my aunt. I told grandma to tell you."
Ever since she returned from the traditional
healer, she didn't even want to look at her father.
"You were supposed to come home and go the
following day after I have given you
permission!"
"But I was home, it's not like I was in the wrong
places," Zinhloso argued.
"Don't back chat me, you impudent child!" He
screamed and hit the sofa with his fist.
"I am sorry." She looked down.
"I don't know what has gotten over you. You've
suddenly become disobedient. I don't have a
child that disrespects me in these yards and it
won't start with you!" He pointed at her and
Zinhloso remained quiet. "You're doing as you
please. Ngathi uziphethe. Akukhona
kwamaziphathe lana isemzini wami,
syezwana?"
"Yes."
"Leave my sight!"
She moved to the edge of the couch, "can I go
and visit my maternal grandmother? I will go on
Tuesday and when I come back I will spend the
rest of the holidays with my paternal
grandmother."
"You're not going there, you'll stay here until
schools reopen. I won't do your will."
"But I have every right to visit my grandparents,"
she said politely but her father only glared at
her. She stood up, "I don't know why can't I just
die nje." She said in a low tone as she walked
out but her father heard her.
UMCEBO

Chapter 34
****Thank you for birthday wishes chapter
💜 ***

Mrs Mnguni looked at her husband. They were

having dinner but Zinhloso wasn't with them,
"your daughter won't eat?" She asked and
waited for a response but Mnguni didn't answer
her. "Nobuhle, go and call your sister."
Mnguni raised his hand, "let her be. She knows
the time when the family eats. Don't call her."
He strictly said and Nobuhle sat down.
She was surprised and so were her children.
Mnguni would shout if he didn't find Zinhloso
eating with them. He would be livid when his
wife told him the same words. He was the one
saying this? "But baba she hasn't eaten since
she got back." Mrs Mnguni pushed it.
"That means she's not hungry." He said and the
family proceeded without Zinhloso.
Mzomubi looked at his mother, "is there any
food left? Tonight, it's like you dished up a little
food deliberately."
"No, it's the lamb your grandmother gave
Zinhloso. It was enough for the six of us," Mrs
Mnguni answered, "eat mealie bread."
"Take your sister's food." Mnguni suggested.
They all looked at each other, "no, Mzomubi
don't do that. Obviously grandma gave her that
meat because it's her favourite. They were
supposed to eat it today at home but she was
leaving," Nobuhle said.
"But dad says I should eat it."
"But that doesn't mean eat it. Just yesterday,
you ate her birds," Ziwinile reminded Mzomubi,
"don't eat her food."
Mnguni looked at Mrs Mnguni, "it seems there's
something that has changed with all your
daughters. I say something and they do what
they feel like doing. They're defying me."
Mrs Mnguni looked at her daughters and they
both said "Sorry." To their father. Mzomubi went
ahead and took his sister's food. A few minutes
later, Zinhloso walked in, she was yawning. She
greeted Mzomubi because she hadn't seen him.
"Sisi Nobuhle? I don't have any food?"
Nobuhle looked at her father but he didn't say
anything, "dad saw you not coming for dinner he
thought maybe you're not hungry and he said
Mzomubi should take your food because he
wasn't full from that meal."
"I was sleeping, not that I wasn't hungry." She
glared at Mzomubi.
"Don't look at me like that I was given
permission to eat your food."
"And you saw nothing wrong with eating her
food!" Nobuhle raised her voice.
"Nobuhle!" Mrs Mnguni shouted and she looked
at Zinhloso, "I always tell you a girl doesn't sleep
during the day. One day you'll be forgotten even
when we have to run for our lives. The vultures
will find you here, sleeping."
"It would be best if that one day comes
tomorrow."
"Zinhloso!" She screamed, suddenly hurt by
what she was saying. She had tears glistened in
her eyes. She was implying death and for her, it
awakened old wounds. She remembered what
this child standing before her meant for her and
her husband when they got her. Things had
happened between them but she didn't want her
to die.
"Don't speak to your mother like that." Mnguni
warned her.
Zinhloso didn't mind the parents but she looked
at her brother, "wena, singakuphathi isisu
ebusuku. Okwesthathu udla izinto zami manje,"
(I hope you won't have a running stomach at
night. This will be the third time eating my food
staff) she warned him and left. She was trying
to scare him, she knew Mzomubi was scared of
illnesses but he didn't mind scars, as long as he
wasn't sick.
"Baba?" He looked at him. Mzomubi was 19
years old but his body didn't match his age. His
friendship with Mhlabunzima began when
Mhlabunzima helped him with the boys that
were bullying him at school. Mzomubi started
school at the right age. He was doing Standard
1 then and Mhlabunzima was doing Standard 4.
They became friends from then.
"She's just saying, don't mind her."
Mrs Mnguni stood up and left, she was no
longer alright. Her husband sighed and followed
her out.
Ziwinile closed the door of their house after
dinner, "what's wrong with Zinhloso?"
"I don't know, maybe she's tired of all your ill
treatment and it seems your dad has joined the
club," Nobuhle said and slammed the door of
her bedroom.

In the morning, Zinhloso found Nobuhle already

awake. She was making breakfast in the
kitchen and Sbusiso was eating.
She greeted her sister, "sis, can you please tell
dad that when I went to the river I met a police
man named Molepe. It wasn't for the first time
meeting him and he asked about dad. He didn't
want any healing help but it looked like he
wanted to interrogate me but we got disturbed
by an elder thinking we're dating on the streets
he left. He wasn't aware I am his daughter."
"What? And why aren't you telling him yourself?"
She turned to the door, "I am going to the shop,
there's something I need there, please tell him I
will forget again."
"Hey, why don't you eat? There's a leftover of
what Sbusiso is eating."
"I am fine, I will go eat the meat with grandma. I
should go early." She headed out. She didn't go
straight to the tuckshop but she went home
first. Her uncle was back from work, he worked
in the city of gold and he bought a sheep from
Mhlabunzima. They slaughtered the sheep
Sunday morning before she left. And her
grandmother gave her the meat but she didn't
get to eat it because of her father. She headed
back home. She wanted that meat and they
were going to give her, she knew that. She
brought meat for them and they decided to eat
it alone.
She left home full and she had another bag of
meat. She told her grandmother what happened
and she requested she should not confront her
father. She agreed after her aunts had told her
to do as Zinhloso requested.
"Sawubona." Zinhloso greeted Mhlabunzima.
He was behind the counter. He was busy and
couldn't notice her.
He turned with a smile, "I even know the sound
of your voice now."
She laughed, the shop was empty, "where's your
shopkeeper?"
"I gave him a day off."
She gave him money and bought snacks, "I am
actually coming from home, at granny's. I am
passing by to tell you that I am leaving
tomorrow."
He frowned and he didn't ask the question as
there were people entering the shop. They
bought and left, "where are you going?"
"I am visiting grandmother, the one you said
smiles a lot."
"Oh, but what about us and our plans?"
"The village is not far from here and it'll be best
to practice driving there because I don't have to
hide anything from granny," she tried to make
him see the bigger picture because she could
see he was not happy about her leaving, "I won't
tell her about us, of course but I will leave for
the lessons with her knowledge that you're
teaching me how to drive and dad doesn't know.
She won't have a problem."
He smiled, relieved, "if that's the case I am glad
you'll be leaving even though I won't see you
often but it'll be awesome even on that side."
She waited for the buyer to leave and she
placed the meat on the counter, "ubaba
omncane bought this from you. It's very nice,
it's like you give your sheep a massage."
He had tears from laughing, "that's your way of
telling me you love what belongs to me."
She giggled, "I couldn't eat the meat yesterday
because your friend ate my food…" she told him
what happened and told him that she went
home to eat but she didn't have enough of it.
She didn't want to share the meat with her
family again. "I love it most as braai." She was
testing him.
He chuckled, "your father was just angry but he
was wrong. So, do you want me to braai it for
you?"
Clever man! "Yes, I will sell here for you. You
have price tags and a calculator. I won't make
mistakes. I will enjoy it best with you. Or I can
leave it and come back later?"
"Mornings are busier here. It's best if you go
home and come back after 1pm. You'll have
everything ready. There's my boy I will ask to
watch over while I go home." He promised. He
had made peace with the fact that she loved
food more than him.
"You're the best and I hope you don't change."
She left the meat and left the shop as the group
of people entered.
At home, she swept her hut and made the bed.
It was quiet outside, they were surely having
breakfast. She took her bag and packed clothes
for her trip to her grandmother's house.
When she was done with everything her mother
was watering the plants. She went to her and
she greeted. Mrs Mnguni greeted back without
looking at her. She was still angry because of
what she said.
"Mama, I am going to visit grandma
eNdabayakhe tomorrow," she informed her. She
didn't want her to complain that she didn't tell
her. "When I come back I will visit my other
grandmother."
"Did you get your father's approval?"
"Yes," she lied. She wasn't going to let him stop
her. She didn't want to spend the rest of her
holidays with them.
"Okay, don't go without seeing me tomorrow. I
should give you some things to give to your
grandmother."
"Yebo," she turned but stopped when her
mother spoke.
"Don't you ever wish to die. I really hated what
you said last night." Mrs Mnguni said. She didn't
shout at her.
She walked out without saying anything. Her
actions didn't show that she didn't want her to
die.
"Why didn't you tell me you met a police
officer?" Mnguni asked Zinhloso. He had sent
Sbusiso to go and call her. She sat on the straw
mat inside the healing hut.
"I forgot yesterday and I told Nobuhle because I
was leaving and I didn't want to forget again."
He didn't want to keep shouting even though he
was angry when Nobuhle told him that she left
to go and eat at their grandmother's house. "Are
you sure the man didn't want traditional help?"
He couldn't remember the surname of the
officer that was said to come to the village. But
he had suspicions it was him. Who would have
told him he was the suspect then? Or he wanted
to ask if no people came to him?
"Yes, I am sure."
"Alright, if you meet him again. Don't tell him
you're my daughter but learn what he wants
from me," Mnguni instructed.
"And what if I don't meet him again?"
"You'll meet him again since you're now always
on the streets."
"I will do that," she promised. "Was that all?"
"Go and wash those things." He showed her a
bucket.
"Where's Mzomubi?"
"He's in his hut. He has a runny stomach."
Zinhloso walked out with the bucket, she was
happy and she laughed when she was no longer
closer to his father's hut. "That's for eating my
food. Greedy, man!" She said out loud and
laughed.

After 1pm, Zinhloso headed out with a water

bucket. She had finished all the tasks her father
gave her. She didn't complain even when she
was tired. She did everything obediently. She
was wearing warm clothes, it was cold.
At the tuckshop, she headed to the back after
seeing that Mhlabunzima wasn't the one selling
and she knocked on the door.
"Come in!"
She pushed the door and smiled at the food on
the table. There was a plate of meat and a bowl
of pap, cold drink and small yoghurt. "Mhlaba!"
She put the bucket down.
"Lock that door I will go and tell that boy to tell
people I am not around. We don't want your
brother coming here again," he said and stood
up.
She laughed, "he's sick that one he won't come.
He has a runny stomach for eating my food." He
laughed his way out.
He came back and placed his chair next to hers.
"I asked my sister to cook the pap in exchange
for a piece of meat. I hope you don't mind. She
didn't want to cook it."
"No problem, it's just the two of us. Let's eat,"
she looked at him and quickly kissed his cheek,
"thank you so much. I love it. I am happy."
His heart was full. He decided he would not talk
about the healer but they should enjoy their
moment together. They ate, talked and laughed,
jokes which were mostly shared by Zinhloso.
Mhlabunzima was happy himself - he had
girlfriends, he loved them and they also loved
him to an extent that he wasn't sure if they
really loved him or something else. They would
leave him confused and at times, devastated
but with Zinhloso it was different. He felt
different, he didn't know why but…. Zinhloso!
UMCEBO

***Chapter sponsored by Phindi Zondi***

Chapter 35
Zinhloso stood at the door of her father's house.
She drew a long breath and knocked on the
door.
"Who is it?"
She huffed. Why was he even asking? He never
asked. "It's Zinhloso."
"Come in!"
She pushed the door and found him seated on
the sofa reading the newspaper. She sat on the
sofa closer to him. "Good morning."
"Yeah." He raised his eyes, "you're dressed up,
where are you going?"
"I am going to grandma. I am leaving now. I
don't want to miss the 11am bus." She didn't
want to know what horrible response she would
get from him but she had to wait for it. She
waited and endured his glare, hurt - she was
very hurt just by looking at his face. Why? She
couldn't understand and she didn't have the
courage to ask him.
"Uyahamba ngobuhlaza bakho? You're really
leaving after I have said you are not leaving?"
Mnguni asked.
"I want to be with my grandmother."
"I don't care! I said you're not leaving and you're
choosing to go without my permission," he
shouted at her, "what happened to your
respect?"
"Why do you want me to stay with your family
because I am not happy here? You all hate me
for reasons I don't know," she couldn't keep it
anymore. She was maddened by her father.
Why didn't he want her to go? "Both parents
don't want me. I am even deprived of food. I am
going."
"Zinhloso, you're the one who's not acting like a
child. I should pat your back, huh?" He didn't get
an answer from her but she stood up, "where
are you going?"
"I am visiting my grandmother."
"Sit here!" He pointed at the sofa and Zinhloso
sat back down. He tried to calm down, he
remembered that she wasn't supposed to leave
home the wrong way. He was supposed to calm
down and give her what she wanted -
permission to leave.
"Mzomubi!" He called for his son and after a
few minutes he was inside the house.
"How's your diarrhea?" Zinhloso asked her
brother and he clicked his tongue.
"Are you clicking your tongue in my presence?"
Mnguni asked.
"I am sorry, baba."
"Go and tell Xulu's son that I want him to drive
your sister to your grandmother. I will pay him.
She'll have problems with transport." Mnguni
instructed.
"I will call him, baba." He looked at Zinhloso,
"why didn't you leave early?"
"Leave me alone." Happy - that was an
understatement. She was over the moon.
Mhlabunzima was going to drive her.
After not finding him on the home telephone,
Mzomubi called the shop telephone. "Where's
Xulu, ndoda?"
"He's at the back with the chickens." The
shopkeeper answered.
"Call him for me, it's important," he requested
and he waited.
"Is everything alright?" Mhlabunzima's deep
voice boomed on the line.
"Ey, ntanga, are you busy? The old man wants
you to drive his last born daughter to grandma's
house, eNdabayakhe. He said he'll pay you," he
laid it out to him. He knew Mhlabunzima didn't
like being distributed when busy with his
businesses but it was his father's request he
had no choice. "He said she'll have problems
with transport if she takes the bus."
"Your father takes me as his chauffeur now," he
pretended to be complaining and Mzomubi
laughed, "It's okay, I will come."
"Thank you." He headed out to inform his father
that he was coming.
"Xulu is coming, you should wait for him."
Mnguni said to Zinhloso.
She stood up,"thank you, baba." She walked out
and headed to her mother.
Mnguni gave Mhlabunzima money, "my
daughter should get to her grandmother safely."
This man! He was asking for a favour but he
was speaking like this with him. "Yes, I will
ensure she gets home safely."
"Good," he looked at Zinhloso. She was already
seated in the backseat, "you, behave yourself
there and don't go up and down."
"I won't. Overwork Mzomubi for me." She said
trying to break ice and her father laughed. They
said goodbye and Mhlabunzima drove out.
He stopped the car on the main road and
Zinhloso got off the backseat. She took the
front seat and kissed his cheek, "how are you?"
His lips curved and he proceeded driving, "I am
very well and you?"
"I was very happy when dad told Mzomubi to
ask you to drive me," she informed him.
"I would've cried if you weren't happy," he said
and they laughed.
The drive was the most fun drive he had ever
had. Why did she have a father like Mnguni? It
wouldn't have taken him long to make her
officially his if her father wasn't Mnguni. He was
scared of him even though he was brave
enough to continue pursuing his daughter. Life
would be amazing with her, everything else
didn't matter. He'd seen his future here.

Zinhloso was happier with her grandmother and

cousins. Her mother was the eldest and after
her, it was two sons. They were still home with
her grandmother. She didn't want them to move
out even after they got married. They were living
with their wives and children. Zinhloso had no
trouble getting along with any of the family
members. If they didn't like her - that was their
problem.
She sat down with her grandmother and helped
her sort out sugar beans. It's been two days
since she arrived and they had planned that
Mhlabunzima was going to come tomorrow for
their lessons.
"Gogo?"
"Yebo, ntombazane!"
"You know that I dream of driving a car and
owning one, one day?" She asked.
"Yes."
"I asked Mhlabunzima to teach me how to drive.
So, he agreed that he would teach me. He said
he'll come here and we'll have lessons on the
sports field." She looked at her and she was
listening attentively. *We'll start tomorrow but
my father shouldn't know about it."
"Don't worry child, men don't have to know
everything. You can go but tell him not to finish
late."
"Thank you, granny!" It was all going well. If it
was her father he would have swallowed her
alive. If things were going according to her
wishes she would run away from home but it
wasn't a good idea because he would find her.
"Ngathi kogcina kuwuthando lento yenu. Naqala
ngokutshotshana niyafundisana manje," (it
seems like it'll end up in love this thing.) She
commented making Zinhloso laugh.

She found him standing outside the car. He was

reading the newspaper. She smiled alone. He
looked amazing, dressed in black Chino pants,
they were pleated on the waist and the leopard
vest was tucked inside the pants and black and
brown leather jacket with black sandals. She
was charmed, she was really going to date him?
She had never thought of it - not in her wildest
dreams.
He embraced her into a hug, "are you nervous?"
He asked without letting her go.
"I think a little."
"Don't worry, if I am here you have everything."
She giggled letting go of all the nervousness.
"Granny said I shouldn't come back late."
"Okay, let's begin then," Mhlabunzima opened
the door and Zinhloso headed for the
passenger seat. He gave her verbal lessons
before the practice. They also revised what he
had taught her the very first day. She made only
one mistake.
Her turn to take the steering wheel arrived and
she followed his instructions.
After an hour on the wheel she was comfortable
and even talking. She was busy talking and
laughing as she drove, still on the sports field.
She let go of the wheel and moved her feet as
she laughed. She screamed as she almost lost
control of the car. Mhlabunzima shouted at her,
telling her what to do. She quickly regained
control of the car.
"You're no longer concentrating now, Zinhloso
you're laughing with your feet and hands," he
growled, suddenly angry of what she had done.
She had stopped the car, her heart was beating
faster, "it was a mistake."
"A mistake that could have ended your life. A
car is like a walking grave and you're acting like
you're an experienced driver now," he didn't stop.
"Don't shout."
"That's all you care about and not what I am
telling you."
She looked down, "I am sorry." She said in a low
tone.
After a few minutes of silence, Mhlabunzima
huffed as he calmed himself. "That's enough for
today. You did well and when you sleep, you
should keep thinking over and over what I
taught you."
"I should no longer think of you?" She looked at
him with sorry eyes.
He shook his head as he laughed, "you have the
rest of our lives to think of me. This is also
important. What kind of business woman would
you be without a car?" He teased her and they
laughed. He opened the door, "let's sit in the
backseat."
She placed her head on his shoulder, "I had a
good time and I learnt a lot."
His arm went over her shoulder, "you're faster
than your brother. You'll drive while he can't
drive. Men are stubborn, I also tried teaching my
brother and he didn't take me as an instructor. I
stopped."
"They need someone different."
"Yes, you didn't even bring a cold drink. Are you
not a giving person?" He asked, playing with her
eardrum.
She giggled, "sorry, I didn't think of it. I will bring
it next time."
"Now, tell me, how's your relationship with your
mother?" Mhlabunzima asked.
She moved from him and looked at him, "why
are you asking?"
"We'll be in a relationship so I want to
understand everything about you."
She drew a long breath, "it's just a relationship.
How's yours?"
He figured maybe he needed to speak about his
feelings towards his mother to get her to tell
her. He really didn't like speaking about his
mother but to get to understand her family
dynamics, he should speak about her.
"Can I call it a relationship? No, why? Because I
don't even know her face up close. I don't even
know the sound of her voice," he chuckled the
pain away, "she was able to raise the others
until they were old enough to walk on their own
but me, she didn't care in what state she was
leaving me. I was a child, couldn't even crawl
she didn't have a heart to stay until I could walk
too, then leave,
"So, do I call that a relationship? No! My own
mother hates me. She doesn't want me. If she
had remorse she would have looked back
because of us but she never did. I have fathers
not caring for their children but I have never
heard a mother was also capable of hating their
own child. Didn't they say women bond with
children from the womb? Wasn't that bond not
enough for her to stay because of us?
"My father wasn't mistreating her, Zinhloso but
he was still trying to find his own feet. My
grandfather wanted him to work for his own
wealth and my mother couldn't be patient." He
looked at her with eyes full of hurt and pain.
Zinhloso placed her hand on her shoulder, "I
don't even have excuses for her. I am really
sorry but look, your father raised such an
amazing man, just for me. I take him as my
servant, giving me gold on a silver platter." Her
words cheered him up as he was able to laugh
again.
"I guess we're kind of the same then because
mine hates my guts and I don't know why," she
looked down as a tear dropped. She poured out
her heart about everything she had endured
from her mother, the hateful words, the
mistreatment. She didn't leave not even a single
detail. Mhlabunzima pulled her into his chest as
she cried.
"And lately, dad is changing too. I really feel like
an orphan."
He placed his chin on her head, "it's okay,
everything will be alright. I am really sorry for
what you've endured. You don't deserve it."
"Thank you so much for everything."
"We'll find help for you and your life will be
restored." He wiped her tears, "I don't like
seeing your tears." He hugged her tightly.
"You're really strong, you're still standing and
kicking. I love you for that too." He kissed her
forehead and pulled her back into his arm. He
didn't want to ask more about her family. He
wondered if Ngenzeni was speaking the truth
when she said her brother hated her. If that was
the truth, how was he supposed to take it?
"Now, tell me about your ex-boyfriends. Do you
have any?" He asked, playing with her eardrum.
He didn't want to assume that she'd never had a
boyfriend. He was there with her, regardless of
her odour. Any man would have also done the
same before.
Her laughter was light but it didn't last, "I can't
call that excuse of a man, my boyfriend." She
got away from his chest and looked at him,
"he's my deepest secret because he's the
reason I stopped going to the reed dance. I lied
to my parents and told them I was bullied there
but no, that's because I was actually played for
a fool."
He could feel the contempt in her voice, "what
happened?"
"He pretended to love me and patiently
approached me but it was just a pact he had
made with his friends," she clicked her tongue
and looked forward, "he told his friends he
would be the one to deflower me and feel how it
would be like to sleep with a sick girl. I hate that
dumb-fuck, Mhlabunzima. He killed my
confidence ten times more. I feel like vomiting
when I think of that day."
"He dumped you right after sleeping with you?"
He asked, and he was disgusted by the man. He
didn't even know him.
"No, he looked at me as I played fool following
him, trying to understand what I did wrong
because he suddenly turned cold towards me,"
she shook her head and clicked her tongue
again, "and he dumped me, he broke my heart
into pieces. I never wanted to trust a man after
that. I don't even know why I am here with you,"
she glared at him. She was angry, she could
remember everything like it was yesterday.
Mhlabunzima pulled her back into his chest,
"hey, don't be like that! We're not the same,
please. You can't say that because of a stupid
boy."
"You won't play me?"
"No, why would I? I am a grown man." He smiled
and kissed her cheek. She giggled, calming
down again. "So, he slept with you once?" He
asked.
She looked down, shy, "yes."
"Let go of the past and look at your new man,
now," he grinned at her and he widened his eyes
as Zinhloso unexpectedly pecked his lips.
UMCEBO

Chapter 36

**Chapter sponsored by anonymous**

"Oh, my child! I was very happy to have you

home." Zinhloso's grandmother held her hands
tightly and she hugged her.
"It was good staying with you."
Mhlabunzima was already waiting for her as
they were busy with goodbyes.
"You should come back and I will take all my
time to teach you how to cook."
Zinhloso giggled as she remembered what
happened, "alright, thanks." She said goodbye to
her cousins and she headed to the car. They
looked at her as she left. It was good to have
her around and she also had a good time with
them.
She sat on the front seat and greeted
Mhlabunzima, "it's good to see you again."
"You last saw me two days back." He drove off
the yard and turned on music.
"It feels like a month back."
He smiled, "I wish you actually stayed with your
grandmother. We didn't have to be nervous
about being caught."
"I know but we'll make it work because dad
doesn't want me to live with grandma." She
looked outside the window. It was better she
wasn't going home yet.
"Which grandmother?"
"Any of them."
"He wants his children before his eyes."
"You're standing with him?"
"I am only making you understand," he glanced
at her but she wasn't looking at him, "MaMnguni
I spoke with dad and asked him to refer me to
another healer."
She looked at him, "what did he say?"
"He said the best healer is across the river."
Her face was blanketed in worry, "but how am I
going to get there? I can't go there alone
because you're not welcomed there."
"I know but I think we should find someone you
trust. They must accompany you there," he
suggested.
"Someone I trust?" She frowned, trying to think.
Who would go with her and not tell anyone?
Nobuhle? She'll have to tell her Mhlabunzima
suggested this and she'll be dramatic about it.
She didn't need that drama. Her older sister's
drama about how Mhlabunzima was not right
for her.
"Yes, think of someone."
"Oh, sis Khosi. I think she's the best."
"Who's she?" He asked, hoping he would get
clarity on this lady. How was she taking care of
her? What was she doing for her?
"She helps me out. I trust her."
He bit his tongue. That explanation wasn't
enough! He wanted to know more but he didn't
want to force the question, "are you close to her
and are you sure she won't tell not even a soul?"
"Yes, I asked her to cover up for me when we
went to the first traditional healer," she
explained. She didn't want to tell him that she
wasn't capable of fully doing chores. She
wanted to learn first and tell him, after.
He nodded, "that's good then you'll ask her and
let me know. She'll have to go with you but
enter alone there, please."
"Yes, I will enter alone."
He stopped the car on the roadside once they
were on another gravel, "come and drive,
please," he gathered his hands together, "please,
concentrate on the driving. Ngiyazi uyazifela
ngendoda yakho kodwa asifuni ukufa."
Mhlabunzima smiled as she laughed her lungs
out, "I am serious, sthandwa. What will I say to
your father if something happens?"
"I promise I will concentrate. This is the road
not the playground." She pushed the door and
they exchanged seats. She drove slowly,
listening to his instructions. She had stopped
talking and was only focused on the road, there
were people on the road. They looked at the car
that was driven slowly. Some men made
comments - 'why was a woman driving a car?'
'Whose car would she drive in the future?'
"Can you hear them? Stupid men!" She laughed,
only because she was happy. This was a dream
come true. She was driving a car? For real?
What an amazing moment. A big achievement
for her.
"You make me nervous if you drive and laugh,
stop the car now," he instructed and he shook
his head when she looked at him with puppy
eyes, "we're entering a bad road I should drive."
He explained. The eyes she gave him when she
wanted something made him weak.
"Oh, okay, I will stop," she pulled up on the road
side. She didn't move from the door but she
waited for him. She looked around and saw no
faces closer, she threw her arms into his neck.
"What's that for?" Mhlabunzima asked, holding
her small waist.
"For coming into my life." She backed away with
a shy smile and she rushed for the passenger
seat leaving Mhlabunzima smiling like a retard.
Their conversation proceeded as Mhlabunzima
was on the wheel. He didn't leave her at the
gate but he left her a bit far. She said her
goodbyes and walked home. She was smiling
alone as she walked down the road.
"I hope it will work this time when I go to the
healer," she said before opening the gate. Days
were nearing and she would have to go back to
her family. She wasn't looking forward to it.

The schools reopened three days back and it

was already the weekend. She was back home
and she already missed her grandmothers'.
"Sis Khosi can you believe I tried cooking
uphuthu during the holidays. My maternal
grandmother tried to teach me because I asked
her." She laughed, they were coming back from
the river to wash her clothes. Zinhloso washed
the clothes with her.
"And how did it go?"
"I burnt the whole thing, it was a mess." She
reflected and Khosi laughed at her, "if I become
a mother one day how will I even cook porridge
for my child?"
"You'll learn, don't worry."
"When? I am not even allowed inside her
kitchen," she really wanted to learn but she
didn't have a place where she was going to
learn.
"Keep visiting your grandmother."
"Dad won't let me go there. He's different now.
It's only Nobuhle who's like family." She looked
at her. The clothes were on the barrow with a
basin, "he said I changed but I didn't. I only grew
up and had interest in other things than staying
with him under his shadow." She didn't tell him
she also changed towards him because of what
she suspected - that her father wasn't doing
enough to help her or he was not helping her
deliberately.
"I understand but maybe he's feeling like he's
losing you. He thought you'd stay with him
forever because of your disorder."
She stopped the barrow, "Sisi, I need a favour
but I need this to be our secret. I can't have
anyone knowing about it."
"What is it?"
"Mhlabunzima wants to get me help and he said
help is across the river," she said and she saw a
hopeful smile on her face. "I can't go there
alone and I can't go with him because he's not
allowed there. Can you please help me?"
Khosi held her hand, "yes, of course I will help
you. I will go with you child. You just have to tell
me when and what time."
"Thank you so much."
Khosi giggled, "does this mean once you're
healed you'll be in a relationship with him?"
Zinhloso laughed and proceeded with the
barrow, "now I don't know what you're talking
about."
"I am not blind he's going an extra mile for you.
He surely has an interest in you," she guessed,
"and look, you're also changing, even talking
about possibilities of being a mom and a wife
one day, something you've never spoken about."
"I don't know, I don't want to say anything."
"Once you're in a relationship with him, you
should come to me and I will teach you how to
be cautious," Khosi said, "unless, if you'll wait
until marriage."
She cleared her throat. The conversation was
getting awkward, "it won't be my first time and
marriage - maybe that won't even happen with
the father I have."
"I know it won't be your first time but that
doesn't mean you can't wait for marriage."
She widened her eyes and Khosi gave her a
break, "how do you know?"
"You've undressed before me. Your breasts are
no longer the same as when you attended reed
dance," she revealed.
Zinhloso held her breasts, "really? Good thing I
never undressed before my granny." They
laughed and Zinhloso gave her a brief about her
ex.
"He was stupid and I am glad you moved on,"
Khosi comforted, "I hope it will all go well when
we go across the river."
"I hope so too." They reached home and hung
the clothes on the washing line. After that, she
walked her out. It was only a matter of time and
she would cross the river…
UMCEBO

Chapter 37

He was driving home after his meeting with the

king. The meeting wasn't long but it was brief
and straightforward, making Mhlabunzima
happier. He couldn't believe that he started the
year badly and things changed. It was all going
well.
He drove straight to his father. He couldn't wait
to tell him the good news.
"Xulu, you're smiling. Did something happen?"
He took the machete from his father and he
started working, his father was cleaning around
the fence, outside the home.
"Yes, something happened."
"Tell me." Xulu wiped his sweat with his hand.
He started working early and he was almost
done.
He stopped working and faced his father, "I am
coming from a very important meeting with the
king," he was very proud that he had managed
to pull it off.
"Yes!"
"He gave me the land!" He announced.
"Makhathini, gxabhashe, donda wasenkweleni.
Wena owashaya phansi kwavela abantu
nezinkomo. Sonkophe!" A proud father praised
the clan names, shaking his son's hand. "I am
really proud of you. You're a critical and
strategic thinker, I can give you one grain today,
you'll turn into thousands of grains."
"Thank you so much, baba."
Xulu laughed, "you have your own wealth now.
Your chickens are great. I heard from our
neighbour."
"Yes, business is good."
He nodded and supported his chin on his fist,
"who are you building this empire for? You are
not married, Mhlabunzima." He sounded
worried about him.
"I am building this for my children."
Xulu laughed, "you? Are you serious?"
"Yes, I will have nine children." He looked at his
father as he laughed, "why are you laughing? I
am serious."
They followed each back inside the premises,
"with how many wives?"
"With one and don't tell me it's impossible
because grandma had eleven alone."
"I am not saying it is impossible but nine is a
lot." He sat down as Mhlabunzima dished up
food Ngenzeni cooked for the day. They sat
down and ate without her.
"Now that I have been given land I need to buy a
truck," Mhlabunzima informed his father. "Why
are you shocked?"
"Are you going to ask me for money? I don't
have money for you now. I am saving for those
nine grandchildren and your brother's children
because your sister doesn't want men near her."
He chuckled, "no, I have my own money." He
could see that he was shocked that he had
enough money to buy a van. He had been
saving for it for two years. The minute he
realised that he wanted the land for such a job -
growing and harvesting vegetables and fruits,
he figured he would need it. And so, whenever
he got his share of money from their job of
stealing cows. He would save in his safe. Their
father didn't take all the money when they did a
job. The money was given to his father and he
would divide it equally amongst the four of
them. It didn't matter that Ngenzeni didn't
physically go there but he gave her share of the
money. Her brothers had no problem with that,
she was their dear sister. The only sister they
had. Their father's money was for household
needs and their money - was theirs.
Mhlabunzima helped out with household needs
using his tuckshop profits.
"How?"
"I have been saving for two years. I have been
spending the tuckshop profits for my needs."
He explained and his father nodded.
"That's a very good thing. Which truck are you
buying?"
"I will buy the Chevrolet Silverado 454SS, a
single cab." He wasn't even sure if he heard of
the car. He had no knowledge about cars, he
only knew Toyota and Nissan. "You'll see it
when I buy it. I have spoken with Hendricks' son.
He'll help me with buying the car. It'll be better
to avoid a lot of things, questions of
affordability because of my skin colour or
possibly being investigated. It'll be like I was
given the car by him."
"Yes, do that. It's the best option." He smiled, he
was certain he made the right choice by making
him heir. The wealth was going multiple under
his custody.
"I ask that you hire an instructor who's going to
help your son learn how to drive and he must
get papers to help the business. Mnguni had
done the same for Mzomubi because he's
stubborn." Mhlabunzima requested and his
father agreed. It gave him relief.
For the whole week with her paternal
grandmother, Zinhloso couldn't see
Mhlabunzima. She didn't even make an excuse
to go to his shop because there was a small
shop on that side.
It was Sunday night, she couldn't sleep thinking
of him. She got up from the bed and headed out.
"I can't sleep again and I thought I should talk to
you. I miss you," she whispered to Mhlabunzima
on the telephone.
"I have missed you too. I haven't seen your
beautiful face for quite some time," he
complained, "and I am glad you called."
"I don't know when I will see you. I wish to get a
hug."
He chuckled, "how about I come get you? You'll
sleep in my arms and you'll go early in the
morning."
"What? No! Do you want to get me into trouble?"
She asked.
"No, but nobody will notice you're gone."
"No, I will sleepover once I am healed so that
we'll be comfortable."
"I don't care about that. Get ready I will be there
in fifteen minutes."
"But Mhlabunzima -"
"I have been with you Zinhloso, doing things
with you and eating with you. Why would you be
shy now?" He asked.
She wasn't sure if he was annoyed or mad,
"okay, come." She placed the telephone down
and walked out of the house. She was quite
nervous.
After fifteen minutes, she decided to leave the
bag and walked out without a bag. She closed
the door and opened it again, she took her
school bag, took her classmate's book that was
with her, packed her pajamas and she left.
She rushed up to the figure that was at the
beginning of her family fence. She dropped her
bag on the ground and threw her arms to his
body. He held her tight tightly and lifted her off
the ground. She hooked her legs around his
waist. He
"I missed you so much. I was scared to write to
you because that home of yours has a lot of
people," he kissed her forehead.
She took her bag and they left, "I know and you
did well by not writing."
"Why did you bring your school bag?"
She giggled, "just in case I get caught I will say I
went to get some books for my homework," she
answered and Mhlabunzima laughed. "Don't
laugh!"
"That's a lie no one will believe and don't worry
you won't get caught."
"But I still think I shouldn't have come for a
sleepover until we have found the cure for my
illness," Zinhloso said to Mhlabunzima,
tightening her grip on her bag. It was after 8pm
and they were walking on the main road to
Mhlabunzima's home.
He had a small torch for her sake. He knew she
wasn't used to walking on the road at night,
"don't worry we won't do anything."
"I know and we wouldn't have done anything
even if I am not sick," she slightly raised her
voice in frustration bringing out a soft chuckle
from Mhlabunzima, "but I am sick and I don't
want to be uncomfortable and I don't want to
make you uncomfortable especially."
He looked at her side and torched her face. She
was also looking at him. He stopped walking
and his arm hung over her shoulder lovingly, "I
courted you knowingly and I accepted you. Why
should I discriminate against you? You're the
one in my heart. You make my head spin with
your beautiful eyes."
She shyly looked down with a smile, "I just want
us to be happy and I don't want my illness to get
in the way." She said and didn't tell him she was
afraid he would change his mind about her.
"Don't worry it won't. Absolutely nothing will
come between us." He said and they continued
walking. He didn't remove his arm on her
shoulder but he simply pulled her closer,
packing her under his wing.
"Not even your political interests?" She asked.
He tensed, "no, not even that." He opened the
gate and led her to his house. The yard was
quiet.
"I hope that is true." She stood behind him as he
opened the door.
"Don't worry," he entered the house and she
followed him inside.
She admired the spacious four rooms' house,
"why do you have a bigger house than your
father?" She asked, sitting on the bed.
"He said I should have a bigger house because I
will get married one day and I won't move out of
home like my older brother," he explained
standing at the door.
"So, your wife will stay here with your father and
sister?"
He nodded, "yes, you'll stay here." He smiled
when she laughed, "I will go get some food for
us." He left her.
He found his father still seated on the chair by
the door inside the kitchen, "you're still awake?"
He asked, surprised and he headed to the
electric stove. It'd be quicker to warm the food
than a coal stove.
Xulu traced his son's every move, "yes, I am
having tea. I will leave once I am done."
"Okay, I am just going to take my food and leave.
I won't eat here," he said, taking out two plates.
"Mm, are you going to eat two plates?"
He dished up the food, "yes, I am very hungry
and sometimes I turn to get hungry in the
middle of the night," when he had a girlfriend he
never hid it from his father but now it was
different. He wasn't dating just any girl but he
was dating Mngun's daughter. He didn't know
what reaction he would get from his father for
that.
"That's unusual but eat as much as you want
my son," he realized he must have a girlfriend
and this made him wonder what was different
with this girl that he didn't see the need to tell
him about her.
"Yes," he put the food on the tray and took a
litre of cold drink and one glass.
"Won't you need two glasses?" His father asked
putting the mug on the basin with dirty dishes.
He chuckled, "no, why would I drink in two
glasses? I should leave now, goodnight old
man." He left his father wondering.
Zinhloso stood up and looked around the
spacious bedroom. The cleanliness of his
bedroom made her nervous. His bedding was
white on the four poster bed frame bed with
draped canopy white mosquito net. The floor
was grey carpeted and the rest of the furniture
was brown, the side bed tables and wardrobe.
She stood over the floral curtain and waited but
wondering if he had figured she was a messy
person as it looked like he was clean. Maybe
dating was really a bad idea for her. How could
she even be a wife one day?
"I am back!" Mhlabunzima announced walking
through the door with food.
"Are we going to eat seated on the bed?" She
asked, staring at the bed and the food.
He stopped putting the tray on the side table,
"yes, do you have a problem?"
"No, but -"
"Okay, let's go and eat in the sitting room." He
led the way back to the sitting room. He
remembered she was incapable of eating
without messing herself with food, "Don't sit
alone, come here."
She sat with him on one of his maroon sofas
and began eating. Mhlabunzima noticed
Zinhloso wasn't eating, "is the food bad? I think
my sister cooks well. You have had her food
before but unless you're a better cook."
She smiled without looking at him, "the food is
nice and I am eating," she hadn't told him she
couldn't even fry an egg.
"Okay, eat so that we'll rest," he said and
suddenly the foul smell returned. He steadied
his body and held his breath.
She put the plate on the brown coffee table, "I
am full. I will let you finish your food and get
ready for bed." She quickly stood up and rushed
to the bedroom. She saw his reaction and it
made her feel very bad. It was really a bad idea
coming over. She strongly felt like going back
home but she couldn't ask him to send her
home.
He found her curled on the bed beneath the
covers. He wasn't oblivious to what just
happened in the sitting room - the reason she
just left her food and so, he didn't talk about it
but joined her in bed.
"Don't sleep so far like we're fighting already
and you don't want me closer to you," he said
and pulled her closer to his body into his arms.
"Are we going to fight?"
"There's always disagreements in
relationships." He brushed his hand on her bare
shoulder and planted a kiss. Her skin was soft
and the fragrance of her body lotion smelt like
sweets made of cherry. He'd never seen such a
beautiful human being, so graceful. When she
closed her eyes you'd swear her eyelashes were
artificial.
"I want our children to look like you even if it's
boys," he said with an even deeper voice. His
blood was getting warm and he was envisioning
what would happen if he could kiss her. Would
he be able to control his desires?
"It's too early to speak about children," she said,
paying attention to her body. His touch was
contagious. "You said we won't do anything,"
Her voice came out low as he was massaging
her nipples. She turned and faced him, her hand
caressed his smooth face. There was a small
beard growing on his chin. She held his chin
softly.
"We won't, I promise you." He pulled her closer
and their lips gathered into a smooth kiss. Her
full sensuous lips felt like they were oiled, soft
and they moved into motion bringing their
bodies even closer to each other. When he
heard a moan, Mhlabunzima knew he had to
stop. Her leg was hanging on his thigh and he
brushed it while gazing into her eyes.
"Goodnight, MaMnguni."
With a bright smile, "goodnight, Xulu," she said
and closed her eyes.
She opened her eyes and the space next to her
was empty. The cold air fanned her body as she
removed the bedcovers from her body. She
realized the windows were opened and
Mhlabunzima wasn't in the room. Did he leave
her? She headed to the living room and he
wasn't there. The door was closed, she moved
back to the bedroom and she peeped through
the window. There he was - standing outside
smoking. She quickly moved away from the
window when he threw the cigarette butt on the
ground.
She pretended to be sleeping on the bed.
Mhlabunzima walked back inside the room and
she heard him sniff - did he go out because of
her? Did he open the windows in the middle of
the night because of her? He joined her back in
bed. Zinhloso opened her eyes to look at him
and he was sleeping with his back facing her.
She debated within herself and by the time the
debate ended Mhlabunzima was sleeping. She
slowly removed the blankets from her body and
she carefully dressed into her clothes on top of
the pajamas. She grabbed her bag and tiptoed
to the front door. This was a bad idea! It'd be
better if she headed home. She walked to the
gates freely knowing the dog was inside the
doghouse.
On the road she was shit scared but she didn't
stop walking. Her head played tricks on her -
showing her non-existing people on the road
and she would pray until she realised it wasn't a
human being.
She reached home finally without meeting up
with anyone on the road.
She widened her eyes at the padlock hanging
on her door locked. What? How? And when?
When she left she only closed the door and she
didn't lock the padlock, it was inside her hut.
"What happened?" She looked around and the
yard was quiet. Her eyes glistened of tears, who
locked? She tried to look for the keys inside her
bag and when she found them she was relieved.
She tried to unlock it and it didn't unlock.
Confused, she looked closely and realised the
padlock was new. It was not hers.
"Oh, God, what have I done?" Tears flew down
her cheeks. She headed to the window and she
realised there was no way she could open it
without breaking the glasses. She moved back
to the door.
"Where are you coming from?"
She was startled by her father standing on her
door.
UMCEBO

Chapter 38

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

She could feel the world and its beautiful

creation, her ancestors turning on her. How did
this old man find out she wasn't home? Did he
wake up and checked that?
"Baba-"
"Where are you coming from?"
"Is she back?"
Zinhloso heard her mother's voice coming from
the corner of the main house. She was very
nervous. Why didn't she listen to her guts and
stayed home?
Mrs Mnguni stood next to her husband, "oh,
she's back. You leave at night now and you're
not even smart about it, you leave your lights on.
I came here when I was coming from the toilet
to check why are you not sleeping so late," Mrs
Mnguni took her out confusion by explaining,
"and to my surprise the door wasn't even locked.
You only closed the door and left."
"Where are you coming from, Zinhloso?" Mnguni
asked again.
Mrs Mnguni opened the padlock and showed
Zinhloso inside the hut. The parents followed
her. She sat on her bed and they stood on their
feet.
"Now, answer your father, where are you
coming from?" Mrs Mnguni repeated the
question.
"I went to get a book from -" she was stuttering
from being nervous and her father stopped her
by shouting at her.
"That's a lie! You're so passionate about
education that you even leave in the middle of
the night and come back after 3am?" Mnguni
roared. His whole face was red and his hands
were slightly shaking. It must be a boy! Who
was this boy?
"Baba, I didn't do my homework-"
"Stop lying because we will take you to that
home and you'll be embarrassed." Mrs Mnguni
warned her, "usukwazi ukuphuma ebusuku
Zinhloso? You're sneaking out because of boys?
Boys who will break your heart and leave you!"
"They'll leave you with a baby like your sister.
Who's that boy, huh?" Mnguni asked. Zinhloso
started crying, "we haven't done anything to you.
Don't cry yet."
"He's not even decent enough to bring you back
at dawn maybe but he's bringing you back while
it's dark. You're his secret." Mrs Mnguni
screamed, "Tell us, who's he?"
"It must be a boy from that bus because ever
since you came back from Durban you've
changed," Mnguni predicted, "This means Xulu's
son was lying to me when he said you never left
his sight."
"He's lying. Why would he allow her to follow
him everywhere because he was surely going
up and down?" Mrs Mnguni asked.
And her husband supported, "yes, he was lying.
Zinhloso, are you telling us the name of the boy
or not?"
"It's not a boy, I swear I am not lying." She
looked at her mother as she walked out. Her
father was left shouting and her mother made a
return with a long thick stick. Zinhloso jumped
on her feet and the first strike lingered on her
shoulder. She screamed, Mrs Mnguni held her
hand and whipped her like a child.
"I am sorry!" She screamed, the pain of being
beaten up was unbearable. "Baba!" She begged
her father to stop her but he didn't stop her. He
stood there looking at her whipping her.
"Usuhamba ebusuku uyolalwa amadoda.
Uzobuya nomlanjwana la," (you are sneak out at
night for men. You'll come back with an
illegitimate child!) Mrs Mnguni shouted while
whipping her, she stopped only when her stick
broke.
"Awunandoda?" (You don't have a boyfriend?)
Mrs Mnguni asked, she was panting. Zinhloso
shook her head.
"Talk! Don't shake your head," Mnguni growled.
"No, I don't."
"Okay, we'll call your grandmother to come and
check your virginity then. There's no other thing
that can make you leave at night beside a man.
You're not going to school tomorrow," Mrs
Mnguni said and left. Her husband followed her
after glaring at Zinhloso first.
She cried and covered her whole body with the
blankets she was having regrets. Why did she
leave? Why was she not careful? She didn't
leave Mhlabunzima the right way and at home,
she found a mess.

In the morning, she was feeling pains all over

her body but she didn't allow it to control her.
She headed to the kitchen after taking a cold
bath.
Her father was having tea seated on the chair
and Nobuhle was on her uniform dishing up
breakfast. A plate of breakfast and a bowl of
soft porridge.
"Oh, you're awake? I thought I would leave your
food in the pot because mom said you're not
going to school," Nobuhle said to Zinhloso after
she had greeted them and her father didn't
greet her back.
"Don't dish up any food for her. I don't have any
food for her," Mnguni announced.
Nobuhle looked back at her father. Why was his
way of punishing Zinhloso always had to be
depriving her of food? She was also once
caught like her but her father never said she
shouldn't be given food. "Why, baba? Where is
she supposed to eat?" She bravely asked.
"She won't eat here until she tells me the name
of this boy she's sneaking out for at night,"
Mnguni answered Nobuhle and he looked at
Mzomubi as he walked inside the house, "you
told your brother he'll eat love potion because
you have a boyfriend now. He must keep
providing those birds for you then I don't have
food for you."
"I don't have a boyfriend, baba."
"I don't even want to see you. Get out of my
house!"
Zinhloso turned and left the house, she didn't
mind her brother glaring at her. She headed out
- she was walking on the road, crying. Her heart
was in pain, she was having regrets and her
body was painful. She didn't care about the
school children she was meeting up with on the
road. They were actually - annoying her by
staring at her. They'd never seen a crying
person in the morning?
Zinhloso didn't knock on Mhlabunzima's office
door. She knew she would find him here
because the shop opened very early on
weekdays, for school and workers' sake. She
didn't know what to do and where to go.
Robert and Mhlabunzima looked at the door.
She stood behind the door, still crying and
mucus dripping off her.
Robert cleared his throat and looked at
Mhlabunzima, "I will pass by when I come back
from work and we'll finish up."
"Alright."
"Now, I will be very early." Robert huffed.
Mhlabunzima walked with him to the door,
"sorry, maybe uzothola nethuba lokushela." He
joked and they laughed. He locked the door
after he had walked out. He turned to her but he
didn't say anything. He was confused when he
woke up to an empty bed. He went to the toilet,
thinking maybe she had gone out for the toilet
but he didn't find her. When he realised that she
actually left, Mhlabunzima was livid. He felt like
breaking things because it was 5am but still
dark when he realised she wasn't with him. He
didn't move from his position, he could see she
was crying.
Zinhloso was torn as she couldn't see not even
a single softness on his face. "Mhlabunzima?"
She called, her voice shaking.
"Yea," he answered, his voice dull.
She walked up to him and snuggled her body
into his body but he didn't hold her.
"I am sorry, okay?" She realised he must be
angry because she left.
He pushed her off his body softly, "am I not the
one who said come and sleepover? When you
decided you wanted to leave you took your
things and left. How's your thinking?"
She stared at the floor, "I know but -"
"There's no but, you don't have an excuse. What
would I have done if something happened to
you, huh?" He yelled, "did you even think I was
going to be worried the whole day because I
can't actually send someone to ask if you
arrived home safe? What's wrong with you?"
"I am sorry-"
"Don't tell me you're sorry but tell me how you
think, Zinhloso, huh?"
"Don't shout-"
"Stop telling me that! You don't get to do
something wrong and manipulate me with sorry
eyes," he didn't stop shouting, "you're not even
recognising that you were wrong."
"But I said I am sorry."
"I don't care about your sorry because you're not
answering my question-"
"If you weren't disgusted by me I wasn't going
to go. I told you I shouldn't sleep over but you
were stubborn!" She screamed, losing her cool.
She knew she wasn't supposed to shout at her
man. It wasn't done but she couldn't help it. She
was in pain and he was busy shouting. She
could still remember how he sniffed the room
when he came back. She was hurt by that. "I
didn't want to make you uncomfortable in your
own space."
"That's rubbish! You rather put your life in
danger? What if you met people and they hurt
you? Did you think of that?" He asked and didn't
get an answer, "you don't get to come here and
shout while you're wrong. Shout if you know
you're right. Angizwani futhi nomsindo mina."
He passed her and sat on top of the desk. He
tried to calm down, it has passed. She's safe
and sound, "come here!"
Zinhloso slowly turned to him and she stood a
short distance before him. She kept moving her
eyes around. Mhlabunzima pulled her closer to
his body and he wiped the tears with his hand.
They were starting to dry up, "what happened?
Why are you crying?"
"They found out I didn't sleep at home. They
were waiting for me. Mom whipped me so badly,
my whole body is painful," she informed him
and Mhlabunzima quickly pushed her back.
"What?" He lifted her tunic and saw the red
marks on her thighs. "Oh, Jehovah wamabhunu!
I am really sorry. This is all my fault. What did
your father say?"
"He said he'll not give me food until I tell him the
name of the boy I went to."
He held his forehead, "tell him!"
"No, I can't do that."
"Tell him and we'll send cows to him, if he
doesn't take them we'll get the elders involved.
They'll tell him to accept them," Mhlabunzima
said, a quick solution that would make him
happy and he didn't think it'd make her happy
either or not.
"No, I won't do that! Not because I don't want
you but we need time," how could she even
agree to go to another man's house while she
almost burnt down her granny's kitchen trying
to cook a simple krummel pap. She left the
whole house wet when mopping the floor. It
wouldn't work.
"I can't provide food for you without getting
caught. They'll follow you one day and find out
where you eat. I can give you food whenever
you want but it'll be impossible to hide," he tried
to convince her.
She shook her head, "grandma won't let me go
hungry. Mom said they'll call her and she'll
check my virginity."
He rubbed his eyes, "tell them I did it."
"No, are you out of your mind?"
"What solution do you have because your
granny will be angry too?" He asked, frustrated
by her.
"I will see!"
He left her. He was angry - why didn't she want
his solutions. He returned with a small bottle of
water, a cup of tea and biscuits. "Drink dagga
tea, it will ease your pain and have the food you
were supposed to eat last night. I carried it
because I won't be able to go home during
lunch. We hadn't made potato chips."
"What are you going to eat?"
"Don't worry about me, eat!" He said and
continued walking around the office doing his
work.
"Are you mad?" She asked after a few minutes
of his silence.
He didn't look back at her, "no, you'll do what
pleases your heart."
"How can you say that?"
"Eat quickly Zinhloso and go back because you
don't want them to know you were with me." He
said and took a seat.
"Mhlabunzima, please understand-" she tried to
reach his hand but she touched the tea cup. The
contents spilled on the table making his papers
wet.
"Why can't you concentrate when you do
something? You've messed up my work now!"
He slammed his hands on the wet table.
She was startled, "I am sorry. It was a mistake."
She said and when he didn't even look at her,
Zinhloso stood up, she hadn't even drank the
tea. She headed to the door.
"You're leaving again without telling me you're
leaving," he looked at her. She hadn't finished
her food and she didn't even think of offering to
help him clean the mess she made.
"Sorry, bye," she closed the door behind her.
Mhlabunzima groaned and he slammed the tea
up against the wall. He got up and cleaned his
table.
UMCEBO

Chapter 39

She arrived home and went to her hut. She sat

on the bed and tried to imagine her life going
forward. Was she going to survive? Living in
this household without eating? How could her
father be so cruel? He knew food was most
important to her and he thought if he
threatened her using food she would tell the
name? He was wrong, she wasn't going to tell
him.
"I want to see where this thing will end. If he
gives me no food for over a month. I am not
gonna continue staying here. What will be the
use?" She spoke out loud and laid back on the
bed. She didn't take long but she rose up and
cleaned around the hut. She didn't want to think
much about Mhlabunzima. She wasn't going to
lie and say it was him who took his virginity.
That meant something deep, customary and if
he was going to pay for something he didn't do
it could mean trouble for them.
"She's back," Mrs Mnguni said, seeing Zinhloso
sweeping her hut. She was standing at the
stoep of the main house, "come here!"
She stopped sweeping and walked out of the
hut. She found her grandmother eating and she
knew if her maternal grandmother wasn't far -
they were also going to call her to come. That's
if her mother hadn't told her over the telephone.
She sat down and greeted her grandmother.
She looked at her for a long time before
greeting back. "What are you doing now,
disappointing me?"
"I am sorry."
"If you want to have a man, tell him to come to
your father and stop sneaking out. Why are you
not telling this boy to come to your father?" Her
grandmother asked.
"I don't want any boy here. Zinhloso should stay
at home. She can't even properly wash a dish.
What will that boy be paying for if he's taking
her as his wife?" Mnguni asked his mother. He
didn't want her encouraging Zinhloso to bring a
boy to him. She was supposed to tell her to stay
away from boys.
Granny looked at her son, "that will not be up to
you to decide. Are you going to be the one
whomarrying your daughter?"
"No, but-"
"There's no but here!"
Mrs Mnguni tried to explain, "mama, I think we
know she won't be only marrying the boy but
the whole family will be-"
Granny pointed at her daughter in-law, "you're
the last person to talk about that! You are the
reason this girl can't do any chores." She
shouted and clicked her tongue, shutting the
parents' mouths. She looked at Zinhloso, "my
child, tell me the name of this boy. We can't
support this sneaking out because it'll result in
pregnancy."
"And I won't accept another child born in my
yard," Mrs Mnguni threatened, "even now, we
don't know where she disappeared to."
"Where did you go?" Granny asked.
"I went to the shop and bought something to
eat." Zinhloso answered.
"Is there no food at home?" Her grandmother
asked but Zinhloso kept quiet. "I am talking to
you, Zinhloso!"
She looked down ashamed, "dad said he won't
give me any food until I tell him the boy's name
but there's no boy."
"You're crazy, Ntaba! You'll not give your
daughter food because of a boy you're not even
sure about?" Granny shouted at her son, "how
can you do something like this?"
"I am sure about it and she must ask that boy to
give her food. I won't have food to give to her so
that she'll have energy for boys. If she's not
telling me his name she'll not eat," Mnguni
made himself clear.
"I am taking this child then she'll live with me
because how's she going to survive without
eating?" Granny asked.
Mnguni stood up, "that will not happen. Don't
get in my way of punishing Zinhloso because
nobody did that when you were punishing us,"
he pleaded with his mother. "I will go and let you
do what you came here for, mama."
Mrs Mnguni and granny were the only ones left
with Zinhloso, "lie down on this blanket and let
your grandmother check you." Her mother
placed the blanket for her.
Zinhloso looked at her grandmother nervously
but she wasn't soft or smiling at her. She
wanted her to lie down, "gogo-"
"Do what your mother has said or if you know
you're no longer a virgin, tell us."
Mrs Mnguni supported, "yes, tell us so that we'll
save time and the trouble."
"I - I," she breathed in and out, "I am no longer a
virgin." She came clean to save herself from the
embarrassment. It was better telling them than
opening her legs.
There was silence in the room. Mrs Mnguni
quickly got up and left them.
"Why are you disappointing me like this,
Zinhloso?" Granny's voice was low.
She didn't raise her head, "I am sorry." There
weren't any words from granny after that. Mrs
Mnguni walked back inside following her
husband. Mnguni had his fighting stick in his
hand.
"Hhaybo! Ntaba, don't do it!" Granny screamed
but it was too late, Mnguni struck his daughter
with his fighting stick. Zinhloso screamed and
got up from the floor. She never thought she
would find a day where she was grateful that
her father had one hand. She got up and ran out
of the house screaming. Mnguni couldn't hold
her and hold the stick at the same time.
"Leave the child alone! Your wife has beaten her
up. What are you doing now?" She screamed,
standing on her feet.
He spat, "Zinhloso is doing things that she isn't
supposed to do now? We had spoken that
ngizomemula this December because she
turned 21 years but she's doing unspeakable
things, already!"
"Go and do your things, we'll speak to her."
Granny pulled her daughter in-law and they
walked out.
They knocked on her locked door she didn't
open until her grandmother told her - her father
wasn't with them.
They sat on the bench while she sat on her bed.
"Who's this boy who did this and when did he do
this?" Granny asked straightforwardly. She
didn't expect such from Zinhloso.
"And don't even think about lying because we'll
go to the person you've told us." Her mother
shouted. She was extremely shocked - Zinhloso?
She was the last person! How did this happen?
"It's Dunge's son," she said in the lowest tone
but they still heard her. She didn't have to
explain which Dunge because there was only
one Dunge family in the village.
"Which son? The first or last? The middle?" Her
mother screamed.
"It can't be the first son, he's way old and
married," Granny shook her head.
"It's the last born."
"He's the same boy you are dating now?"
Granny asked and Zinhloso told them the truth
about what happened between them. They had
disappointed looks.
"It's better it's not a poor family. They'll meet
our demands," Granny looked at her daughter in
-law, "the child went out and she sought love
from boys because you failed to love her as a
mother. I wasn't supposed to support my son
when he wanted to marry you." She clicked her
tongue and stood up. Mrs Mnguni followed her
behind.
Zinhloso stayed inside her hut, without going
out until late. She was hungry but there was
nothing she could do. "Come in," she allowed
the knocker in. "Aunty Comfort?"
"Yes, I am not staying. Your grandmother called
and asked me to bring you food. I don't want
your father to even see me because he's
annoying me," Comfort placed the food
containers on her bedside table, "he didn't do
that to Mzomubi and Nobuhle. He's very
annoying and don't worry, you're not the first to
be beaten because of boys. You'll be fine."
"Thank you."
She tightened her hand on her shoulder and she
quickly left her hut. Zinhloso didn't waste time
but she started eating. She didn't finish
everything, she left some food for later. When
she was done she went to the garden. She
needed to make that dagga tea for pain and
sleep.

"What did she see in that boy?" Mnguni

repeatedly clicked his tongue. His mother and
wife had told him what Zinhloso told them. The
boy played with her and yet she was proceeding
with boys. "How can Zinhloso be so stupid? She
allowed a boy to fool her."
"Calm down, it happened a while back and how
she's treated here made her seek love in boys."
Granny tried to side with her granddaughter
because nobody was on her side now.
"And they didn't love her but they fooled her.
What did she gain?" Mnguni asked his mother
and she didn't answer him. He looked at his
wife, "did she say the name of the current boy if
she ended things with the previous boy long
ago?"
"No, she didn't want to tell us."
"She'll continue to starve then. She'll eat this
boy's name."
"Don't do this, Ntaba! You gave birth to this child
so that you'll starve her?"
"She's been very disrespectful, mama and I am
glad I was right all along when I said there's a
boy behind this attitude," Mnguni shook his
head. He wanted to explode - these boys were
still going after his daughter even though she
had such a horrible disorder? Why can't they
leave his child alone?
"You were right, baba."
His mother shook her head, "I don't even know
what to say to you now."
"Mama, please go with her mother and ask for
my cow. You can take her aunt too," he pleaded
with his mother, "I want my cow and I want my
wife's cow. If Zinhloso finds a man one day, that
man will not have to pay for these two cows."
"Yes, I know that's how it's done."
"I hope she's telling the truth because those
cows must be paid by a man who did this."
"I trust her. She's not lying." Her father said and
they decided on the time and date.
"I should go home now," Granny rubbed her
eyes. It had been a long day.
Mrs Mnguni looked at her, "sleep here mama.
It's late and you can't walk home unless if baba
can ask Xulu's son."
"Mama, please sleep here tonight. That boy is
always working." He requested.
"He's a hardworking young man," granny
commented and they all agreed.
Mrs Mnguni called Nobuhle aside, "did you
speak to your sister today?" They were inside
Mrs Mnguni's hut, seated on her bed.
"No, I have been busy since I got back from
school. I don't know what I can say to her," she
didn't tell her that she had spoken to her before.
"Please go and talk to her and ask about this
boy. She might open up to you," she asked.
Nobuhle knew she wouldn't tell her and this
meant, Mhlabunzima was really her boyfriend.
"Alright I will go and talk to her but are you really
going to not give her food?"
"That's your father's decision. I have no
influence." She said and Nobuhle left without
saying anything but she knew she was capable
of changing his decision if she wanted the
decision to change.
Nobuhle heard voices inside her hut and she
didn't knock or enter but she eavesdropped.
Zinhloso was woken up by her classmate. She
was surprised to see her and she thought she
was sent by her teacher.
"I am glad I found you. You were absent today,"
the classmate said, sitting on her bed. It was
her first time entering into the Mnguni yards,
she was scared of this home. She was scared
to even interact with Zinhloso but today, she
was forced by Mhlabunzima asking her to help
her out by bringing her the homework they had.
And the classwork they did at school for the day.
He saw her in his shop and approached her.
She was the same age as Zinhloso.
"Yes, problems with parents. What brings you
here?"
The girl placed the books on top of the bed,
"sorry, I was asked to bring these books for you.
It's what we did today and the homework. I have
already written my homework so you'll write
yours. You'll bring my books tomorrow at
school."
She smiled, "thank you so much, Nompilo. Did
our teacher ask you to do this?"
Nompilo cleared her throat, "no, he saw me
today and told me to come here, help you with
school work."
She immediately knew who she was talking
about. It had to be Mhlabunzima, "uhm, thank
you so much. I was stressed out that I will be
beaten tomorrow for not doing homework."
"You should ask for help, you know."
Zinhloso shrugged, "you guys run away from me
like I have a contiguous disease so how can I
even come to your homes?"
"I never did that. I think you're a nice and pretty
person. I am just scared of your father."
Zinhloso laughed, "don't be and please let me
not keep you. I am really grateful."
"I got the courage to come because of him and
so, you should thank him."
She avoided eye contact, "I will do that. Let me
walk you out."
"No, it's okay." She said and walked out. She
stopped when Nobuhle called her out. They
greeted each other.
"I kind of overheard your conversation with my
sister. Who's this guy?" Nobuhle asked. "She
didn't go to school because of him and she's in
trouble with our parents because of him."
"You should ask your sister, bye." She ran off.
She didn't want to spill the beans, Mhlabunzima
asked her because he trusted her. He was kind
enough to offer his mother a job - he came to
her home a day back and told her mom about
his plans for his land. Her mother accepted the
job with delight. Nompilo lived with her mother,
siblings and grandfather, their father went to
work in a big city and never returned. He also
stopped sending money. She couldn't betray
Mhlabunzima at all.
Nobuhle huffed and entered inside the hut, "how
are you? Zinhloso, why didn't you tell me you're
leaving? I was going to cover up for you at
least." She asked and she didn't answer, she
only looked down, shy. "Why can't you tell dad
it's Mhlabunzima?"
"It's not him," she said with a straight face.
She shook her head, she knew she wouldn't tell
her the truth. She didn't push but she left her,
she didn't want to interfere.
UMCEBO

Chapter 40

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous**

The only sound inside the kitchen was a
clinking of cutlery. The spoon against the metal
plate of the father and spoons against the
arcoroc plates of the children. But only
Mhlabunzima wasn't eating; he was playing with
his food like a child. Maybe he didn't have to
shout at her like that? But he was angry. She
didn't think of the dangers in her actions.
She just left - she wasn't even kind enough to
help him out. She messed up some of his
important papers and she didn't care. He huffed.
Ngenzeni and her father eyed each other.
"What's wrong little brother? Are you dating
again?" Ngenzeni asked. She knew her brother
well. He was different from Kusakusa and their
village men in general. Mhlabunzima was an
expressive lover, what men viewed as being
weak. Ngenzeni also thought her brother wore
his heart on his sleeve which was the reason
women broke his heart easily. While men didn't
care about relationship problems, he would
stress over them. She had thought maybe it
was because he really wanted a family of his
own. He was pressured by his brother and
father, sometimes her - that he should get a
wife. Maybe the pressure wasn't good for him.
"Ngenzeni! What do you know about dating?"
Xulu asked his daughter.
"I know it from him. When he's like this, it's
women." She answered.
Xulu knew his daughter was right. He had
lectured Mhlabunzima time and again about
wearing his heart on his sleeve. He was once
like him and his wife hurt him immensely. And
his wife wasn't the first, his previous lovers had
hurt him, leaving him devastated. He didn't want
that for his son. Mhlabunzima was different as
a leader, he was kind but he was also able to
rule with an iron fist.
"What's wrong, chwane?" Xulu asked his son,
calling him by his nickname. He was given it by
his older brother.
He raised his eyes, "nothing is wrong I ate at the
shop. I will eat tomorrow morning." He covered
his food, "goodnight."
He laid back on his bed thinking of her - what
was happening? Did she eat? How was he going
to check on her and ensure she was doing well?
What happened was his fault. She told him she
wasn't supposed to sleepover but he missed
her. If he listened to her, nothing would have
happened. What was going to happen now?
How were they going to solve this mess? He
had to wake up very early tomorrow morning.
He fell asleep without answers.
***
She was dressed in her school uniform. She
was packing her books and Nompilo's books,
she was trying to decide - when was she going
to see him? She had to thank him for what he
did for her.
She put her bag on her back and headed to the
kitchen to look for her father. At the back of her
mind she knew he wouldn't give her money but
she had to try.
Her stomach grumbled at the aroma of good
breakfast her sister had made but she couldn't
have not even a crumb. She greeted her parents
and brother. Her sisters had already gone to
school.
Mnguni looked at his daughter, "you did well by
coming by. You should wait for us to finish
eating because we're going somewhere before
you go to school."
"Where are we going? I will be late for school."
"This is important."
"If I am very late they won't allow me in and I
have my classmate's books. What will she do if
I don't come on time?" She asked nervously.
She couldn't disappoint Nompilo after the
trouble she went through to come to her and
give her her books.
Mrs Mnguni looked at her husband, "let her go
to school and you'll go there when she comes
back from school."
"Okay, go and come back. Come straight home,
don't pass by anywhere. Do you understand?"
"Yes, dad, can I have money to buy snacks at
school?"
Mnguni glared at her, "I don't have any money
for you. Doesn't your boyfriend have money to
give to you?"
Zinhloso didn't answer him. She swallowed the
pain away and she headed out of the house.
She was wishing she was born into a different
family. It wouldn't have mattered if they were
poor or middle class, as long as they accepted
her and loved her. She wished for a family
where she was happy and felt a sense of
belonging.
At break time, Zinhloso gathered her books and
walked out of the class. She didn't have the
reason to go out for lunch break because she
didn't have any money but she wanted to get
some fresh air. She smiled as she saw the boy
that once brought her a letter from
Mhlabunzima.
"Hey, you're already in school?" She asked with
a smile.
The boy laughed, "yes, sis I am doing Standard
1. We also have old people in our class. I am
sure you're not the only child in your class."
Zinhloso laughed, "hey, silly! I am very old. I just
don't look old."
He frowned but shrugged, "malume said I
should give you this. He said you should bring
back the bag and the lunch box to me when
you're done."
She smiled and took the small black bag, "thank
you. I will come and give it to you but do you
have food?"
"Yes, my mother makes lunch box for me too
and uncle also gave me money." .
She nodded, "go and eat then," she walked to
her favourite spot in school - under the tree. A
few children stayed there and if she found
someone there - they would stand up and leave.
That made her relieved, she could be alone
freely.
She opened the lunch box. It was a full meal
and a bottle of juice. There was a letter inside.
She smiled and opened the letter, she read it
while eatingl. Must be leftovers - how nice. The
sister was a good cook.
"MaMnguni
My heart can't rest knowing you're going
through such a difficult time. And it breaks my
heart that I can't help you. I can help solve other
people's problems except for the one I love?
How shameful!
I am sorry for the way I behaved the last time. It
was anger, ruling over me and I shouldn't have
allowed it.
I wish you can make time, come and see me.
Don't force it, whenever you can. My thoughts
are with you.
Yours in love."
She placed the letter on her chest and finished
up her food. There was also money inside the
bag. She felt like the weight on her shoulders
had been lightened. She had to make time and
see him, she also had to apologize to him. She
didn't act right.
After washing the lunch box, Zinhloso looked
for the boy and she found him next to his class.
On her way back to class, she met up with her
neighbour who told her that her grandmother
said she should pass by home after school. She
told the neighbour to pass the message that -
she would come late because of her father. She
headed to class.

After school, Zinhloso didn't waste time but she

walked home. She was fast on the road
because she wanted to finish whatever they
were going to do and got to her granny's house.
Her father and brother were already waiting for
her. She was confused as they headed out with
her. Were they already taking her to the Dunge
family? Why wasn't she going with her
grandmother and aunts? She didn't ask
questions out loud but she followed obediently.
Her heart almost came out of her chest when
she realised they were taking to Xulu's
homestead. Why? Did her father consult and
receive answers about her and Mhlabunzima?
They found Xulu seated before his house
washing his shoes.
"Xulu if you had remarried you wouldn't be
doing this for yourself," Mnguni said, greeting.
Xulu laughed and stood up, they shook hands.
"but I would be stressed out again whether this
wife would stay or leave." He told Mzomubi to
get the bench and chairs inside his house.
"Yes, I guess you're right and women can also
stress you." He commented and they laughed.
Mzomubi returned with a chair and a bench.
They all sat down.
"What brings you here?"
He shook his head, "isn't trouble and stress
these children give us."
He looked at Xulu's daughter who was looking
down, playing with her shaking hands. He didn't
want to believe that it was what he thought.
Women would come with her if that was the
reason.
"What happened?" He would strangle
Mhlabunzima if he was thinking the truth.
"I need your son to be here and you'll hear then.
I need Mhlabunzima." He answered.
Xulu got up, "he's at the shop I will call him," his
blood was boiling. What did Mhlabunzima do
now? Could it be he was in a relationship with
Mnguni's daughter?
The telephone rang, "give it to Mhlabunzima."
He went straight to the point without asking
who was on the phone.
"It's him."
"You need to get home quickly!"
"I am busy. What happened?"
"Mnguni is here with his daughter and he's
looking for you." He raised his voice. "What
have you done, huh?"
"I will come home. I did nothing."
He clicked his tongue and went back to the
family. "Mzomubi, go and prepare water for us.
You know your way around here." He instructed
and Mzomubi stood up. Zinhloso didn't even
raise her head, she was going through a lot but
she heard that her brother knew his way around
here. How awesome!
Mhlabunzima found them having cold drink and
luckily, Zinhloso was also having the drink. He
was going to ask them if she wasn't having any.
He thought maybe they were excluding her. On
his way home, he had a lot of thoughts. Did she
decide to tell her father it was him? He realised
if she did, it wasn't her father who was going to
come with her. He greeted and sat on the stoep.
He didn't want to make things awkward by
sitting next to her. That was the only space left.
"Xulu, I won't beat about the bush. It seems you
lied to me," Mnguni glared at him.
"I lied about what, baba?" He asked.
"You said my daughter didn't leave your sight
but it seems she met a boy there because she's
changed," he laid it out and this relieved both
Mhlabunzima and Zinhloso, "she's even
sneaking out at night now. Which boy did she
interact with there? I am asking both of you,
Mzomubi and Mhlabunzima because she's
protecting this boy."
"Hhaybo!" Xulu was surprised and he looked at
his son. He was already suspecting him but he
wasn't going to say it to Mnguni.
"I didn't lie, she didn't leave my sight."
"This means you're this boy then!" He switched
and got angry.
"No, that's not what I am saying but she could
have met the boy anywhere. She's grown, why
are you angry if she has a boyfriend and -"
"Mhlabunzima!" Xulu fisted his arm as he was
closer to him, "how are you talking to an elder?
Is that the answer he's looking for?" He was
certain his son was the one Mnguni was looking
for.
"I am sorry." He looked down.
"I am not here for your opinions because you're
the one who took my daughter to the city. She
came back from that city, changed! It's either
you tell me the truth or you'll know the real me."
Mzomubi intervened, "baba, Zinhloso did leave
Mhlabunzima's sight. We spent time looking for
her. If you had asked me at home I was going to
tell you. We weren't going to come here." He
explained. His father didn't tell him where they
were going. He only told him they were going to
go with Zinhloso.
Mnguni glared at Mhlabunzima, "you forgot
about that?"
"I didn't forget but she got lost and I am the one
who found her. She wasn't looking like a person
who was with a boy. She was even crying," he
explained and eyed, Mzomubi. Why was he even
bringing that up because he was the one who
took Zinhloso from him.
"Mhlabunzima, you were supposed to tell
Mnguni everything!" Xulu shouted.
"I am sorry."
Mnguni looked at Zinhloso and she was only
looking down, "which boy did you meet there? I
am sure you pretended to be lost."
"I didn't pretend to be lost but Mzomubi sent me
to buy a cold drink for him. That's why I got
lost," she said what she didn't want to say but
Mzomubi made her say it. "I couldn't find my
way back."
Mhlabunzima looked at Mzomubi with
confusion, "you're lying!" Mzomubi exclaimed.
"Ndodakazi, tell your father the truth," Xulu
spoke softly with Zinhloso.
"I am speaking the truth, baba. He wanted me to
get lost," Zinhloso glared at Mzomubi.
"Your brother would have never done that
because he knows he was going to have me to
deal with," Mnguni defended his son.
"How were you going to know when I am lost
and never found?"
"Don't back chat me!" He shouted and looked at
Xulu, "thank you for welcoming me. I will go
now because I have learnt the truth."
"No problem, children bring us trouble no matter
how old they're," Xulu commented.
Mnguni stood up, "yes," his eye was with
Mhlabunzima, "you have the nerve of lying to
me after you've taken my daughter. I wonder
who you're protecting. If I can find out it's one of
your political friends that she was with."
Mnguni shook his head and laughed darkly,
"there'll be hell to pay." He said goodbye to Xulu
and they left.
"Why are you looking at me like that?"
Mhlabunzima asked his father.
"What do you want from Mnguni's daughter? I
am certain it's you." He looked at him
suspiciously.
"I don't know what you are talking about." He
got up from the stoep and sat back down when
his father shouted at him.
"Can't you see he doesn't want anyone for his
child?" He asked and Mhlabunzima didn't
answer him, "I am talking to you!"
"Why doesn't he want anyone for her?"
"Oh! You're not scared of his threats? You think
he's joking!"
"I am not scared of his threats. If I want his
daughter I will go for her," he said to his father,
clearly, "even if I want his eldest I will go for her
because he didn't give birth to them for himself.
Uma ezongithakatha engithakathela lokho
uzothakatha aze akhathale ke. Le ngalo
engekho iyoze imile ethakatha mina." (If he
bewitches me, he'll get tired and he bewitch me
until his arm grows.)
Ticked off, Xulu hit Mhlabunzima with his shoe
and he ran off as he was trying him with the
other shoe. He shouted at him, telling him to
stop, "are you out of your mind? You're really
dating his daughter?"
"I need to go back to my work."
"Mhlabunzima if you're dating his daughter I
won't accept that girl as my daughter in-law,"
Xulu said, trying to scare him.
He looked at his father, surprised by what he'd
just said, "does that mean you won't have a
problem if I go and build my own home where I
will personally welcome her as my wife?" He
threatened back and when his father only glared
at him. Mhlabunzima left.
UMCEBO

Chapter 41

She hasn't had time to meet up with him but

Mhlabunzima had been sending food for her at
school. It had been a full week since she got
caught, still her father hadn't allowed her to eat
at home. He was no longer asking her to do his
healing hut chores. He was no longer talking to
her. Zinhloso was living her life at home as a
loner. She went to school in the morning, came
back, headed to the river to fetch water and do
her homework. She would go to her
grandmother's house for food, return, bath and
sleep. Her grandmother had been begging her
to tell her father the truth but Zinhloso kept
quiet. She had vowed, she wasn't going to tell
them no matter what. But she also wasn't going
to stop dating Mhlabunzima.
Her life had changed and she was sad, she tried
to speak to her father and apologize but he
didn't forgive her. He only told her he needed
the name of the boy.
It was Saturday morning, she was dressed up
and set to go with her grandmother and aunt to
the Dunge family. Today, she had planned that
she was going to visit Mhlabunzima at the shop.
"Did you tell this boy that we'll be coming?"
Granny asked Zinhloso. They were walking to
the boy's home.
"I met up with him a day ago and tried to talk to
him but he didn't want to listen to me," Zinhloso
answered.
Her older aunt shook her head, "you had met up
with a fool," she commented, "and I hope the
one you're busy with now is better."
"Is he better?" Granny asked.
"There's no one."
"Zinhloso! We're supportive of you and you're
telling us lies. Do you want us to turn our backs
on you, too?" Her aunt shouted.
She looked aside, "you'll tell dad."
"We won't tell him l. Don't tell us the name then
but tell us if the boy is better," her grandmother
tried to convince her.
She smiled shortly, she hid her smile from them
but they saw her, "yes, he's better."
"Is that a smile?" Aunt asked and granny was
relieved that she told them something.
"How do you know he's better?" Granny asked.
She didn't trust her judgement.
She looked ahead, "he's matured and he's
caring, he always gives me food and money to
buy snacks at school. He sends someone to
give me those things."
"He's not at the same school?" Aunty asked.
"He's done with school."
"Is he working?" Aunty asked another question.
If she told them he had his businesses. It was
going to be very obvious, "yes, he's working."
"So, why can't he come to your father?"
She looked at her grandmother, "he wants to
come but I don't want him to come. I am not fit
grandma. I can't even make soft porridge. How
will I manage a home as a wife?" She asked. "I
haven't even told him that I can't do those
things. He doesn't know."
Granny was very relieved that she had found a
decent boy. A man - she had found a man.
"We should teach you then, Zinhloso." Aunty
said, "I will teach you everything you need to
know. If you don't do those things it'll be
because you're a lazy person. Uma wenza
ubunuku emzini yendoda koba okwakho lokho."
"Uyokukhomba ekhaya ke ngaphandle uma
ningamanuku nobabili." Granny said.
Aunty shook her head, "even if he's also a
messy person mama if his wife is messy he'll
pretend like he's not the same."
"You're right. Are you going to learn Zinhloso?"
Granny asked.
Zinhloso smiled, "yes, gogo I will. Thank you."
She was hopeful and maybe she would tell
Mhlabunzima the truth once she had begun
learning.
They were welcomed into the boy's home and
Granny explained their visit.
"We've come with our daughter after we've
learnt that she had a relationship with your son,"
Granny explained looking at Mrs Dunge.
"Which son, mama?" Mrs Dunge asked.
"Your last born. It has come to our attention
that she stopped going to the reed dance
because of him," granny proceeded and Mrs
Dunge's face changed colour. She shook her
head. Granny explained everything Zinhloso told
them.
"What a shame!" Granny Dunge was
disappointed, "call your son, makoti!"
"I will call him mama so that we can have a
discussion over his words whether he agrees or
disagree," she stood up, leaving her mother-in-
law talking with Zinhloso's grandmother.
When she returned, she was with her son and
the boy was shocked to see Zinhloso and her
family. He greeted the elders and sat down.
"I am surprised you're able to greet. I thought
you have no manners to an extent that you can't
greet," aunty was annoyed by him.
His mother told him about the Mnguni family
and the reason for their visit.
He glared at Zinhloso. Why didn't she warn him?
"No, I have never even spoken to her. Why
would I speak with her?"
His words shocked everyone in the room and
his grandmother clapped once, "she's not here
to say you've made her pregnant but she's here
to say you've taken her virginity."
"I don't even know what a virgin looks like."
"Hhaybo!" The elders screamed.
"Don't be disrespectful and if you know what
she's saying tell the truth," his mother yelled.
The child was embarrassing them.
"I won't agree to something I didn't do."
Zinhloso's grandmother chuckled, "very well
then, boy. We'll go and tell her father that you're
denying his daughter. You'll explain to her father
what you've told us."
He looked alarmed after granny's words and he
looked at his mother with fear in his eyes.
Mnguni? How could he face him?
"Speak the truth!" His grandmother shouted.
"Yes, I know her and I am the one who
deflowered her. I am sorry," he said quickly, "I
made a mistake. Please don't tell baba' Mnguni
that I denied it."
His family sighed in relief. They didn't have to
face Mnguni, "what are his demands? But I
assume it'll be three cows?" Mrs Dunge asked.
"Yes, that's what he requested. Her mother's
cow, her father's cow and the third cow for
Inhlawulo (fine)." Granny answered.
"I will contact my husband and inform him
about it. We'll bring everything once we've
spoken to him because the boy has agreed."
Mrs Dunge promised and the Mnguni family
thanked them. They left.
A loud clap lingered on her son's cheek, "are you
crazy? Why would you do that to a girl? It
doesn't matter who her father is, you shouldn't
have done such an unspeakable act," she
shouted at him, "you played with her feelings.
She's not even a happy child. You can see her
but you've trampled on her."
"I am sorry, mama!"
"He has apologised, forgive him," granny tried to
calm the situation. Mrs Dunge stood up and left.
Granny lectured him.
They returned with Zinhloso to her parents.
They arrived when they were having lunch
together. Mrs Mnguni stood up and headed to
the kitchen to dish food for her mother in-law
and sister in-law.
"Mama, you're back so early?" Mnguni was
surprised. The walk to the family was not close.
He didn't expect them so soon.
"Yes, we're back and I am tired from walking."
"You refused when I wanted to ask Xulu's son to
drive you." Mnguni said.
"Don't bother that boy."
Mrs Mnguni put two plates, two glasses and a
litre of cold drink before them. They were
seated on the straw mat with Zinhloso. Aunt
and granny only looked at the food. They didn't
take the food.
"How did it go, mama?" Mrs Mnguni asked.
Granny sighed, "ayi, it went well. They called the
boy and we asked him if he knew her."
"And what did he say?" Mnguni asked.
"He agreed that he knew her and he
apologized." Granny responded. She didn't want
any drama that her son was going to cause if
she told him the truth.
"And what about my request? What did the
parents say?"
"Dunge works in the city bhuti and so, his wife
promised to call him," aunty answered. Granny
was having a cold drink, "she said they'll bring
what you requested after speaking to him
because the boy didn't deny."
Mnguni was relieved. "Thank you so much, Sisi
and you, mom. You've done me a great favour."
"We're family and Zinhloso is our child," aunty
commented.
Mnguni looked at Ziwinile and he called out her
name.
"Yebo, baba?"
"Your two sisters have disappointed me. One
got pregnant and one was deflowered by a
useless boy who fooled her," Mnguni spoke with
contempt, "if you follow in their footsteps. You'll
go live with that boy because I don't know what
stops you from telling these boys to come to
me when they say they love you."
Granny and aunt were surprised by his last
words, "if Zinhloso really has a boyfriend. Why
don't you tell her the same? Tell her to tell the
boy to come to you."
Mnguni glowered at his sister, "not her! Which
household can she build? She'll stay here at
home."
"She'll stay here and not even eat?"
"Yes, Duduzile! Those are the consequences of
her actions." He growled.
His sister stood up, "mama, I am leaving. Are
you staying?"
"No, I want to rest at home."
"Didn't you say you're tired mama. Why are you
leaving?" Mnguni asked his mother.
"I have taken a rest, son. We should leave now."
She gave her daughter a hand and she got up.
"You're not even eating, gogo?" Nobuhle asked.
"I am not hungry, child. Zinhloso, come let's go."
"Where is she going?" Mnguni asked.
Granny didn't answer him but she pulled
Zinhloso up and walked out of the house.
Mzomubi cleared his throat once they were
gone, "I get that she was wrong baba but what
you're doing is wrong now. Why are you letting
her stay here if you're not giving her food?" He
asked his father - this treatment was not fair
and it wasn't sane. His father was being
extreme. Nobuhle returned with a child but he
wasn't this extreme.
"Did I ask for your opinion?"
"No, but-"
"Then, shut up!"
Mzomubi kept quiet. He took one of the plates
that his grandmother and aunt left, he helped
himself with the food.

She waited at the gate waiting for Khosi. She

was walking down. "Sawubona, sisi." Zinhloso
greeted her. She was coming back from her
grandmother's house. When she got there she
washed dishes and the pots. Her aunt made her
re-wash the pots because she didn't wash them
up to her standard. She obediently washed
them and she had food after washing the
dishes and pots.
"How are you, ntombazane?"
"I am fine and how are you?" They walked inside
together. They headed to her hut and Khosi
smiled.
"It's clean today," she commented and they
laughed. "Maybe love will change you."
She put the lunch box with her food on the
bedside, "you're joking with me now. My aunt
said this coming week will be dedicated to
dishes and pots."
"She'll teach you?"
"Yes, she's going to teach me. I had to tell them
that there's someone but I didn't say the
name…" she told her of the full conversation she
had with them.
"You did a good thing by trusting them." She
stopped talking as there was a knock on the
door. Mnguni walked in after being given
permission by Zinhloso.
He greeted Khosi, "I was waiting for you to
come."
"Is there something wrong?"
"No, but I thought I should let you know that I
will no longer be needing your services." Mnguni
broke the news. He saw she was heartbroken
by this. He didn't want to take her job from her
but he couldn't let her continue working for
Zinhloso after what she did. "Zinhloso is no
longer a child now. She's doing things that are
above her and so, she should do everything for
herself. If her hut reeks and there's even flies
coming out I wouldn't care. She has disobeyed
me and I can't continue paying for such a child.
It's not about you but about her."
"Yes, I understand, baba."
"You can help out my mother in her gardens and
I will pay for your work. She needs help because
my sisters work during the day," he suggested
and he saw a smile on her face.
"Yes, thanks." She took the envelope with her
full payment and Mnguni left the hut. She
turned to Zinhloso with sorry eyes.
But Zinhloso smiled at her, "don't feel bad."
"I am really sorry."
"Don't be. It's not your fault. I will look after
myself from now on. It's a good thing."
She drew a long breath, "okay and when are we
crossing the river?"
"I haven't spoken to the man. I will go to him
and I will let you know."
"Alright, walk me out."
"Let me go to him now. Let's go." She locked
her door and they walked out.
UMCEBO
Chapter 42

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

He was walking on the streets singing slowly.

He was not working and he thought he should
visit Mhlabunzima at his tuckshop. He wanted
to know the progress of his case with his new
girlfriend. Robert felt sorry for Mhlabunzima - he
had to fall in love with Mnguni's daughter. He
knew the torture of loving that man's daughter.
And yet - oh yes, he wanted his sister.
He smiled when his eyes set on mother and son.
Today, it was his lucky day.
He pretended like he wasn't taking any note of
the mother and went down to the young boy. He
was certain he was the same age as his son. He
fixed the collar of the boy's shirt.
"A young man should dress up appropriately so
that he won't embarrass his mother," Robert
said to the boy.
"Really?" The boy glanced at his mother with a
smile. He was remembering his mother's words.
"Yes, do you think I can lie to you?"
"No, elders don't lie." He smiled.
"That's good and where's the young man going
dressed up so clean?" He asked, still squatted
down before the boy.
"I am going to visit my grandmother back home.
She called and said I must come, she has
prepared my favourite meal," the boy answered
and he licked his lips making Robert and his
mother laugh. He noted that the mother-in-law
didn't like the wife but she liked her grandson.
Her son's child, unlike his mother who didn't like
both on his side.
"Let me walk you to the bus stop then. I don't
want you to be late and get dirty," he lifted the
boy and they continued walking. He then
greeted Comfort.
"It seems he listened to you because when I
tried to tell him to put the collar down. He told
me it's style," she smiled.
"Maybe he takes me as a father figure," he
commented and when they reached the bus
stop within a few minutes - there were people at
the stop. Robert gave the child money, "buy
snacks to eat on the way."
He turned to Comfort after the child had happily
thanked him, "by the way, you look beautiful.
Have a safe trip." He whispered to her and left
them with smiles. He headed back with a smile
of his own.
***
She drew a long breath before entering the
shop. She tried knocking at the back but there
was no response.
She stood aside nervously, Mhlabunzima was
behind the counter with his shopkeeper. They
were doing stocktaking. Mhlabunzima had a
book, writing down what the keeper was telling
him.
She didn't disturb them, she was looking at him,
daydreaming. She snapped out of it when a
customer requested attention. Mhlabunzima
was surprised to see her - just standing there.
When did she arrive?
"I believe you're here for me." He opened the
burglar guard for her and he kept a steady face
as Zinhloso gave the puppy eyes. "Let's go that
way."
"I knocked at the back. Aren't you busy?"
"I will continue once I am done with you," he
opened the door for her and locked it. He locked
the other door.
"I didn't want to disturb you," she said, taking a
seat on the chair and Mhlabunzima sat before
her on the desk. "You know that I don't mind. I
wasn't expecting to see you. It's been a while.
You don't even write back," he accused.
"I told you about my problem of writing back.
You haven't taught me," she held his hand and
Mhlabunzima looked at their hands, "I am really
sorry about what happened the last time. I
didn't mean to come off as disrespectful. I felt I
had had enough of being shouted at for one day.
I knew I was wrong by leaving but I came here
to seek comfort."
He pulled her other hand and he bonded both
her hands together. He placed his hands on top
of her warm hands, "I understand. I realised I
should have been more compassionate."
"Does that mean you forgive me?"
"How can I not forgive you when you're giving
your kitten eyes?" He asked.
Zinhloso giggled, "I was ready to cry out loud if
you're not forgiving me."
"I wouldn't have let you," he rubbed the back of
his hand on her cheek, "how's the situation at
home now?"
"It's still the same or should I say, worse? He's
not even talking to me now." She responded
and told him about their trip to the Dunge family.
"He denied it at first but gogo told him she'll tell
my father and he changed tune. I was going to
be really embarrassed if he denied it."
"Don't worry I was going to ensure he agrees
and ask for forgiveness," he chuckled as
Zinhloso laughed. "I know that boy and-"
"Please, don't say a word to him, Mhlabunzima.
You've involved enough people already in our
relationship," Zinhloso stopped him. She knew
what he wanted to say and she didn't even want
him to say it. She could see he was not going to
listen to her, "if you go to him what do you think
will happen? He'll tell his family who did what
you would do to him. You'll expose our
immature relationship, we need to be strong as
a couple first."
"Well, I guess you're right but as for people I
have involved I trust them."
Her face brightened, "yes, I know and I also had
to share some details about you with my
grandmother and aunt. I couldn't hide it but they
don't know it's you."
"It's okay. Wait here and I will go get some
food."
She had eaten at her grandmother's house but
she wasn't going to say 'no' to potato chips. She
waited patiently, she was at peace - she had
apologised.
Mhlabunzima returned with food and he placed
his chair next to Zinhloso. The food on top of
the table. She was ashamed when he removed
everything that was on top of the table and had
only the food left.
"I am not saying don't eat. I am only protecting
my work." Mhlabunzima fed Zinhloso. She was
folding her hands and not eating while
Mhlabunzima had begun eating. "Are you not
going to eat or you enjoy being fed?"
"I enjoy it." She shut her eyes, his lips were cold
on her cheek. She enjoyed eating on his hand,
there was no mess and they were sharing
affection at the same time. She only lifted the
glass to have a drink.
"This mean I will feed the children and feed their
mother?" He asked and wiped her mouth.
Wasn't the honeymoon phase amazing? She
was happy, eating and laughing, getting kisses
and her mouth being wiped. She didn't get such
treatment in her previous relationship and yet
she thought that mannerless boy loved her.
"Yes, we'll be your responsibility." She stood up
once they were done eating and she cleaned up
the table. She could feel his eyes as she moved
around. She loved it, it didn't make her shy that
he was looking at her.
"Are you going to finish or you'll clean my whole
office?" He asked, he couldn't contain it
anymore. She was sweeping the floor. For what?
He wanted her next to him. He felt like she was
doing this deliberately. Was she testing him? He
didn't take her as a naughty type.
She didn't answer him but she gathered the
dust on the dustpan. "I was just getting rid of
the dust."
He pulled her to his body. He was leaning on the
table and Zinhloso was standing before him,
"how are you though? How's this situation for
you?"
"I was really heartbroken in the beginning but
now, it's better I am getting used to the change.
It's a bitter change but it's bearable now."
"I wish I can wipe off all your problems."
"That's what you're doing. I didn't feel alive
before you but now I feel so alive. It's like my
life has only begun," she confessed and the
man cupped her face into his hands. He took
her lips into his. Her heart raced, singing to the
love tune she was experiencing. She held dear
to him as her blood warmed up. The sensations
were overwhelming but they were precious at
the same time. If there was something she
wasn't doing wrong - it was following the lead
of his kiss.
Mhlabunzima's hands disappeared underneath
her tunic and he groaned as his hand waltzed
only on her bare bums. He stopped kissing her
and lifted her dress. He looked into her shy eyes,
"why are you not wearing panties?"
"I want fresh air," she whispered and the kiss
proceeded. His hands went up to her breasts,
massaging her taut nipples. "Stop, it will get out
of hand." She remembered she hadn't spoken to
Khosi. She really needed whatever advice she
was going to give her. And it hadn't been long
since they started - dating which she hadn't
announced with her mouth. She couldn't give it
up so soon and easily.
"It won't. I enjoy kissing you," he tried
convincing her even though he knew she was
right. It was going to get out of hand.
She placed her finger on his lips, "no, let's stop."
She pulled his hands down and she didn't stop
him as he placed them on her bums. He loved
the cold and softness of her butts.
His eyes alone gave away how hungry he was
for her, "it's been over two months since we met
on the road and you haven't told me whether
you're taking me into happiness or you're taking
me out of misery."
"My healing hasn't started, that's what we
agreed on," she argued.
"What's stopping it? I told you to find someone
to go with you and you never got back to me
with an answer," he argued back. "I don't care
about time, Zinhloso. It won't weigh your value."
"But it will test your patience."
"So, you're putting me to the test?" He asked
and didn't get an answer, "did you find someone
who's going to go with you?"
"Yes, didn't I tell you?"
"Tomorrow morning, you're going with her then.
We're not waiting another week," he said, clearly.
He was pushing her. There had been enough
delays.
"Tomorrow!"
"Yes, when you leave for home. Pass by her
home and tell her that you're going there
tomorrow," Mhlabunzima instructed with a
serious face, "I don't want to have to dress up
like a woman and go with you."
He looked at her as she laughed her face off, "I
will go and tell her that we're leaving tomorrow,"
she promised as she wasn't seeing not even a
smile.
He placed a kiss on her forehead, "thank you for
coming. I will miss you when you're gone."
"I will miss you too." She held him back as
Mhlabunzima hugged her tightly.
"So, you're never going to sleepover now?" He
asked, still holding her.
"I will. I am like an orphan anyway now. Why
would he care what I do while he's taken
himself off my life?" She asked.
He backed away from her, "don't talk like that he
will come around."
"I doubt."
Two sharp knocks made them jump, "why are
you guys not coming out? I have been standing
here for a long time now. Mhlabunzima!"
"Who's that?" She held onto Mhlabunzima.
He brushed her short hair, "don't be scared it's
Robert."
She sighed, "I should go then. I won't even see
you before leaving?"
He moved away from her, "no, go straight there
and see me when you come back. Here are
directions." He gave her a piece of paper.
"Goodbye, I will see you tomorrow," they shared
one brief kiss and Zinhloso headed out of the
office using the back door.
He opened the door for Robert, "you're always
disturbing."
"You should put a sign on the door," he looked
around and there was no one. "You've told her
to run?" He sat down and they laughed… they
got down to the discussion Robert had brought
for him…

She was inside the kitchen at night waiting for

the water on the pot to get warm. The
cupboards were locked - they never locked
them before. She figured it was because of her.
They thought she would sneak into the house
and eat while they were sleeping?
She was looking for the kettle inside cupboards
when she realised they were locked. She
couldn't find the electric kettle. She opted to
use the pot. She wanted water to bath. She told
Khosi about going to the healer and she agreed.
The telephone rang while she was still inside
the house. She answered.
"Hello," she spoke nervously. She usually didn't
answer the phone.
"Is it Nobuhle or her sister?"
She held her mouth. Dear, Lord - it was the Boer!
Her mind quickly reminded her of what Nobuhle
told her. She tried to say the word but she
stuttered, "Si-ster!"
"It's John, can I speak to her? There's
something I don't understand about the
treatment." He spoke, uncertainly. He wasn't
sure wherether to request this or be quiet - shut
the phone.
She pressed her fingers on her eyes. What was
he saying exactly? Speak - khuluma. Yes - she
quickly responded, "sleep." She smiled, proud of
herself.
"Oh, okay, please tell her I called."
Zinhloso huffed and without answering, she
ended the call but she knew she was going to
have to tell Nobuhle. She giggled and stood up,
she really spoke with a Boer - speaking English.
Mhlabunzima had to know…
UMCEBO

Chapter 43

In the morning before she left, Zinhloso went to

her sisters' house and she knocked on the door.
She knocked twice and Nobuhle allowed her
inside.
She rubbed her eyes, "so, early? Did you just
come back or are you going somewhere?"
She followed her into her bedroom. Sbusiso
wasn't on her bed and that meant, he was
sleeping with their mother. He was literally,
granny's child. "I am going somewhere but I
have a message for you," she said with a grin.
"A message from who?" Nobuhle asked. She
checked the time and it was 6:30am. Where on
earth was she going?
"From our Boer friend, John." She laughed when
she saw the surprise on Nobuhle's face. "Why
are you surprised?"
"How do you have a message for me from him?
How did you even hear that message?" She
asked.
Zinhloso made the - 'really? You still have that
information?' "I can hear English, thanks." She
shook her head dramatically, "anyway, he
wanted to speak to you and I told him you're
sleeping. You should call him back."
"You really spoke to him?"
Zinhloso stood up, "yes, what's the big deal? I
have to go, bye."
"Wait, where the hell are you going so early?"
She asked.
"Somewhere important." She quickly walked out
and closed the door behind her. Today, it was
going to go down as one of the biggest days of
her life.

The Ramashals village was vast and busy, the

fields were green with vegetables. It wasn't as
quiet as their village. It seemed people of the
village had a lot of things to do. Children were
playing, running around, some dressed and
some naked. The village was alive and buzzing.
"It's beautiful on this side," Khosi commented.
She smiled, "yes. I love it and I wonder what
they would do to us if they knew who we are."
She whispered.
Khosi slightly slapped her arm, "don't mention
it." They walked a long distance to the healer's
place but they didn't get lost. Mhlabunzima had
written the directions clearly.
The healer's yard was big and busy, there were
a number of people waiting for their turn.
Zinhloso suddenly got scared.
"It seems we were not early enough. What if it
gets dark while we're still here?" She held
Khosi's hand tightly.
"If we see it's getting late we'll go and come
back very early. We can't sleep here because we
don't know anyone around," she looked around
the busy yard.
A patient walked out of the healing hut and she
was followed by a tall dark man - he was
wearing traditional healer's garments. The man
looked at the patients in line and his eyes finally
landed on Zinhloso. He pointed at her.
"Young girl, I have been waiting for you since
yesterday, come!" His voice was soft, not
matching his body structure. Looking at him,
one would expect a deep bold voice.
Zinhloso nervously pointed at her chest, "me?"
"Yes, come," he looked at Khosi, "you'll wait for
her there." He pointed to the benches under the
tree and he went back inside.
She quickly stood up as Khosi encouraged her.
She entered the hut and sat down, it was more
or less like her father's hut. It smelled of sage
and the smell pleased Zinhloso.
The healer placed two 2litre bottles with
medicine inside, "this is the cure to your illness.
You'll drink one full glass in the morning before
or after meals. It'll be up to you. If you have
started with before meals, you'll drink it before
meals until you finish it," he clearly instructed,
"don't make a mistake of not finishing it even if
you feel like you've been healed, continue
drinking it. After that, you'll never have this
disorder again. You'll live a normal life like every
young woman."
She wiped her tears. She couldn't believe what
she was seeing before her eyes. It was
everything she had ever wanted - to be free!
This was going to free her and give her a
normal, possibly beautiful life. She would owe it
to Mhlabunzima. She was supposed to worship
the grounds he walked on. No human had ever
done such a thing for her. She felt consumed
and fulfilled by his love and care.
"We're not supposed to say, thank you."
Zinhloso clapped her hands. And before she
could even ask questions, the healer answered
her questions.
"Your father was not healing you deliberately,"
he felt sorry for the girl and decided to take her
out of her misery and wonder. He knew she
would wonder her whole life but one thing for
sure - he would not tell her real reasons. He was
a healer that didn't like to tell his patients
secrets that would destroy families and cause
violence and hate. He believed the truth had to
naturally come out when it was supposed to.
He only told patients dangerous secrets when
he was compelled by the spirits and when it
was life threatening secrets. He did this
because his family was destroyed by a jealous
Sangoma who caused hate and division
amongst them. He believed healers should heal
and build not destroy.
And as a father, he believed Mnguni's reasons
were justified but he was still wrong. He was
also greedy, he only wanted to be only one to
bask into the glory of his daughter - the child his
ancestors gave him to mend and heal his
broken heart and hopelessness.
She shut her eyes. She didn't want to hear this
because deep down she was hopeful that she
might be wrong, "why?" Her voice broke. She
was shuttered.
"I believe he would tell you that when he finally
learns the truth, the truth after you've been
healed," he predicted what would happen but he
knew Mnguni wasn't going to tell her the whole
truth. She was not supposed to know the main
truth behind his reasons for not healing her.
"He's been pretending to love me and -"
The healer was different with Zinhloso, he
turned into a father that was hurt to see this
child so broken, "no, his love as your father is
pure but we're human beings we turn to have
twisted reasoning and that's what happened
with your father. Don't hate your father."
"How can I not? He's seen me suffer, he's seen
me cry. He could have helped me but he
watched me suffer for five years," she shook
her head as pain overwhelmed her, "five long
years, baba." She said - not addressing him as
'mkhulu' she felt like she was in a conversation
with a father not a healer.
"I know but he's still your father and he loves
you, child," he said, "don't hold a grudge." He
didn't say the rest. He didn't want to scare her,
the emotions she was feeling now were enough.
He didn't want her to know there would come a
dark hour in her life where she would wish for
her father but he would be far from her. That
would make her live on the edge. She deserved
a happy and free life.
When she was calm, he advised, "when the time
comes, do anything to fight for him, fight for his
love and watch out for a woman with a
sweetest voice. When you meet her, know she's
not a sweet person and there'll be a family
member pulling strings, using her to rob him off
umcebo (wealth) he's building for himself now,"
his tone changed, he spoke as a healer, "and
wealth that his father had made him heir to. You
should ensure he doesn't lose that wealth
because he would lose himself and his mind. If
witchcraft would be the answer, do it but you
will need to be smart about it. He has done
such a great thing for you, something nobody
had the courage to do for you. He's a brave
young man to even challenge your father like
that. Hold on to him."
"Thokoza mkhulu!" She was certain he was
talking about Mhlabunzima.
"Some things can't be avoided but I hope you
will both withstand any problems against," he
gave her a folded magazine, "this is an elixir,
bath with it. It should wind off all the bad luck
and dark auras. Go, now and be happy and
blessed, child."
"Thokoza!" She packed everything inside the
plastic bag and walked out. She walked forward
and didn't look back. Khosi followed her and
she was very happy when Zinhloso told her she
found help.
"I suggest you keep this medicine with
Mhlabunzima. We don't want anyone finding it,"
Khosi suggested out of fear. Zinhloso didn't tell
her that she was told that her father was not
healing her deliberately but Khosi long had
suspected after hearing that he was the one
that healed her grandmother. She didn't believe
the theory of the herb ceasing to exist.
"But I should drink it every morning."
"You can even pass by the shop every morning.
Talk to him and see what he thinks." She
suggested and they walked faster, as they
headed back home. Life was going to change.

****
Congratulations for reaching target on previous
challenge 🤯🌞👻
UMCEBO
Chapter 44

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

"Please pass by the shop. I will ask him to give

you a cold drink. It's been a long walk," Zinhloso
pleaded with Khosi. They were on the main road
- passing the tuckshop.
"I will have it at home. I wasn't looking for a
payment," Khosi said but Zinhloso didn't let her
pass. She held her hand and pulled her to the
tuckshop, "what will people say, Zinhloso?"
"Why should we care what they say?"
There was a shopkeeper behind the counter.
Zinhloso waited for the customers to leave, "hey,
where's he?"
"He's at the back with the chickens. Do you
need something? He told me to give you
something if you need it or unless you need
him?" He asked. "But you'll also have to tell him
if you're taking something."
She smiled shortly, "okay, I didn't bring any
money. Please give sis Khosi some biscuits and
coca cola. I will go to him." She turned to Khosi,
"thank you so much."
Zinhloso found Mhlabunzima at the back as the
shopkeeper had said, "sawubona, Donda."
He smirked, "Mpangazitha! You're back
already?"
"Yes, I asked your shopkeeper to give sis Khosi
some biscuits and coca cola. We're tired-"
Mhlabunzima cut her off, "there's no problem
but the way you're looking at my chickens now
it's like you'll tell me you want one," he held her
hand and pulled her to the office's back door.
"I won't take chickens for free, I will buy them."
She giggled as he gave her the look that told her
he didn't trust her.
"And where will you get the money?" He placed
their chairs together. He was happy that he was
seeing a plastic bag with two bottles and that
meant - she found help.
"I will open my money tin. I want to buy an
electric kettle because they lock their kettle at
home," she spoke freely with no sadness.
But Mhlabunzima was sad. How could they do
such a heartless thing? "Don't open your money
tin. It's your savings but rather take the kettle
here I will replace it."
"It's no use keeping the money because I won't
be saving anymore," Zinhloso grabbed the jug
of water and a glass, "unless!"
"Unless, what?"
"If you let me work for you during weekends
once I have taken the cure. It'll give your
shopkeeper a break," she suggested happily.
"No, if you're my wife I was going to take care of
you without working. I don't have even the
slightest problem," Mhlabunzima said clearly. "If
you want to help, you can help if I have no one
to sell for me, not because you're working."
"But-"
"No, we're not going to discuss that."
"Okay but if you have an opening in the gardens
please hire sis Khosi.". She requested, "She
needs a job."
He didn't have to guess - her father must have
fired her, "yes, I still need three more people.
Tell her to come to me tomorrow."
"Thank you, at least you didn't refuse that."
He ignored her last sentence, "how did you
sleep last night?" He asked before he could
even ask about their trip.
She grinned, "guess what?"
"What?"
"Last night I spoke to John. Hendricks' son. I
was speaking English with him."
He folded his lips and chuckled, "ukhulume naye
wathini?" (What did you say to him?)
"Bengikhuluma amagama amakhulu, Xulu,
hawu!" (I was speaking big words) she
dismissed with a laugh. She didn't want to say
what she said.
"But I want to hear what you said," he said in
English and he burst out laughing when
Zinhloso widened her eyes. He pecked her lips,
"I am proud of you for speaking big words." He
knew it wasn't much.
"Thank you," she was filled with happiness.
Happiness she never knew she would
experience.
"How did it go?" He asked and held her hand for
support as her face changed.
She shut her eyes and shook her head lightly,
"you won't believe it."
"Tell me!"
"I was told he isn't healing me deliberately." She
freed her tears, "all along I am under the
impression that he loves me and he cares but I
was wrong. Dad has seen me suffer, being
bullied, suffering from hate, hate from my own
mother and siblings. Do you know why Khosi
was looking after me?"
"No," he didn't comfort her but he let her cry and
pour out what was in her heart.
"That's because I can't even wash dishes
properly. I can't even wash my own clothes, my
mom forbade me from cooking in her kitchen
because I would leave a bad odour, she said,"
she stopped talking and cried out. "Naturally, I
am lazy but even the laziest girl in the whole
village, they can cook and they can mop the
floor but I was shouted at for washing dishes
while there was no one home. Dad stood there,
watching as his wife howled words at me for
doing a minimal chore,
"So, how was I going to agree to have you pay
ilobolo for me? I was going to be a wife and
your sister was still going to do everything?"
She wiped her tears, "I don't know why dad is
doing this. The healer didn't tell me the reason.
He said he'll tell me when the time comes. What
should I do, Mhlabunzima? Should I confront
him?"
"No, don't confront him but let's wait and see if
he'll figure you were at the healer. Or he'll find
out once you're healed," he suggested, "if he
knows automatically that will mean there's
something evil he did."
Mhlabunzima pulled her up and he placed her
on his lap, "that will end now. You'll come out of
your shell and you'll be happy. You didn't have
to be ashamed because you can't wash dishes.
I would have even asked my sister to teach you.
You can't do these things because of your
mother, not because you don't want to know
how to do them. Chores weren't going to
change my love for you," he wiped her tears.
She was relieved - that was out of the way. She
didn't want to keep it a secret from him any
longer. "Thank you." She placed her forehead on
his forehead. She closed her eyes, waiting for
him to kiss her but she heard a chuckle.
"Mhlabunzima!"
"Why are you not kissing me if you want to kiss
me but waiting for me to do it?" He covered her
lips into a kiss when he saw a scowl. He kissed
her slowly and deeply. "Did you like it?"
"Yes, I loved it." She caressed his face, taking a
good gaze at him, "sis Khosi suggested I leave
the cure here and pass by every morning, have a
drink then go to school. She's scared something
might happen to it."
"That's a good suggestion. That means I will
have to give you the keys to the back so that
you can come in even if I am not here,"
Mhlabunzima stood up with her and he placed
her on the chair. He looked for the spare keys
and gave them to her. He left her to get food.
He was over the moon. Their relationship was
going to be normal once she was cured. There
weren't going to be any awkward situations.
They were going to love each other and be
happy.
They were standing by the door after they
finished eating. She had a small bottle of the
cure to drink the following morning. Zinhloso
took his wrist after taking off her colourful
beaded bracelet, "ngiyakukhipha osizini
ngifikufaka enjabulweni yanguna phakade," she
placed the bracelet into his wrist, accepting his
love request.
The happy Mhlabunzima whistled and he kissed
her out of happiness, "thank you. I am a very
happy man."
She hugged him, took the plastic bag of the
kettle and left. She walked straight home after
passing by Khosi's home to tell her to see
Mhlabunzima.
When she arrived at home, it was busy. She saw
some of her mother's society friends and her
father's friends. They were having a braai. She
closed the door and she focused on doing her
homework. The next day was Monday. She
couldn't focus because of the meat aroma. She
placed her books aside and decided to sleep.
She woke up early - she needed rest.

In the morning, she was very early and she

decided she would pass by the shop, buy some
biscuits. She needed to also - just see him
before her day began.
"Good morning, Zinhloso. I didn't see you the
whole day yesterday," Nobuhle was outside
their house brushing her teeth. She was already
dressed for school.
She went to her, "yes, I was very busy
yesterday."
"What were you doing? Dad asked where you
were and I didn't know what to say."
"Why does he care where I am?" She rolled her
eyes and smiled at Nobuhle, "so, did you call
him?"
She looked around, "no, I didn't call him because
it was busy yesterday. I will see when I can find
time. I don't know why he's risking it by calling.
What if Ziwinile answered?"
She giggled, "she wasn't going to say anything."
"Why are you so early?"
"I want food, bye!" She quickly walked away and
before she could walk out - her father's voice
stopped her. She pressed her eyes together and
she gathered strength to turn to him. He was
coming from the toilet.
"Yebo." She didn't look at him. She was finding
it difficult to come to terms with the truth. She
thought he loved her but - no, he was seeing her
suffer. Why? She felt like asking him - why? But
she couldn't, she no longer trusted him. What if
he would do something and make the cure not
worki?
"You're still a child living under my roof and I
didn't say now you should do as you please,"
Mnguni reminded her, "yesterday, I couldn't see
you at home for the whole day and nobody
knew where you went. Why are you doing as
you please?"
"I am living like a child who has no parents-'' she
quickly hid her face as her father was
attempting to slap her. But the slap didn't come,
she heard his tongue clicking. When she
opened her eyes he had turned. Zinhloso
proceeded out. He really wasn't aware that she
went to the traditional healer? If he was aware
he was going to confront her. Her father was
incapable of keeping quiet with a burning
question. She wondered - how would he react
the day she would realise he had been cured?
****
Can you please help us like the shared post if
you haven't? 🙏🏾 Competition closes tomorrow
😭
Link:
https://www.facebook.com/100048880600595
/posts/593853262254022/?app=fbl
UMCEBO

Chapter 45

**Chapter sponsored by anonymous**

"You took your dose of the day yesterday and

you said you'll have today's lunch box from
grandma. I gave you money," Mhlabunzima said
to Zinhloso who was standing before him at the
back. He had just given his chickens their feed
and water. "So, this morning why are you here?"
He asked because Zinhloso had denied that she
was passing by just - to see his good looking
face before going to school. He knew she was
lying and that - it made him feel special that she
was able to pass by just to see him.
"No, I am very early and I thought I will spend
my money here. I won't buy any snacks at
school," she proceeded to deny the truth. She
looked down shy when he played with her
cheeks. "How was your night? Did you dream of
me?"
He laughed, "you're using my lines now."
"Yes, I had a good night. I haven't slept so
peacefully in a long time." She shared, "it's like I
am cured already."
"That's amazing I also slept peacefully. It's
amazing to sleep now because I am your
boyfriend."
The chickens helped her laugh - nature smiled
at her. She was already feeling the light, at the
end of the tunnel. Mhlabunzima was her tunnel,
"can I have a good morning kiss and I will go to
school."
His heart danced and their lips loved each other
into a kiss. She clung onto him and when she
started moaning, Mhlabunzima stopped kissing
her. "Please, don't daydream about me at
school because you'll lose concentration and
fail."
"I promise I will try not to," she kissed his cheek
and giggled, "they were having braai yesterday
at home. Mom and dad had their friends over. I
remembered yesterday was their anniversary."
"Your father celebrates anniversary? He's
civilised."
"No, they didn't even know what anniversary
was, but Ziwinile told them about it. They
started doing it last year," she shared.
"So, did they give you braai? You're a part of
their anniversary, it doesn't matter what
happened," Mhlabunzima asked.
She shook her head, "no, they didn't."
"And what about your siblings? They should
hide some meat for you. Your brother,
wamshiyela ibele lowo." He raised an eyebrow,
waiting for a response.
"Who? Mzomubi? I wasn't lying when I said he
wanted me to get lost. I just didn't want to tell
you that day," she didn't hide the truth from him
anymore, "only Nobuhle treats me like a sibling
but she also didn't bring me any meat."
He had thought highly of the Mnguni family and
he realised his siblings - maybe they were better.
"Your situation is like mine, when our
grandfather casted us out, nobody in our family
helped us. They could have done everything
they could to help us if they cared. But they
didn't."
"You're right but I think they're influenced by the
behaviour of our parents towards me." Zinhloso
tried to defend her siblings.
"No, that's not it," he fixed her shirt, "go to
school and tomorrow when you come back
from school you'll have your braai meat. I will
give you what they don't want to give you even
though my love could never be like their love."
She hugged him tightly, "good bye, sthandwa
senhliziyo yami," she felt good about
addressing him this way and his face told her -
he liked it.

Mhlabunzima was cutting grass using a

machete, cleaning the yard of his tuckshop. He
was thinking of confronting Mzomubi without
making it obvious that he was dating his sister.
He had to talk to him. How could Mzomubi hate
his own sister? He didn't want to be friends with
such a person. If he wasn't going to change -
that would mean their friendship would end.
"Ntanga, you're cleaning here. Do you have
another machete? I will help you," Mzomubi
greeted his friend.
Mhlabunzima stopped working - just the man
he needed. "Yes, tell Ntokozo to give it to you. I
actually wanted to see you and discuss
something important."
Mzomubi headed inside the shop and he
returned with the machete, they worked,
cleaning the yard of the tuckshop. Mhlabunzima
didn't start the conversation while they were
working. He wanted to sit down with him and
talk properly. They were discussing political
matters and news. What was happening? Who'd
been arrested? Who went on exile? Who was on
the run? How many people had been killed
fighting for freedom?
It didn't take long and they were done, they sat
on the benches at the back with food.
Mhlabunzima had realised, Mzomubi was just
like Zinhloso. Their love for food was out of the
world. It was extreme. Growing up, he thought
when they conquer poverty he would eat until
he passed out but it never happened like that.
He enjoyed good food but he didn't eat as he
thought he would.
"I haven't been seeing you lately," Mhlabunzima
said to his friend as they had food. During the
day on weekdays the village was quiet. There
was no busy at the tuckshop.
"Yes, Zinhloso is no longer helping my father.
This means I have a huge load of work," he
shared. He didn't realise the important role his
sister played until he had to do everything on
his own.
"Why don't you tell your father that you want
your sister back?" He asked but he concealed
his emotions towards this.
"No, why should I get involved in their quarrels?"
He looked at him like he was crazy, "that's
because she's your sister. I have been seeing
your sister a lot here," he began the real
conversation. "She's always buying food here
and so, I asked her why she's always buying
here because she never bought food like that
before."
"What did she say?" He asked in a low tone. He
was ashamed of what his father was doing -
who hid food from their child?
"She told me they no longer give her food at
home. I was shocked," he glanced at Mzomubi
and he was clenching and unclenching his jaws,
"I asked if you as her siblings sneak food for her
but she said no. I was very shocked, Mzomubi.
How can you do such a thing to your own
sister?"
"Why should I interfere? She was dad's favourite
and she disrespected him-"
"Did your father mistreat you just because he
had your sister as a favourite? Have you ever
thought maybe she wasn't his favourite but he
was more compassionate towards her because
of her disorder?" He was still calm as he asked
his questions.
"Maybe you're right."
"Zinhloso is your sister, she's youngest but also
older than you. I thought you learnt something
from my life. You always supported me when I
shared opinions that my family didn't help us
deliberately,
"And yet you're doing the same thing to your
sister. Mzomubi, parents die, they die and leave
their children. The worst thing that may happen
is if parents leave their children hating each
other,
"Siblings should be bonded together, they
should support each other because when the
elders leave this world they'll only have each
other." Mhlabunzima raised his eyes to check
on him and he was listening. One thing he liked
about Mzomubi, he listened when he spoke to
him.
"I think our parents won't leave us bonded."
Mzomubi commented and he felt bad about all
this - all that was happening.
"Your sisters only have you as their protector
beside your father. They're aunts to your future
children," he gulped on the drink, "let's say what
happened to us happens to you. Your wife
leaves you with young children. Who'll help you
with those children because you know nothing
about children?"
"It's my sisters."
"Yes, the same Zinhloso that you're not treating
as your sister. It seems no man wants her
because of her disorder so she's most likely not
to get married. She'll be the one staying with
you and your family and the best thing you can
ever want,
"Is for your sister to get along with your wife. Do
self introspection, Mzomubi and know that I am
really disappointed in you." He believed he had
said enough. He would ask Zinhloso whether he
changed or not. He wouldn't make any mistakes.
Mzomubi digested Mhlabunzima's words.
UMCEBO

Chapter 46

"Why does she want you to help her? Why can't

she hire people closer to her?" Zinhloso asked
with a straight face.
Mhlabunzima joined her in bed, she had come
for a sleepover. They'd just had their supper
together.
It'd been a week since she started her treatment
and it was making her sweaty. It was horrible in
taste and Mhlabunzima forced her to gulp it all
at once per half a glass. He ensured that he
was always there in the morning when she took
it.
"I used to help her husband with his
transportation cars. I fix them and she said two
needed attention. She hired a machenic but he
made it worse," he explained.
"I don't want any woman around you. Don't go
there," she snuggled her body into his body and
he held her.
"It's work and I will get paid for it. What will I do
with that old white woman kodwa?" He asked
looking down at her.
She stared up, "how should I know and how
long will you be gone? Where will you be
sleeping?"
"I will sleep with other workers and I don't know
for how long will I be gone."
"Let's sleep. I am full."
He hand rubbed the nape of her neck, "askaxoxi
ngisho ezethu zothando usufuna ukulala?" He
held her chin up, "are you mad that I am
leaving?"
"Yes, it won't be easy not seeing you." She
closed her eyes and accepted his lips. She
hated that he was leaving and she didn't know
for how long will he be gone!
"Do they know how important you're to me?"
She cried and held his neck. "I want you here,
always and forever."
"I will always be here," he stopped himself
before he could lose control because he knew
she wouldn't let him go beyond the torturous
kisses. He wanted her in every way but he didn't
want to push her. She surely needed whatever
time she wanted and to test his patience. He'd
been single for long, he didn't need to act like he
would die if she want her time. But it was killing
him, slowly.
He pulled her into his arms under the bed
covers, "I will come back soon before you know
it and please, take the medication as you should.
Don't even think of cheating it. We don't want
any problems."
"Yes, I will take it."
"Sleep well."
"Sleep well," she closed her eyes and wished,
she could fastforward time, to the time where
she was getting to see him again. She didn't
want to disappoint him and disappoint herself,
she was going to take the medication as she
should.

"Zinhloso, luyasha uphuthu! Ikuphi ingqondo

yakho?" (Krummel pap is burning, where's your
mind?) Her aunt shouted at her. It was the three
of them inside the kitchen - her eldest aunt,
grandmother and Zinhloso. It'd been three
weeks since she started learning to do house
chores. She wasn't bad as when she started -
the dishes were easier and the pots? She felt
like they were a nightmare. She could properly
floor the hut with cow dung. The hut where her
grandmother kept her vegetables, dried
vegetables and grinded vegetables - it was still
floored with cow dung.
"I am here," she jumped on the pot and she
decreased the heat on the electric stove.
"If you cook, you cook with your heart because
you'll be cooking for the people you love. It can
be us, or in future, your husband and children,"
her aunt lectured her, "you can't have your mind
elsewhere. You should concentrate and enjoy
making a meal for your family. You're a woman
and cooking is part of being a homemaker."
"Yes, aunt, I am sorry," she closed the pot and
took the knife, "I should cut the chickens now."
She was teaching her how to cook home-grown
chicken. Zinhloso patiently followed
instructions, she burned her hand in the
process and they told her it was part of cooking.
She was nervous about how her food would
taste but she felt really good about the new
adventure. She wasn't happy about doing
dishes and pots but cooking was better. She
already knew she didn't mind cooking and she
hated the dishes and pots.
She sat on her chair and held her breath. It was
Sunday afternoon and they were going to eat
her food. Everyone was seated inside the
kitchen, including her uncles. Those who had
left, came back because they wanted to have a
first taste of her food. It was a big deal that she
cooked her first meal.
About ten minutes passed and nobody had said
a thing about her food. They were just eating
and not talking. Why were they not commenting?
"Bab' omncane?" She couldn't hold it anymore.
She asked for feedback. He only glanced at her
and didn't comment.
"Your krummel pap needed more time on the
stove otherwise your chicken is the best I have
ever eaten," her uncle finally gave her feedback
and they laughed at Zinhloso as her
grandmother swore at her for screaming in the
house.
"I am sorry, gogo, I am very happy with the
feedback," she smiled and everyone shared
their opinions on her food. Such a small thing
boosted her confidence. Who would have
thought that one day she would be
complemented for cooking? She'd never seen
herself as capable because of her mother.
"I am going home now. I will see you tomorrow,
thank you for today," she said to her aunt and
grandmother. She took the plastic bag with her
food and the lunch box of chicken she dished
for her brother.
When she got home she looked for Mzomubi.
He found him before the door of his hut making
a sculpture, probably for their father.
"Here, I brought you this. I cooked it myself,"
she handed the lunch box to him.
He looked up at her and took the lunch box,
"what's this?"
"Home-grown chicken. I heard you're eating
cabbage tonight," she responded. She knew he
didn't like cabbage. She was just like him, she
didn't like cabbage.
He was surprised to receive this from her and
he was reminded of Mhlabunzima's words. She
thought of him and he'd never done that for her,
"are you sure you cooked it yourself?"
"Yes, I cooked it. Bye." She left him for her hut.
Mhlabunzima was still not back. It'd been three
days. She terribly missed him.

He was left in the kitchen searching for a small

pot. He wanted to warm up his food. He was
still surprised that Zinhloso thought of him. This
gesture - it was exactly what Mhlabunzima was
talking about. He chuckled as he couldn't
believe he was going to eat food made by
Zinhloso. When did she start cooking?
"Hhaybo, Mzomubi, where did you get chicken
while everyone is eating cabbage except for
your father?" Mrs Mnguni asked her son as he
joined them in the living room. Her husband
was also eating cabbage but there was a piece
of pan fried beef. Mnguni didn't like eating a
vege with no meat as a side. When they were
eating only a vege, meat was added to his plate
only. His wife liked veges than meat.
"Where did you get it? It smells nice?" Ziwinile
asked looking at his plate.
"Maybe he got it from his girlfriend," Nobuhle
commented and they laughed.
"Katshana gave it to me. She said she cooked it.
She thought of her brother because we're eating
cabbage," he answered and devoured the
chicken. He pushed the cabbage with the spoon,
putting it aside and he enjoyed himself. In the
house, they were surprised to hear that
Zinhloso cooked and brought food for her
brother.
"I can't believe she cooked this. I am sure she
lied to me," Mzomubi ate happily. He was even
smiling.
His father looked at his plate, "let me taste that
food," he requested but Mzomubi hesitated with
his food, "bring that food to me. I will taste,
don't forget it's my child who cooked there."
He stood up, "it's also my sister. Baba, you're
having beef but you want my food."
Mnguni had one spoon and he took his time
chewing without giving Mzomubi the plate back.
He dug another spoon and his son wanted to
cry already. He took a bite on the chicken leg
and handed the plate back over to him, "home-
grown chicken is also my favourite but she
didn't even bring not even a wing for me but she
brought two pieces for you," Mnguni
complained bitterly and he looked at his wife, "it
seems you've been oppressing a good cook."
"Bring it to me Mzomubi!" Mrs Mnguni
requested. She wanted to believe it after having
a taste. "I will have one spoon don't worry." She
only had one spoon as she promised.
"How is it mom? I know he won't give us,"
Nobuhle asked.
Mzomubi sat down, "yes, I won't give it to you."
"Mom?"
"It's good." She answered and they proceeded
eating. Mrs Mnguni wondered how did her in-
laws badmouth her during that teaching
session.
Nobuhle finally got a chance to be alone and
she got to call Hendricks back. She waited
patiently. She smiled at the sound of the
baritone, "hello John."
"What a nice surprise! You've brightened up my
night."
"My sister told me you called. She said you
spoke but I didn't trust her because she doesn't
know English well," she said and relaxed on the
sofa.
"Yes, we spoke and there was no problem. This
means she understood because she was able
to pass the message," John answered, "I didn't
think she'll pass the message because she
didn't say goodbye. She just ended the call."
"Sorry about that. What is it?"
"I wanted to check up on you and also, ask what
you'll be doing the following year. Are you going
to persue your studies?" John asked.
"I wanted to do that but I didn't know the right
channels to follow. When I asked Mhlabunzima
to help me, he said it was late. He also
mentioned you were going to assist if I told him
earlier," Nobuhle responded, "I wish to be a
doctor. I want to be a good doctor to my people.
My father can afford the education that's what
he told me."
"That's a good thing and I suppose we'll have to
apply next year. Young Xulu was right, it's late,"
he yawned, "I have a suggestion."
"Yes?"
"I don't know if you'll mind coming to the city?
We'll tell your father that you'll be working for
me."
Nobuhle giggled because he sounded nervous,
"why are you nervous?"
"I know that you really don't need this job
because you're living a comfortable life and so, I
don't want to sound disrespectful or mean,"
John explained. "You'll be like a chief house
keeper. I really want to have a friendship with
you. I like you."
She knew heading to the city would be good
and working, she needed to look after her son
financially because she was yet to tell Robert to
stop sending money. "Our friendship will be a
risk John and I have a child." She informed him.
"It doesn't matter and it's a risk I am willing to
take," he sounded passionate, "are you still
together with your child's father?"
"No, but laws don't allow me to be together with
you."
"Don't worry about laws. We can create our own
laws and live in our own world. I only need your
permission," he pleaded.
"You'll need to talk to my father and if they
agree with my mother I will come to the city to
work for you." She agreed and once they were
done talking she left for bed with a huge smile
on her face. What did he see in her?
UMCEBO

Chapter 47

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

She was far from their house's door, brushing

her teeth Monday morning. She was oddly
happy and she was looking forward to the end
of the year.
"Hello, Katshana! How are you?"
Zinhloso locked her door and headed to
Nobuhle, "why are you happy? You hate
Mondays."
She wiped her mouth after she was done and
she faced her sister, "it's a beautiful day. Why
shouldn't I be happy?"
She eyed her suspiciously, "are you sure it
doesn't have to do with a man?"
Nobuhle giggled, "no, look, why didn't you bring
me some chicken yesterday?"
"You don't like that chicken, that's what I know."
"Yea but I would have loved to taste something
made by your hands. Mzomubi didn't even want
to give us one spoon," she told her and Zinhloso
laughed, "your father complained that you didn't
even bring him a wing but you know he loves
the chicken."
"Was he going to eat something cooked by me?
No, we both know he hates him. Why was I
supposed to bring food for him?" Zinhloso
asked.
"But you brought food for Mzomubi. Doesn't he
always treat you badly?"
Zinhloso shrugged, "he learnt that from his
mother and father, I can't blame him. I have to
go now."
"Hey, why are you so early? You're always early
now," Nobuhle asked.
"I should pass by at home and get food."
"Oh, yes, I am being insensitive. I am so proud
of you, Katshana," she played with her cheeks
and Zinhloso playfully slapped her hand away.
They laughed. "Learn as much as you can, it'll
be very good for you. It's best to know how to
do something even if you don't like doing that. I
am glad you have aunty teaching you. She's the
best cook in the whole family."
"You're right. Bye then!"
Nobuhle pulled her sister for a hug. Zinhloso
smiled with eyes closed, this was her first hug
from her sibling. It made her miss Mhlabunzima
even more, "bye."
Before Zinhloso could exit the gate she was
stopped by Mzomubi's voice. She waited
patiently.
"I almost didn't find you. Take granny's dish. I
know she'll ask about it," Mzomubi handed her
the empty dish.
"Good thinking."
"Thank you for the chicken. It was really good. I
enjoyed it," he complimented, still with a smile
that Zinhloso rarely saw on his face.
"Alright, no problem."
He handed her some coins, "buy some food and
ice blocks at school. It's getting hot now."
She frowned at the money, "I wasn't selling the
food for you. Why are you giving me money?"
She asked, shocked. Mzomubi was giving her
money!
"I know. You can't sell ukudla kwasekhaya. I am
giving you money to buy what you like buying
during break time," he explained. He wasn't sure
if she wanted to decline or it was awkward that
he was actually giving her money!
"Thank you," she was happy she had more
money to spend. She said goodbye and left. She
kept looking at the money and she couldn't
believe Mzomubi actually gave her money.
"Heee, you should come back so that I can tell
you these things," Zinhloso said, out loud, "you
were actually supposed to be the first to taste
my food except for family." She clicked her
tongue and headed to the tuckshop. She walked
faster, they took a lot of her time.
She unlocked the office's back door and she
was shocked to find Mhlabunzima's brother. He
was standing before the filing cabinet searching
for some documents.
Kusakusa turned and he raised an eyebrow at
Zinhloso. He looked at her hands, she had a key.
Was she the reason Mhlabunzima insisted he
should go to the shop after 8pm. He called him
and asked him to go and buy a few things for
the shop. He gave him instructions on what to
look for in his office but he kept saying there's
no need to go in the morning. Kusakusa wanted
to come back early and so, planned on leaving
early.
"MaMnguni omncane, what are you doing
here?" He asked and closed the cabinet. He had
found the document.
She wished the earth could open up and
swallow her, "I - I am -"
"Yes, I am listening?" He put his hand in his
pocket.
"There's a concoction that your brother said I
should come and get here for a runny stomach,"
she thought of lies and she knew she flopped.
Kusakusa chuckled, "do you know what can
happen to my brother if your father can find out
that the two of you are dating?"
"We're not dating."
"I am not a fool. You're the reason he
desperately needed a traditional healer!"
Kusakusa figured it out and he didn't hear a
word from her, "I will need you to stop this
relationship you have with him if you love him.
Your father will learn the truth that
Mhlabunzima actually lied to him and I don't
even want to think of what he can do to him. If
you really love him, stop it." He looked around
and saw no concoction, "take that concoction
and leave that key. You're a nice, beautiful girl. I
don't have a problem with you but I am
protecting my blood. Please hurry up so you
won't be late for school."
"But bhuti, we're not dating-"
"No, no, do what I have said."
Zinhloso gave him the key, and took 2 litre. It
was half left. She poured some in the glass on
the table and drank it. She headed to the door
with the bottle.
"He said take the whole bottle?"
"Yes," she closed the door behind her and
quickly put the 2 litres in her bag.
Kusakusa locked the door, he realised
Mhlabunzima needed help for her. He'd been in
the same room with her for over fifteen minutes
and didn't smell anything coming out of her
body.
"Hee, Mhlabunzima thinks he's smart, telling me
not to go in the morning. I will tell his father
about this," he locked the office and gave the
keys to the shopkeeper. "Did you know
Mnguni's daughter comes here in the morning?"
"Really? No, where does she enter?" He played
dumb.
"At the back."
"Maybe bhuti Mhlabunzima is helping her with
something. She'll not be the first to get help
from him," he kept his cool even when
Kusakusa gave him an evil eye to intimidate him.
He left, he knew he was lying. People close to
his brother were very loyal to him.
***
He climbed the stairs, thinking about home.
This was the fourth day and he was done with
the first car. It was back on the road, working
appropriately. And he needed to work on the
second car. He wondered how angry Zinhloso
was because he wasn't coming back.
He knocked on the door of Mrs Bekker's
bedroom. He was told Mrs Bekker was asking
for him. She needed help.
"Come in!"
He opened the door of the enormous bedroom.
It was white, you'd swear it belonged to angels.
"You asked for me, mam," Mhlabunzima stood
in the middle of the room.
Mrs Bekker was seated on her bed, "yes, I need
your help, come closer."
Mhlabunzima was confused by the seductive
eyes she was giving him. What kind of help did
she need? "Yes?" He stood at the foot of the
bed.
Mrs Bekker laughed as Mhlabunzima was
pretending like he couldn't see what was
happening. She was wearing a long silky robe,
"why are you scared? I am grateful for your
capable hands." She stood before him. She
spoke with a flat voice.
He pulled his hands away, "what help do you
need? I want to go and rest."
"Why don't you rest here?" She discarded her
robe revealing the lace lingerie.
Mhlabunzima tried to move away. He was
disgusted by what she was doing. Didn't she
lose a husband not long ago? Not even three
months had fully passed.
She held his arm, stopping her from leaving,
"why are you leaving? Can't you see all this?"
She caressed his face.
"I am not interested, let me go!"
"You'll comply if you don't want me to scream
on top of my lungs and say you're violating me,"
she said with a cunning smile. "We both know
the judge will believe me and not you, your
whole life will be ruined. They might even kill
you, you know."
Mhlabunzima clenched his jaws, he knew the
threat was serious. And what she was saying
would happen was true. Zinhloso's face flashed
in his mind and his heart raced up to his throat.
"So, what is it going to be, young Xulu? Jail or
warming my bed?" She hung her slender arms
on his shoulders.
His mind stopped working for a moment. Why
didn't he listen to her?
UMCEBO

Chapter 48

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

He widened his eyes as Mrs Bekker kissed his
neck while unbuttoning the buttons of his shirt.
Mrs Bekker had taken his silence as an answer.
He was agreeing to her bold request. He was
still in shock. Weren't they not worth as black
people? How come they wanted to have sex
with them because they're dirty people in their
eyes? They're not categorised as beautiful
because of their skin colour.
If he were to hurt Zinhloso by being with
another woman it would be better if he did it
willingly. Not forced, how could he be forced by
a woman to cheat? And no woman had a right
to claim him beside her! She'd accepted him
while the whole village of young women
badmouthed him for something that wasn't true.
This one before him - she was the worst!
Mhlabunzima was seething.
Back in his senses, Mhlabunzima pushed the
woman away from him and before she could
scream violation. He screamed first.
"Help!" Mhlabunzima screamed like a mad man.
To save himself, he went out of his senses and
did something he never thought he would do.
He needed help and now - help with what?
"There are rats!"
Mrs Bekker quickly wore her robe and got on
top of the bed as Mhlabunzima ran to the door.
She internally screamed, "that fuckin kaffir!"
"Where's the rat?" Her servants came running
and Mhlabunzima walked slowly behind them.
He was panting and his face was covered in
contempt.
"How can there be a rat here? We clean
everyday!" One maid looked around, they both
had brooms.
He glared at Mrs Bekker who was acting scared
on the bed - what a shameful woman! "Dit
beteken jy maak nie deeglik skoon nie" (This
means you don't clean properly) Mhlabunzima
said.
"You can go. I think it went into hiding," she told
her servants off and Mhlabunzima didn't stay
behind; he followed them.
One maid glanced at Mhlabunzima, "kodwa ke
nawe Xulu uyindoda enjani esaba igundane?"
(Xulu, what kind of a man, are you? You're
scared of a mouse.) She asked and they
laughed.
"I wasn't born with any mouse." He quickly left
them and headed to the quarters. He didn't
waste time but he packed his bag. He wasn't
going to be arrested for something he didn't do.
He didn't even care about that money but he
was leaving.
He grabbed his bag, wallet and car keys. He
knocked on the door of his neighbour, "my man,
can you come out I need your help?" He waited
patiently at the door.
He closed the door behind him, "what's wrong
Xulu?" He asked.
"I need you to accompany me to Mrs Bekker. I
am leaving now," he huffed and wiped the
sweat off his forehead. That was very close for
him.
"What has happened? I thought you still had
another car to fix." He fixed his shirt and walked
out with him.
He clicked his tongue, "yes but you won't
believe what that evil woman had done."
"Don't tell me he tried to do that to you too!" The
servant commented. Mhlabunzima looked at
him with questioning eyes. He looked around
before taking him off the confusion, "two young
man were arrested because they allegedly
wanted to violet her but when we asked them,
they said she wanted them to satisfy her sexual
needs."
"She's an evil woman. Her husband's body is
not even bones yet," he spat.
The servant looked around and whispered, "it's
suspected that she killed him and now, she's
sleeping with her husband's brother. It's either
they killed him together or she did it alone."
"So, she's not satisfied with that?"
"No, there's also a police officer coming in and
out. She's not a good person, go and never look
back. You're still young," the grown man advised.
"Thank you." They luckily found madam in the
living room having wine.
"What's wrong now? Where are you going with
the bag?" She asked and stood.
Mhlabunzima didn't beat about the bush, "I have
decided that I should go back home. It'll be best
for me. I suggest you look for a professional
who'll help with the remaining car."
She held her chest, "why? Did I treat you badly
or the servants treated you badly?"
"No, my father needs me home."
She looked at her servant, "can you give us a
minute?" She pleaded.
But Mhlabunzima held on to the man's arm, "no,
mam, I am not changing my mind. I will take my
leave now."
She placed the glass down, "okay, I will go get
your money for one vehicle." She headed out.
He sighed, "I thought it'll be difficult. Thank you
for coming by."
"No problem."
They waited silently and Mrs Bekker returned
with the money. "Thank you for your services.
Drive safely, we still need you."
He pressed his teeth together, "stay well." He
walked out and when he walked out, he felt like
he was walking out of the lion's den! Now, he
needed Zinhloso.
***
She came back from school upset,
Mhlabunzima's brother was out of his mind.
She wasn't going to listen to him and stop
dating his younger brother. Mhlabunzima was
her man and nobody was going to take him
from her! She would exit his life only if he told
her to do so.
She walked through the gate at home and it
was busy. There were three men working on
building blocks. They were not far from the
main house. Zinhloso greeted them and headed
to her hut. She put her bag on top of the bed
and changed into a skirt and t-shirt. She hid her
medicine on the trunk with her clean blankets
and she locked the trunk.
She saw her brother by the gate, opening it. A
van drove through.
She greeted Mzomubi, "what's happening? What
will they build here?"
"Dad is going to build a traditional pharmacy
here." He pointed at the space beside the gate,
"people will buy traditional medicine without
coming inside the yard. He'll open up space for
them to enter the pharmacy without walking
through our gates. They can also buy without
consulting."
She nodded, impressed by the idea. Her father
was growing and broadening his healing gift,
"that's a very good idea. It'll also bring more
money for him because some people don't like
to come for consultation but they need
traditional medicine. Others are scared of other
people's opinions."
"Yes, it'll bring a lot of money because no
traditional healer is doing that around our
village and neighbouring villages." Mzomubi
supported her and he closed the gates after the
van had driven out.
"Who'll be selling because I am sure he'll always
be busy with consulting services?" She placed
her fists on her figure.
"I will do that but not full time. There'll also be
another young lady who has an understanding
of traditional herbs. Her father was also a
traditional healer," he answered.
"Will she live with us?"
"No, she'll still live with her mother and siblings.
Her father and dad initiated together." He
glanced at her and she nodded, "how was
school? Are you still passing?"
She frowned upon him. He was concerned? "It
was good and yes, I am still passing. Bye, now I
am going to eat."
"Bye. When are you cooking again?"
She laughed, "I don't know!" She headed straight
to her grandmother's house. On the way she
was thinking of - what special thing to do for
Mhlabunzima? She tried to think and think, she
remembered she saw a basket full of dirty
clothes.
She looked at the keys and smiled, "I will go
sleep in his house and leave with his clothes in
the morning," she decided.

At night, Zinhloso sneaked out of her hut and

unlocked her father's hut. She looked for a
certain herb mixture.
She clapped, "I am not stealing my ancestors
but I am taking." Once she had it, she walked
out and locked the hut. Inside her hut, she took
her piece of beef from her lunch box. She left it
on purpose. She smeared the mixture on the
meat. She took her keys and they also had keys
to his house. She sneaked out. She was fast on
the road. It was after 9pm and the roads were
quiet. She only met up with one couple and she
didn't even greet them. She walked forward.
She stood by the gate of the Xulu homestead
and the dog came running, barking. Zinhloso
didn't run away, the main gate was locked and
she threw the piece of meat inside for the dog.
It stopped barking but had the meat. She smiled
and walked through the unlocked small gate.
She walked behind the houses until she reached
Mhlabunzima's house. She quickly unlocked the
house and let out a huge sigh once she was
inside.
"That was very brave!" She couldn't believe she
moved like a professional. From sneaking into
her father's hut, sneaking out at home was
easier but giving the dog a drug? It had to be
her bravest move.
The bedroom lights were on, this gave her relief.
His clothes were still in the basket, she quickly
packed them in the bag she brought. She
wanted to get up in the morning and leave
before they even woke up. She didn't want
anything that was going to hinder her.
She undressed and hopped into his bed. She
giggled alone, "I can't believe I did this but I
really miss you." She slept on his pillow and
closed her eyes.
Her eyes shot open at the crowing of the
rooster. "What? Are you serious?" She jumped
out of the bed as she realised the sun had come
out. She could hear Mhlabunzima's sister
calling out to her chickens. "Oh, no, what will I
do now?"
While she was still trying to figure out what to
do - there was a sound on the lock unlocking.
She thanked the heavens she didn't faint, she
quickly hid inside his wardrobe. Her heart was
pumping…
UMCEBO (Wealth)

Chapter 49

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

He got out of the car and sighed, "I am home,

finally!" He grabbed his bags and walked up to
his father and sister.
Ngenzeni was feeding her chickens and their
father was having tea seated on the bench.
"Sanibona, ekhaya." He greeted the family. He
sat next to his father on the bench.
They were surprised to see him, "Mhlabunzima!
You're back, already?"
"Yes, I finished the other car yesterday," he lied
to him. He was only planning on telling his
brother, not his father and sister. He opened his
bag, "I slept on the road and drove in the
morning. I was sleepy."
"Why didn't you sleep there?" Ngenzeni asked.
He yawned, "my heart was no longer there," he
gave his sister a plastic bag. "These are for you,
from Durban and the best Durban bananas." His
sister loved sweet things.
Happiness was written on her face, "thank you,
Gxabhashe." She headed inside the kitchen with
the plastic bag.
"I brought you this," he gave his father a bottle
of smirnoff.
"Thank you, son. I am glad you're back home
safe."
"I want to rest. Are you going somewhere
today?" Mhlabunzima asked, standing up.
"Yes, we're going to your gardens with your
sister. They've started working."
"Alright, I will join tomorrow." He left him for his
house. He was yawning all the way. He
unlocked the door.
Inside his bedroom, he switched off the lights
but his eyes were on his bed. Did he leave the
bed unmade? That wasn't like him. He wasn't
late and so, who was sleeping on his bed?
He placed his bag down and opened the bag
that was next to the bed, "imihlola yami ke lena,"
he whispered. It was his dirty clothes. What
happened here? Did his sister invite her friends
to sleep on his bed? He didn't make the bed or
unpack his clothes. He was going to call
Ngenzeni and ask her what happened.
He took off the shirt. He needed a bath and so,
he opened his wardrobe. He screamed at the
naked woman inside his wardrobe. Zinhloso
pushed him as she tried to get out of the
wardrobe. Mhlabunzima lost balance and they
both headed down - on the floor.
In his mind, it all seemed like a movie until they
were facing each other. She was on top of him
and him, underneath.
"What's wrong?" Ngenzeni shouted.
Zinhloso poked his shoulder, "she'll come here,
Mhlabunzima."
"It's a cockroach!"
Ngenzeni clicked her tongue, "you scared us for
nothing!"
"Sorry!" He didn't keep his eyes away from her
eyes. "Do you know it's Tuesday, today?"
Zinhloso grinned and the longing of not seeing
him for days gave her courage to kiss him
without shame. She didn't answer his question
but her lips brushed over his lips. He didn't turn
her down but he kissed her back. His hand
brushed over her soft skin as the kiss deepened.
This was not the welcome home he wasn't
expecting. He was still shocked, seeing her here
but he wasn't going to stop the kiss for
questions.
This kiss awakened everything that happened
with Mrs Bekker and it drove him insane. It
drove him nuts that the woman he wanted took
an initiative to kiss him today. He flipped them
over and he hovered over her.
"Hey, what happened?" Zinhloso stopped
Mhlabunzima. She placed her hand on his chest
- the heart was beating rapidly.
He shut his eyes and slowly breathed in, "I am
sorry I just missed you and I wasn't expecting to
see you here."
"No, it's not that. Did something happen there?"
She asked, staring at him.
Mhlabunzima got off her and he sat on his butt
on the carpet. She sat up next to him. "No,
nothing happened. I got over excited."
"I hope you're telling the truth," she smiled at
him - "I am glad it's you "
He focused back on her, "yes, and now, tell me
how did you get here? Why are you here
because you knew I wasn't around"
She folded her lips. She didn't know how he was
going to react. Was he going to be angry or
happy? Or he would laugh? She was really
hoping he wouldn't be mad at her. "Uhm, so I
thought I wanted to do something nice for you.
Like enlightening your workload and so, I
thought I would sleepover, take your clothes
and go wash them. And then bring them back,
sleepover again and iron the clothes." She kept
glancing at him and he was listening to her with
a straight face. No softness and this
intimidated her. "And then, what happened?"
"I overslept. I woke up just now."
"How did you get past my dog because you're
scared of it?" He asked another question.
She looked down, "I gave it some meat," she
didn't tell him it was laced with muthi. She didn't
want him thinking she would also use muthi on
him.
Mhlabunzima's laughter shook the foundation
of his house. He didn't stop laughing even when
Zinhloso was fisting his shoulder. He wiped his
tears.
"Stop it!" She whispered.
He shook his head, "what if my sister entered
here? She always comes in here and opens my
windows if I am not home."
"I was going to hide."
"Leaving the bed unmade and my clothes in
your bag?"
She rubbed her eyes, "maybe I was foolish but I
missed you."
"Did you bring some of the medicine for today?"
He asked.
She shut her eyes, "no, I thought I would be able
to wake up and get home in time. It's still
morning, though."
"It's still morning and how are you going to
leave, Zinhloso? My father is outside." He asked.
She stood up and covered her small breasts.
"Why are you hiding your breasts?"
"What will I do now?"
"Why don't you call your aunt and ask for help?"
Mhlabunzima suggested.
She shook her head, "no, I can't. I don't want to
be disrespectful."
"Your youngest aunt, Zinhloso."
She kept quiet, "what help? I should ask her to
bring the medication?"
"No, ask for a cover up in case they ask about
you at home."
"No, that's rude! Please, try and get your father
inside the house. I will go home." She dressed
back on her clothes. "I haven't eaten anything. I
will take medication."
"Your father will ask where you went!" He raised
his voice, "call your aunt and ask for back up.
Stop being stubborn."
"He doesn't care what I do."
"He'll see you coming home while he thought
you're at school since you leave early now," he
tried to change her mind but he could see she
wasn't going to take his advice, "he'll ask
questions. What are you going to say to him?
He's still your father!"
"I will answer him."
"And say what to him?"
"I will see."
He clicked his tongue, "if you get into trouble
don't come crying to me because you want to
do what pleases you. In the first place, I don't
know why you were risking it by coming here
alone at night."
"You're not even happy I was trying to do
something nice for you?"
"No, you put your life at risk. What will happen
to your treatment now?"
She couldn't believe him. He wasn't happy, "why
did you give me your house keys then? It's clear
I am supposed to come here only when you
take me from home because you don't want me
to walk alone on the streets at night."
"You're right, bring back my keys," he was angry
because all this was going to jeopardize their
hard work. The treatment was most important
right now.
With a broken heart, Zinhloso gave him his keys.
"Here are your keys."
"Stay here and don't leave, I will go to the shop
and take your medicine."
"It's no longer at the shop…" she told him what
happened and Mhlabunzima didn't comment
about it.
"I will go to Khosi and ask her to go to your
home. She'll say she left something in your hut,"
Mhlabunzima suggested, dressing back in his
clothes, "do you have a spare key at home?"
"Yes, they have it." She answered without
looking at him.
"They'll give her the key and she'll pour the dose
of the day and bring your uniform," he looked at
the time. It was still early.
"What if she's already at work?"
"She's not part of the people who will start the
job." He wore his shoes.
"Thanks." She didn't know if he heard her or not.
He just left without saying another word.
Zinhloso cleaned up his room, she made the
bed first. She was highly disappointed. He
wasn't happy but he found fault in what she did.

An hour passed, she had even swept the whole

house. She was seated on the bed waiting,
she'd heard Ngenzeni and her father calling out
for each other. She realised they left. She was
left alone in the yard. She never felt so stupid.
What was she thinking? What would she have
done if Mhlabunzima didn't come back? She
missed school and she could possibly miss her
dose of medication.
She quickly sat up straight as she heard the
door open. She forced her head down but she
was looking at him as he walked in with a
plastic bag and a banana.
He handed it over to her, "here, take it. You'll
have to stay here until school is out."
"Thank you. Who did she find home?"
"It's your brother who gave her the keys."
"Thank you," she opened the small bottle and
she closed her eyes before gulping it down.
Mhlabunzima gave her a banana. She ate it to
wipe off the bad taste.
"I will go look for some food," he left her.
Zinhloso placed the uniform on the bed and she
headed to the living room. She was very relieved.
She didn't even want to find out what would
have happened if she didn't take it.
He sat next to her with food, "let's eat."
They had breakfast quietly. She couldn't
imagine what she would do in the house for
hours. He didn't look like someone who was in
the mood for her.
"I want to rest. I didn't sleep well last night. Are
you going to join me?" Mhlabunzima asked
after breakfast.
"Yes, I will." She followed him to his bedroom.
She only took off her skirt.
She pretended like she wasn't feeling anything,
his body heat and his erection on her butts. His
arm was on her waist. He was spooning her.
"You don't have to worry about my clothes
because it'll be a problem for you to wash
them," Mhlabunzima said in a slow, deeper
voice, "you'll have to hang the clothes so they'll
dry up and where are you going to hang them?"
"I didn't think of it."
"If you want to do something nice for me, you
can come and iron them. I will tell you when to
come," he suggested.
"Okay."
"Does that make you happy?"
"Yes." She smiled when he kissed her back.
They both fell asleep.
This time, she didn't oversleep. Mhlabunzima
was awake and he woke her up. "I guess you
were also tired. We didn't even eat lunch."
She dressed up in a school uniform, "there's no
problem. I should go now. Your family is not
back?" She put on her school shoes.
"No."
"What will I do with my clothes?"
"Leave them here." He gave her a plastic bag, "I
also brought you these because you like them.
Don't let Mzomubi eat anything."
She laughed, "Did you add a love potion?"
He chortled, "yes. I will see you tomorrow."
"Yes, thank you for rescuing me." She received
his lips briefly.
She walked out. The road was black and white,
school children. She also joined in, like she was
coming from school. Some pupils saw her but
they said nothing - it was none of their business.

Mhlabunzima walked up to his brother's home.

And as he was heading to him he was annoyed
by what he did to Zinhloso. He didn't even know
the whole story but he played a dictator. He
wasn't planning on talking to him about that.
"Where are the children?" He asked, sitting
down on the chair. They were on the veranda of
his brother's house. "I am actually here for
them."
"When did you come back?"
"This morning."
"They went to the shop with their mother.
They've been asking when are you coming back
from Durban," Kusakusa informed him, "they
know you always bring something for them."
He placed the plastic next to him, "I almost
brought nothing this time. I was running away. I
wasn't supposed to come back today, actually."
"Yini, what happened?"
Mhlabunzima laughed the anger out, "loya
mfazi weBhunu ungibizela egumbini lakhe
lokulala uthi ufuna usizo kanti ufuna
ukungibhudubeza," he narrated to his brother
what really happened.
Kusakusa's face was white as a sheet, like he'd
seen a ghost. "You were almost arrested?"
"For something I didn't do."
"Something you wouldn't have done. She's not
even-" Kusakusa spat.
"Don't even mention it, bafo."
"You must never be with that woman alone
again. We don't want you in jail. You did a good
thing by running away," Kusakusa said. His
brother was very useful. He was better with
them than in jail.
"You are right."
"Now tell me, why are you dating Mnguni's
daughter?" Kusakusa asked, "how can you
sacrifice your life like this? He'll not spare you,
Mhlabunzima."
"Ey, I should go and check on that boy in my
tuckshop," he stood up. He was tired of arguing
with his family about his love life.
"You're gonna ignore me, just like that?"
He stretched, "you're going to tell the kids I will
see them some other time."
Kusakusa groaned, "get in there and under my
bed's mattress, take that money you'll give it to
dad."
"Okay," he was relieved that he wasn't pushy like
his father.
Inside the bedroom, he lifted the mattress and
his eyes were greatly attracted to - the porn
magazine. It wasn't even the money he was
supposed to take but the magazine. He was
very shocked - his brother had such!!!
He quickly took the money and the magazine,
"Kusakusa has such things!" He shook his head
and hid the magazine on his back, on his waist.
He had his leather jacket on - he wasn't going to
see the magazine.
"All of it?" Mhlabunzima asked his brother,
appearing before him as if he didn't just see
what he wasn't supposed to see. He'd never
seen such magazine but he knew they existed.
"Yes, all of it." He thanked him.
Mhlabunzima walked slowly, he didn't want any
mistakes. It'd be embarassing if he was
caught… He rushed on the road.
UMCEBO

Chapter 50

**Chapter sponsored by anonymous**

Luckily, no family member saw her walking

inside. Only the workers and she knew they
wouldn't tell anyone that she walked inside with
a plastic bag instead of a school bag.
Inside her hut, she quickly changed into her
clothes. Shorts and stomach out, she walked
out with a packet of biscuits. She went to look
for her water bucket. She didn't have water to
bathe.
She found her mother outside the house and
she greeted her. Mrs Mnguni greeted back, "you
left very early this morning. Your brother was
looking for you," she informed her.
"Yes, I left early. I also wanted to get to school
early." She took her bucket.
She looked at her, "are you happy with this life
you're living now? Living here and eating there?"
"It's the life dad gave me. What should I do?"
Zinhloso asked.
"Tell your father the truth!"
"I told him the truth. There's no boy." She
remained with this truth and her mother told her
off. She widened her eyes as she saw Nompilo
walking down with school books and her water
bucket. She ran up to her.
"Girl, you're going home, right?" Zinhloso asked.
She was nervous - danger almost happened.
"Yes, I thought I should bring you what we did
today and today's homework. I did mine during
break," Nompilo said.
She sighed, "I am glad you found me. They don't
know I didn't go to school," she broke the news
and Nompilo laughed at the danger that almost
happened, "I overslept at his home and couldn't
go out in the morning."
She cracked up laughing, "that's the worst! You
spent the whole day there?"
"Yes, let me drop these and we'll go down the
river together," she took the books.
Inside the yard, she opened her door and put
the books on top of her bed. She headed out,
she was relieved she was going to do her
homework.
"I heard two girls in the river talking that they've
seen you two. One was telling the other girl that
Mhlabunzima was walking you to the river,"
Nompilo informed Zinhloso, "they were talking
about village couples. They didn't know whether
you're dating or he was asking you out."
"I hope they'll go with the theory that he's asking
me out. If more people know, my father will also
know," Zinhloso figured.
"Maybe it won't reach him. Let's hope," she said
and they moved from the topic. Nompilo told
Zinhloso about what happened to school that
day.
Back home, she found Mzomubi washing the
herbs and she went to help him out.
"Why did you leave so early today?" Mzomubi
asked Zinhloso, "I wanted to give you breakfast.
I asked for extra food and told them I will eat it
later."
"No! Don't do that you'll get into trouble with
dad," Zinhloso was surprised by his gesture but
it warmed her heart immensely. She needed to
tell Mhlabunzima.
"No, I won't get into trouble and I don't
remember him saying we shouldn't share our
food with you." He commented. "What kind of a
brother will I be if I don't help you?"
"Don't worry about that but since you want to
help me. You can give me food when I can't go
home," she suggested, "like when it's raining
and I can't go or when I am busy with
homework and can't go out."
"There's no problem, then." Mzomubi eyed her,
"this boyfriend of yours, does he care about
you?"
"There's really no boyfriend."
"Okay, if he makes you cry don't mind telling me.
I will fix him. Don't protect him like Nobuhle
protected Robert," Mzomubi said.
She laughed, "you've never made your girlfriend
cry?"
"No, if she cries it's because of happiness." She
found it really hard to believe him and so, she
just stared at him without commenting back.
"What? You don't believe me?"
"I would be a fool if I believed you," she said and
they laughed. Their discussion broadened out
to other topics, they were laughing but still
concentrated on the job they were doing.
Mnguni stood at the stoep of the main house
and he looked at them as they were talking and
laughing. This was something that happened
when they were young. When did they get along
again? He wondered and the sight of them
together made him smile. He was pleased.
Mzomubi stood up once they were done, "thank
you for your help. Your father is unreasonable. I
am doing everything on my own. I don't know
what is wrong with him."
"We all don't know."
He frowned at her, "wait, we've been seated
together for such a long time and I didn't smell
your odour. Why?"
She acted surprised, "really? I didn't notice. Let
me go do my homework." She walked away,
happy.
When she was done with her homework, she
sat on the stoep and polished her shoes.
Mnguni stood next to her. He was heading out
when he saw her, "why did you only bring food
for your brother and not me, your father," he
asked. "Do you realise that I am the reason you
can cook now?"
"No, my aunt taught me how to cook."
"She wouldn't have if I didn't push you."
"She would have. I wanted to learn but mom
wouldn't let me. She didn't even want me to do
the dishes," Zinhloso cleared things for him, "I
really don't know why you're keeping me here
because you hate me and you're no longer like a
father to me. It's like you have a secret about
me that shouldn't be known."
Mnguni's heart jumped at her last words but he
didn't show it, "I don't hate you but I want the
truth from you."
She looked down and didn't tell him he would
wait for a lifetime. Mnguni walked away.
He met up with Mzomubi at the gate, "ensure
that you're on time for dinner. I have told
Ziwinile and Nobuhle. I want to discuss the
issue of inheritance with the three of you and
your mother."
"Oh, and what about Zinhloso? She's not
included?" He asked and Mnguni only glared at
him. He left him.
****
Kusakusa finished up having his dinner with his
wife and children. He wiped his mouth and
hands. His family was stil eating, he finished up
first.
He looked at his wife, "you'll come and sleep in
the house with them tonight. I believe
everything is well with you."
She smiled at her husband, "I am alright. We'll
come up once we're done eating."
"Call me, if you need help."
"I will."
Once they were done eating, she took her
children and they headed to her hut. The
children sat on the bed.
She closed the curtain inside the hut by her
wardrobe so the children wouldn't see her as
she changed. She wore a short white petticoat
and a white bra. She covered her head with a
clean head wrap. She put a robe over. By the
time she was done, her two children were
already sleeping on the bed.
In his bedroom, Kusakusa was looking up and
down for his magazine. He had turned the
mattress up and down, searched inside the
wardrobe but couldn't find it.
"I am certain I left it under the mattress," he
looked under the mattress again but there was
no magazine. He searched under the bed but
couldn't find it. He thought maybe his children
found it and went to their bedroom with it. He
almost fainted at the thought, he rushed to the
children's bedroom in his house and he still
couldn't find it.
He desperately wanted to revise what he
wanted to do to his wife tonight but his
magazine was nowhere to be seen.
His wife walked in and asked him to take the
children. He got up from the bed and left. He
was trying to figure out what happened to it. He
placed the children on their beds and went to
his room without a clue.
"Liphi ibhuku lami lamanyala nemikhuba?"
(Where's my porn magazine?) He asked his wife
straightforwardly. He figured she might have
cleaned the room and took it.
His wife frowned, "your what?"
"MaMyeza, don't act foolish!" His plans were
ruined!
"I don't know what you're talking about and why
do you even have such a magazine? You're
looking at other women's bodies?" MaMyeza
was suddenly angry and jealous.
"How do you think I would have satisfied such a
big hunger you have for sex? I needed to learn
new ways to please you." He revealed the secret
he never wanted her to know.
She smiled, shyly, "oh. Did you send someone to
your bedroom?"
He kept quiet for a while and clicked his tongue.
His scheming little brother! "I don't remember,"
he instantly calmed down. He was going to get
him!
"Did the magazine ruin our night now?" She
asked, disappointed.
He chuckled, "my penis is on my body not on
the megazine."
The wife giggled as her husband joined her in
bed.
****
We have a sponsor, she's asking for 1000 likes
on her post. It's a book giveaway competition.
Can we please, like/react? She's on 41 now.
We'll get a bonus once the target is reached.

Link:
https://www.facebook.com/100065403981135
/posts/413139370876192/?app=fbl
UMCEBO
Chapter 51

**Chapter sponsored by anonymous**

After dinner, Mnguni wiped his hand and his

family waited for him to talk. He'd been having a
conversation with Xulu about their wealth - they
were wondering if their children would misuse
the wealth or they would use it accordingly. Or
they would want the wealth to grow and not
perish. Xulu trusted his son, he knew
Mhlabunzima would be the best custodian. He
shared reasons that his son was not greedy,
and leaving the wealth would ensure that
everyone gained a share but Kusakusa and
Ngenzeni, Xulu shared that he couldn't trust
them. They were greedy.
Mnguni had never had this conversation with
his children and he then decided it was time he
held this conversation with them. They were
supposed to all get a share, whether boy or girl.
"I have called you here to talk about our family
wealth. My wealth," he started the conversation,
"one day I will die and I will leave everything in
your hands. I have worked hard for this wealth,
my father taught me everything I needed to
know and my brothers, the business,
"My brothers are younger and they were
excluded from it. I also didn't want them
involved and now, they have their own things.
They're living comfortable lives, you can see,
right?" Mnguni looked at his children.
"Yes!"
He looked at Mzomubi, "just because you're a
boy this doesn't mean you'll get everything and
your sisters will get nothing. Is that clear?" He
asked.
Mzomubi glanced at his father, "yebo, baba," he
realised that if he hadn't had that conversation
with Mhlabunzima he would be maddened by
this. He previously believed he would get
everything. He believed he deserved to get
everything because he was a male child. The
only male child in the family. But after the
conversation, he didn't have a problem, he
understood they were children of one man and
deserved whatever he would leave for them.
"It doesn't matter whether your sisters are
married but they should get their share of my
wealth, that includes your mother," Mnguni held
his wife's hand. They were seated on one sofa.
"My years of hard work belong to my children
and when I die, everyone should get what's due
to them," Mnguni proceeded, "it wouldn't matter
whether you're married or not. Yes, your brother
may get a bigger share because he'll remain
home, carry on the family name and also,
ensure the family's wealth is generational."
"Yebo!" The two sisters said, in understanding.
They didn't expect that their father would talk
like this. They thought if they marry, they
wouldn't get anything. Men in their village left
things for their sons and not daughters.
"I don't want any fights because I will never rest
in peace if you fight over inheritance." He
looked at Ziwinile who was looking at him with
sorry eyes, "what's wrong, Ziwinile?"
"Dad, are you dying? Why are you talking like
this?" She asked and tears streamed down her
cheeks.
Mnguni laughed, "no, child I am not dying but I
was talking to Xulu about the importance of
having these conversations while we're still
alive." He freed Ziwinile and she smiled, wiping
her tears. "I will start selling goats, the animals
people use when they do rituals."
They looked at one another, "Xulu and I had a
critical conversation that when we part this
world we don't want our sons to continue with
this business. The white people would have to
find other people."
"That's good, baba," Nobuhle, who hated their
business, said.
"People buy goats for rituals very far away,
where they also need to pay for delivery. Not
everyone in the village has livestock. It's
counted men and most families have nothing.
Some people have cows but not goats, some
have goats but not cows and most rituals need
goats. Most people have chickens, and so, this
business will be good,
"And I will start the pharmacy. Your brother has
more understanding, also Zinhloso has more
understanding of herbs but she has chosen her
path. The pharmacy can continue even when I
am gone." He said and the siblings looked down.
Mzomubi looked at his father, "but baba,
Zinhloso is still your daughter and she doesn't
even have a child out of wedlock. You've never
heard of bad things being spoken of her in the
village. Why are you excluding her?"
"You're asking me a useless question,
Mzomubi!" He shouted.
"I am sorry," he was annoyed by his father but
he couldn't go against his word and argue with
him.
Before he could continue, his conscious asked
him - 'would ancestors be pleased if he was
leaving out Zinhloso? He was given this
daughter in good will and he was excluding her
in riches? Mnguni ignored his conscious and
proceeded. '"Was everything clear?" He asked
and they all agreed. He freed them to go and
sleep.
Mrs Mnguni asked Mzomubi to remain. She
wanted to have a word with him.
"Yebo, mama?"
"What's wrong with you, now, Mzomubi?"
His brows furrowed, "what are you talking about,
mom?"
"Why are you suddenly concerned about
Zinhloso? You can see your father is still angry
and yet you keep bringing up your sister's
name." Mrs Mnguni asked.
Mzomubi was shocked but not surprised. He
was shocked by her question. He stood up.
"What kind of a mother are you? You're not
happy that your children are getting along but
you want them to hate each other?" He left his
mother when she failed to answer his question.
He wondered where this was going to end.
****
When Mhlabunzima asked her to sell at the
shop on Saturday, she was nervous. Not
nervous because she was going to mess up but
she was scared that people would not want to
buy. She thought maybe they would be
disgusted by her and turn without buying. They
still knew her as that girl with a disorder not as
a girl who had been completely cured of her
illness. There wasn't not even a single trace of
the odour. It wasn't the matter of the odour
being there but not strong. It no longer existed
in her body, her body's metabolism was in
check and fully functional. She was a very
happy soul and she had confidence she didn't
have before. She could believe she was really
beautiful and Mhlabunzima's love added to the
confidence.
Zinhloso looked around the shop and she sat
down. It was 3pm and she didn't know whether
to wait for Mhlabunzima or close the shop. She
was tired of smiling and telling customers that
they'd run out of essential goods, the famous
potato chips and russians. She was left with
goods that were needed once after a while but
the shop had to have them, for in case when
mama forgot to buy petroleum jelly, jeyes fluid
in town. Those were the types of goods left.
Zinhloso was bored at the shop, she really
enjoyed selling and people were friendly to her.
She didn't think she would receive friendly
smiles back. But she was tired.
He entered the shop and huffed, he looked
around, "what happened to my shop?" He asked
and moved to the counter. In his eyes, the shop
was empty. "Were you mugged, Zinhloso?"
"People bought what they needed to buy."
"But it's not even month end and they don't buy
like this when it's not month-end," he
commented and checked the boxes where they
kept money. Coins were kept separately from
notes. There was money, good money showing
she wasn't mugged.
"I wasn't mugged!"
"How were you selling?" He asked.
She shrugged, "like how anyone sells. When
someone buys bread, I ask them if they won't
need any polony to eat with bread or tin of jam?
They would remember that they don't have jam,"
she said simply. "And I also asked questions
that you also ask to show them you know
them."
Mhlabunzima laughed, the surprise laughter. He
laughed, a happy laughter. He never sold like
that. If a person was to buy bread, he would
give them bread - simple! Yes, he conversed
with them but that never made them buy pso
much in mid-month.
"Thank you so much," he kissed her cheek and
Zinhloso pushed him away while laughing.
"Someone will walk in here, please behave!" She
raised her voice and stood up, "I will go home
now."
"Hawu, you're not even spending a minute with
me?" He asked, sad.
"I am cooking today. I will see you some other
time." She grabbed her keys.
"Mzomubi ate your food but me. How many
times have you cooked, already?" He asked. He
was annoyed that she was leaving. He thought
they'd spend some time together.
"I will bring you food tomorrow then or I will
pass by when I come back." She gave him the
other box, "your money for chickens and eggs."
He took the box and didn't open it, "Zinhloso,
two minutes won't hurt."
"I will pass by with food. I should go. I was
supposed to be at home at 3:30pm." She smiled
at him and left. She wasn't cooking but she was
tired, she wanted to sleep. It was no joke
running from the back to the chickens and eggs,
the tuckshop and making potato chips, smiling
non-stop. She thought it was an easy job. But
she knew she was also going to get used to it.
When she got home, she dumped her body on
the bed and she fell asleep, right away…

"Ukudla kuvele kwaba kuncane. Zobuye

ngikuphakele.
Ungangicabangi kakhulu.

Obhalile
Ntombi yakho."
Mhlabunzima shook his head after reading
Zinhloso's letter, explaining that the food wasn't
enough. She would dish up for him some other
time.
"I am sure she thinks this is her best letter, no
greetings, no sweet words. Jehovah
wamabhunu! I am still going to have to teach
her everything." He rubbed his eyes. He was
already in bed. He was given the letter when he
was leaving the shop. The boy he normally sent
to her gave him the letter. He laid back and
thought of the sales of his tuckshop in one day.
"She must be brilliant at selling," he said and got
off the bed. He took the magazine under his
mattress. He hadn't gotten time to look at it.
"Imihlola! Ngabe ngenzani nje ezinqeni
zomfazi!" Mhlabunzima clicked his tongue and
quickly turned the page as he was irritated by
seeing anal sex. He read where he should read,
things that interested his eyes. He laughed, his
brother was really doing these things.
He thought, he had a good sex life -where the
man led the woman but the magazine proved
he thought wrong. Such variety!
"With my tongue!" He was repulsed by the sight
of oral sex. He never thought there was
pleasure in licking a woman's private part. He
attentively read it and reading it, made it look
less disgusting.
He pointed at the picture with his forefinger, "I
am going for this one first! Let's see if she'll be
happy as these people say. If she's not happy I
will put back the magazine where I found it." He
kept nodding, his eyes not moving away from
the picture. He wanted the picture to be
embroidered in his mind.
UMCEBO

Chapter 52

**Unlocked bonus chapter**

Mhlabunzima was busy writing down details of
the people who were going to work for him in
the gardens. He needed five people and he'd
found the five people. He had spoken with
Hendricks' son and he promised to help him
with the car issue. He was set to head to
Durban on Saturday and get the car with John.
He wished he could take Zinhloso with him but
he wasn't sure if she would agree. He was sure
she would love to go with him but could she
make a plan to leave home with him? He was
yet to try her. It would make him happier to go
with her. He allowed the knocker inside.
"Ntanga, how are you?" Mzomubi greeted his
friend and they shook hands.
"I am busy trying to get things together."
Mhlabunzima closed the books and focused on
his friend. He didn't want to make mistakes.
"I hope they'll get together. I thought I should
come by, I am taking a break," he placed the
litre of cold drink that he bought. Mhlabunzima
got up and found glasses. They had the drink.
"How are things at home? Is the building of the
pharmacy going well?"
"Yes, the building has started, they are doing the
foundation now."
"But why do you look unhappy?"
He shook his head, "no, I am tired and we had a
meeting with dad two days back."
"What was the meeting about? I am glad that
we're done with that annoying gun training," he
said and they laughed.
"When are they bringing our guns?"
"I don't know and tell me about the meeting."
Mzomubi had a pained look. He was ashamed
to be telling his friend such news, "dad spoke
about inheritance…" he told him about the
meeting and the main thing he wanted him to
know was - that his father excluded Zinhloso.
Mhlabunzima wanted to explode. What was
wrong with this man? Why was he so cruel to
his own daughter? What did Zinhloso do? She
slept out and this meant she deserved nothing?
"Are you going to tell your sister about it?"
"No, I won't tell her. I am sure she'll be very hurt
if she can be told about it."
Mhlabunzima brushed his small chin beard he
was growing, "yes, you're right. It's a pity that
she's still studying. She was supposed to start
building her own wealth."
"Zinhloso likes talking about herself being
businesswoman and maybe, she can try to do
it," Mzomubi supported Mhlabunzima.
"Yea, but she needs to focus on school for now.
There are a lot of things she can learn there.
There mustn't be any pressure for her to make
money," he said. He knew she could try and
maybe make it happen but Zinhloso had a lot of
things to learn - self-growth before she could try
other things. She didn't need to do everything at
once. She was still young and she had just
discovered herself, through her healing.
"Yes, you're also right. She has a lot of things
going on. She's also learning things she couldn't
learn earlier because of her mother," he said, "I
feel better now that I have spoken about this.
My father makes it sound like she's the worst
child, an embarrassment but she did nothing."
He was moved that Mzomubi had such a
change of heart about his sister and he
wondered why his girlfriend hadn't told him
about it, "yes, and you can always give her the
inheritance if that's your wish. Your father will
be dead by then. I don't think he could strangle
her for the inheritance given to her by you," they
laughed.
"I also don't think so," they moved from the
topic and spoke about the trip he was going to
take to Durban. They discussed business and
how his car would also help his father with goat
transportation. In his heart, Mhlabunzima was
saying - 'my wealth would be enough for both of
us until you create your own.'
Kusakusa walked inside the office without
knocking. He stood behind Mzomubi and his
eyes were with Mhlabunzima, "Mnguni, I wish to
speak with my brother in private."
Mzomubi quickly stood up and took his drink,
he poured another glass for Mhlabunzima and
he said goodbye.
"What's wrong?"
"Where's my magazine, Mhlabunzima?" He
remained standing.
He didn't give it away that he knew what he was
talking about, "what magazine? Did you leave it
here?"
He slapped the table, "don't act dumb. When I
sent you to take money for dad, you took my
magazine for grown-ups."
He shook his head, "I don't know what you're
talking about."
"Yes, you do! I want that magazine. You know
nothing, izinto zamadoda leza," he pointed at
him, "if you want to know such, get married."
"Where are those magazines sold? I didn't know
there were grown-up magazines." He didn't lose
his pretence.
Kusakusa wanted to strangle his brother for
acting like a fool, "I will find it in your house. I
don't know what you know about those things,"
he clicked his tongue and left. He was going to
explode if he kept arguing with him.
Mhlabunzima didn't panic, he had hidden the
magazine where he wasn't going to be able to
reach it. Inside his safe, he covered it with a
plastic bag and put it there - because he had
something that told him his brother was going
to come for it.
"He knows where they're sold, he'll buy another
one," he shrugged and proceeded to work.
***
"Can you wait for the letter I want you to give to
your uncle?" Nobuhle asked Robert's nephew
and the boy waited. She rushed to her bedroom
and she quickly wrote a letter for Robert. She
placed the letter inside the envelope that had
money.
"Please give this letter to your uncle. Thank you,
boy," she smiled at him and the boy headed
back home.
He found his uncle with his grandmother and he
gave him the envelope, "Sbusiso's mother said I
should give it to you, uncle."
He opened the envelope and saw the money
inside, "didn't you give her the money?" He
asked.
"I did but she gave it back."
"Read that letter," Robert's mother quickly said.
She could've taken the letter if she was able to
read.
"Robert
I hope you're well. I thought I should give back
your money. It's no use, you're only giving
money but not your love and attention. Money is
not love, it can't be a father. Your mother told
me to fend for my son like she did. I will do that
from now on.
Thank you."
He looked at his mother, "what did you say to
her, mom?" He asked. He had read the letter out
loud.
"I told her what she said in that letter. That girl
is ungrateful, after everything you've done for
her and the child!" She screamed. "You need to
keep your money because it's clear that her
father has a lot of money." She clicked her
tongue. Robert didn't say anything to his mother.
At night, Robert couldn't sleep. He was thinking
about the letter. What did it really mean? She
didn't care about what he was willing to do for
his son?
He grabbed the telephone and called
Mhlabunzima. He couldn't wait until he returned
from work to talk to him.
"Robert! What's eating you so late at night?"
Mhlabunzima greeted.
"Comrade, I have a dilemma with Nobuhle and
you were busy vouching for her. Do you know
what she did?"
He cleared his throat, "what did she do?"
"Why are you clearing your throat? Are you with
her sister?"
Mhlabunzima laughed, "yes, I am with her but
she can't hear you. She's eating."
"Nobuhle wrote a letter…" he told her about the
contents of the letter. "I want your honest
opinion."
"You can't blame her. How can you give your
son crumbs of yourself? Nobuhle is saying it's
all or nothing," Mhlabunzima shared his honest
opinion.
"I knew you'll side with her and it's worse now
that his sister is there." Robert said. "Nobuhle
has pride and she'll regret it."
He laughed, "it's not about her sister but about
the truth. I think you don't love your son, he was
a mistake."
"That's not true!"
"Okay, I have shared my opinion. My girlfriend
has finished eating, you should sleep alone
there. You're single. Mina ngilala ngibanjiwe,"
Mhlabunzima laughed loudly as Robert swore at
him.
UMCEBO

Chapter 53

"Sthandwa sami, on Saturday I am going to

Durban-"
"Why are you going there again?" Zinhloso
asked Mhlabunzima, not giving him a chance to
speak and finish up his sentence.
"You should let me finish, MaMnguni."
"Okay, I am sorry."
Mhlabunzima was walking her to the river,
Thursday afternoon.
"I told you I will buy a van for my garden work
and so, John said let's do it on Saturday," he
glanced at her. They were meeting up with other
young women with water buckets on their way
back to the river. They gave them looks and
passed.
"Oh, so you'll come back with the car?"
"Yes, but I wished I could go with you. We can
take the bus to Durban and come back using
the car," he stopped walking and looked at her.
He was slightly nervous about the response he
was going to get from her.
Zinhloso had the best smile but it didn't last, "ah!
Why this Saturday? Don't you remember, the
Dunge family is coming home to bring those
cows."
He slapped his forehead and they proceeded
walking, "oh, yes, I have completely forgotten. If
there wasn't that issue, would you go with me?"
"Yes, I was going to talk to my aunt. I am sure
she would have helped," she said.
He remained quiet, trying to think hard and he
nodded alone, "okay, I will speak to John and
postpone for next Saturday."
"Yes!" She squealed, "this means I will also see
this man who wants my sister so bad." She
laughed as Mhlabunzima eyed her. She didn't
care about the girls passing by. They should
mind their own business.
"Iheee, sebeyamlandela manje abafana ngoba
nakhu engasanuki! Bazofa ubaba wakhe,
kuthiwa akadlali!" (Now boys are following her
because she doesn't have the disorder
anymore.) One girl said to the other girl.
"Hhaybo, oe! UMhlabunzima ubemlandela
ngisho esanalo iphunga. Besizibuza nathi
ukuthi ufunani ngampela kuye, yena muhle
kodwa phela ebenenkunzi yomsanka!" (No,
Mhlabunzima started following her before she
was healed. We used to ask ourselves what he
wants from her.)
The other girl turned her head, "aybo! Kwahle
wena, uMhlabunzima loyana?"
"Yes, it's him! You're also one of those girls who
are always locked up at home. You don't know
people!"
"Muhle, oe!" She said and they laughed.
Mhlabunzima laughed at Zinhloso, they couldn't
hear the girls anymore but Zinhloso seemed to
be upset, "but they also said you're beautiful.
Why are you upset when they compliment me?"
They proceeded walking, "I am the only one who
should compliment you. Not other women." She
sulked as he laughed, "are you going to come
home since you might no longer be going to
Durban. I heard my father invited your family."
"No, I won't come. Why are you even asking me
that question?"
She could tell he was annoyed. "I didn't know I
wasn't supposed to ask." She also kept quiet as
he was also quiet.
"Why didn't you tell me your brother has had a
change of heart towards you?" Mhlabunzima
asked. They were heading back with the water.
"I completely forgot I had planned on telling you.
He even wanted to share food with me but I
didn't want him to get in trouble. It's his gesture
that mattered because even the sisters who
cook, they have never thought of doing such for
me," she shared with a smile, "it would have
been very easy for my sisters to sneak out food
for me because they cook it but Mzomubi
doesn't cook. If he keeps asking for extra food,
always, dad will suspect him."
"Yes, you have a point but it's good that you're
not going hungry."
"Yes, thanks." They walked a short distance and
Mhlabunzima had to turn. He kissed her cheek
and left her.

Saturday, the Dunge family came early in the

morning. They brought the three cows. Two
cows intended for the parents, entered the yard
and they joined Mnguni's family cows after they
had burnt sage, informing the ancestors about
the two cows that were joining the others.
The whole Mnguni family was present, the
uncles and aunts - even the married ones, came.
The maternal family, they also came. The yard
was busy and those they invited, they were
going to come once the cow had been
slaughtered. They were only invited to eat the
meat and take it to their homes if it was left.
The third cow remained outside the premises.
Zinhloso's father was the eldest brother, he was
the one who was talking to the ancestors. They
informed them about an animal that was about
to be slaughtered. And the reasons why it was
going to be, its blood spilt right outside their
premises. Once they were done, they headed
out and the cow was slaughtered outside the
gates.
The scores of fire were made outside the gates,
for different parts of the meat to be cooked.
There was enough space, the space that was
part of the family land. Zinhloso was also
helping them out even though she wasn't going
to eat the meat. They were cleansing the shame
that the boy did by taking her virginity without
marrying her and so, she wasn't going to eat the
meat. The people who were going to eat it, they
were going to eat it outside the gates and it
wasn't going to enter the Mnguni premises.
Her eldest aunt was specially cooking lamb
tripe and lamb meat with dumplings for
Zinhloso. She was cooking the food in her
brother's kitchen, she brought the meat along
for Zinhloso. She wanted her to eat too when
everyone was eating as she wasn't supposed to
eat the meat. And Ziwinile who was still a virgin.
Zinhloso was happy that her aunt was cooking
for her - her favourite meat. When she was
cooking, she was with her in the kitchen. And
the others were cooking outside the gates. Men
were also cooking their part of meat that wasn't
supposed to be eaten by women - inhloko.
"Dadewethu, I will also eat that pot. I won't eat
beef," Mnguni said, walking inside the kitchen.
"Bhuti, I am cooking for the child and Ziwinile
because she will also not eat that meat."
"I know but they won't have that whole pot.
You're not even cooking on the small pot. That
food is not for two people," Mnguni walked out.
Zinhloso looked at her aunt and they laughed,
"you should give him the food aunty. He will
hate me for food now because I didn't bring
chicken for him." She said and they continued
cooking.
She was seated on the bench outside her hut,
eating heartily. Her eyes set on Ngenzeni who
was wiping her wet hands on her black skirt.
She was coming from the toilet. Before she
could greet her, Ngenzeni walked up to her.
"Sawubona, Zinhloso," she greeted her and sat
next to her on the bench.
She smiled shortly, "sawubona, unjani?"
"I am fine and how are you?"
She touched her stomach, "I am very full. I
enjoyed the meat and dumplings."
They laughed, "they weren't going to eat that
meat if I didn't allow that boy to deceive me and
I heard you wanted to eat the meat by force."
Ngenzeni laughed harder, "that's why I hate men.
They're full of lies but it's a good thing that the
cows have been paid."
"Yea, so are you going to remain unmarried for
the rest of your life?" Zinhloso asked curiously.
"Yes, I will stay at home, take care of my father
who doesn't want to remarry and also take care
of my little brother who doesn't want to get
married," she said dramatically.
Zinhloso giggled, "I guess you won't have a
heart break if you stay without a man."
"Exactly! And yes, I wanted to eat the cow too.
My father told me I shouldn't come unless I am
no longer a virgin."
They laughed, "then what happened? You're
here."
Ngenzeni scoffed, "I told him I will come
because virginity means nothing to me. He was
angry and even called the old woman who's our
neighbour to check my virginity too," they
cracked up laughing as she narrated what
happened, "she told him I am still a virgin. They
tried to convince me that I shouldn't go and
should not eat that meat but here, am I."
"You're brave but I am glad my aunt didn't allow
you to eat it. We don't know why the elders
created these customs. We should just follow
them to avoid any consequences if there are
any."
"I guess you're right. The lamb was also nice,"
she didn't leave right away, she proceeded with
the conversation with Zinhloso. It was flowing.
She looked at Zinhloso like she had discovered
something, "hey, we've been talking here and
nothing happened. Are you alright now?"
She smiled, sometimes she didn't know
whether people sat with her to smell her or they
liked sitting with her lately. She'd been getting a
lot of this question. "Let's just say there's
someone special that helped me."
"Wow! That's wonderful, I am very happy for you,
Zinhloso," her voice was laced with genuine
happiness for Zinhloso. Her story was really a
sad one. "You'll have a normal life now."
"Thank you."
Kusakusa ended the chat by standing before
them, "we're leaving now Ngenzeni." He said
and didn't greet Zinhloso but she greeted him.
He only nodded.
"Goodbye then, Zinhloso!" She left after
Zinhloso had said goodbye.
She was reading the newspaper at night.
Everything went well and now, she could rest.
All that - it was behind her. Zinhloso stood up
and she unlocked the door for her father. She
sat back on her bed.
Mnguni remained standing, "I am glad I found
you still awake."
"Is something wrong?"
"I am not proud of what you did. You gave your
body to a boy who didn't care about you but I
am glad that everything due to me and your
mother has been paid and the ancestors must
be glad too," Mnguni said to his daughter, "you
must know that, you should forget about boys
because I won't accept any boy. There's no man
who'll marry you, you'll stay home."
"But I wasn't born to stay at home forever. I
should leave and build a family with whoever
wants to make me his wife. Girls are bound to
leave their fathers," Zinhloso argued to her
father.
Mnguni chuckled, "who told you that?" He asked
and Zinhloso didn't answer him, "you should get
that off your mind." He left her. He thought he
could give her permission back into the family
but she made him angry with her comment.
***
"You're back. How did it go?" Mhlabunzima
asked his father and sister as they entered the
kitchen. He was making tea.
"It was good, everything went well. You should
have come," Ngenzeni answered Mhlabunzima
and she joined him in making tea.
"Why are you concerned?" Xulu asked his son
and sat down.
"I didn't know I shouldn't ask, baba." He didn't
look at his father but he sat down with his tea.
He was still heading back to the shop. He came
back to get some papers.
"If you wanted to know you were supposed to
go there."
"I wasn't going to go there."
Ngenzeni gave her father the cup of tea,
"Mhlabunzima, I spoke to Zinhloso and it seems
she has been cured. When I asked, she said
someone special helped her."
He hid the smirk off his face, "that's wonderful."
His sister agreed with him and she left father
and son.
"You're the one who helped Mnguni's daughter?
Your brother told me about it, she was at your
shop," Xulu stared at him.
He stood up and put the mug on the basin with
dishes, "I will see you tonight, old man." He
walked out, leaving his father clicking his
tongue repeatedly.
****
We have a sponsor. They're asking that we read
and like/react to their short story. They've
entered a short story competition.
Please read and react, can we start with 1000
likes/reactions for a bonus chapter? She's on
1.8k and ours will make total 2.8k for bonus.

Thanks.

Link:
https://www.facebook.com/100069475616816
/posts/347057807620070/?app=fbl
UMCEBO

Chapter 54

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous.***

"When will you be coming back? I don't want my

brother to kill me," Aunty Lindo, Zinhloso's
eldest aunt asked Zinhloso.
Friday, Zinhloso slept at her grandmother's
house. Her aunt asked her from her father and
told him she was going to go to town with her.
She said she would return on Sunday.
"I am sure I will come back tonight but don't
worry, dad and Mzomubi are not home. They'll
also come back tomorrow," she said, putting on
her white beret. She was dressing up inside her
aunt's bedroom. She told her aunt that her
boyfriend asked her to accompany him to
Durban. He needed help to choose an outfit for
his parents. They were going to a relative's
wedding in another village. Her aunt bought the
story and she didn't stop her.
"If you come back very late please don't come
home, Zinhloso. I don't want mom to have a lot
of questions. She's still old and we should
respect her," aunt Lindo said. "Come back early
in the morning. I won't lock my door."
"Yebo, aunty," that was music to her ears. She
wasn't going to come back even if they returned
early. She would only come back home if it was
impossible to enter the Xulu premises early.
She grabbed her small handbag and left.
He didn't move from the old man he was
standing with. He was talking to the old man
but his eyes were with her. Were they going to a
function? It seemed like it and he loved it. She
was dressed in a high waist scotch skirt, brown
in colour and her white shirt was tucked in, the
coat was purple matching her small handbag.
The white beret matched the white block heel
shoes. He wanted to push the old man aside
and quickly head to her but he couldn't. They
decided they would get on the bus at the same
stop but not as people who were going together.
Mhlabunzima felt under dressed in his black
suit and white shirt, brown scotch tie, black
shoes and black hat. What a beauty - he could
see guys at the stop looking at her and oddly it
made him proud that he was hers. They could
look at her but she wasn't theirs.
On the bus, they didn't take the same seat.
Zinhloso was at the front, there was a guy
seated with her and Mhlabunzima in the middle.
The young man was talking to her, looking in
her direction but Zinhloso's head was focused
ahead. He couldn't see whether she was talking
back or not. He felt like those girls were right,
the boys were talking to her now.
He couldn't wait until they were inside the bus
to Durban.
"I thought I would never get the chance to hold
you," Mhlabunzima hugged Zinhloso tightly
before they could get inside the bus to Durban.
She smiled and held him back, "I know and that
man next to me was annoying."
He took a good look at her and he held her hand,
"I could see he was talking non stop," they got
inside the bus and sat in a two seater row. Just
the two of them.
She couldn't take her eyes off him and
Mhlabunzima was also gazing at her. The
people and noise around them ceased to exist.
"oh, Mhlabunzima, you don't know how proud I
am of you, mntakwethu."
"Don't say such words yet, sthandwa. We still
have a long journey until we get to touch the
car."
She giggled and placed her head on her
shoulder, "it doesn't matter how long the
journey is, as long as I am with the one after my
heart."
"You look very amazing." He complimented and
she graced him with a soft giggle.
The two lovers didn't feel that the journey was
too long because they had each other.
Zinhloso could see why her sister was taken by
John. He was a very handsome man. And he
was friendly with his charming tone.
"My sister will be taking a risk worth taking,"
Zinhloso said out loud. She was looking at John
as he was explaining to Mhlabunzima the best
car to buy for his business. He was also telling
him he would need a trailer in the long run.
He looked at her, "MaMnguni eyakho indoda
iseceleni kwakho. Khohlwa ibhunu lika
dadewenu elingekho emthethweni," he said,
holding her chin.
Zinhloso laughed, "I am sorry."
He looked at John, "she's actually Nobuhle's
sister that you spoke to on the phone. She
knows about your friendship request for her
sister."
John's mood changed - he was suddenly
ecstatic, "that's amazing! I am happy to see you
and I - I don't even know what to say," he
changed to shy. He looked at Mhlabunzima,
"why didn't you warn me?"
He chuckled, "I wasn't sure if she would come.
She's my girlfriend."
"Well, that's not hard to tell because you two
look in love," he shook hands with Zinhloso. But
she only smiled at him, she didn't want to talk.
"Aren't you going to speak big words with him?"
Mhlabunzima teased her and she playfully
punched his shoulder. They wrapped up the
conversation about the car and John left them
for the dealership.

John returned with the car and its documents.

Zinhloso and Mhlabunzima had fun exploring
his mansion in his absence. Zinhloso ate
heartily the food John's maid provided for them.
They strolled around his big yard and the
garden. It was a beautiful day.
When he touched the car they had managed to
purchase. Mhlabunzima felt emotional, he
couldn't believe this was him. He was here and
where did he come from? Far - from poverty.
Zinhloso held his hand and she hugged him,
"you're hardworking."
"Ngiyakuthanda, sthandwa sami." He said and
kissed her. John was on the side taking
pictures of them. He asked them to pose, they
did different poses, touching the car, holding
the car's door and taking pictures seated inside
the car.
"I will post the pictures once they're ready. You'll
show them to your children one day," John said
with a smile. They shook hands with
Mhlabunzima. "I know young Xulu said your
relationship is not known at home but I wish for
your sister to get this."
Zinhloso took the box, "mtshele ukuthi
uzomnika wena."
Mhlabunzima looked at John, "she says I will
give it to her. I will tell her I was with you." John
was grateful. Mhlabunzima took the driver's
seat and Zinhloso the passenger seat, "she told
me she spoke big words with you. What did she
say?"
John laughed, "take what the lady has told you,
Xulu and travel safe."
He shook his head and drove out of John's
premises. "And now, we're going home."
"Yes, it won't be convenient for me to sleepover
because I am sure your father will do a small
ritual to inform the ancestors about your car.
Your siblings will be there and I can't enter in
broad daylight." Zinhloso glanced at him.
"Yes, but can't I come and get you later?"
"No, it won't be easy sneaking out at grandma's
house. We'll plan some other time. I really
enjoyed this trip," she was very happy and she
couldn't hide it.
He tightened his hand on her hand, "I wish you
had a different father. I am tired of sneaking
around. I will be patient though, he'll take my
cows. He should."
Zinhloso looked down, his comment brought
pain in her heart. She never told him about her
father's words.
*****
Mnguni was waiting for a call from Hendricks.
He had called in the morning and he was still
busy. It was in the afternoon, his daughters
were back from school. Nobuhle was in the
kitchen with her son and Ziwinile had gone to
the river together with Zinhloso. Mzomubi had
gone out. He was in the living room with his
wife.
"Hello, baas Hendricks." He greeted the man on
the line. "How are you?"
"Mnguni, I am very well and how are you?"
"We can't complain as long as we wake up in
the morning. It's all well." Mnguni relaxed. He'd
had a very busy day.
"I was talking to my son. He's bought a property
in the suburbs of the city some time back,"
Hendricks introduced the conversation to him,
"the property is big and it seems, his
housekeeper is failing to manage it alone."
"Oh, I see! So, you need someone who will join
that housekeeper?" Mnguni guessed closer to
the point.
"Yes, yes, he was asking what your daughter will
be doing next year. He suggested she would be
suitable for this job because we already know
her," Hendricks dropped the point that Mnguni
wasn't expecting.
His face changed. His daughter, as a maid! He
didn't need to ask, they were obviously talking
about Nobuhle. "Hendricks, you and your son
see my daughter as worthy of being a maid?"
He asked, his voice reflecting that he was mad.
How could they?
Hendricks cleared his throat, "no, no, it's not like
that Mnguni but my son told me they spoke
when she was here. She told him she wishes to
be a doctor but she didn't apply on time. My son
then suggested her. It will help her if she comes
to the city," he quickly explained so as to not
make him angrier, "it'll be best she gets used to
the city because when she starts studying she'll
have a problem. She will also have anxiety
about the new city but if you're against the idea,
you can please help us find someone. The year
will end soon and she'll start exams soon."
He drew a long breath, relieved, "oh, I hear you
clearly now Hendricks and I am grateful to your
son for considering my daughter, to make
things easy for her. Let me talk to my wife
about it and I will get back to you."
"Thank you, I will hear from you."
Mnguni placed the phone down and he
explained the call to his wife while calling for
Nobuhle. She sat down and her father told her
about the call.
"What do you think, Nkosikazi?" He looked at his
wife. "I don't want her to work as anyone's maid
but what are your thoughts?"
Mrs curved her lips up and down, "yes, she must
go and work because the two of you decided it'll
be best to have Robert stop taking care of his
son. You didn't include me when you decided
that."
"We're sorry, mama." Nobuhle said.
"We knew you'd be emotional about it and
Nobuhle shouldn't work because of Sbusiso. I
take care of my grandson."
She shook her head, "no, no, every mother
should fend for her child. Nobuhle should do
that. She must take this job."
He looked at his daughter, "what do you want,
Nobuhle?"
"I think it will help me get used to the city."
Mnguni didn't like it but they were two against
one, "it's decided then, once you're done with
exams you'll leave for Durban."
She wanted to scream because of happiness
but she didn't want to make her parents
suspicious, "yes, baba. Thank you." She stood
up and headed back to the kitchen. She couldn't
wait to tell Zinhloso about it. She was going to
the city!
***
Only +/- 100 people for us to reach the target on
the short story. You read and react/like.

Link.
https://www.facebook.com/100069475616816
/posts/347057807620070/?app=fbl
UMCEBO

Chapter 55

She placed her bag and Nobuhle's box on top of

the bed. She quickly walked out of her hut. She
could hear Nobuhle singing inside her mother's
hut.
Zinhloso stood outside the hut, "Nobuhle!"
She stopped singing, "Zinhloso? I am mopping
the floor, come in."
"No, I will wait for you to finish up."
"Mom is not home, come in."
She turned, "come to my hut once you are
done." She wasn't allowed inside the hut and so,
she wasn't going to enter.
"Okay!"
Zinhloso unpacked her clothes. She put the
dirty clothes on the washing basket and once
she was done, she opened the windows and
swept the floor. She laid back on her bed and
reminisced about her time in Durban. What a
time! Running around the green lawn of John
and Mhlabunzima chasing after her, falling onto
the ground with him. Her laughter was light and
alive. At one time, they looked at the skies and
shared their hopes and dreams about the future.
How could she forget? It was amazing!
"Are you daydreaming?" Nobuhle sat next to
Zinhloso. She was impressed by the cleanliness
of her hut even after Khosi had stopped working
for her. It wasn't as exactly as Khosi kept it but
it was decent and it still had that smell of fabric
softener.
She sat up straight, "no, I am not."
"You can't fool me. I have been in love too," she
said and Zinhloso only giggled.
She placed the box on Nobuhle's lap, "I passed
by Mhlabunzima's shop on my way back from
home. He gave me this box and told me to give
it to you. He said he won't get time to come
here."
Nobuhle opened the box, "it's from who? Robert
or?" She smiled dearly at the things inside the
box. There was a beautiful silver wrist watch
and a small box with a set of knob earrings, a
small black handbag and a big bag of candy.
"Wow, Nobuhle!"
She looked at her sister, "where are these
coming from?" She realised there was an
envelope and she quickly tore it apart. She read
the letter, "Zinhloso! He's been keeping this box
to give it to me when we meet again." She
jumped for joy and handed the letter to Zinhloso,
she giggled remembering she can't read it.
"That's so nice. Does she have a brother?" She
joked and took some candy.
Nobuhle laughed, "what will your boyfriend say
if you ask such questions?"
"What boyfriend?" She closed her eyes and
enjoyed the candy.
She smiled and frowned at her, "what happened
to you?"
"Me?"
"Yes, did you eat some herb or grandma found a
cure for you?" Nobuhle asked, looking at her
with an investigative eye.
She chuckled, "I don't know, maybe I ate
something without realising," she said but when
her grandmother and aunts asked her on Friday
- Zinhloso told them that her boyfriend took her
to the traditional healer. The traditional healer
helped her and they were very happy for her,
grandma even shed some happy tears. Zinhloso
didn't tell them about her father deliberately not
healing her. She kept it a secret. Grandma
desperately wanted to meet the boy but
Zinhloso refused.
She hugged her quickly, "you mean there's no
smell at all? I haven't smelt any."
"There isn't."
"Oh, Zinhloso I am happy for you," she backed
away and suddenly got emotional. She was
taken back to those difficult days where
Zinhloso would be discriminated against even
by her own mother. The tears her sister had
cried and the pain she always carried in her
eyes.
"Why are you crying now?" She asked and
laughed. She wiped her tears.
She smiled, "does dad know?"
"How is he going to know because he no longer
spends time with me? I don't care even if he
doesn't know." She asked and tapped her thigh,
"go and put the box away before they come
back."
"Thank you, let me go and keep it safe." She
gave Zinhloso a handful of candy and she left
her smiling at the candy. She wondered how life
was going to be in the city. In a few months'
time - just a few months!
**
Mid November - their relationship was officially
six months. It'd be a rollercoaster ride, more
happy moments than arguments and fights.
Mhlabunzima wasn't an enabler when it came
to fights, he didn't allow their fights to prolong
but he would quickly encourage that, they solve
it. Zinhloso was stubborn and sometimes, she
made him nuts with her stubborn head. He
always thought there would never be a stubborn
person in the whole village except him until he
met her.
When the telephone rang, Mhlabunzima quickly
tossed the porn magazine inside the safe and
he closed it. He jumped onto the telephone.
"Mhlabunzima, speaking!"
"Young Xulu, hello!"
He shut his eyes, not the man he wanted to
hear from. Since Mzomubi was shot, they hadn't
done the cattle theft job. They waited for two
months while taking gun training and they were
given their guns. A month passed with no order,
they didn't ask any questions and then, there
was officer Molepe houndering them with
questions. A few weeks after his return from
Durban with his car, they all received his visit.
He was asking them questions, separately and
they were all sticking to one story - the Xulus
needed to make things right with their
ancestors. And Mnguni helped them do that,
they kicked the poverty off their home. They
had references of how their father and
Kusakusa worked hard, working for people and
working sugar cane fields for Boers. They had
reference that Xulu got the first cow from the
king - he gave him the cow as practice of
Ukusisa. Once the cow had grown calves, Xulu
returned it to the king. Molepe found it hard to
link the crimes to them because they had
people backing them up - that, they were all
hard workers like their father.
"Yes, baas Petersen, how are you?"
"I am very well and how's it on your side?"
Petersen sounded ecstatic on the line.
"Everything is going well and how can I help
you?" He asked. With Molepe investigating
them, they had to take another additional two
months not doing any job. They had to lie low.
Molepe needed evidence to have a case and he
didn't find evidence. Without evidence, he didn't
have to hang around the village because there
was also no theft. But he found the reason to
keep hanging around the village - Zinhloso. He
was a big nuisance to Mhlabunzima. Molepe
also found nothing from Mnguni.
"We need you in the city of gold. We have an
order and it's not a big order. It's just different
and so, we need to have a presentation with
you," Petersen briefed Mhlabunzima, "we don't
want any mistakes and so, that's why we need
you to come for this presentation like the last
time so that you'll clearly understand what we
need."
"Yes, I will talk to them and get back to you with
a date that'll be convenient for us."
"That's perfect! Always, nice doing business
with you," he ended the call.
He stomped his foot down and stood up. He
found his father in the garden with his brother.
Kusakusa's wife was also in the garden
harvesting the potatoes.
"Can we have a word?" He requested after
greeting his brother and sister in-law.
Xulu pointed at his house and they followed
each other there. Mhlabunzima closed the door.
"What is it?" Xulu asked.
"They called." He looked at his brother.
"What do they want?" Kusakusa asked.
"They requested that I head to the city like the
last time. He said the order is small."
Xulu rubbed his eyes, "they always say it's a
small order."
"Dad is right," Kusakusa commented and their
father left them. He told them he would go to
Mnguni, and they would make a decision then.
"You shouldn't go there alone but take Mzomubi
with you."
His brother was scared for him? Maybe he
didn't entirely hate him, it was just the issue of
being heir, "yes, I will tell him."
Kusakusa stood up, "so, since you took it have
you tried out anything on Mnguni's daughter or
you're still dreaming of it?"
Knowing what he was talking about,
Mhlabunzima cracked up laughing, "have you
bought a new one?"
"I have a wife to please, unlike you." He said and
left him laughing. This little demon was
annoying him.
His brother was right, he'd had the magazine for
months and Zinhloso was still not ready for sex.
He had planned to try the oral sex only but he
never got the courage because she hardly
allowed him to go beyond kissing and touching
her breasts. When he wanted to try using his
fingers as on the magazine, she would hold his
hand. It was frustrating but he didn't push her.
Six months! Six full months into the relationship
and there hadn't been any sex. He knew some
men waited longer in their village, even a year
like Robert. He waited for Nobuhle for a full year.
Nobuhle was a virgin but -
Mhlabunzima shook his head, "Zinhloso is also
like a virgin, had sex once over two years back?
My ex said the second time was as painful as
the first," he spoke alone, his hand on his chin
beard that was fully grown. He shook his head
thinking about that one ex of his. She was a
virgin, attending the reed dance and when they
were caught, the girl's father whipped
Mhlabunzima with a bullwhip. Luckily, his father
already had cows back then and he paid the
cows on his behalf. The girl was moved away
from the village. She went to live in her mother's
village and that was the end of their relationship.
He truly loved her and had planned a future with
her but her father took her away. He was a very
unlucky man because even Zinhloso - he wasn't
even sure if they'd end up married because of
her father.
"Maybe she thinks I will also be horrible like her
first lover."
He huffed as the thought of his sex life. This
was going to be the longest he had to wait for a
girlfriend. He always had a skill and smooth
tongue but Zinhloso, all that never worked. "I
just have to be patient and try again tonight," he
went to his bedroom to change the bedding.

"Mhlabunzima, I don't like this relationship you

have with Mnguni's daughter," his father said as
Mhlabunzima was dishing food. He was inside
the kitchen and he saw them enter through the
gates. He'd never seen them together but he
only heard from his eldest son and tonight, he
saw them with his own two eyes.
"Baba, let's not talk about this."
"Yes, we will talk about it. I don't have any
grudge with his daughters but I don't want any
of them as my daughter in-law," he was serious
about it, "it's worse that her father had warned
you to stay away from her. You're bringing her
here now. You're eating my food with her and
sleeping in my yard with her. You're just having
your way, you're the reason her father casted
her out even on his inheritance."
"He told you that?"
"Yes, I don't want that girl here."
"This is my home. Where should I go with her? I
love her."
"I don't know but I don't want her here."
He nodded and put the rice back on the pot. He
dished up only one plate, "it's okay then if you
don't want her here. I won't bring her anymore.
Tonight will be the last night and she will no
longer eat your food either."
"Who will eat that plate?"
He looked at the food, he had planned to give
Zinhloso his food, "I shouldn't eat your food
too?"
"Don't disrespect me, boy! I asked you, who will
eat that." Xulu shouted.
Mhlabunzima put the plate on the table and he
covered it. He walked out of the kitchen leaving
his father shouting his name. What excuse was
he going to tell her now? She always had food
when she visited and tonight?
"Why did you take so long?"
He sat next to her on the sofa, "are you hungry?
Ngenzeni didn't cook enough tonight."
She smiled and opened her bag, "no, I am not
hungry. I actually brought you food. I was
cooking your favourite meal today."
His face brightened up. He was going to stuff
his face with her amazing dumplings and beef.
There was absolutely nothing he enjoyed like
her food.
"I think I should have pots and groceries at the
tuckshop so that you'll cook for me," he said
enjoying the food. Zinhloso was having a cold
drink she found on top of the table. "It's very
nice."
"What will people say if they find me cooking
there?"
"I can have it inside the office."
She giggled, "you'll be wasting money but if it'll
make you happy you can do it."
He didn't realise he was actually that hungry
until he ate everything she brought. He felt like
things always worked out with them. There was
no food for them tonight and Zinhloso
happened to have magically brought food for
him.
On the bed, Mhlabunzima's head was resting on
her stomach and she was softly brushing it,
making him relax every muscle on his body.
"How are you going to carry out the selling of
potatoes if you're leaving for the city?" She was
unhappy but it was beyond her control.
They had planned that Zinhloso was going to go
with him and sell sacks of potatoes in town.
They were from his gardens. She was the one
who suggested this to him, that he must plant
potatoes. They planted the potatoes together,
Mhlabunzima wanted to test something - he
asked her to plant them with him. He was
thinking she would refuse but Zinhloso agreed.
They planted in two weekends because
Zinhloso had school. And the harvest was very
amazing. He sold them at the shop and people
loved them. Zinhloso suggested they sell the
rest in town. He bought sacks and they were
going to sell them next weekend.
"I will talk to Robert. I will leave my van with him
and then, ask that the two of you go to town,"
he looked up at her. She was staring at him,
"you'll drive to town, you have your learner driver
document. Will you be scared?"
"No, I won't be scared. I won't be driving alone.
He'll be there. If he agrees we'll go."
He blew her a kiss, "you're the best woman for
me!" He said and Zinhloso giggled. Whenever
Zinhloso worked with him, Mhlabunzima made
more money and he shared the earnings with
her. He would tell her she must take them, save
for her own future business. He would say this
because Zinhloso didn't want to take the money.
She felt that it was the least she could do to
help him out because he'd done so much for
her and was continuing doing much for her
without complaining.
He pulled her down by her legs, her head landed
on the pillow and he went up to her face. He
took her lips into his as he had wished.
He pulled her closer to him, her slim waist
closer to his hard torso and her hands clung on
his arms as they kissed.
Oh, how precious her body melted under his
touch but it was never enough to result into
intercourse.
The linger of his aroused organ on her soft
thigh gave her goosebumps. She throbbed in
anticipation. Her body trembled as his hands
began a journey of caressing her skin. Moans
softly shot off her lips as he covered her nipples
with his mouth.
He pulled down her silk pajama pants and she
didn't complain, “why are you not looking at
me?” He asked, positioning himself between
her thighs.
“I am,” she looked at him with her small eyes.
And he moved back up to her lips.
His concentration was on the sensitive flesh of
her neck and his hand rubbing her breast softly.
He groaned, tonight was different, her foot was
even lingering on his buttocks pulling him to her.
Was this a sign?
She arched her back as he kissed his way down
to her belly. She didn't know she would feel
such pleasure by having kisses even on her
belly!
"Hhaybo! Wenzani manje!" (What are you doing
now?) Zinhloso screamed and jumped up a little.
He pressed his teeth together, "I am giving you
pleasure."
"By having your mouth and face in between my
legs?"
He could see she was very shocked and he
didn't laugh, he was actually pissed that after
this - nothing was going to happen. Not even
that oral sex, "yes, you'll enjoy it. You should
believe me."
"That same mouth you'll use to talk to the
elders and ancestors?"
He chuckled, anger ebbed away, "I am the last
born MaMnguni. I don't talk to my ancestors,
my father and brother do that and I brush my
mouth."
She was confused by all this. Wasn't it his penis
that was supposed to do the work? "And what
about my pubic hair? What if you eat it?"
Mhlabunzima laughed, "you have very little
pubic hair. It's like it grew yesterday unless you
want me to cut it."
"No, don't cut it. Our first child will die if you cut
my pubic hair." She held her vagina.
"So, you'll never shave it down until we have a
child? That's a myth." He laughed.
"Yes, it grows slowly."
"So, should I continue?" He asked.
"But this is unclean."
He smiled, "it's not, even my baby will come out
here. How can it be unclean?" He asked and he
proceeded when he saw a shy nod.
By great surprise, Zinhloso gasped. His face
was buried in her and his tongue licked her
teasingly.
It was a tingling sensation mixed with
something she couldn't describe and she didn't
want it to end. "Oh, Mhlabunzima!" She cried out,
her hands holding her forehead, the sheets, his
shoulders and finally stopped on his head.
The harder licks deepened her toes on the bed.
And when his tongue flicked and twirled on her,
she lost all control. She cried louder as her
walls shut and she experienced a mind blowing
orgasm, something she'd never experienced
before.
"Did you enjoy it?" He asked, gazing into her
eyes.
Zinhloso smiled, nodding her head like a cute
little kitten, "yes, I will want it again I know."
He laughed and kissed her lips… his brother
was boss. It worked!
UMCEBO

Chapter 56
***Unlocked bonus chapter…

3am, they were both awake and packed into

each other's arms.
"I will miss you and I wish you don't have to
leave," she turned and faced Mhlabunzima.
He laid on his side, his elbow pinned on the bed
supporting his weight, "I will miss you too but at
least I won't go alone. Your brother will be
there."
"Yes, tell him to look after you. I don't want any
woman touching you."
He laughed and kissed her cheek, "nobody will
touch your man."
"Thank you."
Mhlabunzima softly held her face to his face.
Things were different. She was confident, so
much that she was the one that was mostly
suggesting sleepovers. He was over the moon -
last night went well. Couldn't the morning make
him happier?
And as he took her soft lips into his, he felt alive.
He had anticipated this moment even before
she was cured of her disorder - so, maybe this
was it. After six long months this was supposed
to be it or he was going to cry a river.
And within a blink of an eye his body responded
to her.
His hand explored her body willingly, the
smoothness of her skin and her curves. Her
slim waist. Every inch of her skin brought him
joy. She was clinging on to him needy. Did she
also feel the same?
The silky fabric of pajamas he bought for her
slid off her body easily and his hand cupped
one breast. He was in Durban with John, he
needed help from him and when he left for
Durban, Nobuhle gave him a basket of fresh
vegetables and a letter. Zinhloso had lied and
told her sister that she overheard Mhlabunzima
talking on the phone at the shop. And the next
thing, he was given baskets and letters to give
to John. He didn't refuse.
After they were done with everything, John told
him he wanted to buy a nice clothing piece for
Nobuhle. Mhlabunzima was surprised when he
even bought a sleepwear and John told him it
was special, buying a sleepwear for his woman
meant she would feel closer to him whenever
she wore the sleepwear to bed. Mhlabunzima
didn't waste any time, he also bought silky white
pajamas for Zinhloso. He also bought a winter
coat for her. When he saw the happiness on her
face, he didn't feel ashamed that he bought
sleepwear for her.
The hard nipples blessed him with pride and he
didn’t stop stroking them both as she moaned.
Loving her breasts, he covered one nipple with
his mouth, his body was packed in between her
legs.
She pretended she wasn’t looking at him as he
discarded his underwear. This was different
from her first. Her first was in a hurry but
Mhlabunzima was patient.
She cried out and clung on his shoulders as his
tongue danced inside her mouth. She failed to
conceal her own ravening. Leaving his
shoulders she gripped on the sheets, his potent
organ gently rubbed on her openings.
“Mhlaba –”
He swallowed her voice into his mouth taking
all the defenses away from her.
"Are you comfortable?" He asked, looking at her
with smaller eyes. He was trying his way in but
it was impossible.
"No," she stiffened her body and shifted up to
the headboard of the bed but he held her waist
down.
"You need to relax and don't be scared," he said,
he was very hungry for her but he wanted to be
patient and so, he kept trying, slowly.
"If I can't - ah!" The scream shot off her mouth.
Mhlabunzima had invaded her fortifications and
there was no action of return.
"Sengiphakathi!" (I am inside) His husky voice
penetrated through her ears. He said it like it
was a victorious thing. "Can you feel me?" He
asked, whispering into her ear.
"Yes," she whispered back and her head dived
back deepening into the pillow and she held her
breath as his strong hands captured her arching
back.
His breathing heavy, he spotted the beaming of
her face, the smiles coming, disappearing only
to return with his thick thrust. "Don't forget that
my father is next door," he reminded her. Her
moans were irrepressibly too loud. Zinhloso
didn't respond to his reminder and she didn't
stop moaning loudly.
Mhlabunzima drank into her lips blocking her
moans. And he raced tighter to the peak point.
He drove into her repeatedly letting go of her
lips, he didn’t care of her moans now. His father
was supposed to be sleeping!
"Ngizokuthanda ingunaphakade," he promised,
giving slow thick thrusts that intensified the
pleasure.
He exploded inside her with a howling groan,
his neck arching his head up.
"Waze wangijabulisa ekuseni," (you've made me
happy) He dropped his head on the side of her,
supporting his body on his elbows. He didn’t
move from her, her legs kept knocking on his.
After taking a break next to her, Mhlabunzima
searched for a towel and handed it over to her.
She never felt that way the first time. That
explosion of emotions that happened again this
morning - it wasn't there but only pain. She had
been set alight and she oddly felt more
beautiful.
“Thank you.” She accepted the towel and
looked at it, "what should I do with it?"
He smiled and took the towel from her,
separated her legs and wiped her clean, "this is
what you should do with it."
"Oh," she looked away shyly.
Joining her back in bed, behind her back his
arm hung on her figure with his forehead on her
back. "I can't believe that happened," he said
and Zinhloso giggled, "angikholwa kungcono
ngilale ngiyibambile ngizokholwa lapho ke." He
slipped his hand between her legs and held her
private part. He really couldn't believe it.
Zinhloso only smiled and closed her eyes. They
would wake up in a few hours.
Before dawn, he was seated on the bed looking
at her as she dressed back into her clothes. She
was no longer bringing a bag over but today she
had it. She packed some of her clothes she left
and once she was done, she stood before him.
"Let's go before it's too late."
He stood up and hugged her, "please, I shouldn't
come back and find you with a boyfriend. These
boys love you a lot now."
"I don't like them. They don't do the things you
do," she laid on his chest as he laughed.
He held her hand, "let's go." They headed out of
the house and walked down to the gates.
The toilet was also down but not very close to
the gate. Ngenzeni held her mouth in shock as
she saw her brother and Zinhloso, she was
certain they didn't see her. They were dating!
Mhlabunzima left her at the gate with a kiss on
the lips. She quietly walked inside the premises
without being caught. Inside her hut, she got
onto her bed and fell asleep right away. She
needed this rest.

Sunday morning, the parents were seated

outside having their soft porridge overlooking
the garden and the sun shining on them.
Mnguni was also having tea.
Mrs Mnguni shook her head, Nobuhle had
knocked until she gave up on Zinhloso's hut.
"Did she sleep at home?" She raised her voice
for Nobuhle.
"Yes, she's inside. I peeped on the window. The
curtain is not closed fully." Nobuhle answered,
"she said we'll go to the river together."
"Do something else and wait for her to wake
up," Mrs Mnguni said.
It was hot and there were snakes, she had told
them they mustn't go to the river alone.
Zinhloso went to the river alone because she
was stubborn - but they didn't know she was
going with her boyfriend and not alone. And
they still didn't know that Mhlabunzima was her
boyfriend. She was still not eating at home with
them.
"Yebo!"
Mrs Mnguni looked at her husband, "I have
heard something around."
"What did you hear?"
"I have heard that you've cured your daughter
and she is having a lot of boys following her
now because she doesn't have the disorder -
hhaybo!." Mrs Mnguni shouted as he choked on
the tea and dropped the tea cup. "Be careful!"
Luckily, he wasn't burned by the black tea,
"where did you hear that?" His eyes were
widened like he'd seen a ghost.
"I heard from the women we go with
emathwabulini (gardens far from their homes)
They say you did a good thing. Kodwa ke ngathi
uzingenisele amanzi ngomsele endlini." She
further said, "MaMzobe said it has been three
times seeing a boy trying to talk to her, not the
same boy but different and the other time
MaMzobe had to throw stones at the boy
because Zinhloso showed that she didn't want
to talk to him."
He clicked his tongue, this was one of the
things that stopped him from curing her. He
knew this would happen and he wouldn't be
able to stop it. He'd tried countless times to
consult and find out who was her daughter's
boyfriend but his ancestors showed him
nothing. He'd pleaded but they never answered
him.
"I didn't do anything and I didn't notice because I
haven't been around her a lot lately," he stood
up and headed straight to Zinhloso's hut. He
knocked on the door violently. She was going to
open up for him and she was going to clear
things up. This meant - he had given her too
much freedom. What would happen now? Was
he going to lose her to a boy? Why didn't his
ancestors make her a boy?
"Zinhloso!" He shouted and banged the door.
His wife was standing next to him…
UMCEBO

Chapter 57

***Chapter sponsored by N.L***

Zinhloso couldn't hear anything no matter how

loud her father was knocking.
"What kind of sleeping is this?" Mnguni asked
his wife and looked around.
Mzomubi passed by, "why are you trying to
break her door, baba?"
"Come here!"
He walked up to his father, "what's wrong, is
she in trouble again?"
"You've been spending time with your sister.
Has she been cured?" Mnguni asked
straightforwardly.
He frowned, "you didn't know such an important
thing? It's been months now."
He felt like his heart was stopping - it was
beating slowly. Who helped her? And how?
When? "Why didn't you tell me?" Out of anger,
he held Mzomubi in his hand with his shirt.
His wife was shocked, "hhaybo, baba! Leave
him." She screamed.
"I thought you knew," he quickly said but he was
very shocked by this reaction. "And why are you
acting-"
"Shut up!" His mother shouted at him for back
chatting with his father. Mnguni was giving his
son a death stare. He could only look down.
Zinhloso was woken up by the commotion
outside and she opened the door. She was
yawning and stretching.
Her mother took her, "what kind of sleeping is
this? We've been knocking and knocking."
"I am tired." She held her mouth as she yawned.
"Tired from what?" Her mother asked.
And before Zinhloso could answer, Ziwinile
answered for her. "Tired from working for
Mhlabunzima," she was sweeping the veranda
of their house.
The parents turned to her. "What did you say?"
Mnguni asked.
Ziwinile walked closer, "she's working for
Mhlabunzima on his gardens. I heard from my
friend. She was asking me why Zinhloso was
working for Mhlabunzima while we weren't
working."
Mzomubi wanted to shut Ziwinile up with a slap.
She was running her mouth where she shouldn't,
"did you tell your friend I also work for
Mhlabunzima?"
"Mhlabunzima is your friend, you help him out
and what is she, to him?" Ziwinile looked at
Zinhloso. Nobuhle joined in, she stood next to
Mzomubi.
"Answer that question!" Mrs Mnguni forced the
mute Zinhloso to talk by slapping her across
her face, "why are you following Xulu's son?
You're working for him!" Her mother asked.
She glared at her father with a burning cheek.
These people were abusing her, "why am I still
here, baba? I am not wanted here and so, why
am I still here?" She didn't know whether she
was going to get an answer or another slap
sent.
"Stop asking nonsense, you're a child here!" Her
mother yelled.
Mnguni felt like he was an actor in a movie. He
was a clown in a children's program. Were
these things all happening under his nose? His
daughter was working for Mhlabunzima. The
son of a man he helped - he lifted Xulu up from
poverty and made him join his business. His
son was the boss of his daughter? He heard
from people, they couldn't close their mouths
about the production of potatoes in the boy's
gardens. Could Zinhloso be the reason?
"What job are you doing there?" Mnguni asked
after a long silence.
"Planting and harvesting potatoes, you can't tell
me that you're angry that I am actually working,"
Zinhloso didn't let the opportunity pass her by.
"Mhlabunzima helped me because I was
helpless. Where am I supposed to get money to
buy toiletries? When am I supposed to get
money to buy snacks at school? Where am I
supposed to get money to buy clothes and
school stationery?"
"Don't you have a boyfriend, huh? Why are you
slaving for other people, you are embarrassing
me!" He didn't know what he was supposed to
do with Xulu's son now. Everything linked back
to him. Was he really helping his daughter or he
was the boyfriend he'd been looking for. But it
can't be. This means this boy was playing
saviour to his daughter like he was trying to do
with almost everyone in the village.
"I don't have a boyfriend."
"You'll stop doing that nonsense job." He
warned her.
Nobuhle looked at her mom and she was only
staring at Zinhloso, "baba, what's wrong with
you? You've excluded Zinhloso from the
inheritance even after Mzomubi begged you not
to do that. You didn't listen and now, she's
trying to work for herself to earn money that
you no longer give her. You have a problem?"
Nobuhle's words were like a stab in the heart.
She was very heartbroken. She didn't know this
information, they surely kept it from her. She
looked at her father with contempt, "if you force
me to stop working I will tell grandma and the
whole family that you've been deliberately not
healing me. Please, stay out of my life because
you hate me, please!" She slammed the door
shut.
Mnguni staggered back as he lost balance. His
wife quickly held him, "baba, get ahold of
yourself. This child is speaking rubbish!"
It was blow after blow. He made a huge
mistake, he was not supposed to disown
Zinhloso like that. She was no longer closer to
him and a lot of things got messed up. Who told
her that he was not healing her deliberately? He
never told not even a soul.
"You need to calm down," Mrs Mnguni pulled
him away, maybe she wasn't supposed to tell
him. He was better not aware. She didn't
understand why he was so angry but maybe it
was because what he failed to do had been
done by someone else. She went to his house
with him.
"What?" Ziwinile shrugged at the evil eye that
Mzomubi was giving her.
"Upaqile! Talking about things that don't
concern you. What problem do you have if she's
working for Mhlabunzima? Do you also want to
work for him?" He raised his voice.
"Don't talk to me like that!" She didn't answer
him. Mzomubi shook his head and he left his
sisters.
"She's practically no longer part of the family.
Why are you so bothered by what she does? So,
what if she works for Mhlabunzima. Are you
going to give her the money Mhlabunzima gives
her if they force her to stop?" Nobuhle shouted
at Ziwinile. She was irritated by her. "She's loved
by dad, you hate her. She's hated by dad, you
also hate her. Ey, get a boyfriend and be busy
with your life, umdala kabi nje lokhu unakene
nengane. Tsk!" She walked away, she also didn't
like Zinhloso with Mhlabunzima when she
suspected they were dating but she didn't run to
her parents and told them she's been spending
time with him. She only threatened her. And
after this revelation, she was certain he was the
boyfriend.
She took her water bucket and went to her hut.
Zinhloso quickly wiped her tears as Nobuhle
walked inside the hut. Nobuhle apologized for
not knocking, "you said we'll go to the river," she
said, not sure whether it was the right time, "but
if you're not-"
"I will change," she stood up and changed into a
black floral dress.
Nobuhle cleared her throat, "is it true, what you
said to dad? About him not healing you?"
"I don't want to talk about it." She said and
remembered that she had to meet up with sis
Khosi. She had started sexual intercourse and
she told her to see her after. Her mind was just
still all over the place but she had to see her.
****
"Has your brother gone to the shop? He left
without eating?" Xulu asked his daughter sitting
down on the bench by the door inside the
kitchen.
"I don't know but I think he's still around and it
looks like he didn't eat last night," Ngenzeni
pointed at Mhlabunzima's plate.
He nodded, "yes, he decided to reject the food
because I told him I don't want his girlfriend
here and I don't want her to eat my food."
She was taken by surprise. So, it was true, really
true? "Did you also see them together?"
"Yes, Mnguni has been going up and down like a
fool. He's been looking for your brother," Xulu
didn't stop talking even when Mhlabunzima
walked inside the kitchen. He was dressed up
for leaving. "Your brother and his girlfriend
fooled a grown-up! Mannerless children!"
Ngenzeni glanced at her father, "but baba,
they're still dating and that means, they can't tell
parents about their relationship until they get
married."
"Your brother likes daughters of traditional
healers, even that girl he was beaten up for. She
was a daughter of a traditional healer," Xulu
said to his daughter, "I had to pay cows to that
man while I didn't send him to sleep with his
daughter. Now, it's Mnguni's daughter, another
boy took her innocence and he's busy running
after her. What will end all this is me telling her
father the truth."
Ngenzeni widened her eyes, "you can't do that!
Zinhloso is a nice girl and they make a great
couple with my brother, not Lily that girl was
two faced with that fake sweet voice." She
rolled her eyes.
"You know nothing about relationships and
good matches!"
Ngenzeni looked at her brother who was having
tea and pretending like he couldn't hear them,
"bhuti omncane, you did a good thing by helping
Zinhloso. I am sure you're the special person
she was talking about. Please, fight for her and
make her officially my sister in-law." She was
happy about this relationship. Her brother was
dating a decent girl, she may have scars from
how her family treated her but she was a decent
person. "I need someone I will go with to the
river."
"Not in these yards!" Xulu stood and placed the
cup down. He left.
"Don't mind dad, treat Zinhloso right. I am glad
it's not Lily."
"There was nothing wrong with Lily."
She widened her eyes again, "you're opening
your mouth for the first time and it's to defend
your ex? Would you say that if Zinhloso was
here?"
Mhlabunzima didn't answer her because he
knew he wouldn't say that. Defend another
woman in her presence.
"Ey, Simakade, I fear men for a reason. Eat and
go work, your future wife loves food."
She walked out with a basin and she was still
shocked that they were dating but she didn't
have a problem with it.

They sat under the tree on the chairs with

Robert. Mhlabunzima was visiting him in his
home. He wanted to talk to him, seriously.
"Why do you look stressed?* Robert asked
Mhlabunzima.
He rubbed his eyes furiously. He was stressed
out by his father telling him he didn't want
Zinhloso in his yards. Where was he supposed
to spend time with her? He didn't care about the
threat he made that he was going to tell Mnguni.
He looked at Robert and told him about his
father's threats, "what will I do?"
"You'll continue bringing her home. You don't
have another choice."
He shook his head, "when Xulu has said he
doesn't want something or someone in his yard,
it should be done like that. I don't want Zinhloso
to get sick over his words."
"This means it's the end of your relationship
then. Where are you going satisfy her needs?"
He looked at the glass on his hand. Robert
wasn't aware that sexual pleasure was a
yesterday thing. He assumed, without asking
that they'd long started it. He once brought a
bottle of sminorf to celebrate that he'd left the
gang that wasn't getting any. Mhlabunzima
didn't tell him he was also still that gang.
"I wish I had a place of my own but it's difficult
to find a plot for building a house if you're
unmarried," he said, sadly.
"If you can find a site to build a house. Would
you do it?"
"Without thinking it twice."
Robert nodded, "why don't you build in your
gardens' land?"
He widened his eyes, "that far from people
Robert? I can't do that because it won't be safe.
If I can possibly get something, it should be
within other people's homes. Not in an isolated
area."
"Okay, I am not promising you anything but I will
talk to my uncle from their village."
"But your mom's home is very far."
"No, my uncle moved to ematshane with his
wife."
"Oh, that's perfect! Not far." He smiled hopeful,
"I will hear from you and also I need a favour."
Robert listened to Mhlabunzima as he placed
his request, "really? Zinhloso can drive?" He
raised his voice surprised.
He laughed, "yes, I taught her. Angithi when I
teach you guys you don't take me serious."
"Ay, that's not serious driving then. You taught
her. How will she drive to town?"
"She has documents," he said and Robert
couldn't believe him.
Mhlabunzima taught her reading and writing
English, he was using the driving manual to
teach her. He was only focusing on the road
and driving English. Zinhloso went to write after
two months and she failed, she failed four
times until she got it right. She would cry to
Mhlabunzima, always when she failed.
Mhlabunzima once lied and told her that he
failed five times. On the third fail, he didn't know
what to say anymore and that was when he lied
to her. She didn't give up after being told lies.
On the fourth fail she came back and told him -
"at least I haven't reached the fifth fail like you.
Next try I am passing." And she really passed,
she enjoyed mocking him not knowing he
actually passed on the first try. He didn't tell her
the truth.
She was happy when she came back with the
learner driver document. And after, she was still
learning driving by a professional. When she
first went to book for a test, they thought she
was at the wrong door and they were shocked
that a woman - a young black woman wanted to
drive. Mhlabunzima was paying for all her
driving lessons. Kusakusa was slow but he was
better than Mzomubi. Mzomubi had stopped
learning all together. He was tired.
Robert laughed, "yey, Mhlabunzima you're going
to kill Mnguni!" He predicted and they laughed.
UMCEBO

Chapter 58
Zinhloso smiled and placed her head on Khosi's
head. "I wish I could sleep all day today," she
closed her eyes.
They were seated on Khosi's bed, after having
lunch at her granny's house Zinhloso went to
Khosi. She luckily found her inside her hut.
Khosi brushed her head, "what happened?"
"I finally allowed him into my glory this morning
and I have come to you as you said," she
looked up at her.
Khosi laughed, "you tried to keep him waiting,
half a year!"
"Some women do over that I was weak."
"No, you were not, silly!" She slapped her
forehead lightly, "now, get up I will give you
something."
Zinhloso got up and Khosi headed to her trunk.
She found what she was looking for and she sat
back next to Zinhloso. She took her hand and
placed a string of twenty-eight colour beads.
They were in line according to their colour.
"Do you know what this is?"
She shrugged, "these are beads."
"Not just any beads but these are your cycle
beads and they’re marked differently to help
you understand your menstrual cycle.” she
spotted a frown.
"I don't understand."
“You should know when it is safe to meet with
him and when it is not and these beads will help
you mark your safe days and also know when
you can conceive a child, those are unsafe
days," Khosi explained fully. "Being with him
during menstruation is unclean and taboo."
She awkwardly looked down, “oh, I understand
now.”
Khosi laughed, "normal menstruation takes
three to seven days," she showed her red seven
beads on the string and she explained
everything fully to her about the menstrual cycle.
She helped her understand how to mark her
beads.
“And the moon should also help guide you, let
you know when your period day is starting even
when you're pregnant the moon will tell you
when you'll give birth," Khosi shared, "let's say
you're pregnant and you normally went on your
periods when the moon was half, that will mean
you'll also give birth around that time - when the
moon is half."
Zinhloso smiled, "I understand everything Sisi
Khosi. Thank you so much." She held her hands
tightly, "I would have loved to keep them around
my waist but I don't want him thinking-"
Khosi laughed, "I kept mine around the waist
and they broke one night when my late husband
and I were busy."
Zinhloso cried from laughing, "no, I won't keep
them around my waist."
"Take care of yourself now, especially Zinhloso,
bathe more, always look fresh and smell fresh.
It's important," Khosi advised. She opened a bag
of snacks.
"Thank you." She said and Khosi proceeded
giving her women tips - how she was supposed
to behave and carry herself. How to treat him.
Zinhloso left late.

She left Khosi cooking. It was not dark yet and

so, she was walking freely on the road.
"I have been looking for you," Molepe appeared
before Zinhloso.
She almost bumped into him, "where are you
coming from?" She screamed.
"I was standing here and you didn't see me
because you're looking down not where you're
actually going," Molepe explained and pointed
the way. They walked together.
"I was looking at a short distance."
"Short like you're!" He teased her.
And Zinhloso laughed, "and you were at a long
distance, as long as you're."
"Do you know I am not that tall? You and I can
actually work!"
She didn't stop laughing, she couldn't imagine it,
"I don't think so." They heard a car hoot and
looked around. It was Mhlabunzima, he had
come out of his van. The car was at their short
right.
Zinhloso looked at Molepe, "I have to go."
He pointed at Mhlabunzima, "is he your guard?
He's always appearing where you're."
She laughed and said goodbye. "Where are you
coming from?" She asked as she took the
passenger seat. He was already inside the car.
"I am coming from making a delivery. I haven't
left yet and you're already walking with a man,
especially that one," he drove into the main road.
"Why are you making it sound like I call them to
come and talk to me?"
"I am not saying that but you should at least
scream at them," his comment made her laugh
her lungs out.
"Did I scream at you?"
"It's different," he glanced at her, "we're leaving
tomorrow and we'll come back on Sunday. I
spoke to Robert and he agreed."
"Alright, no problem. Leave me there I will walk
home," she pointed to her stop, "I love you and
please be safe."
"I love you too and please, take care." He
stopped the car and Zinhloso got off. What a
productive day! She learnt important things and
she was very pleased.
When she got home, Mzomubi was sweeping
inside the pharmacy. They had taken longer to
build it and it hadn't started working. She never
asked for reasons. She went to him.
"When will it start working kanti? I want to start
buying some medicine," Zinhloso asked.
Mzomubi chuckled, "dad had to fix some issues
with the ancestors concerning it and now, it
should start working tomorrow."
"And the lady who'll sell ishere?"
"She's coming today and-" Mzomubi stopped
working and looked up, "is this?" He pointed at
the lady that was walking straight to him.
"Mzomubi!"
He laughed, "Lily!" He shook hands with her. The
two were very happy to see each other again,
"what are you doing back here after so many
years?"
She smiled sweetly like her voice, "I am back
because dad has died. He's the one who didn't
want me in this village and now, I will be
working for your father. Don't you know?"
He widened his eyes, "it's you, kanti!"
"Yes, didn't your father tell you?"
"No, he only told me it's the daughter of the man
he initiated with," Mzomubi explained. "I am
happy to see you again and I am certain
Mhlabunzima will be happy to see you."
Only then Zinhloso looked at the girl attentively.
She had been busy looking inside the pharmacy,
everything was set.
Lily smiled shyly, "I don't know about that."
"But dad said you need the job because your
father died, you should look after the family as
the eldest and you also have a child now. When
did you have a child?"
She chuckled uncomfortably. "Yes, my daughter,
Zodumo, she's seven years old now. I also
returned with her."
Seven years? With Mhlabunzima, they dated
when Mhlabunzima was twenty-one years old
and now, she has a seven - ayi! Mzomubi
stopped himself from thinking too much, "that's
wonderful, continue inside I will be following
you."
She smiled at Zinhloso and greeted her.
Zinhloso greeted back and when she was gone
she looked at her brother, "is she
Mhlabunzima's relative?"
"No, she's his ex-girlfriend. They didn't really
breakup but parents broke them up and they
moved her to another village," Mzomubi
explained freely, "I am sure he'll be happy to see
her again. Let me go!"
Ex? Who was actually not an ex! Should she be
worried? She shut her eyes and headed inside
the premises.
"Your father was looking for you. He wants to
have a conversation with you," Mrs Mnguni said
walking out of the garden.
"There's a new girl home. I will see him later. I
am going home."
"Don't come back late. He called Xulu's son and
will have a conversation with you, both."
Zinhloso didn't say anything but she proceeded
inside her hut. She wasn't interested in that
conversation with him. Why did he call
Mhlabunzima? He was very annoying.
She wore a knitted blue jersey and she left,
heading to grandma's place to have her supper
and return to hell…
UMCEBO

Chapter 59

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

Mrs Mnguni called Mhlabunzima and ordered

potatoes but the main reason she was calling -
Mnguni wanted to have a word with him. And
Zinhloso. Mnguni also wanted him to drive Lily
back home because it was late.
Zinhloso sat on a two seater sofa inside the
living room. It was warm outside but her father
was covered with a blanket? Did her being
cured shocked him so much his body went
back to winter?
She observed her father as he held a
conversation with Lily, he seemed quite happy.
They were talking about plants. There was a
knock on the door. Zinhloso looked at the
opened door and her eyes locked with
Mhlabunzima. He smiled but she didn't smile
back, she only looked away. He was told to
come in.
And inside the living of his future father in-law,
he met the biggest shock of his life. He couldn't
really describe her as the bones of his past. But
she was part of his past - the very special part
that held a dear place in his heart for years until
he met Zinhloso. Nothing much had changed
with her, she was still the dark beauty with a
sweet smile. A smile that matched her voice.
The voice - besides her beauty, he was attracted
to her by that voice. After so many years! He
was seeing her again but seeing her inside his
girlfriend's home. What was happening? Lily
was also staring at him, she was taken by how
much he'd grown, how handsome he'd become.
How could she have forgotten him? It was
impossible.
"Xulu, I didn't call you here to stand in my house
and look at Lily. Sit down!" Mnguni shouted at
him and Mhlabunzima snapped out of it, "and I
didn't bring Lily back for you. You should stay
away from her. She's here to work for me."
Work for him? Oh! Mzomubi had spoken about
a lady that was coming to work for his father.
The traditional healer's daughter. "I am sorry,
baba." He looked for a space and the only
available space was the one next to Zinhloso.
"Don't sit next to my daughter. Find a chair for
him." Mnguni stopped Mhlabunzima from
sitting next to Zinhloso.
He remained standing as Ziwinile was going to
get a chair. Inside he was saying - if only you
knew how close your daughter and I get. When
he turned to Zinhloso before her father could
talk, he tried smiling at her but she didn't smile
back. Her face didn't even soften up. This
confused him.
"My dear child, go and find Nobuhle, spend
some time with her. I have something to
discuss with Xulu." He spoke softly with Lily and
she stood up and left.
The softness vanished from his face as he
looked at Mhlabunzima, "do you want us to hate
each other? Do you want us to be sworn
enemies?" He asked.
"No!"
"What do you want from my daughter?"
Mhlabunzima looked at Zinhloso. She had a
nervous look and this made him question this
meeting. Was it about something else or
Mnguni knew about their relationship? "I don't
understand, what are you talking about, baba?"
Mnguni asked Ziwinile to tell Mhlabunzima
what her friend asked and she did, once she'd
done that - her father told her to leave. The
parents were left with the two.
He was relieved he didn't jump into conclusion,
"Zinhloso came knocking at my door asking for
help and I simply gave her help by offering her a
job."
"A job, my foot! Why didn't you come to me and
ask what was going on?"
"I asked Mzomubi and he told me what
happened, that's why I hired her."
Mrs Mnguni clapped once, "is Mzomubi her
father?"
"No, he's obviously not." He answered politely.
"But he was the easiest person I had access to."
Mnguni was certain that if he had a gun, he was
going to shoot Mhlabunzima and bear the
consequences, "listen here then my boy. You'll
fire her from that job."
"Why? Are you going to continue looking after
her?" Mhlabunzima asked, unfazed.
He chuckled, "that's none of your business. I will
not have a child that will slave for other people
and make them double profits. Focus on your
staff!"
'make them double profits?' Mhlabunzima
noted this but the mother and daughter didn't
seem to have noticed. What did this mean?
Zinhloso had really made more money for him.
He can conclude it as double profits as her
father had said. Was it just her business mind
or there was more to it? "I will fire her if you
continue taking care of her as a father."
"Why is that any of your concern?" Mrs Mnguni
asked.
But Zinhloso spoke up, "I am not going to stop
working because I love my job and I love the
money I am making. You've seen me suffer for
a very long time and you did nothing, you still
want me to continue suffering. I won't let you
control my life like this. I don't know the
reasons you have but I am tired of your abuse,"
she said to her father with a polite voice. She
wasn't looking him straight in the eye, "and it
seems you didn't take my words seriously or
you want grandmother and the whole family to
know what you did?"
"Zinhloso, I am your father and I have every right
to tell you what to do."
"Not after you spent five years looking at me
being oppressed and bullied. If you keep
pushing that I should stop my job, you'll find
that hut empty one day I am telling you," she
had lost most of her respect for him. The love
and care, it was no longer there. And honestly,
there was no reason for her to continue staying
under his roof but she didn't want to leave on
her own accord. She'd been hoping he would
chase her out but he never did.
"Stop abusing Mhlabunzima like he did
something wrong. I asked for help and he
helped me because he has a heart. I have
school tomorrow, I should do my school work,"
she stood up and her father seemed to be a
statue. He couldn't believe she spoke like that
with him.
"I will leave now, baba, thank you."
Mnguni swallowed hard. He was cornered and it
seemed he had to let her work because he
didn't want his mother knowing the truth. His
mother had begged him to find the cure for the
child, to look harder but Mnguni lied to her. He
pretended he did and reached a dead end. If his
mother could find out the truth, the truth would
kill her and he didn't want that. He didn't want
anyone to know the truth. Zinhloso might have
consulted a traditional healer and learnt the
truth but it seemed she didn't know the truth
about her birth.
"Xulu, it's late now. Please drive Lily home. I
don't want her to encounter any problems on
the way," Mnguni requested.
Mhlabunzima looked at Zinhloso as she walked
to the door and he noticed her body stiffening.
Why? Did they tell her Lily was his ex? "Yebo,
baba."
"I am not saying to rekindle your love."
"No, I have someone in my life now." He said
but his eyes were looking sideways. Zinhloso
walked out.
"Good, take her from Nobuhle."
Mhlabunzima hurried out, "why are you not even
smiling at me?" He caught up with her. She was
heading to her hut.
"I should smile even when there's nothing to
smile about."
"Okay, she's my ex but that doesn't mean I will
get back together with her. I love you." He
quickly explained, his eyes looking around and
there was no one in the yard.
"I know that you love me. It's just her that I don't
know whether you still love her or not." She
looked at him and there were no words coming
out of his mouth. She walked away when she
heard the door of her sisters' house open.
"Nobuhle, hello, can you call Lily for me. Your
father asked that I drive her home," he
requested. Nobuhle had closed the door and it
seemed she was heading to the main house.
She looked at him and back at the house, "I
hope that you won't hurt my sister now that
your ex is back." She said and walked away
because she knew he wasn't going to admit
anything. He was only going to deny it and that
was not what she wanted. She only wanted him
to get the message.
Mhlabunzima went to the car after taking a look
at Zinhloso's hut. He wished he could be with
her tonight and assure her that there was only
her but it was impossible.
He took the driver's seat and waited nervously,
the question of loving Lily. If he was being
honest with himself, he still had love for her.
Their relationship didn't end the right way but he
wasn't going to pursue it and rekindle it. It
ended,that way that it ended - it didn't matter
now but it ended.
Lily took the passenger seat and greeted
Mhlabunzima again, "I wasn't expecting to see
you so soon."
He drove out of the premises, "when were you
expecting to see me?"
"Maybe after days, weeks or even a month."
"You were going to see me earlier. I am popular
around here and I move around very often," he
said and glanced at her. He didn't know if she
was smiling because she was happy -
"I am really happy to see you again after so
many years."
She took him out of the wonder. She was happy!
Was he happy? Why would he be happy? He had
a woman in his life. "Oh!"
"Aren't you happy to see me?"
"I am glad that you're alive and you seem well. I
am sorry about your father's passing."
Her face changed, "I am not sorry, my father is
the reason we couldn't be together. He forced
me into the corner and I couldn't even-"
"You're the reason we couldn't be together. If
you had intentions of being with me. You were
going to do whatever it took!" He shouted
angrily at what she was saying. Zinhloso had
intentions of being with him and nothing
stopped her from being with him. Not even
being starved by her father.
"You don't understand Mhlabunzima. It wasn't
easy and I had to go," she was hurt by what he
was saying. He didn't know anything. As an 18
year old, she was going to be highly judged in
the village for being pregnant. Her father didn't
even want the Xulu family to know. He shipped
her off easily. She had no choice but to live
under that shell.
"Don't bribe me with tears." He said curtly and
Lily wiped her tears.
"When are you going to be available? My mother
wanted to come to your father. There's
something they need to discuss." She asked,
once she was calm.
He frowned. "Discuss what?"
"My mom said she'll be the one to explain
everything."
He had no idea what that was and he didn't
want to keep pushing, "I have a trip that I am
taking. I will come back on Monday. So, I think
Tuesday, during the day. I will be home and I will
tell my father to be home."
"Alright, your brother can also come."
He stopped the car before the gate, "okay, bye."
"Bye."
Mhlabunzima drove back home and he was
thinking about Zinhloso all the way. He hated
that he was leaving.
****
"I am begging you not to kill us," Robert said,
fastening the seat belt. It was Saturday and
they were driving to town with Zinhloso. The
van was full of potatoes. She had called her
ancestors before leaving, telling them she
wanted to come back with an empty car and
she wanted to come back safe.
Zinhloso laughed, "trust me!" She started the
car and drove off the premises. She was not
driving at high speed.
"So, your comrade's ex-girlfriend came back,"
Zinhloso glanced at Robert. She didn't like the
silence and maybe this was the time for her to
learn more information about her.
"Yes, I saw her."
"Why did they break up?" She asked, she wanted
to know whether Robert had different
information or it was the same.
He looked at her, "isn't this the question you
should ask him?"
"No, I want to ask you. I heard she has a seven
years old daughter. How old was Mhlabunzima
when they dated?"
Robert was surprised Zinhloso could talk like
this. She was straightforward and had a serious
face, not a shy face. "I am really not
comfortable-"
"You'll just tell me his age and nothing more."
She pressed.
"He was twenty-one years old."
She oddly felt pain in her heart. He already had
a child, "so, he already has a child."
"You can't know for sure that it's his child."
"I am sure it's his child. The child is seven years
old."
"Yes, but she might have moved on."
"Not that fast, women aren't like you man."
"Okay, even if there's a possibility of that being
true. It changes nothing, the two of you are
together now. He won't betray you. I know him,"
Robert tried to get her off her misery and give
her hope but she wasn't convinced. She only
kept quiet.
They found a good spot to park the car and
Robert loaded off three sacks.
"Manje, how does this selling thing work?"
Robert asked, "I know nothing about it. It's you
and your future husband who have knowledge.
And you really make a good team." He tried his
best to hype up his friend. He didn't want her to
have cold feet. He'd seen the woman was good
for him - best match for him. She had the same
ambitions Mhlabunzima had.
She smiled shyly, "sit back and watch ke." She
stood aside and she called out people, "you
can't enjoy your stew without a good patato.
Come and have a look at our patotoes, they're
fresh from the garden. So, smooth you can even
have them alone." She sold the potatoes and it
didn't take long for people to come by. She
winked back at Robert. He laughed.
They started selling the sacks. Zinhloso had
opened one sack for display. People were
praising and buying. She was very happy.
"Is it necessary to ask them what stew they like
the best?" Robert asked.
She was standing next to him taking a break
from shouting. "Yes, people like talking about
things they like, especially old people."
"You're really good. If I had camera I was going
to take a clip for your man. He doesn't shout out
like this. He only stands and people come for
themselves," he shared, "we once came with
him to a different market than this one and we
took almost the whole day to sell everything.
Look at you, almost half is sold within three
hours."
She laughed, "uMhlabunzima ubuye azitshele.
Phela afun' ukubukwa izintombi," she said and
they laughed with Robert. When she raised her
eyes, she saw Mhlabunzima's father, "Robert, I
am wearing pants. I will hide!" She whispered
like he was going to hear her. She quickly
slipped away.
Xulu stood before Robert, "did I see your friend's
girlfriend or it was a different lady?" He asked
after greeting him.
"It was her, baba."
"Who drove the two of you, here? Do you know
your friend didn't tell me he'll leave his car with
you?"
Robert cleared his throat, "it's her, who drove
the car."
He raised an eyebrow, "her?"
"Yes, Mhlabunzima taught her how to drive." He
was in a very awakward position but he didn't
want to lie to him. He didn't know how to lie to
him.
Xulu laughed, "my son is really playing with fire
but at least she's taking her boyfriend's
business forward. Tell her to buy me cold drink
with the money she made and she must bring it
to me. She mustn't enter my yards wearing
pants."
"Yebo, baba, I will tell her." Robert knew he was
going to scare off Zinhloso because
Mhlabunzima wasn't around.
She sighed and stood next to him, "did he say
something?"
"Yes, he said buy him cold drink with the money
you made and bring it to him but don't wear
pants," Robert passed the message.
She laughed, "you're pulling my leg."
"I am serious!"
She held her chest, "what does he like? I am
sure he's calling me to tell me to stay away
from his son."
"How do you know?"
"I can feel it. I saw how he was looking at me
when dad took me to his home. What should I
buy him?" She asked again.
"He likes pork and opposite to his son, he likes
sweet things." He informed her and Zinhloso
regreted coming to town. If she didn't, she
wasn't going to see him.
UMCEBO

Chapter 60

She was dressed in a pink floral waist shirt

dress but she didn't put the belt on her waist.
And on her head, she had her short hair, no
head wrap - nothing.
She had a plastic bag on her hand, she was
nervous as she walked through the gates. What
was he going to say to her? She wished
Mhlabunzima was around but it would still be
days before he returned. She terribly missed
him.
"Even his dog knows you now," Xulu
commented as Mhlabunzima's dog jumped
around Zinhloso.
She was used to the dog. Mhlabunzima once
told her he didn't lock the dog up; he wanted her
to get used to it. Zinhloso flatly told him she
was going back home but he forced her inside.
From then, she got used to the dog. She didn't
comment about the dog but she greeted
Mnguni.
"Let's go inside," he opened the door to his
house. He was seated outside the house eating
peanuts.
She placed the grocery bag on the table, "I
brought the cold drink."
Xulu grabbed the bag and took a look inside.
His mouth salivated and he smiled at the food,
just his favourites. Robert must have told her if
she didn't hear from Mhlabunzima when they
were bonding over their names.
"Thank you. My daughter will prepare the meat
for me," he tied a knot on the plastic bag and he
focused on Zinhloso, "we need to talk and I
need you to listen to me as a father, a
concerned father."
This was going exactly where she suspected,
"yes, I am listening."
"I don't have a problem with you. You're a
decent child but as a father, I am worried about
my son," Xulu introduced the matter to Zinhloso,
"this relationship the two of you have, it's
putting my son's life in danger. Your father
doesn't want a boy like Mhlabunzima for you
and your sisters. Mhlabunzima is a political
man and he can never accept him,
"He can do anything to ensure the two of you
don't end up together. I can't lose my son to a
relationship. Mhlabunzima is my heir and
without him I don't have the brightest hope for
the future. He should be happy, have a wife and
children, with no father in-law that will make his
life difficult."
She kept moving her eyes around to conceal the
tears. What he mentioned was everything she
wasn't.
"I understand baba. I have also tried to fight him
but nothing stopped him, not even my disorder
that chased people away from me," she shared
and kept quiet for a while. She was feeling
immense pain in her heart, "your son loved me
back to life, he loved me even when my own
father didn't love me. He was patient with me,
he showed me the greatest love, the one I have
never experienced in my life. I am happy and
whole with him but I understand that no parent
would want me for their child. I am used to it all,
the hate -"
"It's not like that. I didn't say I hate you."
"I love Mhlabunzima and I can't hurt him by
ending things with him. I also understand your
concerns as a father. If Mhlabunzima can be
the one to end things with me, I won't fight him.
I will leave him."
"My son won't do that."
"You can convince him using his ex-girlfriend.
Tell him to fix things with her and he'll not have
such a father in-law."
"Who's that girl?"
"Lily, his ex. If he chooses to go back to her I
won't fight but I will leave him "
Xulu's face changed. There was a hint of light
and excitement and that forced the tears out of
her eyes. Zinhloso looked at her lap without
raising her head, "oh, Lily. How can I forget her?
I will tell Mhlabunzima about it."
She forced a smile and stood up, "I should go.
Usale kahle." She walked out nervous. She
didn't know whether she would further hurt
herself by doing this or it'll free her. But it
should free her, she would know where
Mhlabunzima stood. With her or the ex. She
was very nervous that she had to wait for days
until his return. She'll be in suspense and she
didn't want that but she had no choice.
Xulu looked at her as she left, crying. He could
see that she loved his son but he was only
trying to protect his heir. He was hoping
Mhlabunzima would listen to him and fix things
with Lily. Her father was gone and her mother
wasn't going to be a problem.

It'd been two days since she had a conversation

with Xulu and she couldn't get it off her mind. If
Mhlabunzima was to be stubborn and not want
to end things with her, she wasn't going to let
anyone come between them.
She passed by the shop after school, "Ntokozo,
what do you need here?" She looked around the
shop. They hadn't bought stock since
Mhlabunzima left. He bought everything before
he left.
"We have run out of russians and other
essential things but not all," he answered. "I was
going to write a letter to you and inform you."
"Okay, please compile a list. I will sweep the
office and check on the chickens."
"Oh, yes and chicken feed is needed. I will write
everything down."
She entered through the burglar guard and
headed to the office. She quickly cleaned
around. She was planning on passing by but
mostly she didn't want to come home early and
talk to her father. He'd been trying to have a
conversation with her and Zinhloso was
avoiding him.
She moped the floor after using the feather
dust to dust up. She locked up and walked out
through the back door. Everything was going
well and by the time she was done, Ntokozo
had a list.
"I will drive to town tomorrow after school and
buy everything, goodbye," she left.
When she arrived home, her eyes were set on
her father and Lily. She hated that
Mhlabunzima's ex-girlfriend was working for her
father. So close to her. She was going to hate it
more if Mhlabunzima were to choose her.
She was busy washing her father's herbs and
her father was talking to her, laughing and
smiling - just like it was with her. They were
invested in the conversation, they couldn't even
hear her greet.
Zinhloso proceeded inside her hut. After
changing, she went out and looked for Nobuhle.
They walked to the gates with buckets of water.
"It seems your father is trying to close the gap
you left in his heart using her," Nobuhle said as
they walked out of the premises with their water
buckets.
"Oh, yes, you're right. I hope she doesn't take my
place in all of them. She can take it to dad," her
voice came out low and Nobuhle understood
what she was talking about.
"I hope so too," she also didn't want that to
happen because it was going to hurt Zinhloso.
She seemed very happy and different the past
months. She even learnt chores and looked
after herself better.
"Next month you'll be done with school. How do
you feel?" Zinhloso asked, trying to change the
mood. She smiled.
"I am very happy. If I didn't have Sbusiso I would
have long finished school," she smiled and
looked at Zinhloso with a serious face, "in
everything you do, please don't get pregnant
because you'll not go to school while pregnant
it's not allowed. You'll also have to stay with a
child for a whole year because the child will be
too little that you can leave them with someone.
You'll be left behind. Do you understand?"
She smiled uncomfortably, "yes, I understand,"
she changed the topic quickly and they spoke
about Nobuhle leaving for the city. Nobuhle was
excited about it…
UMCEBO

Chapter 61
***Chapter sponsored by N.L***

Mhlabunzima was driving into the village.

They'd been gone for a very long time and
finally, they were back home. Where they
belonged. Mzomubi had his first visit to the city
of gold with Mhlabunzima and Mhlabunzima
was grateful that his friend came along with
him. His brother was right by suggesting that he
brought him along because Mzomubi didn't
leave his sight and this kept Mrs Bekker away
from him. The grown woman kept giving him
stares and Mzomubi held himself from insulting
her. He was very disgusted by her.
"I think I like rural life best. The city life is very
busy and I swear my head almost exploded,"
Mzomubi shared with his friend. The rural air
pleased him. There was a huge difference.
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "you like this life
because you're living a comfortable life but if
you're poor like the others you wouldn't have
liked it."
"Yes, maybe I would have been in the city too
trying to make a living."
"Yes," Mhlabunzima was stressed out by the
next order. It was very easy but the problem
was the person who had what the bosses
wanted. He didn't know how his father and
brother were going to take this, along with his
sister. "Should I drive you home? I want to pass
by the shop."
"Yes, please drive me home. I am tired and I
don't even know how you manage this alone.
Such a long drive." Mzomubi yawned.
"I have gotten used to it." He took the road to
Mnguni homestead. He was hoping to see at
least a glimpse of his girlfriend. It was after
4pm and she was supposed to be home. He'd
gone so long without seeing her face.
"Are you happy that Lily is back?" Mzomubi was
reminded of Lily as they drove to his home. "I
am very happy for you."
He glanced at him, "why should I be happy? And
why are you happy for me?"
"This means you'll stop being single and have a
girlfriend like everyone else," he said and he
laughed.
"I won't go back to Lily. Our relationship ended
and why should I go back there?"
Mzomubi was surprised, "come on, this is your
chance to start your own family as you wish.
There's nobody that will stop you and I know
that you still love her."
"Somebody that will stop me, is myself
Mzomubi," he pointed at his chest and looked at
him as he drove through the already opened
gate, "but I am not saying you should take her
just because I won't go back to her. None of my
friends should have her. I don't mind other
men."
Mzomubi laughed his lungs out and opened the
door, "don't worry I won't take your girl. I am
sure no one will touch her in the village because
they know she's yours."
"She's not mine, stop saying that." he slapped
the back of his head as he was helping him
offload his bag and the groceries he bought for
his family. He was pleased that Mzomubi even
bought things for Zinhloso because she didn't
eat with them. He didn't tell him she also
bought things for her.
"I want to buy her a small fridge because cold
things will rot. She loves food but can't eat
everything at once," Mzomubi said and looked
back at Zinhloso's hut. It was closed, "it seems
she's not home. I will keep her things in my hut."
He was pleased to hear that, "tell me once
you're ready to buy her a fridge I will go with you
to town."
"Who do you think I was going to ask to deliver
it?" He asked and they laughed. Mhlabunzima
helped him transport the bags. Lily came by and
greeted them with a smile, she also helped
them.
"How was your trip?" She asked when
Mhlabunzima was heading back to the car and
she was heading back to the pharmacy.
"It was good. I will tell my father about Tuesday.
Please come and don't make me stop doing my
things for nothing," he said.
"I heard about everything that you've achieved in
the village and I am really proud of you." She
was genuinely happy for him when she heard
about it. Most people spoke about him to her
because they thought they would get back
together. She was hoping for that too but she
didn't know if it was possible. Or maybe she
needed to be patient.
"Thanks, I should go," he quickly stepped inside
the car and drove out of the premises, "I wonder
where she is. I hate my father for what he did to
me. So, now I will be sleeping alone until I figure
out a plan? Tsk!"
He smiled like a child seeing his mother when
he saw his van parked before the tuckshop. His
van being parked here meant she was inside.
There was no else who could drive it.
She was busy helping Ntokozo pack the stock.
They were talking and they couldn't notice he
was inside the shop.
"Abakithi ave bengithanda," (my ancestors love
me) He said, opening the burglar guard.
Zinhloso quickly turned at the sound of his
voice. She shyly looked at Ntokozo and around
the empty shop before dropping bag of snacks.
She ran up to him and she threw her small body
into his body.
"You'll make Ntokozo jealous," he laughed,
making Ntokozo laugh and without putting her
down. He walked with her to his office.
"Were you in town?" He asked putting her down
inside the office.
She smiled, "yes, I had to buy stock."
"Ngingayini kodwa ngaphandle kwakho," (what
would I be without you?) He held her giggling
face and he loved her into a brief kiss. "I
brought along some fried chicken from town it's
in the car. I was hoping I will see you. Let's eat,
give some to Ntokozo and he can go home
once he's done eating."
"Alright, go and get it then I will wait for you
here. I like it when you serve me." Her smile
reached to her ears. It pleased Mhlabunzima.
"Whatever you want!" He headed out, he was
happy that his ex being back was not an issue
between them. He thought it would shake up
their relationship because Zinhloso had started
giving him cold looks.
They sat together and enjoyed the food,
Zinhloso was asking him questions about the
city. He was answering them all and even
exaggerating some things to make her laugh.
He was very pleased to be back home. It was
also good for Zinhloso to have him back. She
had forgotten about what she told his father. It
didn't cross her mind and ruin the moment with
him.
"Ntokozo is gone," she said wiping her wet
hands on her dress. She was coming from the
toilet.
He had cleared the table and left nothing on top,
"that's good. Come here," he didn't know if he
was going to be able to make excuses to
Zinhloso when she wanted to come for a
sleepover. He wasn't even sure how long it was
going to take him to find a place to have his
own space.
She stood before him. Mhlabunzima was
leaning on his back on the table, "why did you
close the shop so early?" She asked circling her
hands around his waist.
"I wanted to give him a break and also to give
you a break, go home and rest." He said and
kissed her cheek. "I am also tired I want to rest."
"Don't you want to rest next to me?"
He smiled - there it went! "Not tonight," and
before she could ask 'when?' he attacked her
with a kiss. His body heat up within seconds of
the kiss. He didn't know if this was going to end
where he wanted it to end. He was hoping she
won't ruin it.
He undid the buttons of a long black shirt she
was wearing with long high wasted blue jeans.
Zinhloso didn't stop him and this gave him
more excitement until he entirely removed the
shirt. She had black topskin underneath.
"What are you doing? We're not inside the
bedroom," she showed him around.
He smirked, "yes, I can see and it's not a must
that we should be inside the bedroom."
"So, you're going to put me on this cold floor?"
She asked, she wasn't feeling good about this.
"No, trust me and don't ask a lot of questions,"
he lifted her up and placed her on the table, at
the length. Her butts were almost at the edge.
She looked at him as he undressed her. She
wasn't worried about anything because she was
still on her safe period. There wasn't going to be
any baby. He already had a child - what was he
going to do with another baby? And her, she
couldn't afford to have a baby. Her mind
returned to the room as his heated up skin
lingered on hers.
He kissed her again and his hand softly
massaged her nipples. She wrapped her legs
around his bare waist.
"Uzongiphinda yini?" (Are you going to do it
again?) She asked in a whispering tone.
His heart was pumping blood at a higher speed
and he was ready for her, "not today, my mouth
has chillies that I was eating. I don't want you to
run around like a crazy woman."
She giggled and sucked in air as he entered into
her glory. "Oh, my God!"
"Ngiyazithanda izandla zakho emzimbeni
wami," (I like your hands on my skin) he
directed as Zinhloso had stopped holding him
but she was holding onto the table. He was
thrusting slowly, enjoying the view of her face.
The face of pleasure, that looked like it was
mixed with pain but the short smiles ensured
him there wasn't any pain.
She hung her arms on his shoulders and her
hands caressed down to his back. Back up to
his neck, she rubbed him softly. She was on
cloud nine.
"Ungithinta kamnandi!" He held her waist tightly
and he fully enjoyed himself, driving into her
without limits. When her walls tightened around
him, he let out a deep groan but he didn't stop
until he had also reached his climax.
He supported his elbows on her sides and he
kissed her again, "I am happy to see you again. I
have missed you a lot."
"But you want to sleep alone," she said and
pushed him softly.
He looked at her as she was searching for her
clothes, "it's not like-"
"I am not complaining. I want to go home now,"
she finished dressing up. "What will happen to
the cars?"
He'd only worn his pants and was looking at her
every move. She didn't look happy and knew it
was the issue of sleepover.
"I will drive the other and you'll drive also. I will
take the private car inside and drive you home
using the van," he finished up and took both
keys.
"Okay," she walked out after taking the van keys
and he followed after her. It was already dark
outside, "I am not writing tomorrow and so I
was planning on planting green peppers on the
available space. I will leave early before the sun
comes up."
Zinhloso learnt all the gardening work from her
paternal grandmother.
"We'll go together then, you'll leave at what
time?"
"If you'll go with me why don't I sleep with you
and we'll wake up together? It's no longer winter
and the light shows up early." She stopped
before the car and looked at him. She could see
he had no answer to her question. He just didn't
want her to sleep next to him but why wasn't he
saying that straightforwardly? "You'll find the
car before the gate then."
He swore at the space as she started the car
before he could try and figure out, what to say
to her. Mhlabunzima drove behind her but she
was driving fast.
He was very hurt by all this and it was still early,
already she was angry at him. He didn't want
her to feel like he was stopping her from
coming to his house deliberately. But as old as
he was, he was still under his father.
He parked the the car behind the van, he got off
and Zinhloso was no longer inside the car, "tsk!"
He stepped inside and drove in. He couldn't
even give her the plastic bag of things he
wanted to give her, what he bought for her. He
also couldn't get the time she would leave for
the gardens.
"Mhlabunzima, your shop is more important
than your family now. Mnguni called hours back
telling me that his son was back and what he
told him about the trip but you were not home,"
Xulu complained as Mhlabunzima sat down
after greeting them inside the kitchen.
"I am sorry, baba I just wanted to check things
there and come home." He said.
Ngenzeni wasn't even angry that he was home
late she was busy checking out things he
brought with him from the city.
"Let's eat now because you're back. Baba, calm
down Mhlabunzima is a business man and
maybe he wanted to see his girlfriend first," she
said, she saw Zinhloso parking the car before
the gate nd leaving. She couldn't talk with her
because she quickly left and Xulu was close by,
inside the kitchen. She didn't want her father to
cause drama.
"I think it's very cool that she can drive now.
You're a good boyfriend. I hope you won't let
Lily's return distract you." Ngenzeni said,
serving her father and brother, "I also cooked
your favourite meal."
He chuckled, "thank you," it was really a big
thing that he got a compliment from Ngenzeni.
She said he was a good boyfriend.
They had supper while Mhlabunzima was telling
them about the trip.
After dinner, Xulu asked Mhlabunzima to
remian behind.
"I heard Lily returned. What do you think about
that?" He asked and smiled.
He avoided eye contact, "that doesn't affect me.
I have a girlfriend."
"Mhlabunzima, Lily is back and you should fix
things with her. You took her virginity and we
already paid those cows," Xulu stated his points,
"we can simply send the difference on top of
those cows and that will be full bride price. But
you can start by fixing things with her."
"Can you fix things with my mother if she can
come back?" He asked.
Xulu was taken by surprise, "this is not about
me and Lily didn't hurt you."
"She did. She left and never looked back."
"She listened to her father like a good obedient
child unlike your girlfriend who's still coming
back to you even after her father told her to
stop," Xulu raised his voice out of anger. He
thought this was going to be easy. "Why do you
want someone who can't listen to her parents?"
"We're the same because I am also not listening
to you. I don't want to talk about my love life
anymore, dad." He gave him a serious face.
Xulu shook his head, "do you know that I called
your girlfriend here and she was the one who
told me Lily was back?" He asked and he could
see Mhlabunzima was taken by surprise, "she
told me I should convince you to choose
between her and Lily. If you choose Lily she will
leave you."
That felt like a punch on the face for
Mhlabunzima, "that's a lie."
"I am not lying, ask her."
He stood up with itchy armpits. His blood was
boiling, "Lily said her mother asked to meet with
you and Kusakusa tomorrow after 1pm. Are you
going somewhere?"
"No, I will be here. You should call your brother."
He could see Mhlabunzima was angry and
maybe this was going to help end their
relationship.
"I will call him, goodnight." He walked out of the
kitchen heading to his house. Morning was very
far, he wanted to confront her already but he
had to wait.
UMCEBO

Chapter 62

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous**

He was driving the van on the main road, slowly.

He really didn't know whether she had gone to
the gardens or she was still back home. His
plans had not been going to the gardens and he
thought after the harvesting season ended, the
space would have no vegetables. But Zinhloso
seemed to have knowledge that they shouldn't
leave the space empty. He felt like Zinhloso
was a perfect piece that fitted well in his life. If
his family didn't see that, he really didn't care.
"Get in," he stopped the car closer to her. She
was walking alone on the road. It was no longer
dark at 5am.
Zinhloso was eating oranges on the way, the
hoe was in the gardens - hidden. She didn't like
carrying it up and down. She greeted him and
Mhlabunzima drove off.
"I honestly don't know why you like acting like a
child sometimes. We're grown-ups and grown-
ups don't behave the way you do even when
they're angry."
She glanced at him, "do grown-ups also don't
greet back when someone is greeting?"
He'd never dated a woman who chatted back at
him when in an argument. He'd dated women
who waited for him to finish talking if he was
talking because he was a man to them. But not
Zinhloso, she would even cut him off and as if
that was not enough she was cheeky
sometimes.
"I am trying-"
"Mhlabunzima, bengingalele nawe izolo. Why
can't you greet me?"
He exhaled, "sawubona, Zinhloso." He greeted -
oh! He liked her better when she was happy and
normal. He didn't want to hurt her feelings but if
it was going to go on and on, he was going to
have to tell her the truth. How she would handle
it would be on her. She'd had enough rejection
and telling her, his father didn't want her inside
his yards would have a bad effect on their
relationship. She would think of the future - was
she going to be accepted as a wife? She would
make conclusions that their relationship was
never to reach a level of marriage if she was not
wanted.
"Yebo, sawubona unjani?"
"I am not fine and how are you?" He took the
road to the fields.
"I am okay, what's wrong?"
"Yesterday, why did you just leave Zinhloso?
What's wrong with you?" He asked. He wanted
to address this first.
She looked ahead, "I was supposed to stay
before the gates?"
"We weren't done talking. I hate it when you just
leave while you're upset. You're leaving room
for negativity and other people to easily come
by," he grumbled, "you were upset and you just
left without telling me the reason. How was I
supposed to know?"
"Was I supposed to be happy while you were
rejecting me? After how long we have not seen
each other?" She looked at him, "you didn't even
give me valid reason."
"I am sorry but I thought you'll understand that I
am tired."
"How tired because you were able to have sex
with me standing on your feet?" She widened
her eyes at him and he was out of words. She
was very argumentative. He would lose words
after her argument.
"I have reasons why I didn't want you to come
but I can't state them because I don't want to
hurt your feelings-"
"Is your ex-girlfriend a reason? She was there
and that's why I wasn't welcomed?"
"Zinhloso!" He scoffed and clicked his tongue
before parking the car under the tree. They'd
arrived at their destination.
"I have every right to know."
"After you've told my father I should be given a
choice? Whether I am choosing you or her? Did
you ever hear me saying I want her back?" He
asked the heated question and he didn't get an
answer. "I have never even spoken about her
because she's my past. Why did you do that?"
"Am I not going to get an answer?"
"Your father begged me to break up with you!"
"And your best answer was to actually tell him
that I must be given a choice?" He couldn't
understand why she saw that as an easy way
out. "You didn't have a yes or no, you gave him
that nonsense idea?"
He waited for a response and he didn't get it,
"she suddenly can't talk," he opened the door
and got off. Zinhloso followed him. She waited
for him to bring the hoes. And they started
working. The seedlings she bought were
already in the car. Mhlabunzima brought
everything out and they started working.
She was having an internal argument. She
couldn't see any reason for his anger. She gave
out this opinion to get his father off her back
and to actually know where she stood with him.
He couldn't answer her when she asked if he
still loved her and yet he was angry at her
suggestion to his father. He was crazy!
After an hour and half, they'd planted all the
seedlings. It was an easy process because the
soil was already prepared.
They sat under the tree on the straw mat that
was always kept behind the seats of his car.
Mhlabunzima brought food along and the
plastic bag of goodies he bought for her.
"Last night, I was supposed to give you the
plastic bag of stuff I bought for you but you
carried your hot head and left," Mhlabunzima
said, taking a bite of the sweet potato.
"Thank you. Mzomubi also bought a lot of nice
things for me. Did you tell him to buy those
things?" She asked, drinking the cold squash.
"No, I didn't."
She didn't say anything further, they focused on
eating. They weren't talking but eating. She was
very confused by him. What did he expect her to
say?
"So, what was I supposed to say to your father?
Do you even understand how heartbroken I was
when he told me to stay away from you? I told
him I can't break up with you because I love you
but if you can be the one to do it I won't fight.
What was I supposed to say?" She asked.
He looked ahead. He never thought his father
could do something like this? Why didn't he call
her when he was around? "You were supposed
to tell him yes or no."
"And become an insensitive girlfriend who
doesn't care about your life? He said he fears
for your life." She added and Mhlabunzima
remained quiet, "you didn't even ask what
happened but you decided to shout for not even
half the story."
Maybe he really went about it the wrong way.
He looked at her and she was having a packet
of chips alone, "come here."
She ignored him for a minute and she got up,
she sat in between his legs.
"I didn't handle the issue the right way. I was
just hurt by your suggestion," he rubbed her
earlobe softly, "and I don't have to choose
because there's you in my life. What should I
choose?"
She smiled and placed her head on his chest, "I
am sorry about last night but you should tell me
reasons if you don't want me to get or create
my own theories."
"The night you slept at home my father saw us
and he said he doesn't want you in his yards. I
should stop bringing you over," he hated that he
couldn't see her face.
"Why would that hurt my feelings because I
know they don't want us together?" She asked
but she was actually hurt. What did this mean
for their relationship? It would be a stagnant
relationship?
"I am sorry but do you understand what this
means?"
That hurt the most, "yes, we will no longer
spend nights together."
"But don't worry I will work on something."
"Like what? Don't tell me you'll ask one of your-"
He laughed, "no, not that but trust your man."
He slipped his fingers onto hers, "can you
imagine us, resting here and watching our
children argue about who's supposed to do
what? Who's supposed to water the plants?
Who's supposed to harvest?"
His imagination made Zinhloso laugh, "then the
little sister will say 'mina ngisayodla nomama
kuyashisa!' she'll love food like you."
She curled her body in his body as she laughed,
"stop it, Gxabhashe. We'll have one child."
"What? No, we'll have nine." He melted in
laughter as she pushed him. He held her tight
and kissed her lips softly, "let's water the
seedlings and go. I should be home before
1pm."
"Why what's happening?"
They stood up. The van had containers of river
water. They used the water to water the plants,
"when your father told me to drive Lily home
she told me her mother will come today. She
wants to talk with father."
"Oh okay," they were probably coming to inform
them about the child. What else?
"What will you be doing?"
"I will be studying."
"Will I get the chance to see you later?"
"No, I am studying."
They packed everything back in the car and
stepped inside, "I know but I am asking for two
minutes. I will be at the shop."
"Alright, I will come."
Mhlabunzima dropped off Zinhloso and other
three ladies he lifted. They were coming from
the Boers sugar cane plantation. He hooted and
drove off.

After he'd taken a bath and was smelling fresh,

Mhlabunzima joined his father and brother.
They were seated inside Xulu's house waiting
for Lily's family.
"Was she there?" Kusakusa asked Mhlabunzima
without being straight.
He rubbed his tired eyes, "yes, she was there.
You did me a favour by suggesting that he
comes by."
"What are the two of you talking about in my
house?" Xulu asked.
Kusakusa looked at his father, "there's nothing
wrong if you get left out." He said and they
laughed but Mhlabunzima didn't laugh. Xulu
noted this and planned on talking to him later.
Xulu's hands flew to his chest and when he
looked at his children. They were all rooted in
one place and their eyes fixed on the child that
was holding Lily's hand. What was happening?
Lily was with her mother and aunt.
Ngenzeni cleared her throat and showed them
straw mats. They sat down and greeted the
Xulus, they greeted back except for
Mhlabunzima. He was still looking at the child.
He didn't know his mother in person but he
knew her from pictures and this child. She was
his mother. The long face with her well defined
features, the almond shaped eyes and the sharp
nose, you'd swear it was the nose of their
oppressors. The full lips and even her dark skin.
"It's been years," Xulu said.
Lily's mother shook her head, "yes, we parted
ways very harshly because of our children. My
husband had said the word and as a wife I had
to obey my husband."
How he wished! Mhlabunzima thought as he
was listening to Lily's mother. He wished
Zinhloso obeyed him like the other woman did
to their partners.
"And my daughter was just a child, she didn't
have a say as much as I didn't have a say," Lily's
mother proceeded.
"We understand but why are we revisiting the
past?" Xulu asked.
Lily's mother looked down, "the reason my
husband was that angry and sent my daughter
away was because she was already with a
child." She announced and this confirmed the
suspicions of the already suspicious Xulu
family members. They were no longer shocked
when they were told. The child was a spitting
image of Xulu's wife. "I believe this is her," Xulu
pointed to the child.
"Yes, this is her. He forced us to keep quiet and
forbade my daughter to ever return to the
village. She listened to her father like any child
would have done," she defended her daughter,
"but now, my husband is no more and I couldn't
live with this secret any longer. I hated keeping
this issue a secret. I want my grandchild to have
a relationship with her paternal family and also
have a relationship with her father."
The news was shocking but Xulu was happy
about this. Mhlabunzima had a child with a
woman whom he had history with. What could
stop these two from being together now? "It's
shocking and unexpected but also can't be
denied. Mhlabunzima what do you have to say?"
He removed his eyes from the child that looked
rather lost, "I can't deny the child." He said but
he was angry and confused. Lily was something
else! Seven years!
"I also thought I should bring her here because
my husband was the one looking after her as
his own child but now, he's no more and I don't
have enough means." She didn't finish up. They
had to figure it out.
"I will take responsibility," Mhlabunzima
accepted - the responsibility he never planned
or budgeted for but he had no other choice, the
child wouldn't just magically look like his
mother if she wasn't his. She was seven years
old and they had also parted seven years ago.
That was enough evidence. His worry was
Zinhloso. How was she going to take this? Was
she going to change towards him or was she
still going to be the same? He was very worried.
He wasn't even ready for this. He wasn't warned
but this was his doing. He had to have a
relationship with the child.
They were all relieved, his father included,
"what's her name?" Kusakusa asked. He was
pained looking at the child, it's like he was
seeing his mother again but just a small version
of her.
"Zodumo," Lily answered.
Xulu smiled, "can you introduce us? She's just
looking at the pictures on the wall.
"Yebo," Lily held her hand and the child looked
at her mother, "my child, do you remember I told
you that one day you were going to meet your
father, your uncle, your aunt and grandfother?"
Zodumo smiled and nodded, "yes, mama. When
am I meeting them? I want to ask my father to
buy me new clothes and shoes."
Mhlabunzima swallowed the painful lump on
his throat. Father? He was just talking to
Zinhloso about children not knowing he already
had a child.
"He's your father…" Lily introduced them all and
Zodumo smiled happily, she laughed and stood
up.
She stood right in front of Mhlabunzima,
"baba?" She called out.
His heart jerked. He was really a father?
"Sawubona, ntombazane encane?" He greeted
and held her hand. He lifted her up and placed
her on his lap.
"We're really grateful that we've got to see the
child, meet her. What makes me happy is that I
have got to meet her while I am still alive," Xulu
shared and they nodded. Lily's mother and aunt
were relieved things went like this. They thought
the Xulus would fight and throw tantrums.
"We also request that the child should visit us
often. We have to build a relationship with her
and she also has to know her other brother and
sister, Kusakusa's children," Xulu proceeded.
"That's not a problem."
"And the issue of Inhlawulo? We had already
paid the parents' cows and we paid the cow to
cleanse the yards. Is there something more?"
Xulu asked.
"Yes, a cow that she had a child."
Xulu and Kusakusa eyed one another, "alright,
we'll bring it." He looked at his son and the child,
"can she remain behind for a while? Maybe her
mother can also stay behind so that she doesn't
feel lost. I know asking that they sleep here
tonight will be too much. I don't think she can
sleep here without her mother's presence. I
don't know if I am wrong?"
Lily's mother smiled, "no, you're not wrong.
That's what I want, for my grandchild to have a
relationship with her family and father. She can
sleep here and her mother can also come until
the child gets used to it," she agreed. She had
also hoped her daughter would fix things with
Mhlabunzima because they had a child together.
Who was going to marry her with another man's
child? She didn't want to force them or suggest
it but it was in her prayers. Her husband was
gone and she wasn't going to do things like him.
Xulu was happy about it and he looked at
Mhlabunzima, he was only playing with the
child's hand. It seemed God had listened to his
prayers.
UMCEBO

Chapter 63
She looked at the time on her clock placed on
the bedside table and she decided she would go
to the shop after thirty minutes. He was
supposed to be at home at 1pm. She was
certain they'd told them what they wanted to
say and left. It was after 2:30pm. She closed
her books and yawned.
There was a knock on the door and Zinhloso
allowed the knocker inside without asking who
was knocking.
Mnguni walked inside the room and he sat on
the chair. Zinhloso got up and sat on her butts.
She greeted him.
"How are you?" Mnguni asked his daughter.
Zinhloso had been avoiding him for too long
and when he saw her door open, he thought he
would come by.
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am not doing well and why are you not at
school?"
"I wasn't writing today."
He nodded, "who helped you?"
"With?"
"Finding the cure."
"A traditional healer." She didn't like having this
conversation but it wasn't going to be ignored
for long. The confrontation was needed, maybe!
"I know it's a healer. Who's he or her and where
are they from?"
"Why are you asking such critical details, baba?
Aren't you happy that I am healed?" She asked
and shook her head, "oh, I don't know why I am
asking that because you're surely not happy. I
will never forgive you for what you did to me."
"Zinhloso, I didn't do that because I hate you.
You're my child and I love you," he began and
deep down he knew was about to partially lie to
her. He couldn't tell her the truth, "all of you
were suddenly going to get married but I
wanted you to meet a man who was going to
love you even with your disorder. I didn't want
someone who was going to want you because
of your beauty. And you see, men didn't want
you. You got one that played with your feelings.
They're only following you now because you no
longer have the disorder."
She shook her head, "I don't believe you
because even if I can tell you now that, baba
there's a man who helped me because he loves
me. You were going to be angry and want to kill
him because he got in the way of whatever
plans you had."
Confirmed! There was really a boyfriend and it
seemed he was behind all this. He was the one
who helped her, took her to the traditional
healer. He ruined his relationship with his
daughter. He could recognise that, this meant
he genuinely loved his daughter but he didn't
want this child to leave home and go be a
blessing to another man's family. She was
gifted to him by his ancestors after years of
suffering. How was he supposed to let her go?
He wasn't ready.
"Why don't you bring that boyfriend to me? I will
have a conversation with him and see what his
intentions are with you," Mnguni suggested. He
wanted to see this young man. He wanted to
see who was threatening to take his daughter.
"No, I am sorry but I don't trust you."
This girl really had a boyfriend and she was
protecting him. When did Zinhloso grow up?
What happened to his little daughter? "I have
every right to meet this man as your father and I
am being disrespected, you're sneaking out at
night because of a man but you don't want me
to meet him." He raised his voice. He had
thought of putting ischitho (human made curse)
into their relationship to end it once. But he
realised if Zinhloso was able to consult, she
would consult again and find out the truth. It
would completely destroy their blood
relationship and she might leave home. Things
would go really bad if she was to leave home,
angry and hurt.
"If you keep protecting him and keeping him
away from me. How are the two of you going to
get married?" He asked.
"How can you ask me that baba because you
said you will never let me get married?"
"Yes, I won't!"
"I also won't bring him and one thing I would do.
I will just cohabit," she threatened him. She
knew she would never do that but her father
was making her angry.
"Zinhloso! I will end that relationship should you
do that. Don't forget I have the power to end
your relationship but I am not doing it because I
love you as my child. I have never heard bad
things being said about you but if you do
disgraceful things you'll know the real me!" He
pointed at her and his body became sweaty
instantly. There was no child that stressed him
like this one. She made his life difficult.
"I am sorry I won't do it but you're not treating
me fairly."
He stood up, "I asked your mother to grab two
chickens in the yard. Come and cook them for
me, take a break from studying."
Zinhloso wanted to scream. She didn't feel like
cooking and this chicken was going to waste
her time. "It'll be faster if I use a coal stove! I
won't make a fire."
She found her mother inside the kitchen and
she greeted her. She asked about the chickens
and she gave them to her.
"I have already made the dough for you," she
said and didn't leave the kitchen. She wanted to
see her cooking.
Zinhloso worked fast, she was grateful she
wasn't cooking roosters. Hens won't take longer
on the pots. She traditionally cooked the
chickens, no curry powders added.
"Don't add chillies, I will eat that chicken too
with your father," her mother quickly said as
Zinhloso was chopping chillies. It was after an
hour and forty five minutes. She had taken out
the dumplings.
"Do you have a chilli paste then?"
"No." She was chopping vegetables for dinner.
She wanted to scream at her but she didn't even
give it away on her face that she was pissed
and annoyed. She quickly made the paste for
her father. Her mother left the kitchen because
she didn't like the aroma of cooked chillies. She
hated chillies.
"Ma, I am done. You'll dish up. I am leaving."
She said and quickly turned but they stopped
her. They were seated under the tree talking.
"Where are you going?" Mnguni asked.
"I need a pencil and eraser at the shop. I also
have to go home."
"Do you have money?"
"Yes."
"You can go to your grandmother but from
tomorrow, you'll eat here and help your sisters
with chores, also cook when it's your turn,"
Mnguni said to Zinhloso.
She was supposed to be happy but she wasn't.
Her father was probably doing this out of guilt
and he wanted her to stop going to her
grandmother's house often. He was surely
scared she would end up telling her the truth.
"Yebo."
"And this means you'll stop working for
Mhlabunzima," Mrs Mnguni glanced at her.
"No, I won't stop. I love my job and I am learning
a lot from him about business," Zinhloso argued,
"I need my own business too because I have no
inheritance."
Her father looked aside in shame and Zinhloso
left them. "Let her continue working for him as
she wishes." He said. He wasn't going to stop
her.
"Put the child in your inheritance and tell her to
stop working!"
He shook his head, "she won't stop, I know her,
she's stubborn. Sometimes, I feel like
Mhlabunzima is this boyfriend I am looking for
but then -"
"It can't be him. Remember, Xulu's son is helpful
by nature and he's also helping her like he helps
everyone. It would also be impossible for the
boy's family not to have seen Zinhloso after
such a long time of being with their son. Don't
you think Xulu would have told you if he'd seen
them?" Mrs Mnguni said she was not in support,
"I think this boy is not from this village but
maybe the neighbouring villages."
"You're right about that." He nodded.
"Zinhloso is a girl and she wasn't born to stay at
home forever, meet this boy, tell him to bring
cows and marry Zinhloso off," Mrs Mnguni
suggested. She didn't care about the glare she
was getting. It would be best if this child was
married off, "don't look at me like that because
if you continue being stubborn it'll only be a
matter of time until she brings a child here."
He knew his wife was right but he wasn't ready
to let go. Yes, letting her go the right way didn't
mean he was going to lose his wealth but he
felt like it wasn't going to grow as it was
growing when she was still at home. He needed
to try and accept this, maybe tell her to tell the
boy he must do right.
He had to soften his heart and have Zinhloso
back home because she was living like
someone who was no longer part of them. His
ancestors were angry and they have made it
clear the pharmacy won't be a success if she
was still treated like an outcast by him. They
didn't care about his wife, in the beginning she
was not their choice for Mnguni but Mnguni
was stubborn. He only wanted her. He was not
at rest about the issue of this child dating a boy
he didn't know. He really felt like a clown.

"Ey, Ntokozo, it's time for you to close the shop

and I should also go. I have been waiting here
for nothing," Zinhloso stood up after over an
hour of waiting for Mhlabunzima. She arrived
after 4:30pm and it was already after 6pm.
"It's no longer winter, sis Zinhloso. We don't
close the shop early because it gets dark late,"
Ntokozo reminded Zinhloso.
"Oh, yea, I have forgotten." She was assisting
Ntokozo with selling for the past hours. She
was giving him tips on how to have people
leave all their money at the shop. They made
good money in these hours. Ntokozo thought
Zinhloso attracted money because she was a
traditional healer's daughter. He was certain
she had isbunge because Mhlabunzima had
told him about Zinhloso's selling tips but he still
didn't make as much as she always made when
she was selling. He also realised people would
automatically be drawn to her but they knew he
was the one selling.
"I should go then I am writing tomorrow. I can't
for someone who's actually not coming.
Ngibizwe nguye njalo sengiwupopayi lana
ngilindile," she stood up pissed. She had better
things to do at home.
"I am sure he got caught up somewhere."
"Right," she walked out of the counter and she
bumped into him on the door.
He was shocked to see her and seeing her, she
remembered he had asked her to come by. "I
am sorry. Can we go to my office, I will explain?"
"I should go home. I left my books and came
here."
"Please, I won't take much of your time," he
pulled her beyond the counter and straight to
his office. He wasn't here for her but he was
here to take a few snacks and sweets for his
daughter. Ngenzeni had magically ate all the
goodies he brought home for her.
She didn't sit, "what have you been doing? I
have been waiting here for hours but I told you I
should study."
"I am sorry I was held up at home. Can we sit?
It's important," he pointed to the chairs. He
didn't expect he would be breaking the news the
same day but he didn't want to keep it from her.
"So, they came and well, they came with a
child," he confirmed what she already knew. He
told her everything Lily's mother said. She didn't
leave anything out. He wanted her to fully
understand that he had no idea that he had a
child.
"Was her father going to kill her if she told you?
Or even before she left." Zinhloso asked, her
face and tone were emotionless.
Exactly! She was thinking exactly like him but
she wasn't even shocked or surprised, "I
thought you would be surprised or shocked like
I was."
"You have history, she came with a child.
There's nothing surprising." She couldn't hide
how much she had no compassion towards this
issue.
"Zinhloso, did you know about this?" He couldn't
put a finger on her reaction. Why was she
reacting like this? Anyone would be surprised.
This was big. He looked at her as she avoided
eye contact, "please don't tell me you knew."
"Does it matter?"
"Yes, it does!"
She furrowed her brows, "why does it matter? It
wasn't my place to tell you even if I was sure
about it. I just overheard her telling Mzomubi
she has a seven years old daughter."
He stamped his fist on the table making her
jump a little, "how could you not tell me? You
were supposed to tell me!"
"Why? It was not my place to tell you. I don't
have business telling you things that don't
concern me," she was taken off guard by his
outburst.
"My child doesn't concern you, Zinhloso?"
The question stabbed her deep in her heart. 'His
child!' She thought she was going to be the very
first woman to bear a child for him but she
thought wrong.
"I am not your wife yet and so, yes, the child
doesn't concern me."
"Does that mean you are not even interested in
meeting her?"
"It's not about me having interest but I won't
meet her. Our relationship is a secret. I am a
girlfriend. Why should I meet your child?" She
asked.
The question hurt him because he thought she
was going to be keen to meet up with her, "I
thought you cared about me and everything
that's happening in my life."
"I care about you and you know that but you just
don't want to see the bigger picture on purpose.
I don't know why," she argued, "our parents
don't even want us to be together and as a
girlfriend that's hated, how can I meet your
daughter? There's no guarantee that we'll get
married. I am not even welcome in your family
home. I will know the child -"
"Her name is Zodumo, stop addressing her like
that," he quickly said, annoyed by her lack of
support. Zinhloso decided to keep quiet after
being told the child's name. "I thought maybe
yes, you were going to be surprised but I was
going to get support from you. I didn't think
you'll actually have no interest in knowing my
daughter. But here, I was thinking we're building
a future together."
"A future that's just our dreams. It would have
been better if maybe I am at least your fianceé.
What if I get closer to the chil- to Zodumo and
then we break up. I marry someone else-"
"So, you've been thinking of marrying someone
else?"
"That's not what I am saying. Stop putting
words into my mouth!"
If he wasn't man enough he was probably going
to cry. He didn't expect such a reaction from her.
"So, you're going to live your life like I have no
daughter just because you're not my wife but
you're my girlfriend?"
"No, I didn't say that. I said it won't be
appropriate if I meet up with her now. Why can't
you understand that?" She asked once again
but she could see he was not pleased. It
seemed she was going to have to meet this
child just to please him.
"My future is with you I don't care about
whether you're a girlfriend or boyfriend."
She had no choice, "alright, I will meet your
daughter whenever you want me to meet her,"
she said but she really didn't feel like it. She
could see the change on his face and he
seemed happy that she wanted to meet her,
"how are you feeling about having a child? You
must be happy. Children are cute and they're a
blessing." She forced the question out of her
mouth.
"I am not sure I am still shocked and I can't say I
am happy. I am just angry at Zodumo's mother
and angry at Lily's father. I haven't spoken to
Lily and so, I don't know what excuses does she
have," Mhlabunzima shared. "And I am also
worried about us, I don't want this to come
between us."
"It won't come between us. It will only come
between us if you hurt me."
"I won't."
"Where's Lily and Zodumo now? You should talk
to her, find answers to get closure. Did they
leave after breaking the news?" She asked.
He had to be honest if he wanted things to work
between them, "no, they didn't leave. My father
was the one who decided without consulting
with me first. He decided they should sleepover
tonight. He said we should get to know Zodumo.
I had no say, he said it right before everyone."
She was shuttered. She tried to talk but words
didn't come out. Yes, the child was supposed to
sleepover, tonight! She had found her home
after seven years but her mother? What was the
reason for her sleepover? Was she
breastfeeding a seven years old child?
"Zinhloso say something!" He was getting
nervous.
She shrugged, "what were going to say if I am
going to sleepover over at my ex-boyfriend's
home? The man we have a child with but I am
not allowed to sleep at your home. What were
you going to say?"
He was tongue tied. He knew he was going to
be crazy about it and tell her not to go but send
the child alone but maybe he was expecting too
much from her. He was expecting her to
understand just because he didn't know he had
a child. "I wasn't going to be happy."
"So, should I be happy?"
"No."
They remained quiet for a few minutes. Nobody
spoke, nobody sighed, nobody asked questions
- nothing.
"I hope you will be a better father." She said
after the long uncomfortable silence.
"I will do my best."
She drew a long breath and stood up, "I am
going home now to continue with my books. My
father came and asked me questions."
"Please sit, questions about what?"
"About the traditional healer and my boyfriend.
He figured from my words that my boyfriend
helped me meet the healer," she answered him
while standing, "he said he wanted to meet him
and learn what intentions he has about me."
"And what did you say?"
"I told him I won't bring him because it'll make
no difference he doesn't me to get married and
he said yes, he won't let me get married,"
Zinhloso said.
He looked down. What a difficult situation!
"We'll fight them until our last breath if we have
to, right?"
She smiled shortly, "yes, we will. We can't let
them ruin our relationship. If the relationship
gets ruined it should be on us."
He was offended by her last words, "yes."
"He also allowed me back into his family. He
said from tomorrow I will do everything with
them," she shared.
He smiled, "that's better. Does that mean you
will stop working with me?"
"No, I won't."
"So, are you not going to kiss me before you
leave?"
She laughed and moved closer to him. She sat
on his lap and they shared an intimate slow
kiss…
UMCEBO

Chapter 64

***Chapter sponsored by N.L.***

"When will I see you again?" Mhlabunzima
walked out of the office with her. Ntokozo was
tidying up around the shop.
"If you'll be around when I come to buy here."
Zinhloso looked at Mhlabunzima as he took a
packet of snacks and other goodies. "What are
you taking those for? Are you eating those
now?"
"No, I am taking them for Zodumo. Ngenzeni
finished up everything I bought for her."
Zinhloso figured he didn't actually come to the
shop for her but to get these snacks for his
daughter. But she wasn't going to confront him,
it didn't matter. "Okay. Bye, Ntokozo."
"Bye, sis, thanks for today."
"Don't leave me behind!" He shouted and looked
at Ntokozo, "what did she do for you?" He
whispered.
Ntokozo chuckled, "is she not supposed to do
things for us?" He laughed at his mean facial
expression, "she helped me out around here. I
think she has isbunge."
Mhlabunzima laughed his way out, "I will see
you tomorrow, lock up and go home." He
tightened his jaws, Zinhloso was standing at the
gate of the tuckshop and there was a guy
talking to her. She seemed to be laughing at
whatever the man was saying to her.
He glanced at the guy and the guy greeted him,
"I am good. I haven't been seeing you around." It
was a guy he knew.
"Yes, I found a job in Durban and I was just
telling MaMnguni that I can now afford to buy
her gold," the guy freely said to Mhlabunzima.
He glanced at Zinhloso, she was playing with
sand using her foot, "oh, did she say she was
short of gold?"
"No, but I am not seeing any gold earrings on
her ears or wristwatch."
"Madoda, focus on fixing at home for now and
stop thinking about buying women's watches,"
he said, failing to hide the annoyance.
He laughed, "don't get involved in our business.
I heard your girl, Lily is back and that's where
you must focus."
Mhlabunzima clicked his tongue, "let's go,
Zinhloso."
"Bye!" Zinhloso said to the guy and that earned
her a glare from Mhlabunzima.
"Don't look at me like that."
He cursed in a low tone, "just because your
father has decided to take you back that doesn't
mean you should stop coming to eat with me
too. I like spending time with you."
"I know but I want to give you space so that you
can focus on Zodumo. Spend more time with
her," she suggested freely.
"Just because you've been promised earrings,
which will probably be fake, you are telling me
you'll give me space?"
She cracked up laughing. She was surprised
when he didn't say anything. It seemed she had
too much faith in him very early, "I am being
considerate."
"I can manage my time very well. Are you going
to pass by tomorrow?"
She didn't tell him about how he forgot her on
the very first day of learning he had a child, "I
will have to go and -"
"Nanguya ubaba mkhulu!"
They heard the sharp voice of a child. It wasn't
dark but it was starting to get dark. Xulu was
inside the garden with the child. Zinhloso
looked at the tall slender figure and she
swallowed a lump on her throat, "she's tall," she
commented. She was running out of the gate
happily.
Mhlabunzima was looking at her, "yes, she's like
my mom. She is tall."
"Your parents are both tall, why are you short?"
He chuckled, "I am like my grandfather." He said
and looked at his daughter as she pushed the
gate. She ran happily to her father.
Mhlabunzima lifted her up. She looked at
Zinhloso and she didn't greet.
"Greet, why don't you greet?"
"Who's she?" Zodumo asked.
"I said greet!"
The smile was wiped off her face by her father
shouting at her, "sawubona."
"Yebo, unjani?"
"Ngiyaphila."
"Igama lami ngiwu Zinhloso ungubani wena
igama lakho?" (My name is Zinhloso and what's
your name?)
"Uzolenzani? Umama wathi ngingabatsheli
abantu engingabazi," (What are you going to do
with my name? My mom said I shouldn't tell my
name to people I don't know) she said and
Mhlabunzima didn't say anything. He glanced at
Zinhloso waiting to see how she was going to
react to that.
"Very well, she's protecting you," she said. She
was used to disrespectful children, she lived
with one back home. She looked at
Mhlabunzima, "I should go, bye."
"Bye." He proceeded inside with her, "I don't like
rude children. That's not the way you speak with
an adult."
"Baba, but mom said I shouldn't tell people I
don't know."
"I heard that but you tell the elders with
respect."
"Who's she, baba?"
"She's my friend." He put her down, "go and give
your aunt this. She'll give you the snacks I want
to talk to your mother."
Xulu had a beautiful paw paw on his hand from
the garden, "why did you take so long? You
shouldn't ruin the relationship with your child
that hasn't started because of a woman who's
not even your blood."
He only glanced at his father and left him
without saying anything to him. He was still
mad that he had the guts to call Zinhloso and
tell her to end their relationship behind his back.
The elders wanted the respect they weren't able
to give back.
Lily was still seated on the sofa in his house.
She looked at him when he walked in. He sat on
the single sofa.
"Zodumo was sad that you were no longer
coming back," she said.
"Why did you do this, Lily? Why did you keep the
child away from me?"
She looked down. She wasn't proud, "I know I
was selfish but I was thinking of the child's life
and your life. My father threatened me that he'll
spare only me if I tell you."
He knew the man was cruel and that was why
they were friends with Mnguni after initiation.
Birds of the same feathers! And magically he
moved from one man's daughter to another.
"He wasn't going to know that you've told me
Lily. We would have worked something out. I
would have kept my mouth shut if need be but I
would have known that I have a child," his voice
was full of mixed emotions, pain and anger.
"We both know you weren't going to do that.
You're stubborn and you were going to want to
fight," she argued.
One other thing he loved about Zinhloso, she
was a fighter like him and that was the reason
no woman could ever match up to her in his life.
This argument was dead and there was no use
pursuing it. He needed to accept that he had a
child and focus on that. If he could argue
further, she was only going to be defensive and
try to prove that she was right.
"I am really sorry about what happened. I was
really powerless and I wish that we can move
on from the past," Lily said softly, "I know it
won't be easy for you but I will help you create a
bond with our daughter. I will be there with you-"
"I will only need you to help me understand her
by telling me everything about her. You don't
need to be there," he quickly said. He didn't
want to invite trouble.
Her heart was torn apart by his frankness,
"Mhlabunzima, I want us to give our daughter a
normal life. We both haven't had a happy time
away from home."
"We're no longer in a relationship. I will do my
part and you'll do yours."
Why was he like this? "Who are you scared of?
Or are you ashamed of me?"
"Why should I be ashamed of you? You're my ex
-girlfriend and I loved you when we were dating.
Our relationship ended. You're just my child's
mother now," he said politely. He didn't want to
offend her.
"That's how you see me? Just your child's
mother? You won't mind me getting married
and taking your daughter with me?" She asked,
she was hurt that he was only seeing her as the
mother of the child.
"I won't mind you getting married but culture
doesn't allow you to get married with my child.
She'll stay with her grandmother and if her
grandmother is no longer fit, she'll come here.
Stay here, even if I get married I won't go
anywhere," Mhlabunzima explained to her. That
was something Lily knew clearly but she was
trying to be smart with him.
Her heart raced, "do you have someone in your
life? I have waited for you all these years
because I was hopeful that one day we'll meet
again."
"Yes, I have a woman in my life and I didn't wait,
I knew our relationship was dead. Maybe if you
had told me that I should wait I was going to
wait," he answered, straightforwardly. He could
see hope distinguished from her eyes and that
was what he wanted, not to give her false hope
that there was a chance for them. "How has life
been with a child and without her father?"
Lily swallowed the lump on her throat and she
shared her difficult life with him. Her father
provided for her but she hated living apart from
her family. She hated having a child that had no
relationship with her paternal family.
Mhlabunzima left her after almost an hour of
listening to her narrate their life with Zodumo.
He promised her he was going to wipe off all
the bad memories his daughter had and replace
them with good memories.
"Zodumo, go to your mother and have your
bath," Mhlabunzima said to his daughter. She
was having a paw paw with Xulu.
Xulu looked at Mhlabunzima, "she will go once
we're done here."
Ngenzeni was cooking, she waited until the
child was gone and she looked at Mhlabunzima,
"are they going to sleep in your house? With you
on your bed?"
"Why is that any of your concern?" Xulu asked
his daughter before Mhlabunzima could even
answer her.
"But baba, I am talking to my brother."
"I don't care, I asked you a question."
She continued chopping and didn't answer him
for a while, "there was no need for Lily to
sleepover. Zodumo is not a newborn. They
should sleep with me."
"Why should they sleep with you while
Mhlabunzima is there?" He shouted. Ngenzeni
was pissing him off.
"He has a girlfriend but I know you men know
nothing about respecting a relationship. Your
wives are always miserable," Ngenzeni shook
her head.
Xulu clicked his tongue, "your mother was never
miserable with me but she left me."
She kept quiet for a while, "Mhlabunzima, you're
quiet. I asked you a question."
"I have a four room house, Ngenzeni. There's a
room with a bed there." He said dismissively.
His father shook his head, "that room is empty.
There's not even a cupboard or a trunk to put
clothes inside."
"I am sure baba will say, sleep with the them
and you'll agree." Ngenzeni chuckled and
clapped once.
"They're only sleeping for one night, baba and
when Zodumo returns she'll sleep with her
aunt," Mhlabunzima declared.
"What will stop you from sleeping with your own
child? I was sleeping with the three of you. Your
sister didn't even know how to bath herself
when your mother left. I was doing everything,"
Xulu argued. These children were disrespecting
him and talking back to him. In his times, they
never talked back to his father or mother, "why
should you do that? You want to keep bringing
Mnguni's daughter here?"
"You said you don't want her here and I stopped
bringing her here but you were able to call her
and tell her to break up with me."
"I am thinking of your safety!"
"I can protect myself and Zodumo and her
mother will sleep in that room there's nothing
wrong with it."
"You should at least make the room look
appropriate, fully furnish it. It should belong to
your daughter and that girlfriend of yours
should not be near your daughter. There mustn't
be a relationship between them, she's not your
wife," Xulu demanded, "there's not even a need
to introduce her. I am an elder and you should
do what I have told you. You also shouldn't
bring her uzokwenza amanyala kukhona ingane
endlini."
"But baba, you said she must not come here.
Why do you think he'll bring her and worse while
Zodumo is here?"
Xulu threw his sandal at Ngenzeni but she
quickly stepped aside, "shut up when I am not
talking to you! Your brother doesn't listen, he'll
not listen to me."
"I said I will never bring her here and I meant it,
you should also stop calling her here behind my
back."
"This is my yard and my rules, I won't hear from
you." Xulu spat. There was silence after he had
spoken. Mhlabunzima walked out for a smoke.
He needed a clear head.
Ngenzeni dished up the food, "are they both
going to eat here with us?" She asked her father.
Mhlabunzima was back.
Xulu looked at his son, "take their food and
yours, go eat with them."
He didn't argue but he took the tray from
Ngenzeni and left. He found Zodumo alone in
the living room.
"Where's your mother?"
She pointed at the bedroom, "she's dressing up
after taking a bath."
They started eating and Lily joined them after a
few minutes.
"Your bedroom has changed so much. It's very
beautiful now," Lily commented and sat down.
"Thank you." Mhlabunzima proceeded the
conversation with Zodumo. Ngenzeni walked in
with clean blankets and sheets. She headed to
the spare bedroom.
When she was done making the bed she went
to the living room, "Lily, you'll sleep in that room
with Zodumo. I have prepared the room for
you." She said. She didn't trust her brother and
she had planned to make things easier for him.
"Alright, thanks." She didn't understand what
was wrong if they slept together? But she
wasn't going to ask.
"You two can go and sleep, I will go take my
bath," he left with the tray and he found
Ngenzeni only in the kitchen. "Thank you for
coming."
"I knew you weren't going to be frank."
It warmed his heart that she was on Zinhloso's
side, "I was going to be. Goodnight," he left her
without arguing.

Lily looked at her daughter. She was busy

chatting about the things they were talking
about with her grandfather. She could see that
she was very happy. And like any mother would,
she was also happy to see her happy.
"Zodumo?" She whispered.
Zodumo looked at her mother, "mama?"
"Do you want to sleep with your father and I, on
the same bed?"
She smiled, "yes, dad will come here and sleep
with us, right?"
"No, he'll sleep alone in his bedroom but if you
want to sleep with both of us. You should go to
him and ask him," Lily whispered to the child.
Zodumo folded her lips and shook her head,
"mama, baba won't agree. Mama, he shouted at
me at the gate because I didn't want to tell his
lady friend my name."
"Who's his lady friend?" She had no clue who
Mhlabunzima's girlfriend could be.
"I don't know her. She was short and beautiful."
That was not enough information. There were a
lot of short and beautiful women in the village,
"okay, but if you go and ask your father that you
want to sleep with us. He might agree. If he
doesn't agree, start crying until he agrees but
don't tell him I said you should do that." She
knew her child would do that. They'd lived a
difficult life where she would tell her child to act
a certain way to get something, to hide things,
to lie and keep secrets because they were not
treated well in her mother's family home. It
wouldn't be the first time Zodumo would cry to
get what she wanted.
She smiled and nodded, "I will go." She quickly
jumped off the bed and walked out.
She luckily found Mhlabunzima seated on the
sofa reading some paperwork.
"Baba?" She rubbed her eyes.
He looked at her and placed the papers aside,
"what's wrong?" He put her on his lap. "Why are
you not sleeping?"
"I am waiting for you to come and sleep with
us," she said and placed her head on his chest.
He sighed and brushed her head, "no, you'll
sleep with your mother and I will sleep in my
room."
"No, I want to sleep with you and mom. Why
can't I sleep with you?" She sulked.
He scratched his head, "Zodumo, children sleep
with their mothers."
She started crying, "but baba, back home where
I lived grandpa slept with gogo and their child,"
she said, referencing her mother's uncle who
was a grandparent to her. "But I didn't have a
father, I slept with my mom only. I have a father
now."
Lily came rushing, "what's wrong now? Why are
you crying?"
"She says she wants to sleep with us."
She tried to take her, "no, come and sleep with
me," she tried to take her but Zodumo cried
louder and held on to her father.
There was a sharp knock on the door,
"Mhlabunzima, what's wrong?"
"It's nothing, baba."
"How's it nothing because the child is crying?"
"Go and sleep, we're fine." He looked at his
daughter once his father was gone, "okay, we'll
sleep together then. Let's go." He stood up with
her. He knew the child was going to sleep in no
minute and he was going to get up and sleep in
his room.
"Let's go and sleep in that beautiful room," she
sulked.
"No, we'll sleep here. This is your room. I will
also make it beautiful," he placed her in the
middle and got onto the bed next to her. He
glanced at Lily as she removed the gown from
her body. He quickly focused on his daughter.
Lily switched off the lights and they slept
together.

But, Mhlabunzima didn't get a chance to wake

up at night. He slept until morning.
Ngenzeni heard from her niece that she left her
mother and father sleeping on the bed. She
went to Mhlabunzima's house to check if that
was true. She didn't listen to her father as he
shouted at her, telling her to stop meddling.
She knocked on his bedroom and there was no
response. She opened it and he wasn't there.
She headed for the other bedroom, she placed
her ear on the door and she couldn't hear a
sound. She didn't care about what she was
about to do. She slowly opened the door and
she was very disappointed. She closed the door
and left. They didn't wake up.
"Why are you staring at me like that?" He asked
Ngenzeni who was giving him glares. She was
washing the dishes outside. Mhlabunzima was
coming back from walking Zodumo and her
mother home.
"Why don't you break up with the poor girl and
focus on your new family? I was a fool trying to
help you kanti you were going to sleep on the
same bed with them. You were even sleeping in
each other's arms," Ngenzeni confronted her
brother.
His eyes wandered around. He was shocked
when he woke up on the same bed and he was
alone. "No, Zodumo cried and asked me to
sleep with them and I didn't want to make her
cry further. I thought I was going to wake up
when she was asleep but I was very tired. I
came back Monday, went to the gardens early
at 5am, I didn't rest."
"Why were you holding each other, then? Was it
being tired?"
"Ngenzeni, I didn't even realise that Zodumo
was no longer there. I didn't even realise it was
morning. You can't crucify me for that and any
woman can understand where I come from," he
argued. He didn't do anything wrong. He just
wanted to give his daughter what she wanted. It
was only one night.
"Why don't you let me tell Zinhloso about it and
see if she'll understand?" She tried to scare him.
She would never do that. She could tell he was
telling the truth, she heard the child crying.
He almost tripped and fell. He was trying to
change position when Ngenzeni asked the
question, "Ngenzeni, come on, please! Don't do
that. Lily will never come back here. Don't do
that."
"We don't know about that. Zodumo will cry
again and you'll agree that Lily should come
again," she was enjoying grilling him. But she
was still disappointed that he couldn't be firm
with the child.
"No, that will not happen. Please, don't tell her. I
will do anything you want," he begged. He would
rather die than have Zinhloso know such a
useless thing.
"Really?"
"Okay, go and buy me fried chicken in town."
She smiled.
He was surrounded by foodies! That was very
easy, "okay, I will go."
"That's not all."
"What else?"
"Slaughter one of your sheep this weekend."
"Awu, Ngenzeni, come on!"
"It's those two things or I will wait for her at the
gate of the school!"
"Fine! Fine, I will slaughter the sheep," he was
fuming as his sister ululated in happiness.
Xulu walked out of the kitchen, "why are you
playing with your brother? He was trying to
please his child."
"Baba, are you not going to eat the meat he'll
slaughter?"
He shook his head, "why would I stop eating the
meat? Of course I will eat it."
"Don't feel sorry for him then and you see,
Mhlabunzima doesn't like to slaughter his
sheep anyhow but because he doesn't want to
hurt Zinhloso's feelings for nothing he will
slaughter it," she giggled, she was enjoying this.
She was going to fix Mhlabunzima, "if I can
threaten him with your Lily he'll say 'I don't care I
am not slaughtering my sheep for anyone'." She
tried to mimic her brother's deep voice. She
laughed at the displeasure on her father's face.
UMCEBO
Chapter 65

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous - a

dedication to Alia, Gawd, Marve, Shy Mary and
Tk.***

She was seated under the tree peeling Aloe and

extracting the gel inside. Tuesday, she couldn't
sleep properly. She kept tossing and turning,
her mind was with Mhlabunzima - the daughter
and her mother. She wasn't going to ask him
but she couldn't help but wonder where they
were sleeping. With him or somewhere else? In
his house, in the spare bedroom. The spare
bedroom would be better but not with him.
Maybe the child could sleep with him but not
her mother. She didn't like feeling this insecure
but there were no other feelings she had
towards this situation.
"What are you doing?" Nobuhle asked. She
placed a bucket next to her and washed sweet
potatoes.
Zinhloso didn't look up at her, "dad once said
aloe is good for the skin and so, I am making a
face cream. I want to glow."
"How are you going to make it?"
"It'll be a gel for my face."
"Please, save some for me so that when I go to
Durban I will go with a glowing face," she smiled
as Zinhloso laughed.
"Weren't you using red clay to make your skin
more beautiful?"
"I want what you're using too."
They laughed, "I will give it to you so that sbali
can see you glowing." She raised her eyes and
they set on Lily and her daughter walking
through the gate. It'd been two days since she
last saw Mhlabunzima. She didn't go to the
shop, she didn't feel like seeing him. "Is she
selling at the pharmacy while the child is there?"
"No, I heard dad telling her to bring the child
here. He wants to meet her," she glanced at her,
"don't you like the child?"
"Why would I not like the child?"
"I mean because it's his child and you two didn't
know there was a child." She asked but
Zinhloso only rolled her eyes. She didn't give her
an answer. "I trust you with my things but you're
still keeping things from me. I won't tell anyone
about it."
"I am really not keeping anything."
Nobuhle huffed and left with the washed sweet
potatoes.
"Mama, mama, there's daddy's lady friend!"
Zodumo tapped on her mother's hip repeatedly.
Lily looked around, "where?" She asked and
when she couldn't see anyone she followed the
child's finger. "Are you sure?" Her heart was
fighting to come out of her chest. Zinhloso! She
wasn't even looking at them but she was busy
doing whatever she was doing.
"Yes, she's the one who asked me my name.
She was walking with my father," Zodumo
explained.
She'd heard around the yard that Zinhloso had
an unknown boyfriend that Mnguni was looking
for. And that boyfriend was - her daughter's
father! She would be damned, Mnguni had to
know - but, she quickly stopped herself from
getting carried away. The man was her father's
friend and it seemed he wasn't looking for a
boyfriend to have a friendly chat with. What if
he hurt Mhlabunzima? What would happen to
her child? She had to keep this a secret too. It
wasn't because she wanted to keep it a secret
but she had no other choice than to protect her
baby daddy. "Zodumo, you should keep that to
yourself and never tell anyone that she's your
father's friend, do you understand?"
"Yes, mom."
She pulled her to the main house. No wonder
Zinhloso wasn't friendly to her like her sisters
were. She would only greet her and pass. Was
she jealous? Or she saw Lily as a threat?
Wonders!
Mnguni was happy to see Lily's daughter.
"Xulu's son was supposed to marry you and live
a comfortable life there with him because you
had a difficult life with his child," Mnguni said.
Zodumo was on her lap. Zodumo was enjoying
the attention from this side. It was different
from where they came from. She was happy
here.
"My husband is right. What did he say? Is he
talking about marriage?" Mrs Mnguni asked.
Lily looked at Zinhloso as she walked in with a
tray of cold drink and cornbread. She greeted
the mother and daughter.
"We haven't spoken about marriage." She said
shyly.
Mnguni nodded and Zinhloso walked back to
the kitchen, "Zodumo, were you happy to spend
time with your father?"
"Yebo, mkhulu! Last night, mom, dad and I, we
had dinner together in his house and we also
slept together on the bed-" Zodumo was
startled by a glass breaking in the kitchen.
"I am sure it's Zinhloso who's breaking my
glasses!" Mrs Mnguni screamed and she looked
at her husband, "baba, I think it's best if she
doesn't do any cooking. It must be the fifth
glass."
Lily was happy inside - her child did the job for
her. Was Zinhloso even breaking glasses? This
was very awesome, she was threatened by their
presence.
"No, it's not her mom but it's me," Nobuhle said
to her mother. Zinhloso was gone. It was
Nobuhle who had the glass slip off her hand
when she heard the child talk about sleeping
together. Mhlabunzima! She was grateful that
Zinhloso was no longer inside the house. She
didn't get to hear what the child said and
Nobuhle wasn't going to tell her sister about it.
She wasn't surprised, men in their village knew
nothing about being loyal but they wanted
loyalty from women like they deserved it.
Mhlabunzima was no exception, obviously. He
was friends with Robert and Mzomubi, those
two thought they deserved every woman they
set their eyes to. She had little faith in him but it
was clear he was going to hurt Zinhloso. And
there was nothing she could do to help her. She
was only sad she wouldn't be near when that
happened.
"If you need my help setting that boy straight
don't hesitate to tell me. I know your father
didn't want to teach you about any love spells
and love potions. I will carry on there because I
believe his reasons were valid but I can make
something for you to give to Mhlabunzima. I
don't like him for you but you have a child
together," Mnguni said to Lily. They were inside
the pharmacy. It was only the two of them. Her
daughter was playing with Sbusiso, "he'll marry
you within seconds."
Lily smiled, "thank you, baba. I will come to you
if things don't work out naturally." She looked at
the old man as he left. It would be really
interesting if the father would help her snatch
away his daughter's boyfriend. But she wasn't
going to go to Mnguni for that. At this moment,
she hated her father for excluding her in that
department. He always told her he wouldn't
teach her because she would use it to get boys.
Her father believed the love spells and potions
were not for unmarried people, especially not
young people.
"One thing my father didn't tell you, is that love
spells actually have horrible side effects,"
Zinhloso appeared out of nowhere, making Lily
jump in fright. Zinhloso grinned, "you'll give him
love potion and somehow fail to follow up with
renewing it and that's where the problem will
start. He'll panel beat even for smiling at
another man because you would put something
on him to put him on your leash. Well, unless
you give him the potion that will make him your
lap dog. Now, I just can't imagine Mhlabunzima
washing your underwear because of the love
potion." Zinhloso shared with her. One thing
about her father, he didn't hide most things
from her and now she understood that was
because he thought she would never find a man.
Lily tightened her teeth. She was annoyed by
her but she was frightened by what she was
saying, "I guess you've done some safe love
spells on your secret boyfriend."
She laughed, "I wish I could but the problem is,
if I can do that he'll want to move in here with
me."
"So, you admit that you have a boyfriend but I
heard you're denying it from family members."
Zinhloso shrugged, "of course, I have a
boyfriend and they also know it but they just
don't know him. Have you seen my face? How
can I not have a boyfriend with such a face? I
can even take your future boyfriend before you
even start dating him," she laughed when she
realised Lily was pissed off. She was being
petty with her and she was enjoying it. It was
amazing that Lily was clueless about love
potions but she still needed to tell Mhlabunzima
not to eat anything from her even though love
spells came in all directions but food was the
obvious trick.
"What do you want, Zinhloso?"
"Something to sniff for a headache," she gave
her the money. Zinhloso turned when she heard
the child's voice calling her. It was Thembela,
the boy Mhlabunzima sent to give letters to her
and lunch boxes.
"Hey, Thembela!" Zinhloso laughed as he was
trying to see who was inside. "It's fine, give it to
me."
He smiled and handed the letter to her.
Zinhloso took the medicine from Lily and she
walked away from the pharmacy with him. She
opened the letter and read it.
"Mtakwethu
Inhliziyo yami iyaqaqamba. Ngabe sixabene yini?
Kukhona esikubangayo ngingazi?
Yours in love."

She folded the letter and shook her head,

"where's he?"
"Shop."
"Okay, tell him I will see him when I come back
from the river," she said and the boy quickly ran
off. She checked the medicine and sniffed it
when she confirmed it was the correct medicine.
She was walking alone on the road to the river,
thinking. She wanted to clear her head and think.
"Uma kuxatshenwe angazi phela."
She was startled by his deep voice,
"Mhlabunzima!" She held her chest and looked
around, "why did you do that?"
"You focus on your feet when you walk and not
ahead." He walked next to her. "Two whole days
and you decided not to come see me."
"It's studying."
"When did that ever stop you from seeing me?"
"My father told your daughter's mother that she
can come to him for love potion or spells to
give to her," she glanced at him and there was a
frown on his face, "he said she can use it on you
so that you'll marry her quickly."
"And what did Lily say?"
He was interested in her response the most.
"She said she'll go to him if things don't work
out naturally."
"I am sure she was just being polite and didn't
want to reject his offer. Lily is not that kind of
person. She would never do that," he spoke
without calculating his words.
Zinhloso kept quiet as he defended her. He was
defending a woman he hadn't seen in seven
years. He had no shame, he was defending her
ex before her.
"I wish I had a man who would defend me like
that. It must be nice," she moved her wrist away
as he tried to hold her, "we're in public and
please, go, my sisters are coming." She lied, she
was annoyed by him. She looked at him and he
had a guilty look as he realised what he'd said.
"I didn't mean it that way and I didn't realise
you'd be offended. I am really sorry."
"Awuhambe Mhlabunzima!" (Just go!) She
screamed as she wasn't seeing anyone come
but she didn't realise there was a grown woman
behind them, close by.
"Hhawu, hhawu, ngane yami! Akukhulunywa
kanjalo nendoda! You don't raise your voice at a
man," the old woman advised Zinhloso. She had
her eyes widened, she'd witnessed something
shocking. Mhlabunzima and Zinhloso stopped
walking as the old woman had stopped before
them. "Isoka lakho angithi leli?" (This is your
boyfriend, right?)
"Yes, but mama he's making me upset. He's
defending his child's mother right before me.
That's a woman he hadn't seen for years. How
should I feel?" Zinhloso glared at Mhlabunzima.
He looked down.
"That's not nice but be respectful. You want this
person to marry you one day and how's he
going to marry you if you're always yelling. Men
don't like noise." She spoke further looking at
Zinhloso. "Intombi ngane yami ihlonipha la
ithanda khona, hlonipha ke ngoba phela
umendo uyatshotshwa."
"Yebo," she said for her sake. She was an elder
and didn't want to argue. Zinhloso knew there
were different types of women in the village, the
type that were feared by their husbands, the
type that feared their husbands, the obedient
and respectful wives, the disrespectful wives,
the muthi wives and she didn't envy any of them.
Most of them took everything and nothing from
their husbands. What the man said was the
gospel and it didn't matter how she felt about
that. The husband could be disrespecting her
and she would say nothing - no one would
defend her but let her do the same. The skies
would fall, the earth would shake. Everyone
stood with men, even the women defended men
but nobody defended the women, not even
women themselves.
The old woman looked at Mhlabunzima with a
smile, "and you, young man, what's stopping
you from taking such a beautiful young woman
into your father's yards. I have never seen such
beauty in this village of yours. You must be
having a lot of competitors."
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "yes, I have a lot of
them. I wish I could make them all blind," he
said and they laughed with the old woman, "but
it's her father who's stopping me. He wants no
man for her."
"All fathers are like that especially if the girl is
last born but be patient. Stay well, my children,"
she looked at Zinhloso with a serious eye,
"remember, what I said."
"Yebo." She looked forward as the old woman
left, "angifune mendo mina lapho
engizoxhashazwa khona. If Lily is a great
person, you're even defending her. Please do us
both a favour and marry your child's mother.
She's polite and I am not. I won't even change."
"I said I am sorry I know I shouldn't have spoken
like that." He was partially regretting coming
here because his mouth had ruined things but
he didn't trust that she was really going to come
to the shop.
Zinhloso no longer had hope for the future not
because of their parents but because of his
actions. When she was told to fight for her love,
she didn't imagine that she would be fighting
for something like this. There was nothing to
fight for when Mhlabunzima was talking like
this about the woman from his past. This
meant she could say anything about her and he
wouldn't see her as different as how he knew
her back then. What was there to fight for then?
"Can we go to town together tomorrow?"
Mhlabunzima requested, maybe they needed
some time outside the village.
"You want me to dress up and be ready then
you'll forget that we have plans?"
"No, that won't happen I promise. You will come
to the shop tomorrow at 8am."
"Okay, now, go."
They were at the alleyway leading to the river.
He looked back and forward, there was nobody
coming. He pulled her to his body and briefly
kissed her.
"I love you," he caressed her soft cheek.
"I love you too."
Mhlabunzima left because she wanted him to
leave but he didn't want to leave her.

He decided not to head to the shop but pass by

Robert's home. Looking at his wristwatch, he
concluded that he was supposed to be home.
And truly, he found him cleaning around the
fence outside the yard, "tell the child to bring
another machete," Mhlabunzima said after
greeting Robert.
Robert called for his sister, "I am glad you finally
came. I passed by the shop yesterday and
today you were not there." He had stopped
working, and they waited for another machete.
He sighed, "ey, yes, I got the shocking news of
my life…" he filled him in about his daughter and
about the night they spent at his home.
"So, Zinhloso was right. She investigated me
about your relationship with Lily but I didn't tell
her anything. I told her to ask you," the sister
brought the machete and they worked together,
"she told me about the child and suspicions
that the child was yours."
"And yet, she didn't even think of telling me."
"Why was she supposed to tell you? It wasn't
her place to say anything."
"Has her aunt accepted your love already? Why
are you defending her?" He glanced at him.
Robert laughed, "no, she's stubborn but I am
standing with the truth." He said and stopped
working, "so, you mean nothing happened
between the two of you? You and Lily?"
"No, I woke up in the morning and I heard from
Ngenzeni that she was sleeping in my arms," he
said and clicked his tongue as Robert laughed.
"You must be firm with children, they listen.
Sbusiso used to do that, he would cry and want
to sleep with us while I had plans for his
mother," he shared making Mhlabunzima laugh
his lungs out, "I would tell him no and he would
end up listening. Be firm with a child, teach her
now that no is no. Don't be a soft father, she'll
ruin your relationship with Zinhloso. She'll
disrespect Zinhloso and you'll keep quiet if you
let her have her way so early."
"I hear you."
They proceeded working, "I have been looking
for you. My telephone is no longer working. I
don't know who came here and asked to make
a call because after them the telephone
stopped working."
"They were supposed to tell them to come to
the store. Villagers are even jealous of
telephones these days."
"You're right. I spoke with my uncle and I even
got a response. You've been gone for long."
Mhlabunzima stopped, "really? What was the
response?"
"When I first told him he said it was going to be
difficult if we didn't lie to Induna and the chief."
"So, what did he suggest?"
"We tried to build lies and decided because
you'll be coming in and out of the site, we
shouldn't hide your name because it'll be an
offense if the chief can be told people are
seeing you there," he explained to him, "only to
learn that the chief doesn't know that you come
there often."
"Yes, you're right because people in that village
also know me."
"Yes, so my uncle came up with the idea that
he'll say the place is his and he wants it for a
garden to make profit. You'll help him manage
that business because you're already in that
business,
"He told them he'll build a small house there
and the rest of the land will be for the garden.
He told them you'll be coming and going since
you'll be managing the place. You'll even sleep
there."
Mhlabunzima sighed with relief, "and what did
they say?" He held his breath.
"They agreed because they know you and they
said you don't have a record of troubling people
but you're helpful," he said and they laughed
with Robert, "so, they gave him the place. They
said you should be there with my uncle this
Sunday when they place him. You know what to
buy then for land that's within other villagers.
And the money to bring."
"Yes, and how much did your uncle want for all
the trouble?"
He chuckled, "he said he wanted an expensive
bottle of alcohol but please give him money."
"I will give him both. He's done me a very huge
favour," Mhlabunzima was very happy about
this.
"Yes, this means in truth, the place is yours but
to the leaders, it's my uncle's place. Once you're
married you won't need to sneak into that place.
You'll take her home or build your own official
home. Or even move there, go back to the
leaders and tell them with my uncle that you're
moving there," Robert suggested, "and we'll
witness war as your father takes you to the king
for wanting to leave home."
They laughed, "I will do that if he insists that he
doesn't want her. I won't stay with him in his
yards because he'll remind me the yard is his
for the rest of my life."
"You're right."
"Now, I should find a man who will build for me,
make a quotation and the work will start," he
was peaceful deep down.
"All this for a woman!"
He melted in laughter, "yes, all this for her. So
that even if they cast her out one day she'll have
a place to run to. I don't trust her mother
completely. If her husband can die," he shook
his head and Robert supported him.
"Treat her right then and stop sharing the bed
with Lily otherwise you'll build this place for
nothing," he advised.
"I know, I know," he knew he really needed to
work on himself. Zinhloso wasn't going to take
his nonsense. He wasn't like the women he was
used to.
UMCEBO

Chapter 66

**Chapter sponsored by anonymous**

"Baba, I am going to town. I will come back in

the afternoon," Zinhloso informed her father.
She was used to heading out and reporting to
no one but her father brought her back into his
family. She had to report before leaving.
"What's happening in town?"
"I got paid, I want to spend my money."
"Why are you going alone and not taking your
sisters?" He glanced at her. He was outside his
hut reading a newspaper. "And are you going to
town, dressed like that?"
"No, I want to go alone. I work alone. I am not
dressed, yet, baba."
"I will also give them money and you'll go
together." He looked at her and he saw that she
wasn't pleased. This meant she was going to
town with her boyfriend. "Okay, go!"
"Thank you." She went to her hut quickly. She
was a little late. She didn't take long dressing up
and once she was done she headed out.
"Where are you going?" Ziwinile asked her. She
was combing her afro outside the house
Zinhloso only glanced at her and said, "bye" she
was still pissed at her for telling their parents
that she was working for Mhlabunzima. She
didn't understand why she didn't confront her
but blurted it out to the parents.
She walked inside the office using the back
door and without knocking. Mhlabunzima was
standing before the cabinet, his one hand
tucked into the grey pants, "you've arrived," he
smiled and met her halfway. He held her waist,
lifting her up and he spun her around.
Her lovely giggles lightened up the morning,
"you thought I wasn't going to come?" Her
hands were on the brown woolen jersey he was
wearing over the white shirt. It wasn't hot but he
was wearing wool.
"Yes, I had little faith but I thought I should
come even though I wasn't hopeful," her face
was soft on his hands and her lips were glossy,
they had a sweet taste as he kissed her deeply.
She'd told him that he brought change into her
life and gave her confidence she'd lost but
Mhlabunzima felt like she was the one who
actually brought change into his life.
"I didn't want to break your heart and you know I
also like spending time with you." She smiled as
he embraced her. She loved how affection he
could get with her.
"Yes, let's leave now. I love you better when
you're wearing a skirt," he said, fixing the black
belt she was wearing with blue high waisted
jeans and a black long sleeve shirt with pink
flowers, tucked in. The shirt was buttoned all
the way up to the last button.
She straightened the collar of his shirt, "I will
wear skirts always once I am your wife," she
slipped her fingers onto his and they headed
out.
He chuckled, "I wonder what happened.
Mnguni's daughters are the only young women
who wear pants in this village."
She laughed and they stepped inside the van.
Mhlabunzima no longer used the bosses'
vehicle for his personal things. He used it only
for their business or driving anyone from their
families wherever they wanted to be driven.
"Maybe my father saw no difference but he'd
never said we should not wear them. I ran away
that day when we saw your father with Robert,"
she shared and Mhlabunzima laughed.
"Should I also run when I see your father?"
She giggled, "no, you're not a woman." Zinhloso
didn't sit straight on the seat but she faced
Mhlabunzima's side. She chatted up a storm
with him and Mhlabunzima was talking but
facing the road with only one or two glances at
her.
In town, they entered a few affordable shops
doing shopping. Zinhloso bought items for her
brother and father.
"I wasn't going to buy anything for dad but he'll
be jealous again if I buy something for
Mzomubi and not him," she shared as they left
the store. She didn't like looks some workers
gave them in some stores, like they were not to
be trusted. Zinhloso wasn't used to the side of
town Mhlabunzima had taken her. She was
used to the Empangeni station area - there it
was buzzing and black people were free
entering whatever store they wanted. The street
market was where she enjoyed the most.
People shouting and selling their products. That
side was alive for her.
"He'll be happy. Come!"
"Why are you taking me here? Are we even
allowed to enter?" She asked as Mhlabunzima
pulled her into a jewelry store.
They were welcomed by a shopkeer who asked
them if they were sent by their boss to buy a
certain piece, "no, I want a gold wristwatch for
my girlfriend." He told them, told them his
budget and the shopkeeper smiled. He was
shown watches within his budget.
"Choose any watch you want."
She smiled from ear to ear, "really?"
"Yes, I don't want any man buying a watch for
you. Tell them you have one."
Her giggles gave shopkeepers a reason to smile.
Zinhloso chose the watch and Mhlabunzima
paid for it. He put the watch on her wrist inside
the store and they left. She was very happy, she
kept looking at the watch. "It's beautiful."
"Not more than you're." He smiled when she
smiled. She suggested they passed by a retail
store, she had things to buy.
"Have you also eaten all your goodies? You had
double," He asked as he realised what she was
buying.
"No, you'll give it to Zodumo but don't tell her I
bought these," she responded.
His heart was filled with warmth, "I won't. Thank
you."
They made the final stop at Empangeni station,
Zinhloso's usual area. They sat in the car and
placed the food they bought in between on the
seat. Mhlabunzima placed a black plastic first
so his seats won't get dirty. His woman would
never change, she was still messy when eating
and he was used to it. He liked looking at her
stuff her face with food and he would wipe her
face afterwards.
"So, dali, I have found a plot to build…"
Mhlabunzima filled in Zinhloso about his plans
and how he got the place, "I want us to be
comfortable and I am hoping you won't mind
this idea. I don't want to take you to my father's
yard and have something happen to you
because of his words."
"You were serious when you said you had a
plan?" She was surprised. He was really a man
of action.
"Yes, I was serious."
"I am very happy about it, sthandwa senhliziyo
yami and I can't wait for us to go there," she
gave him a shy look and Mhlabunzima laughed.
"Yini? Inhliziyo yami iyatuseka uma
ngisesfubeni sakho. Kanti futhi uma ngizwa
ukucikoza kwenhliziyo yakho ngathi ngizwa
iculo lothando onalo ngami." (My heart is
satisfied when I am on your chest)
Her words charmed him. These were the type of
words he'd wished she would put on her letters
but even after teaching her how to write a letter.
Her letters were still bland and straight forward.
"Ngiyakuthanda, ungakukhohlwa lokho." (I love
you, don't forget that.)
She flapped her lashes slowly and
Mhlabunzima's blood warmed up, "please
promise me one thing."
"Yes?"
"That you won't hurt me."
"I won't."
"Because if you do, I will do exactly what you
have done to me."
He raised an eyebrow, "what do you mean?"
"I mean whatever you do to hurt me. I will do it
back so that we experience the same pain," she
gave him her hand.
"I won't shake your hand because I know I won't
hurt you."
"No, do it." She insisted and they shook hands,
making it a truce. They spent the rest of their
time together talking about their love for each
other. Mhlabunzima felt going out was really
what they needed.

On Sunday, Mhlabunzima went to the village

where Robert's uncle lived. He bought
everything needed, they met with the leaders
and Robert's uncle was freed to start working
and build the house. Mhlabunzima knew the
words were for him. They helped him find the
builder that lived in the area and he had a
conversation with him. He needed a two rooms'
house and he needed it to be completed fast.
"Did you see my new sandals? I am wearing
sandals my sister bought for me," Mzomubi
said to his friend, proudly. Mzomubi and his
father were at the Xulu homestead for a
meeting at night.
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "you must be happy."
"Yes, she also bought one for my father and my
mother asked why she didn't buy anything for
her?" Mzomubi sat down. They were going to
have the meeting inside Mhlabunzima's house.
The parents were outside talking.
"And what did she say?" He asked. Kusakusa
walked in.
"She said she didn't know if she was going to
like something bought by her," he answered and
Mhlabunzima shook his head. When Mzomubi
told him about the expensive wrist watch
Kusakusa was eying him suspiciously. He
ignored him.
"As we have said, they requested only three
goats, two doe and one buck but a certain breed.
The jamnapari breed," Mhlabunzima revised
what the bosses wanted, "that's an Indian
domestic breed that only our king has in this
whole village. He was gifted this breed by an
Indian man he helped by saving his family in a
time of need. The man's family would have
been killed if he didn't hide them here."
"These people are always saying it's a small
order but it seems it's always difficult," Mnguni
said. They were all seated together discussing
their bosses' requests. "The king is a generous
person and it'll be difficult to take from him
without guilt."
Mhlabunzima looked at his father and he was in
pain. It showed on his face, this was very
difficult for them as Xulus. They wouldn't be
where they were without the king. His father
wasn't even talking.
"Ngicabanga ukuthi sonke layindlini siyazi
ukuthi isihlahla kasinyelwa," (a tree is not
defecated upon) Mhlabunzima said and looked
at the faces in the house, "what I am trying to
say bab' uMnguni is that, as the Xulu family we
won't take part in this request." Mhlabunzima
said boldly, what shocked everyone in the
house. His father was also shocked but he also
had a hint of relief on his face.
"Mhlabunzima, what are you saying?" Mnguni
raised his voice.
Kusakusa was angry, "yes, what are you saying
and why are you talking on our behalf."
"I am exercising my right as our father's heir," he
knew this was probably going to ruin the
relationship which seemed to be better the past
months between him and his brother. But
Mhlabunzima had no other choice he had to use
this approach because he could see his father
didn't have guts. His father feared Mnguni to an
extent and he, as Mhlabunzima, didn't fear the
man.
"There's no right as such while our father is still
alive. He should make decisions," Kusakusa
shouted and Ngenzeni was seated quietly
enjoying the show as her brothers bickered. She
wondered what her father was thinking of.
"We are here today because the King helped us,
even bab'uMnguni wasn't going to recognise
our father and ask him to join the business had
it not been for the king," Mhlabunzima argued,
"we would have died somewhere in the
wilderness hungry and with nothing. How can
we bite the hand that fed us? He sheltered us
and brought hope into our father's
hopelessness."
Ngenzeni's emotions changed and she was
filled with sorrow as she remembered the past.
Her younger brother was right.
"This is business! Don't attach feelings, you
weak boy!" Kusakusa yelled.
But Mhlabunzima wasn't fazed, "are you trying
to say, tomorrow if you're asked to steal from
bab'uMnguni, you'll go steal from him? Also,
after everything he did for our family?"
"Business is business Mhlabunzima, and you
shouldn't do business like this," Mnguni
interfered.
"My son is right, Mnguni. We can't take part in
this. It's not right."
"What should we do without you? How are we
going to carry out this task without your son,
Xulu. He's the only one who can drive," Mnguni
glared at Mzomubi and Kusakusa, "these two
are hard-headed. I have never seen men who
are failing to move a car!"
"Yes, Mhlabunzima, this will be difficult without
your family." Mzomubi supported.
"I think you can contact baas Petersen and try
the old system you were using before I joined
the group," Mhlabunzima stated.
"That won't work, those people who knew of
this secret group are no longer alive. Boy,
should we beg you for your driving skills?"
Mnguni was livid. Mhlabunzima easily got on
his nerves and he was grateful he wasn't his
son. "The bosses know you can drive!"
"They know but my driving skills have nothing to
do with them. I learnt to drive with my father's
money. I paid the late old man Nzuza a cent to
teach me how to drive before this business,"
Mhlabunzima reminded, "I professionally learnt
later. It's not their doing, they can't force me."
"Okay, you won't steal from the king but you'll
drive." Mnguni suggested.
"Baba, I don't want to keep arguing with you. I
won't take any part."
Kusakusa wanted to strangle this little demon
of a brother he had, "Mzomubi, can't you try?"
"We'll die if I can try."
"Who should drive then? Xulu?" Mnguni was
pink - he was beyond angry.
Mhlabunzima hated what he was about to do
but he wasn't going to look at this man forcing
his father into this, "there's someone who can
drive for you."
All eyes were on Mhlabunzima, "who? Don't tell
me it's one of your political friends!"
"No, it's your daughter." He broke the news and
Xulu and Ngenzeni looked at Mhlabunzima like
he was crazy.
After the eerie silence in the room, "my
daughter?" Mnguni asked in a very low tone.
Mhlabunzima's heart jerked from his seat but
there was no turning back, "yes, Zinhloso. She
can drive. I taught her how to drive."
Nobody breathed a word, only Mnguni's
breathing was high in the room and without
warning, Mnguni flipped the coffee table. The
dishes on the coffee table crashed on the floor
as he tried to get to Mhlabunzima.
Mhlabunzima quickly jumped off his sofa and
he stood by the door. "Are you testing me, boy?"
He growled. Mzomubi was holding his father
who wanted to eat Mhlabunzima alive.
"No but she came to me and told me she was
saving for a car but she can't drive,"
Mhlabunzima had his hands up in the air before
his chest, "she asked me to teach her and I
taught her she was a fast learner and in one
month she could move the car when she
started working for me she asked me to teach
her road signs and rules I taught her she went
to write and came back with a learner driver
document."
Mhlabunzima was talking fast, with no full stop
or break within his sentences. He was scared
his heart was going to come out.
"You want my soul Mhlabunzima. You want my
soul in your hands!"
"No, but it's all work, baba. She drives my van to
make deliveries as part of her job and she loves
it. You have the smartest child in her," he tried
to calm the storm.
"Leave me, boy!" He growled at Mzomubi and
he let him go. When Mnguni took a step forward,
Mhlabunzima ran away. He shook his head,
"Xulu, we'll leave now. I don't know why this boy
of yours ran away."
"He'll come back," Xulu said. They shook hands
and Mnguni left with his son.
Kusakusa shook his head, "I wonder what the
old man could do if he can find out that he's
actually dating his daughter. He's even getting
between her legs now."
"Kusakusa, there's a child here!" Xulu shouted.
Ngenzeni folded her arms, "I am not a child,
baba."
"Gowani! Clean this mess!" He instructed.
Ngenzeni quickly stood up. "And no one here
will tell him your younger brother is dating his
daughter. Are we clear?"
"Yes!" Kusakusa and Ngenzeni said in unison.
UMCEBO

Chapter 67
***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

The walk from the Xulu homestead to his home

cooled him but he was still angry. He wanted to
confront his daughter before sleeping.
"Call your sister to the house," he instructed
Mzomubi and proceeded with his walk.
Mzomubi knocked at Zinhloso's door and he
was wondering if his father was going ask
Zinhloso to drive, "Zinhloso, baba is calling for
you to come to the house."
"I am coming!"
Mnguni sat on his sofa. His wife and daughters
were watching TV. Sbusiso was already
sleeping, "Zinhloso doesn't like watching this?
Why isn't she with you?"
"Zinhloso doesn't like TV, baba." Nobuhle
responded.
"Because she was excluded from the TV even
before." He said, suddenly annoyed again and
they all kept quiet.
Mzomubi walked in followed by her. She was
already in her sleepwear.
"Baba?"
Mnguni took his time looking at his daughter
and even the others in the room ended up
looking at Zinhloso like there was something
they would see.
"What if you had an accident and died?" Mnguni
asked his daughter. He was angry - yes but he
was also scared an accident could have
happened and he could've lost a child. Why
didn't they tell him?
"What accident?"
"Didn't Xulu's son teach you how to drive
without my knowledge?"
She was slightly startled by her father raising
his voice and her mother clapping hands.
"Ay ungunozimanga, ngane!" Mrs Mnguni said.
"Answer me."
"He did. I asked him to teach me."
"Didn't you think something bad could have
happened? Why are you careless Zinhloso?"
"Mhlabunzima was there, baba and I trusted
him. He's experienced."
"I was supposed to be told and I was going to
tell your ancestors. I wasn't going to refuse," he
knew he wasn't going to agree easily but he
was going to eventually agree. One way or
another, this child always got what she wanted.
"Zinhloso is careless!"
She ignored her mother and looked at her father,
"I always told them when I left home. I don't
need sage for them to hear me. They could hear
me and they protected me. I saw an opportunity
and took it. Mhlabunzima didn't have a problem
with teaching me."
He calmed down but when he looked at
Mzomubi, he got angry, "I don't know what is
stopping you from learning!"
"I tried, baba but driving gives me anxiety."
His wife looked at him, "how did it go?"
"Xulu's son refused to take part because of the
history they have with the king. He said the
whole family won't participate and he made the
decision as Xulu's heir. Xulu supported him."
Mnguni explained.
"He made a good decision."
"The boy is loyal and I think Lily should have him
as her husband," Mnguni said and his wife
supported her.
Zinhloso rolled her eyes internally and she
wanted to die when her parents supported each
other, "ungibukani Nobuhle?" (Why are you
looking at me, Nobuhle) she asked and stood
up. Nobuhle laughed and followed Zinhloso out.
The parents and the two siblings didn't catch up.
"Why are you following me?"
She was laughing her lungs out and they
entered her hut, "dad will marry your man to
Lily." Zinhloso smacked her hand, "I can't
believe you can drive."
"It's nice, I like it."
"I am happy for you!" She squeezed her and
they stopped talking when Mnguni walked
inside the hut. Nobuhle got up and left Zinhloso.
Mnguni sat on the chair, "can you do it?" He
hated this but he didn't have a choice. "You only
have to drive, nothing else."
"Yes, I can do it."
"Have you started driving at the school?"
"Yes, I can properly drive."
Mnguni sighed, "okay."
"But after my help I want you and Xulus to stop
this business. It's no longer safe. It was never
safe and it'll take you deeper even where you
don't want to go," Zinhloso said to Mnguni.
He knew his daughter's warning words were
mostly not just for - saying. It'd happened
countless times where she would say things
and they would happen even when she said
them playfully. But he was the only one who had
observed that. He stood up, "I will talk to Xulu
about it." He yawned, "I am proud of you. You
have ambitions. Your father is sorry about the
past." He said and left his daughter. She didn't
say anything but was only looking down.

"I can't believe you just told him just like that!"
Zinhloso smacked his shoulder. They were
seated at the back on Wednesday afternoon.
She didn't go to school, she visited her
grandmother during the day and she cooked for
her. She brought food she cooked.
"What was I supposed to do? I really couldn't do
that to the king," he was the only one eating.
Zinhloso was only having a cold drink.
She smiled, "you're such a good man," she
massaged the back of his neck softly and
removed her hand when he closed his eyes.
"Why did you stop?"
"Eat your food and finish it."
He smirked, "why should I finish it? Did you put
a love potion here?"
"Oh, I am capable of doing that but not your
baby mama?"
He huffed. "I am just joking! I don't even
remember what I said about her."
"How's everyone at home?"
Before Mhlabunzima could answer, "Baba!
Baba!" Zodumo's sharp voice reached them and
she appeared happily before them. When her
eyes set on Zinhloso she didn't smile brightly.
"Nkosazana kaBaba," Mhlabunzima smiled at
his daughter and played with her cheeks.
She giggled, "sawubona, baba wami. How are
you?"
"Sawubona sis, I am fine and how are you?" He
asked and the child greeted back, "why don't
you greet the adult?"
Zodumo moved to Zinhloso, she stood behind
them. "Why are you always with my father?
Suka! Suka eduze Kwa baba wami?" (Move)
Mhlabunzima held Zinhloso's hand and held
Zodumo by her arm, "stop it! Where are your
manners?"
"No, baba, I want to sit next to you!"
"And so, why don't you ask nicely? Why are you
disrespecting her?" He shouted at her and
Zodumo sulked. "Apologize for being
disrespectful or I will whip you now!"
When Mhlabunzima threatened her, Zodumo
cried and ran away. Mhlabunzima clicked his
tongue and got up. He ran after her and
Zodumo held her mother's waist. Lily was
talking to a young woman.
"Why are you crying?" Lily asked and the young
woman excused herself.
Mhlabunzima looked at Zodumo, "why did you
run away because I was talking to you?" He
asked the child.
"What happened?" Lily asked her daughter.
Zodumo wiped her tears, "mama, dad's lady
friend didn't want to move away from my father.
And my father shouted at me."
"Why did you shout at her? Can't your girlfriend
be sensible and move? She has had you for a
very long time with you and Zodumo has been
here for two minutes," Lily asked Mhlabunzima
but she didn't shout at him.
He realised she was the reason Zodumo was
disrespectful. How can a mother ask such a
question? "So, you're teaching her bad
manners?"
"Bad manners? The child wants to be close to
you."
"That mean she must be disrespectful?"
"How is she disrespectful by asking for
attention from her father?"
He couldn't believe what he was hearing, "She
only greeted me and didn't greet the person I
was with-"
"She didn't greet Zinhloso, I know she's your
girlfriend. There's no need to hide her."
He clenched his jaws, "how am I hiding
someone who's just at the back? Yes, she's my
girlfriend. Why would I hide her from you?"
She was maddened. How could he do this?
"Why is she important above your own blood?"
"I just told you the child didn't greet an elder but
you're busy trying to fight Zinhloso being my
girlfriend. What's wrong with you?" He raised his
voice and Lily looked down, "why can't you instill
good manners on her? That's the issue here."
"If you were present in her life you would have
instilled those manners."
The two customers entered the shop like
Mhlabunzima wasn't shouting at his baby
mama. He chuckled, "never use that against me
because that's on you and your father. If
Zodumo was raised by me from birth she would
know an elder is an elder. I don't like nonsense."
He looked at his daughter after, "I will really
whip you if you don't know to respect elders. Do
you understand?”
“Yebo, baba.” she said with her hands on her
mouth.
"Tell your mother to bring you here tomorrow.
You'll sell at the store with your father, okay?"
She smiled, "yebo!"
Mhlabunzima didn't spare Lily a glance but he
headed at the back. Back to his girlfriend.
UMCEBO

Chapter 68

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

Zinhloso stood up when Mhlabunzima returned.
She heard Mhlabunzima shouting but she didn't
hear Lily shouting back at him. But it was clear
she was talking back to him.
"Where's she?" Zinhloso asked.
He inhaled and sat down. He proceeded eating
his food, "her mother took her and left. I have
realised she's the one teaching the child bad
manners. She also has the nerve to tell me I
wasn't there for seven years."
"That's not your fault," Zinhloso said and sat
back down. She could see he was very angry. If
he wasn't dark skinned his face would be red.
He sighed, "I told her the same." He shook his
head. He had a huge responsibility, "I am sorry
about all that."
"It's alright, it's not your fault. Children learn bad
manners. My sister's son is like that too but it's
all my mom's doing."
"I don't even know if this child will unlearn this
behaviour."
She smiled, "she will unlearn if you teach her.
Don't be harsh though she's still a child,
remember that."
"I will," he ate the last spoon and not only his
stomach was full but also his heart was also
full, "they've started to prepare the site. They'll
start by fencing because we'll have the garden."
"They should hurry up and finish. I want you. I
don't like it elsewhere like in your office, it's like
you're stealing me and I am not important,"
Zinhloso shared, shyly.
Mhlabunzima chuckled. She could be very
backward sometimes, "don't think like that.
You're very important to me and where we do it
doesn't weigh your value," he said and smiled at
her shyness. "My body wants you even now."
He took her hand and placed it on his pants.
She gave him the kitten look that made him
want to remove her clothes off her body, "so
what if one day we're getting firewood in the
forest and I can't hold myself because you're
too beautiful?"
She laughed, "stop it! You're making me miss
you more." She giggled and pulled her hand
away, "where will you get money for the
furniture?"
"Don't worry I have enough money."
"Buy second hand furniture, please! It doesn't
matter that you don't have one source of
income."
"Of course," he smiled - considerate human
being!
She shook her head and took the lunch box as
he kept looking at it. She knew he was too lazy
to wash it. He wanted things done for him
sometimes and she didn't mind even though
she was lazy herself.
"I thought you weren't going to take it," he
played with her chin and she smacked his hand.
"I feel sorry for our kids. You'll be smacking
them."
"No, our child. That's one child and Zodumo, it'll
be two."
"It'll actually be ten with Zodumo. Wow, do you
know gods like me?" He looked at her with
happiness on his face, "I initially wanted ten and
my dad said it's too much I decreased the
number."
Zinhloso clicked her tongue, laughing and she
got up from the bench. "I should go. I am
cooking today at home. I will see you," she bent
over and kissed his lips softly. She left him
smiling.

Friday afternoon, Ntokozo was still at the

tuckshop working and Mhlabunzima was doing
stocktaking. Mhlabunzima hated this upcoming
weekend because he was supposed to
slaughter his sheep for Ngenzeni.
The telephone rang and he placed down the
paper and pen.
"Mhlabunzima Xulu speaking, how may I help
you?" He greeted the caller.
John chuckled, "you're serious when in your
business."
He laughed, "John, it's you?"
"Yes, how are you?"
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am well. I am calling because I need your help.
I need you to do me a huge favour."
He rubbed his chin beard, "I am listening."
"I have Buhle's work pass ready and I am
thinking of posting it to your shop's address," he
introduced.
"Yes, yes, there's no problem."
"That's not all, I am asking that you drive her
from home to Durban. I don't want her to take
the bus," he pleaded, "I will buy your petrol when
you get here."
"That's not a problem at all."
"Thank you so much and how's your
relationship? You haven't been caught yet?" He
asked, concerned for him.
He chuckled, "no, but my father did…" he told
him of his situation with Zinhloso and that he
was building a house. He didn't mind talking in
front of Ntokozo.
"That's very bad but don't stress yourself, once
they have finished building the house you
should tell me," John said, "I have my furniture
that I was using at my old flat before I bought a
house. I didn't sell it. I stored it and I think it'll be
best that I give it to you for your house."
He was relieved and he would be a fool if he
turned down his kind gesture, "thank you so
much that will be helpful."
"We'll communicate, be well."
Mhlabunzima put the telephone down and he
looked at Lily. She greeted and he greeted back,
"are you buying something?"
"No, I am here to talk to you."
Mhlabunzima opened the burglar guard and she
walked inside. He led her into his office. They
sat down. "And?"
"I am sorry about what happened the other day,"
she started the conversation. Mhlabunzima
didn't talk. "I didn't mean to say what I said but I
feel like you don't understand my struggle and
where I come from and that's only because you
have a girlfriend now."
Lily said, emotionally. She was very sad about
what happened and how Mhlabunzima
defended his girlfriend. She couldn't believe he
really moved on and it seemed he was feeling
nothing for her.
"It wasn't easy for me all those years. I yearned
for your love and affection but I couldn't get it. I
don't blame you for moving on but I feel like
you're not even compassionate towards me,"
she cried her heart out, "I know it's not your fault
but it's hurtful that you have moved on. And not
with just any woman but with Zinhloso. I feel
like no man will love me with another man's
child-"
Mhlabunzima tried to hold her hand but he
stopped himself. He could understand the pain
but there was nothing he could do because all
this wasn't his fault. "Lily, life sometimes don't
take us where we wish it could take us and
that's what happened with us," he said looking
at her as she cried, wiping her tears. His loyalty
was with Zinhloso now but it didn't mean he
couldn't understand how she left.
Before he began his heartfelt speech, Zinhloso
stood at the door and before she could knock
she heard a woman crying.
"Lily, when you left it was like the light in my life
had been switched off. I was empty inside and
was in pain and it had never been the same
since, I tried dating different women I loved
them but no one filled the void you left in my
heart,"
He wasn't done when the heartbroken Zinhloso
decided to leave. She couldn't listen to him any
further. It was clear he was fooling her and she
was hurt. Lily was his light and what was she?
"Women hurt me and they would go as far as
spreading lies about me. I would think of you
sometimes. My life was no longer colourful until
I met Zinhloso. Everything changed, I respect
you but I can't be with you because I have a
woman in my life. I love her very much. I also
wish our child would get along with her."
Mhlabunzima stopped talking and he gave Lily
some toilet paper.
"Thank you," she wiped her face. She hated her
father on the grave. It was his fault what
happened and now, she had lost to Mnguni's
daughter! "I understand but I am glad I heard
you say that. It brings me closure. I also wanted
to tell you that Zodumo will come for a
sleepover this weekend. She requested it." She
didn't have any closure and she didn't want to
give up. Their love was new, it was still going to
shake up, Mnguni was going to find out one day
and she was going to take her man back.
Mhlabunzima smiled, "I am pleased. I will be
waiting for her. Uhambe kahle."
"Thank you," she smiled and she left his offic
UMCEBO

Chapter 69

The Xulu homestead was busy on a Saturday

morning. Mhlabunzima had called his brother
and his family, Robert and Mzomubi. Ngenzeni
told him not to call a lot of people - it was her
meat and her rules. Ngenzeni then invited two
of her friends. Xulu invited his neighbour.
Zodumo was also home and she was with
Kusakusa's children. They were playing around
the yard.
"Mhlabunzima, what happened? You're
slaughtering a second sheep this year,"
Kusakusa asked his brother. They were under
the tree working on the sheep.
Only Robert knew what was happening and he
laughed first when Kusakusa asked, "why are
you laughing? I asked baba and Ngenzeni, but
they didn't tell me."
"I am just slaughtering a sheep. Don't you want
meat?" He was angry when his sister said she
wanted to choose which sheep she wanted. She
didn't choose the sheep he was going to
slaughter for her.
"I want it but I was curious."
"Lily is back. How's the progress with fixing
things?" Mzomubi asked his friend and the two
laughed at Mhlabunzima.
He was certain he was being tested. First it was
his sister and now, these men, "I was going to
slaughter this sheep alone if I knew you'd be
such a nuisance."
They laughed further, making him angrier but he
didn't retaliate. Mzomubi excused himself.
"I really can't wait for the day your friend will
find out you're actually sleeping with his sister,"
Kusakusa said to Mhlabunzima.
He glared at Robert and he folded his mouth. "I
love her, I am not just sleeping with her."
"You're sleeping with her and my magazine is
helping you."
Robert frowned, "what magazine?"
Mhlabunzima ignored Robert, "where am I
sleeping with her because your father said she
doesn't want her here?"
"Robert must be helping you."
Robert raised one hand, "don't get me involved
but tell me what magazine you are talking
about."
"Uthanda izindaba!" Xulu brothers said in unison
and the three men laughed.
Ngenzeni had made traditional Zulu beer and
while waiting for the meat, the men were
drinking and braai some meat. It was a light and
merry mood.
"Remember, there should be meat for Zinhloso.
You can't slaughter a sheep in her name and
then don't give her some," Mhlabunzima said to
Ngenzeni. He was inside the kitchen for salt
"Alright." She was happy on this day. The day
carried on with grace.

She was seated on her doorstep with a mirror

and she was busy applying the aloe face gel
she created. The previous night she couldn't
sleep properly, she couldn't get off her mind the
things Mhlabunzima said to his crying baby
mama
"Sawubona, sisi," Thembela greeted Zinhloso.
She raised her head, "Thembela? How are you
doing?"
"I am doing amazing and how are you?"
"I am alright, what did he give you?" She looked
around and there was nobody in the yard. Her
mother and sisters were in the garden fields
and her father was busy with his patients.
Mzomubi wasn't home. Lily didn't work on
Sundays.
"A letter."
"Snqand' amathe sami

Ngiyethemba ukahle nezitsha zami ezifayo

usaziphethe kahle. Cha, akukho okutheni ngithi
angikutshele ukuthi ngiwise le nyama oyithanda
kakhulu. Bengifisa udlule Kimi kusasa uzozitika.
Uzobe usale usuthi manqa ke esokeni lakho
ngaphambi kokuba uhambe.

Obhalile
Okuthanda ukudla ukwazi."
She smiled, a pained smile as a part of her heart
wanted to believe all these words were true but
he was probably saying the same words to Lily.
It was clear when he wrote a letter for her, he
also wrote the letter for Lily.
"Is he sending you to deliver letters only to me?"
Zinhloso asked.
"Yes, Sisi."
"Okay, tell him I will come." She said and the boy
quickly left her. Zinhloso stood up and she
closed the door behind her. She dropped her
body on the bed and cried. She was tired of
having confrontations about the same person
and around the same issue. She couldn't
understand what she was not doing right for
him? Was it because she wasn't allowed in his
home and Lily could come with the knowledge
of his father? She was shuttered, she couldn't
even properly breathe at night. She thought she
was dying because of heartbreak. Why did he
fool her like this?
***
The past five days he'd been very confused.
Zinhloso didn't come to his invitation to have
meat he'd saved for her. He ended up giving the
rest of the meat to Ntokozo out of anger. He
kept it for the next day because he thought she
was held up at home but she didn't come.
He was behind the counter, selling because
Ntokozo had a personal issue.
Zinhloso walked inside the shop. She didn't
want to come to the shop, she'd begged her
father to send someone else to the shop but he
sent her. She didn't want to see Mhlabunzima
but as she remembered that maybe, there was
Ntokozo. She took the money and left.
And standing behind the children who were
buying, Zinhloso was regretting coming to the
shop.
"Sawubona, can I have four white candles, three
yellow and four blue," Zinhloso placed the
money on the counter.
Mhlabunzima didn't take the money but he held
her hand. "MaMnguni sengoneni? I sent a letter
you agreed to come but you didn't come. You
made no means of communicating with me and
if I did something wrong, tell me."
"Mhlabunzima, my father sent me here, he's
waiting for the candles." She said and ignored
what he was saying. She strongly wanted to cry
as she looked at his face. Why was he hurting
her like this? Wasn't her love enough for him?
The lump on his throat was very painful and
itchy, but he swallowed the lump. He took the
money. He gave her the candles. "Can you
please come here when you're done with what
you're doing and we'll sit down and talk," he
requested.
"I am busy," she walked out when the customer
entered the shop.
She left Mhlabunzima even more confused and
hurt. What did he do?

The following afternoon, Mhlabunzima was still

in confusion and his father and sister who were
always guarding his moods. They could see he
wasn't okay. They had asked a countless times
'what did Mnguni's daughter do to you?' and
even if he wanted to answer them, he couldn't
answer them. He also had no clue.
He pushed the gate to the Mnguni household
and he saw Sbusiso playing outside.
"My boy, how are you?"
He smiled, "malume, I am fine and how are
you?"
"I am doing well, I am here for your grandfather.
Where's he?"
Sbusiso led Mhlabunzima to the main house
and he left her inside the living room where his
grandfather was relaxing over tea,
"Mhlabunzima!"
He sat down and greeted, "how are you doing,
baba?"
"We're good, boy and how are you?"
"I am fine, no, it's not much but I was sent by
Hendricks' son. He posted Nobuhle's work pass,
so that she won't have a problem with the
officials when they see her in the suburbs,"
Mhlabunzima took out the work pass from his
pocket. He placed it on the table, "he also
requested that I drive her to Durban because it'll
be her first time coming to the suburbs. She'll
take the bus next time."
"That's good and I am glad he suggested."
Mhlabunzima placed the plastic bag next to the
table, "I don't know if Zinhloso is home but this
weekend I had slaughtered a sheep. I shared it
with some of my workers but I haven't seen her.
I thought I should leave it here for her."
"Thank you on her behalf. She loves it so much.
I will eat it with her," he smiled and pulled the
plastic bag.
"Nisale kahle," he walked out and by luck he
saw Nobuhle. He raised his hand.
"Mhlabunzima, how are you?"
He sighed, "eish, I am not fine Nobuhle. It's your
sister."
"What did she do?"
He rubbed his eyes furiously and he widened
them, "I really don't know. We were fine,
everything was going well and suddenly, she's
no longer coming to me. I wrote a letter asking
her to come to me. She said she'll come but she
didn't come. The week has ended. Yesterday,
she was at the shop and bought candles. She
didn't even want to talk to me."
Nobuhle realised she was right when she
thought she thought Zinhloso wasn't okay. "I
think there's something you did, Mhlabunzima,
because she's not herself these days. And I
remember, yesterday she didn't want to go to
the shop. She went because dad shouted at
her."
He shook his head, "I don't know what I did. I
don't remember doing anything wrong. I swear,
yes, we had fights but we fixed them. Can you
please talk to her and if I did something wrong I
should know."
"Alright, I will talk to her."
"Thank you, I was here to tell your father that
John asked me to drive you."
She smiled, "alright, that's better I won't get lost.
I will talk to Zinhloso, don't worry." She looked
at him as he left and she wondered what did her
sister do now? She had to talk to her.
UMCEBO

Chapter 70

***Chapter sponsored by Nandipha Nzwana***

"Zinhloso, I have been looking for you. Where

were you?" Mnguni asked as he joined his
family for dinner.
She glanced at her father, "I went to wash my
clothes."
"Alright, your employer came by."
Her heart skipped a beat. He wouldn't dare! But
her father wasn't angry, he was calm. It may not
be something bad. "Why? Am I fired?" She
asked.
"That would be helpful," Mrs Mnguni
commented. Zinhloso only looked at her.
"No, but he brought the meat for you. He said he
gave the others also," Mnguni looked at her and
she was eating slowly, "it's lamb."
"Mm," Zinhloso said, "thank you."
"Come home straight tomorrow so that you will
cook it and we'll eat."
Mzomubi looked at his father, "and what about
us?"
"Mzomubi don't be greedy, Xulu called you
home!" Mnguni shouted and they laughed at
Mzomubi. Dinner proceeded and Zinhloso was
happy that she had meat to enjoy.
"I am glad this is the final week and we'll get to
relax and have fun," Nobuhle said to Zinhloso.
They were heading out of the house after dinner.
They finished up first, Nobuhle was eating at
her pace because she wanted to leave the
house with her.
"Yes, I am really going to get bored without you.
I will ask dad to also go and visit grandma,"
Zinhloso yawned.
"You have your man around, why are you
leaving?" Nobuhle asked, trying to get her
reaction.
"Mxm! I have no man." She opened her hut and
looked at her, "why are you following me?"
"I want to talk to you about something."
They sat on the bed and Nobuhle faced her,
"yes, what's wrong?"
"Today, he was here as you know. He was
dropping my work pass," Nobuhle took
Zinhloso's pillow and she squeezed it. "John
asked him to drive me to Durban.,"
"That's amazing!"
"Don't you want to drive to Durban with us? I will
ask dad."
She shook her head, "no, thanks.'
"Why? Zinhloso, what happened? The poor guy
looked very sad and he said he doesn't know
what he did to you. You're not talking to him,"
Nobuhle raised her hand, "and don't you dare
tell me you had nothing to say."
"It's him, Sisi!" She looked at Nobuhle with sad
eyes and tears streamed down her soft cheeks,
"I went to visit him at the shop and I didn't enter
because I heard a woman crying. Mhlabunzima
told Lily that his life has been in the dark ever
since she left and he has never found someone
who filled the void Lily left. So, what am I if Lily
is his light?"
Nobuhle pulled her into her arms as Zinhloso
cried her heart out. She was in immense pain,
"and did you hear Lily's response? Did their
conversation sound like an exchange of two
people who are in love now?"
"I was very hurt. I didn't even listen to the rest of
the conversation."
"Awu, Zinhloso, why didn't you listen to
everything? What if you're crying over a
misunderstanding?" Nobuhle asked and softly
pushed her away to get a good look at her, "you
were not supposed to leave. Mhlabunzima
didn't look like a guilty person to me. Can't you
go to him and talk to him, hear what he has to
say if you tell him?"
"He'll lie to me."
"You'll call Lily if you think he's lying. I am sure
she won't tell lies while Mhlabunzima is there,"
Nobuhle wiped her tears. "Stop crying, and go to
him when you're ready."
"Alright, I will go to him. I am just really tired of
fighting about his baby's mother. It's not healthy
to always fight about one person," Zinhloso said
and deep down she was hoping she'd be told
she's wrong. She wasn't ready to lose her man.
It hurt when she imagined life without him. It
had to be a misunderstanding.
Nobuhle stood up, "don't stress yourself." She
said goodnight and she left her. Zinhloso
undressed and she got in under the covers. She
fell asleep thinking about him.
***
It was after 8pm and he was still seated on his
office chair behind the desk. He didn't feel like
driving home. The van was outside the shop,
he'd driven to the other village. The builders had
really listened to him when he told them they
should hury. The walls were going up.
They told him that as December had begun,
they wouldn't reach mid-December without
finishing. They worked easily because
everything was provided.
But Mhlabunzima wasn't happy, he was
supposed to be happy because the building
process would be over soon. How was he
supposed to be happy if the person who was
the reason he was building this house was no
longer talking to him. It would have been better
if he knew what he did but he didn't know.
He raised his head as the door slowly opened
and he was disappointed. It was this same face
again!
"Did something happen?" He stood up and
walked over, he sat on the desk.
"What's wrong with you? Did you fight with
Zinhloso?" Lily asked and she stood before
Mhlabunzima.
"Why are you here?" Hearing her name really
hurt him.
"I am coming from your home to drop off
Zodumo. She said she wants to sleep in her
bedroom at home," Lily explained and placed
her hand on his forehead, he wasn't having any
fever but he looked like he was sick, "my mom
said I should drop her off and come back but
your father told me you're not back. He told me
you're not fine, I should talk to you."
She couldn't believe it when Xulu told her it
seemed something was happening between
Mhlabunzima and Zinhloso. He advised Lily that
this was her opportunity to step in and comfort
Mhlabunzima, make him hers again.
He rubbed his eyes, "I am fine, there's nothing
wrong. I should drive you home."
Lily moved even closer and she placed her hand
on his shoulder, "I can see that you are not fine.
Please talk to me, I will listen to you and make it
better."
He kept looking into her eyes without talking.
His mind wasn't fully with her and before he
knew it, their lips were joined. Lily was a little
taller than him. She was also short but taller
than Mhlabunzima. His hands didn't move from
the desk but he continued moving his lips as
the kiss between them deepened. Lily circled
her hands around his waist - she was very
happy and she was enjoying the kiss. Xulu was
right, she needed to take this opportunity.
And before things could go any further,
Mhlabunzima was attacked by a flash of
Zinhloso kissing another man. He almost lost
his balance at the unpleasant pictures flashing
in his mind and so, he pushed Lily away from
him.
"This is wrong! I have a girlfriend." He quickly
turned to the table and grabbed the car keys.
Lily smiled and touched her lips, "this was not
wrong and it wasn't a mistake. We have history.
Lapho amanzi ake ama khona aphinde ame."
"I don't want to ever talk about this. Let's go," he
didn't even look at her but he walked out. Lily
followed him with a proud smile, she was really
going to use this opportunity. The man was
going to come back to her.
Mhlabunzima was having a difficult time
concentrating on the road but he forced himself.
It didn't help it that Lily was annoyingly loud,
blabbering about how their kiss wasn't a
mistake. And all he was thinking about were
Zinhloso's words. He wouldn't have to kiss
another man. She wasn't supposed to find out
about this. He was stressed and gave in easily.
"Mhlabunzima, you're passing my home!" Lily
raised her voice and he quickly stopped the car.
He drove back, "can you stop stressing and
concentrate on driving? You made no sin."
"Bye!" He drove off once she was down. He
drove straight home. He wasn't in the mood for
his family, not even his daughter. But he had to
go home. He blinked twice as the image
attacked him again.
He rubbed his eyes, "what's happening?" He
cursed.
UMCEBO

Chapter 71

***Chapter sponsored by Boitumelo

Masitenyane***

The schools were closing the next day for the

year and the long holidays would begin.
Lily was seated before his desk. She was at his
office to take money to take her daughter to the
Doctor. She had the flu and a fever. Her mother
told her to tell her father because she didn't
want to take traditional medicine, she would cry.
"If I wasn't going to be busy tomorrow I was
going to drive you two to the Doctor but I don't
have a driver to drive my goods," Mhlabunzima
said, he was still writing an important letter
before giving her money for the child.
"Who drives for you if you're not around? Ask
that person," Lily suggested. She knew Zinhloso
drove for him but she was going to school the
next day. She wished she could do something
that was going to stop her from going to school.
That way, the three of them were going to go to
the Doctor together.
"I can't." He finished up the letter and sealed it
inside the envelope. He got up and opened his
safe that was kept inside the small cupboard
behind him - on the desk. He didn't keep money
there but only important documents and petty
cash.
Lily could see Zinhloso standing outside the
back door. She was trying to enter but stopped
walking in when she saw her. She pretended
like she couldn't see her and she chuckled for
Mhlabunzima to hear her.
"What's wrong? Are you thinking of something?"
Mhlabunzima asked without looking back.
"I am thinking about something I don't want to
share," she deliberately changed the projection
of her voice. She spoke like a love struck young
girl.
"Share with me, unless you have changed and
no longer share things with me," he said, still
squatting down counting the money. He was no
longer as sad because he saw Nobuhle at the
shop. Nobuhle promised that she spoke to
Zinhloso and she was going to come to him but
she's been busy with their father and finishing
up exams. He was hopeful they would talk.
Lily giggled, "in my mind I have this thing, that
some things never change. Your lips still taste
the same. After that night, I didn't even want to
brush my teeth because I wanted to keep
tasting your lips."
Mhlabunzima stopped what he was doing but
he didn't look back at her, "Lily, I said we
shouldn't talk about that." He said but not like
someone who was panicking and who was
guilty. Zinhloso wasn't going to find out if they
didn't speak about the kiss.
"I know but I wish I can taste other things if
they're still the same too," her voice was more
seductive then, than sweet.
"Mmm," Mhlabunzima said, his manhood
responding to the seductive voice. He wanted
to get rid of her quickly. He stood up with a
bulge on his pants and he almost lost balance
when he saw Zinhloso standing at the door. His
heart jumped up to his throat and he looked at
Lily, she was standing by the cabinet with her
back facing the door. This means she was
talking without seeing her on the door.
"MaMnguni!" He smiled and tried to move
closer to the door.
Zinhloso's eyes were attracted to his pants.
Mhlabunzima changed his standing but it was
useless, "I didn't mean to disturb you. I came by
to give you yesterday's money for the peppers
and chillies. A few people saw me there and
they came to buy." She tried to pull it together.
She didn't even mention she was mainly here so
they would talk, address the issue.
He wasn't sure about the emotions playing
around her eyes. Was she angry or was she hurt?
"Why don't you take the money? You don't have
to bring every cent to me."
"It's not a cent, it's a lot of money. MaMyeni
bought more chillies for her cooked chilli
business."
"Oh! Zodumo's mother was here to take the
money. Zodumo is sick so she's taking her to
the doctor tomorrow," he pointed back at Lily.
She was facing them now and looking at them
with a guilty face.
"I see. Here, take it. I should go home to
grandma." She handed him the small money
bag.
Mhlabunzima pulled her inside and he tightened
up his grip when Zinhloso tried to resist by
pulling her hand back. "Lily, here's the money.
You'll also buy things she'll be able to eat since
she's not eating. Tell me how it went,
tomorrow."
Lily took the money and greeted Zinhloso, she
only nodded. She left the two.
When she was gone, Zinhloso yanked her hand
off his hold, "stop holding my hand. I have done
what I came here to do."
"I swear to you I didn't touch her. It was an
innocent kiss that I stopped. I didn't go beyond
that. I would never hurt you like that, Zinhloso,"
Mhlabunzima quickly explained to her. Why did
Lily talk without even looking around? Why
didn't she listen to him when he said they
shouldn't talk about it?
"I am not a fool and it's amazing when you see
a man standing next to me. You want to shake
up the whole village but you're doing such
things behind my back," she was very
disappointed and hurt. It was obvious that it
was only a matter of time before they slept
together and had another baby. If they didn't
already.
"I am sorry it will never happen again."
She laughed like a clown, a hurt clown, "I wasn't
born yesterday. Your manhood stands like a rod
when you're talking to her and you want me to
believe nothing will happen?"
"I was thinking of you-" he felt really terrible like
he cheated on her. For him, the kiss wasn't
cheating, it was just an innocent mistake that
would never happen again.
"Stop it!" She raised her hands up and rubbed
her glands, "why didn't you agree to marry her
when your father suggested? I wasn't going to
mind, I was going to free you. Why,
Mhlabunzima? What did I do to you?"
He held her hands, "you did nothing and I am
really sorry. It was an honest mistake and I
swear it won't happen again."
"We're not married and I am glad we have no
child together. So, do what pleases you. You're
a man. I will do what pleases me and start
acting like an unmarried young woman."
He stopped her from leaving by holding her
hand, "what do you mean? Zinhloso, don't do
this. I made a mistake, are you punishing me for
one simple mistake?"
"Simple! It's a simple mistake. Are you doing
this because I don't have an ex to go back to?
You know it's only you."
"No, but that night I wasn't myself. I was
stressed out by what you were doing to me," he
didn't let go of her hand, "my father told her to
come here and talk to me."
She chuckled, "and the two of you spoke by
kissing each other?"
"No, but I was confused and crying."
"She was your shoulder to cry on!" She
screamed, "why were you crying because Lily is
your light and I am the darkness that cannot fill
the void she left in your heart?"
He frowned but still didn't let go of her hand,
"what are you talking about, sthandwa?"
"Stop calling me like that!"
"Tell me what are you talking about."
"You think I didn't hear you that day? You were
telling her she left the darkness in your life and
nobody had filled that void? Don't try to deny it.
Akuyona 'inginzwabethi le' I heard you."
Zinhloso's heart broke all over again. It wasn't
just that - more happened. They kissed! What
was next? It was sex and another baby.
He was taken out of his misery but it didn't
matter because there was another mess. He'd
created a mess, "Zinhloso, did you listen to the
whole conversation?"
"How was I supposed to listen to you after
hurting me?"
"I was trying to explain how I felt when she left
and dating was, being bad-mouthed by women,"
he explained to her what she didn't hear and he
wasn't sure if she was going to believe him or
not, "I told her it was difficult until I met you. I
wanted her to understand she had no place in
my heart anymore. I have you. We can call her
and ask her if you don't believe me."
Hell! She really cried for nothing? Why didn't she
stick around and listen to him - to her speaking
back? Did she open up space for this woman to
come here and do as she pleased? She was
even wishing to taste the sex, if it was still the
same. How shameful!
"Okay, I should have stayed and listened to
everything but it doesn't change that you
actually kissed her Mhlabunzima," she pulled
her hand away. "And stop telling me it was a
mistake!"
"I am really sorry MaMnguni. Please, forgive me.
I didn't mean to hurt you."
"No, don't tell me speeches. You should be
happy when I kiss another man."
He quickly held her hand, his heart was
breaking apart. "Do you want to see me die? I
would rather die, Zinhloso."
"It'll be your choice and remember, if you die
you'll leave me with that man. I will move on
with him and make babies with him," she was
very angry but she was trying to pull herself
together and show him she would also mess
with him the same way. He surely took it lightly
and she wasn't joking with him.
"I am sorry I wasn't myself."
"I thought we could talk kanti, this is what you
do when you're hurt? I have been crying and
you've been kissing and getting reactions.
Okay!" She headed to the door.
"Zinhloso! I am really not in the mood for war
because you've shown me that you don't trust
me!" He shouted at her, "your actions say you've
been waiting for me to hurt you and that's why
you didn't stay and listened to my whole
conversation!"
"But you kissed her!"
"I am sorry but if you kiss someone else-"
"We made an agreement and there's no war
you'll cause. I am leaving now and after
Nobuhle has gone to Durban I am also leaving,
visiting my maternal grandmother." She told
him what she had planned on telling him after
they spoke. "You and I, we will be even.
Angisineki futhi!"
"Zinhloso -"
"Ngithi kuwe angihleki anginsinsitheki!" (I am
not laughing) She left Mhlabunzima sweating.
UMCEBO

Chapter 72
Early in the morning, she was standing at the
Xulu gates. Mhlabunzima's dog was barking
and jumping around the locked gate. She was
looking at the dog.
"Louder spoti!" She exclaimed to the dog and as
if it could hear her, the dog barked even louder.
She pointed to his house and it rushed up to his
house. The dog barked right before his front
door until Mhlabunzima woke up and not just
him, but his father also opened his door.
"What's happening?" Xulu asked, yawning.
"It must be seeing something or someone," he
looked at the dog, it was running back to the
gate. Xulu saw a figure quickly moving away
from the gate.
"Why does it seem like that's Mnguni's
daughter?"
He followed his dog, "I will go and check, go
back inside."
"No, I will stand here."
"She won't enter, she knows."
"No!"
His eyes set on her, she looked amazing on the
polka dots eyelet embroidery trim puff sleeve
dress and black heeled slingback pumps. The
slick cherry red lipstick made her look different
and her face was looking more refined.
"Waze wamuhle, ngathi uzothi phuma
siyoshada," (you look very beautiful.)
Mhlabunzima opened the small gate and the
dog finally got out. It jumped around her without
touching her.
"How are you?"
"I am not fine because of you and how are you?"
"I am fine. Give me the car keys and call Lily, tell
her I will drive them to the doctor. You have
deliveries to make. I don't enjoy driving around
the village. It's better to go to the doctor.
Nobuhle will go get my school report," Zinhloso
said. The previous night, she fell asleep with
great difficulty, she couldn't understand why
Mhlabunzima betrayed her. Where was she
horrible to him? She was also going through
hurt and confusion but she didn't kiss any man
but his confusion made him kiss a woman.
Before going to bed she told her father she was
going to leave early. She offered to help and
drive Lily and her daughter to the doctor to
make things easier. Her father agreed.
He was relieved, it was like she heard the talk
about his wish to drive them, "thank you so
much that will be helpful. I will come back." He
headed back inside the yard.
"What does she want?"
"She offered to drive Lily and Zodumo to the
doctor because I have to make deliveries. She
doesn't like driving around the village because
of the bad roads," Mhlabunzima explained to his
father.
He furrowed his brows, "why is she offering to
drive them? Is she trying to get them killed?"
His words were a stab in the heart. He looked at
his father, his eyes were down at the gate but
he could no longer see her. Mhlabunzima
proceeded inside without answering him. He
dialled Lily's home. They didn't have the
telephone before and to make things easier,
Mhlabunzima installed the telephone for them
from his pocket.
"Hello."
"It's Zodumo's father. Are you both ready?"
"Yes, I am dressing her up now. We want to
catch the 7am bus because if we don't we'll get
the 8am one that's always full," Lily said
stressfully.
"Don't stress yourself, Zinhloso will come now
and she'll drive you to the doctor."
"Really? Is she not angry about what
happened?" Lily asked, she was surprised.
"That's got nothing to do with Zodumo. She's
doing it for her, not me or you."
"Alright, she'll hoot when she gets here."
Mhlabunzima placed the phone down and
walked out of the house. He couldn't see his
father before his house.
"Why are you driving them? What are you trying
to do?" Xulu asked Zinhloso. He couldn't stand
there, he wanted to confront her.
"I don't understand, baba." She said, her head
forced down. She didn't even give him a glance.
She'd been looking down since he stood behind
the fence but before her where she thought she
was hiding from him.
"Are you trying to get my granddaughter and her
mother killed? They won't be a problem in your
relationship if they're not there!" Xulu cleared
his question.
Air was sucked out of her lungs. How could this
old man think like this? Did he look at her like
someone capable of this? She didn't even find
words to answer him.
"Baba, please leave Zinhloso alone. I don't know
why you are talking to her," Mhlabunzima held
her hand.
"I am concerned."
"You're concerned about nothing, go back to
sleep," he pulled her to the private car. Xulu
didn't leave but he looked at them.
"Thank you, I have told her and she said hoot
when you get there. I really appreciate it." He
gave her the keys.
"I am not doing it for you but the sick child," she
took the keys and stepped inside the car.
"I know, thank you still." He looked at the car as
it drove off. He went back inside and when his
father tried to talk he didn't stop but he
proceeded even though he was shouting that he
was leaving while he was talking. Mhlabunzima
didn't care, he was still hurt by his words about
Zinhloso.
Zodumo was happy when she saw the car but
she was disappointed when she realised it
wasn't her father.
"Sawubona," She greeted Zinhloso after her
mother had greeted. Zinhloso drove off after
greeting back. The conversation in the car was
between mother and daughter.
The drive to the doctor was safe and successful,
after the doctor. Zinhloso drove them to a retail
store and she waited. They drove back home
after.
When they got back home, Lily told Zodumo to
go inside because she wanted to talk to
Zinhloso.
"Thank you, you made our lives easier."
"It's fine, I was doing it for Zodumo so she'll not
be weaker because of going up and down,"
Zinhloso didn't even look at her.
"Alright but thanks, still and about that day,
what happened between him and I, the kiss it
was a mistake. I thought I should explain-"
She looked at her, "did I ask you for an
explanation? Why do you even feel the need to
talk to me about that?"
"I don't want you to be angry at him," she said
and glanced at her, she wanted to provoke her.
But she didn't want to do it obviously, the man
wasn't as loyal to her as he was when she dated
him.
"It's none of your business whether I am angry
at him or not. And please, go. I want to go
home."
She smiled - she was really pissed off, "alright
but forgive him."
"Your sweet voice can fool Mhlabunzima but I
am not Mhlabunzima and don't you dare test
me," Zinhloso warned her, "stay out of my
business, angijoli nawe ngijola nobaba wengane
yakho."
Lily opened the door and she headed inside the
premises.
She drove the car back to the Xulus. She parked
it at the gate and Ngenzeni headed down to her.
"Sawubona, skwiza!"
Zinhloso's eyes wandered around and she
laughed when Ngenzeni laughed.
"I saw the two of you one morning when he was
walking you out."
"Oh, unjani?"
"I am fine, how's he treating you?"
She shrugged, "it was good before the arrival of
the mother of his child."
She clicked her tongue, "I don't like that
pretending woman. Why don't you come inside?
Drive the car in."
"No, I can't. I am not welcome here so please
take the keys and he'll drive it when returns."
She looked back.
He parked the van behind the private car, "you're
back," he glanced at Ngenzeni. She was giving
him a cold look.
"Yes, Lily will call you. I didn't enter with them
inside the doctor."
Ngenzeni excused herself and Mhlabunzima
focused on her, "your father called before I left
he asked that I also drive you to your granny."
"There's no need. I will take the bus."
"I will do what an elder told me. Zinhloso I am
really sorry about what happened, sthandwa
sami. I was wrong and I shouldn't have acted
like a man who's single," he said, he'd realised
maybe he was supposed to stop making an
excuse for what he did and just apologize.
"No, let's both say sorry after I have done the
same because for now I am angry and your
sorry will only make it worse," she stared into
his eyes, "you're only sorry because you've been
caught. Bye." She moved aside and walked
away.
"We're pleased that she brought them back
home, alive. I was worried about them." Xulu
commented as Mhlabunzima parked the last
car.
The pissed off Mhlabunzima didn't even look at
his father but he headed to his house. His
remarks were annoying.
****
"Unjani ntombazane ka aunty?" Comfort asked
for Nobuhle's well-being. She sat down on the
bench outside the veranda of the sisters house.
Nobuhle sat next to her aunt, "I am fine aunty
and how are you?"
"I am actually good too and being back home
has been really good for me," she smiled and
looked at her niece.
Nobuhle nodded, "I am glad you came back.
Other women would have stayed with their
difficult mother-in-law."
"I was going to die, Nobuhle, especially because
my husband told the king that everything that
belongs to him should belong to my son and I,"
Comfort shook her head, "that woman was
going to kill me for my husband's money."
"But she loves her grandson?"
"Too much, I would be lying if I say she hates
her grandchild. She loved him from the moment
she found out I was pregnant," she smiled -
those times she thought her mother in-law
would accept her and treat her right, "until he
was born and now. I am grateful for that."
"That's very nice and it makes me think of
Robert's mother who doesn't want my son," she
shook her head.
"That's the reason I am here, yazi, Robert."
Nobuhle faced her aunt, "what about him,
aunty?"
"From the very first day he saw me. He
approached me, wangishela." She broke the
news and Nobuhle widened her eyes, "but it
seemed he didn't know I am your aunt.
Mhlabunzima told him. I thought he would stop
and also, because I am older than him but I was
wrong."
"Are you trying to tell him he still wants to be in
a relationship with you even after knowing
you're my aunt?" Nobuhle asked.
"Yes, he never stopped and worse, he's so good
with my son whenever he sees him," Comfort
didn't leave any details out, "even if I am not
with my boy, he's good to him. My son likes him
very much and I am sure now he sees him like a
father."
Her heart tore apart. What did she ever do to
deserve such? Her son was yearning for his
father's love and Robert was playing father
figure to another child. What did she see in him?
"Why are you crying? Is he a horrible father or
do you still love him?"
"He's a very horrible father, aunty. He last saw
my son when we were still together and that
was years ago," she wiped her tears but they
didn't stop, "he was providing money alone and I
begged him to see him until I had to tell him to
keep his money. He kept it."
"I am so shocked that a man would father
another man's child but not his?" She was very
disappointed. She thought Robert was an
honourable man.
"Yes, that's Robert. He can be twisted like his
mother." She wiped off all the tears.
Comfort sighed, "I just thought I should come
and let you know. I didn't want you to hear from
people that they're seeing Robert with your aunt.
I have told him many times to stop but he
doesn't."
"Do you like him?"
Comfort laughed, "Nobuhle, aybo! I am a widow
and there shouldn't be that question."
"I am just asking, you're a woman and you have
a heart that feels. You're bound to move on
from your husband," Nobuhle said, "I really don't
care about him anymore and there's no way I
would go back to him."
"I am really disappointed. I want to talk to him
and maybe he'll listen. I should try and get to
him. He can't hurt his son like this and act like
he's a good man to me and my son!" Comfort
clicked her tongue and huffed, "ay, child. That
was all. I should go now."
"No, wait I will go take some scones and drinks.
Zinhloso is learning baking from aunt now." She
stood up and held her hand, "she'll be mad if
you don't try out her cakes. They're sugarless
but we had to pretend they're the best thing."
They laughed, "don't lie to her but give her
honest feedback that's what we did at home.
The ones she made at home were raw but she
was saying they're nice."
Nobuhle gave her aunt the chair in the kitchen,
"I never thought she'll do all these things and
she actually loves cooking, not the other
chores."
"Yes, cooking and gardening. That's the power
of a man, my child," she said, freely because
she knew Nobuhle was aware of the boyfriend
but she didn't know Nobuhle knew who he was.
Nobuhle laughed and served her, "don't say that!
Dad will kill us," they giggled. They sat down
and enjoyed the sugarless cakes and juice while
talking.
****
Ngenzeni served her father and Mnguni, it was
taro with chillies and drinks. She left them
talking.
"How did the work go?" Xulu asked Mnguni. He
gave him the glass and poured a drink for him.
Mnguni smiled shortly, "I wasn't sure about it
but I asked my daughter if she could do it and
she agreed. I had to wait until she finished with
school."
"Yes, you did well so that she wouldn't be
disturbed."
"Yes, I didn't want that. Ey, Xulu! Your son
taught her well because she's such a clean
driver," he smiled. When Zinhloso was driving,
he couldn't believe it and he kept glancing at her.
He came to terms with it when they reached
their final destination. The child could really
drive.
Xulu chuckled, "this means Zinhloso is a fast
learner because the other two are stubborn."
"Yes, I had to lie to the boss and tell him
Mhlabunzima was sick suddenly and we'll need
someone who'll come take the trailer," Mnguni
informed Xulu, "I couldn't let my daughter drive
to the city with no other experienced driver."
"You're right. She was going to be in trouble."
"Yes, I am here because I want to talk to you.
This child made a request that after her help,
she wants us to stop this business because it'll
only take us deeper," Mnguni looked at Xulu for
a reaction and he was only nodding. "Zinhloso
is different from her siblings and when she says
something it's most likely to happen. But it'll not
be because she'd seen something. She has a
dangerous tongue. I don't like her to be angry to
the extent of wishing bad things to another
person."
Xulu was in deep thought, "mm, when did you
realise this?" he was thinking of his son. Was he
even aware of this?
"I think it was two years ago. And not long ago
she had playfully told her brother he'll have a
runny stomach for eating her food and
Mzomubi didn't sleep, running up and down," he
shared and they laughed.
He had to warn Mhlabunzima about this, "is she
aware?"
"No, she's not and she shouldn't be aware
because once she's aware it'll not be good. She
would say things to people only to hurt them,"
Mnguni said, "I tried to tell her recently when
she was shouting at Sbusiso. I told her not to
say bad things to people. I always hope she
doesn't realise how dangerous her tongue is."
"Yes, it would be better if she doesn't realise it
and I am glad the child is thinking that way,"
Xulu said, "we're old now, Mnguni and we
should be enjoying our money at home. We
have made enough and we exceeded the years
of agreement with these people."
"Yes, they had promised us compensation if we
exceed the years of agreement, serving them
but I don't think they're ready for this," Mnguni
said, "it's like they'd forgotten that we could
leave. They're no longer asking like before."
"Maybe they think our sons will proceed but I
don't want that. I have a feeling they'll not want
us to stop," Xulu shared.
"You might be right. How are we going to tell
them?"
"Mhlabunzima will have to drive us to them. It'd
been long since we last saw them and in that
meeting you should tell them you were shown a
sign that it's no longer safe for us to operate,"
he suggested and his suggestion made Mnguni
laug his lungs out.
"You want me to act now, Xulu."
"Yes, these men fear your gift and abilities, ever
since you showed them how you make us
invisible they believed African ways of doing
things, the power of muthi," Xulu reminded him.
The bosses were not believing him when he told
them how they operated. He showed them in
Hendricks' farm. He was visible to them again
with Hendricks' calf before them. They were
fearful of him from then and when he asked if
any of them wanted the experience. They
refused.
"You're right. We'll use that approach and you,
how will you generate money after this?" He
asked out of concern for him. "Yes, we have
made enough but money runs out."
Mnguni looked back, "do you still have that
place? Are you still in contact with the man?" He
whispered to him.
"Yes, I still have it and he still gives me
something but he's getting more because, well
he's white and they're crooks by nature," he said
and they laughed.
"You're right, they were not forced into the
corner to be thieves like us. I am glad you still
have it."
"Iwona Mcebo wami Mnguni lowa. And only
Mhlabunzima can be an heir to it, not anyone
else."
"Yes, he's a smart and loyal boy. I understand
now why you made him heir."
He chuckled, "yes, children are known by their
parents."
"So, don't worry about me because even if I
don't have that place, my younger son will take
care of me," Xulu said, proudly.
"Of course, I was hoping they would fix things
with Lily."
Xulu's heart skipped a beat but he quickly
relaxed, "Mhlabunzima is stubborn and he's still
angry about the past." He was pleased that he
wasn't the only one who wanted this
relationship, even Mnguni himself!
"He'll calm down."
"I hope so."
Mnguni moved from the topic, "my eldest
daughter will be going to Durban. Did your boy
tell you?"
"Yes, he told me. She must go and get used to
that big city."
"Yes, I will also be going to Mozambique with
Mzomubi. There's muthi I need there. We'll be
going with other healers."
"How long will you be gone?"
"I am not sure. I can even return the following
year, it'll depend."
"Alright, we're hoping you'll travel safe," he said
and they finished up eating.
****
UMCEBO

Chapter 73

***Chapter sponsored by Boitumelo

Masitenyane***

"Baba, I am going to Durban now." Mhlabunzima

told his father before leaving.
Xulu pointed at the space on the bench. He was
outside crashing dagga, "when did you come
back last night?"
"After Nine, I was busy."
"Mnguni was here and we had a critical
conversation. He said his daughter told him she
wants us to quit business," Xulu glanced at
Mhlabunzima.
"Which daughter?"
"Your girlfriend."
"Oh, and what did he say? What did the two of
you decide?"
"We decided we should do as she's said
because Mnguni said Zinhloso said the
business will only get dangerous from now on
and it will take us to places we don't want to go
to," Xulu observed his son. He was staring at
the ground. "He said she should be listened to
because she has a dangerous tongue. She says
things sometimes and they happen. Did you
know about that?"
"No, I didn't. She only told me she wished her
brother had a runny stomach and it happened. I
didn't take it seriously." He realised there was
more to Zinhloso than what everyone knew and
it seemed only her father knew her best. She
magically turned everything into gold. Was she
some kind of a lucky charm? Wait, was this the
reason Mnguni didn't heal her?
"What are you thinking?" Xulu asked.
"Nothing."
He cleared his throat, "don't you think you
should stop dating her because it seems like it's
dangerous? I know you young men make a lot
of mistakes in relationships. You also date
more than one woman. What if you make her
angry one day and she says something
dangerous to you?"
"I am dating her only, dad."
"But won't you fall into temptation sometime
later?"
"No, I won't."
He shook his head, this boy was very stubborn,
"her father said she mustn't know this, so don't
tell her because it'll be more dangerous if she
knew."
"Yebo."
"You can go." He freed him and he looked at
him as he left. He didn't want him to suffer, he
only wanted happiness for him and he didn't
think Zinhloso was a right choice. It seemed
she was a dangerous choice.
He parked the car not far from the gate. He
didn't get off the vehicle but looked at Zinhloso
applying wet red clay on her face. He knew she
heard the car but she wasn't even lifting her
eyes. She was seated on the stoep of her hut.
"Are you not even going to look at me, now?"
Mhlabunzima asked, still seated inside the car.
"I am busy with my face and why can't you greet
me? You found me here."
"I was still looking at you. I miss you."
Zinhloso stood up, "travel safe." She headed
back inside the hut.
He huffed and got off the car. What a difficult
situation he'd put himself in. He assisted
Nobuhle with her bags, "it's like you're no longer
coming back. Two suitcases!"
She laughed, "I know but I want things to be
easy there. I don't want to buy anything there."
"That's clever."
She looked around, "I asked her if she wanted to
travel with us and she said she doesn't want to.
Didn't you two talk?"
"We did but we have more problems now."
"That's normal you'll fix it. I should go and say
goodbye," she headed to Zinhloso's hut and
knocked. Her mother and Ziwinile walked out of
the house. Her mother had a big food container
for her. Sbusiso left with Mzomubi so he
wouldn't see his mother leaving and cry.
"I will miss you so much,"Zinhloso hugged her
sister, careful not to make her dirty. "Please, tell
him to drive you safely. He mustn't think on the
road."
She laughed, "you're stressing him."
"No, he's stressing himself out. Bye, sis."
Nobuhle said goodbyes to her mother, sister
and father. They waved at her as the car drove
out of the premises.

The gates were opened up for them and

Nobuhle was filled with nervousness. This was
where she was going to live now? Was she
going to be happy? Were there going to be trials
and tribulations?
She got out of the car and her heart danced as
she saw John standing at the end of the
driveway. He had a priceless smile on his face.
"I am handing you a princess on a silver platter,"
Mhlabunzima commented and they laughed
with John. They shook hands and they shoulder
hugged.
"Where's your lady? I thought she was going to
come by, just to travel with her sister," John
asked but his eyes were with Nobuhle who was
looking everywhere but him.
"There's trouble in paradise. She refused."
John held her hand, "I am glad I am far from
getting those." He said and led them into the
house. Mhlabunzima was laughing behind him.
Inside the house, Mhlabunzima proceeded as
John hugged the life out of Nobuhle.
"I can't believe you're finally here."
"Yes, I thought the day would never come. I am
very happy to see you."
They hugged each other again. "I will ask my
chef and housekeeper Martin to take your bags.
I will show you around after Xulu has left. I
know he won't stay."
Nobuhle followed him, "a man cooks for you
and he's your housekeeper?"
"Yes, he's a very good cook."
"And what about you?"
John laughed, "I can't cook."
An Indian man was cooking inside the kitchen.
John introduced Nobuhle, "she's the lady I have
been talking about. She'll join you in doing
minimal housekeeping duties."
"Yes, sir." He greeted Nobuhle and he went out
to take her bags as they've requested.
John led her out, "for formalities, I have
arranged a uniform for you and had prepared
the Backhouse. You'll keep your things there, it'll
be safe like that so nobody will ask questions if
you live in my house."
"I understand."
They found Mhlabunzima checking out his
music collection. "Are you done hugging each
other?" He asked and looked at Nobuhle. Was
she shy?
"I have introduced her to Martin. Can you stay
for lunch?"
"I am afraid no, I left trouble back home," he
took John's hand and they left Nobuhle in the
living room, looking around. "She doesn't know
about the house and so, please don't talk about
it to her. I know lovers turn to gossip
sometimes."
He laughed, "we're not lovers yet."
"Officially, but I can see you're heading there."
"I won't talk about it. How's it going with it?" His
hand slipped into his pants.
They stood before the car, "they're roofing now
and in no time they'll be done."
"I should contact the movers and they will come
once you're ready."
"Alright, don't pay for petrol but take that money
and pay the movers."
John chuckled and gave him money, "that'll be
my gift to you for Christmas. I will cover
everything. Take the money."
He was taught well never to turn down help or a
gift or it'll never come again, "thank you. Please,
be careful and be professional before people.
Don't get caught."
"Yes, of course. Goodbye." He raised his hand
as Mhlabunzima drove away. He headed back
inside the house.
John took Nobuhle to a house tour, "I have
friends who come over, here and there. My
parents and sister, that's why I decided to give
you a uniform and a house."
"Martin doesn't stay here?"
"No, he stays out. His home is here in Durban.
It'll only be the two of us here."
She smiled and looked at him, "aren't you
scared of living alone?"
"No, it gives me peace of mind and I also don't
have to see my parents kissing everywhere
around their house," he led her outside the
house.
She stopped walking, "they kiss in your
presence!" She was shocked.
He laughed his lungs out, "yes, they're very
affectionate people. Don't your parents kiss?"
"I have never seen them kiss, not even on the
cheek," she responded and they laughed.
Nobuhle was blown away by the beauty of the
place and she couldn't believe she was going to
live here.
***
Zinhloso was busy polishing her shoes when
her parents walked through the gates. They
weren't with them when they had breakfast.
They didn't know where they were.
"Zinhloso wasn't supposed to go because
you're also leaving with Mzomubi. It'll only be
me and Ziwinile," Mrs Mnguni complained to
her husband.
"Your niece and nephew are coming to visit.
There's no need to complain. It's better your
mother will also have Zinhloso that side,"
Mnguni said and saw his daughter, "Zinhloso,
tomorrow morning, Xulu's son will come. He'll
drive you and he'll come back with your cousins.
They'll be visiting."
"He can go get my cousins, baba. I want to take
a bus. I don't want to drive with Mhlabunzima,"
she stood up.
"She wants to go with her boyfriend, baba. Don't
even agree!" Mrs Mnguni shouted as Zinhloso
refused to be driven.
Mnguni looked at his daughter, "why don't you
want to be driven?"
"I want to take the bus."
"I won't hear from you. It's clear you've
promised your boyfriend that he'll accompany
you. That won't happen, Mhlabunzima will drive
you tomorrow. Be ready in the morning, do you
understand?"
She was very upset. She was actually running
away from the boyfriend and they were pushing
her right into his arms, "yebo, baba." She walked
inside the hut. She could hear her mother
asking her father why can't he find out about
this boy. He was stressing her out and she
couldn't hear her father's response. She
proceeded packing her clothes.

"Baba, please be safe and come back home,

safe," Zinhloso shook hands with her father.
Mhlabunzima was seated inside the car. Lily
was working in the pharmacy, she'd thought
that she was leaving them in the village but she
also reminded herself she needed some time
out. To relax.
"We'll come back safe, child, go well."
"Mnguni Christmas won't be the same without
you. I won't go to other houses because they
won't dish up more food if you're not there,"
Zinhloso said to Mzomubi.
He laughed, "go, they'll bad-mouth us."
"Okay, take care."
She said goodbye and took the backseat. Her
mother and Ziwinile - she didn't say goodbye to
them. They were inside the house and she knew
they wouldn't care. Her mother had given her a
parcel for her grandmother.
"Don't you want to sit next to me?"
Mhlabunzima asked, they were out of the
premises.
"I am good here."
"I thought we'll talk and work things out. I don't
want you to be apart from me while we're not
on talking terms."
"I am talking to you, Mhlabunzima. I don't know
what kind of talking you want." She was looking
at the trees as the car moved.
"I wronged you and I want things to be normal
again." He ended up talking alone. Zinhloso was
fast asleep.
She only sat next to him when it was time to eat.
Mhlabunzima had brought food and she wasn't
going to turn down food. The drive wasn't long
but he knew food always brought people
together, especially with her. When they
stopped for food, she relaxed and was talking.
"You should also learn how to cook now."
He shook his head, "I can do all things but
house chores. I hate them. I won't cook."
"What if I am sick? The children won't eat?"
It gave him hope that she was still talking about
their future, "my sister will cook. You won't cook
alone. You've seen how clean Xulu's yard is?"
"Yes."
"That's all me. I clean it and even when we're
married I will be doing that and our home
garden not cooking." He said and wiped her
face. "Let's go, now."
"Yes, thank you." She closed the dishes and
packed them back into the bag, "I will wash
them at home so you'll go with clean dishes."
"Thank you."
When they reached home, her cousins were
already ready and they packed their bags after
offloading Zinhloso's bags and taking them
inside the house while she washed the dishes.
"Should I call or you'll be the one to call?"
"I will call in case my uncle answers."
He nodded, "if you don't call in two days, I will
do that and I won't care who'll answer. I will tell
them I want to talk to you."
"There's no need to threaten me. I will call. Bye."
She waved goodbye to her cousins.
Her grandmother took her hand and they
headed to the house, "I have realised Xulu's son
is your boyfriend."
"What?"
"Yes, I am not a fool like your parents. He taught
you how to drive in secret not just in your village
but he drove all the way and he's always driving
you."
They entered the kitchen, "baba is the one who
asks him to drive me. He also drove Nobuhle to
Durban."
"And I can see the way you two are talking to
each other. Did he bring food for Nobuhle?" She
asked.
There was no way she could deny it, "gogo-'
"I won't tell your parents but mind yourself. No,
baby."
"Yebo." She told her to sit down and she
prepared a meal for her.

Mhlabunzima looked back at the girl and boy,

they were around ten to twelve years old, "can I
pass by, somewhere? There's a man I want to
talk to."
"No problem, Malume."
Mhlabunzima drove a short distance and he
parked the car at a homestead not very far from
Zinhloso's maternal home. The homestead was
overlooking Zinhloso's home. He called the
child and asked for her uncle - Makhanda. He
was younger than Mhlabunzima by two years.
He knew him through politics.
"Yey, Xulu! It's been a while," Makhanda was
happy to see Mhlabunzima.
"We last saw each other in Durban," they shook
hands.
"Yes and I wasn't expecting you."
They weren't closer to the car. Mhlabunzima
didn't want the children to hear him, "yes, and I
came here because I need help. I don't know if
you still wander around your village like before?"
"Yes, how can I stop? We always have to be
alert because our village is always the first to be
attacked. How can I help you?"
Mhlabunzima pointed the Ntuli homestead,
"MaNtuli's daughter, Zinhloso. She's my
girlfriend but that's a secret because her father
doesn't want any political man for his
daughters."
"You're the man who loved her even with her
disorder?"
He chuckled, "news travels fast. Yes, I am that
man and now, things are not well between us. I
made a mistake and she wants us to be even. I
can't allow that."
Makhanda laughed, "uyisoka, you're allowed to
have more than one girlfriend. Doesn't she
know?"
"It doesn't work like that with her. I am begging
you, please help me keep an eye on her. I don't
want her to get an opportunity to find a man in
this village. They love her too much now but it
wasn't like that when she was sick."
He laughed and placed his hand on his shoulder,
"don't worry, they won't touch her. Wazilungisela
umuntu wakho, ngeke bemthinte."
"Thank you, I will owe you and let me go before
she sees this car here."
Makhanda was amused, "so, a woman has the
power of making you scared? I have never seen
you like this. You're not even scared of her
father but her?"
Mhlabunzima clicked his tongue, "don't laugh
but write down your home telephone here. Or I
will write mine and you'll call when there's
something."
"Don't worry I still have your telephone number."
"Good, stay well," he drove away relieved.
UMCEBO

Chapter 74

***Chapter sponsored by Boitumelo

Masitenyane**"

She had finished up packing her clothes on the

small chest of drawers against the white
painted walls. The room wasn't too small, it was
enough for the three quarter bed, white side
table and table of a small TV. The kitchen was
also small and the bathroom was the smallest
room. It was like they didn't want their workers
to breathe.
After she had finished dressing up in her black
flare dress, Nobuhle headed to the main house.
John had invited her for dinner.
Jazz music was playing on a low volume and
Nobuhle was taken into a new experience. The
candle light dinner for two! It was clearly for two
people but the food on the table looked like it
was for the whole family.
"Do you like it?" John asked nervously and he
pulled a chair for her, "I didn't know your palate
and so, I thought I should tell Martin to cook
more."
She took a seat and the only food she could
recognise was the yellow rice and that was the
rice they only ate on Christmas. Not because
they couldn't afford it but they weren't used to
eating the rice, "what's this? The food looks
mouth watering." She pointed at the prawns.
He smiled and took the plate, "it's prawns. You
can eat anything that you'll be comfortable
eating."
"I want to try new things," she dished up the
food and seeing so much food made her think
of her sister. She looked at her plate and his,
she laughed. "Don't you eat much?"
"No, I eat small portions, now and again."
She looked at him eating with a fork and knife,
she sighed. Was she supposed to eat like him?
Yes, she didn't have to embarrass herself but
she held the utensils wrong.
"The knife should be on the hand you usually
use," John stood up and he stood behind her.
His face was closer to her cheek as he coached
Nobuhle how to use the fork and knife.
She held her breath, she was so close to him
and she wasn't expecting her body would easily
show emotions. How long had it been? She
couldn't even remember. After Robert, she
avoided men and focused on her books. She
was scared of dating again and now, she was
here!
"I really like you Buhle and I don't want to rush
you. I hope in time you'll feel the same way
about me," John said, he was looking at her and
she was eating slowly like a lady. She was
taking her time when chewing and that
appealed to him.
She raised her eyes, "I am scared of what may
happen if we get caught."
"We'll be extra careful. I want us to get to know
each other, have these dates and spend time
together." He handed his hand over to her, "are
you granting me permission to know you?"
So, this was how white people asked a lady for
a relationship? "Yes, I also want to get to know
you."
"I know that one day, the county will be free and
we'll also be free to be together and then, I want
to travel places with you," he kissed the back of
her hand and her eyes were fixed on him. This
gorgeous man really saw beauty in her?
She was enjoying her first experience of a
dinner date and the amazingly different dishes.
She was free with him and she felt welcomed.
She was laughing at his jokes as they shared
stories about their childhood.
"I don't know if you'll be scared to sleep alone? I
think you should sleep in the guestroom," John
said after dinner. He was helping Nobuhle with
washing the dishes. She told him to sit down
but John wanted to help out. She loved that he
was helpful. He was different from the men
back home. Her father would never help out,
even with his one hand. He would never. Her
brother had two capable hands but he also
never helped out. It was good to experience a
different man.
"Yes, I can sleep alone once I am used to the
place. I slept with my sister in the house back
home."
John wanted to invite her to his room but he
didn't want to give her the wrong picture. "Okay,
we will go and get your sleepwear in your
house."
Once they were done, John held her hand and
they walked to the house. He was looking
forward to many more nights with her in the
house…
***
"The last time I told you I have a boyfriend,"
Zinhloso said to Thabani, the young man who
asked her out the previous time they met. She
was coming from the river, and had a bucket of
water on her head.
He smiled showing his straight set of teeth, "I
don't mind him. Noseyishayile akakayosi,
noseyosile akakayidli."
She laughed, "kanti ke lona yena useyidlile."
"Awu shuthi usedle icala ke lowo. How many
cows did he give to your father?"
"That shouldn't concern you, just know that he's
there and he's well known. I don't want trouble,"
Zinhloso informed Thabani.
He chuckled, "I don't mind any trouble as long
as I get you as my girlfriend. You'll choose who
is better between us."
"He's better, I already know," she said and they
laughed, "sawubona bhuti Makhanda." She
greeted him.
Makhanda glanced at Thabani. It was the
second time seeing him follow her, "yes,
Zinhloso how are you?" He was opposing them
in direction.
"I am good and it's good to see you again."
He smiled, "likewise."
She looked at Thabani, "why didn't you greet
each other?"
"I don't get along with the guys who favour
SAFP because I go with the guys from the
Ramashala village," Thabani explained.
She immediately thought of Mhlabunzima. He
must know this guy if he was not with their
political party, "so, were you in Durban?"
"Yes, and I heard that malevolent Mhlabunzima
forced people in your village to go," Thabani
said with contempt.
Her heart jerked - "I was also there and I don't
think he's malevolent. He's a kind person."
He laughed, "let's not talk about Xulu's son,
please. My mood will be ruined. I would rather
talk about us."
She laughed, "there's no us," she was reminded
that she had to call her hot-headed boyfriend
before he called anytime of the day. "I am home
now."
"There will be us by the time you leave," he said
and looked at her as she entered home.
She couldn't deny he was good looking but not
like Mhlabunzima. He was entertaining and
carefree. Good company.
She was alone in the house and she used this
opportunity to call him.
"Hello."
She wanted to click her tongue as his deep
voice touched her cores, "how are you?"
"Sthandwa sami, it's you. I was in a bad mood
and I am glad you called," his voice reflected the
happiness he was feeling.
"I thought I should call like I promised. I don't
want you to call."
He huffed, "you're not calling because you miss
me."
"How can I miss pain?"
"I am really sorry, MaMnguni."
"How are things there and the business?" She
realised she really had nothing to say to him.
"It's good. When can I come and visit you? We
will meet at the sports ground like the last
time."
"No, don't come. I am very busy since my
cousins are not here."
"I can't even get two minutes."
She was thankful to her grandmother calling her,
"no, and as you can hear, she's calling me. I
should go, take care." She placed the phone
down quickly and she rushed out.
****
Zodumo was seated on his lap eating.
Mhlabunzima was on the telephone with the
builders, they were calling him from their
village's shop telephone.
"Yes, I want the veranda," he informed them. He
had thought of having the veranda, he imagined
sitting on the chairs at night with her, looking at
the skies. Without any fear someone would see
them.
"We can do that."
"Are those blocks going to be enough?" He
looked at the door and his father walked in.
"No, you'll have to add a little."
"Alright, I will come tomorrow so that I can also
check on everything."
"We'll see you tomorrow."
Xulu looked at his son as he placed the phone
down, "what are you building?"
"Nothing important," he looked at Zodumo and
he chuckled, his daughter was eating cleanly
you'd swear an adult was eating. But God! Her
stepmother, he would be dirty by now if this
was her sitting on his lap.
"I am here to take my granddaughter. I want to
visit my eldest son," Xulu said.
Mhlabunzima put his daughter down, "go and
visit your uncle."
"Yebo, baba," she quickly placed the dish on the
table and looked at her father, "don't eat my
food. I will come back."
He laughed, "I won't."
She took her grandfather's hand and they
walked out.
The telephone rang just as he was heading out
of the house. He picked up.
"Mhlabunzima, speaking!"
"It's Makhanda, how are you on that side?"
He sat down, "I am fine and how are you? Why
are you calling me so early?"
He laughed hilariously, "you won't believe it. Can
you guess?"
"Take me out of my misery Makhanda."
"Do you remember that traitor, Thabani?"
"That scoundrel that's siding with the boys from
across the village?"
"Yes, it's him!"
"No, tell me it's someone different."
He cursed, "I have seen lowa mgodoyi going
after her three times now. Today was the fourth.
She was coming from the forest with other girls
and he was walking with her."
"Please tell him not to test me. He must stay
away from her if he doesn't want a bloodbath. I
am serious," Mhlabunzima's voice was deeper.
He would be mad with any guy but not Thabani.
He was the worst. He would be damned.
"I will do as you've said chwane lenyoka," he
said and they ended the call.
Mhlabunzima clicked his tongue, "Zinhloso!" He
cursed his way out of the house. "She told me
she's busy - this means she's busy with that
useless cunt!" He took off the leather jacket. He
was feeling very hot.
UMCEBO

Chapter 75

"I love your work. You've done a great job and

look, now we have a yard," Mhlabunzima was
walking around his new yard, checking
everything out with the builders. The yard was
enormous like most yards of the village. They
square fenced the yard, the house built on top
and the most of the land was fenced for the
garden. They had created a driveway with the
remaining stones of the foundation. It started
from the gate up to the house.
"We left the tree that's closer to the house, in
case it's hot and you relax under the tree," the
builder said.
He huffed, how he wished Zinhloso was with
him. She was the main reason he found this
beautiful place and yet, she wasn't with him. It
was all his fault. If things were good between
them he was going to actually drive to her,
check out the place together and drive her back
on the same day. But it wasn't like that.
"I love it and I can also park my car there. It's a
very good place. We'll work well here and make
money," he said and they laughed.
They headed to the two rooms' house, painted
blue and white, blue down and white up. "I love
the veranda, it's just like how I imagined. It's not
even a veranda, what do white people call it?"
"It's a porch," one young builder said and they
laughed. "I think it's the same thing, though."
"You can say that," he smiled. Nights with her
here would be amazing.
The bedroom was more spacious compared to
the kitchen and what was left - John's furniture
and everything was going to be completed. He
was pleased that Robert's uncle was closer to
him and he would keep an eye on the yard.
Robert's uncle was one of their neighbours.
"And what about electricity?" The builder asked
as they were walking out of the house, "I heard
you'll also sleep here sometimes."
"I applied for a meter box. You know it's always
good to have connections," he said, not
explaining that Robert worked for Eskom and he
was going to help him with that. He had
formally applied for it.
The men laughed, "it was good working with
you and Robert's uncle, you didn't bother us
with anything. You made our work easier." They
shook hands.
Mhlabunzima then transported them to their
homes. He was driving the van and after that,
he drove straight home. He was pleased even
though Zinhloso wasn't there but she was going
to come once they had fixed things. The next
thing was to call John and let him know
everything was done.
He laughed, "I can't believe I own a whole yard
and my father doesn't know. He's actually the
reason I have this yard," he shook his head and
turned on the music…
***
She was coming from the tuckshop, her
grandmother had sent her to buy a few items.
And along the way, she met up with Thabani.
It'd been two weeks at her granny's house and
she was having a good time. She thought her
time home would be boring without her cousins
but it was even better. Yes, she terribly missed
her cheating boyfriend but she didn't call him to
let him know. She was still not at rest about
what happened.
"So, you're going to study further next year?"
Zinhloso asked Thabani.
They were talking about their hopes and
dreams, the hope for the future for themselves
and the hope for a peaceful country.
"Yes, I want to get more education."
"An educated man is charming," she said with a
smirk and Thabani laughed.
He enjoyed her company and he was annoyed
that she had told him more than once that they
didn't have a chance because of her boyfriend.
He had wondered who this boyfriend was. He
didn't stop spending time with her because he'd
been told, 'no' He didn't want to lose her good
company.
"That means I will be charming too."
"Yes, and you'll attract ladies of your league, the
educated ones."
He chuckled, "you're also educated in your level.
I want to attract you."
She giggled and shook her head, "I am already
attracted to someone else. I will see you around
then, Thabani."
"Goodbye," he watched her as she headed home.
He chuckled and turned.
He clicked his tongue as Makhanda walked next
to him, "what do you want from me?"
"He said I should tell you to stay away from his
woman. The girl is his girlfriend and we don't
want any war," Makhanda relayed the message.
His eyes were looking around but his head was
straightforward. He had a machete in his hand.
He was intimidating.
"Oh, it must be the boyfriend. Who's that fool?
Tell him I am not scared of him," he laughed.
The man was serious. He had Makhanda keep
an eye on his girlfriend! What did this mean?
Was Zinhloso an unfaithful woman?
"You are saying ichwane lenyoka is a fool?"
Makhanda stopped walking.
Thabani's heart skipped a beat and he swore he
almost vomited - the pounding heart. It made
sense, she defended Mhlabunzima when he
spoke badly about him. She said he was a kind
man.
She was Mhlabunzima's girlfriend? He laughed,
that made him want her more. It would be very
interesting if he took what belonged to
Mhlabunzima.
"Tell him, I am not scared of him. I saw no ring
on her finger and no beads on her head and
neck. There's nothing that will stop me but only
her," Thabani said, bravely. "But she speaks to
me and hasn't told me to stop, I will continue."
"We're not in the mood for a bloodbath."
"I am in the mood for it," he walked away. He
knew they would really come for him. That was
how they operated across villages. Blood would
be shed just for a girlfriend not even a wife.
"I will pass the message, boy." Makhanda
walked away. He knew Mhlabunzima would be
angry and if Zinhloso didn't stop this young man,
he was really going to start a war. And he would
have supporters. They would back him up,
including him.
*****
It was getting dark, Comfort was standing next
to Robert under the tree not far from Robert's
home. She had sent a child that was passing by
and asked them to call him. Robert came out of
the premises.
"I am surprised."
Comfort didn't smile as he was smiling, "yea, we
need to talk about something important."
"Okay, what's that? Am I in trouble?"
"It's about Sbusiso, when did you last see him?"
She went straight to the point.
He cleared, "have you been talking to Nobuhle?"
"No, I am asking you a question."
"It's been a long time."
"Why?"
"Nobuhle ended our relationship but still, I
looked after him. She sent a letter and told me
to stop looking after him-"
She shook her head and raised her hand, "stop
it with the excuses! How's that a reason you
have no relationship with your son? Why do you
hate him?"
He looked down ashamed, "I don't hate him but
his mother is the cause of-"
"That's ridiculous! How can you hate your own
blood? A man who hates his child hates
himself," Comfort shouted, she thought he was
going to give her a good enough reason but it
wasn't even a reason but madness, "a child is a
reflection of yourself and if you hate your child.
You hate yourself. How can you do that?"
Robert didn't answer and Comfort didn't stop
talking, "your friend, Mhlabunzima, his daughter
was introduced to him two minutes ago but he
didn't cast the child out and made an excuse
that she was hidden from him. But you, your
son has been right here, you just don't want
him."
"It's not like that."
"It's like that! Your mother will die and you will
die, who'll bury you if you don't want your child?
You'll leave your wealth to whom? Please do
some self introspection. You can't be a good
man to my child but be bad to your own. I
wanted to say that, goodbye." She clicked her
tongue and left him standing.
***
Congratulations you unlocked the bonus
chapter yesterday. You'll get it tonight.

Thank you.
UMCEBO
Chapter 76

***Chapter sponsored by I Mpondokazi***

They cleaned up the kitchen space. Robert's

colleagues left right after installing the meter
box for Mhlabunzima. It was Friday and Robert
had a half day at work. He was going to assist
Mhlabunzima with packing the furniture that
John had sent. They were waiting for the arrival
of the truck.
"The day your father finds out about this place
he'll faint." Robert commented.
Mhlabunzima laughed, "he shouldn't because
he's the reason there's this place. If he let me
be with my woman nothing like this would have
happened."
"You're right, parents like to control children's
lives. My mother does the same," Robert
expressed.
"Yes, dad even wants to coach me on how I
should father Zodumo but I wasn't coaching
him on how to father us," he fisted Robert as he
laughed. They disposed of the waste in the
rubbish pit.
"I had a conversation with Comfort. She was
actually scolding me for being an absent
father," Robert informed Mhlabunzima. He'd
been stressed by everything Comfort said to
him. He did self-introspection and realised how
wrong he was. How cruel he'd been.
"Wow! And then, did you listen to the woman
because you don't listen to us men?" He
glanced at him.
They burned the waste, "I need to talk to
Nobuhle. I can't continue like this."
"We thank the ancestors for Comfort. She has
done us a great favour but Nobuhle is in
Durban."
He faced Mhlabunzima, "what is she doing in
Durban?"
"She found a job. Angithi her son doesn't have a
father so she should work for the child," he
deliberately said.
His heart tensed, "I know I was wrong but she
didn't have to turn back my money."
"You can't keep blaming her but do what's right.
Her mother is still home and it's better because
her father is not around."
"You're right, your people have come!"
They rushed to the gate and opened up for the
truck. He had to install the gate because of the
garden but he'd noticed most of the households
in the neighborhood were only fenced with no
gate. "This man gave you these things for free?"
Robert asked.
"Yes," they greeted the guys and they asked to
see the house inside first. After seeing the
house, they placed the furniture in order.
"It seems we have no job here." Mhlabunzima
commented.
"Yes, they're professional movers." They didn't
disturb them but they allowed them to set up
everything according to their wish.
Mhlabunzima had no clue how he wanted
things to be set up and maybe if Zinhloso was
around she would have told them. And for that
reason, he allowed them to do as they pleased.
"We're done. Please come and check it out.
We'll change if you want that." The man said.
Robert and Mhlabunzima followed each other
inside, the lemon yellow cupboards fitted well.
They were against the white painted walls and
the small coal stove of the same colour as the
cupboards. In the middle, the small red table
with four chairs. There was a box on top of the
table.
"He said you'll need dishes and this is a box of
dishes. You'll pack those," the man said.
Mhlabunzima nodded and he looked around
again. This kitchen was more organised and it
was nothing like their kitchen back home.
"Thank you."
"They removed your curtains," Robert whispered
as they entered the bedroom.
Mhlabunzima laughed. He had put on plain
white cloth. Not even a curtain. "They're
professionals. They even made the bed." He
whispered back. The white floral curtain, pink
and orange flowers matched the floral bed
covers and continentals. At the end of the bed,
there was a white bench. The white wardrobe
was facing the bed.
"This man loves colourful things," Robert
commented standing next to the small white
chest of drawers placed at the corner of the
bedroom. And next to it was a pink chair, Robert
sat down.
"He wanted us to bring the bedroom mirror but
we were afraid it was going to break because it
no longer had its boxes where we could put it,"
the man explained, "he said you'll buy it because
women like using a mirror."
Mhlabunzima laughed, "of course," he shook
hands with the men, "I am really grateful. Tell
him, I love everything but I will also call him."
The men nodded and they left. Robert stood up
from the chair, "how do you know this man,
again?"
"I know him through your ex-father-in-law. He's
the son of the man he works with, I always drive
him there," he explained and moved out of the
bedroom. He wondered how he'd feel knowing
this man was the same after his son's mother.
"Oh, your father-in-law."
They laughed, "yes, Robert, all this wouldn't
have been possible without you. You've helped
me a lot."
"Yes, and if you end up not marrying Zinhloso I
will burn down this place," he threatened and
they cracked. "Yey, this furniture looks brand
new. Don't you wish to take it home."
"No, this is home, also."
"Why isn't she with you, vele?"
They sat down on the table, "so, I messed up,"
he told him everything about what happened.
How stressed he was that Zinhloso had
threatened him.
"What's wrong with your girlfriend? Which
woman in this village had done that?" Robert
asked. He was in disbelief. She wanted to kiss
another man! That was outrageous.
"I don't know how Zinhloso thinks and where
she got this behaviour. I have never dated such
a woman," he clicked his tongue repeatedly. "Do
you know what pisses me off the most?"
"Yes?"
"I know she's serious. She'll really do this thing."
"No, Mhlabunzima, she won't."
He chuckled the pain away, "yes, she will and I
hate that it'll be Thabani if not that tall officer. I
hate Lily for what she did."
"Zinhloso is dramatic, you didn't cheat on her
and men cheat. We're allowed to have more
than one woman. Why is she behaving like
this?" Robert was confused, "I have cheated on
her sister before, we fought and she forgave me,
we moved on. And you, it was only a kiss."
"I am in a fucked up situation."
"Leave her. Are you going to be with only her?
Women are beautiful outside. Will you stand
this?" Robert asked.
He quickly shook his head, "I won't leave her."
He laughed, "we know you've cheated before
and what will stop you now?"
They laughed, "you'll see I won't be with anyone
else beside her. She's everything I could ever
want in a woman. I don't care about anything
else. My problem is, Thabani."
"Let's gather guys, tell them what happened and
what was his response. If they agree, we'll send
him a message and we'll go there," Robert
incited.
"Do you know this will make my relationship
known?"
"No, men are not like women. We've all had that
one woman in our lives. The dangerous one to
date because of parents. People may know
what happened but we'll ask them to keep
names out of it."
Mhlabunzima knew that would be impossible
but he was willing to do this. And even if the
relationship would be known, he would face
consequences but he wasn't going to let
Thabani disrespect him. He'll show him who
was older.

Mhlabunzima was Inside his house. He was

listening to the radio. He wasn't sleeping. He
was also trying not to think much about his
current situation. He took the telephone as it
rang.
"Mhlabunzima, speaking!"
"Are you sleeping or you don't want to talk,
Xulu?"
He quickly sat up straight and smiled, he was
taken off guard, "MaMnguni, you don't know
how happy I am to hear your voice."
She giggled, "I also missed the sound of your
voice and I thought I should call you."
Life was pumped back into his life, "you've left
me miserable and I can't even enjoy my
holidays because you're not home."
"Zodumo is not there?"
"She comes and goes. But Zodumo is my child,
she's not my girlfriend. Why are you asking
about her?" He asked.
"Children are a handful and I know they keep
parents occupied that's why I am asking."
"I miss you. Should I come and visit you?"
"No, I won't get time. I just wanted to talk to you
and wish you a goodnight."
He shook his head. She had time for Thabani
and not him, "thank you, I love you."
"I know."
"When are you going to see the house,
everything is in order."
"Really?" She giggled. She sounded ecstatic.
"Yes, the house is waiting for you to warm it
up." He smiled.
"I will call you when you can come and get me. I
am still on my unsafe days. We don't want a
baby and I can't just come and not get you," she
said and Mhlabunzima could tell from the
sound of her shy voice that she was looking
down with a smile.
He laughed, "if we can have a baby, our parents
will know and maybe we'll be allowed to get
married."
"No, don't even think about it. Goodnight, Xulu!"
"Goodnight, MaMnguni." He placed the
telephone down and thought of a baby with her.
He switched off the radio and went to bed. It
didn't take long until he was fast asleep.
****
She was busy washing the stove after making
lunch. It'd been good staying with John and
working with Martin. She wasn't having a
difficult time adjusting to the city. Sometimes,
John worked during the day and Nobuhle would
focus on her work. But when he was home, they
would spend time together.
He circled his arms around her small waist, "I
am back for lunch as I promised."
She smiled. The man was very affectionate and
Nobuhle was still trying to get used to so much
affection.
"I am glad you're back. I thought you had
forgotten." She stopped washing the stove and
faced him. She smiled as she received the peck
on the lips. It hadn't gone beyond that.
"I would have never made that mistake. I was
caught up in the office. Is lunch ready?" He
asked.
"Yes, wash your hands and we'll eat. Martin
taught me how to make spaghetti and
meatballs. I hope you'll like it. He said it's good,"
she pulled him to the dinner table after he'd
washed his hands.
John sat down and he looked at her as she
served him. He enjoyed how much she loved
serving him. She never complained.
"It's good but you didn't add enough salt," he
gave feedback and Nobuhle passed him the salt.
She couldn't wait to go back home and try out
the dishes with them. She knew Zinhloso would
be the first one to be more keen to learn,
"alright, I really love this food. It's different from
what I am used to."
"Can you cook your food sometimes? I also
want to taste what you eat at home. Martin has
made different Indian dishes for me and I have
loved them."
She was happy he wanted to taste her home
food, "yes, yes, I will make the dishes for you."
Before he could leave, John gave Nobuhle a gift
bag, "I will have my friends come over and I am
asking that you help Martin. They know I have a
new housekeeper so please, let's try and be
professional."
"Don't worry. What's this?"
"A beautiful gift for a beautiful woman." He
kissed her cheek and he left her smiling at the
beautiful bracelet. Life was amazing.
UMCEBO

Chapter 77

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

She was outside the house washing sweet
potatoes with her niece. The holidays weren't
the same without some members of her family.
Zinhloso was mostly with her grandmother
during holidays. She would come back for
Christmas and leave again but the others - she
wasn't used to not having her husband and
other two children. Nobuhle had been calling
now and again, which made her miss her first
born more.
Sbusiso came around with his cousin, "Gogo, he
said he's here for you."
The boy greeted Mrs Mnguni and he handed her
the envelope, "sawubona, gogo, malume sent
me. He said I should give this to you and wait
for an answer."
"Ziwinile!" Mrs Mnguni called her daughter, she
couldn't read everything. Only a few easy words
like greetings.
"Mama?"
"Read this letter for me."
She took the letter and she read it.
***Sawubona gogo kaSbusiso.
I am writing this letter to repent from my sins. I
haven't been a good father to Sbusiso and I
wish to make amends. I heard from
Mhlabunzima that Nobuhle has gone to Durban
to work. Can I have her work telephone number
if you don't mind?
I have put the money for Sbusiso, it's for this
month and the previous two months I didn't
send him money. I wish to come and see him. I
will hear from you when it is the right time.
Thank you.

Yours sincerely
Robert - Baba kaSbusiso.***
Mrs Mnguni nodded, "okay, write down
Nobuhle's work number and tell him he can
come anytime for the child."
"Mama, don't you think you should contact sis
first?"
"No, why should I do that? Do as I have told you
child!" She shouted at her and Ziwinile quickly
left. She told the children to follow her and they
went to her. Mrs Mnguni proceeded with
washing the potatoes. She was pleased Robert
had come to his senses. It was good for the
child and she didn't care what Nobuhle was
going to say.
After washing the potatoes, Mrs Mnguni called
her daughter. She reached her after Ziwinile had
tried three times.
"Sorry mama I have been working."
She smiled, "I am sorry to disturb you child but I
didn't want to call you at night."
"It's okay, did something happen?"
"Yes, I recieved a letter from Robert."
"Oh, what did he want? He must not cause
drama just because he knows dad is not
around," Nobuhle raised her voice.
"Calm down, he was saying sorry and he asked
for your work number."
"I hope you didn't give him my work number."
"I did! You're parents to this child and this
means you should communicate about the
child. Robert wants to do right, don't shut him
out!" Mrs Mnguni knew this child was going to
be difficult. It was all because of her husband.
He'd fed her the idea that she didn't need the
child's father.
"Sbusiso is closer to him. Why should he
communicate with me because I am not closer
to him? Mom, I don't like what you did," she
complained.
She could hear that she was upset but she
didn't care, "I don't care about that. I did this for
my grandson. Focus on work there and behave
yourself."
"Yebo."
"Good!" She ended the call and placed the
phone down. "Don't look at me like that."
"I told you to contact her first, mom!"
"She was going to refuse. Go and cook, leave
me alone!" She pointed to the kitchen but
stopped her again, "call home. I want to talk to
your younger sister."
Ziwinile dialled her grandmother and she
handed the phone to her mother.
"Zinhloso!"
"Yebo, mama?"
"When are you coming back home? It's
Christmas in a few days."
"Why should I come back because my siblings
are not home? I am not going to come back for
Christmas." She answered.
"Hhaybo, we ngane! Your siblings are working."
"I am home and if I come back I will be visiting
grandma."
"Imihlola yami phela lena. You should come
home. I am not joking with you," she shouted
and ended the call, "I don't know a child that
doesn't like home like Zinhloso. Tsk!" She stood
up and headed to the kitchen. She was upset.
***
He asked his sister to cook the chickens he
bought and he invited his comrades into his
home. Ngenzeni cooked for them and
Mhlabunzima bought drinks. He had invited six
trusted men and Robert. They were eight in
total and they were all seated in his living room,
talking and drinking with music playing.
Ngenzeni called her brother once she was done
cooking and dishing up the food, "you'll serve
your friends. I won't serve them."
"Thank you. You've done me a huge favour. I will
take the food to them." He took the tray and
walked out. Xulu had gone to Kusakusa's home.
He said he didn't like his comrades and he
would leave. Mhlabunzima was pleased
because he didn't want him to hear what they
were going to discuss.
"Xulu, tell us. What do you want, ke?" One
comrade asked as they were eating and the
others laughed.
"Can't I call you to eat with me?"
"You don't do it more than once a year."
He nodded, "yes, you're right. I have called you
here for a reason. Do you remember Thabani
from eNdabayakhe? That guy that sides with
the Ramashala boys?"
"Yes!"
"He didn't take my warning seriously when I told
him to stay away from my girlfriend."
"You have a girlfriend!" Three men surprised in
unison and they broke out laughing.
Mhlabunzima laughed with them.
"Yes, the last time we checked you were single,
chwane."
"Yes, I was single but now I am not. What
happened is…" he didn't lie to them because
telling them lies was going to cause more
problems should they encounter something
different when they confront Thabani. What if
he already knew what happened between him
and Zinhloso?
"Who's this crazy girlfriend who doesn't know
we can't live with one woman?"
He had carefully chosen men he knew had been
in his situation, dating a girl they weren't
supposed to date because of her parents. "I
don't want this known but I will tell you. It's
Mnguni's last born daughter."
They looked at him like he was going to change
tune and tell them he was joking.
"I am not joking!" Mhlabunzima confirmed.
They looked at one another, "where did you get
the courage?"
"Where did you all get the courage to date the
women you've been with and some of you are
still with them, secretly," he asked the question
back and they laughed.
"Ngikuthulela isgqoko mfoka Xulu! You've loved
this girl when nobody wanted her and now,
Thabani will take her? I will stand with you. That
boy won't take her," he clicked his tongue and
all others agreed.
"But your girlfriend is crazy. I thought Mnguni's
daughter was sensible. Why would she want to
avenge something she can't prevent from
happening?"
Mhlabunzima rubbed his eyes, "I wasn't
supposed to do that."
"Are you telling us you no longer love Lily and
you won't go back to her?" Robert asked. He
didn't trust him.
He shook his head, "no, I won't go back to her. I
am committed to Zinhloso."
"I heard she works with her father and
understands traditional medicine. She has
surely given you something," one said and they
laughed with him.
"Are you guys going to fight this boy with me? I
am not joking, I won't be disrespected by that
boy!"
"We'll support you but do you realise that your
woman is letting him disrespect you?"
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "Dludla, don't ask me
that question because we went to fight for your
girlfriend and I still have the scar from that war
and it turned out she was really sleeping with
that boy," he reminded Dludla and everyone
crackled. Dludla swore at Mhlabunzima. "Don't
question my relationship but fight this boy with
me."
"We will!"
He nodded with a smile, he knew he could trust
them. He had also stood with them whenever
they needed support he could provide. And now,
they needed to form a message for Thabani.
"I just can't wait for the day Mzomubi will find
out you've been sleeping with his sister," Robert
smirked and everyone in the house laughed as
Mhlabunzima glared at him.
****
In the morning, Zinhloso was awake while other
family members were still sleeping. She'd taken
a bath and before making them breakfast. She
dialled Mhlabunzima.
"So early in the morning!" Mhlabunzima yawned.
"I am your girlfriend and I can call you whenever
I want to call you. It's not even early, it's 7am."
She smiled. There was nothing she liked better
than his morning voice. It tingled her heart.
He laughed, "you love catching me off guard. I
will have a good day today."
"I will stop if you don't like it."
"No, don't stop."
"Mtakwethu, Christmas is in a few days and
what will you be doing?"
He yawned, "nothing much, Kusakusa will come
here with his family and we'll have a feast as
usual. This year we'll have Zodumo, that's what
will be different."
She looked down in disappointment, she'd
forgotten about the child, "oh, okay then."
"What's wrong? Why do you sound sad now? Do
you want to spend Christmas with me?" He
asked.
"Yes, I wanted that and I was going to go to my
paternal grandmother after but it's okay. You
should be with your family especially since it'll
be Zodumo's first Christmas with her family,"
she said - it was still not an easy pill to swallow
that she didn't come first to him. She wasn't a
priority but his child was. It made her jealous
while she knew she wasn't supposed to be
jealous of a child. That was his blood and she'd
never amount to that. No matter what!
"I can come take you Thursday night and we'll
sleep together then I will go home in the
morning," Mhlabunzima suggested, "I will come
back to you in the evening."
"No, I am sorry but I can't agree to that. You'll go
home and forget I ever exist and then we'll fight,
sorry. I am tired of fighting with you," Zinhloso
said. She didn't trust him, he'd done it before
and there was nothing that was to stop him
from doing it again.
"I won't do that."
"No, we'll be together after Christmas. Two
nights and then you'll drive me home."
"If you insist. We will buy groceries together
then," he sounded down.
"Don't sound down. We'll still get to spend time
together."
"It's just that you don't trust me and that's
hurtful."
She huffed, "Mhlabunzima you know what
happened and I can't magically trust you after
what happened. I am not even talking about the
kiss."
"So, you haven't kissed anyone?"
"No, I haven't yet."
He noted the 'yet' "I can't wait to see you."
"Me too, I should go now, that's my
grandmother singing outside," she quickly put
the phone down after he'd said goodbye and
she stood up.
They were sorting out sugar beans before
cooking it. She was with her grandmother under
the tree, "Zinhloso?"
"Gogo?"
"Your uncle's wife said she saw you with
Thabani. What are you doing with your
boyfriend's rivalry in politics?" Grandma glanced
at Zinhloso.
"There's nothing going on between us, gogo.
He's approaching me and I have told him not
once that I have a boyfriend."
"Didn't you tell him who your boyfriend is?"
"No, I didn't. Gogo?"
"Yes?"
"Did grandpa ever cheated on you?"
She laughed, "yes, he did. Your grandfather even
had children with other women in the city but I
never met the children. I would only hear from
people who knew him."
"Didn't you confront him?"
"Confront him? No, I never did. I was lucky to
have even gotten married with my condition but
even women with no conditions their husbands
cheated and brought babies home," her
grandmother smiled, "your grandfather loved
me and he looked after his family that's what
mattered."
"Were you never hurt by that?"
"I was but it's their nature. My child,
Mhlabunzima has a child with a woman who
was there before you. He'll still go back to her
and have a relationship with her because they
share a strong bond,
"And this woman was pure when he found her
but that won't mean he doesn't love you. Don't
let that hurt you but fix yourself, bath with
charm elixir. He only doesn't have to show you
the other woman is there until he wants to
marry you both," granny said to Zinhloso.
Her head was buzzing from hearing all that
unfairness, "so, you never thought of cheating
back on grandpa?"
"No, we're not meant to have multiple partners
like men. Don't you ever do that Zinhloso. Don't
even think about it. He'll not marry you if you do
that." Granny advised and Zinhloso remained
quiet, "can't you hear what I said? Don't do it if
you're thinking about it."
"No, I am not thinking about it. I was just asking
to understand." She said and her mind went
miles away...
UMCEBO

Chapter 78

Mhlabunzima was feeding his chickens early in

the morning. He was whistling a tune. They'd
confirmed the following day they were paying
Thabani a visit.
"Sawubona."
He raised his eyes and they met with Lily's
gleaming eyes, "yebo, what are you doing here
so early in the morning?"
"I am going to work and yesterday I cooked your
favourite meal," she smiled. She had a lunch
box wrapped in a plastic bag. "I thought I should
dish it up for you and bring it to you. I know you
enjoyed my food when we were together."
"No, Lily, there was no need for you to do that.
We're no longer together now."
"I know but Mhlabunzima I felt like it's the least I
could do since you've been so good to Zodumo.
I have never seen my child so happy," she was
happy herself and she wanted to show
appreciation, "everything has improved about
her life since you accepted her."
"She's my daughter and I am doing what's
expected of me. There's no need for you to
thank me. Why would you thank a fish for
swimming?" He didn't want to take the food
from her, Zinhloso had told him not to take the
food and he didn't need to be appreciated,
especially not by Lily. He would take it as an
innocent gesture but it would be more to her.
And she would blabber to Zinhloso about it.
"It's just a gesture, Mhlabunzima."
"It's good but I am not accepting, I am eating
food cooked by my sister and Zinhloso. And
stop being childish by doing all these things.
You know where we stand." He said clearly and
Lily nodded. He could see she was hurt but it
didn't matter. She was going to get over it. She
left him. Mhlabunzima focused on his work,
feeding the chickens. He didn't want to imagine
eating her food and having Zinhloso cook for
another man just for revenge. He didn't want
their relationship to be about Lily and those
games of revenge. It was supposed to be about
their love and growing together.
***
His aunt worked for a Boer in a sugar cane
plantation and Zinhloso had asked him for
sugarcane if his aunt managed to come back
with some. It was difficult to get some
sugarcane but other employers had no problem
during the harvesting season.
Thabani had called Zinhloso to the sports field.
He promised to give her the sugar cane there.
She went there after she was done with all her
chores.
"Yesterday when I saw you at the tuckshop you
were with a number of guys and today, I am
seeing the same guys," Zinhloso noted the six
faces on the field. They weren't close to them.
They were standing like bodyguards. You'd
swear they were bodyguards if you didn't know.
Two had machetes.
Thabani looked around and smiled at Zinhloso,
"yes, well, since your boyfriend threatened me I
have to walk around prepared."
"My boyfriend?" She frowned.
"Yes, Mhlabunzima, isn't he your boyfriend?"
She placed her hand on her forehead, "what did
he do or what did he say?"
"I thought you said he's a kind man."
"I asked you a question."
"You should go home, Zinhloso. He promised
that anytime today he'll be where I am and so,
you shouldn't be here."
She couldn't believe this. He was really going
ahead with this crazy idea of fighting because
she wanted to do the same thing he did? Why
didn't he tell her he knew about Thabani? She
spoke to him, just in the morning and he
pretended like everything was normal but he
was plotting such a sick thing. He messed up
and he couldn't take that, move on. She'd been
warming up to him again and talking to him but
he was planning nonsense!
She folded her arms before her chest, "I guess I
will have to stand here with you and if you leave
I will follow you."
"You're a woman-"
She flipped, "why is everyone reminding me that
I am a woman as if I don't know? I have breasts
and bums that are a heavy load to remind of
that." She clicked her tongue as he laughed, "it's
not funny."
"I get that you want to stay but your boyfriend is
not friendly when he wants to fight. I am afraid
he'll hurt you, go home." He tried to convince
her, "take the plastic bag of sugarcane and go."
"Mhlabunzima is my boyfriend and I can handle
him. Don't worry about me." She closed her
eyes as she heard the singing. He was really
doing this. The field had a few young boys
playing football.
"Wathath' intombi yami koqhum' isililo kuzil'
omama…"
Mhlabunzima had packed the guys at the back
of his van and he had Robert and one guy in the
front. She really couldn't believe he was going
ahead with this. He was serious. She was never
going to allow not even a drop of blood to fall in
her name.
They got out of the car, singing and
Mhlabunzima was leading the song. Zinhloso
was standing straight looking at him - them.
Thabani's guys moved closer to Thabani. She'd
heard of such stupid wars, fighting over a
woman and she'd never thought it would
happen to her. Maybe for others, there was a
need but Mhlabunzima, there wasn't a need.
"Stop," Thabani tried to stop Zinhloso from
heading to Mhlabunzima and his team.
"He won't do anything to me," she said and
pulled her hand.
Mhlabunzima had stopped singing. He didn't
believe Makhanda when he told him that
Zinhloso was with Thabani.
He could see Zinhloso walking up to him slowly,
he fired two gunshots in the air and there were
screams, "if you're not involved in this, go home
to your mother, now!" He shouted to the young
boys and a few other passers-by. They quickly
ran away, screaming.
Zinhloso, who was rooted in one spot because
of the shots, opened her eyes. Thabani quickly
held her arm, "don't go to him!" He begged her.
"He even has the nerve of holding her before
you," Dludla, Mhlabunzima's man, commented
and the others agreed.
But Mhlabunzima kept cool and looked at
Zinhloso, waiting for her reaction.
"He won't do anything to me!" She screamed
and pulled her arm away. Thabani looked at her
as she walked to him. They moved a little closer
and stood in the middle of the field.
Mhlabunzima and his men were standing by the
goal poles.
"What are you doing here?" She asked him,
straightforward.
He took his time looking at her face, "I should
be asking you that question. What are you doing
here with another man?"
"Dating you Mhlabunzima means I should only
talk with women?"
"Go home, I want to talk to Thabani."
"I am not going to do that," she didn't care that
he was pissed off. He even had veins popping
on his forehead.
She shook her head, "I am not going to do that,"
she looked at the men with him, "since you left
your homes to fight with him. Do you know
what's happening between us?" Zinhloso asked,
her hand was on Mhlabunzima's shoulder.
"MaMnguni, go home and let men talk!" One
comrade said and they all agreed. Thabani's
men were still quiet but Mhlabunzima and
Thabani were glaring at each other.
"I won't do that. I don't want anyone fighting
because of me. Go home!" She screamed and
they laughed.
Mhlabunzima pulled her back and he held both
her shoulders, "I am not joking with you. Go
home."
"I am also not joking with you. How could you
plan such a thing? Why are you here trying to
fight like I am hurting you?" Zinhloso asked but
she wasn't talking loudly. "Don't you remember
what you did to me, Mhlabunzima?"
"MaMnguni, save us the day. Xulu is a man and
you're a woman. You can't avenge him kissing
his daughter's mother and you want to do that
with that cunt!"
The shocked Zinhloso looked at Mhlabunzima,
"you told them? You actually told them our
business Mhlabunzima?"
"Didn't you tell that boy? That's why you're close
to him. You want to kiss him!" He shouted and
his men clicked their tongues.
"Why would I tell him that? There's nothing
going on between us."
"But you're always with him!"
"No, I am not! Didn't you talk to me too
whenever you saw me before we dated?"
"I don't remember talking to you in a sports field.
You surely planned this meeting with him." He
was angry that Zinhloso was here. She was
delaying things.
"There's no war happening here, go back home."
"I didn't come here for nothing I want his blood,
step aside if you want to watch!" His patience
was running thin and he pushed Zinhloso aside.
He didn't look at her as she screamed. She
almost fell on the ground. Robert held Zinhloso,
stopping her from going to Mhlabunzima.
"What do you want from her?" He stood before
Thabani.
"What you also wanted before she became
yours. Zinhloso is not walking around written on
her forehead that she's your girlfriend." Thabani
responded.
He was ticked off by his attitude and he threw
the first tight punch. Thabani returned the
punch and they manhandled each other.
Nobody stopped them.
"Mhlabunzima!" Zinhloso screamed and Robert
didn't stop holding her. She fought her way out
and failed until she had no choice but to use her
teeth on his arm. He groaned and let go. She
ran up to them and they didn't stop her.
When she reached them, she stood on the side
and pulled Mhlabunzima's arm. They were
holding each other by their tops and glaring at
each other.
"Stop it, both of you!" she screamed and they
pushed each other away. She quickly got in
between, "this is all your doing and now you're
fighting like someone has wronged you." She
was pushing him and he was willingly walking
back but facing her. He was panting.
"We're leaving, Zinhloso, because you're
protecting him. We're leaving now!"
"No," she stopped walking, "not until we're
even!"
"What do you mean?"
"You've told your men what happened, right?
You've come here to fight. Let's settle the
scores then so that we can be even," she was
very disappointed that Mhlabunzima had told
his men what happened. She didn't tell anyone,
she kept it to herself. "Your men already know
what's happening, right? They know our affairs?
You'll choose whether you want me to kiss him
here right before your eyes or I will kiss him in
private where it'll only be the two of us."
"You can't do that. Do you want to humiliate
me?"
"Humiliate you? Didn't you do it first? I kept my
mouth shut but you went on to tell your men
what happened. I am sure they look at me like a
clown, you couldn't behave yourself the minute
you saw that woman who didn't even lift a
finger to fight for you and your relationship," she
didn't stop talking, "her maternal home wasn't
accross oceans if she wanted to be with you.
She was going to do everything she could but
you were able to share affection with her."
"I have asked for forgiveness, Zinhloso. Let's
not do this."
She shook her head, "no, it's not enough. You'll
say sorry and go back to her again because you
know I will forgive you."
"Don't agree to this Xulu! Was this woman going
to have Thabani following her if you didn't help
her by taking her to the healer?" One man asked
and they made supporting sounds. They were
looking at this exchange with their mouths
hanging. It was unbelievable. "Don't agree to
that rubbish. Lily is the mother of your child and
you can share whatever affection you want with
her."
This hurt Zinhloso. She waited for Mhlabunzima
to say something to his men but he didn't, "I
deserve every disrespect from you because you
helped me?" She asked and he didn't answer
her, "it's okay then, you've made your choice
clear-"
"You're a woman. They'll not respect you if you
do this."
She chuckled, "you didn't respect me even
without doing this so what's the point? Please,
go back home and leave Thabani alone. He
didn't commit any crime against you and it
doesn't concern him whether you helped me get
healed or not. Go!"
"You're defending him?"
"Just like you're choosing your self respect and
not our relationship. You choose not to be
humiliated. I also have a freedom of choice."
Zinhloso looked around and shouted, "I think
we're done here there's nobody who's fighting,
especially not for a dead relationship."
"My kiss didn't even last a minute. I thought of
you kissing another man and stopped the kiss.
Yours shouldn't last a minute too,"
Mhlabunzima said in a tone laced with pain. He
would rather have them kiss before him than
have them kiss in private and also than to have
his relationship with Zinhloso end. He didn't
come that far with her to end with just one
simple kiss.
"Hhaybo!" His men were shocked and Thabani's
men whistled. This was very interesting to them.
She stopped walking. She was walking away
hurt that Mhlabunzima had chosen himself and
his self-respect. He was leaving her with
humiliation and even though she was hurt she
was vowing to not go back to him. A choice
was a choice.
She turned back to him, "here, are you sure?"
"Yes, and I said not even a minute."
She looked back at Thabani, he was looking at
her with amazement. She didn't waste time but
headed to him. They had to know she wasn't
joking. Mhlabunzima included - him especially.
"You'll make it brief and it shouldn't last a
minute," Zinhloso said to him with a serious
face.
"Are you sure? I don't want you to get in trouble
with him after this."
"I am sure. You'll be doing me a favour.-"
"Are you discussing how you will kiss him?"
Mhlabunzima shouted and Zinhloso looked
back at him, "I don't have all day!"
Mhlabunzima's men kept saying their shocked
'Hhaybo!'
She took a step closer, Thabani smirked and
held her face. Thabani's men whistled as their
lips met. The kiss was smooth, his lips weren't
full and smoochy like the ones she was used to
but they were soft. He held her waist and kissed
her deep for a second until Zinhloso stopped
the kiss.
The whole kiss felt like a lifetime of pain and he
felt like he couldn't breathe. Like life was slowly
being sucked out of him. The men with him
kept telling him to shoot Thabani but
Mhlabunzima didn't move. He wanted to die
when his hand circled around her slim waist. He
hated Lily deeply, he wouldn't be subjected to
this if it wasn't for her.
She looked at him. His eyes were smaller and
his breathing was high, "thank you and
goodbye."
"I will no longer see you?"
"Do you think he'll let me stay here after this?"
She chuckled and took the plastic bag. "Bye."
She walked with her head held high without
looking down like she normally did. Her eyes
were fixed on his, he was standing like a statue
staring at her.
She swallowed hard and stood before him, "did
you feel like you can't breathe?" She could
witness the hurt in his eyes. He didn't answer
her but he only looked at her. She didn't know if
he wanted to cry or if he was angry. He inhaled
air into his misty lungs, "that's exactly how I felt
and if you betray me again it'll be over between
us."
He grabbed her hand and walked away with her.
The men looked at Thabani's men and howled
insults at them.
"What's inside that plastic bag?" Mhlabunzima
asked as he drove away. It was only the two of
them on seats. Everyone was at the back.
"It's sugarcane. I asked for it. I love it." She
looked at him.
"Ulahle manje." (Throw it away, now)
"Mhlabunzima-"
"Ngithi kuwe ulahle! You said I shouldn't eat her
food and I have done that, turned it down.
Ulahle!"
She looked at the plastic, heartbroken, she
opened the window and threw it away.
****
Hey guys.. we have a sponsor asking for post
likes and shares of the product they're selling.
Also check it out and her wall, in case you're
interested.
600 likes/posts and 400 post shares. Then we'll
get a bonus chapter.

Link
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=
5335610249858222&id=100002278993261

Thanks 💜
UMCEBO

Chapter 79
***Chapter sponsored by Bhelekazi***

The drive to grandmother's house was quiet.

The men at the back were singing and the
people on the road turned with the car. Zinhloso
was peaceful deep down, it had passed. She
didn't want it to go that far but she couldn't
control her anger. He'd gone and told his
comrades what happened between them. That
was hurtful and all the things they said to her -
he didn't defend her. He remained quiet, she
had it in her mind that he was thinking like them.
There was no way she was going to repay him
for helping her.
"I will wait for you here, go and get your bag,"
Mhlabunzima said without looking at Zinhloso.
His men had stopped singing.
She wanted to argue with him but his face was
hard. She didn't even know where to start, "I
should just enter and tell my grandmother that I
am leaving?"
"I don't know. You'll see what you tell her. You'll
get the courage just like you got the courage to
kiss another man," he said, still without looking
at her.
Zinhloso opened the door and she headed out
of the car. She walked slowly to her
grandmother trying to think of what she was
going to tell her. But she couldn't think of
anything.
She found her seated outside with a cup of tea.
She moved around doing nothing. What was
she supposed to say?
"What's wrong ntombi yami?"
She quickly sat next to her, "gogo?"
"Yes?"
She didn't want to sound disrespectful and she
also had to go with Mhlabunzima if she didn't
want any more trouble, "Mhlabunzima is here.
He heard about Thabani and he wanted to fight
with him. He had his friends over, so I stopped
him."
"I told you to stop following this boy but you did
a good thing by stopping him."
She rubbed her hands together, "Yebo, now I
think I should go because I don't want any more
trouble. He also suggested that I should come
with him but if you refuse I won't go."
"Why would I refuse while there's Thabani
here?" Her grandmother looked at her and
Zinhloso looked down. "Go and call him."
"But, gogo-'"
"Go and tell him I am calling him."
She got up and headed out. She stood by the
driver's side, "gogo wants to talk to you." She
said and walked away after he'd nodded. She
didn't enter but stood by the gate.
Mhlabunzima went to Makhanda and handed
him money, "buy yourself a cold drink and
chicken. Thank you. Laba bona sebayidla
inkukhu yabo." He said and they laughed.
"So, we'll let him be?" Makhanda asked.
"Yes, let's let him be or else inkanyamba
izovusa iziphepho." (Or else the cryptid will
awaken tornadoes) Mhlabunzima answered and
the men burst out laughing. Some looked at
Zinhloso, she wasn't hearing anything.
"Alright, bye."
Mhlabunzima headed to Zinhloso and they
walked together inside after Mhlabunzima had
taken off his hat, "what were they laughing at?"
Zinhloso asked.
"Nothing."
Mhlabunzima sat on the grass and Zinhloso sat
on the straw mat next to her grandmother. He
greeted granny and granny greeted back with a
smile.
"Why don't you face her father head on because
you're a brave young man?" Granny asked
Mhlabunzima.
He smiled and looked down, "I wanted to do
that a long time ago but she doesn't want me to
do it."
"Why Zinhloso? You want to play this hide and
seek until a baby comes then make matters
worse?" She looked at her granddaughter.
"No, but they're number of things we should
work on before facing my father, gogo,"
Zinhloso responded. She wasn't even sure if
their relationship was going to be the same, still,
after this. Her father knowing about them was
out of the question.
"I can't force her if that's how she thinks."
Mhlabunzima breathed.
Gogo glanced at Zinhloso and back at
Mhlabunzima, "and where are you taking her?
Home or in your father's house? I should know
because I heard her say Xulu forbade you from
bringing her in his yard."
"We have our own place that we've built but
nobody knows about it. It's actually for
business but there's also a house there. The
house was built with the money we've worked
together," Mhlabunzima answered.
Gogo smiled, "alright, only three nights will be
enough. This is not your wife and I don't like this
hide and seek because it will result into a baby.
Once there's a baby, things will be more difficult
for the two of you. Do you understand, mfana?"
"Yebo, gogo, I understand."
"If her birthday comes and you haven't gone to
her father I will tell him myself." She threatened
Mhlabunzima.
Her birthday was in May and that meant he had
five months, "yebo, gogo. Thank you."
"Go, Zinhloso before your uncle comes back.
Uziphathe kahle mntanami." She brushed her
back.
"Thank you, gogo." She headed to her room
while Mhlabunzima walked out of the premises.

Mhlabunzima drove to the Empangeni station

area. The drive had been quiet and Zinhloso
didn't know what he was thinking.
"Are you going to pass somewhere? I think I
should go home to my grandmother so that I
can give you space to deal with what happened
because I can see that you're upset," Zinhloso
suggested to Mhlabunzima as he drove to the
bus and market area. "I also got time to deal
with what happened."
"There's nothing to deal with. We're going home.
You'll go inside the shop and buy groceries we'll
use for these three nights." He said and
stopped the car at the parking lot. He gave
Zinhloso money. He stepped out of the car.
Zinhloso went to the shop and Mhlabunzima to
his men.
"Madoda, can you please take the bus from
here? I want to drive her somewhere,"
Mhlabunzima said to his men and gave them a
bus fare because they didn't bring any money.
They got out of the car, "are you well kodwa
chwane? I have never seen such a thing!"
"It has passed, that's what I am glad about."
Mhlabunzima commented and the men huffed.
"Madoda, this shouldn't be known and be
gossip in the village because I am afraid my
girlfriend will be inspired by Zinhloso and want
revenge too. She's crazy that woman," Dladla
couldn't finish his sentence as they all laughed
at him.
"But we won't stop talking about this. What we
can do, we should keep Mhlabunzima's name
out of this thing because he's our leader and we
don't want people to question him as a man and
mock him," one man suggested, "we all know
women have made us do things we never
thought we would do."
They all agreed in one voice. Mhlabunzima was
only listening to them, "yes, you're right. We
should protect each other because protecting
each other means protecting our political
dignity in the village."
"Yes, but chwane, why did you agree to this?
She was walking away but you stopped her."
Dludla asked.
"I didn't want to lose her, that's why I stopped
her." He rubbed his eyes and yawned, "tsk! I am
just angry I didn't get to fight with him. Robert,
how were you holding Zinhloso?"
Robert quickly raised his hands, "yima ke,
chwane! You said it yourself intombi yakho
inkanyamba. How was I supposed to hold her
after she'd bitten me?"
They melted in laughter, "it doesn't matter.
Thank you for aiding me."
"We'll die where you die!" They shook hands and
Mhlabunzima walked them to the bus.
Mhlabunzima waited for Zinhloso inside the car
and he got out of the car when she returned
with the groceries. There was a guy helping her
carry the grocery bags.
"Did you pay him?"
"Yes, I did." She headed to her seat and left him
packing the bags.
When they reached the house it was already
getting dark but Zinhloso could see the yard
clearly.
"This looks like a very different place now. It's
very beautiful and clean," she said ecstatic
about what she was seeing.
"Yeah," he only said.
He parked the car under the tree, "do you have
clothes here?" Zinhloso asked.
"Yes, I brought them after you suggested we'll
spend time together after Christmas. They've
finished building the toilet I had to come and
check," he responded and got out of the car. He
transport the groceries.
Zinhloso looked around and all the comments
she made about the house Mhlabunzima didn't
say anything. When he was done transporting
the grocery bags. He headed to the bedroom.
"This exactly what I was trying to avoid when I
refused coming here but ke ukhanda
limtshelokwakhe wanqaba," she packed the
groceries and loaded the woods inside the
stove. She prepared for cooking.
Mhlabunzima didn't come out of the bedroom
until she was done cooking.
"Xulu wake up I am done cooking," she shook
him softly.
He opened his eyes, "I am tired and I am not
hungry."
She looked at him as he pulled the bed covers
and covered his body. Zinhloso left him. She sat
down and ate the food alone.
After eating and cleaning up, she took the
bathing basin, "we don't even have water here
it's one bucket," she headed out with water and
she bathed inside the toilet that had space to
put a basin and bath as you wish. It'd been a
long day and she didn't imagine their first night
in the house was going to be so dull.
"Are you sleeping?" She touched his shoulder.
She had dressed up for bed but Mhlabunzima
was still on the same position she left him.
Mhlabunzima didn't answer her but he could
hear her. Zinhloso laid down thinking he was
sleeping…
UMCEBO

Chapter 80

He was nervous about this - but he had to do it.

He had to meet up with him no matter how
scared he was. He had a lot of questions
running through his head? But the biggest
question - was his son going to accept him
back in his life? Was he even going to recognise
him?
"You'll go there and come back with Sbusiso."
Robert told his nephew.
"Yebo, malume," he quickly rushed inside.
He knocked on the door. It was a sunny day but
there was a cooling wind. There was nobody
outside the yard.
Mrs Mnguni opened the door, "awu, sawubona
mfana. How are you?"
"I am fine, granny. Where is Sbusiso?" He asked
with a grin. He was ecstatic.
"He's inside the house."
"Malume said I should ask for Sbusiso. We will
bring him back, today,"
Mrs Mnguni smiled, "alright, boy I will call him."
She was pleased that Robert had finally come
through for his son. Sbusiso was going to have
a relationship with his father like every child
should. He was seated on the floor with the
other two children and they were watching TV.
"Sbusiso?"
"Gogo?" He called without looking at her.
Mrs Mnguni shook her head and shouted, "why
aren't you looking at me because I am talking to
you?"
"Ay, gogo I am watching TV."
"Stand up, your cousin is here and he's calling
you. He said your father is outside and waiting
for you." Mrs Mnguni said.
He kept quiet for a while and he jumped, "my
father?" He grinned.
"Yes."
"Gogo, is he tall or short?"
She laughed, "go and you'll see outside. You're
clean and dressed nicely."
He didn't ask twice but he ran to the door. He
was happy to see his cousin, the cousin held his
hand and pulled him to the gate, "malume is
waiting for us."
"My father is your malume?" Sbusiso asked and
his cousin laughed at him.
Robert was squatted down and he looked at his
son as he walked out of the gates. This was
him, his making and the woman he loved. Why
was he so cruel to his flesh and blood? If
Comfort didn't confront him, he was still going
to live his life like he had no child! Sbusiso was
so grown up from the last time he saw him. He
was a tall child - just like him.
He pulled him by his hand as they were
standing before him, "sawubona, Sbusiso."
"Yebo. Uwena ubaba wami?" (Are you my
father?)
"Yebo, don't you remember me?"
"No! You have a beard."
How shameful! The child was probably two
years old when they parted , if not three, Robert
couldn't remember correctly. But he knew he
hadn't seen him for over a year.
He chuckled, at least he had a little memory, "I
am your father and yes, I have a beard now. I
wanted to come and see you."
"Where were you? Mom was always telling me
you'll come see me but you never came,"
Sbusiso asked.
Robert didn't answer right away, "I was working
so that I can make money for you to buy clothes
and food."
He smiled, "oh! Mama, told me you gave me
money. She always told me."
He was grateful that at least Nobuhle told him
that. It showed she was a good mother
regardless of how much a scum he was to their
son.
"Yes, let's go to Malume Mhlabunzima's shop
and we'll buy nice things and eat," Robert lifted
him up, "we'll also call your mother."
"Yes!" Sbusiso was very happy to finally meet
his father after so long.
Robert started at the pharmacy as he
remembered he needed something. He had a
big presentation coming up at work and he
needed usmonyo - a charm elixir to chew. There
was a possibility of being promoted. "Lily, how
are you?"
She smiled, "I am fine Robert and how are you?"
"I am good, do you have usmonyo? I really need
it desperately."
She stood up and looked for it, "I heard you
guys went to eNdabayakhe to fight, Zinhloso
kissed another man and her boyfriend's name is
still hidden. You're really good at protecting
Mhlabunzima. I know it's him who asked you to
go with him."
He chuckled, "so, now since you know, are you
going to tell the gossipers that the hidden name
of a man is Mhlabunzima?"
"No, he's my daughter's father. Why would I do
that? I don't want him to be in trouble with
bab'uMnguni."
"It's good to know."
"Can't you convince him to leave Zinhloso? He's
not around and Zinhloso is not around, that
means they're together wherever they're," Lily
found the elixir and she returned to the counter,
"I don't understand why he's still with a woman
who humiliated him. What happened, everyone
is talking about it in the village."
"He's a grown man. I can't tell him who to date
and how do you know they're together?" He
asked and gave her money.
"They can't coincidentally be not around at the
same time. I know she's not wanted at the Xulu
homestead."
Robert laughed, "it seems you know a lot about
this relationship. Did you tell her mother what
everyone is saying?"
"No, but I know it's only a matter of time before
someone tells her."
"Okay, goodbye." He didn't want to talk much
with her. They headed to the shop with the
children.
When they got to shop, Robert bought what his
son and nephew wanted and they went to the
back. They sat down and enjoyed themselves.
He was answering all the questions Sbusiso
had. It gave him a peace of mind that he was
with his child again. He didn't know he needed
this. His mother wasn't aware that he was here.
Once they were done, Robert paid for a
telephone call and they called Nobuhle.
"Nobuhle speaking, hello?"
"You sound different when you're speaking
English."
"Robert, it's you!"
"You will never forget my voice."
"What do you want, Robert?"
"Your son wants to talk to you."
"Really?" She was shocked because that meant
they were together.
He lifted his son up and gave him the telephone.
Sbusiso spoke with his mother, the happiness
in his voice as he told his mother about the time
with his father. It was unmatched. You couldn't
miss that the boy was very happy and that
made Nobuhle happier.
"I hope you won't walk out on his life when it
suits you. You'll hurt him again."
"I won't, I promise."
"Okay, I should go. I am still working."
He ended the call and he smiled. This was the
best decision - to listen to Comfort.
***
Mrs Mnguni was busy cleaning around her yard
outside the fence. She stopped working when
she was greeted by a woman from the village.
"How are you, MaNtuli?"
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am good, ayi, we've heard the news about
your daughter. It seems your husband did a very
bad thing by healing her," the woman started.
Mrs Mnguni stopped working and she gave her
attention, "what did you hear?"
"You haven't heard?"
"No," she was already angry before they even
told her. Zinhloso!
The woman chuckled and crossed her arms
before her bust, "I have heard from osizwile,
that your daughter had men fighting over her
eNdabayakhe."
Mrs Mnguni held her mouth, "you're lying!"
"I am telling you. The boy from eNdabayakhe is
the enemy of the boy that your daughter is
dating."
"And who are these boys?"
She clapped once, "the boys' names are
whispered and so, we haven't heard who they're
but it's boys from this village who were starting
a war with eNdabayakhe boys because of
Zinhloso."
"Kodwa Jehovah!"
"It doesn't end there, they say your daughter
kissed the enemy of her boyfriend right before
the boyfriend's eyes."
Mrs Mnguni held her head, "why?"
"Apparently, her boyfriend kissed a woman and
so, Zinhloso wanted to avenge herself. She did
such a disgraceful thing. Which boy will want to
marry her?"
Mrs Mnguni was very angry but she didn't want
to show this woman she was angry and satisfy
her gossip, "if she was avenging herself then
she did well. Ulungisa ubufebe," she said, which
shocked the woman, "yes, why are you
shocked?"
"How can you side with her? What will your
husband say?"
"There's not even a single person in this village
who will have the courage to tell my husband
that nonsense." Mrs Mnguni said firmly, she
knew they wouldn't tell him for real.
"But you are wrong by siding with her."
"She's my daughter, why should I not side with
her? Why is her name not hidden but this boy
who started cheating on her, his name is
hidden?" She asked and the woman didn't
answer her, "please leave me with your useless
gossip." She walked away, leaving her shocked
but she was fuming. She wished she could
strangle Zinhloso and stop when she was about
to die. She was disgracing them. It seemed the
disorder protected her from a lot of things.
She asked Ziwinile to dial home and she spoke
with her mother, "mama, where's Zinhloso? I
want her to come back home, today!"
"My child, Zinhloso, is at the river. Please call
later and I am also busy."
"But mama, did you hear about what she did?
Everyone is talking about her."
"Yes, what's new? You also had boys fighting
over you and out of all, you chose that one
armed man."
"I didn't kiss any man-"
"It doesn't matter, but a few boys died fighting
for you. You troubled us with your father, bye
now!"
She wanted to slam the telephone against the
wall but stopped herself. Zinhloso was really
testing her!
****
Congratulations! Yesterday you unlocked a
bonus. You'll get it tonight.

Thanks 💜
UMCEBO

Chapter 81

***Chapter sponsored by Queen Tee***

He woke up from a dream and rubbed his eyes.
He could remember telling his children that
should his mother come to him in the form of a
dream he would go to his father. And finally, it
had happened! He least expected this and he
wasn't sure if he was ready for this or he wasn't.
But maybe, after talking to his children he would
know.
Xulu woke up from the bed and walked out of
the house after opening the windows. His
daughter always cleaned up for him but
sometimes, he would also clean his house.
After washing his face, he found Ngenzeni
inside the kitchen making breakfast. He greeted
and made himself a cup of tea.
"Where's your brother? Did he come back last
night?" Xulu asked.
"No, he didn't come back." Ngenzeni responded,
"food will be ready soon, baba."
She didn't mind looking after her father and
brother, Mhlabunzima respected her. And he
never forgot her whenever he had to spend his
money. She knew their father raised them well
but he only messed up when he chose the
youngest as heir. She wasn't at peace about
that and she knew Kusakusa was also not at
peace. And since Mhlabunzima had gotten a
girlfriend it had been difficult to cause any
fights between them because he was always
busy. The woman and his business kept him
occupied.
"What a surprise?" Ngenzeni said as her brother
walked inside the kitchen. She served her father
breakfast, "you're home, something must have
happened."
Kusakusa sat down, "give me breakfast
Ngenzeni and stop talking." He couldn't wait any
longer but he needed to come home and talk
with his father.
She laughed and served him breakfast that she
had reserved for Mhlabunzima, "this is
Mhlabunzima's food, if he happens to come
back you'll explain."
"Is he not home?" Kusakusa asked and
accepted the plate of food.
Xulu shook his head, "he didn't sleep here. Do
you know where he is?"
"No, I don't know but I have heard something,"
Kusakusa filled in, his father and sister about
the saga of Zinhloso that was the talk of the
village, "and it's clear the boyfriend is
Mhlabunzima."
Xulu clicked his tongue and he cursed, "how can
this girl do such a thing to my son?" He was
very angry. When he looked at the food, he felt
like puking because of anger and disgust.
"Don't be angry, baba. You've heard that
Mhlabunzima started it."
He pointed at Ngenzeni, "I knew you wouldn't
side with your brother."
"I am also not siding with him," Kusakusa
surprised his father, "what he did was wrong.
Mhlabunzima should be firm about who he
wants and not take both women for a ride. I
prefer Lily over Zinhloso but if he wants
Zinhloso he must go for her and leave Lily."
"He's allowed to be undecided! How will he
know who to marry? He can choose once he
knows them, both!"
Ngenzeni clapped once, "you'll always side with
Mhlabunzima even when he's wrong."
"Don't talk to me like that! I am your father," he
yelled and Ngenzeni kept quiet. He looked at
Kusakusa, "I want to know where my son is and
whether he's safe or not. I wouldn't know
whether the goons of his girlfriend have killed
him or not."
"How will you know? Are you going to send me
to Zinhloso?"
"No, uyokwenzani esfebeni sentombazane? Go
to Robert and ask him about your brother. I
know he was also there. He supports
Mhlabunzima even in doing nonsense," Xulu
instructed.
"Yes, I will go after eating."
They had breakfast in silence. Xulu had stopped
eating but he was only having his black tea. He
wasn't going to tell the children about his dream
without Mhlabunzima. He didn't know what he
was going to do with this relationship. He
loathed it but maybe it was going to end after
this saga.

Kusakusa was talking alone on his way to

Robert. Ngenzeni was right, their father didn't
want to find fault in Mhlabunzima and it was
annoying.
He luckily met up with Robert on the road.
"I wasn't sure if I was going to find you home or
not."
Robert greeted Kusakusa, "I am going to the
bus stop. I want a few things in the market.
What's wrong?"
Kusakusa turned back to the road with him, "no,
it's nothing. I am sent by my father. He heard
about what happened eNdabayakhe and he
asked me to come to you. He knows it's
Mhlabunzima, the hidden man."
"Oh, yea, what's wrong?"
"He wants to know where he is and if he's safe
where he is."
Robert nodded, "yes, he's perfectly fine. We
didn't fight because Zinhloso stopped the fight.
Mhlabunzima wanted to be alone and clear his
head. He will come back."
"And you didn't even think of stopping him from
doing this? You are older than him, Robert."
Kusakusa raised his voice.
"No, nobody had the power to stop him. It was
better to go with him than letting him go alone.
It was going to be bad."
They reached the bus stop, "I hear you. Thank
you. I will go to my father and tell him." He
headed back home. He didn't think he would be
running around like that after telling his father
about Mhlabunzima. He thought Xulu would be
on Mhlabunzima's neck but it turned out he
wasn't even home. He wondered where he was
but he was known almost everywhere, maybe
he was with his other comrades.
"Did you find him?" Xulu asked.
Kusakusa stood next to his father on the
garden fence, "yes, he said Mhlabunzima
wanted to be alone and he'll come back home.
He's fine and they didn't fight."
He huffed, he was relieved, "Robert is older but
he supported Mhlabunzima and went there."
"That's what I told him too."
"If I didn't know my son I would say he's using
muthi on these people. They obey him," he
clicked his tongue.
"The problem is that they obey him even when
he's wrong."
"Yes!"
"Ey, thank you son for coming and telling me
about this. We will wait for his return," Xulu
faced his son, "and when he returns back home
we should sit down and talk. I dreamt of your
grandmother."
He nodded but he already had predictions, "we
will talk when he comes back. I should go back
home. I left without seeing the kids."
"Alright, they should come and sleep here
tonight," Xulu walked out his son.
****
The heat of his body was welcoming, Zinhloso
looked at him. His eyes were closed and so, she
slowly moved closer to him until her body was
snuggled up on his.
Mhlabunzima opened his eyes and looked at
her head. She was onto him in a spooning
position.
"Gxabhashe?" She called him, softly.
"Mm?" He closed his eyes again.
"Won't you touch me? I can feel your erection on
my bums," she was craving him in every way
and she was annoyed by this behaviour. This
was the reason she didn't want to come to this
house with him after what happened. She knew
he was angry and she suspected this would
happen.
"I am talking to you, Mhlabunzima."
"I heard you. My penis is always erected in the
morning, it's not because of you."
She wanted to scream on top of her lungs but
she didn't want to waste her energy. She moved
her body away from him and since she was no
longer sleepy. Zinhloso removed the blankets
from her body and walked out of the bedroom.
The plate of food was still where she left it,
untouched and without washing her face or
hands. She sat down and ate the food.
She remembered there was no water in the
house. She headed back to the bedroom and
seeing him on the bed made her very upset. He
surely brought her to torture her.
She changed into her floral shirtwaist dress and
walked out without telling him. She waited with
a bucket by the gate until she saw two young
women. She quickly joined them.
She greeted, "I am Zinhloso Mnguni, I live there
but not full time. It's only for work purposes."
She introduced herself to the women. They
asked who she was. They also introduced
themselves to her. She was free with them and
joined in on the conversation they were having.
It was good to be around new faces.

"You're working with Mhlabunzima of SAFP?"

One of the ladies asked, they were coming back
with buckets of water. She was seeing
Mhlabunzima outside the house stretching.
She smiled, "yes, I work with him. Are you going
to go again in the afternoon?"
"No, we hardly go in the afternoon. We'll go
again now."
"Alright, please call me." She walked inside the
yard once they'd promised to call her. "Why are
you not dressed on top?" She asked. He was
topless and wearing black nylon shorts.
"Kade ngiyochatha. I cooked the water in the
fridge, you didn't leave any water for me."
"I used it yesterday."
"Why didn't you tell me you're going out?"
"You don't even want to talk to me nje."
Mhlabunzima helped her put the bucket down,
"where's the food you cooked last night?" He
followed her inside the house.
"I ate the food. I thought you didn't want it."
He sat down, "I said I wasn't hungry, I didn't say
I won't eat."
"You will eat what I will make now." He got up
and headed to the bedroom. She shook her
head and worked on making breakfast until she
heard her name called.
"Those women are back. I am going back to the
river." She showed her head on the door. He
was on the bed.
"Tell them to go and get water containers. I will
drive you with them to get water. We do have
empty containers here except for that one
bucket. I don't want you going up and down to
the river," he said, with his eyes closed.
"Alright," she headed out. She was relieved, at
least he still cared about her.
She stood behind the fence, "I told
Mhlabunzima and he said, go and get water
containers he'll drive us to the river. It'll be
easier."
They had smiles of relief, "we'll come back,
soon," they quickly walked back and left the
buckets with Zinhloso.
She put their buckets in the van. Mhlabunzima
was putting the containers at the back and once
he was done. They had breakfast together. He
was quiet and Zinhloso chose to be quiet like
him.
They walked out of the house when the ladies
returned. They were done eating and
Mhlabunzima drove them to the river. He didn't
stop Zinhloso from sitting at the back with the
ladies. He'd been trying to come to terms with
her kissing his enemy and it hurt him deeper
than he thought it would. He couldn't keep the
picture off his mind, especially the previous
night. His hands on her waist - it was all too
much for him. He realised maybe she was right
when she suggested they didn't spend time
together yet.
He parked the car under the tree and Zinhloso
jumped down, "do you need my help bringing
the water inside?"
"No!" Mhlabunzima responded and transported
the water.
Once she was done cleaning, she sat alone
outside because Mhlabunzima was just -
sleeping. She was very annoyed by this
situation. He wasn't talking, he wasn't shouting,
he wasn't doing anything but he was quiet. She
regreted not putting her foot down. She was
supposed to reject coming to this house. It was
very pointless.
He opened his eyes when he heard noise in the
bedroom. He was greeted by Zinhloso's bums.
She was standing before the opened wardrobe
searching for whatever she was searching
inside her bag. Mhlabunzima sat up straight,
"what are you doing?" He asked.
She didn't turn back to him, "I am searching for
my panties." She found them and wore them.
"Why are you dressing up?" He asked, seeing
the clothes on the chair. He looked at her as
she turned to face him and she hid her breasts
with her hands. He never understood why she
loved doing that.
"I am going home. There's nothing I am staying
here for. You're not talking to me. You're not
shouting if you want to shout. Two more nights
with you like this I will die." She held eye contact
as Mhlabunzima was just staring at her. She
deliberately looked at him with her kitten eyes.
"Woza lana," (come here) Mhlabunzima
requested, coolly. He opened up the covers for
her and Zinhloso joined him in bed. He covered
her body. He looked down on her and he did
something Zinhloso thought would take him
time to do because of his man pride and ego.
He joined their lips into a kiss, a hot steamy kiss.
He quickly packed her underneath him - it'd
been over two months and it was because of
his father and the rule that hindered him. He
didn't even want to mention the obstacles
between them. He wanted to take his time
today and not rush anything even though his
body wanted to rush her. He didn't think he
would be able to kiss her after what he
witnessed but he reminded himself - it was
nothing much. He'd done the same and worst,
he couldn't let her go home only because he
was upset. They were supposed to be talking
but he wanted to let the steam off. In the
morning, he prepared himself for this, for the
two nights remaining. He wasted the first night
sulking.
He stopped her from removing his pants and
focused on her nipples, "don't do anything," he
whispered.
"I shouldn't even touch you?" She was ready for
him and she wanted nothing else at the
moment but all of him.
"No." He removed her underwear and positioned
himself in between her after he had taken off
his pants. His fingers fitted on hers as he stared
into her eyes. If he didn't know her well he
wouldn't deny it if he was told Zinhloso had put
a spell on him. Her love was like a drug,
something he couldn't imagine his life without.
Her eyes were his weakness.
He held her hands above her head and invaded
her. It was summer, it was hot outside and the
sex hotter making him sweat. He started slowly,
making circles that made her moan deeper.
They didn't last long, his pace changed.
"Mhlabunzima uyangibulala yini?" (Are you
killing me?) She asked out of breath. Today was
different and he was different than the last two
times.
"Kade ulifuna angithi? Uzolisutha ke," (you've
been requesting for it. You'll have enough) he
didn't give her a chance to speak but he kissed
her again…
UMCEBO

Chapter 82

***Unlocked bonus chapter ***

"You said we should be professional. Your

friends are here," Nobuhle giggled as John
hugged her tightly. He followed her from the
lounge to the pantry.
He smiled, "I like seeing you work. The serious
look on your face makes me want to get even
closer to you."
"Okay, go before somebody comes." She
giggled and held her mouth as someone was
calling out for John.
"John!"
John quickly walked out of the pantry with a
packet of chips, "I am in the kitchen."
Nobuhle followed with dips, she was inside the
pantry to get them for his friends. His friends
were a bunch of classy looking ladies and
gentlemen. She hadn't had an interaction with
them and so, she couldn't judge whether they
were nice people or horrible people. There was
a friend who hadn't joined them.
"Tell your maid to bring me some whiskey!"
John smiled to Nobuhle, "I will bring the
whiskey, come with those." He grabbed the
whiskey and Nobuhle followed him with a tray
of dips.
Nobuhle realised the friend had arrived. He was
a tall guy with pink pimples on his face. He
looked at her the moment she walked in.
"This is your new kitchen girl?" Nicholas, John's
friend asked.
John nodded, "yes, it's my new housekeeper."
Nobuhle bent and placed the dips on the coffee
table. Unexpectedly, she was spanked on the
butts by Nicholas. She screamed and the male
friends laughed.
"Nich, that's so rude! She's a lady," the female
said and threw a chip at Nicholas.
Nicholas was laughing to even notice the dead
stare he was getting from John. "Oh, please!"
"You have to apologize to her." John said,
sternly and everyone looked at him. He told
Nobuhle not to leave.
Nicholas chuckled, "why do you always care
about kafiris? From the garden boy to the
kitchen girl?"
"That's because they're people and they deserve
respect and so, apologize or leave!" John didn't
change his tone. His friends knew he respected
his workers and they'd stopped mocking his
workers. But Nicholas was stubborn.
"I am sorry!"
Nobuhle nodded, "thanks."
"You can go and rest, Martin will finish up," John
freed Nobuhle. He was no longer in the mood
for his friends but he didn't want to chase them
away. He was going to be the rude one if he
chased them away.
"Thank you."
It was better if Nobuhle wasn't around and she
wouldn't be subjected to Nicholas's insane
comments. He shouldn't have invited him.
Nobuhle locked the door in her bedroom and
she dropped her body on the bed. She closed
her eyes. She never felt so disrespected by a
man. Where she came from, she'd never been
that disrespected. If a man liked her, he would
tell her nicely and even if one lusted for her -
they had a way of saying without touching her.
She was angry but there was nothing she could
do. They were ruling the country. It didn't matter
whether they were wrong or right - the natives'
country had become theirs.
"Who is it?" She asked the knocker, hours later.
She was seated on the bed watching TV. She
had taken a bath and was relaxing after a long
day.
"It's me, John!"
She went to the front door and opened up for
him. He was tipsy.
"Can I come in? Or you can come to the house
so that we'll sleep?" John asked, holding the
door frame.
She held the handle, "you're drunk. Go and
sleep."
"I want to sleep next to you. I don't mind even
sleeping on your bed here if you don't feel like
coming to the house."
She stepped aside, trying to see if he was
serious. Was he going to sleep on that three
quarter bed and leave his comfy bed?
John smiled, "thank you."
Nobuhle followed him to the bedroom and she
looked at him as he took off his shoes. He really
didn't mind. "I am really sorry about what
happened. Nicholas can be a scum bag. I am
sorry."
She sat next to him, "it's not your fault."
"I invited them, it's my fault," he held her hands
and kissed the back of her hands. "I don't want
anyone who'll treat you badly."
She smiled as he kissed her forehead and
pulled her into his arms. His love was soft and
gentle, Nobuhle loved this treatment.
****
Mhlabunzima was staring at her. She was
soundly sleeping and he could tell she was tired.
She fell asleep right after he was done with her.
He also napped and when he woke up, he went
to the kitchen. He prepared what he only knew
how - pan frying meat.
He caressed her face and she moved, "swidi
lami lo mkhuhlane, wake up!"
She opened her eyes, "I was soundly sleeping."
She sulked.
"I know but I am hungry. You know I can only fry
meat. I have done that and what's left is
krummel pap. Please, wake up," he pleaded.
She yawned and got out of the bed. She
dressed up and headed to the kitchen. She left
him making the bed. It was upsetting to wake
up because the big baby was hungry. She didn't
complain but she cooked the krummel pap for
him.
They sat down on the table, "I am sorry about
what happened eNdabayakhe," Zinhloso started
the conversation. It was best they had it and
moved on from it.
"I wasn't going to kiss Thabani or any man for
that matter but I was threatening you to scare
you. Keep you on the edge so you'll," Zinhloso
said. "But I was serious when I told you we'll
break up if you cheat on me again."
"You're lying, you were going to do it. You did it
and so, there's no need for you to lie," he quickly
stopped her from saying what he believed to be
lies.
"From the word go, I was upfront with Thabani
just like I did with other guys but he kept
coming back because that's what men do and
you know that. You've also done that,
"I wasn't going to kiss him not in private and not
before you but what ticked me off. It was your
friends and your reaction. You went and told
your friends what happened between us. What I
said to you but I kept it to myself. I didn't even
tell my sister,
"You kept quiet as your friends spoke anyhow
with me, using my disorder as an excuse to
have you continue to disrespect me." She
quickly wiped off the single tear. That hurt her
deeply. She didn't stop him as he held her hand.
"I took it as if you're sharing the same
sentiments with them."
"That's not true. I was still trying to process
what was happening. I am not siding with them
that I can share affection with Lily because
she's my child's mother," Mhlabunzima
breathed, "and I have never used the disorder
against you in any way."
"I know but what stopped you from telling them
not to talk to me like that? Are they going to
stop if you're quiet?"
"No, they won't."
"And it wasn't the first time, you kept quiet when
I asked you if you still love Lily."
"I don't love her anymore, Zinhloso."
"So, what can I do to pay you back for your
help?"
He tightened his grip, "it wasn't my intention to
hurt your feelings. I didn't help you so that you
can owe me. I helped because I love you."
"I am sorry for what I did. I acted out of hurt and
anger," she laid her head on his shoulder. They
were seated next to each other on the table.
"Let's put this behind us and when we get back
to the village it shouldn't matter what gossipers
say. This is our relationship and not theirs," he
brushed her shoulder. He was certain they
would find gossip - his friends told him to his
face that they would talk about it. That was
what people did best, talking about other
people's affairs.
"And what happens between us. Can it stay
between us? Let's not allow third wheels," she
looked at him, seriously.
He pecked her lips, "the only third wheel we will
allow is the youngest Xulu."
She laughed and pushed him back, "we have
Zodumo for now. She's enough." She said
Mhlabunzima only chuckled. They finished up
their food and they didn't move from the table.
She laid back on his shoulder.
"Donda, I want to go take a bath in the river."
"No, why do you want to take a bath in the
river?"
She smiled, "I want to show you something."
"It's getting dark."
"Yes, it's perfect, nobody will come to the river. I
will cook dinner when we come back," she
stood up and Mhlabunzima stood up after her.
They walked to the river. Mhlabunzima was
carrying her small bag. They were passing a
few people on the road and nobody was
carrying water.
"Zinhloso, you're making me a cartoon now. We
have water back in the house but you're bathing
in the river," Mhlabunzima complained as they
reached the river. There was nobody around.
They could still see each other even though it
was getting dark. Zinhloso had no problem
because the moon would provide light.
"Sit here," she pointed at the big stone outside
the river but closer and Mhlabunzima didn't ask
questions. He sat down. She stood before him
and she smiled as his hands slipped
underneath her dress. He held her thighs while
she was undoing the buttons of the dress.
"Hold my dress," she gave him the dress.
"What if someone comes?"
"You'll tell them to go to the other side because
your girlfriend is bathing," she was smiling,
holding his chin. He was looking up at her face.
She took her towel, soap and the small stone
she used to scrub her body.
Right in the middle of the river there was a big
rectangular stone that was like a table. This
stone was showing above the water and
women used it to wash blankets on top of it. Or
stand on it while washing clothes.
She placed her soap and small stone on top of
the tabled stone. She faced Mhlabunzima and
she started bathing. Not in a normal way but in
an inviting and seductive way.
"Are you trying to get me inside the water too?"
He asked in a deep voice. His body was
responding to seeing her naked before his eyes,
seeing her bath like she was showing off. Her
body was precious and he knew it didn't matter
how many times he had her especially after
such a long time of not having her.
"Are you going to take a bath too?" She asked
and after she was done scrubbing, she got on
top of the stone.
"Yes, so that I don't have to bathe alone at
home."
"You'll bathe while I am cooking nje!"
"Jehovah wamabhunu! Uyangikhangisela!"
Mhlabunzima cursed as Zinhloso opened up her
legs, washing her lady parts while seated on the
stone. He couldn't hold himself anymore. He
took off his clothes and left them on the stone.
"Do you remember that you didn't bring a
towel?" She smiled as he entered the water.
"I will use yours." He washed his face with
hands and soap, "get off and help me wash my
back I'll wash yours."
"Help me," she said in a small sweet voice.
She was very beautiful under the moonlight.
Mhlabunzima helped her get off. And they
washed each other's bodies.
"Get on the stone," he instructed after they had
wiped the water off their bodies with the towel
and Zinhloso didn't ask questions but she did
as told. Mhlabunzima followed her. The stone
was smooth and kind of slippery. He knew it
wasn't going to hurt her back as he positioned
himself in between her thighs.
"We came here to fetch water and when you
saw this stone this is what you thought of?" He
asked, giving her neck kisses.
"Ah, no! I wanted a river bath…" she swallowed
her words, his hand was appraising her body.
He focused on massaging her nipples and this
gave him a good response of moans - what
pleased him the most. To hear her, moan. He
moved his hand, caressed her inner thighs from
her knees up.
She placed her hand on his cheek, her eyes
gazing on his and her lips slightly apart as
Mhlabunzima rubbed himself on her wet
openings, "uzongibhebhela etsheni ungowakwa
Mhlongo yini?" She asked softly.
Words to answer her failed to come out of his
mouth but only a deep chuckle. He lowered his
body on hers, "ake ngizwe ukuthi kunjani ukuba
uBhebhe namuhla," he finally got the strength to
answer her and he began with his slow thrusts.
He loved the slow motions most because they
didn't rush him. He swore if there was heaven
promised, this was definitely heaven and no
other heaven existed beside this for him.
"I don't want anyone else besides you," she
cried out as the pressure of pleasure
heightened. She was holding on tight to him
and she didn't want to let go.
He pecked her lips and drove into her at the
same slow pace with no break. He would groan
deeply as her walls shut around him but he
wouldn't stop. He hadn't reached his own
climax. When Zinhloso's walls shut around him
again, Mhlabunzima shrieked like a wounded
dog and he still didn't stop.
"Ungipha kamnandi," (you give it to me good) he
whispered into her ear and she responded with
a moan. He dived into her for the last time and
when he finally released his seeds - Zinhloso
cried out his name. It was at that very moment
that Mhlabunzima knew he had conquered her.
***
Good morning

We have a sponsor. She's asking for

likes/reactions on her picture. It's a competition.
You simply click the link and react. Let's do 1k
likes for a bonus chapter. It's the weekend!

Link:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=50
0385688758129&set=a.131817442281624&typ
e=3

Thanks 🙏🏾
UMCEBO

Chapter 83

***Chapter sponsored by N.L all the way from

Netherlands***

Second night in the house, after their return

from the river - Zinhloso cooked dinner while
Mhlabunzima was seated on the chair looking
at her move around. He was keeping her
company, talking with her until she was done
cooking. And they had dinner together.
They were in each other's arms in bed. They
were only wearing their underwear and
Mhlabunzima his nylon shorts. They had a bed
sheet on top of their bodies covering them as
they spoke about their love and plans for the
future.
"Xulu?" She smiled and moved away from him.
She sat up on the bed, faced him and crossed
her legs.
Mhlabunzima remained back on the pillow, "mm,
mama?"
"I was thinking."
He knew it was sex related if she was being that
shy and even playing with her fingers, a smile
playing around her lips. "Yes, tshela indoda!"
(Tell your man)
She giggled and hid her face in her hands. She
removed her hands from her face and looked at
him, "I was thinking that don't you think that if
you are able to get on top of me and thrust the
way you do. I can also get on top of you and
thrust on you?"
He knew it! "No, you can't do that." He declined.
He didn't want to tell her - according to the
magazine you could do that. He wasn't going to
allow that.
Her face fell, "I am sure I can. Your penis points
up and I will sit on you then put it in. Just think
about it. I will move as you move."
"No, that can't happen."
"Can you allow me to at least try,
Mhlabunzima?" She begged.
But Mhlabunzima shook his head, "cha, cha,
ngeke ngikhwelwe umfazi mina." (I won't let a
woman get on top of me) he said sternly and he
could see he had touched a nerve. Her face was
changing colour.
"How can you say that? You can get on top of
me but I can't?"
He nodded, "yes, I am man. I was created to do
that to you, not the other way around."
"Mhlabunzima please, this is not shameful, it's
just the two of us doing our love things,"
Zinhloso begged.
But even her kitten eyes didn't work in
convincing him. "I said, no!" He looked at her as
she sulked and moved from her position, down
on the bed. She gave him her back, "awu
lugcwele ngampela ke madoda ulwandle lwami
manje," (my girlfriend is really angry now) he
commented looking at her and Zinhloso kept
quiet.
"Dali, are you going to sleep just like that?"
"Yes, I will sleep."
"Uyalala ngoba angifuni ungikhwele?"
"Yes, I will sleep because you don't want me to
get on top of you."
He rubbed his face, "kwaze kwanzima ukuba
indoda!" (It's hard being a man) he tried to let
her sulk with hope that she would miss him and
sleep in his arms but Zinhloso didn't get closer
to him. "What do you want me to do so that I
can soften your heart? Ask anything besides
getting on top of me."
She turned and looked at him, she gave him a
mischievous smile that made Mhlabunzima
nervous - he was suspecting something crazy
was going to come out of her mouth again!
"Awucabangi nje ukuthi ngoba ukwazi
ukungikhotha nami ngingakumunca ngathi
uswidi ohlonywe othini?" (don't you think if you
can lick me. I can also do it to you like sucking a
lollipop?)
He choked on his saliva and Zinhloso rushed to
the kitchen to get water. Mhlabunzima was
coughing non-stop. "Thank you," he drank the
water and glanced at her. He didn't know
whether to ask her if she'd also seen the
magazine or if she was only curious. He was
nervous that if he asked and she hadn't seen it,
she would want to see it. And trouble would
begin when she wants to try out everything in
the magazine, even the things he'd vowed he
won't do.
"Sorry, are you good now?" She brushed his
back and Mhlabunzima nodded. She looked at
him as he placed the glass on the bedside table.
She smiled when he laid back on the pillow, "so,
what do you think?"
"I will think about it," he responded. When he
saw that in the magazine - all he could think
about was Zinhloso mistakenly biting his penis.
He quickly held her hand, "tell me what you
want me to do then."
She giggled, "ngifuna uyikhothe njengenja
ikhotha amanzi ngolimi!" (I want you to lick it
like a dog licking water) Zinhloso ordered and
she smiled as Mhlabunzima bursted out
laughing.
"Ngiyakuthanda kakhulu, yezwa?"
She giggled and nodded, slowly. Mhlabunzima
laid her down and he did exactly as Zinhloso
ordered. He was very happy with this woman.

In the morning, she woke up first - she made

soft porridge after bathing and while it was
cooking. She ironed Mhlabunzima's clothes.
She was very happy and it made her sad when
she thought this was going to be their last night
together. And worse, she was going to spend
Christmas alone because she wanted him to
come back to her. She wasn't going to be a
good girl and preferred going home over
spending another night with him.
"Why are you ironing?" Mhlabunzima asked, he
was standing by the bedroom door stretching
and yawning.
She looked up at him, "good morning,
gxabhashe."
He walked closer to her and kissed her cheek,
"good morning, sthandwa."
"I am ironing your clothes so that you'll go home.
It's Christmas today."
"No, I am not going home." He opened the
cupboard and searched for his peanuts.
She stopped the ironing, "why are you not going
home? You told me your daughter will come
home for Christmas."
"Your grandmother gave me three nights and I
am spending my three nights here." He sat
down and had his peanuts.
"I know and you'll come back to me after the
Christmas feast," she said and proceeded
ironing.
"No, I will see my family tomorrow. I am staying
here with you." He pointed to the floor, "I know
Ngenzeni will take the children to church for the
Christmas tree. That's what they do every year
and they'll eat when they get back. I am going
home tomorrow."
"Okay, fine, you'll wear these clothes then
today," she finished up. There was no way she
could force him.
After he'd taken his bath, they had breakfast
together.
"Please, cook a Christmas feast for us." He
requested and Zinhloso nodded.
Mhlabunzima was coming from the toilet when
four men recognised him. They were happy to
see him, it was like a child seeing his mother.
They quickly entered.
They didn't even care that he hadn't washed his
hands but they shook hands with him, greeting
and laughing with him.
"I heard that Robert's uncle owns this place and
there'll be someone working with him who'll
stay here, come and go," one man said and they
were all happy, the man was Mhlabunzima.
"Yes, it's me."
They all looked at the house. Zinhloso was
standing on the veranda looking at the men by
the gate. Their noise forced him out of the
house.
"Ey, owakho loyamuntu?" (Is she yours) they
asked.
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "yes, only a matter of
time before I make her my wife," he said with
eyes on her. She headed back inside the house
after waving at the men.
They cheered for him, "no, no, chwane lenyoka,
we can't let this moment pass us by. Can we
spend Christmas with you? Please, bless us."
He kept quiet for a while, "let me go talk to her,
first." He said and they agreed.
He stood behind her and asked for attention,
"sthandwa, those men saw me and they happen
to know me-"
"Don't tell me they're inviting you somewhere,"
she placed her fist on her waist.
"No, let your man finish talking."
"Alright, I am sorry."
"They asked to spend Christmas here with me.
Can they stay if you don't have a problem?"
Mhlabunzima requested.
"Gxabhashe, the food won't be enough and that
day, I only bought one bottle of alcohol for you.
What will they have? Half a plate?" Zinhloso
asked.
He rubbed his chin, "if we can go with them
search for a place to buy meat and drinks. You
won't have a problem? I am sure we can find a
place that's open."
"It's fine but also borrow at least one big pot
from them." She suggested.
He happily headed to the bedroom, took wallet
and keys. He drove the car down to them, "let's
get in the car. We'll search for a place to buy
meat and drinks. She said her food won't be
enough."
They didn't waste time but got in. The most
talkative took the front seat.
Her Christmas was different and she didn't
imagine it would be this busy. She was used to
eating meals cooked by her uncle's wives. They
would go from house to house, entering Mnguni
houses to eat whatever was cooked there. But
today, she was cooking and catering for the
men that loved her boyfriend too much they
preferred spending their Christmas with him.
She was luckily not alone, the wife of one of the
men joined her. They were newlyweds and they
lived alone. It was easy for Zinhloso because
she wasn't cooking alone. When she told
Mhlabunzima about the food, she knew it would
be enough for six people but she suspected the
numbers won't end with six. And truly, they had
more men seated around Mhlabunzima under
the tree.
"I feel sorry for you. Your boyfriend is a people's
person and this means once you're married
you'll be doing more cooking like these," the
lady said.
Zinhloso laughed, "at least, I have a sister in-law
I won't be alone."
The day proceeded smoothly. It was a good day
and everyone was happy.
"Can I have a word with you?" Mhlabunzima
pulled Zinhloso to the bedroom. He closed the
door.
"Is something wrong?"
He held her face and kissed her briefly, "no, I
wanted to check on you. I thought it'll be the
two of us this Christmas."
She smiled, "it's okay, it's not like I am alone
here. Go and be with your men." They walked
out of the room and he headed out.
Later that night, they were seated outside the
house on the veranda. The still of the night was
pleasing and Mhlabunzima wished it could be
forever like this. He would spend such happy
days with his love…
****
The Xulu yard was busy and Lily entered with
Zodumo. She was carrying her daughter's bag.
Zodumo was going to spend a few days home
after Christmas.
"Mama, please don't leave!" Zodumo begged
her mother.
Lily smiled at her, "I can't stay my child, we don't
share the same surname," she joked with her
and Zodumo laughed.
She met up with Mhlabunzima's father walking
out of the kitchen. She'd stopped Zodumo from
running to Kusakusa's children without greeting
the elders first.
Xulu smiled, "awu, Lily and my granddaughter.
How are you?"
"We're fine, baba and how are you?"
"I am fine and how are you, my child?"
"I am fine. I have brought her home and I will be
leaving."
"Thank you, send my regards to your mother."
Xulu held his grandchild's hand.
"Mkhulu, where's my father?" Zodumo asked,
looking around and she couldn't see
Mhlabunzima.
He looked at the child and couldn't lie to her,
"your father is not home. Go to your aunt," he
pointed at Ngenzeni and Zodumo walked away
upset about her father not being home. She was
heartbroken.
"Where's he, baba?" Lily asked.
"We don't know but he never returned ever since
he went to eNdabayakhe," Xulu shook his head.
"I really don't know where he is and what he's
doing there."
"He must be with Zinhloso," she was pissed.
Zinhloso was selfish. Why didn't she tell
Mhlabunzima to come home? Her daughter
won't spend time with her father because of her!
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, I am sure because she's also not home. I
will go now. I hope he'll come back maybe today
because Zodumo is looking forward to
spending Christmas with him around," she said
and walked away as Xulu had said goodbye.
Kusakusa's wife stopped Lily by the gates. She
smiled at her, "are you serious about getting
Mhlabunzima back?" She asked after asking
how she was doing.
Lily nodded, "yes, but I can't force him."
"If you're serious there's an old woman I can
take you to. She's at eNdabayakhe." She
whispered.
Lily looked around, "what will she do? It can't be
something he'll eat because he won't eat my
food."
"No, it won't be that but uzomkhafula. The place
is called fruit and vege, she'll request a fruit or
vege and do a spell, a strong spell. He'll be
yours, fast and he'll forget about Zinhloso. I also
don't like that girl and I don't want her to be my
sister in-law," Kusakusa's wife offered.
Lily smiled, she was happy that she had family
members backing her, "alright, I will hear from
you once we can go. I really want my man
back."
"Okay, bye!" She quickly headed back to her
duties and she was hopeful that Lily was going
to come back as Mhlabunzima's partner.
UMCEBO
Chapter 84

***Chapter sponsored by Mrs Mnotho Zulu

dedicated to Mpho, Roro and Zandile***
John was seated on the sofa in the living room.
He was working from home and Nobuhle was
somewhere around the house working. Days
with her in the house had been amazing. He
enjoyed having her around. He didn't realise
how precious it was to have a woman look after
him as a man and took care of his needs.
Nobuhle fitted like a glove in his life. He felt he
was blessed to have her but this caused pain in
his heart because he didn't know how long was
it going to take for our relationship to be free.
Were they ever going to get freedom to be
together?
The telephone rang and he simply took it and he
answered, "John, speaking how may I help
you?"
"Hello, you're speaking to Robert. I am the
father of Nobuhle's son. May I speak to her if
she's not busy?" Robert requested on the line.
He sounded a bit nervous.
His heart skipped a beat. He wasn't warned that
her baby's father would be calling. He came
back to his senses when he heard the man
calling out, "yes, please wait. I will go and call
her." He stood up and called for Nobuhle.
He found her cleaning his bedroom, "your
baby's father is on the phone. You can lift that
telephone and connect."
Nobuhle frowned - her mother! She was the one
that gave Robert her work telephone. She didn't
even remember to tell John that her mother
gave him the number, "Robert?"
"Nobuhle, how are you?"
She sat on John's bed - he was standing there
and not leaving. Did he not trust her? Why
wasn't he leaving? He couldn't even hear Isizulu,
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am good. I wanted to talk to you if you're not
busy. It's not much."
"What's wrong?"
"I took Sbusiso as you know and we got to
spend time together. He had forgotten me and
that was shameful."
"It should be shameful. Aunt Comfort told me
that you are approaching her and I told her
about Sbusiso." Nobuhle didn't hide anything.
He had to know that she knew he didn't get
close to the child on his own will. He was
shouted at by her aunt.
"Yes, she spoke to me and yes, I am
approaching her because I like her. It's not
because I want to hurt you," he explained
himself, "I know our relationship has ended and
I have made peace with that."
"Alright, it's your choice." She shrugged, it really
didn't hurt her - she was no longer invested in
Robert even though it didn't sound right.
"I wanted to let you know that I am really sorry
for the pain I caused you and my son. I didn't
act like a man and I promise I will do better," he
said politely.
She huffed, "as long as you don't change Robert.
I won't have a problem. Don't change and hurt
my son."
"I won't, I promise. That's all I wanted to say and
to know if it's was okay to call if there's
something I want to discuss with you about
Sbusiso since I will be closer to him."
She raised her eyes to John, "yes, but call after
working hours."
"Alright, thank you and take care."
She placed the phone down and looked back at
John, "I am really sorry about that. I didn't warn
you that Robert will call. My mother gave him
this number without even consulting me."
He sat next to her, "I understand. You have a
child together and should communicate
because he's back in his life now which is a
good thing for your son."
"Are you sure? I don't want to make you
uncomfortable. I know old relationships have a
way of making new relationship uncomfortable
especially when there's a child," she said,
thinking about Zinhloso and Mhlabunzima.
Their situation, she didn't want it to happen to
her relationship.
He kissed her lips, "don't worry. I should trust
you." He saw how much contempt she had on
her eyes when she told him about Robert. "You
told me everything about him and your
relationship from the start."
"Thank you. I told him to call me after working
hours," she laughed as John kissed her. It didn't
last with a baby kiss but their lips mashed into a
passionate kiss. They jumped away from each
other when they heard a female voice calling
John. He quickly stood up.
"That's my mom. I will go to her and you can
follow me after. I am sure she'll be happy to see
you," he kissed her forehead and left her.
Nobuhle giggled and laid back on his bed facing
up. Love!
She quickly went downstairs after she was
done cleaning his bedroom.
"Good day, mam," she greeted Mrs Hendricks.
She got up from the sofa with a smile and she
hugged Nobuhle, "Buhle, how are you finding
the place and the city?"
"I am getting used to it and baas John is
friendly. Martin is also friendly," she answered.
John laughed as his mother looked at him,
"mom, I told her not to call me baas but she's
stubborn. Don't look at me like that."
She shook her head, "call him John and I heard
you won't be going home for Christmas. I am
inviting you to our Christmas lunch at the farm.
John will bring you along."
"Thank you, I will come." She accepted the invite
and she left mother and son, after…
***
She was facing the window doing the buttons
of her shirt. She couldn't hold herself it was like
she was losing the best thing in her life. It
wasn't the same back in village and here, she
was happy and free.
"MaMnguni, I can't find my socks. Did you move
them when you were packing your clothes?"
Mhlabunzima asked and glanced at Zinhloso.
He was squatting before the drawers of the
wardrobe. "Zinhloso?"
She wiped her tears and looked down when he
held her arm, "they're inside the chest of
drawers at the corner."
"Are you crying? Why are you crying?" He asked
and pulled her into a tight hug.
"I don't want to go," she cried louder.
He smiled. What can be good than being
wanted? This meant she enjoyed spending time
with him as much as he did, "I know and I don't
like to leave either but we have to go and face
them. Remember, we still have to argue with the
parents about happened, eNdabayakhe."
"I know and I don't want to argue, especially not
with my mom. My grandmother will probably hit
me with a wet cloth," she predicted and laughed.
Mhlabunzima laughed with her and wiped her
face, "don't worry. I will face your father soon
and we won't have to hide anymore."
"How do you know, soon?"
"I know." He helped her finish dressing up. "Did
you leave enough clothes here so that you won't
have to carry a big bag, always?"
"Yes, let's go." She followed him out after
closing the windows. He was leaving with her
bag. Zinhloso took the plastic bag of food that
was going to rot. Mhlabunzima was going to
head home with the food. She only took what
she liked - the snacks.
Mhlabunzima drove her straight to her paternal
grandmother's house. He was discussing his
plans with her, where he would be and what he
would be doing.
"I never thought I would say I miss my brother,
one day," she said and they laughed.
"He'll be back soon and I will be the one missing
you," he parked the car under the tree, far from
her home.
"I will miss you too. Please, look after yourself."
"I will," he looked at her as she got out of the car.
He only drove away when she was no longer
before his eyes.
A day after Christmas, the Mnguni high
homestead was still busy and they had guests
as always. Zinhloso's grandmother had
prepared traditional beer.
The children ran up to Zinhloso and she felt -
she was home.
She found her grandmother and aunts inside
the kitchen.
"Heee, we mama nali ikatshana lika mfana
wakho," Zinhloso's eldest aunt Lindo,
announced the arrival of Zinhloso. And they all
looked at her.
"Sanibona, gogo," she sat on the straw mat with
her and like she predicted - she stroke her with
a wet cloth twice. Her aunts laughed at her as
she screamed.
"Do you want me to die of a heart attack? I don't
want people to speak badly about you," she
touched her cheek softly.
She smiled, "I am sorry, grandma."
Grandma pulled her under her wing, "I am happy
to see you my child. It doesn't matter what they
say. Their children also do wonders at night."
They all laughed in the house, "but don't do
something like that again, Zinhloso." Aunt
advised.
"I won't, aunty, I promise."
"Give my granddaughter food before she can
call her mother. She needs strength to talk with
that dragon mother," granny said and they gave
Zinhloso food.
She relaxed and enjoyed the food. She would be
crying if she was to go to her homestead. It was
better here.
She lifted the phone again inside her granny's
house and she called home. She firstly called
her maternal grandmother. She didn't shout
much but only told her she had to disconnect
the telephone because her mother kept calling.
"Yebo!"
Zinhloso cleared her throat, "it's Zinhloso. I am
home."
"I am coming that side in the afternoon.
Ngilinde nje wena."
She looked at the phone and put it down after
her mother had ended the call. She wasn't ready
for the headache she was going to bring. She
only had to keep quiet.
****
He laughed as the children pushed each other
for his attention. He hadn't opened the car he
was still inside the car.
"Stand back phela so that I can get out."
Mhlabunzima said to the three children and
they stood back.
He squatted down and they all threw
themselves on him. "Sanibona!" He greeted
them and only the two greeted back. He noted
his daughter was upset. He got up and sat
inside the car with the three of them. He gave
the two a packet of sweets Zinhloso gave him
for Zodumo.
He put Zodumo on his lap, "why are you not
greeting your father back?"
"Baba, you didn't come home yesterday." She
folded her lips and her arms on her chest.
He brushed her short hair, "I am sorry MaXulu
but your father was busy. I am back now and
we'll spend time together."
"Really?"
"Yes, I brought sweets. Let's go," he got out of
the car and helped them out. He headed to his
father after greeting Ngenzeni and his sister in-
law.
"No, come sit next to me." Xulu said to his son.
He was inside his house. He had the door
closed because he was counting money but
when he heard it was Mhlabunzima he allowed
him inside.
He sat next to him and greeted again but his
father greeted him back with a backhand slap.
Mhlabunzima only clenched his jaws and didn't
move. He looked at the table.
"This is my house and my yard, you're the
youngest child here but you behave like the
oldest," Xulu shouted.
"What did I do?" He asked, without looking at
him but still at the coffee table.
"Are you asking me that question? Where were
you for the past three nights?"
He looked at him, "I always leave, baba. Why are
you asking me that question now?"
"Why should I not ask after everything I have
heard about that loose girl you call a girlfriend-"
"She's not loose."
He gave him a dead stare, "repeat yourself.
Uthini?"
"Zinhloso is not loose that's what I said." He
swallowed his groan as his father punched him
on the face. It didn't matter - after all the
amazing three nights. It didn't matter.
"Rubbish! Do you wish to see me dead? You left
to fight for a girl and you don't come back for
three nights. Was I supposed to guess whether
you are safe or not?" Xulu shouted.
"I am sorry."
"You didn't even care about your own daughter
because of a woman. Tsk!" He pointed his
money at the table as he was quiet. "Double
count this money and put it inside my safe after
writing down the numbers."
Mhlabunzima kneeled on one knee and he
counted the money. He wrote down the
numbers and put the money inside the safe and
the book. He sat back on the sofa.
"Is there anything else?" Xulu asked
Mhlabunzima.
He cleared his throat, "when her father comes
back. I will wait for at least a month and I will
tell him the truth. I want to marry her."
He glared at him and chuckled, "that will happen
over my dead body. There's no Mnguni's
daughter that will be my daughter in-law."
"I was just letting you know. I don't think you'll
like it if I can actually go to grandpa and ask
him for help." He was met with a crocodile's eye
but he didn't shake, "he's dying and will be
willing to help me because he wants to fix
things. He will support me because you're
scared of Mnguni."
Xulu laughed with a head shake, "you think I am
scared of him? I have worked with that man for
years and I know what he's capable of. I am
trying to protect you."
"I am a grown man now. I can protect myself."
He stood up and left his father. He rubbed his
burning cheek outside the house…
UMCEBO

Chapter 85

***Chapter sponsored by Taa***

Zinhloso walked inside her grandmother's

house. Her mother and granny were waiting for
her. She'd been outside playing with the children.
"Sanibona," she greeted her mother.
Mrs Mnguni looked at her for a while before
greeting back, "what is that we're hearing from
people about you, Zinhloso?"
"Your mother asked a question," granny said
and tapped her shoulder.
She raised her head, "I didn't mean for things to
happen that way. I am sorry."
"You date someone else but kiss another man
right before your boyfriend's eyes," she raised
her voice. She no longer had hope that her
daughter was ever going to get married if she
was behaving like this. Which boyfriend was
going to marry such a girl? The best thing she
wanted for Zinhloso as mother, was for her to
get married and go live with her husband.
"I am sorry."
"You should behave yourself Zinhloso because I
don't want you changing boyfriends. It'll not be
healthy for you. It's better to behave," granny
advised.
"Yebo."
Granny looked at her mother, "you should stop
being angry and remember that we were all
once young girls and had boys follow us."
"But mama, we didn't do what she did."
Granny gave her daughter in-law a knowing eye
and Mrs Mnguni looked aside. Granny knew her
daughter in-law didn't want her daughters to
know about her youth days, "Zinhloso must be
overwhelmed by getting a lot of attention she's
not been getting from men. You should
understand that but I am not saying she was
supposed to do that disgraceful thing," she
looked at Zinhloso, "think before you act."
"Yes, gogo."
"MaNtuli, this should not reach my son. I know
they won't have the courage to tell him unless a
certain man does," Gogo stated and Mrs
Mnguni nodded, "I don't want any fights from
him about this."
"Yebo, mama I won't tell him." She wasn't free
to express herself to Zinhloso as she wanted
because her grandmother was right here!
Shielding Zinhloso away. The best she could do
was to let it go. It had happened and there was
nothing else that could be done.
"You can go," Mrs Mnguni said to her.
Zinhloso stood up, relieved. That wasn't as bad
as she thought it would be. Her grandmother
helped her by coming.
"You should thank me because she was going
to eat you alive."
Zinhloso jumped at granny's words and she
laughed, "thank you," she ran off and headed
back to the children.
****
The Xulu family was having dinner together.
The children were seated on the straw mat and
Kusakusa's wife was seated with them. She
was feeding her youngest child while eating.
"Now, since Mhlabunzima is back I should talk
about my dream," Xulu announced and all the
adults looked at him.
"We're listening, baba."
"I dreamt of your grandmother. She was inside
Mhlabunzima's garden here at home. She was
harvesting pumpkins and she asked me when
am I going home? She doesn't see me at home,"
Xulu narrated the dream.
"That was all?" Kusakusa asked.
"Yes, I woke up and she looked upset."
Ngenzeni glanced at Mhlabunzima, he was
quiet and she looked back at her father, "baba,
does that mean you'll go home now?"
"It means, tomorrow we'll all go home. We'll talk
this out and move on from it. It'll be up to you
whether you want to maintain a relationship
with them or not. I won't choose for you," Xulu
said, which made Mhlabunzima wonder why he
wasn't also letting them choose who they
wanted to be with. "Is that clear?"
"Yes!"
Ngenzeni looked at Mhlabunzima, "are you
going to go, Chwane?"
"Did I give any of you a choice here, Ngenzeni?"
Xulu raised his voice.
"No."
"Why are you asking him if he'll go?"
She shrugged, "because he's always busy," she
didn't tell her father she only wanted to create
drama and her father didn't disappoint with his
shouting. He was forever ready to shout.
"I don't care. Everyone is going there."
Mhlabunzima looked at his daughter, "Zodumo,
will you sleep in your bedroom or with your
aunt?"
"I will sleep with aunt because you don't sleep
with me," Zodumo sulked.
"Why are you not sleeping with her if she wants
to sleep with you?" Xulu asked.
Mhlabunzima stood up, "she has her own
bedroom." He put the dish on the basin with
water and he left the hut.
"Did you talk to your brother about what
happened?"
"Yes, I did. He doesn't seem affected. I guess
they fixed things with Zinhloso." Kusakusa
responded and Xulu remained quiet. He was
angry and didn't know what was going to take
for this relationship to break completely.

The next day, Xulu and his children,

grandchildren and daughter in-law walked to the
high Xulu homestead. It was a walkable
distance and Xulu decided they should walk, not
drive.
"Sanibona!" Zinhloso greeted the family as she
met up with them on the road. She was carrying
a plastic bag coming from the shop. The other
members greeted back while Xulu only gave her
a dead stare.
Mhlabunzima stopped walking and headed
closer to her, "are you coming from the shop to
see me or you were there to buy?"
She giggled and looked down, "I didn't find
everything at the shop by my granny's side and
so, I decided to come to the best shop."
He laughed, "everything about me is the best,
vele. Look, we're going to grandpa. Xulu got a
visit from grandma, she wants to see him
home."
"That's wonderful, the past should be buried
and move forward."
He glanced at the family, he could still see them,
"yes, let me get going. When will I see you?"
"Mhlabunzima! They'll end up saying I gave you
a love potion. Go for a week without seeing
me!" She pushed him and he only laughed. He
ran after his family.
They waited outside the homestead, "did you
warn them that we're coming?" Kusakusa asked.
"No, I didn't."
Aunt Maria was the first to see them. "Hhaybo!
Baba, baba, there's Goba and his children!" She
screamed.
Like every big family, it was always busy during
the holidays. Grandpa Xulu was seated outside
with a blanket. He was on the bench and when
he heard his son was outside the gate. He took
his walking stick and slowly walked to the gate.
His other sons and daughters followed him.
He couldn't believe his eyes. He blinked, his son
was a man. He had grandchildren now. "Goba!"
"Yebo, I thought you were bedridden," Xulu said
to his father.
"There are better days and worse but that
doesn't matter. Have you come home?"
Grandpa asked.
Xulu was engulfed with bitterness, all his
siblings were beside him and he was chased
out for something that was beyond his control,
something he didn't do. And he was supposed
to put everything behind him? 'it's only for your
mother!' his conscious reminded him and he
kept calm.
"Yes, mama visited me in a dream and I have
come home like I promised I would if I see her,"
Xulu said and his sisters ululated.
"Quickly, bring a goat and sage!" Grandpa
announced and his sons moved.
The goat was killed outside the yard, the ritual
happened outside the yard. They burned sage,
talked out the past and washed hands with the
goat's bile, waste and water. Only then, they
entered the yards.
"I saw Mhlabunzima's daughter. She's like your
wife," grandpa said to Xulu. The two of them
were inside grandpa's house. "I heard about
what happened, that man hid the child away
from the family."
"Yes, she is like Esther and we're just grateful
we got to meet the child."
Grandpa nodded, "is Mhlabunzima a
responsible father? Kusakusa is responsible. I
have seen him."
"Yes, he's responsible. It's just his girlfriend that
I don't like. Mnguni's daughter." Xulu told
grandpa about their relationship.
"If he wants to marry her, support him. If he's
making a mistake it'll be his mistake. He
mustn't be forced to be with Lily only because
they have a child," grandpa shared his opinion.
"I don't like that girl." He didn't want to tell him
about the humiliation she put his son through
by kissing another man. "And also, Mnguni is a
problem…" he told him about how he didn't want
any political boys for his daughters. How he'd
fought Mhlabunzima.
Grandpa shook his head, "you don't have to like
the girl she'll not be your wife but your son's
wife. Mnguni, don't worry about him because
his daughter will fight him if she wants to be
with your son."
"How can a child fight her father? Lily couldn't,
that's why I don't want my son to be with her.
He shouldn't go through pain because of love,"
Xulu said and grandpa remained quiet for a
while.
"Let it be. Don't get involved in his love affairs. I
never did with yours."
"He's my heir. I should worry about who's going
to marry him." He said and grandpa huffed.
They moved from the topic and they caught up
about what had been happening the past twenty
seven years. It ended up being an emotional
talk for Xulu but he didn't share everything with
his father. It was upsetting, his life was
upsetting.

Two days after his father's return from his

family, Mhlabunzima was back at the shop. He
had given Ntokozo a break. The shop wasn't as
busy because of the holidays. It was mostly
children who were buying.
"Chwane, how are you?"
Mhlabunzima lifted his eyes, "Robert and Dludla,
are you here to visit me?"
"Where's Ntokozo? We need to talk."
"He's home. I gave him some time off."
They looked at each, "he won't come
tomorrow?"
"No, what's wrong?"
Robert looked around, "we want to take you
somewhere tomorrow. Can you please find
someone who will sell here, for you?"
"Why? You can't just tell me I should go
somewhere with you."
Dludla cursed, "we want to take you to a
traditional healer. He'll make you vomit that love
potion Zinhloso gave you. We care about you
and we want you to love Zinhloso purely not be
influenced by muthi."
Mhlabunzima bursted out laughing. He looked
at them like they were going to say they were
joking. "Are you serious?"
"Yes!" They said in unison.
He shook his head. They were really serious,
"okay, I will ask Zinhloso to come and sell here
for me then we'll go."
"Are you sure?" Robert asked.
He knew there was no love potion but if he
didn't go with them they would continue making
these allegations. It would be best to go and
prove them wrong. He also knew they meant
well, "yes, I am sure. If there's a love potion I
want it out."
Dludla and Robert were relieved. They thought
he was going to fight them.
UMCEBO

Chapter 86

***Chapter sponsored by Taa***

After doing the house chores, Zinhloso finally
got the chance to call Nobuhle. She was home
alone. Ziwinile and her mother were visiting
maternal grandmother. They were coming back
the same day.
Before she could call, the telephone rang.
"Hello."
"MaMnguni, have you forgotten about me?"
She held her mouth, "sthandwa sami, I am really
sorry I am coming now. I woke up early and
cleaned at home. I am coming right now. It's
9am now. Are you late?"
"No, I am not late but Robert is here already. I
am waiting for you."
She stood up, "okay, I am coming." She ended
the call and locked the door. She had
completely forgotten. She informed her mother
that she'll be working and she only nodded her
head.
"Where are you going? I want to talk to you." Lily
asked Zinhloso. She only turned back, glanced
at Lily and didn't answer her. She rushed. She
didn't know how she forgot because she woke
up early.
"Sanibonani," she greeted the men and
proceeded to the counter after they greeted her
back. She held his hand after glancing at Robert
and Dludla. "I am sorry it slipped my mind."
"I understand, we're not rushing after time. I will
free you when I come back."
"Okay, I will call Nobuhle using your telephone.
You called while I was about to call her," she
informed him.
"No problem. I will see you later."
Zinhloso sat down and wondered where they
were going. She picked up the telephone and
called Nobuhle.
"Nobuhle speaking, hello?"
She smiled, "Buhle, it's Katshana."
She laughed happily, "hey, Sisi omncane, how
are you doing?"
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am good, I am happy to hear from you. It's
been a while."
"Yes, how are things there? How's your
relationship?"
"It's going well with my work and I am really
enjoying the city. It's just that I miss home and I
miss my son," Nobuhle responded.
"We always miss home."
"Yes, and my relationship with John it's going
well at a smooth pace." She giggled and
Zinhloso laughed, "I am just scared of being
intimate with him."
"You're thinking about sex already not even
after two months."
Nobuhle laughed, "no, I mean any kind of
intimacy beside that. I am scared to undress
before him even if I have to share a bed with
him. I feel like my body is not as pretty after
having Sbusiso."
"Oh, sis, don't feel like that. He'll love you the
way you're."
"Are you sure? Zinhloso, a baby's head comes
out there," she whispered. She didn't mind
talking to her about such now because she
knew Zinhloso was doing the same thing. It was
different than before, "and what if sex doesn't
feel the same because of the baby's head that
came out of me and Robert?"
She widened her eyes. "Wait, sis, does it remain
as big as the baby's head after the baby?"
"No, it looks the same as before but I wouldn't
know maybe since I will be with another man
not Robert it'll be bad," Nobuhle shared her
worries.
Zinhloso remained quiet for a while, "I know I
have been with my ex once but I don't think
Mhlabunzima felt any difference."
"I am different from you, Zinhloso."
She huffed, "please, don't stress about this. I
am sure it'll be best and you'll be with a totally
different man. I wonder if it's pink like their
skin."
They laughed, "Zinhloso, sies! Stop it."
She giggled, "I was being curious."
"Don't be! I am going to have a family lunch with
him. I couldn't go during Christmas because he
was busy. We'll go for New Year's Eve lunch."
"Dress up nicely and represent us well."
"I promise I will and how are things with
Mhlabunzima?"
She smiled, "they're back to normal and I didn't
think they would be good after what happened."
"I am glad. I should come home soon."
Zinhloso stood as there were customers, "I will
call you later. I am working here at the shop."
"Wenzela indoda imali."
She giggled and put the phone down. She
focused on selling. The day carried on with
customers coming in and out of the shop.
****
Mhlabunzima was driving and Robert was
directing him to the traditional healer's home.
They were talking about the happenings of the
holidays in the village. It was a fun drive
between the men until they reached the healer's
home.
"Are you sure you want to have your friends in
the room?" The traditional healer asked
Mhlabunzima.
The three of them were seated on the straw
mat inside the healer's home. It wasn't busy,
they found no patient waiting.
"Yes, they want to know if I was given a love
potion or not. It's not me," Mhlabunzima told the
traditional healer.
He nodded, burnt sage after lighting up the
candles and he started incantations. "Blow up,
Xulu!" Mhlabunzima blew into the bag of bones.
The traditional healer groaned and made weird
noises. And there was a whistle blown inside
the hut but they couldn't see where it was
coming from.
He laughed, "MaMnguni's love is pure and
there's no love potion mixed with it. Xulu, you
can feel the genuineness of her love."
"I agree." He said and looked at his two
comrades, they looked down ashamed.
They were certain they were going to be told
Zinhloso gave him a strong potion. They even
suspected he was going to have a hard time
taking it out.
"You have to look out for your daughter's
mother. She's plotting for you and if she gets
you through such means it won't be good. Your
brother's wife will be helping her. Be very
careful. You have a woman with good intentions,
stick to her."
He couldn't believe his ears but what was
surprising? Zinhloso had told him but he
defended her. He proved to be foolish.
"She once brought me food and I turned her
down. What if she uses other means than a
portion?" Mhlabunzima quickly asked, he was
pissed and scared at the same time. What
could be more dangerous than being controlled
by a woman through muthi? It was better with
Zinhloso, it was pure. "Can't you please help me
p dorotect myself?"
"I will need your friends to leave.
Ngizokuqinisa."
Robert and Dludla were highly disappointed.
They trusted Lily and didn't trust Zinhloso but
they were proved wrong.
"I can't believe this. I trusted her," Robert spat
and clicked his tongue.
Dludla shook his head, "this means
Mhlabunzima really doesn't want her anymore
and she's not taking 'no' for an answer. I can't
believe her!"
"Women are dangerous, Dludla." They patiently
waited for Mhlabunzima while discussing this
issue.
Mhlabunzima took the driver's seat once he
was done after about an hour later, "I have to
thank you because I wouldn't have known this if
you didn't bring me here." He started the car
and drove away.
Dludla clicked his tongue again, "I am
disappointed. I don't even have words."
The drive back home was quiet. They were all
speechless. It was clear Lily wasn't the same
woman anymore....
UMCEBO

Chapter 87

Zinhloso decided it would be best if she sat

outside because most customers were buying
chickens. She was seated on the chair on the
shop's veranda. She was no longer in the mood
for being at the shop. She was uncomfortable
and wasn't feeling well.
"Do you need something at the shop?" Zinhloso
asked Lily. Lily was standing before her with her
fists on her figure.
"No, I told you I want to talk to you." She said
with an attitude.
But Zinhloso remained calm. She was feeling
pain and all she was thinking about was her bed,
"I was in a hurry as you saw me rushing. What
do you want to talk about?"
"How could you be so selfish, Zinhloso?"
She pointed at her chest, "me? Selfish! What are
you talking about?"
"After what you did to my daughter's father, you
took him wherever the two of you were," Lily
complained. She was very angry and she was
still not at rest about what Zinhloso did to her
child. "It was Christmas day, my child was very
happy that she was going to have her first
Christmas with her father but that didn't happen
because you took him away."
"What do you mean I took him away?" She
asked but she felt guilty. She knew she didn't
push Mhlabunzima enough and maybe, yes, she
was selfish. She had him for Christmas and his
daughter didn't get to spend time with her
father on Christmas.
"Don't act dump. I know the two of you were
together all these days he wasn't around," Lily
screamed.
"You're crazy," Zinhloso said and that earned
her a tight slap from Lily. She was shocked - the
slap was unexpected but it wasn't tight enough
to make respond. She knew should she fight
back it was going to be bad, really bad.
"Don't you ever say I am crazy. This is about my
child and you won't understand because you're
childless," Lily didn't stop shouting at her and
she didn't care about the people who were
passing by. They were looking at her - at them.
"Can you please go?"
"I don't want you near my daughter. You're evil
and Mhlabunzima belongs to me and Zodumo.
We'll take him!" She said and left her after
clicking her tongue and spitting before
Zinhloso's feet.
"No Mhlabunzima bahambe bethanda nje
izinhlanya," Zinhloso shook her head and sat
down. "I don't even know why he's not coming
back anymore." She stood up when customers
walked through the gates.
It was two young women, "how can I help you,
ladies?" Zinhloso asked.
"Mhlabunzima doesn't want us to buy at his
shop anymore. Why is he putting you behind the
counter?" One woman said and clicked her
tongue, "we heard about your loose way. You're
shaming girls of our village, busy avenging
men's deeds."
She felt like this was her unlucky day. She was
being tested, "are you here to buy or to talk
about things that don't concern you?"
"It concerns me if it includes the reputation of
our village's young women!"
Zinhloso nodded, "Khulekani will still bring more
children from outside your relationship because
you smile at him even when he hurts you.
You've been his fianceé for years and he has
five children with different women." She said
and the woman shamefully looked down, "if you
don't have a problem with your man's behaviour,
accept it and let me deal with mine the way I
see fit. Ungangijwayeli Kabi mina. Buy here and
stop talking about things that don't concern
you."
"Can I have salt and two packets of small
chips?" She handed the money to Zinhloso. She
was avoiding eye contact. Zinhloso gave her
what she bought and she went back to stay
outside.
She stood up when she saw the car driving
through. Dludla and Robert were no longer with
him.
Mhlabunzima walked straight to Zinhloso. He
hugged her tightly.
"What's wrong? Mhlabunzima, we're outside.
People will see us," she softly pushed him back.
He pulled her inside the shop, "I love you so
much. I know I don't always say it but I love
you."
"Uhm, yeah, what happened?"
They sat on the chairs behind the counter,
"Robert and Dludla took me…" Mhlabunzima
told Zinhloso the truth about their drive to the
traditional healer. He didn't leave anything out.
She chuckled, "they really thought I had put a
spell on you?"
"I think it's because of what happened
eNdabayakhe. They thought I will break up with
you after that," Mhlabunzima said, "I am really
sorry, mtakwethu, I defended her when you told
me. I am sorry for what I said to you."
"It's okay, just be careful."
"I will."
"She was actually here and she slapped me for
calling her crazy," she frowned at the
discomfort, "she said I am selfish for taking you
away on Christmas day. It was supposed to be
your daughter's first Christmas with you."
He cursed, "she slapped you? Are you fine?" He
touched her cheek.
She removed his hand from her cheek, "yes, it
was a tight slap. I understood her frustration
but I am glad she didn't fight further. Ngoba
mina bengizombonisa amabele enyoka
angidlali."
He laughed at her threats and the seriousness
of her facial expression, "I am sorry about that
because I am the one who refused to go home."
"It's fine," she closed her eyes and stood up,
"you have three chickens left."
He stood up with her, "what's wrong Zinhloso?
Why does it look like you're in pain?" His eyes
automatically looked at her tummy.
She held her forehead, "no, it's nothing just an
abdominal pain."
Out of instinct he held her tummy, "is it because
of the slap?" He was confused.
"Mhlabunzima!" She pushed his hands away
from her tummy and he only chuckled, "I think
my periods will start sooner."
Robert walked inside the shop with a plastic
bag before Mhlabunzima could answer
Zinhloso. "I came with turkey and a drink to say
I am sorry. Dludla didn't even want to join. He's
still ashamed."
She looked at Mhlabunzima, "I should go," she
said but her heart was with the turkey she
couldn't even see.
"No, don't go. Don't you eat turkey?" Robert
asked.
"She'll stay. I am closing now. I am no longer in
the mood for selling," he said and went to close
the burglar guards and the doors. They went to
the office.
"So, you thought I am a little witch," Zinhloso
confronted Robert as they began eating. She
looked at him. He was seated opposite them on
the table.
He cleared his throat, "it's not like that but we
didn't think it was normal that Mhlabunzima still
wanted you after what he saw. That broke his
heart, we saw that."
"But you helped him. I guess he has true friends
who care about him," Zinhloso glanced at
Mhlabunzima.
He was smiling, "yes, I am smart. I choose my
people wisely."
"A smart person doesn't fail his learners five
times," she teased.
He tried to warn Robert using his eyes. He was
looking at him with confusion on his face, "who
failed his learners five times?"
"Him! Your friend," she pointed at Mhlabunzima
and laughed at him. She stood up and left them
for the toilet.
"Don't mention it. I was just trying to motivate
her," Mhlabunzima whispered to Robert and
they laughed.
She pecked his lips. Robert had left them, "I
should go home and cook, I am glad everything
went well today for you. Please, take care of
yourself." Zinhloso hugged him.
He brushed her back, "look after yourself too.
What are you going to do with abdominal pain?"
He asked. He was very aware of what was
happening in her body. He studied biology in
school. He needed to know if she was going to
take something safe or not. It was very early.
"I will do nothing. It'll stop when it wants to stop.
I don't usually get any pain associated with
periods. I don't know what's happening."
"Don't overwork yourself because you're not
good."
"Alright, I should go."
"Let's drive. Your mom is not back yet," they
walked out of the shop. Mhlabunzima locked
the doors.
UMCEBO

Chapter 88
***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

When they arrived at the Hendricks' farm. The

chef was already setting up the dinner table and
Mrs Hendricks was helping her.
"John and Buhle," she hugged them and she
smiled at Nobuhle.
"It's good to see you, Mrs Hendricks." Nobuhle
said.
She touched her cheek, "it's good to see you too,
again." She looked at her husband as he walked
inside the dining room, "honey, John and Buhle
have arrived."
He nodded when Nobuhle greeted him and he
took his seat, "John, take her to the other
servants. I want to have my lunch."
John looked at his father in disbelief, "dad?
Mom invited her here so why are you saying I
should take her to the other servants?"
He slowly raised his eyes, giving John a dead
stare, "isn't she your servant?"
"She's my housekeeper but she was invited to
lunch and she should sit here with us," John
argued with his father.
Hendricks pointed to his dining table that was
full of mouth watering food, "here on my table!
You want me, Hendricks, to dine on my table
with a kafir?"
"Honey!" Mrs Hendricks tried to stop him but
Hendricks didn't care. "John is right it's just
lunch and-"
"I said, no!" He slammed his fist on the table
and looked at John, "do as I have said I want to
have my lunch."
Mrs Hendricks looked at Nobuhle apologetically,
"I am really sorry, sweetheart."
"It's fine."
John pulled Nobuhle out of the house. He was
so angry, his nose was red.
"Where are you taking me? I thought the
servants' quarters were on that side?" She
asked, realising that he was heading to the
driveway where he left his car.
"They'll have that lunch together. We're leaving."
Nobuhle stopped walking, "are you out of your
mind? You're always saying we should be
professional but now you're thinking with your
emotions," she didn't raise her voice. There was
nobody around but she could never be too sure.
"I hate what my father is doing."
"It's fine but if you're showing him you care too
much about me more than you should. He'll be
suspicious!" Nobuhle whispered.
He shut his eyes and breathed in and out. He
looked at her with tender eyes, "you're right. Let
me take you to the others."
He left her with other servants and he headed
back to the house. On the dining table, he
forced himself to have a conversation with his
father. He didn't want to show him he was
angry. But his mother could see that he was
angry and wasn't himself.
After lunch John went to his bedroom and his
mother followed him. "Do you need something?
Why are you following me?"
"We need to talk!" She pointed to the bed and
John sat down. "I need you to be honest with
me."
"About?" He looked at his mother as she took
his hand into hers.
"About Buhle. Do you care about her more than
an employer should care about his employee?"
She asked.
"I care about her as an employer."
"No, it's more than that and I am begging you,
my son. Please, don't pursue a relationship with
her," she begged with a saddened face, "I don't
want the past to repeat itself."
"It's not that."
"I can tell it is. I am your mother and I know you.
I don't want another girl to die only because
your father is trying to protect you from the
law," Mrs Hendricks shared her feelings.
He shook his head, "it was not about protecting
me when he killed Dumazile, it was about his
hatred for natives and wanting to control my
life."
"No, John-"
He stood up, "no, I am not in a relationship with
her. Stop stressing yourself. I am leaving now."
"I am still baking, don't go and I am sure Buhle
will love my treats."
"No, thanks. Goodbye," he kissed his mother's
cheek and he walked out of the bedroom. He
searched for Nobuhle and he found her
laughing with the servants. They looked happy
together and there was music playing inside
their dining hall. He could tell Nobuhle was
having a good time. The others were dancing
and she was seated down, laughing as she
looked at them. A young woman was seated
next to her. He spent a few minutes just -
staring at her. She was a graceful woman. John
walked inside the hall and they switched off the
music.
"No, don't stop the music. I wanted to tell Buhle
that it's time to go," John said with a warm
smile that the workers returned. Nobuhle stood
up and said goodbye.
"Were you done with lunch? I was still enjoying
myself." Nobuhle followed John to his car. They
stepped inside the car and Nobuhle took the
backseat.
"Yes, I was done." He drove away from the farm,
"I will be sad if you have fun without me."
She laughed, "your fun is different from our fun."
They spent the rest of the drive debating on
whether their ways of having fun were the same
or different.
John brought drinks and they sat down in the
living room with Nobuhle, "I am really sorry
about today."
"It's not your fault and you're not your father."
She looked at the glass of soda.
"My mom asked if I liked you today. I think she
saw how angry I was at my father," John shared.
She looked at him, "and what did you say?"
"I denied it," he put the drinks down and pulled
into his chest, "I wish we could have a beautiful
and normal relationship. My father is cruel. I
have to thank you for reminding me to keep
calm."
She looked up at him with a smile, "I will always
have your back." She received a slow
passionate kiss.
"John?"
"Yes?"
"Why were you sick with that kind of disease?"
He sighed, he expected that she would ask him
one day and he would have to tell the truth, "I
got it from doing a kind of wild sexual activity."
"What's that activity?"
"My ex-girlfriend complained that our sex life
had turned boring and we needed to experiment
and try new things," he explained. He didn't
know how she was going to take this, "she
suggested a three sum with a person of her
choice."
"What's a three sum?"
He cleared his throat, "it's three people having
sex together."
"John!" She screamed as she couldn't imagine
how that was even done. She quickly moved
away from him, "John!"
"I know. I didn't want to do it but I couldn't
afford to lose her."
"Where's she now?"
"We ended the relationship after I realised I can
meet her needs," he explained and Nobuhle laid
back on his chest, "your father really helped
me."
"I am glad he did."
"And I promise there'll be no three sums for us."
"Never!" She screamed and John laughed at her
reaction. They spent the rest of the day
together.
****
After dropping Zinhloso off at home
Mhlabunzima drove home too. He was not
ready to confront Lily. He was still too angry -
what made him angrier was her slapping
Zinhloso. Lily was speculating, she wasn't sure
whether they were really together or not. He
didn't trust himself, he would react badly and
even forget she was the mother of his child.
"Ngenzeni, where's your sister in-law?"
Ngenzeni stopped peeling the potatoes and
looked at her brother, "she's in her house.
What's wrong?"
"I want to talk to her. Where's bhuti?"
"He left with all the children."
He nodded and left. He rushed to his brother's
hut in the yard and knocked on the door. He
knocked again and was told to come in.
"Sisi, are you bored or you have too much time
in your hands? I can give you a job if you're
bored," Mhlabunzima stood by the door. He
didn't want to get closer to her.
She wrapped her head with a head wrap, "heh,
Mhlabunzima, I think you're the one who's
bored."
"Why are you interfering in my business? Just
because you put a spell on my brother you have
decided that you'll help Lily?" He asked.
She jumped in fright. Lily! Was that girl a fool?
She rushed and went to tell Mhlabunzima that
she wanted to help her? Why did she even
bother?
"I don't know what you are talking about."
"Yes, you know exactly what I am talking about
and if you can take her to that place I will let my
brother know what you did to him,"
Mhlabunzima threatened. After his friends left,
the healer told him his sister in-law had done
the same to her husband. But her doings were
not dangerous like the ones she wanted to put
on Mhlabunzima with Lily. He told him fully that
Kusakusa's wife wanted Mhlabunzima to be
Lily's puppet and she was going to control Lily
and drive Mhlabunzima to his grave. Only
because of inheritance.
"Mhlabunzima, I did nothing." She was shaking.
He moved closer to her and he held her chubby
cheeks tight into his hand, she squealed, "you
know what you did and you must be insane if
you think you'll kill me for my father's wealth. If
you want to fight, go and fight for your father's
wealth not mine." He clicked his tongue and let
her go, "and Zinhloso is my partner, you don't
want to mess with her by messing up our
relationship. Help Lily and I will ensure you
leave, my brother will take Thembi like he
initially wanted to marry you, both but you used
muthi to remain the only woman. Tsk!" He
walked out of the house. He needed to calm
down before confronting Lily.
****
It'd been a week since New Year's Eve. Her
father and brother were still not back home.
She'd had enough of her mother and sister, she
wanted the two men back. It was better in the
yard when they were home. Her mother was
annoying with her shouting and when she was
too much, she would run to the shop. After two
days, the abdominal pain stopped but she didn't
get her period. She didn't dwell much on it. She
was only glad there was no longer pain she was
feeling.
Zinhloso was with other young women in the
river. They were washing clothes, she was
washing her clothes and some of her mother's
clothing items she asked her to wash. The
ladies were talking and laughing, she was
focused on washing the clothes. She wanted to
finish up early. She was seeing Mhlabunzima
later, they were going to drive to their house and
return later. She lied to her mother and told her
she would drive some goods for him because
he was having the first annual meeting for their
political group. It was a community meeting.
Ziwinile wasn't with her on the river because
she went to the meeting.
"Yes! Why are you girls here and not at the
meeting?" Three young men from their
community came out of the bushes and startled
them. They were men of the group of
Mhlabunzima, young tigers - this was the group
that was responsible for ensuring that everyone
in the village attended community meetings.
Whether it was political meetings or meetings
called by the king or any traditional leader.
Mhlabunzima formed the group and named
them young tigers. Before, they would whip
people, especially young people and send them
to meetings by force until Mhlabunzima told
them to stop whipping people because they
were violent. They were not only frightening
them like he'd told them.
The girls screamed but Zinhloso remained calm,
"our parents are at the meeting!" One girl
screamed, shaking.
One of the three men - he was named Nkunzi,
he was dark, tall and buffy. He was looking at
an unfazed Zinhloso.
He went to her and pushed her head up with his
knobkerrie. He held her head in place, "why are
you quiet while the others are telling us who's in
the meeting?"
"You're hurting me. Ngiyeke." Zinhloso said
calmly.
"Nkunzi, leave MaMnguni alone."
"Why? Can't she talk? She thinks we're scared of
her because of her father?" He shouted and
laughed darkly, "we're not scared of your father.
Now, tell us why you are not at the meeting?"
"I said you're hurting me!" She spoke through
her teeth.
Her attitude ticked off Nkunzi. He pulled his
bullwhip from his waist and he whipped
Zinhloso five times, on her shoulders and back
because she was seated on the rock. The
young women were screaming. Zinhloso only
tightened her teeth and didn't cry or scream.
The two young men tried to restrain him,
"Chwane said nobody should be beaten up! He
always says this!" They screamed.
"I won't be disrespected by a woman," he said
and kicked her with a boot-covered foot.
Zinhloso screamed as she fell into the water.
"Nkunzi!" They held him tightly.
Two men came down to them. They had two
girls who had no family members in the
meeting, "what's going on, now?" One of the two
men asked and they answered him. He saw
Zinhloso coming out of the water and the blood
he was seeing, he didn't even know it was
coming from which body part. He knew
Zinhloso was in a relationship with
Mhlabunzima and seeing this - his spirit went
down.
"Please help her. I will come back," he said and
pulled Nkunzi up. He punched him twice and
dragged him away. They followed him, he was
older than them.
"If I were you I would run away and leave this
village because Mhlabunzima will skin you alive,
fool!" He let him go and punched him again.
"I was doing my job," Nkunzi said, holding his
mouth. He didn't fight back.
"By hitting and injuring his girlfriend?"
The hairs at the back of the young men's neck
stood straight and without breathing a word.
Nkunzi ran away. The others were panicking.
"You looked at him beating her!"
"We didn't know she's his girlfriend." They
defended themselves and followed her. He was
no longer walking but flying.
"Even if you didn't know. You know he said, no
whipping people!" He couldn't stop clicking his
tongue…
UMCEBO

Chapter 89

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

Zinhloso limped out of the water. The two
ladies helped her, they held her and limped with
her to the stone.
"Nkunzi is so cruel. Why did he kick you like
that?"
The other lady clicked her tongue and they took
a small head wrap from Zinhloso's washing,
"they don't even listen to their leader. I don't
know why Mhlabunzima chose Nkunzi to be
part of the team."
Zinhloso lifted her injured foot where blood was
flowing and on the same side. She was cut on
the thigh, "I don't think that will be enough. I
need something that will hold the blood and the
blood on the thigh. Can you pass that sweater?"
She pointed to the sweater. It was sore.
"What hurt you in there?"
"I think there's a sharp object that my foot
stepped on. It also cut my thigh," Zinhloso tore
the sweater and put a piece on her wound. They
tied her foot with the head wrap and also on the
thigh. The cut was deep and horrible on the foot.
It was open.
"I think this injury is deep. You need the hospital
or clinic," she looked around.
"And what about my clothes?"
"We'll sort them out, Zinhloso. There's an
officer!" She quickly rushed off and called out
for officer Molepe. He was walking around with
a young man.
"What's wrong? I am on duty."
"We have Zinhloso, she's Mnguni's daughter
and she was injured," she explained quickly and
the officer ran to the river. They followed him.
"Zinhloso!"
She opened her eyes when she heard a familiar
voice, "Officer Molepe, you're here?"
He quickly helped her up and he easily lifted her
off the stone, "I am on duty. I will take you to the
clinic. I am driving the work van. Please help her
with her things," the officer said and they
nodded quickly.
"Young man, you're not off the hook! Follow
me," he said and the young man followed
Molepe. He looked down at her, "what
happened?"
"Some goon," Zinhloso narrated everything that
happened.
Molepe clicked his tongue, "you should open a
case," he put her inside the front seat and the
young man got in at the back of the van. He
drove off.
"No, that's how they operate here. I won't open a
case," Zinhloso answered. She was seething,
she felt disrespected and her father was also
disrespected by Mhlabunzima's bull. If he didn't
deal with him she was going to do it.
"Are you serious?"
"Yes, they used to beat up people for not going
to the meetings."
He shook his head, "Young Xulu is aware?"
"Yes, he's the one who said they should stop
hitting people."
"I hate that boy. Tsk!"
She cleared her throat, "what were you doing in
the river?"
"I am working on a case. A group of young boys
were eating the boer's sugar cane."
She licked her lips, "mm, how I wish." She
laughed as Molepe gave her the eye, "I love it so
much."
"I will try getting you some."
"Thanks."
Molepe gave her the painkillers he had in the
car and they proceeded driving.
****
Right after Zinhloso left for the river, Mnguni
and Mzomubi arrived home. They were
supposed to come back at the end of January
but Mnguni was tired of the foreign country. He
decided to go back home and head back to the
country, alone without his son. He missed home,
he didn't spend the holidays at home with the
entire family and his brothers, he didn't want the
others to go back to their places of work
without seeing them.
Mrs Mnguni was very happy to see her husband
and son back home. She welcomed them with
warm food and drinks. "It's like I knew you were
coming home. I thought of cooking because
both your daughters are not home." She kneeled
and served him with food.
"Where are they?" He asked and took the food,
"thank you, Nkosikazi."
"Ziwinile went to the meeting and Zinhloso went
to the river to wash her clothes and some of my
clothes," she sat down with her husband after
giving Mzomubi food.
Mzomubi jumped off the couch, "yes, the first
annual meeting. I will eat when I come back."
He put the food on the coffee table.
"Hhaybo, Mzomubi, Ziwinile is there!" His
mother shouted but it was too late. He was
already out but he came back when his father
shouted his name.
"Baba, I am already late."
"Tell Xulu's son to tell his father that we should
meet tomorrow evening. They should come
here," Mnguni gave him the message.
"Yebo, baba." He quickly walked out of the
house. He couldn't miss the meeting while he
was already home. He didn't want to hear from
his sister what was discussed there. He had to
be there with them.
****
Mhlabunzima was busy marching in between
rows as he led the song.
"Noma besidubula!" He led the song loudly,
clapping his hands.
**"Siyaya!"*** The groups of people backed him.
There was an organised chaos at the primary
school's hall where all the community meetings
were held.
Thami pulled Mhlabunzima outside the hall and
they proceeded to sing without him. He stood
before Thami panting.
"It better be important," he said and wiped his
sweaty forehead.
Thami nodded, "yes, it's important. So, an
accident has happened."
"What accident?"
"We went to the river to check if there were any
people there and we found some girls and
Zinhloso was also there-'' Thami widened his
eyes as Mhlabunzima held him by the collar of
his golf t-shirt. Thami was also one of the guys
that went with him eNdabayakhe. He also
supported Robert and Dludla that they should
take him to the traditional healer. And this
reaction, if they didn't take him to the healer he
would have sworn Mhlabunzima was controlled
by a spell. "Why are you fighting me? I did
nothing."
"Tell me what happened. You were there!"
Accidents were a part of life but at the moment
he didn't want any accidents around Zinhloso.
She was still at a very critical stage, one
mistake - all his hard work would be gone and
he would be left with pain, and hopes, dead
hopes.
"I wasn't with them but I was at the other side of
the river. When I got there, Zinhloso was
coming out of the river and there was blood-"
his eyes almost came out as Mhlabunzima
dragged him to the car. "You haven't heard
everything."
He was very scared. There was blood! Thami
was younger to Mhlabunzima and so, he didn't
feel disrespected but he was angry that he was
acting without hearing everything, "Chwane!"
"You'll tell me everything while we drive to the
river." He drove off and he hooted once as he
saw Mzomubi walking inside the school
premises, "that's her brother. Do you know what
this means?"
"Her father is back but chwane it was Nkunzi
who whipped Zinhloso. They asked the ladies
there why they weren't at the meeting and
Zinhloso didn't answer them," Thami narrated
what happened quickly but he was calm
because he wasn't going to be violent with him
while he was driving. He was safe from his
anger.
"Nkunzi, did what!" He laughed. He couldn't
believe it. He glared at Thami, "are you serious?"
"Yes, I am serious. He kicked her into the water
and she got injured. I don't know where the
blood came from." Thami huffed as he finished
telling everything.
He couldn't believe this. She was whipped by
his group of young men? He laughed again,
darkly, "so, where's Nkunzi now?"
"He ran away. He didn't know Zinhloso was your
girlfriend. I told him because he thought he did
something good by whipping her because she
was giving them attitude," Thami said nervously
and he earned himself a glare, "I didn't mean-"
"I don't know why you're telling me that. You
saw how she is. She's Mnguni's daughter and
she's my girlfriend, do you think she was going
to smile at them?" Mhlabunzima asked.
"I guess not."
"He better pray, Nkunzi better pray or I will show
him the faces of his ancestors and pull him
back when his great grandmother is trying to
welcome him with a kiss on the cheek," he said
and released a series of curses. Curses that
made Thami uncomfortable.
He stopped the car a bit far from the river and
they walked to the young women who were still
washing clothes.
"Sanibonani, where's Zinhloso?" Mhlabunzima
looked at the ground. He could see the blood by
the stone on the sand. He looked back at the
girls.
"We saw officer Molepe and asked him to help
her. He took her to a police van. He promised to
take her to the clinic," the lady explained.
Molepe! It had to be that giraffe Molepe! "Where
was she hurt? Where did the blood come from?"
He saw the question was surprising for the
young women but he didn't care. He had to
know. The drive to the clinic was a bit far and
he would blindly drive to the clinic without
knowing this important information?
"She got injured on her foot and thigh."
He was half relieved. "Where are her clothes? I
will take her things."
"We'll finish up for her and drop it home."
He smiled, "that would be nice of you. Thank
you." He turned to Thami. They headed back to
the car, "I will drop you at the main stop. You'll
go back to the meeting I am driving to the
township at the clinic."
"Why don't you let the officer take care of her?
What will her father say?"
He drove away, "Would you let a man who
wants your girlfriend take care of her?"
He cleared his throat, "I guess you're in trouble.
That's why I like them facially challenged." He
forced Mhlabunzima to laugh his lungs out.

He fixed himself before appearing before

Molepe. He was standing tall at the door of the
consulting room in the clinic.
"We meet, again," Mhlabunzima said.
The officer's tongue click was long and slow,
"why are you here?"
"My group of men hurt her and she happens to
be my worker so I guess I should be here,"
Mhlabunzima grinned.
Molepe wanted to pull off his hair, "they're still
working on stitching her. You didn't have to
come, I can take care of her."
He chuckled but hearing such words made him
sweat, "we both know you're not her father's
favourite person so it'll be better if you go back
to your duty and I will take it from here. Thank
you, officer. You're doing a great job protecting
the people." He smiled as Molepe left him. He
sat down and waited, he knew he was also not
Mnguni's favourite person but - it didn't matter.
"Molepe!"
Mhlabunzima stood up, "she's even calling him
by his surname softly." He opened the door, "I
didn't know that's how you call the officer."
She forgot about the pain and everything but
she laughed, "gxabhashe! I am happy to see
you."
He didn't mind the nurse. It was a young male
nurse. He hugged Zinhloso, "I will find Nkunzi.
He almost gave me a heart attack."
"I am happy I didn't seriously get injured. The
nurse said I can go home." She pointed to the
bag of medicine.
Mhlabunzima took the medicine and the nurse
went over the instructions with them.
"Don't lift her up but let her go on her own so
that she'll get used to it," the nurse instructed.
Zinhloso sulked and gave Mhlabunzima her
hand. They walked out slowly, "the line is very
long and Molepe helped with his connection."
"Mxm, I was going to help too with my
connection, I am known too," he said and
Zinhloso laughed. He looked at her with a smile.
He was very pleased that there was no big
damage done.
"Alright, I trust you. You sent me back to school.
I trust you."
He drove out of the clinic's parking lot with a
smile, "so, you were only injured on the thigh
and foot?"
"Yes."
"There was no blood coming out there."
"There, where?" She glanced at him.
He drove to Empangeni station market. He
cleared his throat, "entshonalanga!" (Your
vagina)
"Mhlabunzima!" She screamed.
He laughed, "I am just checking just to ensure
that everything is fine."
She smiled shyly, "no, I didn't get injured there."
She giggled.
He realised at the clinic they didn't do tests. She
wasn't aware, "I am glad. I will buy some fruits
and whatever you need then drive you back
home. Your father and brother are home."
She grinned, "yes, please I have missed them."
He sighed, his blood was very high the past
minutes and seeing her like this - next to him. It
gave him relief. Nothing bad happened. He
would have lost his mind.
UMCEBO

Chapter 90

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

"Eish, Zinhloso I have to face your father. He'll

probably give me punches," Mhlabunzima
complained as he drove through the Mnguni
yard in the afternoon. Ziwinile was outside the
yard and that meant the meeting had ended. He
couldn't get the chance to start and finish his
meeting. Only because of Nkunzi.
"I am here, he won't punch you." She opened the
door and Mhlabunzima helped her out of the
car. He put his arm under her wing and walked
with her.
"I can't believe I am so close to you inside your
family yard," he commented.
Zinhloso laughed, "stop it!"
He kept quiet. When they reached the kitchen
door. Zinhloso opened it up.
Mzomubi stood up, "you've brought her back!
Why didn't you tell me you were going to her
when you saw me?"
Mhlabunzima avoided eye contact with Mnguni
but at the corner of his eye. He could see the
look he was giving him. If looks could kill - he
would be long dead. He placed Zinhloso on the
sofa and he didn't sit next to her but he sat next
to Mzomubi. Both parents were in the room.
"It was best to have you at the meeting because
I was leaving. I had to rush to the scene when
Thami told me," he answered Mzomubi and
faced the parents, "Sanibonani."
Only Mrs Mnguni greeted back, "two girls came
here bringing back her washing but not her.
They told us what happened."
"Where's that boy, Mhlabunzima?"
"I asked Thami and he said he ran away."
Mnguni's chuckle was deep, "I want him."
"I also want him." Mhlabunzima informed him
and he ignored Zinhloso's questioning eyes.
"Why do you want him?" Mnguni asked.
"That's because he did something I said long
ago that they shouldn't do. He disrespected me
and also injured my-"
"It's not that bad, all of you don't have to want
him," Zinhloso quickly cut off Mhlabunzima
before he could say what she was thinking he
would say. He'd been given months, was this
the way he was telling her father?
"He injured your, what, Xulu?" Mnguni ignored
Zinhloso.
"My employee, Zinhloso and I work together. I
take care of my employees," he glanced at her
and he saw relief on her face. This girlfriend of
his! She really thought he was going to tell her
father.
"I think it's time she stopped."
She shook her head, "no, baba I won't stop. I
enjoy the money I make," she wouldn't stop for
anything. That job was the best excuse to leave
home and be with Mhlabunzima. "Don't force
me because I won't listen."
"Zinhloso! Where I was, I was at peace because
I didn't have to always have a back and forth
with you," Mnguni shouted at his daughter and
she only looked down with her lips folded, "first
day back and I am back at shouting because of
your stubborn head."
"I am sorry, I told you I am learning from him. I
want to be a business woman too."
"Business woman yani! What are you going to
sell?" Mrs Mnguni yelled.
"I haven't figured it out. I am still learning and
when I am rich I don't want anyone who'll ask
for money from me." She said with arms folded
before her chest. Mhlabunzima laughed and he
held his mouth when he realised he was
laughing alone.
"Your mother and I will be entitled to all the
money you'll make," Mnguni said. He knew she
would be capable of making the money on her
own.
"No, why are parents entitled? I am the one who
supported her," Mzomubi said and
Mhlabunzima laughed.
Mnguni gave him a dead stare and he stopped
laughing, "you're laughing too loud now Xulu in
my house after what your man did to my
daughter. Go home or catch up with your
friend."
Mhlabunzima quickly stood up, "yebo, ntanga
come. We should talk."
"Tell your father we should meet tomorrow
evening. Your family will come here."
"Yebo," he turned to Zinhloso, "your brother will
come back with your medication and your
fruits."
"Thank you."
He walked out. Mzomubi and Mhlabunzima
walked out of the house.

The following evening, he still hadn't heard

about Nkunzi and he was annoyed. He wanted
to see him and have a word with him. But he
knew he wasn't going to run forever. He was
going to return. He was a working young man.
Mzomubi opened the hut for them and they sat
on the benches, "I will go call my father." He left
the Xulu family.
It was only Xulu and his sons. Xulu left
Ngenzeni cooking, she had her friend for a
sleepover.
"Gxabhashe!" Mnguni shook hands with Xulu.
The two men laughed.
"We meet again. We're pleased that you've
returned home safe."
Mnguni sat down, "yes, even though I will be
leaving soon. I wanted to come back and see
my brothers before they leave."
"That's good I have also decided to go and see
my father after seeing my mother in a dream,"
Xulu filled him in.
He nodded, "that was brave of you. You're a true
man, a man of peace. Your young boy could
learn from you."
Xulu laughed and glanced at Mhlabunzima, he
was looking down, "this one loves chaos."
Mzomubi returned and the meeting began, "no,
Xulu and I sat down boys and we had a critical
conversation about our business," Mnguni
started the meeting.
"We're listening," Kusakusa said.
"We have decided that we have served these
white people for a very long time and it's time
that we stop now," Xulu broke the news and he
saw relief on the faces of Mzomubi and
Mhlabunzima.
But Kusakusa, "what? Why are we stopping?
The business is running smoothly." He asked,
he wasn't pleased with this decision.
"Kusakusa, the business is no longer safe and
it's taking a wrong turn. We need to protect our
families' reputation and our lives. We haven't
been caught, people only speculated and it's
best we leave it like that."
"I am in support of this decision." Mhlabunzima
raised his view. His father had already told him
but he didn't want to show Kusakusa that he
already knew.
Mzomubi smiled, "I am also in support."
Kusakusa was angry. Why did these old men
take such a decision? They had enough money
and suddenly wanted to stop? "If you have
decided that you're stopping. You'll stop alone. I
am not going to stop."
Mnguni and Xulu were shocked, they looked at
each other, "Kusakusa, I am telling you it's no
longer safe!"
"I don't care. I will take that decision to stop on
my own," Kusakusa said to Mnguni.
Xulu shook his head, "if he wants to go deep
while we're telling him it's no longer safe. Let
him do it!"
"Baba-"
Xulu raised his hand, "Kusakusa is a grown up
who has his own family and if he doesn't care
about his family that's on him. You're the
youngest, I can't control a man with his own
yard."
"Does this mean we'll tell the bosses he's not
stopping? How will you work alone?" Mnguni
asked.
"I will work it out."
Mnguni nodded, "Mhlabunzima, you'll call them
tomorrow and tell them we want to have a
meeting with them."
"Yes, I will do that tomorrow morning."
"That's all then. We can be free." They stood up.
Mnguni looked at Mhlabunzima, "you haven't
found Nkunzi?"
"No, but he'll come back. He should go back to
work."
They walked out of the hut, "if you don't find him
I will move the punishment to you. Your body is
black, you'll be red for hurting my daughter."
He cleared his throat, "how's she? Is she
recovering?" He asked and ignored the glare he
was getting from his father.
"Yes, being hurt is helpful to her. She's lazy so
she's sleeping or doing nothing with a good
excuse." He said and Mhlabunzima laughed,
"why are you laughing?"
He quickly held himself, "she should rest, that's
what the nurse said but she should also move
around."
"Go and tell her that because it seems she
listens to her boss."
He wanted to fly, "but you also listen to your
boss," he quickly moved away as Mnguni was
trying to punch him.
"How will she listen to another child and not her
father?" Xulu asked. He didn't want his son to
go there.
"She'll listen to him. Young people listen to your
son Xulu but Nkunzi seemingly had a problem
with me when he hurt my daughter." Mnguni
clicked his tongue.
"I will go talk to her." He raised his hands and
headed to Zinhloso's hut.
He knocked, "who's it, I am getting dressed!"
Mhlabunzima chuckled and looked around, his
father and brother were already in the car. "It's
me, your father said I should come and talk to
you."
"Come in!"
He opened the door. She was seated on the bed
putting on her pajamas, "let me help you." He
helped him put on the pajama pants. "How are
you holding up?"
"The pain is there when I wake up but my father
told me not to take pills. He's giving me his
medicine," she responded and wore her top.
"I don't have much time. I am here to tell you to
move around and stop sitting in one place.
You'll have a problem." Mhlabunzima advised.
"But it's painful, howu!"
"If you don't get better we won't go to our house
to be together. Where I will give you your source
of joy," he said, playing with her cheek.
She giggled, "okay, I will move around."
"Good, I will go, sleep well," he kissed her cheek
and left her.
He took the driver's seat and drove out, "you
don't even have the decency of rejecting being
alone with his daughter in his own yard." Xulu
commented and Mhlabunzima only chuckled.
He didn't speak further. He was trying not to get
involved by all means.

Mnguni shook his head as Zinhloso was limping

around the yard. It was after lunch. She even
washed the dishes. "Xulu's son has a very
strong traditional healer."
Zinhloso looked at her father and she sat next
to him on the bench, "why?"
"I told you to move around but you kept
sleeping. He says it and you move around."
She shrugged, pretending like he's not telling
the truth, "no, it's not because of him but it's
your medicine I feel much better."
"Alright, we had the meeting with them and told
them we'll stop the business," Mnguni informed
Zinhloso.
She smiled, "that's wonderful news, baba."
"But Kusakusa doesn't want to stop doing the
business."
"Is he a sensible person?"
"He's not and he's impulsive. I don't think they'll
want to work with him alone."
"I hope they won't." She said and her father
laughed, "baba, when you go to Durban for the
meeting. Can I go with you? I want to see
Nobuhle. I miss her."
"No problem, if you're better than this we'll go."
He said.
She smiled, "thank you, let me go and sweep my
hut."
Mrs Mnguni served him traditional beer, "last
night, I didn't even get to ask what the message
was about. You were too excited," she giggled
and sat next to him.
He smiled, "I missed you, that's why."
"What did you talk about?"
"We've decided to stop the business. It's no
longer safe like before."
She clapped hands, "that's for the best. We're
grateful." She was pleased about the news. She
didn't like their business.
****
He was sweeping the office. He stopped
sweeping and opened the door for the knocker.
Lily walked inside the office.
"I am here to talk to you. You've been avoiding
me," she said before Mhlabunzima could say a
thing. She realised she was standing on the
dust he was sweeping. She took the broom and
swept the floor for him.
"What do you want to talk about?" He asked
once she was done sweeping.
"Why did you do what you did to Zodumo on
Christmas day? You chose your girlfriend over
your own child Mhlabunzima," she sat on the
chair and Mhlabunzima remained standing.
He shook his head, "you were supposed to start
by asking me that but you rushed to ask
Zinhloso and slapped her for nothing."
She chuckled, "oh, little girl rushed to tell you
about that?"
"That's what you think about her? I dare you to
lay a finger on her again. I will forget we share a
child together," he warned her and Lily shifted
uncomfortably. "If you have a problem with the
way I am parenting Zodumo, you should talk to
me directly and leave Zinhloso out of it."
"I am sorry." She looked down, all the energy
she had when she got to the shop flew off the
window. "But I don't want Zinhloso anywhere
near my daughter."
"Have you ever seen her near your daughter?"
He asked and he didn't get an answer. He
squatted down before her and gently lifted her
chin up, "lalela ke sisi, I have made myself clear
to you not even once. I told you I don't want you
back but you're not listening to me. You think
putting a spell on me will work?"
She steadied up, "it's not me but it's Kusakusa's
wife who gave me that idea. I won't do it."
"Yes, you better not do it if you don't want to go
crazy." He threatened and quickly stood up. He
looked at her as she almost lost her ability to
breathe. "Leave, if it's not about my daughter,
go!"
She quickly stood up and walked out. She
couldn't understand, did Kusakusa's wife tell
him?
***
Happy women's day 💜
UMCEBO

Chapter 91

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

He was waiting for the 11am bus that was

going to take him back home. He was at the
Empangeni station area to buy a few personal
items.
He blinked twice, closed his eyes and blinked
again. Was it really Esther or was he dreaming?
"Mama, please can I leave my plastic bag here?
I want to go somewhere," Xulu requested to the
woman who was seated on the table, selling
vegetables.
"Okay, you can leave it."
He rushed after her. She was walking between
the isle of women who were selling different
types of clothing. She seemed like someone
who was looking at the clothing to buy.
Xulu finally caught up with her. He held her
wrist, "Esther! Is it you or you're another
woman's look alike?" He asked, the beautiful
almond shaped eyes stared at him and he was
certain. This was her!
"Goba!" She held mouth. "It's really you after so
many years!"
He didn't talk much but he held her hand and
pulled her away from the clothing isle. She was
confused, "where are you taking me? What's
happening?"
His heart was racing up to his throat and he
was shaking. After twenty seven years, he was
seeing this woman after so many years. Their
last born she left as a baby was a grown man
now.
He stopped at the table of a woman who was
selling cow's head and tripe, "can we have a
table and tripe," Xulu ordered.
They pointed them to an empty table and they
sat down. He looked at her, they were sitting
opposite each other.
"It's really, you?"
"Yes," she looked down and tears voluntarily
streamed down her cheeks. "I can't believe I am
seeing you."
"You left me, Esther. You left me with young
children," Xulu's voice was low and full of pain.
He never thought he would meet this woman
again and have a confrantation with her. He
wasn't prepared for this. He was caught off
guard but he couldn't let the moment pass him.
"I know but I didn't leave on my will."
"What do you mean?"
"It's your eldest sister that chased me away.
She told me I wasn't good enough for you and I
should leave or she would kill my children,"
Esther wiped her tears with her doek. She had
taken it off, showing her cornrows. "I couldn't
tell you or anyone because I was scared and so,
I ran away."
Xulu was confused and he knew there was no
way he could tell if she was telling the truth or
not because his eldest sister had long died. Yes,
his sister didn't like Esther because when they
were still girls they unknowingly dated one man
at the same time. When they cornered the man
and told him to choose, the man chose Esther.
Later, Esther left the man for his brother and so,
his sister hated her. She didn't want them to get
married but Xulu loved Esther too much.
"Everyone knows that you ran away with a man,
a rich man and now, you're telling me this!" Xulu
raised his voice. He was heartbroken for years
and couldn't even marry another woman. He
had tried to date and hid it from his children but
it never worked out. He didn't trust any woman
because of what he'd been through with women.
"Yes, that man found me on the run and he
helped me run. I ran to the city of gold with him
but he left me all by myself in the city. I have
been living a very difficult life. I am still
struggling as you know that I no longer have a
maternal family or paternal family. They're all
dead," she couldn't stop crying. The food was
served and it even turned cold as the two
caught up.
Xulu didn't know whether to believe her or not.
He didn't know what to do with her situation. He
didn't even know how he felt. Was he happy?
Was he sad? Or he was more broken?
"Where do you live now?"
She looked down ashamed, "I live at home. I
came back two days back."
"You live in those crumbling walls? I think
there's only one decent hut left standing in your
homestead!" He was shocked. "Why didn't you
come back home?"
"Yes, I know. I didn't come back because I heard
from someone I met in the city that you
believed that I Ieft you for a rich man," she
looked at him. She couldn't believe she was
really seeing him. He looked really good and it
seemed he was really doing great, "and I was
scared of your sister I didn't know whether she
was alive or not,
"How are the children? My baby boy,
Ngenzelw'umusa? (Mhlabunzima)" she asked,
with a short smile.
Xulu chuckled as he remembered the fight they
had about his son's name. He named him
Mhlabunzima because of the difficult situation
he was in, struggling in life and yet, there was
another baby. His wife named him Ngenzelwe -
Ngenzwel'umusa meaning, it was by great
favour that she had another child after being
told by Doctors Ngenzeni would be her last
child. She accepted Mhlabunzima as a child of
grace, grace from Mvelinqangi and ancestors.
They fought about his first name until Xulu
succeeded.
Xulu was still confused but he managed to tell
his wife about the children.

"Didn't you say Xulu went to the market to buy

his personal things?" Mhlabunzima asked
Ngenzeni. They were having dinner and it was
strange that their father was not back home. If
he was going to sleep at Kusakusa's home, he
always told them.
"Yes, that's what he said and he said he'll come
back early because I asked him why he wasn't
asking you to drive him," Ngenzeni responded.
They were both not really eating but kept
playing with their food. They were worried about
their father. This was unlike him. "Do you think
we should go and tell bhuti?"
Before Ngenzeni could answer, Xulu walked
inside the kitchen hut. He looked lost and tired,
"baba, where were you? We were worried about
you." Ngenzeni asked her father and stood up.
"Don't dishup for me. I am an not hungry but
only make a cup of black coffee," Xulu
requested. He rubbed his eyes.
"Baba, the doctor said we should not have
coffee anymore. It's been a while, why do you
want coffee?" Mhlabunzima asked.
Xulu glanced at him and looked at Ngenzeni,
"why are you not making coffee?"
"We don't buy coffee. We don't have it. I will
make tea." She quickly prepared for tea while
cooking the water on the coal stove. It was still
hot from the coal she used to cook. Her father
normally had his tea with cooked water, not
kettle boiled. He was a picky man and Ngenzeni
sometimes felt like he was supposed to
remarry so his wife would look after him but
she got used to it, looking after him.
"Here's your tea," her nostrils were hit by the
sweet scent of a woman. She frowned, "baba,
are you dating? You smell like a woman?"
Mhlabunzima widened his eyes at his father
and Xulu shouted at Ngenzeni, "I will throw this
tea at your face, mannerless child!" He clicked
his tongue and left them without another word.
They looked at each other, "what just
happened?" Mhlabunzima asked.
Ngenzeni shrugged, "I don't even know."
"Let me go to my house too. I have an important
call to make, thanks for the food," he covered
the food he left on the plate.
"Mhlabunzima?" She stopped him from walking
out.
He looked back, "mm?"
"So, since dad doesn't want Zinhloso here.
Where do you two meet?"
He laughed, "ubaba ubefuna ukukubhunyela
ngetiye ngazo lezi. Uthanda izindaba!" He
walked out and left her sulking.
In his house, Mhlabunzima made a telephone
call to John.
"Xulu, how are you?" John greeted after
Mhlabunzima had greeted him.
"I am well John and how are you?"
He yawned on the line, "I am fine. I wasn't
expecting your call."
"I know I am calling because I need a favour
from you. It's kind of huge."
"I am listening."
"You know I live in rural areas and even our
town doesn't have a bookstore. I need certain
books," he scratched his head. He didn't know
how he was going to receive him.
"You need books? That's easy."
"I need books on pregnancy. The book that will
help me understand a pregnant woman and
stages of pregnancy and also the one that will
help me be ready to be a parent to a newborn
baby," Mhlabunzima requested. He was asking
him because he remembered seeing his sister
reading such a book when he was at the farm.
Back then, he wasn't even aware there were
books that prepared you for parenthood.
John laughed, "are you going to be a parent to a
newborn, young Xulu?"
He chuckled, "yes, but by the end of the year. If
all went well, in September. But nobody knows,
not even the mother."
"Congratulations!"
"Please, don't mention it to her sister."
"I won't and is that all? Only those books?"
He chuckled and uncomfortably laughed, "I
don't know if there's a magazine of sex that
includes pregnant people. I don't want to hurt
my baby. I won't do it if it's not allowed-" he also
laughed as John bursted out laughing. He spent
a good minute laughing at him. "Don't laugh.
We're not as privileged as you're and these
things are not taught to us black men. I want to
prepare myself with knowledge."
"I am happy for you. You're a good man, Xulu
and I like your hunger for knowledge. I promise I
will ask my sister for recommendations and I
will post everything to you." John promised.
"Thank you but you don't have to post it
because I will be driving to Durban for the
meeting in a few days."
"Yes, I remember. Goodnight."
He placed the phone down and he smiled. He
opened his eyes quickly when he saw Mnguni's
angry face.
UMCEBO

Chapter 92

Second week of January passed and Zinhloso

was no longer limping. She'd gone back to
school as the schools had reopened.
She dragged her feet and her bag to his back
door. She hadn't seen him for the whole week
because of her foot. She knocked.
"Come in!"
She pushed the door and smiled back when
Mhlabunzima greeted her with a smile, "how are
you? I haven't seen you in a while," she dropped
her bag on the floor.
"Ay, Zinhloso don't leave your school bag on the
floor."
She took it and placed it on the chair opposite
him. She sat on his lap. Mhlabunzima wrapped
his arms around her waist and took her lips into
a kiss as she faced him.
"Why does it look like you're tired?"
She smiled and laid her head on his shoulder, "I
am tired. Where's your dad?"
"My dad, why are you asking about him?"
She shrugged, "because he doesn't like me. I
am just asking if he's fine."
He brushed her head, "yes, he's fine. How's the
foot now?"
"It's better. I am able to walk to school."
"I miss you. Your foot should heal completely."
She moved away from his shoulder and stared
at him with a smile, "I miss you too that's why I
came by to see you. Let's wait for my periods to
pass first and go home."
His heart skipped a beat, "you're on your periods
now?"
"No, but my breasts have been painful for a full
week now and that means my period will start
anytime," she responded and took the can of
drink on the table. She drank it.
"And what if it doesn't come?"
"That'll mean my circle has changed. It happens,
sometimes."
She was really clueless and he didn't know how
he was going to tell her. He was scared of the
reaction he was going to get. Or he had to wait
until she realised on her own and pretend like
he didn't know? He wasn't sure what to do.
"Okay, how's the new grade?"
"It's still new, I don't know. I am just tired and
wish I could sleep all day!" She sulked and held
him.
He chuckled, "why don't you take a gap year and
rest then," he tested the waters.
She forcefully pushed away from him, "what?
No, I can't do that. I love school. Why would I
stop going to school?"
He grinned uncomfortably, "I was just saying
since you're complaining about being tired."
"That's because I was used to being home." She
smiled and caressed his cheek, "I am also going
to Durban with you. I asked my dad to go. I want
to see Nobuhle. I miss her."
"I wonder if you really miss your sister or you
just wanna go with me."
She laughed happily, "I miss her," she
responded and quickly kissed him briefly before
standing up on his lap, "I am leaving now. I am
hungry and you're not even offering food."
He held her hand, "we were still talking nje. I
was going to go and get some food."
"It's okay, gxabhashe I am leaving. Dad is home.
I don't want to arrive late."
"Tell Ntokozo to give you whatever you like
then." He followed her to the door but didn't
come out with her.
"Okay, bye." She quickly walked away and
avoided eye contact with the school boys who
were having cold drinks seated on the benches
at the back.

She badly wanted to dress up in pants but she

remembered there was going to be Xulu in the
car. She opted for the high waisted ditsy floral
pleated skirt. She quickly tucked in the white
plain shirt with short flounce sleeves. And black
shoes. Her father was already calling out for her.
"I am coming!"
"The car is here. We'll leave you," Mnguni
threatened.
"Don't do it, baba, please," she brushed her head
and walked out holding her small brown square
flap bag.
Mnguni shook his head, "I told you to wake up
early but you love sleeping." He scolded her.
"I am sorry."
Mnguni headed to the backseat where Xulu was
and Zinhloso quickly stood next to her father,
"can I sit at the back?"
He shook his head and didn't ask much but he
took the front seat with Mhlabunzima.
"Sawubona, baba!" Zinhloso greeted Xulu.
He glanced at her, "yebo, ntombazane!"
Mhlabunzima drove out of the premises and
their journey took them to Durban.
Zinhloso fell asleep an hour later. The two old
men had been talking in the car and when they
were no longer talking, Mhlabunzima opened
the radio. The volume was low.
Zinhloso was smiling in her sleep but nobody
noticed her except for Mhlabunzima who was
just checking up on the rear view mirror. He
focused on the driving and frowned when he
heard Zinhloso calling his name softly. With
eyes widened, he looked back and Mnguni also
looked back. She was sleeping and calling his
name, before it got out of hand. Xulu shook
Zinhloso awake.
"Mhlabunzima, why is my daughter calling your
name in her sleep?" Mnguni glared at
Mhlabunzima while Zinhloso was yawning. She
was lost.
He raised one hand, "I don't know but I am not
the only one with that name."
"Who has that name in the village?"
"Baba, can you ask why she was calling me in
her sleep?" He quickly suggested it before he
got the lashing from Mnguni.
Xulu shook his head, Zinhloso was looking
outside, "she doesn't even know what's
happening, Mnguni." He kept his cool.
"Zinhloso! You're calling Mhlabunzima's name
in your sleep."
She looked at her father, "really? Maybe that's
because I was dreaming, we were planting
chilies with him in the gardens." She didn't sell
herself out by showing she was panicking. Why
would she dream of him before the two adults!
Mnguni clicked his tongue and looked ahead
after a short glare at Mhlabunzima. The drive
carried on smoothly. Zinhloso didn't fall asleep
again.

After dropping off Zinhloso at John's house,

Mhlabunzima drove straight to Hendricks' farm
where they were all meeting. He was wondering
how these people were going to react.
They found the bosses already waiting for them
in the dining room. There were cakes and tea on
the table.
After greetings, Mnguni went straight to the
point, "no, we have decided to come here
because the matter we want to discuss is
urgent and critical."
"We're listening!" Hendricks and Petersen said
in unison. Mrs Bekker was just daydreaming
about Mhlabunzima who was seated with them
on the table.
"I have been seeing visions, dangerous visions
about our business. They kept repeating, I
would see disaster when we try to do the next
job and would also see bloodbath and chaos,"
Mnguni introduced the matter and he could see
their faces changing from calm to scared, "I
decided to consult and my ancestors
communicated with me that it's time we stop
these operations because they'll only be
dangerous from now on. I respect my ancestors
and they're my guides. That's why we sat down
with Xulu and decided we'll come here and tell
you it's time."
From scared, their faces showed sadness and
loss, "I don't even know how to receive this
news." Petersen spoke first and looked at
Hendricks.
"This is a low blow for us because we were
thinking of making another request and now,
we're receiving such news!"
Mrs Bekker shook her head, "there's no need to
stop because dead people said so-"
Petersen and Hendricks shouted at her, telling
her to stop talking, "we're sorry about that, she's
just clueless," Petersen grinned at Mnguni who
only nodded, "we're saddened but we'll accept
your decision."
"You've served us well and with loyalty. Why
would we fight your decision?" Hendricks said
what surprised everyone but Mnguni and Xulu
knew it was because of this vision theory they
created.
"If you want to continue you can recruit
someone different and from a different village
like you recruited my grandfather," Mnguni
suggested, his grandfather was recruited by
Hendricks. He was working for him on the farm.
He made him promises and when he carried out
tasks he fulfilled his promises, they grew until it
was Mnguni left. Mnguni who also recruited the
Xulus.
"We'll think about it."
"Kusakusa also asked to remain working for
you," Mnguni informed them.
Hendricks and Petersen looked at one another.
They whispered to each other, "we can't accept
it because he'll not be fit to work alone. He's
impulsive and not a critical thinker like his
younger brother."
"Yes, that's what I thought too," Xulu voiced out
and they were relieved his father supported
them.
"You'll keep the car as our gift of appreciation
and we'll prepare the compensation money.
Once it's prepared we'll call young Xulu to drive
up," Hendricks and the old men were pleased. It
was going smoothly and they didn't expect this.
"Can you be the one to call my brother and tell
him of your decision? We don't want him to say
we made it up," Mhlabunzima suggested and
they promised to call him. They left them for
their own meeting and they were served with
food and drinks.
UMCEBO

Chapter 93

***Chapter sponsored by Noks Wildeebeste***

Nobuhle enveloped her sister into a tight hug,

"you don't know how happy I am that you're
here. I didn't believe you when you told me," she
pulled her into the living room.
"I can't get over how beautiful this house is,"
Zinhloso smiled as she admired the house
before sitting down on the sofa.
Nobuhle sat next to her, "why are you saying
that like you've been here before?"
She giggled and looked down, "yes, we came
here when Mhlabunzima was buying a car. I
was with him."
"Zinhloso!"
She laughed and moved her upper body away
from her, "what? I couldn't tell you. You
threatened me with dad."
"I am sorry about that. I was just scared for you,
that's all."
"It's fine. I understand. I like your earrings. They
are so pretty. Where did you buy them?"
Zinhloso asked.
Nobuhle's smile was bright and sweet,
"boyfriend bought them for me."
"Mm, how I wish!" She laughed as Nobuhle
pinched her, "what? These people know how to
gift a woman. Do you know Mhlabunzima
bought this wristwatch for me only because he
heard a guy from our village saying he's not
seeing a gold watch on my wrist. He'll buy it for
me. He got jealous and bought it."
Nobuhle was crying from laughing, "he's not a
white man, just cut him some slack."
"I know but it's nice to receive gifts."
"You are better because even if your
relationship can come out, dad will be angry but
he'll end up forgiving you," Nobuhle said with a
sad tone, "and there can be a chance of getting
married. What about my relationship?"
"I understand but I am sure one day the country
will be free. It won't always be like this, have
hope," Zinhloso held her hand tightly, "enjoy the
love you're getting from him because you
deserve all of it."
"Thank you so much," they hugged each other
again, "How's my son?"
"Loyo nokweyisa. He's fine and he's very happy
now because his father is playing his role in his
life now," she responded, "we're eating and
breathing, my father that, my father this."
They laughed, "he should enjoy it and I am
grateful to aunt Comfort. Please, come, let's go
and eat."
"Ey, I almost got caught…" she told her sister
about dreaming and calling Mhlabunzima's
name in the car. They had a good laugh while
talking and eating.

"Baba, I don't know if I should drive to get

Zinhloso and come back or we'll drive at once? I
also want to see John about something,"
Mhlabunzima said enquired with Mnguni. He
was done eating but his father and Mnguni
were still eating. Mrs Hendricks had even
promised them a desert and he wasn't keen
about that, sweets!
"Won't you eat sweets?" Mnguni looked at him.
"No, I don't like sweet things."
"Okay, go."
Mhlabunzima glanced at his father; he was only
focused on eating. He took the keys and he left
the old people. He drove to John's place.
He was welcomed by Martin, "it's good to see
you again, young Xulu."
"It's good to see you too, Martin. I am here for
Nobuhle's sister but I want to have a word with
your boss first." Mhlabunzima followed Martin
inside the house.
"Let me take you to him," he led him upstairs
and left him at the door of John's office.
Mhlabunzima shook hands with John, "I am
here to take her and go back to your father's
farm. I don't know if you were able to get what I
asked for."
John smiled, "of course, I didn't even have to
buy because my sister had the books but I
didn't find porn magazine-"
"Porn magazine?"
John laughed, "the magazine of sex you were
talking about. It's called porn magazine."
Mhlabunzima's laughter was loud, it reached
Nobuhle and Zinhloso who were seated on the
garden chairs, "oh, I am glad I know the name.
You didn't find it?"
"Yes, I didn't find the one that features pregnant
women but my sister gave me a book of
comfortable positions for pregnant women in
different trimesters. There are no pictures you'll
read."
"Thank you so much, John. I will owe you."
He handed him the plastic bag. "I wrapped them
and covered them so no one will realise what it
is even if they look inside and I did put a normal
porn magazine for you."
He chuckled, "thanks, now I will be able to put
back my brother's magazine where I stole it."
He said and they laughed. John walked
Mhlabunzima out.
Zinhloso stood up when she saw Mhlabunzima,
"I told Nobuhle it was your laughter that I was
hearing."
He smiled, "let's go. I left dad and your father at
the farm."
She turned to Nobuhle. They hugged each other
and she gave her the bags of clothes and a few
items she bought for Sbusiso.
"Please, do me a favour," he looked at Zinhloso
as they drove out of the premises.
"What favour?" She asked, she was still eating
the packet of chips she was having with
Nobuhle. She didn't leave it behind.
"Can you please stay awake in the car?" He
didn't care that she was upset. He needed to tell
her this, "you can't be calling my name while
there's your father in the car, Zinhloso. I don't
want to die."
He held her hand, "can you hear me?"
"I can't control sleep, Mhlabunzima and I also
can't control what happens when I am
sleeping," she folded the packet of chips and
opened his plastic bag but Mhlabunzima
quickly held her hand. "Yini? I want to put my
chips here."
He remembered John had told him he wrapped
everything. He relaxed, "okay."
She put the chips inside and kept quiet.
Mhlabunzima also remained quiet.
Mnguni and Xulu were already waiting for them.
Zinhloso gave the front seat to her father and
she took the backseat with Xulu. The drive back
home started.
"How did it go, baba?" Zinhloso took a risk and
asked Xulu. She knew she was actually
supposed to ask her father but she felt like
asking Xulu.
"Ay, it went well, ntombazane. They didn't fight
us. We're free now," Xulu responded.
Mnguni supported, "yes, we should focus on
doing our own things."
"I was thinking this car should go to the Mnguni
family because I have this car. Zinhloso will
drive if you need to be driven or you can call me
if it's somewhere she can't," Mhlabunzima
voiced his suggestion, "I don't know what the
elders think it's just a suggestion."
Xulu nodded, "that's a good suggestion. We
can't keep two cars. That'll be greedy."
"It's a good suggestion. We're grateful for it,
Xulu." Mnguni commented. The drive carried on
with a conversation between Xulu and Mnguni."
***
"Were you happy to see your sister?" John
asked Nobuhle. They were holding hands and
heading to John's bedroom after dinner.
Nobuhle was the one who told John she was
going to sleep in his room.
"Yes, I was happy to see her." She removed the
gown and got onto the bed with him.
He pulled her into his arms, "I am happy when
you're happy. When are you going home to visit
your boy?" He asked and kissed her without
waiting for a response. He held her closer and
the kiss deepened. It heated, setting the room
on fire. Nobuhle was lost in the kiss but she
wasn't fully drowning into it. She didn't want
things to get out of hand. She wasn't ready for it.
"Please," she stopped him from taking off her
top. She avoided eye contact, "let's sleep."
"What's wrong? Don't you trust me?" He lifted
her chin up, "don't be shy to talk to me. Tell me
what you think and if you think it's too early, tell
me."
"No, I am scared."
"Scared of what?"
"I have a child and have been with one man.
What if your - your -" she stuttered.
"Talk to me."
"What if your penis doesn't fit me?" She asked
and John couldn't hold himself. He laughed, he
held Nobuhle tightly and laughed at her. "Why
are you laughing?" she pushed him.
"Honey, it doesn't work like that. Your vagina is
like an elastic band," he tried to explain in
simple terms, "you should read more because
you want to be a doctor. I will find books for
you."
She hid her face on his chest, "okay, but let's
sleep. I am not ready." She said and John
kissed her lips. They fell asleep in each other's
arms.
UMCEBO

Chapter 95

He walked through the gates of his home with

his wife following him behind. If it was any
ordinary day, she wouldn't have seen the home
clearly but it was almost month-end and the
moon was bright. She was amazed. She left this
man living with his father and struggling to
create his own wealth as his father had
challenged him. And today, he had such a
beautiful home. The yard was fenced beautifully,
and the huts and houses were in perfect order.
It wasn't mere small huts and houses; they were
beautifully built and big.
"You have cows now," she commented as they
passed the cattle pen that was in the middle of
the family home.
He smiled, "yes, I have cows and your youngest
son has sheep. His sheepfold is closer to his
garden." He pointed at the direction of
Mhlabunzima's garden.
"He has a garden?"
"Yes, he loves gardening." Xulu unlocked the
kitchen hut and led her inside.
She couldn't believe this was the kitchen in the
rural areas. It was organised and had beautiful
accessories. Where did Xulu learn to organise a
home and a house like this? Did he find a
woman or did the children do it?
"Sit down. Your daughter cooks, we'll eat her
food," Xulu said and gave her a chair. He put it
next to his bench that was by the door.
"You still love sitting by the door?"
He chuckled and dished up the food for her and
him, "yes, I haven't changed much." He served
her on a tray and they enjoyed the meal by
Ngenzeni - their daughter.
"I can't believe a toddler I left behind is a
woman who cooks such good food," she was
ashamed. Why didn't she stick with him and be
part of his growth? She would have seen him
and held his hand as he accumulated his wealth.
"And all these things you have achieved."
"I didn't achieve them alone but I worked
together with our children," he smiled at her and
Esther smiled back. It was amazing that he was
seated next to her and having a meal with her.
He'd dreamt of this moment, the moment he
would enjoy all his achievements with her. She
broke his heart and he believed only she would
mend it and it turned out, she didn't break his
heart intentionally.
After eating and having a drink, they walked out
of the kitchen. She followed him to his house.
Ngenzeni was looking at them through her
window and she couldn't see who was that
woman following her father. She walked out of
the hut and rushed to Mhlabunzima's house.
They had dinner without him again tonight and
he returned with a woman.
"Yini?" (What is it?) Mhlabunzima asked as he
allowed his sister inside the house.
Ngenzeni sat on the sofa, "you won't believe it! I
saw your father with a woman. They entered the
kitchen and followed each other to his house."
Mhlabunzima shrugged, "so?"
"Huh, how can he date so old?"
"Ngenzeni, awujoli nje uhlalele ukugada abantu
abajolayo?" (You're not dating because you
want to keep tabs on people who are dating?)
"No, but dad!"
"No, go and sleep, let him date and maybe he'll
stay out of my business. He'll focus on his
girlfriend," Mhlabunzima showed her the door.
She stood up, "can you even hear that? An old
man with a girlfriend."
"Yes, he has a girlfriend because his wife left
him." He closed the door after his sister. He
didn't care about his father's private life.

The last time she was with him they were

sleeping on a three quarter bed after years of
sleeping on the floor and now, a double bed!
Xulu was sleeping on such a comfortable bed in
the rural areas? He was no longer putting
clothes on the trunk but inside the wardrobe?
Where did he get money? Where was he
working with children?
She changed into a pink satin lace night dress
and she tied her head wrap. She was changing
before a mirror that was inside the wardrobe.
Xulu was seated on the bed reading a
newspaper. She was still in disbelief but twenty
seven years was a long time.
"Are you going to read the newspaper in bed?"
She asked and joined him in bed, even the bed
covers had a fresh smell.
He folded the newspaper, "no, I was reading the
page I didn't finish."
"Xulu, why didn't you get married again? Look at
everything that you own." Esther enquired. She
couldn't understand why he never got married
again.
"I didn't have time for women. I will switch off
the lights and we should rest."
She looked down and had a small smile as her
eyes passed by his healthy erection. He was
over 55 years old and still looked good and
healthy. He was only wearing shorts.
They laid their heads on the pillows and faced
each other. Xulu had turned on the bedside
lamp, "your house is organised and the kitchen,
who was setting up?"
He chuckled, "it's Ngenzeni and Kusakusa's
girlfriend, the one he wanted to make his first
wife. Most of the furniture is second hand from
white people we worked for with Mnguni. In the
beginning, I would work and be paid by being
given furniture. That's what I asked for and
once I was done I asked for money, built other
huts. Mhlabunzima extended his house with his
own money. Kusakusa also built his home with
his earnings but I helped him because he was
starting from scratch."
"So, you no longer work for them?"
"No, I have retired."
Why did she leave this man? He was always
determined but he was unfortunate, back then
things didn't work out no matter what he tried, "I
am sorry I wasn't with you all those years and
the way I left. I had no choice."
"You're a good mother. You chose to keep the
children safe. I just wish you can come back
home, let's fix things," he said softly and Esther
moved closer to him.
"What if they don't accept me?"
"You're their mother, they will. Yazi MaSibiya
ngoba ulele eduze kwami ngathi ngiyaphupha
negazi selivele lashisa, umuhle mkami
awukashintshi," Xulu complimented his wife.
His tone of voice changed. Her presence was
giving him a change of mood. He'd never felt
like this in years.
"Kukhona yini okudingayo kimi Xulu?" Esther
was feeling hot herself, she was taken back to
the best moments she had with Xulu. The man
she left Xulu for, he wasn't like Xulu. He was a
real rooster that never satisfied her needs. One,
two, he would be done and satisfied. It didn't
matter whether she was satisfied or not, she
stayed because he was working a good paying
job.
"Ngizolincikisa emathangeni akho abushelelezi,"
(I will only put on your thighs) Xulu said, his
hand was on her smooth thighs.
"Ngilicela phakathi, baba kaKusakusa."
Xulu didn't waste time but he kissed his wife's
tender lips. He didn't rush the kiss, feelings he
had buried, awakened. This was his wife!
It didn't take long, after the heated kiss, Xulu
was on top of his wife and he was reminding
her who he was. He was reminding her of the
good old times. And truly, Esther was taken
down memory lane. She remembered why she
didn't leave Xulu sooner. She didn't want to lose
this joy and years later, he was still good.
Xulu was lost in the moment and had forgotten
that he wasn't young anymore. When his wife
reached her orgasm, Xulu's pace changed. He
thrust fast, this twisted his waist badly when he
tried to circle it while on her and he cried out in
pain as his bones cracked.
"Aybo, Xulu are you fine?" Esther asked as Xulu
winced in pain while holding his lower back.
"Iqolo! Ey, ey!" He cried out and slowly removed
himself from her.
Esther jumped out of bed and quickly looked for
the ointment and she attentively rubbed him
where he was hurt. He was lying on the bed on
his stomach.
"You were supposed to take it easy," Esther
advised, she was seated on the bed rubbing him
- as naked as she was.
"Ngeqiwe injabulo," (I was overly excited)
She smiled, "you'll wake up better. Let's rest
now." She assisted him, tucking him in bed like
a baby and she joined him. She fell asleep with
a smile. She last had an orgasm when she was
with him!
In the morning, happy Esther woke up very early
and prepared a full breakfast for Xulu before the
children could wake up. She assisted him sit up
on the bed and left him having his breakfast.
She didn't want them to see her, yet.

Ngenzeni and Mhlabunzima were having

breakfast in the morning without their father.
Ngenzeni badly wanted to discuss their father
suddenly dating and this relationship that made
him not eat with them. But she was scared
Mhlabunzima would ignore her.
"Your father-"
Ngenzeni stopped talking as their father walked
in using a walking stick. They looked at him and
at each other.
"What happened, baba?" Ngenzeni asked.
Mhlabunzima looked at his father as his father
was holding his lower back. He lost all appetite
as the thought of the reason that might have
made him hurt his back. He clicked his tongue,
his father didn't hear him. He stood up with his
food and headed to the table. He didn't even
want to finish the food anymore.
"Mhlabunzima, drive me to Mnguni. I won't be
able to walk," Xulu requested before his son
could leave.
He stopped by the door and turned to him, "now,
baba? He asked, annoyed.
"Yes, now." He followed him out. He looked at
Ngenzeni, "clean my house and those dishes
there. I had my breakfast."
"Who prepared breakfast for you because it
seems you're sick?" Ngenzeni asked.
"Don't ask me questions."
Mhlabunzima headed to his house to get the
keys. He was upset, his father was involving
him now when he was sick… He wasn't there
when he was breaking his waist.
UMCEBO

Chapter 94

***Chapter sponsored by Tholakele Mlangeni***

Xulu walked inside the kitchen in the morning

and found Mhlabunzima making tea. Ngenzeni
was still sleeping. It was still early and he didn't
think he would find any of his children awake.
"Ngenzwel'umusa, unjani?"
Mhlabunzima kept quiet. He pretended like he
couldn't hear him. He couldn't understand why
he was addressing him like that? He'd been
forever Mhlabunzima to him and the second
name was only on his Identity document. He
knew he was given the name by his mother and
he didn't care - he preferred the horrible first
name over the name he was given by the
woman who abandoned him.
"Can't you hear me talking?" He took the cup
and stood next to him.
"I am Mhlabunzima. I don't recognise that name.
I didn't think you were addressing me," he
responded and took some bread.
"That's your name and you were given that
name by your mother. She was-"
He looked at him, "baba, I don't care why she
gave me the name."
"This anger you have towards your mother is
not healthy. You're worse than your other
siblings-"
He took the plate and tea cup, "baba, I am going
to the gardens today. I will come back during
the day. Why are you up so early?"
Xulu huffed. He was stressed by his wife being
back. He didn't know how the children were
going to receive her. He knew Kusakusa was
going to receive his mother well but he wasn't
sure about Mhlabunzima and Ngenzeni.
He had tea and bread, and when Mhlabunzima
was gone he walked out of the premises. It was
after 6am and the streets were busy with
workers going to the bus and children going to
school.
In no time, Xulu was opening the gate of the
Sibiya homestead. The grass was almost
reaching the huts' falling doors, it was showing
that there was nobody who lived home.
He knocked on the only hut left standing. It was
built with blocks, the other huts were no longer
suitable for anyone to live inside.
"Who is it?"
He could hear by the projection of her voice that
she was scared. She wasn't expecting anyone,
"it's Goba!"
"Xulu?"
"Yes, open, I am here to see you." He waited and
the door was opened. He walked inside the hut.
There was no bed, her suitcases were stacked
together and there was a small table with a
basin that had dishes on top..
"Where do you cook?" He remained standing.
The hut didn't even have a bench or a chair. He
looked at her body, she was slim and her body
was wrapped in a white satin gown. She was
still a lover of beautiful things. Xulu noted.
"I always make fire in the hut that was a kitchen.
I only cook and bring the food here." She
explained and remained standing with him, "I
don't even have a chair. I will go take that bench
where I cook. You didn't warn me that you're
coming." She walked out.
When she returned, she returned with a small
bench and Xulu sat down. She sat back on the
straw mat.
"I am sorry to come this early but I wasn't at
rest with this living condition." Xulu said, looking
around. He was taken back when he was living
in a single hut with his three children. Where
was she? She was in the city, she said she was
struggling but he wasn't even sure if she was
telling the truth. Or she was lying to him.
"I will find a job and it'll be like a home again. I
wish I could see my children but I am scared,"
Esther said.
Xulu took out his wallet and he gave Esther
money, "find children who'll clean the yard and
pay them and with the rest of the money, buy
what you'll need."
She smiled and pretended not to want the
money, "no, Xulu I can't take your money and I
am sure I can find-"
"I will leave the money on the floor."
She quickly took the money after his words.
"Thank you, gxabhashe. I will put it into good
use."
"I don't know if you know where I live now but I
no longer live at home like I told you what
happened after you left," Xulu glanced at her.
He remembered how she cried when he told
him about how difficult things were for him and
the children. "I want you to come home and I
will show you around. You'll also meet the
children because you want to meet them."
"Xulu, I am scared of how they'll react."
"You can't keep hiding here, MaSibiya. You'll
eventually have to face them unless you don't
care about them," Xulu raised his voice as he
didn't understand what was there to be scared
of! She had to face them and get it over and
done with.
"Please, give me some time."
He stood up, "I will come and take you later. I
will show you home, you're still my wife and
that's also your home. That's if you didn't
remarry and had other children."
"No, I only have children with you and I am still
called by Esther Xulu as I changed my surname
by law," Esther said honestly.
He stood up, "I will see you when I come. I am
not sure if it'll be today or tomorrow."
"Alright, I will look for boys who will clean the
yard today and go to the markets," she informed
him of his plans. He nodded and left her. Esther
looked at the money on her hands. Xulu had
never given her so much money in her life and
even the man she was living with in the city, he
never gave her so much money. Was it true that
Xulu was now counted amongst wealthy men in
the village? She had to go and see where he
lived with the children.
***
"Can you open up the burglar for me? I want to
walk inside and look for what I need,"
Kusakusa's wife said to Lily with an attitude.
She was standing behind the locked burglar of
Mnguni's pharmacy. Lily kept it locked because
most people didn't walk in. They would only tell
her what they needed, pay and leave. She only
opened it when the customer requested that
she opened.
"Why can't you tell me what you need?" Lily gave
her the attitude back.
She clapped once, "is that how you treat your
customers?"
"I don't have customers."
"I will go tell Mnguni you don't want to open for
me," she was angry. She wasn't really at the
shop to buy but she was here to confront Lily.
She couldn't ignore what she did. She went to
Mhlabunzima.
Lily had no choice but to open up for her, "you'll
make it fast." When she turned to her, she was
met by a sharp slap and like someone who was
expecting it - Lily slapped her back.
"You little witch! You have rushed to tell
Mhlabunzima that I wanted to help you?" She
wasn't affected by her weak slap and she threw
another slap. When Lily tried to fight back. She
held her hand.
Lily was panting from the two sharp slaps that
made her cheek itch with pain. It was also like
she was under electric shock, "are you out of
your mind? Why would I do that? You're a liar,
Dorothy! You're the one who told Mhlabunzima,"
Lily screamed at her and she saw the eyes of
Kusakusa's wife turning red with anger. They
held each by their clothes, the other stopping
the other from fighting.
"I will never help you, Lily! You're useless!"
Kusakusa's wife screamed.
Lily held her tighter, "you're two faced!"
They stopped fighting when they heard
someone laughing outside and they said,
"ibambe ngakho, bathakathi!"
"Who's that?" Kusakusa's wife whispered.
"It's Zinhloso!" Lily whispered back.
The wife clicked her tongue and headed to the
door, "I wish you never get him back because
you're stupid!" She clicked her tongue and left
her. Lily was left wondering - what happened?
****
After he finished working in the gardens,
Mhlabunzima drove to the river. He fetched
water for his chickens at the shop and he
dropped the water on the large water container
he kept there. He drove home to take a bath.
And drove back to the shop, looking clean and
fresh.
When he returned to the shop, he was greeted
by Nkunzi seated on the bench outside. He
chuckled, "you are brave!"
Nkunzi quickly stood up at the sound of his
voice. He had run and hid in his maternal home
until he realised he had to face Mhlabunzima.
"Xulu, Gxabhashe, Donda? I have come to you to
face you like a man."
"Follow me," he walked inside the shop and
Nkunzi followed him beyond the counter,
straight to his office.
Mhlabunzima quickly turned to Nkunzi as he
closed the door. Nkunzi was taller than him, he
was also buffy but that didn't stop
Mhlabunzima from jumping on his neck.
Mhlabunzima's feet left the ground. His body
weight was supported by Nkunzi's body that he
was strangling, "do you know the damage you
almost did by what you did to her?"
Nkunzi could hear the question but he was
being strangled and could not talk back. He was
getting sweaty and he was scrunching his face.
"I would have lost and what were you going to
gain? Answer me!" He screamed and he only let
go when he saw only the eyeball with no pupil
showing. He jumped back down and Nkunzi
coughed uncontrollably, holding his neck.
Mhlabunzima walked to his table. He turned to
him and gave him a glass of water. Nkunzi took
the glass.
"I hate what you did and it's not only because
you did it to Zinhloso. I hate it because you
went against my word," Mhlabunzima said to
the coughing Nkunzi.
"I - am - sorry. I won't - do - it again!"
He clicked his tongue, "her father wants you and
you better face him like a man too." He said.
"I will go."
"Good, you can leave!" He pointed to the door
and took his glass. He didn't want to do much
to him because there was Mnguni! He was at
peace that he had seen him and he was certain
he must have seen the faces of his ancestors
when what he could only see in his eyes were
only the eyeball with no pupil showing.
UMCEBO
Chapter 96

****Chapter sponsored by Lee***

"Do you need me to help you to his healing hut?"

Mhlabunzima asked his father after parking the
car inside the Mnguni homestead.
Xulu opened the door, "no, son, I will go on my
own." He headed to the hut and found a woman
waiting outside. He sat down and waited with
her until his turn came.
"Xulu, what has happened?" Mnguni asked and
he laughed as his friend cried out, trying to sit
on the straw mat.
"Ey, I met this woman again…." He told him
about meeting Esther again and where she was
living, the condition she was living under.
"So, Xulu, you just accepted her that easily and
even broke your waist trying to satisfy her?"
Mnguni was surprised at his way of doing
things.
He huffed, "I know but it's been years and I think
everything happened fast. I was overjoyed
because I only have her in my heart and I
believe she can mend my heart that she broke
by leaving me."
"I understand that, Xulu. We all have that type of
woman but you were supposed to follow the
right channels before breaking your waist,"
Mnguni advised, "you're back home to your
father now, call a family meeting, tell him your
wife is back and this is what she says. The
family will talk, she's been with another man,
make her pay a fine and after she's paid
slaughter an animal and welcome her into your
new home. Live happily with her."
He realised his mistake, "but how is she going
to get money to pay the fine?"
"She'll get it if she's serious about coming back
into your life and if she's really sorry about what
happened. I know your sister didn't like her but
she didn't strike me as someone who would
have chased a mother away from her children,"
Mnguni shared his opinion.
"You mean she might be lying. She has realised
that man wasn't good for her and now, she's
back?"
Mnguni nodded, "it might be possible."
"I will follow your advice but I am not ready to
inform the children about her. I should heal first
before they figure out I broke my waist trying to
satisfy their mother," Xulu said and they
laughed with Mnguni.
"If that's what you want to do it's okay but don't
take long. Talk to her, tell your children and tell
your father. Do things right and if she doesn't
want to follow these protocols you'll know she's
not genuine," he said and stood up after Xulu
had agreed to do what he'd said. He found the
medicine for him, put it before his feet and gave
him instructions.
"Akubongwa!" He clapped hands and Mnguni
walked him out.
"How did Kusakusa take the rejection from the
bosses?" Mnguni asked.
"He was angry and he was suspecting that I told
them to reject him even after Hendricks called
him," Xulu responded.
"He'll be fine. He should get a job because his
brother doesn't even need a job, he's making his
own money," Mnguni suggested. Mhlabunzima
greeted Mnguni and he greeted back.
"You're right. I will see you, Mnguni." They shook
hands. He stepped inside the car and his son
drove out of the premises.
***
"When we were cleaning the yards and other
ramshackled huts we found this box," the boy
who was working for Esther cleaning the yard
handed the locked box to her. It had a small
padlock hanging on it.
She could recognise the box, it belonged to her
father and that was where he kept money and
letters. She was excited, hoping she would find
money inside. "Quickly, open it for me."
The boy took the hoe and he destroyed the box.
The metal was starting to rust out and it didn't
take long for it to be destroyed and Esther was
disappointed to find just one letter inside. She
opened the letter and was pleased when she
realised it was written in Isizulu. She could read
and write in Isizulu, not other languages. The
letter was folded in plastic and was written with
the best ink. Her father was a classic man. He
loved beautiful things and worked a good job
but he retired due to illness. Esther heard from
a villager that her father had died. When she left
Xulu he was still alive and working.

**To anyone who'll find this letter, hoping it's

any of my children.

I was blessed with daughters only and they all

got married, leaving me alone. I am not blaming
them, I married them off as it was my dream
and my wife's dream. Now, I am old and can't
take care of my little wealth. I have decided to
give my ten cows to an honest woman in the
village to keep them for me. MaDuma, the
prophetess, promised me to keep my wealth to
honour my dying wish.
Should any of my children fail in marriage and
come back home, they should take this wealth
and live comfortably. Keep it, and grow it even
for the next generations.
This is my love as a father
Sibiya."
Esther couldn't believe her eyes, this meant
she'd been in the city the last three years
struggling because her man had retired and
spent his retirement money with a mistress.
She had such wealth back home? This meant
she could take these cows, sell them and live
comfortably in the city. But - Xulu!
She looked at the boy and gave him money. She
paid him extra, "thank you for finding this letter
you've done me a huge favour. I love your work,
my yard is clean." She was pleased by their
work. The boys took the money and left happy.
Esther's face changed when she saw this man
walking through the gates. She was annoyed by
his sight, medium height and chubby light
skinned man.
"Why do you look like you're angry to see me,
darling?"
His throaty voice that she once found attractive
was annoying, "why did you come here? Are you
out of your mind? I don't want to be seen with
you." She quickly headed inside the hut and he
followed her inside.
"I want what you owe me, Esther. Did you see
what I told you? Your husband is wealthy now,
so steal cows from him and pay me back the
money you stole from me. I have a woman and
a child to look after," he said, holding her wrist
roughly, "I have been with you for years and you
failed to give me a child."
She swallowed saliva uncomfortably, how could
she forget how this man hurt her? He retired,
cheated on her leaving her in the house they
lived in with no money and food for months?
Only to learn that he had a girlfriend he had
made pregnant. A young woman. When she
found his hidden money, she stole it and he
threatened her with the police if she didn't pay
him. He was the one who gave her the
information that her husband was wealthy and
she should steal from him, pay him back his
money. Only then, they would go their separate
ways.
"I am still trying to warm my way back into his
life. I can't just steal from him like that. Do you
want me to die?" She shouted at him. She hated
this man for what he did to her. He hurt her and
he knew she couldn't have any more children.
He was using that against her, as an excuse to
hurt her.
"You better make it fast! One month is enough. I
want what's due to me." He twisted her wrist
and let go when she was crying in pain. He
opened the door and walked out. He slammed
the door shut.
She sat down on the bench and looked at her
father's letter, "I feel like I have been given a
second chance. You have given me a second,
baba. Thank you." She closed her eyes and
tears streamed down her cheeks. She was
regretful and she didn't know how things were
going to turn out for her. But she knew she
wanted her husband back, she wanted her
family back.

She was setting up the paraffin stove she

bought after she had cleaned the hut and set it
up nicely, adding the accessories she bought
with the money Xulu gave her.
"Who is it?" She looked back at the door. She
wasn't expecting any visitors and she was
certain they had spoken enough with her ex-
boyfriend.
"It's Xulu!"
She quickly got up and opened the door, "what
are you doing here? You got injured and you've
walked such a distance." She quickly gave him
the chair she bought.
Xulu sat down, "Mhlabunzima, dropped me off
nearby and don't worry he doesn't know I was
coming here. Did you go to town?"
"Yes, a van dropped me some time back. I
bought a paraffin stove and I will cook using it
now," she poured the paraffin, "I will make some
lunch for you because you're already here."
"If you can agree that we fix things you don't
have to live like this and live alone," Xulu said.
She worked on cooking the few pieces of
chicken she bought to cook only today because
she didn't have a fridge. "People are already
judging me a lot for leaving I don't want them -"
"I don't care about what people say but I will
care about what you think and what our children
will say," Xulu stopped her from talking further,
"I want us to do things right but only if you're
serious about our marriage but if you're back to
break my heart again. I don't know what I will
do."
She looked down in shame. This man had
always been for her and her alone, "where are
we going to start? Where will I start because I
am the one who wronged you?"
Xulu told her everything Mnguni advised him to
do and he was nervous when he told her
because he didn't know whether she was going
to accept him or not…
***
"Baba, you should teach me more about herbs
that are good for the skin. Can you see? I am
creating another cream for Nobuhle. She'll take
it when she comes back home." Zinhloso said
to her father. They were seated under the tree.
She was preparing the aloe for a face gel.
Mnguni was seated on the bench having the
cakes she baked and a cold drink. "Do you want
to make more face creams?"
"Yes, you see, dad? I will make creams and sell
them to women in the village. I will put some in
Mhlabunzima's shop," she shared with her
father as if she was the one who discovered the
idea but Mhlabunzima was the one who gave
her the idea when he asked her why she wanted
him to get aloe for her. She told him what she
was going to create and he gave her an idea
that was her business because she wanted to
be a business woman but didn't know what
business to do. Zinhloso loved the idea.
Mnguni nodded with a smile, "why are you going
to put it in Mhlabunzima's shop and not in my
pharmacy?"
She laughed, "I can put other creams there but
all the money will come to me. You won't get a
share."
He laughed heartily, "I should get a share
because my employee will be selling your
products. I have to pay her and my shelves
should be rented."
She widened her eyes, "aw, baba!"
"Yes, that's business. What are you learning
from Xulu, kanti?"
"He told me about that and he'll charge me but I
didn't think you'll charge me because I am your
child," she lied. He wasn't going to charge her a
cent.
"You want me to mix business with blood ties. It
won't work," he joked and he laughed at his
daughter's expression.
Lily stood next to Mnguni and she bent a little,
"baba, there's Nkunzi and his mother at the gate.
They're here for you."
He nodded, "I am coming. Please, call
Zinhloso's mother."
Zinhloso stood up with her father, "baba, don't
do anything to him. He doesn't deserve the
energy and a violent man to women like him,"
she shook her head with her lips upturned, "he'll
never get a woman who'll love him. Women
deserve men who are gentle."
Mnguni glanced at his daughter, "mm, I hear you
but let's go hear him out." He walked with her to
the gate wondering about what she'd said. Was
her boyfriend a gentle man? What did she know
about men who are gentle?
Nkunzi's mother greeted Mnguni and his wife.
Nkunzi was next to her looking down, he was
holding a goat by its horns.
"My son came back and told me what had
happened and he asked that I accompany him
to you. I think he'll speak for himself, as his
mother I am really sorry about what happened,"
his mother said, "I don't know where he learnt
that behaviour because as their leader Xulu's
son is against what he did."
"Baba and mama I am sorry for hurting Zinhloso.
I don't know what came over me. I acted out of
character. Please forgive me and I have brought
this goat to apologize for my actions and
spilling her blood."
Mnguni looked at his wife and she nodded, "a
man who realises his mistake is better. I am
pleased that I didn't have to look for you. You
came, on your own. We'll accept the goat, tie it
there."
Nkunzi apologized to Zinhloso and he tied the
goat on the tree closer to the gate. They left.
Mnguni and his wife followed each other back
inside the yards, "he saved himself by coming."
Mnguni breathed and Zinhloso followed them.
UMCEBO
Chapter 97

***Chapter sponsored by Mbali Radebe***

Mhlabunzima was laid back on the chair in his

office reading the book he got from John. He
was enjoying the book and he was getting
blown away, chapter by chapter by the truths he
was learning about pregnant women. He found
himself praying Zinhloso's hormones wouldn't
drive a wedge between them. He had a lot of
hopes and wishes about this pregnancy.
He quickly closed the book, "who is it?" He put
the book inside the table's drawer.
His brother walked in and sat on the chair. They
greeted each other, "what happened? I am
getting a visit from you." Mhlabunzima asked.
He rubbed his nose, "no, I thought I should
come and talk to you about this thing that's
bothering me."
"I am listening."
"I am stressed about generating income since
father has decided that he'll stop this business
and the bosses don't want to work with me," he
shared his worries with his brother. He wanted
to talk to his father but he got angry and
decided he wouldn't confront him. He felt like
his father didn't care much about him but he
only cared about the children, Ngenzeni and
Mhlabunzima. He didn't know whether that was
because he was married and had his own family?
"Don't you have money saved?" He realised,
maybe his father didn't consider Kusakusa
when he made this decision. But it was no
longer safe, he was better struggling than in
danger.
"I have money. It can look after my family for a
whole year but money runs out. You know what
I mean." There was nobody else he could talk to
beside his brother. He hated that he had to
come to him for help but he had a family to feed.
He had to put his pride aside.
"I understand, do you want to have a business
or you want work?"
He chuckled, "a business? I am not like you,
Mhlabunzima and I don't have a College
certificate like you. I want to work. I have
worked before, I have experience."
He nodded, "I will talk to Robert. He easily gets
informed when there are people needed in any
firm or at his workplace." He said. He didn't
want to offer him a job, he was older than him
and he knew it would affect his pride if he
worked for him. And also, he just didn't want
any family members working for him.
Kusakusa was relieved, "I am really grateful. I
will hear from you." The brothers shook hands.
"Did Ngenzeni tell you that your father has a
girlfriend?"
He chuckled, "she told me. Ngenzeni is nosy
and I think your father broke his waist trying to
satisfy his girlfriend."
Kusakusa scrunched his face, "Mhlabunzima!"
He melted into a puddle of laughter, "I can't
have that picture in my mind alone. He even
asked me to drive him to Mnguni. You should
go and see him."
"Sies! Mhlabunzima!" Kusakusa clicked his
tongue and left the office, leaving his brother
laughing. Mhlabunzima proceeded to read his
book after checking out the time - it was after
9am. He was waiting for Zinhloso.
"I bumped into your brother - yini?" Zinhloso
held the door handle as Mhlabunzima was
startled. The book he was reading flew off his
hands and he quickly picked it up.
"Zinhloso! What did we say about knocking?" He
shouted and clicked his tongue. He opened the
drawer and put the book inside, quickly.
She closed the door behind her, "aybo, why were
you so startled like you were doing something
wrong and you got caught?"
He sat down, "don't ask me that question. I told
you to knock before you enter."
"Angimazi umfazi ongqongqoza emzini wakhe,"
(I don't know a woman who knocks in her home)
she said cheekily and she saw a side smile on
his face. "How are you, soka lami?"
He chuckled and stood up, "I am fine sthandwa
sami and how are you?"
Zinhloso hugged him, "I am well. I am late, let's
go and not waste time because we'll pass by
the market."
"Yes," Mhlabunzima took his car keys and wallet.
They used the back entrance to leave the office.

"I almost didn't come because my father

wanted to teach me about herbs and plants that
help with skin problems," Zinhloso told
Mhlabunzima, she was having a large mango by
herself.
"Can't he teach you tomorrow?"
"He wanted to teach me today because he's
leaving soon. I think in a week. I asked him to
teach me tomorrow because the work we'll be
doing today is important," Zinhloso wiped her
mouth with a face cloth she bought.
He laughed, "the work we'll be doing is
important."
She smiled, "yes, our love is important." She
tightened her grip on his hand. "My father told
me noto teach Mzomubi driving and maybe he'll
hear me better."
"Are you going to teach him?"
"Yes, you didn't teach so that I can keep the
knowledge to myself. I should pass it," she
looked at him with love goggles.
His heart was moved, he was certain his
ancestors were with him when he chose
Zinhloso. "I am happy to hear that."
"Nkunzi came and apologized. He brought a
goat. I wasn't expecting that."
He drove through their premises, "that's
impressive and what did your father say?"
"I told him to forgive him and put it behind. They
did that with his wife," she opened the door and
she got out with a single plastic bag and
Mhlabunzima carried the two bags.
They put the bags on top of the table and she
looked at the bedroom side as Mhlabunzima
opened the windows.
"Gxabhashe, do you want me to cook for you,
first?" She asked with eyes focused on the
bedroom.
"Yes, cook. I will open the bedroom windows."
She followed him to the bedroom, "why don't
you greet me properly first? The last time I had
you was after Christmas."
He laughed as he didn't think this was the
reason she was asking him the question, "no,
Zinhloso. We haven't even sweep the floor and
you already want sex. I haven't even been
offered a drink by you but I should give you
sex?"
She was disappointed, "ungilambisa ngento
yami Mhlabunzima?"
He headed to the kitchen side and she followed
him, "I am hungry."
She prepared the food for him, upset. She didn't
get her way and it was always upsetting when
she didn't get her way.
"Ayke, because you're angry, let me go and
clean the yard while you cook. It's dirty outside,"
he walked out with the tools. Zinhloso focused
on cooking, alone. She finished cooking, and
dished up for him. He was still not back from
his cleaning. Zinhloso didn't have much appetite
for salty food and so, she ate the sweet things
she bought. She went to bed.
"Iconsi lizombulala lo!" He shook his head, and
put the plate of food inside the pot with warm
water. He headed out with a bucket of water
and a basin to have a bath while Zinhloso was
sleeping.
When he was done bathing and eating, he sat
on the bed. He took his time staring at her. He
lifted her t-shirt that she was wearing with a
jeans skirt. He touched her tummy, he couldn't
feel anything. It was still normal like there was
no life inside her.
"Don't you want to wake up, now? I am back and
have even taken a bath." He said softly as
Zinhloso had opened her eyes.
"Come closer," she requested and Mhlabunzima
moved closer to her. He kissed her softly…

"I had a good time today and next time when we

return we should try to sleep over. I want to
sleep holding you," Mhlabunzima said to
Zinhloso, giving her the plastic bag of the
goodies she bought.
"I will try once my father has gone back to
Mozambique," she promised and kissed his
cheek. "Goodnight, send my regards to your
father."
She sulked as Mhlabunzima laughed, "why are
you laughing?"
"I am laughing because you know I won't do
that."
"Why? What's wrong with sending regards?"
Zinhloso asked seriously.
"Hhaybo, are you serious?"
"Do I look like I am joking to you?"
"Alright, I will send your regards." He quickly
said so things wouldn't escalate. She walked
away after he'd promised to send her regards.
"Ngathi ngizifake kwenye nje inkinga." He said
and he drove straight home.
He wasn't hungry but he had things he bought
for his sister. He wasn't sure if she was already
sleeping or she was awake. He didn't waste his
time passing by her hut but he went to the
kitchen.
There was a tall slender woman standing
behind the stove, humming a song. He realised
this must be the girlfriend of his father. She was
so lost in the song she was humming she
couldn't even feel or realise that he was in the
hut with her. She must be happy - her man
broke his waist for her. She moved like a happy
woman.
"Sawubona," he wanted to turn back and leave
without her realising his presence. But he
thought - why not?
Esther let out a scream and turned back to the
door. She was in the kitchen preparing Xulu's
medicine as he told her how it's made. She
didn't think there was someone who was going
to come to the kitchen.
"Ngenzelw'umusa!" Esther called out her son.
She didn't have to be told this was him. She
could see this was her last born. He was the
finer version of his father even though he took
his grandfather's height.
He dropped the plastic bag on the floor. He was
seeing the older version of Zodumo. He rubbed
his eyes and opened them again. He widened
them and truly, this his mother. This meant, his
father was back with this woman? How? When?
He didn't say much but as Esther took a step
closer to him, Mhlabunzima walked out. He
rushed to Ngenzeni's hut. Esther was left calling
out for him but he didn't stop.
"Mhlabunzima?" She knew his knock.
"Yes, come and see wonders! Your father's
girlfriend."
Ngenzeni came out of the hut like she had been
waiting for this moment, "really?" She laughed
and followed Mhlabunzima. She was excited.
She was going to see her father's girlfriend.
But when she reached the hut, all the
excitement was washed off her face, "mama!"
She screamed and held her mouth, she was
shocked that such a word was coming out of
her mouth. It was not because she was talking
to a village woman out of respect but it was her
own mother.
Esther was on the floor gathering the things
Mhlabunzima dropped, "Ngenzeni?"
"What are you doing here?" Ngenzeni screamed
and voluntarily, tears came out of her eyes.
Before Esther could answer, Xulu walked inside
the kitchen hut, "what's going on here?" Xulu
asked his daughter, "why are you shouting at
your mother?"
"My mother?" She pointed to her chest, "what is
she doing in our home?"
"She's my wife. You don't have a right to ask
that question."
"We have every right. You didn't build this home
alone and lo," Mhlabunzima pointed at his
mother, "she was not there!"
"Who are you addressing as lo?" Xulu asked him,
taking a step closer.
"I am addressing her. Usuzongishaya
ungishayele-" truly, he received a hot slap.
"Xulu!" Esther quickly held his shoulder.
He pointed at Mhlabunzima, "there's no child
here that disrespects me like this one. I am sure
he thinks we're of the same age! If he's not
listening to what I tell him not to do, he's back
chatting me!"
"He has a right to be angry, let him be!"
"He has every right to be angry, emzini
kabani?(in whose house?)" He shouted,
Mhlabunzima was just looking down, "this is my
yard and anyone who has a problem with my
wife. The gates are opened, go where your heart
desires."
He clenched his jaws and walked out of the hut.
Ngenzeni followed him.
"Where are you going?"
He opened the door of his car, "to bhuti
Kusakusa!" He started the car and Ngenzeni
took the passenger seat.
UMCEBO

Chapter 98

Mhlabunzima knocked on the door of their

brother's house. Ngenzeni was behind him and
she was no longer crying.
Kusakusa opened the door, "what's wrong?" He
asked and allowed his siblings inside the house.
He sat on the single sofa and waited for an
answer. He could see they were upset.
Mhlabunzima was angry.
"So, dad kicked us out," Mhlabunzima answered
his brother.
"Why?"
"That's because we didn't welcome your mother
with open arms."
He frowned, "what do you mean?"
"We've been talking about his girlfriend. It's
actually not a girlfriend but his wife,"
Mhlabunzima broke the news that shocked his
brother.
Kusakusa remained quiet trying to process
what he'd been told, "are you sure?" He also
looked at Ngenzeni. She was only two years old
but at least she'd seen her unlike Mhlabunzima
who wasn't even a year old.
"Yes, we're sure. It's her, Mhlabunzima was the
one who saw in the kitchen and he called me,"
Ngenzeni clearly narrated, "she was there,
cooking. I don't know what she was cooking
because I have cooked."
He wiped the sweat off his face with his hand
and he looked down, "so, dad didn't understand
your feelings towards her return?" He looked at
Mhlabunzima.
"He probably wanted us to smile and hug her.
He didn't even listen to his wife when she told
him we have every right to be angry. He told us
not in his house, we should leave and we're
here," Mhlabunzima concluded.
He nodded, he had mixed feelings. He was
angry at his father for reacting this bad. His
siblings weren't wrong but as an adult he was
wrong. He was angry at his mother. Where has
she been? But he was a little happy. Maybe her
return would give him the tender love of a
parent he never felt from his father.
"Please, go to sleep and we'll go to them in the
morning," he stood up and looked for the keys
to his father's hut. He gave the keys to
Mhlabunzima and the other keys to his wife's
hut, he gave them to Ngenzeni.
"Where's your wife?" Ngenzeni asked.
"She's sleeping here with the children."
"Alright, goodnight."
They walked out and headed their separate
ways.
Kusakusa joined his wife back in bed. She was
awake, "did you hear that?"
"Yes, and how do you feel?" She asked.
He shook his head, "I am sure. I will know after
talking to her."
"I hope she's genuine and back with good
intentions." She said and Kusakusa nodded. He
got up, switched off the lights and they
proceeded to sleep.

Early in the morning, Mhlabunzima gave

Kusakusa the car and he was driving. He was
driving slowly and Mhlabunzima was looking at
him closely.
"You're better than before now," Mhlabunzima
complimented.
He smiled, proud, "yes, I think this car is easier
than the ones from the driving school."
He laughed, "you need to stop being nervous
and you'll be a professional sooner. You might
even get a driving job just take your lessons
seriously."
"You're right," he parked the car inside the
premises and Ngenzeni sighed, "what?"
"It's a short drive but I was holding my breath,"
she said and they laughed as they got out of the
car.
They all headed to the kitchen where the door
was opened. Kusakusa led them inside and he
was certain this was his mother. Esther was in
the kitchen making breakfast for her husband.
She was making it extra because she
suspected her children would come back. She
wasn't expecting the children so soon.
"Mama?"
Esther smiled, nervously, her eldest was so
grown. He was a man. They were all grown, the
children she left behind for her selfish reasons.
How cruel! She realised as she looked at them
that they never fully experienced her love. Was
there a chance for her to make amends?
"Kusakusa?"
He went closer and touched her face. He
couldn't believe it. "Is it really you?"
"Yes," she looked ahead as her husband walked
inside the kitchen.
Xulu grabbed his chair, "it's a good thing you
came. Let's talk."
Esther switched off the stove and everyone
grabbed a chair.
"I hate what you two did last night. You left at
night," Xulu pointed at Mhlabunzima and
Ngenzeni.
Ngenzeni raised her head, "but you chased us
out because of your wife. You chose her over us,
us, the people who've been with you since day
one."
"Don't talk to me like that."
Esther put her hand on his shoulder, "let her
express herself." She said and Xulu calmed
down. She looked at the children. She focused
on Kusakusa who was actually looking at her, "I
think I should explain myself."
Esther told her children the same sob story she
told her husband about her sister in-law
threatening her. She was crying by the time she
was done with talking. Kusakusa was touched
and the two, Ngenzeni, had mixed emotions.
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "ayi sizodlalwa o-clever
baseGoli ke manje!" (We'll be played by the
city's smarty pants now)
Esther quickly held Xulu as he wanted to charge
at Mhlabunzima. "Calm down!"
"I don't buy your story. Why didn't my aunt kill
you before you married her brother if she was
that evil?" Mhlabunzima asked his mother.
"It was going to be obvious because everyone
knew that she hated me," she wiped her tears
with her doek.
"And all these years you were living with your
saviour man?"
"Mhlabunzima! Speak with respect!" Xulu
shouted at him.
He looked at his father, "what respect? I don't
have respect for someone who abandoned me
as a baby."
"I am sorry, my son. I am sorry to all of you my
children but please give me a chance to make
amends," she begged. She had to stay with her
family and be a mother she failed to be years
back. She also had to be the wife Xulu deserved.
Which man was going to accept her with open
arms like he'd done? "I know I won't be forgiven
today but please give me a chance to earn your
forgiveness."
Kusakusa stood up and stood before his
mother. "I give you a chance but if you hurt us
again I promise I will break the ancient law of
our forefathers as Zulu people, I will be the first
to spill my mother's blood in this village," he
threatened out of fear, fear that she might leave
them again.
"Kusakusa!"
Esther stopped Xulu as she understood her
son's feelings and she wasn't willing to
disappoint them anymore. Why would she
choose the beauty of the world above them,
again? She stood up and hugged her son, "thank
you, my son and I promise I won't disappoint
you. I won't leave you again. I will die here and
you'll bury me next to your father."
"Welcome home, mama." The grown man cried
as he received his mother's warmth that he
hadn't felt in years. He felt like a child again and
he was genuinely happy.
Mhlabunzima wasn't moved but he understood
his brother. He knew Esther as a mother and he
surely had missed her love. That was normal.
Kusakusa turned to his siblings, "please,
Ngenzeni, Mhlabunzima, stay at home and give
our mother a chance. She's sorry."
"I will stay at home but I am not sure about
giving her a chance." Ngenzeni breathed.
Kusakusa looked at Mhlabunzima. He was
expecting anything from him, "Mhlaba?"
He raised his eyes and they were carrying hurt,
years of pain and heartache, "I don't blame you
guys, she's your mother and you've experienced
her love and warmth. That's something I have
never experienced, I don't even remember her
tender touch. I have never uttered the word,
'mama' all my life,
"I only recognise you, Kusakusa and dad, and as
people who raised me. And also my sister
because she's been taking care of us here but
her," he pointed at his mother and shook his
head, "I don't know her. I don't have not a even a
single memory of her. So, what chance should I
give her? I can never miss something I have
never experienced in my life, a mother's love.
Please, accept her and be happy but I can't live
with a woman who abandoned me." He quickly
wiped a single tear.
"Mhlabunzima-"
He stood up and he wasn't moved by his
mother wailing, "no, I am good. UXulu
ubesengixoshile vele emzini wakhe wakhetha
umfazi wakhe." He walked out of the hut and
headed to his house.
He found a bag and neatly packed his clothes.
He knew he wasn't going to be able to pack
them all.
Kusakusa walked in, "Mhlabunzima, what you're
doing is wrong. There's no need for you to leave.
Where are you going to go?"
"Don't we have another home now except for
this one?" He put two pairs of shoes in a plastic
bag and packed them. He closed his bag once it
was full.
"Come on!"
He headed to his living room, opened his safe
and took some cash. He didn't open the safe
fully because he wasn't alone. "I will come to
you after I have spoken to Robert. I will see him
today because it's Sunday." He locked the door.
Kusakusa was defeated.
Ngenzeni followed him to the car. Her father
was comforting their crying mother inside the
hut, "but there's no need to leave. You can stay
here and avoid her. This is your home,
Mhlabunzima. This home is what it is today
because of all our hard work."
"Your father forgot that when he chased us out,
right?" He started the car and drove out. He
drove to his grandfather. He needed to tell him
what happened…
****
Our sponsor is back asking for likes/reactions
on their post. Last time we reached the target.
Can those who have not participated help
like/react?

500likes/reactions for a bonus.. it should be

1.6k in the end
Link:

https://www.facebook.com/100016963742769
/posts/1164583224117125/?app=fbl

Thank you
UMCEBO

Chapter 99

***Chapter sponsored by Mbali Radebe***

Mhlabunzima found his grandfather in his

house listening to the radio. He looked much
better, he'd been better since his youngest son,
Goba returned home. He felt at peace and
wanted to accept death with open arms but he
wasn't dying.
"Mzukuli," grandpa was happy to see his
grandson. They shook hands and he showed
him the seat next to him.
"Mkhulu, this is not a social visit."
"What's wrong? What has your father done?"
Grandpa asked, he knew Xulu might have done
something to the boy.
He took a deep breath and narrated the whole
situation to his grandfather. "Dad said we can
leave. I have decided to leave. I don't know if I
am welcome here," he glanced at his
grandfather and he could see on his face a
shock, mixed with anger. He could have easily
driven to his place and stayed there but he
didn't want to do that. He had another home
now and as a good child, it was best to come to
his grandfather. He also didn't want to be far
from Zinhloso, yes, he would drive to the village
daily because of businesses. And the issue of
ancestors, he had to be respectful about this
issue.
"Yes, Mhlabunzima! Why would you even ask?
This is your home." Grandpa said and shook his
head, "I really don't know what is wrong with
your father."
They both raised their heads and Xulu walked in
followed by both his children but without his
wife. Kusakusa was the one who told him
Mhlabunzima was going to their grandfather.
He left his wife home and they followed
Mhlabunzima by foot. It wasn't very far but it
was also not close.
"Go and call your aunt and father, they're home.
We'll talk about this," grandpa instructed
Mhlabunzima and he stood up.
"Baba, please don't welcome him here but send
him back home," Xulu pleaded with his father
but grandpa only raised his hand and shook his
head.
"Let's wait for your siblings to get here and we'll
talk," Grandpa said and he held a conversation
with Ngenzeni and Kusakusa, completely
ignoring his son.
Mhlabunzima returned with two of his uncles
and aunt Maria. They sat down and grandpa
told them what Mhlabunzima had told him.
"I am asking if any of you know about this? Did
your sister threaten MaSibiya?" Grandpa asked
his shocked children. They were shocked that
Esther was back after so many years and she
had made such allegations.
"I won't lie, baba I don't know but I don't trust
Esther. My sister was everything but not
someone who would threaten to kill, kill her
brother's children?" The eldest Xulu son raised
his view. He was home by chance, all the sons
had their homes with their wives. Xulu as the
last born was supposed to be the only son
remaining home but he was chased out.
Grandpa lived with his unmarried daughter,
Maria. The other two daughters were married
and he also lived with five grandchildren from
his sons. The grandchildren were also three
grown young men and two young women. They
were all working. Other grandchildren lived with
their parents. Grandpa had a big family in total.
Aunt Maria supported her brother, "yes, baba
our sister wouldn't have done that. Goba was
her favourite sibling and she also assisted him
with the children before you chased him out.
Mhlabunzima slept with her at night, if not with
mom."
"Maybe she was doing that out of guilt," Xulu
said and there was a commotion in the house.
Grandpa shouted and they stopped arguing.
Grandpa looked at his son, "Goba, if your wife
wants to come back she must do so without
lying and she must pay a fine for the shame she
put you in. A cow, that's what she must pay and
you must not give her that cow you'll anger the
ancestors."
"Yebo, baba! I have already told her and she'll do
that," Xulu said and looked at his father, "I just
want my son to come home. He's not forced to
get along with his mother but he must come
home."
"But he's also home here," Maria commented
and her brother gave her a glare and she
remained quiet.
Grandpa looked at Mhlabunzima, "Mhlaba?
What do you say?"
"I am not going there and if I don't have a place
here I will see where to go."
The eldest uncle shook his head, "Goba! These
children were with you through thick and thin,
not even us but them."
"I know but I want a complete family. That's all I
have ever wanted. That's why I am willing not to
force him to get along with his mother. He'll
take his time but he must come back home."
"I am not coming back. You kicked me out."
Mhlabunzima stood by his words.
"I did and I am saying come back now!"
Grandpa stopped his son from shouting and he
adjourned the meeting emphasizing what
Esther needed to do. There was nothing they
could do about her allegations because his
daughter was dead. They left him and Goba
remained.
"Baba, please talk to him. It's not like I don't
want him to stay here but -"
Grandpa nodded, "you don't have to explain son
I totally understand. I will talk to him. I am sure
he needs time to process all this."
"Yes, thank you. I will go," they shook hands and
he headed back to his children.
"Where's he?" Xulu asked his daughter and son.
They walked back home.
"I think he was driving to the shop. He offered
us a lift but we didn't want to leave you behind,"
Ngenzeni answered her father.
Kusakusa sighed, "how will he stay with people
he doesn't even know? He doesn't know these
people like he doesn't know mom. I don't know
how his mind works."
"He'll come back."
"Iheee, I am sure if his girlfriend can be the one
to tell him he'll come back." Ngenzeni guessed,
"there's nothing grandpa can do. Mhlabunzima
won't listen to him."
"It's fine, you'll tell that girlfriend to talk to him
then," Xulu said, annoyed that she might be
right.
She laughed, "iheee ngabe uxoshwe yimi ubhuti
omncane!" She quickly moved away from her
father when he glared at her.

Mhlabunzima was working on sorting out his

workers' money, writing down numbers and
putting the money in envelopes. But his mind
was all over the place. He wasn't doing great.
He didn't want to leave home, the comfort of his
house, his bed but he also didn't want to stay.
It'd been two days since he left, his grandfather
was trying to convince him to go back. He only
stopped when Mhlabunzima threatened him by
leaving his yard if he didn't stop pushing him.
"I am surprised you knocked," a smile appeared
as Zinhloso walked inside.
She grabbed a chair, "when I knock you
complain and when I don't you complain."
"I am not complaining. What's in that lunch
box?" He asked, looking at the purple medium
sized square container.
She smiled looking at the food container, "it's
cakes I baked for your father."
"What?"
"Yes, you'll give them to him," she put it on the
empty space on the table.
"Since when does a girlfriend make food for her
boyfriend's father?" He asked. He didn't
understand what was happening.
She laughed, "it's your fault that I am still your
girlfriend, it's not mine."
"Can you hear yourself? You've stopped me not
even once when I was ready to face your
father," Mhlabunzima reminded her and she
only shrugged, "I am not going to give that to
my father."
She looked down, heartbroken. She made the
cakes with love and she was happy when she
made them. And he was speaking like that?
He could see that she was hurt, "I don't live at
home now that's why I am saying I won't give it
to him."
"Why? What happened?"
He narrated everything that happened and
Zinhloso was sad when he finished because he
looked broken. She stood up and sat on his lap,
"I am really sorry about what happened
sthandwa senhliziyo yami," she caressed his
face, looking at him with tender eyes.
"Was I wrong?" He asked.
She smiled, "no, you were not wrong. You're
allowed to be angry but don't be angry until this
anger becomes hatred. I don't want you to
harbour any hatred. Don't let hatred be the only
emotion you'll feel. What you can do, try and
find out the truth. Is your mom genuine or does
she have an agenda and once you know the
truth you can decide what to do so that you will
protect your heart from being hurt again should
she not be genuine."
He nodded, "you're right I will ask someone
who'll keep an eye on her, monitor her moves
and see what she's up to. We'll see if she's
genuine or not."
"And if she's genuine?"
He shrugged, "I don't know, that'll be good for
them I guess."
"Promise me you'll go back homel. You know
your father loves you and he'll die of heartbreak
if you don't live closer to him." Zinhloso said,
softly. "You'll decide what to do with your
relationship with your mom."
"But Xulu chose her. Why should I consider
him?" He was nervous about the talk of his
father dying of heartbreak. He didn't want that.
"He's also a human being and like any person
he wants love, wants to be loved and have a
companion he'll die with," she tried to make him
understand, "a woman who'll sit on the mattress
next to the candles lit for him and mourn his
death. Don't you want that as a man?"
"I want it."
"He also wants the same and your mother
happens to be the woman he wants regardless
of the situation. Just like you want me
regardless of who my father is and what he
says," she smiled at him and he nodded in
understanding, "so, do you promise?" She gave
him her pinky finger.
"Yes, I promise I will go back home if she's
genuine," they made a pinky swear and shared a
brief kiss.
"But you'll find someone else who'll give him
these cakes. I won't do it," he said and shook
his head as Zinhloso gave him the kitten eyes,
"no, it won't work."
She rested her head on her shoulder in a
begging gesture and he couldn't resist it. She
was really cute like a little kitten, "okay! I will see
what I can do but I have never heard of a
girlfriend who cooks for her boyfriend's father."
He laughed as she hugged him.
"Give him the cakes, hawu!"
"I like your advice, you'll make a great mom,"
Mhlabunzima said and he kissed her lips as
Zinhloso moved away from him only to stare at
him.
UMCEBO

Chapter 100
***Chapter sponsored by MaGama***

The day Mhlabunzima left, Esther told Xulu it

would be better if she left and they had their
relationship while she didn't stay with them. She
suggested this so that Mhlabunzima would
come back home but Xulu rejected this
suggestion.
She cooked dinner that night and Ngenzeni
didn't eat. She wasn't talking to her. She was
giving her a cold shoulder even when she was
trying to talk to her. Kusakusa was the only
child who'd warmed up to her and he brought
his children and wife. She was happy to meet
them, especially the children.
She was inside the kitchen cooking isigwaqane
for Ngenzeni. It was her favourite dish when
she was still a child and Xulu told her it was still
her favourite.
After dishing up, she headed to her hut with the
dish. Xulu was in his house, resting.
She knocked on the closed door and was told to
come in. She walked inside the clean, airy hut.
Her space wasn't less beautiful. It was colorful,
showing that it belonged to a woman.
She sat on the bed with her, "I brought you, your
favourite meal."
She looked at it and instantly wanted to take the
dish and eat it but she stopped herself, "dad
told you it's my favourite."
"I know it's your favourite. I only confirmed with
him whether it's still your favourite or not.
Please take it. You didn't eat last night. I don't
want you to go hungry."
Ngenzeni accepted the food, "thank you." She
started eating and she didn't tell her it was way
better than how she prepared it for herself. Her
father and Mhlabunzima weren't fans of the
dish; she mostly prepared it for herself and
Kusakusa's children.
"You've grown up and you're a beautiful young
woman," Esther said to her daughter.
She looked at her, "really? Most boys don't think
I am beautiful."
She smiled, "you're my daughter, of course
you're beautiful. A mother can't see her child as
anything but a beautiful child." Esther said
softly, "boys are opinionative and what they say
shouldn't get to you."
"Okay," she said and focused on eating.
"Do you have a boyfriend?"
She laughed, "no, boys who approach me are
too handsome and my friend told me that they
only approach me because I am not the
prettiest girl. They want to outshine me in a
relationship."
Esther laughed hilariously, "that's ridiculous and
you should end the friendship with that girl.
She's not a genuine friend. Men see beauty in a
woman differently, some see your inner beauty,
while some will see your outer beauty and
others will view the way you think as beauty,"
she shared with her, "others will only see beauty
in the way you carry yourself, your integrity and
character. Others see your strength as beauty."
Ngenzeni remained quiet, she'd never seen it
that way. She always hated them mostly
because she thought they wanted to outshine
her and trample on her while pretending to love
her. She never viewed herself as worthy of love
because of her outer beauty, what her friend
told her and what other boys would say to her
after rejecting them. They would tell her they
were only joking with her. She wasn't worthy
because she was not beautiful.
"I understand you," she hid her smile from her
and she looked at her with a serious face, "why
didn't you come back?"
"I was scared and I was also scared of how your
father was going to react when he saw me
again," she responded.
Ngenzeni asked her about life in the city and
Esther told her. She liked the conversation with
her and it didn't sit well with her that Ngenzeni
didn't have friends who lifted her spirit. She
hated her friends and she blamed herself, if
she'd been there she wouldn't have thought so
low of herself.
"Thank you for the dish," she said and still didn't
tell her it was good.
Esther stood up, "thank you for opening your
hut." She headed to the door.
"Mhlabunzima can try to warm up to you or
accept that you're back only if you accept his
girlfriend," Ngenzeni tipped her mother. She
wanted her brother back home. She hated the
way he left but he understood how deeply he
was hurt.
She stopped walking out, "who's his girlfriend,"
she looked back and headed back to her bed,
sat next to her.
"It's Zinhloso Mnguni, the traditional healer's
youngest daughter," she shared with her mother,
"dad doesn't like her and he even told
Mhlabunzima not to bring her here. He was no
longer bringing her here. I don't know how they
met. So, if you can do better than dad, accept
his girlfriend and get along with her. You can
win him over. She's most important to him, they
even work together, make money together. He
would do anything for her. He didn't even go
back to Lily like everyone thought he would."
Esther smiled, "so, how can I meet her? I don't
even know Mnguni's daughters."
Ngenzeni described how Zinhloso looked, she
shared her description in detail and that painted
a strong picture in her mother's mind, "she
normally goes to his shop. I am sure that's
where you can meet her one day."
She nodded, "thank you. I was planning on
going to your brother's shop and maybe talk to
him. It doesn't matter how he'll react as long as
he'll see that I am trying."
"Do that, you might be lucky."
She nodded and left her hut. She found Xulu
behind the fridge. "Do you need something?"
She asked.
He was better and was able to walk without a
stick, "no, I looked for you around the yard." He
closed the fridge.
Esther put the dish with other dishes, "I was
with your daughter. She accepted the dish I
cooked for her."
"That's good."
She sat next to him on the bench, "does
Ngenzwel'umusa have a girlfriend?" She
pretended like she didn't have the information
already. She wanted to check if he would be
honest.
He clicked his tongue, "yes, he's dating
Mnguni's daughter. I don't want that girl for him.
There's Lily, he should be with her."
"Why should he be with Lily?"
Xulu glanced at his wife, "they have a child
together and he should marry her. She's most
suitable for him."
"But she's not his choice."
"MaSibiya! I don't want to talk about Mnguni's
daughter. Let's leave this matter," Xulu shouted
and his wife let go of it.
She stood up, "I should go home."
"Why are you leaving?" He asked and held her
hand.
"I am still trying to fix that home, Xulu. I also
have to work on getting the cow," she said. She
hadn't told him about the letter. She wanted to
tell him after she'd confirmed with the
prophetess. "I want the children to also see that
home as theirs. It's their maternal home. I will
fix it and don't offer me money."
He smiled, "I will help when you need help.
Awungithi manqa ke!" He requested a kiss and
his wife giggled. She pecked his lips and she
left, she told Ngenzeni before leaving.

After she'd finished cleaning around at home,

Esther took the letter and headed out. She
needed to know whether the cows were still
there or not.
She waited until the three people who were
already waiting were attended to and she
entered.
After greetings, Esther placed the letter on the
floor between her and the prophetess.
"Sibiya's daughter?" She took the letter. She
knew the minute she saw her walking inside her
hut.
"Yes, I returned home after troubles in the city
and when I was cleaning around. I found that
letter, the boys found it for me actually," she
quickly corrected herself.
The prophetess smiled, "I understand and it
seems this inheritance came in handy because
you were planning on hurting your husband
again," she looked at her and Esther looked
away in shame.
"He was threatening me with prison. I didn't
want to do this to Xulu. I have already hurt him
and the children, yes, the inheritance will help
me a lot." There was no need to deny the truth.
Esther knew that. She would see right through
her.
"It's a good thing that you have changed your
mind and you want to make amends. Broken
hearts take time to heal," she advised.
"I don't know if my youngest son will ever heal.
He hates me."
She laughed, "hate is a big words MaSibiya. The
best advice I can give you, be honest with your
husband. The only thing that can be your
weapon after what you did it's transparency."
"I should tell him the truth about my previous
motives?"
"Yes, do that. Don't rebuild the relationship in
lies. I know telling the truth is hard because we
don't know how the other person may receive
that truth," she commented.
"Yes, you're right but I have to tell him the truth
and I will deal with how he'll react after," Esther
accepted the advice.
MaDuma breathed in and out, "okay, your father
brought ten cows here and if we didn't have
cattle thieves in this village you would be
getting more cows."
"Cattle thieves?"
"Yes, there are people who steal livestock from
villagers and we don't know who they're until
now," MaDuma said.
She shook her head, "and I wanted to do that
too."
"It doesn't matter now. The cows that belong to
your father in my yard and now, will belong to
you - it's thirty-five cows left."
"Thirty-five!" She screamed.
"Yes, do the right thing and when you're ready
you'll come take them. Stay at home and rebuild
what you broke," she said lastly and Esther
shook hands with her.
"Thank you so much for what you've done for
my father. I will leave the five cows with you. I
can tell you have enough but it'll be my
appreciation,"
MaDuma clapped hands, "you didn't have to but
a gift is not to be refused."
When Esther left the hut, she left with hope but
she was nervous about telling Xulu the truth.
What if he didn't want her after the truth? She
didn't want any other life anymore. She wanted
life with him.
UMCEBO

Chapter 101

***Chapter sponsored MaGama***

Esther met up with her ex-boyfriend at his
relative's home. The boyfriend wasn't from the
same village and when they met years ago, he
was visiting the same relative. Her boyfriend
heard from his relative that Xulu was a wealthy
man. He had changed his situation and he didn't
waste time, informing Esther because he saw
this as an opportunity to get his money back.
"I wasn't expecting you so soon." He smiled as
Esther sat down on the bench inside the hut he
was sleeping in.
"I have asked around and the people who have
cows and sometimes sell them, they told me
three cows will be enough to pay off my debt,"
Esther said, looking at him now. She was
disgusted as he smiled. This man played her
and hurt her, she didn't deserve this. To pay off
this debt because of the hurt she'd endured
from him. "I will give you four cows and you'll
leave me alone. I don't want to ever see you
again."
"Have you found a way to steal from him so
soon? I thought you said you need about a
month?" He asked, confused but he was very
happy. He was even getting an extra cow. That
was a lot of money.
"That's none of your business. Organise a trailer,
take your cows and go back to your pregnant
mistress," Esther stood up. She wouldn't dare
tell him she had inheritance. She didn't want to
invite any trouble.
"Yes, I will go back to her, she's way better than
you!"
She shook her head and left, she wondered if
the baby was his or he was taken for a fool. But,
it didn't matter she had to start afresh. Esther
couldn't believe how life changed for her, she
didn't have anything when she returned home
but she found something more valuable. She
was hurt when she learnt that none of her
siblings were alive. She didn't even know
anything about their children or their marital
families. She was the first to get married and
the sister that married after her, her marital
family had moved to another village. It was like
someone had cursed her family with death as
she was the only living member.
Esther headed back home, she needed to sit
down and plan, go to her husband with the truth.
If he was going to accept her, she needed to run
her plans with him. He was the only man she
trusted at the moment. The only man she was
certain had her best interest at heart.
"Aybo, MaSibiya!" Mrs Mnguni was surprised to
meet up with Xulu's wife. She was on the road
back from the garden fields. She was with
Zinhloso who was carrying a 5kg bucket of
amadumbe(taro)
Esther smiled, her eyes were attracted to the
beautiful girl with Mrs Mnguni and from the
description her daughter gave her - she was
certain this was her son's girlfriend. "Yes, it's
me, how are you, MaNtuli?"
"I am fine and how are you? I am so happy to
see you alive and well," she was shocked and
she was wondering how her family had received
her.
"Yes, I should visit you for tea sometimes. It's
been a while," Esther said, they weren't best of
friends but when she was still married to Xulu.
She would go with her to the garden fields. And
at times, Mrs Mnguni would help her when she
needed something. Mrs Mnguni was still a
newly wed with no children and was getting
used to the place, they helped each other.
Esther showed her the ropes of the village and
Mrs Mnguni helped her here and there because
she was married to a privileged man.
"I will be pleased. I can never forget you. I knew
everything about this village through you," Mrs
Mnguni said with a smile.
Esther smiled back, "and who's this beautiful
girl?" She smiled at Zinhloso but she was
avoiding eye contact looking down. She wasn't
standing closer to them.
She looked at her daughter, "it's my younger
daughter, Zinhloso."
"Hhayi, umzalile ke lo, akamuhle!" She
commented and when she took a closer look at
her. Her heart skipped a beat. What had
Mhlabunzima done?
Mrs Mnguni laughed, "she's indeed beautiful.
Boys have no shame, they even look at her
while I am right next to her," she said and they
laughed.
"I hope there'll be a son-in-law soon," they
continued laughing and went their separate
ways after Esther promised her to visit soon.
She had to visit Mhlabunzima sooner!
****
He was filing recent till slips and getting rid of
the old ones inside his office when the guy he
asked to keep an eye on his mother walked
inside the office.
"Tell me, what did you find?" Mhlabunzima
stopped doing what he was doing and they sat
down.
"Your mother hadn't been doing much activity. I
have seen her taking a bus but I couldn't follow
her because I didn't have money with me," he
narrated to him, "she went to visit the
prophetess MaDuma and just yesterday she
went to the Khumalo homestead. There are
rumours that Khumalo's relative is the man she
ran away with."
He nodded, "so, this man is also in the village?"
"Yes, he's also here and I saw him going to
Nduli today. Nduli told me he wanted to find out
information on where he could hire a trailer," he
shared.
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "please find out more
and if you need more money, tell me. Use any
methods, pay people I don't care. I need the
truth," he said and gave him money. The guy
took the money and left. He proceeded working,
trying to think and he was distributed by a
knock on the door.
"Baba!"
He laughed and lifted his daughter up,
"nkosazana, who are you with?"
"I came alone. Baba, can I have some chips and
sweets." She laughed.
He shook his head, "Zodumo, does your
grandmother know that you're here?"
"Yes, I told her."
He went behind the counter with her and he saw
Zinhloso walking in, "okay, what do you want?
Take it and I will walk you out. I don't like you
coming here alone."
"Yes, I won't come alone next time." She chose
what she wanted, Ntokozo wrote down the
amount of things she took and Mhlabunzima
walked out of the counter with her.
"I will come back," he said to Zinhloso and she
only nodded.
Once there was no customer inside the shop,
Zinhloso headed to the office.
"You took no sweets? I am surrounded by
people who have a sweet tooth," he chuckled
and sat on his chair but her eyes were on top of
the cabinet, "I am really sorry."
"Why?" She asked, pissed off by seeing her
container on top of the cabinet. "You didn't even
have the decency to go home with them?"
"My cousins were going to eat them, that's why
I decided to leave them."
"You know what, I will take them to him," she
tried to stand up but Mhlabunzima quickly
stopped her by taking the container first.
"I will give him today I promise."
"My dad left this morning. Are we still going
tomorrow for a sleepover?"
"Yes, I will wait here for you."
"Okay, I am leaving."
"Hawu, just like that! No kiss, no nothing!"
Zinhloso ignored him and walked out of the
office. She was so upset she even forgot about
telling him that she met his mother. "Sawubona,
mama," she shyly greeted Mhlabunzima's
mother as they met at the gate.
Esther smiled, she had already concluded that
these two were a perfect match, "yebo, Sisi how
are you?"
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am fine. Didn't you find what you were here to
buy?" She asked, trying to see what she was
going to say. She was certain she was here for
her son.
She giggled, "no, let me not keep you, ma, bye."
She said and quickly left.
Esther looked at her, confirming her suspicions.
She headed inside the shop, she wanted to
know if Mhlabunzima was aware. Ntokozo
opened up for her, she headed to the office
door and knocked.
"Did you forget something? Come in!"
Mhlabunzima said - he was hoping Zinhloso
had come back but his face fell when he saw
his mother, "what are you doing here?"
Esther sat down, "I thought I should come and
talk to you."
"There's nothing I want to talk to you about. Can
you please leave?" He said clearly but Esther
didn't leave.
"I am sorry for all those lost years, my son and I
know I can never make up for them-"
He stopped her from talking, "I don't need your
sorry but I need you to leave my sight! I have
nothing to say to you."
Heartbroken, she stood up from the chair. She
knew she was going to get such a reaction. She
actually expected worse, "I met your girlfriend
yesterday she was with her mother," she easily
caught his attention as his face relaxed and he
looked at her, "I noticed something about her
Ngenzelwe and I don't know if you're aware."
"What did you notice?" He wasn't surprised she
knew about Zinhloso being his girlfriend. They
might have told her.
"She's pregnant," she saw him panic but didn't
see surprise, showing he didn't know. She
looked at him closely, "did you know about
this?"
"Please, stay out of my business."
"So, you know that she's pregnant?" She asked,
her voice raised a little.
"My relationship shouldn't concern you!" He was
still wondering how did she know?
"Did you make her pregnant deliberately?" She
asked and didn't receive an answer. She shook
her head, disappointed. Why was she even
asking? If he knew - it could be a deliberate act.
"I will talk to her about-"
Mhlabunzima quickly stood up, "don't you dare!
She doesn't know she's pregnant. Can you stay
out of my business?"
"Didn't you realise you'll make matters worse
with her father?" She shouted. She was upset,
she couldn't understand why he resorted to
such a method - deliberately making her
pregnant. She didn't get an answer, "I will have
to tell your father about this!"
"Oh, that's your best way of parenting? Running
to dad and telling him things that actually don't
concern you?" Mhlabunzima asked, annoyed,
"you want to gang up on me with your
husband?"
"Your father will know eventually! Pregnancy
can't be hidden. With a single glance I could tell
she was carrying a child. It'll only be a matter of
time before her grandmother notice because
her mother surely can't notice," Esther said.
"How can you see someone is pregnant by
looking at her?"
She shook her head, "you better tell her the
truth!" She headed to the door.
"Can you do me a favour?" He quickly stopped
her from leaving and Esther looked back. He
didn't care that she was angry, "can you give
these cakes to dad? She baked for him and I
hadn't found time to bring them. I don't want her
to find them here again."
Esther took the container, "doesn't your father-"
"He doesn't like her but she's suddenly
concerned about him and baking cakes for him.
I don't know what is happening." He sat back
down.
She laughed, "it might be the pregnancy. She'll
like certain things, people or scents. That's
what pregnancy does sometimes. I will give the
cakes to your father today," she said and
walked out, leaving Mhlabunzima stressed out.
UMCEBO

Chapter 102
***Chapter sponsored by MaGama***

She took her time changing into her work

clothes and she joined him in the garden with
her hoe. They were going to be preparing the
soil. They were going to plant green peppers
before they started making beds of seeds after
the January and February heat.
"Why do you keep yawning?" Mhlabunzima
asked. He didn't understand why she wasn't
realising she was pregnant. She was carrying
on like there was nothing happening on her
body. It wasn't only her but also her mother, his
mother had seen her the very first time they met
but the woman that lived with her couldn't see
her?
"I am sleepy. I feel like I can sleep."
"Go to sleep I will work here," he rested his chin
on the hoe as he looked at her.
"No, I don't want to sleep. My sides will be
painful, let's work."
They focused on working, while talking and
when they weren't talking, Mhlabunzima would
whistle. He was doing what he enjoyed, working
the soil.
"No, I am tired now."
He stopped and looked at her as she fisted her
waist, "what's wrong with your waist?"
"It's painful. I don't know what's wrong because
if I work for a long time it becomes painful."
"It's okay, mama go and rest."
She took the hoe and left Mhlabunzima. Inside
the kitchen, Zinhloso prepared a cold drink and
cold water for him. Her waist was burning but
she was able to head to the garden and served
him.
"Thank you. You didn't have to, please go and
rest," he begged her. He understood the
situation and he looked at her as she walked
away slowly. The first trimester would be over
soon and he realised he'd never heard her
complain about vomiting or any other illnesses
he read about in the books. He wanted to tell
her the truth before they headed back home. He
had to tell her because she was really clueless
and she wasn't even seeing not getting her
periods as an indication of pregnancy. His
mother easily saw that she was pregnant and
why didn't Mrs Mnguni notice?

When Zinhloso woke up, Mhlabunzima was still

working. She decided to cook her bathing water
before heading to him.
"Don't you think it's time you stop working,
now?" Zinhloso asked, standing before the
garden fence. She didn't enter.
He looked up at her, "I wanted all these
seedlings on the soil and water them. I am
watering now and I will be done."
"Alright, I will go take a bath and cook
afterwards."
"I will take my bath after you. Are you going to
bathe in the bedroom or down at the toilet? I
will carry the water for you," he stopped
watering the seedlings and looked at her. She
was still massaging her waist.
"I will go down, finish up there I will carry the
water using the bucket," she headed back in the
house and after taking her water. She left his
water cooking.
As usual, she cooked while he was seated down
and he would occasionally stand up to massage
her waist. He hated seeing her in pain but he
didn't have anything he could offer to help her.
"Are you better now?" Mhlabunzima asked
again. They were having dinner she cooked,
vegetables and meat. Mhlabunzima had said it
clearly that he wasn't going to eat vegetables
only.
She nodded, "I am fine, I think I overworked, I
don't know." She had her fruit juice while
Mhlabunzima was having beer. She smiled and
looked at his beer.
"Why are you smiling?"
"Can I taste it?"
He frowned, "what?"
"Your beer!"
"No!" He quickly pulled the bottle of beer closer
and he focused on his food.
Zinhloso didn't eat but she was still fixed on the
beer, "tasting doesn't mean I will drink alcohol. I
want to taste it, only," she tried to take the
bottle but Mhlabunzima took it first. "Please."
"I am saying, no! Did you hear me asking to
drink your juice?" He asked, he wasn't willing to
give her any. Not even a teaspoon. Zinhloso
didn't take his no as the final answer but she
battled with him for the bottle, "Zinhloso, don't
get under my skin. I am begging you!"
"Just one sip. What's wrong with a sip?" She
laughed and didn't stop trying to take it. She
didn't care that he was pissed.
The bottle slipped off Mhlabunzima's hand and
it fell on the floor, breaking into pieces. Zinhloso
screamed and held her mouth.
His breathing was heavy and his eyes were on
her, "are you testing me?" He shouted at her.
His emotions were heightened and he was
boiling. It was not only because of a broken
bottle but her inability to take no!
"It wasn't going to break if you didn't refuse!"
He stood up, "where have you seen a pregnant
woman drinking alcohol? Are you sane?" He
growled. He couldn't control his anger and he
didn't understand why such a small thing was
making him so angry.
She looked at her like she was in slow motion.
She licked her lips and asked, "what are you
talking about?"
He realised later what he'd done. He wanted to
tell her but not like this, "you're pregnant." He
sat back down.
She heard him right and quickly she held her
tummy, "no, I am not and if I am pregnant I
would be the one to feel that and not you."
"You're pregnant. I have known since the day
you conceived the child," he came clean. He'd
planned that he was going to lie and tell her he
was seeing changes on her body. But things
didn't happen the way he hoped they would.
She couldn't believe what she was being told.
Yes, she hadn't had her periods for the past two
months but she thought it was body hormones.
It never crossed her mind that it was pregnancy,
"it can't be! I have been careful and followed
instructions like I was taught. How am I
pregnant?" It sunk in and the first thing she
thought was school. "Why are you quiet now?"
She screamed.
"Don't shout at me."
"Don't tell me that. You are aware that I am
pregnant so tell me how and when did it happen?
You're the one who's capable of putting the
baby inside me. Explain!"
"It happened last year December after the
incident of the kiss."
She was certain she told him she was in her
unsafe days and when he came, it had passed.
She remained quiet and tried to think, how? "Did
you use enema injection for the sake of making
me pregnant that day?" She asked as she could
remember. Mhlabunzima didn't answer her. Her
breath shortened and she felt pain deep in her
heart. Tears streamed down her cheeks and her
blurred eyes were staring at him. He was
looking down.
"How could you, Mhlabunzima? All along I
thought you loved me but you didn't."
He quickly looked at her, "what do you mean? I
love you."
"No, you don't! I thought you had my best
interest at heart but you were plotting to
destroy my future," she didn't even have the
ability to shout. She was deeply hurt.
He shook his head quickly, "no, that's not how it
is. The baby won't stop you from achieving your
goals and make your dreams come true."
"Can you hear yourself? I will be twenty-two and
I am still in primary school. Were you in primary
school when you were twenty-two years old?"
"No, but-"
"But nothing! You were not even in high school
but you were getting a College education and
you have the nerve to deliberately make me
pregnant. I thought I found love, a man who
cares about me and who wants what's best for
me but you were pretending!" she wiped the
tears on her eyes and they didn't stop. She
looked at him hoping he would apologize but he
didn't. He remained quiet. Did this mean he
wasn't sorry? He wasn't seeing wrong?
She stood up, "kindly take me back home."
"No, I won't do that. It's late at night and I
promise the baby won't -"
"Stop telling me that! I won't be able to go
school the whole year because of a baby. I will
repeat the same grade and it'll be difficult to
study while I have a baby."
He was hurt that she was in pain and she was
saying such horrible words to him but he knew
he wasn't regretting a thing about his actions.
He wasn't going to tell her that, he would be
foolish if he would tell her, "my sister will look
after the baby when you're in school and you'll
take the baby once you're done with your
chores and homeworks. You'll be staying with
me at home. I will marry you."
"Do you think this is how I wanted to get
married? Get married because I have a
Phuthaliyenzeka(mistakes happen) child?"
He clenched his jaw. He hated horrible
situational names, "my child is not a mistake.
Leyo ngane iyiqophelo eliphezulu."
She was defeated but his words didn't ease the
pain. They hurt deeper. She walked away and
headed to the bedroom. All she could think
about was her father's reaction. He would skin
her alive, facing him without a child would have
been better. It would be worse now. She
remembered how angry he was with Nobuhle.
He only calmed down after their grandmother
told him his anger would endanger the child's
life. Nobuhle would have a difficult birth if he
didn't forgive.
She turned the pillow as it was wet and there
was her dragon mother. She wanted to chase
Nobuhle out but was stopped by her father.
How worse would she be to her? She hated her,
already and she would find an even better
reason to mistreat her. She cried louder as she
remembered how Mhlabunzima had told her to
stop school. He knew why he was saying that -
it wasn't because she was always tired. He had
full information about what would happen if she
were to be pregnant and he still went ahead,
loaded the baby in her. Clearly, love was a joke.
If he loved her, why did he do this? He didn't
even have an explanation.
UMCEBO

Chapter 103

**Unlocked bonus chapter**

Esther found her husband seated alone inside

the kitchen. He was seated by the door and his
eyes focused outside.
"What are you thinking about?" She put the
container on the table.
"About your son who isn't home even now. I
think Ngenzeni was right that he'll only listen to
his girlfriend." Xulu shook his head. He'd gone
to his father and he told him that he failed to
convince Mhlabunzima.
"Do you want to have tea or a cold drink with
your cakes?" Esther asked. She didn't want to
focus on Mhlabunzima for now but she wanted
to give him these cakes.
He smiled, "did you buy me cakes? It's hot, so
let me have a cold drink."
Esther took out the cold drink in the fridge, put it
on the tray and the glass. She opened the
container - the cakes were looking good but she
wasn't a lover of sweet things. She put the
bench before him and put the tray. Xulu was
smiling happily like a child. The only man really
loved sweets.
"Did you bake? When did you learn baking?" He
asked and took a bite on the cake. He closed
his eyes and nodded slowly. The cake was good.
"No, I didn't bake but I went to Mhlabunzima's
shop. I was there to speak to him," she smiled
as he took another cake. "It didn't go well as I
expected but he asked me to do him a favour
and give you the cakes. He told me he hadn't
found time to come and give you the cakes.
Zinhloso baked them for you-"
Xulu stopped chewing and he looked at the
cake. He quickly put it down, the sweet smile
was wiped off his face, "MaSibiya! Why didn't
you tell me before eating them? I asked you
twice but you kept quiet."
"What's wrong if you eat the cakes? The child
prepared these cakes for you out of love."
Esther argued.
He clicked his tongue. He was mad, "out of love
for who? Me or her boyfriend?"
"For her father in-law of course, you're the
reason she has a boyfriend that loves her. Have
the cakes," she pointed at the cakes.
He shook his head, "she's not my daughter in-
law. They're not married!"
"They're not married because of you and her
father."
"I am no longer eating these!" He folded his
arms.
She shook her head. This old man was being
dramatic. He was going to have these cakes.
"Ingane iphoqwa isimo ize ibhake nje!" (It's the
situation she's in that's forcing her)
"What situation?"
"You'll find out soon. Please, enjoy your cakes
from makoti wakho."
He shook his head, "no, she's not my daughter
in-law."
"Who's your daughter in-law if not her?" Esther
was annoyed by this behaviour. He was a grown
man and he wasn't supposed to act like this.
"Lily is better. You don't know Mnguni-"
"You're also a man and should stand with your
son." Esther argued, "Xulu there's no one who
will choose a wife for my son. If Zinhloso is the
girl he wants, let him have her. Nobody chose
me for you."
"Hhm!" Xulu scoffed.
"Have the cakes or I will give them to Ngenzeni."
She threatened.
Xulu took the cake, "give me that container.
Save one for Ngenzeni."
"Why one? Give her at least two."
"Aren't the cakes mine, MaSibiya? I am being
generous."
She laughed and saved one cake for Ngenzeni.
She gave the container to Xulu and she smiled
as he enjoyed the cakes.
***
He was standing by the door of the bedroom
looking at her as she cried. She was refusing to
sleep with him on the bed.
"You can sleep on the bed then, Zinhloso. I will
sleep standing," Mhlabunzima tried his last trick
but it didn't work. He couldn't understand why
she was crying like some had died. All this
heartache she was subjecting herself to, he was
thinking of his child. How did the baby feel? It
was said the mother should be happy for the
baby's sake. But she wasn't happy.
"Zinhloso -"
She looked at him, "please leave me, alone! You
do as you please let me do as I please!" She
placed her head on her hands that were placed
on the table.
He was sleepy but how was he going to sleep
while she was crying? He didn't know whether it
was also hormones or she was crying because
of the hurt.
Finally, she was sleeping on the chair. He lifted
her up and placed her on top of the bed. He
covered her with the blankets. He tried to sleep
next to her but he couldn't sleep. All that was
ringing in his mind were words she said to him.
He left her alone in bed and sat outside. He
tried to figure out whether things would work
out or not.
In the morning, Zinhloso was standing before
the mirror, dressing up after taking her bath.
She woke up while he was still sleeping. She
prepared breakfast, ate alone and left his
breakfast on the table.
She touched her lower belly and looked at it in
the mirror. She wasn't feeling anything and it
was still soft. When she turned to the bed, he
was staring at her. She finished dressing up.
"Are you going to sleep forever? I want to go
home."
"I am no longer getting a good morning Xulu?
Sekuvele kukhulunywe kanjalo? Ngisayindoda
njalo angifuni ngize ngikubonise," he kept eye
contact with her and within seconds he was
before her, lifting her off the floor.
Her blood was rushing straight between her
legs and her heart was thudding. She suddenly
lost her ability to talk. The minute he opened his
mouth, his morning voice made her soaking wet.
Mhlabunzima kissed his way down to her belly
and he separated her legs. He patiently licked
her cores and her moans pleased him. They
made the hurt better, hurt brought by her hurtful
words. She told him he plotted to destroy her
future. He didn't love her. She was better,
moaning than talking.
There were no words exchanged as
Mhlabunzima dived into her. This - it felt
different. He couldn't describe the feeling but he
was loving this added heat, the taste of her
around his manhood, the sensations. It was
magical. There weren't any words exchanged
but intimacy.
"Mhla-bu-nzi-ma-" she cried out as she reached
her intense climax. His cum was minutes after
hers. She closed her eyes as he rested his body
on her and once his breathing had stabilized, he
got off her. He left on his nylon shorts leaving
her on the bed. Zinhloso got up when she was
calm. She dressed up and when she was done
she fixed the bed. She cleaned up.
"Let's go!"
She grabbed her bag and followed him outside.
He had gathered all the food items they weren't
leaving behind.
He glanced at her, they've been driving in
silence, "Zinhloso, everything you said to me
last night. You really hurt my feelings."
"What I said is better than what you did to me.
It's way better."
He looked at her again and back on the road,
"how is my child going to destroy your future,
huh? You'll go back to school."
"It's easy for you to say!"
"It's okay, Zinhloso. I will take the child once
you've given birth and you can do whatever you
like." Mhlabunzima said out of anger. He didn't
know what else he was supposed to say to her.
"You don't understand and you're not even
sorry!"
"Yes, I am not sorry and I'll be lying if I tell you
that I am sorry!" His words silenced Zinhloso.
She was quiet until Mhlabunzima stopped the
car closer to her home's gate. She grabbed her
bag and stepped out of the car. She walked
through the gates.
Inside her hut, she curled her body into the bed
and closed her eyes.
***
After paying off her ex-boyfriend's debt, Esther
felt half-free. She knew she was going to be
completely free after telling Xulu the truth.
She didn't go home or head to Xulu's home but
she went to check whether Mhlabunzima was
at the shop or not.
"What's wrong? You didn't even hear me knock."
Esther closed the door of Mhlabunzima's office.
She had knocked on the door until she invited
herself.
"You're the last person I want to see."
She pulled a chair, "what happened?" She asked.
She could see that he was sad.
"I don't want to talk to you."
"I can see that you're not okay, Ngenzwel'umusa.
Please, talk about what's bothering you. Is it
Zinhloso?" She asked and didn't get an answer.
She didn't leave but she remained seated and
waited for him to talk. They sat in silence for
over ten minutes.
"We had an argument and she learnt that she's
pregnant and I did it intentionally," Mhlabunzima
shared with his mother. "She said some things
that really hurt me. She even claimed I don't
love her."
"I am sure she was speaking out of hurt
because obviously pregnancy will set her back
because she's still in school," Esther raised her
opinion, "you need to apologize for what you did.
It's not right."
"I can't apologize because I have already told
her that I am not sorry."
She was defeated, "you need to go to her father
with cows as soon as he comes back. Don't
give her parents an opportunity to find out on
their own that you've made her pregnant. And
also, tell her we're all here. I am here, I will look
after my grandchild while she goes to school.
Don't stress yourself about it but think of
making it up to her."
"Yes, I will do that. Thanks."
She sighed, "I came here because I was worried
about you but I am glad she knows the truth."
She stood up.
"What if she leaves me? She said, I don't care
about her future."
She smiled, nervously, "she's still angry and hurt,
I don't think she'll end things with you. There's a
baby you need to raise together." She huffed,
"your father ate the cakes. I should bring her
container."
"Really? You didn't tell him they were from her?"
"I told him and told him to have them. He did
and left only one for your sister." She smiled as
Mhlabunzima laughed.
"Did you eat them? How were they?"
"I didn't eat them. I don't like sweet things." She
said he nodded. She said goodbye and left him.
She was hoping Mnguni wouldn't hurt him for
what he did.
UMCEBO

Chapter 104

***Chapter sponsored by Pumza***

She smiled, thankful there was no breaking of

the waist this time around. It was smooth
sailing. She laid on his chest.
"I am very happy that you're back in my life. It's
like I am dreaming," Xulu said to his wife.
She chuckled nervously, "yes, I am happy too
but baba, there's something I need to tell you."
She moved away from his chest and Xulu sat up
straight.
"What is it? You're worrying me."
Her eyes focused on her shaking hands. She
felt like she was going to lose him and that was
something she didn't want. She left the man she
loved because of money
"I want to tell you the truth. It's best that I come
clean so that you accept me with the truth if
you accept me."
"What are you talking about?"
"I came back because I was in trouble, deep
trouble and I would have gone to prison if I
didn't come back," Esther introduced her matter
to him and Xulu was only staring at her. He was
waiting for her to tell the full story.
"I am listening, MaSibiya."
"Three years back, the man I was with. He
retired from work and he got the retirement
money. He was working a good job and they
had a retirement package," she would stutter
here and there. She was nervous, "he started
seeing another woman."
Esther took a deep breath and told him about
what her boyfriend did.
"He told me you're rich and I should come back,
steal from you to pay him back or else he'll have
me arrested," she cried out and closed her eyes
with her hands. Xulu had a bad temper and
twice, she'd received slaps from him when she
was still with him. She was expecting it but it
didn't come. She had her tears to help shield her
and maybe earn her some mercy.
"What stopped you from stealing from me?" He
asked after minutes of silence. He wasn't hurt
but he was disappointed. He thought she was
genuine and she was back because she heard
his sister died. He thought she was back
because she remembered she had children
back home. Because there was him - but he
was wrong. Did she ever love him?
"After meeting the children I didn't want to go
ahead with this. I thought I would tell you I am
in trouble and ask for help," she removed her
doek and wiped her tears. "But I was scared I
thought three cows wouldn't be noticed with the
number of cows you have but then I got this
letter telling me about the inheritance my father
left. I knew then I had to stop all this nonsense
come clean to you and start on a clean slate,
"I love you, Xulu and our children but when we
got married our life was good until your father
challenged you to build your own wealth,
"You know I have never struggled because my
father had everything I wasn't used to poverty. I
couldn't take the suffering I was subjected to
with young children. Your father didn't even
want to help even when he could see you were
trying and you also had pride,
"You didn't want me to ask my father for help,
that's why I decided to leave." This time around,
she was certain she was going to get a slap but
it still didn't come. When she raised her eyes,
she saw tears in his eyes but they didn't fall.
"So, you've never loved me or my children?" He
asked, this truth hurt him deeply. It tore his
heart apart and he felt like even the pieces were
tortured so he would feel unending pain. What
did he do to deserve this? He'd forgotten about
her, even though it wasn't completely but he
was carrying on with life. Life without her. Why
did she come back to lie and hurt him? His son
was right not to trust her.
"No, Xulu! I love you. I have always loved you
but I was selfish. I decided to put myself first
and forgot about the family I was given by the
ancestors and Mvelinqangi." She quickly held
his hands. They were sweaty and hot. He was
livid.
"You lied about my sister."
"I am really sorry. Please, give me another
chance." She begged but Xulu left her. She was
left alone in bed and she couldn't sleep. She
didn't know when she fell asleep but Xulu
wasn't next to her until morning.

In the morning, Ngenzeni found her mother

cooking breakfast in the kitchen. She greeted
her, "mama, what happened? I saw baba
coming out of his old hut in the morning. Did he
sleep there?"
"Ngenzeni, prepare water for your father so he'll
have his morning bath don't ask me questions.
Do it quickly!"
She didn't ask another question but she did
what her mother had told her. When Esther was
done, she headed to his house with a tray of
breakfast. Xulu was seated on the sofa
moistening his arms and face.
She kneeled and placed the tray on the coffee
table, "here's your breakfast. Last night, you
slept upset. I hope today you're well,
gxabhashe."
He took the food, "if I was still poor when you
came back. Were you going to come back as
my wife?"
"Yes, after seeing the children I realised I have
missed out on a lot." She sat on the floor next
to his sofa. She spoke with him while looking
down, "I was going to take my father's
inheritance and we were going to build from
there. I am really sorry for hurting you, mnyeni
wami. Ayidle izishiyele. I promise I will die
where you die. I was blinded by the world."
"Why didn't you tell me the truth from the
beginning and not lie about my sister?" He
asked and started eating. He couldn't sleep last
night, thinking about the decision that was
going to be best for him and his children.
"I was scared."
"I am thankful that you told me the truth. This
showed me you're serious about wanting to
start afresh," Xulu surprised Esther. She thought
there was still a long way to go before she was
accepted.
"I want nothing less than to spend the rest of
my life with you." She said and Xulu pulled her
up. He shared his food with her.
"We'll keep what happened between us because
the children won't forgive you if they can learn
the truth," Xulu decided.
"Ngiyabonga, Donda wasenkweleni,
khuhla phansi njenge khowandlovu,
Ntulikabongwa ubonga yena uzona umlomo,"
she praised his clan names, making Xulu grin
like a retard.
"I have decided that I will give our eldest son six
cows, Ngenzeni and Ngenzwel'umusa they'll get
five each and we'll keep the rest as parents
after I have taken the one for the ritual," Esther
looked at her husband and he nodded in
agreement.
"That's the best idea and I am sure they'll be
happy." He was hoping they would have their
best lives.
***
He'd been trying by all means to keep busy
since he returned. He hadn't seen Zinhloso and
there was no way he could try seeing her. Her
sister wasn't around. He didn't know what to do
but he wanted to see her.
He walked inside his brother's gates. It was a
bit far from the shop but he wanted to take a
walk, clear his head.
He sat next to his brother outside his house, "I
am not staying, I am here to tell you that Robert
said you should give me your documents.
There's an opening at a steel firm. They need a
foreman, you've been a foreman before even
though you got peanuts. I think this one will be
better. You might be lucky."
He smiled, "alright, ngizoke ngigqume futhi.
Please go and take my documents underneath
my bed, on the mattress. Don't steal anything."
Mhlabunzima laughed and stood up, "why do
you keep important documents under the bed
because you have a safe?"
"In case I die and they can't open my safe."
He laughed his way inside the house. His
brother's logic! It was something else. He lifted
the mattress and he chuckled. He had added
two more magazines. Life of a married man.
How he wished!
Mhlabunzima took out the megazine under his
leather and he put it back with the others. He
took the envelope of documents and headed
out.
"Let me search, you!"
He laughed and stood before him. Kusakusa
searched him, "okay, thank you, bafo."
"I will go now but please, fight to get the driver's
licence so that you'll be a driver. There's also
money there," Mhlabunzima advised.
"Yes, you're right I will do that."
Mhlabunzima headed to the gates and was
stopped by Kusakusa's wife. "Can I help you
with something?"
"Uhm, no, but why haven't you told your
brother?" She asked, she almost died when she
saw Mhlabunzima walking in.
"It'll be no use telling him."
She looked down, "thank you for helping him
find a job."
"He's my brother. I am not helping, I am doing
what brothers do, looking after each other. I
should go."
***
"I really enjoyed that meat. What did you call it
in your mother tongue?" John asked, wiping his
mouth with a napkin.
"Usu!" She laughed as John struggled to
pronounce the Isizulu word for tripe. Nobuhle
had planned a candlelight dinner date. She set
everything up on his bedroom balcony while he
was still at work. She didn't have a clue on how
to go about it and she asked Martin to help her.
She didn't cook any fancy English or Dutch
dishes Martin had taught her but she cooked
tripe and steam bread. She made some
vegetable starters. John enjoyed everything and
Nobuhle was charmed. She didn't think he
would enjoy the food.
"I don't even want dessert, I want to sleep in
your arms," he said, brushing his stomach.
She stood up, "I will clean -" she smiled as John
held her hand. "What?"
"Leave this here. Let's go to bed." He led her
inside the bedroom. He wanted to rest and hold
her but, when Nobuhle undressed facing him he
stopped undoing his buttons. He'd never seen
her naked body. She always got onto the bed
dressed.
"Can I help you?" John stood before her and
when she didn't protest. He slowly discarded
the white silk dress off her body. He bought the
dress for her, he saw it and wished to see her
on the dress. He wished to see the curves and
her figure, her nicely shaped butts. And he was
satisfied when he laid his eyes on her.
"I am ready!" She whispered.
Excited, John lifted her up from the floor and
tossed her on his enormous bed. He looked at
her like he was looking at the prized possession,
his hands rubbed on her smooth curves. His
eyes were on her beautiful face. She was
perfect in his eyes.
Nobuhle wrapped her arms around his neck as
he kissed her neck. There was pleasure in being
neck kissed? She'd never experienced this. She
knew the actual kiss. She got lost into a
ravenous kiss he was leading. Their tongues
exchanged swiftly setting their emotions alight.
She moaned as his hands gripped and rubbed
on her nipples. She was new to this kind of slow
pleasure he was giving. There was no rush and
this made her whole.
His hands were soft as they grasped and loved
her skin
“John!” She cried as he deepened the kiss,
kissing her hip bone. It was ticklish and
satisfying at the same time.
Once he decided she was ready, he got in
between her legs and lifted her legs up to his
shoulders. He endeavoured the mystery of her
insides and it was glorious.
"You're beautiful," he whispered and closed his
eyes. What a night! What a wonderful moment
shared with a woman he loved deeply.
Nobuhle felt sexy and brand new, she felt loved
and wanted, even her moans were louder. Her
moans were sweet, reflecting what she was
receiving from John.
She finally smiled, this was worth the wait.
"I loved everything about it. It was best," John
said and pulled her into his arms.
UMCEBO

Chapter 105
She woke up again. She didn't think being
pregnant made one pee 500 times. She was
annoyed by waking up and going to the toilet.
She clearly took out her pee bucket very early.
"Zinhloso, why are you home and not at
school?" Mrs Mnguni asked her daughter.
Zinhloso was coming from the toilet, "I have a
pounding headache that's why I am not at
school."
"You were supposed to go to the pharmacy and
get something for the headache, then go to
school," Mrs Mnguni said looking at her. She'd
noticed that Zinhloso came back grumpy. When
she told her she was leaving because of work
she knew she was lying. It was clearly because
of her boyfriend and she wondered what
happened between them. Why did she come
back grumpy?
"I am already late, mama."
"Don't go," she stopped her from walking away,
"when your father comes back I want you to
bring your boyfriend here and he should take
this thing to another step."
"Dad will kill him."
"I will be here, he won't do anything to him. I am
tired of this up and down you're doing in my
house. He must show us his intentions. I am
not going to wait until there's a baby. Do you
understand?"
She wanted to scream but she couldn't. There
was already a baby. That fool! She couldn't
imagine herself forgiving him. She'd tried to
ease her heart, attempted to go to the shop and
talk to him. But everytime she had an
imagination of staying at home with a belly for
the whole year. She would turn halfway.
"Yes, I understand." She headed to her hut and
she didn't go back to sleep but prepared for
bathing.
"Can I have medicine for a headache?" Zinhloso
put the money on the counter for Lily but she
didn't take the money. She had taken a bath,
and had breakfast. She was wearing her baggy
graffiti shirt and black short tights but it looked
like she was wearing the shirt only.
"What is wrong with you? Why do you look so
horrible?"
"Is that medicine for a headache?"
"We've run out. Mzomubi will come back with
more herbs."
Zinhloso took her money and left. She hated
that she had to go to the shop but what other
choice did she have?
"Zinhloso!"
She stopped walking out of the gate, "mama?'"
she looked back, annoyed.
"Your grandmother called. I told her you're sick
and she said come home," she said.
"Yebo!" She walked out of the premises. She
wasn't going there, her grandmother would
realise she was pregnant just like she did with
Nobuhle. She hadn't come to terms with the
pregnancy and she didn't want drama this soon,
while she was still struggling with accepting it.
She wanted to open her mouth and vomit
because Mhlabunzima was behind the counter.
She had to face him now and she wasn't in the
mood for him.
"Sawubona, can I have pills for headache," she
placed the money on the counter.
He didn't like how she looked. Did she oversleep?
Her face looked swollen and pale and her eyes
were puffy, "why didn't you go to school? Please,
go to school until your father comes back."
"Are you giving me that medicine or not?"
"I only have powder here and it's not to be taken
by pregnant women." Mhlabunzima refused to
give her powder.
"I don't care, give it to me. I can't go to another
shop that's very far. I don't want to see my
grandmother," Zinhloso insisted.
"What do you mean you don't care? I told you
it's not safe to take this during pregnancy," he
tried to convince her, "what are you trying to do
to the baby?"
She took her money, "fine, I will buy it
somewhere else because your shop has terms
and conditions. You've lost a customer. Tsk!"
"Zinhloso!"
Her easy tears came out rushing off her eyes
and she tried to wipe them but she was hurting.
She wanted it to stop, the tears, the hurt and
overthinking but she didn't know how to make it
stop.
She quickly wiped her tears and the lost smile
returned on her face as she met up with Xulu.
He was walking through the gates of the shop
and Zinhloso was walking out.
She stopped, looked down and greeted,
"sawubona, baba," she couldn't hide her smiles.
They weren't forced.
"You were crying. What has he done to you?"
Xulu looked at her. He was super annoyed by
meeting up with her like this and he didn't think
she would stop walking.
"He's not treating me well but it's fine," her smile
didn't leave her face and she still kept her head
down, "did you get the cakes? I know what I did
is wrong but I really wanted to bake for you. I
am so sorry for doing that, it's not that I am
uncultured. I am sorry."
"I enjoyed them, Mhlabunzima will give you your
container."
"Thank you, be well baba." She quickly
proceeded out. She was no longer grumpy but
she felt much better.
Xulu proceeded to the shop, "what did you do to
Mnguni's daughter? She walked out of your
shop, crying."'
"I don't know, she didn't tell me anything."
"Mhlabunzima! She told me you're treating her
well!" He raised his voice.
And Mhlabunzima was surprised, when did he
start not treating her well? "She's lying. She
surely ran out of things to say."
"You think I am a fool?"
"I don't want to talk about this, baba."
"Where's Ntokozo? I want to talk to you."
"He's not here."
He pointed to the burglar guards and
Mhlabunzima opened up for him…
****
John and Nobuhle were lost in the heated kiss.
He was giving her the goodbye kiss but it got
out of hand. He was loving the new level their
relationship had taken. His hands went
underneath her dress and he lowered her
underwear. They were standing before his
office desk. Nobuhle was leaning on the desk.
"Turn around and hold it," he instructed and he
saw confusion on her face, "trust me." He
whispered with a smirk.
She turned around and held the table. She
closed her eyes as John lifted her dress, "uhm,
what are you doing?"
"I want you."
"How? We're standing?"
"Bend down your waist and lower your chest to
the table," he placed his hands on her waist and
made her bend. He entered slowly from behind.
Nobuhle screamed and as soon as he started
thrusting, her scream turned into moans. This
was a whole new different experience and she
loved it. It made her call his name more,
something she'd never done during sex. She
never said any words during. She would only
moan because it was beyond her control. And
now, John's name coming out of her mouth
was beyond her control because of how good
he was giving it to her. She felt like she was in a
different world. She'd been missing out!
His hand slipped onto her front and with his
fingers he stimulated her clitoris. She widened
her eyes and her lips formed a sexy O as she
was blown away by the double sensations.
Where had this man been?
"I love you!" She found herself screaming as she
got a blended orgasm—clitoral and vaginal. It
was amazing!
He smiled and asked, "what do you want to
say?" He was pulling her panties back up as
they were both calm.
She giggled, "doesn't a man always have to be
on top?"
John cracked up. He held her hand and they
walked out of the office, straight to his
bedroom. "If I give you a magazine. Adult
magazine, where will you keep it so that your
son won't find it?"
"In my younger sister's hut. He never enters
there," Nobuhle answered and followed John
inside the bedroom.
"I will give it to you so you'll look for yourself
how different it's done and when you come
back you'll tell me what you want to try out," he
said and Nobuhle smiled excitedly… she
couldn't wait to get home and she also couldn't
wait to come back…
UMCEBO
Chapter 106

***Chapter sponsored by Pumza***

Mhlabunzima was seated under the tree of his

shop with Robert. They were having a cold drink,
it was hot. It was beginning of March.
Mhlabunzima last saw Zinhloso days back
when she wanted headache medicine. He
wasn't sure whether she was going to school or
not. He hadn't seen the classmates he knew. He
never thought his relationship would sour like
this, only because of a pregnancy. They were
supposed to be joyful about the baby but he
was the only one happy. And also, his
happiness wasn't fully because Zinhloso was
distancing herself from him.
"My brother will be pleased that he passed the
interview. He was very nervous and I had to
take almost the whole day preparing him for the
interview," Mhlabunzima said to Robert who'd
given him the letter that stated his brother was
hired.
"Yes, he did well and it came in handy that he
had experience." Robert commented, "I think
you're lucky that you have a brother. I have a
sister who'll be getting married soon."
"And when are you getting married?"
Robert chuckled, "Comfort doesn't want me,
that's the problem."
They laughed, "can you leave Comfort and go
for other women?"
"I really wanted her. Have you noticed that
everyone from grandma Mnguni is pretty. The
women, the aunts and daughters, even
Nobuhle's sister, the one that doesn't smile
often," He clicked his fingers trying to
remember her name.
"Ziwinile?"
He laughed, "yes, that one."
"Yes, she's pretty too."
"How are things with yours? You'll almost finish
a year together now. Are you not ready to face,
Mnguni?" Robert asked.
He huffed, "I might have done a foolish thing
and made her pregnant."
Robert whistled, "you don't like a peaceful life,
Mhlabunzima."
"What was I supposed to do? Only pregnancy
could tone her down and make our relationship
known to her father." Mhlabunzima said.
"Umthondo wawungasanele to tone her down?"
Robert asked.
"If my penis was enough to do that she wouldn't
have gone around kissing other men,"
Mhlabunzima said, angrily. He stood up as he
saw the guy he hired. "I will come back."
They greeted each other, "do you have some
information?"
"I had to pay the cousin and he told me, she was
back to steal from your father because she
owed her boyfriend," he relayed the story to him,
"but it seemed she changed her mind. He's not
sure whether she stole from him or she got the
cows somewhere else because she paid him
four cows."
He nodded, "my father didn't tell me whether he
lost any cows. I will ask her directly. Please,
come back later for your money. Thank you so
much." He shook hands with him and he left. He
wasn't surprised his mother came back with an
agenda. It was clear that she was a woman with
selfish intentions. The only way he was going to
learn if she really changed her mind - was to ask
the truth from the horse's mouth. If she told him,
she would be genuine. He went back to Robert
and he didn't spend much time with him but he
asked to be excused. He headed to his mother's
home. He was certain she was there because
his father wasn't home.
He found his mother sweeping the yard. There
were two boys who were building blocks, "are
you going to build?" He asked after greeting her.
Esther stopped sweeping, "yes, I want to make
this home a proper home. So that you'll know
you have a maternal home."
This was the first sign that she was genuine, "I
want the truth. I promised Zinhloso I would go
back home only if you're genuine. I want the
truth, why did you come back?"
"I will take some chairs," she walked inside the
hut, took her only two chairs and placed them
closer to the hut, outside.
"I am listening," he said after sitting down. He
was looking at the floor waiting for her to speak
the truth.
They had decided with Xulu that it was best to
keep it from their children but if the truth was
going to bring Mhlabunzima back home, she
would tell him. "My son…" she didn't leave any
details out. She even told him that his father
knew the truth but they decided to keep it from
them. She was telling him because she wanted
him to know and she wanted him back home.
She didn't want him away from home anymore.
She never did.
Mhlabunzima wasn't surprised again and he
wasn't shocked or hurt. The woman left her
young children she was never going to have
shame. But - at least she had some guts to tell
the truth and even after discovering her own
wealth she didn't run away with it which she
would have done.
"My father really loves you. He forgave you."
Mhlabunzima commented.
She looked down in shame, "wouldn't you have
forgiven Zinhloso?"
"My children are where I draw the line. So, no, I
would have not forgiven her." He shared
honestly, "if Zinhloso chooses her career which
is going back to school over not raising our
child. I will let her do that but I won't forgive her
or proceed a relationship with her,
"Already, it doesn't look like she wants the child,
so I wouldn't have." He saw the disappointment
in her eyes but he didn't care. That was the truth.
"So, this means you won't forgive me?"
"No, I won't. I haven't found a reason to forgive
you but I will come back home."
She smiled, "thank you, I am happy and I am
sure your father will be happy."
He stood up, "I should go and tell grandpa." He
left her smiling. It was the best decision to keep
his promise even though the person he made
the promise to, she wanted nothing to do with
him.
He walked to his grandfather and along the way
he was thinking deeply. He was scared Zinhloso
would actually want to end their relationship.
Her actions were not of someone who wanted
to be with him anymore. What would he do if
she wanted that? Would it mean he destroyed
their relationship by taking a sole decision to
impregnate her?
Mhlabunzima found his aunt and grandpa
seated together in the kitchen. He joined them.
"Why are you back so early?" Grandpa asked.
"I am back because I am here to tell you that I
have spoken to MaSibiya," Mhlabunzima said
and father and daughter looked at each other.
"Your mother?" Grandpa double checked.
"Yes, I have realised she's back with good
intentions for dad and the family but that
doesn't mean I have forgiven her," he told his
grandfather, clearly. He wanted everything to be
clear.
"Does this mean you're going back home?" Aunt
Maria asked, sadly.
"Yes, I will go back home."
"That's good but sad, it was nice having you
around," aunt Maria said, she really enjoyed
having him with them.
"Yes, it was good having you around but I am
pleased you'll go back home. Your father wasn't
happy." Grandpa breathed.
"Yes."
"Don't leave though, leave tomorrow I will cook
your favourite tonight and you can go home
tomorrow," aunt promised and that pleased
Mhlabunzima. He left, went back to the shop
without any clothes because he was sleeping
home for the night.
****
"Aybo, mama! Where's Zinhloso?" Nobuhle
asked her mother. She'd been home for over
two hours but she hadn't seen her sister. She
was happy being home, she'd been away for
over two months and she wasn't used to it. She
was overjoyed when she saw her son again.
When she saw him again, it was like he was
grown. He couldn't stop talking about his father,
she ended up giving him money to go and buy
whatever he wanted even though she had
brought a lot of goodies for him.
"Your sister is in her hut. I don't know what's
wrong with her but something is not right," Mrs
Mnguni said and shook her head, "I suspect
there's trouble in her relationship. She's been
grumpy and she no longer eats like before."
"Let me go to her," she walked out and knocked
on the door. "Zinhloso, it's me!"
She got up from the bed and opened the door
for her, "hey!" She smiled and hugged her sister
tightly. "You look very beautiful! Durban loves
you."
She closed the door behind her, "thank you and
what's wrong with you? You don't look okay. "
"Let's forget about me. Tell me, how's Durban?"
She smiled when Nobuhle laughed.
"It's amazing and my relationship is out of this
world. I am so happy," she narrated the things
they do together with John. The dinner dates,
the lunch dates, the tenderness of his love and
the gifts. Happiness was written on her face as
she told Zinhloso all about it.
"Oh, Nobuhle, does he have a brother?" Zinhloso
asked and their laughter brightened up the
room.
"Aybo, you have Mhlabunzima!"
She ignored that and twitched her eyes, "so, tell
me, have you guys done it?"
She blushed and looked down, "yes!" She
slapped Zinhloso as she screamed. "Don't
scream, mom will come here."
"How was it and is it really pink?"
Nobuhle wiped her tears. Who would have
thought Zinhloso would ask her such questions
one day? "I won't tell you that but it was perfect!
Robert is a zero, there."
She widened her eyes, "oh, my God!"
Nobuhle quickly opened the bag she entered
her hut carrying, "I bought you these things and
also, I want to hide this in your hut. You have a
lockable trunk here."
She grabbed the magazine without taking a
look at the things she bought for her, "sis!
Where did you get this?" She asked and paged
through, she was blown away by the things she
was seeing. Nobuhle was looking at it with her.
"John gave it to me. Phela, ubengenza
njengezinja!" She gave her a clear picture and
Zinhloso widened her eyes.
"Show me!"
Nobuhle took the magazine and showed it to
her - ' dog style'. Zinhloso was surprised that
what she suggested to Mhlabunzima was also
inside the magazine. She wasn't crazy when
she suggested it to him. Mhlabunzima
pretended like it was a taboo thing, this meant
he knew nothing about the magazine. She was
dating a clueless man.
"I can't believe this!"
"Please, lock it up. You can also look at it and
do some of the things here with Mhlabunzima,"
she giggled but her giggle died down as
Zinhloso's face turned sour. She held her hand,
"what's wrong?"
"He… he…" she closed the magazine and took a
deep breath.
"What did he do? Did he go back to Lily?"
"No, but he made me pregnant, deliberately,"
she said without looking at her sister and by the
gasp coming from her. She knew Nobuhle was
shocked.
"What do you mean, deliberately?"
"That time after the kiss, we were together and
he used enema injection. He told me a week
back that I'm pregnant. He didn't deny it and
he's not even sorry," she kept tightening her
jaws to avoid crying.
"Zinhloso!"
"Yes, I don't even know how to face him and
what to say to him. It would have been better if
he was sorry and he realises how bad this is for
me but he's not sorry. He said that to my face,"
Zinhloso rubbed her fingers and she sighed.
"I am so disappointed I don't even know what to
say. I thought your education was be a priority
to him," Nobuhle shook her head.
"It's clearly not. I will forget about school. It
clearly won't work for me. I will have this child
and he'll probably make me pregnant again
after two years," she guessed from his actions,
"I would probably make him angry and he'll
punish me by making me pregnant again a year
later so that I won't go to school and I will be
hurt."
"Is this pregnancy a punishment?"
"It happened because of the kiss so it's
probably a punishment. What else should I think?
He's making my father an excuse. He says he'll
agree that we should get married now."
Zinhloso shrugged.
"Don't give up. You can still finish school."
"Mxm, seven classes left, that's seven years. Do
you really think there'll be no baby for seven
years?" She asked and Nobuhle failed to answer
her.
"I am sorry but you really need to be strong to
face our parents," Nobuhle said and hugged her
tightly.
"When am I supposed to go to the clinic?"
"You should start at six months. I hope I will be
around and I will go with you," Nobuhle said.
She felt really bad for her. It hadn't been easy
for Zinhloso and she was disappointed and
angry at Mhlabunzima.
UMCEBO

Chapter 107
***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

Mhlabunzima was with Mzomubi in the car

when he was driving back home. It was good
being with his other family but there was no
better place like his real home. Home, where he
grew up.
"They think the warning we gave them the last
time was a joke. This time, they want war and
we shouldn't joke with them, Mhlabunzima."
Mzomubi said to Mhlabunzima.
"Don't worry, we won't send messages this time
because the last time we cleaned our guns for
nothing. We'll go to war because they'll not
come here," Mhlabunzima supported his friend
and they got out of the car. He grabbed his bag,
"I don't like dealing with people who aren't
smart."
"They're really fools."
He could hear voices coming from the kitchen
but he didn't enter. They headed to his house.
Mhlabunzima left his bag on top of his bed, "I
will greet the parents and come back." He left
him seated on the sofa. He found his parents
and two siblings.
"Mhlabunzima!" Xulu smiled, seeing his son. "I
wasn't expecting you."
He grabbed a chair and sat next to his brother,
"yes, I spoke to grandpa and I decided to come
back home."
"Really?" Ngenzeni was happy and her father,
also. Esther didn't tell Xulu that Mhlabunzima
was going to come back but she told him about
his visit. She wanted it to be a surprise for him.
"Yes."
"Does that mean you've forgiven, mom?"
Kusakusa asked.
He glanced at him, "no, I am back home, that's
what is important." He said and handed the
letter to Kusakusa. It'd been on his jacket since
Robert gave it to him.
"What's that?" Xulu asked.
Ngenzeni laughed, "baba, you're always
curious."
"And you're just like him," Esther commented
and they laughed.
Mhlabunzima stood up, "I am not staying. I left
Mzomubi in the house. We're going
somewhere."
"Where's somewhere?" Esther asked.
"Somewhere."
Xulu shook his head and told him to sit down,
"he won't answer you. He doesn't say the name
and I am sure it's about his political things."
Before Esther could say anything further,
Kusakusa laughed heartily, "hey, bafo! We
passed the interview!" He passed the letter to
his father. He shook hands with Mhlabunzima
thanking him, reciting his clan names. "You
helped me a lot."
"What's happening, baba?" Ngenzeni asked, she
raised her neck trying to see the letter but she
couldn't see anything. Her father gave her the
letter.
"Your son got a job." Xulu informed Esther. He
knew the letter wasn't going to reach her. She
wouldn't be able to read it.
She smiled, "congratulations, my son!"
"Thank you!"
Xulu nodded, he was pleased that they helped
each other. It warmed his heart as a parent,
"this is a good thing and tomorrow when we do
the ritual we should inform your ancestors
about the job."
"What ritual?" Mhlabunzima asked.
"Your mother will slaughter that cow and she'll
fully move here with us," Xulu explained.
Mhlabunzima nodded, "I hope you'll be there."
"I had plans but I will be home."
"That's good. MaSibiya, I think you should tell
them," Xulu encouraged.
The children looked at their mother, "yes, I
found out that your grandfather left
inheritance…" She told them about the story of
inheritance and she told them about the cows
she was giving them, "your brother is getting six
because he's older and he's married."
Ngenzeni was over the moon, "does that mean
when Mhlabunzima and I get married we'll also
get one extra?"
"Do you want to get married now? I thought you
hate men!" Everyone in the house laughed after
Mhlabunzima's question.
"You'll be very sad when I get married so I won't
get married." She said.
"Yes, I will be sad because who'll look after my
wife?" He teased and his father clicked his
tongue. Mhlabunzima laughed with Kusakusa,
"Siyabonga, the cows are a lot." He said to his
mother.
"It's not much, my son. I wish I could do more
for all of you," she said, looking at them. They
were so grown - her children.
Mhlabunzima broke the ice by standing up and
everyone looked at him, "I should go. I am
keeping my friend waiting."
"You're friends with your girlfriend's brother?"
Esther was shocked.
He scratched his head, "yes, bye." He quickly
walked out of the hut. He could see she wanted
to ask another question and he didn't want to
answer any questions.
Mhlabunzima and Mzomubi were walking on
the road. They were heading to Dludla's home.
They were meeting up with other comrades to
discuss their recent issues.
"Dudlu ntombi!" Mzomubi whistled as they
reached a young woman walking on the road
carrying firewood on her head.
"It's hot, Mzomubi, please!" She said cheekily.
Mhlabunzima smiled and looked at his friend,
"she's saying it's hot. How does that affect
you?" He encouraged, he knew he was about to
be grilled and he wanted to watch. He had a
girlfriend but he'd been going after this girl for
two years with no luck. He enjoyed their
quarrels.
"My father's kraal have enough cows I can take
you even tomorrow," Mzomubi didn't get ticked
off like he normally did.
She rolled her eyes, "it's your father's cows and
not yours."
"I have my share in that kraal."
"Please, leave me alone, it's been two years. I
won't date you."
Mhlabunzima melted in laughter.
Mzomubi was ticked. The girl didn't stop, "I
don't want to fight your ugly girlfriend,"
Mzomubi wanted to strangle her,
"ungazongidakelwa wena mfazi ombovu!" He
reached his limit and insulted her. Mhlabunzima
widened his eyes.
She screamed, "Are you calling me a grown
woman?"
"Do you have a hearing problem?" Mzomubi
asked, he didn't want anyone to tease his
girlfriend.
"You'll pay for insulting me," she looked at
Mhlabunzima, "I don't know why you are friends
with this imbecile!" She quickly walked away.
"You're in trouble, Ntanga."
Mzomubi spat, "I don't care."
"You called a girl that attends a reed dance
umfazi. How can you do that?"
"Mxm, leave me alone. I won't be in trouble."
He shook his head, "I won't help you with my
cows. They're not a lot, it's only five. I am sure
you insulted her because you think I will help
since I have cows now." He said and they
laughed.
"You mean you won't help?"
"No!"
"Not even one cow?"
"No, I will take one of your sister's with those
cows," he said, trying to test the waters.
He gave him a dead stare, "udakiwe, mgodoyi!"
He insulted him and when he tried to swing a
fist at him. Mhlabunzima quickly moved away.
He was laughing his lungs out, "I think Ziwinile
will be perfect. She's a virgin, vele!"
"Ungangihlanyeli golo lenja!" He was pissed off
and he knew he wasn't going to stop because
he was angry.
"I am older than you, don't forget!" He warned
him while laughing. "Nobuhle already has a
child and I have a child-'' he quickly ran away as
Mzomubi picked up stones. He didn't just pick
them but he threw them at him. Mhlabunzima
didn't stop running until he reached Dludla's
home. They were already near.

Mzomubi was with Zinhloso by the garden

fence. They were washing the herbs. It was
Saturday and she'd been home since morning.
Her sisters and mother were at the garden
fields. Mzomubi was home selling at the
pharmacy and Lily was off.
"Why haven't you been going to work? You
didn't go last weekend and you're home this
weekend," Mzomubi asked his sister.
"I have been busy with school. When is dad
coming back?" She asked and raised her eyes
to the guy walking through the gates. He was
one of the comrades.
"This coming weekend."
The guy greeted and Mzomubi greeted back,
"you're back. Have you seen Chwane?"
Mzomubi asked.
"No, I was at the shop and Ntokozo said he
walked out with his daughter and her mother.
They were at the shop to see him," he answered
freely, he was one of those that didn't know
Zinhloso was dating Mhlabunzima.
Mzomubi chuckled, "oh, no, Wednesday
afternoon they're planning on coming here and
we'll attack. They'll not come here. They're crazy
because they're the ones who didn't want us in
their village."
"Yes, they'll not come here because it'll not be a
campaign but to force and kill people for not
choosing their patty. I will be there too," he
supported the motion.
She was continuing with her work, pretending
like she wasn't listening to them. She was
listening to everything and she was boiling,
from Mhlabunzima walking Lily and her
daughter, to the attack they were planning. She
hadn't seen him for two weeks, she'd slowly
accepted the pregnancy since Nobuhle was
home but what made it more difficult was going
to school, doing homeworks and pretending like
everything was fine. Mhlabunzima had gotten
the opportunity to plan war. And spend quality
time with the mother of his child. Life was good
for him and carried on as normal.
"Mzomubi, I want to go to the shop and buy
some pencils and erasers. Are you going to get
a cold drink for him or should I go get it?"
Zinhloso asked, her mind was no longer with
him but it was at the Xulu homestead.
"No, go, I will take the cold drink and go to the
pharmacy with him."
She nodded and headed out, it was a good thing
that she was wearing a dress. There was no
need to change her clothes and raise questions.
She was hoping to find Mhlabunzima's father at
home. She didn't care that she wasn't
welcomed. She wanted to talk to him.
UMCEBO

Chapter 108
She was walking fast on the road. She was very
pissed, even her body was hot. She wished she
could tear off her clothes and be free. How
could Mhlabunzima be so careless? He wanted
a baby but now he was putting his life in more
danger.
"Zinhloso, sawubona?"
She looked at the person who was greeting her,
"yini?"
"Can I talk to you?" Joseph, her only ex-
boyfriend, picked up his feet and matched her
pace. They were meeting up on the road and he
turned because he wanted to talk to her.
"I don't have time. What do you want to say?"
She didn't stop walking. If she had time she was
going to remind him of a lot of things as he was
trying to talk to her.
"I want to us to get some time, sit down and
talk." He said, nervously.
"There's nothing we can talk about."
"Yes, we can talk about us -"
She clicked her tongue, "you're crazy, there's no
us. You played me, I thought you loved me but
you didn't. Well, I was also thinking you'll help
me heal my broken heart but you hurt me
deeply. Please, leave me alone. I left you like
you begged me."
"But look, it can be easy for us-"
Zinhloso bent down and picked up stones.
"Ngiwumlomo ongathethi manga when I say I
will throw stones at you. I really will, allow me to
throw them at you to prove your love for me,"
She didn't get a chance to throw them at him
because he ran away. "Coward!" She clicked her
tongue and proceeded forward.

He was seated under the tree preparing his

smoking pipe when he heard the gate being
opened. His wife and daughter were in
town…the previous day, Esther performed the
rituals. It was done at his home, where she was
welcomed as a wife and they completed it to
his household where he lived with his children.
She was welcomed to the new home with a
goat and all the rituals were a success.
He flinched his eyes - was that? It was really her!
Imihlola! He stopped preparing his smoking
pipe and waited for her.
"Sawubona, baba," Zinhloso leaned against the
tree trunk and bent down. Her hand held her
knee.
"Yes, how are you and your mother at home?"
"We're fine and how are you?"
"I am well, what brings you here?"
Her waist burned and she rubbed it softly. She
was working at home and now, she was
bending over like this, "can I sit?" She requested
and she agreed that she had no shame. She
had no choice, how was she going to finish
talking at this position?
Xulu frowned and looked at the space on his
bench. It was big enough but he didn't want her
next to him. He was annoyed that she was even
in his yard.
"Didn't your mother send you? Why are you
here?" Xulu asked without giving her the
permission to sit next to him.
She realised he wasn't going to let her sit next
to him. Her waist was killing her and so, with no
other choice left, Zinhloso sat on the ground.
There was no grass under the tree, only the
dusty ground. She sat down and straightened
her legs after putting her flip flops under her
legs. Xulu was looking at her every move,
confused, what was happening?
She fixed her eyes on her hands, "no, my mom
didn't send me but I am here because I need to
talk to you. It's important."
"What do you want to talk about?"
"Baba, I am not happy. Your son is not treating
me well," she introduced the matter to the
eagerly listening Xulu.
And her introduction almost kicked Xulu off the
bench he was seated on. He'd never seen this!
His two sons have had girlfriends and none of
them had come to him to complain. What was
happening? Was Mnguni's daughter uncultured?
A girlfriend would run away when she saw her
boyfriend's father and at times, that was how he
knew that particular girl was dating one of his
sons. But it was not because she was
uncultured, he remembered her running away in
town. If she was uncultured, she wasn't going to
run away but she was going to stand and wait
for him.
"What did he do?" He didn't address her coming
here to complain but he asked for clarity.
Zinhloso started crying, "Mhlabunzima has hurt
me deeply and he gambled with my future. All I
was trying to do was to protect him when I told
him not to approach my father yet. But he was
stubborn."
He still couldn't understand what she was
talking about but he was maddened by the
issue of protecting him, "how were you
protecting him if you agreed to date him? You
were supposed to disagree and tell him to back
off!"
She glanced at him without raising her head and
she could see he was mad, "I did, baba. I tried
my best. Kodwa nami lwangehlula uthando."
He placed his hands on top of his head. Where
was his wife? She was supposed to help him
hear this. Xulu cursed.
And Zinhloso was unfazed by his curses, "I told
him to wait until we're strong enough to face
my father," she raised her head, tears were
falling like a waterfall as she glanced at him
with a straight neck, "you know what happened
to Mthuthuzeli Dumakude and his mother? I am
still in the dark about him but his mother's
death was clear. His mother was also a
prophetess -"
"Don't even mention that!" Xulu screamed, his
hand up, stopping her. He knew about it and
didn't want to talk about it. That was one of the
reasons Xulu didn't want Mhlabunzima with
Zinhloso.
She quickly looked down, "I thought of him
when I told Mhlabunzima to wait until we're
strong but he didn't listen. He has made
matters worse and I don't know how we'll face
my father now. I don't want to lose him, I love
him." She cried loud and held her mouth. She
wiped the mucus with the back of her hand and
wiped the back of her hand with the tip of her
dress.
She made Xulu more confused, "what has he
done? Talk!"
"Baba, since you hate me. Are you also going to
hate my child?" Her shoulders heaved as she
panted, "your son has deliberately made me
pregnant. He planned it and did it without my
consent. This will provoke my father and put his
life in danger,
"And as if that's not enough, he's forgetting
there's a child he left in here and a child,
growing - Zodumo. He's planning war with his
political friends. What should I do, baba?" She
raised her head and she was shocked to see
Xulu gasping for air. He was trying to breathe
but it was difficult. Zinhloso quickly jumped up
and she ran to the kitchen. She didn't care that
she wasn't supposed to enter the kitchen but
this was a matter of life and death. She
returned to Xulu with a plastic bag. She couldn't
find a paper bag. He was holding his chest, still
trying to breathe.
She softly held his back and placed the plastic
on his mouth, covering his nose, "please,
breathe in here, in and out, slowly!" She quickly
instructed and Xulu did that. After a few
minutes, his breathing had stabilized. "Let me
take you to your house so you'll sit with your
legs straight." She sent her arm under his wing
and helped him up. When he was on his feet, he
was tall and couldn't hold him under the wing.
She could only hold his hand and slowly walk
him to his house. He was still breathing in and
out.
"Stand, baba I will get the straw mat," she took
the straw mat behind the door and put it on the
floor. She put the cushion against the wall and
helped him down.
"I will go make garlic water!" She rushed out,
straight to the kitchen and she returned with
garlic water.
Xulu pointed to the door, "go to his house and
call him here, now! Call the shop, he's there!"
His voice was rough as he shouted.
She nervously pushed his door. She was scared.
What if the old man dropped dead? What was
she going to do? She dialled the shop.
"Mhlabunzima speaking!"
"Your father says you should get home now,"
Zinhloso went straight to the point.
"Zinhloso!"
"Yes, come!"
"What are you doing there?"
"Are you going to come or not?"
"Answer my question! You have been ignoring
me for two weeks and suddenly you're at home.
Why?" He raised his voice. He was upset.
"I am not going to answer that question I told
you to come here. Your father is calling you,"
she quickly put the phone down. She headed
back to Xulu's house.
"What kept you long?" He pointed at the sofa as
Zinhloso was bending by the door.
She didn't move from the door, "he was fighting
with me."
"Sit down and wait for him."
"Baba, I don't want to see him."
"I said sit down!" He yelled and Zinhloso quickly
sat down, "angithi nguwe omnike igunye
emzimbeni wakho ukuthi azenzele akuthandayo
ukwenzile ke manje akuthandayo umbalekelela
into ebhekephi?" (You're the one who gave him
the right to your body, that he must do as he
pleases. He's done as he pleases, now why are
you running away from him?"
"I am sorry." She looked down and kept quiet.
They waited for Mhlabunzima silently.
***
Hey guys

We have a sponsor asking for 1000 page

likes/followers. They are already on 488 so ours
will make it 1 488 for a bonus.

Link:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100
063601567292

Thanks.
UMCEBO

Chapter 109
***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

"Awu, you're not working today because you

want to bond with your family," Mrs Mnguni said
to Lily. She was with her daughters coming
from the gardens. They met up with Lily,
Zodumo and Mhlabunzima on the road.
Nobuhle looked at Mhlabunzima and she was
super annoyed, their daughter was in the middle.
She was carrying a packet of chips enjoying
herself. Nobuhle couldn't understand why such
a sensible guy would do such an unspeakable
act.
Lily smiled shyly, "no, mama but Zodumo
wanted to see her father. I walked her to the
shop because I was home." She explained.
"There's no need to explain, my child. Sawubona
we Zodumo!" She greeted the child and
Zodumo greeted Mrs Mnguni back with an
innocent smile.
Nobuhle stopped walking, "when are you
coming back Mhlabunzima? I want to talk to
you." She asked, she didn't care about her
mother. This was her last week at home and
she wasn't sure if she was going to see him
again. She was heading back after her father's
return.
"I am leaving them under that tree," he pointed
at the tree.
And Nobuhle pointed at the tree back, "I will
wait for you under that one." She turned to her
mother and sister, "Ziwinile, please carry my
hoe."
"What's wrong now?"
"It's nothing mama but there's something
important I want to discuss with him. I thought I
would get time and come to his shop but it's
not happening," Nobuhle answered and gave
the hoe to Ziwinile. She waited under the tree
while they carried on with the walk.
She didn't wait for long but Mhlabunzima was
before her, greeting and she greeted back. She
didn't know where to start but seeing him made
her angry.
"Please, don't tell your sister -"
"I shouldn't tell her what? That you were walking
on the road with your other family?" Nobuhle
asked. Mhlabunzima and Nobuhle were of the
same age, twenty-eight years old, going to turn
twenty-nine years old. She was born first.
"No, only Zodumo is my family but I couldn't tell
Lily to leave her behind. And now, that walk
even gave your mom a wrong picture,"
Mhlabunzima explained.
"How could you do my sister like this,
Mhlabunzima? A baby, deliberately but you
know how her father is!" She widened her eyes
at him.
"What was I supposed to do? After everything
that happened between her and I, what was I
supposed to do?" Mhlabunzima asked, he
wasn't surprised she already told her sister. It
was eventually going to be known that she was
carrying a baby.
"You thought a baby was a solution to your
problems? I thought you cared about her and
her future but no, you're selfish!"
He looked down, "Nobuhle, your sister has
already told me all those horrible words. So, I
don't need to keep hearing them."
"Words are nothing, you don't know what my
dad will do to you. Ask Robert!" She clicked her
tongue, "I can't believe you, just yesterday you
helped MaMtshali's daughter get into school,
you even bought school uniform and stationery
but you're taking out the woman you claim to
love out of school, deliberately."
"She'll go back to school."
She clapped once, "I can't believe you! You're
not even sorry for real?" She asked and didn't
get an answer, "so, you really think my dad will
easily marry her to you, now because there's a
baby?"
"Why not?"
She shook her head, "you're gullible."
"Look, I get that I hurt your sister but I told her I
want to come clean about our relationship to
your father but she refused. She told me about
waiting, and us being strong first. Strong for
what?" Mhlabunzima asked and raised his
hands in the air. "Was I supposed to go against
her will and go to her father?"
She laughed, "you were supposed to go against
her will if you are that brave! What was going to
stop you because you were able to make her
pregnant against her will? Huh?"
He clenched his jaws, "sex was something we
both agreed upon. Zinhloso wants to detect
me."
"She was protecting you because she knows
her father and now, you've made matters worse!
Where do you think your comrade and his
family disappeared to?" Nobuhle asked, she
didn't want to bring this up but she had to.
"Which comrade?"
"Dumakude's first born Mthuthuzeli. He had
been approaching her since she was sixteen
and when she was nineteen years old and she
just told him to go and tell dad that he loves her.
She thought he was going to accept cows for
them to date,
"And a year later she would be twenty-one years
old and they would get married but did things
go as she thought? No! Dad wanted to kill
Dumakude's son. He went to his mother and
told her to tell her son to leave his daughter
alone. Nobody knows what was discussed
there,
"Mysteriously, Mrs Dumakude's leg was rotting
at a very fast pace and it didn't take a week
before she was dead. We never saw their family
again. Why do you think Zinhloso dated that boy
who took her virginity? It wasn't solely because
most guys didn't approach her,
"Maybe that added because only Mthuthuzeli
was a guy who approached her for years even
after realising she had developed a disorder
that wasn't there when he started approaching
her. She was hurt and heartbroken,
"She didn't know what happened to him and his
family, still don't know. You're better because
you knew Lily went to another village. Zinhloso
didn't know whether Mthuthuzeli was dead or
alive with his siblings. They didn't date, they
didn't get a chance to but she loved him and
obviously dad did something to his mom or
even to him,
"So, Zinhloso was not being crazy when she told
you, you both needed to be strong before facing
dad. She knows her father very well and my
advice to you, you need a strong traditional
healer. One as strong as him because you won't
hallucinate like Robert did! It's worse that you
did it deliberately."
She shook her head, "I hope you won't tell her I
told you about Mthuthuzeli. I was only trying to
make you understand why she was refusing.
She didn't want another good thing taken away
from her but now, I am questioning whether
you're good for her or not."
Mhlabunzima was still not scared of Mnguni
but he was pissed off that there was a man
before him - who loved Zinhloso to that length
of facing her father. Why didn't she tell him the
truth?
"I am still not scared to the extent that I would
run away and stop fighting for my relationship. I
love your sister and if I have to find that
traditional healer as you've advised I will,"
Mhlabunzima said bravely, "I won't stop fighting
until she's my wife. I would rather welcome
death than let your father stop me from having
her. Only Zinhloso would have that power. She's
the person I am in a relationship with, not your
father."
"Okay then, good luck and it's better now that
you know you're really not the only man who
loved her even with that horrible disorder
because you might be acting like this because
you think you did her a favour."
He clenched his jaws. It seemed Lily's father
was better. "Can you please tell her to come
and meet me? I have been trying Nobuhle, I sent
letters and she didn't respond not to even one
of them. We need to talk, it's been two weeks
already."
"No, angifuni. It's not like you'll apologize. You're
not even sorry for what you did." She said and
walked away.

Mhlabunzima wanted to break things when he

received a call from Zinhloso. He didn't even
want to walk home but he drove home. What
was she doing there because he wasn't home?
"Baba?" He glanced at Zinhloso and sat on an
empty sofa.
Xulu got up from the floor and he sat on his
sofa, "Mhlabunzima?"
"Baba?"
"What's wrong with you?"
He looked at his father, "what did I do?"
"What did you do to Mnguni's daughter?"
"I did nothing. What did she say I did?" He asked
and looked at Zinhloso. And looking at her face,
he was annoyed by what she was doing. What
did she tell his father and why didn't she come
to him? "What did I do to you, Zinhloso?"
"Mhlabunzima, don't act smart! You know what
you did and so, why are you acting smart before
me?" Xulu yelled. Esther walked in carrying her
handbag and a plastic bag. She sat next to
Zinhloso.
"What should I say I did if she's not telling me? I
will say I did something only to learn that it's not
that."
"Say what you know, you did."
"I made her pregnant."
He shut his eyes. He wasn't even ashamed.
Why did he give birth to such an unruly child?
"MaSibiya! This is all your doing!"
She was shocked, "what did I do now, baba?"
She looked at her son and then Zinhloso, who
was quietly looking down.
"Had you been there to raise this boy he would
have come out better. Can you see what he's
doing now?" Xulu asked.
She was tongue tied for a minute, "he's wrong
but he was backed in a corner and if you were
supporting him none of this would have
happened."
"Uyamvuna! You're blaming me, instead!"
"No, I am not blaming you but he did what he
thought was best to help him out this situation,"
Esther tried to explain, "but he got himself in
deep waters and that's only because he didn't
have any guidance from you as his father."
"What guidance did he need? Didn't he know he
was destroying this child's future when he
made her pregnant?" He pointed at Zinhloso
and Esther couldn't answer him.
Xulu looked at Mhlabunzima, "what should I do
to you? Should I strike you until you bleed to
death?"
"No," Mhlabunzima answered.
Esther looked at Zinhloso, "go home,
MaMnguni."
"I am not done talking to them. Why should she
go home?" Xulu shouted, "she has done
something I have never seen happening. She
comes here and tells me she's pregnant, this
one impregnated her deliberately but I wasn't
there when they made agreements to sleep
together. She's telling me she's not happy
because of him and he's choosing war while
there's a child on the way not forgetting
Zodumo!"
"She's acting out of character because of the
baby that she's carrying and she only needs to
learn how to control herself, not to easily give
in," Esther defended Zinhloso, "she even baked
for you what you also didn't know was done
only because she's drawn to you. It's the
pregnancy in control, not her character."
He frowned, "oh, you knew about this?"
"I saw her but Mhlabunzima didn't want me to
tell you," Esther responded.
"And you listened to a child!"
"Baba, I am allowed to have agreements with
my son excluding you."
This was outrageous. He didn't want this
relationship to come out like this, "go home!" He
said to Zinhloso and she quickly stood. He
looked at Mhlabunzima as he stood up, "and
where do you think you're going? I am not done
with you."
"I want to talk to her." He quickly walked out and
didn't mind what his father was saying to him.
He ran after her and grabbed her wrist, "I am
calling your name!" He pulled her to him and
Zinhloso faced him. "What's wrong with you?"
"What's wrong with me?"
"Yes, why did you come here because if you
wanted to say all those things you said to my
father you were supposed to come to me,"
Mhlabunzima asked, he was really angry. He
didn't even wish to talk to her at the moment
but he had no choice. He didn't know until when
he was going to see her. She was hiding away
from him.
"Tell you, what? Don't you know that I am
pregnant but you're still trying to start a war?
Don't you know that I am not happy because of
you?" She asked.
"That has nothing to do with my father because
he's not a part of this relationship, Zinhloso!" He
yelled and held her wrist tighter as she was
trying to fight him off.
"You made him a part of it when you
impregnated me. Angithi, my parents will also
be involved now since there's a baby, that's all
your doing. When were you planning on telling
him?"
"That's not your problem. I don't know why you
came here because you know you're not even
welcomed here." He let go of her wrist. He
never imagined she would do such a thing. It
was shameful. He let go of her wrist.
She swallowed the lump on her throat, "why did
you do this then if you know I am not welcomed
here? What will this baby change?"
"It'll make your father know and accept our
relationship. My father only had a problem with
it because of your father but now, you've done
the unthinkable. He'll have more reason not to
like you," he cleared and Zinhloso walked away.
"It's hot, let me drive you home and we need to
talk."
"I am fine, walking!" She walked out of the gate.
She wished she could walk away from all this.
She had no clue this relationship was going to
take this turn. And from now, she could only
wait for her father's return…
UMCEBO

Chapter 110

Nobuhle walked out of the house dressed

cleanly after taking a bath. She checked on
Zinhloso and she wasn't in her hut. She headed
to the main house.
"Did she cook or you cooked now?" Nobuhle
asked her mother who was dishing up food.
Mrs Mnguni smiled and shook her head, "she
cooked, she did everything, cleaned the house,
washed dishes and pots, swept the yard. I didn't
think she was going to wake up because she
keeps complaining about the headache," she
closed the pots.
"It seems like you're proud now."
She laughed, "at the rate that boys follow her I
can marry her off and not worry about anything.
She can be a homemaker." She took her plate, "I
didn't dish up for her. Mzomubi said she's not
home."
Nobuhle followed her mother with her plate,
"and then, what about your husband?"
"What about him?"
They sat down on the sofa and had the food
Zinhloso cooked, "if he doesn't want her to get
married."
"You'll leave him to me. I want this boy to come
here and we'll talk. I really don't want another
child born out of wedlock," Mrs Mnguni said and
Nobuhle looked down.
Nobuhle was sad because she wasn't going to
be home when this pregnancy was revealed.
She was certain Zinhloso was going to be alone,
facing everything alone. It would be bad for her.
When she was left alone in the house, Nobuhle
lifted the telephone and she called John.
"John Hendricks, speaking, hello!"
She smiled - her man! "Hello, Mr Handricks."
She giggled and held her tummy.
"Hello, my love, how are you doing?"
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am doing well and how are you holding up
without the queen of the castle?"
He chuckled, "I like the sound of that - queen of
the castle and to tell you the truth, I miss you
badly I just didn't want to be selfish and tell you
to come back sooner."
"I know, you're a very good man, that's why I
love you."
"I like the sound of those words when they
come out of your mouth."
She blushed, "I miss you so much."
"I miss you too and are you checking out the
magazine?"
She laughed, "yes, I already have things that I
want to try out when I come back." She hid her
eyes from Zinhloso as she sat opposite her.
"I love the sound of that. Are you enjoying home
and how's your son?"
"Yes, I am enjoying home and my son is well.
He's happy about the things we bought for him,"
Nobuhle said and she rolled her eyes as
Zinhloso smiled.
"I am glad, I hope I will get to meet him one
day."
"I hope so too. I have to go now. I will call again
when I get a chance," she said goodbye and put
the phone down.
"How's Mr?" Zinhloso asked, moving her eyes
up and down.
Nobuhle got up and sat next to her, "he's fine.
Where were you?"
"I went to Xulus homestead. I went to speak to
him…" she looked down, she knew she was
about to shock her. She told Nobuhle everything
about her visit.
She was shocked but she laughed at the same
time, "Zinhloso, where did you get the courage?
You confronted the head of the family?"
"What was I supposed to do? I also like seeing
him," she sulked and looked away as Nobuhle
laughed her lungs out. "How can I control
myself? I don't want to keep going back where I
am not wanted."
"What do you mean you are not wanted?"
"His father doesn't want me there and
Mhlabunzima also asked me, why did I come
there because I know I am not wanted. He
wasn't even friendly," She played with her feet.
"Whenever you feel the edge, that now, I want
this. I really want it, tell yourself I will ignore. I
will ignore, it'll be better." She advised but she
knew sometimes, it would be impossible. She
was only able to control food cravings but not
her feelings towards Robert. She hated his guts
but they got through it only to break up with him
because of politics. Robert was understanding
of the situation and was supportive.
"I will try my best."
"Are you still stressed about him going to war? I
also heard Mzomubi talking about it with
another guy who was at the pharmacy to see
him," Nobuhle asked.
She shrugged, "I don't care it's his choice and
not my problem if he doesn't care."
Nobuhle remianed quiet but she could see that
she was lying. "When I am back in Durban, do,
call me. Don't stress alone."
"Thanks, I will."
"How far are you now?"
"I am three months."
"Can you feel there's a human being there? I
know there are no movements you'll feel yet but
it's a baby now."
"Yes, my lower belly is no longer soft but it's
hard. It's no longer flat like before."
Nobuhle smiled, "you'll be fine, don't worry."
"Thanks. I will go take my clothes from the
washing line." She stood up.
"Granny called and asked about your headache
she was shouting that you're not coming home
after she called you," she informed him and
Zinhloso didn't say anything. She only walked
out, looking worried.
At night, everyone had gone to bed. Zinhloso
was in her hut trying to find a comfortable
position in bed. She was feeling discomfort on
her lower abdomen. She sat up straight and
rubbed her lower belly. "What's wrong?" She
asked out loud and pain followed. She panicked
and removed the blankets off her body. She
tried to calm herself by breathing in and out but
it didn't ease the pain. She headed to the door
and walked to Nobuhle's window. She knocked
on the window.
"Sis," she called out softly.
"Zinhloso?"
She held the tears back, "can you please come
here?"
Nobuhle left Sbusiso on the bed and headed out.
Zinhloso was placing her hands on the wall.
"what's wrong?" She held her hand and walked
back to her hut with her. She'd failed to contain
it, she was crying. Her muscles would tighten
accross her lower belly.
"I am feeling pains. It started as discomfort and
ended up painful like I am having heavy periods
pain," her hand was protectively holding her
lower belly. She was wondering what was
happening to the baby?
"It could be serious I won't know what is it and
considering this is your third month. Should we
call Mhlabunzima? He'll take you to the clinic or
hospital?" She asked and Zinhloso nodded, "I
will tell mom it's a headache and we'll ask him
to come. Stop holding your belly ke, in case
mom comes." She quickly left her.
Mhlabunzima was still inside the kitchen with
his mother and father. He was having his dinner
and the parents were having tea. Ngenzeni had
gone out. After Zinhloso left, Xulu didn't waste
his time but he shouted and lectured him about
what he'd done. He didn't even discuss a way
forward with but he only shouted.
They were having their own conversation and
he was minding his business.
"Mhlabunzima! The telephone rang luckily I was
closer to your house," Ngenzeni walked in with
doors drawing attention to her, "Nobuhle was
on the phone she said Zinhloso is not fine.
She's crying and in pain, you should come and
take her to the clinic. She doesn't know what's
happening."
His heart skipped a beat and he quickly stood
up as his parents both called out his name.
"What are you thinking about because you're
supposed to go there, now! Yini ngampela?"
Xulu yelled at him and he grabbed the car keys
and his wallet on the bench.
"Pass by, I will go with the two of you." Esther
screamed after him as he rushed out.
He jumped on the steering and drove straight to
the Mnguni's homestead. He was worried,
hoping and praying that it wasn't what he was
thinking.
He parked the car outside the gate and walked
through. The light was on, in her hut. He
knocked twice and Nobuhle opened the door.
"Please, come in," she made space for him.
"Just carry her to the car. Mom is in her hut. I
am going with you."
His heart tensed as Zinhloso's face had turned
pink and tears streamed down her cheeks. "Is
there any blood coming out?" He asked and
lifted her off her bed.
"No!" She held his neck and rested her head on
his shoulder.
He turned to Nobuhle, "MaSibiya asked to
accompany us. I don't know if you mind?"
Nobuhle smiled shortly and followed him, "of
course, hambani nogogo wengane," she closed
the door and walked them to the gate. She
handed Zinhloso's bag to him. Her mother had
told her to pack a few important items in case
they send her to the hospital.
"Thank you, Nobuhle." He took the bag and
stepped inside the car. He drove off.
He looked at her as she cried out, holding her
lower belly and her head stamped on the
window, "I am here, Zinhloso. Please, hold on."
It was as if he could feel her pain, her tears
were intense.
He rushed inside the Xulu homestead and his
mother was already seated on the bench
dressed up, "let's go!"
"Come back here with her if they're not sending
her to the hospital." Xulu followed them out. He
was worried about both, mother and the child.
"Yebo!"
They followed each other and Xulu left them on
the gate. Mhlabunzima drove off once his
mother was inside.
In the car, Esther pulled Zinhloso to her chest
and hushed her like a baby. Zinhloso was in
between mother and son. Mhlabunzima held
her hand and proceeded driving with one hand.
"I am certain it's not serious if there's no blood.
It might be pain associated with pregnancy,"
Esther brushed Zinhloso's back trying to make
her feel better.
"You feel pain when you are pregnant?"
"Sometimes, babies are different. I experienced
pain occassionally with you," Esther shared.
Zinhloso quickly pulled her hand away from him
and tried to punch him but Mhlabunzima quickly
held her hand. She couldn't see what she was
doing, her head was on his mother's chest.
"I am sorry, don't hit me!"
Esther looked at him, "who's hitting you?"
"Don't worry."
In no time, they were inside the clinic and
Mhlabunzima was carrying the crying Zinhloso,
"Mhlabunzima!" She held on tight to him.
"Don't cry we'll find help," he put her on the chair,
leaving her with his mother. The clinic wasn't
full, only three people on the benches and so, he
quickly recieved help. He luckily found someone
he knew and he was able to go into the
consulting room without any problems. His
mother was with them.
"Where are you feeling pain?" The nurse asked,
touching her belly and pressing where Zinhloso
was pointing. She asked her questions and
Zinhloso answered them. She then gave her a
pill and water.
"It's nothing to worry about because there's no
blood. It's normal for other women to feel such
pain, the uterus is expanding creating a room
for the growing baby," the nurse explained.
Zinhloso looked at her, "does this mean I will
occasionally feel pain?"
"Yes, it can happen but if there's blood, tell
Mhlabunzima and he'll bring you to the clinic
quickly," she instructed.
Zinhloso glared at him and he only looked at her
with soft, pleading eyes. The nurse gave them
pills for the pain and told them they could go
there was nothing wrong.
"I am glad there's nothing wrong," Esther
commented with a sigh, "how do you feel now?"
"I am only feeling discomfort not pain."
"That's better." She held her hand, "are you still
going to school?"
"Yes, I am still going to school."
The drive carried on, Mhlabunzima was grateful
that nothing was wrong. He was scared he was
going to be told the worst. He didn't want
anything to happen to his baby. He was looking
forward to the day he was going to hold her/him
in his arms.
"Why does dad want her back home?"
Mhlabunzima asked, he'd parked the car inside
the yard. It was almost midnight.
"His door is opened, let's go to him. This means
he's been waiting for our return. He must be
worried," she opened the door, "go to
Ngenzelwe's house MaMnguni."
"Who's Ngenzelwe?"
She smiled, "it's my last born, I named him
Ngenzelw'umusa."
Her smile quickly disappeared, "I will wait for
him here, mama so that he'll drive me home."
"It's midnight and you're pregnant, go to his
house. He'll take you home in the morning,"
Esther tried to convince her. She wanted her
them to be together and have a conversation.
They weren't going to share a bed and not talk.
"I am not welcomed here he knows," she
glanced at him and he looked down.
Esther held her hand, "kukwami la, you're
carrying my grandchild and you're my son's
girlfriend. You're more than welcome." She
walked up to Mhlabunzima's house with
Zinhloso. He locked the door of the car but he
was looking at his mother walking away with
Zinhloso. He smiled shortly and headed to his
father.

UMCEBO

Chapter 111

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

"Baba, we're back." Mhlabunzima said to his

father. His mother sat next to him.
Xulu had been seated on the sofa waiting for
them. He would sleep and wake, only to realise
they were not back. "Okay, why are you alone?
Where's MaMnguni?"
"Mom said she should sleep here because it's
midnight now. I will drive her in the morning,"
Mhlabunzima responded. He was hoping he
wasn't going to tell him to drive her back home.
He nodded, "what did they say?"
"It's nothing measure baba. It's her body
preparing itself for the growth of the baby.
That's why she was feeling pain," Esther tried to
explain it simpler for him.
He sighed, he was worried, "that's better.
Mhlabunzima, let's go to the ancestral hut
before you go to her." He stood up and his son
followed him.
"Do you see the problems you've put us in? We
have to stay worried now. You started with what
you were supposed to end with," Xulu opened
the hut. "And you can't even see that you're
wrong."
"I know that I am wrong."
"So, why can't you apologize to her and move on
from this?" They sat on the straw mat and he lit
the candles.
"I would be lying if I said I am sorry."
Xulu stopped talking and he burnt sage, he
called Mhlabunzima closer. He praised their
family clan names, "here's my son Mhlabunzima
Ngenzwel'umusa Xulu, he's planted a seed in a
girl, Mnguni's daughter but they're not married. I
am pleading to you, my forefathers,
grandmothers and grandfathers, please protect
the child growing in her. And protect the mother
until she gives birth," he pleaded with the
ancestors, "also, protect my son from her
father's wrath. Don't let anything happen to him,
wind off any evil."
They praised the clan names again and they sat
back down, "go and talk to her, fix these
quarrels. They're not good for the baby."
"Yebo, baba," he stood up after his father.
He found Zinhloso seated on the bed changing
her clothes into nightwear. He sat next to her
and glanced at her, her breasts were bigger and
her skin was fairer than before. "How are you
feeling now?" He asked and removed his shirt.
She folded her clothes, "I am no longer feeling
pain."
"Can we talk about everything? I know that
you're angry and your anger is justified."
She opened up the bedcovers, "what are we
going to talk about while you can't understand
what you've done?"
"I understand that I have hurt your feelings and I
have put your dreams of going to school on
hold but please understand why I did this,"
Mhlabunzima said, he was standing on his feet
and Zinhloso was seated on the bed under the
covers. "I thought it was the best decision for
our relationship. So that we'll stop hiding but it
proved not to be. It has happened and I will face
your father,
"I will support you and ensure that while you're
pregnant and not in school. You won't just sit at
home but you'll work on making your other
goals a reality. I will help you as much as I can.
Please, forgive me and accept our baby."
"If I wasn't accepting the baby I was going to
get rid of it," she says and her words broke his
heart apart but he didn't say anything against
her. He joined her in bed in a spooning position.
His hand rested on her tummy and he smiled
shortly feeling the hardness that signalled that
there was a baby inside her. There was silence
in the room, he wanted to ask her about
Mthuthuzeli but Nobuhle had asked him not to
ask her. He wanted to know whether she loved
him and hoped he was alive or she didn't care
about him anymore. Personally, he was hoping
he was alive but he would never come back.
"What are you doing?"
"Where?" He asked softly.
"It's not in the morning and you have an erection.
It doesn't feel good on my butts," she said but
she could feel the blood rush. She held onto the
sheets. "Mhlabunzima!"
"I can't control what my body does when you're
around. It's been three weeks now and it's not
healthy for me," he said, slowly like he didn't
want to talk.
The pictures in the magazine crossed her mind
but she controlled herself. He wouldn't agree,
"you'll hurt the baby."
"I won't. It'll be good for you, it's healthy and
required." He tried to convince her. He knew he
wasn't forgiven because if he was, he wouldn't
have to beg like this. "Ngilishutheke kancane?"
He was hoping to get permission. This was the
day he would try spooning, test if he would be
able to move freely.
"Lishutheke, usheshe ulikhiphe," she gave him
permission and she closed her eyes as he tried
his way in, on her already wet openings. He took
his time trying but it wasn't so easy, "what's
wrong? Alisangeni?"
"Alisangeni elikabani Kanti? Isn't yours?"
"Elami!"
He sighed once he was inside, "bengeke ke
lihlale lingangeni ngoba elakho lonke futhi
ngeke ngilinike muntu." He was ecstatic about
this new position and swore it was his favourite.
He loved everything about it and her response
to it was sweet. All this wasn't going to be
possible without his mother. She wanted to go
home and she advocated for him. It was like
she knew it'd been very dry. He was a happy
man and pregnancy sex was really the best for
him.
In the morning, Zinhloso was dressing up after
taking a bath. Mhlabunzima had prepared the
water for her. It was after 5am and it was no
longer that dark. He was seated on the bed
looking at her.
"Are you going ahead with this war between you
and the Ramashala village?"
There was no way he could lie to her, "yes, we
have to stop them."
"Please, don't go, babakhe," she tried softening
him, reminding him of the baby.
He smiled shortly, "I am sorry mama but I am a
leader I can't hide while others are fighting."
She took her bag and headed to the door.
Mhlabunzima followed her, "why are you leaving
me behind?"
"I will walk home."
"Musa ukuzihlanyisa," he held her wrist and
forced her into the car. "We agreed that I will get
in with you and tell your mom I waited for you.
Now, you're going home alone." He clicked his
tongue and Zinhloso remained quiet.

Zinhloso walked inside the shop's office

without knocking. Mhlabunzima was seated on
his chair and his daughter on the other chair,
they were eating and talking. And when she
walked in, they looked back at her.
"Sanibonani," Zinhloso greeted and she didn't
move away from the door. She didn't know
whether she was going to be told that she was
supposed to give them time. Or he was going to
allow her to say what she wanted to say.
Zinhloso saw him the previous day after school,
she asked that they should go sleep in their
house. She deliberately requested the day
where they were going to have their war.
He licked his fingers, "you've come?"
She didn't move from the door, still, "we need to
talk."
"Can't we talk later? We're still eating."
She took one step forward, "fine, I will say my
piece and go, I know that you've refused to
sleepover tomorrow because you're still going
ahead with this fight nonsense," she broke the
news.
Mhlabunzima stood on his feet, "mntanami, can
you go and finish up the food with malume?" He
requested, softly.
"But, baba, I want to eat with you," she sulked
and looked at Zinhloso.
"It's fine. I want to tell you not to go there
because-" she was cut off.
"Zinhloso, can't you see there's a child here?"
Mhlabunzima pointed at his daughter.
Zinhloso didn't back down, "what should I do if
she doesn't listen? She's not listening to not
even her own father and look," she pointed at
the Zodumo, "we're talking and she's busy
looking at us in the eyes."
"You're trying to pick a fight with me and you're
using my daughter?"
She shook her head shortly with her eyes
closed and a quick smile on her face. She knew
she was wasting her time the minute she left
home but she thought she could try. She
opened her eyes when he held her wrist and he
pulled her to the backdoor, "I can leave on my
own Mhlabunzima. I know where the door is,"
she screamed at him.
He closed the door behind him and let go of her
wrist once they were at the back, "what's wrong
with you now?"
She looked around and there was no one at the
back, "you and your men should stop this
nonsense and let those people come here if
they want to come and campaign."
"You must be out of your mind! How can we let
people who chased us out of their village come
here? They're not going to campaign but fight."
He shouted at her. She was making him very
angry, "you should stay out of politics and focus
on what you know, Zinhloso."
"People will die there, Mhlabunzima, innocent
young men who're just following you because
what you say is gospel to them," she looked at
her with pain in her eyes. Why wasn't he
listening? Maybe she was just paranoid and
scared but she didn't want him to go, "please,
stop this. If you can talk to the king-"
"I won't do that and you, you'll go home and I
will come tonight-"
She shook her head, stopping him from talking
further. She hated what she was about to do
because she didn't like threatening him but it
was her only trick she had left. If he really cared
about their relationship he would listen, "don't!
Don't come, I will sleep on my bed alone and I
will think about a future without you."
Mhlabunzima grabbed her wrist roughly,
"Zinhloso, stop it!"
"And you'll sleep on yours, think about your fight.
I will leave now," she tried to pull her wrist off
his hold but he didn't let go.
"So, you want a future without me?" He hated
the thought of it. When did things change
between them? Just the other night, they were
better at night. He was giving her the best
pleasure and now?
"Listen to me and don't go if you want a future
with me." She tried her best, maybe he might
surprise her and listen.
"You know I can't do that. I lead these people.
What will they say if I don't show up? What kind
of a man will I be?" He asked, his voice was
breaking.
She pulled her hand off using force, "it's fine go
but when you get shot please do me a favour,
see my face. When the bullet penetrates your
flesh, remember my face," she pointed at her
face, "and when you're back home, seated on
your bed in pain because you were shot,
imagine me happy. Very happy with another
man and this baby, a man who'll actually listen
to me and care about me. I won't even come
see you, I will carry on like you don't exist."
His soul crumbled down. Zinhloso, with another
man? "You must be out of your mind!" He lost
his cool.
"Okay, I don't even know why you are angry
because you no longer care about me and my
feelings. It's all about your children but you're
not even thinking of those children. This one
that you dumped in here!" She pointed to her
belly.
"Oh, Zinhloso, stop using my child as if that
child matters to you," he pointed at her stomach,
"you've never cared about that baby you even
spoke of getting rid of the baby," he was
suddenly pissed off.
"Okay, bye then baba kaZodumo." She quickly
walked away but deep in her heart, she was very
hurt. She wished she could stop caring and
forget about the good old times but move on
with her life. This pregnancy didn't bring
anything good. She wanted to forget. But it was
hard, this was the political commitment that
everyone told her about. He was choosing it
even over his own children. What was she?
Nothing!
UMCEBO

Chapter 112
**Chapter sponsored by Sindisiwe Mtshali**

Mrs Mnguni was in the kitchen preparing

amahewu for Zinhloso. She had been sleeping
since morning, the school was closed on
Wednesday because of the war that was said to
take place between the two villages. Zinhloso
only woke up, ate her food and went to bed.
"I don't even know what kind of a headache this
is. Her father should return and heal this
headache," she left the house with the jug. She
knocked on the door of her hut.
"Come in!"
She opened the door, "wake up! Wake up!" She
removed the books on top of her bedside table
and she placed the jug on the table. Her room
looked clean but her bed was messy, she was
sleeping under the blankets but there were
clothes on the bed. And her school bag, on the
bed.
She wasn't expecting her mother. She woke up
and pulled the bed covers to her chest. She
wasn't dressed on top.
"I am your mother. Why are you hiding
yourself?" Mrs Mnguni asked, she cuffed her
waist.
She avoided eye contact, "I always hid my
breasts mama. You used to shout about it." She
responded.
"Do you also hide them for your boyfriend? No! I
don't know how your head works," she pointed
at the jug. "Have this and take your pills that you
were given at the clinic. Pills won't work if you
don't take them."
"Yebo, I will take them."
"I am waiting!"
She took the jug but was still careful not to have
her bedcover removed from her body. She
drank amahewu.
Mrs Mnguni took the brown paper and opened it,
"they gave you painkillers only?"
"Yes, they gave me one strong pill when I was
still there and those pills," she responded and
looked at her. She was frowning, confused
about these painkillers. She knew they were
painkillers even though she couldn't read
English. They were popular.
"Okay, have at least two. You'll have to go to the
Doctor if you're not better by tomorrow," she
handed the pills to her. "I will go with you. I will
ask Xulu's son to take us. That's if they come
back alive with your brother."
She was going to pretend to be fine no matter
what! She wasn't going to the Doctor with
MaNtuli - never!
"Yebo, thank you."
"Get out of bed and see the sun outside," she
walked out after Zinhloso had agreed to get out.
She freely removed the blankets and dressed
up. She made the bed and walked out of the
house. She joined her mother and sisters under
the tree.
Right after Zinhloso had sat down, two old
women of the virgin's regiment walked through
the gates. Mrs Mnguni was wondering why they
were here.
Zinhloso put the straw mat and the two women
sat down. They greeted Mrs Mnguni and the
girls.
"To what do we owe the pleasure?" Mrs Mnguni
asked the two women.
"No, we're here because of the offence done by
Mzomubi." They explained.
She sighed, "what has he done now?" She was
certain it wasn't pregnancy. They weren't going
to come during the day if it was pregnancy.
"He has insulted one of the girls in the regiment.
He called her umfazi." They stated the case and
Mrs Mnguni held her head with her eyes closed.
"Which girl?" She asked in a low disappointed
tone, even the three sisters were disappointed.
"Sithole's daughter. He was with Mhlabunzima
that day, he'll have to testify in this case. We
know they're friends but we hope they'll be
honest before the king," they explained.
Mrs Mnguni shook, "he's not home yet and his
father is also not home. He's coming back this
weekend. Can we discuss this once his father is
back?"
"No problem. The king will send his messenger
with the date of the case," they said and asked
to leave.
Mrs Mnguni clapped once, "I don't even know
what to say." She stood up and headed to her
house.

She was worried, it was evening and still she

hasn't heard any news about Mhlabunzima and
her brother. They've heard a series of gunshots
and singing. The war was by the river.
She was on her feet helping Ziwinile with
cooking. She was forcing herself, she didn't feel
like doing anything but she didn't want her
mother to talk about going to the doctor. They
weren't talking much as they cooked, they were
still not best siblings and Zinhloso no longer
cared about it.
"Please, tell Nobuhle to call me when it's dinner
time. I have done my part." Zinhloso said and
headed to the door.
"Okay."
Mnguni walked through the door with two boys
carrying his luggages and he smiled at his
daughter, "I have come at the right time, dinner
time!"
Ziwinile smiled, "baba!" She quickly moved away
from the table and her father brushed his hand
on her shoulder lovingly.
"How are you my child?"
Nobuhle and Sbusiso came rushing as they
heard his voice. They were all very happy to see
him home. Their father was back home safely
and unexpectedly. It was a good time.
"Where's my wife?" He asked as he sat down on
his sofa and Ziwinile quickly served him with
food and a drink.
Nobuhle stood up, "I will go call her and
Zinhloso." She walked out.
After calling her mother Nobuhle went to
Zinhloso's hut, "Zinhloso, you shouldn't be
sleeping like this. Too much sleep is not good
during pregnancy. You should be active."
"If everything was well in my relationship I was
going to be active."
"It'll be fine, don't worry it's just a phase." She
said and she nodded, "dad is back home. You
should come."
"Really?" She was always happy back then when
her father was back home but now, she couldn't
be happy.
"Wear a smile, don't be sad because you'll make
him suspicious," she advised and they walked
out of the hut.
Zinhloso greeted her father with a smile and
they shook hands, "how are you, baba? We
thought you're coming back on Saturday."
"I am well, child how are you? I finished up
earlier and decided to return early," he looked at
her as she sat down.
"We're happy that you are back home," Zinhloso
said and looked down. She could see all the
faces in the room were happy but she wasn't as
happy. They were talking and laughing, she was
commenting here and there.
"What's wrong, Zinhloso. Awumnandi." He
asked after a while, looking at her.
She smiled, "I am fine. I was sick but I am fine
now."
"Yes, she had a headache she's even coming
from the clinic."
He nodded, "I should prepare something for you.
Where's Mzomubi?"
"He's not home. We've heard they're fighting
today, trying to stop the hooligans from accross
the river to come here," Mrs Mnguni responded,
"if those boys come here they'll only be abusing
people."
Mnguni clicked his tongue and stood up, "I will
go to Xulu now. These boys will send us to the
grave early."
"Why can't Zinhloso drive you?" Mrs Mnguni
raised her voice as her husband was walking
out of the house.
"I am used to walking, Nkosikazi." He walked
out and rushed to Xulu's home.
He found him standing by the cattle pen, his
eyes set far. And when he realised it was him,
Xulu smiled. They joined hands.
"What a surprise!" Xulu chuckled.
"Yes, I thought I was going to come back
Saturday and it seems I came at the right time.
Our sons are putting their lives in danger once
again," Mnguni looked at Xulu.
He only sighed and looked down, "they left in
the morning and we still don't know what is
happening. They've been gunshots around 4,
they took long as you can't hear them now. I am
sure they'll start again."
"Are we going to sit here or we're going there?"
Mnguni asked and they decided they were going.
They left the Xulu household with spears.

"Dubula dubula ngesibhamu!" They were singing

loudly, led by Mhlabunzima. This time around
they'd chew on muthi given by Mzomubi so that
they won't easily feel pain, should they get shot.
The instructions was clear - they were not going
to let them enter their village. They were
hooligans who wanted to abuse people only for
not siding with their political party. They'd lied
about coming to the village to do a campaign.
Mhlabunzima and his team knew the campaign
was a lie. What would they be campaigning for?
They'd decided, if they die, they would die
protecting their village - their parents, siblings
and innocent children. It'd happened before, the
same village killed their people only for having a
choice. The men back then failed and
Mhlabunzima had vowed that his men wouldn't
fail. His spirit was not at rest because of
Zinhloso and what she said to him.
He was going to this war knowing there was a
highest possible of being shot as she'd said.
But he'd told himself he was protecting her, his
children and his family.
Nothing was settled by words but as soon as
their opponents appeared, shots were fired. The
trees were sheilding both teams. The
opponents had crossed the river and they were
shooting, behind the trees. Bodies dropped on
the ground from both teams, others dead and
others shot. Both teams were large in numbers,
groups of young men. Young men, families had
hope about their lives.
Mhlabunzima was already shot on his left arm
but he was still firing with his right, the hand he
used.
"Mzomubi, phansi(down)!" Mhlabunzima
screamed seeing an opponent charging at
Mzomubi from the side. He didn't even know
where he was coming from because his
teammates were not closer to them. They were
shooting at each other, at a distance.
Mzomubi quickly went down and before
Mhlabunzima could shoot first, the guy fired a
shot and Mhlabunzima fired his shot right after
the bullet had penetrated through his stomach.
He felt it enter his body and he was horrified by
seeing the smiling beautiful face of his
girlfriend. He dropped on one knee, laid on the
ground and when it passed, he fired from the
ground. This second wound wasn't like the first
one where he felt no pain. He felt pain
immensely and before he closed his eyes, he
saw the tall figure of Molepe. Wasn't he a
policeman? What was he doing in such fights?
Xulu and Mnguni rushed down to the scene.
They could hear gunshots again. The
opponents saw the two figures running down.
"Here come the witch, let's run!" One man
recognised Mnguni quickly and without
hesitation they ran off. They didn't want to find
out what did he had in store for them. They only
wanted to get away from him.
Mzomubi was already running up with
Mhlabunzima's body, leaving others take care
of the men down, the few injured and four dead
bodies. They all told him to rush him, home.
"Where was he shot? Put him down!" Xulu
shouted as they met up with Mzomubi.
Mnguni felt his pulse, "don't worry, he's alive!
Don't take him home he's already losing blood
but quickly go home and tell Zinhloso to come
with Mhlabunzima's van. She'll drive every
injured person to the clinic."
Xulu held Mnguni's shoulder. He didn't want
Zinhloso to witness such a scene. She was
carrying a child and it wasn't going to be good
for her, "no, don't call her. She's a girl and
shouldn't see this."
"Don't worry, my daughter is brave. She'd seen
worse injuries when I go with her to heal people.
Go, Mzomubi!" He shouted and Mzomubi ran
off… Mnguni remembered his pouch hanging on
his neck and with what he had, he did what he
could. Not only to Mhlabunzima but also to the
other five injured…
UMCEBO

Chapter 113

After dinner, she left them waiting for her

father's return. It was after 7pm and so, it was
already getting fully dark. She locked her door,
closed the windows, switched off the lights and
got onto her bed after undressing. Minutes later,
she heard her brother's voice.
"Mama! Zinhloso!"
She remained on her bed and waited to hear
why he was shouting. His rough knock
frightened her but she didn't make a sound. She
remained quiet.
"Zinhloso, wake up!"
Mrs Mnguni came rushing followed by her two
daughters. Sbusiso was told to remain in the
house, "what's wrong, Mzomubi?" Mrs Mnguni
asked, panicking.
He caught his breath, "mama, mama,
Mhlabunzima was shot! That guy was actually
trying to shoot me but he shouted that I should
go down. I went down and he shot him. He's
unconscious and dad said I should call Zinhloso.
She should take Mhlabunzima's van and drive
them to the clinic." He explained everything to
his mother and Mrs Mnguni quickly pointed at
the door.
"Knock there! Your sister is in there. She left us
about thirty minutes ago," Mrs Mnguni shouted
and they knocked. They knocked so hard even
the neighbours heard them knocking but
Zinhloso didn't open the door.
Her eyes were opened as she was laying on her
bed listening to their hard knocks. She wasn't
crying but her heart was racing. She was scared
but not enough to open the door and go help
Mhlabunzima. She felt bad because this meant
she couldn't help other guys but it was okay.
She was allowed to refuse.
"Aybo! This child, it can't be that she's gone out
so quickly!" Mrs Mnguni shouted.
Ziwinile huffed as her brother held his forehead,
"it's clear that she's not inside. Can't you try and
drive? You're better now since she's the one
teaching you."
He shook his head, "I am shaken, I can't."
Mrs Mnguni pointed at the window but it was
useless to check the window because her room
was dark, "Mzomubi, your sister is not home.
Just go, and find Bafana. He's recently been
hired to drive buses. He'll help." She suggested
and Mzomubi ran off. They walked back after
looking at Zinhloso's door again.
"Hhayi, elinye ipipi leli elitholwe udadewenu.
Kunempi yena uyehla uyenyuka ulandelana
nesende nje lale ndoda yakhe esingayazi," Mrs
Mnguni was annoyed and angered by her
daughter.
"Kodwa mah!" Nobuhle held her mouth.
She clicked her tongue, "what do you want me
to say?" They entered the house and closed the
door.
Nobuhle was coming from her mother's hut.
She went there to give Sbusiso to her mother
because he woke up and cried for her. She
stopped walking when she saw Zinhloso
approaching her hut. She was coming from the
direction of the toilet. She followed her into her
hut and closed the door. She looked around, it
looked like she was on the bed.
"Zinhloso, when did you come back?"
She got on the bed, "come back from where,
Sisi?"
"We were at your door an hour ago. Mzomubi
was here and you were not home." Nobuhle
said, she wasn't sure whether to tell her that
Mhlabunzima was shot or not. She didn't want
to worry her.
"I was in here. I heard the knocks."
She looked at her like she'd seen a ghost, "what
do you mean you heard?"
"I heard that he was shot and dad said I should
come drive. I was quiet, deliberately," she
rubbed her nose.
Nobuhle sat on the bed, "hhaybo! Why did you
keep quiet?"
"I told Mhlabunzima not to go there, he'll be hurt
but he didn't listen to me. So, angizingeni."
Zinhloso said, coolly like she wasn't talking
about the father of her unborn child.
Nobuhle couldn't believe her ears, "what's
wrong with you? He's your baby's father!" She
shouted at her.
"Yes, he is but didn't he know that he's my
baby's father when he went ahead and put his
life in danger?" She asked, her eyes opened up
for her sister. She could see that Nobuhle was
shocked by her reaction.
"You went for him knowing that he's a political
man and we told you how much they love their
political group. So, what's wrong? Why are you
pretending like you didn't know?" Nobuhle
asked.
"I didn't say I didn't know but I kindly asked-"
"He wasn't going to listen to you! What made
you think he was actually going to listen to you,
huh?" She was angry that she'd done such a
thing, "what if he dies?"
"It won't be my fault."
"It'll be! Yes, the fight was dangerous but in your
right mind - do you really think those men were
coming here to campaign? Even mom didn't
stop Mzomubi this time because she knew it
was for the right cause!" She screamed but she
could see she wasn't getting through her.
Zinhloso wasn't fazed, "Sisi, I want to sleep. I
have a baby here that I should worry about. Not
a grown man who chose himself and his
interests over his child."
"Come and lock," she always knew that
sometimes Zinhloso viewed things differently
but she never expected such! She was pregnant
and should be super sensitive but she wasn't
even crying.

As Mrs Mnguni suggested, Mzomubi went to

find Bafana and he found him home. He quickly
headed to the scene with Mzomubi. Other
parents were already at the scene, some
mothers, crying for their children, injured and
dead. It wasn't a pleasant scene but they
managed to get all the injured men in the van.
The others had a difficult task to inform the
families about their dead loved ones. Robert
headed with the guys who were going to inform
the families of what had happened.
Xulu and Mnguni drove to the clinic with Bafana.
Mzomubi was at the back of the van with the
injured men.
When they reached the clinic, they were quickly
attended to, cases filed and ambulances were
called for them. Mnguni and Mzomubi didn't go
forward because they only needed family
members in the ambulance. Only Xulu
proceeded forward because he had his son.
"Where was your sister, Mzomubi?" Mnguni
asked. Bafana was driving them back home. He
was covered in blood but he didn't care. He was
proud that he saved lives, even the nurses
complimented his job. He'd done well.
"Nobody knew where she was, baba. We think
that maybe she'd gone out."
"She'd gone out to where?"
"We don't know, it can't be that she couldn't
hear us. We knocked."
"Heee! Uzoke angithole kahle." He said and
clicked his tongue. From the moment he
greeted her, he could tell something wasn't right
with her. What was wrong?
Bafana parked the car inside the Xulu family
yard and Mnguni headed to the kitchen hut after
thanking Bafana for his excellent job.
They found Ngenzeni and Esther waiting, and
Kusakusa had also joined them. He passed at
home after work.
"Bab' uMnguni, why are you alone? Where's my
husband and son?" Esther asked and raised her
neck.
He sat on the bench, "no, don't worry. They're
both alive but we couldn't come back with them
because Mhlabunzima was shot," he broke the
news and he quickly explained, "it's not bad.
You don't have to stress. Xulu will come back in
the morning or you'll have to go up to the
hospital."
Kusakusa stood up and comforted his crying
mother and sister, "thank you, baba. Please, go
home and rest. I will drive them in the morning.
We'll let you know once we come back."
Mnguni was relieved that Kusakusa was with
them. He was going to comfort them. He was
tired and wanted to rest. They walked home
with Mzomubi. He didn't even say a word to his
son. He was maddened by what had happened.

In the morning, Mhlabunzima was awake in the

hospital. The other two guys had been
discharged because they weren't severely hurt.
They only needed stitches and no monitoring.
The three didn't even come to the hospital. They
attended them at the clinic. It was only
Mhlabunzima who was going to be kept for a
night or two, depending on what the Doctor
would decide based on his progress.
He looked around him and he was surrounded
by his family. The parents and sister, his
grandfather and aunt. Lily was also with them
because they couldn't bring Zodumo. She was a
child.
He tried to sit up straight but he was stopped by
the pain coming from his stomach. His mother
quickly assisted him sit up, "take it easy. You
were shot just yesterday not months back."
"Where's Zinhloso?" He looked at his mother
and his father when his mother didn't answer
him. Lily was upset that the first person he was
asking about was Zinhloso and not his child! If
she didn't know anything, she would say
Zinhloso's father helped her bewitch
Mhlabunzima.
Xulu glanced at his wife and she only shrugged,
"she's home. Her father is back home. That
must be the reason she won't be able to come
and see you."
"Does she know that I was shot?" He looked at
the faces staring at him.
Ngenzeni nodded, "yes, we believe she knows
by now," she answered.
"Can you please tell her to come and see me,
Ngenzeni? Please," Mhlabunzima pleaded and
Ngenzeni promised. He focused on his family
but he was thinking about Zinhloso. What was
she thinking? He couldn't get her off his mind
and he was hoping she would come visit him…
UMCEBO

Chapter 114

***Chapter sponsored by N.X***

In the morning, he could face these two children

- Mzomubi and Zinhloso. He'd a good rest with
his wife at night.
He was seated on the sofa in the morning
waiting for breakfast, "is your sister not awake?
She's not going to school?"
"She's awake. She'll come."
"Go and call her to ensure that she doesn't go to
school without seeing me. She's not late,"
Mnguni told his daughter and Nobuhle walked
out. Ziwinile had already gone to school.
"Baba?" Zinhloso was already carrying her
school bag.
"Where were you last night when everyone was
looking for you? We needed your help but
couldn't find you," Mnguni stared at her.
Zinhloso wasn't looking at him.
"I went out. I wanted to check if the shop was
closed so I can get headache powder," she
quickly formulated a lie.
"That's a lie! You know the shop's closing time
and was it going to remain open while there
was war?" Mnguni said and his daughter kept,
"this means you're dating a coward who wasn't
in war with other men but he was busy running
after you."
"Why are you quiet?" He screamed. Mrs Mnguni
walked in and sat down.
"He was there," she spoke, looking down. What
was the need to hide that he was there? They
were going to know soon enough. She quickly
raised her eyes as the dishes broke. Her father
had flipped the tray and was on his feet carrying
the broom that was close by.
"Baba, don't hit her!" Nobuhle stood before her
father and pleaded.
"Did you hear that, MaNtuli? Your daughter is
telling me her boyfriend was there - in that war.
She's telling me she has a boyfriend!" He
pointed at his wife and back at Zinhloso.
"But baba, now we all know that Zinhloso has a
boyfriend and you've been shouting at her that
she must tell you who's this boyfriend. Why are
you angry if there's progress? She's admitting
it." Mrs Mnguni asked her husband. She was
confused, what did this man want from the
child? "I told you to call this boy and let him
marry her because it's clear she loves him and
there's nothing you can do about it. But you're
not listening to me. She'll get pregnant, I am
telling you!"
Mnguni was maddened but he couldn't deny his
wife was right. He was the one who wanted her
to admit she had a boyfriend, "did this boyfriend
of yours survive? Was he hurt? I would be
pleased if he actually died!"
"Baba!" Mrs Mnguni screamed.
He sat down, "answer my question!"
"I don't know."
He kept quiet and looked at her, he didn't know
whether it was because of this boyfriend or it
was something else, "what's wrong with you?
You're not yourself."
"It's nothing."
"I will find out! Have your breakfast and go to
school," he instructed and Zinhloso quickly
stood up. She was really nervous, her father's
return didn't make her happy at all. She
wondered how life was going to be for her!

His knuckles joined his son's jaws and

Mzomubi groaned, he quickly stepped away
from his father, "aren't you grown enough to
know wrong and right?" He had been busy with
his patients and after his patients he had to
prepare something for Mhlabunzima in case he
returned home.
"I am."
"So, why are you going around insulting virgins?
Don't you know the rules?" Mnguni growled.
"I was joking with her. I didn't know she was
going to take me seriously." He was really
surprised when his mother told him about the
women's visit. He needed to visit Mhlabunzima
and tell him about it.
"Come back here!"
Mzomubi stood next to his father. They were
outside the main house in the afternoon, "why
didn't you discuss this matter before acting?
Why did you blindly go to war?"
"We discussed it."
"What was your solution?"
"War!"
Phaaa! A black slap that made him blind for a
minute, "war? Didn't two kings sit down and
decided both teams are not allowed in each
other's villages?"
"They did."
"So, when you've heard that those hooligans
wanted to break the kings' rule why didn't you
go and inform the king?" Mnguni asked and
Mzomubi didn't have an answer. They didn't
have that option, they all decided to fight, "I
asked you a question."
"It wasn't brought to the table."
"Why? Niziphethe yini kanti? Aren't we all living
under the king and his rules? And that other
team, they live under their king and his rule,"
Mnguni asked.
"We live under his rule."
"So, why didn't you go to the king? If your leader
didn't think of it, why didn't you tell him? Didn't I
teach about order? That you don't just do
certain things without the king knowing?
"Had you told the king he was going to inform
the other king and tell him to stop his people.
The other king was going to stop them
otherwise if they don't listen they were going to
leave his land with their families and go live
where they wanted to do as they please!"
Mnguni was very pissed off by their foolish
actions, "even if you had told Zinhloso, a girl
that you wanted to do this fight. Zinhloso was
going to tell you to go and tell the king, that's
because she listens to me when I tell you both
things. I said this to you both clearly when I
taught you about auspicious plants and animals
that you don't take those things without the king
knowing. I can call your sister now and ask her,
should I call her!"
"Yes!" He wanted to hear her opinion. Was she
really going to remember that while people
were going to die?
"Go to her," he pointed to the direction of the
pharmacy. Zinhloso was selling there after
school. Lily was not at work, she was giving her
brother a break.
Mzomubi returned with Zinhloso. She stood
next to her father, "MaMnguni, if your boss
Mhlabunzima, came to you and told you about
this war they wanted to start. What advise were
you going to give him?"
She kept quiet for a while. Was this a trap? But
no, she was being paranoid, "I was going to tell
him to go to the king and tell him their
opponents are threatening to come here after
they'd told them they're not allowed into our
village."
Mnguni glared at Mzomubi, "Get out of my face,
you scoundrel!" He tried kicking him but
Mzomubi ran off.
"What's wrong?" Zinhloso asked.
"Why didn't you tell this boyfriend of yours the
same thing because I am sure you knew they
were going to fight?"
"Baba-" she looked down, ashamed.
"Answer me!"
"I told him."
Mnguni clicked his tongue, "so, what are you
doing with a man who doesn't listen to you?
Because your brother said nobody brought this
suggestion up when they were having
discussions. Why are you with a man who
doesn't listen to you?"
She was tongue tied. She didn't have the
courage to tell him that he also didn't listen to
her mother at times even when she was right.
She didn't want to disrespect her father.
"Can't you talk?"
"I can."
"So, why can't you answer my question?"
"I don't have an answer, baba."
"Go back to your work." He looked at her as she
walked away. And he wondered who was this
boy who wanted to take her. He didn't want her
to have a man who wasn't going to take her
word serious. His wife was pestering him about
meeting this boy and telling him to rightfully
take Zinhloso before she got pregnant. And he
knew she was telling the truth. He had to come
to terms with reality that he couldn't keep her
with him forever. The boy was almost like
Mthuthuzeli, he didn't care what disorder his
daughter had he wanted to take her. And this
one, he needed to come to terms with him
especially since it'd been revealed he was a
political man. He hated those men, they were
acting on anger, making them not think straight
and logically at times.
***
He returned home the previous day after
spending two nights in the hospital. Zinhloso
really didn't come to see him and that broke his
heart. He knew if she really wanted to see him
nothing was going to stop her. Not even her
father.
"How are you feeling, Ngenzwel'umusa?" Esther
asked and placed the tray of breakfast on top of
the bedside table.
He sat up straight, "I am in pain. I want to see
Zinhloso. Why can't she come and see me?" He
asked his mother.
"She's unreachable, my son. It's hard getting her
to come here. " She pointed at the breakfast,
"have soft porridge first and then eat your
breakfast that way you'll take your medication."
"I want Zinhloso."
"We will try to get her but eat, take your
medication."
He shook his head, "she's doing it deliberately.
She didn't want me to go there and told me she
won't come see me if I get shot."
"And you went ahead!" Esther shouted.
"It has already been done, please don't shout at
me. And what kind of a leader would I be if I
didn't go?" He asked.
She pointed food, "eat!"
"No, I won't eat. I want to see her."
She clapped once and walked out quickly, she
headed to her husband in the kitchen, "can you
come and see wonders? Your son doesn't want
to eat he says he wants Mnguni's daughter."
"He wants Mnguni's daughter, is he going to eat
her?"
"He's acting childish!"
Ngenzeni laughed, "he's the last born he's
throwing tantrums. It's like since mom's return
he's seeing himself like a child."
"You're talking nonsense!" Xulu clicked his
tongue and walked out. Ngenzeni was laughing
her lungs out.
They found him reading, still seated on the bed,
"why are you not eating?" Xulu asked and
Mhlabunzima looked at his mother.
"Yes, I had to call your father!"
"I won't eat."
Xulu really saw him like a child. Was his
daughter right? "Stop acting childish!"
"I want to see her. Please tell Ngenzeni to tell
her that I won't eat until she comes. If she
wants to see me dead, I will die then."
"Mhlabunzima!"
"I am serious."
Xulu walked out sweating and Esther followed
him out, "Ngenzeni is right. You're babying this
boy. You think you'll make up for the lost time.
He was never like this."
"Hhaybo, baba!"
"Yes, he wants MaMnguni and you serve her to
him. He wants me to eat her cakes and you
force me to. He was supposed to drive her
home, you force her to sleep in his house," he
glared at Esther and she wasn't supporting his
statement. "These children are annoying me
and they're involving us in their business!"
"That's not true." She defended herself and she
didn't tell him - from what she heard, the
parents involved themselves first in the
children's business.
"Tell your daughter to talk to his girlfriend! I
won't have that child die because he wants a
woman and not his medication," he headed to
his house.
"Are you also not eating now?"
"I am no longer hungry!" He slammed the door
shut…
UMCEBO
Chapter 115

***Chapter sponsored by N.X.***

"What happened mama? Why are you angry?"

Ngenzeni asked her mother as she walked
inside the house.
She took her food and sat down, "I am angry at
your father. He's also not eating now."
Ngenzeni was entertained, why would she leave
home if it was this fun? She laughed her face
off, "did he agree with me that Mhlabunzima is
suddenly childish?"
"You're adding insult to the injury, Ngenzeni!"
She wiped her tears, "I am sorry mama wami
omuhle but I love it when those two fight. What
can I do to help?"
"Can you please talk to Zinhloso?" She pleaded.
What other choice did she have? Her son was in
pain and wanted her.
"What should I say to her?"
"Please, tell her to come and see your brother.
She must know that Mhlabunzima is not eating
because he wants to see her. I need her to
come here, please!"
Ngenzeni nodded, she had to talk to her. She
didn't want her brother to die of pain and
heartbreak. "I will talk to her. I will go to the river
in the afternoon, around her time and I am
certain I will see her, talk to her about it."
"Thank you, my child." She focused on eating.
She wasn't going to quit eating because these
two men were on hunger strike. She needed to
eat and go visit her grandchildren. She needed
some fresh air and come back to deal with this
child.
"Where are you going? What did Ngenzeni say?"
Xulu asked. He was smoking the smoking pipe
in his living room.
She fixed her doek, "I am visiting my
grandchildren and my first born. I need some
fresh air. Kusakusa is home today."
"Kusakusa will come here. Why are you going
there and who's going to cook me lunch?" Xulu
asked.
"Ngenzeni is home. I will cook if I come back
early. Please occasionally check on the boy,"
Esther pointed at the direction of
Mhlabunzima's house.
"I should check on him? Why are you leaving
him?"
"I want to check on my other child." She headed
out as Xulu wasn't saying anything.
****
She was walking to the river with her classmate
Nompilo. They were just talking about school
and things that were happening. These talks
weren't pleasant anymore because it was only a
matter of time before she stopped going to
school.
"Zinhloso?"
"Yes!" She could see Mhlabunzima's sister from
a distance. She was carrying the bucket and
was with her neighbour.
"Can I ask you something and please don't be
offended." She looked at her.
"What?"
"Are you pregnant?"
She quickly looked at her, "why are you asking?"
"I heard some girls talking. They were saying
you look pregnant and the other girl was sure
that you're actually pregnant," she informed
Zinhloso.
She remained quiet for a while, "yes, I am but
they don't know at home."
"Yoh! I am sorry. Are you ready to stop school?"
She shook her head, "how can I be ready for
that, oe?" They finally met up with Ngenzeni and
her neighbour.
Ngenzeni stopped walking and smiled at
Zinhloso, "sanibonani, can I talk to you?"
"I will catch up with you, Nompilo." Zinhloso
said and Nompilo proceeded forward. The
neighbour left them. Ngenzeni put her bucket
down.
"I have been hoping to see you."
They stood by the roadside, "is something
wrong?"
"Yes, it's my brother. He's so heartbroken and
he wishes to see you."
She shrugged, "he wants to see me, how?"
The question came unexpectedly and she kept
quiet for a while, "you're his girlfriend, Zinhloso.
How does a boyfriend want to see his girlfriend?
I think you know now that he was shot and has
been in the hospital. He's hoping you can come
and see him. He's home now."
"Why did he ask you to tell me because he
knows I won't come? We had this conversation
with him. He chose his way and I chose mine.
What's wrong now?"
"We don't know about any agreements you two
had but our problem now is that he's refusing to
eat and he's refusing medication because he
says he wants to see you," Ngenzeni clearly
explained the situation to her.
She chuckled, "hhaybo uyagula! He's not serious.
He'll eat once pain gets intense. He'll have no
choice."
"Zinhloso I know that he's serious. Please. He
said he'll die if you want him to die."
She wasn't moved, maybe if she wasn't
pregnant she would be moved but she had a
child on the way. She didn't have time to stress
about an irresponsible man. She still had
parents to face, "Can you put yourself in my
shoes? He made me pregnant knowingly, he's
not sorry and as if that's not enough he makes
such a careless decisions that put his life in
danger. How's that fair to me? Do you know I
couldn't sleep thinking about his decision to go
there, the possibility of him leaving me
pregnant?"
"I understand but can you guys talk things
through?" She pleaded, "he's stubborn and likes
having his way but it's not nice seeing him like
that."
"Bring Zodumo to him and remind him he's
father. He'll wake up and take his medication.
Ayeke ukutefa ngathi ingane ephucwe ithoyizi
layo. Umbuze ukuthi zenzenjani izingane uma
sekutefa ubaba."
She was defeated but she couldn't help but
laugh her lungs out, "please, don't let me keep
you waiting." She lifted her bucket up, maybe
her mother was the one who was supposed to
try her because at the end of the day she
wanted her brother to get what he wanted.

After Ngenzeni had gone to Mhlabunzima and

told him that Zinhloso asked 'what should the
children do if he's acting like a child?' Esther
saw her child dying and she decided she was
going to go to the Mnguni homestead, find a
way to talk to Zinhloso.
She didn't waste time and Sunday afternoon,
she visited Mrs Mnguni. They sat down under
the tree and caught up. They spent over an hour
together and it was finally time for her to leave.
"MaNtuli? Where's your youngest daughter?
There's something I need to ask her since she
also works for my son," Esther tried the trick.
Mrs Mnguni took the tray with the dishes and
pointed at Zinhloso's hut, "she's there. I don't
know if you want me to call her for you?"
"No, don't stress since her hut is by the gate I
will pass by. Thank you, again and for coming to
see my son yesterday," she said and Mrs
Mnguni waved goodbye.
She knocked on the door and she was told to
come in. She pushed the door.
"Hhayi, hhayi, Zinhloso! You're sleeping during
the day?" Esther was surprised to find her on
the bed, covered in her blankets like it was cold
outside.
She quickly woke up and sat up straight, placing
the blanket on her chest, "hawu, sanibona," she
was relieved that her room was clean. It
would've been highly embarrassing if she found
it messy like it was in the morning.
Esther sat on her bed, "yebo, you shouldn't
sleep during the day. You'll have a problem
when you give birth. The baby will also sleep
while it's supposed to come out. You should be
outside and be active because it seems you and
your boyfriend are always having issues. You're
not spending time together as you should."
"Yebo, I won't sleep."
"No, I was visiting your mom and thought I
should pass by. I understand your concerns and
where you come from," she introduced the
matter to her, "but you chose my son knowing
he's into politics and by that I am not saying
he's right by disregarding you. I also spoke to
him. Please, come and see him."
She proceeded speaking as Zinhloso wasn't
saying anything, "I don't want my son to die of
pain and heartbreak. If he doesn't eat and take
his medication he'll have an infection. That will
mean he'll go back to the hospital. We're
worried about him. His father and I tried
speaking to him but didn't listen."
"I will come and see him."
She was surprised that she'd agreed that easily.
Was she serious? She clearly understood that
Zinhloso was pregnant and angry, her anger
was justified, "are you serious? I don't trust
you."
Zinhloso looked down with a short smile, "I am
serious. I will come."
"And what if you don't come?"
"I won't make that mistake. I will come."
Esther told herself she needed to trust her word,
"alright, thank you my child. I will go now." She
walked out of the door hoping that she was
really going to come.
UMCEBO

Chapter 116

She didn't go see him the very day Esther came

and asked her to see him. She wasn't in a good
mood that night and she didn't wish to see
Mhlabunzima. She wanted to mop alone about
the people who'd figured out that she was
pregnant while her family was in the dark. She
couldn't sleep trying to decide whether to come
clean or wait for the pregnancy to show to them.
She wasn't sure whether it was a good idea for
Mhlabunzima to come to her father while he
was still weak. If it was something different,
she was going to ask for help from her
grandmother but it was out of the question. She
fell asleep when she reminded herself she was
supposed to ask for the solution to the person
that created this problem for her.
Monday, she went to school and after school,
she went to the river. And cooked dinner. She
cooked extra because she was planning on
dishing some food for her sick boyfriend.
There was a cold wind outside, she wore her
coat over the floral waist shirt dress that didn't
show her stomach. It was a good thing that she
was going to see him. She was supposed to
complain about everything to him, even the
small clothes she had. Her mother recently
asked if clothes no longer fitted her, she was
seeing her repeat a few sets of clothes. She
made an excuse because she was good at
making up lies, lately.
She locked her door, slowly and headed to the
gate. It was after 9pm and everyone had gone
to bed. She realised that she was no longer
used to sneaking out like this because driving
to their house was during the day most of the
time.
She smiled as the dog jumped at her, "who
would have thought there would come a day
where I will have no problem with a dog," she
said, opening the lunchbox of Mhlabunzima's
food. She took out a piece of chicken leg, took a
few bites and gave it to the dog. She walked
behind houses.
She knocked on his door and there was no
response. She knocked again.
"Who's it?"
She held her breath at the sound of his voice
and responded, "it's me."
He wasn't hallucinating but he was hearing her
voice. "Zinhloso?" He double checked as he
pushed himself to get out of the bed
"Yes, it's me." Zinhloso looked around, the yard
was quiet.
He opened the door. His hand that was holding
the crutch was shaking. He was weak, he hadn't
eaten anything in two nights. When he saw her,
energy was restored back into his body. He
threw his body into her arms, holding her tightly
with one arm, "you came!"
"Yea, walk back inside. You don't look fine to
me," she said and locked the door. She held his
hand and limped to the bedroom.
Mhlabunzima sat back down and looked at her
as she put his feet on the bed.
"Ninjani nobabili? I am happy to see you. I didn't
think you'd come." He looked at her as she
opened her bag.
She took out the spoon and the lunchbox, "it
was going to appear as disrespectful to your
mother if I didn't come," she placed the food on
his lap, "eat! I don't know if you looked at
yourself in the mirror. You don't look good at
all."
"Thank you!" He started eating the lovingly good
meal, "I am sorry but what was I supposed to
do?"
"Don't ask me that question like I am the one
who said go and fight," she stood up and stood
before the mirror on the wardrobe.
"Can you come and dress up before me? I just
want to look at you." He stopped eating and
looked at her.
Zinhloso was undressing before the mirror, "no,
uzovukelwa." She wore her nightdress as
Mhlabunzima was laughing. He was laughing
carefully. "Did you at least take what my father
made for you?"
"No, but I will take it now because I have seen
you." His eyes were fixed on her small baby
bump that was showing on her night dress. His
baby was really growing? He put the lunch box
on the bedside table. He was done eating and
Zinhloso gave him the medication. He was
looking at her every move as she was walking
from the kitchen to the empty fourth room in his
house that had a bucket of water, a kettle and
two bathing basins.
She gave him the water, "did my dad say you
can take his medication with pills?"
"Yes, he said they won't clash."
She took the 2 litre at the corner and poured it
on the glass as he told her the amount he
needed to drink. Mhlabunzima gulped down the
bitter tasting medicine.
"Come and join me," he opened her side of the
bed and Zinhloso got into bed without switching
off the lights.
"Awungitshele ke. What were you hoping to
achieve by starving yourself? You wanted me to
run after you after what you've done?" Zinhloso
asked, she was still annoyed by this behaviour.
"Didn't you stress me enough by going to that
fight?"
"I am sorry. I didn't mean to stress you out. I
just couldn't let them go alone."
"They weren't even going to go alone because
there wasn't going to be any fights if you
followed the right channels," she raised her
voice. She wished she could throw things at his
annoying face or even punches for what he did,
"MaNkomo lost her son. He was working and
looking after her and her grandson, are you
going to do what Buzwe was doing for his
mother since he died under your leadership?"
He looked down. He was devastated when he
heard Buzwe died and he hadn't been able to go
and see his mother because of his own injuries.
"Why are you quiet, Mhlabunzima?"
"Yes, I will look after them where I can." He
promised, he'd already spoken to his father
about it and he was very mad that such a thing
happened. He glanced at her she was quiet,
"Mzomubi told me you weren't home when they
needed you to drive us to the clinic. Where were
you at night? You're pregnant and I wasn't
around. Who did you go out for?"
"I should only go out for you?"
"No! But you're pregnant. My baby -"
"My baby! My baby that, my baby this! That's all
you care about. It's like you're in a relationship
with this baby," she was super irritated and she
wished to be away from him because there was
nothing sensible discussed.
"Where were you? I asked you a question?"
"I was home. I heard them but I decided to
ignore them."
He looked at her like he was waiting for her to
say she was joking but Zinhloso didn't say
anything, "how could you do such a cruel thing?
Only because I didn't listen to you. What if I died?
Weren't you going to be hurt? You were
probably going to cry the hardest like you
cared!"
"No, it's not cruel. We both chose our paths and
stayed on our lanes. If I didn't care I wasn't
going to try and stop you." She argued. "And
you're mistaken, I wasn't going to cry just like I
didn't cry when I heard you were shot because
you would've died doing what you love the most.
Why was I going to cry for someone who chose
what they love above everything else? I was
going to focus on this baby you left me with."
She said honestly.
"I have never dated such an unkind woman in
my life."
She looked at him as he opened up the blankets,
"where do you think you're going?"
"I need to smoke!"
"Smoke for what? You're angry because I wasn't
going to cry for you. Did you think of my
feelings when you chose your political war?"
"I am a man! Did you want me to sit back and
watch others fight? What would I be doing? You
wanted me between your thighs because
they're made of gold!" He shouted and didn't
care about the pain in his stomach, "yini enye
esile engangobe ngiyenza nawe ngaphandle
kokukhwela? Ayalwa amadoda mina
ngikhwelwana nomfazi njengevaka!"
Zinhloso kept quiet and pulled the blankets
back on her body. He stopped going out to
smoke and got back in bed.
"Are we sleeping with the lights on, tonight?"
Mhlabunzima asked.
She got off the bed and switched off the lights.
She pulled the covers and closed her eyes.
In the morning, she woke up while it was still
dark and took a bath in his house to make
things easier. When she got back to the room
he was awake but still in his sleeping position.
"Are you going to be fine walking alone? I can
ask Ngenzeni to accompany you."
She dressed up in her clothes. "I will be fine."
She took her lunchbox and stood by his side,
looking down, "I need money."
"For?" He asked. She'd never asked him for
money. He used to give it to her when her father
wasn't looking after her.
"I need money for new clothes. My clothes are
tight, they make me uncomfortable if I try them
on. I keep repeating the same clothes. Mom
asked me where my other clothes were," she
responded.
He nodded, "okay, I will give it to you. We'll
come to your father but my dad said it's better
that I get better first because we don't know
what we'll get from him."
"Okay, they're already talking about me at
school. So, it won't take time for everyone to
know."
"Who's talking about you?" He asked.
"I heard from Nompilo that she heard some
girls talking."
He scratched his head, "okay, I will tell dad
about it and see what we can do. Maybe I can
go until I am fine and then they'll go to your
father while I heal."
She nodded, "Ngenzwel'umusa?"
He smiled shortly, "yeah?"
"I think we need to take a break. Our
relationship, let's just put it on hold maybe until
the baby is born because it's clearly not working
out," Zinhloso suggested, she couldn't sleep
properly thinking about this. She realised people
were right when they said, 'a baby either brings
you closer or breaks you apart' ever since there
was a baby in the picture; it'd been arguments
after arguments. "I am tired of fighting. I am
tired of everything. It's better I focus on this
baby for now and what to come when my
parents find out."
"What do you mean? Uthi angithole enye
intombi?" He asked, calmly.
"Is that what you want? Another girlfriend?" She
was taken off guard by the question. She didn't
want to lose him but she wasn't going to control
what he wanted.
"No, but since we're on this break that you're
talking about. Who will I be sleeping with?"
He was only thinking about sex! Typical of him,
"who were you sleeping with when I wasn't your
girlfriend?"
"That's different. I didn't have a girlfriend but
now I have you. You're also pregnant and
should be sexually active," he said, he didn't
want this break nonsense that she was talking
about. "I am not saying our relationship is only
about sex, there are lots of things that we do
together. The problem is, you just don't want to
sit down with me like an adult and talk."
"How many times should we talk and fix nothing?
How many times?"
"I don't know, until something is fixed."
"We need a break, that's what we need."
"Okay, fine, you can have your break. If it'll make
you happy." He was also tired of this. She was
stubborn and wanted to compete with him in an
argument. She wasn't acting like a woman and
he hated that about her. It was like she also
wanted to be a man in their relationship. He'd
never heard a relationship take a break. Was
she also into things white people did? It'd
seemed this decision of making her pregnant
before marriage wasn't the best. If they were
married, was she going to ask for a break? No,
she would have sat down in their home, fighting
until there was no fight.
"Thanks and the money?"
"In my safe, take the money you'll need." He told
her the coordinates of opening the safe. "You'll
tell me when there's something going on with
my child unless the child will also be on break
with me."
She felt like he was mocking her and it made
her very angry. She took her bag and left,
without even taking the money. She glanced at
his father's house. It was locked. She
proceeded out.
****
Mnguni was visiting Xulu on Wednesday, during
the day. They were seated under the tree having
a cold drink while talking. They were discussing
the police coming the previous day to question
Mzomubi and Mhlabunzima, along with other
guys. But the most wanted were Mzomubi and
Mhlabunzima.
"I don't understand why the police want them?
It's not the first war and that thing wasn't even a
real war," Mnguni clicked his tongue, "it was a
commotion. We've seen real wars between
these two villages. Where large numbers of
people died."
"You're right, Mnguni. I think they're deliberately
targeting our sons. It's mostly impossible to see
who shot who in war because everyone is
focused on the battle."
"Who wants these boys?"
Xulu shook his head, "I don't know but I am not
going to agree to have my son in jail. He's
young and still has things to do. And also, he's
injured, he'll die in there if he gets arrested." He
didn't want to add that he had a child on the
way, not forgetting Zodumo.
"Yes, he'll die. Nobody will look after him but
what are we going to do? If Mhlabunzima
wasn't shot, I wouldn't have a problem with
them being taken. I have muthi. I was going to
take them out of prison within a month of trial."
Mnguni said, "but he's in pain and he's only
starting to heal. We can't take risks."
"I don't know about you but I will call these boys
and tell them to tell the police I was there.
Mhlabunzima only came because I was there
and he was shot. He'll have to give me his gun,
clean his finger prints and the gun will have
mine. These boys will testify and the evidence
will be there, it'll not matter what the other guys
are saying. The police work with evidence. The
gun will have my prints. That's evidence. I will
ask that you help me with that muthi so that I
will come out of prison. Mhlabunzima should
also stay here and take care of MaNkomo
because her only son died. He'll not do that
while in prison."
Mnguni nodded and shook hands with Xulu,
"yes, yes, that's a good idea and we'll shame
this person who's targeting our sons." He
smiled cunningly, "and I hope for his sake I don't
find out who he is."
"Go talk to your family about it and I will talk to
my family." Xulu said and the two old friends
decided.
UMCEBO

Chapter 117

***Chapter sponsored by Ofentse Fefe***

She served her father with lunch. They returned
early from school because their teachers had
other commitments. Zinhloso returned from
school and did chores. She cooked lunch
because her mother was not home.
"Here's your lunch, Mnguni." She placed the tray
on the coffee table. She took her plate and sat
on the different sofa.
"Thank you." He took the plate and looked at
Zinhloso's plate, "since when do you eat such a
small portion of food?"
She laughed, "I ate at school, baba." She
responded and chuckled, "baba?"
"Yes."
"So, I worked at the pharmacy for two days. Can
I be paid?" She requested with a grin and
Mnguni laughed, he almost choked from the
food. "Why are you laughing?"
She preferred asking him money than opening
her money tin. She'd saved a lot of money since
she started working for Mhlabunzima. And she
was still not ready to open the tin.
"I am paying you with that plate."
She giggled, "no, baba this plate is your
responsibility as a father."
"How much do you need?"
"I don't need much."
He shook his head, wondering how much was
not much, "when you're done, go and take
ezimbengeni. Don't take it all because you love
money too much. You must marry a wealthy
man."
She laughed and stood up, "thank you so much,
baba. You're the best, dad!" She quickly walked
out and headed to her father's healing hut. She
didn't even glance at the dish of coins. She took
the notes and left the hut a happy woman. She
knew she was going to get a lot of money from
Mhlabunzima but it didn't matter. She was
going to go to the market and buy some clothes.
At dinner, Mnguni decided this was the right
time to inform his family about the decision
they'd taken with Xulu. He'd spoken with his
wife first and she supported him even though
she was sad about this situation.
"My children, we all know what happened and
we know the police want your brother. It seems
like someone has casted an evil eye on him and
Xulu's son," he looked at their faces and they
were listening attentively, "Xulu and decided
we'll take the fall for this-"
The three siblings widened their eyes at the
same time, "baba, no! Don't do it. You're old now,
should be home with your family and not in
prison." Mzomubi protested.
"Let your father finish!"
"Thank you, Nkosikazi, it'll be best if we go
instead because what if you go to prison and
they kill you there? I don't even want to talk
about Xulu's son. He has a wound to nurse,
prison won't be good," Mnguni tried to make
them understand.
Zinhloso felt really bad about this. These two
men were old. How were they going to survive
prison? "Baba, are you going to plan something
to help you with the case? Like ingobamakhosi
or any strong muthi?" She felt nervous about
this and she didn't like the idea but they were
parents. Any parent would do anything to help
their children in crisis, especially in such a
situation. Black lives were cheap.
Mnguni nodded, "yes, I will use it and others.
You don't have to worry about anything. It'll only
for about a month until the trial begins, second
appearance it'll be gone."
They were only relieved by that, he was
promising them it won't stand. He wasn't going
to promise them lies.
Zinhloso covered her head with the blankets
and closed her eyes. She didn't make any
sounds as tears fell on her pillow. She could
feel deep in her soul, her father was not going
to be around when her pregnancy was revealed.
He would be mad but she was certain he
wouldn't do anything major like her mother.
Was this the time she was going to need his
help?
She got up, wiped her tears and headed back to
the main house. She opened the book of
telephone numbers and called Nobuhle.
"Hello?"
She smiled, "your voice sound like a voice of a
happy woman."
She laughed on the line, "don't be ridiculous.
How are you?"
"I am not fine and that's why I am calling. It's
about dad…" she told her about their father
possibly going to jail.
"Oh, God! That's big and I don't even know what
to say. Is he going to survive prison?"
"I don't know but he survived initiation he'll
survive prison and come back, I hope. My worry
is that he won't be home when they actually
realise that I am pregnant," Zinhloso shared.
"Dad can be reasonable I saw with you but mom,
she doesn't care especially because she's been
saying that I will fall pregnant. My belly will
show now especially with these clothes I have."
"Oh, no! Zinhloso, you're right. Mom will turn
devil on you." She felt bad on her behalf and
wished she would be home, "but let's pray you
can hide it from her. The problem will be
outsiders who already know you're pregnant."
"Yes."
"But don't worry, dad won't be dead he'll be in
prison. He'll come back, fight you, be angry and
end up forgiving." Nobuhle comforted her and
they changed topic. Zinhloso felt better after
talking to her sister. She was able to sleep
without any stress, she was hoping it was going
to work out.
****
His hands were circled around her waist and
Nobuhle was seated on top of the kitchen table.
They were lost in each other's lips they didn't
even hear Jessica walking inside the house.
"John!" Jessica screamed as she witnessed her
brother kissing a black woman in his house and
when the couple looked at her. She was
shocked to realise that it was Nobuhle! "What's
going on? What's this?"
"What are you doing here and who opened up
for you?" John asked and placed Nobuhle down.
He wasn't pleased to see his sister and she
knew he didn't like surprise visits but she had to
show up unannounced.
She pointed the door, "Martin was walking out
and he opened for me. What are you doing with
another kaffir! What do you love so much about
these people?"
Nobuhle looked at John at the mention of
'another' she couldn't understand what did this
mean?
"Please, go to your family and stop coming here
without telling me." He rushed to the door and
opened the door, "please, go. I didn't invite you."
"Are you chasing me out? I am here to visit you.
Why are you chasing me out?"
"You know how I feel about surprise visits even
our parents don't come here unannounced. I live
alone and I like my space, go and come back
after you've told me you're coming!"
She nodded, she was hurt, "fine, I will tell mom
about your kaffir." She slammed door.
He turned to Nobuhle, "let's go to bed. I will
explain everything to you." He held her hand and
they headed upstairs.
He packed her in between his thighs and he
started talking, "Dumazile was my girlfriend, she
was very pretty, kind hearted and worked for my
aunt before working for my parents. I loved her
and we dated while she was still working for my
aunt,
"By the time she worked for my parents our
relationship was a year old. I planned on moving
out and the night I was telling her about it. My
father found out about our relationship and he
killed her,
"He made it look like an accident. He told the
officials he thought it was one of the black
thieves and not his worker. He wasn't aware his
wife had hired someone new. It wasn't a big
deal and I had to move on. It was very hard for
me."
"Why did he kill her?" She was suddenly scared.
Was she safe?
"He said she tricked me into loving her I would
never love a black woman and I tried to protect
her but I wasn't strong enough," he wiped the
single tear. "I tried to pick up the pieces and it
took me years."
Nobuhle changed position and faced him, she
hugged him, "I am really sorry for what you went
through. Love shouldn't be like this, based on
colour," she held his neck and they picked up
where they left off. Only now, it was filled with
tensed emotions from both of them. Nobuhle
was leading the kiss and it was on fire. Their
clothes were flying across the room.
“I want to try it out.” She said slowly, she was on
top of his naked body.
"What?"
She didn't respond but she crept down to his
potent organ and she covered him with her
mouth, her hand on the base of his organ. She'd
been memorising the instructions on the
megazine, playing and replaying them. She
didn't want to ruin it. Up and down her mouth
moved, her hand accommodating her mouth
movement. His hands were pressing hard on
her shoulders, nothing mattered now but his
pleasure. She would take counted breather and
proceeded, she never imagined human organ
would taste like this - salty! But she loved the
smell of his skin. He groaned as her tongue
twirled around his tip, she felt great that meant
he was enjoying himself. She carried on until
her mouth was filled with the warm thick liquid
he released. She spat on the towel.
"Are you sure that was your first time?" John
smiled and flipped her over, he was above her.
She giggled, proud of herself, "I am just a fast
learner," she said seductively and her proud
man kissed her tenderly.
UMCEBO

Chapter 118

***Chapter sponsored by MaGama****

Xulu had called Kusakusa home. He wanted to

talk with his children because Mnguni had told
him that he'd told his family. Xulu didn't want to
waste anymore time. The police had returned
the third time and luckily when they returned
after they've gathered the comrades who were
in war. They had a conversation with them
without their sons. Xulu had already told his
wife and father but not his children. The guys
were also aware that there was something that
was not right - why did they focus mainly on
Mhlabunzima and Mzomubi.
"I have called you here because I have
decided…" They were holding the meeting at
Kwa gogo, inside the kitchen hut. They'd had
dinner cooked by Esther. Xulu didn't beat about
the bush but he went straight to the point.
"Baba, such a big decision." Ngenzeni was the
first to comment. "Aren't you scared of prison?"
"You can't do that, baba! If they want to have me
arrested I will go. This is my fight,"
Mhlabunzima spoke right after Ngenzeni. He
couldn't imagine his father in prison because of
him.
Kusakusa clenched his jaws, "why are you
sacrificing your life for Mhlabunzima? He's
careless and always careless but you go out
your way to support him. This is his fault and
not yours."
"Kusakusa -"
He stopped his father from talking, "no, baba,
you're doing this the wrong way. He'll repeat
what he's done because he'll know you'll go to
prison for him?"
"Kusakusa, are you shouting at your father?"
Esther asked.
"I am not shouting but I am not supporting his
decision. It's not right."
"Mhlabunzima is a baby!" Esther screamed and
she didn't care that the older two were gaping at
her, "and your father doesn't care who's first,
who's last, if it was you. He would have done
the same thing. I don't know why you are
questioning his decision. You should apologize
now!"
"I am sorry," Kusakusa said in a low tone.
"But I -" Mhlabunzima tried to talk.
Esther pointed at him, "shut up!" She didn't need
to repeat herself. Mhlabunzima was quiet. She
looked at them, "you're lucky to have such a
father, all of you should be grateful."
"Yebo!" They said in unison and Xulu freed them.
But he followed Mhlabunzima, he was still using
a crutch for support.
They sat down on the sofa, "baba, there was no
need for this decision but I don't want to keep
opposing you. I don't want to sound ungrateful.
Thank you, not just for this but for everything
you've done for me."
"You're my child I am doing my duty as a father,"
Xulu rubbed his eyes and opened them again, "I
want to talk to you about MaMnguni and the
pregnancy."
"Yes!" The mention of her brought loneliness
and bitterness in his heart.
"I know I have advised you that we should go to
her father, pay damages and take her as your
wife to end this hide and seek but now there's
this situation,
"Let's deal with the prison first because Mnguni
might even turn on me and not help me if he
can learn the truth,
"He'll also be angry that I knew about your
relationship and didn't tell him anything. It's
best to face him after he's helped us."
"Yes, I already told Zinhloso about that and she
understood. The problem is that others at
school can see that she's pregnant."
Mhlabunzima shared.
He nodded, "I understand but let's keep quiet for
now and hope for the best. The best thing you
can do, support her and don't give her stress."
"Yebo." He didn't mention anything about the
break. That was his business. "There's
something I think I should share."
"What is it?" He sat back down.
"Before I passed out I saw Molepe."
"The police officer?"
"Yes, he wants a relationship with Zinhloso.
Uyangibangisa nje kahlekahle but I don't know
why he was there. He hates my guts. I think
maybe he's the one behind these police wanting
us in prison," Mhlabunzima looked at his feet.
He shook his head, "is he the one who shot
you?"
"No, he's not. I shot back at that man who shot
me. I think he died there because he didn't wake
after I shot at him," he responded. "I saw
Molepe behind the trees with the others."
"Other policemen are also in politics but they
hide it for the public's sake. And if he wants
MaMnguni it's certain that he wants you behind
bars," Xulu made sense of it all but he still
couldn't understand why he wanted Mzomubi
behind bars too. He said goodnight and left him.
Mhlabunzima went to his bedroom, he opened
the bedside drawer once he was under the
covers. He took one of the photos they took in
Durban with Zinhloso. He spent his time staring
at the photo.
"Bo-Donda, bo-Gxabhashe, ngoneni?" He closed
his eyes and placed the picture on his chest. It
didn't take long and he fell asleep wondering
how she took the news of her father possibly
going to prison. He fell asleep wondering if she
wasn't blaming him for all this?

He got out of the toilet and washed his hands

on the bucket, it was placed just outside the
toilet by his mother. Esther put the bucket after
seeing her husband coming from the toilet and
heading straight to the kitchen. She couldn't
stop talking about how unhygienic men in the
family were for not washing hands - it became
an issue of every man while it was her husband
who didn't wash hands. She placed the bucket
every morning with no fail.
He looked around after seeing saw Lily standing
by the gate of his garden, "where's Zodumo?"
He asked.
"She's at home."
"Oh, and so, why are you here? Is something
wrong?"
She smiled, "no, I thought I should come check
on you. Are you okay? I brought you some fruits.
I know you don't trust me so I thought I should
buy something like this."
"Oh, thanks," he took the plastic bag, "but you
really didn't have to come here because
Zodumo was here just yesterday. She told me
that you asked how am I. I told her. I know you
care but remember where we drew the line and
you know I have a girlfriend."
"Yes, I know I didn't think it'll be harmful if I pass
by."
"Thanks, bye." He looked at her as she left. He
headed to the kitchen hut and he disposed of
the plastic on the rubbish bin that was closer to
the kitchen hut.
"Why are you throwing food away?"
Mhlabunzima followed his mother inside the
hut, "Lily gave them to me."
"What's wrong if she gives you fruits? She's
worried about you. You're the father of her child
or it's harmful?" Esther gave Mhlabunzima a
plate of food, "eat so you'll take your
medication."
"Thank you, I don't trust anything from her. I
went to a traditional healer with my friends and
I was told she wants to use a spell on me."
Mhlabunzima shared with his mother what he
didn't tell anyone in the family.
"Yehheni! Jehovah, ingane yami!" She held her
head. "Did you confront her?"
"Yes, and she didn't deny it."
"I am glad you went to the traditional healer
early. I can't imagine what that spell would have
done to you," she cleaned up the tables, "how
are things now between you and MaMnguni?"
"She said she wanted a break because we're
fighting a lot."
"What's a break?"
"It's like we will no longer be in a relationship
but while in a relationship. It'll be like that until
the baby is born," Mhlabunzima shared.
"I am sure it's your fault!" She stopped cleaning
the tables and faced him.
"Hawu!"
"Yes, don't say 'hawu!' You're not just short like
your grandfather while you have tall parents.
You also have his pride!" Esther revealed and
Mhlabunzima laughed, "don't laugh, I am
serious. You see, if you're still holding on to
your man pride, you'll never build a home.
Umuzi awuwakhi wedwa uwakha nomfazi. Your
wife is like a football coach, she's standing
outside the match watching,
"She can see all the mistakes you're doing,
where you'll fall as a player on the ground and
she's coaching you on how to play the ball so
you can win the game,
"If you don't listen to your coach you'll never win
the game. What will be the use of being called a
football player if you're not winning any
games?"
"There'll be no use."
"Women are not only good for making babies,
raising the babies and cooking. They're
homemakers, the voice of reason in a home.
Nendoda iyindoda ngezenzo ayi ngegamaa
nokulengisa ipitshanyana."
"Hawu, mah! Anginalo ipitshanyana mina."
Esther smiled as she realised Mhlabunzima
called her by 'mah' "Phela mina ngagcina
kuseyilo." She walked out with a bowl of
vegetables leaving Mhlabunzima laughing.
UMCEBO
Chapter 119

***Chapter sponsored by MaGama***

"MaMnguni, please follow me!" Her Standard 4

class teacher glanced at her and took the books
on top of the table. She walked out. Zinhloso
followed her class teacher. She was the only
Mnguni girl in class and two boys. It was clear
the teacher was calling her.
"Do you need my help with anything, mistress?"
Zinhloso followed her teacher behind. She was
used to being called by her teacher, asking her
to help her with anything.
She headed to the principal's office, "yes, the
principal and I need to talk to you."
Principal, talk to her? Deputy principal, maybe
yes but Principal! She was surely in trouble. She
nervously sat on the chair her teacher had
provided for her.
"MaMnguni, greetings," the principal looked at
her through the glasses.
"Greetings, sir!" She neatly placed her hands on
her lap.
He placed his pen down, "it's very hot outside,
why are you wearing the school jersey?"
Oh, no! She least expected this question and
she couldn't even find the right answer, "it's
nothing, sir!" She wiped her sweaty forehead.
"MaMnguni, you're a very bright learner and it
saddens me what I am hearing from our female
teachers," he took out his glasses and placed
them on top of his table, "they tell me that you
look like you're not alone now but you're with a
child."
Her eyes glistened with tears but they didn't fall
off, "yes," she responded with a shaky voice and
her class teacher shut her eyes. She couldn't
believe it when one teacher told her she was
suspecting Zinhloso. She liked Zinhloso
because she was one of her bright learners in
class.
"Zinhloso! Why did you play with your future like
this? You're not young and you're pulling
yourself back." Her teacher's heart was broken
and as a mother, she shed tears.
"I did something foolish. I am sorry," she failed
to hold back her tears.
The principal was disappointed, "does your
parents know about this?"
"No, that's why I have been coming to school."
She wiped her eyes with the tip of her jersey.
Her class teacher gave her tissue and she
wiped her tears with it.
"I think you know that pregnant learners are not
allowed in school. So, this means you'll need to
tell your parents and stop coming to school,"
the principal clearly stated, "you can finish off
the last three days of the week but on Monday, I
don't expect to see you back in school."
"Yes, thank you."
"What are you going to do? And when are you
giving birth?" Her teacher asked. "You can't just
give up."
"Yes," the principal supported the class
teacher's words.
"I am going to come back next year."
"That's better, you can go now."
She stood up and she didn't go back to class.
She headed to the toilet with tears streaming
down her then chubby cheeks. Everyone was
still in classes, the toilets were empty. She was
regretting everything. She wished she could
turn back time, do things differently.
"Zinhloso? It's Nompilo, the mistress said I
should check on you."
She got up from the seat and walked out of the
toilet. She cried intensely as Nompilo hugged
her, they were standing in the hallway of the
toilets. "Don't cry, it's not like you were
impregnated by some irresponsible prick. He'll
look after you and the baby, then you'll come
back."
"Thank you," she wiped her face. They stood
outside for a few minutes until her face had
regained colour. They headed back to class.

After school, she was supposed to head

straight home but she didn't go straight home.
She knew her father had commitments with
Xulu in the afternoon. She wanted to go home
so she'll see him. But she also wanted to see
his son. She stood under the guava tree, the
school children were scattered on the road. She
couldn't see anyone outside the yard. She
walked inside the yards, walked behind the
houses until she reached his house. She was so
nervous, she didn't even knock but entered the
house.
The radio was playing, at a medium volume but
there was nobody in the living room. She
headed to the bedroom, the door wasn't closed
like the front door wasn't closed. She knocked
as she saw the tall slender figure standing
before him.
Esther looked back, "hawu, MaMnguni come in!"
She focused back to Mhlabunzima. She was
busy washing the wound on his arm, she was
carrying a small basin with warm water and a
clean cloth.
"You arrived at the right time. You'll continue
here and I will proceed with my pots before
grandpa comes back."
Zinhloso took the basin and she greeted Esther.
She greeted back and left her after softly
smiling at her. Esther closed the door behind
her.
She stood in between his legs, "what happened
to your arm?" She asked, he was bleeding fresh
blood and he wasn't supposed to be bleeding.
"I was moving something heavy and I got
injured," he answered but he was looking at her
face. She was focused on his arm. The wound
on the stomach was closed, the stitches were
no longer there.
"Why didn't you ask for help? Look, you're
setting your healing back, now."
"I didn't think I was going to hurt my arm." He
could tell there was something that brought her
here, "what happened?"
She took the bandages, "my teacher and
principal called me at school."
"Why?"
"They asked me about the pregnancy. I couldn't
deny it and I told them I am still coming to
school because at home they don't know yet.
They said I shouldn't come back to school on
Monday." She kept tightening her teeth. She
didn't want to cry anymore. It was enough.
She'd shed enough tears but they easily came
out whenever she was sad. She tied a knot on
the bandage and she was done. She placed her
hands on his thighs and kept her head down.
He tried to pull her chin up but Zinhloso
tightened it down. He was out of lies they would
tell as the reason she wasn't going to school.
He could understand how careless and
insensitive he was for making her pregnant. He
was caught in the moment and didn't think
about all these things that were happening now.
"The situation is not getting any better and I am
sorry. I admit I didn't put you first when I did this
but I only thought of what I wanted. I only
thought of our relationship and I was very
wrong," he admitted, he realised he would be an
animal if he didn't admit this with everything
that had happened, everything that showed him
he made a wrong decision, "I made a wrong
decision again. A very wrong one not just for
our relationship but for you. Right now, I don't
even know what solution we should take for
this."
"I will go to grandma and she will see me and
tell them. I won't have an excuse for not going
to school," Zinhloso suggested.
Was it okay to say what he was about to say? "I
am scared for my father. He wants to go to
prison on my behalf and your dad on your
brother's behalf. I think you know-"
"Of course, I know! Where will I see your father
when he's in prison?" She yelled and she was
looking at him with eyes full of pain and anger.
"I am sorry, if we tell your father now I won't
allow my dad to go to prison because he'll
clearly not come back." He said, nervously. He
didn't know whether she was going to burst or
cry harder, "it'll be better if I go because your
dad will be angry at him that he knew about us
but didn't tell him."
"What should I do then? I should fool my
parents, wake up in the morning as someone
going to school while I am not?" She asked and
didn't get an answer, "why are you quiet now?"
"I think, yes, you can stay in my office at the
shop. Or sometimes come here. I don't know
which is best," he was nervous about this
suggestion and when she didn't say anything,
he didn't ask why she was quiet.
"Zinhloso?"
"Hmm?" She didn't raise her head. She was
quite angry.
"I am really sorry but also, Molepe was there in
that war. I think he's the one who wants us in
prison," he shared.
"Why? Why would he want my brother there?"
She still didn't raise her head.
He wanted to push her head up but he didn't
even want to try her, "I think, so that you can
hate me because I am the one who took the
final decision of going to war. That's all I can
think of."
"I don't hate you even after you've hurt me so
deeply by making me pregnant. I can't hate you.
It's not happening," she raised her head and he
looked back at her with a pained look, he wiped
her tears.
"Please, don't cry now. Everything will be
alright," he pulled her into a tight hug. Zinhloso
stood on her toes a little because he was still
on top of the bed. "I hope you'll find it in your
heart to forgive me."
He let go and they looked at each other quietly.
Her heart was drumming, and without asking
anything, no permission asked, she pulled his
face to her by his neck. She covered his lips
with hers and even when she didn't feel any of
his hands touching her. She didn’t stop.
She knew she announced a break but she
needed something to lift her spirits, something
to make her happy and only his body could do
that. She probed the softness of his mouth with
her warm tongue. He was slowly moving his lips
like he didn't want to do it. She didn’t stop the
kiss. She was yearning for his touch but
Mhlabunzima didn't budge. His hands were
holding the bed.
Zinhloso was frustrated, his response to her
kiss was not enough!
Her hand clutched on his shoulders and with
the other, she brushed it over his pants. He was
already erect but why wasn't he holding her?
He quickly placed his hand on her waist as she
proceeded to kiss while brushing her hand on
him. "Zinhloso, I am injured. I need stamina for
this to work."
"I want you," she whispered as if she was crying.
Her eyes were closed and their foreheads were
joined together.
"I know, you know I always want you too but I
can't have sex without abdominal stamina." He
tried to explain.
"I will do everything and you'll only lie back.
Please, babakhe, please," she begged. She
didn't care, there was no shame for her in
begging for it.
"Ufuna ukungikhwela, Zinhloso?" (You want to
get on top of me?)
"Yes, your men won't know that I got on top of
you. It'll be our secret. Everything that happens
between the sheets is our secret," she
convinced him and looked at him with pleading
eyes, "make me happy."
"Not like that."
She grabbed his bulge softly - all these
techniques were Nobuhle's magazine. She
wouldn't have known this action made any
difference. She loved how he would flinch and
sigh when she did this.
"Why are you refusing? Uwena owathi elami
lonke. Kanti umuntu akenzi yini akuthandayo
ngento yakhe?"
He tightened his jaws and pointed at the door
with his eyes, "go and lock the door. My mom
might come back here, she's old fashioned and
wouldn't think this would be happening while I
am injured."
She smiled shyly and went to lock the door. She
headed back to the bed, taking off her tunic.
She dropped it on the floor and she bent down
for her shoes. Her shirt followed.
"How are you going to move on top of me
because it seems like Qophelo has grown
now?" He asked, looking at her belly that was
clearly showing because she was naked.
"I will. Why are you still sitting like that?" She
asked and moved closer to him. She wasn't
going to tell him that the magazine had said -
'you can practice on the pillow' and she'd been
really practising.
He got on top of the bed and it didn't feel right
that as a man he was lying on his back like this
because a woman was going to get on top of
him. But he quickly remembered his mother's
words - 'man pride.' He looked at her with a
short smile as she removed his pants. He
chuckled deeply as Zinhloso smiled alone at his
manhood that sprung out freely the minute she
removed his underwear. This woman really
loved this thing of his!
She got on top of him and she was careful not
to lay her body on his stomach as she kissed
him again. She reached for him while they were
still kissing, she rubbed him on her wet
openings and he growled at the sensations he
was feeling.
"Is it painful? I haven't put it inside yet."
"No, Zinhloso, do what you were doing."
She proceeded, it was teasingly pleasing and
she loved it. When she was inserting him, she
stopped the kiss. She relaxed her hands on his
either sides, she bounced up and down, slowly
and she heard the man cry out as she
succeeded. It was a good thing the radio's
volume was not low.
"MaMnguni!" He held her waist, his voice was
shaking. This new experience was something
else!
She moved her upper body forward and she
wondered if she was going to be able to do it if
her belly was bigger. She moved up and down
slowly, it was different and the pleasure was
high. She was moaning and he was making
sounds she couldn't hear clearly.
She was enjoying herself, she loved the control
she had. His groans were deeper.
"Ungenzani kodwa?" He cried out and held her
waist as Zinhloso circumscribed the oval using
her body with the down stroke at the end of
each oval movement and that deepened his
groans. "Kuphinde futhi!" He begged for the
repeat of the movement.
"I am pregnant, kuyakhathaza(it's tiring)."
"Why are you pregnant, Zinhloso?" He asked,
frustrated.
And she playfully slapped his chest. She leaned
forward and intensely pounced on him with no
limit. She went on and on.
"Donda!" He cried his clan names as the pace
changed and this time he cum before her.
She collapsed her body next to him when she
was done. She smiled, happy. She looked at him
and his hands were on his face. "What's
wrong?" She asked.
He let out a huge sigh, "nothing!" He looked at
her and pecked her lips. "Ngiyakuthanda
ngenhliziyo yami yonke."
She smiled, "I love you too, so much."
"MaMnguni, we need each other more now. I
understand -"
"Yes, the break won't do us any good. We
should hold each other's hands until the very
end," she finished up what he wanted to say.
"And it's fine, I forgive you. The baby is already
here, we should prepare for the arrival of him or
her."
His perfect puzzle piece. She knew exactly what
he wanted to say, "thank you, I will be with you
every step of the way. I will also provide
anything you want."
"Yes, because if you don't provide ngeke
ngikukhwele futhi." (I won't do woman on top
again) she joked.
"Aybo, how?" He raised his voice and Zinhloso
laughed her lungs out.
The knock on the door stopped her from
laughing, "aybo, kanti iziphi lezindaba
enizixoxayo? MaMnguni! You should go home, I
am seeing a few learners on the street now.
Xulu must be coming back now too. What are
you doing there? Ngenzelw'umusa, you're
injured!" Esther screamed at them and tried the
door. It was locked, "oh, Jehovah lezingane!"
She walked away without hearing what they had
to say.
Zinhloso quickly got up from the bed and she
dressed back into her uniform. "When are you
coming back to the shop? I can't keep coming
here. I risked it because I was sad today."
"I was there yesterday. How's my baby? Are you
still feeling pain?"
She wore her jersey, "yes, it comes occasionally
but it's not like that one that sent me to the
clinic."
"We should go to prophetess MaDuma and get
a waist string."
"Okay, ask your sister to accompany me, not
you." She grabbed her bag.
He got off the bed once he was done dressing
up, "why not me?"
"No!" She stood on her toes and pecked his lips,
"bye, gxabhashe. Don't walk me out." She fixed
the bed.
"I will leave you at the door." He walked out of
the bedroom and he left her at the door. He
looked at her as she carefully walked behind the
houses until she was outside the gate.
UMCEBO

Chapter 120
***Chapter sponsored by MaGama***

"Why are you not eating now?" Mhlabunzima

asked Zinhloso. It was Saturday morning, they
were seated on his office desk. On top of the
desk, there was food, the shop regular - potato
chips and russians.
She licked her fingers after taking a few chips, a
russian she didn't finish. "It's oily, it's giving me
nausea."
"What do you want to eat?"
"Anything that's sweet."
He stood up, "there's not much here I will come
back with juice and biscuits."
She left home in the morning in the name of
work. She had written to Mhlabunzima that she
wanted to see him on Saturday. Mhlabunzima
came to the shop only for her. He didn't make
plans to come to the Shop. He drove his car.
"Please, have this so that you'll go I don't want
you to come back late." He placed the treats on
the table for her.
Zinhloso started eating, "I am waiting for sis
Khosi. I will go with her."
He sat back on his chair and finished up the
food, "that morning, you were so angry you even
left the money you asked for?" He glanced at
her and opened the drawer.
"I wanted to get home. I asked for money to my
dad but it's not much."
He placed the money on top of the table, he
looked at her. She was focused on what she
was eating but her eyes with him at the same
time, "don't do that again."
"I won't. Thank you." She took the money and
put it on her purse.
"Please, you'll only fetch water, water the plants
and come back. Don't get carried away and
work," Mhlabunzima emphasized. Zinhloso was
going to their house to check on things and
water the green peppers they last planted.
"Yes, you've said that." They looked back as
there was a knock on the door. Ntokozo
announced the arrival of Khosi. Zinhloso stood
up, "you'll see me when I bring back the car. If I
came back late I will bring it in the morning."
"Alright, nihambe kahle."
"Siyabonga." She closed the door.
Mhlabunzima stood up after he was done and
he headed to Ntokozo.
"Are you going to walk home?" Ntokozo asked.
He passed the chair to him.
"Yes, I will walk. I am no longer weak like I was
first week," he glared at the tall man entering his
shop. He was maddened by seeing his face. He
had guts.
Mhlabunzima stood up, "what do you want
here?"
"I am here to talk to you."
He chuckled and stood up, "this will be
interesting." He pointed at the office. Molepe
wasn't wearing his work uniform but he was
wearing his casual clothes.
Mhlabunzima didn't sit but he leaned on his
desk. "Talk and go!" He knew he wasn't here on
his official work.
Molepe stood behind the door. He rammed his
hands on his pockets, "you think you're smart,
right?"
"What are you talking about?"
"You know exactly what I am talking about.
You're cruel, you want your father in prison for
something you did." His eyes were full of fire.
He was very angry and he wished he could hold
him by his own hands.
"What do you mean? I got there, the battle was
full swing and I was there in time to save my
father," he raised his black t-shirt showing
Molepe his healing gun wound scar, "as you can
see. The man from your village shot me. If I
didn't come in time, they were going to kill my
father."
He chuckled, with a head shake. This little goon
was good at acting. "You're full of deception,
you midget!"
Mhlabunzima laughed, his laughter was
mocking, "they make them like me where you
come from?"
"I will ensure your father rots in jail and you live
to regret it."
He pretended to be shaking, "wuuuh! I am
scared!" He clapped his hands once and he
laughed when Molepe got frightened by his clap,
"it'll be interesting when my man can take stand
in a court of law and testify that they actually
saw you there."
He pulled his leather jacket together,
uncomfortably, "what are you talking about?"
"Nc. Nc. You're really bad at acting. Please,
close the door on your way out," he changed his
facial expression to serious. He could see
Molepe was panicking. He really didn't think
someone saw him in that war, "and stop
thinking and hoping you'll get my girlfrienyd,
even if I can die you'll never have a chance."
"We'll see who'll have a final say," Molepe said
and shut the door behind him.
Mhlabunzima sank on the chair and he took a
deep breath. He was certain, Molepe was
behind all this. What a coward! He stood up,
said goodbye to Ntokozo and he headed home.
Mhlabunzima found his father and Mnguni
seated under the tree. It seemed they were in
deep discussions. They stopped talking and
looked at him. Mnguni called Mhlabunzima to
him.
"Are you well?" Mnguni asked.
He sat on the bench, "yes, I am well, baba and
how are you?"
"I am good, I can see you are able to take a walk
outside home, now."
He brushed his bonded hands, "yes, I thought I
should go outside and check things in my shop.
I also had to give the car to Zinhloso because
she's running a delivery errand."
"Oh, are you paying my daughter well? She's still
asking for money from me," Mnguni and they
laughed.
"Yes, I pay her well I think she just loves money
from her father. That money has blessings of
the ancestors," he commented, making Mnguni
laugh his lungs out. The laughter ended as they
heard the police sirens.
Mnguni glanced at Xulu, "it's time now,
ndodayakithi. We'll do as we spoke." Mnguni
said to Xulu in a low tone. Mhlabunzima was
confused of what was happening until three
yellow vans drove through the Xulu gates.
"Are they taking you now?" Mhlabunzima stood
on his feet. His mother and sister came out of
the kitchen hut. They remained standing by the
door like they had clue - that, this was going to
happen.
Mhlabunzima looked around and he could see
some of the neighbours coming out of their
houses.
"Baba!" He was caught off guard and his father
only glanced at him. He focused on the police
officers who were approaching them. They
were carrying big guns. It didn't look like they
were coming for two men. Mnguni and Xulu
stood together.
"It's a good thing we've found you both here.
You've saved us time and government petrol,"
the police officer said in a amusing tone and he
pointed his co-workers. They roughly held the
two old men, they cuffed Xulu without telling
them what they've done.
"How am I going to cuff this one, sergeant?"
The police man asked pointing at Mnguni's
hand and they laughed like it was a laughing
matter. They roughly pushed them forward.
"Baba!" His head was buzzing, he was least
expecting this to happen this very day. He
wasn't prepared, not physically and especially
not emotionally. He left like he was losing a big
part of himself. When his mother stood next to
him along with his sister, his mother pulled him
to her chest. And what rarely happened,
happened, he felt immense pain that made him
fail to hold back tears. Esther held both her
children.
"Don't cry, your father will come back," she
comforted them but she was breaking apart,
herself.
UMCEBO

Chapter 121

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

Zinhloso was driving back to the house from

the river. They were driving back with water.
She wanted to finish up early because her main
aim was to buy new clothes with Khosi at the
market.
"How's the baby treating you?" Khosi asked. She
was seated on the passenger seat with her.
She groaned, "I don't even know how to explain
it. It's better sometimes and sometimes I just
feel like I am being punished."
"Can you feel the movements yet?"
"No, I feel flutters showing there's a human
being in my womb."
"Are you happy?"
Zinhloso laughed, "I don't want to talk about
whether I am happy or not but I have accepted
it." She answered, "my tummy is little though,
not that I want it to be big but when will it start
being big?"
"You'll show when your family knows. You'll see
magic there."
They laughed, Zinhloso parked the car closer to
the garden fence. They got out of the car. Khosi
transported the water inside the garden and
Zinhloso watered the crops. They didn't take
much time and they were done. They left the
containers in the house and they drove to the
markets.
Zinhloso was happy shopping with Khosi. She
wasn't used to shopping like this, going in and
out, trying out different pieces. Khosi advised
her whether it was a good clothing piece or not.
She didn't buy any pants because Khosi advised
her against it. She also bought clothes for Khosi
and a few items for Mhlabunzima.
After eating, they went to the grocery store.
Zinhloso bought groceries for MaNkomo. The
funeral of her son had passed, her family
attended the funeral and the Xulu family
attended along with Mhlabunzima. They also
attended funerals of other comrades. It was
saddening what happened but it didn't sound
like they were blaming anyone about it.
"Okay, I am nervous now," Zinhloso said as she
took the route to MaNkomo's home.
Khosi smiled, "don't be nervous, she's not a
cruel lady."
"I know but pain changes people."
"You're right."
They drove through the home. "Buzwe left his
mother with a beautiful home."
"Very decent. She must be seeing him
everywhere." They stepped out of the car and
headed to the day hut where the old lady was
seated on the bench, cooking food on the fire.
Khosi and Zinhloso grabbed the bench, they sat
on the bench and greeted her.
She smiled shortly, "how are you, my children?"
She was wearing mourning clothes for her son.
"We're fine, mama and how are you?"
"I am doing well." She waited for them to talk.
"I am am Zinhloso -"
"Of course, I know the two of you. You're
Mnguni's daughter and this is Khosi."
Her eyes focused on the ground. She was being
forward, "yes, we work for Mhlabunzima."
MaNkomo's lips curved, "do you also work for
him?"
Zinhloso's laughter was light and unsure of how
to answer the question. Why was she asking it
in the first place? "Yes, I work for him and he
has sent us here because he can't come yet."
"I am listening."
"He knows and understands the responsibility
Buzwe had. It also troubled his soul that he'd
been taken away from you," she paused as the
old lady wiped her tears, "he doesn't want you to
feel the great gap. Yes, he can never close his
gap. He's not Buzwe he's Xulu but he's
promised himself to take this responsibility of
looking after you where he can." She stood up
and asked her to follow them.
"Oh, my child, this boy! Why is he bothering
himself? I still work the soil for food," MaNkomo
said as she looked at the groceries.
"This should be added, mama." Zinhloso said
and tried to help Khosi carry the large sack of
maize meal.
MaNkomo held her back, "izinyanga zisephansi
lapha kuwe. Hold plastic bags and leave that to
Khosi and I. You can carry such at a later
stage."
Zinhloso shyly stepped aside without looking at
the old lady. She carried the plastic bags.
Zinhloso gave her the envelope of change from
the money Mhlabunzima gave her for
MaNkomo. "Stay well, mama."
"Thank you, my children. Please, tell him to
come and see me when he's well."
They stepped back inside the car, "yebo!" She
drove out. She drove Khosi home first and she
headed home.
Zinhloso found her family seated in the living
room with no TV playing. Her mother's head
wrap was off her head and her fingers on her
eyes.
"What happened?" Zinhloso asked and sat down
next to Mzomubi.
He was looking down like Ziwinile. "The police
came, they took dad and Mhlabunzima's father.
They were both together at the Xulu
homestead."
"So soon!" She held her mouth and she was
suddenly scared, "Mzomubi, were they ready?"
"Yes, dad saw them coming last night in his
dream and he went to bab' uXulu." Mzomubi
explained, "you don't have to worry because dad
was prepared."
"Your father didn't tell me about this dream!
Why didn't he?" Mrs Mnguni shouted.
"Mama, he didn't want to stress you," Mzomubi
responded and they looked at their mother as
she left them. She was upset. Ziwinile also
stood up and left. Zinhloso headed to the
kitchen and decided to start cooking. She didn't
want to stress herself and even though she
could feel tears heating up she forced them
back. It was painful and they could only hope
the old men would return to them safely.

She thought of driving with his car at night but

she realised she would be getting herself into
trouble. It would raise a lot of questions. She
walked to his home. She thought this would
devastate her when it happened but she was
surprisingly strong. She didn't cry but she was
still sad and she couldn't get it off her mind -
how were they surviving there? Were they
treated well or they were being abused?
She couldn't sleep without seeing him and
knowing whether he was alright or not. She was
certain he was probably beating himself up
about it.
She knocked once on his window, "ngivulele,"
she whispered.
His chuckle reached Zinhloso, "ngikuvulele
ungubani wena?" (I should open up for you.
Who are you?)
"Umthokozisi wenhliziyo yakho."
He got out of bed with a warm smile and he
opened the door for her. "Why are you not
wearing a jersey? The wind is cold outside,
we're approaching winter now," he held her
tightly in his arms as Zinhloso hugged him. She
was wearing a floral maternity dress. It didn't
show she was pregnant.
"Virgins don't feel the cold," she joked and
Mhlabunzima closed the door, they were going
to hear him laughing - his nosy sister. He held
her hand and pulled her to his bedroom.
"Are you a virgin?" He sat on the bed and he
looked at her as she undressed. He was smiling
throughout, he was enjoying staring at her
naked body more since the baby started
showing.
She giggled, "yes, can't you see how awesome
my body looks?"
He pulled her to him after she'd put on her night
dress. He held her tummy, "Qophelo, your
mother!" He hugged her again, "how did you
know I needed you next to me?"
"Your soul is imprinted to my soul, that's how I
knew," she said lovingly.
He got Mhlabunzima smitten, "I am a blessed
man." He briefly kissed her before they got
under the covers. They faced each other in bed,
the blanket was covering them up to their faces.
"Were you here when they took them?" Zinhloso
asked and she witnessed the sadness on his
face.
"Yes, he didn't even tell me but mom and
Ngenzeni were aware."
"I am sure he didn't want to stress you."
"This is all my fault-"
She placed her warm hand on his forehead, "no,
don't burden yourself with that guilt but accept
that it has happened."
"What if something happens to them?"
She smiled, "nothing will happen. Let's trust my
dad's muthi and plan."
"Thank you so much for coming. I couldn't sleep
but I know with you next to me I will sleep
peacefully," he pecked her lips and she giggled.
"How did it go with MaNkomo?"
"It went well and she said I should tell you to
come see her once you're better," Zinhloso
relayed the message.
"Are you going to drive me?"
"Yes, I will."
He pulled her closer, "yazi, uthando lwakho
luyimfudumalo yami noma kuthiwa ngiphelelwa
amandla kodwa uma ngizindla ngawe,
ngothando onginika lona ngithola amandla
nezikhwepha. Uyawuthokozisa umoya wami.
Angifuni nokukhuluma ke ngokwenza
emzimbeni wami." (Your love is my comforter
and it gives me strength.)
She giggled happily. Oh, she was glad that
stupid break was over and things were better
again. "Kanti nami ngintanta emafini ngoba
ngiyathandwa ngokuphelele." She snuggled her
body into his arms. Mhlabunzima pulled her
closer. Everything was going to be alright… He
was hopeful…
UMCEBO

Chapter 122

***Sponsored chapter - "dedication to my son's

birthday" by Mrs Mnotho Zulu***

"Hawu, baba womntanami, buka. I bought you

something," Zinhloso smiled as she was looking
at the plastic bag inside her bag. It had things
she bought for him. She forgot to give them to
him last night.
He was still under the bedcovers in the morning
and Zinhloso was dressing up. She was heading
home before it was too late. It was still dark
outside but dawn was creeping. She handed the
plastic to him.
"Why did you bother yourself? I gave you money
to buy your things not for me." He opened the
plastic bag. He took out the brown leather hat
and put it on his head with a smile on his face.
He wore the white vest after removing the one
he was wearing in bed. He looked at the socks.
She was laughing, "why are you wearing it now?
You're still going to sleep."
"I love it, sthandwa!"
"But you were complaining just now because I
bought you something."
"Phela mama angikujwayele ukutotoswa
umuntu wesimame," (I am not used to being
pampered by a woman) He checked out the
leather belt. He nodded his head. "I love
everything. Thank you for making me feel
special."
She kissed his cheek, "I will see you when I
come back with your car. I hope I will find you
ready to leave."
"Yes, I will be ready. Please, be safe." He walked
her out and left her on the road because she
kept telling him to go back to bed. He was still a
sick man.
She finished washing the vegetables for her
mother and headed back inside the kitchen.
"Mama, I am done. If you don't need anything
else I will drive back Mhlabunzima's car. He
also asked me to drive him to MaNkomo."
"Alright, you can go. Yesterday your paternal
grandmother called and asked about you. Are
you ignoring her?" She looked at her.
"No, I will go to her when I get time." She walked
out of the house and headed to the car. She
was wondering how long she was going to hide
from her grandmother.
"Sanibona, mama, ninjani?" Zinhloso greeted
Esther. She was sorting out sugar beans seated
outside the kitchen hut.
"I am fine, Sisi and how are you?"
"I am fine, I brought back the car but lo bhuti
asked me to drive him to MaNkomo. I don't
know if he's ready." She was looking at the car
keys in her hands.
Esther pointed at his house, "I think he's done
by now. Please, go and check."
"Thank you," she headed to his house. She
entered without knocking. She checked the
bedroom and it was empty.
"Where are you?" She raised her voice.
"I am bathing!"
She sat on the sofa, "I will wait for you here. I
said be ready but you're still bathing."
"No, come here."
"Aybo, why should I come to you?"
"Come!"
She left the keys down and headed to him. He
was inside the metal tub and his body was
white, covered in soap, "Ngenzelwe, you want
me to look at your naked body?"
"Why not?" He joked and faced her, "can you
help me and scrub my back with that stone. My
back is itchy."
"I am certain you did this deliberately," she took
the stone and asked him to bend, he bent down
and Zinhloso washed his back.
"Your touch is loving." He closed his eyes and
opened them when she was done, "that was
quick!"
"I have helped you."
"So, why are you leaving?"
She shook her head and walked out, "finish up! I
have helped you." She relaxed on the sofa. She
was sleepy and she ended up sleeping. She
woke up when it was time to go. He had the hat
that she bought for him. They told Esther they
were leaving and Zinhloso drove to MaNkomo's
home.
They found her hanging the clothes on the
washing line and she welcomed them with a
smile. They headed to the kitchen hut.
MaNkomo served them with tea and taro. She
sat down.
"Xulu, yesterday MaMnguni and Khosi surprised
me. They told me you sent them."
"Yebo, mama, I wasn't at rest about how you'll
survive now because Buzwe is no more."
Mhlabunzima responded.
She smiled without shedding any tears, "no,
Mhlabunzima, don't worry. I will live. I don't want
to burden you because what happened is not
your fault. Buzwe believed in politics, that it'll
help save the country and give people freedom,
"He loved his party and I have accepted that,
this was his passion. Isosha lifela emsebenzini
walo ngane yami,
"It gives me comfort that he died fighting for the
right cause unlike his father who died a
coward." She explained.
Mhlabunzima nodded, he was pained, "Buzwe
was like a brother to me and that means you're
like a mother to me. I want to look after you so
that his spirit will rest in peace. I also want to
ensure his son is taken care of," he shared, "it's
not like I am struggling and pushing hard but I
have enough means. Why should I enjoy the
fruits of my work with my family only?"
She pointed at Zinhloso's tummy with a smile
on her face, "nangu usisi omncane ozayo.
(Here's a little sister coming) You should
financially prepare yourself for her."
He took a quick glance at Zinhloso but she was
just looking down like she was shy. He cleared
his throat, he didn't even want to know how she
knew about their relationship, "how do you
know it's a girl?"
"Her mother is more beautiful and her skin is
fairer. I bet you were hoping for a boy."
He chuckled, "no, I hadn't thought of the gender
of the child. I am not in a hurry, after marriage
more babies will come," he commented and
they laughed with MaNkomo. Zinhloso didn't
laugh, she wasn't amused by their baby talk.
MaNkomo gave him her hand, "may the
blessings of our Creator and forefathers,
always be with you. Live long and be happy with
your family."
"Thank you." They shook hands and she also
shook hands with Zinhloso. They left her, she
looked at them as they left. She no longer had
to worry about her grandson.
He tightened his grip on her, "thank you, I
wouldn't have done it without you." He said and
Zinhloso gave him a smile.

It was after dinner, she was coming back from

bathing. She was naked, moistening her body.
She was thinking of calling Nobuhle tonight and
asking how she was - they last spoke when she
was telling her about John's sister walking in on
them.
"These clothes were going to spend their
second night on the washing line," Mrs Mnguni
opened the door without knocking. She was
focused on Zinhloso's few clothing items on her
hands and she was startled by Zinhloso
screaming. She raised her eyes and got the
biggest shock of her life. Zinhloso quickly
covered herself with her gown on the front but it
was too late. The light of the day ceased to
exist and the whole room spinned, "what is it
that I am seeing, Zinhloso?" She asked in a
broken tone. Her spirit was down. "I am talking
to you! What is this?"
Mrs Mnguni threw Zinhloso's clothes on the
floor and she moved quickly to her. She pulled
the gown off her hands roughly and she
screamed when Zinhloso tried to hide with
another piece of clothing, "stop!"
"Yini le engiyibonayo. I asked you a question!"
When she moved closer she was expecting that
she was slapping her but she only took her
gown, "I am pregnant."
She shut her eyes and shook her head, this is
what she was scared of. Her fears had become
reality. "This is the reason you've been avoiding
your grandmother?" She pointed at the belly.
"Yes."
"Who's responsible for this?"
Zinhloso's lips were shaking but the name didn't
slip out of her mouth until Mrs Mnguni shouted
at her, "it's Mhlabunzima."
"What's wrong, mama? You're screaming,"
Ziwinile widened her eyes as she looked at the
naked Zinhloso. She was only wearing her
underwear. "Hhaybo!"
Mrs Mnguni ignored Ziwinile, "it's Mhlabunzima
from where?"
"Mhlabunzima."
"From where and what's his surname?" She
screamed at her.
She was in a very tough situation but there was
no use hiding his name, "Mhlabunzima Xulu."
"Wuuuu, Jehovah! Jehovah, ngoneni kuwe
Simakade," she was defeated. How? Weren't
these two people just working together? Wasn't
he helping her daughter after she was disowned
by her father. He was helping because he was
the one who messed up and put her in that
situation. He'd been coming in and out in her
yard, he'd seen a girlfriend in her yard. He didn't
stop there but made her pregnant. They'd
suspected her with her husband but decided he
would never. It turned out it was him!
Mrs Mnguni took off her head wrap and she sat
on the floor. She freed her tears.
"Ngasho kodwa ngathi akukho work for him la.
Bathi oNobuhle ngiyaphapha." Ziwinile
commented, she went down and comforted her
mother, "mama, why are you crying for
someone who chose to destroy her future for a
man who has everything put together?" She
brushed her mother's back and glared at
Zinhloso occasionally. Zinhloso was dressing
up in her sleepwear. She was dressing slowly.
Mrs Mnguni cried like someone died.
"I am sorry, mama."
Mrs Mnguni stood up after Zinhloso's sorry. She
pointed at her wardrobe, "you'll help me ke big
girl, take your clothes and leave my house. I
don't have a place for grown women here I have
a place for children. Yimi kuphela umfazi
okumele aqhube isisu kwami. Ngihambele!"
"No, mama, I am sorry. Please, forgive me. Don't
chase me away from home," Zinhloso pleaded
with her own tears.
Mrs Mnguni opened up the wardrobe, "make it
fast! I don't have time and I won't even lift a
finger on you. I want you to go."
"Where should I go?"
"Angithi unendoda wena. Go to him and tell him
that I am giving you to him for free. Hurry up!"
She clapped her hands quickly and Zinhloso
moved. She told herself she was going to sleep
outside so she wouldn't chase her out. She
packed only the recent clothes she bought, she
wasn't going to need the rest of the clothes
even if she was leaving home.
"Mama-" Zinhloso cried out.
Mrs Mnguni pointed at the door, "take your bag
and go!" She pushed her out and Zinhloso felt
like she was in a dream. She was being chased
out like this! She kept saying 'sorry' but Mrs
Mnguni didn't care. She walked her out until she
was outside the gates.
Zinhloso stood by the fence and her mother
walked out of the gate, "why are you standing
by my fence? I said leave! Hamba kuye lowo
Mhlabunzima wakho, umtshele ngimupha
umfazi mahhala!"
Zinhloso walked away. What other choice did
she have?
*****
Hey guys…. Those who haven't participated for
this sponsor. Please, today, let's do 400
likes/reactions on their picture for a bonus. In
the end it should be 2k likes/reactions for a
bonus.

Link
https://www.facebook.com/100016963742769
/posts/1164583224117125/?app=fbl

Thanks 💜
UMCEBO

Chapter 123

**Chapter sponsored by Kagiso Duncan**

She finally made it before Mhlabunzima's door
with her bag. She wasn't surprised that she was
chased out at night and that made her not shed
any tears because she expected it. If she
wanted to do it to Nobuhle. Who was she? She
never loved her and this was expected that was
why she wished her father would be home.
She knocked on the door and there was no
response. She knocked three times and called
out his name but he didn't respond.
"Where is he?" She looked around the yard and
thought maybe he wasn't home? She moved to
his window and knocked on the window but still
nothing.
"Who's that?" Esther walked out of the door and
stood on her stoep.
Zinhloso swallowed hard and went to her,
"mama, it's me."
"Zinhloso? What's wrong? Are you here for
Ngenzwel'umusa?"
"Mama walked in on me while I was naked and
she saw my tummy. She chased me out. I tried
to apologize, tried to stand by the gate but she
told me to go," Zinhloso explained the situation
to Esther with her head looking down. "My
grandmother is far away. I couldn't walk alone
at night and so, I thought I should come here."
"You did well. There is nowhere you were
supposed to go."
"Is he not home?" She pointed back at his house.
Esther moved with her to the house, "he's home.
I don't know what he drank so that he'll sleep."
"Does he have a problem sleeping?"
Esther knocked on the window, "he didn't tell
me but he only said he wanted to sleep." She
knocked harder, "Ngenzwel'umusa!"
"Ma?"
"Aybo, aybo, open the door!"
He opened the door and looked at the bag that
was on the stoep. He showed his head and
walked out when he saw Zinhloso. "What's
wrong?" He pulled her to him and he looked at
his mother.
"Mom chased me out because I am pregnant."
Zinhloso responded.
Esther yawned, "take her Ngenzelwe. You'll drive
with her to her grandmother tomorrow because
we can't stay here with her while she has other
options. It'll be disrespectful."
"Yebo!" He took her bag and headed to the
bedroom with her. His stress was piling up. This
wasn't good at all. Her father was still in prison.
Were they going to tell him while he was still
inside?
"You're stressed about your father, right?"
Zinhloso placed her hand on his shoulder. They
were on the bed, she walked from home in her
sleepwear because her mother didn't give her
any chance. She had her gown protecting her
from the cold.
He looked at her and smiled awkwardly, "I
created a big mess, right? We're here because
of me from the pregnancy to the prison thing."
"Stop blaming yourself, we're here now and we
should deal with it. I doubt mom will tell dad
about this while he's in prison. You know how
old people are," she guessed and held his hand,
"if it happens that she does tell him and my
father doesn't help your dad. I will cross the
river and go ask for help there. My father is not
the only powerful healer. I will also not rest until
my child's grandfather is out of prison if my
father decides to turn on him."
"Really?" He looked at her with hopeful eyes. He
was relieved to hear such a suggestion from
her.
"Yes, my father is dear to me and yours is dear
to the three of us," she smiled as Mhlabunzima
laughed. His lips loved her into a brief kiss
before they both retired to sleep.
In the morning she shook him but he was dead
sleeping, "wake up!" She didn't give up until
Mhlabunzima was awake.
"What's wrong now? Ayivuswa kabi kanje
indoda!" He supported his weight with his
uninjured arm.
She giggled and took his hand, she placed it on
her tummy, "can you feel that? I can feel her
movements now." She was happy but
Mhlabunzima was only frowning. "Yini? Aren't
you happy?"
"I can't feel anything."
She removed his hand, "really?" She touched her
tummy and she laughed, placed his hand again -
the baby stopped moving. "Hawu!"
"You're lying! This means you're just imagining
her moving."
She pushed his hand away, "I am not! I can feel
her move. I am serious."
"So, why can't I feel her? I am her father. You're
lying."
She sulked and got off the bed, "I know that I
am not lying. I will go take a bath." She closed
the door and touched her tummy again. She
giggled.
"Awumuzwe uyasineka namanga!"
She scoffed and walked away as she heard him.
She was annoyed by him and his remarks.
"Ninjani skwiza?" (How are you, sister in-law?)
Ngenzeni greeted Zinhloso and placed the tray
of breakfast on the table.
"I am fine, skwiza and how are you?"
"We're fine, where's Mhlabunzima? Mom said
the two of you should eat and he must take you
to your grandmother now, not during the day."
"Thank you, he's still bathing."
"Alright, eat." She walked out.
Zinhloso started eating without Mhlabunzima
and she was happy about the baby's
movements as she was eating. Did this mean
she was happy to receive food?
"Why are you smiling alone?"
She looked at him, "why are you not dressed?
Your sister was here."
"I am wearing underwear. I am not naked and I
heard her. Answer me."
"She's moving because I am eating. Do you
think she's happy?"
He touched her, "stop playing with me, Zinhloso.
You say the child is moving while she's not
moving."
"Mxm, go and dress up, eat so that we'll go."
She said and Mhlabunzima headed to the
bedroom.

Zinhloso was behind the steering wheel, she

decided to drive and have Mhlabunzima drive
when he was heading back home. Their drive
was silent as they were both thinking about the
reaction they were going to get from her
grandmother.
Mhlabunzima held her bag, "go and get her
reaction first and you'll come back for your
bag."
"Why? Are you thinking she won't accept me?"
Zinhloso asked.
"That's not what I am thinking but it's best to go
there without a bag and come back so that
you'll also tell me what she said."
"Alright." She headed home.
"Mama, nangu uKatshana!" Comfort announced
Zinhloso's arrival. She was seated outside the
house with her son. She was cutting his hair
with a razor blade.
"Hawu, useze wafika," grandma walked out of
her house with a straw mat. "You have arrived
after how many times I have called you?" She
sat down on the straw mat and looked at
Zinhloso. She sat on the small bench her aunt
gave her.
"I was scared to come."
"And you're not scared now because your
mother has chased you out?"
Her eldest aunt Lindo joined them and she
greeted Zinhloso. "Your grandmother has been
calling you home and you didn't come."
"She says she was scared and now, she's not
scared because MaNtuli has chased her out."
Granny informed her daughter.
Aunt clapped once, "what's wrong with MaNtuli
and chasing children out when they're
pregnant."
"MaNtuli didn't fall pregnant out of wedlock."
Granny said what surprised her two daughters.
"Mama, are you supporting her?"
"I am telling the truth and I am not going to
accept Zinhloso here. She has disrespected me.
I have called her home more than three times
and the child did not come home," granny
shocked everyone.
Aunt Lindo looked at Zinhloso and saw sadness,
"mama, she was scared and ashamed that's
why she wasn't coming."
"Where should she go if you are not taking her?"
Comfort asked.
"She has another grandmother. She'll go to her.
She respects her more than me."
Zinhloso was defeated, she didn't expect this.
She didn't even have the courage to beg but she
pushed herself, "gogo, I am sorry and -"
"No, no, you're sorry only because you're in this
situation. I didn't expect you'll disrespect me
Zinhloso. Go, tell Mhlabunzima to drive with you
to your grandmother," she pointed to the gate. "I
was calling you here because I already knew
you're pregnant but you decided not to respect
my call. Go where you'll respect."
"Mama, she was not disrespectful but she was
scared-"
"Shut up!" She screamed at Lindo and pointed
at Zinhloso, "you're not rooted there, child, stand
up. I told you not to get pregnant. You did the
very same thing I told you not to do. Hamba nje,
impela."
Zinhloso tried again to beg and say sorry but
her grandmother didn't want to hear it. She
stood up, "nisale kahle."
"Go, to your granny sisi. Ngeke akulahle." Aunty
Lindo said and she moved away from her
mother as she was attempting to hit her.
"Angimlahli, angizwani nokweyisa!"
Zinhloso walked out of the premises. She stood
by the driver's side, "move back to your seat,"
she said to Mhlabunzima who was seated on
the driver's seat, ready to drive home.
"Why, what happened?" He carefully moved
away from the seat and sat on the passenger
seat.
She drove away, "she said I should go. I didn't
respect her when she called me home. I will go
to my other grandmother."
"Ubuyela kuThabani manje?" (You're going back
to Thabani, now?) He raised his voice without
thinking.
She glared at him, "I am going home. Does
Thabani stay with my grandmother?"
"No, but you'll be far from me and closer to him.
I don't want you to go there."
"That's absurd. I am pregnant with your child.
What will I do with another man? Stop being
insecure," she was annoyed by him, "he's not
even there, he went to the city to study."
"You even know he's not there." He glanced at
her and Zinhloso only glared at him. She didn't
say anything more. Couldn't he guess they did
talk? They drove to Ndabayakhe quietly.
****
"Why are you seated here? Are you not selling at
the pharmacy?" Mrs Mnguni asked Mzomubi.
He was seated outside having bread and
umbhubhudlo (sugar water.)
He swallowed a mouthful of food in his mouth,
"I am selling. It's not busy today. Where's
Zinhloso?"
"Didn't you know?"
"What?" He shrugged.
"She's pregnant-" she kept quiet as Mzomubi
choked on his drink. "It's your friend's baby."
He coughed and coughed until his mother
slapped his back, "which friend, mama?"
"Mhlabunzima!"
He shook his head quickly, "it can't be!"
"Yes, right from the horse's mouth. All along
she's been dating him. If not recently." Mrs
Mnguni placed the back of her hand in her
mouth and shook her head, "where are you
going now?"
"To him!" He rushed out of the gate. His armpits
were itchy, he was boiling. He was joking with
him about taking his sisters. He already knew
that he'd been sleeping with his sister behind
his back. He wasn't going to rest until he had
his arms around his neck. He was going to have
a taste of his style 'see his ancestors and return
before he could get a kiss from his
grandmother'
UMCEBO

Chapter 124

***Chapter sponsored by Bhelekazi***

"Let's walk in together because she knows

about us. I will take the bag inside so that she'll
easily know what's going on," Zinhloso said to
Mhlabunzima and they both walked inside the
premises. They left the car outside the gate.
Granny was in the garden watering crops and by
the loud maskandi music playing, Zinhloso
could tell her uncle was home.
She left Mhlabunzima under the tree. She held
her dalmatian print puff sleeve dress as she
walked inside the small gate.
"Awu kodwa mgangadi weZulu! Zinhloso!" She
didn't need to be told what was going on. She
could see something was cooking. She placed
the watering can down and held her head, with
eyes closed she shook her shoulders, "what did
I say to you, Zinhloso? What did I say?"
"You said I shouldn't be pregnant."
"What's this, pho?" She pointed at the small
belly. The dress was maternity designed, it
showed her small baby bump.
"I am really sorry, gogo. I miscalculated my days
and I found myself in this situation," she
covered Mhlabunzima. It would be a different
story if she could know the truth.
"Oh, Simakade! What did my daughter say? Your
father is not even home and he'll come back to
such news!"
Her eyes looked everywhere but at her
grandmother, "she chased me out!"
"Ini? Uyahlanya lowo," her grandmother
screamed and showed her the gate. They
walked to the gate.
Mhlabunzima quickly stood up when
grandmother came out of the garden. He was
nervous. He kept folding and unfolding his
leather hat, "sanibona, gogo."
"I am not happy with you. Didn't I say don't start
with this?" She pointed at her tummy.
Luckily, Mhlabunzima heard the lies Zinhloso
told, "I know you did but we were not aware. I
am willing to do everything right, it's just that
her mother chased her out and her father is not
around."
Granny sat on her straw mat and Zinhloso sat
down with her, "I trust you and it'll be no use
crying over spilt milk. I want you to hurry when
her father comes back. He must come back
today and tomorrow morning you should be at
his gates with cows. Do you understand?"
"Yes, I understand, gogo, I will do that."
"That's good," she looked at Zinhloso, "oh, my
child, you have to stop school?"
"Yes."
She brushed her shoulder, "make peace with it
and be pleased that you've learnt enough. If he
marries you, you can't go to school and manage
a household at the same time. You can be
successful without school."
Mhlabunzima cleared his throat as he could see
Zinhloso was upset. What her grandmother was
saying now was making her angry, "my mother
and sister are there, gogo. She'll not be
managing home alone."
"It's easier to say. I know what I am talking
about. This baby is only the beginning, more will
follow. She'll keep taking breaks?" Granny asked
and they didn't have an answer. She sighed and
patted Zinhloso's lap, "you'll stay here until your
father comes back and -"
"Oh, they're here, already!" Zinhloso's uncle said
and stood next to Mhlabunzima.
Mhlabunzima sat on the ground and the uncle
sat on the bench, "mama, sisi just called and
she said you shouldn't let Zinhloso stay here."
"Imihlola yami! This is my house. Where does
she get the courage to tell me that?" Granny
shouted.
Uncle was glaring at Zinhloso, "she said I
should tell you that she'll stop sending you
money because you'll be feeding her money to
lo osemithi," he pointed at Zinhloso.
"It's fine, she'll keep her money and you'll look
after us alone."
Uncle shook his head, "no, mama, I won't look
after someone who is capable of sleeping with
men."
"It'll be until her father comes back. Mnguni
won't agree to have his daughter live out of
home," granny tried to convince him but he
wasn't willing to change his mind. They spoke
with his sister and made the final decision.
"No, lo, he was able to make her pregnant, he
must look after her and away from here!" Uncle
clearly stated.
Mhlabunzima was saddened by this situation
and he could see Zinhloso was devastated,
"gogo, can she stay here then and I will provide
anything I am required to provide for her. I can
never fail to look after her but it'll be doubly
disrespectful if she stays with me at home."
"No, take her. My sister said she's giving you her
for free."
Granny suddenly cried out of sadness, "awu,
this is how you do things only because you have
money now. You're threatening me, your
mother," granny pointed at her chest.
Uncle swallowed the lump on his throat, "no, but
mama if you shield Zinhloso like this nothing
will work out."
Zinhloso held her granny's hand, "it's fine gogo, I
will go. I don't have money to look after you and
so, I can't let you lose money for your well-being
because of me."
"Where will you go now, my child? Awu, I don't
like you to live with him even if it'll be for until
your father comes back."
She got up from the mat, "we'll see what to do,
gogo. Thank you."
"Let me know what happened, child whether
you're safe or not."
"Yebo, nisale kahle."
Zinhloso took the driver's seat again and she
drove away.
"You can't live alone, Zinhloso. Yes, we don't
have a choice but how are you going to live
alone there?" He asked, he knew the only option
they had was their house. He looked at her and
she was quiet. "Zinhloso, I am talking to you!"
"Where am I supposed to go?" She glanced at
him and forward as he only clicked his tongue.
"If I don't live alone, who'll live with me? You
want me to go home with you?" She asked and
didn't get an answer. His head was against the
car window and he was rubbing his eyes. He
was certain he was going to leave her home
and he wasn't going to have to worry about her
well-being. Granny was going to look at her but
now - living alone!
"Are we driving to buy food I will eat or not?"
"Drive to the store but I don't know if I have
enough money with me," he answered.
This made her remember her money tin. She
needed to find a way to go home and get it back.
She didn't want them to take it.
"Is this decision mine alone or you're supporting
me?"
"I don't like you to stay alone."
"What should I do?" She asked and still,
Mhlabunzima didn't have an answer, "I don't
have a choice. You can come every two days to
check on us. I don't know what else should be
done."
"Alright, I will tell mom you went to a friend. I
will ask Robert's uncle to keep an eye on you."
"Okay, it's decided."
She drove to the grocery store and with the
money Mhlabunzima had, they bought groceries
for Zinhloso. He was very sad about this and he
wasn't even in the mood for buying these
groceries. He didn't even want to talk. He
couldn't understand - what was really family?
UMCEBO

Chapter 125

Mzomubi knocked on the kitchen door and

entered inside after he was given permission by
Esther. He greeted them and sat on the bench.
"Mama, I am here for Mhlabunzima."
Esther eyed her daughter, it was clear that
Mzomubi was angry. He didn't look good.
"Mhlabunzima is not home. He drove your sister
to your grandmother. It's been a while I am sure
he's on his way back," Esther responded and
offered him a drink.
"No, thanks mama I was eating at home and left
my food because I want to talk with
Mhlabunzima," he declined the juice.
Esther cleared her throat, "please, remember
that he's injured and don't hurt my boy. I am
sure he didn't mean for any of this to happen."
"He's been fooling me, pretending like he's
helping my sister kanti he's sleeping with her!"
"He loves her. It's not only about that."
Mzomubi wanted to argue her point but he
decided against it. He remained quiet.
"I will go wait for him outside his house," he
walked out of the hut and headed to his house.
He sat on the doorstep.
He stood up when he saw the car driving
through, an hour later. He wondered what kept
him so long because they drove to his
grandmother not far.
"Ntanga, how long have you been waiting?"
Mhlabunzima asked, he didn't even sit with his
mother and explained what happened because
of Mzomubi. He wasn't sure what reaction he
was going to get from him. Esther and
Ngenzeni stood outside the hut and looked at
them.
Mzomubi jumped up, "you've been dating my
sister and you even made her pregnant?" He
asked the question first but his hands were
itchy. He wanted to get them on his skin. He
didn't care about the injuries.
"I love her and-" Mhlabunzima became dizzy as
Mzomubi's knuckles joined his jaws. His mother
and sister screamed, they ran up.
Mhlabunzima didn't fight back but he only held
his painful jaw, "look, I am not playing with her. I
want to marry her."
"Marry her? Have you run out of options? That's
why you didn't want Lily, udakiwe mgodoyi!" He
threw another fist but Mhlabunzima held his fist
in his hand. Mzomubi punched his rib, making
Mhlabunzima groan in pain.
"Mzomubi! He's injured, please let my son go!
Did you have a man reserved for your sister?"
Esther screamed.
He roughly pulled his fist away from
Mhlabunzima, "no, I didn't but I don't want him
with my sister!" He cringed as he thought of the
things they'd done together, going after other
women while they had girlfriends. Was his
sister going to be subjected to that? He didn't
want that for her, she was going to get hurt. He
knew women who weren't from their village,
women whom they knew through politics loved
throwing themselves at them. Zinhloso didn't
deserve such.
"That's not up to you to choose!" Esther
screamed and when she tried to move forward,
Mzomubi pushed Mhlabunzima until he was
against the wall. Mzomubi was taller than
Mhlabunzima.
Mhlabunzima understood what must be going
through his head but he didn't know how he was
going to convince him that it would never
happen like that.
"I won't hurt her, trust me. I have only been with
her and-" he couldn't finish up talking.
Mzomubi's hands were around his neck. He
tightened harder, strangling him.
With his strength, Mzomubi lifted Mhlabunzima
by his neck, "you'll marry my sister now because
you've made her pregnant and you'll be loyal
only to her. You'll not look at another woman
but her. I will help you with my father because I
don't want her to be left with a child while not
married! Do you understand?" He growled and
smiled when Mhlabunzima was trying to
breathe air, "yes or no!"
Mhlabunzima wanted to nod but it was difficult.
Kusakusa walked through the gate at the right
time. He ran up until he had his hands on
Mzomubi, "leave my baby brother alone! He
loves your sister and has good intentions for
her!"
"Why did he make her pregnant then?" Mzomubi
was kicking his feet while on Kusakusa's hold.
Kusakusa was taller and so, Mzomubi was like
a baby to him. Esther quickly ran inside the
house and returned with water for Mhlabunzima
who was coughing uncontrollably.
"It was a mistake!" Kusakusa responded.
"Put me down, I won't hit him anymore."
Kusakusa put him down but held his arm.
Mhlabunzima was seated on the doorstep
drinking water. "I told you to end things with her.
Look, her brother is acting like a hooligan now!"
"Kusakusa, don't make things worse!" Esther
screamed and he raised his hand. He let go of
Mzomubi.
"Where's Zinhloso?" Mzomubi asked.
Esther rubbed Mhlabunzima's neck with the
ointment she sent Ngenzeni to get.
He cleared his throat, "your paternal
grandmother refused to take her because she's
been calling her and she didn't come to her. She
said she disrespected her."
"And my other grandmother?"
"She wanted to take her but your mom called
and threatened her that she'll not look after her
if she's taking her in." Mhlabunzima finished the
water on the jug.
"That evil woman!" Mzomubi cursed and they all
looked at him, surprised. He didn't seem
bothered by their eyes.
"So, where's she now?" Mzomubi and Esther
asked in unison.
He looked at them both, "I left her at a friend we
both trust."
"What friend? Zinhloso doesn't have friends."
Mzomubi raised an eyebrow.
"She's one of our trusted customers."
He shook his head, "why didn't you bring her
here?"
"Here? That would have been disrespectful!"
Mhlabunzima responded.
"Disrespectful!" Mzomubi took a step forward
but Kusakusa held him by his shirt, "you've
made her pregnant without marrying her. What
can be more disrespectful?"
"No, Mzomubi, it's better if she's not here and
maybe your parents will forgive her if they can
see that she didn't choose to stay with a man,"
Esther explained and Mzomubi relaxed. He
excused himself after taking a good long glare
at Mhlabunzima.
"Didn't he hurt you?" Esther asked.
Mhlabunzima lifted his shirt and vest to show
her that he wasn't hurt, "no."
"That's better."
"We told you!" Kusakusa exclaimed and walked
back to the kitchen.
Esther smiled at him, "get some rest. I am still
preparing lunch."
"Thank you." He stood up and headed inside the
house. He took the telephone number from his
pocket and called Zinhloso's grandmother to
inform her they were safe. She was safe.

May - he drove through the premises and

parked the car up under the tree. He got out of
the car and looked at her. She was inside the
garden, wearing garden clothes, brown tights,
brown long sleeve shirt and boots. She had
applied red clay on her face and was wearing a
straw hat.
He didn't go to her but he transported the
plastic bag of things he bought for her into the
house. He returned with empty water containers.
He'd told her not to go alone to the river; he was
going to fetch water for her every visit.
"Sawubona, mama," he stood behind the fence.
She was putting more plants on the soil, the
space left with no plants.
She held the hoe stick, she was tired but she
wanted to put everything on the soil and water
the plants later after taking a rest. But since he
had come he was going to do the watering,
"how are you? I wasn't expecting you. You were
here the day before yesterday."
"I know. I don't have to come according to a
timetable." He smiled as she laughed, "I can see
you look like you're tired already."
"Yes, please come and water these plants then
you can go fetch more water while I stay behind
and bathe." She suggested and Mhlabunzima
headed to the house. He changed his clothes
and he started working. They had a water drum
in the middle of the garden.
"You shouldn't get on this when you're not able
to reach the water," he advised as he saw the
blocks placed outside the drum.
"I am short nje."
"I know but what if you fall into this drum." He
shook his head as she laughed. "It's not funny."
"Did my brother give you my tin money?"
"Yes, he did. He actually wanted to come with
me but I made excuses."
"I will go to the village with you and you'll drive
me back later," Zinhloso said.
"I will sleep here again."
"Do you want your mother to say I am stealing
you?"
"She won't say that," he disagreed and they
focused on finishing up the work. Mhlabunzima
finished everything up and Zinhloso sat down,
complaining of her burning waist. She was five
months pregnant. It'd been over a month since
she was chased out of home, a month since her
father was in jail. They weren't granted bail and
they were going to appear in court in June.
"Did I tell you that your brother is working now?"
Mhlabunzima was holding her hand and they
were walking back to the house.
"No, you didn't tell me. Where is he working and
why?"
"He has a College education so it was easy to
find a job. He works with Robert but at a
different department," Mhlabunzima explained.
In their village, there were only ten men who
went to College - Robert, Mhlabunzima and
Mzomubi were among those men. And women,
Nobuhle was going to be the first woman to go
to college.
"Why is he working now?"
"He told me business is no longer doing great
like before, the pharmacy and the goats
business." He let go of her hand as they
reached their bedroom.
"They must tell dad."
"Your mother visits him but she doesn't want to
tell him. She doesn't want to stress him," he
helped take off her socks.
She smiled, "can I also go with you to visit your
father when you go again."
"Hhaybo!" He stopped what he was doing and
looked at her.
"What? I want to see him. It's been over a month
now."
"No, that won't happen. Your father made it
clear that he doesn't want his daughters to
come to prison," he refused.
She was suddenly sad, "but he won't know and
it'll be-"
"No, can't you hear me saying no? Awuyi lapho."
He finished up taking off her socks and he got
up, "crying won't help you but what can help you
is, going for a bath. Your body will relax." He
wasn't moved by her tears. He was used to
such manipulation. She'd been doing it since
the beginning of her second trimester and at
first, he would jump until he learnt. There was a
long way to go, he wasn't supposed to be
manipulated by her tears.
"Please!"
"No, I will go fetch water and what I can do, I will
drive to the market and buy your favourite meat.
I will braai it and we'll eat it for dinner so that
you won't do much cooking. You'll only cook
pap," he tried to put a smile on her face using
food but she didn't smile. He shook his head
and walked out.

It was after dinner, they were laying in bed and

she had forgotten about visiting Mhlabunzima's
father. The food was great and now, she was
lost in the kiss.
"Come on top," he said in a low tone.
"No, did you see how hard I was working? I
won't be able to move," she opened her eyes,
he'd stopped the kiss.
"Uzoma njengoba wenza ngesonto elidlule.
Uqoshame ngathi uyixoxo ngeke usheshe
ukhathale," (you'll position like a frog and you
won't get tired easily)
"No, Donda, you're fine now. Get on top, I will do
it tomorrow."
He chuckled, "who said we'll want to do it
tomorrow?"
"I know if it was according to you, you would do
it everyday," she giggled as Mhlabunzima
laughed. She smiled as he got up, they resumed
their kiss.
She held his chest, "no, stop!"
"Why?"
"It doesn't feel good. It's like you're forcing it
and I feel dry."
He frowned and touched her, "but you're not,
everything is normal like it always is."
"No, let's kiss again," she suggested and he
kissed her again. He took his time, trying all the
tricks in the book, the neck kisses, massaging
her nipples, rubbing his tip on her and he tried
to enter again.
"How's it now?"
She shook her head, "no, stop. You don't know
what you're doing."
He was shocked as she pushed him aside and
they changed position. He waited for action but
what he got was her tears.
"What's wrong now?" He held her in his arms as
she laid back on her bedside, crying. "Why are
you crying?"
"It's painful but I want it."
"Why is it painful?"
"I don't know, please check it." She wiped her
tears and looked at her.
"I should check what?" He asked and Zinhloso
widened her eyes at him. He got up, separated
her legs and checked on her. "Ay, ngiyacabanga
idiniwe manje, idumbile yona!" (It's swollen)
She cried intensely and Mhlabunzima
comforted her, "don't cry, we'll go to the doctor
and ask if it's part of pregnancy or there's
something wrong."
"Won't the doctor laugh at us?" She asked,
wiping her tears. She was hopeful.
"No, she won't. It's her job she'll know what's
happening," he said and only then was she calm.
It didn't take long and she was fast asleep. He
looked at her chucke, "izinto ziman' ukwenzeka
uze ekhale izinyembezi!" He kissed her slightly
opened lips and closed his eyes.
UMCEBO

Chapter 126

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

She walked inside the pharmacy and grabbed a
chair, sitting next to Lily. She looked around the
full pharmacy, full of products and shook her
head.
"My child, I think it's better you go home and
come back when my husband returns," Mrs
Mnguni said. "I don't want to keep you here
while there's no money coming in. What did you
sell this morning?"
"I sold nothing. I even tried what my father
taught me about attracting customers but
nobody came," Lily said sadly, she couldn't
understand what was happening in this
situation? Was it because of the absence of
Mnguni?
"Please, go home and I will call you once things
are better. You can't be working for free," Mrs
Mnguni freed her.
"I will do that but don't close. Keep the
pharmacy open in case."
She nodded with a smile, "yes, I won't close it.
Thank you and tell your mom."
Mrs Mnguni sat next to Mzomubi. She was
grateful because her son found a job otherwise
it was going to be very difficult. She didn't know
how to open her husband's safe to get money.
And she didn't want to ask him because she
didn't want to stress him out in prison. "I have
told her."
Mzomubi was home as he wasn't working on
Saturdays, "what did she say?"
"She understood but suggested we don't close
the shop completely."
"But mom, go and talk to dad. You have to tell
him I am sure he would know what went
wrong," Mzomubi suggested.
She cleared her throat, "my child, you worked
with your father closely. Didn't he have an
animal or a baboon he was feeding to keep the
wealth?" She asked and Mzomubi laughed his
lungs out. Mrs Mnguni was mad, "don't laugh!
What should I make out of this situation? He's
not home and things go South. Maybe his
animal is hungry."
"No, there's nothing like that. He would have
told me. You need to go and tell him what has
happened," he emphasized.
She nodded. She clearly had no choice but to
tell him what was happening in his household.
"Yes, I will go and tell him." She stood up and
looked at him, "where's your sister? Did your
friend tell you? I don't even wish to meet up with
him on the road."
"No, he didn't tell me." He responded in a
dismissive manner. Her actions of chasing
Zinhloso out made him angry and she didn't
even want to listen to him. He told her to bring
her back, his father wouldn't support this but
she didn't care.
Mrs Mnguni walked back to the kitchen. She
could see he didn't want to talk about it. It didn't
matter.

She didn't know how she was going to tell him

the truth about what was going on. Her
husband had trusted her to hold everything
down but things weren't going according to plan.
People had been doing rituals and ceremonies
but they would rather buy goats from town.
They would rather buy Western medicine while
they trusted Mnguni's traditional medicine even
though he was no longer with them.
Was someone bewitching them? Mrs Mnguni
couldn't understand and now, she could no
longer keep this a secret. Her husband had to
know the truth.
"How are you, my dear?" Mnguni asked his wife.
He was tired from the useless prison work.
"You look tired, baba."
"Yes, I am tired but I am fine. Answer my
question." He gave her an intense gaze.
She stared at the table. How was he going to
react to the truth? "Things are not good at
home." She started the conversation.
"What do you mean? What has happened?" He
frowned. "And look at me so that I can hear you
clearly."
"The businesses are collapsing. Both the
pharmacy and the business of goats." She
broke the news nervously. The last thing she
wanted to do - was to disappoint him. "Goats'
numbers are not increasing, the growth is
stagnant. There are no new goats," she glanced
at him and all she saw was confusion on his
face.
"Are the goats dying?"
"No, nothing is dying. They're still as you left
them. I think two or three were born after you
left," she responded.
Mnguni was even more confused, "what's
wrong? What did you do wrong?"
"Nothing I know of."
He kept quiet for a minute, "where's Zinhloso?
Are all the children home?"
"Yes, they're all home." She lied through her
teeth.
Mnguni shook his head, his instincts told him
she was not being honest, "tell me the truth. Are
they all home?"
"No."
He already understood what was going on,
"what happened? Who's not home?" He asked
what he knew.
"It's Zinhloso. I chased her out."
His heart was racing and his blood was boiling.
He was angry he couldn't do anything because
he was in prison. "What did she do now? I
should explain myself to you, how many times?
Didn't I tell you no child of mine should be
chased out of their home when you wanted to
chase Nobuhle out for being pregnant?"
She felt shivers down her spine. His voice was
thick and low. He was angry, "You did."
"Bring back my daughter home, don't ever chase
her out. That's her home like every child in that
yard. If she leaves home, it should be proper,
say goodbye and leave or leave if you're
sending her somewhere,
"She's a Mnguni, my blood, your blood treat her
like that even if she gets married. It should be a
proper send off, from her birth home to her in-
laws. All my daughters. Ayikwazi ingane
ukuvele ihambe ngathi ihlala ehlathini. I don't
care what anyone did. Is that understandable?"
"Yes, I understand." She said but she was more
confused. What was the reason behind all this?
She had to find out.
"What did she do? Don't lie."
"She's pregnant."
He held the table tightly as he got hungry for air,
his chest tightened. This was yet another big
blow from this child. She was pregnant!
"Help!" Mrs Mnguni screamed as she realised
her husband was suffocating. The prison
wardens quickly rushed to him and they took
him away. Mrs Mnguni waited anxiously. What
was happening to him?
After a long time waiting, Mrs Mnguni was given
answers. She was told her husband was
admitted to the hospital and the health
practitioners were going to keep a close eye on
his health.
UMCEBO
Chapter 127

Jessica was driving her mother to John's house.

Mrs Hendricks had informed John that she was
coming by for lunch. It was Saturday. Mrs
Hendricks was angry when she got a visit from
Jessica to inform her that she walked in on
John kissing Nobuhle. She told her that her
brother chased her out, he was unfriendly.
"Why didn't you tell me you are bringing her
along, mom? I asked Martin to prepare lunch for
two people," John welcomed his mother by
kissing her cheek.
They sat down on an already set dinner table,
"Jessica, go and get yourself a plate honey.
This food will be enough for the three of us."
Jessica glared at her brother before leaving him
with their mother.
"I thought you came here to have lunch with
your son but I was wrong," John commented
and they began eating right after blessing the
meal.
"I am having lunch with my children. Is that
wrong?"
His mother must have known he wasn't going
to agree to host them for lunch if she told him
she was coming with his sister.
"I am not saying it's wrong, I am saying you
weren't truthful."
Jessica looked around, "where's your girlfriend?
I am not seeing her around."
"Can you mind your business?"
She pointed at her son with a fork, "don't talk to
your sister like that because she saved you. I
wanted to tell your father about this relationship
and she stopped me."
John swallowed hard, he was not believing his
mother, "you can tell him. Do you have proof?
It's her word against mine."
Mrs Hendricks chuckled, "don't act smart
because you know your father can easily learn
the truth."
"I am full. You'll see your way out once you're
both done," he stood up and left them. They
knew and understood him well. He didn't like
being ambushed and what they were doing - it
was exactly what he didn't like. His mother was
worse, she was threatening him with his father.
Nobuhle walked in with drinks and she placed
the tray down. She was confused by the
absence of John on the table.
"Sweetheart, can you sit down?" Mrs Hendricks
asked Nobuhle with a polite smile on her face.
"Why are you being sweet to her, mom?"
Jessica raised her voice and her mother only
looked at her.
Nobuhle sat down, "is something wrong?"
"I care about you. You're a young, beautiful and
capable young woman. I don't want you to get
hurt and so, I ask that you end your relationship
with my son."
Nobuhle was tongue tied. Jessica told their
mother? Why? Aren't they siblings and should
cover each other?
"You're playing with fire and you're the one
who'll get burnt badly. You know how unfair this
country is, right?"
"Yes, I know."
"So, why are you risking your life?"
"I love him," she admitted with tears glistening
in her eyes and when she closed her eyes. They
fell off. "But I will consider ending our
relationship for both our sakes."
Mrs Hendricks was pained, "I wish things were
different. I would have loved to have you as my
daughter in-law."
"Thank God things are not different." She kept
quiet when her mother glared at her.
"You can go and do your work."
Nobuhle was startled by John's eyes. She
avoided eye contact and walked out. She left
him sitting back on his seat.
He clapped for her, "so, you told my mom that
you'll consider ending our relationship?"
Nobuhle stopped cleaning the kitchen table.
John's family had left and she wanted to go and
rest. Before John could seriously get angry,
Nobuhle stood before him. "I love you and you
know that. What happened wasn't supposed to
happen. I had to make your mom believe that
our relationship will end. They'll think we're no
longer together. It'll give us freedom to continue
with our relationship in secret."
John didn't say anything less or more but he
attacked Nobuhle with a kiss and right there
and then - he tore off her work uniform. She
was least expecting his actions but she didn't
complain, she followed the lead…
****
She gave her back to Mhlabunzima and he tied
the thin belt of her round neckline brown floral
knee length dress, the sleeves were three
quarter lantern sleeves. Her pregnancy bump
was perfectly showing.
"Thank you." She took her small white handbag
after wearing black shoes. "Donda, no, even
when you're dressed like that you're wearing
that hat."
Mhlabunzima looked at his brown leather hat
and his outfit. He was wearing blue jeans and a
brown and black knitted sweater. "What's wrong
with my hat?"
"Leave it this once. You're always wearing it
lately; it's like you don't have other hats. We
won't go until you leave it," she protested.
"But love, I love wearing it because you're the
one who bought it."
She smiled brightly, "okay, wear it but you
should change and wear a different one next
time."
He pulled her out of the bedroom, "you should
buy me more so that I will change. It feels
different when I am wearing something you
bought for me."
"Alright, I will buy you more sthandwa."
Mhlabunzima drove the car to the Doctor in
town. Zinhloso was having second thoughts
about visiting the doctor but Mhlabunzima
encouraged her to go. The drive wasn't quiet,
they were chatting.
"It's an Indian person, you'll talk!" She was
surprised. If there ever was a need for a doctor,
it was only black doctors she normally came
across.
"You're the one feeling the problem, why should
I talk?"
"I can't properly speak English. You know!" She
folded her arms before her chest. They were
inside the Doctor's office. She was still going
through some papers. Zinhloso was already
seated on top of the examination table. They
were at a private Doctor.
"Don't worry I can hear and understand Isizulu,"
the Doctor surprised them and she smiled when
they looked at her.
"I am Doctor Naidoo, how can I help?"
He glanced at Zinhloso, "this is my fianceé and
she's pregnant," he pretended like he wasn't
seeing Zinhloso looking at him at the mention
of fianceé. "Besizama uku- eh, uyabona-" (We've
been trying to - you see)
"Don't be shy, talk." The Doctor placed her hand
on his shoulder.
Zinhloso looked at her hand and glared at the
Doctor. The doctor cleared her throat and
removed her hand after seeing her eyes. "I am
listening."
"We tried to make love to each other last night
and she cried of pain…" He decided to put it in
English not to complicate anything, "so, I
decided we should come to the doctor because
this is our first pregnancy. We're worried
something might be wrong."
She smiled, "that's just about it?" She asked and
when they both nodded, she was surprised to
receive a black couple who was only concerned
about their sex life during pregnancy. It was her
first time.
"I think it's nothing to worry about. Can I check
you?" She wore her gloves and Zinhloso
followed her instructions. She flinched as her
cold gloved hand touched her. She wondered
how many vaginas she touched a day as a
gynaecologist.
"If you look at it, was it like this before?" The
Doctor asked Mhlabunzima. She wasn't even
sure if he'd looked at it in his life. She'd learnt
that the men were as simple as they come.
"No, I checked her last night. It has changed."
She concluded the couple was quite advanced,
"during pregnancy, it is possible that your
vagina will become swollen. It is the increase of
blood flow to support the growing uterus, fetus,
and placenta. It seems this increase has led to
discomfort for you."
"So, I can't have sex now?"
"If you're uncomfortable, I am afraid not. Don't
force anything, you should always be
comfortable." The Doctor advised. She then did
a normal check-up, she hadn't advanced to
having a scan.
They both left the doctor upset and they weren't
talking. They drove for food and then, straight
to their village. Zinhloso wanted to see her
brother.

Mhlabunzima left Zinhloso with Esther and

went to his shop. He'd sent a child to call
Mzomubi. It was after his working hours.
"Hawu, you're here. I sent a child to call you,"
Mhlabunzima met up with Mzomubi at the
shop's gate.
He stopped walking out, "I was actually here for
you. Mom wants to know where Zinhloso is?"
"I told you she lives with a friend but she came
back today. She wanted to see you."
He pointed the way out, "let's go to her." They
walked back to the Xulu home.
"So, are you busy this weekend? I was thinking
we can go hunting." He tried to make a
conversation.
"I will be busy."
"Mzomubi, I am sorry but I also didn't plan on
falling in love with your sister. It just happened,"
Mhlabunzima apologized.
He looked at him, "when did you start dating?"
"Months after the Durban trip."
"So, it's been over a year?"
"Yes." He answered and they remained quiet
again.
They walked through the premises, "do you
know my father is in the hospital because of
you? He didn't take the news of her pregnancy,
well?"
Mhlabunzima was out of words. He only looked
down until they were inside the in his house. He
didn't know how Zinhloso was going to take this.
She was going to be very heartbroken.
Mzomubi walked inside the house and greeted
his sister.
She was too shy to look him in the eye. You'd
swear she was a child to him.
"Don't you care about school now?"
"I do, I will go back," Zinhloso responded.
"And what will happen to the baby? This person
has a College education and what do you
have?" He asked and Zinhloso didn't respond.
"Ntanga-"
"I am not talking to you, I am talking to my
sister!" He stopped Mhlabunzima from saying a
word, "dad was hospitalized when he heard that
you're pregnant and he didn't even hear who
made you pregnant."
She quickly looked at him, "who told him?"
"Mom told him."
"Where's he now? Can I go and see him?"
"You know that won't happen."
Mhlabunzima didn't know whether to hold her
or not, he was scared Mzomubi was going to be
mad. They all sat quietly as Zinhloso cried,
blaming herself about her dad. She was
heartbroken.
"Mom was asking about your whereabouts."
Mzomubi said once Zinhloso was calm.
Mhlabunzima had given her water.
"She chased me out. Why does she want to
know? It's not like she cares about me. I am
even starting to doubt I am her child." she stood
up and headed to the bedroom.
"I think she's still upset, she needs some time,"
Mhlabunzima said and Mzomubi left him with
no words.
UMCEBO

Chapter 128

***Chapter sponsored by Phindile Ndhlovu***

He placed on his feet the plastic bags of a few

grocery items he bought for his grandfather. He
bought his favourite items. His grandfather was
happy and thankful.
"Grandpa, how are you?"
They were seated in grandpa's house, "I am well,
how are things at home?"
"They're better and I think what makes them
better is having our mother around. If she
wasn't here I am sure they would have buried
me by now," he responded.
"That's a good thing. I am glad she redeemed
herself."
"Yes, I am actually here to ask for advice. I am
in a dilemma."
"It's about the pregnancy of Mnguni's
daughter?"
"Yes."
He shook his head slowly, "you, young
generation don't listen and you take sex like a
sport. You don't respect your parents' words
when they talk about getting married first."
"But mkhulu I was going to go through the right
channels if her father wasn't this kind of man he
is," he defended himself.
"But you had courage to sleep with his daughter
and made her pregnant?" He asked and laughed
when Mhlabunzima failed to answer him, "what
advice do you need, grandson?"
"I wanted to ask if it'll be wrong if I sent cows
for Inhlawulo to her mother? I am thinking of
doing it so she'll go back home." He shared his
thoughts.
"No, don't do that. Her father is alive and you'll
do that once he returns."
He huffed. He didn't know what to do, Zinhloso
didn't want to go back home. She was angry at
her mother and even when he tried to explain
her anger was maybe justified - which he knew
it wasn't. Zinhloso didn't want to hear it. She
was deeply hurt by the horrible words she said
to her.
"I know you want her to go back home but be
patient, wait for her father's return."
"Yes, mkhulu I will do that."
"How's she? How's pregnancy treating the two
of you? Your grandmother never gave me
problems with all our children but my brother's
wife," he shook his head and laughed. He told
Mhlabunzima all about the pregnancy dramas
he'd witnessed from his brother's wife.
Mhlabunzima was enjoying the conversation
with him and he was free as they talked and
laughed together. Mhlabunzima also shared
some of his, especially her crying to visit his
father. Grandpa was entertained and happy to
sit with his grandson, have such a conversation
with him.
"Once you go back to your father, take me with
you. I want to see him." Grandpa was walking
Mhlabunzima to the gate.
He shook hands with the old man, "I will do that
mkhulu, stay well." He walked out of the
premises.
He was whistling on the road when he saw
Zinhloso's mother from far away. Mhlabunzima
wanted to change direction but there was no
alleyway nearby. Just the main road.
"Sawubona, mama." He greeted her. Mrs
Mnguni only glared at him and didn't greet back.
It seemed she was coming from the garden
fields. She was only carrying a bottle of water.
He was thankful they were going in the opposite
directions. He was certain she hated his guts.

Esther finally got the courage to visit Mrs

Mnguni. She found her standing outside the
main house by the kitchen side. She was
washing dishes. There was a chair close by,
Esther sat on the chair after they greeted each
other.
"Why are you sitting, MaSibiya? I have nothing
that I wish to discuss with you."
She wasn't surprised this was the reaction she
was getting. She expected worse.
"Let's be civil. Our children are in a relationship
and their relationship had borne fruit."
"Fruits!" Mrs Mnguni was thrown off by her
choice of words. "What fruits? What will I enjoy
by having a pregnant child?"
"They love each other. My son will rightfully take
your daughter."
"Did you know about this relationship, MaSibiya?
That day, you came here you already knew
about this?" She asked.
"No, I only found out about it when she came to
us at night." She would be damned if she told
the truth. She had to tell her husband to also
deny knowing. She didn't want them to risk
anything.
"You're not being honest!"
"I am honest! Zinhloso hardly came to our home,
we only saw her during the day when it was
about the car," she created a strong lie, "at night,
I don't remember seeing her and how will I
know who comes to my son's house at night? I
am sleeping in a different house."
"You're lying because you're not feeling my pain.
Your son is not the one carrying
ihlazo(disgrace)!" Mrs Mnguni screamed.
Esther almost fell off the chair. She never knew
this woman could be like this. She clearly
changed, "when did a child ever become a
disgrace?"
"Oh, you're getting a grandchild. You're happy!"
She faced her, seeing her face made things
worse. She pointed at the gate direction,
"please leave. My husband is in the hospital
because of the news of this pregnancy. He
doesn't even know your son is responsible and
that will probably kill him. Please, go!"
"I am really sorry about your husband," she was
saddened by this. Mhlabunzima didn't tell her
about it or maybe he didn't know about it?
"Where's my child?"
Esther stood up, "I don't know, Mhlabunzima
said she went to a friend."
"What friend? Zinhloso doesn't have friends!
What friend?"
"I don't know. He didn't say the name."
"Please, leave me in peace and tell your son to
bring back my child." She pleaded and clicked
her tongue after she was gone. She needed to
go to her mother-in-law and tell her about her
son being in the hospital. She also had to know
about his instructions to bring Zinhloso back
home.
***
He was in his house during the day enjoying a
plate of spinach and krummel pap. He never
liked the dish until he tasted the one made by
his mother. The telephone rang and he licked
his fingers.
"Mhlabunzima, hello?"
"Hello, you're speaking to Nobuhle. How are you
doing?"
"I am okay and how are you?"
"I am well, I heard Zinhloso was chased out of
home by mom. Where is she? Is she with you?"
"She's alright but she doesn't live with me. She's
at a friend's place. There's a lady I asked to live
with her."
"When are you going to see her? I wish to speak
to her."
He grabbed a pen and paper that he was using
earlier, "give me your number. I will make a
means to call at their shop because she doesn't
have a telephone."
Nobuhle gave him the number and he placed
the phone down after taking the number.
His mother sat down, "I am coming from your
future mother-in-law. She asked about
Zinhloso's whereabouts and when I told her
she's with a friend. She asked what friend?
Zinhloso doesn't have a friend."
He proceeded eating, "but mom I told you she's
one of our clients."
"What client? Why are you hiding this person?"
"I am not hiding them. They're not from this
village." He placed the plate on the table, "I
should go get dressed."
"You're getting dressed, where are you going?"
"I will come back tomorrow afternoon."
"I asked you where are you going?" She shouted
and stood up.
"Hawu mama!" He disappeared into his
bedroom and Esther walked out upset. She
wanted Xulu to come back already.
UMCEBO

Chapter 129

***Chapter sponsored by Pumza***

He came out of the house changed into his

nylon shorts and a vest and with another
watering can. He found her watering crops. She
wasn't dressed as someone who'd been doing
garden work.
"You only watered the crops, today?"
Mhlabunzima asked and joined her.
"Yes, the baby didn't want me to move in the
morning."
He was walking on a different line but closer to
her, "why? What was she doing?"
"My leg was very painful. I got out of bed after
two hours I think."
"Ey, lo muntu uyahlupha. It's not even a few
months until we hold her. Four months is a long
time," he commented.
"Yes, all comrades are like that, troublesome
and I can tell she'll be a comrade too," she
giggled as Mhlabunzima placed the watering
can down as he cracked.
"Are you saying I am trouble?"
"Yes, don't you know?"
He lifted the watering can up, "that's not true.
Qophelo will be active like her father and not
lazy like her mom."
"That'll be a good thing also because there's
nothing good about being lazy," she supported
his prediction. She placed the watering can
down and sat down by the fence. She looked at
him as he finished up.
"Before I left home Nobuhle called. We need to
go to the shop and call her."
"Alright, we'll go call her. It's been a while. Did
you bring the meat?"
"Yes, I did. I will prepare it when we come back
from the shop to call your sister." He could see
she was suddenly happy. He was grateful that
at least there was something that still made her
happy. She wasn't getting other things that
made her happy.
After their return from the shop, Mhlabunzima
was outside preparing the fire and Zinhloso
inside cooking. She would come out and sit on
the chair, then go back inside the house for her
pots.
"This place will miss you, especially the crops."
Mhlabunzima said. He was on his feet and
Zinhloso was seated down. She was drinking
milk.
"I will also miss it when dad comes back. I am
used to being alone by now."
He looked at her, "aren't you going to go back
home since your mom is asking about you?"
"No, I will go back after my dad's return. I have
told you this."
"Zinhloso-"
She shook her head and stood, "no, let me go to
my pots. It seems you have visitors." She could
recognise these faces, they were men who were
with them on Christmas day. But there were
only two of them. She knew it was going to be a
long night with these men here. She was only
going to get a glimpse of her man.
And like she guessed, she had her food alone.
Mhlabunzima was outside, eating, drinking,
talking and laughing with the two men who
were visiting him. The men brought alcohol for
him and luckily, they had enough meat for
everyone.
She was very annoyed but she didn't know how
to chase them out. What pissed her off the
most, was that he was only here for one night.
He told her that.
"They're finally gone, thank you," Zinhloso said
as Mhlabunzima joined her in bed. She was
seated on the bed having her meat she left
when she was full. She could see that he was
tipsy.
"Did you miss me? Why didn't you come and tell
them to go? Ubatshele ukuthi wena ufuna
indoda yakho," he took off the vest and took a
piece of meat from her bowl.
"I didn't want to sound rude," she removed the
bowl and put it on the bedside drawer. She ate
the meat alone, "don't look at me like that. You
had your meat with your mem. The baby is
happier when I am eating. She's moving."
He didn't comment on the meat but he quickly
held the belly but he still didn't feel anything. He
hadn't felt the movements even Esther and
Ngenzeni had but him.
"Can you feel her?" She asked and put her hand
on top of his.
"No!" He pulled his hand away.
"Maybe she doesn't like you," she folded her lips
as Mhlabunzima left her in bed. She could tell
he was angry. She got up once she was done
eating. She found him seated on the chair on
the veranda.
"I was joking!" She rubbed his neck and sat on
his lap. "She loves you. You're her father."
"So, why does she stop moving when I touch
her?" He asked, he was sad and upset. He also
longed to feel how it felt when the baby moved
in the belly.
"I think it's coincidental not that it has to do with
you touching the belly." She tried to convince
him but it didn't look like he was convinced.
"Can we go and sleep?"
"Please, tell your daughter to stop being picky."
She laughed, "can the baby hear me?"
"Yes, she will hear you."
"I will talk to her, let's go then." She wanted to
laugh at him but she had a feeling he was going
to cry if she laughed at him. She didn't want his
tears. He held her hand and went back to the
house with her.
***
Mrs Mnguni greeted her sisters-in-law and her
mother-in-law but only her mother-in-law
greeted her.
"Mama, I am here to talk to you. I don't know if
you can lend me your time," Mrs Mnguni humbly
requested.
Grandma gave her a hand and she helped
granny off the straw mat, "let's go to my house."
They followed each other out.
"Did Zinhloso reach her grandmother safely?
She didn't even think of calling me and telling
me if she's safe or not," granny sat on the sofa
in her house.
Mrs Mnguni looked down, "she isn't at her
granny's house. I was so angry I didn't even
want her with mom."
"Hhaybo, where's the child then?"
"I don't know where Mhlabunzima took her.
When his mother came to me yesterday she
told me he said she's with a friend."
"What friend?"
"I asked the same question. I don't know where
she is because she's not with the Xulus." She
was expecting to be shouted at by her but she
didn't shout. She only clapped once. "I went to
the prison and her father asked about her. I had
to tell him the truth that she's pregnant. I didn't
even get the chance to tell about the father of
the baby because he had difficulties breathing.
He was admitted to the hospital."
Granny hid her face in her hands as tears
instantly came out. "Oh, my son, these children
are bothering him. It's only Ziwinile who has no
child."
"Yes, it's only her. Mnguni said she should come
back home. He was very upset."
She wiped her tears and said a short prayer
hoping her son will be alright, "you know how he
reacted when you wanted Nobuhle to leave. You
were supposed to remember that, MaNtuli."
"I was very angry mama and I didn't think
straight."
"I will ask Lindo to go with you to the Xulus and
this boy should tell you where she is. He'll have
to drive you there today and you'll come back
with her." Granny suggested and Mrs Mnguni
accepted the suggestion. She went out to call
Lindo.

"I don't even know why mom is helping you

because you're supposed to be bringing the
child alone," Lindo said before they entered the
Xulu homestead. Mrs Mnguni didn't comment.
Lindo didn't want to go with her, she only
agreed because granny forced her to go.
Esther opened the hut where they stored
important family materials, straw mats, dishes,
weapons and other things. She placed the straw
mats on the floor and they sat down. The hut
was cool inside.
"Are we in trouble?" Esther asked.
Aunt Lindo sighed, "no, MaSibiya but my brother
and my mom have sent us here to ask for
Zinhloso. My brother wants her back home."
She suspected they were here because of this
matter, "my son knows where Zinhloso is. We
don't know, he only told us he asked some lady
who's their client to stay with her."
"Can you call your son? He'll take us there." Mrs
Mnguni quickly suggested.
Esther glanced at Ngenzeni and she only looked
aside, "Mhlabunzima is not home."
"He's at the shop, we know just call him," Mrs
Mnguni persisted.
"No, he's not there, he didn't return home."
Mrs Mnguni felt like she was burning, anger
was burning her, "he's not home? Where did he
sleep? Is he with my daughter? Why are you
letting your son do as he pleases?"
Esther was shocked she was being questioned.
Why was this woman asking her such questions?
Was it because her son had impregnated her
daughter?
"Does Mzomubi sleep at home every night? I
don't think so!" Esther shouted back. She was
annoyed by her shouting at her like
Mhlabunzima was the only who participated
when this pregnancy was made. She was also
pretending like Esther sent Mhlabunzima to
impregnate her daughter.
"Don't question Mzomubi. He impregnated no
girl!" She stood up, "uyabona nje mina nawe
ngeke siganiselane! Your son disrespected us.
Tell him to bring back my child wherever he's
keeping her."
Esther looked at them as they left. She glared at
Ngenzeni, "where's your brother??"
She held her chest, "mama, why are you asking
me? He doesn't report to me." She looked at her
mother - she was certain she was going to go
crazy without their father. This was their last
born, he had them by their balls. She was having
a 'ibambe ngakho' moment. She laughed once
her mother was outside.
"Ngizokugqema ingozi wena nhleka bayeni!"
Esther screamed at Ngenzeni and she held in
her laughter.
UMCEBO

Chapter 130

With the help of older brother who was working

in prison as a warden - Xulu was able to get
permission to visit his friend in the hospital.
Their stay in prison wasn't easy because they
were older but it was bearable. Xulu missed
home, his children and his bed. His wife, his
yard. He missed everything about home but he
wasn't regretting it. He was actually glad he did
this for his son. A young man who was arrested
and injured died because of infection. He wasn't
given any care, other young men in the cell were
not friendly with each other. He could picture
such happening to his son.
"Awu, ndoda yamadoda, I heard from my
brother that you've been hospitalized. I was
worried when I didn't see you come back," Xulu
took a seat next to the bed where Mnguni was
lying. "What's wrong?"
There were tubes connected to his body, "yes, I
got a visit from my wife."
"Did something happen back home?"
"I am reflecting, my wife was right. I was
supposed to get Zinhloso married off. I was
supposed to do it the time I heard her boyfriend
wanted to come to me," Mnguni said, he was
heartbroken by the news of Zinhloso being
pregnant. He was blaming himself for being
stubborn. He was beating himself up, it wasn't
like he was going to lose anything when he let
her go. He was going to send her off
appropriately and no business was going to
suffer, everything was going to grow as she
was still part of the family. But he got greedy, he
thought of her being such a blessing for
another man's family. And what if they realised
that she was that kind of a person? How were
they going to treat her? Were they going to love
her or were they going to treat her like a slave?
Make her work even when she didn't want to
work because they knew her production would
be doubled? Those were all his worries. But he
realised he was supposed to talk to her, tell her
to return home whenever she was not happy.
He didn't do that and now, he was crying over
spilt milk.
"What has happened?" Xulu was ashamed that
he was going to fool his friend and pretend he
didn't know. He didn't like to do this to him but
what other choice did he have? He had to
protect himself and also, their friendship of
years.
"She's pregnant!"
"Hhaybo! What did we do? These young
generations are having children without getting
married first," Xulu held his mouth.
"They don't listen when we tell them. We
listened to our parents, we knew you don't sleep
with a girl who's not your wife," Mnguni
reflected sadly. Why did sin they didn't do fall on
their children? "It was enough to hold hands
with her and kiss her cheeks or baby kiss her
lips until she was yours. But no, they're getting
pregnant now. They're allowing boys to sleep
with them, such a disgraceful thing!"
"Yes, it's a disgrace, these boys don't listen. I
have been preaching for years. Telling my
youngest to find a wife and get married. He
doesn't even want to marry that mother of his
daughter," he had to make him believe they
were in the same dilemma even though it was a
boy on his end. "He's still not married and I don't
even know his girlfriend if he has one."
"They don't listen, Xulu. I also told Mzomubi I
don't want to die without seeing my daughter in-
law but look, I am dying now." He pointed at his
body, "he kept telling me he's young. I married
his mother in my 20's."
"You can't die and I am sure your daughter still
needs you. You've told me her mother doesn't
treat her like the others."
"Yes, and till this day, I don't know her reasons,
Xulu. She chased her out but she knows I don't
do that. Should I die, my daughter will suffer," he
looked at Xulu, "if anything happens to me, help
guide my son and tell him to marry her off. Tell
my brothers to help Mzomubi in this regard. Her
husband should take her because she'll not live
a peaceful life if I am gone."
"Why are you talking like this, now?"
"Please, promise me." He held both his hands, "I
might not have time. Please, access this boy,
check if he's the right boy for her and help
Mzomubi to get her married. My brothers
should also help but I am asking you because
you're older. I also trust you more."
"Yes, I promise!" He knew Mhlabunzima would
be good for his daughter. He'd shown over and
over again that he loved her but he wasn't sure
if he was the right candidate to help Mzomubi.
It was his son they were talking about. "But
you'll pull through!"
"I am not feeling well, being in prison took a toll
on me and I recently got back from another
country, different air, different environment,"
Mnguni shared, "and I had to hear such news
while I was already not feeling well.
Ngiyahamba impela,
"It breaks my heart that I might not see this boy.
I was supposed to see him, tell him to quickly
bring ilobolo and set the wedding date. That's
because it'll take them over a year to get
married because of the mourning period."
Xulu was getting more scared and he was
hoping it was a heartbreak that was making him
talk like this. "You need to fight then and tell
your ancestors not to accept you yet. I believe
you're not done yet."
"They didn't want MaNtuli, my ancestors and
had I listened, maybe I wouldn't be here." He
sighed.
Xulu stood, his time was up, "that was forgiven
and you were given two more children after. Be
positive, think of being there for your child." He
left him but he was also heartbroken. Mnguni
looked tired and weak.

Molepe was mad. He wanted to punch the walls

and lash on everything and everyone. He heard
the conversation between the two old men and
he was angry that Zinhloso was pregnant. He
didn't know this. He went to make a telephone
call but he ensured he was alone.
"Mrs Bekker, speaking how can I assist?"
"You're speaking to officer Molepe." His voice
was low.
"Oh, Molephe, I hope you have wonderful news
for me." She sounded excited.
He groaned, "I am afraid not. I am taking myself
out of this deal. His girlfriend is pregnant."
"What?"
"Yes, I heard their fathers talking. She's
pregnant and I can't be with a pregnant
woman."
She made a scream, "wait, wait, if you truly love
her. Why do you care about pregnancy? You'll
love her and the baby then I will have my boy."
"You don't understand, my father will not accept
a girl with a child as his daughter in-law. I can't
be with her anymore." Molepe wanted to
explode. Why did this plan go so wrong?
"Nonsense! I didn't think you'd fail. I have
trusted you for years 'Molephe' but you've
disappointed me this time," she complained.
She was angry.
"It's beyond my control now."
She clicked her tongue, "this means those old
men are useless in prison! Just ensure they're
out of prison because they weren't supposed to
be in prison in the first place," she shouted at
him, "you were supposed to arrest Mhlaba and
his friend, then I was going to have him taken
from prison. He was going to be mine and you
were going to get his girl but you've
disappointed me."
"I am really sorry, madam but spare me, this is
my first mistake."
"I will spare you, give him back his father. I don't
want him to be heartbroken any further," she
instructed and placed the phone down.
Molepe left the room upset. Mhlabunzima had
won again. He was never going to have
Zinhloso and he was mad! But he had to ensure
the old men were out. He was loyal to Mrs
Bekker. He'd worked for her for years. He knew
about the operations the Xulus and the Mngunis
were running because he also ran them in his
village for Mrs Bekker. And when things went
South in his village he pretended to have caught
the thieves and won a big case. But he only
sacrificed his men to save himself and Mrs
Bekker. Mrs Bekker was boss of the operation
in their village without her husband knowing.
When he knew the truth, they killed him. With
the Mnguni and Xulu case, he was going to
have them arrested and take over the territory
but Mrs Bekker stopped him, changed plans.
She stopped him only because of that midget
Mhlabunzima! He hated the man's guts.
UMCEBO

Chapter 131

***Chapter sponsored by Wisani***

Mhlabunzima greeted his mother and placed

the plastic bag on top of the table. He looked at
his mother, "mama, I greeted you and you're
quiet."
She glanced at him. Esther was busy chopping
the vegetables, "I need you to go and get
Zinhloso. I will not have another woman come
here and insult me in my own house because of
your stubbornness."
"Who insulted you?"
"Her mother was here with her aunt yesterday.
They want her back home. I am telling you to go
and get her!"
"I don't get why she's angry because she's the
one who chased her out."
"If you're serious about marrying her daughter
you should respect her even though she's a
monster. You've chosen that monster as a
mother-in-law. Now, go and get her daughter
back!"
"Yes, I will go." He walked out. He understood
why Zinhloso didn't want to go back home
without her father but he had no choice. He had
to respect her mother even though she was this
kind of a person. He didn't want to make things
more difficult for their relationship.
"Did you forget something?" Zinhloso tried to
get up from the mat but it was difficult. She was
lying down on the straw mat on the veranda.
Mhlabunzima helped her up, "no, I didn't forget
anything but I am here to take you. Please, go
get dressed." He was going to take care of the
bag some other time. He didn't trust her. She
might not want to stay at home. He followed
her inside the house.
"Yazi, you're not dressed. If a visitor can come
they'll find you naked." He commented as he
could see her panties through the light doek she
had covering her body.
"What visitor? Can't they feel that it's hot?"
"It's winter, MaMnguni!" He was surprised she
was actually getting dressed without questions
asked.
"I don't care." She turned to him, "yini?
Ungangibuki ngamehlo ocansi uyazi ngeke
ungithole."
Mhlabunzima clicked his tongue, "you'll find me
waiting for you, in the car."
She giggled - he was really frustrated and he
was refusing to have her put him inside her
mouth. She knew he was going to agree
eventually. They still had a long way to go. "awu
kusazohlehla ufudu nkosi yami." She walked out.
"Xulu, should I bring my handbag?" She stood
on the door. The car was before the house.
"No, come as you're."
"Oh, ngodla imali yendoda," (I am going to
spend your money) she joked and locked the
door with a smile as he laughed.
They drove out and it didn't take long, Zinhloso
was fast asleep. Mhlabunzima drove freely
without having to worry about endless
questions.
"Ah! Aren't we going to town?" Zinhloso asked
as she woke only to realise they were on the
gravel and not any gravel. He was taking her
home. "Ngenzwel'umusa!"
"She was at home with your aunt. She wants to
see you. My mom said she insulted her. We
have to do what she wants, Zinhloso."
"I did what she wanted and I left. I should go
back now? I have feelings too."
"Sthandwa sami, please go to your mom." He
had parked the car before the gate.
"No!"
"Zinhloso, remember it's wrong to get pregnant
-"
She faced him, "don't start with me and don't
you dare say that."
"You know it doesn't matter what kind of person
your mother but we'll need your family to get
married. So, think with your head and not your
emotions," he preached to her, "go in there and
talk to your mom!"
She scoffed and opened the door. She walked
inside the premises. It was quiet. She walked in
and found her and Sbusiso watching TV.
"You're home!" She looked at her as she sat
down and she couldn't believe this child was
really pregnant.
"Mhlabunzima brought me. He said you need to
talk to me."
"I don't need to talk to you but I told him to bring
you back home. Your father wants you. He's still
in the hospital, come back." She was trusting
she would listen when she mentioned her father.
"I will come back when he's back home."
"Excuse me!"
"I will come back once he's back."
"Yey we-ngane! You don't have a right to put
conditions because you're a child and you're
wrong!" She yelled.
"You threw me out and told me you're giving me
to him for free."
"Was I supposed to be happy with what you
did?" She wanted to whip the hell out of her
attitude but she held back.
"No, I will wait for dad's return. I was forced to
come here I didn't want to come," she stood up
and headed out, leaving her mother shouting.
She knew she was wrong but she didn't want to
stay with her mother without her father. She
was supposed to stay home and be obedient
because she was wrong. But her mother wasn't
going to make life easier for her. She was going
to be crucified everyday.
"Where are you going, Zinhloso? Why aren't you
respecting dad's word because he's the one
who said come back home?" Ziwinile asked but
Zinhloso pretended like she wasn't hearing her.
"He decided to leave me here!" She clicked her
tongue as Mhlabunzima's car was no longer
before the gate. She didn't go back home and
so, she walked to him.
When she reached Xulu homestead, she didn't
enter but she stood under the guava tree. She
was certain he was going to see her. Ngenzeni
walked out of the kitchen. She heard her call
Mhlabunzima, "phuma uzobuka!"
He walked out and stood next to his sister. He
walked out of the gate and stood before her.
"I want to go I will wait for you, here." Zinhloso
didn't talk much.
"Zinhloso, can you be a child and go home-"
"I want to go, please unless if you want me to
walk there I will."
"Ngicela ungazihlanyisi-" he was left talking
alone as Zinhloso left him. He couldn't believe
this. What was wrong with her? Why was she
acting like this? "Hamba, sokubona ukuthi
uzofikaphi!" (Go, we'll see how far you'll reach)
he went back home to proceed with eating.
Zinhloso reached the shop and Ntokozo
greeted her with a polite smile.
"Ntokozo, can you give me money. I want to
catch a 1pm bus. You'll tell him." She requested
and Ntokozo gave her money. "Thank you." She
walked out of the shop and walked to the bus
stop.

"Are you going to let her walk? You should have

told her to come in," Esther looked at
Mhlabunzima as he sat down.
"I want to see her going there by foot." He
proceeded eating without looking at his mother.
"Nansi izongena impama!" Ngenzeni warned
Mhlabunzima and he quickly jumped up before
his mother could slap him. She cracked and ran
as she turned to her. She didn't want to catch
smoke.
"Follow her so that I will take her home!"
"But mama, I am eating."
"Go!" She pointed at the door and Mhlabunzima
walked without saying anything back. He drove
out and saw Mrs Mnguni and aunt Lindo
walking in.
"We're here for you!" Mrs Mnguni screamed as
he passed them.
"I am coming back." He drove fast.
Mrs Mnguni looked at the car, "I will go crazy. I
will go crazy!"
"Calm down." Aunt Lindo said, granny recieved a
call from Mrs Mnguni and she asked Lindo to
go with her again.
Esther opened the hut again, "he'll come back
with her. I was going to bring her myself." She
quickly explained to avoid any further fights and
they waited.
Zinhloso walked inside the hut and sat next to
her aunt. Mhlabunzima forced her into the car,
she didn't want to get in. Zinhloso greeted the
elders.
"Where is your boyfriend?" Mrs Mnguni asked.
"I think it's best we talk to her without him."
Aunt Lindo supported Esther's suggestion,
"Katshana, your father said come back home.
We're here to take you home."
"Aunt, I didn't say I won't come back home but I
said I will come back once dad is home. I think
you understand why I want that," she looked at
her aunt with a sad face and Lindo couldn't
deny that she understood.
"Do you even know when your father will come
back? You want him not to find you home, huh?"
Mrs Mnguni shouted and Zinhloso kept quiet,
"why are you quiet now?"
"Mom said she's giving me away for free. I want
to come back when there's dad."
Esther intervened, "your mother was hurt and
angry, there's no mother who has a daughter
that wants to give her away like that. You
should go back home so that whenever your
father comes back. He'll find you there. He'll
also be angry with you but at least we know he
won't chase you out," Esther spoke with her
politely and she was crossing fingers she would
agree so they would move on from this, "even
Inhlawulo it'll be paid once your father is back.
So, it's best you go home."
"Yes, Zinhloso, if you're not going back home
that means you're disrespecting your father."
Aunt Lindo added on Esther's words.
"Yes, I will go home but I need to go get my
clothes and tell them I am leaving. I will come
back tomorrow," Zinhloso said and there was a
huge sigh from her mother.
Mrs Mnguni looked at Esther, "as you said,
when my husband returns, no time should be
wasted. We wanted Inhlawulo paid."
"Yes!"
Mrs Mnguni and aunt Lindo stood up, "ulalela
umama we ndoda yakho. Mina, cha!" (You listen
to your boyfriend's mother and not me) she
commented as Zinhloso walked out with them.
She was particularly walking out because of her
aunt. Zinhloso didn't utter a word directed to her
mother but she focused on her aunt.
UMCEBO
Chapter 132

"It's a good thing you'll be going back home.

How's my grandchild treating you?" Esther
asked Zinhloso.
Zinhloso was seated on the passenger seat
waiting for Mhlabunzima, "she's not making my
life easy but I am holding on. I wish it was
September, already."
"Don't worry, time will fly." She looked at
Mhlabunzima as he took his seat, "you're not
coming back again, tonight?"
"Yes, mama and please, don't complain."
She placed her hand on Zinhloso's shoulder,
"sisi, it seems you've stolen my child from me."
She shyly placed her hand on her lap and her
eyes focused on her hands, "it's the baby not
me," she giggled as Esther laughed. She said
goodbye and left.
In the car nobody was talking and Zinhloso was
wondering if Esther was going to change once
they were married or if she was going to remain
this friendly? Most mothers' in-laws from their
village weren't good mothers to their daughters
in-law. She didn't wish to have a difficult mother
in-law. It was enough with her mother. She was
listening to her thoughts until they were home.
She headed inside the house and from the
house, to take her bath.
On her way back from bathing, Mhlabunzima
was seated on the chair outside. Zinhloso got
an opportunity to clean the kitchen and gather
things they weren't going to leave behind. She
was doing the cleaning and packing while the
pots were cooking.
"Aren't you overworking yourself now?"
Mhlabunzima stood behind her and held her
waist.
"I want to finish up."
"No, leave everything you'll finish up tomorrow
morning."
"I don't want to do anything tomorrow morning,"
she faced him and he unexpectedly kissed her.
She would smile in between the kisses.
"I will miss spending time with you here but I
am glad you are going home."
"I will miss it too."
Mhlabunzima then assisted her finish up
because she didn't want to stop.
"So, once we're married. Are you going to also
build a separate hut for me?" Zinhloso asked,
they were on the bed after dinner. They were
facing each other.
He smiled, "yes, that's how things are done even
mama has taken the hut dad used to sleep in
before he built his house."
"Heee, I will sleep alone some nights even when
I am married." She joked.
"You won't sleep alone. Qophelo will sleep with
you and you know, I will build a house with
many rooms so that our other children will
sleep there," he had the best smile while
Zinhloso was just looking at him, "what?"
"So, if I am sleeping in your house. Where will
those many children sleep?"
"In their rooms. Qophelo will be older. She'll look
after them at night while we make another
sibling," he tickled her and Zinhloso broke out
laughing.
"I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with
you." She snuggled up on him and he proudly
kissed her forehead.
It had been three days since Zinhloso returned
home. She hadn't suffered from tongue lash
from her mother like she thought she would.
Zinhloso had been avoiding her but whenever
they were together. Mrs Mnguni carried on as
normal. She was hoping she would carry on like
that until their father returned.
Zinhloso returned in the afternoon, the
pharmacy was open but there was nobody
inside. And the following morning, Zinhloso
opened the pharmacy after doing her chores.
Her mother told her customers were no longer
coming and there was no need for her to sit
there. She didn't leave but she stayed, waiting
and one by one, they started coming. By the end
of the day it was business as usual.
"I am tired today. I won't cook, here's money.
While you were still at the garden fields three
different people came and bought goats," she
gave her mother a separate bag of money for
the goats. The other was for the pharmacy.
"What did you mix to bring customers again?
Lily's mixture didn't work." Ziwinile asked, she
was seated on the sofa doing her homework.
Zinhloso twitched her eyes, "phela mina ngine-
woza woza ungangifanisi nombombayi abango
Lily," Zinhloso joked and they laughed with
Ziwinile.
"Umnakwenu njalo," (she's your sister-wife)
Ziwinile teased.
She rolled her eyes, "I am joking. I used my
persuasive skills that I learnt from the best
business man and they started coming." She
boasted.
"Best business man kuphi lela qashana lakho le
ndoda! Ngangithi uslethela inkunzimalanga
kanti uletha ucikicane we ndoda!" Mrs Mnguni
commented and Ziwinile laughed her lungs out.
Zinhloso sulked and walked out. She didn't think
her mother was actually listening to them. She
thought she was busy counting the money she
gave her.
Mrs Mnguni put the money under her mattress.
She was still confused, just a few days since
Zinhloso's return and business was back to
normal. How? Did she really use muthi to
attract customers? Maybe Lily didn't mix it right?
She sat on her bed, "but it's impossible! Were
the ancestors not happy that this child was not
home?" She spoke out loud. She wanted to go
and consult about this. But who should she
trust?

"You should remember that you're carrying a

child. If someone wants muthi from plants that
are harmful to women. Tell them to enter and
take that for themselves," Mrs Mnguni
emphasized to Zinhloso. She was leaving her at
home but she didn't tell her where she was
going. She was taking Sbusiso with her. She
wanted to remind Zinhloso about this so she
would not harm the baby, especially. She
wanted her to quickly get married with her baby
and stay with her husband's family. She wasn't
sure whether her husband was going to accept
Mhlabunzima or not.
"Yes, I won't."
"I will tell Lily to come back tomorrow, bye now,"
she held her grandson's hand and they left. She
was going to eNdabayakhe. She was going to
leave Sbusiso with her mother and visit a
prophet she trusted.
Her turn to enter finally arrived and she sat
down on the straw mat. She greeted him and
she placed the silver coins inside the bowl of
water. The prophet started praying.
"Your husband's ancestors didn't want you as a
wife for their son. You have a dark heart and
hatred in your heart. They saw grudges of the
past you were carrying and they told him they
don't want you to build their home with him," he
told her the truth she didn't know. Mnguni would
only tell her 'abalayikhaya abakufuni
ngisalungisa' and she would think he was
talking about his family. Not the ancestors.
"He never told you because of the love he has
for you. You saw what happened after he had
married you even though he was warned not to.
You stayed with him and he lost his wealth, his
ancestors turned their backs on him,
"It was a very dark and a difficult time. After two
daughters, pregnancies didn't make it to full
term. You lost babies after babies, pain was
your friend. Your heart grew even darker. Am I
lying?"
Mrs Mnguni was crying fresh tears. She never
knew her husband's ancestors didn't want her.
She thought it was family! "No, you're not."
"Mnguni had lost faith but his Gobela told him
not to lose faith. He repented, pleaded with
them, reminded him how loyal he'd been to
them. He had to remind a lot of sacrifices he
made when he accepted the calling,
"When he vowed to be their vessel. They are fair
people, they showed him mercy and love. They
promised him a child, your daughter!"
"Zinhloso?"
"Yes, that one, such a special child. A rare kind
of individual. Some people have luck, we know
that but hers I can't even explain it. Only your
husband knows exactly what they spoke with
his ancestors,
"I can only see that she's a child of abundance
and restoration. She was given to your husband
to restore everything he lost. That's why he
loves her this much even though he turned
greedy."
"I don't understand!"
"She brings blessings and abundance at home.
That's why things went back to normal after her
return, she should never leave home in that
manner again. When she leaves, it should be
like your husband had been saying,
appropriate!"
Her heart was beating up to her chest. It all
made sense. Everything! Even how he never
wanted her to get married. Does this mean
Zinhloso was speaking the truth -
"Yes, your daughter was telling the truth when
she said your husband was not healing her
deliberately. That's why I said he became
greedy,
"Let the child get married, there's nothing you'll
lose when she gets married. Let her go because
I can tell you're not going to purge your heart
and forget about all the past pain. The past she
wasn't part of." He advised but he didn't trust
her. He could tell she was going to follow in the
footsteps of her husband or even be worse.
"Does my daughter know?"
"No, and she should never know. We're all
humans and should she know, she would use
this as her weapon." He responded.
"Is she also going to bring the same abundance
and blessings for her husband's family?" She
asked.
"Yes, wherever she is. It doesn't even matter
how she's treated, that's why your husband also
didn't want to let her go. He was scared
someone would find out and enslave her."
"So, she's like a lucky charm?"
"Yes!"
She closed her eyes, inhaled and exhaled. She
paid extra and she left satisfied that she was
taken out of confusion.

****
NB: I haven't forgotten about your unlocked
bonus chapter. Don't think I am robbing you 🙈
UMCEBO

Chapter 133

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

Mhlabunzima and Mzomubi were driving

together to prison. Mzomubi was driving and
Mhlabunzima was watching him. But he relaxed
as he realised he was really able to drive.
"Your sister has done an amazing job. You're a
good driver like her now. You must get your
licence like her too," Mhlabunzima was
impressed. He couldn't believe this was the
same person who was difficult.
"Yes, my sister is patient unlike someone I
know," he commented and Mhlabunzima
chortled. They were visiting their fathers but
Mzomubi was going for a hospital visit. He was
going to drop Mhlabunzima off. He was going
to head to the hospital and drive back for
Mhlabunzima. Mzomubi's anger was no longer
the same because of the return of his sister.
"I am here, baba," Mzomubi took a seat and
greeted his father. He wasn't happy about his
state. He didn't look like he was in good shape.
"Son, I am pleased to see you. How are you and
how are things at home?"
Mnguni had passed the message to Xulu's
brother. He asked him to tell Mzomubi to visit
him .
"Things are well and Zinhloso is back home."
His mother had told him to hide the name of the
baby's father until his father was out of the
hospital and hopefully out of prison.
He smiled as he was hopeful, "that's a good
thing. Mzomubi, you're a man now. You should
look after your mother and sisters, and protect
them. I am glad that you're working now."
"Yes, thank you." They shook hands.
"I don't want what happened to happen again.
None of your sisters should leave home
carelessly or be chased out, especially Zinhloso,
"When your sister gets married because it
seems she'll marry first, lead her nuptials with
the help of your uncles. Xulu will help guide you.
Ancestors should know she's leaving home
because she's going to build a new home with
her husband,
"They should be with her and always guide her,
never forsake her. Ask them to protect and
always look out for her." Mnguni instructed.
Mzomubi frowned, "why are you talking like this,
baba?"
"I am not well as you can see and anything can
happen."
"You won't die. You're strong."
"I don't have hope and nobody should blame
your sister should something happen to me. I
was already feeling weak, the doctors can tell
you,
"Travelling and prison weren't both good for me.
It has nothing to do with my daughter, you'll
also tell her not to blame herself. Do you
understand?"
Mzomubi didn't believe anything would happen
to his father and so, he didn't take it to heart. He
understood his father was talking like this about
Zinhloso because she was a sick child when
growing up. His father told them, he used to
burn sage now and again for her well-being.
That was the reason that made more sense to
him.
"Yes, I understand."
"They must all know that if things are tough,
they can always come back home. You should
bring Zinhloso on your next visit. I want to talk
to her. If I come out, I will deal with that boy,"
Mnguni requested.
"I will," he was relieved he wasn't asking him
anything about her boyfriend. Mzomubi stayed
a few more minutes with his father until it was
time to go.

He needed time to cover up tracks and make it

look real, representable that the two men were
leaving prison. There was little to no corruption
in their station. He was taking chances because
he had Mrs Bekker backing him up. And any
foul activities done by the police had the bosses
backing them. They didn't have the capability
because of the consequences.
Molepe grabbed a chair and sat down. He had
visited Xulu and spoke to him about knowing
their tricks with this case. But like his actor son,
Xulu denied everything.
"What are you doing here?" Mnguni asked.
Molepe shook his head slowly, "two corrupt old
men. It's distasteful."
"Who's corrupt?"
"Do you know I liked your daughter, Zinhloso?
And if we got a chance with her I was going to
be like a son to you," Molepe spoke with a voice
laced with contempt. His heart was filled with
bitterness whenever he thought of
Mhlabunzima. "Maybe I was going to help you
cover your livestock theft business because I
loved your daughter."
Mnguni was amused, "what theft business are
you talking about? You can never be a match
for Zinhloso."
"Oh, and Mhlabunzima is? He's better than me?"
He asked, with his voice raised. It was only
Mnguni and him in the room, the curtain closed.
He saw confusion written on his face. His
brows were furrowed. Molepe was the one who
got to laugh this time, "wait you also didn't
know? I brought this up to your friend also and
he didn't know."
Xulu was smart enough to pretend like he didn't
know Mhlabunzima and Zinhloso were in a
relationship when Molepe brought it up. He
laughed and enjoyed being the one to break
such news but only he didn't know that the old
man was fooling him.
"What are you talking about?"
He clapped hands and proceeded to laugh.
"Who do you think is responsible for her
pregnancy? It's your dear friend's son. He's
been having his way with your daughter right
under your nose. They've been fooling both you
and your friend."
"You're - you're -" he hitched and tried harder to
speak but words didn't come out.
"I am what? Lying? No, I am not lying but I am
telling you the truth. Mhlabunzima has been
screwing your daughter. How does it feel to
know he disrespected you and-" he quickly
stood up as the machines screeched. The old
man was convulsing and seconds later, his
body was still like a statue with eyes widened.
Molepe called out for the nurses.
The nurses came in, rushing and Molepe
stepped aside. They worked on him. He was
panicking and he was hoping nothing could
happen to him. He would live with guilt for the
rest of his life if something happened to her
father.
"Officer, you'll have to call his family. He's no
more. He died of heart failure. He was already
old and we couldn't help him," the nurse sadly
broke the news. Molepe dropped on the floor.
What just happened? Mnguni had died?
UMCEBO

Chapter 134

She stood before the counter and looked

around, "where's he?" She asked after greeting
Ntokozo.
"He's at the back."
"Okay, can you give me coca cola?" She placed
the money on the counter.
"It's for who?"
Zinhloso looked around, "me of course! Who
else could it be for?"
"He said I shouldn't sell or give acid to you
because the book he's reading says it's not
recommended," Ntokozo pushed the money
back.
She looked at him like he would say he was
joking but he didn't, "I am thirsty!"
"There's water or juice."
She took her money and headed at the back.
She found him holding a chicken and there was
a lady standing before him. They were talking.
She cleared her throat when he smiled and
looked down like a shy boy, "you don't smile like
that when you're talking to me," she pouted and
they both noticed her.
Mhlabunzima gave the chicken to the lady and
he took the money. "Mama wezingane, I wasn't
expecting you."
She was looking at the lady. She greeted
Zinhloso and left them, "are you flirting because
I am pregnant and there are things I can't give
you now?"
"What? No, please don't even think like that. I
was asking her about her brother and she was
telling me things he says about me," he
explained.
"Why are you controlling what I should and
should not eat?"
"What did Ntokozo refuse to give you?"
"Coca Cola, I have been working, I am thirsty!
You can't control what I eat."
"I have been reading a book and it has a list of
things you shouldn't eat," he was hoping she
was going to easily agree, "are you going to cut
it off? I was going to give you the book but the
English is not in your grade."
"If you wanted me to know about it you were
going to read it to me."
"You're right. When you visit me. I will read it for
you."
"So, you'll come tonight and get me?"
"You're pregnant I don't want us to go up and
down at night and early in the morning,"
Mhlabunzima made an excuse.
"Oh, suddenly it's like that? But it wasn't like that
when you wanted me to come to you the time
you were shot," she reminded him, "I was still at
an early stage of pregnancy and more
vulnerable to bad spirits at night. I was also
walking alone, pregnant!"
"I know but-"
"I get it. I should go back home because I am
busy."
"Look, I can read to you during the day."
"I am no longer interested. Bye." She left him
trying to talk. She perfectly understood why he
was refusing and this made her wonder if she
wasn't going to sleep next to him until the baby
was born.
"I am walking you home. Why are you rushing?"
He followed her behind with a bottle of cold
juice. Zinhloso took the juice. Mhlabunzima was
doing the talking and she only listened without
commenting. He was telling her about things
she wasn't supposed to eat.
"Go back now I am almost home."
"I wasn't even done talking."
"You'll finish some other time." She felt like he
was not considering her feelings.
The minute she entered the house. The
telephone rang. She quickly rushed to it.
"Zinhloso, hello?"
"Yes, we're calling from the hospital. Can I
speak to Mrs Mnguni?"
"She's not close. This is Mr Mnguni's daughter,
you can leave a message," Zinhloso said.
"We would like to see your mother. She should
come to the hospital today," the lady required.
"I will inform her right away. Thank you." She
went out and searched for her mother. She
walked around the yard calling out for her and
she heard her respond from her hut. Zinhloso
stood outside the door.
"The hospital called. They're asking that you
come today," she relayed the message while
standing outside.
"Why are you talking to me while you're at the
door? Can't you enter and properly tell me what
you're saying?" She yelled.
She'd probably forgotten that she told her not to
enter her hut. Zinhloso didn't bring it up but she
walked in. She stood by the door, her head
facing her mother but her eyes looking around.
The hut looked like her mother, it was stylish.
"You'll drive me there because I can't wait for
the bus. Go and take a bath," she said.
"I took a bath after coming from the garden."
She wasn't about to bathe again. It wasn't easy
to bathe in the basin with a belly. She walked
out after being told to go and change into
something representable.

Zinhloso was driving to the hospital with hope

that she was going to see her father. Mzomubi
had told her that he said he wanted her to come
with him. She was nervous but pleased that - he
at least wanted to see her… The drive with her
mother was awkward and she didn't understand
why she kept glancing at her. Zinhloso
concluded that maybe she was just surprised
that she could really drive.
After going through all the right channels. They
were taken to the sister nurse.
"Mrs Mnguni," she greeted and showed them
seats. Molepe and the sergeant were with the
sister.
"Is everything alright with my husband?" Mrs
Mnguni asked without greeting back. She was
having a bad feeling about this call that they
received. She was expecting they'd be told
Mnguni's condition was worse. "Tell us!"
Zinhloso was standing behind her mother. She
was the only person seated in the room. She
was also waiting to hear what they were going
to say about her father.
"Your husband suffered from heart failure. We
did everything we could to save him but there
wasn't much we could do. He was already old
and had been -" the sister nurse stopped talking
as Mrs Mnguni wailed. Everyone in the room
forced their heads down as she cried.
"Awu, kodwa Mnguni ungenzani?
Ungishiyelani?" (Why are you leaving me?) She
couldn't understand why things had to go this
way. Why did her husband die? He wasn't that
old. What did they mean when they said he was
already old?
"You killed my husband!" She screamed at the
nurse and officers.
"No, Mr Mnguni was strained and tired from
traveling -"
She screamed at the sergeant as he tried to
explain, "you people are evil!"
"What you discussed with him put his health at
higher risk!" He tried to defend, defend their
image. It wasn't their fault.
Zinhloso was lost - she heard. They told them
her father had died. Her only father, Mnguni.
They'd had their ups and downs but he was the
only real parent she knew. The only parent she
felt loved by. How did this happen? He was alive
and strong, he was determined they were going
to come back from prison. He didn't know he
was going to come back as a corpse. Her father
- a corpse.
She kept breathing in and out as they argued. It
finally registered, this was all her fault. This
pregnancy was the reason she lost a father. She
freed her tears and her heart tensed. She felt
deep pain and she felt empty, like there was
something that was missing. She didn't make
sounds as she freed her tears. Her throat
burned and a sound came out.
"Why are you crying?" Mrs Mnguni turned to
Zinhloso as she heard her cry. She gave her a
thundering slap and the nurse quickly held her
back.
"Mama, she's pregnant!"
"It's this pregnancy that killed my husband. He
died out of pain and heartbreak," she spoke
through the pain and tears, "you little witch! You
and your boyfriend sent Mnguni to an early
grave. You'll marry that boy over my dead body!"
"Mama, please calm down."
Molepe pulled the shocked and heartbroken
Zinhloso away from the situation, "please, don't
listen to what your mother is saying. It's not
your fault."
Without thinking, Zinhloso threw herself into his
arms and Molepe held her tightly. He brushed
her back softly, "I shouldn't have gotten
pregnant -"
"No, don't speak like that. Don't be hard on
yourself," he held back his own tears. He never
meant for any of this to happen. It broke his
heart that Zinhloso was blamed for something
she had no control over, something she wasn't
responsible for.
He sat down with her on the benches while her
mother was still doing paperwork with the help
of the nurse.
"Remember, you have a little person who's
depending on you. So, don't kill yourself by
blaming yourself. It's not your fault," he tried his
best to comfort her but she was beyond broken.
Her head was against the wall and she couldn't
stop crying.
Seeing her state, Molepe offered to take them
back home. Mrs Mnguni didn't want to drive
with Zinhloso. They took her home in a police
vehicle, the vehicle that was going to head back
with Molepe.
At home, Zinhloso didn't follow her mother but
she went to her hut.
"Mama, what's wrong? We didn't find you home
and Lily told us you went to the hospital,"
Mzomubi and Ziwinile didn't give their mother a
chance to breathe.
Mrs Mnguni undid the two first buttons of her
round neckline dress, "Mzomubi, drive and go
get your grandmother and aunts. You'll tell them
I am calling them, it's about your father."
"What happened, mom?" Mzomubi asked.
Mrs Mnguni shook her head and started crying
all over again. The two didn't have to be told, "it
can't be!" Ziwinile said and shook her head.
"Yes, your father has left us." She said, politely
and eyed her son, "Mzomubi, go!" Mrs Mnguni
screamed at him and he quickly went out.
"This is all Zinhloso's fault!" Ziwinile walked out
and headed straight to Zinhloso's hut. She
opened the door without knowing. "Are you
happy, now?" She found her seated on the bed
with her head looking at her feet. She attacked
her with slaps and pulled her off the bed by her
dress. "You killed dad with this stupid, baby!"
She screamed and didn't stop attacking her.
"Leave me alone!" Zinhloso tried to stop her
from hitting her but she just didn't have the
courage, "I am pregnant, you fool stop hitting
me!"
"I don't care about this stupid pregnancy and I
wish your baby will die too," she pushed her
hard and luckily Zinhloso didn't fall down. She
held onto her bed.
"You're cruel. My baby has nothing to do with
this. You want to harm an innocent child!"
Zinhloso screamed.
"Why do you think I care about this thing you're
carrying? You killed my father!" She pointed at
the belly.
"You should get married and not ever hold a
child for such cruel words you've said to my
child. Ubuke kungena abafazi bezala kuloyo
mendo wakho ongacacile. Phuma! Phuma!" She
pushed her to the door.
"You wish!"
Once she was outside, Zinhloso locked her door,
"baba, why did you leave me? How will my life
be without you, here?" She sat on the floor and
cried.

Mzomubi returned with his aunts and

grandmother. Mrs Mnguni and Ziwinile were at
Mnguni's house. Mrs Mnguni was seated on his
sofa, she was crying silently.
"Yini, sekwenzenjani?" (What's wrong? What has
happened?) Granny asked, she took a seat
along with her three daughters.
"They called me at the hospital and I asked
Zinhloso to drive me there," she stopped talking
because of tears. Her sisters-in-law were
already crying. But granny wasn't there - her
mind was not telling her she'd lost her precious
first born son.
"What did they want to tell you?" Granny asked,
"tell me!"
"That Mnguni has passed on!"
The sisters cried louder as their mother fainted,
"get water!" Aunt Lindo screamed and Mzomubi
rushed out. She returned with water. They
poured water on her face and she didn't wake
up. "Hospital! Where's Zinhloso? She must take
her to the hospital or clinic!"
Mzomubi rushed out to call Zinhloso. He
returned to the hut, he left her starting the car.
"Let's take her!" They lifted her…
UMCEBO
Chapter 135

***Chapter sponsored by N.X."

His head was spinning and he couldn't think

straight. He was angered by his family
members who were blaming Zinhloso for the
death of his father. He tried his best to tell them
that even his father didn't blame her but they
weren't hearing his words. He was hoping
Zinhloso and aunt Lindo were going to come
back with grandma.
He had been working with his cousins, moving
furniture inside his father's house. By the time
he was done, he was suffocating. He walked
out of the premises and headed to
Mhlabunzima's shop. He wanted to talk to him,
tell him what had happened. The sudden death
of his father.
"Ntanga, you don't look good? I was just about
to drive to prison for my father. How's your
father's condition? Dad told me the case
against them will no longer go forward,"
Mhlabunzima stood up as Mzomubi entered his
office. He grabbed the car keys. "Maybe we can
drive together."
Mzomubi failed to hold back tears. This was
great news but he couldn't rejoice in them
because his father wasn't going to return home
alive. "I won't be able to get a chance to bring
him back alive."
"What do you mean? Why are you crying?"
Mhlabunzima was confused and oddly he felt
his pain even though he didn't know what was
going on.
"He died! We were told today."
Mhlabunzima welcomed Mzomubi into a hard
hug. He was shocked but he was able to act out
of instinct, hugging his friend in pain. "If I didn't
lead that fight-" he didn't even know what to say.
He was highly blaming himself. "Mzomubi this
is tragic! But this means you should be strong
because you have big shoes to fill. You have to
man up and be there for your mother and
sisters."
"What if I fail, Mhlabunzima?"
"You won't! You learnt from the best, you have
to make your father proud. You have him as
your ancestor now. You didn't entirely lose him,"
suddenly words freely came out of his mouth
and tears followed. Mnguni was also a part of
his family's success, without him Mhlabunzima
wasn't sure if they would be where they were
now. He became the great friend of his father
and they were both fond of each other. He knew
his father would be devastated by the news.
"You can still communicate with him and
whenever you feel lost, ask him for guidance.
He'll light your way. We're also here, my dad is
there."
"Thank you." He moved away from him, he felt
much better. He felt strengthened.
"How's your sister?" He swallowed the lump on
his throat.
"I saw her for a few minutes. She had to rush
grandma to the hospital. She fainted when she
received the news," Mzomubi wiped the tears
with his hand.
"I hope she'll be fine."
"They're blaming Zinhloso's pregnancy but you
should know that dad told me that she
shouldn't be blamed. I think he could feel that
he didn't have time," Mzomubi shared.
He rubbed his eyes, "Zinhloso will also blame
me, for the pregnancy and the fight that was the
reason he ended up in prison."
"No, she mustn't because it's not anyone's fault.
I will talk to her, don't worry and please support
her. She'll need support because even people I
trusted, aunt Comfort," Mzomubi shared and
clenched his jaws, "she's also siding with those
who are blaming her. I don't know what aunt
Lindo will say. She left with her."
"I hope she'll be on her side because you know I
can't be close since we're not married yet. I will
come home but I won't even be able to hug her
there," Mhlabunzima shared his worries.
"We have to be hopeful. I have to go back home.
Please go and fetch your father," he said and
Mhlabunzima promised to come.

Mhlabunzima didn't even know how to comfort

his father. He kept saying he was sorry and his
father only told him it wasn't his fault. He was
highly stressed about Zinhloso. He wanted to
go to Mzomubi as he promised but his father
asked for a meeting with them. Kusakusa was
back from work. They were very happy to have
Xulu back home but they could all see that he
wasn't alright. His friend had died.
"I think we all know what happened to Mnguni
and we also know that, besides the business
relationship we had with his family. There has
been another relationship formed," he pointed
at Mhlabunzima. It was his children, his wife
and his father, "Mhlabunzima told me, the
pregnancy is blamed for the death of Mnguni."
"Ay, baba, why are they blaming pregnancy?"
Kusakusa asked.
"Mnguni was admitted to the hospital right after
learning that his daughter is pregnant but he
didn't know Mhlabunzima was responsible. He
died without knowing the truth," Xulu explained.
Kusakusa was not in support, "there's not even
a single parent who'd died because their child
got pregnant. This means the news came at the
wrong time. He was already sick, we can't let
them blame Mhlaba's relationship."
Xulu's heart was filled with warmth from his
son's words. It gave him comfort that at least
Kusakusa was thinking like this. This showed
that his children loved each other, the issue was
just inheritance. And even there, he'd told them
over and over again that Mhlabunzima was just
a custodian; it didn't mean he would get
everything. But they never got over it. He knew
he couldn't make either Ngenzeni or Kusakusa
an heir, they were going to take everything, each
for themselves. They were greedy.
"Kusakusa is right. Mnguni was already sick, it
can't be the pregnancy."
Xulu looked at his father, "yes, baba he was
already sick he told me prison and travelling
took a toll on his health."
"So, what are we going to do, baba? Are we
going to go and show support? Remember,
Mhlabunzima is also friends with Mzomubi."
Ngenzeni asked.
"We should show support but Mhlabunzima
shouldn't go there. I will talk to Mzomubi about
it." He looked at his father for support.
"Yes, they're not married yet, he mustn't go."
Grandpa supported, "you should expect
anything from the family because they're angry."
"Yes!" They all said.
"Mhlabunzima, this means you can't marry
Zinhloso until the mourning period has come to
an end." Xulu informed, "ceremonies are not
held while the family is mourning, if your
wedding date was already set. It was going to
carry on but you haven't even paid Inhlawulo."
"Yebo, I understand." He was saddened by this
but he had no choice but to respect traditions.
What was a man without his traditions?
Zinhloso also had to mourn her father.
"And Inhlawulo we'll hear from them but there's
no problem in sending it, unless their family
customs say otherwise," grandpa added and
that concluded the meeting. Mhlabunzima
thanked his family.
***
Aunt Lindo was holding Zinhloso's hand tightly.
She didn't know whether to cry or scream. In a
single day, the darkest cloud had befallen their
family. They had lost two most important
members. Their older brother and their mother.
Granny was declared dead an hour after they
reached the hospital with her. Zinhloso and
aunt Lindo were waiting for feedback, the
feedback they received was that she died. She
died even before the Doctor could even see her
and examine her. Zinhloso took the news badly,
suffered from shortness of breath and the
nurses had to admit her because of her
condition. They told aunt Lindo that her blood
pressure was very high. They were going to
keep her in the hospital for the baby's sake.
"Nurse, are you sure the baby is fine?" Aunt
Lindo asked the nurse who'd returned to check
on her. The nurse had been monitoring her
situation.
The nurse pressed her tummy and after feeling
the baby's movements. She did an ultrasound,
"yes, the baby is not at much risk but Zinhloso's
BP is too high. We can't let her go home
because she's pregnant. We have to keep her
here and monitor her and once her situation has
changed we will discharge her."
She shut her eyes. She'd been praying that
Zinhloso and the baby would make it alive.
While they were waiting for granny, aunt Lindo
tried her best to comfort Zinhloso and told her
not to blame herself. She shared the same
sentiments that her brother might have already
been sick.
"Oh, my ancestors, please help her be better.
She must be safe and the baby must be safe,"
aunt Lindo pleaded silently.
"Don't you think it'll be better to have her in the
hospital and not at home? You've told me about
the situation back home and it seems you're not
blaming her," the nurse said standing next to
Lindo after she was done with Zinhloso.
"Yes, when I called back home, my brother's son
told me they're blaming her but I didn't tell her. I
can't blame her," aunt Lindo shook her head.
"It's better we keep her and let her go once
she's improved. I will give you some time. You
should go home and let her rest," the nurse
pressed her hand on her shoulder and left her.
She looked at Zinhloso, she was sleeping. They
sedated her to give her some rest, "oh, ngane
kabhuti, please, hold on for your little one my
dear. You have everything to live for ahead of
you, your child, your partner and us, myself and
your siblings who care about you. Be strong,
Yeyeye," she stood up and left her with hope
that she was going to be fine. The baby was
doing well and so, that was a good sign. She
leaned by the wall outside the hospital and she
cried for her dead mother and brother…
UMCEBO

Chapter 136

***Chapter sponsored by N.X***

"Mzomubi, there's aunt Lindo on the phone she

wants to talk to you," Ziwinile called out for her
brother.
Mzomubi stopped what he was doing and
rushed to the house, "aunty?"
"Mfanawami, your sister has been admitted to
the hospital and I can't come back. The 3pm
bus has left now."
"What's wrong with her, now?"
"Her blood pressure is high. I need you to tell
your mother that and go to Mhlabunzima. Come
here with him," aunt Lindo instructed, "he should
come and see her at 4pm. It'll be visiting hours.
You'll drive with me back home. I think she'll
need Mhlabunzima for now and we'll go back
home."
"Yebo, aunt I will be on my way," he placed the
phone down and walked through the kitchen
where Ziwinile and his cousin were busy
cooking.
"What's happening?" Ziwinile asked.
"Zinhloso is in the hospital, she was admitted,"
he walked out and he heard her clapping once.
Their cousin wished she wasn't going to come
back. He didn't have time to go back and say
something to her.
Mzomubi knelt before his mother. She was on
the mattress with their aunts and two of their
uncle's wives. There was a neighbour with them.
"Mama, aunt Lindo called and she said Zinhloso
has been admitted to the hospital. I should go
and get her."
"How are you going to get there without a car?"
Mrs Mnguni asked.
"I will ask Mhlabunzima to take me there.
Zinhloso won't come back-"
"I don't care whether she comes back or not
and I hope she doesn't come back along with
that baby," Mrs Mnguni said coldly and
dismissively. The neighbour was shocked to
hear such words from her and looking around,
nobody was telling her not to talk like that about
her child. How were these people?
"Mama, stop blaming Zinhloso for something
she didn't do. My father spoke to me and told
me it was nobody's fault -"
Mrs Mnguni cut Mzomubi off and pointed at the
door, "stop talking rubbish and go get your
aunt."
He stood up. "What did Lindo say about mom?"
aunt Comfort asked.
"She didn't say anything," he walked out.
Mzomubi headed to the Xulus wondering how
did his father conclude that his mom was a
good woman? She'd shown over and over that
she wasn't a good woman.
"Mama, sawubona," Mzomubi greeted Esther.
She was outside washing pots.
She stopped what she was doing and looked at
him, "yebo, mfana. Do you need something?"
Her husband had gone to the Mnguni home.
"No, but I need Mhlabunzima. I hope he's home.
I saw the car."
"What's wrong? Did his father speak to you?"
"Yes, he made me understand why he couldn't
come home. I need him for something different.
I want him to drive me to the hospital,"
Mzomubi explained, "he's also needed there
because Zinhloso has been admitted. Her blood
pressure is high."
"Oh, poor child! He's in his house. Please, hurry
to him." She looked at him as he rushed to the
house. She kept hoping and praying that
Zinhloso would be well. She was looking
forward to meeting her grandchild and she was
also looking forward to welcoming her as her
daughter in-law one day.
He found Mhlabunzima laying on the bed, his
face on the pillow, "are you sleeping? Why are
you sleeping like you're dead?"
He quickly got up and faced him, "Mzomubi?"
"Yes, we should go to the hospital. My sister
has been admitted and I need to come back
with my aunt."
He jumped out of bed, "admitted?" He dressed
up and grabbed the car keys.
"Yes, it's her blood pressure."
They followed each other out of the house.
Esther called out for them, she rushed after
them as they were already entering the car. She
gave Mhlabunzima a bag, "It's food and some
fruits for Zinhloso."
"Thank you, mama," he took the plastic and
gave it to Mzomubi.
"Drive safely on the road, please!" She
screamed after him as he drove off.
"Oh, Mhlabunzima, please go and talk to her.
Keep her company until visiting hours are over,"
aunt Lindo pleaded with him.
"And call us when you're back," Mzomubi
requested and Mhlabunzima promised to do as
they've requested. He rushed to the ward.
People were already walking inside the hospital.
He found her seated on her butts staring at the
blank space. "Sanibonani, bantu bami," he
greeted and grabbed a chair. He was very
nervous about this visit. The minute his car
drove out of home, he told himself he was
going to take anything she was going to say to
him.
Zinhloso's lips curved into a hopeful smile,
seeing his face gave her hope. She was hopeful
that there was still life after the loss of her
father and grandmother, "sawubona, gxabhashe.
My aunt told you I am here?"
"Yes, the two of you scared me." He held her
hand. It was warm and sweaty.
"We didn't mean to scare you, baba. Life has
been really unfair," she looked at him with eyes
full of hurt.
"Yes, our daughter won't get to meet her
grandfather and you've lost a father," he
acknowledged and Zinhloso nodded with tears,
"I am really sorry, mama. I don't even have
words. It's all my fault."
She opened her eyes, "no, it's not your fault,
Donda. What happened is life and nobody has
control over another human being's life. My
ancestors were just ready to accept my father
and grandmother."
"And your grandmother?" He held his chest as
Zinhloso confirmed it with a nod.
"She died hours back and it's not your fault."
She said and she could see that he was
shocked, "I forgave you for everything that
happened. I don't hold grudges, once I have
forgiven, it has passed unless I haven't forgiven
you."
"I was very scared and please, don't blame
yourself too for what happened." He got up and
held her tightly as she cried her pain out. "We're
still here, me and your other family members.
You'll never be alone, MaMnguni."
"Please, don't leave us."
"I won't. I will always be here," he said and held
her tighter. "I love you so much."
"I love you too."
He sat back on his chair and placed his hand on
her belly, "how's she?"
"The nurse said she's doing well but my BP is
the reason I am being kept here. I don't want to
lose her, she's everything I have now," she
laughed as she witnessed sadness on his face,
"and you too. How can I shut you out?"
His best smile returned. Like aunt Lindo had
advised, Mhlabunzima stayed with Zinhloso
until the end of visiting hours.
*****
Isililo at the Mnguni could be heard across all
neighbours. The pain they were feeling was
unimaginable. The Angel of Death had paid
them a double visit.
"She shouldn't come to both our mother's and
brother's funeral," the second brother of Mnguni
breathed. He was now the oldest brother but
aunt Lindo was the oldest of them all. She was
the second born after Mnguni, first born of the
girls. They were all gathered in their brother's
house. Mrs Mnguni and her two children were
with them.
"Yes, she must not come."
Aunt Lindo looked at her siblings one by one,
"there's nobody who'll stop my brother's
daughter from burying her father and
grandmother."
"She's the reason for all these things - all these
deaths-"
Lindo stopped her brother from talking, "that's
nonsense! My brother didn't die from that.
Mzomubi has been explaining over and over
again! Why can't you listen?"
"Sisi-"
Lindo raised her hand to Comfort, "I won't even
listen to your opinion. Wakhishwa wayogana
wena you'll have a say kwakho hhayi la!" She
said once and Comfort remained quiet.
"I am older now after our brother and I am
taking that decision -"
"You're older than who? I am not married,
yimina inkosazana yalayikhaya!" She screamed
at them, pointing at each and every one of them.
She faced her brother who'd declared he had a
right to make decisions, "I won't be told by you
what to do. I nursed you when you were a baby.
You're not even three years younger but six
years younger. Zinhloso will come to the funeral
and nobody will stop her. Mom always told you
that after our older brother, you all will listen to
me. That penis in between your legs doesn't
give you a right to make decisions while I am
still alive."
There was total silence after she'd spoken and
she faced Mrs Mnguni, "and you, MaNtuli!
Mourn your husband, stop fighting his children.
I don't know what my brother saw in you. I won't
let our family name be made mockery of,
because you behaving like Zinhloso is your
rivalry. You're even saying distasteful things
about your child in front of outsiders. Awube
nesmilo mfazi!" She adjourned the meeting and
everyone who wasn't sleeping in Mnguni's
house stood up and left.
UMCEBO

Chapter 137

***Chapter sponsored by Gugu Zulu Zincume***

"Oh, my child, don't cry. You've experienced the

love of that man while he was alive and now, be
strong for your family. Your children," grandma
placed Mrs Mnguni on her chest. She came as
soon as she heard about the passing of Mnguni.
It was sudden and unexpected. The shocker
was his mother following him.
"I shouldn't have told him about the pregnancy,
mama. He would be here. How am I supposed
to look at that child and her pregnancy?" Mrs
Mnguni cried. She was with only her mother in
the room.
"No, don't be crazy! Mzomubi said Mnguni died
of heart failure. How's pregnancy associated
with his death?"
Mrs Mnguni moved away from her mother's
chest, "it's what sent him to the hospital. If he
was sick, then this pregnancy finished him off."
"I will take this child if you keep saying such
things. She'll stay with me if her presence will
be a reminder of pain to you," she threatened.
She was shocked that her daughter has such
vile thoughts about her daughter. She was
blaming her for something she didn't do.
Mrs Mnguni wiped her tears, "no, nobody will
take her. She'll stay here, where her father
wanted her."
"I hope you'll treat her well. I should go to the
hospital and see her."
She looked at her mother, "are you here for me
or for Zinhloso?" She asked and granny didn't
answer her but she stood up. She left her. She
looked for Mzomubi. He was busy with other
men.
Xulu greeted grandma, "I am glad to see you
here, with how things are I didn't think you'll
come." Granny said.
"Our friendship didn't start yesterday. I don't
care what issues there are. I told them nobody
will stop me from burying my friend," Xulu said
and they shook hands. "It's my son whom I told
not to come."
"Yes, he's not supposed to come. Thank you,
gxabhashe. We can't hate each other because
our children decided to start a relationship
behind our backs," grandma breathed and Xulu
nodded in support, "we only have to support
what they've started and have them married."
"Yes, because if we don't do that they'll keep
making babies without getting married," Xulu
commented and they agreed in one voice. They
moved from the topic and discussed plans for
the week.

John received a call from Mhlabunzima about

Mnguni's death. Mzomubi had told him to call
him and inform him. John promised to come
with Nobuhle without telling her what was going
on. He told Nobuhle he was driving to
Empangeni and was going to drop her home.
"I love everything about this place. It's so green
and lovely," John was looking around as he
drove through the village. Nobuhle was
directing him. She really couldn't believe that he
was here - at her village. She didn't think he was
serious when he told her. She thought he was
joking, pulling one of her surprise stunts.
"You live in the city and you find this place
beautiful?"
"Yes, and once we get married we should move
here." He smirked at her and they laughed. "I
love it."
"That's because you don't live here."
John parked the car at the gate, "I won't go in. I
want to drive to young Xulu."
"Thank you so much. I can't kiss you," she
opened the door and left him laughing.
The moment she entered through the gates she
could tell something was happening. Did
Mhlabunzima finally get courage to come and
pay ilobolo?
After greeting her sister and cousins they told
her to go to her father's house.
Her heart pumped blood at a high rate as she
entered. She didn't have to be told - it was clear.
She laid her head on her grandmother's lap.
Grandma brushed her head, "it'll pass my child.
He's not far but he'll always be in your heart and
he'll watch over you." She allowed her to cry and
they got a visit from mourners. They sang,
shared words of comfort and they prayed.
"Where's Zinhloso?" Nobuhle asked after the
mourners had left.
Mrs Mnguni scoffed, "she's in the hospital.
She's the reason your grandma and father died.
Your father was admitted right after getting the
news of her pregnancy."
"That's not true." Nobuhle failed to accept such
allegations from her mother. She didn't stay to
listen to the commotion between her mother,
aunts and grandmother. She was pained - why
did her father leave Zinhloso? She was going to
suffer the most. Things were going to go south
for her.
"Mzomubi, I see the Xulu family here? They
didn't chase them out?" Nobuhle asked, she
wasn't staying. She wanted to go to
Mhlabunzima.
"They wanted them out. They actually thought
Mhlabunzima was going to come but he didn't.
Bab'uXulu told them dad was his friend and he
has nothing to do with accusations they're
casting," Mzomubi responded, he was muddy
from the work they were doing in the yard.
Traditional healers were going to come. "They
couldn't go against him because he's older and
they included him in funeral preparations. They
decided grandma and dad will be buried the
same day."
"Alright I will go to Mhlabunzima now. I will
come back," she headed out. She wished she
could return home because things were about
to turn ugly but she had to trust Mzomubi. He
was going to protect her.
John was happy to finally see Mhlabunzima's
home. He never thought he would see this place
and he was confused by so many huts.
Mhlabunzima chuckled and opened his door,
"why do you look lost?"
"Why do you have so many huts and houses?"
He asked and sat down. His living room was
cosy and clean.
"Every hut belongs to a family member or if not,
it has its own purpose. We don't live in one
house like you," Mhlabunzima explained and
shortly, Ngenzeni served them with food. They
thanked her.
"You mean your parents sleep in separate
houses?" He was going under shock. How did
these people do things? And why?
"Yes, but whenever one of them feels like
sleeping with the other they sleep in dad's
house."
"Why?"
"It's how things are done. How's business?"
John shook his head, "since you left they're
fighting. Mrs Bekker joining them changed
things. She wants to rule them. My dad and
uncle Petersen suspect that she killed uncle
Bekker."
"I wouldn't be surprised. My brother and I
suspected that the minute we saw her joining
the business, not even after the funeral,"
Mhlabunzima had a distasteful look.
"They also think there's a police officer she
works with."
"Her worker also told me there's an officer she's
busy with but I thought it was something sexual
because she wanted me to sleep with her by
force," he shared and clicked his tongue. He
held himself from spitting. He hated that
woman.
"She loves young boys. My dad always told
uncle Bekker to leave her. I am glad you're no
longer involved with them." He finished up the
drink, "can you please take me around? I want
to see the place."
"I hope you won't see a place you like and come
back to steal it," he joked and they laughed,
walking out of the house.
"That's what we do best, we learnt from our
parents. How can I not?"
They were joking around when Esther came out
of the hut, "ulisaphi ibhunu manje?" (Where are
you taking him?)
"He wants to see around before leaving."
"Likubuyise lingahambi nawe uyoba isgqila
salo!"
He was defeated, "he won't make me his slave
mama. I will come back." They walked out.
"Did your father remarry?"
He chortled, "no, that is my mom she came
back." He answered more of his questions. He
was grateful for his visit. He got to take his
mind off everything that was happening,
worrying about Zinhloso and the baby.
UMCEBO

Chapter 138

***Chapter sponsored by MilaMelo Sami***

"Mama cooked your favourite for you." He was

pleased when he saw her best smile. She really
enjoyed boiled fish with some vegetables.
"Your mother is the best," she quickly opened
the dish and started eating.
"I am the one who's actually the best. She
forced me to go to Empangeni dam in the
morning. I had to fish for that fish so she would
cook it for you," he wriggled his head and gave
her the glass of water as she choked on the
food.
"That's why I say she's the best. If she didn't
force you, you weren't going to go. I know that,"
she closed her eyes and enjoyed the food, "tell
her I love it. Thank you so much to the both of
you."
"I will tell her. How are you feeling today?"
"I feel better but they don't want to let me go. I
want to go home. I want to bury my father and
grandma. Nobuhle said they'll be buried the
same day," Zinhloso had a glass of water and
she let out a loud burp.
"I know but if they say you're not fit to go that
means you're not."
She stopped eating and jammed at him, "what
do you mean now? I shouldn't bury my father?"
"That's not what I am saying but you can't force
yourself to go while you aren't given permission.
Think about your health and safety. Also think
about the baby," he thought he had spoken well
but her pink face signalled he might have said
something wrong.
"I am thinking of my health. I know I will worry
and be sad if I don't attend the funeral," she
tried to be civil with him.
"I will come and be here with you."
"No, I don't want to be with you. If this was your
father you were also going to want to attend his
funeral no matter what condition you're in."
Zinhloso argued, "but because it's not your
father you don't want to understand."
He looked down and didn't breathe another
word. It was better that he didn't say anything.
He was going to turn into a horrible person. It
was clear.
What did she say wrong? He was no longer
talking to her but he was quiet. He only
answered the questions asked. She felt like she
was forcing the conversation. She got up from
the bed.
"Don't wash them. Mom will understand," he
said as she gathered the dishes.
She sat back down on the bed and packed the
dishes. They didn't talk. They were quiet.
Zinhloso was trying to figure out what was
upsetting in what she said but she couldn't get
it.
He stood up, "it's time for me to go."
"Visiting hours are over already?"
"Yes," he took the bags. "I don't know when I will
see you because I won't attend the funeral."
"Won't you come here tomorrow and Saturday?"
"No, I won't."
She looked down, "who will drive me there? I
can't walk to the bus stop, it's far."
"I don't know. You'll figure it out." He took the
plastic bag and his wallet and car keys.
"Can you at least leave money for me? I don't
even have a cent, in case I try to walk to the bus
stop," she requested. She could see that other
people were still staying. He was probably lying
when he said visiting hours were over.
"I only have the money mom gave me. I am
going to the market to buy some items for her,"
he refused with his money.
Tears followed, "you're doing this deliberately,
right? You're doing this so that I won't be able to
go!"
"No, you can call your brother and ask him to
come, drive with you home," he suggested. He
wasn't moved by her tears.
"I don't even have money to make that call!" She
raised her voice.
"You'll ask a nurse to call him. I should really go,
bye," he left her crying. He was upset by her
implying he didn't care because it wasn't his
father. That was insensitive of her and she
didn't even realise that.

Mhlabunzima asked his father if it was okay to

go and help the men who were digging the
graves. His father told him he could go because
there were two graves and more men were
needed. It was Thursday when he was with
Zinhloso and on Friday, he didn't go to the
hospital to check on her. His mother asked him
why he wasn't going to her and he made
excuses. Esther took a bus and visited her.
When she returned, she told her they were
going to discharge her to go to the funeral he
was supposed to go and bring her home.
"Mhlabunzima, are you really to dig and not
going to the hospital for Zinhloso?"
He was startled by his mother standing at his
father's door, "have you been waiting for me
there?"
"Yes, your father told me you're going to the
grave site."
It was dawn, "it's still early."
"What happened between the two of you?"
"Nothing, my brother will be waiting for me. I
should go," he left his mother standing.
They left together with Kusakusa. When they
got there, they found some men already digging.
Mzomubi was with them. He asked to speak
with Mhlabunzima aside. They moved away.
"Are you going to go get my sister? A nurse
called yesterday and said Zinhloso asked to be
discharged so she would attend the funeral."
Mzomubi told him what he thought he didn't
know, "they said she should come back after
the funeral so they would check her and she will
go back home if she's fine."
"I know she won't do all that once she's home
she won't go back."
"She will. Are you going to go?"
"No, I won't go. You should."
He could tell something was wrong, "what's
wrong now? Did she say something offensive to
you?"
"Let's go dig so that you'll leave early, go bath
and go to your sister," he pointed at where the
men were working and they joined them.
Friday, Mnguni and his mother's coffins were
fetched from the mortuary. Mnguni's coffin
passed by his marital home and headed
straight to his homestead where he grew up.
They were going to be together with his mother
and leave together. The traditional healers were
leading everything. The night vigil was held at
the Mnguni homestead.
Saturday morning, Mzomubi returned with
Zinhloso at the right time. Their uncles stopped
Mzomubi from driving through.
"She's no longer welcomed here. You can only
enter alone but not her," he pointed at Zinhloso
who was seated on the passenger seat.
"Why would you say that? Don't forget my father
is here and we agreed to bring him here to
respect you," Mzomubi argued, "if you told us
you would not welcome Zinhloso. I wasn't going
to agree that my father's body came here. So,
she mustn't see our father for the last time?"
"We don't care -"
Nobuhle called aunt Lindo the moment she
heard what was going on. Aunt Lindo left her
sisters washing their mother's body. Nobuhle
told her what was happening.
"This is my mother's house and she loved
Zinhloso dearly. You have no right to tell her not
to enter her home," she said to her brothers.
"But sisi, mama chased her out."
"Only because she didn't come when she called
her. When we were busy trying to get her back
home she was the one sending me to do that.
She called Zinhloso and she came to see her.
They spoke," aunt Lindo responded, "where
were you? You were with your wives in your
homes. That's where you will make decisions,
not here. Drive through, Mzomubi."
"You're wrong Sisi Lindo. You're not respecting
us as your brothers."
She turned to her youngest brother. He wasn't
married and was still at home. He wasn't going
to leave home even after marriage, "are you
respecting me? I don't even want to talk about
you. You're all men you're today because of me.
I looked after you when mom wasn't home and
whenever she was sick. But today, you want to
rule me. You want Zinhloso not to see her
father? Nidakwe obamaganu. I am actually
helping you out because your brother could be
an angry ancestor if you mistreat his daughter."
She headed to Zinhloso and hugged her, "how
are you feeling? Mzomubi me told he'll be
fetching you from the hospital. I thought
Mhlabunzima would."
Nobuhle was also next to Zinhloso, "he refused
to come. I think he's upset because I wanted to
come here while the nurses were suggesting I
should still stay."
"I understand, are you still going back?"
"No, I won't. I am fine, I want to be home."
Nobuhle held her hand and they walked at her
pace with her, "you should go back Zinhloso.
For your safety and the baby's safety."
"No, I won't go. He'll not come visit me. He
didn't come yesterday. What will I do in the
hospital all day? I am fine, I am not going back."
She stamped and they let her be.

Zinhloso and Mzomubi were the two people left

at the graveyard after the funeral was over.
They were standing before the two graves,
staring at them.
"I can't believe he's really dead."
"Yes, you should live your life. Dad called me
and we talked, you remember?"
"Yes, I was still going to see him."
"Yes, it's like he knew he was going to die. The
things he said to me, all about getting you
married and he also said you shouldn't blame
yourself," he smiled shortly. His father was at
rest, "you shouldn't blame yourself for his death
because he was already not feeling well
because of traveling and prison."
"Really?" She faced him. She felt like there was
a huge weight lifted off her shoulders. "Are you
not trying to ease my guilt?"
He held her hand, "no, I didn't want to tell you
while dad was alive because I didn't think he
would really die. He told me to tell you and tell
anyone who would blame you. I have told them
over and over but they don't want to listen to
me."
"Thank you so much. I won't care about what
they'll say to me now." She felt healed and
better. They left the grave site together.
"Am I driving you to the hospital after?"
Mzomubi asked. They drove home.
"No, I am really better now."
"Mhlabunzima will not be happy to hear that you
didn't go."
"That's not my problem," she shrugged and
closed her eyes. She felt free deep down. She
could carry on with life, knowing her father was
resting and it wasn't her fault that he died. It
was time.
UMCEBO

Chapter 139

**Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

The ritual of 'ukukhishwa kwamageja' was done

after a week. The Mnguni family would normally
complete the ritual after a week. The ritual
signalled that all family members were free to
work, go to gardens and do all other jobs even
though they were still mourning.
After a week, Mrs Mnguni and her children
returned back to their home. The pharmacy and
the goat business reopened. It was Sunday, and
granny was going back home the following day.
Zinhloso was with granny inside her hut. She
was laid back on her bed and her grandmother
was rubbing her with ointment. Granny had
made the ointment for her. She was rubbing her
belly and her lower abdomen. And her waist at
the back. Granny had circled her waist string
around her waist.
"Will this really help?" Zinhloso asked.
"Yes, whenever I gave birth I didn't take long
hours or days like other women. I had a good
waist, two to three hours the baby was out,"
granny reflected, she would smile as the baby
moved, "putting my waist string on your waist
will also help you give birth like me."
She giggled, "I am happy that I will give birth
easily. I was scared because Nobuhle took
longer."
"I told her to come to me but she didn't come.
She thought I was going to shout at her," she
rubbed her feet after, "you should look after
yourself Zinhloso. Don't stress yourself and
also be active, do chores that will also help
ease things up. Don't stop visiting her father
too."
She laughed and looked aside, "hawu, gogo!"
"Yes, you're already pregnant and so, what's
there to hide?"
She was scared to tell her what was happening.
Granny looked at her, "do you want to say
something?"
"It's no longer happening, gogo. We went to the
Doctor and she said it's the increase of blood
flow," she explained without looking at her.
Granny laughed loudly, "oh, my child. Don't
worry, you have your grandmother. I will help
you. I don't want you to struggle when you give
birth because I know you'll have more babies.
Your father in-law told me we should quickly get
you two married because more babies will
come." She laughed again as she saw Zinhloso
was upset. "Don't worry it'll be alright. Do have
children, more children it's a good thing."
She finished up and left. Zinhloso sat up
straight and dressed up. She missed
Mhlabunzima, it'd been a week without seeing
him. She didn't know whether it was because
she was at their homestead or he was still
upset for whatever reason.
She told Nobuhle she was going out. She
wanted to buy something at the shop.
**
He was seated with his men under the tree of
his shop. They were drinking, eating, and
laughing. Mhlabunzima had called them to be
around Mzomubi, to take his mind off things
after what happened. To have him relax
because he'd been stressed. He was pleased
when they all came like he'd asked them.
Mzomubi was relaxed, talking and laughing.
"I want a cow from everyone because I am
getting married," Dludla said and they laughed.
"This wedding is long overdue but you can't get
a cow each," Mhlabunzima said and they all
supported him.
"What are you going to give me? I want a cow! I
want plenty of food."
They laughed, "we'll have to buy the cow then,
contribute towards it," Robert suggested and
they support his suggestion. It was better.
"Or our leader will give a cow. He has cows,"
Mzomubi placed a different suggestion and that
created a chaos. Mhlabunzima trying to defend
himself and the guys telling him to give the cow.
They stopped their chaos when Zinhloso
walked through the gates. They looked at her as
Mhlabunzima was the first to look at her.
"Gowani, migodoyi, stop looking at my sister.
Nonke!" He pushed Mhlabunzima off and he
almost fell off the bench.
"Why are you pushing him because he'll take her
from you?" Robert made the situation worse
and Mhlabunzima quickly ran off before he was
punched by Mzomubi.
He walked inside the shop running, "sawubona,"
he greeted and held her hand. He pulled her
behind the counter, straight to his office.
"Why are you pulling me? I am here to buy. You
didn't care about seeing me."
He closed the door, "how was I going to see you
because you were that side? It's far and with
what happened, I didn't want to be insensitive."
"No, you were angry or you're still angry. I saw
you, you changed in the hospital." Zinhloso
grabbed a chair and sat down.
"If you saw that, why didn't you ask?"
"I thought you would tell me."
He squatted to the chair level, "most of the time,
you don't calculate your words when you speak.
How was I supposed to feel when you said I
don't care because it's not my father? You
actually think your father's death didn't hurt me?
He was my father's friend and he was like a
father to me too like my father is to Mzomubi
because we're friends,
"Even if it's not like that. He's your father. I care
about you. I was trying to protect you and the
baby because I knew your family wasn't saying
good things about you,
"Were you going to be happy if you got added
stress there, be sad and unhappy and lost that
baby?"
"No, I wasn't going to be happy."
"So, how did I show that I don't care?"
"I am sorry I was just sad and angry."
He held her tummy, "how's my baby?"
"She's fine and I am also fine."
He laughed and kissed the back of her hands, "I
was going to ask you. I greeted you first, nje.
Ngicela ukiss ovuthayo," he requested and
stood up. He pulled her up and they shared a
brief passionate kiss. They didn't spend much
time together because Mhlabunzima had
company.
***
Mrs Mnguni heard from her mother that she
was making a concoction for Zinhloso. She
asked was it for? She didn't explain much but
only told her it's for pregnancy.
Mrs Mnguni decided to quickly make her own
mixture before her mother could finish. She was
annoyed by seeing Zinhloso and her pregnancy
bump. She wanted to put an end to it.
"Is your sister in her hut?" Mrs Mnguni asked
Ziwinile.
"Yes, I saw her walking in."
She transferred the mixture she was cooling,
from the pot to a long glass. "Go and give this
to your sister. Tell her your grandmother told
you to give it to her. It's for pregnant women,
ishlambezo."
Ziwinile frowned upon the mixture, "it has a
horrible smell."
"It's an abortion mixture. There's no child that
will live while my husband is dead," she said
with a voice carrying contempt and sorrow.
Ziwinile widened her eyes, "you want to kill that
baby?"
"Yes, go and stop asking me questions!" She
screamed and Ziwinile quickly walked out. She
headed to Zinhloso's hut.
UMCEBO

Chapter 140

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

Ziwinile knocked on the door. She didn't

understand why Zinhloso liked closing her hut's
door. No matter how hot it was, she would be
inside and the door closed.
"Come in," she gave her access.
Her heart skipped a beat. She didn't like this
baby and the pregnancy but this - it felt really
wrong. She thought of her dead father and had
courage. She was standing before her bed,
undressing.
"Zinhloso, granny said I should give you this.
Ishlambezo, you should drink it," she was
amazed by how much her belly had expanded.
"Okay, I will drink it. Please put it there." She
covered her front with her top. She didn't know
why she was looking at her.
"Granny said I should see you drinking it and
finishing it," Ziwinile lied. She felt like Zinhloso
wasn't going to drink it.
"I care about my baby, I will drink it!" She
widened her eyes at her. Why was she forceful
like she cares about her well-being and the
baby's well-being?
She placed it on top of the table and left her.
Zinhloso freely undressed and she took her
bathing basin after putting on her light dress.
She wanted to take a bath and sleep. She left
without drinking the mixture. She was going to
drink when she returned from bathing.
"Don't dish up for me tonight. I don't like
chicken," Zinhloso told Ziwinile, coming from
the bathroom. She was outside hanging a few
clothing items. It was dark.
"Okay, have you drunk that thing?"
"I will drink it now. Why do you care so much?
Did you add poison there? I know that you don't
care about my child," Zinhloso stopped walking
and looked at her. She couldn't see her face
properly because it was dark.
"Aybo, gogo sent me. I wanted to give
feedback," she quickly responded and she
sighed when she left her.
She stood before the mixture after dressing up
for bed. She was moistening her face and when
her hands left her face. She accidentally hit the
glass and it fell on the floor. She held her mouth.
"Uzongibulala ugogo!" (Granny will kill me!) She
screamed and quickly took the towel she used
to wipe the floor. She quickly wiped the mixture
after gathering the broken glasses. "I will lie and
tell her I drank it. She won't know."
She headed outside, looked for a bucket, added
water and soap.
"What are you busy with? Ziwinile is telling me
you won't eat." Mrs Mnguni asked, she was
inside the kitchen dishing up food. Ziwinile was
busy. Nobuhle was giving Sibusiso a bath.
"Yes, I won't eat. I am full." She walked out
without telling her what she was busy with.
Zinhloso cleaned up the floor properly and
opened the windows to let the air in. When she
was done she threw her body on the bed. "You'll
forgive me, gogo." She didn't sleep right away,
she was listening to the radio. It was on a low
volume.
She smiled as she heard that whistle. He would
sometimes call her by whistling, signalling he'd
arrived. She kneeled on her bed and looked
outside through the window. It was quiet and
there was nobody outside. She quickly put her
winter coat over the pajamas and she peeped
on the door. She quickly walked out.
"Why didn't you tell me you'll come tonight?"
She hugged him tightly. They were under a tree
that was a bit far from Mnguni's home. She
could already smell the pleasing smell of fish.
"You sent a letter and told me you want fish. It's
like you wanted a reason to be angry with me
because you saw I was busy with men,"
Mhlabunzima said and gave her the dish
wrapped in plastic, "mom and dad are not home.
I asked Ngenzeni to cook it. I hope it'll taste the
same."
She giggled and took the dish, "thank you so
much. I didn't think you'd bring it tonight. I love
you so much. I am sure the baby loves you
more."
"You'll chase me away now and tell me you
want to eat, right?"
"No, I accidentally hit ishlambezo granny made
for me and it fell on the floor. I couldn't drink it
and she's leaving tomorrow. I am scared to tell
her she'll shout," Zinhloso narrated what
happened.
"You can be careless Zinhloso. What were you
doing and ended up knocking it off?"
"It was an accident. I really didn't mean for it to
happen."
"Don't tell her you didn't take it. I am sure she'll
make it for you again before you give birth,"
Mhlabunzima suggested and pulled her closer.
He softly held her chin and his lips encountered
with hers. Her belly brushed against his flat
hard stomach. It was slow and sweet. She was
only holding his neck with one hand, the other
was holding the dish. Her heart pumped and
danced in jubilation. She moaned softly when
his hand brushed over her butts.
"I miss you," he whispered as she laid her head
on his shoulder.
"I miss you too."
"When are you going to sleep on my chest? I will
wait for however long you want."
She smiled, "I will let you know."
"Go eat and sleep, give my baby a rest. I am
sure you've been going up and down," he
hugged her and he waited, looking at her as she
walked to the gate.
"Uphumaphi?" (Where are you coming from?)
Nobuhle asked, as she was coming from the
toilet.
She held her chest, "you gave me a fright. I went
out to get food." They walked to her hut.
Nobuhle sat on her bed.
"Mh, love is good. You refused to eat chicken
because you knew you'll have what you like
brought to you?" Nobuhle grinned and they
laughed.
"No, I didn't think he'll actually bring it."
"I am very happy that he's supportive.
Uyayimela into ayiqala," she said and they spent
over an hour talking. Nobuhle was leaving for
Durban the following day.

Mrs Mnguni was waiting at night, waiting to

hear Zinhloso scream but she ended up falling
asleep without anything. She woke up in the
middle of the night and still, she heard nothing.
She was wondering, what was happening?
Ziwinile told her she gave her the glass. Didn't it
work? She even thought she didn't sleep at
home.
Zinhloso walked inside the kitchen while she
was asking herself questions and answering
them with unsure answers. Zinhloso greeted
her mother and she only nodded.
"Has granny left?" She asked, she overslept
because of Nobuhle. It was late when she left
her hut.
"No, she's still sleeping. You should make
breakfast. I am tired," she took the cup of black
tea, "did you drink what your granny made for
you?"
She opened the fridge without looking at her
mother, "yes, I did. It was bitter and had a
horrible smell. It didn't treat me well at night.
What is it really for?" She didn't know where
such lies came from but they slipped off her
mouth smoothly.
What did this mean? Did this mean the baby
didn't die but it hurt the baby? Maybe this meant
she would give birth to a stillborn or even worse
a disabled child? If her child was disabled it
would mean she would have to stay at home
and forget about school? That was the only
explanation she had - the mixture hurt the baby.
The baby was going to be born disabled.
She smiled shortly without showing the smile to
her, "it's for the wellbeing of the baby. I will
come back when breakfast is ready," she
walked out of the house. It didn't matter that the
baby was still alive. It wasn't going to be a
normal child, she comforted herself and closed
the door of her hut. She didn't feel any guilt.
UMCEBO

Chapter 141
***Unlocked bonus chapter***

Gogo sat on Zinhloso's bed. She gave her a

small bottle with a concoction, "take this, drink
quarter a cup and everything will balance. You'll
be fine."
"But gogo, didn't you send Ziwinile to give me
the concoction yesterday?" She took the bottle
and opened it. "That one had a horrible smell."
"Why would I do that? I would have rather given
it to Nobuhle. Ziwinile was going to throw it
away," granny said, she was dressed up and
ready to go. Mzomubi drove the car to work.
Mhlabunzima was going to drive gogo home.
Zinhloso had her hands on top of her head,
"what did she give me, gogo?"
"I don't know. What did she say?" She asked and
Zinhloso told her everything. "You're not safe
here, my child, especially your baby. Did you
drink that?"
"No, I didn't. It fell and I couldn't drink it from the
floor. Can I go with you?" She was suddenly
scared. What was that thing Ziwinile was giving
her?
"Your mother doesn't want me to take you. I am
really hurt. You're not safe. You need to be very
careful. Pretend like you know nothing but be
on alert," granny placed her head on her lap and
she prayed. She was saddened by her child she
was hating her own blood. Ziwinile knew
nothing about herbs it had to be her mother.
***
It was mid July, Zinhloso was seven months
pregnant. She'd started doing antenatal visits at
the clinic. Mhlabunzima drove her to the clinic,
left her inside and returned to drive her back
home. She would tell him all about her visit.
She'd done two visits. Mhlabunzima was
excited that months were nearing and soon, he
was going to meet his baby.
He glanced at her again, "my love, what's
wrong?"
They were driving to their house. They were
going to sleepover and return the following day.
Zinhloso made work an excuse to leave home.
Her mother told her she was lying and she was
going to Mhlabunzima and she denied it. They'd
been busy working together, harvesting and
making deliveries. They'd been making real
money, Mhlabunzima was saving his share for
the coming baby. Zinhloso was spending hers
and saving little. She spent her money mostly
on food.
"Nothing's wrong, what are you talking about?"
She yawned. Their plan was to actually harvest
spinach. Mhlabunzima told her not to work with
him but she told him she wanted to work. Her
granny advised her to be active.
"You look worn out. It's been a while since I
noticed this but I thought maybe it was because
of the work we do."
She yawned again, "no, my mom has been
making my life a living hell. Every morning I
wake up and come to work with you, come back
around 11am as you know."
"Yes?"
"I would come back and do house chores. Right
after house chores, she would shove me in the
garden, do this and that," her voice was shaking
as she told him, "I would tell her I am tired I
have been working. She would tell me I am
working because I like to work that's not her
problem,
"Mind you, she expects me to buy some food
items like Nobuhle and Mzomubi since they're
working. I buy those things, she gives me a list I
buy,
"It doesn't matter that I am buying whatever she
wants me to buy. She controls how I eat. She's
always complaining that I eat a lot. I waste food.
She didn't send me to get pregnant I am
wasting her food now." By the time she was
done talking, she was crying. She was tired and
she didn't know what to do.
He kept quiet for a while, he held her hand
tightly as she cried, "don't cry. I am really sad to
hear such a cruel thing and I don't understand
why you haven't been telling me. I am here for
you but you kept quiet."
"I didn't want to stress you. You have your own
problems."
"You're pregnant, I don't want you to carry
hardships alone, MaMnguni."
"I am sorry," she wiped her tears.
"Can't you go and stay with aunt Lindo?"
"A lot of people don't want me there. I think it'll
be worse if I live there."
Mhlabunzima parked the car under the tree and
they didn't step out of the car, "I can't go to
grandma because she'll threaten her again."
He felt useless because there was nothing he
could do to help. "Can you talk to your mom?
Just ask her if it'll be okay if we bring Inhlawulo,
maybe she'll be less angry if she knows we've
submitted something."
"Alright, I will talk to her. Let's go and work,"
they got out of the car. Mhlabunzima hugged
her once they were on the ground. She was
always relaxed and happy when she was
working with him. She got to laugh and feel
special, at home she only laughed with
Mzomubi when he was back from work.
He pulled her closer to him in bed. They were
done with work before sunset and Zinhloso
cooked dinner.
"It's been a month since I last slept next to you,"
her hand rubbed his neck.
"I know," his voice had changed and he loved
her lips into a savage kiss. His pride rose up as
she unbuttoned his pajama shirt. Her body
missed him.
The feel of her soft skin increased his hunger
for her. He wanted her now but he didn't want to
get tears instead.
Every inch of his skin had heated up. She was
more beautiful when pregnant.
"Can we try babakhe?" Her thigh was hanging
over his leg. She was throbbing. "What if it's
painful again?" He asked, removing her
nightwear.
"I want your tongue to mop all my juices," she
wanted to forget about everything tonight. She
wanted the joy he brought in her body, maybe
after what her granny gave her everything had
stabilized.
She swore this was the taste of paradise, the
everlasting joy. "Ah, Xulu!" Her back arched as if
she wasn't lifting a pregnant belly. Her
breathing was audible and her heart rate had
increased. Mhlabunzima licked her hard and
she screamed his name. "Don't stop!" She
sucked in air and her toes dug into the bed as
she released the sexual tension. She smiled and
accepted his kiss.
"Angidelanga, ngilifuna phakathi," (I want you
inside me) she said seductively and grabbed his
manhood. She looked at him with a smile as his
eyes rolled back.
He hitched, "MaMnguni, uvele ungibambe
ngathi ngiyisfebe sakho." (You hold me like I am
your bitch)
"Nginike engikufunayo noma ngizolifaka
emlomeni wami."
He quickly got up when she threatened to put
his penis inside her mouth, "dunusa ngathi
ukhwezela umlilo."
She gave him her hand and she got up. She was
excited. Was he going to do what Nobuhle told
her about? What she saw on the magazine? She
kneeled like he instructed her to. "Oh!" She
screamed.
"Is it painful?" He asked before he could fully be
inside her. He didn't want to be excited and be
given tears in return.
"Yenza!"
"I asked you if it's painful, na!"
"No, please," she whispered.
This was totally awesome and primal, he owed
everything to his brother. He discovered this
new world and experience because of him. He
was in control and dominating her. The warmth
he was diving into felt incredible. What did she
do? Why wasn't she crying in pain?
He didn't know he could drive into her so deep?
"Ngeke ngivondle enganeni uma kunje?" (Won't I
hurt the baby?) He didn't get a response. He
could see she was in her own bubble. He
smirked, staring at his manhood, going in and
out. Her bums shaking - what a view!
He brushed her bums, "sihle isinqa sakho,
mama," he complimented before changing pace.
Zinhloso giggled. It didn't take long before he
got his climax. "You look very tired. Did you
even enjoy that?"
She smiled and pulled the blanket to her
breasts, "yes, very much. It was just too intense
and different. Please, come let's sleep." She
closed her eyes as he left her for the kitchen. It
didn't take long and she was fast asleep.
UMCEBO

Chapter 142

She saw Zinhloso getting out of Mhlabunzima's

car and the bitterness in her heart grew. The car
wasn't closer to the gate but she saw them.
Lily walked out of the pharmacy using the
entrance that led her back into the family yard,
"sawubona!" She moved closer to Zinhloso.
She stopped walking as she showed she had
something to say to her, "yebo, how are you
doing?" She responded but she was wondering
what garbage was going to come out of her
mouth.
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am good, do you wish to say something? I
want to take a bath. I have been working since
morning," Zinhloso pointed at her dirty clothes.
They went to sell spinach at the street market.
"So, you saw that I have a child and you decided
that you don't want to be left behind, you'll be
pregnant too?" She asked, she always wanted
to confront her about her pregnancy. She was
very mad when she realised that Zinhloso was
pregnant. She was certain Zinhloso planned this
pregnancy.
She laughed, seriously laughed, this girl - maybe
she had a loose screw in the head. She couldn't
believe her question, "do you know what's the
difference between your pregnancy and mine?"
"Yes, it's that yours is forced, you got pregnant
out of jealousy and mine wasn't forced. It
happened naturally with him, on top of me," she
placed her fists on her waist. She looked at her
up and down.
Zinhloso smiled shortly, "the difference is, if my
father had hidden me from him because I was
suddenly pregnant. Mhlabunzima was going to
hunt me and find me because he would have
known that I left with his child unlike you, he
had no clue that that little activity on top of you
left a child in you." She said and she could tell
she was angry, "ngicela ungangijwayeli kabi
angiseyena nje umngani wakho. Ulokhu wenza
ngathi sibanga indoda, asiyibangi, eyami!"
Zinhloso proceeded to her hut, leaving Lily
without words. She quickly changed and went
to take a cold bath. It was winter but she was
feeling hot.
When her mother returned from the garden
fields, Zinhloso had cleaned and cooked lunch.
She served her mother and Sbusiso. Mrs
Mnguni went to the gardens with Sbusiso.
"You returned early. Did you fight with your
baby's father?" She asked after thanking her for
giving her food.
"No, we were selling vegetables at the market
today," she responded. She didn't know how she
was going to start the conversation of
Inhlawulo.
"Mm, I am sure he can build a stairs house with
the money you've made," she said and Zinhloso
didn't comment.
"Mama, Mhlabunzima said I should ask if it
would be appropriate if he brings Inhlawulo for
the pregnancy," she went straight to the point
and she waited for a rude response or a
sarcastic response.
Mrs Mnguni chuckled, "he wants to pay it before
the baby is born?"
"Yes."
She nodded, "tell him I want to see him. He
must come here with his mother or father," Mrs
Mnguni raised her eyes to her daughter but she
looked confused, "didn't you understand what I
said?"
"I did. I will tell him." She stood up and left them
eating. Why did she want to see Mhlabunzima
and his mother or father? What was she up to
now?
She put the straw mat under the tree and a
pillow, she laid down. She needed a good rest,
last night they were doing wonders - wonderful
things that left her tired. And she had to go to
work in the morning.
When she woke up two hours later, Ziwinile was
back from school. She informed her she was
going to the shop. She didn't want to tell her
mom.
She found him seated at the back looking at the
newspaper that had food advertisements and
drinks. "Are you the one who's buying groceries
at home now?" She sat next to him on the
bench.
He glanced at her with a short smile, "I want to
buy something nice for my brother," after last
night he didn't know which position he enjoyed
the most but he was certain he had to buy an
appreciation gift. He was a happy man.
"It's nice being your brother, he's getting gifts."
"Don't worry I will buy one for you too." He knew
she was being jealous for no reason, "why are
you here? Do you miss me already?"
"No, I am here to tell you that I spoke to mom.
She said she wants you to come to her with
your mother or dad," she said.
"I will come with mom. It'll be more appropriate
to come with her."
She stood, "alright I will go. I am tired, I want to
have more rest."
"When are you going to come for a sleepover
kwaXulu?" He asked with a clean smile.
"Iheee, you don't have a problem now. You want
me to come for a sleepover."
He walked her out, "no,but mama you have to
understand, our situation was difficult. I didn't
want to torture myself."
"But it's not like you slept with it every night of
my visit," she reminded him.
"Yes, but it's been a long time without it."
"I don't know when I will come. You're annoying
me because when I wanted to come you
refused and now, because it's you who wants
me to come. I should come running." She folded
her arms before her bust. Some people they
met up with, looked at them. They were
surprised. The two were together?
"You'll hear my whistle when I come."
She looked at him, "you didn't hear everything I
said just now?"
"I heard you but I told you why I did that."
"I will come when I want to come, not when you
want me to come." She said clearly and she
heard a sigh from him. She smiled, it was good.
"You can go back now, Xulu. I will be fine," she
was annoyed by the stares they were getting on
the road.
"Alright, I will blow my whistle in a few days," he
smirked as she showed him a scowl.
"Ngiyakuthanda!" He screamed and turned
heads on the road. He quickly ran off, laughing.

Mhlabunzima and his mother sat on one sofa

and they waited for Mrs Mnguni to join them. It
didn't take long, she joined them along with
Zinhloso.
Mrs Mnguni greeted, "no, I didn't call you for
much but your son sent my daughter to ask
about the issue of Inhlawulo."
"Yes, we think it's best that we do that before
the baby is born," Esther said.
Mrs Mnguni looked at Mhlabunzima, "so, tell me
Mhlabunzima. Are you happy that you
impregnated uzime wentombi and she had to
stop school because of what you've done?" She
asked and didn't give him a chance, "if it's really
you, why did you do such a thing to my
daughter?"
Mhlabunzima was thrown off by 'if it's really
you' what was this woman implying? "I am really
sorry, mama, that's why I want to do things right
before the baby is born."
"I called you here to tell you that Zinhloso has
been followed by a lot of guys. I was always
told that by different people."
"How's that related to the issue at hand? Every
girl is followed by men. It's normal and natural,
especially because she's beautiful," Esther
asked, she didn't understand where she was
taking this?
"I will request for damages once the baby is
born and your mother has confirmed that the
baby is really yours," Mrs Mnguni shocked the
three people in the house. What would she do?
Mhlabunzima chuckled, this was a real joke. A
joke of the year, "the child is mine and there's
no doubt about that. I wasn't going to ask to
come and pay Inhlawulo if I had doubts."
Mrs Mnguni shook her head, "no, no, this child
has embarrassed me a lot," she pointed at
Zinhloso who was looking down. She was hurt
deeply, "I will not accept any more
embarrassment from her should it happen that
the child is not yours."
Esther had never heard a mother saying such.
Any mother would be relieved that the boy
wanted to pay even before the baby was born.
"Why are you embarrassing your daughter
before us? Before the man she loves?"
"The man she loves? This relationship makes
you happy, MaSibiya?" Mrs Mnguni shouted.
She was angered by her choice of words. 'The
man she loved!'
"Why should I cry if children love each other?
Didn't you fall in love with her father?"
"Mnguni didn't start with what he was supposed
to end with!" She screamed and pointed at the
door, "and my husband wasn't going to be
happy about this relationship. Please go, you
have two months left. You'll come with
Inhlawulo after the baby is born!"
Esther pulled Mhlabunzima up and they left
upset. Mhlabunzima wished he could take
Zinhloso away from this woman but things
were hard. It wasn't easy.
UMCEBO
Chapter 143

***Chapter Sponsored by MmaTshiamo Kay***

"Did you water the spinach?" Mrs Mnguni asked

Zinhloso. It was after 5pm and she'd been
putting potatoes on the soil. Her mother woke
her up at 7am and told her they were going to
go to the garden fields. Zinhloso wasn't going
to work with Mhlabunzima. She had a day off.
When she told her mother it was her day off to
rest, she shouted at her. She had no choice but
to go with her. They worked until 1pm, her back
was killing her and she thought when she got
home she would rest. But her mother told her to
sow potatoes. She didn't want them to sleep
another night without being on the soil.
Zinhloso told her she would do chores and plant
the next day. She refused, Mrs Mnguni told her
she would clean and cook.
"Mama, you told me to plant potatoes and didn't
say anything about the spinach," she wanted to
die there on the spot.
"You should have figured it out that the spinach
needs watering. Go and water it now," she
pointed back at the garden.
Zinhloso didn't move, "you'll tell Ziwinile to
water the spinach. I am really tired, you're
making me a slave phela manje." She said out
of anger and body pain.
Mrs Mnguni wasn't expecting such a response
from her, "is that how you should speak to me? I
am your mother!" She yelled but Zinhloso didn't
stop walking. She was walking slowly, "you'll
see what you'll eat then tonight because I am
telling you to do something you're disrespecting
me!" She didn't get a response from her.
Zinhloso undressed and went for a bath.
Mzomubi wasn't home, he told her he was
going to return in the morning.
After bathing, she went straight to bed. She was
hungry but she was more tired than hungry. Her
feet ached, her ankles ached and her arms
ached. She didn't want to mention her back, it
was on fire. She woke up three hours later and
she boiled water. She placed a hot towel on her
back to ease the pain.
In the main house, her mother and Ziwinile were
still watching TV. Sbusiso left for his father in
the afternoon.
"You really didn't dish up any food for me?"
Zinhloso asked her mother and she didn't
answer her. She pretended like she couldn't
hear her.
"You disrespected mom but you want her
food?" Ziwinile looked up at Zinhloso.
She gave her a cold eye and walked out. She
changed into a dress and a winter coat, she
wore warm boots. She locked her hut and left.
She was crying on the road, her father left her
with devils. But what could she say? They learnt
that from him. He was the first person to starve
her. They probably liked it when he did it.
"Uyaphi spawupete ebusuku?" One drunk man
asked Zinhloso. He was walking with two of his
friends. Zinhloso didn't answer him. It wasn't
entirely dark on the road, the bulbs of people's
homes and the moon provided some light. "Why
are you quiet?"
"Please, leave me alone!" She yelled, she wasn't
scared. Her mind was with Mhlabunzima. She
wanted food.
"Umithi sfebe -" he tried taking a step towards
Zinhloso and one of his friends held him by his
jacket hoody. "I want to teach her a lesson, let
me go!"
"This is Mnguni's daughter. Intombi
kaMhlabunzima le. Uzokusakaza ubuchopho!"
(This is Mhlabunzima's girlfriend!) He warned
him and he quickly staggered back.
"I am really sorry, lady! Oh, you're carrying a
young comrade!"
Zinhloso didn't say anything back. She
proceeded to drag her feet until she reached the
Xulu gate. She was nervous as she could see
Xulu's door was still open. She wasn't sure if he
could see her or not. She couldn't see any figure
outside. She took her usual route and she
stopped behind a hut that wasn't far from
Mhlabunzima's house.
"Don't hide, I have already seen you," Xulu said,
sitting on the doorstep, smoking.
She wiped her tears as a smile appeared on her
face but she was nervous to come out. She
breathed in and out, she came forward and
leaned by the wall of his house. She bent over a
little, "sawubona, baba," she greeted.
"Yebo, why are you walking at night? You're
pregnant firstly and secondly, you're walking
alone. What's wrong?" Xulu glanced at her, "if
you wanted to see Mhlabunzima why didn't you
tell him?"
"It's not like that. I came here because the
Mnguni high homestead is far from home. Mom
has been making me do garden work from 7am
until 5pm," she couldn't lie to the old man. Her
voice was breaking as she told him, "and she
denied me food after such a long day. She told
me to contribute money to the groceries
because I work. I do that but she still doesn't
want me to have food freely like everyone else
at home."
Xulu's heart was torn. He couldn't understand
what type of woman Mnguni got married to.
The one that hated her own blood. "Go knock on
his door, I will tell your mother to bring you
food."
"Thank you." She turned to his house and she
knocked. He asked who was at the door, "it's
me?"
"Do you want me to die? Why didn't you tell me
you want to come here?"
"It's cold outside."
He stepped aside, "come in!" He closed the door
and sat next to her. "You look tired," he pulled
her under his wing.
"Your mother will come here," she tried to get
away from him but he didn't let her.
"Why?" He kissed her cheek.
"Mhlabunzima, I came here because I am
hungry. Mom refused to give me food…"
Mhlabunzima got serious when Zinhloso told
him the reason she came so late. And alone.
She closed her eyes as he held her tightly. "I am
really tired."
When did life take such a turn? It was very
difficult. Mhlabunzima let go of her and buried
his face on his shaking hands. He was hurt and
angry. What made him angrier was that he was
powerless. The mourning period hindered him
from doing what was right - marrying her and
moving her away from people who didn't care
about her. He got up and went to his room.
"Mhlabunzima!" She called out and stood up.
She rushed after him, "what are you looking for?
What are you doing?"
He didn't answer her but left the bedroom. His
mother and father walked inside the house.
"What's wrong with you now? Sit down!" Xulu
shouted at his son.
"I am going to confront her mother." He
whispered, his voice came out in a whisper
because of anger. His eyes were focused on the
cupboard where his safe was.
Xulu stood before the safe, "sit down and calm
down! She's hungry and tired, you're acting like
a child."
He looked back at her, she was standing by the
door and looking at him with sorry eyes. He
calmed down and sat on the sofa, still burying
his face in his hands.
"Come and eat, MaMnguni," Esther placed the
tray of food and hot tea on the coffee table.
Xulu sighed and walked out. He was kinda
grateful that this child was dating Mhlabunzima.
It was clear she was going to suffer whether
she was pregnant or not, without her father her
life wasn't going to be easy.
Esther looked away shy. She was hurt by how
fast she was eating, "when was the last time
you ate?" She asked.
"In the morning when we had soft porridge." She
responded without looking at her and she
slowed down. "The baby is moving now." She
giggled lightly to break the ice because Esther
was crying.
"She was no longer moving?" She asked and
wiped her tears.
"She was no longer as active."
She patted her back, "eat and rest, my child.
Ngenzwel'umusa take care of her."
"Yebo," he said and raised his head once his
mother was gone. He sat next to her, "don't eat
this fast you'll choke and choke the baby." He
smiled as she laughed. He fed her like a baby
and when he was done. He gave her tea.
He lifted her up from the sofa and put her on
top of the bed in his bedroom. He undressed
her and searched for her sleepwear. He dressed
her and rubbed her swollen feet. He started a
conversation with her, talking about their
customers. He didn't want to talk about her
mother. She relaxed, she was talking and
laughing like she didn't walk into the house
crying.

The following day, she headed home after

having breakfast. Esther gave her a dish of food
she was going to eat during the day.
She saw the car and realised that Mzomubi was
home. She woke up tired but felt better after
bathing.
"Your mother was looking for you in the
morning. She left for the gardens without you,"
Lily said, walking out of the main house with a
bottle of water.
"Okay."
Zinhloso knocked on her brother's hut, "it's me,
Zinhloso."
He opened the door yawning and they sat on
the doorstep, "I knocked on the door. I brought
some things for you and Ziwinile."
"I left last night. I didn't plan on leaving but I was
hungry."
"What do you mean you were hungry?"
"I didn't eat because mom…" she told him
everything that happened and when she looked
at him. He kept clenching and unclenching his
jaws, "I think I will move out and live with aunt
Lindo."
"You'll experience more abuse there. It's a lot of
people there who don't want you," he said and
Zinhloso couldn't deny he was telling the truth.
"Aunt Lindo is at work during the day, you'll be
left with aunt Comfort who's not working and
those annoying cousins."
"What should I do then? You're also not home
during the day."
"I will talk to Mhlabunzima and see if his father
agrees. If he does, you'll get married legally and
stay with him. You'll be safer living with him
than anywhere. They can even poison you,
these people," Mzomubi suggested.
"But what about the ancestors? They don't care
about legal marriage. No lobolo will be paid,"
Zinhloso was worried.
"Don't worry, if Bab'uXulu agrees, we'll inform
the ancestors what's happening and tell them
you'll fully get married after the mourning period.
We only want to keep you and the baby safe."
She kept quiet for a few minutes, "we'll see
what baba says and if he supports we'll take it
from there. Thank you, bhuti."
"It's the only way I can keep you safe. I
promised dad but don't tell anyone about these
plans. Not even Nobuhle." Mzomubi advised, "I
don't know why she's enslaving you because
she didn't even want to teach you how to do
these chores."
"I won't tell anyone. Go back to sleep," she
stood up and headed to her hut.
Mzomubi walked inside the kitchen and found
his mother making tea. He greeted his mother
and she greeted back.
"Have you seen your sister?" Mrs Mnguni asked,
"it seems she left last night."
"Mama, if you keep denying Zinhloso food I will
stop buying groceries. I don't know why you're
not giving her food because she also puts
money as you request," he said in a respectful
tone but he was annoyed, "I will seriously stop
buying food and stop giving you money. I will
eat in stores. I am telling you." He walked out of
the house leaving his mother quiet.
UMCEBO
Chapter 144

She was walking on the road eating a packet of

chips. She was going to the shop, she was
guzzling the chips. She wanted to finish the
chips before reaching his shop so he would give
her more.
By the bus stop she saw Aunt Comfort and her
other aunt who was also married. They were
waiting for the bus. Zinhloso greeted them
politely and with a smile but they didn't greet
back. The people who greeted her were two
grown women who were standing with her
aunts. They both looked at the Mnguni
daughters who didn't greet their niece.
Zinhloso wasn't expecting they would greet her
but as a child, she had to greet them.
She reached the shop with clean hands.
Mhlabunzima was busy cleaning the yard. He
stopped working as soon as he saw her. "You're
walking slowly these days like a Penguin." He
laughed and stepped back as she attempted to
swing at him.
"Do you think it's easy to carry a baby with your
big head?"
He was amused, "me? I don't have a big head.
You're very mistaken. It's your brother who has
a big head."
"I will tell him!"
"I don't care. He knows," they sat on the bench
under the tree. "He was actually here yesterday
after work. He's looking very smart now
because he's working."
"Yes, I wonder if I will ever look smart and go to
work," she shook her head.
He looked down ashamed and guilty, "it'll
happen I know it'll take time but have faith.
There's nothing that will stop you."
"Did you two talk?"
"Yes, you did well by coming. I want us to go
together, to my father. We should tell him about
this and hear what he'll say," Mhlabunzima
faced her and witnessed pure happiness on her
face, "you'll end up making me jealous because
till this day I haven't felt the kicks or movements
of that baby of yours. You're happy at the
mention of my dad."
She cracked, "leave her alone and finish up your
cleaning so that we'll go."
After he was done cleaning, Mhlabunzima came
out of the shop with a plastic bag of things she
requested. "You'll make my shop collapse, you
two."
"Never! Let's take a different route. I saw my
aunts at the bus stop," she requested and they
took a different route.
Mhlabunzima left Zinhloso in his house and
went to look for his parents. He knocked at his
mother's hut. The door wasn't fully closed. He
could hear them talking and laughing, he
couldn't get what they were talking about.
"Mama no baba, can we disturb you? There's
something Zinhloso and I want to discuss with
you," Mhlabunzima spoke while standing
outside the door.
"We're coming!" Esther responded.
He sat next to Zinhloso, "they were busy
laughing. I don't even know what they were
laughing about."
She cleared her throat, "maybe they were
making a baby sister for you," she whispered
and Mhlabunzima pushed her face, disgusted.
Zinhloso was amused. She only stopped
laughing when Esther walked in followed by
Xulu.
"What is it?" Xulu asked after greetings.
Mhlabunzima cleared his throat and he started
talking. He informed his parents about the plan
Mzomubi brought forward. He looked at them
both after telling them. They didn't have any
emotions clear on their faces. He wanted to
know what they were thinking. Were they in
support or not? He would be devastated if they
were not in support.
"We hear you," Xulu nodded and let out a huge
sigh, "but, let me try and talk to her uncles first. I
will not tell them about this plan but I will tell
them we want to come, pay Inhlawulo and pay
ilobolo."
"Can we pay ilobolo now, baba?"
"Yes, negotiations are not a ceremony. It's just
negotiations. They can burn sage with Mzomubi
tell their ancestors why this is quickly done. So,
we can move her away for her safety," Xulu
explained fully, "if they agree it'll be way better
because she'll stay here while there's
something we have given them."
"And what if they don't agree?" Esther asked the
question everyone in the room wanted to ask.
"We'll be left with no choice but to take
Mzomubi's suggestion. If it's the only way to
keep my grandchild and her mother safe there's
nothing I can do but agree."
Mhlabunzima felt warmth and assurance, he
would stress less now, "baba, what will happen
if they don't agree now and don't agree after
mourning period to hold negotiation with us?"
"No, don't worry they'll agree after the mourning
period. Things would be better by then and
maybe they would be pleased to let her go,"
Xulu said. He looked at both children, "if you get
married legally, you'll not do things as daughter
in-law, you'll not cook and do all that the wife
does because you wouldn't be a wife according
to our traditions. Is that clear?"
"Yebo, baba," Zinhloso breathed.
Esther had her eyes with Zinhloso, "I will give
you two head wraps. I bought it for you and as
your boyfriend's mother I ask that whenever you
come here, wear a head wrap. I no longer like
this uncovered head situation because you're
even carrying our child now. Kumele uhloniphe
amadlozi endoda yakho nabaphilayo. But I
understand you weren't wearing it because
nobody gave it to you as it's done culturally."
"Yebo, mama."
Esther stood up and left, leaving Xulu with the
children, "how's the situation at home now?"
Xulu asked.
"I still do long hours in the garden but she no
longer talks when I make food because
Mzomubi threatened that he'll stop buying it
and giving her money."
He was half relieved, "that's better and I am glad
your brother changed his way. What happened?
What changed his mind?"
She smiled and quickly shoved her head down,
"Ngenzelwe spoke to him."
Xulu chuckled, "oh, you also like that name?"
"Yes, it's beautiful."
He nodded and his wife walked back inside the
house, "take this one, since I have given you
these two I free you to buy any other for
yourself." She wrapped the doek on her short
haired head.
"Thank you."
Mhlabunzima moved to the edge of the sofa,
"thank you mom and dad, we'll leave now." He
stood up with Zinhloso and they left. He was
hopeful after the conversation they had with his
parents.
"I really hope your uncles will agree." He closed
the gates.
She shook her head, "weeee, forget it. They
won't agree. They'll be happy I am living a
difficult life." Zinhloso said and those words
made Mhlabunzima lose all the hope that he
had.

It was Saturday, Zinhloso and Ziwinile were

coming from the garden fields. Zinhloso had a
sack of beetroot on her head and Ziwinile had
onions.
They worked together, quietly like Zinhloso
worked with her mother. She enjoyed working
with Mhlabunzima or with sisi Khosi. It was
always best with her grandmother and aunt
Lindo.
On the main road, they met up with Induna's son
Bhekani. Zinhloso looked at him and at Ziwinile.
Bhekani had his eyes with Ziwinile, he was even
smiling and her sister? She wasn't smiling, she
was looking ahead like she couldn't see him.
Bhekani stood by Ziwinile's side and greeted the
two ladies. He proceeded walking as they didn't
stop on his account. He was tall and average
looking, light skinned and had a well-built body
structure.
"Winny, can I talk to you?" He requested and
Zinhloso giggled. She'd never heard another
person from outside home addressing her like
that.
"Usinekani wena?" (Why are you giggling?) She
wanted to talk to him but she was annoyed by
Zinhloso who was with her. It would have been
better if she was alone. "I have a heavy load on
my head. Can't you see?"
"I can see I can help put it down."
"No, mom is waiting for us at home."
He was defeated, "MaMnguni omncane?" He
looked over at Zinhloso.
"Yebo?"
"I want to marry your sister. I want to make her
my wife." He declared.
Zinhloso still giggled, "that's a good thing you
should keep trying."
"I won't stop getting your permission. Uhambe
kahle, mntomuhle," he stopped walking and
looked at them as they proceeded to walk.
"Why are you laughing? Are you jealous
because Bhekani wants to marry me without
making me pregnant first? Ingane yenduna ke
nokwenza" Ziwinile asked, she was annoyed by
Zinhloso. Zinhloso didn't answer her but she
laughed louder. Ziwinile walked a little faster.
UMCEBO
Chapter 145

***Sponsored by R dedicated to Fighter,

Chomlette n Nnake***

"I saw you with a boy far from my shop. Who's

that boy?" Mhlabunzima asked Ngenzeni. She
was outside her hut washing their father's
shoes.
She stopped washing them and looked at him.
She laughed, "are you the one who's actually
asking me that question? I am older than you
njalo. Don't forget."
"I know you're old and I don't care if you date
but I want to know who's that guy."
"I am not dating, he was asking me out,"
Ngenzeni answered honestly. She wanted him
off her skin.
"Who's he?"
"I am not even planning on dating him,
Mhlabunzima. Stop it!" She got the taste of her
medicine and she realised it was very annoying
but she wasn't even dating yet. She'd gotten her
confidence back since her mother's return. And
like she advised, she changed friends who were
weighing her down. She proceeded with her
other friend. She wanted to date but she was
scared of being hurt and being pregnant. It
scared her, seeing Zinhloso with an expanded
belly.
"I know every guy in this village and other
villages. So, I want to know if he's a decent
person or not."
"Ndumiso."
"Ndumiso Mbuli or Dube?"
"Dube."
He shook his head, "already, he has three
girlfriends and a fianceé across the river."
"You're lying!" She widened her eyes.
"It's true, ask him and you'll see." He rushed to
his father as he was calling him.
He sat on the sofa in his father's house.
"Baba?"
"I have spoken to her uncles. I have never seen
such cruel people. They say it's okay how her
mother is treating her." Xulu reported back to
his son after three days, "they say she's doing
that because she's angry and still in pain. She'll
change, they can't hold negotiations without her
permission because she gave birth to her, not
them. I wanted to see her aunt but they told me
she's not around."
"Her aunt left due to work. She'll come back
after two weeks or so, I don't remember
correctly," Mhlabunzima was disappointed but
he had already expected such to happen.
Zinhloso said it. She told him they won't agree,
"I thought they would be keen to get rid of her."
"It seems they want her to suffer. I spoke to
your grandfather and he also said to take her
brother's suggestion. We'll do things the
traditional way after. By then it won't matter
whether they agree or not, we'll negotiate with
her brother, aunt and granny if they don't want
to get involved." Xulu passed the message to
his son.
Mhlabunzima held his chin beard, "baba, why
can't we do that now?"
"It'll not be right. Your grandfather said it's
understandable that they might be angry now
but after the mourning period. If they haven't
forgiven we'll move forward."
He clearly understood, "I understand, thank you
for everything, baba."
"It's not over yet. You should tell her to tell her
grandmother." He advised, "you see? If you
listened to me and took Lily you wouldn't be
having such problems."
Mhlabunzima stood up, "usho muphi uLily? Lo
owayefuna ukungidlisa," (Which Lily are you
talking about? The one who wanted to put a
spell on me?)
"What are you talking about!" He screamed after
him but Mhlabunzima didn't come back to
explain.

"Have you cooked lunch?" Mrs Mnguni asked

Zinhloso.
Zinhloso was seated outside her hut making a
face gel. She'd been asked by sis Khosi to make
it for her.
"I just finished garden work." She answered her
mother. Mrs Mnguni was coming from town. "I
started by doing house chores."
"But you're doing nothing valuable now. You're
busy with this useless thing."
"It's not useless. It's for sis Khosi's face." She
didn't even raise her eyes to look at her. She
was focused on the gel.
"I don't know why you are not going to live with
the people you love because you're not listening
to me," she shouted.
Zinhloso raised her eyes, "let Mhlabunzima
come and pay Inhlawulo and ilobolo then I will
leave you in peace."
She laughed and clapped once, "pay ilobolo for
who? You! Just yesterday his mother was
begging for everything from me, from sugar
beans to maize meal and even sugar. They had
nothing and now, I should marry you to them?
You should forget about it!" She cursed after
clicking her tongue and she left Zinhloso staring
at her. She didn't understand why her mother
was so cruel. What did she ever do to her?
Zinhloso walked out of the premises after
hearing the small voice calling for her. She
smiled at the boy.
"Malume sent me!" He gave her the letter and a
dish wrapped in a plastic bag.
"Thank you so much." She headed to her hut
and opened the letter first. The boy was waiting
for the reply.
***"Mama kaQophelo

Ngiyathemba uyaphila sthandwa sami. Ebusuku

ngiyafa amakhaza angidla aze afike ethanjeni
uqobo. Kuyisifiso sami njalo ukuthi sengathi
ungalala, uvuke eduze kwami. Ngikhumbule
konke ngawe.
No, I am writing to let you know that my father
failed to convince your uncles. He has
suggested that you should call your granny and
inform her about our plans. We'll move forward
after that. I will then make a booking to see a
marriage officiator.

Yours in love
Ubaba wezingane."***
She smiled and placed the letter on her chest.
She quickly wrote a reply, promising that she
was going to call her grandmother. And
requesting he should come later and go to his
home with her, they would spend the night
together. She also thanked him for the dish.
She headed out and gave the letter to the boy.
She headed back to her hut. She enjoyed beef
and dumplings. She finished up everything and
fell asleep right after eating. She was very tired.
Three hours later she was woken up by her
mother's sharp knock. She tried opening the
door but it was locked.
"Wake Up! You can't expect Ziwinile to come
back from school and cook for you while you
were home the whole day," Mrs Mnguni
screamed, even the neighbour could hear her
screaming. Lily could hear her screaming.
Zinhloso sat up straight, "I am coming." She
dressed up in tights and a baggy graffiti shirt.
She headed out, washed her face and hands.
She went to cook. Her mother was also inside
the kitchen annoying her throughout.

She was seated with them during dinner time.

Mzomubi was with them and Sbusiso. Sbusiso
was enjoying the food, he was even shaking his
head.
"Gogo, did you cook?" Sbusiso asked.
She chuckled, "no, it's your younger mother who
cooked."
"Ay, ay, mm, mm, njalo! You don't know how to
cook bad food?" Sbusiso asked Zinhloso, the
child had improved after having his father
present in his life. Robert disciplined his wrongs.
Sbusiso also had a better relationship with his
paternal grandmother. Robert forced her to get
along with his son or lose him as a son. His
mother opened up to the boy. She didn't want to
lose her only son.
"No, I don't know how to cook bad food."
"I want to be like you when I grow up,
mamncane!" He said happily.
Mrs Mnguni shook his head, "you want to be a
man that cooks? Men don't cook."
Sbusiso looked at his grandmother, "they cook.
We were visiting uncle Mhlabunzima with my
father and grandpa Xulu gave me food he
cooked. It was really good."
"Ngenzeni cooked, not him."
"I saw him cooking!" He screamed and they
laughed at him. He didn't like to be told he was
lying if he wasn't.
"Yes, he can cook good food," Mzomubi
supported Sbusiso making him happier. "Mama,
did Induna's wife come see you? I saw her days
back and she said she wants to talk to you."
Mrs Mnguni smiled, "yes, I was about to tell you.
She wanted us to join our children in marriage
after the end of the mourning period. I said they
can come pay ilobolo after six months. We
would have done an ishlangu ritual for your
father then," she said and looked at Ziwinile.
She was focused on her food but she could see
a smile playing around her lips, "Bhekani is a
good boy."
"Yes, he's a good man but are they dating? So,
they'll know each other more?" Mzomubi asked.
"Answer Ziwinile."
"He's been courting me for two years. I have
spent time with him. I understand what kind of
a man he is. I told him to marry me if he's
serious. I didn't think he would really tell his
mom."
What she was saying opened up old wounds for
Zinhloso as she thought of Mthuthuzeli. Her
father really killed his mother. Her father died
without her knowing whether he was alive or
not.
"That's what a decent girl does. Intombazane
enesmilo. Not getting pregnant without even a
chicken paid," Mrs Mnguni indirectly mocked
Zinhloso.
"There's nothing new with what Ziwinile did
mom. Didn't Zinhloso do the same thing? And
Mthuthuzeli magically disappeared after the
death of his mother. That death which dad was
somehow suspected to be responsible for?"
Mzomubi asked and Mrs Mnguni didn't answer
right away. "Was she supposed to put another
man in danger by telling him to come and pay
ilobolo to her father?"
"Uyamvuna because of your friend!"
"No, I was just asking and why are you going to
hold Ziwinile's negotiations first while you
refused Zinhloso and Mhlabunzima?"
She clicked her tongue, "I am your mother. Don't
you dare question me!" She stood up, "take that
child to my room. Angazi wena uganwa nini
kewunake ezomfazi wakho." She left them.
Zinhloso eyed her as she walked out.
Mzomubi lifted the sleeping Sbusiso off the
straw mat and he walked out with her. Once
they were gone, Zinhloso got the chance to
inform her grandmother. She got full support
from her and when she was done, she went to
her hut and waited for his whistle. But she
couldn't ignore the hurt in her heart and she
couldn't understand what she ever did to her.
UMCEBO

Chapter 146

***Chapter sponsored by Queen Tee***

"You said when are you coming back?" Mrs

Mnguni asked Zinhloso. She had her bag and
was ready to leave. She told her mother she
was visiting her grandmother. She would sleep
over for two nights.
Mrs Mnguni had been really happy about her
harvest. It was a very good harvest and she
shared the vegetables with some of her friends.
They were surprised how good her harvest was
while they didn't have a good one because it
didn't rain like the previous year. She'd really
proved that it was Zinhloso's doing because
crops she planted with Ziwinile weren't as good
as Zinhloso's crops.
She'd endured a lot from her mother, hoping
that she would leave soon. The past three
weeks had been - just her, living her horrible life
and Mhlabunzima being her place of rest and
peace.
"I will come back the day after tomorrow,"
Zinhloso responded. She was actually going to
their house. Mhlabunzima was going to drive
them there and head home after dropping them
off. Sis Khosi was going with her, that was
where she was going to get ready for the big
day. To legally get married to Mhlabunzima and
move out of home. She had hope for a better
life after that - a new leaf in her life.
"I shouldn't call your granny and run after you
because you're not coming back."
Zinhloso didn't say anything about that, she only
said goodbye and walked out. They were going
to meet up with Mhlabunzima and Mzomubi at
the government's building where their marriage
to each other was going to be officiated.
Mhlabunzima had made all necessary
preparations, contacted all the right channels
and found the officiant. She was excited and
nervous at the same time.
"The car that will drive you two to town will
come tomorrow at 9am but our appointment is
at 10am. It's better we get there before time,"
Mhlabunzima said to Zinhloso. They were
standing before the car. Khosi was already
inside the house.
"Alright, I hope you'll also be on time. It mustn't
be only me. You should also remember you
know everything about the venue room and the
booking. I wouldn't even be able to beg that
officiant to wait if you don't come early." She
lectured.
"Yes, I can't set the time and be late. I hope the
two of you will have a good night here, be safe,"
he hugged her.
"Drive safe," she stepped aside and looked at
him as he drove out. She went to close the gate
and walked back to the house.

She was wearing a white statement collar dress,

short sleeve and beneath the knee in length.
Her pregnancy bump was big - eight months.
Her pillbox hat with a birdcage veil was white
and her pump shoes, white. She had white lace
gloves that went up to her elbow. She wanted to
look beautiful because they were going to take
pictures. Mhlabunzima provided money for
everything. She felt beautiful, like a real bride.
"I knew we were going to arrive early. I have
never seen a bride waiting for the groom,"
Zinhloso commented as they sat on the bench
outside the building.
Khosi laughed, "we won't wait for long."
They waited for the groom and the bride's
brother.
****
Mhlabunzima and Mzomubi were getting
dressed in Mhlabunzima's bedroom. They were
having a glass each, dashed smirnoff.
"I am still annoyed by the fact that you're
marrying my sister. It's distasteful," Mzomubi
clicked his tongue and tried to dash another
one but Mhlabunzima quickly stopped him.
"Okay, who do you prefer? Me or that loser
who's her first boyfriend?" Mhlabunzima asked,
he was waiting to hear that he was the
preferred person.
"I prefer Mthuthuzeli!"
His heart tensed, he actually wanted to punch
him but he held himself. "It's not funny!" He tried
to kick his foot but Mzomubi quickly stepped
back. He took the glass and gulped the drink.
"Who told you about him? I thought you didn't
know."
"Nobuhle told me but your sister still thinks I
don't know." He looked at him, "did she really
love him?" He walked out as Mzomubi laughed
his lungs out. He stood outside and smoked a
cigarette.
"Why are you angry over someone we don't
even know whether they're dead or not?"
Mzomubi stood at the door. "Come back, let's
finish up and go."
"Why are they here now?" He asked, he was
seeing two of his comrades enter through gates,
Dludla and Robert. The other five didn't enter,
they stood outside the gates. They waited until
they reached Mhlabunzima's house.
"What's wrong?" Mhlabunzima asked.
"They've kidnapped Thulani. We have to go and
save him. They took him at night when he was
coming back from work," Robert quickly
explained what happened, "his mother came to
me this morning and told me."
"Who took him?" He walked inside the house
with them. It was still early in the morning and
his parents came earlier and wished him luck
and left for his mother's maternal home. It was
just after 7am.
They sat on the couches, "those hooligans from
the Ramashala village. They're starting another
war by doing this. Mhlabunzima, we need to go
there."
He looked at Mzomubi, "can you go with them? I
can't cross her at any costs -"
"They want you there! His mother told me
before they drove off they said they'll not bring
him back until you come to them," Robert
stopped Mhlabunzima from talking. "It'll be bad
if they can kill him. I don't know why they're
doing this because it's not like they're the only
ones who lost."
"Where are you two going, Chwane?" Dludla
asked as he realised that they were both
smartly dressed but it looked like they weren't
done. Mhlabunzima didn't answer him but he
looked at Mzomubi. "What should we do?
Should I go to her and you guys go stall
whatever that's happening until I come?"
"We have two hours. Won't it be enough to bring
him back? If you start by going to her, it'll take
more than two hours."
He looked at Robert, "are we crossing the river?
If that's the case we're telling the king. I am not
going there. I have two children. I don't want to
walk into death with my eyes opened."
"No, they took him to their other members
eNdabayakhe. They told his mother we should
go there," Robert further explained. "His mother
said she was hanging wet clothes, they took
him and shoved him inside the car. Two boys
came to her, pointed guns at her and said all
these things to her."
"Mhlabunzima let's go. She'll blame you if
something happens because those two boys
told her they'll free him if you come," Dludla
encouraged him.
"That woman is not like MaNkomo and other
women she'll hate you for real if her son dies.
You know things they say about her. She said it
clearly that she can't have her son die because
of you. You'll not hold your baby if her son
doesn't come back." Robert told him what he
didn't want to tell him. He knew Mhlabunzima
didn't like threats, such threats because he
never forced anyone to join the party. All the
members understood and had vowed to die for
their party and freedom but their mothers didn't
understand that. The fathers were better.
He was suddenly angry. She had the nerve! That
old hag. Mhlabunzima headed to his bedroom
and changed his clothes. Mzomubi joined him.
They neatly packed their clothes in the bag.
"Let's go." He said and they followed him out.
Mzomubi and Robert got in the front seat and
the others at the back, "where are you going
kanti?" Mzomubi asked as Mhlabunzima wasn't
driving straight.
He didn't answer but he drove to Thulani's
mother. They were all shocked and surprised.
Why was he wasting time?
"I will be back." He slammed the door and
walked inside the yards. He luckily found her
seated on the straw mat outside her kitchen hut.
The woman was surprised to see him here. She
looked at him with the crocodile's eye. He
squatted down and greeted her but she didn't
greet back.
"Why are you here? Shouldn't you be bringing
my son now?" She asked, in a cold voice. She
was scared she would lose her son.
"Mama, you're old I don't want to disrespect you.
I want you to hear me loud and clear,"
Mhlabunzima looked at the old woman straight
in her cold eye. He didn't care that she was
suspected to have killed her husband in cold
blood because he wanted to marry her sister
and leave her with eight children. He didn't care
that it was known that she had a baboon in the
yard.
"Thulani is a grown man who can make his own
choices. I didn't force him to join the party, in
fact, when I took over as leader he was already
part of our political party,
"They all know, including myself, that when
someone dies, they die for what they stood for.
The truth and the freedom that we want. Lock
him in if you don't want him to have a freedom
of choice because you gave birth to him,
"And if you feel like you're thirsty for blood.
Don't you dare threaten the life of my unborn
child. I hate adults like you and don't you ever
think I am scared of you because you own a
midnight transport." He quickly got up. The old
woman was swallowing dry saliva.
"I just don't want my son to die. I didn't mean
what I said." Her voice was vibrating.
"It better be like that whether I come back with
him alive or dead," he said and left her. He
clicked his tongue as Robert and Mzomubi
rushed away. They'd been hiding at the nearby
corner of the house listening to the
conversation and ensuring nothing happened to
him. "What are you doing?"
They laughed uncomfortably and he drove off. It
was very awkward, everything he said to her
made them cringe.
***
"Sis Khosi, look at the time," Zinhloso showed
the wristwatch to Khosi.
She looked at the watch, "what time is it? I can't
read time."
"It's after 12:30, you've been saying we should
wait, he's coming. When is he coming?" She
looked around but she couldn't see anyone like
him. People were going up and down, others
were coming out holding hands with happy
smiles. It was showing that they've gotten
married. Others were taking pictures under the
trees. And she was here, still waiting.
She stood up because she was tired of sitting
down. She was hungry and she had no money
with her. She kept brushing her hand over her
belly.
She sat back down and placed her head on
Khosi's shoulder, "he has disappointed me, Sisi
Khosi."
"I am sure he has an explanation."
"What explanation?" She asked and closed her
eyes, "what are we waiting for here? Even if he
can come, our appointment time has passed."
"Let's wait."
Zinhloso ended up falling asleep and by the
time she woke, they were closing the building.
She looked at Khosi with tears streaming down
her chubby cheeks. "He didn't come. After
everything that has happened, he didn't show
up?"
"Maybe we're at the wrong side of the building
or maybe it's not this building." Khosi tried to
calm the situation down. She could witness the
pain and disappointment on her face.
"What should we do now? There's no public
transport here and we had our last meal in the
morning," she wiped her tears and they didn't
stop falling. "How are we going to get home?"
"Maybe if we wait here he'll remember us and
come."
"I don't trust him anymore. Let's look for a car,
anyone."
"How are we going to pay?"
"We'll get the money at home." Zinhloso
responded and they started walking around.
They looked for a car and asked people. They
were not lucky.
Zinhloso sat on the stairs and she cried her
lungs out. It was dark and they were stranded…
UMCEBO

Chapter 147
***Chapter sponsored by Queen Tee***

"Zinhloso, we should find a place to sleep.

There must be a shelter or tree where we can
hide until morning," Khosi whispered to her. The
workers were getting into their cars and driving
home. They weren't even asking them what was
wrong. They were just looking at them and
passing. Other female workers laughed and
said her boyfriend stood her up.
She'd taken off the gloves, the hat and the
shoes. She stood up, "there's no police station
nearby?" She headed to the bin and threw the
gloves, the hat and the shoes.
"Hhaybo! Why are you throwing that away? I am
sure Mhlabunzima has an explanation and you'll
plan another day," Khosi tried to take it back but
Zinhloso stopped her.
"Please, Sisi Khosi, leave it there and let's find a
police station."
"A police station is not -" she ran after her as
Zinhloso ran down the stairs, straight to the
road. She screaming 'Police! Police!'
The police van stopped and parked aside. He
wasn't sure if the woman was really her or
someone else. He got out of the car and rushed
to her when he realised it was her.
"Zinhloso! What are you doing here so late?" He
protectively held her hand and saw Khosi
running after her.
"It's you! Thank you!" She'd never been so
relieved so see someone like she was when she
realised it was Molepe. Khosi stood next to
Zinhloso and greeted Molepe.
"Can you tell me what's going on? I am on duty,"
Molepe asked for an explanation. He was really
confused. Why were they here?
"We didn't know there's no public transport this
side. We're stranded. Can you please help us?"
Zinhloso desperately pleaded, "even if you drop
us off at the township. We can walk home from
there because you're working."
"You're pregnant, how can you walk from the
township to the village?"
"I can't sleep on the road."
"Come, I will drop you at home," he could see
she didn't want to tell him the truth and he
wasn't going to push her. He was grateful he
was able to see her and help. Where were they
going to sleep?
"Thank you so much and please, don't get in
trouble because of us," Zinhloso commented,
her heart was no longer beating up to her throat.
She'd relaxed. She was safe - they were with the
officer. She wouldn't have forgiven herself if
anything happened to her and Sisi Khosi. She
was here to support her but their lives ended up
being in danger.
"Don't worry. I will explain I was helping the
citizens." He smiled at her and wondered where
was Mhlabunzima? Did he know Zinhloso was
stranded? He was driving fast on the road and
he kept saying sorry whenever he bumped into
the humps. He didn't change his pace until he
was driving through the village streets.
"Thank you so much. You've saved me again,"
Zinhloso walked out of the car. They dropped
Khosi first.
"Don't worry that's my job I am only glad that
you're safe," he said goodbye and drove off at a
high speed.
Zinhloso sneaked into the yard and quickly went
to her hut without anyone seeing her. She
undressed and hopped into her bed without
switching on the lights. She didn't want anyone
to realise that she was back.
She held on tightly to the pillow as tears
returned. What was she going to do now? This
plan failed and what was next? She was heart
broken and clueless. She fell asleep in between
the tears and hunger. She was feeling really
sorry for her child.

Mzomubi knocked on Zinhloso's door. Last

night, they drove to the venue with
Mhlabunzima. They looked everywhere for them
and didn't find them. Mhlabunzima drove to the
other village, told Mzomubi he was going to
check with their client friend. Mhlabunzima
returned with a response that they didn't reach
home.
They drove back to the village, checked on
Khosi and they found her home. She told them
the police officer helped them. They both went
to bed relieved.
"Zinhloso, open the door!" Mzomubi shouted
and banged the door.
Mrs Mnguni looked at Mzomubi before entering
into the main house, "hhaybo, your sister is not
home!" She screamed.
"She's back I saw her."
"Oh, I wonder why she came back early," she
said and proceeded inside.
Mzomubi didn't stop banging the door until
Zinhloso opened the door. She was wearing her
gown. She hopped back into bed without
greeting him but she could see that he had
bruises on his face.
Last night, she woke up around 11pm and
sneaked into the kitchen. She couldn't fall back
asleep because of hunger. She was able to eat
as much as she wanted and headed back to
sleep.
Mzomubi grabbed the chair and sat next to her
bed, "last night we went to check on you and we
didn't find you two. Khosi told us an officer
brought you back home. How are you doing?"
He asked and he didn't get a response. She was
showing with her head on the blankets and her
eyes were on the floor. She didn't look at him.
"Mtaka baba, what happened yesterday was not
Mhlabunzima's fault but my fault. Robert and
the others came to us…" Mzomubi explained the
reason why they couldn't make it to the
wedding. How Thulani's mother threatened the
unborn baby's life if Thulani didn't return to her.
He tried to make her understand that he was
the one who advised Mhlabunzima to start with
Thulauhni's case.
"I really thought it would be easier to find him
and bring him back then go to the wedding. But
I thought wrong, we spent the whole day driving
around like fools searching for them," Mzomubi
explained and his sister was still quiet, "We
found them in the afternoon and it wasn't easy
to just get him back,
"We had to fight with them as you can see how I
look. Their leader was stupid, he's the one
behind this,
"He did this because one mother from their
village was demanding that he looked after her
like Mhlabunzima does to MaNkomo because
she also lost a son that was looking after the
whole family,
"He was jealous of Mhlabunzima and he
thought he would take more men who are
breadwinners. Only to see if Mhlabunzima
would feed every home,
"But he was a fool because Mhlabunzima is
only looking after MaNkomo because Buzwe
was her only son. She has no other child who
can look after her,
"We came back with Thulani. We resolved the
conflict after fighting. It was really beyond our
control my sister. I am really sorry,
"Mhlabunzima really wanted to go to you but he
listened to my advice. Please, don't blame him.
We all thought it would be easy but it didn't go
as we thought. I hope you'll understand and
forgive me. Forgive us, we'll get another date
and go. Nothing will stop us," he tried by all
means to make her understand but hearing no
response from her. It made him confused.
"Please, go today and meet up with him at the
shop. The two of you should talk. Are you going
to go?" He asked and Zinhloso didn't answer
him. "Zinhloso!" He screamed but she still didn't
answer. He got up and left. He wanted to make
something for the pains he was feeling.
He really chose others and not her?
****
Xulu knocked on his son's front door and
Mhlabunzima opened up for him. He flinched
his eyes. Were those blue shades on his face? It
wasn't easy to see because of his skin tone.
"What happened? I think you've been beaten up.
Why are you letting me in? Are you alone?" He
asked, question after question and walked
inside the house.
"I couldn't make it to her," he looked down and
told his father what happened. He was
ashamed and disappointed in himself. He
couldn't imagine what Zinhloso was going
through in. What she was thinking and the tears
she cried - all because of him!
There was total silence in the room after he'd
explained what happened. "You did well by not
going to her."
Mhlabunzima looked at his father like he was
crazy, "I did?"
"Yes, you've proven you're not ready to have a
wife and child. You'll waste her time with your
political nonsense. It's way important," Xulu
stood up. He was angry and he didn't even want
to spend another moment with him.
"Baba, I tried -"
"I don't want to hear it! You chose a grown
capable man over your pregnant girlfriend.
What was going to be wrong if you let them go
alone and join them after fulfilling your
obligation to the mother of your unborn baby?
Huh?" He yelled.
"I wanted to do that but the others thought it
wasn't going to take a lot of time. This didn't
happen as we thought."
"Dludla is getting married next month and he
has no problems. You know you were doing this
to avoid more problems for MaMnguni. You've
shown me that you enjoy seeing her walk alone
at night and cry to you." Xulu yelled and his wife
joined him. Esther asked what happened and
her husband told her. She was very
disappointed and she was out of words.
He pointed at Mhlabunzima, "he doesn't know
what he wants. He actually know what he wants,
he wants to put his political people first."
"Baba, I -"
"Shut up, doti!" Xulu silenced Mhlabunzima.
"You're rubbish. You make that poor girl
pregnant knowingly and you choose everyone
but her."
"Kodwa baba sungaze ubize ingane ngo doti?"
Esther defended Mhlabunzima as he was called
rubbish.
He glared at her, "you're killing this child. I know
you'll run around Mnguni's daughter, trying to
bring her here for your unruly son. Tsk!" He
walked out.
"I am really sorry, mama."
She shook her head, "I am really hurt and I won't
help you. You'll fix this yourself." She closed the
door and followed Xulu.
UMCEBO

Chapter 148

It'd been two days since her failed wedding and

she'd been having a lot of internal conflict. She
wanted to run away from home but she couldn't
run away without her aunt knowing. She didn't
even know where she was going to run to.
She was seated on her bed slowly dressing up
after taking a bath. She'd been sowing corn
since morning and all that she wanted was to
sleep. She had a lot of bitterness in her heart as
she imagined if she was important to
Mhlabunzima she wasn't going to be doing all
this by now. Working such long hours in the
garden at her stage of pregnancy. An hour
would be enough because she easily got tired.
"Come in," she allowed the knocker in.
Mzomubi walked in with a plastic bag of fruits
and a dish. By how it was wrapped up - Zinhloso
knew where it was from.
"How are you?" He stood by the side table.
"I am fine and you?" She removed the
bedcovers and put her feet on the bed.
"I am fine, I was working half day today because
I wasn't feeling okay and I passed by the shop,"
he placed the plastic bag on top of the table
and the dish. "Mhlabunzima asked me to give
you these. His mother cooked for you, it's fish."
"Thank you." She laid on the bed and cried out in
pain as her back hurt. She'd never felt so weak.
The only good thing she was looking forward to
- was the baby being born but she was scared.
With everything she'd been through and was
still going through - she didn't have hope.
"What's wrong?"
"I am still your mother's slave that's what is
wrong and where is Mhlabunzima and you?
You're both carrying on with your normal lives,"
Zinhloso said - she hadn't said anything to him
the last two days. She'd been very angry to even
say a single word to him, "you wake up and go
to work, everything is good. Mhlabunzima
wakes up and works wherever he feels like
working that day. The shop, the gardens or
making deliveries everyday. He stops when he
feels tired but I can't stop even when I am tired."
"I am really sorry, Zinhloso."
"What is sorry going to fix? I can't believe you
actually told him to put me last."
"I was thinking of the baby."
"What's happening to that baby now is a good
thing? What baby were you thinking about?
Didn't you think I might not make it if I stay
another week or month here? Am I going to give
birth to this baby while I am like this? Can you
even see how I look?" She didn't even have the
strength to talk. She was waiting for whatever
to happen. She was going to the clinic the
following day for her check-up and she didn't
know what report she was going to get.
"I am really sorry sisi it's all my fault."
"I want to sleep," she closed her eyes and
rubbed her waist softly.
"Can I at least call his sister? She'll come and
rub you. I will buy the ointment at the
pharmacy," Mzomubi suggested and he didn't
hear a response. He walked out and headed to
the house.
He lifted the telephone after greeting his
mother and called Xulus. Mhlabunzima was
going home when they parted ways.
"Hello."
He remained standing, "can you please ask your
sister to come here so that she'll give her a rub."
"What's wrong?"
"She's crying about back pain, it's not looking
good."
"Why, what has she been doing?"
"You know what she does!"
"Kanti naye, why can't she refuse? Why is she
agreeing to be a slave in her condition?" He
raised his voice.
Mzomubi could tell Mhlabunzima was angry but
he didn't feel like he had a right to be angry, "you
and I have no right to ask such questions.
Sisuke singekho lana esele yedwa. We really
have no right to be angry, especially after what
happened."
"She can be stubborn -"
"Are you going to bring your sister or not? I am
really not in the mood of having a back and
forth with you."
"I will tell her to come but -"
"Good, if she doesn't come in twenty minutes I
will call someone else." He put the phone down
without hearing his response. He didn't care
about whatever he had to say.
"Why are you bringing Mhlabunzima's sister
here? In my house! Isn't it enough what her
brother had done?" Mrs Mnguni screamed and
Mzomubi didn't pay her any notice. He walked
out and headed to the pharmacy. He bought the
ointment and waited for Ngenzeni. They walked
in together, Ngenzeni leading.
They found Zinhloso kneeling on the bed, her
waist bent and she was massaging her waist.
Ngenzeni greeted.
"I asked her to come and give you a rub."
"Thanks."
Mzomubi walked out and Ngenzeni started
rubbing her back. "Don't rub to the front." She
requested and she focused on the back. It was
relaxing and pain relieving.
"My parents are really disappointed. They don't
even know what to say to him," Ngenzeni said,
rubbing all the way up to her neck and
shoulders.
"Mm, I can imagine."
"How are you feeling?"
"I am fine. I just don't want to talk about it."
"It's understandable."
When she was done rubbing her, she opened up
the dish and gave her food. She placed the
wrapped tissue on the table. "Mom said these
painkillers are safe to take during pregnancy.
Take them."
"Thank you so much, skwiza."
She smiled, at least she was calling her 'skwiza'
maybe there was still a chance for that
disappointment of a brother, "I will leave now. I
hope the two of you will be fine. Call if you need
anything."
"I will, thanks." She focused on eating. She was
feeling much better.

She got inside the 11am bus. She was done

with her antenatal care and was going back
home. She pretended she wasn't seeing
Mhlabunzima's mother seated on the two
seater. Esther held her hand as she passed her.
"Sit here with me."
Zinhloso acted surprised and quickly smiled at
her, "what are you doing here? Why didn't he
drive you?" She asked after greeting.
"I wanted to buy my things freely without being
told I have taken too much of anyone's time,"
she said and placed her hand over her belly,
"sawubona gogo! How's she?" She looked at
Zinhloso.
"My BP is high, they said I should come back
after three days, try not to stress and also
decrease my intake of salt and oil, and drink
more water." She briefed her about her clinic
visit.
"Awu, nkosi! You're coming from your normal
antenatal visits or you were at the clinic
because there's something wrong?"
"It was my antenatal visit."
"Why didn't you Ngenzwel'umusa to drive you. I
thought he always does."
"I haven't seen him."
"Oh, child, we're really sorry about what
happened." Esther held her hand.
"It's not your fault, ma."
"The two of you should sit down and talk,"
Esther suggested. She'd seen that her son was
breaking apart and he was powerless. She
didn't say anything to him. She pretended she
didn't see anything. "I saw Aunt Lindo in the
morning on the bus. She said she's back home.
We didn't talk much. She got off early."
"Really?"
"Yes."
"Thank you, mama, for letting me know. I will go
and talk to her." She was suddenly happy and
hopeful. She was going to talk to her and relieve
stress. Zinhloso said goodbye as Esther got off
the bus first.
She didn't go home but waited for the bus to
pass by the side of their high homestead.
She walked through the gate and the children
playing in the yard rushed to her. They greeted
her happily.
"What do you want here?" Aunt Comfort asked
and Zinhloso greeted her instead of answering
her question.
"Where's your granny?" She asked the
granddaughter of aunt Lindo. The child pulled
her to her granny's house.
"Gogo, nangu umama!"
Aunt Lindo stood up from the bed where she
was seated, folding her clothes, "I got back a
few minutes ago. How are you? Where are you
coming from?"
"From the clinic. I heard from Mhlabunzima's
mom that you're back."
"Yes, I was going to send the children to go and
call you. How are things? I had to leave due to
work. I am back now." They sat on the bed.
Zinhloso frowned and looked down, she told her
Aunt about everything that she's been through
in the hands of her mother. She didn't leave out
anything, even the recent event of being stood
up by Mhlabunzima and Mzomubi.
Aunt Lindo didn't want to talk much, "you'll stay
here. I am taking you from her."
"Am I going to be okay here? They hate me."
Zinhloso looked at her nervously.
"They hate you but nobody will enslave you and
I know what to say to them to get them not to
bother you. Leave my siblings and your cousins
to me. I spoke to my children about this and
told them I don't want them hating you for
something you had no hand over,
"They listened to me. They'll be with you when I
am at work. The two that don't work Let's go,"
she stood up.
Lindo had four children from one man, one set
of girl twins and two singular boys. The twins
were older than Zinhloso and the boys one of
her age and the other younger. Their father died
before he could marry their mother. He wasn't a
wealthy man, he was working an average job,
taking care of his whole family and it took him
years to pay half of ilobolo for Lindo. He died
without paying everything. They loved each
other, she didn't care about his social standing.
She was willing to be his wife while her brothers
didn't want her to marry him. They were angry
with every pregnancy she carried for him.
Mnguni hated the man the most. Her mother
only wanted her to be happy but wasn't happy
with her getting pregnant without getting
married.
The eldest son, who was Zinhloso's age, had
two children. The children both lived in the
Mnguni home. He was working and the other
twin sister was also working. The others didn't
have children yet.
"Sawubona, Zinhloso!"
She turned and waved at her cousin. Her
mother told her they would be back.
Zinhloso felt better, things were going to work
out maybe - she didn't have to stress.
"What if mom doesn't agree?"
They were walking at Zinhloso's pace. Her aunt
was tall and took long strides when walking but
because Zinhloso was short and heavily
pregnant. She was walking at Zinhloso's pace.
"Do you think I will give her a choice?" She
asked and she could see Zinhloso was nervous.
Was she scared of her mother?
"Don't worry about what happened, maybe it
wasn't meant to happen. When it comes to
getting married, everyone starts with a Zulu
traditional wedding. That's what your father
said, maybe that's why it didn't happen," Aunt
Lindo said, "but I am still disappointed in them.
They put your life in danger. Both of them."
"That's what hurts the most. They didn't think of
our safety. Mhlabunzima could have easily
driven to the shop and called his shop and tell
Ntokozo to find someone who was going to
take us back home." She felt cold in her
stomach whenever she thought about it. "I was
going to be hurt and disappointed that the
wedding didn't happen but I was going to be
safe and sis Khosi, also. He just didn't think of
us, all day he was thinking of keeping his lovely
comrade safe."
"It's really disappointing."
Zinhloso changed the topic and asked her aunt
about her time away.
UMCEBO

Chapter 149
***Chapter sponsored by Nsiko***

"Hawu, you're back," Mrs Mnguni joined them in

the living room. Sbusiso was the one who called
her. She glanced at Zinhloso but she was
looking at the table.
"Yes, I am back and it saddens me that I come
back to complains. I left for two minutes and
ingane ayiphathekile kahle," Lindo tried to be
calm and not fight with her. She wanted to take
Zinhloso in an agreement.
"Which child?"
"My brother's child, the one that you hate."
"Your brother has children with only me and so,
how can I hate my own child?"
Lindo shrugged, "I don't know, maybe you can
help me today by answering that question. Why
do you hate Zinhloso?"
"She's my child! How can I hate her?"
"How can you make a pregnant young woman
work from 7am until 5pm in the garden? How
can you do that if you don't hate her?"
"Is she pregnant for me?" Mrs Mnguni asked
with a shrug of shoulders. "Everyone works here.
Should chores take a pause now because she's
pregnant?"
Lindo looked at her in disbelief, "chores! Don't
test me we mfazi ndini! Chores, who taught her
those chores? Le ngane uyiphathise
okwesdwedwe ngoba igula. She's no longer
sick today because of her boyfriend. You didn't
even want her to enter your precious hut,
"You didn't want to teach the child how to
properly do chores. She couldn't cook at 21
years old and she couldn't even lift a hoe. She
knew nothing about garden work,
"My mother and I taught her everything she
knows today but today you're able to enslave
her?"
Mrs Mnguni leaned back on the sofa, "you
taught her because she's also your child and
now she lives with me. I shouldn't tell her to do
chores because you are the one that taught
her?"
"Heee! We weren't teaching her for you ke
ntombi! We were teaching her so she'll be able
to build her home and look after her family,"
Lindo told her what she didn't know, "and like
you've said she's also my child I am here to take
her."
She chuckled, "that will not happen. She's my
daughter and her father wanted her home. He
didn't want her away even when he was angry
with her. You'll not take her."
"Your problem is that you think I am asking for
permission. I am not asking for permission to
take my brother's child that you're abusing."
She laughed, "since when has it become abuse
when the child does chores at home?"
"I don't want to live with you anymore, mama."
Zinhloso said.
"You've heard it from her. She doesn't want to
live with you and soon, she'll give birth. You
won't even help her with the baby. It's better I
take her."
"I am supposed to help her? Is the baby mine?
She went to the Xulus and got that baby. How
am I involved?" Mrs Mnguni asked, raising her
hands.
"I am involved ke, because I am her aunt and
you won't stop me from taking her. I will look
after her," she said clearly.
Mrs Mnguni was livid but she didn't want to
show it. How could she rule her like this?
Zinhloso was her daughter and not theirs. She
knew she was serious about taking her and so
she reminded herself to calm down if she didn't
want the repeat of what happened before.
Should Lindo take her by force it was going to
be bad again, "alright, take her but only if she'll
visit."
"Alright."
"I hope they won't abuse you more there, all
those people who hate you now." She looked at
Zinhloso.
"Don't worry about that," Aunt Lindo answered
instead.
"Uhambe kahle ke Zinhloso. You're leaving your
home where your father wanted you. Uhambe
kahle," she said.
Zinhloso stood up after her aunt, "usale kahle,"
she followed her aunt out.
"I can't believe she agreed just like that."
"We were going to fight if she wanted that,"
Lindo said and Zinhloso laughed.
Her aunt helped her pack the bag, "you should
pack what's important because there's no car
that will take us home. It's far. I will carry the
bigger load or call Mhlabunzima, he'll drive us."
"No, I will ask Mzomubi later today." She packed
everything relevant and she put the bags on top
of each other.
"My money tin!" She quickly opened her trunk.
"When are you opening that thing? You should
at least move with time and have a bank
account," she suggested and took the plastic of
the heavy money tin. "This thing is even heavy
now. It's been years."
"I don't trust white people aunty they'll steal my
money," she locked the door and they laughed.
Aunt Lindo huffed, "don't lock, your brother and
the baby's father are here. They'll drive us
home." She called them to him. Mhlabunzima
was driving his car, Mzomubi was in the
passenger seat.
She tightened her teeth and stopped locking the
door. She looked at them - him as they rushed
to her aunt. She really got the best looking man
in the village. She sometimes wondered if he
recognised how good looking he was. His full
dark lips had to be her favourite after his
beautiful dark skin. You'd swear his lips
belonged to a girl. He had a charming smile.
What a bustard! He'd put her through a lot
already.
"Zinhloso!" Aunt Lindo shook her shoulder.
She turned to her, "yebo?"
"Didn't you see your brother?" She asked and
looked at Zinhloso.
"No, I thought he's at work. I left early because I
wanted to arrive early and come back early. The
clinic is mostly full on Mondays," she opened
the door.
"Can you take her bags and drive us home? We
can't walk home," aunt Lindo pointed at the
door.
They both didn't move, "what's happening?"
They both asked in unison.
"What's happening is that both of you messed
up!" She screamed at them and they looked
down, "so as I have told you now. I want to go!"
They walked inside the house. "Did you know
about this? She's not talking to me. I am the
biggest devil right now." He was angry that,
always when Zinhloso was angry with him she
decided this was her best weapon - to ignore
him for weeks. She didn't want to talk until she
felt like talking. He was wrong but he was also
tired of this treatment from her. He'd been
thinking if he really wanted to get married to
such a person? Was she really going to go for
weeks angry at him while married to each other?
Their children would have to witness that? He
was confused and hurt. No effort he made was
enough for her.
"Why are you angry at Zinhloso?" Mzomubi
asked, he didn't want to get involved. He only
wanted to explain to Zinhloso and let them
solve it however they wanted. But Mhlabunzima
was being unreasonable.
"It's not fair what she's doing to me, Mzomubi. I
know you shouldn't be involved but why can't
she talk to me?" He asked and looked at him, "if
she's angry, why can't she shout or throw
tantrums? Does your girlfriend do that to you?"
"No, but women are not the same. What do you
want to do now? You want to leave her with a
baby and move on to a woman who doesn't do
that?" He asked and Mhlabunzima didn't answer
him.
He took the bags and walked out. He headed to
the car and realised he was a bad decision
maker sometimes. One decision created a web
of problems for him. The decision to
impregnate her without thinking of the
consequences. He was tired of this treatment
but being the one to end their relationship was
going to make him evil. Nobody would ask him,
why? He would be seen as a guy who left his
pregnant girlfriend. He was going to be judged
harshly and already, his father had called him
rubbish. And her brother was questioning him
about his intentions.
"We're done with the bags. Did you want to take
something else?" Mhlabunzima asked Zinhloso,
she was leaning on the car. Her aunt was on the
toilet.
"I will go and check," she walked back inside the
hut and Mhlabunzima followed her. She opened
the wardrobe.
"Zinhloso, when are you willing to meet up with
me so that we can talk about what happened? I
know that I am wrong and I am very sorry."
Mhlabunzima took the opportunity before him.
"What's there to talk about? You did what you
did and so, what should we talk about now?"
She found her winter coat.
"Am I not going to get a chance to explain
myself? I didn't do what I did deliberately. Can
we talk about it?"
"I am really avoiding stress. I am trying my best.
I am not okay, I don't want to be upset again."
"I won't stress you. We will talk."
"You've hurt me. Can't you see that? I am telling
you there's nothing to talk about. Mzomubi told
me what happened. I have heard it and it's okay.
So, let's leave it like that. I am just going to
tolerate being last to you until I have had
enough of it."
"You're not last I was thinking of you and the
baby. I had to find Thulani to keep you two
safe."
"You did us a huge favour. Thank you and-"
"Hhaybo! What are the two of you doing in there?
I have been hoping you're coming out but you're
not!" Aunt Lindo was standing outside the
opened door. Zinhloso walked out first and
Mhlabunzima walked out carrying her things.
"We can go." Mhlabunzima took the driver's
seat and waited until they were both inside the
car.
Aunt Lindo looked over to Mhlabunzima as he
drove away, "I have spoken to Mzomubi about
how disappointed I am of what you two did."
"I know. I am really sorry."
"But it might be for the best that it didn't happen.
The time will come for things to fall into place.
They'll live with me. It'll be best that way and
don't worry, there's nobody who will abuse
them," aunt Lindo informed Mhlabunzima.
He sighed, "that's even better. Thank you so
much."
"She's my child. Don't thank me."
The drive carried on silently until they reached
home. "Siyabonga ke mkhwenyana. I will go call
my son. He'll take them inside, don't worry."
"Yebo." He stopped Zinhloso by holding her
hand while her aunt was heading inside the
premises, "when can I see you again? My mom
told me you're going back to the clinic in three
days. Can I come? I will drive you? I don't like
you to wait for buses."
"Okay, please come at 6am."
"Alright, I will. I am really sorry about what
happened."
She took a small bag and her handbag. She
walked inside. She was hoping after three days
there would be an improvement.

She was expecting that she was going to come

back to work and find the yard full. The previous
night some of the family members didn't even
want to eat after being told that Zinhloso was
going to live with them. And she was going to
be staying in her grandmother's house.
"What's wrong? My daughter is telling me
there's a meeting held for me?" Aunt Lindo sat
down. It was the elders only - Mnguni's siblings.
Their children were not part of the meeting.
"Yes, we want to talk to you about Zinhloso."
The eldest brother said.
She looked out, they were inside the ancestral
hut, "okay, we'll talk about her but I will need
your children who live in this yard to be present
so everyone will hear this meeting. You can
leave grandchildren because they're young they
don't even hate Zinhloso." She made demands
and they went to call their children.
"What are the reasons you don't want to live
with Zinhloso? What did she do? You've even
called our brothers who don't live with us," she
looked at the four siblings who lived in the yard.
"Zinhloso is the reason we don't have a mother."
"She'll be the reminder of pain."
"How are we going to live in harmony with her?"
"There'll be no peace here!"
Aunt Lindo heard reason after reason after
reason but she didn't hear a valid reason.
"She must go back to her mother."
She looked at her married brother, "if she's
going back to her mother your children who live
here should go back to their home too." She
said and there was no response from him, "I will
say this for the last time, Zinhloso killed no one
and the Doctor stated reasons our brother died.
He told Mzomubi not to blame his daughter.
Zinhloso is not leaving she'll stay in mom's
house. She's staying here because her mom is
abusing her there."
"That's not our problem," the youngest brother
said.
"Why are you outcasting your brother's child?
He was older than everyone here and by doing
this you're disrespecting him in his grave,
"And it seems you've forgotten mom's rule. That
whoever mistreat the other family member
should leave this yard and build their own place
where they'll live in peace," she reminded them,
"I will continue on that rule. Anyone who doesn't
want Zinhloso kubo, kwagogo wakhe. You're
free to leave, build your own place where you
won't see her."
"This is our home. You can't do that."
She pointed at Comfort, "uganile wena. Thula,
you changed your surname!"
She waited for them to go against her but they
were quiet, "if anyone mistreats Zinhloso we'll
go to Induna. He'll be the one to chase that
person out because he was witness when mom
made this rule when you boys were fighting
over dad's inheritance. So, does anyone want to
leave?"
There was no response, "I guess no, so, thank
you for the meeting. I will go change." She
stood up and left them queit. She sighed - she
was really ready to call induna if they were
fighting further.
UMCEBO

Chapter 150
"How did it go, aunty?" Zinhloso asked and
stood up. She'd been seated inside her
grandmother's bedroom waiting for the meeting
to end. She'd made up her mind that should
aunt Lindo fail to convince them to let her stay.
She wasn't going to go back to her mother.
"If anyone is not treating you well you should
tell me. You only have two weeks until you start
your final month of pregnancy. Don't be
stressed," aunt Lindo laughed as Zinhloso
quickly held her tight into a hug.
"Thank you so much!"
She brushed, "don't mention it. This is your
home. You should have some rest. One of the
twins will sleep here with you. Anything can
happen from now on and so, you shouldn't
sleep alone now. I sleep with grandchildren, I
can't sleep with you."
"Alright, thanks."
"We should have dinner and you'll sleep. Who
cooked?"
Zinhloso followed her out, "I don't know. I
washed the dishes and the pots." She went to
the children as her aunt headed to her house.
She was happier when spending time with them.
She tried by all means to imagine herself as a
mother and she had no idea what kind of a
mother she was going to be.
"It's Nobuhle on the telephone. I told you to get
up, maybe it's comrade Xulu," Phili, her cousin
who was sharing the room with her, teased
Zinhloso. When the telephone rang they were
already under the bedcovers. Zinhloso forced
Phili to attend to the telephone. She didn't think
it would be for her.
She dragged her body to the sofa. "Hello, sisi!"
"Hey, I called home and asked to speak to you
but mom said you're no longer living at home.
Aunty Lindo took you."
"Yes, did she tell you why I left?"
"She said you left because you don't want to do
chores."
"That's a lie. I left because she's not been
treating me well…" she informed Nobuhle about
what has been happening and there was a
moment of silence once she was done because
Nobuhle was crying, "I am okay, now so don't
cry."
"I am really sorry about everything. You don't
deserve this."
"Don't stress sisi I am better now. I was really
scared that day. I thought I was going to sleep
on the streets."
"Mzomubi and Mhlabunzima really didn't think
of you?"
"They didn't and he keeps saying he wants to
talk. He'll say he's sorry after making a lot of
excuses and it'll be over until he does
something else. Do relationships really have to
be like this or am I in the wrong relationship?
How's yours?"
"No, mine is not like that but when something is
wrong we talk. There's nothing else that can
make a relationship work either than talking it
out," Nobuhle advised Zinhloso, "even with
Robert, talking was the centre of the
relationship."
"Do you know why I don't want to talk
anymore?"
"Why?"
"It's the excuses he always has. He never wants
to admit he's wrong without making an excuse.
He always wants to make me understand why
he did something and I should understand at
his pace. He'll say it now and I should
understand now. He'll apologize now and I
should forgive now. I love him. I want to make it
work but I feel like I am no longer as important,"
she shared with her, "I started feeling like that
when Lily came back but I made it work. It's not
like I don't want him to have other interests that
don't include me but I want him to understand
that family comes first. If he does this to me,
he'll do it to our kids. I would trust him to go and
fetch our child somewhere, he'll be told a
comrade is dying and he'll run to the comrade
and forget about our child,
"And the child will lose faith in him as a father.
It's like his mind stops working when he's
thinking about politics. He's not a simultaneous
problem solver and as a political man who
wants to be a family man too, he should know
how to hit two birds with one stone,
"I get that our child was threatened sisi Nobuhle
but he was trying to save our child by finding
Thulani while putting the same child's life in
danger. Worst could have happened to us if we
didn't find help and all his hard work would have
been in vain because he thinks critically only
when doing business."
"Mm, okay, why can't you make him understand
that?"
"Like I have told you, he'll make excuses for
everything I will say to him. I will say something,
try to make him see how he's wrong and he'll
tell me why he did that. By the end of the
argument he'll not realise why he's wrong. If you
have excuses for your actions in life, you'll never
see where and why you're wrong,
"Ngenzwel'umusa has been praised to be
always right by his comrades. They follow him
blindly sometimes and so, he thinks he's always
right everywhere. Akaboniseki, uboniseka
ebhizinisini kuphela. Or maybe it shouldn't be
me who makes him realise this dangerous
behaviour he has because he'll just give me
excuses before I am even done talking."
"I understand you very well and it's a good thing
that you have come to analyse and understand
your man so deeply. But it's always you who
should make him see reason," Nobuhle said.
"I know but what I have shared with you, it can't
be me who makes him understand. He needs to
hear it from someone else. I can only try to
make him see the reason after he realised this
dangerous trait he has. Mina uvele abone ngathi
ngiyamlwisa, ngathi I don't appreciate his
efforts." Zinhloso explained.
"Can I speak to him for you? And I will tell him
all these evaluations about him come from you.
It's important that he knows that Zinhloso."
"Please, do talk to him but assure him that
you're only doing this once. I don't want him to
feel like you're a part of our relationship
because I also hate it when he does that,"
Zinhloso shared.
"Alright, sisi, I will do that. It's a good thing to
have people you can talk to about your
problems but it's more important to solve
problems on your own. So, after talking to him, I
don't want to ever see you being passive
aggressive towards him. Are we clear?"
"Yes, Sisi, I will stop. I know it's not right."
"Alright, goodnight then and please, be safe
there. Be careful."
"Yes, thank you." She closed her eyes and drew
a long breath after putting the phone down. She
prayed Mhlabunzima would be open to
understand Nobuhle and not feel attacked. They
had to make their relationship work and be
better partners to each other.
"You talk so well about your relationship
problems with your sister. Yuh! My twin sister,
her only advice would be 'break up with him!'"
Phili shared as Zinhloso joined her back in bed
and they laughed. "She doesn't understand that
we don't just throw away things. We fix them
until they're beyond repair and cannot be fixed
but only thrown away."
She smiled as she loved her view of things. It
was a good discovery, "yes, you're right. It's
better to fix."
"I just wish Sboniso can stop delaying things
and come pay ilobolo to mom and uncles. Our
relationship is way old now. I want a child but
not outside marriage. I don't want to have a
child like I was born," she shared. "He keeps
saying he's working on it."
"Don't stress yourself, I am pretty sure he'll
come. I also wish you can get married and be
happy. You deserve it!"
"Thank you, mzala. You also deserve happiness.
I hope comrade Xulu will listen." She giggled as
Zinhloso laughed.
"I trust my sister she has a good manner of
approach if she's not angry. Now, let's sleep.
We'll have a long day tomorrow."
They closed their eyes.

"Sawubona, skwiza, unjani?" Ngenzeni greeted

Zinhloso as they met up at the river. Phili
proceeded to the water. They were fetching
water to water the plants in their grandmother's
garden.
Zinhloso placed the empty bucket down,
"sawubona, I am well and how are you? Heee,
what are you doing on this side of the river?"
"I am helping my friend's mother, fetching water
for her. My friend is in the hospital."
"I heard she got burned. I hope she'll be alright."
"Yes, she's better now and it's not bad. Is the
bucket not heavy now? Please, don't put
pressure on my niece."
She laughed, "I don't carry the full bucket."
"When's your due date? I want to run away from
home around those days. There's nothing that
scares me like a woman giving birth. I always
ran away whenever Dorothy was giving birth,"
she scrunched her face.
Zinhloso giggled, "but I will give birth in the
hospital."
"Hospital? No, mom didn't tell you?"
"What?"
"When it's time to give birth you'll give birth at
our home. Bhuti Kusakusa's wife also gave birth
at home to her two children. We didn't have a
relationship with our family and our father
would ask a granny he knows who shares the
same surname as us," Ngenzeni informed the
clueless Zinhloso. She could see she was
shocked, "but since mom is back I am sure it'll
be her and our aunt."
"Are you serious?"
"As a person dying."
"He didn't even tell me!"
"Maybe he forgot but now you know. You
should really ask mom if you don't believe me. It
was good seeing you, goodbye." She tapped her
shoulder and put the bucket on her head.
Zinhloso turned to the water. She wasn't ready
for this.
UMCEBO

Chapter 151
***Chapter sponsored by Nsiko***

"Your uncle arrived with pork. Who's cooking

today?" Aunt Comfort asked Zinhloso as she
found her inside the kitchen. After Lindo left the
meeting, their eldest brother told them 'their
sister had spoken they should learn to tolerate
Zinhloso' and that was what they'd been doing.
"I will cook."
"He's the meat." She placed it on top of the
table and left her. She was busy eating a sheep
tripe that was sent by Mhlabunzima. Mzomubi
came to check on her and left the dish along
with a plastic bag of fruits.
"Aunty, you're back early."
"Yes, I was supposed to take some days off
after that work trip but I had to do reports to the
bosses. I am on three days off now," she
opened the fridge and loaded items she bought.
The family was big and so, they had two fridges.
Grandma also had her own in her house. "What
are you eating? It smells nice and I am hungry."
Zinhloso giggled and shook her head, "don't ask
for it aunty, ubaba wengane said I should eat
alone. You can have the fruits," she pointed at
the plastic on top of the table but Lindo didn't
even look at it.
Aunt Lindo cracked and peeped on the dish she
was trying to hide, "awu, Zinhloso just two
pieces will be enough. You can't eat so much
alone. The baby will be covered in fat when
she's born."
She held her mouth as she laughed, "that's
absolutely not true. Aunty, my future mother-in-
law cooks for me. I am a favoured child."
"She's doing it because you're pregnant, wait
until you become her daughter-in-law you'll see!"
She gave her an empty dish.
Zinhloso shared her food with her and gave her
the dish, "no, she'll do it forever. Hawu!"
Lindo sat next to her, "and how did this dish get
here?"
"He gave it to Mzomubi. He was here to check
on me. He's going back to work tomorrow."
"That's good. A man who can look after you and
your needs is a good man."
"I saw his sister and she told me I will give birth
at their home. That's how they do things. Is it
true?"
Lindo shrugged, "I honestly don't know but we'll
have to go to them. I am free tomorrow and so,
we'll go. You should call him tonight and tell
him that we're coming so he'll tell his parents."
"Ah! Aunty, can't you talk to his mother on the
phone. It's far phela."
She shook her head, "no, we'll go to her. You
should take this as an exercise. It'll be good for
you."
"Alright, thanks." She finished up eating and
washed the dish with hot water. She gave an
apple to her aunt. "I will give the children as
well."
"Cut them in half and keep the other fruits in
mom's fridge. You should eat fruits, they're
good for you."
"Alright," she did as she advised and walked out
with cut apples. After that, she started cooking
early. It took longer to cook for a big family than
cooking for a small family like back home.
After dinner, Zinhloso left early because she
wanted to call Mhlabunzima before Phili could
come.
"Xulu, speaking?"
She quickly held her mouth. Why was he the
one answering the call? Where was his son?
Was she supposed to put the phone down and
try again later?
"Is there anyone there?" He raised his voice,
sounding irritated.
"Uhm, sanibonani, baba. It's Zinhloso. How are
you?"
"Oh, MaMnguni, we are good, how are you doing
and how's the baby?"
"I believe we are both well. I was calling
because I wish to speak to Ngenzelwe."
"Please hold or call after a few minutes. He's
still busy outside. I will call him."
"Thank you, baba." She placed the phone down
and waited for a few minutes. It felt good to be
able to call someone 'baba' after losing her
father. She also experienced deep warmth
when addressing Esther as 'mama' the warmth
she never felt with her mother.
"I am here."
She cleared her throat as the sound of his deep
voice tingled her. She crossed her legs and
uncrossed them, "Mzomubi was here and he
left my parcel. Thank you so much. I really
enjoyed the food. It was amazing."
"Your brother wanted to eat it. I had to threaten
him with a gun."
She laughed, "I am glad he didn't eat it. Thanks
for the fruits as well. The oranges are the best
amount of sweet."
"That's how you always taste, you're the best
amount of sweet. Are they also juicy like you?"
His voice was even deeper.
She couldn't help but giggle and hid her eyes
with her hand, "Ngenzelwe Xulu, awukahle! I
have a serious matter."
"Yes, I am listening."
"My aunt wants to see your mom about the
issue of giving birth at home. You didn't tell me
anything about it. I heard from your sister
today."
"Oh, yes, I was supposed to tell you. When does
she want to come?"
"Tomorrow, during the day, can you please
come? Aunty wants us to take a walk and I don't
want to do it," Zinhloso quickly said before she
could forget, "but don't tell her I asked you to
come."
"Alright, I will come. Don't worry."
"Thank you so much. Goodnight."
"Sleep well."
She placed the telephone down and headed to
the bedroom. She was already sleepy.

Aunt Lindo held her hand as they walked out of

the premises. "Did you tell him to come? I said
we'll walk."
"No, I didn't, I only told him we'll leave home
during the day."
"I don't trust you but it's okay if he wants to
make things easier for you. Did you call your
grandmother," she opened the car and Zinhloso
stepped inside the car first. They greeted
Mhlabunzima. "I said call her and tell her you
live here now."
"Yes, I called her this morning. She was relieved
and wants to talk to you."
"We'll call when we come back." Aunt Lindo
looked over Mhlabunzima, "how are you
Mhlabunzima? I heard you are selling beautiful
beetroot in your garden. I want to buy it. When
can I get it?"
"Do you love beetroot?"
"No, I want it for her. She should eat so it'll help
with her blood flow and blood pressure. Her due
date is near," Lindo explained.
"I will go get it while you're in conversation with
my mom because I won't be there. I know
nothing about giving birth," Mhlabunzima said
and Lindo laughed.
"Alright, you'll get your money when you drop us
home."
"You don't have to pay. She's actually the one
who planted beetroot. I had no interest in it. I
didn't want it so the beetroot money belongs to
her." He drank water from the bottle. It was hot.
He passed it to Zinhloso as she was showing
her hand.
She looked at her aunt, "I haven't received that
money aunty he's just saying."
He laughed, "how was I going to give her the
money aunty because she's avoiding me like I
am a deadly disease."
"Stop avoiding ingane kaMaSibiya you'll get your
money then."
Zinhloso drank water and remained quiet as
they discussed business and work.
Esther opened the hut after aunt Lindo had
greeted Xulu. "Please, sit, I will go get drinks.
His eldest aunt is also coming." She walked out.
"Did you tell him what we'll talk about?"
"Yes, I did."
They waited until Esther came back and she
was with Mhlabunzima's aunt. Esther put the
tray down and sat down. They greeted each
other and held a general conversation before
the main conversation.
"No, I thought I should come with my niece after
hearing Ngenzeni say she must give birth here,"
aunt Lindo placed the matter on the table.
"Yes, I was supposed to tell her it's just that a
lot of things had been happening. I thought I
had told her." Esther said.
"I don't understand. Why should she give birth
here? There are hospitals now. They are much
safer."
"It's our family custom." The aunt responded
without explaining further.
"But she's not married into the family." Aunt
Lindo argued, "won't that put the child in the
crossfire?"
"No, it'll be more safe to give birth here than in
the hospital. I really can't get into details and
explain the consequences. It's our family's
things not that I am shutting you out," aunty
tried to explain without revealing too much. "Our
grandmother who's still with us but in another
house. She'll come around her due date."
"I am worried about this because even
Inhlawulo hasn't been paid."
"No, don't be. The child can be born out of
wedlock but that doesn't change the child's
blood. The child is still from our bloodline. We
are doing this to keep the child safe," she said
and that gave Lindo a better understanding but
it didn't ease the worry.
"What will happen after giving birth? She'll stay
here?"
"No, Mhlabunzima will drive her to the hospital
and she'll go home."
Esther looked at Lindo, "I have been thinking
that since you're working I should come every
morning and help her with the baby until she's
fit enough to look after the baby on her own.
When she goes back to school she'll bring the
child here. If that will be okay with the family."
"It'll not be a problem because there's nobody
who can help her if they refuse you. Are you
going to walk every morning? It's far," aunt
Lindo asked, worried about her.
"No, my son will drive me. Kuzomele asebenze
phela angithi yena ujahe izinto ezinkulu," she
commented and they laughed except Zinhloso,
"even when she goes back to school he'll have
to drive every morning, bring her and the baby
here. Drive them back."
"Yes, he'll have to take all the responsibility," the
aunt supported and that gave comfort to Lindo.
Maybe her brother's daughter wasn't going to
suffer alone with a baby and school at the same
time.
They had drinks and the snack Esther prepared
for them. Mhlabunzima's aunt was talking to
Zinhloso, asking her question about herself.
"Thank you for coming and giving us the clarity
we needed," they shook hands and Zinhloso and
Lindo got into the car.
Zinhloso held her aunt's hand, "aunty, I am
scared of this. What if something happens?"
She asked. Mhlabunzima wasn't with them.
"Something like, what?" Aunt Lindo asked.
Mhlabunzima took the driver's seat.
"I have high blood pressure and what if that
causes problems. What if something happens
to the baby? I want to go to the hospital." She
folded her arms before her chest.
"Akuzokwenziwa phela intando yakho sisi. You'll
do what the elders have said," aunt Lindo said
and didn't hear a response from Zinhloso. "Do
you understand?"
"Yes, I understand." She glared at Mhlabunzima
as he folded his lips avoiding to freely laugh.
"Hleka!" She exclaimed out of irritation and
Mhlabunzima failed to hold it in. He burst out
laughing. Aunt Lindo only shook her head.
Zinhloso remianed in the car after her aunt left.
His eyes were softly gazing at her, "yini?
Wangibuka ngamehlo othando usangithanda
yini?"
He chuckled, "yebo!"
"Please, don't be late tomorrow."
"Have I ever been late?" He gave her the bag of
money. "I will see you tomorrow."
"Thank you. Alright, goodbye," she opened the
door. She looked at the back of the car. Her
aunt had taken the bag of beetroot.
"Should I bring anything for you tomorrow?"
"Yes, your father," she responded walking away
from the car.
He drove away, laughing. He was comforted
that they would talk things out on their way to
and back from the clinic.
UMCEBO
Chapter 152

***Chapter dedicated to Sizo and Gugu,

congratulations on your nuptials***

It was a beautiful quiet night. Nobuhle was

snuggled up on John's hot body. They were on
the balcony, resting on a tufted chaise lounge
with cushions.
Her body was on top of his and her head on his
chest, "I missed you, the house was quiet
without you," Nobuhle said to John.
John was out of the country for a week.
Nobuhle had been alone in the house. Martin
only came during the day.
"I told you to go home."
"I am still angry with mom. I don't want to face
her yet. I don't like how she treats my sister,"
Nobuhle responded.
His fingers were deep in her afro, massaging
her scalp, "don't you think maybe she's not her
biological daughter?"
"That's impossible. We all have her body
structure and Zinhloso resembles my maternal
grandmother. She even had her disorder,"
Nobuhle disagreed with John.
"I don't know what's wrong then but I am sure
she'll say it one day."
She closed her eyes and held his torso tighter.
"Are we sleeping here today?"
His hand massaged her butts softly, "no, I wish
someone could transport us to the bedroom in
this position." He pushed her chin up and his
lips bonded with hers into a slow kiss. The slow
kiss turned into a fast paced kiss because of
hightened emotions. A week without each other
felt like a month to the two lovers.
Nobuhle admitted this relationship was the
most mature and peaceful relationship she'd
ever been in. She felt different and more
beautiful. She felt like a spoiled brat in love. She
felt more confident.
"I missed the softness of your skin," he said,
caressing her waist after taking off her
sleepwear, "why do you look uncomfortable?"
"How can we have sex outside? What if
someone sees us?"
He smiled, "it's dark here, nobody can see
what's happening on the dark balcony. I want to
have you here and finish up on the bed, putting
you to sleep."
"I won't be comfortable. Please, let's go in." She
pleaded.
He didn't want to put her in a uncomfortable
position and so, as much as he was looking
forward to the balcony sex. He had to take her
inside. On top of his comfortable bed, where the
lights were on.
It was amazing as their warm skins came into
contact. She gasped as she felt full of him and
she kept her eyes open.
Their eyes locked and they didn't break eye
contact. She moaned with every thrust and he
felt alive, he was in charge.
Nobuhle felt the closest to him when she didn't
close her eyes. She discovered it was most
precious to keep eye contact during intimacy.
His scent was washing over her and the faces
he made with every thrust - it was gorgeous and
intense.
She held the back of his head, feeling his soft
hair as his head dug into her neck.
"I love you," he breathed heavily.
She held his back tightly as if hugging him,
pulling him closer, "I love you too," she
whispered. Where had this man been?
He kissed her again and pounded intensely, this
increased her moans.
She cried out his name loudly and she was done
for. They rounded up with a soft kiss.
"Would you skip the country with me and moved
into one of the countries where interracial
relationships are legal?" John asked the
unexpected question. They were cuddling in
bed.
She moved her head away and stared at him,
"leave the country?"
"Yes, we can move to Virginia. It's legal for
interracial couples to date and even get
married," John suggested, he'd been hoping
Nobuhle would be keen and open to this idea.
He was away solely because he wanted to
check if they would be safe and it would easy
for them to live as interracial couple in another
country.
"No, that can't be. I have a family here and not
just me, we both have families here." She sat up
straight and looked at him.
He didn't move but he only looked at her, "yes, I
know that we have families but that will not
mean we've forgotten about them."
"I have a son. Who has a father, here John I
can't just forget about my son and leave!" She
shook her head.
"We'll leave with him and he'll visit."
"No!"
"So, you enjoy this?"
"I don't! But I don't want to move. I am not ready
for that stage in our relationship. Please, don't
think I love you less."
He could see she was shaken by the idea and
he understood her fears clearly. There was no
need to push yet. He'd planted the idea and he
would raise it up again maybe even after a year,
"it's okay, my love. You're not ready and I
respect that. Don't worry, we'll stay here." He
kissed her forehead and closed his eyes. He
listened to her breathing as she slowly calmed
down. He really hoped - one day she would be
ready.
***
He opened the door from inside, "you're the one
who's late. I have been waiting for over twenty
minutes," Mhlabunzima said to Zinhloso and he
looked at her as she tried to get inside the car.
"Do you need help?"
"Yes." She avoided eye contact.
He felt like something was not right with her. He
got off and went to her side. He held her hand
and helped her inside the car. He closed the
door for her.
"Mama wezingane, are you alright?" He asked
and drove away. He was driving slowly. He kept
glancing at her.
She shook her head and tears streamed down
her cheeks. She cried seriously.
At the back of his mind Mhlabunzima was
wondering - could it be she was really serious
that she wanted his father? Why was she crying?
"What's wrong? Tshela isoka lakho."
"I was trying to bathe a body part -"
"Bathe which body part?" He glanced at her.
She looked outside and forward, "where the
baby will come out and I fell down. My whole
body and belly was on the floor along with my
bathing water. I fell again when I was trying to
get up. It was hard getting up," she narrated
what happened while crying. She was circling
her fist on her eyes. She looked like a child. The
eyes were closed. "The baby is heavy and I can't
reach every part of my body now but you're
complaining that you waited for more minutes."
He didn't know whether to laugh or cry. She was
really crying because of such a petty thing. "I
am sorry, mama. I didn't know such a bad thing
happened to you. If I knew, I wouldn't have
made that comment about time."
They drove to the main gravel road, "it's no
longer easy for me."
"I can see. If I could, I would have bathed you
where the baby will come out."
She smiled and looked at him, "really?"
"Yes, because you can't reach there now but I
am far from you."
"It's okay, I will make it work."
"Are you alright? You didn't hurt yourself?"
"No, I luckily didn't hurt myself."
"And the baby?"
"She's still moving." She drew a long breath and
instantly calmed down.
He held her hand and drove using one hand. He
received a telephone call from Nobuhle the
previous night. It was a lengthy and an intense
conversation. He didn't sleep early, he had an
introspection. His father had told him he wasn't
ready to have a family and what Zinhloso had
told her sister, signalled that she was seeing
the same thing. 'Two people couldn't see one
thing and be wrong' - that were the words that
pushed him to do introspection and wanting to
be a better man not just for Zinhloso but for his
children and himself. In the end of it all, he knew
politics wasn't going to keep him warm at night
and it also wasn't going to carry his family
name but only children would do that.
"I received a call from your sister last night."
Her heart skipped a beat. She was nervous that
a fight was coming, "oh, why was she calling
you?"
"We spoke about your concerns. Sthandwa
sami, I am really sorry that I have created a
space between us that has made you not be
able to raise your concerns about me to me
because I am full of excuses. And I invalidate
your feelings by trying to justify my actions. I
wasn't aware of such a bad trait."
She smiled as her heart relaxed, "you're really
sorry? I promise you I will never do that, ask
another person to talk to you about our
relationship problems."
"It's okay, she's family and that's what family is
there for. To help intervene and help us stay
together. Your sister wasn't interfering but that
was intervention that was needed because
really, I was ready with excuses of why I did
that."
She tightened her hand on him, "thank you so
much for understanding."
"I promise to work on myself. I want to be a
good family man for you and our children, for
myself,
"Oh, mntanomuntu, forgive me for putting your
life in danger. I wasn't there when you needed
me the most. I was supposed to make any
means to keep you safe. I am really sorry to you
and Qophelo." He couldn't sleep a wink the day
he realised anything could have happened to
them. They would have even been killed by the
vile government. Or criminals. Thinking about
what he would have done brought chest pains.
"I also promise to do better and stop being
passive aggressive." Zinhloso promised.
He kissed the back of her hand, "I am the one
who'll make that possible by being a better man.
I should own up to my wrongs. I will work on
myself."
"Thank you so much." She felt healed. She
suddenly clicked her tongue, "I wish that
woman's baboon can die. She's such a vile
person with that evil thing she owns."
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "I thank God I found her
son because I was going to have the blood of a
woman in my hands which is against the king's
laws. I was going to make her experience hell
before dying," he spoke darkly. That threat she
made was very serious, "she's lucky I didn't
strangle her. I was supposed to take her on a
visit, visit her ancestors and quickly bring back
before she could even smile at her
grandparents."
"Ngenzwel'umusa! You're creeping me out!"
He snapped out of it as she screamed, "I am
sorry I didn't mean to do that."
"I want to sleep next to you tonight. Let's put
what happened behind us and forget about
Thulani's mother."
He glanced at her, "okay, I will come and take
you at 9pm but we won't do anything."
"Why?"
"You're at your final stages of pregnancy. I don't
want to hurt the baby." He knew the books had
advised that as long as it was comfortable they
could do it but he was scared now. Her belly
was big and everything seemed difficult for her.
"All along you weren't thinking about that?
You've even begged me to be on top of you-"
she widened her eyes as he placed his warm
hand on her mouth.
"Why are you screaming that? Do you want
people on the road to hear you?" He looked
around, there were many people on the road,
walking.
She removed his hand, "they won't hear me.
You're making me upset and I won't come
because you want me to beg you."
"I miss you. Please, come."
"No, I won't beg for something I have a right
over. I will sleep at home."
He let her be, he wasn't prepared to sleep with
her. He was scared.
He parked the car before the clinic and helped
her out. He walked with her inside the building.
"I will leave you in your chair. I want to see how
far you'll be," he said as Zinhloso didn't want
him to walk her in.
She was number three. They greeted and
Mhlabunzima placed her bag on her lap.
"I will go to the market and come back because
they've started working."
"Alright." She relaxed once he was gone. He
once wanted to go in for check-ups with her and
she refused. She'd never seen a man going in
with a woman and she didn't want nurses to say
horrible things to them. They were rude.
She knocked on the car window, "why are you
sleeping?" Zinhloso asked.
"I am tired," he opened the door and looked at
her feet, "your feet are swollen. Is it because
you've been sitting?"
"They get swollen." She held his hand tightly
and climbed the car.
"How did it go?"
She looked down, pretending to be sad, "the
nurse said it has decreased a little but it's still
high. I am still at risk. I should come back after
three days again," she pouted.
He brushed his head, "eish, angisazi ke. Did you
eat beetroot and drink its water?"
"Yes, I did. The nurse said you should do
everything to make me happy. Kumele ungiphe
into engijabulisayo ke. So that my BP will go
back to normal," she looked at him with a
serious face.
He hadn't started driving, "Zinhloso, can I see
your clinic card?"
"No, why?"
"I have every right to see your clinic card!" He
tried to take it but she refused. They struggled,
one keeping the bag away and the other trying
to take it away. He was stronger than her and
so, he grabbed the bag. He opened it and took
the card.
"Can you drive! I want to go home." She
screamed, seeing that she'd been defeated.
"Why are you lying? Your BP is good and you're
only coming back after two weeks. What's
wrong with you?" He placed the bag on her lap,
"I was going to be worried about nothing, just
lies." He drove out. He couldn't believe she
chose to lie, "were you really going to make me
drive after three days?"
"Can you put the radio on, please." She pushed
her head back and closed her eyes.
UMCEBO

Chapter 153

She arrived at home in the morning. She was

home to actually visit her brother and just to
sleep in her hut. She was going to spend one
night and go back the following morning. She
was on her feet preparing dinner. Ziwinile
wasn't home.
Her mother walked in and made tea, "wasn't
your due date the 3rd of September?" Mrs
Mnguni asked Zinhloso.
"It was."
"Why haven't you given birth? It's the 24th of
September today. When are your periods'
days?"
"They start around the 3rd."
She shook her head, "ay, ay, something is wrong,
maybe your father is angry you're not home,"
she said and walked to the living room with her
tea.
She left Zinhloso with stress, she didn't
understand why she wasn't giving birth, already.
The clinic had decided they were going to give
her a pill but she didn't go because she knew
she wasn't going to give birth at the hospital.
"Do you think dad is angry because I no longer
stay at home?" Zinhloso asked Mzomubi. They
were seated on the doorstep of the main house.
They were having snacks at night.
"No, why would he be angry while his wife was
mistreating you?"
She shrugged, "she said I am not giving birth
because he's angry."
"She's trying to scare you off so that you'll come
back and she'll mistreat you again."
She kept quiet for a while, "how are things at
home? The business, are you managing well
and still getting necessary herbs?"
"Yes, yes, it's going very well. I make time when
I am not working. I hired someone to help me
with getting the herbs. The goats are still
bought. Your mother takes the money, it's all
well.."
"That's better, we don't want things to collapse
because dad is no longer alive. Abantu bazothi
ubethwele," she said and they laughed.
"You're right about that. This baby should come
out now so that we'll be able to buy things for
her," he said and stood up. He helped her stand,
"you should go and rest. I will drop you off
tomorrow morning when I go to work."
"Alright, goodnight." She headed to her hut and
locked the door. She'd been seeing
Mhlabunzima during the day only. She would
take the bus and get off at his shop's stop. They
would spend time together and he would drive
her back home. Zinhloso refused to sleepover
because he was scared of being intimate with
her. She would go back annoyed every time he
refused.

After dinner the following night, Zinhloso

headed to her granny's house. She was going to
sleep alone. Her cousin was sleeping at her
boyfriend's place but she told her mother she
was going to her friend's house. Her aunt was
following her behind.
"Don't close the door. I want to talk to you," aunt
Lindo said and Zinhloso didn't close the door.
They sat on the sofas, "Zinhloso, I am worried
about you."
"Why aunty?"
"You've been sleeping at home every night since
you started living with us. I told you to tell me
when you're sleeping out because there's no
need to hide that you're going out. Here's a baby
inside your belly," she raised her concern. "Why
are you not spending time with your baby's
father? How's this relationship nurtured?"
"I spend time with him, aunty. I do go to the
shop during the day and come back in the
evening." She looked down. She wasn't
expecting such a conversation.
"I am not talking about that. I am talking about
sleepovers. You're pregnant, you've passed your
due date. You need to go to him. Tell him to do
what he did when he put that baby inside you
and the baby will come out," aunt Lindo advised.
"Will it really come out?"
"Yes, it will. It will induce labour."
"I will call him and tell him to come."
"Tonight?"
"Yes, now."
"Okay," aunt Lindo left.
Zinhloso lifted the telephone after packing her
bag. She waited as the telephone rang. She was
hoping he wouldn't refuse.
"Mhlabunzima, speaking," he yawned.
"It's me. Ngicela uzongilanda."
"What's wrong? Are you in labour?"
"No, do I need to be in labour to come for a
sleepover?"
"Oh, it's just that you've been refusing. I will
come. I will hoot once I am outside."
She smiled, "alright." She eagerly waited. She
was going to force him to do it. She was tired of
carrying this baby.
She locked the door and headed out. He was
already waiting for her and he helped her inside
the car.
"Were you already sleeping?" She asked and
placed her bag on her lap.
He drove away, "yes, I was already sleeping. I
had to come because if I didn't come, you were
probably going to cry."
"I wasn't going to cry." She said and
Mhlabunzima laughed. She kept quiet and
strategized on how she was going to get him to
do what he wanted.
"Are you going to sleep naked?" Mhlabunzima
asked as Zinhloso got into the bed without
wearing her sleepwear. He had to buy her
sleepwear because she was complaining about
small sleepwear.
"Yes." She got onto the bed.
"Why? I bought sleepwear. Why are you
sleeping naked?"
"Mhlabunzima-"
"Why are you calling me, Mhlabunzima now?"
"It's your name nje!" She was kneeling on the
bed as she spoke to him.
"But you no longer call me by that name."
She sat on her butts, "Mhlabunzima, my due-"
"Please, don't call me that."
She wanted to throw things at him, he was
annoying, "I want to give birth. My due date has
passed by weeks now. Should I give birth in the
tenth month?"
"But sthandwa, what should I do? There's
nothing I can do to help you if the baby is not
ready to come out."
"Yes, there is something you can do."
He smiled, "okay, what can I do? I want to meet
my child too."
"Ngiphe umthondo Ngenzwel'umusa. I will give
birth."
He widened his eyes, "forget about it. I told you
we won't have sex anymore. What's wrong with
you? Ngathi uyaliqabuka manje ipipi. Hhaybo
kwahle!" He pulled the bed covers and covered
his body.
She was hurt by his words, "so, you don't care
whether I give birth in the tenth month or
eleventh?"
"The time will come, be patient."
"Can't you see I am struggling?"
"I can see but please, be patient."
She got off the bed and searched for her
sleepwear on the bag, "it's okay, I will go to the
clinic tomorrow. I wake up early and take a bus.
They'll give me the pill to induce my labour and I
will give birth there. You're not the one carrying
this baby. I am tired, you're refusing with such a
simple thing," she walked out of the bedroom
and sat on the sofa. She cried.
He quickly followed her, "you can't go to the
clinic. Don't do this, Zinhloso." He pleaded but
she didn't say anything. "Okay, come, we'll do it
but if you don't go into labour by the end of
tomorrow. We'll not do it again."
She stood up, "let's do it here. I will hold the
sofa and bend over. You'll be behind me. It'll be
easier." She said, taking off the sleepwear. She
didn't care about the head shake. She wanted to
give birth and hold her baby. It was no longer
about enjoyment anymore.
She stood before him, behind the sofa and they
kissed. She could feel that he wasn't invested in
the kiss, his emotions weren't with him. "Let's
do it." Zinhloso said.
"I am not ready."
"What do you mean?"
"I am not ready for sex let's continue kissing."
He didn't want to do this but he forced himself.
He wanted to get this over and done with. He
focused on the kiss until he had an erection,
"hold the couch ke."
She turned and placed her forehead on the sofa.
Her belly was hanging freely and she was
comfortable in the position. Nobody was talking,
only Zinhloso's moans were audible. They were
low. His thrusts were slow, he was careful. He
loved the sensations but he didn't want to be
fast.
"Please, be fast." She pleaded and closed her
eyes but Mhlabunzima didn't change his pace.
He used the same pace until he was done. He
left her recollecting herself. He got to the
bedroom and wiped his manhood. He got on
the bed. He felt forced, Zinhloso manipulated
her into doing what she wanted. He only did it
to stop her from going to the clinic.
"You left me just like that and you didn't even
come to check on me."
"You got what you wanted. What are you
complaining about, now?"
She joined him in bed and pulled the covers to
her body. She was hoping it really worked. She
didn't want to threaten him but she was
desperate.
By 3am, Zinhloso woke up and headed to the
empty room. She wanted to pee. Mhlabunzima
had a bucket for her there. She wiped herself
and she panicked when she saw blood. She
dragged her body to the bedroom. She shook
Mhlabunzima awake. "Wake up!"
"What's wrong?" He yawned.
"There's blood coming out."
He sat up straight quickly, "coming out where,
Zinhloso?"
"I went to pee and when I wiped myself there
was blood," she held her mouth.
He held his forehead, "my child! You see, I told
you -" he hid his face in his hands. How could
they lose the baby in the final month? He felt
sorrow deep in his soul and that brought tears.
"Go and call your mother!"
He quickly got up from the bed and wiped the
tears. He wore his pants and rushed out. He
knocked on his father's door.
"Mama!" He called out and didn't get a response.
He went to the window, "mama!"
"Yini?" Xulu woke up first and his wife after.
Esther came out.
"Don't come, baba. Only, mama." He pulled his
mother away, leaving his father hanging outside
the door.
They found Zinhloso seated on the bed holding
her waist. "She says there was blood when she
went to pee."
Esther held her shoulder, "how are you feeling?
What did the blood look like?"
She explained to Esther, "my waist is burning
and I feel like I am having period pains. Mm!"
She closed her eyes.
"Ngenzelwe, drive, go get your aunt and granny.
Your granny is at your aunt's house," Esther
quickly instructed.
"What's happening?" Mhlabunzima asked.
"She's in labour. Go!" She shouted and
Mhlabunzima quickly left. "The hut was already
prepared for you. Let's go there." She helped her
up and walked with her to the hut. She kept
stopping until they reached the hut.
"Take a seat for now. I don't know whether you'll
give birth squatting or lay on your back." She
pushed the chair to her and Zinhloso sat down.
There was a sponge and pillow on the floor. A
high wooden device for squatting, a small basin
and a small wooden basket with baby blankets
and clothes. A plate of razors and needles. All
these things creeped her out. Esther switched
off the light bulb and lit the candles.
"We don't light the light when we give birth but
candles. It's for the baby's sake. That's why I
am switching it off," she explained as she
screamed. "Don't be scared."
After twenty minutes Zinhloso was kneeling on
the floor holding the chair. Granny and aunty
walked in. "Go and lie on the sponge, MaMnguni.
I will check you." Granny instructed. "Prepare
the herbs to bathe the baby Khululiwe. Have you
cooked the water, MaSibiya?"
"Yes, I have!"
Aunty walked out with herbs and found
Mhlabunzima seated outside. Just on the
doorstep of the closed hut, "Ngenzwel'umusa,
go to your house!"
"I won't go inside, aunty," Mhlabunzima quickly
stood up.
"It doesn't matter but go to your house. We
don't need you here. Your father is in his house.
Do you see him outside?" She shouted.
"But it's not his baby-"
"Awuhambe we mfana!" Granny screamed from
inside the hut and Mhlabunzima listened.
He was seated on the sofa with the door
opened and he saw his aunt going back inside
the hut.
He walked out when he heard Zinhloso
screaming an hour later. He sat back on the
doorstep. He listened to what was happening
inside the house.
"What's happening? What are you feeling?"
Granny asked.
"It's painful a lot now and I want to go to the
toilet." She cried out. Mhlabunzima couldn't
understand why the three women were
screaming at her, that she should do everything
on the floor.
"I want to lie down."
He was sad, she sounded like she had no
energy and this made him wonder 'how was she
going to push the baby'
"It'll be much better to push the baby if you're
squatting, MaMnguni."
He wanted to raise an opinion but he knew
should they hear him breathing they were going
to make sure he wasn't anywhere near. He
sighed as they finally allowed her to lie down.
He heard them tell her to push. They sounded
surprised that she was pushing the baby so
early.
"Don't close your thighs, you'll hurt the baby!"
Esther screamed.
His heart was pumping to his throat and he was
suddenly scared as they all screamed,
"Zinhloso!"
"Oh, Jehovah ingane yomtanami," Esther's voice
was shaking. It made Mhlabunzima stand on
his feet.
"I am tired," she cried out.
"You'll kill the baby. Do as we're telling you." The
granny shouted and Mhlabunzima flinched as
he heard the sound of slapping. What were they
slapping now? "Yes, slap her thighs!"
They screamed that she must push again and
she tried, "if we don't lift her up this baby will die.
Lift her up, she'll squatt."
"But mama, the baby is near!" Aunty said.
"Lift her!" Granny screamed and they moved her.
"My baby will fall on the floor?" She sounded
worried.
Granny shouted, "push the baby!"
"Yes, yes, yes!" They cheered her up and within
minutes - Mhlabunzima heard the small cry and
that gave him relief.
"Awu, intombi emnyama ezalwa intombi
emhlophe! Meet your mother!"
Mhlabunzima chuckled as he heard grandma's
comments on the baby's completion. He was a
father! It felt like the first time, the real first, he
wasn't there.
"Mama, give her her bath. We'll help Zinhloso,"
aunty said.
Mhlabunzima smiled as he heard incantations
of their family hymn as granny bathed the baby.
"Siyabonga!" Aunty and Esther exclaimed in
unison.
"Are we taking her to her father after her bath?"
Aunty asked.
"They should both go to him once they're clean.
He should drive them to the hospital. I am
almost done with the baby."
When Mhlabunzima heard that, he quickly got
up and rushed to his house. He couldn't wait to
hold his baby.
UMCEBO

Chapter 154

***Chapter Dedicated to Sizo and Gugu,

congratulations on your nuptials***

"You're lucky you didn't tear, you just need to

have some energy. Your mother will prepare
something for you," Mhlabunzima's aunt said to
Zinhloso and she took the baby from her.
When granny was bathing the baby, Esther also
bathed Zinhloso with warm water that had
herbs she had long prepared for her. Zinhloso
got a bath while she was seated on the chair.
Esther dried her body and helped her dress up
in a clean dress. She put a gown on top, to keep
her warm. They then gave her the baby and
taught her how to breastfeed and hold the baby.
She couldn't believe it when she got to look at
her clearly. It was like a dream.
"Take them to Mhlabunzima. I am sure he's
dying to meet his baby," granny said and aunty
took Zinhloso and the baby out. Granny took
Zinhloso's placenta and cut a small portion,
"you'll dry this portion and grind it into powder,
put it inside her drink. You'll take it to her when
you visit her in the hospital. She did very well."
Esther took the dish with the small portion,
"alright, gogo. The baby looked alright to me.
Everything went well."
"Yes, we should rest, go and prepare her
something that will give her energy. We'll clean
up here once the sun is up." She walked out
with her and they locked the hut. It was a good
morning, a new member was welcomed.
Mhlabunzima was impatiently waiting for them
and his eyes looked at the door once it was
opened. Zinhloso was following his aunt behind.
She looked worn out and pale. She slowly sat
on the sofa.
And before he could say anything to Zinhloso,
his hands were full.
"Here's your daughter, ngane kabhuti.
MaMnguni has blessed you with a daughter as
dark as you're," aunt said with a beautiful smile
as she put the folded baby in his arms, "don't
remove the blanket anyhow but do it slowly, let
her take in the light outside her mother's womb
slowly. It'll be good for her and her brain."
He did as instructed and he was amazed as he
stared at the little cute baby. This was his seed,
"sawubona, Qophelo, ntombazane kaBaba. Ey,
ngihluphekile ngawe mntanami ukuba khona
kwakho kwacishe kwangihlukanisa nentombi
yami." (Hello, Qophelo (high standard/prestige)
I almost lost my girlfriend because of your
conception) he said to the baby and his aunt
laughed while Zinhloso smiled.
"Aunty, I really have a baby?" He asked and
looked at his aunt. She was smiling at him, "my
baby?"
Aunty laughed, "yes, boy you have a baby,
another baby." She looked at Esther as she
walked in with food for Zinhloso.
"MaSibiya, your last born doesn't believe he's a
father."
Esther gave Zinhloso food, "eat sisi so that
you'll have energy." She sat next to Zinhloso and
looked at her son, "what's her name? I can't tell
who she resembles yet but he has your
complexion and your father's complexion."
"Yes!"
"I heard her father call her Qophelo." Aunty said
to Esther.
"Oh, it's a beautiful name."
Mhlabunzima's heart and soul was filled with
immense joy. He couldn't take his eyes off her,
her eyes were tightly closed. He was taken back
to the fights they had about her being
conceived without her mom's knowledge.
"Oh, mntanami!" Fresh tears came out of his
eyes and he shocked his mother and aunt.
Zinhloso was smiling at him.
"He's happy, skwiza," aunty said to Esther. They
were all happy for him.
"Ngiyabonga," he said and wiped his tears. He
looked at Zinhloso she was busy eating. "We'll
drive now to the hospital?"
"Yes, start at the clinic. They'll do the transfer."
Esther said.
Once Zinhloso was done eating the light food
Esther gave her. They walked them to the car,
Esther was holding the baby and Mhlabunzima
had Zinhloso's bag. Aunty had gone to sleep.
"Drive safely," Esther gave the baby to Zinhloso
once she was seated. She looked at the car as
it drove off.
Mhlabunzima glanced at them. Zinhloso was
sleepy, "is she okay?" Mhlabunzima asked and
touched the blanket.
"Yes, she's fine. She's sleeping."
"Thank you, if I had listened to you earlier. We
would have welcomed our baby sooner but I
didn't listen," Mhlabunzima said to Zinhloso but
she was drowsy, she only nodded. He was left
alone, awake and he kept looking at them. He
was scared the baby might fall as her mother
was sleeping while holding her.

It'd been six days in the hospital and she was

finally being discharged. She'd learnt a lot from
the nurses. They were friendly and willing to
teach them whatever they wanted to know
about the babies. Zinhloso was used to
sleeping next to a little baby and she was quick
to wake up whenever she was crying.
In these six days, her brother, auntie Lindo and
cousins came to visit her and the baby. They
were happy to meet her. Everyone was
mesmerised by the baby. The Xulu family
members also came to visit them and all the
visits gave her support and showed her love
and care. They had gifts for the baby.
She was dressed for leaving the hospital and
Qophelo was sleeping next to her. She was tired
of the hospital bed, she wanted to see the sun
outside and bask in its glory. She wanted to be
able to take some walks and relax.
"Sanibonani, how's my baby?" Mhlabunzima
asked with a smile and he lifted the baby. The
other two mothers she was with had been
discharged. Only one was still in the room.
"She's fine."
"Okay, let's go, we'll start at home because dad
wants to meet her." He gave the baby back to
Zinhloso and he took the bags. She was able to
walk properly but her body was tired. She was
hoping they would adjust well at home.
"So, you really won't ask me how I am doing?"
She asked as Mhlabunzima drove out of the
hospital parking lot, "ever since I gave birth it's
been about the baby. You ask the baby, how's
she? Has she eaten? Does she sleep well at
night? Mina nje ay awusenendaba nje. You
didn't ask me, how was giving birth? How did I
feel?"
He wanted to kick himself as he realised she
was right. He'd been too focused on the baby
and forgot about Zinhloso. He'd been too
excited, everything in his mind - it was just
about Qophelo and Qophelo alone. Why was he
so stupid?
"I am really sorry mama. I honestly didn't realise
I was doing such a horrible thing. I care about
you, too." He held her hand, glanced at her and
back at the road. Zinhloso was staring at the
baby. She could see he'd been overjoyed and
you'd swear this was his first baby.
"How are you feeling now? Are you adjusting to
having a baby and looking after her?"
Mhlabunzima asked after a few minutes of
silence from her.
She only chuckled, "ay, let's move on from that I
wasn't saying ask me I was just making you
aware that you no longer care about me but the
baby."
"I know I have shown that and now, I am fixing
my mistake."
She held the baby's mouth as she yawned, "it'll
no longer be the same. It'll feel forced, let's
move on from it."
"But Zinhloso I am sorry I just got carried away
by the arrival of the baby."
"I understand Xulu, I accept your apology and
there's nothing wrong between us. We're good."
She smiled at him but she could see he wasn't
convinced.
"How's breastfeeding now? Is it still painful?" He
asked a different question.
She nodded, "yes, it's painful."
"But the milk comes out for her?"
"Yes."
"I hope it'll be less painful soon. I think you felt
enough pain when you gave birth." He took the
road to the village.
She glanced at him, "how do you know I felt
pain? You weren't there."
"They chased me away and I came back. I heard
everything that was happening inside the hut. I
know you gave birth in a squatting position," he
explained with a shrug, "I was worried about
both of you, giving birth, they say you're
between life and death. I was going to lose
myself if I lost you or the baby."
She held his hand, "we're here. You didn't lose
us. I was really scared and tired but I am
grateful for your family, your mom, aunt and
grandmother."
"I am grateful too." The conversation flowed
after that, she was telling him all about their
stay in the hospital. And how the ladies with her
in the room were. He was laughing when it was
funny.
They went to Mhlabunzima's house and waited
for his father. Esther served Zinhloso with food,
"you should eat more now because you'll be
breastfeeding. You'll see, you'll get hungrier
than before."
"Mm, more food for me," she joked and they
laughed. Zinhloso finished her food and Esther
went out with the dishes. She came back with
Xulu.
He sat down after greeting them, "bring her to
me, Mhlabunzima. I heard you don't want
another person to take her when she's in your
arms." He said and they laughed. Mhlabunzima
gave the baby to his father, "awu, we're pleased
to meet you nkosazana kamkhulu. You love
your grandfathers. You took my complexion but
you look like your maternal grandfather.
Intombazane efana nendoda!"
"Mnguni was handsome, baba. His features will
look more refined in our granddaughter."
"Hhaybo! You're complimenting another man.
What about me?" Xulu raised his voice in
surprise and they all laughed.
Esther smiled and pulled Zinhloso to her chest
as she suddenly cried, "it's a good thing she
looks like your father but if it hurts you, babies
change a lot. One minute they look like an
ancestor most of us don't know, next minute
they look like their parents, it's like they take
different forms until they decide I want to look
like this!" She consoled her and Zinhloso
giggled. The focus was back on the baby and
her grandfather.
Zodumo walked in, running, "sanibona! Baba,
where's my baby sister?"
Mhlabunzima told her she had a baby sister and
she told her when the baby was going to come
back from the hospital. Zodumo woke up very
early and told her mother to give her a bath and
dress her nicely. She was going to meet her
sister. Lily was annoyed but she didn't show it
to her daughter. She let her be because she was
very happy about meeting the baby. She walked
alone and didn't wait for her grandmother to
accompany her.
"Come to your granny and you'll hold your
sister," Esther patted space next to her and
Zinhloso moved. Zodumo sat in between
Zinhloso and Esther. Mhlabunzima took the
baby from his father and put it on her lap.
Zodumo smiled at the baby, "ah! Sampona
ngane!" She was smitten by the baby and she
didn't care about anyone else in the room. She
asked the baby's name and they told her. She
was just happy to have a baby sister.
The time arrived for Zinhloso and the baby to
leave, "Zodumo, give the baby to her mother.
They're leaving now," Esther said.
"No, I am still playing with the baby," she
refused and smiled at the baby shaking her
head. The baby was awake.
Mhlabunzima came back, he'd finished loading
everything they bought for the baby in the car.
He went to town with his mother and sister,
they bought everything needed for the baby.
"Let's go, bring her to me, Zodumo," he took the
baby even though Zodumo was crying.
Mhlabunzima handed the baby to Zinhloso, "she
has to go with her mother! Don't cry, you'll see
her again."
She quickly got off the couch and held
Zinhloso's skirt, "uyisaphi ingane kaBaba!
Ungahambi nayo," (where are you taking my
father's baby? Don't leave with her!") She
screamed and Esther pulled her back.
"She's her mother and she has to go with her,"
Esther explained and Zodumo cried loudly. She
hid her face on her grandmother's lap.
"Nisale kahle, baba, syabonga," Zinhloso said to
Xulu and thanked him for the money he gave to
the baby. They walked out, "you were supposed
to let her drive with us at least. She's
heartbroken." She suggested to Mhlabunzima,
as he walked with them to the car.
"Okay," he rushed back to the house, "Zodumo,
come we'll drive your sister and her mother
home. We'll go to town when we come back.
You'll buy whatever you want for yourself and
your sister."
She quickly moved away from her father and
wiped her tears. She smiled, "bye, gogo
nomkhulu!" She waved as she walked out. She'd
forgotten about everything, she was happy
again.
UMCEBO

Chapter 155

***Chapter sponsored by Daisy Mohono***

Ziwinile was busy cleaning the kitchen after

cooking. It was Friday afternoon. The telephone
rang and she quickly rushed to the living room.
"Hello?" She accepted the call and sat down.
She was tired, coming back from school and
cooking. She was not used to being alone.
There was Nobuhle first and then Zinhloso. The
chores were shared but she was grateful her
mother was able to do other chores and she
would come back, finish up where she left off.
"Yebo, how are you Ziwinile?" Nobuhle asked on
the line.
She smiled, "I am doing well and how are you,
sisi? It's great hearing your voice."
"I am fine, I will come home soon. It's just that
it'd been busy and I had to do an interview with
a higher institution where I applied. John was
helping me prepare for it. It'd been hectic."
"And how did it go?"
"Very well, I got the feedback that I passed the
interview. They sent the letter I got the letter
this morning," she laughed as Ziwinile ululated.
Her ululations brought Mrs Mnguni into the
house. She sat down and looked at Ziwinile,
"that's wonderful Sisi! Congratulations!"
"You don't know how happy I am. Please, tell
mom about it."
"I promise I will."
"Yea, I was calling to say that and to actually tell
you that you should tell mom or Mzomubi to
give you money," she coughed and yawned.
"Okay, money for what?"
"You should go buy some clothing items for
Zinhloso's baby then go and see her. She's back
home," Nobuhle suggested, "I will see them
when I come back."
"Awu, ngeke ke shame!"
"What do you mean, no?"
"I won't go. Ngangikuphi mina enza leyo
ngane?" (Where was I when she made that
baby?) She asked cheekily.
Nobuhle gasped, "how can you speak like that?
She's your sister and that baby is also your
baby!"
"No, I am not going to do that."
"So, you'll never need Zinhloso one day,
Ziwinile?" She asked, sounding down and hurt.
What was wrong with her?
"Why would I?"
"Hhayi, ngiyakubonga! Ungambulala umuntu!"
She said and disconnected the call.
Ziwinile placed the phone down and told her
mother that Nobuhle got admitted to study for
the following year. Mrs Mnguni was very happy
and proud of her. She had a moment of
sadness and she wished her husband was still
around to see what a great thing their daughter
had achieved.
"What else did she say?"
Ziwinile stood up, "she said I should ask for
money, go and buy some items for Zinhloso
and the baby. I won't do that."
"You'll do what your older sister has told you to
do. I will give you money. It's Saturday
tomorrow." Mrs Mnguni said clearly and after
her mother had spoken - Ziwinile had no words
of objection. She listened but she was super
annoyed.
Why were they involving her? "I will go but mom,
why did the baby survive? She said she'll drink
that mixture. She trusted that it was from
granny."
"I don't know but I think the baby will have a
problem or disability. You go and check if the
baby is normal," Mrs Mnguni advised.
She nodded, "I will go and check," she was
eager to go after being given a task to check on
the baby.
It would be really bad if the baby had a disability.
Zinhloso would struggle for the rest of the
child's life and her miserable relationship with
Mhlabunzima.

She'd made a commitment with Bhekani, after

Bhekani had told his mother that he was
serious about taking Ziwinile. She agreed to be
his girlfriend and they started dating but
Ziwinile had made herself clear that they
weren't going to be intimate until they were
married. Bhekani agreed.
She asked Bhekani to accompany her to town
to buy things for the baby and he agreed
because he wasn't working.
"I hope she'll like the things I bought for the
baby," Ziwinile said. They just got off the bus
and Bhekani was accompanying her to the
Mnguni homestead where Zinhloso was. She
had a wonderful time with Bhekani in town.
They talked about their future together as they
were shopping for the baby.
"She will love them. You have a good taste." He
complimented and held her hand. They were
still far from her home.
Ziwinile smiled, "but you helped me choose
everything."
"That means we'll also go together when we
shop for our children."
"Yes, and I want more children. I don't want just
four like my mom," she folded her lips, suddenly
shy as Bhekani laughed. They proceeded to talk
about children until they were closer. Bhekani
stayed behind, under the tree. He wasn't going
to enter the yards with her.
After Ziwinile greeted everyone and had food
with her aunts, she went to her granny's house.
She was told Zinhloso was there and the baby.
She entered and was greeted by the pleasing
smell of baby fragrance. She realised she
wasn't alone, there was someone who was
talking to her.
"This lady loves sleeping. She's supposed to
have long taken her bath," Esther said and gave
Zinhloso the baby's clothes. She arrived in the
morning and she helped Zinhloso wash the
baby's clothes. Mhlabunzima fetched the water
for her using his car. He didn't want her to go
down the river and wash clothes there. They
washed both the baby's clothes and Zinhloso's
clothes. Zinhloso told her she could manage,
she was fine but Esther wanted to be hands on.
She enjoyed helping her take care of the baby.
"But mama, she sleeps during the day and
doesn't sleep at night." Zinhloso commented.
She was really grateful to have Esther helping
her out with the baby.
Ziwinile walked in when she realised they were
bathing the baby. She was going to clearly see
her. She greeted and sat on the chair by the
window.
"She loves water, dress her up quickly
MaMnguni. You still haven't mastered dressing
the baby quickly. She'll be cold," Esther
instructed and she coached her.
"I feel like I will hurt her."
"You won't but you'll hurt her more if you're slow.
Uzongenwa amakhaza." She quickly finished up
and handed the baby to her, "I will leave you
then. I will see you tomorrow. I am sure her
father has arrived."
"Thank you so much, mama."
Esther took her bag and said goodbye to
Ziwinile. She walked out.
"I wasn't expecting you. I don't know if you want
to hold the baby?" Zinhloso pointed to the baby.
It was very awkward to get this visit from her
sister. They both tried to harm her baby with
their mother and now, she was here - why?
Ziwinile stood up and took the baby from
Zinhloso, "hhaybo!" She exclaimed as she set
her eyes on the baby. "The baby looks so much
like dad. Why are you dressing the baby in pink
Pho?"
"It's a girl."
"Unamanga!" She held her mouth and giggled,
"she chose her grandfather. I wonder how she'll
feel knowing she's actually the reason her
grandfather died."
Oddly, Zinhloso wasn't offended or hurt by her
words, "she'll probably faint."
"It's not funny."
"It's you who actually thought it's funny." She
said with a serious face.
Ziwinile didn't mind her but she looked at the
baby. She admitted to herself that the baby was
cute and she smelt lovely. She was
disappointed when she realised the baby was
normal. There was nothing wrong with her and
worse, she looked like their father. This was a
mockery!
"Mom said I should tell you to come home with
the baby. She must see her," Ziwinile passed
the message.
Zinhloso raised her eyes. She'd been busy
tidying up where they were bathing the baby but
she was also keeping an eye on Ziwinile. She
didn't want her doing anything funny to her baby.
"I can't go out. Mom knows that the baby is
under three months," she made an excuse. She
wasn't in a mood to see her mother.
"Are you trying to say you won't take the baby to
her father until she's three months?" She asked
and widened her eyes at her.
"Her father has a car. It's different from walking
here to home," Zinhloso responded and she was
waiting for a response.
"Mzomubi will come. He'll drive you home."
"Okay, I will call and tell him when to come,"
there was no way she could refuse now and
maybe it was best to go to her. Show her the
baby so she would accept Inhlawulo for the
pregnancy. She was hoping she wouldn't say
the baby didn't look like Xulu family members.
Or come up with another excuse.
"Alright, I should go. I want to study." She
handed the baby back to her and she gave her
the plastic bag of the things she bought for the
baby.
"Thank you." Zinhloso said and told her
goodbye. She placed the baby aside without
opening it. She was going to give it to her aunt.
She wasn't going to blindly dress her baby with
what they bought. She didn't know if it was
innocent or not.

At night, Zinhloso was seated on the couch in

the living room at night. She was rocking her
crying daughter back and forth. She left her
cousin sleeping and she also wanted to sit
down on the sofa with her.
The telephone rang while she was still calming
the baby down. She was actually avoiding
breastfeeding her because her breasts were
still painful. She felt like her baby ate a lot and
she was putting her in pain.
"Zinhloso speaking, hello?" She answered the
phone and didn't stop rocking the baby.
"Awu, why is my daughter crying?"
She shook her head, "how are you, baba?" She
knew complaints were going to follow only
because the baby was crying.
"You know I am fine, we spoke in the morning.
Why is she crying?"
"She's fussy, I am trying to calm her."
"Give her some milk."
"It's easy to say, my breasts are very painful and
Qophelo wants the breast every two minutes.
It's like she's saying I want you to feel
pain,mama!" She said dramatically and
Mhlabunzima laughed on the phone.
"That's not true, she's hungry and I think we
both know where she gets that appetite from,"
he cleared his throat.
Zinhloso broke out laughing, "oh, please!"
"Bheka, sthandwa, I know that it's painful and
you're probably tired from looking after her all
day long. But please, ungadinwa,
"Our baby should be healthy like her parents.
Please give her milk, just imagine her big and
healthy."
His words gave her courage, she closed her
eyes and took a deep breath as if taking
strength. She supported the phone with her
shoulder and put the nipple on her little mouth.
She winced in pain and breathed in.
He didn't stop talking, "just imagine -
usumthuma, 'hamba uyothatha isinkwa estolo
kubaba!'" he tried to imitate her and Zinhloso
laughed, "by then you'll be carrying our second
child."
"Forget about it!" She screamed and they
laughed.
"You'll forget all about the pain you're feeling
now because she'll be big and helping her
mother. This pain is temporary. It's not a
punishment," he said smoothly, "you're a
beautiful, strong, intelligent woman and you're
doing great as her mother. You're most
privileged as a parent, you're most connected to
her and you'll be more connected as you
breastfeed her."
She couldn't stop smiling, his words were
making her feel like a superhuman. She was
strengthened, "thank you so much, Donda. I
won't forget all that."
"Who should make things easy for you if not me?
I wanted to check if the two of you are doing
well before I sleep."
She looked at her baby, she was sleeping but
was still taking in the milk from the breast, "yes,
she's sleeping now. I will sleep too. Sleep well."
She put the phone down and looked at her baby.
She was thankful for everything.
UMCEBO

Chapter 156

***Chapter sponsored by Daisy Mohono***

Ziwinile sat next to her mother; she'd just gotten

back from visiting Zinhloso and the baby. She
greeted her mother.
"How did it go?" Mrs Mnguni asked, "was she
happy to see you?"
"She wasn't expecting to see me. She said that,"
Ziwinile informed her mother.
"Why wasn't she expecting you?"
"I don't know."
"How's the baby? Is it bad?"
She shook her head, "mama, the baby I saw is
normal and there's nothing wrong with her."
She furrowed her brows and moved her
shoulders forward, "what do you mean, now?
It's impossible that that mixture didn't cause
any damage."
"The baby is fine and she's even cute."
Mrs Mnguni removed her black doek and
rubbed her eyes, "no, it can't be! This means she
didn't take that mixture. Why did you leave her
without seeing her take it?" She shouted at
Ziwinile. She was sweating and her heart
pumped hard. She was angry, she didn't want
Zinhloso's baby to live. She hated her
relationship with Mhlabunzima. She loathed it
with passion and she didn't want to marry
Zinhloso to the Xulus. If this baby didn't live it
was going to destroy their relationship.
"But mom, she was dressing up and you know
how she is when she's naked," Ziwinile shifted,
she didn't want any slap because she could, she
was angry.
"It's impossible! I will see that baby myself. Did
you tell her to come?"
"Yes, I told her and she didn't want to come
because she made excuses that the baby is
under three months," she told her exactly what
Zinhloso said.
Mrs Mnguni was livid, "she thinks highly of
herself and this baby."
"The baby looks like dad." She saw her mother's
face changing and it expanded, you'd swear she
was a frog.
"Ngake ngayizala inkinga yengane! I lost babies
and this one lived," she walked out of the house.
She was really supposed to see her husband in
Zinhloso's baby? This was the worst
punishment.
She went to Mnguni's house and laid on his bed.
She cried intensely. "Why did you leave me?"
Her shoulders convulsed. Her life without her
husband was no longer the same. She was
feeling lonely. She wished things were different
but things didn't go according to her wishes.
***
Phili squeezed Zinhloso tightly in happiness and
she danced happily. Zinhloso was seated on the
straw mat. She was having lunch. "What's
happening? I will choke on food!"
"I am sorry, so, I came back with a letter," she
smiled dearly and sat down.
"What letter?"
She placed her palm on her face, "I am talking
about the letter for ilobolo negotiation. Sboniso
is ready to take our relationship to the next
level."
Zinhloso ululated and they laughed, "hhaybo, I
am so happy you'd swear it's my letter," she
hugged her cousin, "Congratulations!
Usuyovusa umuzi we-ndoda!'"
Their laughter brightened the day. It was a
happy and beautiful thing. To get married and
start your own family. "Thank you. Uyathakatha.
You said it and it happened. How?"
Zinhloso shrugged, "it just happened and it's
coincidental. He was already going to bring the
letter."
"Ay, it's too coincidental."
"When I was young I used to hear dad telling his
patients to refuse death. There's power in the
tongue, imagine it and speak it, you'll have it,
maybe it's that I don't know," she said lightly
and with a shrug. She said what even her father
died without realising, it was his teachings
manifesting.
"So, can't you wish to have your mom accept
your relationship and get married?"
She shrugged again, "maybe it doesn't work for
me. I have been wishing and speaking, but
ended up stopping. I don't know how this thing
he was talking about works."
"I am sorry. I can't wait to tell mom. I know she'll
be happy for me. Let me go and put the letter
away."
"Okay," she left Zinhloso with an envious heart,
to have a mother that would be happy there was
a man who wanted to take her and make her his
wife. His mother didn't care and she wasn't
happy about anything that she did.

Next day, Zinhloso stepped out of the family car

and her brother helped her out with the bags -
her small bag and the baby's bag. "Thank you."
"I am not staying, I want to go to Mhlabunzima
and remind him about mom's order," Mzomubi
walked Zinhloso to the house where their
mother was watching TV with Sbusiso.
"What did she order?"
"Beetroot and cabbage."
Zinhloso sat down and greeted, Sbusiso quickly
jumped up and he saw that she had a baby in
her arms. Mzomubi placed the bag next to her
and he left.
"You've finally brought the baby. How old is she
now?" She asked, she didn't move from her sofa.
"Awu, she's a month old. Mzomubi has been
busy."
"Couldn't her father bring you?"
She fixed the baby's blanket, removed the
receiver from her face, "he's busy. Do you want
to hold the baby?"
She chuckled, "I don't hold the baby whom
Inhlawulo hasn't been paid for. Ukwazi kahle nje
lokho."
"So, why did you say I should bring her?"
"Shouldn't I see the baby?"
Zinhloso didn't answer her question, "when can
the Xulu family come and pay Inhlawulo? You
said you want it after she's born. She's here
now."
Mrs Mnguni stood, "remove her blankets," she
stood next to Zinhloso on the sofa and she
looked down on the baby. She felt a stab on the
heart as she saw the resemblance. She felt like
her heart was drained out of all the blood and
only pain was left in her heart. The baby really
looked like her husband and there was nothing
she could do about it. She couldn't change
anything but she didn't want to accept that this
baby was alive and her husband was dead. She
sat back on the sofa.
"I am not going to slaughter an animal while I
am still mourning my husband," Mrs Mnguni
switched and sang a different tune. It was no
longer about the baby's paternity.
Her heart sank. Her mother wanted her soul,
"does that mean you'll accept it after the end of
the mourning period?"
"Yes, I will accept it."
"So, this means you can accept ilobolo because
there's no animal slaughtered," Zinhloso
negotiated for her to accept, at least one of the
two.
"No, I won't do that."
"What did I ever do to you Bhejeleni?" She raised
her voice out of anger and hurt.
"You're addressing me by name, Zinhloso? Am I
not your mother?" She screamed and Sbusiso's
face changed to sad. He couldn't understand
what was happening.
"Why do you hate me so much?" She asked, her
voice was breaking. Her mother didn't answer
her but she was glaring at her. Zinhloso
grabbed her bag and the baby's bag. "Nisale
kahle!"
"Why are you leaving? Weren't you going to
sleepover?"
Zinhloso didn't answer her mother but she
walked out. She wasn't even patient enough to
wait for Mzomubi to come back. She was very
angry and she didn't want to spend another
minute in the same yard as her mother. She
was going to walk home.

Mhlabunzima drove inside the Mnguni premises.

Mrs Mnguni was standing by the fence of the
garden. She moved when she saw the car
driving by.
Mhlabunzima and Mzomubi got out of the car
and they offloaded the vegetables.
She looked at the vegetables and how beautiful
they were. She knew Zinhloso was the one who
planted them. She couldn't understand why she
didn't want to do chores at home but she slaved
for a boyfriend. A boyfriend who could still leave
her and choose another woman.
"The mother of your child was here and when I
told her I am not going to slaughter an animal
while I am mourning she got angry. She
addressed me by my name, shouted at me, me,
her mother!" She quickly told Mhlabunzima
about what happened. "Is your love teaching her
to disrespect me?"
"What animal were you talking about, mama?"
Mhlabunzima was confused.
"For Inhlawulo. I am not going to slaughter an
animal while I am mourning my husband who
died because of that baby. Zinhloso decided to
take that baby and she left," Mrs Mnguni
pointed in the direction of Mnguni homestead.
He didn't ask any further questions but he got
into his car. He didn't stop driving the car out as
Mrs Mnguni was screaming about the money
for the vegetables.
He was thankful that they were still on the road
where his car could reach. He stopped the car
and opened the door. Zinhloso stopped walking
and looked back. She wasn't expecting
Mhlabunzima. How did he know she left?
"Ngenzwel'umusa?"
"Kodwa, why are you abusing the baby like this?
You're not supposed to be walking with the
baby here, walking here! You'll pass that dark
alley with her," he pointed forward at the narrow
alley. "You were supposed to stay in your hut
and wait for your brother."
She looked down, "I am sorry."
He took the baby and the bags, "come, I will
take you home."
She followed him and opened the door, she
took the baby from him once she was seated.
"Who told you I left?"
He drove back to drive to the main road, "it's
your mother. I know she hates you but please
try and respect her. She's still your parent and
there shouldn't be any horrible words from her
to you,
"And now, stop stressing about Inhlawulo and
pestering her about it. Our daughter will be sick
just let it be. Things will work for us,
"I don't know when but they'll work out at their
own pace. Let's focus on our relationship and
our daughter. It doesn't matter who'll marry first.
Let's focus on us, please Zinhloso." He pleaded.
She calmed down, "you're right. We'll focus on
our relationship and Qophelo." She closed her
eyes and her head faced up. It was better if she
stayed away from her mother. She wasn't good
for her health.
UMCEBO

Chapter 157

***Chapter sponsored by Nontobeko Zulu***

"Awu, I was already leaving because they told

me that you're not home," the eldest uncle met
up with Zinhloso and the baby at the gate. He
took the baby's bag from Zinhloso, "I will go
back with you."
Zinhloso greeted him. She was wondering what
was really happening? Why was he friendly to
her? "Thank you. Is something wrong?"
"I want to talk to you. Let's go to your
grandmother's house." He led the way Zinhloso
followed.
She sat down after putting the baby on the bed.
"How are you, baba?"
"I am well and how are you and the baby?"
"We're well. Am I in trouble?" She was nervous
to get a visit from him while aunt Lindo wasn't
at home.
He chuckled uncomfortably, "no, but I have been
bothered by a dream. When I first had this
dream I didn't think it was serious. I took it
seriously when I had the same dream again."
"What was the dream about?"
"I dreamt of my father."
She frowned, "grandpa? What did he say?" She
was surprised and was wondering why he was
telling her?
"We were seated on the veranda of this house, it
was you, your brother and I. Your grandfather
was seated on his bench. He was shouting at
you."
She pointed to her chest, "me? What did I do
wrong?"
"He said stop expecting good from your mother.
It was a very straightforward dream. Mzomubi
and I will hold your negotiations along with your
maternal grandmother,
"He's only asking you to not worry but mourn
your father and grandmother first. Let go of
what happened. Don't stress yourself about the
others as they marry before you,
"After the end of the mourning period we'll hold
negotiations here but of course the cows will go
to your father's kraal,
"And he asked you to never leave home without
saying goodbye."
Zinhloso looked down and tried to think if she
did say goodbye to her mother? Of course, she
did say goodbye! She did.
"Before he left, he looked at you for a while, held
your hand and told you to be strong." He
concluded the dream.
"Thank you, baba. Are you really going to hold
my negotiations?"
"My father had spoken. We'll do everything and
Inhlawulo on the same day." He promised. "You
don't need not to worry but focus on your child.
You'll tell your aunt if you need anything. I will
also talk to her about this dream."
"Thank you so much," they shook hands. She
felt peaceful deep down and joy followed. She
didn't have to beg her mother about anything.
She needed to live and focus on her life. She
was thankful that her ancestors weren't blind.
At night, aunt Lindo visited her in the bedroom.
Phili was still watching TV in the house where
they watched TV.
"How's my grandchild?" She lifted her up and
played with her. Qophelo was awake but she
wasn't crying.
"She's doing well. I only have a few weeks and a
month until I go back to school," she said,
looking at the baby.
"You're privileged that her grandmother will look
after her. She really loves her. Does she still
come?"
"I told her not to worry anymore. She only
comes once a week now."
"You must take the child to them during the day.
Tell her father to come. It's good for a child to
be around her family from a tender age."
"I will do that."
"My brother told me about the dream he had.
How do you feel?"
"I am very happy."
"I am also happy for you. I can't wait to marry
you off. Don't worry about your mom and I hope
that boy better not change," she said and they
laughed. She put the baby down, "have some
rest ntombazane."
Zinhloso said goodnight to her aunt. She laid
down next to her baby.

She was hanging the baby's clothes and her

clothes on the washing line with a few of her
aunt's clothes. Her cousin, Phili, was with the
baby in the house. She heard the sound of the
gate opening and she looked at the direction of
the gate.
"Sisi!" She screamed and ran to Nobuhle. She
was laughing happily and she threw her body
into her arms.
"Sis omncane, how are you?"
Zinhloso giggled, "I am so happy to see you.
You look very amazing. I don't even know how
you'll look as a Doctor."
They laughed, "go and put the bags in the house.
Come back, I will help you hang the clothes."
She headed to the washing line while Zinhloso
went to the house.
"I wasn't expecting you. I thought you'd come
back when it's time for dad's first ritual,"
Zinhloso joined Nobuhle in hanging the clothes.
"It's December now and so, I have come back
for the holidays. I will go back the following year
for school," Nobuhle said.
"Where are you going to live?"
"I will still live there and treat it as my part time
job because if I live at another place," she
looked around and only children were around, "if
I visit him and not live with him it'll raise a lot of
questions."
"Yes, why is a black young woman always
coming in and out of a white person's house.
What a sick world we live in," Zinhloso clicked
her tongue. They headed to the kitchen to make
food. It was empty.
"Yes, and that will land us in trouble. It will
actually land me in trouble. When's
Mhlabunzima and the comrades getting
freedom for us, kanti?"
Zinhloso laughed, "I don't know. He's still
focused on his baby so please leave him alone,"
they laughed and headed to granny's house.
They sat on the veranda after Zinhloso had
checked on the baby and her cousin, they were
sleeping.
"It's a good thing he's focused on the baby. The
best support you can get when you have a
newborn, it's support from the father. It's very
important," Nobuhle said, "mom told me you left
a month ago after she refused -"
"Please, let's not talk about her. Tell me about
life in the city," she avoided talking about her
mother. They talked about everything that had
been happening until the baby was awake. They
went inside the house. Phili walked out after
greeting Nobuhle.
Zinhloso put the baby on Nobuhle's lap, "here's
your daughter," she smiled.
"Oh, my God! Nangu uMnguni!" Nobuhle
exclaimed and they laughed, "she's so pretty.
How are things between you and her father?
Not including the baby?"
"They're amazing, it's just that we're not really
spending time together yet but it's good and I
am happy. That talk really helped. It's like he's
the best version of my boyfriend," she giggled
as Nobuhle laughed.
"I am happy for you. I heard Ziwinile is dating
Bhekani and he's bringing ilobolo after dad's
first ritual?"
She nodded, "yes, mom is happy and proud. I
was there when she agreed to it."
"Don't worry, your time will come."
"Thank you. How's John?"
"He's fine, he wanted us to leave the country
and go live where interracial relationships are
legal but I refused."
Zinhloso slapped her shoulder, "why did you
refuse? I was going to agree."
"I have a child here. I don't want to go to another
country. I am not ready yet."
"Oh yea, I understand."
"I will sleepover tonight," Nobuhle announced
and that made Zinhloso happier. It was great to
have her sister back home. She was very happy.

After Christmas, Qophelo was three months old.

Zinhloso was very happy when she saw her
rolling over for the first time. She called
Mhlabunzima and told him she was going to
crawl first before sitting down. He only laughed
at her. He told her she was just doing a rollover.
She wasn't going to crawl while she was three
months old.
On the 27th of December, they were at home.
All the Mnguni family members and her
mother's family. They were at Mnguni's home
for the ritual. Ishlangu ritual done after six
months the head of the family had died. Xulu
was also present and Kusakusa.
The baby was with her grandmother and
Zinhloso was working with her sisters and
cousins. She couldn't believe time had flown
like this - it'd been six months since her father
died?
The family was bonded together, working as if
they didn't have any problems getting along. It
was all for one purpose - performing the ritual
and making it a success. It was a good day and
there were also traditional healers present.
"Gogo, can I take her? We're going to sleep
now." Zinhloso knelt before her grandmother.
She gave her a questioning eye, "why are you
lying?" Granny spoke in a low tone. She was
with other grannies in the house.
"Hawu, gogo!" She avoided eye contact.
"Khuluma iqiniso njengomuntu efa."
"Okay, okay, we're going to her father, we'll
come back in the morning."
"No sex!"
She looked down, "hawu, gogo!"
"I am serious!"
"Yes, gogo I know." She took the baby from her
and she said goodnight to the other grannies.
She met up with Nobuhle on the door, "are you
two going to sleep already?"
"No, we're sleeping out."
"Aybo! Zinhloso, don't go."
"Ngeke sisi. Kade ngayigcina indoda yami.
We've only been visiting him during the day."
"How are you going to go out because the yard
is full?" She asked.
Zinhloso giggled, "I told grandma and I will walk
out with a baby only. I gave him our bags
yesterday. Please, lock my hut. I don't want
anyone to see me locking." She walked away
laughing as Nobuhle widened her eyes,
"goodnight."
She went to her hut first, switched off the lights.
She walked to the gates.
"Uyaphi?" Mzomubi asked, walking out of the
pharmacy.
"I will come back now." She closed the gate and
walked up to his car. He met her halfway and
took the baby.
He kissed her cheek, "sawubona sthandwa
sami. It's like a dream, you're finally going to
sleepover."
"It's been three months, that's not a lot."
"It's been three years. Please drive, I want to sit
with my child," he took the passenger seat and
without complaining, Zinhloso drove the car.
She could see he was happy. She was also
happy they were going to sleep with him tonight.
"Hawu, ngolala nabantu bami namuhla," he
lifted the baby up and played with her.
UMCEBO

Chapter 158

***Chapter sponsored by Katleho Khanyisile

Sikosana***

Zinhloso, Phili and aunty Lindo were busy

cleaning the garden. They were preparing for
the new season - making beds of seeds. It was
Saturday, March.
Qophelo was under the tree with other children.
She could sit and crawl. She was a grown six
months old baby. She was very happy when she
was with other children. But she was happier
with her grandparents and parents.
"Zinhloso are you going home to Ziwinile's
lobolo negotiations tomorrow?" Aunty Lindo
asked Zinhloso.
"No, I won't go."
It was Ziwinile's negotiations the following day
and Mhlabunzima had asked Zinhloso that they
spend time together. Just the three of them.
She wanted to go for the negotiations, just to
show up but she changed her mind. She
decided she wasn't going to go. What was the
need for pretending? Phili's negotiations had
been held and they were a success. They were
all waiting for the mourning period to end and
they would begin all pre-wedding ceremonies.
She was no longer scared to tell her mother that
she was going to visit her in-laws' home.
She stopped working and looked at Zinhloso in
surprise, "why? She's your sister and it'll be bad
if you don't go."
"It's just negotiations aunty and not a wedding. I
won't go."
"Zinhloso, you'll cook and be there, help.
Nobuhle is also coming back." She proceeded
working on the soil, "why would you not go
while your sister from Durban will come?"
"I have other commitments, aunty."
"What commitments?"
"We're taking Qophelo to the clinic tomorrow for
her vaccination," she lied and winked at Phili.
She was looking at her, surprised that she was
lying. Phili knew that Qophelo had already gone
to the clinic for her vaccination.
"You'll tell Mhlabunzima to take you there early
and come back."
Zinhloso didn't say anything - she didn't
disagree and didn't agree. They were going to
their house with Qophelo. They were going to
sleepover. She didn't want to go to those
negotiations.
"Did you hear me?"
"I am sorry but I can't, aunty."
"Why?"
"Hawu, ma? Why are you forcing her to go for
the negotiations? Aunty refused to hold her
negotiations and chose her favourite," Phili
intervened. "Ziwinile doesn't even like Zinhloso.
Why should she go?"
"They'll bad-mouth her and say she's jealous."
Aunty Lindo argued. "Why can't you come?"
"Qophelo and I will spend the night with her
father," she responded without looking at her
aunt. Her voice was low. Aunt Lindo focused on
working and let the matter rest.
At night, Zinhloso called Mhlabunzima after
putting Qophelo to bed. She picked up the
telephone and called Mhlabunzima. She wanted
to confirm if they were still on.
"Mhlabunzima, speaking."
She smiled, "why do you sound angry?"
"I am looking at the books of people who owe
us money for the vegetables. I don't want us to
start the new season in the gardens without
collecting every cent," he explained the reason
for his anger.
She massaged her forehead, "didn't I tell you
not to give them vegetables on credit? I told you
but you gave them anyway."
"I only gave bundles to people who are doing
business."
"I will go collect the money and tell them I want
money for the baby's milk."
He laughed, "that will never happen. You want
them to gossip about me and say I am failing to
look after my daughter."
"I was trying to help and anyway, I was calling
because I wanted to ask if we're still having our
plans tomorrow?"
"Yes, mama, I will come at 10am. We'll start at
the market."
"Alright, I wanted to hear that and tell you to
sleep well."
"Thank you, sthandwa. Ngiyakuthanda kakhulu,"
He said softly.
"Ngiyakuthanda nami." She placed the phone
down and did a small happy dance. She'd been
very happy. Things were going well, she was
coping well at school. In the morning,
Mhlabunzima fetched them and dropped the
baby with her grandmother. He would then drive
Zinhloso to school. She didn't want him to drive
her but he would force to drive her.
After school, she would pass by the Xulus,
sometimes Mhlabunzima would help her with
school work. They would sometimes argue
about who had a correct answer. She was very
happy with him. She mostly appreciated the
support she was getting from his mother and
sister.
She fell asleep next to her daughter and she
couldn't wait for tomorrow.

"Zinhloso, are you not going? Everyone is

leaving now," aunt Comfort asked Zinhloso. She
was hanging the baby's clothes on the washing
line. She woke up early in the morning and
washed her baby's clothes. She asked Phili to
take the clothes when they came back.
"No, I am not."
"Why?"
"I am taking Qophelo to the clinic."
She shook head, "that's jealousy stopping you
from going to support your sister." She said and
followed the others out.
Zinhloso didn't care about what they were going
to say about her. She wasn't going there! She
went inside the house once she was done with
everything she joined her daughter back in bed
after checking the time. She was tired.

The Mnguni family yard was busy, everyone

was going up and down. They were making
preparations for negotiations, early in the
morning.
"Nobuhle? Where's your sister?" Mrs Mnguni
walked inside the full kitchen. Where the sisters
and the cousins were cooking, not only for the
in-laws and also the Mnguni family. The aunts
were seated in the living room.
"She's there," Nobuhle pointed at Ziwinile at the
corner of the kitchen.
"I am talking about Zinhloso."
"She's not here."
She cuffed her waist, "why? Why didn't she
come?" She raised her voice.
"I don't know, mom. She didn't tell me."
"And you didn't think of calling her when you
realised that she's not home? All my children
are here to show support to their sibling but
she's not here!" She screamed, looking at
Nobuhle, "I am talking to you!"
"I have been busy mama. Where was I going to
get time to call her?"
Phili intervened, "she said she's taking Qophelo
to the clinic."
"Sengizwile nayilowo Qophelo wakhona!
Everything is about her, ingane eyenzelwe
ezintabeni nanhlawulo yayo ayifikile ngisho kimi.
But everything has to stop because of lo-
Qophelo Lo!" She was angry and even other
family members had been talking asking where
Zinhloso was.
Aunt Lindo shouted from the living room, "don't
you dare talk about Inhlawulo like that? You
want to add problems on top of the child's life.
You're refusing Inhlawulo but you have the
nerves to talk like that. What are your
intentions?"
"Please, let me be. I say nothing about your
children! None of your daughters have children
out of wedlock that's why it's so easy for you to
speak," Mrs Mnguni said to her sister in-law and
she walked out of the house.
By the end of the day, the negotiations were a
success and they were concluded. Bhekani
didn't want arguments but he'd told his
negotiators to agree to all the demands made
by the family. The Mnguni family was happy
that there were no arguments and fights but
understanding and peace. It was pleasing and
they were proud that they were sending their
daughter to a dignified family.
"Ziwinile, everything was successful. I am very
proud of you, my child. Uziphathe kahle
mntanami until your wedding day," Mrs Mnguni
said to Ziwinile. She was seated down in the hut
full of all the Mnguni elders, uncles and aunts.
And her grandmother and uncle from the
maternal side. They told her how proud they
were of her - she'd behaved well and now, they
were going to marry her off. They walked out
and granny asked Lindo to stay.
"Why didn't Zinhloso come?" Granny asked
Lindo.
"She said she's taking Qophelo to the clinic,
that's why she didn't come."
"She's still at the clinic?"
"Gogo, I think we all know the kind of treatment
Zinhloso gets from her mom. How can she
come, show happiness and support to her
sister? Mhlabunzima long wanted to come with
his cows but her mother has been refusing.
Should she be here and be happy?" She also
wanted Zinhloso to be here to stop people from
talking but she wasn't going to show them she
wasn't siding with her.
Granny shook her head, "I understand. I am very
sad for her but Lindo, you can hold negotiations
for her if her mother is not willing. It's not a big
deal."
Aunt Lindo told granny about her brother's
dream and she saw a smile on her face, "that's
very good. I am happy about it. You'll let me
know then."
"Yebo, gogo, thank you." She stood up and
walked out of the hut. It'd been a long day.
****
She was frightened by the knock on the door.
She went to the front door and opened it. She'd
been sleeping and her daughter was still
sleeping.
There was a child, she greeted the child, "did an
elder send you?"
"Yes, malume said I should call you. He's been
waiting for you."
She held her mouth, "tell him I am coming. If he
asks what I was doing, tell him I was getting
ready." She told the child to lie and he agreed to
lie. She rushed back inside the bedroom and
she quickly got dressed. She overslept and she
felt really bad.
She walked out of the house with her daughter
and the baby's bag.
He only glanced at her as she tried to step
inside the car. "You're not even helping me out.
The baby is sleeping."
"I have been waiting here for over thirty
minutes." He said and didn't help her.
She jammed at him, "does that mean I should
break my break trying to get into the car holding
a sleeping baby?"
He gave his hand while seated inside the car,
"give me the bag."
Zinhloso didn't give him the bag but she placed
the baby down. She carefully put the baby on
the chair and she got into the car. She closed
the door and took the baby. The car moved.
"Are you not going to explain why I have been
waiting for you for over thirty minutes? I told
you the time I was to get here," he glanced at
her. The child had told him she looked like she
was sleeping.
"I was getting ready."
"You're lying. You were sleeping. We've been
planning to meet and you've been keeping me
waiting, always!" He raised his voice. Everything
had been good except her keeping him waiting,
always when they had planned to meet. It was
always upsetting.
"It's the baby and I now. How many times
should I explain? We're always arguing about
one and the same thing."
"It's the baby? That child told me that you
looked like you've been sleeping."
That brat! He was obviously going to be loyal to
him and not her, "I woke up very early and
washed the baby's clothes. I took my bath and
took a rest because she was also sleeping. You
know how dirty she gets now because she's
crawling, washing her clothes doesn't take one
hour and it's tiring." She complained.
"I made things easy for you. I always fetch
water for you and you don't go to the river just
to wash her clothes and your clothes. I don't get
why you're not respecting our plans by showing
up on time. It's like our relationship doesn't
matter to you now." He further complained.
Zinhloso decided it was better to remain quiet
and not have the argument escalate. It was
easier for him to talk. She'd explained herself
enough.
UMCEBO

Chapter 159

Zinhloso did all the shopping and Mhlabunzima

was walking next to her with the baby in his
arms. He wanted to remain in the car with the
baby while Zinhloso did shopping alone but she
refused. They finished up their shopping and
Zinhloso drove the car to the village.
"Ever since we got Qophelo, you enjoy sitting on
the passenger seat," Zinhloso followed him
inside the house. She had plastic bags on her
hands and Mhlabunzima had the baby and the
baby's bag. Qophelo was looking around as if
she could recognise these premises were not
her usual home.
"Angithi, we're not married. I don't get to see her
as much as I want." He walked into the
bedroom, talking to the baby - telling her this
was also her home. He placed her down.
They walked out of the kitchen and she
followed slowly, "it'll only be a matter of time
until we're married you'll be tired of her." She
was thankful that they didn't have to drive to the
river. There was water in the house. He was
around two days back to water the green paper
plants.
"Yes and I can't wait," he packed the groceries,
"I am hungry. Where's her food so that I feed
her and you'll make food for us." He lifted the
baby up after Zinhloso had given him the baby's
food.
He couldn't believe the last time they were both
together in this house, their daughter was still in
her womb. They were a family, with a little
symbol of their love.
After eating, Mhlabunzima took the baby and he
went to play on the driveway with her. This gave
Zinhloso freedom to prepare dinner without
being distributed.
"How do you feel about your sister's
negotiations since your mom refused yours?"
Mhlabunzima asked, they were having dinner
together. Qophelo was already sleeping, after
her mother gave her a bath and food - she fell
asleep.
She smiled, "I was hurt but then I remembered
that this December we're also going to have
ours."
"December? How do you know?"
She raised her eyes, "it'll be the end of the
mourning period. It'll be earlier in December.
That's what my uncle told me and he said you
should write your letter, set the date around the
20th."
"Your uncle? Don't they hate you?"
"Baba kaQophelo, didn't I tell you about my
uncle's dream? I am certain that I told you.
There's no way I wouldn't have told you," she
was confused as he denied that she told him.
Zinhloso told him about it, "you'll wake the baby
up, Ngenzelwe!" She screamed at him as
Mhlabunzima was suddenly on his feet making
happy sounds. He was over the moon.
"I am sorry. Why didn't you tell me?" He sat back
on the chair and laughed.
"I thought I told you. I am really forgetful, since I
gave birth. I easily forget. I am sorry," she
smiled as he kissed her cheek.
"It's okay, I am very happy about this. This also
means your ancestors can see that I am good
for you. I am the oxygen you need," he chuckled
as Zinhloso laughed her lungs out. He looked at
her as she was on her feet cleaning around and
washing the dishes they'd been using. He loved
how her body had grown since pregnancy. She
gained weight and she looked more beautiful in
his eyes. He couldn't believe it'd been six
months without seeing her naked. What a
punishment!
"Uyabona ke njengamanje ungibuka ngamehlo
ocansi!" (You're looking at me with horny eyes)
She commented as she turned to his gaze.
He stood up with a smirk and stood before her,
"you're so beautiful and I love how you've
gained your body weight after pregnancy."
She smiled, "I also love it. I feel grown since I
have gained weight and I never thought my
stomach would go back to normal size. It still
has stretch marks and the skin, the skin shrank
as it went back to normal. My aunt says it'll stop.
I made a snail cream for it."
"When are you starting your business kanti?
You're even making snail creams? Your father
gave you knowledge, use it."
"I am still focusing on the baby. The right time
will come and I will feel it," she closed her eyes
as his lips stopped her from talking. The kiss
was passionate and it awakened everything.
She stopped it.
"I miss you. It's been six months. When am I
going to get what makes me happy?" His hand
was on her waist.
"I am scared of doing it again. What if I get
another baby?"
"No, that won't happen. Don't worry about it. It
wasn't going to happen but I did it deliberately. I
won't make the same mistake twice," he said
honestly.
She looked down and up at his face, "we should
do it appropriately. Kumele senze konke
okufanelekile uma seqa ingane. I don't think it'll
be appropriate to do it here. We can't have sex
while she's here."
"Alright, it's Sunday tomorrow, can you spend
the night at home? I will drive you in the
morning to dress up for school and take you to
school," Mhlabunzima pleaded.
She placed her head on his chest, "okay, I will
sleepover at your home."
"Let's go and sleep with our baby." He held her
hand, "ngijabule Kabi. Kusasa ngiyayiwisa
inkomo."
Zinhloso laughed and playfully slapped his
shoulder. They joined Qophelo in bed.
****
The two sisters were busy cleaning the kitchen
after dinner. It was only the two of them. Most
family members left - Mzomubi transported
them home in different loads.
"Congratulations, Ziwinile and I hope you'll have
a happy married life," Nobuhle said to her sister.
She was really grateful that amongst them -
there was actually someone who was getting
married without getting a baby first.
"Thank you and for the support today. You're
unlike Zinhloso who didn't come."
Nobuhle took the broom and started sweeping
the floor, "are you sad that she didn't come?"
She shook her head, "no, I am not sad and I
don't even care. She's just jealous that I will get
married first."
"She would have gotten married first, actually.
Mhlabunzima long wanted to come here but
they'd been refusing her. And mom has made it
worse. I don't think she'll ever be jealous. It's not
like she's unhappy in her relationship but she's
hurt."
"Mxm, if she's not jealous she was going to
come but I don't care. Her not coming didn't
change anything," she said and they proceeded
cleaning.
Nobuhle was left alone. She went to the living
room and made a telephone call.
"John, hello?"
"It's your beautiful woman."
He laughed, "what a nice surprise! I wasn't
expecting to hear your voice today."
"I know I have been busy and I thought I should
call and check on you."
"Thank you, I miss you already. How did it go,
there?"
"Very well, everyone is happy about it."
"I am pleased to hear that. When are you going
to come back?"
"I will come back on Tuesday."
"I will be waiting, sleep well, I love you."
"I love you."
Nobuhle's heart almost came out as she found
Mzomubi in the kitchen. He was standing
before the fridge. She quickly collected herself.
This was a child.
"Are you dating a white person sis?" Mzomubi
asked without looking back at his sister. He
didn't hear the whole conversation.
"No, it's a black person from college. He's
helping me get used to speaking English."
"Oh, that's better. I don't want you to put your
life in danger. You have a bright future ahead of
you. Goodnight," he walked out with a jug of
milk.
Nobuhle sighed holding her chest and she
walked out of the house.
***
Zinhloso made a telephone call and told her
cousin to please tell her aunt that she wasn't
going to come back. They got to the Xulus in
the afternoon and she'd been inside
Mhlabunzima's house. He took the baby and
left her.
"Can I be the one to sleep with her tonight?"
Ngenzeni requested. The baby was in her arms.
Esther looked back at Ngenzeni, "no, you slept
with her the last time her mom brought her. I
am sleeping with her. She'd never slept with
me."
"But mom, you have a husband. You should go
and sleep with him."
"No, I will sleep with my granddaughter."
She pouted and gave the baby to Mhlabunzima.
Xulu had left them. Ngenzeni said goodnight to
the baby and she walked out.
"Are you really going to sleep with her?"
Mhlabunzima asked, that would make him a
very happy man.
"Yes, angifuni nenze imikhuba phambi
kwengane," Esther said pouring cold water in
the bucket.
He chuckled uncomfortably, "awu, mama we
won't do anything like that."
"Okay, she can sleep with you." She looked at
him and she saw his face change.
"Awu, but you've already promised her," he
looked down as his mother laughed.
"Let's go, follow me."
Esther placed the bucket of cold water before
Zinhloso. She was seated on the couch, looking
bored, "here's cold water sisi. You should go
and have a bath before you sleep," she didn't do
this for her. Mhlabunzima was always the one
doing such but tonight, she had to ensure they
did things right for her grandchild's sake.
Zinhloso was very shy as she realised why she
was giving her water. Couldn't Mhlabunzima be
the one to bring water? She quickly got up and
left them.
She returned to the bedroom after taking a bath.
The water was so cold she even thought maybe
Esther added some ice but she didn't cheat. She
took a bath.
Mhlabunzima was on the bed waiting for her.
He was staring at the wall and his eyes moved
to her as she walked in, "don't wear anything but
just come."
"I want to apply lotion on my body. The water
was very cold."
He chuckled, "I always tell you to get used to
cold water. I hardly bathe with hot water if it's
not cold."
"I'll never!" She removed the bedcovers and got
into bed. "Awu, selimile njalo awusakwazi
nokuzibamba."
He chuckled and kissed her lips. What a long
wait. Half a year, sometimes it felt like he was
being punished. His hands held her cheek softly
as the kiss deepened. The soft skin pressured
him but he didn't want to simply jump on it. He
wanted to give her absolute pleasure.
She cried from deep in her throat and held onto
him as he rubbed on her wet openings. The
feeling he was giving her, indescribably great.
Her hands ran on his flesh as he planted kisses
on her neck with his hand touching her breasts.
"Ngicela ulifake manje!" She pleaded.
"Musa ukujaha!"
His lips creeped down to her belly. And when
his warm tongue mopped on her wet cores, she
threw her head back on the pillow. Things had
been so tense without intimacy. They were both
hungry for each other.
She cried out overwhelmed by the feeling she
was receiving. She had been missing this a lot.
"Donda!" She howled her moans as her walls
shut and released the warm juices of her body.
He moved back up, "sengizokunika lokhu
okuthanda kakhulu," (I will now give you what
you like the most) he said, charmingly.
"Ngikuthanda kakhulu konke."
His skin was against her skin. He rested his lips
on hers. Her hands held on to his arms tightly.
He loved it every time she clung on him.
She raised her body up as his hardness sent a
quick sharp ache down on her. Her body got
moist all over again.
He was too excited but didn't want to rush her.
She cried out. “Ah!” his erection teased her.
"Ngenzwel'umusa, lifake yini kanti!" She was
annoyed by his games now.
He was proud that she was really in need of him.
He pressed on kissing her while he nudged
gently at the entrance of her body. He heard the
deep scream that came deep from her throat
accompanying him as he had finally entered her.
He looked at her and her eyes were opened. She
was smiling.
“Do you feel me?” he asked softly, caressing her
ear.
“Yes.” She said softly and sucked her lower full
lip as he began moving. This was absolute
pleasure. And she wanted it to intensify, she got
the need to move with him. She wanted him
stronger and she got him stronger as she met
him halfway by moving underneath.
"Oh, nkosi yami!" He groaned, the feeling was
indescribable as she also moved. This woman
was a blessing in his life in every way. He
couldn't imagine himself with someone else.
Nobody matched up to her.
"Ngiyakuthanda," he whispered into her ear and
Zinhloso said it back with a loud moan as her
toes curled and her body stiffened before
releasing.
UMCEBO

Chapter 160
***Chapter Sponsored by MaGama***

He wanted to wake her up by massaging her

breasts but he was scared there was going to
be milk coming out. That milk was meant for
his baby and not him. He couldn't understand
the adult's notion of purifying the mother's body
- before and after. How did sex actually make
the baby's milk dirty? Was this belief based on
something spiritual or was it different? Their
forefathers really waited until the wife was no
longer breastfeeding the baby? He remembered
most of them had more than one wife and so,
there was actually no waiting for them. Only the
mother waited until she was no longer
breastfeeding. And their generation? What
made it okay to engage in sexual intercourse
while the mother was still breastfeeding?
Why did they never want to explain things fully?
These things never made sense but they did
them because they didn't want to suffer any
consequences.
"What are you doing?" Zinhloso opened her eyes
as he felt his hand massaging her bums and
slipping into her front. He was behind her back
in a spooning position. She was sleepy but she
couldn't ignore his advances.
"My mom will probably bring the baby early so
that you'll bathe her, massage her and stretch
her body joints as you should and also bathe
before you go home," he said in a lazy deep
voice. He wanted to enjoy himself before
starting the day. "I always feel like the greatest
man in the world if I started by having you
before starting my day."
She smiled dearly, "have me and please, don't
change position. You're so warm and I wish I
can remain like this for the rest of the morning."
Her skin also felt amazing against his stomach.
Her feminine smell was still lingering on her and
he loved it. His leg slipped in between her
thighs. He inserted only the tip of the penis and
he smiled as he heard her lazy moan. He loved
how the excitement was building up.
He fully enjoyed taking a break and watching
her move on her own, shaking and raising her
leg for even deeper penetration. He kept her leg
in the air and took back control. One day he was
going to get courage and ask this woman if
she'd seen the magazine. Her moves were
amazing or she was just moving on the need?
He also didn't need to be told how to move
sometimes, but his body would move according
to how his manhood wanted her.
He felt on top of the world as he stretched his
arms, looking at her naked body as she opened
the windows.
She wrapped her body with her gown and
headed for the door. "Sanibona, mama."
Esther walked in with the sleeping baby, "Yebo,
sis, how are you?"
She followed her to the girls' bedroom.
Mhlabunzima had fixed the bedroom and
bought an appropriate bed for girls for Zodumo.
He also bought a white plank baby cot for
Qophelo. They had a wardrobe and a bedside
table by Zodumo's bed. She was very happy
with the new bedroom and kept asking when
they were going to sleep together with her
sister. She dearly loved her baby sister.
"I am fine, mama and how are you?"
"I am well, have you prepared water for her?
She's sleeping but we won't wait for her to wake
up before you bathe her." She put the baby on
her towel that was placed on the mat, next to it
there was her bathing tub with water and a
small stone inside the tub.
"Yes, I will get the kettle." She walked out and
returned with the kettle. She mixed the baby's
water.
"Where's Ngenzwel'umusa? He should prepare
cold water for you so you'll bathe before you
breastfeed her. You'll bring her back to me once
you're both done," Esther finished undressing
the sleeping baby and got up from the floor.
Zinhloso's foot went over the baby and her
second foot followed. She knelt before the tub
and waited lifted her, "he said he'll go bath too.
He doesn't want to stretch the baby while he's
dirty." She said without looking at Esther. Esther
laughed and walked out of the room.
Qophelo woke up and cried but as soon as she
realised she was inside the water. She kept
quiet and enjoyed the water. She was bathing
her and straightening her joints, legs, arms…
She dressed her up and went to the bedroom.
She knocked, "are you done?" She asked.
"Yes, come in."
He was dressed up and seated on the bed after
his bath. She gave him the baby, "I will go take a
bath so that I will breastfeed her. Did you bring
water for me?"
"Yes, cold from the fridge," he joked and
Zinhloso walked out laughing.
She knocked on Esther's door. "She's sleeping
again. I am leaving now. Thank you, mama."
"Anything for my granddaughter's wellbeing."
She took the baby and closed the door after
saying goodbye.
Mhlabunzima drove her home. It was no longer
dark outside. "I had a wonderful time last night."
Zinhloso commented.
"Yes, did you feel the difference between
pregnancy sex and when not pregnant?"
"I didn't notice. I used to notice when I was
pregnant. I didn't even think of it."
He smirked and glanced at her, "I will miss
pregnancy sex."
She looked at him with a scowl, "are you saying
I am boring because I am no longer pregnant?"
She raised her voice.
He laughed, "no, you can never be boring. I love
you in every way, pregnant or not."
"Oh, I was going to go crazy." They laughed,
"don't fetch me today. I will walk from school.
There's something I want to discuss with
Nompilo."
He stopped the car away from the family
home's gate, "oh, okay. Have a great day."
She kissed his cheek. She could see he didn't
like the idea but she also wanted to walk like
everyone else.
****
August - it'd been four months. It'd been both
peaceful and chaotic but what they were
grateful for - was life.
Mzomubi found his mother under the day hut
where she was cooking corn on fire. It was
Friday and he wasn't working.
"I want to talk to you about something before I
let Mhlabunzima know," he grabbed a small
bench and sat with his mother. He accepted the
corn. "Thanks."
"I don't understand why you are still friends with
Mhlabunzima. He keeps putting everyone's lives
in danger and I don't even want to mention
getting your sister pregnant," Mrs Mnguni
commented and fixed the firewood.
"It's not like he's mistreating Zinhloso. He's
genuine with her I know that and politics, he's
forcing no one to do what they don't like,"
Mzomubi defended Mhlabunzima.
"What do you want to talk about?"
"Before December ends, I am sending my
people to my girlfriend's father. I am taking my
first wife," Mzomubi dropped a bomb on his
mother and she widened her eyes, "why do you
look shocked?"
"What do you mean you're taking your first
wife?" Mrs Mnguni asked.
"I will have two wives."
She clapped once, "who and who?"
"My girlfriends."
"Names!" She almost hit him but he quickly
moved away.
"It's Lucy Zungu and Thuli Mthembu." He
answered without looking at her, "I have spoken
to them both and they disagreed at first but I
kept pursuing them."
"Are you talking about the same Thuli Mthembu,
the one you insulted and called umfazi while
she attends the reed dance?" She asked with
eyes still widened, "no, the same Thuli Mthembu
your father had to pay four cows for, only
because you insulted her?"
He cleared his throat, "yes, she'll be my second
wife."
Mrs Mnguni laughed - wonders! She was
hearing wonders, "I hear you and I give you my
blessings. Your sisters will leave soon. It'll be
best if I get daughters-in-law."
He was very happy. He didn't trust that she
would agree because she didn't like polygamy.
"Thank you, I will go." He quickly walked out of
the hut before she could ask him more
questions.
He found Mhlabunzima teaching Qophelo how
to walk. She could stand on her own and she
was only taking one step. She was afraid to go
beyond one step. She would sit down after
taking one step.
"My father told me she's a coward like you. You
reached one year old without walking. You were
scared," Mhlabunzima said to Mzomubi and
they laughed.
Qophelo sat down, she screamed and crawled
to her uncle. Mzomubi lifted the baby up, "let's
go inside I want to talk to you about something
important."
"Let me take her to mom. She wanted to feed
her."
"Why hasn't her mother fetched her?"
"Qophelo is sleeping over. She'll go tomorrow."
He walked out with his daughter.
He returned with food and drinks, "what do you
want to talk about?"
"I am ready to make Lucy my wife. I am asking
you to be my chief negotiator this coming
December," Mzomubi broke the news and he
impressed Mhlabunzima.
"What about Thuli?"
"I will take her next year, March."
He clapped hands repeatedly, "yeybo! They've
agreed? I was actually shocked when you told
me Thuli has agreed to be your girlfriend."
He laughed proudly. "Yes, I didn't give up. They
finally agreed."
"You're brave!"
"Yes, but I am not saying you should do things
like me."
"No, Zinhloso is enough, thanks." He said and
Mzomubi laughed at him. They spoke about
December plans as Mhlabunzima was going to
have his negotiations first. And Mzomubi next.
They were eating, talking and having a good
time.
Robert walked inside the house, panting, "oh, it's
a good thing I found you both." He sat down and
gave Mhlabunzima a letter, "things are really
bad!"
Mhlabunzima took the letter and opened it. He
read the letter and he got sweaty instantly. "It
can't be!"
Two months back, two children of a woman
from their village were killed. The woman was a
worker in a sugarcane farm in RichardsBaai.
She brought her children to the farmhouse
because the madam had told her she wanted to
give them clothes and other gifts. She wanted
to personally see the children and give them
these gifts. The woman brought her children,
and while she was still busy with the madam.
The madam's son took the children to his
father's sugarcane. He promised them
sugarcane. The Boer found these children and
his son having sugarcane and he killed the two
black children.
This matter brought sorrow and pain in the
whole village because they knew this woman
and her children. She was a widow living with
her two children and mother in-law. When her
children were killed only because of eating
sugarcane she couldn't live with the pain. She
committed suicide.
The whole village was angry but what could
they have done? Mhlabunzima planned a
protest to go there and destroy the boer's farm
for what he did. It was a very scary and a brave
move. He didn't think he would get support but
surprisingly he even got support from the
leaders of neighbouring villages' political
groups. Zinhloso was scared of this protest but
as a mother, she supported Mhlabunzima.
He couldn't believe it when she supported him.
He thought what he wanted to do was going to
cause another rift in his relationship. But he
wasn't willing to change his mind even if
Zinhloso wasn't going to support him. She
surprisingly supported him and he went there
with greater courage because of her support.
They weren't expected to make a move. The
Boer thought it was going to slide like all the
cases that got away. Cases that didn't even
make it to the files. Mhlabunzima had told them
clearly that he didn't want any snitches. They
attacked at night, set all the sugarcane on fire
before time, even the smallest sugarcane.
Nobody died but men were injured as gunshots
were fired by both sides. It was bad, some were
arrested but there was nothing muthi couldn't
fix. They returned home to their parents after a
month. The attack made it to the news and it
spread like wildfires, even the higher political
leaders read about this attack. They were
impressed and they were comforted that they
were not alone in this fight, even people in the
rural areas were fighting with them.
"Robert, are you serious or are you joking?" He
asked and passed the letter to Mzomubi.
"I am serious. You should be prepared that
you're leaving tonight or should you go to that
prison you'll die," Robert said.
"Who snitched? It's impossible that they know
our names, exactly." He couldn't believe this
was happening - after two months? How did
they know?
"I am sure there's someone who told them all
the leaders' names." Mzomubi said and put the
letter on the table. "But it's better because you'll
go into hiding for a month."
"A month, that's like a year to me!" He wanted to
cry - how was he going to tell Zinhloso about
this?
Robert glanced at Mzomubi and back at
Mhlabunzima, "I am sure Qophelo's mother will
understand and there's nobody who'll take her
away. I am sure she's the first person you're
worried about."
He hid his face in his hands. He wasn't
regretting the damage they did to the Boer's
farm but he didn't want to go away, from his
family, children and girlfriend. The letter Robert
came back with, it was clearly stating that the
police were looking for all the leaders who were
leading the farm attack that happened two
months back. It was sent by higher leaders of
their political party, that they were going to
come the very night and take them. They were
going to send them for refuge into another
province for a month. They were going to come
back after a month.
UMCEBO
Chapter 161

He spent time staring at his bag that was on top

of the bed. A month was four weeks, it was
going to blow over and he was going to come
back. Things were going to be good again. He
was nervous about telling Zinhloso.
When he walked inside the kitchen, Qophelo got
up from the straw mat where she was seated
with Esther. She raised her hands up.
"Hamba kuye!" Esther encouraged her to take
steps to her father but she screamed without
moving. She went down and crawled fast to him.
Mhlabunzima lifted her up and stared at her.
She hid her face on his neck and giggled. He
closed his eyes as fresh hot tears voluntarily
came out of his eyes. He was sorrowful. He
didn't want to leave them not for even two
minutes.
"Ngenzwel'umusa, what's wrong?" Esther asked
as her son was crying.
Xulu looked at Mhlabunzima and he could see
tears. He sat down with his daughter and Esther
took the child from him.
"What's wrong, gxabhashe?" Xulu asked.
Mhlabunzima wiped his tears using his hand,
"there's a letter that arrived. I am leaving," he
gave the letter to his father and Xulu read the
letter out loud.
There was total silence in the room. Qophelo
was also quiet as the adults in the room. "It's
only a month, Ngenzwel'umusa. Why are you
stressing?"
"That's because he knows it might be more than
a month." Xulu said. He was heartbroken by this
but he didn't want to show it. This was what
happened to those who chose this path.
Mhlabunzima knew everything about things that
happen in politics. Xulu also knew something
like this would happen one day or even death
because his son was not just a member. But a
leader, a strong vocal leader. The government
didn't want such people.
Esther didn't want to believe that. She decided
to stay hopeful, "no, my son will come back to
us. Let's not worry, you need to go and tell her
mother."
Xulu saw his wife was taking this lightly and he
didn't want to convince her otherwise. She was
better believing he would come back just as
they've said he would. He didn't want her to cry.
"Ey, ngaze ngayizwela ingane kaMnguni!" Xulu
shook his head as his son walked out. Qophelo
was no longer focused on him but the food her
granny was giving her. Xulu followed him.
"Now, tell me, what will happen to the
negotiations should you not come back until
December?" Xulu asked.
He was surprised his father wasn't shouting
about this matter. He was expecting to
experience his wrath for choosing to join such a
thing.
"Baba, I ask that it proceed without me if I am
not back and that way, should I come back
we're going straight to the wedding." He leaned
on the car. He also realised that his mother
wasn't taking this seriously. "Please, don't leave
my brother out as a negotiator and Robert. I
think you can go with them or any of my
uncles."
"Don't worry it'll happen like that."
"Please, baba, Zinhloso should handle all my
businesses. She knows everything, from the
shop to the gardens. You know that we work
together," Mhlabunzima stated clear
instructions to his father, "she should give
Zodumo her monthly maintenance money,
yours and mom, MaNkomo and for Qophelo. I
will leave a letter stating everything clear for her
but please give it to her only if I don't come
back. I trust her."
"Yes, she'll be best to handle things because
she'll be your wife. Your siblings will be greedy. I
don't trust them."
"Thank you. I should go. It's getting late." He
stepped inside the car and drove out. He had
called her cousin earlier and told her to pass the
message that he was coming by.
"I thought you were bringing our daughter." She
moved closer to him and kissed his cheek,
"sawubona muntu wami."
"Sawubona mtakwethu." He started the car and
drove away from her family home. "How was
your day?" He asked.
Zinhloso didn't ask anything but she was just
happy to see him. She was chatting up a storm
telling him all about her day.
"Next year will be your final year in primary
school," he parked the car under the tree. They
were a distance away from her home. It was
starting to get dark.
"Yes, and I hope high school will treat me
better." She faced him, her body against the
door and her other leg on the chair. "What's
happening? Why am I getting a surprise visit?"
"I am leaving!"
She placed her hand on her face and sighed,
"why are you bringing bad news! Where are you
going? Don't tell me, the city of gold."
"I don't even know where I am going. It's about
the attack that happened two months back," he
told her about the letter and the contents of the
letter, "so, this means I will be leaving for a
month."
Her chest rose up and fell, she was quietly
staring at him and she couldn't believe this was
happening. He was leaving them? Why? "Are
you ever going to come back?"
He didn't like the projection of her voice. She
was hurt, "yes, I will come back. They surely
have a plan. They can't just take us. Please, stay
hopeful I will come back to you and our child."
She quickly grabbed his hands, "I don't want you
to leave. You're leaving us, Mhlabunzima.
Qophelo needs her father here she's just a
child," she freed the tears she didn't want to
release. She was hurt by this. What if he didn't
come back?
"Are you sure it's really the leaders? What if
they're lying? Oh, my God!" The pain in her heart
got intense and she couldn't hold herself. She
wailed as if he was dying.
He quickly moved closer to her and he tried to
pull her to him but she fought him, hitting him
with her fists.
Mhlabunzima followed her out and he stood
behind her. Zinhloso was holding her knees
bending before the car, "I am going to come
back, mama, please don't cry." He didn't want to
show her his own tears. He was broken by this.
There were no people passing by on the alley
closer to the tree they were under. It was
getting late. It was just them.
She turned to him, "tell me the truth! Are you
sure you'll come back after a month?"
"Yes, I will come back," he didn't want to lie to
her but he didn't want her to cry louder. His
hands circled around her small waist as
Zinhloso threw her body at him.
"I don't trust you. I know you're lying to make
me feel better. Please, take us with you. We'll
do whatever you do there," she pleaded, holding
him tighter. She wanted to stay hopeful but it
was difficult.
"You know I can't do that." He held her face into
his hands and his lips met with hers. The kiss
was intense and it brought intense emotions to
both of them. He tried to pull away but Zinhloso
didn't want to stop. She wanted it to carry on.
"Say goodbye, I know you might not come back
after a month. Give me something to hold on
to," she pleaded.
"We're not home, Zinhloso."
"I don't care, I want you," she begged, her arms
were still around his neck and her head on his
shoulder. She looked up at him, "leave me with
something to remember you with, right here."
He lifted her up and put her on the car seat. He
closed the passenger door because it was on
the side of the alleyway. The tree wasn't closer
to it but he didn't want to take any chances
should a passerby have eyes of a cat.
"Nginyusele isketi kancane, mama," he
whispered and looked at her as she lifted her
skirt. One thing about her - she didn't like
wearing panties. Mhlabunzima was standing on
the ground and her butts were on the edge of
the car seat by the driver's side where the door
was opened. He squatted down, he couldn't
even see her private part because it was dark
but he was able to massage all the folds of it.
He massaged with his fingers, making her
moan in pleasure. Her moans sounded mixed
with pain, pain that she wasn't going to see him
for a while.
His pace changed and so were her moans, it
was still fingers working their magic on her
folds. They were teasing her, massaging her
sensitive flesh and clitoris.
When she moaned, showing she was near
climax - Mhlabunzima rammed himself inside
her and she screamed. He held her waist tightly,
lifting her waist up a little and he gave it to her
hard. There was no exchange of words but only
her moans and the sound of her butts clapping
against him. He was too emotional as he
imagined he wasn't going to be getting this for
a while. It brought pain to his heart. This was
his place of joy, where he could be absolutely
happy without limits.
"Oh, MaMnguni!" He groaned deeply as her
walls tightened around him.
"Angikudelanga," she whispered as they were
both panting after the peak of their sex.
Mhlabunzima didn't waste time talking but he
flipped her as if he was flipping a piece of meat
on the braai stand.
She laid flat on her stomach and with her feet
on the ground. She quivered as he rubbed his
still hard manhood on her wet cores. She
straightened her arms on the chair. If she would
be told there was another form of joy than this -
she would definitely reject another form. This
was the only joy she wanted. Him deep in her.
She loved how deep he could get, it made her
always question what were those women
talking about when they badmouthed him?
As he thrust deeper, his balls started hitting her
exposed clitoris and it created an intense
friction. She didn't know what to do with so
much pleasure - this friction was something
she'd never felt before and it made her release
an explosion of juices that flowed down her
thighs.
When he had his orgasm a minute after her, a
single tear fell off and he quickly wiped if, "I will
miss you," he whispered, laying his body on top
of her back. He was still inside her, breathing,
jerking off the last of him. He didn't remove
himself but he finished off nice and slow.
"I will miss you." She said, finally when she was
on her feet and fixing her skirt while he was
wiping her all the way down to her legs with a
wet face cloth. He always had it in the car and a
bottle of water, he made it wet when she told
him she needed a proper clean off. He hugged
her tightly and drove away, back home. They
were both quiet until he parked on the usual
spot.
She gazed at him after he'd turned the light on.
He was also staring at her.
"Please, come back to me."
He tightened his grip on her, "I will." He looked
at her as she got out of the car. This was really
it!

Qophelo and Zodumo were seated with him.

Esther called Lily to bring the child after
Mhlabunzima left and she told him he was
leaving for a month. Zodumo was sad about her
father leaving. And Qophelo didn't know what
was going on but it was like she could sense
something was off. She wanted to crawl after
him even when he was walking out of the hut
into the dark.
They were having dinner silently and
Mhlabunzima's bag was already in the kitchen.
When there was a knock on the door, they all
turned to the door and Xulu allowed the knocker
inside.
The adults could all recognise the prominent
political leader of the province and the parents
were shocked that he personally came. He was
with another young man. They sat down and
greeted.
"No, Bab'uXulu, as a nation we're at war and we
don't know when this war will end. Our lives and
our children's lives are nothing, they end our
lives without thinking twice even with innocent
acts like this. Children eating sugarcane," the
leader shared with Xulu and the old man
nodded.
"My grandfather died a fighter for freedom, for
the same political party. You know him." Xulu
said.
The man nodded, "of course, everyone knows
him."
"He always preached that freedom will come
and over forty years later we're still dying like
flies," Xulu said, "looking at my grandfather's life,
I didn't want my son to suffer the same fate. I
wanted him away from politics but it seems I
am losing him to politics."
"You'll not lose him, baba that's what we're
trying to avoid. Young men like Mhlabunzima
are our hope for tomorrow. That even if we
pass, they'll continue the struggle that's why
we're doing all we can to keep them alive," he
responded.
"I hope so because these are his two children
and the mother of the young one, she'd just lost
her father because of these political fights. She
wouldn't survive losing the father of her child
while she's still mourning her father," Xulu made
him aware.
"I understand, it's really best we keep them
away because if we don't, they'll kill them. I
thought it would be best for me to come and
assure parents because I am a parent myself,"
he stood up and shook hands with Xulu and
Esther.
Mhlabunzima turned to his children, "look after
your sister, I will come back, okay?" He said to
Zodumo.
"Okay."
He gave his daughter to his mother and
Qophelo cried as her father handed her over to
her granny. He took his bag and said goodbye
to his family. His heart was throbbing as he
walked to the car. Qophelo's cry was ringing in
his ears.
UMCEBO

Chapter 162

***Chapter sponsored by MaGama***

The Xulu family was woken up by the loud

police sirens. Xulu and his wife came out of
their houses and Ngenzeni also came out. They
were shocked at the number of police cars
inside the yard and outside.
"Baba, all these cars for one man?" Esther
asked her husband with arms folded. "Yehheni!
Jehovah and dogs!" She held her head. They
were standing together by the kitchen hut.
"Yes, that's how sick they're."
"They're making our brother a criminal."
Ngenzeni clicked her tongue.
The policemen had surrounded the yard with
their bulldogs. The dogs were sniffing around,
there were both black and white officers in the
yard.
"We believe you're Xulu, the father of
Mhlabunzima Xulu?" The Boer looked at Xulu
with hostility but Xulu kept a calm posture. They
all had no panic.
"Yes, is my son in trouble?"
He chuckled, "yes, he's in big trouble and we're
not leaving here until we have him."
"He's not home. He left yesterday afternoon
with loads of vegetables. He got a big order
from John Hendricks who also runs charities.
They met by chance when my son was
studying," Xulu recited the lies they've all
decided upon. Everyone who could possibly be
questioned was told this lie. "I don't even know
when he'll come back because there's a black
market business Expo he's attending in the city
of gold from Durban."
"These are lies! I can sniff lies." He spoke to his
face.
Xulu scrunched his face as the bad breath hit
his face, "you can search for him. Uyeke
ukunginukisela ngamasimba! (Stop hitting me
with your bad breath.)" He said and stepped
aside. The other officers were deadpan - and
they wished he could understand him. They
were tired of him.
"What if he could hear Isizulu, baba?" Esther
whispered to her husband.
"I don't care. Angimhlebi." He was looking at
them as they walked in and out of the houses
with dogs. Mhlabunzima's dog kept barking.
Esther rushed to her hut as the children woke
up and cried. They were seeing men they didn't
know enter with dogs. She tried her best to
calm them.
"Please, do tell your son that we'll find him
wherever he's hiding," the Boer said
intimidatingly. They headed back to the cars.
They grouped around the boss before leaving.
"You found nothing?" He asked.
"No!" They said unison.
"What about his documents and travel
documents?"
"We didn't see any."
He pointed them to the cars, "I want that
woman. She must tell us where he could be.
Her son should know and she'll use him. Let's
go to her." Boer said to his partner. The partner
was a black man.
"Won't it be alarming if we drive to her? People
will suspect she's the snitch or her son," he
questioned his decision.
Boer drove to Thulani's mother, "I don't care
about that. It'll only mean more bunch of kafiris
will kill each other. Music to my ears!"
"Yes!" He grinned, pretending as if his words
were not hurting him. This man was a fool and
he wasn't willing to make him see the reason
that Thulani's mother was useful to them. The
always acted out of emotions. This job was
sometimes difficult for him because of how
difficult the lives of black people were but he
needed to feed his family like everyone.
The other police cars proceeded back to the
station and the two partners paid Thabani's
mother a visit.
She wasn't expecting them and she almost fell
off her chair when they visited. She quickly
showed them inside the house.
"I wasn't expecting you to visit me. Didn't you
find Mhlabunzima?" The old woman could
speak Afrikaans properly.
The Boer clicked his tongue, "you gave us false
information that he's always home because we
didn't find him home."
"What did they say?" She was surprised - where
else could Mhlabunzima go? She was the one
who told the police about Mhlabunzima and the
other leaders. She was still bitter about how
Mhlabunzima spoke with her and when her
animal died mysteriously she felt like
Mhlabunzima was to blame. Why did he
mention her animal and it suddenly died after?
She wanted to teach him a lesson. A lesson he
would never forget and she didn't care whether
he died or not.
"Mama, they said he left for Durban because of
business," the partner answered the old woman.
She shook her head, "I am sure they lied. Did
you see his van in the yard?"
"No, it wasn't there. He has a van?" The Boer
asked.
"Yes, that's the car he uses for business."
He nodded, "this means he really left. Give us
the names of people we can question."
"The very important person to investigate is his
girlfriend - Zinhloso. She attends school and I
am sure she's at school now,"
"The boy really loves her and they have a child
together. That child is an apple of his eyes. He
would do anything for his daughter," she gave
them the other names of Mhlabunzima's
comrades and even her son's name. She didn't
leave it out. She was going to protect him
should anything happen.
The police officers walked inside the Standard 4
class. They were with the principal. They spoke
with him first about talking to Zinhloso. He gave
them permission and accompanied them to her
class. The principal spoke with the teacher.
"MaMnguni, please follow the principal." The
class teacher said, looking at Zinhloso. She was
seated on the front desk looking at the
chalkboard.
Zinhloso stood up. She woke up very grumpy
and seeing these people here, she knew what
they were going to question her about. She
hated them - the government and all the
foreigners that invaded their country only to
abuse them.
The boer stared at the young beautiful woman
as he stood up. This was his girlfriend? He
wondered why she looked upset if her man
went to Durban to make money for them.
She took a seat inside the principal's office. The
principal stayed as a parent representative so
that they wouldn't question her alone.
"We've heard you're the girlfriend of the man
we're looking for. We were told you have a child
together," The Boer gave Zinhloso an
intimidating look.
But she wasn't intimidated, "which man?"
"Don't you know the man you have a child with?"
"I know him but I don't know if you know the
man I know as a father of my child."
The officer chuckled, "okay, Mhlabunzima Xulu.
Where's he?"
She pretended to be smiling at the mention of
his name just to buy face but she was dying
inside. "Oh, he went to Durban for business…"
she told them the same story Xulu told them
and that pissed off the Boer the most.
"When is he coming back?" The black police
could figure out what was going on but he was
oddly very sad for this young woman. He didn't
want to share his honest conclusion with this
prick who was his partner. He was a fool and he
knew wouldn't figure out the truth.
"She didn't tell me because he said he wasn't
sure whether he would stay until the expo was
done or he would come back early," she
responded to the police.
The Boer slammed his fist against the table and
stood up, "do help us, when he comes back, tell
him he better come to us if he doesn't want
anymore trouble. I don't mind taking your little
daughter to bring him out whenever he is."
Zinhloso was shaken but she stared right into
his eyes without saying anything. They thanked
the police and left.
The principal sighed, "you should make a plan
for your child. That was a threat and these sick
people will do exactly what they've said to bring
him out. Please, go back to class." The principal
advised.
Zinhloso didn't say anything, she didn't trust
anyone. He would be saying that only for her to
trust him. She didn't even say a 'thank you' . She
walked out of the office and headed to the toilet.
She shut the door and freed her tears. She
needed to talk to her brother. Why were they
threatening her child?

She had a horrible day but it all got better after

seeing her daughter. She could see that her
mother in-law was very hopeful and she wished
she was as hopeful as her but it wasn't like that.
She knew a month wasn't going to be a month.
She was only hoping it wouldn't turn into a
whole year or years. Her aunt was also giving
her hope but it didn't make anything better.
"How are you, sis? John told me about what
happened. He got a call from Mhlabunzima last
night," Nobuhle said on the phone.
Zinhloso was seated on the sofa at night after
putting her daughter to sleep. "Yes, this is
another blow for us. I wasn't expecting this."
"But you need to be hopeful that he'll come
back. It may not be a month but he'll come
back," Nobuhle tried to make her feel better but
it made it worse as she cried, "don't cry,
Zinhloso. You'll make the enemy happy. Be
strong and hold it together. Mhlabunzima is a
brave young man and so, don't be a weakling.
Have his fighting spirit. He's better away and
alive than dead."
She took a deep breath, "I will try my best." She
felt much better after talking to her sister. She
needed to be strong.
UMCEBO

Chapter 163

***Chapter sponsored by MaGama***

Thulani left his neighbour confused. His

neighbour had just told him that the police were
at his home. He told them they started by
visiting Mhlabunzima's home and then his
home.
He didn't get the police visit at work and not
even a telephone call. Why were they at his
home? What did they want?
"Mama, how was your day?" Thulani asked his
mother after eating. He wanted to learn the
truth from her and he was hoping she was
going to tell him about the police visit.
"It was a good day and how was yours?" She
was smiling, she heard the police went to the
school for Zinhloso. That gave her inner joy and
peace.
"It was a normal day. I heard the police were
here," Thulani decided to ask his mother
straight as she wasn't telling him about the
police visiting their home.
She avoided eye contact, "oh, they wanted to
ask some questions." She didn't want to tell him
the truth because she wasn't sure about the
reaction she was going to get from him. But
this was her son, he would choose her any day.
She gave birth to him.
"What questions, mama?"
"About that selfish boy of Xulu. It wasn't the
first time they were here," she raised her voice
as anger took over. She loathed Mhlabunzima
and all the mess he always created, "I told them
everything that happened that he's the one who
encouraged boys of the village to attack the
farm. I told them everything they needed to
know. I hate that boy. You were injured and had
to stop going to work for a whole month. Was
he injured? No!"
He looked at her and he realised that all the
rumours about his mother were true.
Uyathakatha! "You chose to sell out your own
people? Mhlabunzima is like a child to you and
this is what you did to him?"
"My child?" She spat, "you're stubborn and so
passionate about politics because of him.
You've been injured and kidnapped because of
him. I want him out of your life!"
"I am a grown man! And for how long should I
explain myself, over and over again I am telling
you the same thing that I am the one who chose
politics. Nobody forced me." He was pissed off
so bad that he even raised his voice at her.
Something he never did.
"I am your mother!"
"I know and for that reason, I will do what a son
should always do, take care of his mother. I will
look after you, give you your monthly allowance
for food but I am leaving," Thulani dropped a
bomb that shocked even his sister that was
with them in the house. He was leaving?
"What do you mean you're leaving?" His mother
asked.
"I am not going to stay here anymore. I won't
stay with a sell out. You'll get me killed and so,
if you want to die. Please, die on your own. I
have life ahead of me. Tomorrow, I won't come
back."
Her heart was fighting to come out. What? How
can her son leave him? "This is your home.
Where are you going to live?"
"I will live with my uncle and grandmother."
She wasn't normally a person to regret her
actions but hearing her son say this - she was
regretting what she did. She didn't really get
along with her maternal family because they
supported her sister when she was going to
marry her husband. Her mother didn't see
anything wrong with that. She didn't even visit
them, she would only go when there was
something that happened. And Thulani wanted
to go there! "No, you can't do that. Have you
forgotten that they supported my sister when
she was taking your father from me?"
"You know I never get involved in adult
vendettas. I am not like your other children. My
eldest brother left you and never looked back
because he saw you for who you really are," he
said, emotionally. He couldn't believe they'd lost
their leader because of his mother. "It took me
longer. It's funny because I am working today
because of Mhlabunzima but you have courage
to do this. He missed his wedding, to save his
daughter and Zinhloso only because he had to
look for me. Because you've threatened him and
you do this. I am leaving."
"I am really sorry, my son. I was blinded by
anger. Don't leave!" She cried loudly.
He got up and left for his hut. He didn't care that
his mother was crying. If he stayed here he was
going to die and he needed to tell the comrades
the truth.

After work the next day, Thulani returned to the

village. He passed by Mzomubi's home in the
morning and told him he wanted to see them.
They decided to meet at Mhlabunzima's shop at
the back. They had drinks and biscuits on the
table. It'd been a long day for all of them. They
started by discussing the recent issue of
Mhlabunzima and other leaders.
"I am really hoping these police won't succeed
in the end. I know they're coming for each and
everyone of us," Dludla said and they all
supported him.
"They visited me today," the other guy shared,
"they desperately want Mhlabunzima and when
they come, none of you should panic. Answer
their questions without showing any worry or
signs that you're scared."
"Yes, you're right even though we're all scared
because this is bad." Robert commented and
they all agreed.
Thulani sighed, "no, I have called the meeting
because I am here to tell you the truth. I know
who snitched!"
"Who?" All eyes were widened in his direction.
They were waiting, gun blazing but they were
highly disappointed by the answer they got.
"It's my mother." He saw their faces fall, "I came
back from work yesterday and our neighbour
told me there were police at home. I thought my
mom would tell me the truth but I had to ask her.
She didn't deny anything."
"Why did she do this?" Mzomubi asked. He was
very hurt and disappointed because they
couldn't do anything about it. She was a grown
woman and they didn't want the curse of having
her blood on their hands.
"She's blaming Mhlabunzima for my choices, to
choose politics and everything that happened
because of my choices. I don't know how many
times I have explained myself to her. She
doesn't listen," he rubbed his eyes and forced
his head down. Robert rubbed his shoulder. It
was upsetting and embarassing what she was
doing. He didn't know what to do. Was it really
best to leave home?
"All parents are like that but I never thought any
of our parents would snitch," Dludla
commented and they all shook heads. What a
situation!
"There's nothing we can do about this. She's a
grown woman and we know what that means."
Robert breathed after a long silence, "we're
grateful that you told us the truth. I am sure
everyone appreciates that."
"Yes!"
"What are you going to do?" Mzomubi asked.
Thulani sighed, "I am going to leave home. I will
stay with my maternal family. If other groups
hear this it'll mean trouble for her and I don't
want to be near that because they might not
respect that she's an elderly woman. They
might even kill me."
"You're right, go. Choose yourself."
They wished Thulani well and Mzomubi offered
to drive him to his maternal home. It wasn't very
far. It was sad seeing him leave home but his
mother forced his hand. He was going to be
safe away from her. He never thought things
would be like this. Why did his mother take such
a stupid move?
****
Ziwinile couldn't wait to get home after school.
She had exciting news for her mother. She
couldn't believe this was happening to Zinhloso.
Right after Nobuhle had been boasting that
Zinhloso was happy in her relationship.
"Mama! Mama!" She ran into the house and her
mother didn't even shout at her for running into
the house.
She looked up at her, "what's wrong? Who's
dying?" Mrs Mnguni asked.
She smiled, "heee, so I heard that Mhlabunzima
has run away."
"He ran away? Where did he go and why did he
run away?" She quickly asked.
Ziwinile's smile didn't disappear, "so, the police
want him because of the attack that he planned.
It's said that he ran away and your daughter and
his family are lying saying he's away because of
business."
Mrs Mnguni held her mouth and what followed
was a loud laughter, "izoke ilambe le ngane
izokhumbula ekhaya. She'll remember the home
where she left because she was proud. She was
proud because she had Mhlabunzima and his
money. Where is she going to get that money
now?"
Ziwinile clapped once, "I don't know. She was
jealous of me, she didn't know that this
boyfriend of hers would leave." She laughed
loudly. It was a happy moment for her. She
hated her sister and anything that had to do
with her sorrow brought her joy.
"I wish that her boyfriend can die wherever he is.
He must not come back." Mrs Mnguni spat.
Ziwinile screamed as she laughed, "and she'll
starve for real; they'll kick her out if she's no
longer contributing money to the groceries."
She stood up and left her mother laughing. It
was great to watch. Zinhloso was high because
of Mhlabunzima and now, there was no
Mhlabunzima on her corner.
UMCEBO

Chapter 164

She was seated on the bench outside the

institution waiting for John. She wasn't seated
alone but with her classmate.
"You should go and catch a bus. My boss is
coming to get me." Nobuhle said to the guy. He
travelled by bus.
"Isn't it tiring to work and study?"
"It's tiring but I need money."
It was her routine that everyday at the end of
her classes she would change into her
housekeeping uniform. John or Martin would
come and fetch her. They were keeping it as
professional as possible. It was going to raise
questions if she was always being fetched at
school and so, she chose to make it known that
after school - she was a maid. Which she wasn't
- she only worked on weekends for several
hours. But John was still giving her the same
amount he was giving her before.
She quickly got up as she heard the car hoot,
"that's my ride I have to go." She waved at the
guy and rushed to the car. She got into the back
of the car.
"Hey, love," she greeted him and put her bag on
her lap.
John drove off, "how was your day, honey?" He
yawned, he was very tired but his day hadn't
ended.
"It was amazing and yours"
"It was good. I am always seeing the same guy
seated next to you. What's going on?" He
decided he was going to ask today.
"He's my classmate and he sometimes waits
for my ride with me. You've seen us doing our
books too. We do assignments together. He's a
bright student."
He was looking at her through the mirror as she
narrated and she was as normal as she could
be. This made him believe he had nothing to
worry about, "oh, I was just asking. I would be
hurt if you find someone else in college and
leave me."
She laughed, "that would never happen." The
drive carried on with John, he was telling
Nobuhle about his hectic day.
"I will leave you home and go get some items at
the grocery store. Don't cook, I will come back
with dinner," John said to Nobuhle. He was
standing by the door of his bedroom and
Nobuhle was seated on the bed, taking off her
shoes. Martin wasn't at work. They spent most
of the nights in his bedroom. Nobuhle even had
some of her clothes in his wardrobe.
"Alright I will change and relax," she opened her
school bag after John had left. She proceeded
with doing some of the school work and
without finishing, she got up from the bed. She
packed the bag.
She stood before the wardrobe and undressed.
She was singing when the door was opened,
"you're back already!" She screamed when she
realised it wasn't John but it was his friend
Alfred. Nobuhle didn't like the guy, he was as
rude as the other friend who once spanked her.
They'd picked on her several times when John
was hosting them. He ended up hosting them
outside his house. They would meet at
restaurants. Nobuhle didn't understand why he
was friends with such people. They fought
about it some time back when she told him to
stop being friends with them. John refused and
told her they were useful in business. He didn't
listen to her even after she told him she didn't
feel safe around them. She really hated them.
"Well, well, so this is the reason he's been so
protective of you. He has even chased out of
his house because of you," Alfred closed the
door and his eyes were appraising Nobuhle's
naked body.
She was only in her black matching underwear.
She held her dress before her chest and walked
back slowly, "what do you want here? Didn't you
realise John is not home when you rang the
bell?"
He played with the key to the small gate of
John's premises. Her heart raced, she'd told
him many times that she didn't like that they
had keys to his house. They could enter
anytime but he didn't see it as anything wrong.
He also had keys to their gates. "Can you leave?
John is not here."
He smirked insanely and kept walking towards
her, "but you're here and I would like to have
what he's having."
Nobuhle wanted to scream but who was going
to help her? She looked around as she kept
going back but there was nothing she could use
to defend herself. What was she supposed to
do? Where was John?
*****
All the learners were busy focusing on writing
the notes on the chalkboard. Zinhloso raised
her head as someone entered through the
classroom door. It was her brother Mzomubi.
What was he doing in school?
Mzomubi greeted the learners and they sang
their greetings to him. He spoke with the
teacher.
"MaMnguni, pack your books, your brother is
here for you. You'll take notes from any
classmate closer to you."
Zinhloso stood up as the teacher had instructed
her. She followed her brother out, with her
classmates looking at her.
"What's happening now?"
They headed to the Mnguni family car, "I have
spoken to Mhlabunzima's parents. We have to
take Qophelo to grandma." He drove out of the
school premises.
"Why? What happened?"
"Qophelo is not safe. I got a call from an officer.
I don't even know who he is but he called my
workplace and tipped me that we should
remove the child. They'll come for her,"
Mzomubi drove to the Xulus.
Zinhloso's heart tensed, "they'll not get her.
They're crazy. How is he even going to know
they've taken his daughter?"
"I think they thought you're still communicating
with him."
She rubbed her eyes and focused outside the
window. It was sunny and the village - things
were carrying on normally. But her life had
changed drastically. She was living the life of
looking over her shoulder.
"Do you think grandma will agree?" She asked
without looking at him.
"I called her and she said we should come. I
didn't want to go to her without informing her,"
Mzomubi responded, much to Zinhloso's relief.
Zinhloso remained in the car and made it look
like Mzomubi was at the Xulus to take his niece.
Ngenzeni followed them with a bag but it was
inside the plastic. They understood that you'd
never know who's watching. They drove straight
to eNdabayakhe. Zinhloso's hatred for these
people was increasing by the day.
"What about Zodumo?" Zinhloso asked, this
question had been burning her.
Mzomubi shook his head, "they don't want her. I
asked the officer and he said they were told to
take your child. They believe he loves her most
because the two of you are still together."
"Mxm, fools! That's not true." The car was silent.
Qophelo didn't take long but she fell asleep.
They found gogo already waiting for them. She
allowed them inside the house.
"You did well by coming while your uncle is not
home. I went to my brother's wife right after you
called, mfana," granny looked at Mzomubi and
he nodded.
"Yes, gogo." He asked for clarity.
"I don't want to keep the child here and his
sister because I don't trust my son and
daughter. My son can tell his sister and they'll
tell the police she's here."
They all got frightened by gogo's realisation
because she was speaking the truth. MaNtuli
was very evil; she would sell out the child
without even feeling guilty.
"So, what should we do now?" Zinhloso asked,
her eyes were with her child who was on the
floor eating. She was very heartbroken by this
situation. If she had a good mother, she was
going to be the one to make plans of hiding her
granddaughter but she hated the child's guts for
no reason.
"My brother's wife has three young girls, her
granddaughters and it'll be best if we keep
MaXulu and Qophelo there. They both agreed to
help," granny cleared everything and she
brought strength and hope to the thankful
Zinhloso.
"We'll not travel by car and it'll only be me and
MaXulu. Zinhloso you'll go there when you
come to visit her. You'll always use the small
entrance at the back of my hut. The one that
was opened by goats," granny said and
Zinhloso understood. She was only grateful that
her daughter would be safe. She wanted to be
able to tell her what was going on but she was
just a child. She wasn't going to understand
anything.
"Don't worry skwiza I will take good care of her.
This will blow over soon," Ngenzeni said to
Zinhloso, trying to make her feel better before
they leave.
"Thank you," fresh tears came out her eyes as
they left. She could see that Qophelo thought
they were coming back to her mother. She
didn't cry.
She didn't understand why life was so unfair -
firstly, it was the love of her life who left her
and now, it was her daughter. Who was next?
UMCEBO

Chapter 165

***28/08/22 Unlocked bonus chapter***

Nobuhle moved back until her back hit the

wardrobe. "Can you please leave me alone!" She
screamed and tried to hit him with her hands
but Alfred held Nobuhle's hands. She cried out,
"leave me alone!"
But the pervert was grinning, "I won't let you go.
I want to experience what John loves so much
about black women."
"If you dare touch me I will kill you with both
hands!" Nobuhle tried to fight. She didn't want
to give up without trying but the man was
strong. He dragged her body from the wardrobe
to the bed.
She was heavy but he didn't even want to lift her
up. He loved the joy of hearing her screaming
and begging him for mercy.
"John!" Nobuhle cried out, tears were streaming
down her cheeks.
He pulled her by her hair and lifted her up. He
threw her on the bed and tightened his grip on
her leg. She was fighting to get her leg off his
grip as he was undoing his pants. At that
moment she was very scared. She'd never
thought such a thing would happen to her.
"John!" She kept screaming his name but he
didn't answer. Where was he?
Alfred laughed darkly, "he's not here but you'll
have me. I will serve you well!" He tore off her
panties.
John pushed the door, he heard Nobuhle
scream from downstairs.
And as if he was expecting him, Alfred quickly
pulled his gun from his shoulder gun holster. He
was a police officer by profession and he
owned a few businesses in the city.
"Don't you dare come close! You know that
you're breaking the law by dating her and if you
make a move I will blow her brains," Alfred
threatened John.
He was sweating and his knees kept
knocking,"aren't you also breaking the law by
what you're doing?"
"Who can do anything for that? Nobody! But I
can have her in prison for this illegal
relationship you have going on. You never learn,
John!" Alfred had veins popping up on his
forehead. The gun was still pointed at John and
his other hand holding Nobuhle.
"If you hate black people why are you trying to
rape her? How can you-"
"Shut up! You'll watch if you don't want her to go
to prison, watch! I will ensure she's hanged!" He
threatened and this threat rooted John into one
place.
John looked at Nobuhle and he saw life leaving
her body. There was no longer that fire she had
in her. When he heard her cry because Alfred
had invaded her without her consent, John's
mind shut down. He fainted on the spot, he
couldn't witness the love of his life being
treated like this. He couldn't witness her being
raped. His subconscious mind went back to the
time she told him she didn't feel safe around his
friends. But he didn't listen to her, he trusted
them as his friends that they would never do
that to him. Even if they would know the truth
about their relationship, they would cover up for
him but he thought wrong. They weren't his
friends but enemies.
The grin on his face didn't disappear. There was
not even a single guilt as he looked at Nobuhle
crying and shaking on the bed as he was done
having his way with her - without her consent.
"Now, I know why he loves your kind. I will come
back for more," he laughed as he was done
dressing up. He looked at John on the floor and
he kicked him. "Such a weak man. Tsk!" He
walked out of the crime scene like a boss. He
didn't feel any guilt and he was planning on
coming back whenever he felt like it.
****
It had been a week since Qophelo went away
and Zinhloso wasn't really coping without her
daughter. She was trying to be strong but she
also had painful breasts, reminding her there
was someone who was supposed to have the
milk, expressing the milk wasn't enough.
She went to visit her during the weekend and
Sunday, she left her sleeping to avoid having
her cry because she was leaving. It was good to
spend time with her and she was comforted
because her grandmother's brother was
welcoming of her and her child along with
Ngenzeni. Zinhloso asked Ngenzeni how the
situation was. She told her they were living
comfortably.
Monday night, they'd all gone to bed after dinner
and after watching TV. Zinhloso was sleeping
alone. Her cousin wasn't with her but with her in
-laws.
She was woken up by the commotion outside
and the sharp knock on the door.
"Zinhloso, it's the police, open!" They banged
the door and when she didn't open the door.
They kept kicking the door.
She grabbed her gown and headed to the door.
She screamed and rushed back as they
succeeded in kicking the door.
Two tall officers walked in. It was different
officers, not the ones that came to school for
her,, "are you Zinhloso? We're looking for
Zinhloso." The black one asked.
"Why are you looking for someone you don't
know?" She asked and that question was
awarded with a sharp single slap. She glared at
the officer.
The white officer pushed his partner aside,
"we're not here to play games with you. We
want your daughter!" He pushed her aside and
headed to the bedroom but he didn't find the
baby, "where's she? We went to her
grandparents and she was not there. Where's
she?" He walked slowly to her, in an intimidating
manner but Zinhloso remained standing behind
the couch.
"I don't know, you didn't find her in there, right?"
Zinhloso responded.
"She's your child and a mother always knows
where her child is!" The black one shouted
behind Zinhloso.
The yard was already surrounded and they were
searching every house for her daughter. "Is my
child a criminal? Why have you come here as if
you're searching for a criminal?" She also raised
her voice.
Aunt Lindo walked, "Zinhloso, calm down. Don't
raise your voice."
"Where's your daughter? I am asking for the last
time!" The white officer asked the question
slowly.
"She went to visit my relatives in the city of gold
and she'll only return when her father returns,"
she answered straightforwardly.
He laughed, "you kafiris think you're smart.
You'll bring that child back or we're coming for
you!"
"Come for me, mgodoyi uzobona amabele
enyoka!" Zinhloso said coldly.
"Zinhloso!" Aunt Lindo screamed, she didn't
want her niece to get into deeper trouble.
"Ukhuluma nami kanjalo?" (You're speaking to
me like that?) The white clearly understood
Isizulu as he understood his mother tongue.
Zinhloso chuckled, "yes, I am speaking to you. I
am facing you, right? Two black children died
and you did nothing but today, you're here for
sugarcane as if blood has been spilled. You
want my child? I didn't give birth to that child for
your government to torment. I would rather die
than give you my child!" She was panting as the
officer took counted steps towards her, "if you
dare touch me! Ngiyamfunga ubaba
emathuneni uzovuka ame ngezinyawo!"
The white officer didn't take her words seriously
but he circled his hands around her neck. He
strangled her. Aunt Lindo screamed for her
niece trying to get to her but the other officer
held her back.
Zinhloso tried to grab him but he was very
strong, "has your father woken up from the
grave?" He asked in a whisper.
Outside, the sky was clear and there was no
pregnant cloud. There were stars shining and
surprisingly, lightning bolts struck. There and
then, the weather changed and the sky got dark.
The thunder peal shut everyone's ears in the
yard. The police officer in the house quickly let
go of Zinhloso's neck. Zinhloso's body fell on
the ground.
He got frightened and pushed his partner out of
the house. "Retreat!" He growled and everyone
followed him out without question. It had
started raining heavily within a blink of an eye.
They rushed out of the yard.
Zinhloso woke up from the floor. Aunty Lindo
kept shaking her. She massaged her neck,
"thank you, aunty," she accepted the glass of
water Lindo was giving her.
"Zinhloso, you have to calm down when dealing
with these people. They're cruel. You have a
child, think of your child because already, her
father is not here." Aunt Lindo advised.
Comfort walked inside the house, "Sisi, can you
see the situation you've put us in by bringing
Zinhloso here. We have police abusing us here -
"
"Yeyiwena, shona emzini wakho. If you don't
want any police abusing you, you have your in-
laws. Nobody will abuse you there.
Ungangidakelwa mina! Tsk!" She helped
Zinhloso up and Comfort walked out angry. "Go
to sleep. They won't do anything to you." She
comforted her and she pulled the broken door.
She ran to her house, hoping and praying they
would be safe - Zinhloso and the child.
UMCEBO

Chapter 166

***Chapter sponsored by Jessica

Mapaletsebe***

Thirty minutes passed and she was still curled

up in bed, crying. She was blaming herself, she
could have done more, fight for herself and
scream. Why did she give up so quickly? She
cried loudly as she couldn't get the pictures of
him on top of her. He violated her rights, took
away her voice. What did she do to deserve this?
"John!" She screamed his name, still curled up
on the bed. She raised her voice as there were
also thunder roars outside.
She forced her painful body up and she sat on
her butts. Her hand was shaking as she wiped
her thigh, wiping his semen that he left on her
thigh.
Alfred didn't leave his seed inside her as he
didn't want any mistakes. A child to be
conceived with a black woman.
She wore her dress. She could still see him on
the floor. She was bruised, physically, spiritually
and emotionally.
She knelt before him and shook him but he
didn't wake up. She dragged her body to the
bathroom and she returned with water. She
poured the water on his face and he regained
consciousness.
He teared up when he made sense of his
surroundings and when his eyes locked with
Nobuhle's emotionless face.
"Why are you crying?" She asked, quietly. She
was broken and hurt, mostly because she'd told
him about his friends.
He was scared but he got the courage to hold
her hands as she was still kneeling before him,
"I am really sorry, this is all my fault and I don't
even know what to do. Please, forgive me. I
should have protected you."
"You trusted your friends and thought I was
lying. Why?" She felt numb as tears didn't stop
coming out of her eyes. "Did you hear what he
said? He said he'll come back. This mean I will
be his slave."
John couldn't stop crying, he had no
justification for his actions, choosing not to
listen to Nobuhle. Alfred would have not
entered his house if he had taken away his keys
from them. But he didn't listen. His actions have
put them here.
"I need to take you to the Doctor!" He quickly
got back into his senses.
Nobuhle moved back, "no, I am not going there.
I will shower and sleep."
John lifted Nobuhle up without her permission
and he rushed out with her. She was screaming
at him, "Why are you doing this without my
permission? You're doing what your friend did
to me?"
"I am doing this for your own good." He knew
what he was doing was wrong but he knew
Alfred had multiple partners. The least he could
do after failing to protect her - was to protect
her from any sexual illnesses. He drove away
with her in the passenger seat.
"I am really sorry for doing this but it's for your
health and safety. It's the least I could do," John
said, glancing at Nobuhle. She was hiding her
face in her hands, still crying. "I am a failure.
Please forgive me."
He was worried about her health. How was she
going to survive this? How was she going to
heal? Was she going to cope? He knew her life
was never going to be the same again and that
was going to be his fault. He was going through
different emotions. His mind was buzzing.
He took her to the private hospital. He wanted
her to get the best care. He wanted her to get
holistic healing. They were going to provide
everything for her.
At the hospital, he went through all the process
with her. He was doing all the talking. Nobuhle
was quiet. She was staring at one place the
entire time until she was admitted.
They admitted her to the hospital after doing an
evaluation because she was traumatized.
"I have to leave your place. I can't let him come
back and have his way with me." She looked at
him with sad eyes. She was laying on her back
on the hospital bed.
"He'll never come back. I will end him." He said,
coldly. He clenched his jaws. He wasn't joking -
he'd taken Alfred as his friend and he decided to
do this? Such a cruel thing!
"What do you mean?"
"I want him to meet his maker."
Nobuhle forced herself up, "you can't do that.
He's a police officer. You'll be arrested. Please,
don't do that."
"There's no other way to stop him. He'll search
for you and find you. It'd be best if he didn't
exist. We don't need men like him in this world,"
his eyes glistened with tears and he freed them.
"I should have listened to you. I am really sorry."
She couldn't hold back her own, "you trusted
them as your brothers I understand but please,
stop what you're thinking of doing. It'll not be
good."
He shook his head, "nobody knows what
happened and if I do this I won't be a suspect."
"If you do this, it'll be the end of our relationship.
You can't take a life!" She threatened him.
He stood on his feet, "you don't mean that." Why
couldn't she see a bigger picture? Alfred wasn't
going to stop and this was the only way he
could protect her.
"I am serious."
"Okay, our relationship can end but I will sleep
better at night knowing there's no man who's
making you his sex slave," he walked out of the
private room. He didn't stop even when Nobuhle
was screaming his name.
John drove straight to his place. He didn't need
to waste time. He had to act tonight. It was still
raining and there was thunder. This was a sign -
this was a perfect night.
****
It was the weekend of the week that the police
attacked them at night. They didn't return after
that night. She was expecting that they were
going to come back for her but they didn't come
back.
When Mhlabunzima left, he left his car with
Robert and from Robert, Zinhloso drove the car
to Robert's uncle.
The car had been there until she decided she
needed it. It was difficult to do the vegetables'
business without a car. She took the car to a
dealership. She gave a brief description of how
she wanted them to change the car. She took
money from Mhlabunzima's safe and paid the
deposit. When she opened the safe with the
coordinate she remembered. She was shocked
by how much money Mhlabunzima had. She
was wondering why he wasn't banking money.
If his enemies could burn his house. Wasn't his
money going to burn? Or was the safe going to
protect it? She felt stupid with her 5litre tin
money. She'd done nothing compared to him.
She loved him more - he had so much money
but he was still the kind of person he was. He
could respect another person and he wasn't full
of pride. He didn't look down upon other people.
She didn't want any other man but him.
The car had been with the dealership for a week.
Saturday, Zinhloso took the bus to Empangeni
station and she walked to the dealership once
she got off the bus.
"Sisi, you're back for the car," the white owner
greeted Zinhloso.
She smiled shortly, "yes, I am back. Did you do
everything as I asked?"
He didn't say anything but he led her to the car.
They removed the black sail and what stared at
her - it was a different vehicle. It was no longer
white but it was Navy blue with tinted windows
and a navy blue canopy. The car previously
didn't have a canopy. It looked like a different
car and had a new number plate.
"We contacted John as you requested and he
posted the new papers. This car will be
presented as a brand new vehicle. If the
authorities check the registration it'll appear as
a new car that John bought as an investment
for your partner's business," the man gave
Zinhloso the envelope of documents.
She took the documents, opened them and
pretended to be reading through it but she didn't
understand anything that was written there.
What did she know about cars? She kept
nodding as she pretended to be reading, "I am
very impressed and thank you so much." She
closed the envelope and opened the bag. She
handed the rest of the money to him. He
counted the money and thanked her. They
shook hands and he gave her the keys.
She checked if everything was still there -
Mhlabunzima once told her about dealerships.
That they stole some parts of the car. She drove
out.
"Ngiyabonga, bo-Mnguni, Gumede. I will work on
this business that my child's father left to me.
Please, may you bless it. May everything
double." She spoke as she drove straight to the
village after buying a few items for her child and
Esther.
She stopped the car on the roadside and
opened Mhlabunzima's book of people who
owed him money. There were fifteen people on
the list.
"Kukhona ngisho iziqumama lana. Tsk! How
can a debt mount to R20?" She spoke out loud
and clicked her tongue. She drove to the first
person. The person who was closer from where
she was, it was a family man, a polygamous
man.
"He told me he gave credit only to people who
are doing business but Dube is doing no
business. His business is his countless wives,"
she couldn't stop talking alone. She was
annoyed by this list. This meant he didn't make
efforts to bring back the money. He had too
much money. He didn't care about these debts
but he was angry.
She could see people staring at the car on the
road and she was hoping nobody was going to
find out the fraud she did with this car. She
didn't tell anyone, not even his parents. She only
took the car from Robert. She didn't even tell
her brother.
Zinhloso parked the car by the gate and she got
off. She inhaled fresh air before proceeding
forward.
She greeted the first wife, "siyaphila mama
ninjani?" Zinhloso smiled at the old woman.
Their family yard was bigger and busy. She
could see the husband under the tree but she
knew protocol.
"We're fine my child and how can we help?"
"I am here to see ubaba."
She nodded and pointed at him, "you can go to
him over there!"
Zinhloso thanked the old lady and she went to
her husband. She sat on the chair where his
other wife was seated.
"It's you who's driving such a car?" He pointed
at the car. "I was surprised."
"Yes, it's me." She didn't explain much, "no,
there's nothing much but I have come here to
collect money on behalf of Mhlabunzima."
His face changed from friendly to serious and
he rubbed his beard, "ey, mntanami, I have
explained to Mhlabunzima that the situation is
bad at the moment."
"But baba, this debt is a debt of two months
back. How is his business going to go forward
if you don't pay him back?"
He glanced at her and then forward,
"Mhlabunzima understood why I am not paying
the money back and I will talk to him. I took the
vegetables from him." He raised his voice.
But Zinhloso remianed calm, "baba, I am not
Mhlabunzima I don't understand and I will need
the money today. He's not here, he left behind
his parents, his two children and an old woman
he's taking care of. We need this money to keep
things going."
"I will pay it once I have it."
"I hope you won't need anything from his
business going forward. Not from the gardens
and not from his shop because if you're doing
things like this. You won't get help even when
you're desparate,
"I am handling his business until he comes back.
I have seen from his books that he's giving you
credit on top of credit. That was him
understanding. I seriously, won't understand
because you're killing his business,
"His children should starve while your children
continue to eat? I won't understand that. Thank
you."
The old man raised his hand, "wait, I will check
under my mattress if I don't have any cents." He
said and stood up after Zinhloso sat down.
She waited for over ten minutes and he returned
with money. Zinhloso opened the book and he
placed the money on the book. "Thank you so
much. You don't owe us, anymore," she wrote
him off after counting the money.
"Ngiyathemba ayixabene."
She smiled, "lutho mntomdala." She said
goodbye and left his yards.
Inside the car, she put the money safely inside
the bag and she proceeded - onto the next
person on the list.
By the time she was done, it was getting dark
outside. She drove the car through the Xulu
gates and she rested her head on the steering
wheel.
She found Xulu seated on the bench outside the
kitchen and his wife on the straw mat. They
were eating nuts. She sat with Esther and
greeted.
"Didn't you visit Qophelo today?" Xulu asked and
lifted the tea mug.
"No, baba, I had a task of collecting every cent
from people who owe her father but I am going
to her now. He's been giving people vegetables
on credit and some debts are older than two
months," she said and the parents were
surprised.
Xulu shook his head, "he can be too generous
sometimes. How did it go?"
"I didn't leave until they paid and they all paid."
She gave Esther the allowance she was
supposed to give her. "This is yours, mama for
your groceries."
She took the money, "thank you, my child but if
it's not going well don't be pressured to give us
money."
"Yes, don't be pressured and you need money
for the child, tell us. We're not struggling," Xulu
supported his wife.
She looked down, "you're like my parents I will
take care of you and you'll spend your money on
sweets," she said and they laughed. They
thanked her, "that's his car I have changed it…"
She explained what happened and what she did.
Xulu was impressed by her thinking, "I was just
about to ask you about the car. You've done a
great thing. I can tell my son's business is in
good hands."
"Yes, that's your child's legacy and Zodumo,
make it work until he comes back," Esther
pulled her into her wing and Zinhloso giggled.
"You should drive before it's very late. Do call
when you get home."
Zinhloso left the plastic bags and she said
goodbye. She was driving to her daughter. She
was grateful that she had a fruitful day.
UMCEBO
Chapter 167

When John parked his car under the tree, it was

still raining cats and dogs. One good thing
about this visit was - the neighborhood Alfred
lived in wasn't as secured as his neighbourhood.
There wasn't any surveillance or even a street
security guard. He was walking freely on the
road but his face was hidden with a black
balaclava. He was wearing black clothing, pants,
a jacket, shoes and gloves. He had parked his
car at a distance from Alfred's home and he
was hoping he was alone tonight. He lived alone
but sometimes his fianceé visited him or his
other girlfriends.
He unlocked the small gate with his key and he
walked to the back entrance. He lived in a cosy
house. It wasn't as big as his house. He was a
man of simplicity and a stingy spender.
John could hear what sounded like music
coming from his bedroom. Thunder was still
roaring outside and the lighting was scary. He
didn't like such weather but today, he loved it.
He opened the door. Alfred was seated on the
bed with a bottle of whiskey in his hand. His
eyes were closed and his hand was up as he
sang along with the music. He couldn't realise
he was no longer alone. John looked around
and he grinned as he saw Alfred's gun on the
small coffee table that was by the bedroom's
lounge area. There was also booze on top of
the table. This was just perfect! He thought he
was going to kill him using a pocket knife
because his gun was going to sell him out.
Wasn't it more brilliant that he was going to kill
him with his own weapon?
"John!" He opened his eyes to John standing at
the foot of his bed. He'd taken the balaclava off
his face. He wanted him to see him clearly. He
switched off the radio using the remote. There
were still loud sounds of rain.
"Not expecting me, right?" John spoke loudly,
"do you have any last words before you kill
yourself?"
He was really scared, he was no longer seeing
the softness he always knew he had. It was all
gone in his eyes and all he was seeing was fire.
"I am really sorry. It will never happen again. I
was tempted. I beg for mercy." If it was any day
he wouldn't be scared he would believe John
wouldn't kill him but it was this day. His face
meant business and there were thunderstorms
outside. Who was going to hear the loud bang
of the gunshot?
John moved to his side, "raise your hands!" He
screamed and Alfred quickly raised his hands.
He liked the power he had - it was the same
power Alfred possessed when he was pointing
a gun at him. He was pointing a gun at him
because he wanted to rape his girlfriend.
"I treated you like my brother and this is how
you treat me by raping the woman I love?"
John's eyes watered. He never thought this
friendship would come to this.
Alfred tried to beg by reminding him of their
good old times as friends. He begged for mercy
for the sake of their friendship. He screamed as
the gun's mouth was cold against his glands.
He was shaking, he wasn't even thinking of any
moves to defend himself. He never thought
John would do this and he had planned that he
was going to go back to his house after two
days. He thought John would be really scared
because he was a police officer.
"Say hello to the devil!" He said and pulled the
trigger. The two gunshots were accompanied
by a thunder clap. No neighbour realised the
gunshot. John took Alfred's hand and he placed
the gun on his hand. He took one look at him,
his mouth was hanging open and his eyes were
wide open. He didn't spend another minute
looking at him but he walked out the bedroom,
walked out of the house and straight to his car.
He didn't feel any pain for killing him because
he knew Alfred meant it when he said he was
going to come back. If he was able to rape her,
he was going to be able to come back with no
shame and there was nothing that was going to
stop him either than death.
He got to his house inside the empty garage, he
undressed his clothes, put everything on the tin,
even his underwear and he poured petrol on the
wet clothes. He set the clothes on fire. He
walked out naked once the fire was out.
In his bathroom, he stood under the hot shower
and repeatedly hit the wall. Why has he been so
stupid? How was he going to move on from this?
Forgive himself?
Nobuhle had been in the hospital for two days
and two nights. She was still a mess and John
hadn't told her that he went ahead with killing
Alfred. She wasn't doing well and it was
heartbreaking to see her like that. He pushed
the door to her room, he had flowers and food
for her.
She was seated on the bed reading a
newspaper. She looked better and clean.
"Good morning, honey." He placed the flowers
and the food on the side table.
Nobuhle glared at him and stuffed the
newspaper on his chest, "you did this, right?
After I have told you not to do it!"
He read the paper - the front page was about
the news of Alfred's death. They reported it
looked like suicide but they were still
investigating.
"I did."
"Why?" She screamed.
"To protect you."
"Didn't you fail the first time?" She didn't stop
screaming and he looked down in shame. "I
didn't want anyone dying in my name," she
lowered her voice.
John sat down, "how do you feel? Don't you feel
relieved knowing he'll never come back again?
Knowing you'll never see his face again?"
She shut her eyes, "I couldn't sleep the past two
nights because I was scared he was going to
come back. He was going to know I am here
and come here."
He held her hand, "but now, you don't have to
worry about that. He'll never come back no
matter what!"
She looked at him, "and what about your other
friends?"
"I have changed the lockers." He tried calling his
friends but they were just all busy and to make
things quick, he changed all locks. He didn't just
change locks but he changed the look of his
bedroom in two days. He changed the bed and
everything that was going to make her
remember that night by looking at the room. He
didn't know if there was still a chance for their
relationship after killing Alfred but he still went
ahead and changed things in his room. He hired
professionals. They finished in two days.
"I just didn't want you to have blood on your
hands."
"I was protecting you. I am sorry for doing what
you said I shouldn't do." He didn't want to be
insensitive and ask about their relationship.
This wasn't the time.
She sighed. She wasn't sure how she truly felt
about this but she knew she was no longer
scared that he was going to physically come
back. But that night was still haunting her,
"they'll discharge me tomorrow morning. Did
you bring something to read for me?"
He opened the bag and gave her the book she
had been reading, "I spoke to your doctor and I
asked her for therapists' recommendation.
Would you wish to speak to a professional to
help you with healing?" He didn't want to hire a
therapist without getting her consent.
She quickly nodded, "yes, I want to be better. I
don't want to go back home like this."
"It won't take a few months to heal."
"But I will go home better, right?"
He tried to smile to give her hope, "yes, you'll go
home better." He got up and gave her food. He
sat back down and looked at her as she tried to
force the food into her mouth.
She looked at him with sorry eyes, "do you still
want me even after what happened?" She asked
with teardrops, "you were so quick to say it
doesn't matter if our relationship ends when I
threatened you." She'd been hurt by the
realisation that no man would want her. Not
even John.
"What? I love you and what happened is not
your fault but it's my carelessness. I am the one
who's supposed to be asking you that
question," John quickly said, how could she
think like this?
"I know men-"
"No, don't think like that. You didn't cheat. Why
are you asking me such a question as if you
cheated? I still love you, this doesn't change
how I feel about you. And don't look down upon
yourself, you're still the most beautiful woman
in my life," he held her hand tightly assuring her
and he saw a small smile that quickly
disappeared. He was going to stay by her side
and he was going to be patient until she had
healed. He needed to show his love to her now
the most.
****
After delivering MaNkomo's groceries and her
grandson's new school shoes. Zinhloso drove
to the Mnguni home. She was really sad that
her daughter's 1st birthday was nearing and
Mhlabunzima wasn't home. He had a lot of big
ideas for her first birthday. He wasn't really
someone who was into birthday celebrations.
He didn't even want a gift for his birthday but he
was surprisingly looking forward to Qophelo's
first birthday. She wondered how he was doing?
Was he alright? Was he adjusting? She missed
him badly and some nights she would cry
herself to sleep.
Zinhloso parked the car closer to the pharmacy
and she stepped out. She found Ziwinile inside,
it looked like she was looking for something.
She greeted and Ziwinile only nodded after
glancing at her, "where's Lily?"
"She went to the toilet," she got what she
wanted and looked back at Zinhloso. She shook
her head, "so, you didn't come to my
negotiations because you were jealous of my
happiness and look what happened to you.
Ihambile indoda. He left you alone and no
money to look after yourself and your child. Are
you here to tell Lily to give you the share of the
pharmacy without mom knowing?"
She laughed, "yazi uyahlanya wena." Zinhloso
only said and didn't mind her.
"We don't have any help-"
She looked over at Lily, "I am here to see you.
It's about Zodumo. It's important." She said to
Lily, completely ignoring Ziwinile.
Lily looked at Ziwinile, "can you give us space?"
She asked and Ziwinile walked out. She stood
over the counter, "what's happening? How's
Qophelo? Zodumo has been asking about her.
All this, that's happening, it's not good for the
children."
"Yes, it's not but there's nothing we can do. You
should tell her, her sister is fine. I don't know
when she'll see her," she placed the money
wrapped with a tissue paper on the counter,
"that's her monthly maintenance, her father said
I should always give her so that you won't
struggle, looking after her and the family."
Lily smiled, she'd been really stressed about
how she was going to manage her money since
Mhlabunzima was no longer around. She was
scared to ask Xulu or his mother for help. She
wasn't used to his mom. "Thank you so much."
She checked out the money, "it's extra
compared to what he gives me. Didn't he tell
you how much he gives her?"
"Yes, he told me but I thought you should start
preparing. It's time for her to go to school next
year. She'll be 9 years old next year. Don't delay
her." Zinhloso said.
She chuckled, "won't it be awkward to attend
school with your stepchild?"
Zinhloso laughed, "I don't care, just go to the
school and ask for enrollment information. I
should go."
"Bye, thanks." She looked at her as she walked
away. She was really surprised that she gave
her money.
UMCEBO

Chapter 168

November - it'd been two months since the

incident and Nobuhle had been trying her
hardest to pick up the pieces. John did as he
promised, he hired a therapist for her. She
attended the first few sessions and stopped.
She felt it was too much and she didn't want to
revisit that time but John convinced her to
continue - he told her not to ignore what
happened but confront it. She resumed her
sessions. John had been really supportive. She
didn't stop going to school and she realised she
felt safe knowing that his friend was dead. She
was able to sleep at night without fear.
"I feel like you're not okay," Nobuhle commented
and put the food on the table. She returned
from school and cooked, giving Martin a break.
He chuckled and didn't look at her "I am fine," he
lifted the plate and dished the food.
"I went to your bedroom before I started
cooking," she said casually, since the incident
she'd been sleeping in the Backhouse. John
didn't ask her anything but she let her be, do
whatever was comfortable with her. When she
first entered the room she realised it'd been
changed and being in the room didn't bring that
picture. She didn't know if he did it deliberately
or if he was going to change the look of the
bedroom.
John quickly looked at her, "what were you
doing there?"
"Am I not allowed there anymore?"
"That's not what I said."
Nobuhle had been busy with exams and so, she
didn't do any chores. She would come back
from school, eat and focus on studying for the
exams. "Why are you drinking so much? What's
wrong? Your room was messy and I don't even
know how many bottles were there." She raised
the issue but John remained quiet, "I am talking
to you, John."
"It's nothing."
"If there's something eating you up, why are you
making booze, your girlfriend? Why don't you
talk to me? I thought that's how we do things,"
She was really calm as she spoke to him but
she was really mad when she found his room in
that state. He'd been having alcohol intake so
badly?
John didn't comment on what Nobuhle was
saying. He focused on the food.
Nobuhle got up as the telephone rang. John
wasn't moving.
"Nobuhle speaking, hello?" She sat on the sofa
and accepted the call.
She coughed on the line, "yey, I have the flu.
How are you, lapho?"
"Zinhloso, I am fine and how are you?"
"I am well, I thought I should call and check up
on you. How are things there? I haven't spoken
to you in a while," Zinhloso yawned on the line.
Nobuhle chuckled, "you're a business woman
now and you're always busy. You're yawning
non stop."
She laughed, "I have a big load on my shoulders.
I am always tired and there's a baby on the
side."
"Is she back with you?"
"Yes, she came back two weeks back. I am very
happy that she's back. I feel much better,"
Zinhloso shared.
"Yoh, that's good. It's not nice to live away from
your child and I can't even imagine how it was
for you. The circumstances weren't great,"
Nobuhle commented.
"Yes, I am really grateful for the support her
father's family had shown me. His sister, going
there just to look after her. That's what gave me
sleep at night."
"They're good people. Others, they weren't going
to care."
"Uyazi! How are you holding up? And the exams?
Phela ubhalela abelungu abakhulu manje!"
She loosened up as she laughed, "it's not easy
but I am holding it down. I am not fine, Zinhloso
but we'll talk about it when I get home. I can't
talk about it over the phone."
"When are you coming back? After exams I am
coming to Durban. I want to buy stock," she
asked.
"Stock in Durban? Is Mhlabunzima back?"
Nobuhle asked and there was silence from
Zinhloso's end, "Zinhloso? I asked you a
question."
"No, he's not back." She responded sadly.
"How are you holding up?"
"I am hanging in there, Nobuhle. It's been two
months. He said a month."
"Please, be hopeful."
"I will let you know when I am coming to
Durban."
"Alright, goodnight." She put the phone down
and when she returned to the table John was no
longer there. She sighed and cleaned up the
table. She headed at the back without running
after him. She asked him what was wrong and
he wasn't willing to speak out. He decided not
to practice what he was always preaching.
****
Dorothy Xulu found her husband Kusakusa,
seated outside his house having a jug of
amahewu. He was back from work. She sat
next to him on the bench.
"Where were you? And where are the kids?"
Kusakusa asked. "I came back and found my
home empty."
"I went to the shop to buy some steel wool. The
children are home, your mother called and
asked for them. They'll sleep there, Zodumo and
Qophelo are also home."
"Oh, that's good. We have the whole yard to
ourselves," he smiled at her and the wife
giggled.
"Baba, when I was at the shop. I saw Zinhloso
driving a van in. It's different from your brother's
van. Did she buy another van using your
brother's money?"
"I don't know."
"Why is she in charge of your brother's
businesses? She's not married to him but she's
a girlfriend."
He looked at her, "what do you mean she's in
charge?"
She clapped once, "she's handling all your
brother's businesses. She's even gained weight.
It's a happy time for her."
"Why did dad do that?"
"That's what I am asking myself because she's
just a girlfriend and what if she gets tired of
waiting and finds another man?" She raised her
shoulders, "she'll spend all of Mhlabunzima's
hard earned money with another man. Why
didn't Baba put Ngenzeni in charge? Or me,
because Mhlabunzima is my brother-in-law."
He nodded, "I will go home and ask him, make
him aware how dangerous this is. I think he
didn't think it through." He stood up and smiled
at her, "start cooking, we should eat early today.
I have plans for us tonight."
She laughed, "okay, I will do that."
Kusakusa rushed home. He didn't understand
why his father had done such a thing. Zinhloso
was still like an outsider until his brother had
paid something for her and that wasn't done yet.
He found his father surrounded by children and
he asked to speak to him in private. They went
to his house.
"What brings you home? You hardly come now
since you're working."
He chortled, "no, it's not that. It's the end of the
year now and so, it gets very busy at work. I am
always tired."
"I am glad your younger brother won't leave
home because once you boys have wives you
forget about us," he commented and they
laughed.
"That's not true but I am actually here to talk
about him. I saw Zinhloso handling things in his
shop, why?"
"What do you mean, why?"
"Why is she the one in charge? Baba, there's
Ngenzeni and my wife, people who are fully
family. We don't know when Mhlabunzima will
be back," he laid his argument before his father,
"Zinhloso is a young woman. What if she gets
tired of waiting for him and find a boyfriend?
She'll spend my brother's money with another
man." He widened his eyes at him.
"You're worried about something that shouldn't
concern you."
"Why? Mhlabunzima is my brother."
"It was his choice to have the mother of his
child take care of his businesses and just in a
few weeks we're going to pay ilobolo for her.
What's wrong if she's handling the business?"
Xulu raised his voice and he was annoyed
because this wasn't just out of concern for the
business but it was greed. He was even
suggesting his wife. What did his wife know
about running a business?
"But now, she's not!"
"Uhlushwa yini kangaka ngempahla kamfowenu?
You have your things Kusakusa. This was his
choice, respect it!" He shouted at him.
Kusakusa stood up, "okay, when what I am
talking about happens, don't say I didn't warn."
He walked out of the house. He searched for
his mother.
UMCEBO

Chapter 169

***Chapter sponsored byJessica

Mapaletsebe***

Ntokozo walked out and helped her transport

the stock she bought for the shop. She returned
from school and went to buy what was needed.
"Sell, I will do the packing," she said as there
were customers. They were done with
transportation. "Yazi, Ntokozo I have been
thinking."
"About?"
"We're heading to December now and there are
a lot of people who'll be doing ceremonies.
Mostly, pre-wedding ceremonies," she gathered
all the plastic bags on the floor, "they'll need
blankets and everything that's needed for the
ceremonies."
"So, are you thinking of selling blankets now?"
She laughed, "yes, it's cheaper in Durban. I can
drive there and buy everything. We will make
more money. I can even give you some bonus."
Ntokozo laughed, "I think I like you more as a
boss."
"Don't say that!" She giggled, "we had a difficult
year and now, since he's not here. We need
something good to look forward to. Try to be
happy this December."
"Yes, you're right."
Ziwinile walked inside the shop. She looked at
Zinhloso behind the counter. What was she
doing here? Was that really her? She had gained
so much weight. She couldn't deny it - she
looked surprisingly amazing. She greeted
Ntokozo and gave him money, "Can I have
bread and Cocacola?" She requested. Her eyes
met with her sister's eyes and Zinhloso greeted
her. "I am fine and how are you? Your child is
back? I heard she went away."
"I am fine, yes, she's back."
"There's no danger now for her?"
"No!" She took the car keys and the empty bags
of money, "bye." She headed to the office. She
knew she wasn't asking because she cared, she
was asking because she wanted to pass
everything to her mother.
Ziwinile went back home and all she was
thinking about - was Zinhloso.
"How's the shop doing without Mhlabunzima?"
Mrs Mnguni asked Ziwinile as she walked
inside the kitchen, "I didn't even think you'd find
bread."
She placed the bread and Cocacola on top of
the table, "it's doing well mama and you won't
believe who's managing the shop now?" Ziwinile
faced her mother.
"Who?"
"It's Zinhloso, she was there busy working with
Ntokozo. There's a new car and she has even
gained weight," Ziwinile informed her mother
about the latest happenings.
Mrs Mnguni frowned, "you're lying. Why would
Xulu allow Zinhloso to manage his son's
business? She's not married."
She clapped once, "I don't know but Zinhloso is
there acting like a madam."
She attempted to take off her doek and she
stopped, this was ticking her off. Zinhloso was
working for that family, now? Why was she not
having a problem with this? She didn't want to
work at home but she didn't have a problem
working for the Xulu family? How did they even
agree?
"She gave this boy love potion. There's no boy in
this village who works with his girlfriend and
even his family allows her to manage their son's
business. She's not even a wife but a girlfriend
with a baby! That's nonsense and they're
forgetting this girl is my child," Mrs Mnguni was
very angry. This meant she was making
fortunes for them and not her but she was the
one who gave birth to her. "I am going there
now!"
She walked out without hearing what Ziwinile
wanted say. She was livid and she wasn't going
to calm down before she confronted Zinhloso.
And if she wasn't satisfied she was going to
talk to Xulu.
She got to the shop at the right time. Zinhloso
was opening the car.
"I am here for you, we-ngane!"
She stopped stepping inside the car and looked
back at her mother. What was she doing here?
"Mah? How are you?"
"How am I? Why are you asking as if you care?"
She asked and didn't get a response from
Zinhloso, "do you think it was fun when your
father was beating me black and blue because
of you?"
"I don't understand your question."
"You'll be beaten up because you've surely given
Xulu's son love potion. I won't be there to fight
for you," Mrs Mnguni shouted and her shouting
left Zinhloso more confused. "You told your
aunt I am abusing you but now, you're slaving
for the Xulu family. You're foolish, Zinhloso."
Zinhloso looked at her mother as she walked
out of the shop premises. Did she really leave
her house to say all those things she said to her?
What was wrong with her? She shook her head
and stepped inside the car. She drove to the
Xulu family home for her daughter.

Xulu was busy fixing the fence of

Mhlabunzima's garden in the yard. His mother
worked on the garden as Mhlabunzima wasn't
home. Zinhloso was next to him, holding her
knee and her head looking down.
"Are you leaving now?" Xulu asked.
"Yebo, baba, I am leaving. I want to come back
early."
He glanced at her, "aren't you scared of driving
to Durban alone?"
"No, I have been there more than once with
Qophelo's father and I have my driver's licence
now," Zinhloso responded.
He nodded, "is your sister going to buy things
with you?"
"Yes, I will start by taking her."
He wiped his hands on his pants, "let me see
your school report then. I said I want to see it
and not hear from you that you passed
Standard 4." He took the report from the smiling
Zinhloso. He read through it and was impressed,
"you've done very well. I will ask Qophelo's
grandmother to cook home grown chicken for
you when you come back."
She laughed happily as she took the report,
"thank you, baba." She headed to the car, highly
emotional as she remembered - her father used
to do that when they passed. He would tell their
mother to cook their favourite dishes. It was
always a happy day. It was comforting to have
Xulu think of doing such a thing for her. Who
else would have thought of it? Her aunt gave
her money and she was happy. She was really
going to do her final year in primary school next
year. She was happy she persevered and when
she was no longer in school, Mhlabunzima
came. He acted as her knight in shining armour.

"Do you really promise me that you'll go for

therapy too? What happened affected you too
and I can see that you're not okay," Nobuhle
asked John. She was seated on his bed with
him. Zinhloso was downstairs enjoying herself -
eating and eating.
Zinhloso arrived in the morning, she took
Nobuhle and they went shopping for everything
that she was going to sell. Their shopping took
almost the whole day. They returned to take
Nobuhle's luggage and say goodbye to John.
Nobuhle didn't give up on John. She tried to
have him speak up until she told her that he
wasn't at rest about what happened. He felt like
a failure and he felt like death was too easy for
Alfred. She didn't want him to feel that way.
He'd done enough by ending Alfred; she was
living her life without looking over her shoulder.
He held her hands and kissed both of them,
"yes, I will do that. I will really miss you. I feel
like you're leaving early this year." He sulked.
She smiled and laid her head on his shoulder.
John packed her into his arms, lovingly, "it's the
ritual that's happening during the weekend
that's making me leave early."
"Oh, yes, I understand." He wanted to badly kiss
her but he was scared. He smiled as Nobuhle
took the initiative and kissed him. The kiss was
brief and sweet.
"I love you." He kissed her forehead.
"I love you too."
They headed downstairs. They found Zinhloso
indulging in the ice cream.
John shook hands with her after greeting, "I am
very happy for young Xulu. He found a woman
who is business minded like him."
She smiled dearly, "thank you so much and for
all the support you've given us. May you be
blessed and have lots and lots of children and
have millions in your bank account," she said
with a pure smile.
Nobuhle and John laughed, "he's going to have
those lots of children with who?"
"With you of course!"
John was happy and amused but Nobuhle
wasn't amused, "are you going to give
Mhlabunzima his nine children?" They cracked
as her face changed.
"I will give him another child once I am done
with school."
John widened his eyes, "after six years?"
"Yes!" She just looked at them as they laughed
at her, looking at her as if she was crazy. "Let's
go, please."
They said goodbye to John and he saw them
out. Nobuhle was very happy that she was
going back home.
UMCEBO

Chapter 170

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

Qophelo wasn't home with her but she was

sleeping at her grandparents' house. Zinhloso
had stopped breastfeeding her and she gave
her formula. Nobuhle advised her to give her
formula if she was taking her off breastmilk.
"How are your breasts now?" Nobuhle asked
and joined Zinhloso in bed. She was at the high
Mnguni homestead, visiting. Sbusiso was with
his paternal family. It'd been three days since
she returned and they had been busy preparing
for their father's ritual and ending of the
mourning period. Zinhloso was also part of the
preparations. She went home every morning to
do whatever was needed, drive whoever was
supposed to be driven because their brother
was still working.
"They're no longer painful like they were in the
beginning. I felt like I was being punished for
having sex," Zinhloso said and closed the
invoice book she was going through.
"That's a good thing and it's better because
Qophelo doesn't have a problem with formula."
They sat on their butts and faced each other,
"yes, I am really glad that the mourning period
will end. It's been a hectic year."
"Yes."
"What's eating you up, sis?" Zinhloso held
Nobuhle's hands as she cried. She wasn't
expecting such a reaction from her. They
seemed well with John. What was wrong? She
didn't have any other form of comfort either
than hugging her. "Please, talk to me." Zinhloso
begged and she also started crying, her sister's
pain became her pain. She didn't even know
what was wrong? Why was she crying but she
cried with her. She could sense that it was a
deep scar. Nobuhle hardly cried.
"It's John's friend, he learnt about our
relationship and he raped me before John's
presence…" She backed away from Zinhloso
and told her what happened.
She experienced deep sorrow and pain.
Zinhloso couldn't imagine the pain her sister
went through. "Oh, Mdali weZulu nomhlaba,
usuke ususilahlelani? Why are such things
happening under your watch? Why?" She was
shaking her head as she cried with her sister.
"How does a race claim to hate us and look
down upon us, ridicule us to animals but they're
able to do such in our bodies?"
"I honestly don't understand too, Zinhloso."
She hugged her sister, "oh, mtakababa, I am
very sorry. Nobody deserves what happened to
you, not even my worst enemy. I wouldn't wish
such on them. We're asking for healing from
uMvelinqangi. He must provide peace and
healing over your life."
"That's everything I want Zinhloso, to be
peaceful again and get my life back."
"You'll heal sisi, that dead cunt shouldn't have a
hold over you. You're Mnguni's daughter, you're
strong." She wiped Nobuhle's tears. "Don't cry
now, everything will be alright."
"Thank you."
"I am so disappointed with John. Are men just
the same regardless of race? They think
listening to us is shameful?"
Nobuhle shook her head, "I think when it comes
to listening they're just the same. They don't
think we know better."
"How does he feel about killing a man? It
doesn't matter why he did it. I am sure it'll haunt
him that he took a life."
"He's just not coping with everything that
happened."
"And you, Sisi, how are you?"
"Therapy has been helpful. I am certain that if I
didn't attend it. I would be like a corpse right
now."
She held her hand, "it'll be alright, you're not
alone. Ngizokwenzela ozogeza ngakho ukuze
sizovala umkhokha, kusuke isinyama neshluku
salento eyenzekile ingaphinde yenzeke. Koba
ingozi uma singawunqandi lo mkhokha. That's
what dad taught us with Mzomubi. He said the
cleansing is important after such an incident
has happened," (I will mix what you'll cleanse
with, so such a thing will never happen again)
"Yes, please do it for me. Thank you for
listening I feel better after talking to a different
person either than the person who was paid to
listen to me,"
"You're my sister and I love you."
"I love you too, Sisi."
Zinhloso couldn't easily sleep. She was deeply
wounded by what happened to her sister. Why
were humans so vile to one another?
On the 5th of December, the Mnguni family
finally ended the mourning period for their
mother and brother, husband, father and
grandmother to the others. It wasn't a sorrowful
day, but they were grateful that such a day had
finally come. After this ritual, they could look
forward to ceremonies like marrying their
children off and accepting brides into their
family. All the good ceremonies. Mrs Mnguni
was happy that even though her daughter was
going to get married. She was going to get a
daughter-in-law. Two daughters-in-law.
The family felt better and life was going to carry
on after the end of the mourning period.
And on the 10th, the Mnguni high homestead
was busy. Everyone woke up early in the
morning and they completed tasks assigned to
them. They didn't want to be part of this day but
out of respect for aunt Lindo and the older
brother - they had no choice but to obey. It was
a big day - the Xulu family was coming. They
were going to pay ilobolo for Zinhloso.
"Why do you look so sad? You should be happy,"
Nobuhle said to Zinhloso.
They were inside their grandmother's bedroom
after they were done cooking. The Xulu family
had been finally allowed inside the yards after
an hour of praising the family clan names. It
was sunny and Zinhloso felt really bad for them.
She didn't answer her but she started tearing up.
It was August when he left her. Three months
later he was not back.
He lied to her and said it was going to be a
month. He lied even after she begged him not
to lie to her. He gave her false hope.
The telephone rang before Nobuhle could ask
Zinhloso what was wrong. She had already
guessed what could be wrong but she thought
maybe it could be just tears of joy. She lifted the
phone.
"Nobuhle speaking, hello!"
There was a sigh of relief at the end of the line,
"Nobuhle, where's she?"
Nobuhle laughed and smiled happily at the deep
voice at the end of the line, "oh, my God!" She
looked at the direction of the bedroom,
"Zinhloso! Come, this is your call. Run!"
She dragged her body to the living room and
she took the phone from her smiling sister. She
sat down, "hello?"
"Sthandwa sami!"
Her body tingled at the sound of his deep voice.
It was still early in the morning and he'd surely
just woken up. She got moist. She cried a river,
"what are you doing to me? Why
Ngenzwel'umusa?"
"I am really sorry. I read about everything in the
newspapers. I risked it all to make this
telephone call today. Are they there? Please,
give me something that will make me better."
He pleaded.
"Yes, they're here. I miss you so much. Please,
come back to us. Our daughter can walk now.
She can pronounce mama and baba. Please,
donda," she pleaded.
He chortled, "I am happy to hear that," there was
a voice in the background telling him to finish, "I
will come back. Ngiyakuthanda ngenhliziyo
yami yonke."
"Ngiyakuthanda kakhulu nami. Be safe." She put
the phone down and she couldn't stop crying.
Why was life so unfair?
Nobuhle massaged her shoulders, "hey, be
happy that he called. He hasn't forgotten about
you and this special day."
Zinhloso wiped her tears and wore a smile. It
was really good to hear his voice.
The others were wondering why Mrs Mnguni
was not present for these negotiations. They
asked Comfort to call her and ask her why she
wasn't present. She got the opportunity to make
the call once Nobuhle and Zinhloso were called
into the hut where negotiations were taking
place. Most of them were not happy for
Zinhloso.
"Where's your mother? I want to talk to her,"
Comfort said to Ziwinile.
Ziwinile called her mother and she was quickly
on the phone, "skwiza?"
"Yebo, skwiza? I am calling to ask if you didn't
come for the negotiations deliberately or you
don't know about them?"
"What negotiations?"
She shook her head, her sister did say that
maybe MaNtuli didn't know. "The Xulus are here.
They're in negotiations with my brothers, Lindo
and Mzomubi, it's negotiations for Zinhloso."
"Angizwanga!" She screamed, "how can they
hold negotiations without telling me? Did they
give birth to that child they're negotiating for?"
"Hawu, we didn't know they didn't tell you."
"They didn't tell me, even my son is there. I was
pregnant alone and I gave birth to Zinhloso
alone. I won't have those people rule me. I am
coming!"
Comfort smiled and put the phone down. She
walked out of the house and went to the kitchen
to inform the others.

UMCEBO

Chapter 171
***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

Zinhloso and Nobuhle were seated on the straw

mat inside the hut where negotiations were held.
They had negotiated and had lengthy
conversations on how many cows
Mhlabunzima was supposed to pay to take
Zinhloso. There were arguments,
disagreements that took place before they
called her inside.
"We've had lengthy discussions here over my
brother's daughter who's in a relationship with
your son," the eldest uncle said as soon as
Zinhloso and Nobuhle sat down, "we need
confirmation whether you clearly know this girl
you're negotiating for or you've heard."
"We clearly know her," Xulu said, he couldn't
believe that the time had come to hold such
negotiations for his youngest son. He'd pursued
Mhlabunzima for a long time. He should get a
wife, have a family of his own. He never listened,
and when he finally found a woman he wasn't
happy about it. It later proved that he made the
right choice. She was good for him.
"Between the two sisters, who's Zinhloso?" He
pointed at the sisters.
Xulu smiled, "she's the one with the yellow doek,
her sister is tall for my son." He said and they
laughed, "that's my future daughter-in-law."
"Zinhloso, do you know these men? They've
come to us and told us they want to take you as
their daughter in-law. I don't want to give my
brother's younger daughter to people she
doesn't know. What if he wakes up from the
grave and strangles me?" The uncle asked and
they broke out laughing in the hut.
"Yebo, baba, I know them."
"Very well, you can go now."
Nobuhle and Zinhloso stood up, and they
walked out of the hut. They proceeded with
concluding the negotiations inside the hut.
There were no longer arguments.
"We would like to know about the issue of
Inhlawulo since the negotiations had been
concluded?" Xulu raised an important burning
question for the family. They touched on the
issue of Zinhloso having a child with
Mhlabunzima but they didn't dwell on it.
Aunt Lindo looked at her brother, encouraging
him to talk and he nodded, "yes, we still have
that problem and sadly, Zinhloso's mother is
still alive. Inhlawulo should be paid to her and
slaughtered in the yards where Zinhloso grew
up."
Xulus eyed one another, "okay, does this mean
you'll pass the message to her about that issue?
The last time my son asked MaMnguni to talk
to her mother about it. She cried about not
being able to slaughter an animal while she's
mourning."
"Yes, we have a big issue with her mother and I
think you know the nature of their relationship,
Bab'uXulu?" Aunt Lindo asked, sadly.
"Yes, we indeed having a problem. We'll wait of
a response from her and we'll bring it once she
has agreed." Xulu recognised the issue. He was
hoping this woman was going make things
easier for the sake of his grandchild.
Mrs Mnguni walked through the gates flying.
She was sweaty from running on the road.
She'd never been angry that Ziwinile couldn't
drive like her sister. The car was there in the
yard but she couldn't magically move the car.
She had to walk.
She barged into the hut and all eyes were with
her. She glared at the Mnguni family members.
"How could you do such a thing?" She asked,
her voice was shaking. She couldn't understand
what did she ever do to these people. They
hated her from the moment she was introduced
as their brother's choice.
"It's your actions that created all this mess. We
had to exclude you to avoid fighting with you
over what's right and wrong," Lindo spoke first.
Mrs Mnguni looked at her husband's brother,
"why did you do this? Zinhloso is my daughter
and you're marrying her to these people without
informing me!" She pointed at the Xulus, "their
son made her pregnant and she has a daughter
and damages were not paid to me-"
The older uncle stopped her from talking, "I am
doing what my father said and there's nobody in
this entire family that will stop me from doing
what my father said," he spoke loud and clear.
"Where are you going to keep those cows? I
raised Zinhloso and you'll take those cows that
you decided without me!" She screamed, she
was no longer standing but seated down.
"They'll be kept inside her father's cattle pen
where she grew up."
She clapped once, "that will never happen! I
don't want my daughter married to these people.
Their son made Zinhloso pregnant and her
father died because of that."
"Mama -"
She pointed at Mzomubi, "shut up! You're siding
with people who are against me but you're my
child."
"I am doing what my father said I should do for
Zinhloso."
"I am accepting no cows from Mhlabunzima."
She looked at her brother
in-law straight in the eye and her mother next.
She couldn't believe even her mother was here
without telling her.
He chuckled, "that's my brother's cattle pen and
the cows for his daughter will go there. There's
nothing you'll do about it. You're just a wife here.
Uzolela umthetho walayikhaya. You'll accept
Inhlawulo for the child because you're her
mother."
She laughed, "after what you've done there's
something you expect me to do? Imihlola yami."
She glared at Xulu. He was calmly looking at her,
"I hate your son and I hope he never comes
back wherever he is. He should die there." She
stood up and left them shocked. What kind of a
mother was this woman?
"We shouldn't mind her. Tomorrow we'll be at
my brother's yard and you'll bring the cows.
We'll do things as they should happen," uncle
assured the Xulu negotiators. They were told to
wait. They were served with food.
"I don't like my brother's wife but what you did
to her is wrong," the second aunt of the family
commented after everything was done. She
was home visiting - she was called by Comfort.
The Xulu family had left them. It was a
successful day.
"You're married, naka izindaba zakwa Khumalo."
The brother said once and he walked out. He
headed to Zinhloso and Nobuhle, where they
were washing dishes outside. They were with
their aunt's twins.
"MaMnguni, tomorrow you should be home.
They will come and bring the cows. You
shouldn't be here," uncle said.
"Yes, thank you for everything. Mama didn't
stop you?"
He laughed, "no, she didn't. Don't worry about
her. I will leave now."
They said goodbye to him and then finished up
working. The day had ended very well.

Nobuhle and Zinhloso left right after they

finished washing dishes and cleaning. Zinhloso
didn't want to go and sleep at home but aunt
Lindo told her to go in order to make things
easy. Mzomubi fetched them and grandma. She
avoided her mother and went to sleep without
seeing her. Qophelo was with her grandmother.
"Sawubona, mama," Zinhloso greeted her
mother and she didn't receive the greetings
back. She found her mother inside the kitchen
in the morning. Mrs Mnguni walked out of the
kitchen with a cup of tea.
She stopped by the door and looked at Zinhloso,
"your lolobo has been paid but you don't even
know whether that Mhlabunzima of yours is still
alive or not. What do you want with your life?
Why did you choose him out of all the guys?"
"What's wrong with him?"
"You're asking me that!" She screamed and
Zinhloso didn't raise a word. She clicked her
tongue and walked out. She went to bed angry
and she couldn't sleep at night. She was pained
that Zinhloso was going to be taken away and
worse, by the Xulu family.
Mzomubi cut the padlock hanging on the gate.
He opened up for his uncles and aunt. Mrs
Mnguni had changed the padlock of the gate
and put in a new one. She was trying to stop
them from getting inside the yard with the cows.
"Your mother is crazy," they pushed the gates
and walked through, "these cows will enter here
whether she likes it or not."
"I don't know what's wrong with her." Mzomubi
led his uncles and aunt inside the yard. They
went to the living room and sat with Zinhloso's
grandmother. They discussed and reflected on
the negotiations that took place the previous
day. They were served breakfast and before
they could finish - the Xulu family were at the
gates with the cows.
"I am not going to open my husband's cattle
pen for you," Mrs Mnguni was already shouting
at the Xulu family members who were at the
gates. They weren't shouting back at her. They
were just staring at her.
Grandma was annoyed by her daughter's
rudeness. She struck her back with her walking
stick, "musa ukuziphatha okonondindwa.
Usemzini wendoda hlonipha idlozi lakhona
uhloniphe abafowabo bendoda yakho!" (Stop
behaving like a straatmat, show respect for
your in-laws?)
Mrs Mnguni wasn't expecting a strike, she
jumped aside, "I am hurt by what they're doing,
mama. I haven't even received Inhlawulo for
Zinhloso's child but ilobolo has been paid for
her. What's that?"
"They're doing this for your daughter. You'll
accept Inhlawulo and stop talking about it like
this. You'll put the child's life in danger. Stop it!"
She pushed her daughter aside and Mrs Mnguni
left them angrily.
The Xulu family showed the Mnguni family the
cows they've brought as per agreement. The
uncles and Mzomubi went to the ancestral hut
with Zinhloso and the money they paid as part
of ilobolo. They burned sage and informed the
ancestors about the negotiations that took
place the previous day. They informed them
about the cows that were about to enter the
kraal and that Zinhloso was a fianceé to Xulu's
son.
The cows followed one by one in line and they
joined the other cows inside the pen. There
were no fights from the old cows as there were
additional members.
Granny smiled and eyed Zinhloso - she was
staring at the cows. "Oh, my child," she pulled
Zinhloso into her arms, "usuqala indlela eya
ebufazini. I hope you'll be a good wife and not
be like your mother." She brushed her back as
Zinhloso cried. It was heartbreaking that
Mhlabunzima wasn't around.
UMCEBO

Chapter 172

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

There was a traditional wedding in a few days

and so, she had a huge order of corn. She was
with Khosi and the other
colleague, they were harvesting corn. She didn't
plan on working until Christmas but she
couldn't turn down the order. She was in
RichardsBaai the previous day with a lady who
was having ingqibamasondo. She hired her to
buy some of the goods she needed for the
ceremony. She'd been busy after her
negotiations and she felt like she was
neglecting her daughter because of work. She
wanted to rest after this.
"We've heard about your big day Zinhloso and
that everything went well. Izinkomo zangena
zilandelana esbayeni sika Mnguni," sis Khosi
moved from their conversation. She couldn't
see Zinhloso because she was hidden inside
the corn. The corn reeds were taller than her.
"Congratulations, Sisi!" They said in unison.
She laughed, "yes, sis, I am your boss's fianceé
now."
"I am happy for you. Uziphathe kahle ize ibuye
indoda sisi ungasphoxi."
"Yes, I promise I will behave until he comes
back." She promised sisi Khosi.
"Ubanakekele abazali bakhe. He's the last born
as his partner you'll remain with his parents
until death. Don't despair, look after his parents
like your own because they're your parents," the
colleague added and they shared words of
wisdom with Zinhloso. She listened to
everything they said to her. Such conversations
made her yearn for Mhlabunzima more.
Zinhloso started by delivering Khosi and the
colleague. She delivered the corn order and
drove to shop to check on things. She drove
home to take her bath.
She drove through the Xulu gates clean and
fresh. Qophelo was standing a bit far from the
car, happily waiting for her to come out.
"Hello, baby!" She lifted Qophelo up and she
kept responding to her calling her 'mama' for
100 times.
Zinhloso sat down next to her mother in-law on
the straw mat. She was sorting out sugar beans,
"you're cooking Qophelo's favourite meal
today."
"Yes, she must come back tomorrow and eat
because I know you only sleep here when
there's Ngenzwel'umusa," Esther said. She
really couldn't believe that time had flew like
this and her son wasn't back home. She thought
a month was going to be a month but with the
way things were - she realised it was going to
be hard for him to come back home.
She smiled, "I was a girlfriend before I was
doing sneaking in and out," she was looking
down shy, "but with your permission, we can
sleepover anytime but not today because we're
not prepared."
"Yes, not today, I will do the small ritual so you
can be able to enter the kitchen. I won't wait
until you're married,
I will show you inside the kitchen properly and
you can make tea, bake and cook for your
father-in-law and I,
"I spoke to him about it and he didn't have a
problem. He said you're already doing the duties
of a wife with everything that you've been doing,
"I'll ask that you tell your aunt and grandmother.
If they agree and have no problem with it. We'll
do it." Esther was very happy when they
returned with a response that the negotiations
were a success. She strongly wished her son
would be home.
"Yes, mama, I will tell them. I had a corn order
and I brought you some."
"Thank you, my child."
She went to the car with Qophelo. She was no
longer up in her arms but she was walking on
her own. She took the plastic bag of corn in the
car and they headed back to Esther. She placed
the bag next to her.
"You'd swear it's corn from the Boer's farm. It's
very beautiful. Thank you. I will cook it today
because your father and sister, they love it. I
also like it," Esther closed the bag.
Zinhloso smiled and looked down, "on the day
of negotiations he called."
She sucked in air and looked at Zinhloso as if
she was expecting her to laugh and say she
was joking. "Are you serious?"
"Yes, we didn't talk much. He said he was
risking it by calling. He just wanted to know if
the negotiations were taking place," she smiled
as Esther held her mouth.
"Oh, my poor child!"
"I really wish he can come back but I know it
won't be now."
Esther held her hand tightly, "you need to be
strong, my child and don't lose faith."
"Yebo, mama."
Zinhloso left Esther and Qophelo, she went to
Ngenzeni. She was at the back of her hut,
resting. She spent a few minutes with her and
they headed home with Qophelo. She took a
4pm bus and left the car in the yards.

Lucy Zungu was one of those village girls who

weren't the prettiest but were kind hearted and
down to earth. Her character was what
attracted Mzomubi to her. He loved her and
they had been in a relationship for three years.
She was older by a year to Mzomubi but that
wasn't a problem in their relationship.
Two days back, right after Christmas, Mzomubi
finally paid ilobolo for her. He was very happy
and the entire family was happy because they
were receiving a daughter in-law after having
accepted bride price for three daughters who
were going to leave their family.
Mrs Mnguni sent Nobuhle to Lucy's mother and
she asked for Lucy to sleepover at her home.
She wanted to get know her. She was surprised
that they were able to hide their relationship for
three years. Not even once did she see the girl
but she knew that Mzomubi was dating.
"So, how did you agree to polygamy?" Nobuhle
asked the question she'd been yearning to ask
since they started talking to their sister-in-law
after Mrs Mnguni left them for bed.
The three sisters were with Lucy in the living
room. They were seated on the sofas and the
TV was playing on low. Qophelo was sleeping
on the sponge on the floor. They were having a
good bonding session with their new sister.
Lucy laughed, "I didn't agree at first. When he
told me that he wants to pay ilobolo I was
happy and then I was angry when he said I
wasn't alone he was going to take another girl.
They were already dating. I went crazy when he
told me it's Thuli. That girl he insulted." She
looked at Zinhloso with an unsure smile, "no
offense to you but I blamed Mhlabunzima for
that relationship."
The Mnguni sisters laughed, they really couldn't
believe Mzomubi was going to have two wives.
"Why did you blame him?" Ziwinile asked.
"He's the one who wanted Mthembu's eldest
daughter and Mzo surprisingly wanted the
youngest sister. These two people are friends
phela," she frowned as the sisters eyed one
another with smiles. They were smitten by her
calling their brother 'Mzo' "What's wrong?"
They giggled, "it's nothing. Continue!"
"He didn't stop pushing and he finally managed
to get us to meet. It was a disaster." She shook
her head.
Zinhloso was giggling, "I can only imagine. The
two of you are opposites. Thuli is loud and
you're not loud."
"I hope you won't fight as wives," Ziwinile said.
"We'll see about that." She commented and the
sisters cracked up. "I finally agreed to it
because I love him and I didn't want another
man."
"Ah! Hamba Mzomubi!" The sisters exclaimed in
unison and happy laughter filled the house.
Lucy looked at them, "wouldn't you guys agree
to it? Polygamy?"
Ziwinile was the first to answer, "yuh! I would
never. I can't even imagine myself and it's a
good thing he doesn't like polygamy because
his father has three wives. There's no absolute
peace."
"It's understandable why he doesn't like to have
polygamy. First hand experience," Nobuhle
breathed, "I can agree to polygamy only if the
woman is sensible and kind. I wouldn't agree to
someone who would be fighting me."
"Yea, you're right," Lucy looked at Zinhloso who
wasn't answering, "and you, wife kaComrade
Xulu."
She shook her head as they rolled in laughter,
"don't even ask me because Mhlabunzima is
not thinking of another woman besides me."
She smiled as they died from laughter.
They stopped laughing when Mzomubi walked
inside the house yawning and Qophelo was
woken up by noise, "did you see the time? It's
almost midnight. Zinhloso you're still going to
walk outside with the baby so late? Can you
continue your gossip tomorrow?"
They all stood up, Zinhloso lifted Qophelo up.
They said goodnight to one another and they
went their separate ways. They had a great time
with their sister-in-law.
UMCEBO

Chapter 173

***Chapter sponsored by Nehandas light**

She found Nobuhle inside her bedroom. She'd

asked Nobuhle to iron her dress. The yard was
busy, the family members were going up and
down, there were also other community
members who'd come early. It was 30th of
December - Ziwinile's in-laws were coming for
the pre-wedding ceremony - Izibizo. Mrs Mnguni
was over the moon about her daughter. She
wished she could stand on top of the roof and
express how happy she was. Ziwinile was
marrying into a prestigious family and she was
marrying as a virgin. She'd made her proud by
behaving - not meeting with a man until she
found the one.
"I am almost done, mama," Nobuhle looked at
her mother as she sat on her bed. She wasn't
ironing only her mother's clothes but clothes for
Zinhloso and her daughter. They were also
present for the ceremony. It'd been a good
week.
"Can you see that your sisters are leaving? I
didn't consent to Zinhloso's negotiations but I
have come to terms with the truth that she'll
fully leave as soon as lo cikicane wakhe we
ndoda (Mhlabunzima) comes back. He'll take
her," Mrs Mnguni's eyes were focused on
Nobuhle and she was focused on ironing the
dress, "what's happening with your love life?
You're older, you're actually supposed to have
married first but things didn't work out with
Robert."
She wanted to smile and tell her she didn't have
any problem. She had her man and was going
to wait for eternity until things were normal. Or
better yet, up and leave with him. It was all up to
her, "I am happy for them mama but I am not
focused on relationships for now."
"Why? Are you still hurt by your relationship with
Robert?"
"No, but I am studying mama. It'll still take me
more years. I want to make my dream come
true," she raised her head and smiled at her, "I
want to be a Doctor before I become a wife.
There's no man who'll allow me to stay in
Durban and leave him behind."
"Oh, my child, I am very proud of you and you're
right. I am happy that you're supporting your
sisters and you're pleased with your life," she
was a proud mother. Nobuhle was most
sensible and she was proud to be her mother.
Nobuhle helped her mother dress up for the
ceremony. She couldn't deny that her mother
had good taste. She was probably the best
dressed woman in the whole village. "I wonder
what you'll be wearing on her wedding day if
you're wearing this now," Nobuhle said and
fixed her mother's navy satin ruched dress. The
dress was perfectly made for her. She buttoned
the belt of her figure.
She smiled and put on her pillbox navy hat on
top of her pam, "don't worry about me. I only
wish your father was here to see me." She said
as she looked at herself through the mirror.
"You look amazing, go put on your shoes." She
looked at her as she walked out. She really
wished her dad was around to see her. It was
really sad - losing your life partner. She took
Zinhloso's clothes to her hut. She found her
moistening Qophelo's body. Zodumo was in the
hut, seated on top of the bed. She was dressed.
She greeted the child.
"Please, hurry I will go get dressed too," she
placed the clothes on the bed and left.
Zinhloso walked out with her two daughters,
she was wearing a velvet bow cocktail dress.
She'd been home since the preparations began.
She didn't like being home with her daughter
because of how her mother excluded Qophelo.
Her child was under two years but she could
see she wasn't welcomed by Mrs Mnguni. She
would stare at her without saying anything or
asking for her attention. Zinhloso didn't like this
treatment but she felt the need to come. Just to
show support.
The Mnguni family yard was full; you'd swear
the whole village was present. It was a very big
day - a celebratory day.
Mrs Mnguni was busy ululating with other
women as Ziwinile's in-laws had reached the
final part of the ceremony. They were gifting
Ziwinile with blankets and clothes.
She frowned as Dludla held her wrist. He asked
her aside, "what's wrong now, boy?" Mrs Mnguni
asked, annoyed.
"Mama, things are bad. People should take food
and leave." He spoke quickly.
She cuffed her figure, "why?"
"It's the opposition party from eNdabayakhe,
they're working together with the Ramashala
village but the Ramashala are not coming in
fear of their king. They're coming here, to kill
families who are known to be part of SAFP.
Please, tell them! It's for everyone's safety, you
don't want people to die in your yard should
something go wrong," Dludla advised and Mrs
Mnguni quickly went to her brothers-in-law. She
informed them about this matter. They called
aside induna and some members. They decided
it was safe to set people free.
"Eh, we're sorry to stop the ceremony like this,"
Mnguni's eldest uncle was standing in the
middle - where the actual ceremony was taking
place, "but there's a suspected political violence
coming."
There was commotion amongst the people.
They were mostly scared and some were angry.
They kept quiet as uncle kept shouting for
quietness.
"Let's not panic but we'll quickly eat and go
home. If you know that you're a well known
member of SAFP, we advise that you run to
safety with your family. Once this has blown
over, we'll come back and enjoy the cow and
drinks but for now, our lives are more
important!"
"Where's Mhlabunzima when we need him the
most? He saved most lives three years back
and these people are coming back again. It's
because he's not here!" One angry mother
screamed in the crowd.
"Yes, he's your son-in-inlaw now. Where's he?
You should know."
"We know what happened and we can't
question that now. Let's save ourselves this
time," he said and there was chaos as people
left and others didn't want to leave without
eating. The day ended badly but it was better
because no blood was spilt inside the Mnguni
yards.

Mrs Mnguni was inside the living room with her

daughters. They'd finished cleaning up and
packing things up where they belonged. Most
members of the family had gone to their homes
- others went to another village where their
mother grew up. They didn't stay because they
were highly in danger because of Mzomubi
being a well known part of the SAFP.
"Mama, why are we seated here? What if they
come here and find us?" Ziwinile asked her
mother. She was scared - they'd heard screams
from far. People were being killed and they
were mostly going up and down, running away
from their homes.
"Your brother said he'll call us and tell us when
is it safe to leave," Mrs Mnguni said, she trusted
her son. They left with most of their political
members. Induna advised them not to be
lurking around but to be the eyes in the dark.
The situation was bad - black people were
killing each other. They were taking each other's
freedom of choice, to choose the political party
of their choice. It was sorrowful.
"Mama, we're not safe. This is not the king's
fight but the political fight. If this was the king's
fight they wouldn't kill us because of his law on
having women's blood. These political parties
don't care, they kill everything!" Zinhloso tried to
convince her mother.
Mrs Mnguni only glared at her, "don't tell me
what I know. I have seen more wars than you
and this is your boyfriend's fault."
"How?"
"Had he been here, none of this would have
happened!" She screamed and stood, "asazi
umuthi waphi wona lo agqaba ngawo
uyasatshwa nje. Sebezozenzela umathanda
ngoba akekho."
Mrs Mnguni was the first to jump on the
telephone as it rang, "hello!"
Mzomubi was panting on the line, "get out of
there now! Run to the high homestead, they've
passed that side, they didn't find anyone at
home. It's getting really intense," he was
shouting above the noise, "please, run!"
"Okay!" She couldn't even ask where he was
calling? Whose home was he at? There was
singing and also screams on the far end.
Mzomubi left using the car, there was no other
way than walking.
"Your brother says let's go to your
grandmother's house. Now!" She quickly led
them out and they followed her.
On the dark roads, they would step aside on the
road side whenever they saw someone coming.
But that person wouldn't be a threat - they
would also be running. They weren't talking but
running. There were screams they could hear
from far and also singing. It was un-
understandable - why were they singing?
"Please, protect all my children and I," Mrs
Mnguni said a short prayer before they entered
the dark alleyway. They were running in line
because of the narrowness of the alley. Mrs
Mnguni was first in line. She suddenly missed
her husband as she remembered a time like this
when Mzomubi was still a newborn. She
couldn't run. Every Mnguni family member
gathered into their home and her husband
made them invisible. They didn't trust him and
they wanted to run but he told them he wasn't
going to run with his wife who'd just given birth.
The attackers entered and left - they were saved.
He gained much respect after that.
They thankfully reached the Mnguni homestead
safely. Zinhloso opened her grandmother's
house. All the other houses were locked and
there was nobody home.
"Yini?" Mrs Mnguni shouted at Zinhloso as she
jumped up and screamed.
Zinhloso threw on the floor, her daughter's doll
that was on the sofa, "Qophelo!"
"Where's she?" Nobuhle asked.
"I left her home. She was sleeping in my hut. Oh,
Jehovah ingane yami!" She held her head as it
rang.
Mrs Mnguni clapped once, "what kind of a
mother are you? How can you run and leave
your child behind?"
"I am going back!" She attempted to head to the
door and her mother screamed.
"Sit down! I should lose a child because of
Mhlabunzima's spoiled brat. Sit down! You'll
meet these hooligans on the road and they'll kill
you for being Mhlabunzima's girlfriend. Sit!"
Zinhloso looked at her in disbelief, "I can't stay
here while Qophelo is back home, alone! I am
going back."
"I will accompany you," Nobuhle stood up,
Sbusiso wasn't with her because Robert came
and took him.
Mrs Mnguni stood up, "that'll not happen. If
Zinhloso wants to go, she must go alone. Sit,
Nobuhle. Do you want to die?" She didn't mind
Zinhloso as she walked out but she was scared
for her.
"I would rather die where my sister dies than to
let her go alone," she walked out and left her
mother crying. She ran after Zinhloso and she
caught up with her.
Zinhloso looked at her, "go back I will go alone.
What will Sbusiso do if something happens to
you?"
"Sbusiso has a father! Keep quiet, we should be
careful," Nobuhle said and they kept quiet. They
were both very scared. Zinhloso was feeling
worse, she felt like a very horrible mother. How
did she forget her? Her own child!
UMCEBO
Chapter 174

***Chapter sponsored by Nehandas light**

She was running on the road and tears couldn't

stop flowing. She couldn't believe such a thing
happened. What was she going to do if
something happened to Qophelo? What reason
was she going to have for leaving her child
behind? Mhlabunzima would never forgive her.
She was hoping they found her. She was feeling
really bad about herself as a mother. Her
mother was right - what kind of a mother was
she?
They could hear whistles and crazy screams as
they were heading up to their home. "Nobuhle,
let's hide behind the trees. I am sure those
people are the killers." Zinhloso whispered and
held her sister's hand. "What if they're near?"
"What if they're home and they're killing your
daughter right now?"
Zinhloso pulled Nobuhle behind the tree that
was on the roadside. "Shhhh!" She said and
their eyes were looking at their home. It was
clear these people had entered the Mnguni
family home. They weren't just near but they
were inside their yard. Qophelo was there - what
if she woke up and cried? They weren't going to
spare her. They were going to see her.
Zinhloso was shaking - her child! She was
scared to death and she peed on herself
because of fear.
They watched as the men walked out, one by
one. They had machetes on their hands and
they were singing and whistling as they walked
out of the premises.
Because fear didn't kill her that night - Zinhloso
knew it was never going to kill her no matter
what situation she faced.
"Let's go. They are no longer near," Nobuhle
held Zinhloso but she was rooted in one place.
She was shaking and cold, "hey, let's go!"
"I am scared of what we'll find there."
Nobuhle didn't say anything but pulled Zinhloso
away from the tree. "You can't change whatever
we'll find there!"
They left the gates open. They walked through
and went to Zinhloso's hut. She shut her eyes
as the padlock was still hanging on the door but
she was scared they might have entered
through the window. "Why did you lock the child
inside?" Nobuhle asked.
"We were working. I just didn't want anyone
walking inside without seeing them," she
pushed the door and all the fear ebb as she
turned the lights on. Qophelo was still sleeping
on the bed. She was laying on her tummy, her
mouth opened and saliva dripping off her
mouth.
Nobuhle laughed, "she sleeps badly like her
mother. Look at her!"
She quickly sat on the bed and brushed her face,
"oh, my child! Leave her alone mamdala. I am
so happy she's alive."
"What do you think her father would have
done?" She sat on the bed.
She shook her head, "I don't want to think about
it now because she's alive."
"Give me the key. I will lock it so that we'll
sleep."
Zinhloso looked at her, "are you not going to call
mom or let's go back?"
"No, we can't go back, it'll be too dangerous. It's
better if we sleep." Nobuhle locked the door.
She removed her dress and she wiped herself,
"sis, mom will be worried about you, all night.
Let's at least call her and tell her."
"Let her worry!" She joined Zinhloso in bed.
Qophelo was in the middle of them.
Zinhloso smiled in the dark, "thank you so much
for coming with me."
"Don't mention it. She's my child too."
She closed her eyes, thankful that she was
sleeping next to daughter.

They were woken up by the door being banged.

They jumped out of bed and Qophelo started
crying.
"Nobuhle! Zinhloso!"
They were relieved when they heard their
mother screaming. Nobuhle opened the door
while Zinhloso was calming the child down. Mrs
Mnguni pushed the door.
"Do you two want to see me dead? You're
sleeping here and you didn't even think of
calling me. Why did you sleep here?" She
screamed, her voice was breaking. She couldn't
sleep at night, she was thinking about these
two children.
Nobuhle rubbed her eyes, "we saw them walk
out mama and we thought we should sleep. It
was going to be more dangerous to go back
home."
"And you didn't think of calling?"
"No, we didn't." She pretended as if she wasn't
seeing Zinhloso looking at her. She wasn't
going to tell her mother she didn't want to call
her. She was annoyed by her. What she said
last night made her angry.
"I was worried the whole night!"
"We're sorry," Nobuhle humbly said and she
sighed as her mother walked out angrily. She
dressed back on her clothes and she left
Zinhloso and Qophelo.
Qophelo had taken her morning bath and her
mother was following her behind. She walked
inside the kitchen and found Mrs Mnguni
making food. The main house, they broke the
door but they didn't mess anything. Mzomubi's
hut was messed up. Everything was up and
down. The other houses and hut were normal,
only the doors were broken.
Qophelo courageously smiled at Mrs Mnguni
and she lifted her hands up, asking for her food.
Mrs Mnguni looked at the child with contempt.
"You want my food? I don't give my food to
children I don't know. Uyihlo akakhiphe ngisho
imbuzi le," she raised her voice at the child who
couldn't even understand what she was saying
and when Qophelo held her skirt. Mrs Mnguni
pushed the child. She fell on the floor. Zinhloso
walked in and lifted her daughter up. Her
mother didn't even look back as the child was
crying but she headed to the living room.
Zinhloso saw and heard everything her mother
said to her daughter.
"I am sorry, my baby, let's go and check on your
grandparents." She walked out of the house
after wiping her tears. Qophelo stopped crying.
They met up with Nobuhle.
"Have you guys eaten?" Nobuhle asked.
She shook her head, "no, we're leaving now. I
will see you, I don't know when."
"Hawu, I thought you'll stay the night for new
year's. What happened now?"
"Ay, I have changed my mind. I want to go and
check on her grandparents. Goodbye, sisi, thank
you again." She headed to her hut. She took her
bag after cleaning around. Qophelo was on the
floor playing. She lifted her daughter and
walked out. She locked the door and she waved
at Nobuhle who was still standing by the corner
of the house. She closed the gate.
"Sawubona!"
Zinhloso was startled by the voice of a man
coming out from the bushes by the roadside.
She was at the top, and was about to take the
main road. "Thabani!"
He smiled and nodded, "yes, I was hoping to see
you. I figured you would come back since your
child was left behind."
Her senses reminded her that Thabani was part
of the team that was killing people for not being
on their side, "my child? Thabani, why are you
guys doing such a horrible thing?"
"It's politics, you won't understand. I saw your
daughter sleeping inside the hut last night." He
revealed.
She widened her eyes and held Qophelo closer
to her, "how?"
"Do you know? I actually didn't want to go to
your home with that group but something in me
told me to go with them. I don't know why,"
Thabani narrated, his eyes were focused on
Zinhloso, "I am glad I did because while the
others were checking other houses. I checked
the hut closer to the gate. I torched through the
window, the curtain wasn't closed through. I
saw the child sleeping on the bed. I told them
there was no one in the hut."
She shut her eyes, "we ran away and you won't
believe that I forgot her."
He shrugged, "that's how the human mind
works when scared, you think of yourself first
and the others later. I am sure most mothers
have been through that."
"Thabani, I owe you my life."
"I saved the child because of you, not because
of her father and not because I care about her.
She's my enemy's seed."
"Because of me? What do you mean?"
He looked around as he heard police sirens.
They'd been roaming around searching for
people, rescuing those hiding and finding dead
bodies, "yes, I thought of what he would do to
you when he comes back and learns that his
baby is dead and in such a manner.
Mhlabunzima can be very cruel, you just know
his soft side. Keep her safe." He said and ran
off. Zinhloso looked at him as he ran.

The village was busy, everyone going up and

down. The police were cleaning up the mess.
She wondered why they didn't come the
previous night. She smiled as Qophelo
screamed as they walked through the gates.
Her grandmother was outside the kitchen hut.
"I am happy to find you in one piece. Where are
the others?" Zinhloso asked her mother in-law
and put her daughter down.
Esther lifted her up, "your father in-law is resting.
He didn't sleep. We actually didn't sleep." She
played with her daughter, "why is your stomach
grumbling, gogo, haven't you eaten?" She played
with Qophelo's stomach and she laughed
brightly.
"Yes, she has not had food. We left mom and
her food. Uyakukhulumela."
"Aw, let's go and eat." They headed inside the
kitchen and Zinhloso went to Mhlabunzima's
house. Her aunt and granny agreed that Esther
can show her into her kitchen and she can cook
for them. Esther was yet to do that.
She walked in followed by Ngenzeni with food
for Zinhloso. Esther had Qophelo in her arms.
"Skwiza, we're happy to see you. The
grandparents were so worried about you and
Qophelo because Mzomubi wasn't around."
She took the food, "yuh, I am really ashamed
about what happened last night."
"What happened?" They asked in unison.
She couldn't even look them in the eye as she
told them what happened. "I don't know what I
would have done."
"That's fear." Ngenzeni commented.
Esther nodded, "your sister is right. We have
children but this war is serious, when you're
faced with it. You don't think logically. It's run or
be killed. Qophelo is mostly with us when you're
visiting your paternal home. I am sure that's
why your mind didn't remember her until you
were at your homestead. That doesn't mean
you're a bad mother."
"And you're not the first mother to do that. Our
neighbour once left her twins and dad heard
them crying. She completely forgot them. It was
this kind of war."
She looked at them, "are you not trying to make
me feel better?"
"No!" They said in unison.
Esther was feeding the baby, "Ngenzwel'umusa
should not know about it though because men
don't think like us. He'll expect you to put the
child first but it doesn't always happen like that.
We have no control over how we react to
situations. Don't blame yourself," Esther said,
looking at Zinhloso and she looked relieved.
"Thank you. I feel better. How did you survive
here?"
They laughed, "ey, your father-in-law was seated
outside with a battle rifle. He was given by
Ngenzeni's grandfather. When these boys tried
to enter, he stood up and fired the rifle. Did they
not run away?"
"I didn't see guns but I saw them with
machates." Zinhloso was laughing her lungs out.
They were laughing because it had passed.
"Yes, I think that group didn't have guns. They
didn't come back. He was on guard until
morning."
"Where was bhuti Kusakusa and his family?"
Zinhloso asked.
"Xulu said he must go with his wife and children
to his wife's uncle in another village. I think
they'll come back later today. We're grateful that
we're safe. It's really bad, what happened.
Families were butchered, they left only
children." Esther shook her head, "but I am sure
they were going to kill Qophelo if they saw her."
She shut her eyes, she was really grateful for
Thabani. He did her a huge favour…
UMCEBO
Chapter 175

***Chapter sponsored by Mrs Mnotho Zulu,

dedicated to Mpho who lost her mother 💜
💜
condolences ***

*February of the New year*

The war blew over and there were arrests made.

Zinhloso was hoping and praying that Thabani
would be off the hook because he saved her
daughter. When she heard that he went back to
school. She was very relieved. She wasn't in
support of what they were doing but she was
grateful to him for what he did. Dead people
were buried and it was a very sorrowful time in
the village, seeing children bury their parents.
Women bury their children and some, their
husbands. All because of the war - the war that
was stupid. It was a painful time.
"Mama!" Qophelo screamed, standing behind
the fence of the garden. She'd been sleeping
inside the house and Zinhloso was busy in the
garden.
It was Saturday, she took her daughter, took the
car and drove to her house in another village.
She had a task of haversting amadumbe for her
client, her grandmother and mother-in-law. They
didn't have them in their home gardens.
Zinhloso opened the gate for Qophelo. "You'll
get dirty here. There's nothing for you to do
here." She said as the child walked inside the
garden. She didn't have a problem coming with
her here because she wouldn't be able to tell
anyone about it. She was only able to
pronounce names of her family members.
She focused on working while Qophelo was
playing with the soil. They were going to drive to
her grandmother first and then her in-laws. She
was going to sleepover. She had informed her
aunt.
The harvest was a good one and she thought of
bringing some for her mother because she
loved them but she stopped. She was confused
by her behaviour towards her, when she left her
after she pushed her daughter. She called and
shouted that Zinhloso left without saying
goodbye. She was confused by what was
upsetting there? It wasn't like she really loved
having them around. Zinhloso apologized for
leaving without saying goodbye. After that
incident, she visited home once and it was only
because of Mzomubi. She didn't bring Qophelo
with.
Qophelo rushed to the bedroom and stood
before the bedside table, "Nishaba, mama!" She
pointed at her father's photo that was on the
bedside table. Mhlabunzima was with Zinhloso
on the photo.
Zinhloso lifted her off the floor, "no, say baba!"
She corrected her.
"Baba!"
She smiled and kissed her cheek, "yes, baba
wakho noZodumo."
"Dudumo, mama!"
She laughed, "yes, sisi wakho." She changed her
clothes and dressed her up in clean clothes.
They were done with everything. Zinhloso
closed the windows and they walked out of the
house.
She drove to Robert's uncle first, she gave them
their own parcel from the garden and she drove
to eNdabayakhe with Qophelo.
They stayed with her grandmother until late.
She didn't want them to leave but Zinhloso had
already told Esther that they were going to
come for a sleepover.
They walked inside the kitchen and found
Ngenzeni cooking, "your mother thought you're
no longer coming. She wanted you to cook
home-grown chicken but I ended up cooking it
because of time."
Zinhloso took the bucket and offloaded taro
into the bucket. "I got held up at grandma's
place and I passed by our client's house to
deliver amadumbe."
"Did you bring some?"
"Yes, I will go and wash them."
She turned to her, "skwiza, where did you
harvest the taro because the last time I was
with you in the gardens. You didn't have any."
She laughed awakwadky, "eNdabayakhe." She
answered and walked out. She was hoping she
believed her, she didn't have a problem with
letting them know about their secret house. But
she didn't know if Mhlabunzima didn't have a
problem like her too or he would have a
problem.
"MaMnguni, you were at least supposed to cook
amadumbe because Ngenzeni was already
cooking." Xulu raised his voice at Zinhloso as
he looked at the taro his wife had shown him.
They were having dinner.
"I didn't know you'll want to have them today,
baba, I am sorry. I will cook them tomorrow,
early in the morning," Zinhloso promised the
suddenly grumpy Xulu.
"I should have them for breakfast."
"Yebo." She held her daughter as she stood up.
They were seated on the straw mat behind the
door. Zodumo was seated with them on the
mat. "Where are you going? Sit down!"
"Tuyu, mama!" (Xulu, mama!)
"Come! Zodumo bring your sister's dish." He
instructed and Zodumo stood up with the dish
and her dish. They both sat on the bench with
their grandfather. Esther sat closer and she
helped her husband with the children.
Esther had long done the ritual of allowing
Zinhloso into her kitchen. She could enter freely,
she sometimes came and cooked for them and
baked for her father in-law. She was looking
after them as should.

"Xulu, when we come back we shouldn't wait for

you. We'll hoot once or twice, don't sleep. It'll
take us about sixty five minutes and we'll be
back." The comrade said to Mhlabunzima.
They'd just parked the car before the Xulu's
gate. It was after 1am.
"Don't worry I will be done. I won't wake anyone
up. I don't want them to think I am finally back,"
Mhlabunzima raised his hand and walked
through the gate. He squatted down as his dog
came rushing. He ruffled his hand on the dog's
nape. He saw the car and walked closer to it.
He chuckled, "is this my car or it's a different
car," he checked it out as it was parked under
the shelter. He concluded maybe an exchange
was done. He rushed up to this house. He was
going to get a few items and wait for the car.
He unlocked the front door and walked inside
the dark house. He felt the warmth of being
home. It was like he was being hugged and
kissed by his ancestors. He didn't waste time
but he unlocked his safe.
"Hhaybo!" He was amazed by the money inside
the safe. It wasn't what he left but it was more.
"This means she's been really working. My
children will never starve."
He took his documents - the real reason he was
back. It was to get his documents. He took the
money he was going to need and he closed the
safe.
He opened his bedroom and turned the lights
on. He held his breath. He was greeted by
Zinhloso's naked bums. She was sleeping in the
middle of the bed with a bedsheet covering
some parts of her body. He wasn't expecting
such a greeting. If she was here. Did this mean
his daughter was also home?
He pretended as if he couldn't see her and
carefully searched for a few of his clothes. He
didn't want to wake her and give her hope that
he was back. She was going to cry harder if she
knew he was going far.
Zinhloso turned on the bed and she was woken
up by the light she had switched off. She sat up
straight and saw the wardrobe opened. She
kneeled one the bed. She rubbed her eyes.
"Ngenzwel'umusa Xulu?"
Mhlabunzima froze for a minute and when he
got up. Zinhloso jumped on his body. She was
laughing happily. "Sawubona!" He smiled and
held her tightly. She was smelling amazing,
smelling like peaches.
Zinhloso got down and her eyes were attracted
to the bag on the floor. "What's happening? Are
you unpacking or packing?"
His woman looked amazing and she had gained
weight. She was more beautiful than the last
time. "I am packing."
"Why and why does it seem like you're
sneaking?" She took a step back.
"Yes, I wasn't going to wake you because I
didn't want you to be hurt again. I am here
because I have to take my documents," he
explained the truth to her because it wasn't
wise to leave her with lies.
"How could you do that?"
"I was trying to protect you-"
"From what? Didn't you think even seeing your
face was going to make me happy. How could
you-"
"Lalela, I don't have time for this," he
remembered that he didn't have time and what
was the need to waste time? She was already
awake and he was supposed to use this time
wisely.
He pulled her closer to him and he shut her up
by a kiss. She pushed him.
"What are you doing now? Weren't you going to
leave without waking me?" She asked, panting.
She was hurt and angry.
"Should I take my bag and leave? I don't want to
fight with you. I just want to say goodbye."
"Why are you taking your documents? Where
are you going now?"
He held her hand, "we're no longer safe where
we were. We've heard they want to turn every
province upside down. It's no longer just us but
there are others from the township. We're going
to Tanzania tomorrow night."
She shook her head and sat on the bed, "so, I
am going to spend my whole life waiting for
you?"
"Not your whole life Zinhloso only a few
months."
"Stop lying! You said a month but a month
turned into half a year, six months without you!
Other young women are with their men, they're
happy, others are getting married and what
about me? I am like a widow!"
He held her hand, "Please, let's not fight but
allow me to enter you. I have missed you," he
moved his face closer to hers. "I didn't wake you
only because I didn't want you to cry."
When their lips touched it felt unreal. He'd told
himself that he was going to wait a year for a
year that they predicted. He wasn't even willing
to wake her because he didn't want her tears.
"Do you know what I have missed the most?"
He asked in a whisper as he undressed her
short nightdress. He moved up with her until
they were on the pillows.
"What?"
"I missed looking at the roof of my bedroom as
you bounced on top of me and then I would
look at your beautiful body." He smiled as she
allowed him to lie on his back. This was his
favorite part, have her take control. He was
missing out when he refused to have her take
control.
His hands smoothly caressed her breasts as
she was rubbing herself on his trumscent organ.
She had her eyes closed and she moaned softly.
"MaMnguni-"
"Ngiyeke!" She knew he wanted her to act as he
wanted but she wasn't ready yet. She was still
enjoying the sensations that came with rubbing
on him.
His groan was deep as she finally allowed him
inside her. He went in really deep as he thrusted
up, meeting her halfway.
He stopped thrusting and he enjoyed the
pleasure and the view of seeing her breasts
bounce. "Gxabhashe!" He held her waist tightly
as Zinhloso gyrated on him. She made him cry
like a wounded dog as she didn't stop gyrating
on him. It didn't take long and he was done for.
His waist moved slowly in circles, they had
changed positions. She was underneath and
Mhlabunzima was on top of her. His eyes were
locked with her. She didn't stop gazing at him
as his slow thrusts touched her beyond physical.
Her heart tightened as if she was having a heart
attack and it quickly pumped blood at a high
speed as he said slowly, "ngi-ya-ku-tha-nda!"
"I love you too…. Ah!" Her eyes shut and she
saw the beautiful stars.
She pulled the bed sheets - Mhlabunzima was
on his feet dressing up in different clothes.
Zinhloso covered her body and she faced the
other side, giving Mhlabunzima her back. She
closed her eyes.
He could see that she was hurt and what pissed
him off, she was making it look like he had no
problem with leaving.
"Yazi, I also don't like this. Everything that's
happening but it's beyond my control. How can I
choose to be away from my daughter? My two
young children? This is not about choice." He
stopped talking as he heard a double hoot.
"Please, take care of yourself. I will come back."
He grabbed his bag and walked out of the
bedroom. He passed by the other bedroom. He
smiled at his daughters.
"I am not running away. I need to be safe so
that I will be part of your lives," he said and he
closed the door.
He headed to the main door, he opened it and
stopped walking out as he heard Zinhloso's
intense cry. He shut his eyes and locked the
door. He left as if he wasn't hearing her cry.
UMCEBO

Chapter 176

"Why are you the one cooking amadumbe?

Didn't MaMnguni say she'll wake up and cook
them?" Xulu asked Esther, she was seated
under the day hut cooking taro on fire. She was
having tea.
She looked at her husband, "you're awake.
Should I make you some tea?"
"Why are you not answering my question?" Xulu
asked, and he entered the hut. He stood before
Esther.
"She might be tired baba. She works hard. I
thought since I am already awake I will cook
them. It's not much, they're not hard work," she
pushed the woods together. She stood up, "let's
go to the kitchen, I will make you tea." They
followed each other to the kitchen.
Xulu sat down, "I am worried about her."
She cooked water on the coal stove. She looked
back at her husband, "about who?"
"MaMnguni, she's very young and she's waiting
for a man she's not sure about. She's not sure
whether he'll ever come back or not." He held
his mouth as he yawned.
She put another pot on the stove, "khona it's not
nice seeing her like this but what can we do?
There's nothing we can do. She'll wait and get
tired when she gets tired. I wouldn't blame her."
"And what about your son? If he comes back
thinking he'll find his fianceé and find out that
she's moved on?" He asked.
She kept quiet for a while, "it'll be sad for him
but I will have to make him understand.
Honestly, I am really hoping she never gets tired.
I like her for my son."
"Yes, she's good for him."
Zodumo walked in followed by Qophelo, and
she went straight to her grandmother after
greeting. Esther had finished cooking
amadumbe and she'd also finished cooking soft
porridge. Ngenzeni had woken up. Qophelo sat
next to her grandfather on the bench. He was
eating amadumbe. He shared it with Qophelo.
"Baba, she hasn't washed her face and you're
giving her food." Esther commented and she
shook her head as Xulu ignored her. She looked
at Zodumo, "what's wrong ntombazane
kagogo?"
"Gogo, Qophelo's mother is crying inside dad's
bedroom." Zodumo broke the news.
Esther looked at her husband and back to the
child, "she's crying? Did you see her?"
"No, we heard her and when we knocked she
didn't open the door. I took my sister and we
came here," she responded.
"Sekwenzenjani?" Xulu asked.
She headed to the door, "I will go check on her. I
don't know what has happened." She met up
with Ngenzeni, "mntanami, give your nieces a
face wash and give them porridge I will go
check on their mother."
"What's wrong?"
"I don't know, Zodumo said she's crying," she
headed up to the house. The morning was cool
and peaceful, the chickens had started their
daily work around the yard. It was a cool Sunday.
She knocked once on the bedroom and opened
the door. Zinhloso was seated on her butts with
her knees up. Her face was hidden on her knees.
Esther grabbed a chair and sat closer to her.
"What's wrong, my child? Zodumo told us you're
crying. I thought I should come and check on
you," she looked around the room and realised
the wardrobe was open and Mhlabunzima's
clothes looked messy like someone was
searching for something. She didn't ask about
this but she focused on Zinhloso.
"You can talk to me about anything. I am your
mother."
She raised her head and didn't look at Esther
but at the wardrobe, "he was here," the words
came out low.
"Who?"
"Ngenzwel'umusa, he was here. I woke up and
saw him there," she pointed at the wardrobe
and she cried intensely. Esther rubbed her
shoulder comfortingly.
"Are you sure it was him?"
"Yes, we spoke. He wasn't going to wake me up
and tell me he was leaving the country," she
glanced at her - she was deeply pained and
she'd lost all hope, "he's going to Tanzania
tonight and he didn't even want to tell me for
how long. This means it'll take longer."
She quickly got up from the chair and she sat
on the bed. She hugged Zinhloso, "time will fly
my child and before you know it he'll be back,"
she shed tears with her.
"When is my relationship going to be a normal
one? We dated in secret and he was fighting
against his father while I was fighting mine. I
got pregnant and now, this? Everyone is getting
married mama and I have to wait for something
I am not sure about," she hid her face on her
chest.
Esther brushed her back softly, "it's the man you
chose mntanami. He's different from the
boyfriends of all the women you've mentioned
that they're getting married. He'll be more safe
in another country, believe me." Esther provided
comfort but she was sad herself. She was
heartbroken that her son was going to leave the
country. Why did they want him so badly? They
wanted him dead?
She left Zinhloso making the bed. She saw a
few red marks on her body and she was hoping
that whatever they did, there was no baby that
was created. She didn't deserve that, to have a
baby while Mhlabunzima wasn't home.
She sat down inside the kitchen, "ey, I found the
wardrobe messy and she was crying. She said
your son returned at night. He was here to take
his documents. He's leaving the country with
the others tonight."
Xulu forced his head down, "why is it getting
more difficult? We were just discussing this
now!"
"Yes, my poor son!"
"He didn't even think of waking me so that I can
burn sage and tell the ancestors he's leaving
home," Xulu shouted.
"Zinhloso said he didn't want her to see him.
She saw him because she was woken up by the
light."
"How's she now?"
"She'll be fine. You should burn sage and talk
emsamo," Esther said and they had their
breakfast silently. It was a sad morning for
them. They least expected such news. Esther
was hoping Zinhloso would be better.
***
***September of the same year***

Nobuhle was seated on the sofa having a

conversation with Zinhloso on the telephone.
They'd just finished having dinner with John. He
went up to his room.
"I am coming back tomorrow. Are you going to
attend the wedding?" Nobuhle asked Zinhloso
on the line.
She clicked her tongue, "I will attend the
wedding. I don't want them to say I am jealous. I
am annoyed that her wedding is on my child's
birthday. Qophelo will be turning two years old
and I won't celebrate her birthday but I will be
attending weddings. It's very annoying."
"Yea, it's not nice. I can't believe she's two years
old already. Her father would be very proud if he
was around," she said and there was no
response from Zinhloso, "how are you coping
without his affection?"
"I don't want to talk about him. How are things
between you and John?"
"They're better than how they were three
months back." She looked around, "it's been
twelve months since the incident, that's a year
and I still haven't slept with him."
"Mm, dadewethu. Are you scared?"
"I don't know, I haven't tried."
"Do you two share a bed again?"
"Yes, but not every night. He's tried making a
move but I would turn him down. He's been
understanding but maybe his patience will run
thin," Nobuhle shared. "I feel really bad."
Zinhloso was sad for her, "don't feel bad
because it's not your fault what happened.
Others take years until they're ready again. I
hope you'll be able to overcome that fear
because you're really better now."
"Yes, I am."
"I will see you tomorrow then."
"Are you going to come home with Qophelo? My
son doesn't have a relationship with his sister."
"No, I won't come with her. She'll go to her
grandparents."
"Hawu, Zinhloso -"
"Goodnight, Sisi."
Nobuhle stood up and went to John's bedroom.
She tried the door and it was locked, "am I not
welcome tonight?" She could hear the music
playing.
"I am coming."
She waited for a few minutes until he opened
the door. "What were you doing?" She asked
and walked inside the bedroom. There was
nothing that seemed out of place.
"I was changing."
"Why did you lock the door?" She took off her
clothes and got into bed with her panties only.
John didn't answer her.
She passed her first year and she was very
happy. John showered her with gifts and he
was very proud of her. They'd been taking
things at a slow pace, focusing on healing. He
didn't rush her even though he missed her badly,
he understood what happened to her was deep.
It wasn't easy for him to get that night off his
mind and how much more for her? He was
patient because he didn't want another woman
but her. He wanted her in his life.
"I wish I can come to the wedding too," John's
fingers were deep on her afro. He was
massaging her scalp.
She had her eyes closed, the action was
soothing, "you can come. You know the
direction to my village."
"But I don't have an invite."
She laughed, "our weddings are not like your
weddings. You come even if you have no invite.
I didn't give you an invite because I didn't think
you'd be interested."
"I will come," he was suddenly excited about
attending the wedding. It was going to be his
first time attending an African wedding. He was
looking forward to it.
He pecked her lips, "goodnight."
"You're already sleeping?" She was nervous
about making the first move. She thought he
was going to try again even though it'd been
two months since he last tried her.
"Is there something you want to talk about?"
"No, but I am ready."
"For?"
"For us to do it again."
He was supposed to jump on it but he didn't.
After masturbation, he was not in the mood for
sex. He really wanted to sleep. He forced a
smile. "Can we try in the morning?" He
emphasized trying because he knew she could
be ready orally but anything could happen.
Anything could trigger her badly.
Nobuhle was disappointed, "why? Don't you
care anymore?"
"I do. I am just tired and I want to rest."
She nodded and closed her eyes. What a
courage she had when she said those few
words! 'I am ready' only to be told to sleep. She
was confused but she didn't want to appear as
inconsiderate after everything they'd been
through and after all the support John had
provided for her. She also gave the support
back because he was also badly affected. He
took the life of his friend, all that added and so,
she didn't want to ask questions. Why was he
suddenly tired?
She was shocked as she looked at him. He was
already sleeping. Was he really that tired?
UMCEBO

Chapter 177

***Chapter sponsored by Boitumelo

Masitenyane***

"Are you serious that he's coming to the

wedding?" Zinhloso asked Nobuhle. They were
inside Zinhloso's hut. They were dressing up in
traditional clothes. It was a big day - the
wedding that had been highly anticipated by the
whole village. The Mnguni family yard was full.
They were getting ready for the wedding.
"Yes, he'll come. I called him last night. He's
coming with his mother."
Zinhloso wore her sandals once she was done
fixing Nobuhle's head, "that's awesome. Did you
leave without giving him some?"
She cracked up, "aybo, Zinhloso!"
"I am just asking because we spoke about it
recently." She sat on the bed. She was very tired,
they didn't sleep the previous night. They were
busy the whole day and at night, they practiced
wedding songs.
"Yes, I gave him some in the morning before I
left," she responded shyly and she hit Zinhloso
playfully as she giggled.
"I am happy for you. I wish only good things for
you my sister. You deserve them," she said and
they surprisingly hugged each other tightly.
***The Wedding between the Mnguni family and
the Bhengu family wasn't a small wedding. It
wasn't just normal citizens who were getting
married but it was a son of induna. His first
born son from his first wife. People from all
over the village and neighbouring villages came.
The relatives of the Bhengu family came in
numbers and also, the members from the
mother in-laws' family came.
And the bride - she was the daughter of the late
traditional healer. The man who was known
beyond the borders of the country. People
graced them by accepting their wedding invites.
Mrs Mnguni was over the moon about her
daughter getting married. She wished she could
fly up into the sky and tell the whole world
about her daughter's wedding. The mother
wasn't supposed to attend her daughter's
traditional wedding but when they were getting
married at church on Saturday. Mrs Mnguni
attended, she was dressed to kill. If happiness
could kill - Mrs Mnguni was going to die that
day because even the couple wasn't as happy
as she was. She was sad about not attending
the Zulu wedding but she was comforted that
Bhekani had hired a videographer. The first
person to have a videographer in the village for
their wedding. They only took pictures, not
video of the wedding.
Ziwinile was wearing full traditional gear for the
bride, her breasts showing under the chest
cover. She was nervous about leaving home but
she was going to be with her man - that made
her happier.
Ziwinile passed her Standard 10 and she was
enrolled in College for the year. She was doing a
teaching certificate for the foundation phase.
She didn't want to study for years because she
knew there was a possibility she wasn't going
to be allowed to continue with school. The
training was very difficult and severe but she
had no choice, she held on because she had a
goal. Everyone knew that their training was not
the same as white teachers.
Her father in-law had promised her that she was
going to get space and be a teacher at
Nqutshini primary school after completing her
studies. Life was going very well for her.
"Please, ngane kabhuti, uziphathe kahle emzini."
Aunt Lindo advised Ziwinile. She was seated on
the straw mat outside the gate of her in-laws.
The day had been concluded, everything was a
success. She was fully Mrs Bhengu. She had a
gold single wedding band on her finger and
Bhekani wasn't wearing a ring.
"Yes, be respectful and take care of your
husband and in-laws. Don't fight with anyone.
We've spoken a lot with you and so, we don't
expect you to disappoint us," her grandmother
said. They were around her, saying goodbye as
they were leaving her. She had a new home now.
"Uyiphakele indoda ntombazane, uyiphakele
ekhishini nasekamereni," the woman who was
their neighbour added and the young women
laughed. They told them to shut up. Others
hugged Ziwinile and others patted her back.
They left her.
She couldn't hold her tears as they left. The next
day, she was going to wake up in her bedroom
and it was unbelievable.
The wife of the middle brother took Ziwinile
from the gate and she walked inside with her,
"don't cry," she hugged her, "you're better
because you won't live in this yard with our
mother in-law. She can be too much. Uma
kuthiwa umfazi ongemama kushiwo yena."
She wiped her tears, "where will I live?"
"Didn't bhuti Bhekani tell you?"
"No."
She smiled, "you'll live with him in your separate
home. He'd built the home for the two of you. I
envy you."
She couldn't believe this. Why didn't he tell her?
She was very happy, "but how does your
husband treat you?"
"He treats me and our kids the best. I am still
staying because he loves me. My father told me
he's the reason I am here and once he changed.
I can always come back home," she imitated
her father and they laughed.
"That sounds like something my father would
also say," she said and they walked inside the
big kitchen hut. Their mother in-law was inside
and with other women of the family. They
welcomed Ziwinile inside by singing and
ululating. It was a happy day, there was a new
bride and this meant the family was going to
grow.
Ziwinile's mother in-law had three sons and
seven daughters. She had only one daughter in-
law. Only four daughters were married and the
others were not. Her youngest son was still in
high school. He was the last born of them all.
The wife of her son had already given birth to
five children in eight years of marriage. She
married young. The mother-in-law was very
happy about getting another daughter. Her
sister wives had more sons and so, they had
more daughters-in-law already.

After three nights, the newlyweds moved into

their new home. It was a pattern in the village
for first born sons to build closer to their
parents. Bhekani followed the same pattern. His
yard was big like any yard.
"Why didn't you tell me that you've already built
such a beautiful home for us?" Ziwinile asked,
as she was walking around the yard with her
husband.
The family had left, they came into the yard with
them. They performed relevant rituals to plant
them into a new yard. Ziwinile cooked food for
them in her kitchen hut and they had her food.
They also had the goat that was slaughtered
and traditional beer.
Bhekani held her hand, "I wanted to surprise you.
You see, we still have just two houses and one
hut but as we get more children. We'll build
more houses. I am happy that I will have a
working wife."
She laughed and followed him inside the bigger
house, "this one must be yours?"
"No, this is a five room house for you and the
children. My house is a two room house that's
on top of the cattle pen," Bhekani said.
Ziwinile was happy and she wondered how
much money did Bhekani have? The house was
partially furnished. The living room and her
bedroom. The other three rooms were empty.
"It's beautiful, I can't wait to see it busy with
babies." She giggled and hugged her husband.
"You'll come to my house tonight. I want us to
always be together every night because we
have no children yet," Bhekani's hand was on
her cheek, "you'll sleep in your bedroom only
when you're in your days."
"Alright, let me take my bath and I will join you.
It's already dark outside."
He nodded and left her. Ziwinile was very
nervous about tonight. She was going to finally
experience what other women had experienced.
She got into the bed wearing a full length lilac
pink night dress. She had covered her head with
her doek. She waited for her husband. Her
stomach was in knots. She had never felt like
this.
Bhekani joined her wearing shots, "it's like a
dream. I have a wife," he smiled at her and he
wasted no time with small talk but he kissed
her. Their lips were soft against each other and
Bhekani was leading the kiss. He was doing all
the work and Ziwinile was following his every
lead. The kiss changed from slow to fast.
Bhekani's emotions and need for sex were high.
He discarded her piece of clothing and with his
finger he checked if she was wet.
"Don't be scared it'll feel good," he tried to calm
her as he could see that Ziwinile was feeling
pain. He knew the pain was natural because
she was very wet. It wasn't because of the
dryness. He screamed as he slipped into her
warm wetness. He was very excited. He was a
man with a wife now and he was going to have
this whenever he wanted. He didn't even care
that he wasn't hearing her moans that signalled
that she was also enjoying the sex. He was
enjoying himself and that was what was very
important to him. He'd never had sex with a
virgin before but he heard from other men that
they don't enjoy sex the first time. He told
himself she was going to enjoy the next time -
which was the next day. He wasn't going to rob
himself and he also wanted her to enjoy soon
because sex was the best fruits of marriage. It
was how the couple best enjoyed their marriage.
"Whew! I am sorry about tonight but it was your
first time. Your body is not used to this. You'll
feel better when we try again," Bhekani brushed
Ziwinile's shoulder.
"I hope so, baba," she said, she was really sore
and she didn't have hope that she was ever
going to enjoy it.
Bhekani fell asleep right away. He was
exhausted. Ziwinile slowly got off the bed and
went to her house. She was walking slowly. She
was not comfortable. She quickly bathed her
private part with cold water as she felt like it
was on fire.
When she returned back on bed, Bhekani was
snoring. She smiled as he turned and held her
body. She was finally a grown woman. She was
very happy.
***
A week after the wedding Zinhloso went to her
house ematshane. She didn't have a valid
reason for the visit but she felt like spending the
weekend away, away from the village and away
from home.
Everyone was still discussing Ziwinile's grand
wedding. It brought bitterness and pain in her
heart. It didn't matter even if she wasn't married
yet just to have Mhlabunzima around. It was
going to be way better than what she was going
through. She felt bad because she felt like she
was being jealous of her sister.
She was very lonely and she longed for love,
warmth and passion.
After putting Qophelo to sleep, Zinhloso sat
outside with their small photo album. She
looked at their pictures, she was taken down
memory lane.
Her heart pained, "oh, I miss you!" Her hand
brushed over Mhlabunzima's face on the
picture. She held the picture on her chest and
she cried.
They created the best memories in this house.
This yard had money for them. Her daughter
was created in this house. She'd been at her
happiest in this house and now, she felt the
greatest emptiness. Only because of the
absence of Mhlabunzima in her life.
UMCEBO

Chapter 178

***Chapter sponsored by Boitumelo

Masitenyane***

That year ended before they could blink.

Zinhloso passed Standard 5. It was funny
because that year she was in the same school
as her stepdaughter. She used to go and check
on Zodumo during break time. Zodumo thought
she was a teacher in school and the year ended
with that theory in her mind. Zinhloso explained
that she was also studying but she didn't think
she was telling the truth. That year her daughter
turned two years old and they still didn't get to
grandly celebrate her birthday because of the
wedding.
The new year began and she was enrolled at
Khombindlela high school in the township. The
same school her sisters attended. She felt like
she was older, she was in high school, finally!
She really enjoyed the new school and the
subjects she enjoyed the most were languages.
She could accurately speak Afrikaans. It was
better than English because even in primary she
did better in Afrikaans. She had a friend in
school, she stayed in the township. They were
in the same grade.
What Zinhloso didn't like about high school was
the attention she got from the boys. They were
highly annoying because her focus was on
Mhlabunzima. It didn't matter that he wasn't
around - she was loyal to him and their
relationship.
It was the beginning of June - the present year.
Zinhloso and Lily were in town together. They
were buying winter clothes for their daughters.
Zinhloso brought the money from their father's
businesses.
"Do you like this jacket Zodumo? Your sister
says she likes it." Zinhloso asked, showing
Zodumo the winter jacket she took for Qophelo.
Zodumo smiled, "if mama buys it for me, we'll
wear it at the same time and we'll be like twins,
right?"
The mothers laughed, "yes, you'll be like twins."
They said in unison.
Lily and Zinhloso did most of the things for their
children together. Whenever they were buying
clothes, they went together. They shared any
problems they faced as mothers of the same
man who wasn't there to see their children
growing. They treated each other as friends.
"Are you going to sleepover kwaXulu? I want to
sleep out tonight. It's much better when she's
with her family." Lily asked Zinhloso. They were
seated under the tree on a blanket eating after
they finished shopping. They also bought
clothes for themselves.
Zinhloso laughed, "uyayithanda le ndoda yakho"
(you love your boyfriend)
"Don't you love yours?"
She rolled her eyes, "we'll sleep there because I
want to go to the supermarket."
Lily had a boyfriend, her boyfriend was from the
same village where they lived. She started
dating him seven months back. She had told
herself it was time to move on and forget about
having a future with Mhlabunzima. It was never
going to happen and she had made peace with
it. She was grateful for Zinhloso because she
took care of her daughter like her own. When
Zodumo needed something she couldn't afford
Lily would tell the child that she must ask
Zinhloso. She would buy anything her child
needed. She did everything for her without
complaining.
"Zodumo, we'll see you when your mother
brings you home," Zinhloso said to Zodumo.
She had parked the car at the gate and Lily and
Zodumo got out of the car. They had a great
day together.
She waved, "okay, bye! I will see you later Sisi!"
She said to Qophelo.
"Bye, Dumo!" Qophelo waved.

Zinhloso drove the car through the gate of

Ngenzwel'umusa supermarket. She was
passing by after dropping off Lily and Zodumo.
She parked the car under the tree. She looked at
the space that she left and she was hoping
Induna and the king were going to give her
permission for the idea that she had.
Beginning of the year, Zinhloso took a big step.
She expanded Mhlabunzima's shop from the
tuckshop to the supermarket. It took her a
whole year to finally decide that she was going
to carry out this idea.
She changed the name to Ngenzelw'umusa
Supermarket. She took Xulu and they went to
the bank, they opened a bank account under
Xulu's name. She didn't want to use her name
and surname because she wasn't married yet.
She didn't want them to think she was taking
their son's things. Xulu opened the account.
It took three months for the renovations to
finally be finished. There were always setbacks
and sometimes they would find muthi. After
finding muthi the progress would stop until a
traditional healer was called. It was never
known who was bewitching the progress but it
showed that it was someone closer. Zinhloso
had to go across the river and the traditional
healer that helped heal her, he came to the
grounds. Babethela, together with Xulu. He was
directing on what he was supposed to do. He
promised them, no witches were going to
succeed. The construction proceeded and
finally - the supermarket was completed. It'd
been three months since it started operating as
a supermarket.
"Ntokozo, did the meat order arrive?" Zinhloso
was holding her daughter in her arms. It was
the beginning of the month and the
supermarket was busy. Some people, like old
people - they were no longer shopping in town
but here. They spent their old age pension in the
supermarket. Their lives were made easier.
"Yes, it arrived in the morning and I signed for
it," Ntokozo responded and took Qophelo from
Zinhloso. Ntokozo was promoted to the
supermarket manager. Zinhloso hired people
from the village to make things easier.
"Thank you so much," she said and moved to
the back. The chickens were still there and the
others also produced eggs. She wanted
Mhlabunzima's idea to remain original but only
expand it. She was always hoping he was alive
and one day he was going to come back. He
was going to witness what they've done with his
business.
Zinhloso told John after telling Mhlabunzima's
parents about the idea of expanding to a
supermarket. John connected Zinhloso with
Petersen and she bought meat from Petersen's
farm. The meat was cut in Petersen's butchery
and his truck delivered the meat to the
supermarket whenever they ordered. Petersen
liked working with Zinhloso. She didn't give him
a headache.
The supermarket had a small section where
they sold meat. She also sold seasonal goods
like blankets and winter coats - things she
would drive to Durban and buy, bringing them to
the villagers. She felt really empowered and her
busy life made her forget a little about the
misery of not having Mhlabunzima with her. She
was always occupied, especially during
weekends and she was used to her busy life.
"Where's Mathabi?" Zinhloso asked the young
man behind the cash register. He was working
alone. They had two cash registers.
"She's sick. She called Ntokozo and reported
sick." He responded.
Zinhloso stood behind the cash register. She
put Qophelo down, "others can come this side."
She said to the customers who were standing in
line. The others moved to her side and she
worked.
She bent over and helped her daughter with the
packet of chips she was given by a woman who
was buying.
"Sawubona!" The soft voice of a man greeted
her.
Zinhloso almost fell from shock. She was so
shocked even the people who were close by
noticed. They didn't know whether she was
taken by the young man or they knew each
other beyond. "Mthuthuzeli?" Her voice came
out in a whisper.
His smile spread out through his face and his
dimples showed, "yes, it's me. It's been years."
He placed the basket up. He waited for her to
speak but she wasn't moving her lips. She was
just staring at him. He also gazed at her - his
heart was pained as he looked at her. Life!
UMCEBO

Chapter 179

***Chapter sponsored by Boitumelo

Masitenyane***

Her back was pinned against the wall, her arms

circled on his neck and her legs wrapped
around his waist. She was enjoying every part
of having sex with him standing on his feet. She
loved how their sex life was - it was liberating.
"Ah, John!" She screamed his name and this
encouraged John to hump deeper and harder.
Suddenly, Nobuhle's stomach turned and she
cried, "put me down!"
"What? You must be kidding me! I am closer to
cumming."
She wanted to scream and push him away but
she couldn't. She only held on to him and
moved her head away from his face. She let it
all out - everything she ate for breakfast
returned. It went straight to the floor and only
then, John stopped thrusting. He removed his
penis, put her down and while Nobuhle was
busy vomiting. John finished off the round by
quickly jerking off using his hand. She couldn't
see what he was doing. She had bent over, her
hands holding her braids away from her face.
"Is it painful?" He asked, brushing her back
softly.
She slapped his hand away, "water!" She
screamed and John rushed out to get some
water for Nobuhle.
When he came back - she had her gown
wrapped around her body and she was cleaning
up the floor.
"And your water?"
She clicked her tongue and didn't even look at
him, "I went to the bathroom. I don't understand
why it took you so long to come back with
water."
"I am sorry. Are you fine now?"
She didn't answer him but she walked out. She
came back with the mop and a bucket with
clean water and soap. She cleaned up
thoroughly.
"I asked you if you're fine!"
She turned to him with a scowl, "yes, I am fine!
Can't you see that?"
"You need to go to the Doctor. This is your
second time vomiting." John advised.
"I am not going to see the Doctor for vomiting. I
am not sick," she walked out with the bucket
after cleaning. She came back and opened the
wardrobe.
John stood behind her, "don't you want us to
finish up that round? You didn't cum."
"I am no longer interested, I want to go for my
first class," she focused on dressing up but she
was really scared. What was happening to her
body? Could it be? But how? She'd been careful.
How could she have missed a day?
Martin drove her to College. She wanted to think
all the way to College and if she allowed John
to drive her. She wasn't going to be able to think.
He was going to ruin her day.
"Goodbye Martin, thanks." She got out of the car
and rushed to her first class.
The winter sun was hot and Nobuhle wasn't
feeling well. She was sleeping during most of
her classes. She even got excused in one class
because she wasn't concentrating. She was
supposed to go back to the house but she
decided she was going to go to town, maybe
she needed something that was going to cheer
her up. She needed something that was going
to brighten her day.
***
Ziwinile took her bags and she walked out of
her class. She was teaching Standard 1. The
class was the biggest class in school and so,
they decided to divide the class into two.
Ziwinile was teaching the other half. They
moved the class to the school hall and put an
artificial wall to divide it. The wall was always
removed when there were parents' meetings or
community meetings. Ziwinile enjoyed being a
teacher and she felt good about being a wife
who was working. Most wives in the village
were only home makers. It was sometimes
tiring but she wouldn't trade it for anything. She
loved her life. Her married life was very good
and she loved her husband.
She always walked from home to school. It was
a walkable distance.
At home, Ziwinile found her husband home and
there was her mother-in-law and father-in-law.
She quickly put her bags in her house and she
rushed to the kitchen hut where they were.
"We're glad that you're back, makoti. Please sit
down." Her father in-law pointed at the straw
mat where her mother-in-law was seated.
Ziwinile sat down, "have you eaten kodwa, baba?
I want to make food for you and mama," she
said, kindly.
Her mother-in-law shook her head, "that will be
unnecessary. We're here to discuss an
important matter."
"Makoti, it's been nine months since the two of
you got married. When are we holding a
grandchild?" Her father-in-law asked the critical
but important question..
Bhekani's mother glanced at Ziwinile, "is
working too much for you and it makes you
tired? You should stop working. I never
supported this idea of working. I want to hold a
grandchild from my first born. Your sister-wife
from your brother-in-law is expecting her sixth
child. Where's your pregnancy?"
"Mom, please, be soft on her."
She glared at her son, "don't tell me that! I want
a grandchild from you two."
Ziwinile was shuttered, she'd been disappointed
every month when she got her periods. She
wanted a child desperately but she wasn't
conceiving, "I think I haven't been tracing my
circle well. I will ask to go home since it's Friday
and I will ask my mother to help me figure out if
it's going well or if I am making a mistake. I
think I am not sure about my ovulations."
Bhekani's mother calmed down after hearing
her explanation. She understood that she could
really be getting the ovulations wrong. It was
normal for some women to mix up dates. She
explained to her husband and son what Ziwinile
was saying. She told them in simple terms and
they understood. They gave her permission to
go home.
Bhekani walked Ziwinile home. He was telling
her that she shouldn't stress. They were going
to have a baby soon. Ziwinile was hopeless. But
when she heard his words. She had hope.
She pushed doors of the main house at home
and Thuli - Mzomubi's second wife was startled.
She screamed a little, "I am trying to put my son
to sleep!" Thuli raised her voice at Ziwinile. She
was moving around with her one year old son.
Ziwinile didn't care about disturbing her sister-in
-law and nephew, "mama!" She cried out for her
mother. She couldn't find her in the kitchen. She
walked out and bumped into Mzomubi's
pregnant first wife. She was pregnant with her
first child and Ziwinile's eyes were attracted to
her pregnancy bump. She wanted to die. She
hadn't seen them for a while.
"Where's mom?"
Lucy pointed at the hut, "in her hut!"
She rushed to the hut and found her mother
seated on the bed. She dropped her body on the
bed and cried on her mom's lap. Her head was
on her lap.
Mrs Mnguni brushed her head, "what's wrong
my baby?"
"Mama, they want a baby. I also want a baby but
it's been nine months. I am not getting
pregnant," she cried her pain out to her mother.
She knew they weren't to stop until there was a
baby.
"You need to be patient." Her mother consoled
her but she'd been expecting a child too. She
never asked her because she thought she
wasn't ready. It was hurtful to see her daughter
cry like this. What was happening? The two
daughters had children outside marriage and
the one who was married and was supposed to
have a child - was no getting a child. Why?
"For how long?" She cried louder and her cry
attracted Mzomubi to the hut.
Mrs Mnguni looked at her son after allowing
him inside the hut. "Please, mix anything that's
got to do with fertility for your sister."
"What's wrong?"
"Just go and get what I am talking about! Talk
to Lily at the pharmacy, hurry up," she screamed
and Mzomubi rushed out. She kept brushing her
daughter's back, "don't worry my baby. You'll be
fine." She closed her eyes. She was hoping her
child would be well and was going to get her
own child. Her father had helped a lot of women
who had the same problem…
UMCEBO

Chapter 180
Zinhloso collected herself and she gave him an
unsure smile. She packed his grocery items.
"It's good to see you again," she said but she
wanted to say a lot more to him. She wanted to
ask him questions. It'd been years and he was
back?
Ntokozo greeted Mthuthuzeli, "let me take over
here and you can be free, mam."
"Thank you. Let's go, Qophelo," she gave her
daughter her hand and they walked out of the
supermarket. Mthuthuzeli was walking beside
them.
"You look even more beautiful now, back then
you were a little girl but now you're a grown
woman," Mthuthuzeli complimented her beauty
and he folded his lips as he witnessed a small
smile from her.
When she looked at him there wasn't a smile,
"thank you. Where have you been? I thought you
died or something horrible happened to you. I
was very worried."
They stood beside the van, "it's a long story kitty
-" he laughed as Zinhloso giggled as he called
her how he used to, "I am sorry but you haven't
changed much you still look as beautiful as a
kitten."
"You also haven't changed much." He didn't
have the courage to compliment another man.
He looked really good, tall and caramel toned.
He was way better than he was before. Her
eyes locked with his, he had an insanely
gorgeous smirk pasted on his face. It reminded
her how much she used to love making him
laugh so she would see his dimples.
"I guess I still look good then."
She looked away, "I never thought I would see
you again."
"I came back because I heard about your father.
I heard earlier this year. I am really sorry for
your loss." He hated Mnguni so much for
ruining his life by using witchcraft on his mother
but he knew how much Zinhloso loved her
father. It must have been difficult for her to lose
the only parent who truly cared about her.
She looked down ashamed, "I am sorry for what
happened."
"It's not your fault. We should meet and catch
up if you get time."
"Are you back full time here?"
"No, we're here to perform rituals. Singenise
amadlozi asekhaya into the new home. We will
live in another village now," he responded, "this
village has more painful memories for us that's
why I decided to stay somewhere else."
"I totally understand."
"I heard Chwane paid ilobolo for you and this
must be your beautiful daughter?" He played
with Qophelo's cheeks and the child giggled.
"Uhm, yes, he did."
"It must be very difficult for you since he's not
around."
She looked down, "yes, it is."
"But you're strong, he's lucky to have you." He
said and Zinhloso didn't say anything. She
wasn't looking at him, "I should go. I hope we'll
get to meet and catch up. There's a lot I would
like to know about you even though I can't have
you anymore. I respect that."
"Yes, we should meet."
He gave Qophelo money to buy snacks and he
said goodbye after the child had thanked him.
Zinhloso got into the car with Qophelo and he
drove to the Xulu family home.
"Mama?"
She looked at her daughter, "yes, baby?"
"Ubani yena?" (Who's he?)
She laughed, "he lives in the village and he
worked with your father fighting the bad men
who took your father." She explained.
"Oh!" She looked at the money Mthuthuzeli gave
her and she put it inside the pocket of her jacket.
She smiled alone. Zinhloso shook her head, her
daughter loved money. She looked forward and
shook her head, she didn't want to lose focus.
She was another man's woman.

She lifted the phone at night after putting the

girls to sleep. She called her sister.
"Hey, Zinhloso, how are you?"
"I am fine and how are you?"
She yawned, "I am not well, I am going to see
the Doctor tomorrow."
"What's wrong?"
"I will be able to tell you once I come back from
the Doctor tomorrow."
"Alright, ey, you won't believe who I saw today."
She rubbed her eyes.
"Who?"
"Mthuthuzeli, he's back,"
"Jehovah ongcwele!" Her voice was loud and
not low like she started the conversation,
"Zinhloso, are you sure?"
"Yes, we even spoke."
"Oh, my God! I am so happy."
She opened her eyes, "why are you happy?
Hhaybo!"
"No, we were all worried that dad killed him but
it's better because he's alive."
"Oh, yea, you're right. I was also relieved when I
saw him. I don't want to lie." She said and
Nobuhle cleared her throat, "what?"
"So?"
"So, what?"
"I might have!"
"Might have what? Speak!"
She cleared her throat, "I was angry that he got
you pregnant deliberately and he wasn't sorry. I
didn't mean to tell him but he was making me
angry because he had pride that he was the
only man who'd loved you beyond your illness. I
told him you loved Mthuthuzeli even though you
didn't date."
"So, you told him about Mthuthuzeli!" She
screamed and sat up straight.
"Zinhloso, I am your older sister don't shout at
me."
"Why did you do that? And why did he not
confront me?"
"I am sorry but I told him not to tell you."
"Tsk!"
"Come on, don't be like that. He was eventually
going to find out about him." She said, and
Zinhloso didn't say anything to Nobuhle, "please,
don't find comfort in him. Mhlabunzima loves
you. I know Mthuthuzeli may still love you as
much but you belong to another man now.
Ungasphoxi."
"Goodnight," she said and placed the phone
down. When the telephone rang again. Zinhloso
ignored it and went to the bedroom.
****
"But I explained that I was angry. Why can't she
understand?" Nobuhle was taking out her
frustrations on John after telling him about her
conversation with Zinhloso. They were having
breakfast.
"She's also angry, you need to understand that!"
John defended Zinhloso.
Nobuhle stood up, "okay, bye!"
"And what about your breakfast?"
"I am late." She walked out and found Martin
waiting for her. She asked him to drive her to
the Doctor first.
"Are you going to be able to get to campus after
seeing the Doctor?" Martin asked after parking
the car before the private Doctor's building.
She opened the door, "don't worry I will get
transport from here." She headed inside. John
wasn't aware that she was going to see the
Doctor. She didn't feel like telling him. She
wanted to only tell the results.
She was waiting nervously after the Doctor had
taken tests. She didn't wait for long because it
wasn't full.
The Doctor was advanced enough to have a
scan and so, after reading the results. She did a
scan on Nobuhle before telling her the results.
She was a white Doctor.
"Congratulations, you're twelve weeks
pregnant!" The Doctor smiled at her.
Nobuhle's world stopped - why was she saying
congratulations? What was there to
congratulate her for? Couldn't she see there
was no ring on her finger and that meant she
wasn't supposed to be pregnant?
"Hey, why are you crying?" The Doctor brushed
her shoulder.
"I am studying and I shouldn't be pregnant," she
cried louder and the Doctor tried her hardest to
console her but she didn't calm down.
She looked at her with sorry eyes, "can I call
someone to come and fetch me?"
"Aren't you going to school?"
"No, I am not alright."
The Doctor showed her the phone. She thanked
her and made a telephone call, "hello, baas, can
Martin come and get me where he left me?" She
spoke professionally as John answered the
telephone.
"Buhle, what's wrong?"
"Please, tell him, he knows where I am." She
didn't change tune. She put the phone down
after he promised to inform him.
The Doctor looked at her with questioning eyes,
"you're also working?"
"Yes, Doctor I work part-time where my mom
used to work. I need money."
"I am sorry but you're still in good health your
boss should let you continue with working," the
Doctor felt really sorry for her. Nobuhle thanked
her and she went to wait for Martin outside.
She was quiet the entire drive and when she
realised that John was home. She was relieved
but he wasn't alone. He had some people he
worked with. Nobuhle had to go and wear her
uniform. She decided to work and get her mind
off things.
"You didn't have to work. You just got back from
the Doctor," Martin said as he found Nobuhle
cleaning the kitchen where he'd been cooking
lunch for John and his associates. "I want to
keep busy." She worked until John was done
with his work.
He found her cleaning his bedroom, "what's
going on?" He closed the door behind him,
"Martin told me that you went to the Doctor."
She sat on the bed defeated, "I am pregnant. I
am three months."
His face brightened up but he quickly got sad
as he remembered the circumstances they
were living under, "that's good news and I know
we live in such a world but we can always leave
the country."
She shook her head, "no, you know that I can't. I
am studying here I have my family here and I
have a child."
"What are we going to do then? If you give birth
there'll be consequences and they'll take our
child away from us."
Her eyes glistened with tears, "I know that's why
I think it's best that I abort the baby. I will go
home and have something to abort the baby."
He laughed his face off and he stopped
laughing when he realised that she wasn't
laughing with him. "Are you serious?"
"Yes, having this child will ruin my life and it'll
also ruin the child's life."
"That's why I am saying let's leave!"
She stood up, "I can't. It's easy for you to say
that but it's not easy for me. I can't leave."
"So… you… would… rather… abort… my child?"
His whole body was in pain. He couldn't hold his
tears. He never thought Nobuhle could be so
cruel. Why was she thinking of such? There was
a way out but she would rather choose to kill
the baby.
"We'll have other children once all this is over.
The country will be free."
John headed to the door. He held the door
opened for her, "please, get out."
"John-"
"Get out!"
She flinched as he roared. She quickly headed
to the door and she looked at him when she
reached the door. She could see pain and she
was also hurt but the consequences were going
to be severe for her. Why couldn't he
understand?
UMCEBO
Chapter 181

***Chapter sponsored by Boitumelo

Masitenyane****

"Are you going to your father now?" Dorothy

asked Kusakusa. She was walking him out of
the kitchen hut. He had a work errand that he
needed to run by the village and he decided to
pass at home. He had a few items to drop for
his children and his parents.
"Yes, I will drop this plastic bag and go back to
work." He stepped inside the work van and he
smiled as he got a kiss from his wife.
"Can you please talk to baba and ask him to
speak to Zinhloso. My brother needs a job. He's
been unemployed for years now. Please," she
pleaded.
He nodded, "alright, I will talk to him."
He drove away after saying goodbye to her. He
drove straight home, he wasn't going to ask his
father for a job for her brother. He didn't like his
brother-in-law. He wasn't a focused man and he
was also a thief. He was going to ruin his
brother's business. He was going to lie and tell
her there was no job opportunity.
Kusakusa drove through the gates and he went
straight to his father. He was seated outside his
house.
"Donda, how are you?" Kusakusa asked, and he
sat on the bench with him.
Xulu looked into the plastic bag and he smiled.
It was good to have his children look after him.
Mhlabunzima wasn't home but he found a
woman who wasn't greedy. She looked after
them. His daughter wasn't working but she'd
been taking care of him. Ngenzeni decided to
further her studies. She was studying to be a
social worker - she was motivated by Nobuhle
studying to be a Doctor. She felt empowered by
her and she told her father she also wanted to
be one of educated women in the village. He
was using his money to pay for Ngenzeni's
studies. And Zinhloso was looking after them.
"I am fine, my boy. Thank you, I will sleep with a
full stomach today." He closed the plastic bag,
"are you going to work?"
"Yes, baba, I am not staying, I was passing.
Where's mama?"
He pointed at the kitchen,"she's inside the
kitchen."
He said goodbye and passed by his mom's
kitchen, "Sisi omncane, you're home. Weren't
you attending today?"
"I came back early."
He dropped the plastic on the table, "okay,
mama, I was passing by. I am leaving now.
Didn't Qophelo come today?"
"Thank you, son, she's outside."
"Okay, bye." He rushed out, he looked around for
his brother's child but he couldn't see her. He
stepped inside the car and started the car.
When the car moved, Kusakusa heard a small
scream. His heart jumped to his throat. He
immediately stopped the car and he got out of
the car.
"Qophelo! How did you get here?" He pulled the
child under the car. His parents and sister
rushed to the car.
Esther's hand was shaking as she held her head,
"did she get hurt?"
"I see scratches. I think I should drop her at the
clinic, mama." He gave the crying child to his
mother.
Esther looked at Ngenzeni, "go and take her
clinic card in her father's house!" She quickly
instructed and Ngenzeni ran up to the house.
Xulu stepped inside the car with his wife.
She tried her best to calm her grandchild down.
"You didn't get hurt, ntombazane kagogo. Don't
cry!"
Kusakusa drove off as soon as Ngenzeni gave
them the clinic card. "I don't even know how I
didn't realise she was under the car." He was
frustrated and scared, he was hoping there was
no damage that was done to the child.
"It was an accident." Esther said.
Xulu kept looking at the crying Qophelo, "you
have children Kusakusa. You should always
check before you move the car."
"Yes," he rubbed his forehead. He was hoping
and praying that there was nothing wrong with
her.
Zinhloso got off the 3pm bus at the Xulu stop.
She waited until the bus had passed and she
walked through the gates after wearing her
head wrap. She was coming from school.
"Skwiza, how are you?" Zinhloso placed her bag
on the bench and looked around the kitchen,
"where's Qophelo and mama?" She took a glass
and poured water. She drank the water at one
go.
"They rushed her to the clinic…" Ngenzeni told
Zinhloso what happened and she didn't stay
another minute. She ran to Mhlabunzima's
house. She grabbed the car keys and ran out.
"Please, drive safely and don't panic!" She
screamed after her and she prayed for the
safety of the child.
Zinhloso was flying on the road and in no time
she was running inside the clinic corridors. She
spotted Xulu seated outside the consulting
room, his head was looking down. She didn't
care about the people who were looking at her.
She sat on the chair next to Xulu, "how are you,
baba? What's happening?"
He raised his head, "makoti, you're here?"
"Yes, sisi told me what happened."
"Your mother is inside with her and they're still
examining her. She didn't have any major scars,
just a scratch."
She breathed in and out. She closed her eyes
and quickly opened them when she heard
Esther saying 'thank you' to the nurse. They
both stood up. "Mama?"
Esther gave Qophelo to her mother, "they said
she's fine she didn't get hurt. There wasn't any
internal bleeding either. They gave me panado
incase she's feeling any pain."
"Thank you so much." She smiled at her
daughter and kissed her cheek, "why did you get
under your father's car, huh?" She changed from
soft to serious. They were walking out of the
clinic.
"Benifuna ibhoya yami!"
"Don't you ever do that Qophelo you'll get hurt
and if you do it again I will whip you!" She
threatened her and she started tearing up. Her
grandmother took her and Zinhloso drove them
back home. She was worried about her
daughter, minor accidents were mostly
happening around her. She didn't know if it was
like that with every child or it was just her
daughter.
After Qophelo and Zinhloso got home. Xulu told
Zinhloso to go home using the car. She dropped
the parents off and drove home with her
daughter.
"MaSibiya?"
They walked up to their kitchen, "baba?"
"Can you see that accidents have been
happening around this child?" He looked at his
wife and they stopped walking.
"What do you mean?"
"She almost got hurt when a metal was falling
off when they were constructing the
supermarket." Xulu counted, "She got burnt on
her hand and now, this?"
"Children are always getting hurt, Xulu."
"No, this is not normal. There's something
wrong."
"Something like what?"
"I don't know but her grandmother had said
heavy words upon her life."
She shook her head, "no, you're reading too
much into it. Please, don't stress and let's be
grateful that she's fine."
"Alright, I hope I am not right." He said and they
proceeded to the kitchen.
****
Nobuhle joined John on the dinner table. Martin
cooked, after he chased her out of his bedroom.
She went to the Backhouse to sleep. She was
stressed and sad about this dilemma she was
facing.
"Can you pass me the salt?" She requested and
John ignored her. She dropped the fork on the
plate, "I am trying here but you don't want to
understand where I come from."
"Your father was a very strict man. Did you think
of aborting your first baby when you got
pregnant?" He asked, he wasn't in the mood of
having this conversation with her. He knew how
women were. If she had made up her mind
there would be no convincing her otherwise.
"No, but it's different."
"Yes, it's different because you loved the father
of your first child. You stopped going to school
and nursed the pregnancy," he said, in a sad
voice, "but because it's my child. Why should
you care? You'll choose your first child any day."
"It's not like that John. We'll have other
children."
"So, what if you fall pregnant again while
studying?"
"I won't. The government is in preparation of
introducing family planning. We went to the
clinics to get information about it. I am sure
before the following year ends it'll be in place,"
Nobuhle informed him.
He chuckled and stood up, "if you abort that
baby it'll be over between you and I. You'll move
on with your life and I will do the same. I can
never date someone who killed my flesh and
blood." He left the dinner table, leaving Nobuhle
in disbelief.
UMCEBO

Chapter 182

***Chapter sponsored by Khayo Gumede***

The muthi that Mzomubi gave her, Ziwinile used

it and finished it as horrible as it was but she
was still not pregnant. She was highly stressed
because any married woman's dream was to
give her husband children. Why wasn't she not
getting children? She wanted to have children
and have warmth in her home.
"I am stressed about this meeting," Ziwinile said
to her husband. They were walking behind her
in-laws on the road. It was her mother-in-law
and father-in-law, then the two aunts of the
family. They were going to the Mnguni home to
have a meeting with Mrs Mnguni, her uncle and
aunt about the issue of a child.
"What's stressing you? I think you won't fall
pregnant because you're stressed. You need to
relax," he said - in the beginning Bhekani
thought maybe he was the problem but that
changed. He realised he wasn't the problem but
his wife was the problem. He really loved
Ziwinile and he wished things had worked out
as they planned and hoped for their future. But
things didn't work out like that. They were
already out of hand and he had to accept the
life he was about to lead.
"But how can I not be stressed?"
He held her hand, "you need to relax."
"Bhekani, why are you not stressed about this
issue?"
"That's because I know everything has its time
under the sun." He said coolly and Ziwinile kept
quiet. She didn't know why he wasn't mad or
why he wasn't sad. He was sad for a few
months and he quickly changed. He was
someone who was accepting the situation, why?
Mrs Mnguni opened the empty hut and she
allowed all the family members inside. She had
called auntie Lindo and the eldest uncle to be
with her when Ziwinile's in-laws came. It was
her mother-in-law who called.
"I think we should stick to business before it
gets late," Induna said and they started
discussing the agenda of the meeting.
Mrs Bhengu spoke, "MaNtuli, we thought we
should come to you and my daughter-in-law. We
have an issue that she's been married for over
eight months but there's no child."
"Yes, this issue is bothering us because Bhekani
is our first born and we need a child from him
and his wife," Induna voiced out after his wife.
Aunt Lindo spoke, "don't you think you're putting
pressure on the children? It hasn't been a year
since they got married and you're already
expecting a child."
"Yes, we should expect a child, that's what the
wife does," the mother-in-law argued. She was
very happy when Ziwinile got married into her
family and she liked her more than her other
daughter-in-law. But she was disappointed by
not getting a child from her. She took good care
of them as a working wife. She wasn't
expecting much from her but she exceeded her
expectations because she knew how to balance
her life. This showed her that her mother taught
her well. What she also liked the most was that
she was also looking after them financially as
she was working, she added money to the
money her son gave her monthly. But she
wanted a grandchild above everything.
"I tried giving her something to drink. I don't
know what's wrong," Mrs Mnguni said, wishing
her husband was still alive. He was going to
solve this issue for their daughter. But he was
no longer alive and it was Zinhloso's fault and
that brat of a child she had. What she hated the
most, was how much wealth she'd created for
the Xulus. They were kings in the village
because of her daughter and she wasn't as
wealthy as them. She hated them. She didn't
know how she could take Zinhloso away from
them so that they would lose everything they
had.
"What should be done then? If her mother gave
her a concoction. What else should be done?"
Ziwinile's uncle asked and he looked at Bhekani,
"what do you think, mkhwenyana?"
"I have spoken with my father and I have
decided to take a second wife," Bhekani
dropped a bomb on his in-laws and his wife.
The arguments rose.
"How can you do that to my daughter? It hasn't
been a year since you got married. Why?" Mrs
Mnguni shouted.
Ziwinile looked at Bhekani with teary eyes, "why?
Didn't you promise me you'll never take another
wife and you don't like polygamy?" She choked
on her saliva and her aunt held her into her
chest.
"It's the circumstances. I am not taking another
wife because I like to do it but I want a family. I
want children. How is my legacy going to carry
on if I don't take another wife to give me
children?" Bhekani asked questions that nobody
in the hut could answer. He didn't like it that she
was crying but what else could he do? He
wasn't getting any younger.
"You gave us a very respectful child, MaNtuli
but you also know that a home is a home with
children," Mrs Bhengu said kindly. It was sad
that Ziwinile was crying but they were also
trying to have their family name carry on. She
wanted her house to grow just like how other
wives' houses were growing.
Aunt Lindo didn't like this for Ziwinile. She was
going to suffer the most in polygamy without a
child. The other wife was going to mock her,
"can't you wait for a year at least? Let us try to
find help for her." Lindo pleaded with the in-laws.
"No, we've waited long enough. You can find her
help but my son will take another wife while
waiting for that help," Induna said the final word
and as the family of the bride - they didn't have
another word of objection. The Bhengus asked
to leave after having drinks.
Ziwinile looked at Bhekani, "can I stay with
mom?" She was so broken inside and she didn't
understand why such a bad thing was
happening to her. What did she do?
"Why are you staying? Uthi indoda yakho
yenzenjani?" Mrs Bhengu refused.
Bhekani held his mother's shoulder, "let her stay
mama she needs her mother's warmth. This is
also not easy for her." He gave her permission
"Thank you, son," MaNtuli said and aunt Lindo
walked them out. Ziwinile stood up and she laid
her head on her mother's lap. Mrs Mnguni shut
her eyes as her daughter wailed. Why was such
a thing happening?

Ziwinile spent the weekend home and after

school on Monday, she went back to her marital
home. Bhekani's door was opened and that
meant he was home.
She went to her house without passing by his
house. The front door of her house wasn't
locked but it was closed. She opened the door
and she found the biggest shock of her life.
"What's going on?" She screamed and dropped
her bag on the floor.
Bhekani was seated on the two seater sofa with
a woman. The woman's feet were on his lap
and he was massaging her feet. Ziwinile blinked
- she wasn't dreaming. She was seeing a
pregnancy bump on the light skinned woman
that was seated on the sofa with her husband.
The woman had a head wrap on her head and
she was dressed respectfully like a wife.
"What's going on here?" She screamed and
charged at the woman. She pulled her off her
sofa and the woman screamed. Ziwinile pulled
her doek off her head. She was trying to fight
her.
"Leave me alone!"
Bhekani jumped up, "can't you see that she's
pregnant why are you fighting a pregnant
woman?" He pushed Ziwinile and she landed on
the floor. "I don't like crazy women and I didn't
know you could act this crazy!"
"What's going on Bhekani? Why is Cynthia
here?" Ziwinile asked without getting up from
the floor. She knew the woman she was from
the same village.
He held Cynthia's hand, "we'll get married. I paid
ilobolo for her yesterday. She's carrying my first
child."
"What? Didn't my mom ask you to give us time?
Why are you doing this? You've been seeing her
behind my back?" She asked with tears
streaming down her cheeks. She wanted to die.
Nobody deserved such pain.
"I should wait until when? I am not getting any
younger." He pointed at the bags that were
behind the door, "those are all your bags. You'll
move to the hut and Cynthia will stay in this
house. You can't stay in such a big house with
no children in it."
"Bhekani, you can't -"
"I have spoken, respect my word!" He growled
and Ziwinile was found with no voice to defend
herself. She glared at Cynthia and she
transported her bags to the hut that was newly
built. The hut had a single bed only. No
wardrobe and no chest of drawers. The bed had
no sheet. It was naked. She curled her body on
the bed and freed her tears. Pain was her new
friend. Her newest friend.
UMCEBO

Chapter 183

***Chapter sponsored by Zodwa Mkhwanazi***

John was giving her a cold shoulder and this
hurt Nobuhle. She didn't want to lose John but
she also didn't want leave her family behind.
Her child. He didn't come to the table for dinner
but he was home. She wanted to spend the
night with him because she missed his
affection.
She picked up the telephone and called her
grandmother's telephone. She wasn't sure
whether Zinhloso was home or she was at the
Xulus.
"Thank you God you're home tonight. Awukho
kubo kwendoda!" Nobuhle commented as
Zinhloso accepted the call. "I am sure once he
comes back you'll live with him right away.
Uyomtefela aze abe mude."
She laughed lightly, "says someone who lives
with her boyfriend. Our mother doesn't know
ukuthi ukipitile wena. You're cohabiting."
Nobuhle held her stomach as it pained from
laughing, "please, leave me alone. He's
threatening me with a break up."
"Hhaybo, ntombi, why? What did you do to him?"
She raised her voice.
Nobuhle yawned, "I went to the doctor
yesterday and I learnt that I am pregnant."
"Oh dear God! Can you please tell me that you're
joking!"
She focused her eyes on her lap, "I can't joke
like this Zinhloso. He said we should skip the
country. I can't do that."
"Why not?" She screamed, "I could kill for an
opportunity like that!"
"Zinhloso I have a child -"
"You see Sbusiso how many times a year since
you don't live with him?" Zinhloso asked and
didn't get a response, "you can leave him with
mom he's used to mom."
"I will feel bad if I leave him."
"And you'll feel happy when you abort the
unborn baby?" She asked sadly. She was taken
back to Ziwinile trying to get her to have an
abortion without her knowledge.
Nobuhle tears came strong, "what should I do
Zinhloso? Huh? Please, don't make me a bad
person and I am desperate."
Her chest tightened. Nobuhle was happy just
yesterday and now, she was no longer happy
she was crying. "I suggest you sit down with
John and find a solution."
"What solution?"
"Don't you have a guy you trust?"
She shrugged as if Zinhloso could see her, "I
don't know. I think it's my study partner. I trust
him," Nobuhle thought of someone.
"Talk to John first, then that guy, the two of you
should get married-"
"Excuse me!"
"Wait! You're in College, find out about the
school policy. They might allow you to continue
studying if you're married. John should use his
money, pay someone who'll date the marriage
certificate back," Zinhloso laid out the
suggestion, "and also, pay this guy who'll help
marry you so that you'll stay in school."
"And when will I end this marriage? What if I die
and he claims my money?"
"That won't happen, you'll end the marriage
once you're done with studying," she said and
cleared her throat, "in case you get pregnant
again." She cracked up as Nobuhle swore at her.
"Please, think about this. You'll keep the baby,
give birth at home and hide the baby there. He'll
have to live a life that's not normal, life of not
going out like other children." Zinhloso gave her
only solution to the issue she was facing.
She rubbed her eyes and thought it through. It
could work - "I will find out about the policies of
the institution tomorrow and I will talk to him
about it."
"Alright, good luck."
"Thank you so much. I feel better now. I was
feeling very evil for wanting to abort the child
but it was my only solution."
"You were evil, you wanted to do what your
mother and sister wanted to do to Qophelo,"
Zinhloso said, carelessly.
"What do you mean?"
"Nothing, I want to sleep."
"They wanted you to abort?"
"They gave me an abortion mixture and lied
about it. They said granny said I should take it.
The glass broke when I was trying to take it,
that's why I didn't take it. I never asked them,"
she narrated.
Her hand was on her mouth, "that's why she's
not getting pregnant. She's evil. How can she
want to do such to her own baby? Qophelo is
her baby!"
"What do you mean she's not getting pregnant?"
"Mom said her husband is taking a second wife
because she's not getting pregnant," Nobuhle
said.
"How nice, Ziwinile has a very dark heart; she
doesn't deserve to hold a child until she's fixed
her heart." She spat.
"You're right, mom is very sad."
"Shame, her favourite virgin child. I feel sorry for
you because she'll roast you for being pregnant
again while her favourite who's married is not!"
"Kanti nalo shoti wakho ubuya nini ezoskhulula."
"Sizoxabana!" Zinhloso warned and Nobuhle
died in laughter. They ended the call after
saying goodnight.
Nobuhle rushed upstairs and when she tried
John's door it was locked. "Can you please
open the door? I want to talk to you? Please!"
She pleaded and John didn't open the door. She
knocked until she got tired. She decided to
sleep in the guestroom.
****
Zinhloso was in town doing groceries for
MaNkomo. She was alone, she left Qophelo
with her grandparents. She'd spoken to Xulu
about the minor accidents happening around
Qophelo and he promised to go and consult
when she returned.
"Hawu, sawubona."
Zinhloso looked aside as the familiar voice
greeted her, "Mthuthuzeli, how are you?"
"I am fine and you?" They pushed the trollies
together.
"I am well, I didn't think I would bump into you.
You're shopping alone?"
"Yes, my sister is looking after my son."
She looked at him, "you have a son?"
"I have two children with my late wife."
She stopped walking and looked at him. She
was saddened by the news, "oh, my God, when
did you lose her?"
"We lost her the previous year. She was shot.
They were looking for me and they shot her."
They proceeded shopping. Zinhloso would give
him shopping tips here and there. He was
taking anything without caring about the price
tag, "where did you live?"
"We lived in a township in Durban. I proceeded
with politics there and I was kind of well known
because I led a young group. Boers came for
me, they had an argument with my wife and
they shot her dead," he narrated with a voice full
of contempt. The wound was still fresh.
"I am really sorry, Mthuthuzeli." A voice in her
said 'that could have been you'
He smiled shortly, "it's life, she was everything
to me. She's the one who accepted me into the
new place and showed me around. My mom
knew her mother and she asked them for help."
Zinhloso held his hand tightly, "I am glad you
found love even though you lost her but you
experienced love. Pure love."
"Thank you. Ngimhluphile Zinhloso with politics
and sometimes, I blame myself that if I didn't
choose politics she would still be here."
"I am sorry. How old are your kids?"
"They're five years and three years old, a boy
and a girl."
"They're so young and they've lost their mother
already."
"Yes."
"Mthuthuzeli, what happened between our
parents? What did your mom say to my dad to
make him do such a thing to her?" She stopped
walking and faced him. People were carrying on
with their shopping around them.
He shook his head and lied, "I don't know what
truth my mom learnt about your father. She
refused to tell me but it's also about him not
healing you," he told her part of the truth. He
knew he wasn't supposed to say the other truth.
"I suspected that. He was very cruel but he was
my father. I am sorry."
He smiled at her, "don't worry it's not your fault I
am the one who went to him. Ngasukela inyoka
emgodini yagadla ke."
She looked down ashamed, "things don't
happen the way we wish. I was wishing you
could come back. I even wished you could
kidnap me, take me away."
"I would have but I knew he was going to find us
and probably kill my siblings before ending me."
They went to the tills, "yes, you're right about
that." Their eyes locked and Zinhloso quickly
moved them away. She was glad he was alive -
that was all she ever wanted. To know that he
was alive.
He looked at her beauty and wished
Mhlabunzima could never come back.

Xulu and Zinhloso went to the prophetess

MaDuma. They were with Qophelo. On her way
back to town she couldn't keep Mthuthuzeli off
her mind. She was pained about what he went
through. It made her think of Mhlabunzima.
Was he ever going to come back?
"Yes, the accidents are not coincidental," the
prophetess said, looking at Zinhloso and Xulu.
Qophelo was seated on the prophetess's lap,
"her grandmother's life threatening words are
upon her life and they're fighting to happen.
They'll end up happening if she doesn't accept
Inhlawulo but keeps bringing it up upon this
child - that there are no damages paid for her."
The prophetess didn't mind Zinhloso crying,
"Inhlawulo is a very critical thing, it shouldn't be
demanded, a child shouldn't be discriminated
against because no Inhlawulo has been paid, if
the family wants to bring it, it should be
accepted, it shouldn't always be the problem or
the child's life will be in danger. Your mother
knows this clearly."
"What should be done?" Xulu asked.
"Beg her again to accept it or else this child's
father won't find his daughter alive when he
comes back because he'll come back," she
prophesied and looked at Zinhloso, "and I don't
know what can happen between the two of you
if that can happen. Beg your mother, she's the
one who should accept it, enze inhlambuluko
ngaphandle kwegceke kugezeke amagama
awasho phezu kwempilo yengane,
"What will happen next, she'll have blisters on
her legs. When she has them, apply this. It'll
help her," she placed the bottle of ointment
before her and she told them to leave. Xulu took
his sleeping granddaughter.
Zinhloso held onto the car and she cried. She
was very hopeless.
"I think I will have to talk to her now and not
you," Xulu said, sadly. The two people waiting
were looking at them.
"She won't listen to you, baba. She'll only insult
you and wish more bad things to happen to my
child," she cried, she gathered strength and
stepped inside the car once she was calm.
Qophelo was sleeping in her grandfather's arms.
UMCEBO

Chapter 184

Months flew by and before everyone knew it - it

was September. Mrs Mnguni was helpless
about her daughter's situation. She went to the
prophet by her maternal home. The same
prophet that told her about Zinhloso. Mrs
Mnguni took Ziwinile there. The prophet was
angry that Mrs hadn't changed her ways, he
thought telling her the truth about Zinhloso
would possibly make her love her daughter. He
was maddened by how much she enslaved
Zinhloso when she was carrying her child. The
same child that was in danger because of her.
He didn't show his anger to Mrs Mnguni but he
was angry.
He saw what could be done for Ziwinile to have
children but he deliberately told them she was
naturally barren. He told Ziwinile to be more
kind and accept her situation. They left with no
help.
Mrs Mnguni walked inside her mother-in-laws'
house. She found Zinhloso busy doing her
school work.
"I am here for you," Mrs Mnguni said after
greeting Zinhloso.
She stopped doing her assignment and looked
at her mother, "is there anything wrong?"
"I went to Xulus homestead and I didn't find you
there."
"I don't live with them."
"Why are you working for them if you don't live
with them?"
She closed her book. "What do you need mom?"
She asked without answering her question.
"Your sister's life is miserable in her marriage.
Her husband has a new wife and the wife has a
baby. I am here because I need you to go with
me to her marital home," Mrs Mnguni said to
Zinhloso. She was looking her straight in the
eye, "we should take Ziwinile out of that
miserable marriage. She can't have children and
so, there's no need for her to stay married. They
can take their cows."
She was surprised by this request coming from
her mother, "I will go with you on request that
you agree to accept Inhlawulo for my child. My
child's life is in danger because of you and the
things you said to her. Please, I am begging
you."
She clapped once and chuckled mockingly,
"why don't you tell those who accepted you
ilobolo cows to accept that nhlawulo? Why do
you even think I care about your child? She can
die, I won't care. You're bargaining with me. I
am your mother, I gave you life!"
"You really want my child to die. You didn't
succeed when you wanted to kill her while I was
pregnant. It was with the same daughter who
has no child today."
"You're crazy!" She pretended not to know what
Zinhloso was talking about.
"There's no need denying it. I told grandma I
couldn't take her mixture because the glass fell
and that's when I learnt the truth," Zinhloso said
to her and she could feel shame on her face.
She didn't understand why she was looking
shameful because she didn't hide that she
wanted her daughter dead.
"You're so cruel. Ukhulumela ingane
engahlawuliwe over your married sister who
desperately need children." Mrs Mnguni
screamed and stood on her feet.
"I also need my child."
"Angizalanga ngabola amathumbu la kuwe.
You'll bury that child ke mntanami." She walked
out of the house.
Zinhloso glared at her until she was not before
her eyes. She felt deep hatred for her. She hated
her for everything she'd done to her and was
now doing to her child. "Kazi baba wabonani
kulesispoki somfazi!" (I wonder what you saw in
her, dad) she clicked her tongue and finished up
her assignment. It was Friday, she was doing
her school work because she was going to be
busy.

Mrs Mnguni took Aunt Comfort with her

because Lindo was at work. She wanted to
return with her daughter. She didn't want her to
suffer and see another woman have what she
couldn't have.
"Where's my daughter Bhekani?" Mrs Mnguni
asked her son-in-law.
He was cutting the grass using a machete. His
mother heard the voice of Mrs Mnguni from
inside the five room house. She was home to
help the new mother with the baby. "She's not
back from work. Why do you need her, mama?"
"She needs to come back home. There's no
need for her to remain here as your wife. I am
here to take her," Mrs Mnguni said and she
greeted Mrs Bhengu.
"Yebo, MaNtuli, what you want won't happen
because your daughter is married here. Why
would you just take her?"
"She's not happy here, that's why I am taking
her."
"No, she's not going anywhere."
"You're saying this because she's not your
child." She said and looked at Ziwinile walking
through the gates. She looked tired, "oh, my
child!"
"What's wrong, mama?" Ziwinile asked and she
looked at her aunt, "Aunty?"
"We're going home. This marriage is not
working out for you."
"No, I am good here. I love my husband."
Mrs Mnguni was shocked, "what do you love in
someone who doesn't respect you? He didn't
persevere with you in this situation. He rushed
to another woman."
"I love him."
"Ziwinile, listen! Your father wasn't going to
want this for you. You deserve happiness. Don't
do this!" Aunt Comfort tried to convince her.
She didn't like her to suffer.
"I am not leaving. Mama, please go home.
Thank you for your concern about me but I am
fine here," Ziwinile said boldly and she could
see that her mother was hurt. This was her new
home and she was going to die where her
husband was.
Mrs Mnguni shook her head, "aw zonke
izingane zami zidlala amadoda kanje! Men
would rather kill each other for me than to treat
me badly. Your father would have never done
this!" She said, sadly and she left Ziwinile with a
broken heart.
Ziwinile only glanced at Bhekani and she walked
away.
"Don't you greet?" Mrs Bhengu asked Ziwinile
and she still didn't get a greeting. Mrs Bhengu
looked at her son, "what did you do to her?"
"Nothing."
"Just because she's not getting children it
doesn't mean you should mistreat her. She's a
wife, wathelwa ngenyongo. Nisengawujabulela
umendo wenu." She said and walked back to
the house to the baby.
Bhekani knocked on the door of Ziwinile's hut at
night. "MaMnguni?" She tried the door. It was
locked. "Can I come in?"
Ziwinile kept quiet for a while and she stood up.
She opened the door. He was walking away.
When he heard the door open. He stopped
walking. He entered.
"You can sit there!" She pointed at the small
sofa closer to the wardrobe.
Bhekani looked around the hut. It was fully
furnished and didn't look empty like the last
time Bhekani saw it. He hadn't been visiting her
since the new woman arrived and what his
mother said made him see the bigger picture.
And that he was wrong.
"I am going to give mama her monthly
maintenance tomorrow." He sat on the sofa.
Ziwinile was seated on her double bed. She
bought furniture for her hut and it looked clean
and beautiful. Cynthia was surprisingly not
disrespectful and she didn't say much to
Ziwinile. She didn't know if she was scared of
her or she just didn't like talking much. Ziwinile
did her part as a wife and Cynthia did the same.
She didn't associate herself with the baby. She
didn't even go see her. She was told that she
was born and told her name.
"Okay."
"Aren't you going to add like you normally do?"
He asked.
"No, I don't have money. I am still paying for the
furniture of this hut. Remember, you didn't buy
any furniture for me. You took the kitchen
furniture and gave it to your pregnant wife,"
Ziwinile counted the things he did, "I was left
with an empty kitchen hut. I had to buy
everything for myself. You still want me to give
your mother money?"
Ziwinile had to buy new kitchen furniture for the
kitchen hut. She would cook food and dish up
for Bhekani, leaving it inside the kitchen. The
food would be eaten, every morning she found
an empty plate. She wondered what kind of
food was Cynthia cooking.
"Cynthia was pregnant and I wanted to make
things easy for her by giving her the kitchen in
her house."
"Alright, I don't have money."
He stood up. He was mad but he couldn't force
her to give him money, "okay, I am sleeping here
tonight. It's been a while."
"Not in this bed that I bought alone. I am not in
the mood for you," she said, she was hurt by the
way he'd been treating her. He was pretending
like she didn't exist but whenever he needed
money for his mother he remembered her.
"Why are you being like this? I am your husband
and I paid cows to your parents. I deserve to be
with you in bed."
"Not in this bed."
"Can you come to my house?"
She looked down shyly, "I will come." She said
and looked at him as he walked out. She quickly
stood up and undressed, she wore her night
down. It'd been a while and she missed the
warmth of her man. She was enjoying the joy of
sex and since she last had it two months back.
She missed it.
She joined him in bed, "you've been treating me
badly and now you want me because your other
wife has a child."
He undid the buttons of her night gown, "no,
that's not true. I love you and you know that but
I have also been sad about our situation. I eat
your food every night. Cynthia is here to give
birth to children. You're the woman I love." He
said and kissed her. He missed being with her
at night but the past two months Cynthia had
been whiny every night because of pregnancy
and he had to also check on his other woman if
he wasn't with Cynthia. Cynthia was a fling that
happened to be pregnant and his father forced
him to marry her. The other woman was from
work and she lived in the township.
He got on top of her once he felt that she was
wet and he gave her a few strokes before
cumming. He was highly enjoying himself with
her and what he loved the most, was that she
was able to mourn. She loved the sounds of her
moans especially when he was thrusting faster.
"Did you have enough?" He asked because he
wanted another round.
Ziwinile smiled, "uma wena baba ungadelanga
ungaphinda." (If you dear husband didn't have
enough, you can repeat) she gave him
permission.
"Ngaze ngajabula!" He said and kissed her
again. He went at again, on top of her and this
time, his strokes took longer. His mother was
right - there was no need for him to treat her
badly. They could still enjoy their marriage.
He pulled her in his arms after the third round, "I
will help you pay off the debt of the furniture. I
am sorry I was wrong. I was supposed to buy it
for you."
"Thank you."
"I love you."
"I love you too." She said back and she slept
with a smile.
UMCEBO

Chapter 185

***Chapter sponsored by Katleho Khanyisile

Sikosana***

She walked inside the yards with her six months

pregnancy bump. She'd been very nervous
about coming back home.
After speaking to Zinhloso, she spoke to John
and they decided to go with Zinhloso's idea.
John didn't like the idea of having her marry
another man but he wanted to do anything and
everything that was going to help keep his child
alive. They told the guy the truth about the
nature of their relationship and the pregnancy.
They begged him to help and John was going to
pay him money, monthly. He was going to pay
him cash. He went to think about it and without
telling anyone, not even his girlfriend and
mother. He agreed to use his surname and
marry Nobuhle for the sake of saving her, her
education and the baby.
They reported the pregnancy to the university
and presented the marriage certificate that
dated they had a month married. The lecturers
were not shocked because they were mostly
together. Nobuhle was accepted to continue
studying because of her pass record. They also
accepted because she was going to give birth
December.
Things were good again between her and John
but Nobuhle could see that he was no longer
like before. He had slightly changed. She didn't
know if he no longer trusted her or he was still
hurt by her thinking of aborting the baby and
refusing to leave the country with him.
Mrs Mnguni held her head as Nobuhle walked
inside the kitchen, "I am being tested. The
children who are not supposed to give birth are
the ones giving birth but my Ziwinile is suffering
without a child. Didn't your father and I send you
to get education in Durban?"
"You did."
A thundering slap lingered on Nobuhle's cheek,
"what's this? You're pregnant again and you're
not even married."
Since pregnancy, everything about her body has
been sensitive. The slap was very painful, "I am
sorry, mama. I didn't mean to disappoint you
but I won't stop studying."
Mrs Mnguni walked out of the house crying.
She was going to be a laughing stock in the
village because of her children. Zinhloso and
Nobuhle were disappointing her over and over
again. She wasn't expecting another baby from
Nobuhle because she told her she was focused
on studies and not boys.

Nobuhle was driving back from town with

Mzomubi in the car. She asked him to drive her
because she wanted to get a few items for
Qophelo's birthday party. She was back
because of the birthday party. Zinhloso was
happy that this year there was nothing standing
in the way of celebrating her birthday.
"Mom is very hurt by you being pregnant again.
What's wrong, kanti?" Mzomubi looked at his
sister. Nobuhle was way older than him and it
wasn't easy confronting her as it was with
Zinhloso.
She looked at the road, "it was a big mistake
and if I was in a normal relationship I would
have long gotten married." She was sad. She
wasn't leading by example - even Mzomubi was
better. He had children in marriage.
"What do you mean by that?"
She glanced at him, "the father of the child is a
white man."
He almost let go of the steering wheel because
of shock, "are you out of your mind? Why are
you risking with your life?" He raised his voice
without care that Nobuhle was his older sister.
"Love knows no colour Mzomubi. It was love at
first sight between John and I," she looked at
him and he waited for an outburst but he was
disappointed.
He shook his head, "you're cohabiting, sisi? Dad
agreed to let you work kanti he was handing you
over to the boyfriend?"
"It's not like that. Mzomubi, please support us.
He wants to bring damages but he can't
personally bring them. I don't know what to do,"
she pleaded with her brother to quickly help her
before the baby was born. She didn't want any
problems.
He huffed, "I will talk to John. We'll work
something out. What about school?" He didn't
want to judge and he was to do what his father
told him to do - support his sister. Nobuhle told
him the plan.
They drove home, Nobuhle was going to get her
son and the gifts they bought for Qophelo. They
were having a small celebration inside
Mhlabunzima's house and Zinhloso invited the
children who were their neighbours. They were
going celebrate Qophelo's third birthday.
"I heard from Zinhloso that Mthuthuzeli is
back." Nobuhle said to her brother. The second
wife helped out with grocery bags. They also
bought gifts for Qophelo. Zinhloso was always
coming by to check on the children and she
would buy them clothes or food.
"Yes, I was very relieved when I saw him."
They walked inside the house, "I hope he'll stay
away from Zinhloso. Mhlabunzima will come
back."
Mrs Mnguni glared at Nobuhle. They found her
inside the kitchen. She wasn't talking to
Nobuhle.
"Yes, he should or else I will warn him if he
doesn't stay away. Zinhloso is not single. It
would have been better if she was single," they
walked out of the house with Sbusiso and the
gifts. Nobuhle was also happy that at least
Qophelo was getting a birthday celebration.

In the morning, after the birthday celebration.

Zinhloso was cleaning the yard after cleaning
Mhlabunzima's house. Nobuhle and Lily were
the adults who were present. They didn't
sleepover but their children did. The house had,
Kusakusa's children, Zodumo and Sbusiso
besides Qophelo. Mzomubi's son and other
children, they left after the party.
"Makoti?"
Zinhloso stopped sweeping the yard and
focused on Xulu, "yebo, baba?"
"I heard Mthuthuzeli is back. Did you see him?"
He asked, he was having a cup of tea. He was
standing outside the kitchen.
Her heart skipped a beat. Why was he asking
about him? "Yes, he came to the supermarket."
She didn't want to explain much because she
was going to appear as someone who was
guilty.
"I hope you'll remember that you're my son's
fianceé. I know you are young and lonely but my
son will come back." Xulu said - he'd been
avoiding talking about this issue but he couldn't
hold himself. He wanted to confront her. He
didn't want things to get messed up and later
regret that he didn't say anything.
"Yes, I know. I am waiting for him. There's
nothing that will happen between us."
"I hope so because I will never agree to your
marriage to my son if you cheat on him," he said
and headed up to his house.
Zinhloso proceeded working and wondered if he
would say the same thing to Mhlabunzima if
tables were turned.

"Thank you so much for coming sisi. My

daughter was very happy and I can't believe
Ziwinile actually remembered her birthday and
bought a gift for her," Zinhloso said to Nobuhle.
It was Monday morning, she didn't go to school.
She was done with writing her trial exams. She
was driving Nobuhle to Empangeni station to
get a bus to Durban.
"Maybe she's trying to change."
"Maybe." Zinhloso looked at her, "did Mzomubi
speak to John?"
"Yes, they spoke and Mzomubi told him he'll
find people who'll represent John. They'll bring
the cow. He told mom and she said she'll
accept that cow when it comes," Nobuhle
responded.
"That's better. I am happy for you. She'll accept
the cow. With me, she said I will bury my child,"
Zinhloso said and she didn't feel any pain but
hate for her.
"I am really sorry. Mzomubi tried speaking to
her but she didn't listen."
"It's fine, every dog has its day." She said and
her words hurt Nobuhle. It was hurtful to hear a
child speak like that about her parent. A
daughter about her mother.
After dropping Nobuhle, Zinhloso drove back
home. She bought a newspaper to a guy who
was selling newspapers on the road. She
wanted to have some rest before fetching
Qophelo from her grandparents.
Zinhloso was lounged back on the sofa reading
the newspaper. She screamed at the article she
was reading. She quickly rushed to her aunt's
house.
"Yini?" Aunt Lindo shouted.
Zinhloso sat on the chair and gave her the
newspaper, "that Boer has died and his wife left
the country because she wasn't in support of
this case! Aunty, this means that it'll only be
matter of time before they come back."
Aunt Lindo could see her niece was very happy.
"I am happy for you. You'll feel the joy with your
man back." She laughed as Zinhloso stood up
and danced, "sit!"
She sat down, "what's wrong?"
"I have spoken to your cousins. Their
grandmother called me and told me that their
father had land KwesakaBiyela and they should
build a home of their own there." Aunt Lindo
told Zinhloso, "the land is big, we went to see it
with her. They'll build their home so that even
when something happens to me. They'll just go
to their home because you know how things are
here. They can be told to leave or not them, you
especially."
"Yes, you're right."
"If anything happens, and Mhlabunzima is not
back or you want somewhere to go. You can
always go to them. I told them that." Aunt Lindo
said.
Zinhloso looked at her with questioning eyes,
"are you dying, aunty?"
"No, but it's important to address these things
while alive." Lindo said and Zinhloso was
relieved. "I am just worried about your mother
and Qophelo."
"I trust Mhlabunzima will fix it when he comes
back. He'll find a way for our child." She was
with great hope. Lindo supported her statement.
UMCEBO

Chapter 186

***Chapter sponsored by Ncedisa Rhemi***

***October of the new year***

Qophelo turned 4 years old that year and her

mother was 26 years old. It had been three
years without Mhlabunzima. Three years
without hearing his voice. Three years without
seeing his face. Three years without his love
and affection. She had been faithfully waiting
for him. Young women in the village were
making fun of her - they were saying she was
the fianceé of a dead man. She was waiting for
someone who was never going to come back to
her. Some were saying he wasn't coming back
because he had another family in Tanzania.
They were saying these things because two
comrades from the neighbouring villages
returned at the beginning of the year.
Zinhloso went to one of them and asked about
Mhlabunzima, he told her that they weren't in
the same area with Mhlabunzima. She didn't
lose hope but she stayed hopeful that he was
going to come back to her, to them.
The king and induna gave her permission to
operate, transporting people. She'd taken Xulu a
year back and they went to the king, she asked
for permission to bring transport that was going
to work like buses. But their transport wasn't
going to operate by time as the bus. It was
going to go up and down, with the availability of
people. Zinhloso was very happy when they
gave her permission to operate. With the help of
John they bought two vans, the other one was
bigger like a truck. The cars were written
Ngenzwel'umusa transport. She hired two
young men who were part of Mhlabunzima's
group in the village. She trained them while they
were still in discussion with the king. She paid
for their driving lessons and they passed,
returning with drivers licences. They started
working, a few months after the transport
started working Zinhloso was almost killed by a
gun. She was coming back from delivering
vegetables in another village and they gunned
down the car. She managed to get away. She
wasn't hurt, she was very scared after the
incident. She was also almost killed by a gun
two months later, they were closing the
supermarket with Ntokozo. Gunshots were fired
at them. Ntokozo was shot in his arm and
Zinhloso wasn't hurt. After that incident, Xulu
told Esther to take her to the traditional healer
across the river. The traditional healer,
yamgqaba and she was never attacked after
that.
That year she was very happy because she was
hopeful about Mhlabunzima's return. She didn't
care that time was flying and there was no hope.
She knew he was going to come back.
Zinhloso walked through the gates of Xulu
home with Qophelo. She didn't go to school,
they were preparing for exams.
"Hawu, skwiza, sawubona. When did you come
back?" Zinhloso greeted Ngenzeni as she found
her inside the kitchen hut. They hugged each
other.
Ngenzeni wasn't home for a month. She went to
visit her fiancé. She met a man near College -
he was working around the college and they
dated for a few months. He came to pay ilobolo
for her. He was from Mthunzini. It wasn't closer
to their village.
Xulu was very angry, he didn't want to accept
the cows. He was complaining that they wanted
his daughter only because she was educated.
Esther tried to talk to him but she failed, she
called his brothers because grandfather had
passed. They came and spoke to him.
"I came back this morning. Mom told me about
your aunt, I am sorry."
Zinhloso nodded with a smile, "yes, it's life. It'll
get better with time."
Esther walked in and she was happy to see her
granddaughter. It was as if she wasn't with her
the previous day, "how are your legs?" She
looked at Qophelo's legs. The blisters were
healing.
"Ncono gogo." She laid her head on her granny's
chest. This was where she found love - at home.
"Siyabonga," she looked at Zinhloso, "makoti,
how's living with your mother?"
She sat next to Ngenzeni on the bench, "that's
why I am here. Is baba home? I need your help."
"Yes, go and call him, Ngenzeni."
A month ago, aunt Lindo died after being sick
for two months. She had a running stomach
that wasn't ending. It was suspected she ate
something she wasn't supposed to eat - food
poisoning. They weren't sure whether it was at
work or at home. After she was buried, Zinhloso
was kicked out of the Mnguni homestead. Her
uncle who held her negotiations tried his best to
fight them but they were against him. And
because he didn't live with them in the same
yard, he told Zinhloso it was best she went back
home. She would be more safe there because it
wasn't known whether Lindo was killed at work
or at home. They might kill her because their
hate for her was deeper. She went back home
at the beginning of September.
Her mother didn't chase her out.
Xulu walked inside the hut and he greeted. They
sat down.
Zinhloso started talking, "baba, nomama, I am
here because I need help. I don't know if it'll be
wrong if I ask to come and stay with you. I can't
go stay with my cousins, like my aunt said,
because it's far from school. I will struggle to
manage things."
"We hear you, makoti and now, tell us. What's
wrong? Why do you want to leave home?" Xulu
asked.
"It's my mother. She treats me better now but
she's abusing my daughter. Qophelo is four
years old and you know how much she eats but
she says she must eat with me because her
father didn't pay any damages,
"I tell her she must accept Inhlawulo. She's
refusing to do that. She's excluding my child in
everything and she says horrible things to her,
"We've only lived with her for a month but
already, Qophelo is scared of her. I can't subject
my child to the same abuse I endured while she
has a family that loves her,
"I don't know if I would be allowed to stay here
since I am not married yet." She didn't shed any
tears. She was numbed by the treatment her
child has been getting from her mother. They
didn't stay long with her because during the day
she was with Esther and she would take her
after school like she'd been doing. Weekends,
she was with her grandmother if not at the
supermarket with her and Zodumo.
"MaMnguni, there's no question of if you'll be
allowed to stay because you were going to stay
here only by legally marrying her father. That
was for your sake and the child's sake," Xulu
said to Zinhloso. He didn't have the courage to
kill this evil woman. She was a woman and he
didn't want her blood in his hands.
"Yes, your father is right. You're not married only
because Ngenzwel'umusa is not here." Esther
supported.
"You must talk to your brother and he must take
you to the ancestral hut. He'll talk there and
we'll also do the same when you come here,"
Xulu explained, "and then you'll live with us. This
year won't end without my son's return. Three
comrades from the township are back.
Kusakusa called to tell me that and he said,
they also weren't with Mhlabunzima but he's
still alive. They were going to know if he's not
alive. They last saw him two months back."
Zinhloso shut her eyes - everything was going
to work out for them.

Qophelo realised they were going back to the

Mnguni home and she started crying.
"Why are you crying now?" Zinhloso asked, as
she was holding her hand as they walked
through the gates.
"Asibuyele kugogo nomkhulu!" (Let's go back to
grandma and grandpa) she cried louder and
held her mother's hand tightly.
Zinhloso went to Lucy under the tree, "we'll go
back to your grandparents tomorrow. From
tomorrow, we'll live with them until your father
comes back."
"Ngampela?" (Really?)
"Yes, I am serious."
Lucy stopped washing sweet potatoes and
looked at Zinhloso and the child, "what's
wrong?"
"She doesn't want to stay, she wants to go back
to her grandparents."
"Sisi, why don't you live with them because they
paid ilobolo for you? This is not right,
grandmothers are warm but your mother is
cruel to Qophelo."
"Yes, we'll do that. I want to talk to my brother
first. Where's he?"
"In his house."
Zinhloso found her brother seated inside his
living room on the sofa. He was holding
Johnathan in his arms - Nobuhle's son. He was
playing with him. Johnathan was left behind
and Nobuhle went back to school. She was still
living with John and they hired a nanny to look
after Johnathan. Her mother loved the child, he
was very cute. It was easy to see that he was a
mixed race child. Mrs Mnguni didn't
discriminate the child she would even sleep
with him.
"I need to talk to you." Zinhloso sat down.
"About?"
She put Qophelo on her lap, "I have decided that
I am leaving tomorrow."
"Hawu, why?"
"I have had enough of your mom and so, I have
decided that it's best we leave, with Qophelo."
She broke the news.
Mzomubi was saddened by this, "can I try and
talk to her?"
"No, thanks I will not subject my daughter to the
kind of suffering I endured. It's better I received
hatred when I was a teen but for Qophelo it's
worse." She said, "I don't know when her father
will come back. It's better we leave. I have
asked her grandparents, we'll live with them and
we're leaving tomorrow. Her grandfather said
you should talk to the ancestors for me and
we'll leave."
He inhaled and exhaled, "I am really sorry that it
has come to this, sisi. I was happy when when
you came back but your happiness and
Qophelo's happiness matters."
"Yes, thank you."
"We'll go to the hut after dinner."
She stood up with her daughter, "thank you."
She walked out of the house. She headed to her
hut.
****
"Xulu! Xulu!" His roommate walked inside the
room running. He had two brown envelopes in
his hand.
Mhlabunzima was relaxing back on the sofa
watching TV. He was tired from writing a three
hours exam. He decided that besides all the
combat training they were getting. It would be
best for him to study - to keep himself busy. He
didn't want to have more time in his hands and
find himself with a family like other comrades.
Two of them didn't want to go back home
anymore because they were already married.
They were better because they left no children
and wives back home. He knew and understood
that he left two children and ingoduso back
home.
"Yes?" He took the envelope with his name and
surname and he opened it. His smile reached
his ears. He hadn't smiled so brightly for a long
time. "So, we're going home this December?"
"Yes, the others are going back tomorrow. We'll
have to finish up our course as per the rules of
the funder." He explained clearly to
Mhlabunzima.
He read the documents again. It was really his
name and surname on the paper. He laughed
happily, "do you know what?" He jumped to his
feet and sat up straight.
The roommate sat down, "what?"
"The first thing I want to do is spend the night
with my woman." He said with his head facing
up. His roommate laughed, "I won't even go
home first but I will call her into our secret
home. Ngifuna ukumnabisa Zungu, koshikisha
ufudu."
Their laughter was bright, "yazi, komele uchathe
kuqala." (You must use enema injection first)
He shook his head, "no, no, I will get her
pregnant if I do that kanti that's not my intention.
I want to get married as soon as possible. If she
gets pregnant we'll be hindered by the
pregnancy."
"You're right. Kumele uthole intombi kodwa
uthulule sonke isdoda sakho ngoba uzovele ube
yiqhude udumaze umama wasekhaya," (you
must get a girl and have sex with her so you'll
not ejaculate early and disappoint your fianceé.)
Mhlabunzima cracked, "ey, I won't do that. What
if I get bad luck and leave a child inside that
woman? I will never survive should I be
surprised with a child years later. MaMnguni will
tell me 'I will have a child with another man too
so that we'll be even''' he tried imitating
Zinhloso, moving his head side to side. They
laughed. "So, I don't care I will offload
everything in her."
They fist bumped, "I have learnt a lot from you
Xulu. The importance of family, I have learnt a
lot."
"Ndoda yamadoda!" He looked at his papers
again, "ngobona inkanyamba yami madoda
nezingane zami." He closed his eyes and said a
short prayer to uMvelinqangi silently.
UMCEBO

Chapter 187

Mzomubi called his sister and the child into the

ancestral hut after receiving a call from work.
He burnt sage with them and spoke with the
ancestors. He told Zinhloso to go and pack her
clothes after they were done.
"The two small dishes, who are you dishing up
for?" Mrs Mnguni asked, as she was entering
the kitchen when she looked at the dishes on
the table. She saw the small two dishes.
When Zinhloso came back with her daughter
she wished she had the power to tell her to go
back to where she came from. But she didn't
have that power. She didn't want to suffer the
consequences. She hated that she was back
where she said she was abused and what she
hated the most, was living with Mhlabunzima's
daughter. She didn't have much problem with
her child.
"I am dishing up for Sbusiso and Qophelo,"
Zinhloso responded.
She took Qophelo's dish and she poured the
krummel pap Zinhloso had already dished into
Sbusiso's dish, "I can't be saying one and the
same thing always. I don't have food for leya
ngane yakho engahlawuliwe." (Your child whom
they didn't pay any damages for!)
"Mama, Qophelo is no longer a child now and
she should eat. I can't share my food with her
now. She needs her own food."
"Tell that to her father who ran away from her."
"He didn't run away from her and don't forget
that Mhlabunzima's family wanted to bring the
cow but you rejected it," Zinhloso reminded her
mother.
"What stopped your negotiators from accepting
the cow?"
Zinhloso didn't answer her but she finished
dishing up, her mother standing next to the
table to ensure she didn't dish up for her child.
Qophelo walked inside the kitchen coming from
the living room, she was crying.
"What's wrong?" Zinhloso asked.
Mrs Mnguni took her food and Sbusiso's food,
"nizongiphumela phandle ke nomsindo wenu."
(You'll get out with your noise.)
Zinhloso lifted her daughter up and walked out
of the house, "what's wrong, baby?"
She cried louder, "headache, mama!"
She opened her hut and sat down with her
daughter. She took msuzwane leaves and
placed them close to her nose, "sniff!"
Qophelo sniffed the scent of the leaves but she
didn't stop crying. Zinhloso put her on the bed, "I
will come back." She ran to the house.
The daughters in-law, their children and their
mother-in-law were eating. "Mama, can you
please lend me the keys to dad's pharmacy? I
want to find something for the headache for
Qophelo?"
"Whose pharmacy? My husband's pharmacy,
the man who's dead because of you and your
child with Mhlabunzima?" Mrs Mnguni raised
her voice. Her voice was shaking.
"I will buy it. I won't take it for free. My daughter
is sick."
"Wait until we open again tomorrow morning,"
Mrs Mnguni dismissed her.
"But mama, the child is sick now." Thuli tried to
talk on behalf of the child. She never knew this
woman was so cruel.
"No!"
Zinhloso turned back with a throbbing heart.
She took a glass of water in the kitchen and she
walked back to her hut, "Mhlabunzima, please
come back." She closed her eyes shortly and
she pushed the door. She sat down with her
crying child and gave her water but Qophelo
didn't stop crying. She touched her forehead,
she was getting hot.
"The headache is still painful?" She asked,
pulling her to her chest.
"Yebo, mama," She looked at her mother with
red eyes, "mama, uzobuya nini uMhlaba? Ubaba?
Ngifuna ukumbona." (When will my father come
back? I want to see him!)
She smiled, a painful smile, "uzobuya!" She
opened the drawer of the bedside table and
took their photo frame. The picture they took in
Durban when they were going to buy his van.
"Look at him," she pointed to the photo and she
saw a smile on her face. Zinhloso placed the
photo on her chest. It didn't take long and she
was sound asleep.
They slept for over three hours and then
Qophelo was up and crying because of her
painful headache. Zinhloso was clueless on
what to do. If the pharmacy didn't have the
burglar guards she was going to break in and
take what she needed. She kept making her
sniff the leaves and placing a wet towel on her
forehead.
There was a sharp knock on the door, "lalelani,
the whole yard is not sleeping because your
child is screaming. Awuyithathe leyo ngane
uyiyise kubo. So that they'll be the ones not
sleeping." Mrs Mnguni's voice was loud. "We're
not sleeping because of your child. Take her to
her paternal family)
"So, late at night, mama?"
"Weren't you walking to her father at night when
you went to get that child from him? Aniphume
emzini wami. Her family should know how to
deal with her. I am not leaving until you are out,"
Mrs Mnguni didn't leave but she waited for her.
Zinhloso had no other choice but she took her
crying child, she put Qophelo on her back,
tightened her with a blanket and walked out.
She wished her brother was home and he was
going to help her.
She closed the door and left the yard. "Don't cry
now. We're going home." She said to the crying
child as she walked with her on the dark, quiet
street.
"Ikhanda mama!"
"I know," her voice broke and her own tears fell
down like a river. Life was difficult and at times,
she thought death would be easier but the
thought of seeing Mhlabunzima again kept her
alive. Her child, school and business, kept her
alive.
She was very scared on the road, walking at
night with a crying child.
"Mama!" She held on tight to her mother's
clothes and cried louder.
"We'll be home soon, Qophelo!"
"Home?" She said in a low tone.
"Yes," she responded.
"Nifuna ubaba," (I want my father) Qophelo kept
saying in a whisper until they were inside the
Xulu family home. Qophelo stopped saying the
words once she was home. Zinhloso could no
longer hear her.
Ngenzeni opened the door for Zinhloso's knock,
"Zinhloso, so late!"
"She's sick I don't even know what to do
anymore. She kept crying," Zinhloso walked
inside her hut, "Ngenzeni she kept saying she
wanted her father until she fell asleep. I didn't
know what to do and I came here."
Ngenzeni dressed up, "let's not sleep but let's
take her to the prophetess. She'll tell us what's
wrong and give her something."
"MaDuma?"
"Yes, please drive. It's not far but we can't walk
at night.'" Ngenzeni took the money and an
empty bottle of water. "I won't wake mom."
"Won't we disturb MaDuma?" She followed her
out.
Ngenzeni locked the door. "No, I will go take the
keys and load some water. Dad is not home,
usekhaya elikhulu. We were going to ask him to
burn sage for her."
In the car, Ngenzeni put the sleeping Qophelo in
her arms and she put her head on her chest.
Zinhloso drove the car. She was driving fast,
she didn't want her to wake up on the road.

The woman dressed in white and yellow, she

was seated at the door of her healing hut,
waiting. She stood up when she saw the car
park outside the yard. She opened the gates.
"Drive in," she said and Zinhloso drove inside
the house.
"I have been waiting for you, come!"
Zinhloso noticed, she was mostly always told
they were waiting for her. She didn't know if that
was how healers operated or she was just lucky.
Inside the hut, the healer took Qophelo into her
lap and she shook her head, "what a difficult
last month this child lived. She was such a
happy child, waiting for her father's return
happily," she said with a sorrowful voice and
looked at Zinhloso. She was staring at her, "your
daughter took her last breath inside her
paternal home. Didn't you realise?"
Zinhloso held her mouth and shook her head,
"no, you must be mistaken."
"Yes, she has left us and it's your mother's
words that have killed her. What I said before
has come to pass." She said to the two women
who had their eyes out, "your mother saw that
the child was sick and so, she was supposed to
stop all the horrible things she said on top of
the child's life. She was supposed to accept
Inhlawulo. She left this world without even
seeing her father."
It registered to Zinhloso and agony engulfed her.
She wailed, she quickly stood up and touched
her daughter. She was cold. She pulled her from
the healer's arms and held her into her arms.
"Qophelo!" She rested her head on her body and
pain consumed her. "Mhlabunzima, our
daughter!"
The two women with her, Ngenzeni and the
prophetess they were crying silently. A loss of a
child was hard to handle.
"Ngenzeni?"
She moved closer to her, "Zinhloso, what are we
going to say to my brother?"
She shook her head, "I don't know, Ngenzeni.
Laze langishonela." She laid on her shoulder
and Ngenzeni held them both in her arms. She
couldn't imagine the pain her brother was going
to feel when he returned. He left his daughter
not even a year old but he won't be coming
home to her. They would only point to a grave.
UMCEBO

Chapter 188

***Chapter sponsored by Ncedisa Rhemi***

Ngenzeni asked prophetess MaDuma to make
a telephone call. Zinhloso didn't want to move.
She was still seated inside the hut thirty
minutes later with Qophelo in her arms. She
was still crying.
Ngenzeni called Kusakusa. She tried again as
he wasn't answering the call.
"We're sleeping!" Dorothy answered the call
instead of her husband.
"Can I talk to my brother?"
"He's sleeping. Did you see the time?"
"Wake him up!" She screamed at her on the line
and she waited.
Kusakusa yawned, "Ngenzeni what has
happened? Why are you calling so late?"
"Can you please go home bhuti and take
another van or come to us to MaDuma? We
need someone who'll drive because Zinhloso
can't drive in this state," Ngenzeni teared up.
Why was life so cruel? Qophelo was a child who
was looking forward to seeing her father but
such a cruel thing had happened. Why?
"What's wrong?"
"It's Qophelo, she's no more-" she shut her eyes
as her brother gasped, "her mother can't drive,
we need to go home."
"I am coming!"
She put the telephone down and didn't stand up.
She only stood up when she heard Zinhloso's
wail again. She rushed to the hut. She knelt
before her - there were two old women inside
the hut with MaDuma. They were neighbours
and they came because they heard people
crying. They were praying as Zinhloso was
crying. Ngenzeni held her shoulder tightly.
The women shared words of comfort with
Zinhloso and they waited together with her,
waiting for Kusakusa.
He walked inside the hut panting. He was
running on the road, he was angry and couldn't
stop crying. Lishone emini!
"Let me take her, MaMnguni?" Kusakusa
requested softly and Zinhloso handed her
lifeless daughter to him.
Ngenzeni and MaDuma helped Zinhloso up. She
didn't have the strength to stand up on her two
feet. They walked with her to the car. They
wished her well.
Kusakusa drove through the Xulu gates. He
opened the door for his sister. Qophelo was in
Ngenzeni's hands.
"Where should we take her?" Ngenzeni asked.
"She's a child, I don't even think she'll go to the
mortuary."
When she heard the word 'mortuary' used for
her daughter. She couldn't believe this was
really happening. She was hoping this was a
dream and she was going to wake up soon but
no - it wasn't a dream. She wasn't going to wake
up any soon. The pain felt real. It was so
intense she didn't know whether she was
imagining her breasts also being painful or she
was thinking of the time she gave birth to her?
Zinhloso's painful wail woke Esther up.
MaDuma had given them a white cloth to cover
Qophelo's body. She saw this.
"What's happening?" She had concluded what
was happening at the back of her mind.
"Hhaybo! Ngenzeni?"
"I didn't wake you, we just took her to the
prophetess but she told us she took her last
breath here at home," she explained with her
own tears coming out of her eyes.
"Where should we take her?" Kusakusa asked.
She pointed at the hut that was floored with
cow dung, "go and open that hut. Her body will
be good there," she moved closer to Zinhloso
and held her hand, "come, sis."
She looked at Esther with hopeless eyes, "I will
never see her again mama. I will never hear her
laugh again. What did I ever do to my own
mother?"
Esther opened her arms and Zinhloso got out of
the car just to get the warmth of her hug. She
needed it now more than ever. Esther hugged
her comfortingly, "you did nothing wrong."
"I hate her, mama! I hate her so much."
"Oh, my child, this is pain that will take time to
heal but you'll live."
Ngenzeni returned, they held Zinhloso's hands
with Esther and they went to the hut where
Qophelo was. They had put her body on the
straw mat. They lit candles and they put a straw
mat and sponge on the straw. Esther and
Zinhloso sat there.
"Please, tell your brother to go and get your
father. Your aunts and uncles who are home
tonight," Esther sent instructions to Ngenzeni
and she walked out.
The Xulu family was engulfed with sorrow and
bitterness. Nobody didn't know Qophelo in the
family. They used to go together with Zodumo,
going house to house just visiting. They enjoyed
having them around and in their minds during
this time, they had Mhlabunzima. How was he
going to take such news?
When the sun rose, they started getting visits
from villagers who were bringing prayers to
them during their time of grief. The passing of
the child shocked the whole village and most of
them were thinking of her father who wasn't
home.
Xulu felt like he was losing his mind. His
brothers were with him in his house trying to
stop him from going to the Mnguni home. He
was very hurt.
"It'll be best if my son doesn't find this woman
alive!" Xulu screamed.
"No!"
His brothers held him and they shouted at him,
one after the other, "don't do this. You don't
want to make matters worse, you need to leave
her alone and her husband's ancestors will deal
with her."
Xulu shook himself off their hold and he went to
his bedroom. He cried alone.

Everyone was busy, they were planning on

burying Qophelo the next day in the yard.
Zinhloso refused when they suggested she
should be buried at her maternal home. She told
them to bury her where she was loved and
welcomed.
She was a child and there wasn't much to be
prepared for her burial but minor things.
Lily, Ziwinile and her sisters' in-law walked
inside the hut with Zodumo. Zodumo ran to
Zinhloso and sat next to her. She placed her
head on her lap.
Zinhloso held the child's head, "I am so sorry,
sisi!" She said, her voice breaking and everyone
in the hut couldn't hold their tears as the little
girl cried for her sister. She was ten years old,
old enough to understand that dead people
never come back. She understood she was
never going to see her sister again but she
didn't understand why children had to die.
"I resigned from my job. I simply can't work for
someone as cruel as her," Lily said after they
shared words of comfort with Zinhloso. Esther
took Zodumo and left the hut. She left Zinhloso
with Ngenzeni and the ladies who were inside
to grieve with her.
"Don't quit your job," Zinhloso said, "where will
the pharmacy get someone who has the
knowledge you have?"
"I don't know and I don't care. She'll see what to
do." Lily looked at Bhejeleni's daughters in-law,
"you'll forgive me-"
Lucy stopped her, "don't, we've seen how cruel
she was to the child and look, she didn't even
come here so, it's okay."
They stayed with Zinhloso for two hours, people
came and left. They then decided to help out
before leaving. They went out leaving Ziwinile
inside. She hadn't said anything to her sister
since she arrived.
Ziwinile didn't even know what to say to
Zinhloso. They never got along but her situation
of not getting children changed her. Not enough
to be close to her sister or tell her mom to
accept Inhlawulo. She was never there because
she had a lot going on in that chaotic home she
married to. She'd taken the prophet's advice
seriously by trying her best to be kind.
Qophelo's death reminded her that she hadn't
done enough because the child died without
knowing her as her mother and getting a simple
hug and kiss on the cheek like mothers do to
their children. "Zinhloso?"
Zinhloso looked down and didn't say anything
to Ziwinile.
"I am really sorry for what happened to you. I
know I am the last person who should be here
with you and talking to you about Qophelo," she
said sadly. Her eyes were focused on the white
small coffin. The insurance company had
brought the coffin, they couldn't take the body
because the family refused. The hut was cool
inside and so, there was no foul smell.
"The reason I don't deserve to be here for
Qophelo, it's because I have said most horrible
words to her before she was even born," she
took a pause as tears instantly streamed down
her cheeks, "I confess that my mother had sent
me to give you a mixture that was going to kill
her. I don't know how and what happened but
she lived. I am happy that she got to live
because you were able to experience her love
and warmth as a mother. I can't speak for mom.
Our parents are the reason we hate each other.
I am really sorry sisi. I can't imagine what you're
going through for losing someone who's been
such a big part of your life. I hope the wounds
will heal and Mhlabunzima will come back to
hold your hand."
Zinhloso's pain started afresh at the mention of
Mhlabunzima. Esther rushed inside the hut,
"what did you say to her now?" She shouted at
Ziwinile.
"She didn't say anything bad, mama. I think
Zinhloso was triggered by the mention of
Mhlabunzima." Ngenzeni quickly explained and
Ziwinile apologized.
Esther held her daughter-in-law into her arms
and she brushed her back, "thula Sisi. Don't cry
now." She was relieved by her grandmother
walking inside the hut with other women.

They were seated on the straw mat with her

grandmother, Esther and other old women. It
was Thursday and the men had finished digging
the hole for Qophelo's coffin, closer to the
garden. Only the old women who were
neighbours came and the family members.
There wasn't a funeral service held.
Zinhloso's eyes were focused on the spear that
was on the ground closer to the grave. She
wasn't hearing the women's singing and she
wasn't looking at the men putting her
daughter's coffin down.
Within a blink of an eye, and without anyone
understanding when did she stand up. Zinhloso
had the spear on her hand and she attempted
to stab at her heart with the spear. Women
screamed and Mzomubi, who was closer,
quickly looked back. He jumped on his sister.
"Ngiyeke ngife Mzomubi!" (Let me die!) She
screamed louder when the spear was taken
away from her. Mzomubi held her waist tightly
as she was trying to fight.
"Help him!" Zinhloso's grandmother shouted at
other men. Ntokozo jumped to help Mzomubi
hold Zinhloso. Her grandmother stood up and
sooth her, she told her to say goodbye to her
girl. Zinhloso was calm again after her
grandmother spoke to her. She said her last
goodbyes, and They took her away.
That day, Esther didn't leave her sight.
UMCEBO

Chapter 189

****Chapter sponsored by MaDuma***

His face was twisted because of anger as he

walked on the road, heading home after burying
his niece. Inhliziyo igaya izibozi. It was all
because of pain. They buried a child, a happy
child that had a brightest future ahead of them.
It was only because of his mother and nobody
else.
"Can I talk to my mother?" Mzomubi requested
to his wives. They were with his mother inside
the hut. They were rolling and tying straw mats.
Lucy was able to create straw mats.
The two women walked out of the hut. Mrs
Mnguni was seated on the straw mat. Mzomubi
sat on the floor, his back pinned against the
wall. He rubbed his eyes and he cried fresh
tears.
"You asked to talk to me so that you'll cry.
What's wrong with you?"
He looked at his mother with tears and red eyes,
"why do you hate Zinhloso so much? Can you
make me understand?"
"Ungangihlanyeli Mzomubi! What kind of
question is that? How can I hate my own child,
huh?" She screamed. She heard from a
neighbour who was telling her that what
happened to her grandchild was sad. Mrs
Mnguni asked what happened? The neighbour
was surprised she didn't know she told her that
Qophelo died and the Xulu family didn't tell
them what caused the headache that killed
Qophelo. Mrs Mnguni was shocked but she was
relieved that what she'd been saying finally
happened. She couldn't wait for Mhlabunzima
to come back. All she wanted was to witness
the pain he was going to feel. She wanted it to
be greater than the pain she felt when she
learnt that he impregnated her daughter and her
husband died because of that pregnancy.
"You hate her!"
"I don't hate her. I love her but have you
forgotten about everything I went through
because of her? Can't you remember how I
suffered under the hand of your father because
of Zinhloso?
"I had broken bones once because he never
listened to me when I told him to treat the
children equally. Your father hardly said 'no!' to
Zinhloso. He wanted everything to be perfect
for her,
"Your father is the reason for everything that
happened in this yard. I used to tell your father
that he must not love a child above other
children. He must treat them equally. He never
listened,
"I used to hit your sisters for breaking my water
buckets. She was still a teen when I told her not
to take a certain bucket because it was going to
be heavy for her. She didn't listen. She took it,
"She came back with it broken. I hit her like I did
with the others. Your father had been gone for
two months and he came back that day,
"He panel beat me for disciplining a child. I was
pregnant with my last child and he didn't know
because I found out while he was away. You're
actually not the last born,
"I lost that baby because of your father and your
sister who only respected your father and not
me. You should remember I left you and went to
live with your grandmother,
"He went to the grave without knowing that he's
the reason I lost a child because he was
treating Zinhloso like an egg. Was I supposed to
treat your sister the same even after everything
that happened?" She wiped her tears. She hated
that Mzomubi was saying she hated Zinhloso.
She didn't hate her. She was her child.
"So, you thought you'd avenge your child's death
by killing hers?" Mzomubi asked, he wasn't
moved by his mother's tears.
"How did I kill that brat kaMhlabunzima?"
"The prophetess said it's your words that killed
the child and you refused Inhlawulo but kept
talking about it!" He screamed, "and don't forget,
our father treated you like an egg until you
mistreated Zinhloso. He would hit anyone who
back chatted you or disrespected you. Zinhloso
wasn't left out in those beatings. It's your
actions of hate towards her that made him hit
you." He reminded her what she seemed to
have forgotten.
"Your sister never listened to me when I tried to
maintain her illness like we did with your granny.
She listened to her father but not me. Was I
supposed to be happy about a child who was
deliberately taking me back to the memory of
my horrible childhood?
"Do you know things people would say about
your sister? I had to relive my childhood
because the only person Zinhloso respected
was your father." She showed him the door,
"and she did the worse by dating Xulu's son, got
pregnant for him and they killed my husband.
Phuma, phuma!"
Mzomubi left his mother crying but he didn't
see any valid reason for her hate towards
Zinhloso. She was a horrible mother to her….
Her only!
****
Esther walked in Mhlabunzima's house and she
sat on the sofa. Zinhloso was seated alone
listening to the radio. Esther turned the volume
down.
"Ntombazane?"
She looked at her, "mama?"
"It's a week since we buried Qophelo and your
exams are starting the on Monday. When are
you going to start studying?" She asked, they'd
been bothered by her with Xulu. She started by
not eating. Ngenzeni and Lily convinced her to
eat. She ate but not like before.
"I won't write exams."
"What? Why? You need to go to school. You
need to finish your Standard 7. Your daughter is
looking at you and she'll be upset if your life is
brought to a standstill by her passing," Esther
tried her best to convince her. She didn't want
her to give up like this, "please, gather your
strength. She deserves to smile when she looks
at you working hard."
She stood up, "yes, I will study. Thank you." She
went to the bedroom to get her school bag.
Esther walked out as she saw her return with
the bag. She told her she was going to bring her
food.
Esther walked inside the kitchen where her
husband was waiting for her.
"What did she say?" Xulu asked.
She sighed, "she agreed. I will make her
something to eat." She turned to the door and
she smiled at Nobuhle's son.
Sbusiso greeted and he walked inside the
kitchen. He knelt by the door, "my grandmother
sent me to give this letter to mkhulu."
Esther took the letter and said goodbye after
giving the child biscuits. She gave the letter to
Xulu. He opened the letter.
****Xulu
Ngiyathemba niyaphila. Bengicela ningisize
ningilethele eningikweleta khona. Inhlawulo
yaleyo ngane eniyincwabile." (Please help me by
bringing what you owe me. Inhlawulo for that
child you've buried)***
Xulu passed the letter to Esther, he forced his
head down and pain returned. He couldn't hold
his tears back.
"Oh, nkosi! How can she be so cruel? She wants
Inhlawulo now only because our granddaughter
is dead." Esther wiped tears with her pinafore
but they didn't stop.
"We shouldn't say anything but we should give
her the cow right away. Her intentions are to
bring pain to us." Xulu said.
"Yes, we'll give it to her. Waze wayisibozi
umfazi!" She pressed her hand on her eyes as
tears flowed.
UMCEBO

Chapter 190

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

Kusakusa was with the two men who were

bringing Inhlawulo cow early in the morning.
Zinhloso had asked Xulu not to give it to her
because she was mocking them but Xulu told
her giving MaNtuli the cow was going to shut
her mouth. Zinhloso had no other option but to
respect what her father-in-law had said.
Mrs Mnguni walked out of the yards, "you've
finally come." She looked at the cow, it was a
big black cow. The other family members had
come as Mrs Mnguni called them the minute
she received a response from Xulu.
"Yes, on behalf of the Xulu family and my
brother, we've been sent to give this cow for
Inhlawulo." Kusakusa spoke.
Mrs Mnguni told Mzomubi to tie the cow and he
quickly tightened up the cow on the tree, "my
child, who's the reason there's this cow? Why
didn't she come?"
"She said she's busy and our father said, the
cow is actually for the parents and ancestors,
not Zinhloso." Kusakusa responded. Zinhloso
wasn't busy but they all knew she wasn't going
to come and they saw nothing wrong with it.
"Okay." She said and turned back inside the yard.
Kusakusa and the men left.
The cow was slaughtered outside the yard as
per traditions. It was a fatty cow and more
people called each other to eat the cow. It was
busy outside the Mnguni fence.
"Did you see the cow they brought?" One of
Zinhloso's aunt said to Mrs Mnguni.
She nodded, "yes, we should also go and eat the
meat. Is it ready?"
"Our pot is not ready," aunt Comfort said.
The wife of Mnguni's brother - who held the
negotiations shook her head, "that was a big
cow and also, Zinhloso's cows for ilobolo. How
many were they?"
"They were eight because they had minused the
two cows because Mhlabunzima wasn't the one
who took her virginity," Mrs Mnguni answered,
"the ninth cow was in the form of money."
"Those negotiations were intense, no cow was
minused besides those two." She commented,
"your husband's cattle pen is really full now. Did
Zinhloso's cows give birth to other cows?"
"Yes, in three years they gave us ten more cows.
Her brother is the one who's tracing all these
things. I don't know much about what's
happening and which cow is which," Mrs
Mnguni said and stood up. She didn't like where
this conversation was heading. What if she was
figuring something out about her daughter?
"Let's go and eat the meat."
They were given the part of meat that was
supposed to be eaten by women. They sat
down on the straw mats under the tree. They
ate over a light conversation.
"Mzomubi, give the meat to the neighbours
because it shouldn't enter the gates." Mrs
Mnguni instructed once they were done eating.
Mzomubi did as his mother said, he was
available only to respect his mother but he
didn't eat the meat. He was angry about how
cruel she was. She only accepted it because his
niece had died.
"Mamncane, why don't we take the meat
because we don't have isishebo (something to
eat)'' One of Zinhloso's cousins who were living
with her at the high homestead whispered to
Comfort. "Will it be wrong since it's the cow for
damages?"
"No, let's take it. I really don't understand what's
happening to food. It's like we're eating with
animals." Aunt Comfort whispered back.
They've been spending more money on food but
a month would end and food would be finished.
Their salaries were no longer enough like before.
They didn't know what was happening.
Mrs Mnguni looked for Thuli and she found her
inside her hut changing her son's nappy.
"MaMthembu, please write another letter to the
Xulu family. Tell them I want my daughter back.
She's not married to them and she mustn't stay
with them."
"Yes, I will write it." She looked at her as she
walked out. She sighed, she didn't wish to be on
this woman's bad side. She was very horrible.
Mrs Mnguni walked inside the kitchen.
Unexpectedly, she vomited blood mixed with
the pieces of meat and dumplings they just ate
outside the yard. She shocked everyone that
was inside the kitchen. They screamed for
Mzomubi and they gave her water.
"What's happening?" Mzomubi rushed inside the
house and he was shocked by the sight of his
mother vomiting like this. He grabbed the keys,
"give her a plastic bag, it's better we take her to
the clinic. This is not normal." He rushed out.
Mrs Mnguni drank water and the vomiting didn't
stop. Her stomach was hurting, it felt like she
was being sliced by a razor inside her stomach.
She cried tears because of the pain. Lucy
passed the small bucket because the plastic
bag was dripping. They walked with her slowly
to the car.
By mid-November, Nobuhle returned home
again during the weekend. Her purpose was to
check on Zinhloso and visit her mother in the
hospital. It'd been two weeks and she was still
in the hospital. They couldn't trace any food
poisoning in her system but she was still
occasionally vomiting. They were keeping her in
the hospital because she was losing energy.
"It's 6pm now, baba and she's still not back."
Nobuhle entered back into the kitchen. She'd
been seated inside Mhlabunzima's house
waiting for Zinhloso. She came in the morning
and didn't find her. They told her she woke up
early and left for work. She left and went to the
hospital for her mother. There was little
improvement in her situation. She came back in
the afternoon for Zinhloso - she wasn't back.
"Yes, it's like that now, sometimes we go to
sleep without her. She has buried herself in
work and studying for exams like she's not a
human being." Xulu responded sadly.
Esther shook her head, "we've spoken to her
and she pretended she could hear us but she
didn't listen."
"I have to go. I will come tomorrow. I hope I will
find her."
"I will tell her you came," Esther promised and
Nobuhle left after saying goodbye.
That night, Xulu waited for Zinhloso. His wife
went to sleep and he sat outside the kitchen
waiting. She drove through the gates around
9pm. He called her to him.
"Get inside and eat." Xulu pointed to the door
after greeting her.
"I am not hungry, baba, I have some notes to go
through before I sleep."
"Get in!"
She walked inside and Xulu followed her,
"MaMnguni, what you are doing is not healthy."
Xulu spoke to Zinhloso as she was eating,
"working like this will kill you."
"I want to burn out and die," she said coldly, her
eyes on the plate.
Xulu was shaken by her words, "don't talk like
that. What will my son do if he finds you dead
and his daughter dead?" He asked and didn't
get an answer, "your sister was here. She said
your mother will be discharged from the
hospital. Your mother sent a letter saying you
should come back home because you're not
married to us yet."
"Do you want me to leave?"
"You should stay where you're comfortable,
child."
"I am not going home. I will kill her if I stay with
her."
Her words defeated Xulu, "please, look after
your health."
Zinhloso stood up after eating and she went to
the house. She took a piece of paper and wrote
a letter back to her mother.
UMCEBO

Chapter 191

Ziwinile came back home after her mother was

discharged from the hospital. She asked for
permission from Bhekani and he granted her
permission. She was sad about her mom's
situation and she had been praying and hoping
she would live.
Ziwinile accepted the telephone call after
serving her mother with tea and bread.
"How are you, Sisi?" She asked Nobuhle on the
line.
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am well."
"I am calling to ask about mom. How's she?
You're home," she sounded worried on the
telephone line.
"Yes, I am home. I will be here for a week but I
will be going to work during the day. It's better
because Lucy is always home and there's also
Johnathan's nanny," Ziwinile yawned, she was
tired. They had a sports day at school.
"That's better, thank you. How's she?"
She sighed, "she says she hadn't vomited today
but the pain in her stomach is still there."
"I really don't know what's happening."
"She keeps saying it's the Xulu cow. They want
to kill her."
Nobuhle clicked her tongue, "she's being
ridiculous. Why didn't everyone get sick then?"
"I also don't understand her logic."
"Have you seen Zinhloso? Yazi, I came back and
went back to Durban without seeing her,"
Nobuhle asked. She was very worried about her
sister, "they said they told her I was there but
she still left. So, now I don't understand if she's
also angry at us or if it's pain making her act
like that."
"I think it's just pain. I went to her once after the
funeral. You know how things are between her
and I so, it was really awkward. I am scared of
going back again." She said honestly.
"I understand I will try calling her. I wanted to
ask that. Nibe right ke."
"Thank you." She placed the telephone down
and told her mother Nobuhle was calling to ask
about her well-being.
Mrs Mnguni nodded, "what did she say when
you told her the Xulu cow is making me sick?"
"She said that's not true because you're the only
one that got sick."
"I knew she wasn't going to believe me."
"Mom, did you go and check on Zinhloso since
she lost her baby?"
"I won't do that."
"But mama -"
She shook her head. "Ziwinile, why do you keep
losing weight, what's wrong?"
She avoided eye contact. She was still married
to Bhekani. It was better when it was still her
and Cynthia. She would be happy and there
would be challenges but there was happiness.
Bhekani took the woman in the township as his
third wife that year Cynthia had a baby. That
wife lived in the township, he would visit her for
two days and return home.
Beginning of the previous year, the fourth wife
joined, she was pregnant and she was Ziwinile's
nightmare. That woman lived to see her always
miserable. She mocked her about her situation
of not giving birth. The second and third wife
were better, they took her as the senior wife and
respected her but not the fourth woman.
Ziwinile expected that the township wife would
be evil towards her but she wasn't. She also had
a hut in the yard and visited when she felt like it.
The fourth woman didn't get along with
everyone except her husband. She probably
thought she was the best because she was last
but Bhekani brought the last one by the end of
the same previous year. She was also pregnant.
That yard was chaotic and Ziwinile was grateful
only because everyone had their own kitchens.
Bhekani ate her food every night when he was
home without fail. She couldn't believe her life
had become what it was. She wasn't truly happy,
it was worse now because the fifth wife was as
rude as the fourth wife towards her.
"The last two women are not friendly towards
me and they don't respect me at all, mama,"
Ziwinile informed her mother.
She shook her head, "I will ask again, why are
you still in that marriage?"
"I love my husband and I was told to persevere.
I am doing that."
"I told you to come back if it's too much. Does
Bhekani tell his wives to respect you?"
"Yes, he does but they don't listen. It's not too
much and mama, my sister-wife from the
township, told me there's an Indian man from
Stanger who helped her sister. She wasn't
getting kids for years but after going there she
got pregnant," Ziwinile remembered what she
wanted to tell her mother.
"But the prophet said it's natural."
"I just want to try, everyone is pregnant and not
me. It's very painful. These two last wives take
Cynthia as a first wife because she has a child,
"They said a woman is a woman by having
children. I want children mama. I want to try,"
she pleaded and held back tears. She didn't
want to cry about this situation anymore. It had
been years.
"I will talk to your brother and we'll go."
She smiled, hope was pumped back into her life,
"thank you, mama."

Ziwinile had never seen such a clear room of a

person who was gifted. Their race, the rooms
were dark and had a lot of things inside the
room. Here - what was dark, it was the Indian
man himself, his eyes popped out and he was
kind of scary.
He had a clear ball in his hands. He shook the
ball and he spoke in incantations they couldn't
understand.
Mrs Mnguni was creeped out by this man's way
of doing things but they were already here and
there was no turning back.
"You're not barren by nature but you're barren by
your actions and evil words you said upon your
sister's late child," the Indian man could speak
and understand Isizulu. He was speaking in
Isizulu with them. Mrs Mnguni and Ziwinile
were shocked by this revelation.
"But the prophet said it's natural." Ziwinile
argued.
"Yes, he did and that's because your mother
didn't change her behaviour after her last visit,"
he said and didn't dwell much on that issue. It
wasn't the reason they were here to consult.
"Young lady, you've allowed your mother corrupt
you against your sister, you're from one womb
with your sister,
"But you're hateful towards her and you didn't
stop there, but you said horrible words to her
daughter and wished death upon her even after
she warned you not to speak like that about her
child. You gave her poison to have her child
killed. How were you going to have a child of
your own after that?" He didn't want to tell them
straightforwardly that she wasn't getting
pregnant because of what her sister said.
She buried her face in her hands, "what can I do?
I didn't know all this would come to bite me."
"Iskhuni sibuya nomkhwezeli ntombazane," the
man said and glanced at Mrs Mnguni. He could
see that she didn't trust him. She thought he
was lying.
"What should I do?"
"You need to go back to your sister and
apologize for the words you said about her child
and trying to kill her child-"
"Why should she apologize, that child is already
dead?"
Ziwinile tapped her mother's thigh, "mom, keep
quiet!"
The man continued, "you'll apologize and your
sister should forgive you, after forgiving you she
should wish babies upon your life. It's important
that she speaks out that she forgives you and
wishes you can have children."
Ziwinile shut her eyes. She was very scared, her
life and happiness was dependent on Zinhloso.
This meant without her forgiveness she would
never have children.
"This is a joke! My child should apologize in
order to get children! You don't know what you
are doing!"
The man got mad and pointed at the door for
Mrs Mnguni, "didn't your grandchild die because
of your evil heart and your horrible words? She
died and you don't care. Please, get out!" He
screamed and Mrs Mnguni got up and left.
"Your situation needs no muthi just what I said.
If you keep allowing your mother to influence
you. You'll die alone and your siblings won't
even bury you. If you can continue being kind as
you've started, everything could be much better.
Go, now!"
Ziwinile quickly got up and rushed out. She
found her mother still complaining inside the
car. "Let's go, bhuti." She said and Mzomubi
drove out of the premises.
"Did he give you anything to drink?" Mrs Mnguni
asked.
"No!"
"He's not legit! He's telling lies!"
Ziwinile was angry at her mom, "please, stop it,
mom!" She screamed and her scream shook
both mother and son.
Mrs Mnguni clapped once, "okay, go and make
yourself a fool before your sister."
"You need to do what's right not only because
you want kids. It's the right thing to do,"
Mzomubi said, he wasn't surprised that the two
tried to kill Qophelo.
"I will do that." She said and that angered her
mother further. Ziwinile was quiet for the rest of
the drive. She was thinking about her situation.
The last time she asked for forgiveness from
Zinhloso. She only kept quiet. Was she going to
forgive her? She was scared.
When they reach home. Mrs Mnguni was
greeted by food and a letter from Zinhloso. It
was written in Isizulu and she read the letter on
her own.
****"Mfazi kaMnguni
Ungalinge sis ufise ukuhlala nami, ngoba nje
ukungena kwami kulawo magceke koba
ukuphuma kwesdumbu sakho.
Ozithobayo
Zinhloso"**** (don't you dare wish to stay with
me because if I enter into the yard. Your corpse
will come out)
She felt cold on her stomach. She read the
letter again as she couldn't believe the words
this child had written to her. How can she write
such a letter to her mom? She quickly tore the
letter angrily but she couldn't ignore the sick
feeling it brought to her stomach.
UMCEBO

Chapter 192

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

***January of the new year****

After the new year's eve, the Xulu family ended
the mourning period for Qophelo but the pain
didn't end in their hearts. They were still feeling
pain and the gap Qophelo left was too huge and
it was felt by everyone in the family.
Zinhloso passed her Standard 7, not as good as
she normally passed. Xulu and his wife were
only grateful that she didn't fail. They didn't care
about the symbols she got for her subjects. She
moved to Standard 8 and she was doing
science. She didn't plan on doing science, she
wanted commercial studies but something in
her directed to science - it directed her to
chemistry and so, she chose those subjects.
It was Sunday, she left on a Saturday afternoon
- she lied to Xulu and Esther, telling them she
was visiting her grandmother. She was going to
spend the weekend with her and go to school
from there. She was going to come back home
on Monday after school. They agreed but
Zinhloso didn't visit her grandmother. She took
a bus to their house ematshane.
She spent her Saturday night and Sunday there.
She fetched water, worked on the garden and
stayed out in the varenda until late. She was
very sad, sad about her child and sad about
Mhlabunzima.
Sunday night, she decided to cook a proper
meal. She'd been eating only because the
parents forced her to.
*
"Xulu, it seems I am running out of petrol. I don't
think we'll make it down to your village," the
driver who was delivering comrades to their
villages, said to Mhlabunzima. It was only the
two of them left Sunday night.
They were supposed to come back in
December but they couldn't come back without
their certificate. The important document that
showed they'd been studying. They had to wait
until the new year and the institution to open.
They didn't have a problem because they knew
they were going to open early January. They got
their qualifications and it was time to head back
home to their loved ones. Mhlabunzima was
very happy.
"Don't take me to my village then, take me to a
certain place ematshane. I will see how I will
open up that house," Mhlabunzima said, giving
the driver a better option.
"Oh, that's better it's not far." The driver was
relieved and to make things easier. He gave the
car to Mhlabunzima. It saved time and petrol as
Mhlabunzima was the one who was driving. He
knew the directions.
He was pissed off because he had decided that
when he got home he was going to make a
telephone call to Zinhloso's granny's telephone.
He was going to fetch her the same night,
leaving Qophelo behind with her aunt. But now,
he was going to sleep alone.
"Goodbye, Xulu and good luck we'll see each
other around!"
Mhlabunzima waved and remembered the gate
was always locked. He looked up at the house
and he inhaled - he was home!
"It's lit inside the house. Did she give the house
to someone?" He tried the gate and it was
surprisingly not locked. "Okay!" He decided to
lock it, he was going to sleep here even if the
house was owned by a different person.
He could hear the radio playing inside the house
and looking around the yard, it hadn't changed
much. There was a hut built closer to the house,
a hut that wasn't there when he left. It was
small.
He knocked on the door after realising the door
was locked. He knocked again.
Zinhloso closed her pots, turned off the stove
and she went to the door. She thought it was
the child of Robert's uncle, they were supposed
to come and take green peppers. She didn't ask
who it was but she opened the door.
Her heart beat rose up - she least expected to
see these beautiful eyes of the man staring at
her. He was still as handsome as she last saw
him, his dark face was more chiseled. He still
had his small square chin beard. His eyes were
full of life, excitement and hope. His still full
dark beautiful lips were spread out into a smile.
He grew an inch taller but he was still her small
short man, perfectly made for her. She could
see he was also not believing he was seeing her.
Zinhloso was overwhelmed and she couldn't
hold back her tears. She jumped on him after he
dropped his bags on the floor. "Oh, my!"
He received her body into his arms and he
laughed. He felt like the gods loved him too
much. She was here? How nice! How nostalgic.
His eyes watered as she cried, the woman was
more beautiful than when he left her and her
body had expanded. She looked more mature,
like a woman, a mother and a wife. Yes, he
couldn't wait to make her his wife, fully. Even
though her body looked more mature, her face
still had that kitten cuteness.
"Abakithi bayangithanda!" He whispered without
asking how she was. He attacked her with a
kiss. He closed the door, leaving his bags on
the door outside. He was going to attend to
them later.
His feet directed him to the bedroom. Their lips
were still locked, he was very excited and by the
time he laid her down on the bed -
Mhlabunzima's pants were already wet. He was
overjoyed and heightened up. It'd been years
without such pleasure.
Their eyes were locked as he was removing her
two pieces of clothing off her body. Her hands
were working on removing his pants.
"It's really you, I am not dreaming?" Zinhloso
asked as Mhlabunzima laid on top of her naked
body.
He smiled, "it's me, MaMnguni. Is it safe for us?
We don't need a child yet. Qophelo should get
all my attention."
She looked at him with sad eyes and tried to
push him off but he didn't move easily.
"Answer me."
"I haven't been tracing but I think it's safe." It
had to be safe, she was also not ready for
another child not after what happened.
He kissed her again and his hands massaged
her nipples softly. He was caressing every part
of her body. He couldn't believe it. How could he
wish to see her and have her, then it happens as
he wished? The universe was in his favour. He'd
suffered a lot the past three years but now, it
was all forgotten.
"Ngivulele, mama. Vula khona ngizongena,"
(open up for me!) He whispered and kissed her
neck.
She was dripping wet. She opened up her legs
and he easily slipped in between her thighs,
"lifake… ah!" She screamed, it wasn't as easy as
she thought it would be.
"Thambisa umzimba Zinhloso." He instructed
as he was trying his way in but her body would
tense up. He repeatedly rubbed on her openings,
building up more sexual hunger and need.
She tried to calm down, "ngena," she whispered
and she moaned as she could feel his tip.
He didn't put all of him inside her. He stroked,
slowly upwards and downwards - her moans
were sweet and louder.
"Ungayeki!" She begged him not to stop the way
he was doing and he didn't stop. He switched,
still not full inside her - his strokes focused on
the sides, left and right. Her eyes rolled and
Mhlabunzima went insane. It was in that very
moment that he knew he was doing it right -
just like he heard one of the men talking a year
ago.
"Xulu!" She cried out.
"Yea, mama?"
"Ngiyakuthanda!"
"Ngiya-kuthanda nami." When he fully entered
her warmth, he groaned and he dived into it
without limits. "I missed this!"
"Ngihlangabeze sthandwa sami, fenda
ngaphansi." He ordered sweetly and Zinhloso
started meeting him halfway, thrusting sweetly.
He was totally on cloud nine and it created an
explosion of pleasure as she moved with him.
For once, after such a difficult time, she was
genuinely happy.
"Ngathi ngiyaphupha!" (It's like I am dreaming)
he looked down at her face. She was also
staring at him as if she couldn't believe it was
really him. They kissed each other again and
Zinhloso got on top of him.
*
In the morning, she went outside and cried
while he was still sleeping. She couldn't get it
off her mind what she said about Qophelo. Was
she supposed to tell him? She didn't want to
ruin the moment last night, she wanted that
slightest moment of happiness with him.
Once she was calm, she went for a bath and
made breakfast. She went to the bedroom once
he was done. She had to dress up for school.
She didn't want to be late. She undressed inside
the bedroom.
He opened his eyes and what he saw was her
behind. She was bent over the wardrobe naked,
searching for whatever she was searching for
and her private part was saying 'good morning'
from the back view. He held his hard manhood
and slowly got off the bed. He was still naked
from last night.
She held the drawer and screamed as he poked
her, "what are you doing?"
"I love your way of saying, good morning."
"Yes, I am saying good morning with food on
the table."
He chuckled and pointed to himself in her, "I like
it then," he rubbed himself.
"I am not talking about this food!"
"I want this one." He sulked.
"I will be late for school."
"I will be short like my height!" He promised -
Zinhloso giggled and he enjoyed himself from
behind early in the morning. Life was good
again, he was happy again and he wished this
happiness could last forever…
UMCEBO

Chapter 193

***Chapter sponsored by Siphelele

Shongwe****

He couldn't believe that after three years, he

was finally walking through the gates of his
home. Zinhloso went to school and he decided
to come home because she wasn't going back
to the house.
His mother was the first person who saw him
walking through the gates as she walked out of
the kitchen. She dropped the dish she had on
her hands and she ululated. She couldn't hold
herself. She was seeing her precious boy, finally!
Her voice brought out her husband and
Ngenzeni out of their rooms. What was
happening?
Ngenzeni ran to her brother, not minding her
mother who was standing in one place and
ululating her joy.
"Gxabhashe!" She hugged her brother and it
brought pain in her. She backed away from him
and cried.
"Why are you crying? You missed me too
much?" He asked and held her hand, pulling her
to his parents.
"Mama?"
The atmosphere changed from happy to sad.
They were very happy about his return. Life had
separated them from each other and now, he
was back when he belonged. Home! "My son!"
She pushed him back and looked at him, "at
least you're not thin, you look good and you
have a scar on your cheek." She was even
touching his face.
He smiled, Zinhloso was very dramatic when
she saw his small scar after sex in the morning.
She even wanted to know who gave him the
scar. "I am happy to see you," Mhlabunzima
said and hugged his mother again.
When he reached his father - Xulu emotionally
praised their clan names. It was an emotional
moment. They pulled him into the kitchen hut
and he kept looking at the door as spoke to him.
"Baba, don't talk about slaughtering animals. I
want to see my daughter first. Sis, go and get
where she is," he stood up and rushed to the
toilet. He couldn't even have his mother's food
because Zinhloso left a full plate for him and
she also fed him at night. He enjoyed her food
after such a long time of not getting it. Things
haven't changed much, the bucket of water was
still put next to the toilet. His mother was very
serious.
When he wiped his hands, Mhlabunzima
noticed a grave closer to his garden. It was
small - did any of his brother's kids die? What
happened?
He moved closer and squatted down to read
what was written on the white stone on top of
the grave - Qophelo Thabile Xulu. Shock kicked
him hard, he sat on his butts. Those were his
daughter's names. When he left she was called
by Mnguni and surely after Inhlawulo and
ilobolo they changed her surname. He didn't cry
and he didn't go to his father to ask for clarity.
His head was buzzing but he didn't want to
believe what he was seeing. He needed proof.
"Is that him running?" Xulu stood up.
Ngenzeni stood up after him, "I told you to stop
him and tell him, baba. I am sure he saw her
grave." They all walked out.
"Hhaybo!" They screamed after him. Kusakusa,
who was walking through the gates, ran faster
to his brother. He heard ululations and decided
to come home.
Mhlabunzima had a spade and he was re-
digging his daughter's grave.
"Mhlabunzima, stop it!" He screamed and pulled
him back.
He growled, "no, I want to see if it's really my
daughter in there!" He was already crying
because of pain and shock.
"Yes, it's her. Why are you disrupting the child's
peace?" He held him tightly and he went down
with him as Mhlabunzima's strength quickly ran
out.
His body curled into a ball in his brother's arms.
Kusakusa didn't let him go as he cried like a
child. "Her mother doesn't know?"
"She knows." He responded, failing to hold back
his own tears. Mhlabunzima cried louder. They
re-lived the pain of losing Qophelo.
***
She was extremely nervous about meeting
Mhlabunzima again, at school she couldn't
concentrate very well. She would be hit by fear
and her hands would shake. She didn't know
why she was feeling like this. Was it fear of the
unknown?
The previous night was amazing and she
couldn't believe she was really seeing him again.
The touches, the kisses and his sweet talks - it
all felt like a dream and she wished she could
never wake up from that dream.
She was supposed to be over the moon, the
love of her life was back home after three years
of being apart. But how could she be happy?
Mhlabunzima left her in the country with their
daughter and he told her he’d come back to
them. He was coming back not to them but her,
and he didn’t know. All those years she couldn’t
write to him and even if she could – she
wouldn’t have told him over a written letter that
they’ve lost their child. And last night, she didn't
want to ruin their precious night with the tragic
news.
After school, she passed by at home - she
wanted to tell Mzomubi that Mhlabunzima was
back. Deep down, she knew he would easily
know that he was back but maybe she wanted
to pass time.
Her hand was shaking as she held the
telephone to her ear, “I am still home.” She
answered Nobuhle on the line.
“Zinhloso, your voice is breaking. Are you
okay?”
Tears trickled down her face, “how could I be?
This was supposed to be a happy time for me
and my daughter. Last night I was happy and
today, I am not.”
“I am really sorry, sisi but I am sure he’ll
understand, he loves you.”
“And what if he doesn’t understand? What will I
do? I can’t lose him too,” she wiped her tears
and drew a long breath. She pretended not to
see her mother as she sat down on the
opposite sofa. This wasn't her first time coming
home and whenever she was home she
pretended as if her mother wasn't there. She
never slept over.
“Have faith, please and go tell him already,” she
advised.
“Yes, I will talk to you tomorrow,” she
disconnected the call after and stood up.
Her mother looked at her, “you’re not going to
Xulu’s home. Mhlabunzima is supposed to
come here and we’ll tell him about –”
She walked out of the door without hearing
what she had to say. She didn’t stop even when
her mother shouted at her.
Mzomubi looked at her as she walked out,
“Zinhloso, don't go yet,” he pleaded with her but
he didn’t receive an answer. He followed her. He
was also scared to go and see Mhlabunzima.
Robert came and told him they should go but he
made an excuse, “Zinhloso, don’t go to
Mhlabunzima, listen to mom this time.”
She opened the door of her hut. She searched
for a jersey in her old clothes. She wore her
jersey.
When she reached the gate, it was locked and
she knew Mzomubi locked it. She didn’t panic
but she climbed up.
“Zinhloso!” Mzomubi screamed after her.
She jumped and rushed away. She wasn’t going
to listen to them and she wasn’t going to let
them stop her. She had to face him and tell him
about what happened. Life had been very unfair
on her. She felt alone and lost without
Mhlabunzima, it got worse after her child’s
death.

She walked through the gates after wearing her

head wrap.
The yard was quiet and the kitchen hut was
closed. The weather was suddenly chilly.
She reached Mhlabunzima’s house. The door
was closed. She knocked.
“Ngena,” (Come in!)
Fireworks hit off her body at the sound of his
deep voice. She composed herself and pushed
the door. He was seated on the sofa having
whiskey. The music was playing on the radio.
He didn’t even turn to look at her. Zinhloso
sensed the energy was tense.
“Sawubona, gxabhashe.” She greeted him
nervously, she put her school bag on the sofa.
She didn’t receive a response. Did they tell him?
He couldn’t act like this without reason. Wasn’t
he happy to see her again? His reaction meant
they told him. How could they tell him without
informing her? She was supposed to tell him
and get the reaction not this.
“Mhlabunzima –”
“Why did you come alone, where’s my
daughter?” He asked and looked at her, his
heart torn into pieces. Why did she do
something so cruel? He looked at her hands,
they were shaking and she had a pained look
but he didn’t care. “I asked you a question.” He
repeated slowly.
"Mhlabunzima-"
"Where is she?" His voice boomed in the whole
yard and even though they could hear him they
didn't come out.
Zinhloso was holding her ears. She thought the
glass that he had on his hands was thrown at
her but it went straight to the wall, "she's no
more! Qophelo died last October. She died on
my back. I carried her from home and got here
for help. She was sick that night and it was all
because of my mother. She kept saying horrible
words to her and didn't want to accept
Inhlawulo." She answered, still holding her ears
and looking down.
It was really true. He was shuttered, he was
looking forward to seeing Zinhloso first - he
wanted to see her first as his fianceé. Give her
all the love she wasn't getting from him for
years, spend the night with her and after - he
wanted to see his little girl's face. The child he
left as a toddler, and her mother crying as he
left them. That child was gone! He would never
get to see her again, hold her and hear her voice?
"Why did you keep bringing my daughter near
your hateful mother, huh?"
She didn't expect such a question, "I didn't bring
her near-"
"Are you denying it, Zinhloso? You went back to
her and lived with her for a month. A month is a
very long time seeing your own child suffer!"
Mhlabunzima screamed and he kicked the table
but nothing fell off the table.
"I had told your parents that I will leave-"
"I don't care! Qophelo would still be here if you
kept her away from your mother! You knew that
no matter what you do she hates you,
"You also knew she wanted nothing to do with
my daughter but no - you chose to go back to
her. Why did I build that house kanti if you
couldn't go there in time of being stranded?
"If you didn't think of coming here. Why didn't
you take my child to that house I built
ngamandla ami, huh?"
She was shaking from crying. She didn't even
know how to answer him because it never
crossed her mind that she could go to that
house and live there.
"I am sorry I thought we were going to be able
to live with her but when I saw how it wasn't
easy. I planned on leaving," she tried to explain.
"After a month! Thirty-one days, my daughter
saw your mother's hateful eyes and her ugly
face!" Veins had popped on his forehead and
hearing her cry was ticking him off, "why are
you crying?"
"I am sorry."
He forced his head down and he cried along
with her. Qophelo was everything he was
looking forward to - yes, Zodumo too. But
Qophelo was a little baby, she was his pride. A
child he planned and intended to have but now,
she was gone. He could only see on the
pictures how beautiful and happy she was as a
child. She was happy and she knew that was all
because of his parents. His family loved his
daughter and gave her good childhood
memories, the memories her maternal
grandmother erased by her evilness. His
daughter died a painful death. A part of him
died when he was told that she died crying for
him and he wasn't there. If he knew, he would
have left that qualification and come back
home. He would have spent time with his
daughter ensuring she lived a long and happy
life.
"I saw you can be unkind when you ignored your
brother telling you our lives were in danger,"
Mhlabunzima said in a low deep tone, "you
didn't care whether we die or not but I decided
to look pass that because I loved you and you
were carrying my child. I didn't know you would
be unkind to your own child,
"She wasn't happy and you stayed in your
horrible home only because your mom was
treating you better-"
"That's not true!" She defended herself.
He looked at her with nothing but contempt and
all the tenderness he felt whenever he looked at
her. It was gone, "you're a bad mom Zinhloso
and I hope Qophelo was the last child who got
to call you her mom."
She widened her eyes at him, "what do you
mean?"
"I can't be with you anymore, not after what
happened to my child. It's funny because my
father warned me about your father being cruel
but he never warned me about the devil's wife.
Your mother."
She moved to the edge of the sofa, "no,
Mhlabunzima I love you please don't do this. I
am also in pain about what happened to our
child-"
"Pain? Last night, you had sex with me without
telling me about our daughter's death. If you
were in pain that's the first thing you were
supposed to tell me about but you enjoyed
physical pleasure,
"You slept soundly without telling me what
happened. You enjoyed the same fuckin
pleasure in the morning. You still didn't think of
telling me the truth but you are in pain?"
She couldn't believe everything she'd done was
wrong, "I was scared of telling you."
"Scared my foot! It was good while it lasted, we
should go our separate ways. I am ending
things with you in peace. I don't want to ever
see you again." He gathered his hands together,
forming a pleading gesture, "so, please, pack
your things and go, go back to your mother. Go
back to that life I found you living."
"I love you Mhlabunzima. Please, don't do this I
am begging you. We've waited for you for three
years. What happened was beyond my control-"
she stood up as he got up from the sofa,
"please, Mhlabunzima!"
He shut the door behind him and left her crying.
His heart was hard as stone. Nothing moved
him, he lost Qophelo. He lost everything.
UMCEBO

Chapter 194

***Chapter sponsored by Sphelele Shongwe***

Esther quickly walked inside the house, "what
happened? He left and didn't tell me anything."
She sat with Zinhloso on the sofa.
"He ended things with me and he said I am a
horrible mom." She failed to tell her everything
because of pain and tears. "He said I should
pack my things and go."
"Don't do that. I will talk to him." She stood up,
"go and change, stay in this house."
Esther went to do her things and she waited for
Mhlabunzima's return. She went to the garden
later. She harvested corn and by the time she
was almost done. She saw her son walking
through the gates with a black plastic bag. He
went to the kitchen. She followed him with a
bucket of corn. She found him boiling whatever
roots he was boiling on an electric stove.
"Ngenzwel'umusa, you can't be this cruel. You
leave for three years and months. The first thing
you do, you end things with the mother of your
child?"
Mhlabunzima poured what he was boiling
inside the cup and put the pot aside, "I don't
expect you to understand what I am going
through right now."
"Zinhloso has suffered-"
"And I haven't, mama? I was on a holiday where
I was?" He turned to his mother and asked, "no,
I wasn't!" He walked out and headed to his
house with a cup.
He had gone to her father's pharmacy and
asked the guy who was selling to give him
anything that was going to prevent a woman
from possibly getting pregnant. He gave him
the roots and the instructions.
He found Zinhloso seated on the bed. She was
no longer wearing her uniform. She was looking
down.
"Why are you still relaxed? You haven't packed
anything?"
"Can we fix things? You can at least say, we'll
take a break and fix things once you're-"
He didn't want to be hostile with her but he
badly wanted to show her the side of him she
didn't know. But he had seen the consequences
when her mother chased her away. He was
smart enough to realise there was more to her -
he long saw that but his love for her wasn't
influenced by that. "I don't want to fight you.
Please, take this and drink it."
"What is this?"
"I went to your father's pharmacy. After what
happened between us last night, I don't want
any mistakes. I don't want a child with you. That
child will have that cruel woman as a
grandmother and the child will die again," he
held the cup for her. "I won't go through the
same pain again. It's enough with Qophelo."
"I won't fall pregnant. I was on my safe days."
She said - his words were hitting home and she
couldn't deny that he was speaking the truth.
No child would be safe with a mother like hers.
"I don't want to take chances, you were
guessing last night. You weren't tracing your
days because I wasn't there. I believe you were
faithful unless-"
Zinhloso grabbed the cup and she drank the
contents inside the cup. She gave the cup back
to him.
"Please, start packing your things." He said and
walked out. She was looking at him as he
walked out.
Her knees knocked as she tried to stand up but
she soldiered on. She walked out of the house
and headed to the kitchen.
Mhlabunzima had called his mother and father
after leaving. They were gathered in the kitchen
hut and before he could speak. Zinhloso walked
in and she sat next to Esther on the straw mat.
"Okay, it's good that you came," Mhlabunzima
said coldly and looked at his parents, "mama
and baba, I have ended things with Zinhloso and
I would ask that she goes back to her home."
Xulu slightly rose up from the bench, "why have
you done such a thing? The two of you are
supposed to be together and be stronger. Don't
give her mother a reason to be happy. She'll be
happy if you end things with her."
"I don't care. In the beginning, you didn't want us
together. You should be happy now,"
Mhlabunzima reminded his father.
"I didn't have a problem with her as a person but
my problem was what her father would do to
you if he knew you two were dating," Xulu
explained, "I also had a problem about her not
being domesticated and lazy but I didn't
mention that forward. She'd proved to be a
good woman for you."
"Good woman? Why is my daughter dead if
she's a good woman?"
Esther was angered by this reaction from
Mhlabunzima. She didn't understand it, "that's
not her fault. We explained everything to you
Ngenzwel'umusa! Qophelo was in danger even
before Zinhloso lived with her mother. Why are
you acting like you don't know what she went
through when she was pregnant?" She
screamed at him and Xulu told her not to
scream at him. He was in pain.
"Why did she stay with her mother while she
wasn't kind to Qophelo?" He asked and he didn't
receive an answer. He looked at his father
because it seemed he could understand he
wasn't in a good space. He was in anguish. "I
don't want any fights and arguments. I am
kindly ending things with her and asking her to
go back home. There's no need for her to stay
here because our relationship has ended."
Esther didn't let her husband speak, "no, this is
not how things are done. You should fix what's
broken and get married."
"Ngiyaxolisa, Mhlabunzima. Please, forgive me.
It was my mistake that I stayed at home but I
didn't stay longer. I realised it wasn't-"
He stopped her from talking, "you've explained
and I am no longer seeing a future with you.
Staying with you will mean losing more children.
I am thinking of my future and children's future.
Anginayo imbewu ezobulawa umama wakho
mina." He cleared and he wiped the tears on his
face. What a future he'd planned with this
woman. She was a light in his life but her
parents ruined their relationship.
He turned back to his father and ignored
Zinhloso's cry. He ignored his mother's glare as
she comforted Zinhloso. "Baba, please, if you
don't want her to leave. I will be forced to leave."
Xulu had no other choice but to do what his son
wanted. "MaMnguni, what's happening now
saddens me but Mhlabunzima is my biological
child. I can't lose him. Please, go back home,
maybe in the future the two of you will fix things
but for now understand that he's broken."
"Yebo, baba." Her voice came out very low. She
moved away from Esther but Esther didn't want
to let her go. She felt like she was losing a child.
Zinhloso knelt for a few minutes and she finally
got up. She walked out of the hut.
She got to his house and started packing her
clothes. She was no longer wiping the tears as
they fell.
She had moved most of her clothes and even
bought a wardrobe for her clothes. She finally
finished packing and she took her daughter's
favourite teddy bear that was on top of the bed.
Mhlabunzima was seated on the sofa in the
living room when Zinhloso walked out of the
house.
"Where are you going now?" Esther asked
Zinhloso as she headed to the gate.
She turned to her, "I will come back."
She didn't even know where she was supposed
to go but she knew she wasn't going back to
her mother. Her grandmother was far from
school and she didn't know if she was going to
be allowed to live there because of her mother.
She found sis Khosi washing the dishes.
"Zinhloso, were you around?"
"No, I walked from Xulu's home to here."
"It's so hot. Why did you walk?"
She sat on crate, "ey, things have changed I am
here to ask for your help. I need a place to stay
until I am able to find a place to rent. I think I
will look for a place in the township and leave
this village."
"Why? What's wrong? Mhlabunzima is back and
you should be holding each other's hands."
"He doesn't want me anymore. He threatened
his parents that if I stay he'll leave, so I can't
stay. He's their son and I am not their child. I
was there because of Mhlabunzima. Now, he
doesn't want me."
Khosi stopped washing the dishes, "why,
Zinhloso? What are his reasons?"
"Qophelo's death." She didn't want to explain
much. She could see Khosi was sad and she
even had tears glistening.
"It's okay, you can stay and you don't have to
rent in the township. There's always violence in
that place."
She shook her head, "I don't want to stay here
anymore. I need help with transportation of my
bags. It's a big suitcase and two bags."
Khosi went to get her last born and they walked
out with two wheel barrows.

"Khosi, are you going to be able to live with her?

I was thinking she can live at my maternal home.
My sister's son lives alone there with his wife,"
Esther looked at Khosi. She'd been seated
outside waiting for Zinhloso's return. It was
after 5pm when she returned.
"Yes, she says she'll live in the township. She'll
stay with me until she finds a place." Khosi
explained, hoping she would convince her
otherwise.
"Zinhloso, don't go there. You have people who
love you here. They would love to live with you,"
she tried to convince her but Zinhloso shook
her head with unending tears. She gave them
her back. She couldn't believe all this was
happening to her and she wished her father was
still alive. None of this would be happening. But
he left her - all alone.
"Let's go, I will ask him to at least drive you."
She stood up and they headed to the house. He
was inside his bedroom paging over the photo
album. He was no longer crying but his heart
was throbbing.
"Ngenzwel'umusa, can you drive Zinhloso to
Khosi's home?"
"I can't. I am busy." He said without lifting his
eyes off the photo album. He sat up straight,
"can I talk to her, mama?"
She nodded and walked out of the house.
Zinhloso was standing by the door looking
down.
He opened the drawer and took the keys. When
she left, Mhlabunzima went to his shop and he
couldn't recognise the place. He thought he was
at the wrong place until he saw Ntokozo
walking out. People were looking at him, others
were so happy they would greet and hug him.
Ntokozo took him inside and he told him it was
his place. Zinhloso had turned it into a
supermarket. He couldn't believe it - she'd done
something he never thought of doing. He
explained everything that she'd done and when
he was alone in a different office. He had
memories of them - together in that small office.
He didn't know he would come back to such
pain. All the upgrades she did, they didn't matter
to him because Qophelo was no longer alive.
He couldn't be happy about it.
"I want you to take the keys to the house I built
ematshane. It's up to you what you'll do with it. I
built it because of you. It'll be no use to me if
you are no longer in my life," Mhlabunzima took
her hand and placed the key on her hand.
She took the key and she looked into his eyes.
There was coldness, "so, I really no longer have
a place in your heart? Why are you acting like I
wanted our child dead?"
"We've spoken enough Zinhloso. There's
nothing more left to say," Mhlabunzima said
and he lifted her bags.
"Ngiyakuthanda, Mhlabunzima." She said but he
didn't say - he only walked out. She lifted her
suitcase. It was hard to lift. She tried to lift it to
put it on her head. He walked back in and took it
for her.
Esther couldn't believe this was really
happening. Her son was too different from his
father. His father accepted her after years of
pain and Mhlabunzima was leaving Zinhloso for
something she had no control over, "I am really
sorry, sisi but don't cry. You'll find another man
who'll love you with everything you have." She
didn't care that her son was still close. She was
hurt by him.
She held Esther tightly, "I want him, mama and
not another man."
"Oh, child! I am sorry." She wiped Zinhloso's
tears, "be safe and look after yourself."
"Thank you, bye," she turned to him. He had
finished packing the bags on the wheelbarrow.
"Usale kahle, ngiyakuthanda."
"Uhambe kahle," Mhlabunzima said.
Khosi told her to relax. They handled the
wheelbarrows with her son. They walked out of
the premises. Zinhloso's eyes were where her
daughter's grave was. She closed her eyes
shortly.
"Usexoshiwe yini emzini lo?" (Did they kick her
out?) One of the young women walking on the
road asked her friend and they laughed.
"Shuthi indoda ibuye nomfazi!" (This means her
man came back with a wife) the other one said
and they laughed. Zinhloso pretended like she
wasn't hearing anything.
UMCEBO

Chapter 195

****Chapter sponsored by Musa Khumalo***

It'd been a week and four days and she wasn't

coping. It was better when she was at school,
her friend from school tried her best to cheer
her up. She gave her hope that Mhlabunzima
was still angry. He was going to forgive
everything and realise he was wrong. Zinhloso
had some hope but when she was alone - her
hope was just dead. The man who wanted
nothing to do with her was different from the
man she knew as hers. She was trying to hold
on but she was just grasping at straws.
It was Friday after school, so she decided to go
to the supermarket. She was hoping that maybe
- just maybe he'd calmed down. They would talk.
He would at least talk about a break and not a
break up.
When she walked through the gates, people
were still greeting her and showing fondness
towards her. She kept smiling but she didn't feel
like smiling.
"How are you Ntokozo?" Zinhloso greeted
Ntokozo. The supermarket was busy as usual,
they were even getting customers from
neighbouring villages. They liked the meat they
sold the most.
Ntokozo didn't know whether to be happy to
see her or not. He was sad about the end of the
relationship between her and Mhlabunzima. He
couldn't believe Mhlabunzima wasn't consoled
by such hard work. He saw him as a biggest
fool when he told the staff Zinhloso was no
longer going to work with them.
"Sawubona, MaMnguni unjani? I am really sad
and I don't even know what to say." Ntokozo
greeted.
She placed her on his shoulder and her eyes
looked at where she was putting her steps, "no,
don't be sad, we're still good and there's no bad
blood between you and I. Please, serve him with
loyalty as you've been doing."
"Yes, mam, I will do that. Do you need any help
with anything?"
"Is he here? I want to talk to him."
He nodded and led her to the office where
Mhlabunzima was. He was busy reading
documents about the supermarket and the
transport business.
His eyes met with Zinhloso's eyes and his mood
changed. He waited for Ntokozo to leave, "what
are you doing here?"
She remained standing before the desk. It'd
been really painful seeing him laughing with
other people whenever she passed by bus at his
supermarket. It'd been twice seeing him outside
with people around him, talking and laughing
with them. She once came to the supermarket
and he passed her like he didn't know her. His
staff only looked at her with sad eyes.
"I need to talk to you."
"About? I thought I kindly asked you, no, I told
you kindly that I don't wish to see you again," he
reminded her.
She still remained standing, "I know but I
thought maybe there could be a chance for us
to talk. I love you-"
He stood up quickly, "not that again, Zinhloso!"
He banged the table and she wasn't frightened,
"can you please stop harassing me with your
pitiful words and reminding me you love me. It
doesn't matter, I clearly said I don't want you
anywhere near me."
She closed the gap between them, "I know you
still love me but you're just going through grief
and you want someone to blame for what
happened. My mother is to blame for all this
and not me."
"Please, go, you're hurting me. Go, Zinhloso."
She held his hands and she was expecting him
to pull them back but he didn't, "we can make
things work. We can be happy again and have
more children, nine kids that you want. It's okay.
It doesn't matter. I can be a homemaker and
quit school just to look after our children and
home."
"I told you I don't see a future with you anymore.
You failed to do everything in your power to
keep my child alive," he said through his teeth,
"Lily was with my child for seven years, living a
horrible life but she protected Zodumo with
everything because that's what mothers do,
"Most women in this village are raising kids
without their fathers and they do everything to
protect their children,
"I can't say much about you. You're just like our
neighbour, that horrible mother who left her
twins behind and ran away in a critical time of
war."
Zinhloso's stomach turned cold. She was
shaken by his words. She couldn't even speak
after that.
"You took away my joy, vele, you didn't want
that child, you threw tantrums for months when
you learnt that you were carrying her,
"I was looking forward to seeing her beautiful
face when she realised I was back. You and
your mother took that away from me,
"So, please leave and don't look back."
"Ngenzwel'umusa -"
"No, listen I am saying goodbye. It seems you're
not listening, you're forcing me to be hostile
with you," his face changed from neutral to
something else - he had a threatening look that
made Zinhloso let go of his hands, "if you ever
come near me again to talk such nonsense
about how much you love me. I promise I will
kill you just like your mom killed my child."
She sucked in the air, painfully, "you don't mean
that."
"Don't test me."
She nodded and turned to the door. She held
the handle and looked back, "so, this is really
goodbye?"
"Yeah."
"I hope you'll be happy."
"How can I be happy without my child?"
She didn't answer him but she walked out of the
office. She went to the telephones' counter and
she paid to make a telephone call. She took out
the paper in her pocket and made a telephone
call.
"Mthuthuzeli, speaking, hello?"
"Hello, how are you? It's Zinhloso."
"Oh, MaMnguni, I am well and how are you
doing?"
"I am good, I need a favour if you can."
"Anything for you."
"Are you working tomorrow?"
"Yes, but I will knock off early. I will only be
doing deliveries on the sugarcane field that side
and I will pick up the meat order I made for my
boss with Ntokozo."
She smiled, "so, she finally listened to you when
you told her about Petersen's good meat?"
"Yes, she did. She saw me eating the meat and
asked for a taste."
She widened her eyes, "umlungu asked for your
food?"
"Yes, phela I am a cool guy. I am clean and I
cook very good food," he boasted and they
laughed, "I am kidding but she's not racist like
her fellows."
"That's good. Can I please hire your car after
work? I want to move to ematshane. I have
heavy bags so I can't take a bus."
His voice changed to concern, "why are you
moving? What happened with the Xulu family?"
"Their son is back and it's a long story. I can't
talk about it over the phone."
"Alright, I should come to their home?"
"No, but at sisi Khosi's home. I have been living
there."
"Alright, I will do that."
"Thank you so much. I will pay you."
"Well, money coming from a woman like you is
a blessing. How can I say no?"
She laughed and put the telephone down. They
gave her the change. She did a shopping for a
few items and when she saw Mhlabunzima
talking to two women in the shop her heart
tensed. She went to the till and the staff
gathered around her.
"What's going on?" She asked.
"He told us you'll no longer be working here and
we were really sad about it," one lady said and
after her, they said short words of gratitude one
after the other. Their kind words made her feel
special and loved. She didn't regret a thing she
did by transforming Mhlabunzima's businesses.
It gave her peace because she gave these
people jobs.
"Thank you so much." She laughed, with tears
of joy, "you've made me so happy and I hope
you'll continue working honestly. Remember,
always respect your source of income and use
your money wisely."
They hugged her one after the other. It got
awkward when she reached the men. They were
looking at Mhlabunzima who was helping the
customers as the staff was still around
Zinhloso. "Don't you want a hug from a woman?
Hhaybo, kwahleni I have been like a mother to
you guys," she shouted lightly and they laughed.
They hugged her.
She smiled as Ntokozo shed some tears, "I
didn't know you could cry."
He chuckled, "I will miss you so much, sisi. I
wish you the best, going forward." They hugged
each other tightly. Zinhloso forced the tears
back. Ntokozo gave Zinhloso an envelope, "we
couldn't buy you a gift because we didn't know
what to buy but I was going to pass by today
and give you this. It's a token of appreciation
and farewell gift from us. You won't believe that
lawa maqaba, who are your drivers bought you
a gift."
She laughed and accepted the paper bag,
"thank you, I don't know if I will see them but
thank them for me. I am leaving tomorrow and
hopefully, we'll see each other around. Goodbye,
guys. Niziphathe. Nimphathe kahle ubaba
wezingane zami."
"Bye!"
She walked out of the supermarket with a smile
on her face. She didn't expect such a grand
gesture from the staff.
It was going to be best for her to leave the
village and start afresh - maybe her absence
was going to make him miss her. She didn't
want to accept that things were over between
the two of them.
UMCEBO

Chapter 196

***Chapter sponsored by Musa Khumalo***

Mr Handricks walked through his son's

bedroom after searching everywhere in the
house for him. He'd called John and told him he
would come by to visit him. John gave him
permission to come for a visit. He wanted to
spend the day with his son. It'd been a while
since they sat down like father and son.
"John?" He called out, thinking he might be
inside the bathroom or the balcony but John
didn't come out. He was leaving when his eyes
were attracted to the photos on top of his bed.
There was also a chest next to the photo and
the album. The chest was where John put his
photo album safely and locked it away. Mr
Handricks sat down and picked up the first
picture.
"Why is he taking pictures with her?" He asked
out loud as he looked at the picture of John and
Nobuhle seated on the sofa in the living room.
They were holding tea cups, Nobuhle was
staring at the cup and John was smiling at her.
He picked up another picture, they were at the
beautiful corner in the house. Nobuhle was
laughing as John carried her in his arms. Mr
Handricks undid his tie as his blood boiled. This
boy! Was this what he'd been doing behind their
backs?
He was dating a black woman, again! Not just
any black woman but Mnguni's daughter? The
daughter, who was working for him! This meant
- this meant he lied to them. He hired her only
because he'd seen a woman he loved. What
was wrong with this boy and black women?
Didn't he have enough with that stupid maid he
killed? Hendricks wanted to throw a fit but there
was nobody to lash on. Nobuhle was also not in
the house. He was sweating. John was testing
him again and he'd forgotten, this girl's father
had died. Maybe he was dating her thinking he
would do nothing to her. Mr Mnguni surely died
without knowing about this relationship. He
would have told him - he wanted nothing bad to
happen to his children. And this relationship
was going to bring something very bad to his
daughter.
He took the small album and he was out of
breath when he saw the pregnancy pictures.
Nobuhle together with John holding her
pregnancy bump.
"The little devil baby even looks like me," he
growled and screamed John's name. He walked
out of the bedroom.
John was walking inside the house, coming
from dropping Nobuhle in town. He heard his
father from downstairs and the first thing he
thought of - was his photo albums on top of the
bed. There was an album of only him and
Nobuhle. There was also a small album of their
pregnancy and their son. These pictures were
taken by them or they would ask Martin to take
the pictures. He always kept them locked up
and he opened them today because he missed
his little boy.
"Pa!" He stood rooted in one place as he saw
the pictures on his father's hand. It was a
picture of him and Nobuhle, pregnant and the
picture of their son.
"What's this?" Hendricks was holding the
picture on his son's face. "Answer!"
"Please, don't be mad but understand that I love
her and I want to spend the rest of my life with
her," he was very nervous as he was explaining
himself before his father. He was so stupid and
careless. He wanted to lock it up but Nobuhle
was mad, she told him to leave it, he would
attend it later. Nobody was going to come into
his bedroom. Only if he didn't listen to her.
"Love! This is illegal and there's a baby now.
Why are you so careless?" He wanted to
strangle him but he couldn't bring himself to do
it because he wasn't going to be able to stop
when he started.
"I love her!" His face faced the other side
forcefully as his father slapped him. He
tightened his jaws.
"You know what? This time I am not killing
anyone but I am reporting this relationship. The
authorities will deal with her and they'll take that
baby away!" He walked away and when John
ran after him, begging. He didn't care about that.
"I am begging you, pa, please. You'll ruin her
future and my son deserves to have parents
and not grow up with some other coloured
babies like he's an orphan!" He begged
following him but Hendricks didn't stop. He
stepped inside the car and he drove off.
John rushed inside the house as soon as his
father's car disappeared before his eyes. He
picked up the telephone and called his mother.
He tried again as she didn't pick up.
"Hendricks' residents, hello?"
"Mum, I need your help. Dad found out about my
relationship with Buhle-"
Mrs Hendricks screamed, "are you out of your
mind? You two didn't end that relationship?"
"We tried but we couldn't stay away from each
other. He took our pictures. The pictures are
proof of our relationship and proof that we have
a son."
"A what! John, do you want to kill me?"
He was so frustrated he couldn't believe this
was happening. Yes, he didn't see Johnathan as
much as he wanted to but those moments with
him were his greatest treasure. He would rather
die than let anyone take away his child. In the
rural areas, he was better there because people
there minded their business. Nobody was going
to rat them out. Mrs Mnguni agreed to keep the
child and she told them they'd had coloured
babies in the village and nobody said anything
about it to anyone. But they were still careful.
Johnathan was getting private health care, he
had hired a health care provider who was
always available for his son when he needed
medical attention or when he had to take
vaccination. They always went to him at home
to provide any health care. He wanted only the
best for Johnathan, to keep him safe.
"I am sorry but we didn't mean for it to happen.
Please, mom, I know dad will come to you.
Please, take those pictures away and burn them.
I will do the same with every picture I have," he
said, walking to his bedroom. He knew Nobuhle
had her own pictures at home. It was going to
build good memories for their child to have the
pictures. "He said he'll report us. Buhle will
suffer the most and her future will be ruined.
We even lied to the institution to keep her
studying while pregnant."
"I will help you. I think that's your father. I should
pretend to know nothing," she said and quickly
put the phone down.
****
Aunt Maria was waiting for Lily to come back
from work. She was no longer working for Mrs
Mnguni but she was working in a factory in
town. She brought some goodies for Zodumo.
"Gogo, mama is home!" Zodumo announced the
return of her mother.
Maria smiled and stood up, "where's she?" She
was seated inside the living room of Zodumo's
grandmother. She told her to wait for Lily there.
"She'll come to you, gogo!" She said and ran out
of the house.
Maria sat back down and she waited. She knew
that Lily had a boyfriend but she was certain her
love for Mhlabunzima was stronger than the
love of that boyfriend. They had a child together
and a few women didn't want their baby's
fathers back? She wanted her back with
Mhlabunzima.
"Gogo omncane wezingane, how are you?" Lily
greeted aunt Maria and she sat down.
Maria smiled - she was certain her nephew was
going to be charmed again and he was going to
be healed again. Lily was not only beautiful but
she had a sweetest, soothing voice that could
mend Mhlabunzima's broken heart.
Mhlabunzima's father was the youngest of boys
but his wealth combined with his son's wealth
was above everyone's riches. Maria was
envious of such wealth and she hated that they
didn't live with them. Her brother as the last
born, he wasn't supposed to leave home but
because of her father's unreasonable anger. He
left home. He built his wealth away from home
and as a result, they couldn't gain anything from
that wealth. If they were living together in their
high homestead, every cent would be spent at
home. And as an unmarried daughter who was
going to be in charge of things as an aunt -
Maria would have benefited a lot from this
wealth. She would be chief queen and Esther
would be under her as a wife.
"I am not fine that's why I am here."
"What's wrong?"
"I am here to talk about the father of your baby.
Did you see him?" She asked.
"No, I haven't gone to him but Zodumo went to
visit him. She said he cried when they spoke
about Qophelo."
Maria shook her head, "it's really sad and he has
ended things with Zinhloso."
"Hhaybo, aunty! Why? How could he do that
after everything Zinhloso went through without
him? She was gunned down two times trying to
build a legacy for his children," she was
shocked - she didn't expect such a thing from
Mhlabunzima.
Aunt Maria wasn't sure if Lily was the right
candidate for this task. It seemed she'd grown
fond of Zinhloso but trying wasn't going to hurt,
"yes, it's sad but I am here to ask you a huge
favour. Please, step in and take over.
Mhlabunzima has always been your man from
the beginning of it all nje."
"What do you mean?"
"This is your time, step up and take your man
back. Mend his heart and give him children.
Your mom is peaceful and isn't like that witch of
a woman,
"Mhlabunzima ended the relationship mainly
because of Zinhloso's mother because even
their future children would suffer. Sukuma sis,
thatha indoda yakho. Help him heal and create
a family with him." She planted a scenario -
good one of them as a family. It was a beautiful
scenery.
"I have a boyfriend and how will Zinhloso feel
knowing I have went back to him?"
"Why would you think of her? Think about your
child and her future, if you get married to
another man you'll leave Zodumo behind. Do
you want your child to hate you and say you
chose marriage over her?"
"No, I don't want that but there's no chance for
Mhlabunzima and I. He won't take me back…"
she told her about Dorothy's plan to put spell on
Mhlabunzima.
"That witch! You'll have to show Mhlabunzima
you've changed and be good woman to him. I
am begging you to save my brother's child. He'll
go mad with grief. That's not what you want for
the father of your child. Zodumo is his only child
now. His only hope. Think about it and tell me
what you think," she concluded and left Lily
after holding her shoulder tightly.
UMCEBO

Chapter 197
***Chapter sponsored by anonymous,
dedication to all dolls that hate Zinhloso’s
mom***

Nobuhle found John pacing up and down. She

was back from town. She went to town dressed
up in uniform.
"What's wrong?"
He quickly faced Nobuhle, "I told you we should
keep the pictures safe. My father was here."
"Your father was here, how?"
He pointed upstairs, "he was in my bedroom
and he took my pictures. Our pictures. He said
he'll report our relationship to the authorities."
She dropped on the sofa. He was going to
report them? There goes their hard work - her
hard work. She would lose everything because
of her relationship. He loved John but that didn't
mean she was supposed to suffer because of
her relationship. "Why didn't you follow him?"
"What was going to help? He has our pictures. I
have destroyed the other pictures because you
have them at home. That's enough proof, the
pictures," John raised his voice. He was angry
because sometimes Nobuhle didn't like to listen
to him. Had she listened to him - none of this
was going to happen.
"There must be another way."
"I asked mom to try and take the pictures and
this means our relationship is known to my
parents." He sat on the sofa and tried to keep
calm.
"If he doesn't have the pictures we'll be safe."
Nobuhle said.
He shook his head, "we won't, they'll investigate
the situation and we'll be found out. We're no
longer safe. Our son is no longer safe."
"So, what should we do?"
"We should take him and leave the country. If
you don't want to take your child with you, you
can leave him behind and always come back to
him," John suggested his best option, "I
honestly can't have these people take my child
away from me. He'll live like an orphan there."
"John, you don't even live with Johnathan."
"But I make time whenever I wish to see him. I
bond with him and now he knows that I am his
father," John argued.
It was hard to see Johnathan whenever he
wanted to see him but Zinhloso came up with a
plan for him. They would drive to the village at
night, take Johnathan and they would go and
spend time with him in the secret house
Mhlabunzima and Zinhloso had. It was always
at night so nobody would easily notice them.
John loved spending time with his son. He
enjoyed every little moment with him. Zinhloso
did him a great favour. He was clueless about
how he was going to create a relationship with
him and Johnathan's mother couldn't come up
with an idea. What made him happier was that
Johnathan could recognise him. John had to
learn Isizulu because his son was also Zulu and
he lived with the Zulu side of the family. Isizulu
was obviously going to be his primary language.
"I can't leave my other son behind and choose
the other." Nobuhle refused to leave.
His heart sank, "so, what is your suggestion?
We'll let them take him?"
"No, we can ask Zinhloso to keep him in that
house with his nanny."
"Who'll look after him while the nanny is busy
washing his clothes? Busy going to the river to
fetch water?" John asked and he didn't get an
answer from Nobuhle. "You know he can't go
outside, especially in the village where he'll be
new. Those people won't even know him. They
might also report when seeing him."
"Please, Buhle," he held her hand, "can we
please leave? Just to keep him safe and give
him a normal life every child deserves."
"John, this is difficult for me. I can't just, up and
leave. Sbusiso will resent me for choosing his
brother over him."
He looked at her with teary eyes and he let go of
her hands, "okay, it's fine, in the beginning it's
your sister who showed care for my child in
order for him to live and even when I wanted to
build a relationship with him. It's her who
bothered herself, came up with solutions. You
never really cared about him. It's all about your
first born, always. You only love the child of
your first love. I hate you for that."
"John, that's not true! I am bringing suggestions
but you don't want to take them. You want me
to do what will only benefit you. You don't care
about my other child," she raised her voice at
him.
John didn't say anything. He took his car keys
and went upstairs.
He locked himself in his room and he grabbed a
suitcase. He packed his clothes and a few
important things. He gathered his documents
and once he was done. He called his home.
"Hendricks, hello?"
"Pa?"
"John!" Mr Hendricks growled on the line.
"You've convinced your mother to side with you.
You quickly called her and told her to take the
pictures."
"Please, you can't hate an innocent child. He's
your grandson!"
"That child is a crime! My boy, I will still report
you to the authorities without those pictures.
They'll investigate and the first place I will tell
them to investigate will be your girlfriend's
home. I won't waste time!" Hendricks
threatened.
John quickly put the telephone down. He was
really scared because he knew his father wasn't
joking. He took his wallet and walked out. He
locked his bedroom and headed out. He ignored
Nobuhle as she was shouting his name.
Nobuhle was impatiently waiting for John. She
didn't understand why he wasn't coming back.
Martin came to say goodbye and told her, he
opened up for Mr Hendricks. She jumped up as
the man walked inside the house. He didn't say
anything to Nobuhle but he rushed to John's
bedroom. He found it locked. He moved back to
Nobuhle.
"I know my son is not here. His car is not in the
yard. Give me those pictures!"
"I don't have any pictures. He burnt them," her
voice was trembling as she spoke. She was
really scared. What if he killed her? What would
happen to her children?
Mr Hendricks took out a gun from the holster
and he pointed it at Nobuhle, "I said I need
those pictures young lady."
"I don't have the pictures. Why can't you
understand that I love your son?"
He chuckled, "do you wish to die?"
"You won't kill me. It seems you have forgotten
who my father was. He may be dead but he's
watching over us. Kill me or pull that trigger
you'll see," she threatened him. She thought of
what Zinhloso said about her, threatening the
police officer with thier father. She was shit
scared but when she saw Mr Hendricks' face
changing and lowering the gun. Her heart rate
decreased.
"I will still report you. Your father wasn't going
to support this relationship. I know the kind of
man he was." He threatened back and he left
Nobuhle.
She closed her eyes and sighed in relief, her
hand was on her chest. She sat back on the
sofa and waited for John's return. She needed
to convince him that they didn't need to leave
the country. They could work things out.
***
She decided it was best to go home and inform
her brother about what was happening. She
wasn't sure if Mzomubi had gone to see
Mhlabunzima or not.
Zinhloso sat down on the sofa with Mzomubi.
Lucy walked in with food.
"You don't look good. You look pale," Mzomubi
commented once his wife was out of the house.
"Let's eat."
She took the plate but she didn't eat, "yes, I am
not good. Shuthi ukwaliwa indoda kungenze
ngamubi."
"What do you mean?"
"Didn't you visit Mhlabunzima since he arrived?"
She asked and ate a single spoon. She didn't
have any appetite.
"I did but I went to the supermarket. He's really
broken by Qophelo's death. I hope you're giving
him your full support."
She smiled, "what support? Didn't he tell he
doesn't want me anymore?" Zinhloso told her
brother about Mhlabunzima's reasons for their
break up.
Mzomubi kept quiet and he stopped eating. He
just looked at his sister, "why are you not
laughing? Are you serious?"
She laughed, "yes, I am serious. I have been
living with sis Khosi for that week and four
days."
"Udakiwe! I will go and talk to him."
She raised her hand, "don't go, he'll calm down
and we'll talk it's still new."
"If he's breaking up with you that means he's
serious. You need to come back home."
"No, I won't. I will live away from here that's why
I am here." She told him about the house he
built.
Mzomubi was shocked, "he was really serious
about you. He built a whole house and went
through all the trouble just for you."
"That's why I don't want to believe it's over
between us. He's been great for me, he showed
me love with his actions and not just his words.
He taught me things nobody would have taught
me. He would hug and sit with me for hours
when nobody wanted to be closer to me,
"He fed me without fail when my parents
stopped giving me food. He taught me about
business, showed me the ins and outs of
business,
"It's countless, Mzomubi. How can I just accept
that it's over?" She asked her brother and
Mzomubi only closed his eyes.
"I am really sorry. I think we should go through
the right channels before you live there. Inform
the leaders of the village and the chief.
Sobatshela ukuthi ubuya emendweni. You no
longer have space at home because of what
happened between you and mom. Your
marriage ended. We'll then inform the ancestors,
they'll go with you and that home will be called
by Mnguni but for that home to be called by
your surname Mhlabunzima will have to take
his cows back first," Mzomubi said to his sister.
"I don't know if you want him to take his cows
back if you still think you'll get back together."
"It'll be up to him."
"And if he wants them back?"
Zinhloso couldn't answer that question. She
remained quiet. She took the glass of cold drink
and gulped it down.
UMCEBO

Chapter 198

***Chapter sponsored by Lee***

He was reading the book of finances, trying to

understand the way Zinhloso was logging
transactions. He was annoyed by the fact that
she couldn't access her to get clarity on how
she was logging and why she was logging the
way she was doing.
"Tsk! I will start a new book. I can't understand
this thing yalo mfazi. It's complicated like her
mind," he clicked his tongue and closed the
book. He thought of Ntokozo, he lifted the
telephone and called the front. "Ntokozo, get
here!" He put the phone down and waited for
Ntokozo.
"Yes, do you need my help?" He stood before
the desk.
He pushed the book forward, "can you help me
understand this?"
Ntokozo laughed, "I am afraid I don't
understand it too. She tried her best to explain
but I didn't understand."
"There's absolutely nobody who understands
this thing?"
"Try John, he's the one who taught her."
He shook his head, "I can't. He's leaving the
country tonight. I am sure he's busy." He said
and rubbed his forehead. He envied John, he
was able to take action to save his son. He
didn't understand how the mind of Mnguni's
daughters worked. Nobuhle would rather
choose a child who had no problem in his life
over a child who had such a huge problem.
"I will start a new book then."
"But the financial year hasn't ended so why
would you start a new book? Go and ask
Zinhloso for help?"
He glared at him. Ntokozo lifted his hands and
he left the office.
Minutes later, there was a knock on the door.
"Come in!"
Lily pushed the door and walked inside the
office. She had a book in her hands. She
greeted him and sat down. He looked really
good but his face wasn't friendly.
"How are you holding up?" She asked and
placed the book on her lap.
He didn't answer her for a minute, "I heard you
became friends with Zinhloso. Why didn't you
advise her on how to keep a child alive like you
kept Zodumo alive?"
"All that happened to Qophelo wasn't Zinhloso's
fault. I also heard you made her pregnant
deliberately, why did you make her pregnant
because you knew what kind of parents she
had?"
He smiled, "so, you're here to defend your
friend?" He asked.
"No, I am here to check on the father of my child.
We were all saddened by Qophelo's passing and
you were in our thoughts," she said kindly.
"It's bad, all I see is the dark and all I feel is
pain," he shared.
Lily held his hand, "there's still hope. You need
to live, live to the fullest. She wouldn't like to
see you sad and I don't even think she would
like to see her parents apart. You're supposed
to be making another baby for her."
"I don't want to talk about my relationship with
Zinhloso. Thank you for coming."
She placed the book on the table, "one of my
colleagues suggested this book. I don't know
much about reading. I am not highly educated.
She said it'll help you with grief. I didn't want to
bring food because I know the nature of our
relationship. You don't trust me."
He smiled and took the book, "thank you, I will
read it. I appreciate it."
"Everything will be fine. Don't worry. Zinhloso is
also not a bad person. She's been a great mom
to both children," she shared - she'd thought
long and hard about getting back together with
Mhlabunzima. She knew she would live her best
life if she could be with him but she needed to
be smart. Aunt Maria was advising her on how
to go about it.
"Goodbye," he said and looked at her as she
walked out. He looked back at the book. The
front page had his name written on it with a
heart next to his name. He smirked and closed
the book.
He got a visit from Mzomubi right after Lily left.
Mhlabunzima went to get drinks.
"Weren't you working?" Mhlabunzima asked and
sat back on his chair.
"I was, I came back early." He poured the drink
into the glass, "I am here because we need to
talk."
"About?"
"My sister-"
"If you're here to beg me to take her back. You'll
forget about it."
He shook his head, "no, why would I do that? I
am here to ask about your cows."
"I will take them. I need to make preparations,
hire a trailer so that it'll be easier to transport
them," Mhlabunzima responded. "I am sorry I
didn't touch on that. I have been busy, I am still
busy trying to understand this new business."
"Alright, do call me and tell me. I should let my
uncle know so we'll do things accordingly,"
Mzomubi stood up.
He nodded, "so, you didn't even think of acting
on behalf of your father, accept Inhlawulo?"
"I don't wish to discuss this Mhlabunzima. I am
trying my best to keep my sister safe and better
because you dumped her, you didn't even call
my uncle and I to let us know that you're ending
things with her,
"You decided alone with your parents and it was
over just like that but when you wanted us to
accept your cows it wasn't like that. So, it's no
use talking about possibilities now." He said
and headed to the door. It was sad because
Zinhloso had hope but there was really no hope.
He knew him better and he could see he was
serious and there was no turning back.
He walked out of the office with a decision that
he was going to have to hire someone who was
going to help him understand the financial
books.
He stood rooted by the telephone counter, his
eyes were set on the man he hadn't seen for
years. When did he come back? They were
talking with Ntokozo and laughing. This meant
he'd been around for a while. He pretended to
be busy with something as Mthuthuzeli noticed
him.
"Sawubona, chwane!"
He turned to him as he was greeted by his soft
voice. He forced a smile and he failed to
pretend like he was happy to see him. He wasn't
happy, "Mthuthuzeli, you're still alive," he gave
him his hand and they shook hands.
"Yes, I am. I am glad I am seeing you again. I
read about what happened."
He nodded, "I am back."
He could feel that he wasn't welcome so he
decided not to force it, "yes, let me leave you. I
was just here to get the meat order I made with
Ntokozo."
"Are you back home?"
"No, I live in another village. I was in one of
Durban township the whole time."
"Oh, did you quit politics? I never read anything
about you."
"Yes, I did after losing my wife. I am sorry for
your loss, your daughter."
He clenched his jaws, "I am sorry for your loss
too." They shook hands again, "Mthuthuzeli?"
He looked back and kept a small smile for
Mhlabunzima, "chwane?"
"Please, stay away from her."
"Who?"
"You know who I am talking about. She'll be
better off with someone I don't know."
He chuckled and shook his head, "I will see you
around, chwane!"
***
Nobuhle slept and woke up in the morning
without John. She didn't know where he was
and she was upset that there was no way of
getting ahold of him. She decided to go home.
She needed to talk to her brother or mother
about this situation. She couldn't discuss
everything over the phone. She was stressed
and she didn't know how things were going to
turn out.
She got home and found her mom's situation
starting afresh. She was in her bed and there
was a small bucket next to the bed for vomiting.
"Are you still feeling pain in your stomach? I
think we need to find a traditional healer for you
now," Nobuhle gave her mother some glucose.
She'd been busy until it was night time.
Mzomubi suggested she should go with John.
She wanted to see Zinhloso the following day
and maybe she was going to have a better
suggestion than leaving.
"Yes, there's still pain and a pounding headache.
I don't know if I will ever get better. Why have
you come home?" Mrs Mnguni sat up straight
and drank glucose. "Your brother told me
Mhlabunzima ended his relationship with your
sister. He didn't even call Mzomubi to tell him
he's taking that decision. He acted like
someone who was ending a relationship with
his girlfriend. He has disrespected Mnguni's
ancestors by doing such with their daughter."
"Aren't you happy that he ended things with her?
You didn't want them together?" She asked
because she was surprised by her - talking like
this.
"I am happy but I don't want any of my children
to be a laughing stock in the village. It's
enough!" She clicked her tongue.
"None of this would be happening if you
accepted her child and Inhlawulo. I am starting
to also think you're sick because of that cow,
not because the Xulu family wanted to kill you
but it's the anger from ancestors. You were
really cruel by accepting Inhlawulo right after
the death of the child," she honestly shared and
her mother didn't raise a comment. Nobuhle got
up as Mzomubi called for her.
"Why are you home? It's January."
"John's father learnt about our relationship and
he said he'll report us. They might take
Johnathan if they find out the truth."
"Take him to your grandmother then, in case
they come here."
She walked out as Mzomubi called for her again.
She was shocked to see John inside Mzomubi's
house, holding his son in his arms. Johnathan
was really happy to see his father.
"You need to pack your things and go, we'll talk
with Robert about Sbusiso." Mzomubi said,
quickly. He didn't want any time to be wasted.
Nobuhle looked at John. Where had he been?
He wasn't even looking at her. He was focused
on the baby. "I can't leave my other child behind.
How will I live with myself? I will be playing
happy family with John and my last born. What
about Sbusiso? He'll grow up resenting me."
"What Johnathan? He won't resent you?"
"I suggested Zinhloso should keep him. What's
wrong with that? Mom said grandma should
take him."
Johnathan's nanny walked in with the baby's big
packed bag. John came with a bag that was
going to pack Johnathan's important
documents and clothes. And a few sentimental
toys.
"Where's the bag going?"
John put the bag next to his foot, "you can't put
my son first. I will do that as his father. I am
leaving with him tonight."
She jumped up and tried to take the child but
John refused with him, "John, you can't do this!
I carried this child in my womb!"
"But you don't want to keep him safe!"
The child was looking at his parents as they
shouted at each other, "I do and that's why I am
here. I came back to make plans for him.
Please, don't take my boy from me." She cried,
begging him.
But John wasn't touched, "thank you for your
help, brother. I will leave now. Please, make
your mother understands since I can't talk to
her." He stood up and took the bag.
Mzomubi got up and held Nobuhle back as she
tried to charge at John, "I will tell her."
"I hope you'll live your best life without us. I
can't have millions in my account but have my
son live like an orphan. I will give him his best
life, bye," he walked out with Johnathan. The
child gestured to his mother to come - he was
smiling, using hand gestures but Nobuhle was
crying. He wasn't fully understanding what was
happening.
"Mzomubi, let me go, I want my child!" She
screamed and tried to fight but she couldn't
fight off, "I am your older sister!"
He let her go after she reminded him that. He
understood that John needed to act swiftly for
the child's sake. There was no time to sit down
and properly discuss it. His father had gone to
report them.
"John!" She ran out of the house, crying. Why
would he do something so cruel? She wailed as
the car drove out of the premises. Lucy rushed
out to comfort her. They could hear Mrs Mnguni
screaming weakly, asking what was wrong but
they couldn't answer her.
UMCEBO

Chapter 199

***Chapter sponsored by Samke kaShandu

Mbatha***

She couldn't sleep at night because all that she

was thinking of - it was her child and John. How
could he be so cruel and unkind? He took her
child like she was nothing to the child. She kept
crying and waking up only to sit on her butts.
She couldn't believe this was happening.
She found strength and got up from the bed.
She started her day.
"Mama, I am back. Where's my brother?"
Sbusiso walked back inside the kitchen after
going in and out of the rooms and other houses
searching for his brother.
Nobuhle was torn - what kind of life was she
going to live without her other child? She didn't
even know where they went. John didn't even
think of leaving details of where they were
going. He took the sole decision to cut her off
from her child's life.
"Your brother left. He'll no longer live with us,
baby."
"Why?"
"He went away with his father because there
are people who want him. You shouldn't tell
anyone you have a brother when they ask you."
Sbusiso was suddenly sad, "let's follow them. I
want my brother!" He started crying, "let's follow
them. We'll live with them. I want my brother!"
He screamed and dropped his body on the floor.
He threw a fit and Nobuhle was defeated.
Mzomubi walked in and he lifted Sbusiso up. He
walked out of the house with him. His sister
was crying. He felt sorry for her but that was
her decision, not to go with her child and
partner.

Zinhloso and Mzomubi got out of the car.

They went to a meeting with the chief and
Induna. They firstly told Robert's uncle what the
situation was and to the king and Induna, he
was the one advocating for Zinhloso - that
because they worked with her , they should
allow her to fully live in the yard. Mhlabunzima
had minused himself from the business and
from the relationship he shared with Zinhloso.
He was the one who explained what happened
and what was the situation between Zinhloso
and her mother. The situation between Zinhloso
and the extended family. He pleaded with them
to hear his plea, to help this young woman who
was stranded, help her with a permanent place
to stay. He made it clear that he had no
problem with handing the place to her as they
knew the place belonged to him. He wanted her
to have it not only because they worked
together but also because he knew her father.
Zinhloso and Mzomubi confirmed everything
Robert's uncle said.
The chief accepted their plea and he promised
to go and discuss it with the village council but
personally, he didn't have a problem with
helping Zinhloso have a place of her own
because she was a young woman whom her
marriage failed, lost a child and was at odds
with her mother. The chief told them he was
also going to confirm with Mhlabunzima and he
was going to pass the decision to Robert's
uncle. They would then formally allow Zinhloso
into the yard if their plea was heard and
accepted.
"How's she? I honestly don't understand why
she didn't go with them," Zinhloso followed
Mzomubi into their sister's house. They found
Nobuhle inside her bedroom. She was paging
through her photo album.
"You two should talk," he left Zinhloso inside the
bedroom.
Zinhloso sat on the bed and picked up the
picture of John and Johnathan, "how are you
holding up?"
"I still can't believe he left me just like that. He
disregarded my feelings and pretended like I am
not the mother of that child. He took him,
Zinhloso," she looked at her.
"This is not the time to cry but you should be
ready to face the police. You need to go to that
guy you're legally married to and talk to him
about what has happened," Zinhloso thought
ahead. She didn't have words of comfort for her
sister. She chose to look at John leaving with
her son. She was supposed to scream then and
tell him she was following them.
"The two of you should have one story, you
were pregnant, you gave birth at home and your
child died. The child was buried the next day.
Your relationship was never the same after that,
you separated."
Nobuhle nodded and wiped her tears, "this
means I should get ready to leave."
"Yes, also talk to a few neighbours to back you
up. Do this. It's important."
"Thank you so much."
"I wish I was you, I would have jumped at the
opportunity of leaving this village."
She smiled shortly, "you're saying that because
of what happened between you and
Mhlabunzima. Does he really want nothing to
do with you?"
"Yes, he even bought a herb to prevent me from
getting pregnant."
Nobuhle widened her eyes, "aybo, Kanti did you
guys have sex?"
She looked down, "yes, he found me in the
house ematshane."
"Oh, man, maybe it was going to be better if you
got pregnant. You were going to be together
again."
She shook her head, "it's for the best that I am
not pregnant. Imagine if I am and he still
doesn't want me. I would be left with a baby
alone."
"Yea, you're right."
"If you told me, I was going to leave with John
and look after Johnathan in another country.
Maybe I was going to find a man there or even
John, take him and comfort him -" she jumped
off the bed and laughed her lungs out as
Nobuhle was trying to hit her.
"Not him, he's mine!"
Mzomubi pushed the door, "Nobuhle, Hendricks
is here and the police."
She widened her eyes and quickly got off the
bed. She went through her purse and she found
her fake wedding ring. She wore it and put on a
head wrap. "I am home, visiting!" She quickly hid
the pictures and went to hide them in Ziwinile's
room, up in the wardrobe.
They walked out. Hendricks was really in the
yards with the police. They spoke to Nobuhle,
telling her about the case that Hendricks lodged
against her.
"Where's your proof?" Nobuhle asked. "John is
my employer and there's no romantic
relationship that happened between us. I am
married." She showed them her ring on the
finger.
The officers looked at Hendricks. He was
confused by this. "We're here to look for proof.
Where's the marriage certificate?" the officer
asked.
"It's at my workplace and my husband also has
his." She responded, she wasn't shaking but
deeply she was shaking and scared.
"How was your employer paying you? By hand
or through the bank?"
"Through the bank."
"We're taking you to the bank after searching
every house for proof!" The officer said and they
started working. The siblings were together and
their mother was still sleeping. They didn't sleep
at night - Mrs Mnguni was sick. The headache
was making her cry. She slept in the morning.
They asked for Nobuhle's room after searching
every house and hut. They couldn't find not
even a piece of clothing beside the ones they
were told belonged to Mzomubi's baby. They
walked out angry. "We're taking you to the bank
now!"
"Mr Hendricks is playing with you. He's a
delusional person who thinks black women
want white men," Zinhloso commented and
when Mr Hendricks tried to take a step closer to
her.
Mzomubi stood before Zinhloso. "Take my
sister and go to the bank to find your proof."
Nobuhle didn't protest. She knew they would
find proof that John had been paying her every
month. She was grateful for such proof. She
was hoping and praying she would find support
from her classmate.

Ziwinile walked through the gates of her home

and she found Mzomubi fixing the gate of the
cattle pen.
"How are you, bhuti?"
He smiled at her, "I am fine and how are you
doing?"
"I am well, how's mama?"
"It's still the same. She's not getting better and
she's getting worse because she's crying about
a headache now. It's like this thing is killing her
slowly," Mzomubi explained.
She looked into the empty cattle pen, "don't you
think it's because of Zinhloso's damages? Why
are we not consulting?"
"We've been telling her that we'll call a
traditional healer but she doesn't want us to do
that. She's really sick and she complained
yesterday that Zinhloso always comes here to
check on the children and I but not even once
did she check on her." He finished up and wiped
his hands on his pants, "she seems hurt that all
her children are worried about her but not
Zinhloso."
"How can she expect Zinhloso to worry about
her after she lost a child because of her?"
Ziwinile asked and Mzomubi only shrugged,
"she's going through a rough patch, everyone in
the village is talking about her failed marriage to
Mhlabunzima. They are laughing that she built
him an empire but he'll enjoy it with another
woman."
"What I am worried about is that she's hopeful
that they'll get back together."
"It's hard for some of us to let go Mzomubi and
since Mhlabunzima had been the only man to
love her when nobody didn't want her. It'll be
more difficult." She shared.
"I guess you're right."
"Was she here for Nobuhle?"
"Yes, did you want to speak to her?"
They followed each other to the house, "not yet.
I don't want to show up as insensitive. I wrote a
letter to her about what's happening. I was
wishing her well and recovery with the situation
she's facing. I also apologized for everything
that happened between us in the past." She
responded, "I should speak to her at least after
a month."
"You did very well. You thought like an adult."
Mzomubi complemented. They discussed
Nobuhle's issue before Ziwinile went to check
on her mother.
She realised as daughters of one man, they
were all facing problems and only their brother
had everything under control. It was going
pretty well for him but not so much because he
was also worried about everyone as the only
man in the family.
UMCEBO

Chapter 200 🥳
***Chapter sponsored by Kgomotso***

It'd been a month since Nobuhle left for Durban

and the investigation started about her case of
being in a relationship with John. Zinhloso had
been busy with her first assignments and
working on accepting her failed relationship but
being in the same village as Mhlabunzima was
making things difficult for her.
The previous day, Mzomubi recieved a
telephone call from Robert's uncle. The chief
and his council agreed that Zinhloso could stay
in the yard. She was given permission to call the
yard by her surname after Mhlabunzima had
taken his cows. If he ended up not taking them,
she was going to call the yard by Xulu.
They freed her to move in the following
weekend whether he'd taken the cows or not.
The chief spoke to Mhlabunzima and he
confirmed everything said about his
relationship with Zinhloso. He also asked him to
give her the place if she wanted to move there.
She was happy that there was progress. She
was going to leave the village. She was going to
have a fresh start. New beginnings.
She walked through the gate of the
supermarket and once she was inside, she
headed to the telephones' counter.
She made a telephone call to Nobuhle. "How
are you sisi?" Zinhloso asked.
"I won't lie, I am not coping without him. I keep
having nightmares. I am very scared and I can't
stop thinking about my child."
She was very sad for her. It was never easy
being apart from your child. She knew it very
well and it was bad now because Nobuhle was
regretting her decision of not going with John.
"Why are you scared? What happened with the
case? I kept planning on coming to the
supermarket to make a telephone call but
Khosi's home is far. School is tiring, Standard 8
is intense."
"I understand, I told you that the police found
the proof that John had been paying me
monthly and that showed I was his employee.
My bank records were clear and I am glad he
never gave me money as his lover through a
bank account."
"Yes, you told me that. That was a very careful
move from him."
"Yes, they went to the township and did another
investigation. I was very amazed by their
support, Zinhloso. They didn't rat me out. They
went as far as creating a fake grave that looked
old. We said it's for my supposedly dead child,"
she shared and they laughed with Zinhloso.
"Boers need that. Fool them and show them
they're fools." They laughed again.
"Yes, they bought everything and told Hendricks
there was no evidence. He was mad. I am sure
he wanted to strangle me."
"Angalinge somthakatha anye ngeke sidlale
amabhunu thina." (He mustn't dare we'll use
witchcraft on him) She laughed loudly as the
lady on the counter widened her eyes.
"I miss him, Zinhloso. I am not functioning
without him in my life."
"Yes, I understand that's how I also feel with
ubaba kaQophelo but you're unlike me. You still
have a chance with him. Go and find Martin, his
mom, whoever could possibly know where he
went," Zinhloso advised, "speak to Robert and
go once you've reached an agreement."
"I won't be a bad mom?"
"No, you raised Sbusiso since he was a baby
and only left him when you went to varsity.
What about Johnathan?" Zinhloso asked, "a
month after giving birth, you had to leave him.
Think it through, please. Sbusiso is a big boy,
you'll explain things to him and always come
back to him. Or he'll visit because he loves his
brother."
"You're right."
"Yes, go and make more babies for us. They
should join the family and spend daddy's
millions."
She laughed and swore at her, "and what about
your mom?"
"What about her? Ithuba lakho nawe nendoda
yakho naye waba nelakhe nendoda yakhe." She
giggled, she enjoyed speaking with her sister.
She made her forget a lot of things. She would
be miserable without her but her child needed
her the most.
"Thanks, I will try my best and I will let you know
what's happening. Mzomubi should install a
telephone for you."
"Mzomubi has his own family his money should
go there."
"Should I send money for you?"
She cleared her throat, "you think I was working
my ass off for years for free neh? I even have a
bank account too and I can buy a car now to
console myself."
"Zinhloso! You're dangerous."
"Tell me about it! I should go, we'll keep in
touch," she said and they ended the call. She
wanted to go and talk to Mhlabunzima but she
remembered his threats.
She walked out of the supermarket and her
eyes were attracted to Mhlabunzima and Lily.
They were under the tree, he was looking down
and Lily was talking to him. She held his hands
and she hugged him tightly. When she saw
Mhlabunzima's smile that she last saw when
she was with him the first night he got back. It
killed her, a woman was making him smile and
that woman wasn't her. She walked out as if
she wasn't seeing them. She felt hatred brewing
as she heard his laughter - he was laughing with
another woman.
She wasn't sure if they could see her or not.

She was hurt and angry after seeing them

together. She felt played, Lily came to her. She
was there acting sad and pretending like she
hated Mhlabunzima for what he was doing to
her. She pretended like she understood her pain
but she was just mocking her. After everything,
she'd been through. Mhlabunzima decided to
find comfort in the arms of his ex. That woman
that came back and caused chaos in their
relationship?
At school, she couldn't concentrate. She
decided she was never going to allow them to
be happy together. She'd worked hard, thinking
when Mhlabunzima returned home they would
enjoy the fruits of their work, together and their
children. But she thought wrong. Mhlabunzima
was going to enjoy all the fruits of her work with
another woman and Lily out of all people. She
wasn't a fool, that hug meant more. The smile
and the laughter - it was more.
She walked inside a small room in the township.
Her friend was with her but she didn't go inside
with her. Her friend asked her what did she
want to happen to them should they get back
together? She didn't tell her the exact wish but
she said she didn't want them to be fully happy.
Zinhloso didn't want an obvious thing that every
women went for - that is ischitho. She wanted
more and she wanted to be deep. She was very
angry and hurt.
"Oh, my beautiful girl. You have a very heavy
heart." The grown woman pitted Zinhloso.
"Yes."
"You were wrong to take her as your friend.
Have you forgotten how she was towards you
when she came back? You were supposed to
believe that first impression and only love her
daughter," the woman said, without Zinhloso
saying what brought her to her.
"I thought she had changed."
"Wrong! What do you want? Just say the words,
don't say what you want to happen to you and
him but say what you want to happen to them.
We'll make it happen," She knew there was
nothing she was going to do. Only what she
channeled would come to life. Her father died
without realising he was the one who created
this in her - the tales he used to tell her. They
shaped how she used her mind and tongue. She
was only gifted in abundance.
"If they get -"
"When, say, when because they will."
She wanted to die when she heard those words,
"when they get back together I don't want them
to be fully happy. He mustn't be able to satisfy
her needs. When he touches her or any other
woman his manhood shouldn't react. It should
remain as flat as it was when he was born.
There's no sexual pleasure he'll enjoy with
another woman," she hit when she knew it
would matter the most. His ego - his manhood.
Sex was also important in a relationship and
most relationships wouldn't survive without it.
Mhlabunzima loved sexual pleasure as much as
Zinhloso loved it with him.
He said Qophelo was going to be the last child
to call her 'mama' he was also going to have
only Zodumo as a child. There was no way he
was going to have children without his
manhood getting an erection. "Please, mama,
lock his penis away, even if I die he shouldn't
get sexual pleasure."
"You don't even want his businesses to perish?"
She asked, surprised by this single request.
"No, I don't want him to be poor. His manhood
is his pride, where he's absolutely happy." She
said and her cores vibrated as she imagined the
things he used to do to her. He was going to do
all those things to Lily? The woman who
betrayed her? No!
The old woman said incantations Zinhloso
couldn't understand. The woman knew there
was no need but she didn't want her to have
questions. "He won't have sexual pleasure with
any woman as you've said. I hope one day you
won't be weak and undo it because only you
have that power."
"He'll not get help from any healers?"
"No, you'll bring him back here if you ever feel
sorry for him."
She shook her head, "I won't feel sorry for him.
He'll not know it's me. I am no longer near him
like he said I shouldn't be near him."
"You're blessed my child. Your father wants you
not to stress about anything, heal and let your
daughter go, stop holding on to her death. She's
not happy, mostly about her father but that's
not your problem. Go and focus on yourself."
"Sometimes, I wish I can follow her. I thought
her father's return would heal me," she teared
up all over again.
"Don't cry, let him walk his journey maybe
there's a lesson for him. I don't know but if you
two are meant to be, you'll be."
"Is there a future for us?"
"I am not capable of seeing that but I know that
you deserve to be happy. Don't burden
yourself." She responded and she freed her to
go without paying.
UMCEBO
Chapter 201

After her visit to the woman from the township.

Zinhloso couldn't get it off her mind that her
daughter wasn't happy. She was sad because,
growing up, Qophelo was a happy child. She
died unhappy because of how her maternal
grandmother treated her, she died unhappy
because she wanted her father. She was still
unhappy even in death. Zinhloso decided she
would call Mhlabunzima, informing him she
dreamt about her. She didn't want to tell him
she heard from a gifted person. She visited
home and she made a telephone call. He was
very angry with her and he told her she was
lying, she was using his daughter to guilt trip
him. She was using his daughter to get
attention and told her how much he didn't want
her in his life ever again.
His words devastated her because they meant
her daughter would still be unhappy. She would
be unhappy about her father.
At night she couldn't sleep. She kept tossing
and turning. Whenever she tried to close her
eyes, everything she'd been through played like
a movie. When she opened her eyes she
couldn't breathe properly. What killed her the
most - was Qophelo being unhappy.
"I am tired of everything. I will join my baby and
maybe it'll be better to be with her on the other
side. I will tell her to be happy and forget about
a grown capable adult," she quickly got out of
bed and searched for a pen and paper. She
wrote a letter to Mhlabunzima.
She searched for rat poison that Khosi gave her
for the rat that had been bothering her. She
poured the contents in a glass of water and
drank it. She waited, thinking it would take her
fast but nothing happened. She stood up
minutes later and she got dizzy. She held onto
the chair for balance and she dropped on the
floor with the chair. The noise alerted Khosi
who was still outside at night.
She pushed the door and when she saw
Zinhloso unconscious on the floor and the
poison on the table next to the glass. She
screamed for help.
"What should we do, mama?" Khosi's child
asked. The first born son walked in.
"We don't have a telephone!" Khosi cried.
"Let's take her to her brother. He has a car!
Bring the wheel barrow!" The first born shouted
at his younger brother.
Khosi and her first born rushed Zinhloso to the
Mnguni homestead. It was a bit far but better
because they were rushing with her.
When they reached the home, they screamed
for Mzomubi at the gates.
"What's wrong?" He came to the gates. Thuli
was following him behind.
"It's Khosi. Bring the car, you need to take
Zinhloso to the hospital! I think she drank rat
poison." She screamed.
Mzomubi ran back to the house and Thuli
quickly opened the gates. It was a very sad
situation. Mzomubi was scared for his sister
and he kept hoping she would find help soon
with no damage done.
"Thank you so much. I will see when I come
back," Mzomubi said to Khosi and her son. He
drove off, he drove off without informing his
mother about what was happening.

He was seated on the chair staring at her and

when he realised she was having a nightmare.
He quickly stood up and shook her awake.
"Hello," Mthuthuzeli greeted in a low tone. He
was saddened by her situation. She was really
in pain. He couldn't believe this woman seated
on the hospital bed looking like a lost soul was
the same Zinhloso he'd known for years. The
beautiful soul.
"Hi."
He grabbed a chair and sat down, "I heard about
what happened and I am really sorry." He
realised late why Mhlabunzima told him to stay
away from Zinhloso. He suspected it after the
telephone call with her but he didn't want to
believe he would dump her after everything
she'd been through without him.
"You're sorry because Mhlabunzima dumped
me?" She looked at him. She couldn't believe
the words were coming out of his mouth.
He cleared his throat, "I know he's not my
favourite person because he had the chance of
getting you while I couldn't. But he's your fiancé
and I liked the way you respected your
relationship even when he wasn't here."
Her smile was brief, "do you know what hurt me
the most?"
"I am listening."
"I wasn't hurt the most by being dumped by him
but I was hurt the most by being compared to
his baby mama," fresh tears came out her eyes
and she held her painful chest. Life was not fair,
she wished she could have her father around
but he was no longer there - she would never
see him again. Her father said she shouldn't
stress about how could she not, after being told
her child wasn't happy?
She looked at Mthuthuzeli and he held her hand
tightly.
"He looked me in the eyes and told me that I am
a bad mom. I helped my mother kill our child,"
she clutched her chest even tighter and she
couldn't control her emotions. The pain was
unbearable.
He stood up and pulled her into a hug, "That's
not true and we all know it. You went through
pain and hardships because of that child and
where was Mhlabunzima? He was hiding," he
didn't like seeing her like this. She was a gentle
soul and she didn't deserve such pain, "don't
take what he said to heart."
"It's impossible not to. He's right, my child died
and Lily's child is alive. That makes me a failure
and a bad mom," she closed her eyes and she
cried harder as Mthuthuzeli hugged her. "My
child is not happy, Mthuthuzeli. I just wanted to
be with her and make her happy."
"Oh, Zinhloso, I am really sorry!"
Where did things go wrong? Life changed
within a blink of an eye. Would she ever be
alright? Would she ever heal from this pain?
***
Mzomubi walked inside his office after being
told to come in. Mhlabunzima was seated on
the desk reading papers.
"Ntanga, how are you?" He greeted him and they
shook hands.
Mhlabunzima closed the papers, "I am fine I am
still looking at your sister's work. I still can't
believe she was able to turn my tuckshop into a
supermarket but she failed to keep my child
alive."
"Mhlabunzima that was beyond her control," he
said, nervously. He knew Mhlabunzima was
breathing fire where his daughter was
concerned and he didn't wish to have that
conversation with him.
He widened his eyes as he looked at Mzomubi
like he'd lost his mind, "beyond her control? She
stayed there and let my child endure abuse. She
had many options but she decided to stay
there."
"What many options did she have?"
"Zinhloso has two homes beside that one, the
maternal grandmother and the paternal home.
Why didn't she go there?" He raised his voice.
He was pissed off that Mzomubi was before
him defending his sister.
"My maternal grandmother, that's far from
school and paternal grandmother was already
dead, you know that. They chased her out after
Lindo's death," Mzomubi explained.
He laughed like a lunatic, "so, school is more
important than her own daughter?"
"That's not what I am saying but you know she
wanted education. Don't act dump
Mhlabunzima," he clicked his tongue, "in the
first place you ruined her life by making her
pregnant on purpose while you knew she was
studying. She had to stop school because of
pregnancy-"
"So, since she stopped school, your whole
family helped her kill my daughter?"
"Ngicela ungangidakelwa mina! My niece died
only because of my mom's words and nobody
else. Stop being insane and blaming Zinhloso
about it," Mzomubi yelled. What was wrong with
Mhlabunzima? Did pain change him?
"Why are you here Mzomubi? Say what you
want to say and leave now."
"I wanted to tell you that Zinhloso is in the
hospital. She tried to end her life after
everything you said to her," Mzomubi placed the
letter on the table. "This is the letter she was
leaving behind but Khosi found her in time and I
drove her to the hospital."
He looked at the letter and didn't take it, "why
didn't she die?" He asked, his voice carrying
pain and hatred.
"Excuse me?" He was blown off the chair by his
words. Did he hear him right?
"Yes, she was supposed to die and go be a
better mother to my daughter in the afterlife."
He repeated the words and even his face had
no softness he once had for Zinhloso, "maybe
she was going to do better in the afterlife."
"How can you say such a thing? She's been your
partner!"
"Not anymore. I ended things with her and I
want my cows back. I will send them to a more
deserving woman. Zodumo's mother,"
Mhlabunzima heaved. This conversation was
making him angrier. "Lily suffered with my
daughter but she didn't have her killed. She's
way better than Zinhloso. That's the person I
am going to build a future with."
He chuckled, "the same Lily who kept your child
from you for seven years? The same Lily who
also watched your child suffer for seven years?
The same Lily who wanted to use witchcraft on
you?"
"At least Zodumo is here."
"Because her family didn't want damages by
force but not taking them and how were they
going to want them if your child was a secret?"
He stood on his feet, "do you realise if her
father didn't die you would still be in the dark
about your child?"
"But that didn't happen. She brought the child
back to me the minute her father died. She's a
good mother."
He laughed, "a good mother who raised a
disrespectful brat! It's okay Mhlabunzima you've
made your choice," he shook his head, "and I
guess this will be the end of our friendship."
Mhlabunzima was shocked as he quickly
looked at him, "what did I do to you?"
"Why should I be friends with someone who
wishes death on my sister's life? What business
will I have with you?"
"Our friendship was not based on your sister
and don't forget you get along with her now
because of me!"
"I don't care, take your Lily and marry her, be
happy and come take your cows. It's all good,
Zinhloso will move on and she'll find a better
man," he pushed the chair away.
"What about our political affairs?"
"I will only be a silent member and take me out
on all the activities that include you. I no longer
want to associate myself with you. My sister's
enemy is my enemy. Goodbye, Mhlabunzima."
He grabbed the letter and turned away. He
slammed the door behind him. He got into the
car and he drove straight to the hospital.
Zinhloso wasn't on her bed and Mzomubi
panicked. He looked around.
"She went to the bathroom." The lady next to
Zinhloso's bed said.
He sighed, "thank you." He sat on the chair and
waited.
"I was still wondering who was going to help me
out," she returned from the bathroom dressed
in her clothes.
He smiled, "you look better," he commented.
She had combed her hair and her face looked
fresh.
"They've discharged me. I am ready to go home
but I am not going back to the village."
Mzomubi grabbed her bag, "what do you mean?
We're going home. I have spoken to mom and
asked her to treat you better for the time being
because you're not supposed to be alone. She
cried when she heard you wanted to end your
life."
"No, I can't Mzomubi not after everything that
happened to me there and everything that
happened to my daughter. I need a fresh start. I
don't have good memories at home."
"Where will you live? With gogo?"
"No, I will live alone."
"Zinhloso, come on! You can't live alone in this
state."
"I will live there, work on the garden and make
money. It'll make me feel better," Zinhloso said.
"I will be at peace there, alone and with different
people. I dreamt of dad before I gained
consciousness. He was shouting at me, asking
me why am I being weak? Whose daughter am I?
"It was an intense dream that was a wake up
call for me. I won't put my life in danger. I will
live. Qophelo will be sadder if I live under the
shadows of sorrow."
"Will you be safe living alone?"
"Yes, Robert's uncle is there. Induna and the
chief know my situation. I am a community
member now. I will be safe," Zinhloso explained.
He nodded, "okay, I will hire someone who will
look after you until you are fit enough to look
after yourself. We should get a telephone so it'll
be easy to communicate with you."
"There's no problem, thank you." She took the
file and they walked out. Zinhloso said goodbye
to the others.
He drove to town, "I hope you'll never go back to
Mhlabunzima."
"Why? What did he say?"
"Promise me you'll never go back to him!"
"No, I won't promise you that. He's my fiancé!"
"He said he wants his cows back and he'll pay
ilobolo for Lily because she's more deserving,"
Mzomubi said what he'd planned he'll not tell
her.
She looked at him, "you're joking!"
"I am not joking. He said you were supposed to
die so that you will be a better mother in the
afterlife." He was hoping these words will be
enough to convince her to be out of his life for
good.
She held her mouth and shook her head, "no, he
didn't mean all that. I know."
"Zinhloso, wake up!"
"No, we'll fix things and be together again. I
don't care how long it takes." She knew he
wasn't going to be happy in his relationship. He
would be miserable and there was no wedding
that would happen. Which woman would marry
a man with a dysfunctional penis?
"I wonder who will send you off because I am
no longer associating myself with Mhlabunzima
after everything he said about you." Mzomubi
said and clicked his tongue, "I won't hold your
hand and marry you off to him."
She leaned on the window and kept quiet. She
wished her daughter would be here. She would
be happy with her family.
"We'll go home now and I will inform the
ancestors you're leaving. I will take you to the
village. I think that the lady who was
Johnathan's nanny will be suitable to live with
you for just a month. Are we on the same
page?" Mzomubi asked.
"Yes, if it'll make you feel better. I really won't
hurt myself again. I have so much to live for,"
she was very hopeful about her future. Life
would be good.
UMCEBO
Chapter 202

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous dedicated

to Zanda Noah***

He drove through the gates of their home with

Zinhloso. The yard was quiet, only chickens
were running around.
"Are you going to sleepover? I think you should
at least sleepover." Mzomubi asked his sister
as they headed to the house.
"You'll fight me if I refuse."
He opened the kitchen door, "yes, obviously. I
will drive you tomorrow. I am working the night
shift."
She grabbed a chair and sat down, "alright, I will
leave tomorrow then."
He went to the living room to answer the
telephone, "Zinhloso, it's Nobuhle!"
She stood up. She didn't know why she was still
feeling weak. The Doctor had assured her the
poison was no longer in her system. "Sisi, how
are you?"
"Zinhloso, we've buried enough people. Please,
please, we want to be happy now," Nobuhle said
to Zinhloso on the line.
She looked down, "I know I am sorry. I won't do
it again."
"Please, don't do it. How are you holding up?"
Nobuhle asked.
She sighed and rubbed her eyes, "I am better
but physically I feel weak."
"You need some rest. Your body must be
strained. Have some food, take your medication
and rest," she advised.
"I do that. Thank you for the call. How's
progress on finding John?"
"I found Martin but he said he doesn't know
anything about where he went." She sounded
very sad and broken as she spoke about John.
"Did you try his mom?"
"Yes, she said she can't talk over the phone. We
should meet."
Zinhloso held her chest, "that'll be better, I am
really hoping everything will work out."
"It should. I am really miserable. I am like a drug
addict who's not gotten his fix."
Zinhloso giggled, "love is crazy."
"Yea, if I get lucky. Don't you want to go with
me?"
She laughed, "no, I am good here. I am moving
tomorrow. So, I will be good in a new home."
"Alright, once you have a telephone in your
house please do tell me."
"Okay, thank you, Buhle." She put the phone
down and greeted Thuli. She gave Zinhloso a
plate of food, "thank you so much. Weren't you
working?"
"Isn't your brother who said I should stop
working because they want to put me on night
shifts now." Thuli sat down with Zinhloso.
"Hawu, why do they want to make such
changes?" Zinhloso asked.
She shrugged, "your brother refused because I
was going to be the first woman to work at
night with men."
"They didn't want to change even after your
resignation?"
"No, I am no longer working."
She shook her head. "You should apply for
another job. I am sure you'll get it."
"I will try. I feel like he wants me to stay at home
only because Lucy is staying at home. Lucy
doesn't like working and I do," she shared and
Zinhloso understood her. Thuli left Zinhloso as
her mother-in-law walked inside the room.
Mrs Mnguni spent time staring at Zinhloso and
she started tearing up. She cried intensely and
Zinhloso proceeded to eat her food like her
mother wasn't crying.
"What's wrong with you?" She started shouting
at Zinhloso once she was calm and had wiped
her tears, "you would rather die because of a
man? Huh?" She screamed and she didn't get a
response.
Mrs Mnguni was maddened by her silence. She
was very sad when she heard Zinhloso tried to
kill herself. "I am talking to you, Zinhloso!" She
coughed and coughed, she held her mouth with
her cloth and there were drops of blood.
Mzomubi walked in, "Zinhloso, you should come
now because everything is ready."
"I am still talking to her!"
"Why do you pretend like you care whether I die
or not?" She didn't want to say any words to her
mother but she was annoyed by her pretense.
"My child died because of you and it was not
even a mistake, you did it deliberately. I have
realised those were your intentions. You wanted
to say horrible words to her, not take Inhlawulo
because you knew the effect that would have
on her because you're my mother. I don't
understand why you are so evil. My child died,
my relationship ended all because of you. I
don't get why you're even crying." She stood up
and left her mother crying.
"She cares about you." Mzomubi said as they
headed to the hut.
She shook her head, "no, she's scared of losing
children. She's lost children but she doesn't
care about whether I am happy or miserable as
long as she doesn't get to bury me."
Mzomubi kept quiet as he understood her
reasoning could be true. They closed the hut
and Mzomubi burnt sage - he started talking,
informing the ancestors about everything that
had happened concerning Zinhloso. He asked
them to keep her safe and be with her in her
new home.
When Mhlabunzima returned, he thought he
would be talking to them - telling his ancestors
he was marrying his sister off but he was very
wrong.
Zinhloso was inside her hut after taking a bath.
She was coming back from Khosi's home with
Mzomubi. They went there to take her clothes
and they thanked Khosi for her hospitality.
Mzomubi gave her money as a token of
appreciation for sheltering his sister in her time
of need.
"Come in!" She allowed the knocker inside her
hut. She had finished dressing up.
Ziwinile walked inside the hut with am plastic
bag. "Sawubona, Zinhloso."
"Yebo, how are you?"
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am good."
When Zinhloso received a letter from Ziwinile,
she was in pain and cried so much
remembering the hate she got from her sister.
The hate Ziwinile had, she never understood
why she had it for her and her child. Some
siblings would hate you but have no problem
with your child.
"I was home yesterday and Mzomubi told me
what happened. I was going to come to the
hospital after school but I heard you're back,"
Ziwinile said and put the plastic bag of fruits
and fruit juice on Zinhloso's side table.
"Oh, he didn't tell me he told you." She could see
that Ziwinile was trying and she didn't know why
she was trying? Or maybe when she didn't get
children, she realised how evil she'd been?
"I thought I should come and check on you. You
need to be strong, I know your pain runs deep
and I have also contributed to your pain a lot."
She looked at her and she couldn't stomach her
eyes. Zinhloso was just staring at her. "You
don't know how sorry I am and it's shameful
that it took me going to a traditional healer to
realise that I should be more kind to other
people, especially my blood."
Oh! It made sense and maybe that was a good
thing that she was trying to be kind. They could
have a relationship if she was really genuine.
Nobuhle would be leaving if things go well for
her and maybe as sisters - they could be there
for each other in Nobuhle's absence. Zinhloso
wasn't sure about it but it could be good, the
problem might be their mother. "Thank you for
coming. I appreciate it. I will try to be strong."
"I am glad to hear that."
"How are things emzini wakho(at your marital
home)?" Zinhloso asked before she could leave,
"Bhekani, how's he treating you and his wives?"
"It's mostly bad but there are also good times,
especially with Bhekani."
"Alright, uhambe kahle ke. Thank you for the
fruits."
"Bye."
She took the plastic bags and she wasted no
time but ate the fruits. Mzomubi walked in after
being given permission to enter.
He laughed, "I didn't think you'd eat things
bought by her."
"This is food. She won't kill me."
He sat down, "did she tell you about her issue?"
"What issue?"
"She went to an Indian man at Stanger with
mom and she was told to apologize…" Mzomubi
told Zinhloso about their visit to the Indian man.
She wiped her mouth, "oh, no, she didn't tell me.
She never said anything about it."
"Oh, it means I have done wrong by telling you
then."
"Why should I wish for her to have kids? It's not
like I said she must not have kids," she asked,
her mind had forgotten her words to her.
"It's because she wished for Qophelo to die and
had a hand in trying to kill her. Only you have a
power of freeing her to have children with her
husband," Mzomubi fully explained.
"Oh, yes, they tried to kill her with mom. My
child survived that only to die in the end," she
shook her head but without any tears shed.
"I am sorry."
"It's not your fault. I wonder why she's not
telling me about that."
Mzomubi stood up, "maybe she's scared you
won't forgive her."
"Mm, take some. Ngiyazi usahala ngisho
usunabafazi ababili," she gave him some of her
fruits and Mzomubi laughed. He took them and
wished her goodnight.

Beginning of March, Zinhloso was no longer

living with the lady who was Johnathan's nanny.
She had adjusted to living alone. What was
helpful was that - the bus stop was closer to the
road where her house was. She didn't have any
problems in the morning. She was already
familiar with the neighbours and some people
from when they started working with
Mhlabunzima.
"Why didn't you call and tell me you were
coming?" Zinhloso asked, giving Mzomubi and
Ziwinile chairs. "I actually regret having a
telephone. People are bothering me. They're
asking to call now and again. It's unlike in our
village here, people don't have telephones."
"Open a telephone business then," Ziwinile
suggested.
"That's a small business. I am into bigger
things," she said and walked in the house
leaving her siblings laughing.
She served them with drinks and cakes, "I
haven't cooked."
"Thank you!"
They didn't get straight to the point of visit but
they started by asking Zinhloso questions about
the area. Was she coping? How were the
neighbours?
Once they'd finished the talk, Ziwinile started
talking, "I am the one who asked Mzomubi to
bring me here because I want to talk to you. It's
about my issue of not conceiving."
"Mzomubi told me you went to an Indian man,"
Zinhloso helped cut to the chase.
She glanced at Mzomubi and he didn't say
anything, "yes, it's true and mom didn't believe
the man was speaking the truth. I believe it
because our actions have a way of coming back
to bite us. Zinhloso, I don't have words and
honestly I don't even deserve your forgiveness. I
am your older sister and I treated you horribly. I
should have followed Nobuhle's steps but I
allowed bitterness to rule me. Only because I
believed dad favoured you the most and you
were the reason mom was always beaten up.
But I was wrong. I am really sorry, especially for
what I said to Qophelo. Please find it in your
heart to forgive me." She opened her bag and
looked for a face cloth. It was hard realising
that you've been cruel to your family and only
releasing because you need help.
"Awujabule kanti futhi ukuthi ingane yami
ishonile njengokufisa kwakho?" (Aren't you
happy my daughter is dead like you wished?)
Her question cut cold on her womb, "I won't lie,
maybe back then I would have been happy. I
would have rejoiced even now that
Mhlabunzima left you but now, it's different. I
am different. It took me this experience to
realise I have been an animal."
"Yazi, parents ruin things sometimes," Mzomubi
said, "dad was trying to close mom's gap in
Zinhloso's life but ended up treating her
different thus making her a favourite child. We
hated Zinhloso instead of hating dad and mom.
She didn't ask to be treated the way she was
treated by both mom and dad. Well, I realised
my wrong earlier because of Mhlabunzima. It's
unfortunate that you had to suffer first instead
of realising you were wrong."
"Yes, you're right, Mzomubi."
Zinhloso looked at Ziwinile in the eye, "I will
forgive you and wish you have children as it has
been said only if you'll have those children with
another man."
Mzomubi and Ziwinile looked at one another.
They were confused, "what do you mean? I am
married to Bhekani?"
"Leave him. He's not worth it."
"Zinhloso, I love him!" She couldn't hold back
tears, "I want my house to be warm with
children too."
"Uzomenzani umuntu onabafazi abaw4
nezingane aziyela kwi shumi?" (What will you do
with a man who has four wives and children
who are almost ten."
"Ten!" Mzomubi and Ziwinile exclaimed in
unison.
"You must be mistaken, they'll be four."
Zinhloso chuckled, "I have been working around
the village until late. Your husband has about
four children with different women who aren't
his wives. It's young children. I think they came
after you. They're younger than Cynthia's child.
If you don't trust me, ask Ngenzeni. He has a
child with Ngenzeni's former friend. So, why
would I waste my forgiveness? I should forgive
you so you'll give Bhekani children?"
"Hhaybo!" Mzomubi was shocked, "and you
didn't say anything?"
"It wasn't my place, especially with Ziwinile. A
person who hated me. I kept my mouth shut."
Mzomubi looked at his sister, "ay, you can't be
serious and want to continue with him." He
could see that Ziwinile was devastated.
Zinhloso didn't keep her eyes away from her
sister, "what is that can make you hold on to
Bhekani? What did he do to show his love for
you? Don't mention ilobolo."
"He's been good to me. Things just changed
after realising I can't have children."
She wasn't answered and so, she gave her an
idea of what answer she wanted from her, "you
see, Mhlabunzima? He's a dog like every man
out there but if your situation was mine.
Mhlabunzima would have gone in and out of the
traditional healers' doors with me, trying to find
out what's wrong? Am I naturally barren or
there's a problem?
"That's what he did for me, we were chased out
by traditional healers. I cried and wanted to give
up and he said not until we find help,
"He told me to find someone to go with me
across the river. He even said he was going to
dress like a woman and go with me if I didn't
find someone I trusted,
"It's a lot I can mention but I will highlight the
biggest problem in my life. That's what Bhekani
was supposed to do with you. Did he do that?"
Ziwinile looked down, ashamed, "no, it's mom
who did that."
"Because she loves you. The man whom you
were supposed to be building a home with,
didn't do that instead he left his seed with every
woman he met probably trying to close the gap
that you weren't giving him children,
"That's the kind of man you still want to give
birth for? Hhayi, I won't waste my breath. I won't
lie. Go back to your man and once you wish to
have children with a decent man, come back for
my forgiveness. You don't fight for a man who
loves you only by saying so, his words should
align with his actions."
Mzomubi nodded, "Zinhloso is very right
Ziwinile."
"Go and think about it. I don't expect you to
make a decision now. He's your first love, you
obviously love him."
"Thank you," Ziwinile said once she was calm.
She didn't expect such from Zinhloso. She
expected a No or Yes. Not such!
UMCEBO

Chapter 203

***Chapter sponsored by Tebogo***

"When will I see the two of you, again?"

Mhlabunzima asked Lily and Zodumo. He was
dropping them off before the gate of Lily's
home. They were coming back from town
together. Mhlabunzima had planned on taking
out Zodumo and he asked Lily to come along.
It'd been two months since he returned home
and things were getting better. It was all thanks
to Lily who'd been supportive. She'd been
checking up on him now and again, spending
time with him so he wouldn't be killed by stress
and grief. She had been bringing Zodumo
around more often and they would spend time
together. All this made things better. He could
feel himself being human again.
He was really bad, even his employees were
scared of him and his bad temper. One lady
resigned from her job because of him. He went
back to her once he was better, he apologized
and asked her to come back to work. She
returned.
"We'll see you when I am off from work."
"I don't like that job you're doing. You're slaving
away there. My brother once worked in that
factory. I am sure they haven't changed,"
Mhlabunzima said and his words were making
Lily very happy. Lily had made herself clear to
Mhlabunzima that she didn't want a relationship
again but she only wanted him to heal and be
better again. She told him once he was better
he was supposed to fix things with Zinhloso. He
believed that she was genuine and he saw this
act as selfless of her. To make him better for
Zodumo and another woman but Mhlabunzima
knew he wasn't going back to Zinhloso.
"Where will I get money if I don't work?"
"I can look after you and Zodumo."
She laughed, "goodbye, baba kaZodumo."
Mhlabunzima looked at them as they walked
inside the premises. He hooted and drove off.
He didn't drive back to the supermarket but he
drove home.
He found his mother in the kitchen and he sat
next to her on the bench after offloading the
groceries. "How are you, mama?"
"I am fine, mfana and how are you?"
"I am well. I need some advice."
She glanced at him, "yes, I am listening."
"So, I think you can see that I am better now. I
feel much better."
"Yes, that's good."
"It's all because of Lily. She's been very
supportive…" he told her about the support he'd
been getting from Lily. He thought his mother
would be happy for him but she didn't look
happy.
"Oh, we're thankful for her."
"I was thinking of fixing things with her, so that
we'll be together again. I want to have my own
family and that can happen with her because I
don't think I will have time to start a new
relationship." He placed the issue on the table.
What he needed advice from. He'd been
thinking about this, over and over again.
"Isn't Lily the same woman who wanted to use a
love spell on you?"
"She is but she was pressured by a bad friend.
She's changed so much, mama. Did you know
she said she was supporting me so that I could
mend things with Zinhloso. There's no woman
who can fix a man for another woman." He
shared but Esther wasn't convinced.
"That's a lie. She wants you for herself.
MaMnguni has worked hard expanding your
legacy and she wants to enjoy all the fruits of
another woman's blood and sweat." Esther
argued and she saw her son's face changing,
"but do what's right for you. Don't listen to me. I
don't know you best because I didn't raise you
like you said to me when I told you to fix things
with Zinhloso. You claimed I like her because of
the money she brought here. Talking nonsense
to me but I am your mother."
"Mama, I said that out of anger and I apologized
and mama, I feel like ever since I came back
you've changed towards me. You're no longer
the mother who was warm and welcoming of
me. I don't know what I have done wrong to
you."
"Should I be happy if you disregard me? You
ignore everything I try to make you see. I am
telling you to fix your life, act right but you're
holding on to anger, misplaced anger." Esther
breathed, "do what you wish to do my son. If
Lily is your choice, take her. I will support
whatever you do."
Mhlabunzima could feel she wasn't being
genuine but there was nothing he could do
about it. "Thank you," he said and walked out of
the kitchen hut.
When he reached his house he called Mzomubi,
"how are you, Mzomubi? It's Mhlabunzima." He
asked after Mzomubi's greetings. His wife was
the one who answered the telephone call and
called him to the phone.
"How can I help you?"
"I am calling to inform you that my brother and
Robert will come tomorrow as my negotiators.
They'll take my cows." Mhlabunzima informed
him on the line.
"I am not available tomorrow. I am busy with my
sister. I will call you and let you know."
"Alright, thanks." He put the telephone down
and he closed his eyes. He genuinely missed
Mzomubi as his friend. Mzomubi was his true
friend and then, Robert after Mzomubi. He
missed his company and doing things together
with him. He wished he hadn't spoken harshly
about his sister - maybe he would have not
ended their friendship. He was younger than
him but he was his best friend.
"Your mother tells me you want to fix things
with Lily?" Xulu sat next to Mhlabunzima on the
bench outside Mhlabunzima's house at the
back.
He was at the back smoking but he quickly
threw the cigarette on the ground and stepped
on it as his father appeared before him, "yes,
baba, that's what I want."
Xulu didn't mind his son smoking because he
knew that he saw him doing it. He tried his best
not to do it before them but Mhlabunzima liked
following him even as a teenager. He was
mostly always behind him. He told him not to
smoke but he did it anyway. "Why? Didn't you
say she wanted to use witchcraft on you?"
"She's changed. I want to give my daughter a
home with two parents and have my nine
children because Lily never had a problem with
more children."
"Zinhloso had a problem?"
He oddly smiled, "yes, she used to say, Qophelo
was the first and the last."
Xulu laughed, "I can't choose for you but
between the two, I prefer Zinhloso. It's a pity
you no longer see a future with her but
nonetheless, she's a beautiful woman. She'll
find a good man." He said and Mhlabunzima
didn't say anything, "I will only get involved in
your relationship if you want to get married. If
this is who you're choosing then, it's fine."
"Thank you."
"Did you give Zinhloso any form of appreciation
for what she'd done for you?"
He looked at his father, "like what?"
"She transformed your businesses. Didn't you
show appreciation for that? She took good care
of us. We told you about this Mhlabunzima.
There's nothing we didn't tell you that happened
while you were gone," Xulu reminded his son,
"did you give her something and thanked her?"
"Yes, I gave her something."
"What?"
"Why would you ask that question?"
"I want to know what!" He raised his voice.
He looked down, "when you told me to never
bring her here…" he told him about the house
ematshane. "I gave her that house, that yard."
He wasn't surprised, he knew there was
somewhere they were meeting with Zinhloso.
"That's not an appreciation. You gave her that
yard because it's full of her memories and if
she's no longer with you. What we'll be use to
keep it?"
"What else should I give her? It's not like she
was using her own money to do everything she
did. It was my money, baba. Why is the house
not enough in your eyes?" He was calm, only
because he was talking to his father.
"If it's your money, what stopped you from
doing what she was able to do in a space of
three years?" He asked and didn't get a
response from Mhlabunzima.
Xulu got up and left him. He was sad that
Mnguni's daughter was really left by his son just
like that and there was really nothing he could
do about it. After three long years, years of hard
work, pain and suffering. She was only left with
nothing but herself. No daughter, no father, no
husband. Not even a mere appreciation for
what she'd done.
"MaSibiya," he called out for his wife and he
found her packing clothes in his bedroom.
"Yebo, baba."
He sat on the bed, "there's an injustice I am
seeing."
"Yes?"
"Your son didn't give Zinhloso any form of
appreciation for what she did…" Xulu told his
wife about the conversation he had with
Mhlabunzima.
She shook her head, "I am not surprised. I also
asked him some time back and he said he did. I
didn't think of asking what he gave her. I just
thought he did because who wouldn't want to
show appreciation to a person who'd done so
much for them?"
"Pain has changed him so much. I don't even
see this healing he's saying Lily did if he doesn't
even see the reason, of showing Zinhloso some
appreciation." Xulu clicked his tongue.
"We should do it then because he doesn't see
the need."
"It'll not be the same. It'll not matter as much as
it'll do if Mhlabunzima is the one doing it," Xulu
made her realise.
"What should we do? We need to do something
for her and not just give her money. It must be
something special, something she loves,
something she'll look at and remember that
we'll always love her even though things
happened like this," Esther made a suggestion.
"She loves sheep, we should buy two or three
for her and tell her to have her own livestock. A
yard is a yard with livestock."
Esther smiled, "you're right, that will matter. We
should do it."
"I just hope she won't be slaughtering and
eating every month," he stood up and left his
wife laughing. His friend would turn on his
grave if he didn't appreciate his daughter even
after knowing his son didn't show appreciation.
His mother told him a long time but he didn't
listen.
***
"Baba, are we going to give him all the cows?"
Mzomubi asked his uncle. They were inside the
living room.
It was Saturday and he called Mhlabunzima on
Thursday, telling him to come Saturday.
Mrs Mnguni walked in, she was walking slowly.
Her health had really deteriorated; she wasn't
even able to work in the garden like before. Her
daughters-in-law were the ones doing the
garden work. She was in pain because she
wasn't even 60 years old yet and she was
already unable to do certain things in her home.
She hated the Xulu family with passion. She
was blaming them for her poor health and pains
she was still feeling after months.
"Did you call your grandmother Mzomubi?" She
asked and sat down. She was relieved that
Mhlabunzima was taking his cows back and the
relationship with her daughter was over.
"Yes, granny said we should give him back his
initial cows. The eight cows he paid and the
ninth that was money." Mzomubi relayed what
his granny said. "I am asking about the cows
that his cows gave birth to while with us. Are we
giving them to him?"
His uncle shook his head, "no, it can't be like
that. Mhlabunzima can't get all the nine cows
because he has a child with Zinhloso."
"Yes!" Mrs Mnguni supported her brother-in-law.
"Why didn't you remind your grandmother about
that?"
"She said, we should just give them to him and
let him be. I support her, let's give him
everything, even those cows that his cows gave
birth to." Mzomubi stood with his grandmother.
"Never! Qophelo died being called by her
father's surname. Her remains are with her
father. I am sure he wouldn't even allow
Zinhloso to enter and clean her child's grave if
she wishes to, and for that, Mhlabunzima is not
getting all his cows back." Uncle clearly
explained to Mzomubi, "the cows that will
remain here will be for that, the fact that the
child was called by his surname but they're not
married. The child was also buried in their yard
as part of them, fully."
"Okay, so, how many cows are we taking for
that?" Mzomubi asked.
"Three!" Uncle decided and they supported his
decision, "he'll get five cattle and that one that
was in the form of money. Is the money ready?"
"Yes, it's here." He touched his jacket. "And
what about the cattle his cows gave birth to?
There's even two pregnant cows as we speak."
"We're not giving him those cows. We've been
taking care of the cows, paying the herd boy,
buying medicine if needed, keeping them in our
cattle pen. Why should we give them to him?"
Mrs Mnguni was in support, "yes, he's not
getting those cows. He'll take his initial cows
after taking the three for the child."
"Alright, it's decided." Mzomubi agreed with the
elders. They had good points.
"I hope he'll never come back here." Mrs Mnguni
clicked her tongue.
The uncle chuckled, "that'll be not up to you but
up to your daughter."
"She can't be a fool and go back to him! Not
after everything she put her through. She should
do better than her sister who's staying in that
useless marriage." Mrs Mnguni shouted.
"We'll see about that. Mzomubi, let them in and
once we're done. You'll call your sister and tell
her what happened," the uncle pointed
Mzomubi out and they allowed them inside.
Xulu was with Robert and Kusakusa. He refused
to stay behind. He told Mhlabunzima it wasn't
going to be as easy as he thought. That they
would walk in, be given the cattle and go. And
truly, it wasn't as easy. There were lengthy
discussions. Kusakusa was trying to overpower
his father because he was angry that the
Mnguni family wanted to take three cows. He
didn't believe they deserved to take those cows
because Qophelo died and her death was
because of her grandmother.
"It's alright, we'll accept the five cows and the
money. The three will be for our granddaughter
as you've stated," Xulu made the final decision
and when Kusakusa tried to talk. He quickly
raised his hand to stop him. He remained quiet.
"Thank you, we're really hoping this is the end of
the road between our families. We've concluded
things well. We didn't fight but we were
supposed to fight because of the way you
chased our daughter out," the uncle said and
when Xulu tried to speak with his sorry eyes. He
shook his head, "there's no need to go back
there. We've passed that pain. Please, wait for
water just to show that there's no hatred
between us. You know the exact person who
has a bigger problem with you."
They were given light snacks and drinks, which
were prepared by Mzomubi's wives. When they
were done they went to the cattle pen. Only the
eight cows were in the pen. Mzomubi sent the
rest of the cattle away with the herd boy. They
gave them five cattle, they were left with two
pregnant cows and a bull.
Mzomubi went to the house after it was all
done. He made a telephone call to Zinhloso.
"How are you, Katshana?"
"I am fine, Mzo and how are you?"
He chuckled, "I am well, how's the progress of
the building going?"
"It's getting there. They didn't come today
because they have other commitments. I am
home alone nje," Zinhloso responded.
"Are they finishing soon, kodwa?"
"Yes, they're finishing soon. They said by month
-end they'll be done."
"That's good, I am calling to tell you that
Mhlabunzima's negotiators were here."
She kept quiet for a while on the line, "oh, and?"
"They took his cattle. They left with five and the
one that was in the form of money."
"Hee, leso sinqamu sangilobola ngezinkomo
eziyi sthupha?" (He paid six cows for me?) She
raised her voice. She was never told how many
cows he paid. They didn't tell her even after she
told Mzomubi to tell her. He refused and said he
wasn't supposed to tell her.
Mzomubi laughed, "no, I was still going to finish.
We took the three for Qophelo, because she had
taken her father's surname and she was buried
at her paternal home. We kept all the ten the
cows gave birth to, in three years."
"Oh, alright. It's fine."
"Aren't you sad?" He asked, he was expecting
that she would cry.
"Ayi, it's fine. Akasangifuni nje ayikho into
engingayenza nami." (He doesn't want me,
there's nothing I can do.)
He closed his eyes and released a short breath,
"you'll find someone who'll love you and please,
don't take Mthuthuzeli."
Zinhloso laughed, "why?"
"He's a good man but his mother died because
of our father. That resentment might be there."
"Mm, I hear you. Relax, he hadn't spoken about
love."
"I am just saying because you do spend time
with him."
"Okay."
"Bye," he placed the phone down. He really
hoped they wouldn't date. He headed to the
kitchen.
"What did your sister say?" Mrs Mnguni asked
as Mzomubi was passing through the kitchen.
"She said it's alright."
"She didn't sound sad?"
"No."
She nodded, "that's better, thank you, son." She
sighed as Mzomubi walked out.
UMCEBO

Chapter 204

Mhlabunzima was standing next to the cattle

pen. He was watching the trailer driving inside
with his cows. He could already see that the
cows inside the trailer were not eight. What was
happening?
"Baba, you're back?" Mhlabunzima opened the
gate of the cattle pen and Kusakusa showed
the cattle Inside.
"Yes, I am back," Xulu entered the pen and he
praised the family clan names firstly. He then
spoke while inside the pen, informing the
ancestors about the returned cattle. Why they
were back and how many were back. How many
weren't back and why? He walked out once he
was done.
Mhlabunzima was talking to Robert. His brother
had already gone inside the kitchen, "how did
they treat you?" He asked Robert.
Robert pointed at the kitchen and they walked,
"they treated us well. I am just sad that you
really ended things with Zinhloso. I thought you
were joking."
"Why would I joke about such a serious matter?"
"I feel like you've lost a big time and I don't see
any woman who'd match up to her." Robert said,
honestly.
Mhlabunzima glared at him, "I didn't say I want
a woman who'd match up to her." His voice
slightly rose up and they walked inside the
kitchen. Xulu was already telling Esther about
how everything went.
"I thought they were going to fight," Esther
commented after her husband.
"No, we had an argument only because of
Kusakusa who was stubborn."
Kusakusa looked at his brother, "your father
agreed that the Mnguni family should be left
with three of your cows because of Qophelo."
"Because of Qophelo, how?" Mhlabunzima
looked at his father.
"She died being called by your surname and she
was buried here. Those were their reasons for
taking the three cows," Xulu explained and he
could see his boy was very angry. He expected
it.
"Didn't these cows give birth to calves? Why did
they take my cattle again?" His voice came out
low, "they said it's for my child. Was that
woman going to agree to have Qophelo buried
in her yard, no? Their daughter was actually the
one who wanted Qophelo buried here!"
"That doesn't matter. They had valid reasons,
you chased Zinhloso out. You won't even allow
her here to come and clean her daughter's
grave if that's within her wishes," Xulu argued.
"Yes, I won't, vele!"
Esther's slap shut Mhlabunzima up and forced
his head down. It brought silence into the room,
"you won't allow her, kukwakho la, huh?" She
shouted at him and he didn't answer, "I am
talking to you!"
"No, but it's my home."
"Yes, it's your home and you're the one who
passes rules in this home. It's your father!" She
pointed back at her husband, "you ended things
with Zinhloso, your relationship and that doesn't
mean she'll never be allowed in this home,
"Qophelo was not your daughter alone. Zinhloso,
she's the one who was going up and down with
that child trying to save her life because of your
choices. Have you forgotten all the choices you
made above your daughter, huh?
"You ran off to exile to save your life because of
your political choices. Zinhloso stayed here.
Yahlupheka ingane yendoda, yehla yenyuka,
isebenza kanzima, yahlekwa ontanga bayo
bethi iwumfelokazi ayinandoda,
"She didn't give up, she pretended like she
wasn't hearing those talks. Where were you?
Huh? Uyanginyanyisa ngampela ke manje.
Uyangidina!
"It's your father and I who have the power to
rule who should not come and who should
come in this yard. Zinhloso left because you
ended things with her,
"And I wonder if her father was still alive you'd
be acting like this. Udelela ingane yakhe ngalolu
hlobo. Look at me!" She screamed at him and
Mhlabunzima looked at his mother. Esther
didn't care that he was crying, "Zinhloso gave
birth to that child and she raised her, should she
wish to come here for her child. She'll come and
you'll have no say in that. Do you understand
me?"
"Your mother is asking you a question!"
"Yes, I understand!"
"Good!" Esther walked out of the house.
Xulu sighed, "all that your mother said is right.
There's nothing that will erase Zinhloso being a
good mother to Qophelo and Zodumo included.
Qophelo died in her back, that's a trauma she'll
carry for the rest of her life and you think you'll
stop her from coming here for her child if she
wishes to do so? No! And don't forget,
"I didn't want to remind you of this but you've
carried unreasonable anger for too long. Don't
forget that, you impregnated Zinhloso
knowingly, how her parents are. Have you not
done that, we wouldn't be here." He stood up
and shook hands with Robert before leaving
them.
"You need to move on and stop blaming
Zinhloso for Qophelo's death. It's not her fault
and it's not your fault. It's all MaNtuli's evil
heart." Kusakusa consoled his brother.
Robert supported, "yes, I told you she also
refused to touch Sbusiso until I had paid
Inhlawulo. I am certain, with Zinhloso, she was
doing it deliberately not to take Inhlawulo. She
might have wanted Qophelo to die, vele."
"Yes, let it all go. MaNtuli will have her day, they
say she vomited blood right after eating the
meat of Inhlawulo." Robert told Mhlabunzima
what he hadn't told him.
He looked at him with surprise, "really?"
"Yes, she's been sick ever since. Sbusiso lives
with me full time now because his grandmother
is occasionally sick. I was told by Nobuhle that
her mother blames your family. She's saying
you bewitched her by using the cow for
Inhlawulo."
"Why didn't you tell me?"
"There's been a lot of things going on. I am also
occupied, preparing for my upcoming wedding.
I might have forgotten," Robert said and he saw
smiles on the two brothers' faces. It was
consoling.
***
"Don't you think you should go back to the
hospital?" Ziwinile asked her mother after giving
her lemon water inside her hut.
"No, I am good at home. Your brother hired a
person to help look after me while his wives
take care of things at home." She drank the
water. "I am having really bad dreams now."
"Why are you not calling a traditional healer
kanti?" She sat on the chair.
"How did it go with your sister?"
She could see she was ignoring the real issue at
hand, "we went to her with Mzomubi."
"How's the place where she lives?"
"It's a big yard, I think it's bigger than this yard
because they mainly wanted it for the garden
work," Ziwinile responded.
"What does she have in the garden currently?"
"I saw green peppers and taro. The place is
beautiful. The yard is fenced, a two room house
that's spacious and a hut."
Mrs Mnguni nodded, "it's better if she lives in a
decent home."
"Yes, we spoke about a lot of things and she
said she'll forgive me only if I leave Bhekani."
She fully explained what Zinhloso said and by
the time she was done she saw a smile on her
mother's face.
"I am happy that she said something so
sensible. What will you do with a man with so
many children, ngampela?" She asked and
Ziwinile didn't answer her, "I hope you'll listen to
your sister and leave Bhekani. I will be glad to
give back his cows. You'll find a decent man
who'll love you and respect you."
She looked down, "I am not ready, mama."
"You want to continue being miserable? How
many years had it been? You've suffered
enough! Let it go!"
"I will give myself time." She stood up, "I will go
cook some greens for you."
"Thank you, my child!" She looked at her as she
walked out and she hoped her children would
get decent men. Just like their brother found
decent wives.

Ziwinile was inside her hut in her marital home.

She'd finished dressing up for bed and she was
seated on the bed thinking about what Zinhloso
said.
She was distributed by a hush knock on the
door, "who's it?"
"Open up!"
She sighed and stood. She opened the door for
her husband, "what's wrong? Why are you
knocking like a policeman?"
"Am I not going to eat tonight?" He shouted at
Ziwinile. He had a key to Ziwinile's kitchen. It
was the only kitchen he had a key to because
he loved her food. Sometimes, he was taking it
as if it was just him and her as they'd wished.
"Why don't you eat somewhere else tonight? I
was home and I didn't cook."
Bhekani was shouting and other wives could
hear him. Some were still outside the yard, "I
don't care, you always cook for me even when
you are coming from home. I want my food. I
can't get children from you and now, I am not
getting food. Don't disrespect me!" He stormed
out leaving Ziwinile hurt. He usually never used
that against her in arguments but he was very
angry.
The fifth wife was happy that Ziwinile got a
tongue lash from their husband. She quickly
dished up for him, put the food on the tray and
went to his house.
Bhekani was seated on the sofa in his house,
waiting - he was hoping that Ziwinile would give
him food.
She knelt and put the tray on the table, "here's
food, baba. You can't sleep on an empty
stomach."
He pushed the plate, "tell the chief wife I want
to eat."
"But Cynthia is not home."
He glared at her, "is Cynthia my chief wife? Huh?
Don't you know that MaMnguni is my first wife,
huh?"
She took her tray, "I am sorry." She quickly left,
angry and she decided not to tell Ziwinile. She
wanted to create more problems for her.
But Ziwinile was already cooking chicken and
krummel pap for Bhekani. She was feeling sorry
for him and felt like this was the best she could
do, always giving him food because there were
no children from her. She was quickly done and
she went to serve him.
He smiled as the plate was put before him on
the table, "thank you." He looked at her and
realised she was upset, he held her hand, "I am
sorry. I shouldn't have spoken like that with
you."
"It's okay."
"Can you please sleep here tonight?"
She smiled shortly, "yes, I will go and lock my
hut," she walked and on her way to her hut. She
was wondering - was she really going to let go?
Were they going to be happy with her leaving?
She wanted children and Zinhloso held the key.
She gave her conditions. Difficult conditions.
***
Two days back, Mzomubi was called by Xulu
into his home. He told him, he should go to
Zinhloso's home and build a sheepfold. He gave
Mzomubi money for the material.
Saturday, he was in Zinhloso's yard. He was
with a boy he hired to help him.
"Why are you not telling me why you are
building this thing?" Zinhloso asked her brother
and she put the tray with cold drink and glasses
on the grass.
They were building the fold by the side of the
garden. "Don't you want livestock?"
"Please, don't tell me you're bringing
Mhlabunzima's cows here. Keep them with you.
I don't want cows here."
He laughed and took the glass of the cold drink,
"why don't you want the cows?" he could see his
sister was gaining weight and this made him
happy because he saw it as a sign that she was
content with her life. Things were better.
"I am annoyed by cow dung." She held her nose
and they laughed. "I don't mind sheep if you
want to give me some livestock."
Mzomubi shook his head, "oh, ukopela
uMhlabunzima ufuna ukuba beziklabhu nawe?"
(You're copying Mhlabunzima. You want to have
sheep too?)
She melted in laughter, "leave me alone!"
"I am just asking."
"I will accept whatever you will give me."
"That's good. When are we going into the
forests for the herbs you want?"
She stepped back, "once they've installed my
working equipment and shelves. Let me go and
focus on cooking." She left them and she
couldn't stop thinking about what Mzomubi was
going to give her.
UMCEBO

Chapter 205

***Chapter sponsored by Mrs Mnotho Zulu,

dedicated to Mpho wishing her speedy
recovery***

"Ngenzwel'umusa?" Esther knocked on

Mhlabunzima's window after knocking on the
front door and hearing no response.
"Ma?" He called out, his face was stuffed on the
pillow. He'd been locked up in his house since
his cattle returned from the Mnguni family.
"Are you not eating tonight?"
"I will eat in the morning. I am not hungry."
"Okay."
He didn't feel like standing up and going to the
kitchen just to eat. His head had his parents'
rants ringing. He couldn't take it off his mind
that his father said everything was his fault. He
loved politics, that was his hope and everyone's
hope that one day the country would be free.
He'd always told himself he was fighting for his
family even though his family didn't want him to
join politics. He got into a relationship with
Zinhloso after a long time of being single and
Zinhloso also didn't like politics. They'd fought a
lot because of it. He always thought he was
doing not bad. It was the political commitment
that forced him apart from her for three years.
He stayed away to be alive and things got
messed up. If he was home, black or blue, Mrs
Mnguni was going to take that cow. If not her,
Mzomubi was going to accept it. He never
understood why it didn't cross their minds to
have Mzomubi stand in for his father. The cow
wasn't for Mrs Mnguni but it was mainly for the
ancestors. Mrs Mnguni had gotten her cow
when the boy who took Zinhloso's virginity paid
cows for that. The one for Qophelo was mainly
for the yard and the ancestors. But it went back
to the fact that - that witch wanted his daughter
to die. He was in pain because it was no use
crying over spilt milk.
He took his daughter's picture - it was on the
photo frame by the bedside.
"Oh, my child, I thought I was doing the right
thing. It's not that I was hiding I am not a
coward but I wanted to live,
"I wanted to live for you and your mother, your
sister. Had I faced the bad guys I was going to
die but fate, fate said it's either me or you. I am
really sorry, Donda,
"For everything, for not being there. The last
memory I have of you, is, me, holding your hand
teaching you how to walk,
"I never got to see you walking on your own. I
never got to celebrate your birthday,
"I put your mother through hell. I love her so
much and I will never stop loving her but I am
just scared of being with her,
"I am afraid I will lose more of your siblings
because of your granny if I stay with your
mother. It's better I chose life for myself and for
your future siblings,
"That's why I will move on with another woman.
It doesn't mean I hate your mother. I just want
her away from me,
"Where she won't see me and where I also won't
see her moving on. I am really sorry, Gxabhashe,
"I thought I was giving you life but I killed you,
your grandfather was right, it's all my fault. I just
wanted to have you and keep your mother with
me. I was wrong, it seems I am always wrong,
"I will have to live with that pain for the rest of
my life. Please, continue to rest in peace, my
child. I am really sorry." He tightly held the
child's picture and he freed his tears. He didn't
make any sounds but he cried the pain away
until there were no tears to cry. He stood up,
opened his wardrobe and took his photo album.
He pulled out all of Zinhloso's pictures - with
him and without him in the pictures. He left only
those where she was with Qophelo. He
wrapped the pictures in a plastic bag and he put
them inside a petty cash box. He went to put
the box inside his safe. It was better to leave
things as they were between him and Zinhloso.
Life was supposed to carry on.
***
She was seated on the veranda formally writing
down everything her father taught her about
herbs that helped tackle skin problems. Back
then, Mnguni forced her to write things he said
down - she didn't want to write them down, but
out of respect she did. Her father told she
would forget some information, she would miss
the finest details and things would go wrong
with people's skins. She was grateful that she
listened because as she was writing, she
realised she had forgotten the details as they
were. It'd been years and she felt it in her bones
- the time had come.
She bought a big sheet book and she used it -
writing herbs as formulas for different skin
problems. Writing steps to be taken when
creating different creams.
That Saturday, she started by doing chores and
fetching water. She didn't have any school work,
she was done with first term exams. She
couldn't believe it'd been three months since
her relationship ended - she was better than
before.
She stood up when she saw a truck with a
trailer before her gate. "Who's that?" She closed
her books and rushed to the gate. Xulu and
Ngenzeni? They were seated on the front seat
of the truck. She opened up and the driver drove
through. Mzomubi was behind them.
"Sanibonani, baba?" She greeted, shook hands
with Xulu. He walked away with Mzomubi. She
smiled at Ngenzeni. "Ngenzeni?"
"Skwiza, unjani?" Ngenzeni asked and she
hugged Zinhloso.
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am fine, I am happy to see you. You look very
good."
She looked down, "thank you. You surprised me
and it's a good thing I am properly dressed."
"We don't have your number and we also didn't
plan that we'll come today, especially since
mom is not home."
Xulu was walking around the yard with
Mzomubi. They were talking. They moved back
to Zinhloso and Ngenzeni.
"You keep making us proud, your father must be
happy. Your brother tells me about your plans,"
Xulu stood next to the trailer. "And the yard is
very beautiful."
"Thank you, baba. Yes, I should work, money
doesn't grow from trees."
Xulu's proud smile didn't leave his face, "yes,
you're right." He touched the trailer, "ey, your
mother will be very sad when she comes back
and learns that we've come here without her,
"We made an order for the sheep and we
thought they'll deliver next weekend but dates
were mixed,
"They only delivered today. She's not home, she
left with the wife of her sister's son. They'll
return tomorrow." Xulu explained to Zinhloso
and she only smiled with no understanding
what was going on.
"We wanted to come and say 'isandla sidlula
ikhanda ntombazanyana kaMnguni' You've been
our child for the past three years, you're still our
child, you took care of us without complaining.
You showed great resilience and I hope you
won't change,
"Do the same thing for your future parents' in-
law. Our blessings should remain with you and
please take the sheep as our token of
appreciation." Xulu pointed at the four sheep in
the trailer.
Zinhloso was blown away, "kodwa baba, you
can't thank me for doing what was expected of
me."
"Yes, I can and remember, gifts are not to be
refused. Please, accept."
It was making her emotional that
Mhlabunzima's parents saw the need to thank
her but not him. They'd given her such a priced
gift but Mhlabunzima didn't even say 'Thank
you'
They shook hands with Xulu, "thank you,
Gxabhashe, Donda wasenkweleni!"
Xulu's heart was jumping for joy as she praised
him.
She looked at the sheep as they offloaded them
and she got emotional, tears of joy streamed
down her cheeks. Ngenzeni laughed and
wrapped her arm around her shoulder. "I am so
happy." She laughed through the tears, "I really
wasn't expecting anything."
"You actually deserve more, skwiza."
Mzomubi offloaded some feed for the sheep.
He packed it inside the hut where Zinhloso was
keeping her garden tools and all the water
containers.
Zinhloso offered them drinks before leaving.
She told them to thank Esther on her behalf.
"Please, don't slaughter, sheep after sheep!"
Ngenzeni advised and they laughed.
"I will try not to." She walked them back to the
truck.
Ngenzeni looked at her, "next month on the 6th
it'll be Izibizo zami so please do come. I will be
happy if you do."
She looked down, "Ngenzeni, I don't think it'll be
a good idea for me to come to your home. Your
brother will be there."
"That's not a problem, MaMnguni. Do come,
we've also invited your brother. Asixabene,"
Xulu freed her. It reminded him something
important, "Zinhloso, your daughter is resting in
that yard and if you wish to come to her grave.
Do come."
"Thank you. I promise I will come ngomkhehlo. I
will be more comfortable then," Zinhloso said to
Ngenzeni.
She totally understood it still might not be easy
for her to be where Mhlabunzima would be and
worse, in their family home, "alright, I will
remind you of the date. In a month from now."
"You're really getting married?"
Ngenzeni laughed and said goodbye. Zinhloso
waved as they drove out. She turned to the
sheepfold and she couldn't believe she owned
livestock!
UMCEBO

Chapter 206
***Chapter sponsored by Nsiko***

It was in the evening, it wasn't dark yet.

Mhlabunzima's cow, one of the cows he was
given by his mother. It was brown and white in
colour, the cow walked inside the Mnguni
opened gates. The gates were opened because
their herd boy was coming back with their cattle
soon.
Lucy saw the cow walking inside the gates
alone and so, she tried to hit it off but the cow
walked forward.
"Hhaybo, Mzomubi!" She screamed and tried to
hit the cow off but the cow pointed its horns at
her. It was lowing loudly. Lucy screamed and
stepped back. Mzomubi came rushing.
"What's wrong, sthandwa?"
She pointed at the cow. It was still going
forward, "I am trying to get it off the yard but it's
fighting me. I can see it's not one of our cows in
the yard."
He followed the cow. He wasn't sure about it
but it looked like Mhlabunzima's cow. The cow
didn't get inside the cattle pen but it went up
until it reached the ancestral hut. It rested down
on the side of the hut.
"This is strange. What's happening?" Lucy
asked her husband.
But Mzomubi was confused himself, "I will go
and call Mhlabunzima. I will confirm if this is his
cow or not." He turned back and they quickly
stepped back as there was a brown coloured
bull behind them. The bull sat next to the cow.
"Are we being bewitched while we haven't
slept?" Mzomubi shouted and headed inside the
house. His mother was having herbal tea
seated on the sofa.
"The cattle have come back?" Mrs Mnguni
asked as her son sat down, "why do you look
upset?"
"Mama, there are two cattle next to the
ancestral hut. I think they belong to
Mhlabunzima. I am calling him, now," Mzomubi
lifted the telephone but his mother stopped him.
"What do you mean? They just walked through
the gates and went to sit there?" She stood up,
slowly. Mzomubi followed her. She was
shocked, they were both seated on the ground
looking unbothered. You'd swear they were
home. "Call him quickly! I have never seen such
a thing."
Inside the house, Mzomubi lifted the phone
again. He rang the Xulu home.
"Mhlabunzima, speaking, hello?" He accepted
the telephone and he sounded like someone
who was in a hurry.
"Mhlabunzima, it's Mzomubi-" he kept quiet and
heard Xulu shouting 'he's back and he can't find
them'
"Yes?" Mhlabunzima encouraged him to speak,
"can you please be quick. I want to go and look
for my two cattle. The bull and a cow. They
followed each other out of the gate and the
herd boy lost them. I am really pissed off and I
hope you're not calling to ruin my mood."
"No, I am calling about your cattle."
"Have you seen them?" He had some relief.
"They're here."
"What do you mean they're there? There
where?" Mhlabunzima asked.
"Here at home. They walked in through the
gates and went to sit next to the ancestral hut.
They're both there now. I recognised them."
"What?"
"Yes, please come and take them."
"I will come."
He put the telephone down and his mother
asked what he said? He told her the answer and
waited outside for him.
Xulu accompanied his son to the Mnguni home.
He didn't trust they were telling the truth when
they said his cattle were in their yard. What
were they doing there?
Mhlabunzima wore his jacket as they were
about to enter the family home. He was no
longer their son-in-law but he had a child with
their daughter. He couldn't go inside the yard
wearing a short sleeved shirt.
"Where are they?" Xulu asked Mzomubi after
greeting and he pointed up.
They couldn't believe that these cattle really left
home and chose the Mnguni home out of all
homes.
"Thank you, we'll take them," Mhlabunzima said
and they tried to get the cattle up with his herd
boy but the cattle fought them both until they
were on the ground.
Xulu looked at Mhlabunzima, "it seems they
don't want to leave. Let them be, they might kill
you," and then Mzomubi, "is Zinhloso home?"
"No, she hasn't been home for the past three
months." He responded.
"Eish, what's happening then? What did your
mother say?" Xulu asked.
"She's also surprised."
"Can we leave them? We'll see what they'll do in
the morning."
Mhlabunzima looked at his father, "I should
leave my cattle here with them! Just like that,
baba?"
"What do you think we'll do to your cattle? Our
pen is full in case you didn't notice," Mzomubi
was ticked off by his words.
"Stop arguing. I am sure there's something the
cattle are trying to communicate. We'll have to
give it a day or two," Xulu shouted at them, "we'll
consult if they keep coming here like this."
"But baba, they were not even part of ilobolo. If
they were it would have been understandable.
Why are they here?" Mhlabunzima asked, "let's
try to take them again."
Xulu held his arm, "I said, no! Do you want the
cattle to kill you?" He shouted at him and
Mhlabunzima remained quiet, "please make
your mother understand."
"Yes, I will." He sighed and looked at the cattle
as the Xulus had left. They had no problem;
you'd swear they were home. Mrs Mnguni was
angry about the cattle being in her yard but she
had no choice. They were not bothering anyone.
The two cattle slept next to the hut that night.
In the morning, the two cattle got up and they
walked out through the gates. Mzomubi had
already opened the gate because he was
leaving for work. He looked at the cattle as they
went out. He'd never been so confused. It would
have been understandable if they were part of
ilobolo but they weren't. He wondered what was
really happening? He went to work after leaving
the message that the herd boy should bring the
cattle back early and close the gates.

Mhlabunzima was seated on his doorstep in the

morning and he stood up when he saw his two
cattle. He rushed to open the gate for them.
They walked in and headed to the cattle pen, as
they joined the other cattle - the cattle in the
pen made loud 'moo' sounds. He stood there
watching the chaos inside the pen.
"What's happening? Did more cows leave the
kraal?" Xulu asked, he was woken up by the
cattle noise. By the time he reached
Mhlabunzima. They were quiet.
"No, the two just got back and they made the
noise the minute they entered the pen,"
Mhlabunzima responded.
"Impica badala ke le. Umhlola nje engingawazi."
Xulu followed his son up.
"Don't you think we should consult?"
"No, let's see what they'll do today."
"Alright, let me go back to sleep. I woke up
because I was hoping they would come back."
He headed to his house. The previous night, he
fell asleep with a confused head. He was still
confused.
Mhlabunzima was at MaNkomo's home to give
her the monthly groceries. He was taking her
grandson and Zodumo out. He couldn't take
them early in the morning because he had an
errand to run. He bought groceries after.
"Where's MaMnguni, I am no longer seeing her?
Why is she not coming with you like before?"
MaNkomo asked, as she was brushing her
grandson's head.
"We broke up, mama. She left the village."
"Aw, that's sad. I didn't expect such sad news."
He thought of asking the old lady, she might
know, "mama, there's something that happened
yesterday and I am hoping you can help if you
know."
"I am listening." She listened as Mhlabunzima
told her about his cattle sleeping at the Mnguni
home. "It's strange but there might be
something important they are trying to
communicate. Cattle and the pen, very
important in the family. It is said that after the
Englishmen had burnt down King Cetshwayo's
royal Ondini palace - they asked 'what are you
going to do now? We've burnt your palace?'
They held him captive, took him away. They
were taking him to their queen in England. But
their ships couldn't move. He said he should
head back home but what home? His palace
had been burnt down,
"They took him back. He didn't do much, he
didn't burn any sage but he went straight where
the cattle pen had been. Right there, he spoke
to his ancestors and only then could the
Englishmen take him. So, this my son, it gives
us an idea how important the family cattle and
the cattle pen are. That's why other families
don't like giving their cow dung to those who
don't have cows."
Mhlabunzima took a deep breath, "I understand.
We'll give it time and see what will happen."
"Do that, drive safely."
Mhlabunzima drove off with MaNkomo's
grandson. He drove to Lily's home where he
was going to take Zodumo.

It'd been two weeks since his cattle returned

from the Mnguni family and he'd been trying his
best to win Lily over. He could see that she
didn't trust him but he didn't give up. He took
longer to persuade her into a relationship the
first time. He couldn't give up after two weeks.
On Friday, of the second week, Lily accepted his
love back and he couldn't be happier.
He was with Lily the next day after taking out
the children. It was his time and Lily.
"Zodumo told me you had a great time together
yesterday," they were seated on the table having
meat and pap at the street market. It was
month-end, and the market was busy.
"Yes, you were at work because you're stubborn.
You don't want to listen to your man when he
says stop working."
She giggled, "we're not married, baba
kaZodumo."
He opened his jacket and took out a letter,
"there's nobody who'll stop us from being
together now. I don't want to waste time with
dating, let's grow our family and die together. I
will give you everything you couldn't get when
your father kept you away from me." He was
looking at her with kind eyes, "please, tell your
uncles I want to make you my wife."
She was over the moon and she couldn't believe
this was actually happening. She was going to
be Mhlabunzima's wife. "I will do that, Khuhla
phansi ngenge Khowandlovu. I can't believe
we're back together again."
"What's meant to be, it'll be."
Ziwinile and Zinhloso, along with Nobuhle,
walked by the food stall of the woman who had
tables. They wanted to buy cooked meat before
going to Zinhloso's house.
"Is that Mhlabunzima and Lily?" Nobuhle was
the first to spot them on the table.
Ziwinile and Zinhloso looked in their direction.
Lily was facing them and Mhlabunzima was
facing Lily. Lily was smiling and laughing at
whatever Mhlabunzima was saying, "yes, it's
them." Ziwinile answered. Zinhloso removed her
eyes from them as soon as Lily noticed them.
"Yoh! I can't believe he went back to her!"
Nobuhle said and shook her head as
Mhlabunzima looked back at them. Zinhloso
was talking to the woman who was selling,
placing their meat order. She couldn't deny it -
there was pain in her heart but she chose to
ignore it. She was seeing him again after three
months and she had to see him with her!
She sent her eyes forward and pretended like
her sisters were not looking at her after they'd
gotten their meat order. They left, heading to
the bus stop.
UMCEBO

Chapter 207

***Chapter sponsored by Phelisa dedicated to

Phummy Peshy Smalls***

"Did you tell the herd boy to come back early

with the cows?" Mzomubi helped his wife carry
the pots and dishes she had been washing
outside. He'd just returned from work. The
cattle weren't back.
"Yes, I did and here he is," Thuli pointed at the
cattle walking through the gates.
"Thank you," he quickly headed to the kitchen
and left the dishes on the table. He went to the
herd boy.
He started by closing the gates, he locked the
main gate. He didn't want Mhlabunzima's cattle
to enter again should they happen to come
back. "How did it go today? Did anything
strange happen?"
"No, it was business as usual."
He closed his eyes shortly, "that's better." He
opened the small gate for him and he walked
out. He locked the gate.
"Weeee!"
Mzomubi turned back as he heard the loud cry.
He saw the herd boy running down and what
followed was the bellowing of the bull. He held
his forehead. He stood aside and watched, he
wanted to see what was the bull going to do.
His mother walked out of the house slowly, she
stood next to Mzomubi.
"They're back?" Mrs Mnguni commented and
looked at the cattle. The cow was just standing
next to the bellowing bull. They were both
facing the gate. It was like they were waiting for
the gate to be opened for them but Mzomubi
and his mother didn't open the gate.
"Yes, let's see what they'll do."
The bull took steps back and the cow moved
aside. It bellowed deeper, its horns pointing at
the gate. The bull went for the gate, crashing it
and the cow grunted.
"Yehheni! Mzomubi, that hooligan's bull is
attacking my gate!" Mrs Mnguni screamed and
they stood by the window of Zinhloso's hut.
Mzomubi wished he could go and open the gate
for them but he couldn't. He was going to get
hurt.
The bull crashed the gate until it was done for.
Mrs Mnguni hid by Mzomubi as the bull ran
inside the yard. The cow followed behind,
running and they headed straight to the same
spot. The ancestral hut.
"My gate, Mzomubi! Uzolithenga lowa cikicane!
Uzolithenga. Call him, now!" She screamed and
they headed to the house.
Mzomubi didn't feel like calling Mhlabunzima
but his mother was serious, "mama, let's ask
grandma what's happening."
"No, call Mhlabunzima!" She pointed at the
telephone and Mzomubi dialled. He gave the
telephone to his mother.
"Mhlabunzima, speaking-"
"Lalela la, your bull has crashed down my gate
and as we speak, I don't have a gate. My yard
has no gate," Mrs Mnguni ate Mhlabunzima
alive.
"They came back?"
"What do you think? Why didn't you lock your
gate?"
"I told the herd boy to lock the gate. Maybe they
also crashed our gate. I am not home I am at
the supermarket." He was calm as he was
responding to Mrs Mnguni.
"That supermarket my daughter built. You'll
have to repair my gate. I won't have your cattle
ruin me. You'll pay for everything and labour
combined."
"I will ask Mzomubi to send a child to bring me
the measurements and I will replace it," he
promised her.
Mrs Mnguni placed the phone down, "I don't
know what Zinhloso saw in that boy!"
"What did he say?"
"He said you should send the measurements of
the gate he'll buy it."
"That's better." He kept quiet, "what if this
means Zinhloso will go back to him?"
"That will never happen!"
"I hope so." He stood up and left his mother. He
was tired - he thought Mhlabunzima was out of
their lives but there was something new. His
cattle were sleeping in their yard. Which was
very strange. He would have to tell his
grandmother what was happening.
***
Xulu and Esther had to let Mhlabunzima do
what he wanted. They advised him to give
different cows to Lily's family but he didn't
listen to them. He took the same cows he used
to pay ilobolo for Zinhloso. He sent them to
Lily's family. Xulu was no longer negotiating for
him. He told him he should ask his uncle to
stand in. Mhlabunzima asked his uncle and he
agreed.
After Ngenzeni's pre-wedding ceremony - the
cows were sent to Lily's family for ilobolo.
There were no arguments and no bickering.
They made agreements and what the bride's
family requested was paid in full with no
discounts.
Mhlabunzima was the happiest man in the
whole village. He couldn't wait to start his life
with Lily and their child, Zodumo. The other
family members were happy with whatever
decision he took but his parents and sister, they
were not happy.
He drove through the gates with Lily on the
passenger seat. After closing the supermarket,
Mhlabunzima drove to her home for her. It was
her first sleepover after ilobolo had been paid,
three days later. They didn't bring their child
along.
Lily felt like the madam of the president. Finally,
she was his fianceé. They were going to get
married and live their best lives. She'd given up
on Mhlabunzima but aunt Maria came, she gave
her, her man back. Mhlabunzima was back in
her arms. Where he belonged.
He was laid back on bed, staring at Lily as she
was dressing up for bed after bathing. They ate
together the food cooked by his mother. The
parents knew she was visiting but Esther hadn't
allowed her inside her kitchen.
He was very excited about tonight, back then
when they were having sex. They were still
young and he only knew basics of sex. Now, he
was experienced. He wanted to take her to a
new journey - romance and the best sex life.
"Ngathi ulambile baba kaZodumo indlela
ongibuka ngayo," (it's like you're hungry, the way
you're staring at me) she joined him in bed. Lily
had to end things with her boyfriend the minute
Mhlabunzima gave her a letter. She thought it
would take longer before they moved to
marriage.
"The last time I was with you, we created
Zodumo. We were hiding our relationship and
now, we're free," Mhlabunzima held her chin and
he kissed her, stopping the giggles. Lily was a
tongue kisser and as their kiss heated up,
Mhlabunzima was reminded of the first time
they kissed. He wasn't used to the way she
kissed but he grew to love it.
Things had changed, he was touching her like
this now. So gentle and lovingly. She didn't
know there was pleasure in some of the body
parts he kissed - her neck! What a sensitive part
of the body. She was wet and ready to receive
his hard manhood. She could still remember
like yesterday how good he was in bed. He was
so good it created jealousy knowing he was
moving on to another woman - to do the things
he was doing to her.
"I am ready, Xulu!" She said, her voice was very
low. She was hungry for him.
Mhlabunzima didn't know what was happening.
He was mentally ready for this and his blood
rush was normal, he was craving this sex but
why was his manhood still as flat as he was
born?
"I am not ready, mama," he said, ashamed of
himself and his manhood. What was this organ
doing?
"Why?" She lifted her head up but she couldn't
see anything.
Mhlabunzima didn't answer her but he slapped
his sleeping member on her wet openings but
there was no reaction at all. Why was this organ
embarassing him?
Lily was upset, she sat up straight. She'd been
anticipating this night and she was being
disappointed. "What's wrong?" She wanted to
cry.
"Ngicabanga ukuthi ingoba sengineminyaka
ngingasazi isfazane." (I think it's because it's
been years without a woman) He said, holding
his manhood. "Ngeqiwe injabulo, igazi lonke liye
ekhanda langafinyelela epipini. Tsk!" (My blood
rush went straight to my head and not my penis)
"What should we do then?"
"Ngizochatha ekuseni," (I will use enema
injection in the morning) he said and laid down
with her. He held her in his arms. "I am really
sorry."
"It's okay, we have plenty of time." She said but
she was angry.
He kept holding his manhood but there was still
no reaction. What was wrong? This didn't
happen with Zinhloso. He closed his eyes and
he was hit by an image of Zinhloso bent over
and her private part greeting him from behind.
The position she was in, the last morning he
was with her. This image lingered in his mind
and his manhood quivered. He quickly opened
his eyes and held it again - it was back to
normal - flat, just as he was born.
UMCEBO

Chapter 208

Ukusa kwabonwa nguye - he was the first to

wake up in the morning. He was the one with
the problem and he needed to fix his problem.
He couldn't let this get in between him and his
happiness. A relationship without sex was
going to be as same as being single.
Mhlabunzima cooked the herbs in the kitchen
on the coal stove before his mother could wake
up. It didn't take long and he was done. He sat
outside with the mixture, waiting for it to cool
down. He went down to the toilet.
He punished himself with an enema injection
thinking he was helping himself. He didn't want
to use enema injection, what if she got
pregnant after this? He wanted their second
baby after marriage. But he didn't have a choice;
he needed to give his woman pleasure.
"Where have you been?" She sat up straight as
Mhlabunzima walked inside the bedroom, "I
woke up to an empty bed."
"Bengisayokhenikha ithuluzi lethu lokujabula," (I
went to fix our tool of happiness) he jumped
back in bed with great confidence. He was
going to give her a show of a lifetime.
She giggled as she received a kiss, "I hope you
won't leave young Xulu in me. It's still early."
"I will try not to," the kiss prolonged and his
body was heated up. He badly wanted to have
sex but there was still no reaction. He rubbed
the highly sexual hungry Lily with his fingers
and he heard her moans. But even with her
moans, he was still struggling to get it up.
"Oh, Xulu, I want the real thing? Why are you
using your fingers because you're gifted. I want
it strong and hot," Lily ordered her tool of joy.
And Mhlabunzima didn't even know what to say
to her now. He remembered Zinhloso
suggesting to have it in her mouth and maybe
Lily could do that. He would be risking because
he never wanted it but what other option did he
have? He didn't stop playing with his fingers on
her until her back left the mattress.
"Put it in!"
"Mama, awulidlalise ngolimi kancane. Ulimunce
ngathi uswidi ohlonywe othini," (Can you play
with it using your tongue? Do it like it's a
lollipop.) He begged softly.
Lily's eyes shot open, "angizwanga?" (Excuse
me?" She had her eyes widened at him, "you
want me to lick your penis? It's not supposed to
be in my mouth but you're supposed to put it in
my vagina!"
"Ayivuki nje!" He moved it up and down,
showing how it looked. "I think I am the problem
because you're wet and ready."
"Mhlabunzima, are you thinking about another
woman while you're with me? You're thinking
about Zinhloso?" She didn't raise her voice at
him but she was annoyed. She wished she
could scream.
"What? No, I am not thinking about her!"
"What's wrong then? Akuyona ngisho inyongo
kade uchatha."
"I don't know. You need to play with it."
"Play with what? Is the penis a toy? No, it's not.
You're the man and your job is to get on top of
me and fuck!" She slightly raised her voice and
left him alone on the bed.
He was highly disappointed. He looked at his
penis and got ashamed. He could tell
something was wrong but he didn't know what
was wrong.
"Are you not giving your fianceé some
breakfast?" Esther asked Mhlabunzima. He was
sitting down with his breakfast. He looked
grumpy and they wondered what was wrong
with him.
"She's still taking a bath," he responded and
focused on his food. They ate in silence but
wondered what was eating Mhlabunzima up.
He put the tray of breakfast on the table. Lily
was seated on the sofa with her hands on her
bust, crossed. "Please, eat and we'll go. I should
get to work."
"Why are you going to work? Go and fix this
problem," she pointed at his pants.
He clenched his jaws. He didn't expect such a
reaction from Lily. Why wasn't she a little kind?
But maybe she was just suffering from sexual
frustration.
"I will fix it." He promised and waited for Lily to
finish eating.
They followed each other out of the house. Lily
greeted the parents who were outside. They
greeted back and looked at them as they
followed each other to the car.
Mhlabunzima dropped Lily at her home and she
said goodbye like she didn't want to say
goodbye. He drove to work first, promising
himself he would see a healer about this. It
wasn't normal.
***
Mhlabunzima fixed the Mnguni's gate and he
asked them to kindly let his cattle sleep in their
yard until they knew what was going on. They
didn't refuse. The cattle would come in the
evening and leave in the morning. They'd
accepted it but Mzomubi was not at peace.
Mzomubi was with his second wife, Thuli. They
were in bed, eating peanuts and talking about
their love for each other. It was a beautiful night.
He'd just started kissing Thuli when he heard a
scream coming from his mother's hut. They got
away from each other and out of the house.
Mrs Mnguni was kneeling on her bed, her eyes
were widened as she stared at the door.
"Hamba!" (Go, away!) She screamed and
gestured her words using her hands,
"Ungifunani ngane kaXulu?" (What do you want
from me, Xulu's son?)
Mzomubi knocked on the door, "mama, what's
wrong? Open the door."
"Mzomubi! Mzomubi! Mhlabunzima is inside,
he's carrying a spear for me," she cried out - she
didn't know whether she was going crazy or
what was happening with her mind. That was
Mhlabunzima by her door holding a spear.
"How did he enter? The door is locked!" He tried
to push the door and it was locked.
"He's here!" She screamed, "he'll kill me!" She
was no longer feeling the pain of the headache
because she was scared of Mhlabunzima. She
was really seeing him inside her hut.
Mzomubi kept pushing the door until it
forcefully opened. "There's nobody here,
mama!"
She handed her hands over to Mzomubi, "take
me to your father's house. I will sleep there. I
don't know what Xulu people want from me. I
don't want those cattle here tomorrow."
He held his mother's hand and he helped her
out of the bed. Thuli took her bucket and jug of
water. She followed her husband out while Lucy
closed the door.
He left his mother sleeping inside his father's
bedroom. He burnt muthi for her to sleep. He
went back to his wife. He was certain that -
what happened with Qophelo was haunting her.
UMCEBO

Chapter 209

***Chapter sponsored by Wisani***

Nobuhle returned home because she was going

to say goodbye to her family. Mzomubi told her
about Ziwinile and Zinhloso, what Zinhloso said.
And since they had spoken, she decided to go
to Ziwinile, take her and they went to Zinhloso
together. Mzomubi drove them to Zinhloso and
he dropped them at the station market to buy
meat. That was where they saw Lily and
Mhlabunzima.
Nobuhle could see her little sister was very hurt
but she was trying her best to be strong. She
was trying not to show the pain she was feeling
because of Mhlabunzima.
"So, when are you leaving? Are you going to
meet up with him at the airport?" Ziwinile asked
Nobuhle.
They were seated on the chairs under the
veranda of Zinhloso's house. They had the table
where the meat and pap was, along with the
drinks.
"No, he won't be waiting. His mother said she'll
send an email using her computer. She'll
communicate with a person who'll take me to
him," Nobuhle responded.
She was very nervous when she met up with
Mrs Hendricks but she knew she was kind. She
knew she had a motherly love and so, she
trusted her and told her what happened
between her and John. Mrs Hendricks
understood her fears as a mother and because
she knew her son loved her too much. She
decided it was best to help her, especially for
the child's sake. John had told her to not help
Nobuhle should she regret it one day.
"So, you'll surprise him?" Zinhloso asked.
Nobuhle had her best smile, "yes, I hope he
won't chase me away."
"He'll be mad!" Zinhloso and Ziwinile said in
unison and they laughed.
"I am happy for you and I am sure Sbusiso
would be very happy when it's time for him to
visit you abroad." Ziwinile commented.
"Yes, he said we should go but I couldn't take
him with me on the first visit. I don't know what
will happen there."
"You're right!" Ziwinile and Zinhloso said and
they moved on from the topic of leaving the
country.
"How are you holding up?" Nobuhle asked.
Zinhloso pointed to her chest, "me? Why are you
asking?"
"I am talking about you and the situation of
Mhlabunzima and Lily."
She shook her head, "I don't want to talk about
Mhlabunzima." She said and sniffed the meat.
"Why are you sniffing the meat?" Ziwinile asked,
looking at her surprised.
Zinhloso had a disgusted look, "it smells like
they didn't wash it properly. It's like it has cow
dung."
"Cow dung!" The two sisters screamed and
quickly sniffed the meat.
"You're crazy Zinhloso." Nobuhle ate the meat
and Zinhloso stopped eating it. She went to the
house and washed her hands. The sisters spent
the rest of the afternoon together and later,
Mzomubi came to get the two sisters. They
hugged each other and Zinhloso said goodbye.
She didn't have much to do but sleep because
they had cleaned up and washed the dishes.

Sunday morning, she was already awake and

ready to go. She was dressed up in a short blue
wrap around denim skirt and a black baggy
graffiti round neckline shirt.
"Are you comfortable in denims?" Mthuthuzeli
asked, he was looking at her skirt and he was
wondering how she wore it. "Doesn't it have a
button on the waist?"
"It has a string. Can we go?"
He could see she was still upset, "I brought you
some duck meat. Aren't you going to leave it in
the house?"
Her face loosened up because of the mention
of food, "does it have soup, I can have it in the
car if I won't mess up your car."
"You'll actually mess up your clothes. Grab a
towel," he headed back to the car with the hot
dish. He recently bought the car and Zinhloso
was happy for him. She also told him she
needed help buying her own for the work she
was going to do. She didn't want a private car
like his.
"Thank you," she accepted the dish after putting
the towel over her lap and she started eating.
"You cooked it?"
"Yes, my sister said thank you for all that beef
meat you gave me." He drove out of the
premises.
"She wasn't even supposed to say thank you
because it wasn't my intention to give it away,"
she said and Mthuthuzeli laughed.
"Don't worry, you'll be alright."
"I am so hurt and angry."
"I can tell."
They were driving back to their old village, they
were going to take Mzomubi and head to the
forest - only Mzomubi and Zinhloso were going
to the forest. Mthuthuzeli had work to do in his
old homestead. He was going to drive back with
Zinhloso when they returned. He didn't live in
the same village as Zinhloso but where he lived,
the village was closer to Zinhloso's new village.
"I will pass by the supermarket and buy some
snacks and cold drinks if you don't mind. I
brought lunch but no drink," Mthuthuzeli
checked with Zinhloso first.
"There's no problem. Please, buy a packet of
chips for me, salt and vinegar. I won't enter with
you."
"No problem," he parked the car on the roadside,
opposite the supermarket's gate. He stepped
out of the car leaving Zinhloso inside the car.
The windows were opened, it was still morning
and when the herd boy passed by with cows.
The smell of the cows and cow dung went
straight to her heart. It created an irritating
nausea in her and she quickly opened the door.
She quickly got out of the car and she vomited
under a roadside tree. All the food she ate in the
morning returned, down to the ground.
Mhlabunzima was standing next to his van
smoking in the morning when he saw a car he
didn't know. Even after about four years, only
three families had cars in the village. He was
wondering who was the owner and when
Mthuthuzeli got off. It didn't surprise him. He
heard he was working a good paying job, from
when he lived in the township and still, his new
job was good. He was also highly educated and
he heard his late wife was also educated like
him.
"Unjani chwane lenyoka?" Mthuthuzeli greeted
Mhlabunzima. He wasn't expecting to find him
around so early.
He raised his hand, "I am good and you?"
"I am fine!" He proceeded inside.
Mhlabunzima realised there was a woman left
inside the car but he couldn't see her clearly. He
kept smoking but his eyes fixed there in the car
- did he take his advice and dated someone else?
His blood boiled as he saw Zinhloso chipping
off the car and vomiting. The cattle was
passing by but he couldn't be mistaken. He
could see that woman even when he could see
only her back. What was going on?
Mthuthuzeli walked out of the shop with a
plastic bag and he could see Zinhloso outside
the car. He rushed back inside. He asked
Ntokozo to give him a bottle of water if he had
one.
"Mthuthuzeli, what's going on? Why is Zinhloso
with you?"
Mthuthuzeli turned back to Mhlabunzima as he
heard the question. He was standing behind
him. He was no longer smoking, "why are you
asking me such a question? Shouldn't she be
with me?"
"Come on, you know she's been with me. Why
can't you find another woman to date?" He was
craving to attack him, just to take out all his
anger and frustration on him. He hated his guts
and it was strange because before Zinhloso -
Mthuthuzeli was one of his favourite comrades.
He was broken when he left without even
saying goodbye.
"Who said I am dating her?"
"What are you doing with her?" He raised his
voice out of anger.
Ntokozo came back with a bottle of water and
handed it over to Mthuthuzeli but Mhlabunzima
held it, "what's wrong with you can't you act like
a grown up?"
"This is my water!"
Mthuthuzeli clicked his tongue, he was certain
this fool was still in love with Zinhloso. Why
was he acting so petty?
"I will let her know that you refused with a mere
bottle of water so that she can continue
keeping you further away. You're evil! To think I
put in a word for you, I am disgusted!" He
clicked his tongue and looked at Ntokozo, "sell
water, please!"
"What are you talking about? Put in what word
for me. I don't want her back! Didn't she tell
you?"
"Fool!" He glared at Mhlabunzima and walked
out of the shop.
He rushed to Zinhloso. She was leaning on the
tree with her head faced up.
"Hey, what happened?" He stood before her.
She had her eyes closed.
"It's the cows. Can you please help me by
asking Ntokozo to give me some water?"
His heart broke, he didn't plan on telling her
about it, "I saw you vomiting and went back to
the shop. Mhlabunzima saw you too and he got
angry, said I am dating you. He took that water
Ntokozo was giving me and he said it's his
water."
She wasn't surprised, "okay, I will drink water at
home. Let's go." She was holding her mouth.
"Have some soda, at least?"
She shook her head and headed to the car. She
stepped inside like she couldn't see
Mhlabunzima standing outside again, smoking
another cigarette while looking at them.
Mthuthuzeli drove off.
UMCEBO

Chapter 210

***Chapter sponsored by Wisani***

Zinhloso got out of the car and Mthuthuzeli

followed after her. He opened the boot for her
and took out the empty sacks.
"Thank you, I will see you when we come back."
Zinhloso said.
"Alright, be safe."
She walked through the gate and started by
opening her hut. She opened the windows and
swept the floor.
"Skwiza, you've arrived? I almost ran away
thinking we're being attacked by ghosts even in
the morning." Lucy commented and she greeted
Zinhloso.
Zinhloso locked the door, "what's wrong? Did a
ghost attack at night?"
"Yes, mom was crying. She was saying
Mhlabunzima is inside her hut with a spear. He
wanted to attack her," Lucy informed Zinhloso
about what happened the previous night.
She held her mouth, "are you sure? You're lying!"
"I am serious. Mzo broke the door and there
was no Mhlabunzima inside."
"What would he be doing in her locked hut,
vele?" She didn't mean to, but she laughed, "no,
please don't say I laughed, I didn't mean to."
Lucy giggled, "why would I tell?"
They walked inside the empty kitchen, "where is
she now?"
"She's still sleeping. He burnt muthi for her."
She opened the stove.
Zinhloso clapped once, "so, there's actually
something she's scared of. I thought since
she's wishing death on other people she's not
scared of dying," she commented and they
melted in laughter, "that's your mother-in-law,
njalo!"
"And that's your mother."
They giggled. Zinhloso helped Lucy out with
making breakfast because Mzomubi and Thuli
were still not awake. The two children had
woken up. Zinhloso fed the children porridge
after washing their faces.
They left for the forest once Mzomubi had
taken a bath and had his breakfast.
"You and Thuli wake up late. Lucy has to wake
up, cook breakfast, wash the children's faces
and feed them alone? Is that fair?" Zinhloso
raised the issue to Mzomubi. She couldn't
understand why they did what they did.
He cleared his throat, "it's not like that but she's
pregnant and so, she wasn't feeling well. Lucy
knows."
Anything about pregnancy annoyed her but she
was happy for her brother because he was
married - unlike her, "that's wonderful news.
Congratulations!"
"Thank you."
"I was just sad for her. I thought you were doing
it deliberately."
"No, we weren't and thank you for caring."
"Yes, I am a good sister." She said and they
laughed.
They got to the forest, Mzomubi parked the car
in a form of hiding. They went into the forest
and searched for the herbs as they did with
their father.
By the time they were done Zinhloso was very
tired and her back was killing her.
They drove back home, "Lucy told me mama
was seeing Mhlabunzima last night." She raised
the topic because Mzomubi wasn't bringing it
up.
He shook his head, "yes, she's not getting better
and now, she's seeing Mhlabunzima holding a
spear for her."
"Why can't she consult and find help kanti?"
Zinhloso asked.
"I really don't know and I think that she knows
what's wrong."
"You need to call grandma and tell her about it."
Zinhloso suggested.
He glanced at her, "I think it's Qophelo."
"What did my daughter do?"
"No, I mean it's Qophelo's death that's haunting
her. She's feeling guilty and seeing things. She
probably thought Mhlabunzima was going to do
something to her," Mzomubi raised his opinion
about the issue. "There's nothing else I can
think of. It must be guilt."
"Is mom capable of feeling guilty?"
"Everyone has conscious, Zinhloso."
She shook her head, "it's hard to believe that
woman has conscious but please, don't sleep
without calling grandma," she emphasized, "and
to make things easier, please drop me off at
Mthuthuzeli's home."
"Aren't you going to see mom?"
"Did she come see me when I lost my child?"
She asked and didn't receive an answer from
Mzomubi.
Mzomubi dropped Zinhloso at Mthuthuzeli's
home as she wished. She thanked him for his
help and he drove away. He was really hoping
they would have no feelings rekindled. They
were spending so much time together.
Mzomubi was alone in the living room and he
decided it was time to call his grandmother. He
wasn't going to waste time and wait for his
mother to give him permission to call his
grandmother.
"How are you doing, gogo?"
She yawned on the line, "ey, I am tired, mfana
and how are you?"
"I am well, I am calling to report problems. I
don't know if they'll make you more tired."
Mzomubi said to grandma.
"I am listening, my boy."
"Firstly, it's mom being sick…" he told her
everything about his mother's sickness. She
knew she'd been sick but she didn't know it
never stopped because his mother told them
not to tell her. He didn't want to keep hiding this
from his grandmother. She deserved to know.
While grandmother was surprised by the issue
of her daughter being sick. Mzomubi dropped
the confusing issue of his mother seeing
Mhlabunzima.
"Why didn't you tell me she's still sick?" Granny
shouted at Mzomubi.
"She told us not to tell you because you'll worry
about nothing."
"Is it nothing, Mzomubi?"
"I know it's not nothing gogo but I didn't want to
disrespect her word." He could hear from the
phone that she was stressed about her. This
was the same thing his mother didn't want. She
was old and she didn't deserve to worry.
"Why isn't she calling a traditional healer?"
"She's refusing."
"Oh, Nkosi! This means she knows what's
eating her up and I can bet on it, it's the death of
her granddaughter!" Granny predicted as
Mzomubi had predicted.
"Yes, I said the same thing. What should we do,
gogo?"
"Let her torture herself. I am still angry with her
because of what she did to the child. She knew
the consequences and she didn't stop. If we
quickly step in and help her, she'll never learn."
Granny said. She knew this was a tough
decision to take for her as a mother to Bhejeleni
but she was showing her tough love.
"But gogo, she's our mother and not long, we
buried our father." Mzomubi cried to her but
granny was not moved.
"She's killing herself because she's not seeking
help and if she knows what's wrong she should
be confronting the problem," Granny tried to
make him understand, "she didn't even want me
to know but I will come and visit."
He closed his eyes in relief, "thanks."
"Alright, boy, was that all?"
He remembered the issue of Mhlabunzima's
cows. He told his grandmother about what was
happening with the cows, "and we know they'll
come even today. They don't miss a day."
"Yehheni, Jehovah! Awu, kodwa. When did
Zinhloso meet with this boy? Didn't he end
things with her the same day he returned?
Huh?" Granny raised her voice at Mzomubi. She
was angry.
"What do you mean?"
"It can mean anything but the first thing that
comes to mind is pregnancy." Granny predicted.
Mzomubi shook his head as if granny could see
him, "that can't be! How and when, gogo?"
"You'll never know what happened between two
people. Don't tell Zinhloso about it yet," granny
instructed, "I will come to that side and we'll go
to that boy. We'll hear what he has to say first."
"Why should we do that? Let's tell her and she'll
confirm it."
"We both know she still loves him and if there's
a possibility of a baby. She might be happy and
think they'll fix things," granny analysed the
situation, "and it'll turn out she's not pregnant.
It's something else. Let's have this meeting,
we'll inform them we're coming once I am
there."
"Should I tell mom?"
"Yes, do tell her."
"Thank you," he placed the phone down and he
said a short prayer. 'can it not be a pregnancy'
that was his prayer even on his way out.
His mother was still in his father's house. She'd
been on the bed the whole day.
"How are you feeling?" He leaned on the wall.
Mrs Mnguni was seated on the bed, staring at
her feet, "I am better. I haven't seen anything
since I slept here."
"That's better. I called my grandmother about
Mhlabunzima's cows."
She nodded, "what did she say?"
"She said they can mean anything but the first
thing coming in her mind is pregnancy. She
said Zinhloso could be possibly pregnant,"
Mzomubi broke news and he expected his
mother to throw tantrums but she was only
widening her eyes, with her head shaking. "Yes,
but she said we shouldn't tell her or ask for
confirmation until she comes here. We'll go to
the Xulu family. We should get confirmation
from Mhlabunzima first."
Mrs Mnguni was angry and she badly wanted to
scream and shout about this thing she was
being told but the words got stuck up in her
throat. She was frustrated and she didn't know
why she couldn't voice her frustrations.
"Do you hear me, mom?"
"Yes!" She responded. She strongly felt like
someone was controlling her life and making
live in hell while she was still alive.
Mzomubi left his mother surprised that there
was no anger outburst. Was she that mature?
***
The night Ziwinile returned from Zinhloso's
house. She was tired and so, she fell asleep
with a mental note that she would wake up and
cook.
She was woken up by a strong hand pulling her
up from the bed, "Bhengu? What's wrong?" She
yawned.
He looked at her with a scowl, "why haven't you
cooked? What's wrong with you these days? It's
8pm and I haven't had my supper."
"I came back from visiting my sister and fell
asleep."
"I don't care, MaMnguni! You were supposed to
cook first and sleep after. What did your sister
tell you? She told you not to respect me?"
Bhekani didn't stop shouting and he was
making the other wives happy. The ones that
lived to see her miserable.
"I am sorry but don't forget that you have other
wives-" Ziwinile screamed as she received a hot
slap from Bhekani. Her mind was going through
shock just as her body. Did this man just slap
her?
"Why are you hitting me?"
"Is that what you were taught by your mother?
You're questioning my way of disciplining you!"
He growled.
Ziwinile could imagine days to come - he had
begun slapping her and the next thing would be
a punch. Before she knew it, she would be living
like her mother, being beaten up for every
wrong.
"This will be the last day you hit me!" She
pointed at him with her finger and she stormed
out. Bhekani followed her.
"Where do you think you're going?" He
screamed after her as she was heading out,
through the gates. He realised she was going to
his parents.
They found his mother and father seated
together in the kitchen hut. They were eating
around the fire.
"What's wrong so late at night?" Mrs Bhengu
asked the couple.
Ziwinile sat on the straw mat and Bhekani on
the bench. "Mama and baba, I am here to report
an injustice. My husband knew that I went to
visit my sister. I came back tired. I was just
resting. I didn't deliberately not cook. He hit me
because I didn't cook. I told him to ask for food
from other wives and he hit me for that."
Mrs Bhengu looked at her daughter-in-law, "you
left home so late and came here to report that
you've been hit by your husband?"
Ziwinile was surprised by the question, "yes, is it
a good thing that he has slapped me?" She
asked, respectfully.
"What should he do when you're wrong? How
should he discipline you?" Induna asked.
"He must not hit me. I am an adult, a wife and
not a child." She argued.
Induna shook his head, "didn't your father
discipline your mother for her wrongs?" He
asked and he couldn't get an answer from
Ziwinile. "Go and cook for your husband, stop
doing things that will upset him. Be a good wife.
He didn't take these other wives so that you'll
forget your duty."
All Ziwinile could remember - it was Zinhloso's
words. This was her time, she could never stay
because the next thing she would become a
punching bag.
"Did you think they were going to side with you
while you're disrespectful?" Bhekani asked and
Ziwinile kept quiet. "I want you in my house
tonight. We'll fix this attitude. You've forgotten I
am your husband."
Ziwinile locked her hut and she started packing
her clothes. She didn't care about the furniture,
she was taking her clothes. She was going to
sleep home in her bed.
"Ngeke ngixhashazwe indoda mina.
Isizongenza ibhola layo. Iyanya!" She opened
her trunk and took out the blankets. She packed
more clothes.
UMCEBO

Chapter 211

***Chapter sponsored by Ofentse Fefe***

Mzomubi, his maternal grandmother, his eldest

uncle and his uncle's wife walked through the
Xulu gates. Mzomubi hadn't called Zinhloso and
told her about what was happening. He didn't
want to stress about something they were not
sure about. Their grandmother got home and
told Mzomubi to go and fetch his uncle. They
were going to the Xulu family.
He called Mhlabunzima and told him they were
coming to talk about the issue of his cows
sleeping at the Mnguni home every night. He
promised to be there.
Esther welcomed them into the hut. She called
Mhlabunzima's older aunt to be present. She
didn't want it to be only the three of them.
Mhlabunzima and them, as parents.
"We're grateful that you've taken your time gogo
and come here to discuss this matter with us,"
Xulu shook hands with Zinhloso's grandmother.
She smiled, "yes, these things are important.
They can't be discussed over the phone."
"Yes!" They all agreed.
Granny looked at Xulu, "my grandson told me
what happened. Can I hear from your side? I
heard over the phone that the children had
broken up and we weren't informed. Why did
you do that, Xulu? You treated my
granddaughter like a child who's an orphan.
Who has no family. Were you going to do the
same if Mnguni was still alive?"
Xulu was ashamed from his seat. He knew he
wouldn't have done that if Mnguni was alive, "I
am really sorry, not only to you gogo but to the
entire Mnguni family. Things happened fast, we
didn't get time to think and act right. We've
wronged not only our former daughter in-law
but her ancestors. Our hearts were also
bleeding because of how our granddaughter
died but that doesn't mean we blame
MaMnguni for it."
"We hear you. Can I know about the cows?"
Granny moved forward after looking at her son-
in-law's brother and he nodded in acceptance.
"We got a call from Mzomubi that the two cattle,
the bull and cow were at Mnguni's home. We
went there and it was true," Xulu explained to
the old woman, "the cattle had been going there
every day without fail and they would come
back in the morning. My son had to repair
MaNtuli's gate because when they found the
gate locked, they wrecked the gate. Mzomubi
ended up convincing his mother to let them
stay because they were only sleeping there. We
don't know if you can have clarity for us as an
elder."
Granny was really hurt by this, "ey, I was sad
when I got a call from my grandson telling me
about this. My granddaughter has experienced
a lot of pain because of your son, Xulu." She
glared at Mhlabunzima and he only looked
down, "ihluphekile ingane yomtanami kakhulu.
She was almost killed trying to build a legacy
for his children." Granny pointed at
Mhlabunzima, "she was going up and down,
trying to hide his daughter to keep her safe
from the authorities because of his political life,
"She was manhandled by police men because
of him. It's a lot and the first thing he did was
kick her out." She looked at Mhlabunzima, "what
did you do for her as appreciation for everything
she did for you? Looking after not only your
child but your parents in your absence?"
"I gave her a fresh start. I didn't just leave her
stranded, gogo. I was also blinded by pain to
even think of compensating her."
Mnguni's brother shook his head, "yey, udlalile
ngentandokazi kamfowethu. I am really sad for
Zinhloso because what's upsetting is that you
took her knowingly what kind of parents she
had. What shocked you about what her mom
did?"
"I was shocked by her going back to her mom
with my child. I thought of the future we would
have with such a woman as a grandmother to
our children."
"You didn't think of that future before you made
her pregnant? Her mother ensured she didn't
even stay with me when she chased her out. Did
you forget what kind of woman she is? If she
hated her own child. Why did you think she
would love yours?" Granny shouted at
Mhlabunzima.
Esther couldn't hold her tears back. She stood
up and walked out. She left silence in the hut.
"Go and call your mother, we can't have this
meeting without her." Granny instructed and
Xulu opted to call his wife. He returned with her
once she was calm.
"Mhlabunzima?"
"Gogo?"
"When did you get a chance to mate with
Zinhloso because I heard you ended things with
her the very same day you came back?"
Granny's question took everyone's off guard,
even the people who were with her who knew
what was happening were taken off guard.
"I don't understand your question, gogo."
"What's there not to understand? Do you want
me to speak in English?" She shouted at him.
He clenched his jaws. How on earth did she find
out about that? Did Zinhloso tell her? Why was
that an issue? She was still his fianceé back
then, "I was with her the previous night before I
learnt about the death of Qophelo." He could
see the elders were confused by this response
but he wasn't willing to explain further. "Why are
you asking, gogo?"
"The cows sleeping in the yard, they're reporting
pregnancy. They might sleep there until she
gives birth," granny broke the news and the
news cut deep in the bowels of the Xulu family.
Mhlabunzima was most confused, "did she tell
you that, gogo?"
"No, it seems she doesn't know about it. You
would know by now if she knows. I didn't even
want to ask her. I wanted to talk to your family
first," granny responded.
Xulu looked at Mhlabunzima, "where and how
did you meet Mhlabunzima? She told us she's
visiting her grandmother."
"She wasn't honest. I found her alone in the
house." He answered - he didn't get why it's
even important for his father to understand
'where and how?' His head was buzzing and all
this was not making sense at all.
"Oh, Jehovah, ingane yomuntu!" Esther shook
her head.
He looked at granny, "but gogo, I went to the
pharmacy and bought a root to prevent any
mistake of conception from happening."
"That guy I hired was making a lot of mistakes. I
ended up firing him. He might have made a
mistake and gave you something wrong with
the correct instructions," Mzomubi answered
instead.
He shut his eyes and his eyes were suddenly
hot, the salty waters came out fast. He looked
down. Life was against him. He was supposed
to be happy but he wasn't happy at all.
"Why didn't you bring Zinhloso?" Esther asked,
normally news of pregnancy made everyone
happy but this one - nobody seemed to be
happy about it. Esther wasn't happy either.
"It was our mistake. We were supposed to bring
her."
"Can you call her Mzomubi? I want to see her. I
will bring some food for the elders while you go
call her and go get her for me." Esther pleaded.
Mzomubi looked at his grandmother and she
nodded, "Mhlabunzima?"
They both stood up and went to Mhlabunzima's
house. "Does she have a telephone?"
Mhlabunzima asked.
"Yes." He dialled the mind. He knew it.
"Hello?"
"Why do you sound down?"
"I am tired and I don't have an appetite."
"Zinhloso, you are allowing your body to control
you. Are you even working as you should? Did
Mthuthuzeli come today? I saw him and he said
he would come."
"Yes, I woke up and worked. Mthuthuzeli did
come around with his siblings and kids, so I
tried to eat with them. It's not like I haven't
eaten anything."
He sighed, "eish, alright, can you kindly come to
the village?"
"Forget about it. I am not coming!"
"You haven't heard why I am asking you to
come-"
Mhlabunzima interjected, "aren't you going to
fetch her?" He couldn't hold himself. He was
highly annoyed by Mzomubi asking if
Mthuthuzeli came - where? To that very same
house he shared with her.
"Are you with Mhlabunzima? What's going on
Mzomubi?" She raised her voice.
"We're at his home we're discussing the issue
of his cows sleeping at home. His mother
wants to see you."
"See me? Why? I have nothing to do with
Mhlabunzima's cows sleeping at home."
"Actually, you do! Amgithi his cows are
reporting that the two of you decided it's best to
make another baby-" he was distributed by
Mhlabunzima again.
"Mzomubi, come on! Couldn't you have told her
decently?" He shouted.
He ignored him, "his mother wants to see you.
You need to get here."
"Lalela, I am not pregnant and I don't want to
see any of them."
Mzomubi handed the telephone to
Mhlabunzima, "ey, awukhulume naye.
Niyangicika nobabili!" (Talk to her, you both
annoy me) he walked out.
"Zinhloso-"
"I am not going to come and I am not pregnant.
You know what happened right? So, please!"
He sat on the edge of the sofa, "if you can get
here you'll understand what's happening. Please,
come."
"No, wangixosha kini. Ngizokwenzani manje
khona? Ngeke uphinde ungibone khona."
"I didn't chase you out. I ended things with you
and so, what do you mean by you'll never come
here again?" He raised his voice, he hated that
stupid worker Mzomubi hired, "where are you
going to give birth to that child?"
"I am not pregnant! And even if I am! I won't give
birth lapho kini. You chose Lilly over me
because you long wanted to go back to her,"
she screamed at him, "you wasted my time
kanti you know which woman you really want. I
was a fool for years, you long wanted an excuse
to dump me, losing my child was the best
excuse for you. Please, go consult about your
cows and leave me alone."
"This is about Lilly? Your anger is about her?"
"Voetsek!" She screamed and put the phone
down.
Mhlabunzima was shocked, he'd never received
such an outburst from her. She'd never insulted
him, not even as a joke.
Mhlabunzima went back to the hut. They were
all eating the food his mother served. He sat
back on his seat.
"Do these two cows have any significance?
Male and female?" Xulu asked granny.
"I wouldn't know I wouldn't lie. You can further
consult to learn more truth. Mzomubi will take
me to his sister. I will talk to you after seeing
her," granny promised and they were relieved.
"What did her mother say?"
"She didn't say anything but we can tell she's
not happy about it." Mzomubi answered. They
concluded that Zinhloso needed to be informed
first and she can come to see Esther after that.

Granny got out of the car and she looked

around the beautiful yard. She was amazed -
this boy really found this place for the sake of
keeping his relationship with Zinhloso going?
Why did he easily break things off with her after
so many things they'd been through?
"It's beautiful, isn't?" Mzomubi asked.
She nodded with a smile, "it's really beautiful
and what is that building for? The one by the
gates?"
"It's her skin chemist. She'll sell every skin
product there. Let's go and see inside," he knew
it wasn't locked because she said she did work.
He led granny inside. "She built it closer to the
gates so people won't be actually forced to
enter to get help."
"Oh, like your father's pharmacy?"
"Yes, it's four rooms. The room where she'll be
cooking creams and concontions, a storeroom
for all the herbs and any work material, and
actual chemist where products will be displayed
and a small consulting room in case someone
wants to talk about their skin issue."
He took her into all the rooms. The bigger room
was where products would be displayed - it was
painted white and the shelves were brown.
"I am really proud of her. She learnt from her
father and she'll live through her knowledge."
Granny was emotional. This child had come a
long way - very long way and she was here.
Where she never thought she would be.
"The two of you learnt a lot from your father
because if you also didn't learn. That pharmacy
was going to die the minute your father died,"
she said as they walked out of the chemist. She
was proud.
She was standing on the veranda waiting for
them to come up to her. She walked out when
she heard their voice after hearing the car drive
through. When she received a telephone call
from Mhlabunzima and Mzomubi, she was
really pissed by her brother and family. Why
didn't they call her first before lifting their big
heads and heading to the Xulu family? She
hated what they did.
"Ntombazane!" Granny hugged Zinhloso tightly,
"I am really proud of you. You're hardworking
and you'll prosper in everything."
"Thank you, gogo."
"Let's go to the bedroom and leave your brother
here." She held her hand and pulled her to the
bedroom, "Mzomubi told you about the meeting
we had this morning?"
"Yes, he called."
She could already see that she was really
pregnant. She pointed the bed, "get on the bed
and take off your shirt."
Zinhloso got on the bed and she took off her
shirt, "why didn't you call me first, gogo? Why
did you go to them without telling me first?"
"I didn't want to stress you in case you're not
really pregnant. I didn't want you to have hope
you'll get back together with him because of
pregnancy," Granny explained and she started
pressing on her belly, lower belly. It was no
longer flat.
"He doesn't want me anymore and he has paid
ilobolo for his baby mama. Why would I have
hope he would get back together with me?" She
asked, she was really down and it was because
of the meeting.
"I didn't know you know about that and I didn't
know you've accepted the situation." She said
and proceeded to press, she was feeling the
baby, "can you feel the movements?"
"Yes, I can."
She closed her eyes and paid attention as she
pressed, "awu, Jehovah! Zimbili zigcwele isisu!"
"Two, gogo?" She raised her voice and her head.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, I am sure. Zinhloso, Mhlabunzima came
back early January and this means you're
starting your fourth month. Haven't you been
feeling the babies' movements, sisi?" She asked,
softly.
"I have."
She removed her hands from her belly, "and you
kept quiet?" She shouted and Zinhloso didn't
say anything, "how long has been since you felt
you had a baby with you?"
"It's been a month now."
"Zinhloso!" She screamed.
"Who was I supposed to tell? It's not like there's
anyone who was going to be happy about it.
Even I am not happy about it and worse, I am
going to carry two babies. My body is small
gogo," Zinhloso complained to her grandmother.
She held her hand, "don't be sad about it. It's a
beautiful gift and it'll mend your broken heart. I
am not saying it'll replace Qophelo but you
won't get to live alone in this yard. You'll have
people you'll send to fetch water for you."
"Who's going to take care of my needs during
pregnancy, gogo? I have been pregnant before
and I got through it because he was with me
every step of the way until I brought the baby
into the world." She asked, these questions had
been bothering her and Mthuthuzeli had
promised to support her. She knew it wasn't
going to be the same. He wasn't the father.
"Already, I have needs that I can't provide for
myself. I can be able to do other things but
what about emotional and physical needs?"
"I understand you, my child but he should
provide all those needs because he's the father
of the children. If you need comfort, seek it
from him."
"He's another woman's fiancé."
Granny pointed at her belly, "and those kids are
not another man's kids but his. This means
another man shouldn't in anyway take care of
any of your needs, especially physical needs. He
might even be sick if he does." Granny hugged
Zinhloso tightly. She was relieved about one
thing - she was no longer crying. She'd cried
enough.
"Are you still going to school?"
"No, I stopped two weeks back. I reported the
matter and stopped."
"You'll go back next year, don't worry."
"Thank you," she smiled as she hugged her
again - brushing her back. She'd planned that
she was going to carry on with her life and her
pregnancy without involving Mhlabunzima. But
her granny went forward and told the entire
family!
UMCEBO

Chapter 212
That night - when Ziwinile was done packing all
her clothes and her shoes. She sat on her desk -
she had a desk inside her hut where she did her
work. She installed a telephone in her hut,
Cynthia and the third wife were only wives
allowed to use her telephone.
She called home. She was angry and her anger
was making her cry. What was unbelievable for
her was his parents seeing nothing with what
he did. How did being a wife mean you
deserved to be punished or disciplined?
"Ziwinile, what's wrong?" Mzomubi luckily
answered the phone. He couldn't hear a thing
from his sister because she was crying. "Talk to
me!"
"He slapped me, Mzomubi."
"He did, what?" He growled.
Ziwinile didn't stop crying, "yes, I didn't cook
tonight and so, I got a slap for not cooking and
for telling him to ask his other wives. I am tired
of this life I am living Mzomubi. I want to come
back home,
"I told his parents and they didn't see anything
wrong with it. His father asked me if my dad
didn't do such a thing to my mom."
Mzomubi was triggered and he was very
relieved when he heard her saying she wanted
to come back home. "I am coming now. Have
you packed your clothes?"
"Yes, I have packed everything."
"Stay in your hut I will come."
She put the phone down and started cleaning
around. She didn't want to leave a mess and
when she was done she swept the floor. She
was startled by a violent knock on the door.
"MaMnguni, why haven't you started cooking?
Didn't you hear what I said to you?" Bhekani
shouted as he kept banging the door, "why are
you disrespecting me? Have you found a new
man? Open the door."
"I won't open that door!"
"Do you want me to break it?" His scream was
heard by the whole yard.
Cynthia decided to come out of her house and
she stood closer to Bhekani, "why are you
bothering her? What will be wrong if you don't
eat her food tonight?"
"Don't get involved. She's my wife and not our
wife," he said and kept pushing the door using
his body. He wanted to drag her to the kitchen
once the door was down. Tonight, it was going
to be her and him, he was going to ensure she
won't go to work the next day.
Cynthia saw a car parking outside the gate and
Bhekani was too busy to see it. He was trying to
break the door.
"I don't ask for much from you but only food
and you fail to give me food just like you're
failing to give me children," he grunted and
pushed the door hard.
"So, you think it's better to break the door? Isn't
it enough that you've slapped her?" Mzomubi
was standing behind Bhekani.
He was forced by Mzomubi's presence to stop
what he was doing, "what are you doing here so
late, sbari?" Bhekani tried to smile but
Mzomubi's face wasn't friendly.
"I am here to take my sister. One thing we won't
tolerate is you hitting her."
"She's not going anywhere. I paid full amount of
cows for ilobolo and there's nowhere you're
taking her!" He stood his ground but Mzomubi
wasn't moved.
He knocked on the door, "Ziwinile, it's me. Open
the door and we'll go home." He spoke softly
with her. He couldn't believe this man wanted to
subject her to the very same thing their mother
went through.
She came to the door and she opened up, that's
where the fight began. Bhekani wanted to pull
her away from Mzomubi and Mzomubi was
fighting to keep her by his side. Mzomubi was
ticked off and he sent the punch flying to
Bhekani.
"You hit your helpless wife, you coward. Why
don't you face men if you are hungry for blood?"
Mzomubi held Ziwinile's hand and he went back
inside the hut with her. He grabbed one of her
bags.
Bhekani went crazy when he saw bags and he
ran after them to the gates, "Mzomubi, are you
crazy? Where have you seen things being done
like this?"
"If I don't take her now I will take her in a coffin,"
he opened the front door for his sister and he
locked the car.
Bhekani held him by his collar when he was
trying to go back into the yard. The fight began
between the brothers-in-law.
Ziwinile saw this as an opportunity to go back
for some of her bags. She went inside
unnoticed because they were focused on
fighting.
"Cynthia, can you help me? We'll just put the
bags by the gate. He won't see you helping me."
Cynthia walked inside the hut with Ziwinile. "He
won't do anything to me!"
They transported all the five bags and left them
by the gates while the two men were still
fighting.
"Mzomubi, leave him!" Ziwinile screamed, she
was having courage to scream because her
bags were all in the car.
Mzomubi kicked Bhekani down.
"Get in the car I will get the bags!"
She rushed to hold his arm, "I have taken all the
bags. Let's go!"
He grabbed her hand as Bhekani was trying to
stand, they stepped inside the car and he drove
off, leaving the dust hitting Bhekani. He forced
himself up and screamed after the car.
"MaMnguni!" He screamed but the car
disappeared from his eyes and he couldn't
believe it. Her brother had really taken her? He
was going to get her back. No matter what the
situation.
That night, Ziwinile slept with her mother inside
her father's house. She was really shaken by
what happened. It brought back bad memories
and she was grateful for her brother. He didn't
tell her to stay because she was a wife but he
came and saved her. She was able to sleep
through the night. Things changed pretty fast.
***
He'd been busy working and he even forgot that
he was supposed to go to a traditional healer.
He went home first.
"Mama?" He stood next to Esther in the garden -
he took the rake and started helping his mother
out.
"Yes?"
"Can you please be the one to request
Zinhloso's telephone number from her brother?"
He pleaded with his mother.
"Why can't you do it?"
"He won't agree. I know."
"You need to try and get what he'll say. Why
can't you go to her?"
"I want to call her first. She might not welcome
me." He focused on working as his mother
wasn't saying anything. He was in a position
where he wished he waited until he was certain
there was no child. What kind of life was his
child going to live? She/he was going to live far
from him in another village with Zinhloso alone.
What would happen if Zinhloso found a man?
Or better yet - what if she had a man already?
Mthuthuzeli! Was she going to engage in sexual
pleasure with his baby inside her? She was
going to do everything she used to do to him to
another man? And maybe this man wouldn't
even refuse when she wants to put him inside
her mouth. He was pissed.
He thought of the time when Mthuthuzeli was
at the supermarket. Zinhloso was there -
vomiting. It was because of his baby and he
denied her a bottle of water. When did he
become so cruel to a woman he'd been with?
This means he showed cruelty to his own child.
Esther stopped working as Mzomubi greeted
them. She'd been hoping they would call and tell
her how it went with Zinhloso. "Mnguni, you
came?"
"Yes, I thought I was going to pass yesterday
because I called last night it didn't go through."
"Maybe it was disconnected by mistake."
Mhlabunzima responded.
Mzomubi's eyes were focused on Esther, "gogo
said I should tell you that we went to Zinhloso
that day."
"And?"
"She's really pregnant and it's two babies."
"Two?" They exclaimed in unison.
"Just like her aunt Lindo," Esther commented.
"Yes, it's two. Gogo said Mhlabunzima should
take her to the doctor. So, they'll check if
everything is alright since she once tried to kill
herself."
His heart skipped a beat - what if something
bad happened to the children? And how did they
survive the poison? It didn't matter he was
thankful they survived because it was going to
be more painful to learn they were there without
anyone's knowledge. "can you give me her
number?"
"She didn't agree to that. You know where she
lives, make an appointment and go take her.
She's no longer going to school," he said and
turned to Esther, "that's all, I will leave now."
"Thank you, son."
Esther turned to Mhlabunzima once Mzomubi
was gone, "as soon as tomorrow, make that
appointment and go see a Doctor."
"Yebo!"
Esther clicked her tongue and left the garden.
Mhlabunzima finished up for her and he went to
take a bath after.
He drove to the traditional healer - he wanted to
go back to that man whom Robert and Dludla
once took him to but Robert said he passed
away a year ago.
The traditional healer took his time staring at
Mhlabunzima and he shook his head, "uyabona
onke lamanyundululu owenze kunina wengane
yakho le esilele kobandayo. Awayinikile ukulala
ngokuthula ingane." (What you did to your late
child's mother is troubling your child's spirit)
"What should I do to fix that?" He asked, he was
pained by this revelation, already, he was
regretting his actions because of the coming
babies.
"You're a man you'll have to realise on your own.
I don't give solutions to things people did
impulsively. If you are a man, always think
before you act. I understand it was grief and
pain but you took it out on the wrong person."
He took out a 2ltr of concoction and put it
before him. "Uzimisele ngampela ngalo
omthatha manje?" (You really have good
intentions with your current woman?)
"Yes! I have thought it through."
He nodded but he felt sorry for him, "take this
for your manhood problem. I am not certain
that this will help you because it seems your
problem is deeper."
"Deeper in what sense?"
"It's not clear to me. You might need to go to a
prophet at least because sometimes things are
hidden to us dilibarately."
Mhlabunzima clapped hands and took the
concontion after paying. He left, he wasn't
going to punish himself with enema injection
while he was told the problem seemed to be
deep. He couldn't understand what was going
on. Why wasn't his manhood working? What
would he be without the function of his
manhood? He was very unhappy.
UMCEBO

Chapter 213

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

Bhekani and his mother followed each other

into the Mnguni family home. Mrs Bhengu was
very angry that Ziwinile called her brother and
they left at night. She wanted to go to the
Mnguni home early in the morning but Bhekani
had to go to work. He couldn't accompany his
mother.
They found Mrs Mnguni seated under the tree.
They greeted each other and sat down. Bhekani
sat on the chair and his mother sat on the straw
mat.
"What has brought you?" Mrs Mnguni asked
mother and son.
Mrs Bhengu looked at Mrs Mnguni, "I was
expecting that maybe you'll bring your daughter
back to her marital home."
"And why was I going to do that?"
"She's married and what she did is disrespectful.
What will people say?"
Mrs Mnguni laughed, "why didn't you say that
when your son hit her? My child is not going
back to your son. It's over between them.
Ziwinile did the right thing by coming to you.
She told you what's happening. Wavuna ingane
yakho. Ufuna yenze ingane yami isgubhu
saseziyoni?"
"Ziwinile is married and she was wrong not to
cook for her husband. She wasn't even
remorseful about it." Mrs Bhengu argued and
MaNtuli only shook her head. She couldn't
understand why this woman wasn't seeing
anything wrong with this.
"She's my wife. I gave you cows for her!"
Mrs Mnguni clapped once, "these boys of today,
that's what you know. Boasting about cows. Did
you hit her because of your cows?" She shouted,
she was pleased because they found her better
and thus she was able to face them, "listen my
boy, come and take your cattle. I won't even
notice that you've taken them. They're still as
they're, they didn't give birth not to even one
calf."
"Things are not done like that MaNtuli!"
"I love your daughter and if what I did is wrong, I
am sorry. Can she come back?" Bhekani tried to
calm down because MaNtuli was angry.
"No, she doesn't want you anymore. You don't
treat someone you love the way you did with my
child," she pointed at the gates, "please leave,
come back when you're back for your cattle."
They tried to talk things through but she
showed them the gates. She told them there
was nothing to fix. She was angry because they
didn't even see anything wrong with what he did.
They wanted her daughter back so he'll
continue abusing her. She would be a fool to
send her back.

Mrs Bhengu was very angry as they walked out

of the premises. She didn't want Ziwinile to
leave as a daughter-in-law. She liked her and
she was useful, she was able to help out with
whatever that was needed to be fixed at home.
She took care of her very well as a daughter-in-
law. That closed the gap of her not getting
children. She was regretting not siding with her.
It was clear the slap was a problem.
They met up with Ziwinile, she was coming
from work. She was carrying her bag. She
greeted out of respect but she was ticked off by
seeing Bhekani.
"MaMnguni, you're a wife kwaBhengu.
Wathelwa ngenyongo. What you did was
uncalled for. To involve your family in your
marital affairs." Mrs Bhengu shouted at Ziwinile.
"Mama, I am tired and I am not even giving birth.
It was better when there was Cynthia and the
third wife but the last two? They don't even
know who I am." Ziwinile argued, "I don't want
him anymore. He has children everywhere."
"That's your fault! If you were able to give me
children I would have never had children with
any other woman!" Bhekani raised his voice.
Ziwinile looked at his mom and pointed at
Bhekani, "can you hear that? I won't stay for that.
Always being told I am barren. I will file for
divorce. Thank you."
Bhekani looked at her with sorry eyes as she
walked away. He couldn't believe she really
didn't want him anymore.
***
"Sanibonani, mama?" Lily greeted Esther. She
was seated on the straw mat sorting out sugar
beans. She was by the door of the kitchen hut
outside. Lily sat on the straw mat with Esther.
Esther glanced at her, "yebo, how are you?" She
focused back on the tray of sugar beans.
"I am fine and how are you doing?"
"I am well."
"I am here for Zodumo's father but it seems like
he's not home. I couldn't find him at the
supermarket." She said she wasn't sure if
Esther suddenly didn't like her or if she was just
in a bad mood.
"He's not home."
"Can I help you?" She asked and she was
expecting she was going to reject her but
Esther allowed her to help, "I am always
available if you need any help since I will be
your daughter-in-law and Ngenzeni will be
leaving soon."
"Aren't you working?"
"Zodumo's father said I should stop working so
I am always home now. You can call and I will
come," Lily responded.
"Alright. Now, tell me?"
"Yebo!"
"Why is the child no longer coming home? I am
always seeing you up and down but Zodumo is
no longer coming home," Esther asked.
Mhlabunzima's van drove through the gates.
Lily looked down, she wasn't even aware that
Zodumo wasn't coming home anymore. "I
wasn't aware, mama. I will bring her home but I
think it's school. She's repeating the grade so
her father hired someone who'll help her after
school."
"What's wrong with school?"
"It seems she's a slow learner. She'd always
been slow as a child, to grasp things. She was
able to listen to me because I was always soft
when speaking to her." Lily explained to Esther.
"Why didn't you tell us she's struggling with
school? She's doing which class?"
"She's doing Standard 1 for the third time this
year."
"Where did you give birth?"
She frowned, "I gave birth at the hospital."
"Weee, Jehovah!"
She looked at Mhlabunzima as he greeted them.
"I am here to talk to you." She informed him.
"Okay, let's go to the house." He pointed up and
Lily stood up. He stopped walking as his mother
told him to stop.
"Mama?"
"Did you make an appointment with the
Doctor?" She asked.
"Yes, I did. It's tomorrow at 2pm. I will go to her
a bit earlier." He informed his mother and she
nodded with a smile. He headed to Lily. He was
really hoping they were not going to talk about
the issue of their sex life. He wasn't in the mood
to talk about it. He didn't understand a penis
that reacted only when he thought about his
times with Zinhloso. He tried thinking of his
other times with his previous exes and nothing
would happen. It rang to him that he got to
experience the best sex life with Zinhloso
because he had the knowledge from the porn
magazines.
"Why does it look like you're upset?"
Mhlabunzima asked Lilly. He sat next to her on
the two seater sofa and he pulled her in
between his legs.
Her head laid on his chest and she smiled. She
loved it when he was showing affection. It was
such little things that made her miss him and
that made her even wish to use a spell on him
back then.
"No, I am not upset but I am sad about the
cows." She sulked.
He didn't like talks about cows because it
seemed cows brought stress into his life.
Whenever there was a mention of a cow he
knew it would be bad news. "What's wrong with
the cows?"
"My father had cows in his cattle pen, you know
that right?"
"Yes, how many did he have before I brought
mine?"
"We had twelve cows left. Three of my father's
cattle died three days in a row," she indeed told
Mhlabunzima about something stressful,
relating to cattle.
"What do you think it's wrong?"
"We don't know but it's really strange. Mom
doesn't want to consult because she says
traditional healers are liars and they'll tell her
lies." She responded.
Mhlabunzima was defeated, the woman was
married to a traditional healer and suddenly,
they were liars? He couldn't understand her
logic. "I am really clueless about what's going
on then and it's bad because your mom doesn't
want to consult. You should go behind her back
if you have the courage."
"You're right. I will find the courage and do that."
She smiled and placed her hand on his chest,
"and what about our problem? Did you make the
means to fix it?"
Her voice was the sweetest and back then, he
didn't need much. He needed her seductive talk
and it would be action. But now - it was
stressful.
"Ey, I have tried my best but it's not working
out." He didn't expect she would be asking
about improvements so early.
"Did you even try to go see someone about it?"
She asked.
Mhlabunzima could hear from the sound of her
voice that she was annoyed. Things were good
when they were not talking about sexual
intercourse but when it was about it. Lily would
change and be someone different. He could
understand she was frustrated but she wasn't
more understanding. He expected
understanding from her. "Yes, I did and they
gave me medication but there's no
improvement since I started taking it."
"Hhayi, kunesandla semfene!" (It seems like
another person's doing)
"What do you mean?"
"I am sure someone did this to you because
they're jealous since you're moving one with
your life."
He didn't think of this, "who's that and why?" He
asked.
"Who else? It's Zinhloso!"
Mhlabunzima pushed her away from him and
he went to his bedroom. Lily followed him, "I am
trying to ignore you."
"Think about it, any woman could be hurt by
how things turn out between you and her. It's
really her." Lily tried to make him see the bigger
picture.
"Udakiwe! Uyangizwa ukuthi ngithini, udakiwe!"
He kept cursing and walked out of the house.
He left her alone.
UMCEBO

Chapter 214

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

After their argument about Zinhloso, Lily didn't

sleep over but she left. Mhlabunzima didn't stop
her from leaving.
"Are you leaving already?" Esther asked
Mhlabunzima. He'd just finished having his
breakfast.
"Yes, I will pass at the supermarket and drive to
her. I hope she'll be willing to go with me," he
gulped his tea down.
Xulu was looking at his son, "you'll have to beg
until she agrees. Go, you might need more time
to beg."
He glared at his sister as she laughed at him. "I
hope you'll find someone who'll also laugh at
you emzini wakho uma sezikunetha." He said
goodbye and walked out, leaving Ngenzeni
laughing louder than before.
On his way to Zinhloso, he couldn't stop
thinking about what Lily said about Zinhloso.
What were the possibilities? He could only have
an erection whenever he thought of Zinhloso
and no one else. Did that mean anything? He
strongly believed it was because they had a
better sex life and there was nothing more to it.
It couldn't be something more, Zinhloso
wouldn't do such a thing to him. Would she
even think of something like this? He was very
confused but he was starting to believe that
maybe someone did this to him. He only didn't
want to believe that it was Zinhloso.
'IKHEMISI LESIKHUMBA' his eyes were
attracted to the big words on the white board.
The words were written in blue and there were
designs of creams and plants next to the big
words.
"Oh, she's finally decided to go for it," he spoke
alone and there was a small lip curve. He shook
his head, this was the same woman that was
said to be lazy. He was suddenly attacked by
tight chest pains. They were really good
together. With her, he'd scored a big time. He'd
found an ambitious woman something that was
rare to find in the village. Women in the village
aspired to be someone's wife and give birth to
children.
"It doesn't matter, life happened." He said and
stepped out of the car. He'd parked the car
before the gate. It was locked and the lock was
different. "She really doesn't want me here. Why
did she change the locks?" He went to the lady
who was working at the chemist. He waited for
the two people who were buying to leave.
He greeted, "my name is Mhlabunzima Xulu, I
am the father of your boss lady's kids. I am here
to see her. Can you kindly open the gates for
me?"
She smiled with a blush, "oh, chwane, it's you! I
will open." She rushed out and opened the gate
for him.
He hooted once and drove through. He parked
the car before the house. He looked at the
changes around the yard before knocking on
the door.
"Mthuthuzeli, is that you? Come in!"
He heard a weak voice and he wished he could
kick the door down. "Mthuthuzeli, wenja!" He
said in a low tone and opened the door. He
opened the windows. The kitchen was clean but
it was hot and stuffy.
He opened the bedroom. Zinhloso was under
the bed covers, looking weak. He didn't need to
be told that something wasn't right with her.
"Sawubona," he opened the curtains and
windows, he could clearly see her with the light
invading the room.
"Yebo!" She looked at him, she wasn't expecting
him.
He stood by her side, "what's wrong? You don't
look good. Are you sick?"
"I don't have energy."
"We're going to the Doctor. I am sure she'll be
able to recommend something that's safe. That
will give you energy." He placed the back of his
hand on her forehead. Her temperature was
high.
"How will I get off this bed? I need to bath, eat,
iron my clothes and dress up."
He turned to her bathing tub and placed it on
the empty space in the bedroom, "it's important
that we go for a check-up. I found a Doctor who
has a scan. We have an appointment." He left
her and went to the kitchen. He cooked up
water for her on the stove. He opened the fridge,
he wasn't capable of making her any proper
meal except for a sandwich.
He was aggressive with everything he was
doing as he realised - actually - Mthuthuzeli
could cook. Did this mean he was the one
helping her up whenever she had no energy?
He mixed water on the bucket and he headed to
the bedroom with the bucket. Her bath towel
and the soap, closer to the tub and her big towel
on the bed.
He took off his shoes and moved to the bed.
His knee on the bed, "let's get up," his hands
disappeared into her underarms and he helped
her sit on the bed.
"Didn't you realise you were pregnant all along?"
He asked and undid the buttons of her pajama
top. He was standing in between her dangling
legs.
"I did."
"You knew you were pregnant?" He stepped
back and stared into her eyes and Zinhloso only
nodded, "how and why didn't you tell me? How
did you know?"
"I felt the baby's movements and realised my
periods had completely stopped." She lifted her
legs as Mhlabunzima was taking off her pants.
"You hate me, Zinhloso?"
She widened her eyes at him, "I hate you? Aren't
you the one who said you wanted nothing to do
with me?"
"I am sorry I said that but our babies have
nothing to do with things that happened
between us -" he was cut off by her. He could
see that she wanted to shout at him but she
didn't have the energy to shout.
"You denied me water! Just water,
Mhlabunzima. Your goddamn supermarket has
a water tank because of me and you refused
with your water. Why was I supposed to tell you
that I am pregnant?" Her voice was shaking and
she was angry, she wanted to scream but she
was incapable of screaming. "Were you going
to accept the pregnancy if it didn't come out the
way it did?"
"Of course, what do you take me for? We had
sex, nothing was guaranteed to go as planned."
He argued, "you were going to give me no
choice, whether I accept or deny. If you were far
I wasn't going to know I have children," he
looked at her and he waited for her to say
something. An apology but she didn't apologize.
He lifted her up and put her inside the tub.
"I can bath myself."
He didn't hand the towel and soap over to her
shaking hands. He grabbed the small chair, sat
down and bathed her.
He was very angry, even his breathing had
changed. He couldn't understand why what
happened between them involve the children.
That was a heartless plan. She was probably
going to tell the kids he hated them without him
knowing about them. He calmed down and
smiled as he felt a movement the minute he
washed her pregnancy belly.
He left her on the water and made the bed for
her. He placed the big towel on the bed and he
lifted her off the water.
"I can't cook. I will make bread for you."
"There are pots inside the fridge. Please warm
up that food."
He gave her the body lotion, "try and apply the
lotion. I will take the water out."
He quickly warmed up the food on low and went
back to the bedroom while it was still on the
stove. He opened her wardrobe and took out a
floral dress. Zinhloso was still applying lotion
on her body. He ironed the dress after mopping
the water off the floor where she was bathing.
He gave her top skin and the dress. He left her
dressing up. When the food was warm, he
served her food. "I made glucose for you. You'll
drink it after eating, maybe you'll be better."
"Thank you."
He left her eating. He sat outside. He was going
through a lot of emotions. He was reflecting on
many things and he realised there were many
things he couldn't change. He got back inside
the house when Zinhloso called him inside.
He took the dish and gave her the glucose. He
searched for the shoes and put her shoes on.
"Should I hold your hand or lift you up?"
"Hold my hand," she gave her hand over to him.
"I am sorry for all this that you're going through.
It'll pass and your hands will be full, soon,"
Zinhloso tightened her grip and they walked out
slowly.
He drove out of the premises and turned on the
radio. "So, it's good if Mthuthuzeli is looking
after you and not the actual father, who's
responsible for the pregnancy?" He glanced at
her after a long silence.
"Please, don't test me. It's better if we're both
quiet."
"I want to understand. Ayingiphathi kahle
emoyeni yonke lento eyenzekayo. You've been
pregnant before. I know how it gets for you."
She glared at him, "I am sure you're talking
about sex right now because that's all
important to you. Well, I am unlike you. I don't
jump from one relationship to the other without
letting go of the old relationship," her voice
slightly rose, her energy level was better.
"That's not true! I am not talking about sex only
but all the support you'll need. Like the state I
found you in," he argued.
She looked forward, "don't worry about me but
worry about your affairs."
"In case you didn't know, my children are my
affairs." He slapped his hands against the
steering and she remained quiet, "I think you
shouldn't live alone. You should come home
and mom will look after you better."
She chuckled, "in your dreams!"
They reached the medical centre in no time and
they walked in once it was their turn. She
pointed them to the examination table. He
helped her into the table by lifting her up.
The Doctor started examining her and asking
questions, "it seems like your vitals are not
great. Are you on an appropriate diet? Breakfast,
snack, lunch and supper?"
"No, but I do eat."
"You should have appropriate meals throughout
the day. Always remember, you're not alone.
You need energy and you can only get energy
from eating," the Doctor said and helped
Zinhloso lift her dress up, "daddy?" She smiled
sweetly at Mhlabunzima which annoyed
Zinhloso. She couldn't understand what all
these doctors saw in him. It was a white
woman this time around.
"Yes?" He stared at her with a hard face.
"Please, support mama during this time. You
both confirmed this is not your first pregnancy
so don't slack," she said and started doing the
ultrasound. "Women need all the support during
pregnancy."
"Yes, I will do that."
She smiled at the screen, "ah, haah! We're
having two little babies, congratulations
parents." She showed them, baby A and baby B,
and the visible body parts, "their hearts' beat are
good so that means at this stage there's
nothing I can say is wrong with them. I will ask
that you come back in six months and we'll take
another scan."
"Is there a possibility the poison affected
them?"
"It was pumped out of her system and they
survived so, the chances are slim," she
responded and wrote down prescription drugs
for Zinhloso. She handed the paper to
Mhlabunzima, "the medication to buy."
"Is there something that will give her energy in
this prescription?"
"Yes, but the best thing is to eat regularly.
Multiple pregnancies can be more critical so, do
regular checkups and look after yourself." She
looked at Zinhloso.

They walked out of the Doctor's office, they

were both relieved the babies were alright. They
didn't need to stress.
"What should I buy for you so you won't worry
about cooking?" Mhlabunzima asked Zinhloso
as he drove out of the medical centre.
"Anything that's not beef."
He drove to the station market and he bought
cooked food for her. He bought the best veggie
meal his mother once recommended on her
first pregnancy.
He was very relieved that everything was well
with both her and the babies.
"How does it feel to have two babies inside your
womb?" He placed the bowl of food before her.
She was seated on the kitchen table back in the
house.
She pulled the dish closer and started eating.
The veggie meal was more enjoyable than the
meat. She'd totally forgotten about it. "It's
different from the first time when I carried
Qophelo. I didn't realise they were two until
gogo said it."
"They're not annoying you like Qophelo used
to?"
She smiled shortly, "they do and sadly I have
nobody to complain to."
"I am really sorry about everything that
happened between us. I am sorry about the
hurtful words I said to you. I don't have an
excuse. There's no excuse for everything I did
to you since I got back," he said, softly and his
eyes were soft as they looked at her. She was
focused on her food but she was listening to
him, "I don't deserve your forgiveness and I
know it'll take time but I hope one day you'll find
it in your heart to forgive me."
There was silence after his words. "Can I have
fruit juice?" She requested once she was done
eating.
He gave her the juice and he gave her the
medication, "are you able to work? Please don't
force it when you can't."
"I work but at a slow pace."
He washed her dishes once she was done and
Zinhloso, tried to remember if she'd ever seen
him wash dishes before? She sat back on the
chair and watched - it showed that he was
doing something he hardly did.
He sat by her side of the bed after she was
seated under the bed covers on her sleepwear,
"can you please come and stay at home until
you're well. I am worried about you and your
capabilities to look after yourself in this state."
"I can't, I am fine here."
"It'll be until you're well and you'll come back,"
he pleaded but Zinhloso shook her head. "I will
hire someone who will look after you-"
"I am fine, Mhlabunzima!" She snapped. He was
getting on her last nerves because he was the
reason she was going through such a difficult
time. "Please, go. I want to sleep."
"Can I spend the night then? Just for tonight, to
ensure that you're well."
"No, I will be fine. Where were you the past
nights? Where will you be when two babies cry
for me here at night? You'll be stuck in between
the thighs of another woman. So, go, I will get
used to it."
Her words hit home but if only she knew. "Call if
you need anything," he walked out as he wasn't
hearing any response. He wasn't at peace as he
was leaving. What a difficult situation!
UMCEBO

Chapter 215

When Lily told her that Mhlabunzima wanted to

pay ilobolo, Maria wished she could fly. She
was overjoyed and she knew this was the
beginning of good things. She was going to get
a share of Mhlabunzima's wealth and she was
going to get it, bit by bit. She needed to be
smart about it. She needed to act right.
And her first act had been successful - she
heard from her brother that Mhlabunzima had
fired the boy who looked after his sheep. He'd
been making a lot of mistakes, slacking on the
job.
Aunt Maria called Lily to the Xulu high
homestead to have a conversation with her. She
had an agenda.
"How are you, my child? You look very
beautiful!" Maria complimented Lily. She was
dressed nicely and she could tell her clothes
were new.
She smiled, "yes, aunty, Zodumo's father is
taking good care of me. Did you know he asked
me to quit my job?"
"Really? And what did you do?"
"I decided to quit."
She laughed, "that's good, you'll live like a queen
now, you and your daughter."
"Yes, I owe it to you and so, whenever you need
anything don't hesitate to ask," Lily set a trap for
herself unknowingly.
That was music to Maria's ears. "Awu, I just
want to see my children happy. Why would I
want something in return?"
"Aybo, aunty, you made things possible and you
won't believe that we went to town yesterday
and he opened a bank account for me," she
couldn't believe that with her Standard 2, she
had a bank account and never had she thought
she would own a bank account. "He said that's
where he'll deposit money for me and Zodumo,
whenever I want to spoil myself."
Maria was envious. Why couldn't she also get
such a man like her nephew? She spent years
looking after her father and missed out on boys.
"That's a very good thing. I don't even know how
those things operate. Aren't you giving your
money to the white man?"
Lily laughed, "not really!" She was more than
willing to explain to aunt Maria how bank
accounts worked just like how Mhlabunzima
explained to her. "I should take you to the bank
and we'll open your account."
"Mine?"
"Yes, that's where I will deposit your money. You
should live a comfortable life because I am here
now because of you."
Maria smiled - things were going very well. She
did great by encouraging this child to go back to
Mhlabunzima, "I will be very happy. I called you
here for something."
"Yes?"
"I heard Mhlabunzima is looking for a new boy
who'll look after his sheep."
"Yes, that boy was no longer doing a good job.
He fired him, Zinhloso was the one who actually
hired that fool."
She shook her head, "mm, there's this young
boy who desperately needs a job. Can you
please suggest him to Mhlabunzima?"
"Who?"
Aunt Maria explained a sob story about how
this new guy desperately needed a job. She
needed to convince her why this boy was best
suitable and like that - Lily was convinced.
"Don't worry, he'll take him."
She smiled, "thank you child and please don't be
discouraged by Zinhloso carrying twins for him.
You'll also have more babies with him and the
difference will be - you'll be married and she'll
not be. You see? The tables have turned now."
Zehla izihlathi! The smile was wiped out of Lily's
face and aunt Maria could see she was
unhappy. She didn't know Lily was in the dark
about the pregnancy, "don't be sad and
remember, you should love these children."
"It's twins? He told me she's pregnant and didn't
explain further," she didn't want to embarrass
herself to his aunt. She wasn't supposed to
know that she didn't know about the pregnancy.
How and when? Why didn't he tell her about it?
"Yes, it's twins. I heard from my older sister who
went to the meeting with the Mnguni family."
Aunt Maria told her all about the Xulu cattle
sleeping at the Mnguni home.
She wanted to explode. Why didn't he tell her?
Why? "Oh, that's how they found out?" She was
pissed because Mhlabunzima lied to her. How
did he make babies with Zinhloso?
"Yes, you should show him you care about his
children, ask how Zinhloso is doing, how's the
pregnancy treating her. If you do that he'll love
you more," Aunt Maria gave Lily a tip. She
wanted her to win Mhlabunzima fully and leave
no stone unturned in his heart. She wanted
Zinhloso to be only a memory to Mhlabunzima.
Lily was rolling her eyes. She knew she would
never do that. Not when he lied to her about
having sex with Zinhloso. He spoke about years
without sex but the first thing he did, was to
sleep with her.
"Yes, I will do that. I should go now." She stood
up and left Maria. She didn't want to waste time.
She wanted to confront him.

He took the piece of paper with Zinhloso's

telephone number. He didn't ask for her number
but he took it without her knowing.
He dialled Zinhloso and waited patiently as it
rang. He smiled, relieved as the voice that was
greeting him was lively.
"I can tell you're better than yesterday."
"Mhlabunzima?"
"Yes, it's me. How are you doing this morning?"
"I am doing better than yesterday, thanks."
"That's a relief I was worried about you."
"I am well and so, there's nothing to worry about.
I woke better, I am even working today," she
informed him.
He couldn't stop smiling, "that's-"
"Mhlabunzima!"
He glared at Lily as she walked in with noise.
She kept quiet as soon as she realised she was
on the phone, "sorry about that."
"It's fine, let me not keep you since you have
company."
He pressed his eyes as Zinhloso disconnected
the call. "What's wrong?"
"I didn't mean to disturb you."
"What do you want?" He asked, impatiently.
"Why did you lie to me?"
"About?"
"About sex!"
Oh, sex, again! That was everything wrong
about this relationship. The fights about sex
and nothing more, nothing less. "What about it?"
"I heard Zinhloso is pregnant but you told me
that you haven't had sex in three years. Why did
you lie to me?" She raised her voice at him.
He realised that Lily never raised her voice at
him no matter what but when talking about sex.
She had no shame. She was really sexually
frustrated. He felt really bad because he was
the problem.
"It's different, she was my fianceé and I had
been away from her for three years and a few
months. So, being with her intimately had been
the first thing I was looking forward to," he
explained and he was annoyed that he was
explaining himself like this to her, "it happened
because I had been imagining it for years and
after that, I went through grief. It affected me."
"You shouldn't worry, things will go back to
normal after treatment. And don't be threatened
by the pregnancy, take it as your chance to give
back to Zinhloso,
"She loved your child like her own and now it's
your chance to return the favour since you'll be
married to me. The children will also be yours."
He closed his explanation.
Lily didn't have any more words to say to
Mhlabunzima after his explanation. She was
still not happy about it. This meant her children
will not be the only children who'd have a claim
over their father's wealth. There'll also be
Zinhloso's children. She couldn't pretend like
she's happy. She wasn't happy about it. She
was unhappy that Zinhloso got to have him
intimately and she was on probation, waiting for
something she wasn't sure whether it would be
treated or not.
"I am sure Zodumo will be happy about getting
more siblings," she managed to say and
Mhlabunzima smiled.
"I want to rest, come and rest with me," he
pulled her up and they went to the bedroom.

It was in the evening. They were about to close

the supermarket. Mhlabunzima was coming
back from ematshane. He went there to drop
the items he bought for Zinhloso. He didn't find
her home, her employee said she wasn't home.
She left in the morning. She didn't know where
she went. Mhlabunzima left wondering where
did she go.
He was at the back of the supermarket, the side
of the chickens. He'd been giving them water
and after he was done he decided to have a
smoke.
"Chwane, they said you're here."
Mhlabunzima looked back and dropped the
cigarette. It was a young woman from the
village. He greeted, "did you need anything from
me?"
"Yes, I want to buy some chickens." She was
smiling and gazing at him with rather seductive
eyes.
Mhlabunzima wasn't surprised. It wasn't the
first time. He knew pretty well that the lady had
a crush on him. He looked at her with soft eyes
as he was attacked by a thought, "how many
chickens?"
His voice got more charming for the young
woman. She giggled and moved closer to him.
They both kept strong eye contact. And to test
his problem, Mhlabunzima made the young
woman's fantasy a reality. He kissed her softly.
His hand laid on her chubby cheek and the kiss
deepened. It was a steamy and passionate kiss
but still - his manhood didn't react.
He imagined he was kissing Zinhloso - the
woman was short like her, curvy and chubby
like her that created a strong image in his mind
and so, he magically got an erection he wasn't
even expecting.
"Ah!" The young woman giggled and stepped
back after touching his bulge. He was wearing
shots and not jeans.
He chuckled. He was actually surprised that she
touched his penis. Lily didn't even know that
she was supposed to touch it! "What's wrong?"
He could feel it going back to it normal form as
the imagination had stopped.
"They said it's short and tiny like your height and
body." She was shy, suddenly.
She reminded him so much of his fierce
Zinhloso, whenever she acted shy. She looked
so cute. "Yea, that's what it does. It makes them
more jealous once they're no longer with me
and they would bad mouth me so no woman
would come closer to me."
"I wish I can come close to you." She giggled.
He laughed, "angeke ngafisa ukukufaka
esbalweni salaba besifazane abavele befise
ngathi umthondo wami ungathondoza bona
kuphela hhayi omunye umuntu wesimame." (I
wouldn't want to add you to the list of women
who'd be jealous and wish my penis only
worked on them, not other women.) He said
with a laugh, "and don't even convince me you
wouldn't be like them." He quickly stopped her
from further thinking they'd have a chance.
Maybe if his penis was working, they would
because Lily wasn't Zinhloso. She wouldn't
leave him because of another woman.
The woman laughed - she was being rejected in
style. What a man! "Two chickens, please!" She
gave him money.
UMCEBO

Chapter 216

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

"I honestly don't know what to do anymore

Robert. I learnt about pregnancy in April but I
had seen her only twice," Mhlabunzima
complained to Robert. They were seated on the
benches at the back of the supermarket. They
were having drinks and food Robert brought for
Mhlabunzima.
Robert was visiting to thank Mhlabunzima for
the support he gave him when he was getting
married. He was getting married to a young
woman he met at work. The young woman was
from the township. Robert was very happy.
"Can you see what you've done?"
He looked down, "I realised my mistake and I
admit that I took the decision out of hurt and
bitterness. This even made my daughter
unhappy in her resting place. I told her all this
when I was with her the second time. She knew
Qophelo was unhappy, she knew before me but
she kept quiet,
"She kept quiet because she wasn't unhappy
with her. I don't blame her, it's fine. I asked her
to come home because I was doing a ritual for
our daughter, to appease her spirit and my
ancestors who gave that child to me. I was
supposed to also formally apologize to her,
traditionally. Did she come? No, she didn't
bother." Mhlabunzima ranted his frustration out.
Robert listened to his friend's rant, "the hurt is
deeper Mhlabunzima it won't magically vanish."
"I know and I understand, I said very horrible
things and they'll take years to heal. She may
heal but not forget, but how is that related to my
children? To Qophelo and the two she's carrying?
I can't even take her to the doctor, the gate is
always locked and I would be told she's not
home." He rubbed his eyes and forced his head
down. There was nothing that hurt him deeper
than what Zinhloso was doing to him. She was
shutting him out in every way possible. He
wasn't even hurt like this by his manhood not
working. He didn't care about the stupid
manhood and the woman who was grumpy
because of it. But Zinhloso - shutting him out of
the pregnancy. It felt like the whole world had
turned on him. He couldn't sleep at night,
thinking whether she was well or not. He would
drive to her place twice a week and still be told
she's not around. He once asked if she found a
job but he was told 'no' He felt really unlucky
because he could see her garden had
vegetables showing she was living there and
had worked on her garden. Why was she never
around for him then?
It was mid-June and Zinhloso was six months
pregnant. Things had been hard for
Mhlabunzima because she lived away from him.
He would call her, she would pick up the phone
and the minute she could hear it was him on the
line. She would put the telephone down without
talking.
"I am really sorry, chwane. I didn't know you're
going through such a horrible thing. You've
been supporting me and had been happy for me
but you're not saying anything about this,"
Robert rubbed his shoulder as Mhlabunzima
was crying. He couldn't imagine what would
happen once Zinhloso had given birth. Was she
going to allow him to see his children?
"I am really hurt, Robert what she's doing to me
is not right. I don't deserve her forgiveness it's
fine but does that mean I also don't deserve to
be a father to my children before they're even
born? I don't even know if she takes things I buy
for her or she disposes them,
"A month back, I went there on Monday and I
couldn't find her. I left the plastic bag, and went
back on Thursday, I saw the plastic bag still
placed where her shopkeeper left it. I asked if
she didn't come back,
"She said she came back. This means when the
babies are born she will throw away everything I
will buy for them and she'll probably tell them I
hate them. I am a useless father while I am
doing everything I can but she's shutting me out,
"She's shutting even my parents out but they did
nothing wrong to her. Mom asked her to come
to her, she only promised to come but never
did." He wiped his tears and took a deep breath.
He gulped the cold drink.
"Why don't you speak to her brother?"
"He hates me naye lowo uzongisiza ngani?
Njalo I am the reason they're actually both
having a relationship as brother and sister but
today, it's like this. For them it's best that I am
kept away from my own kids. Kubuhlungu
konke lokho kimi, Robert." He held back the
tears. He didn't want to cry anymore. It was
enough.
"I will talk to Mzomubi maybe he's not aware of
this." He promised and even that promise didn't
give Mhlabunzima hope. He was convinced that
Mzomubi had no problem with it.
"If that doesn't work, you'll have to go to her
grandmother. She's an understanding elder.
She'll never support what Zinhloso is doing. It's
not like you denied her pregnancy, you accepted
and wants to take responsibility," Robert
advised.
Mhlabunzima walked Robert out of the
premises. He felt much better after speaking
out about what was bothering him. The weight
on his shoulders was light.
"Mhlabunzima, how are you doing? I am sorry I
didn't go to work today. I was going to report
when I come back," Khosi greeted Mhlabunzima.
She was still working for Mhlabunzima at the
gardens. She didn't want to leave her job
because the pay was better than the jobs she'd
been promised in the town. Some people would
tell her about 'better jobs' thinking she was
making peanuts.
"Oh, sawubona, sisi, I hadn't gone to check
things in the gardens this week. What's wrong?
Why didn't you work?" He was walking back to
the supermarket.
"I went to the hospital to check on Zinhloso."
His heart skipped a beat, "why? What's wrong
with her?"
"She was admitted three days back because
she was dehydrated and had no energy," Khosi
responded.
He shook his head, "nobody told us about that.
We went to her place with mom on Monday and
her employee only said she wasn't home like
she's been saying."
Khosi was disappointed to hear about this.
What was going on? "I am sorry, I was told by
her brother. Please, go and check her. She was
discharged and Mzomubi drove her to her
grandmother for the time being. She's very well
now than two days back."
"Thank you. I will do that and don't worry about
today. I understand why you were absent," he
said and they went their separate ways after
saying goodbye.

Mhlabunzima got home before dinner and

called Mzomubi without telling his mother what
was going on.
"Mzomubi, hello?"
"It's Mhlabunzima, how are you doing?"
"I am well and how are you?"
"I am not fine. I saw sis Khosi and she told me
Zinhloso is in the hospital but I didn't know
about that," Mhlabunzima complained to
Mzomubi about his issue. He lifted his eyes and
Lily walked inside the house with her bag and
Zodumo's bag but Zodumo wasn't with her. She
went to the bedroom after brushing her hand on
his shoulder.
"What do you mean you didn't know?"
"Nobody told me."
"How? Aren't you the one who took her to the
hospital?"
"No, I am not…" he told him about everything
that has been happening and he could hear that
Mzomubi was shocked.
"Yazi, I didn't know about all that. Zinhloso is
always home if she's not in town because she
no longer goes to the forest for herbs. She has
a supplier now." Mzomubi said on the line, "I
asked her about you and she told me you're
supportive and she told me you're the one who
brought her to the hospital."
"No, it's not me. How can I take her to the
hospital because I haven't seen her over a
month. I don't even know what's happening
about my kids."
"Ey, I am really sorry about that I didn't know
and I guess she's lying to me because I told her
that Mhlabunzima should be the one to do
everything for her concerning the pregnancy,
"I was saying this because she's been telling
Mthuthuzeli to do everything for her as if he's
the one responsible for this pregnancy. I really
didn't like that and I even told granny about it
and she spoke to her but it seems she didn't
listen,
"Mthuthuzeli is a good man but I don't like him
to be close to her deeply. I don't want them to
possibly start a relationship because his mother
died a painful death because of our father.
Zinhloso doesn't want to listen to me. I am
shocked that she's even lying now. I don't even
know why she's doing this. Zonke njalo lezi
nkinga ingenxa yakho, noMthuthuzeli bengeke
asondele ukube wakwazi ukwenza izinto njenge
ndoda. Please, go and talk to gogo."
"Alright, I will go tomorrow. Thank you," he put
the phone down after saying goodbye. He was
comforted because at least Mzomubi could see
what his sister was doing was wrong. He stood
up and headed to his mother without talking to
Lily first.
He found his mother inside the kitchen.
Ngenzeni wasn't home, "isn't Zodumo home?"
He grabbed a bench.
"She went to your father."
Mhlabunzima told his mother about meeting up
with sisi Khosi and he told her about his call
with Mzomubi. But he didn't tell her that
Zinhloso was bringing Mthuthuzeli closer to her
and she was getting support from him. He
didn't want her to think badly about her. She
was better with the image of Zinhloso that she
had. It might change how she looked at her if he
told her about Mthuthuzeli.
"This means she didn't drink what I prepared for
her." Esther said sadly.
"Or maybe it didn't work."
"It didn't work, how? I had the same pregnancy
with Kusakusa. I would run out of energy
because my diet wasn't good. Your
grandmother went to your great-grandfather
and he made that mixture for me. He told us
how it was made and I drank it regularly. I was
well and working like every pregnant woman did
in the village," Esther said and Mhlabunzima
wasn't found with words to respond to his
mother, "write a letter to her grandmother on
my behalf. Kindly request to her grandmother
that I would like to have Zinhloso come here for
just one night. Tomorrow, go to her
grandmother."
"Yes, I will go and write the letter." He walked
out of the house.
He found Lily in the living room watching TV. He
had bought the TV in his house after buying one
for his father. He was moving with the times.
"What are you writing?" Lily asked.
"A letter. I should go to Zinhloso's grandmother
tomorrow because Zinhloso has been in the
hospital and I didn't know."
Lily sat up straight and looked at him, "why?
What happened?"
"The pregnancy is not treating her well."
"And why didn't she tell you?"
"I don't know I will find out from her
grandmother tomorrow."
She clapped once, "Zinhloso is fooling you.
She's doing this dilibarately because she wants
you to run around her. She's seeking for
attention."
"Don't speak like."
"Yes, she's acting like a brat. Let her keep this
behaviour and don't run after her."
"I won't do that. This is about my children."
"Baba kaZodumo, we have plans tomorrow
that's why you said we should sleepover." She
reminded him.
"Those plans are for fun. It's not serious like
this issue."
"If you go there to beg someone who's shutting
you out on purpose. You won't find Zodumo and
I here." She threatened him, "we'll leave."
He glared at her and folded the letter,
"awohamba uma ukhetha ukuhamba, hamba.
Akekho noyedwa umfazi engingambeka
ngaphezu kwezingane zami mina. Ngizohamba
ngongcebeleka nawe nengane yakho
ngikhohlwe ilezi ezinye izingane? Zinhloso
should be fine so she'll give birth to healthy
babies." (There's no woman I will put above my
children.) He clicked his tongue and walked out
of the house.
UMCEBO

Chapter 217
***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

He drove up to her maternal grandmother's

house. He had a lot of things going on through
his head.
The Ntuli family home was square fenced and
up at the corner of the fence, Mhlabunzima
could see a figure leaning on his private car.
One tall man and he had a plastic bag in his
hand. He didn't have to be closer to figure out
who this man was.
"What is he doing here?" He clicked his tongue
and stopped the car on the roadside, closer to
the fence but not before the family gate.
Mhlabunzima headed to him, "Mthuthuzeli, what
are you doing here?" He asked without greeting
him.
"I am not going to answer your question."
"This is Zinhloso's maternal family home and
you, why are you here? Why are you following
her?" He shouted at the tall man. Mthuthuzeli
wasn't intimidated by him, "Mhlabunzima, I am
not going to answer you. You hurt Zinhloso
repeatedly-"
If he wasn't a man, he was going to scream and
charge at him like a mad woman but he couldn't
do that. He was a man, "don't you dare talk
about things that don't concern you. Zinhloso is
the mother of my kids and not ours."
He laughed like he'd heard a joke, "she's
something to you now? Didn't you end things
with her and told her you never want to see her
again? What are you doing here because you
have decided that you never want to see her?"
He asked but he didn't wait for an answer. He
saw Zinhloso walk up, slowly with a water
bucket on her head. He pushed Mhlabunzima
aside and headed down to her.
"Hey! Didn't you just get out of the hospital?
Why are you carrying a water bucket now?"
Mthuthuzeli easily held the bucket and he put it
down for Zinhloso.
"I am fine, there was no need for you to do that.
I was admitted because I was dehydrated. I
wasn't dying," Zinhloso walked a little fast,
matching his pace. She'd seen Mhlabunzima's
car and she was surprised that he was here.
What was he doing here? How did he know she
was here?
"What was he saying to you?" She asked.
"Being a boy, asking what am I doing here.
Talking nonsense."
They reached the gates and Mthuthuzeli walked
inside with the bucket. Mhlabunzima was
looking at Zinhloso. His eyes were at her
stomach, the bump was totally visible - it was
his babies' bump.
"Sawu - sanibonani ninjani?" Mhlabunzima
greeted her. She was farrier in colour and her
face features were boldly outlined making her
more beautiful.
"What are you doing here, Mhlabunzima?"
Mthuthuzeli walked out and before
Mhlabunzima could answer he gave Zinhloso
the plastic bag, "I wanted to see you and check
if you're alright. I can't stay since he's here. I am
sure the two of you have a lot to talk about."
She took the bag, "thank you so much. When
am I going to see you again?"
Mhlabunzima held her hand where she didn't
have a plaster, "you're not going to see him
again." He pulled her to the gate.
"Stop it! Mhlabunzima!" She screamed.
He was pulling her into the yards and once they
were inside he let go of her hand, "why are you
following him and why is he following you
around? Do you really think he cares about you?
He's fooling you!"
"Can you please leave me alone! Why are you
here?"
Granny walked out of the house and she cuffed
her waist, "what's wrong with the two of you?
Can't you talk like adults?"
Zinhloso stood closer to her grandmother. She
looked at Mhlabunzima, "Gogo, please tell him
to leave. He's disturbing my peace."
"Why are you here, Xulu?" Granny sat down on
the straw mat where she'd been seated.
Zinhloso sat next to her and Mhlabunzima sat
on the grass. "Gogo, Zinhloso is not including
me in the pregnancy. She got in and out of the
hospital without telling me. I heard from sis
Khosi that she was in the hospital. These are
my children too. I deserve to know what is
going on. It's been too long…" he told granny
everything that he'd been through with Zinhloso
shutting him out.
Granny was shocked about this. It made her
angry, she looked at Zinhloso, waiting for an
explanation because that wasn't what she told
them with Mzomubi.
Zinhloso wasn't moved by his sadness. "He
knows the things he said to me. He said I
should stay away from him, that's exactly what I
am doing. He also implied I didn't deserve to be
a mother."
"You're staying away from me because you
want to stay close to Mthuthuzeli while you're
carrying my children? Gogo, I am not the one
who drove her to the hospital. I am sure it's
Mthuthuzeli."
"What are you doing with Mthuthuzeli,
Zinhloso?" Granny asked. "What did I say to you?
Why are you acting like this? You know that
even your mother doesn't support Mthuthuzeli
being close to you. Your father killed his
mother!"
"I am doing nothing, he's my friend and he's
supportive."
"He's your friend! A man is your friend?" She
shouted at her and Zinhloso kept quiet, "I am
talking to you! A man is your friend?"
"Yes, he is my friend, gogo. He's been there for
me in my time of need. When I need help he's
there to help-"
"Stop it! If you need help, why don't you tell
Mhlabunzima? Isn't he the father of the children
you're carrying?" She shouted, she'd never heard
a woman being friends with a man. Worse,
Mthuthuzeli - the story there wasn't an easy one.
Nobody knew why Mnguni killed his mother and
it would be impossible that he didn't know.
"He is. Unomfazi angithi? Why can't he focus on
his precious woman and leave the bad mom
alone?"
"This is not about you, it's not about our
relationship but it's about the pregnancy. You're
treating me like I don't exist," he argued.
"You don't! You don't exist. Can't you remember
threatening to kill me?"
"I remember and I am sorry about it."
"Your sorry doesn't move me!"
Granny shook her head, "stop this bickering you
two! It's not good for the children, they're not
even born yet but you're already at each other's
throats. Nizogulisa izingane!"
They kept quiet after granny's shouting, "I am
sorry gogo. I didn't want to fight with her. I just
wanted to talk to you about this gogo and I
don't like her to stay alone or stay here because
that means she's getting closer to another man.
My children will know another and not me."
"There's nothing we can do about that because
she's no longer a fianceé or girlfriend to you.
She can't stay where you'll see her." Granny
looked at Mhlabunzima, "you're the reason for
all that, even what she's doing now. It's your
fault. She'll stay where she stays, you'll have to
live with that."
Mhlabunzima wanted to die, if he knew he was
never going to take his cows. He was going to
use them as his trump card to get her to live at
his home until the babies were born. "I know,
but-"
Granny shook her head, "there's no but. I know
where your mind is now, it'll not happen. Don't
even mention it."
He looked down, "mom requested that, can you
please allow her to come to her. She hadn't
seen her since we heard about the pregnancy.
She wants to see her. It'll just be for one night.
She made another concoction for her." He gave
the letter to Zinhloso and told her to read it for
gogo. She read it and it was written what
Mhlabunzima was saying.
Granny looked at Zinhloso, "ugogo wezingane
zakho uyakucela ntombazane. Hamba kuye sisi.
If you don't go, it'll be disrespectful and don't
forget she's the one who understands the
children of her family better. I am old now and
you'll only get the best help from her. Don't shut
her out because of the bad things her son did to
you."
"Yebo." She stood up and went to re-pack her
bag and changed the tights into a dress. She
knew if it wasn't for gogo, she wasn't going to
go there.
"I will go back to my work, gogo, I won't come
back here. I will call you."
"Alright, thank you, my child. Bye, take good
care of yourself and the babies. Don't shut him
out, he's their father no matter what happened,"
Granny advised.
Zinhloso said goodbye and they headed out. "I
can help myself!" She raised her voice to
Mhlabunzima who was trying to help her get
inside the car.
He stepped back and took his seat after she
was inside the car. He drove off. They drove in
silence until Mhlabunzima started talking.
"How are you feeling now?"
"Good."
"And the babies? Are they good and moving?"
"Yeah."
The rest of the drive was quiet.

"Where will I sleep? In your mom's hut? Or the

spare hut? I want to have some rest." Zinhloso
asked as Mhlabunzima was taking her to his
house.
"You'll sleep in my bedroom."
"The same bed you share with your fianceé? I
am not crazy."
"We'll change the bedding and it's not like I will
touch you," he knew he was having a very bad
problem and he didn't want Zinhloso to know
about it. She would rejoice in his misery.
"No, I am not sleeping here. I would rather sleep
in the child's room."
He opened the house, "Zodumo locked her
bedroom because my brother's children came
and left it messy."
"I will sleep with your mom or the guest hut, I
am here for her vele."
He was defeated but he understood. He was
actually wrong to even suggest sleeping in his
bedroom, "let me take you to the guest hut
then," Mhlabunzima took her bag and she
followed her out.
Esther walked inside the hut with a tray of food.
She greeted and gave Zinhloso food.
"I didn't think you'd come." She said and looked
at her as she started eating.
"I was going to come at your request." She lied
with her chest held high.
"This was not my first request but it's no use
dwelling there. Did you take the concoction I
sent Ngenzwel'umusa to give to you?" Esther
asked.
She looked away, "I never trusted it was really
from you."
"Who did you think it was from?"
"From him."
"And if it was from him?"
"He wished I never had children. How was I
supposed to trust he had good intentions with
that concoction?" She raised her eyes but didn't
look Esther in the eye.
"Oh, so you thought he would kill your babies?"
She asked and Zinhloso didn't answer her. It
was clear to Esther that's what she thought. "Ay,
if that's what you think then I think it's better I
don't give it to you. I can only write down what
you need and how to make it. You'll make it for
yourself."
"Thank you."
"When's your due date? We should prepare for
the time you'll give birth." She moved from the
topic of the concoction. She didn't want to
make any mistakes by giving her because
should anything happen. She was going to
blame them - blame her son.
"It's early September but I will give birth at the
hospital."
Esther was defeated, "why? You know you
should give birth here."
"I am carrying two babies and I don't want to
take risks."
"You'll be taking more risks if you give birth at
the hospital."
"What are the risks?" She looked at her and she
reminded her, "Zodumo came out fine."
"She's fine? Ngoba ingqondo yakhe inobudomu
nje. You see her as fine?"
Zinhloso argued, "she's a slow learner like her
mother, that's the reason she's repeating
grades. I don't see how a hospital building can
make a child become a slow learner. It doesn't
make sense."
"It's not about that, Zinhloso."
"It's either I am told what the consequences are
or I will give birth at the hospital. I can't risk my
life by giving birth to two babies at home. What
if I need an emergency? Or if I need a c-
section?" She asked and Esther only looked at
her without a word.
"This is about the kids. You know elderly people
never explained everything fully but when they
say this should be done. You do it," Esther tried
her best but she could see she was fighting a
losing battle. "You won't be the first to give birth
to twins at home. Some women gave birth to
more babies at home."
"Times have changed, there are blood
pressures to be considered and the Doctors
told me my pregnancy is high risk because of
my blood pressure and my constant loss of
energy. What if I lose energy while I am giving
birth?
"Do you remember what happened the last time?
I almost killed Qophelo because I was losing
energy."
"That can also happen in the hospital."
"I am sorry mama but I can't take that risk."
Esther stood up, she left Zinhloso inside the hut
eating. Mhlabunzima was also in the kitchen
hut eating.
"Ngenzwel'umusa, you need to talk to Zinhloso
she wants to give birth at the hospital." Esther
reported back to her son.
He wasn't surprised, "mama, what are really the
consequences?"
"I don't know clearly, I think your granny who
was here knows everything about it. You can
see what's happening to Zodumo. It's been a
month we've been trying to find help for her but
it's not happening."
"I doubt Zinhloso will listen to me. She said I
don't exist to her, so if she failed to listen to you.
Who am I?"
"Can you try and at least talk to her
grandmother? Or let me call her."
"Yes, I will do that. Should I pour the concoction
for her?"
She quickly shook her head, "no, stop it. She'll
make her own. She said she didn't take it
because of what you said to her. She thought
you might try to kill the babies. She didn't
believe it was from me."
"Hawu! Am I not the same person who was
helping her and giving her food the time we
were supposed to go to the Doctor?"
"It's how she feels and I think you shouldn't give
her anything to eat. Don't buy her anything to
eat. Just keep away until she gives birth."
"I can't keep away, mama, she's carrying my
kids. I care about them."
"I know but -"
"No, I can't do that. Maybe I will stop giving her
food then if she thinks I am evil like her mother.
But I am definitely not going to keep away while
she's carrying my kids," he placed the empty
plate in the basin of dirty dishes and he walked
out.
UMCEBO

Chapter 218

****Chapter sponsored by Thandeka Mokatla***

He knocked on the door. He was with Ngenzeni

who had a tray of hot soup for Zinhloso. His
mother told her to give it to her before bed.
"Who's it? I am still dressing up."
"It's us, we have your soup, it'll get cold."
Ngenzeni responded.
"Come in!" she allowed her inside after wearing
her pajama top.
He pushed the door once they were told to
come inside. Ngenzeni placed the tray on her
lap and left.
Mhlabunzima sat on the bed, "drink it hot. She
also gave me an ointment. I will use it to rub
your waist and back for your back pain."
"Why should it be you who'll rub me and not her
or Ngenzeni?"
"She's gone to bed and Ngenzeni has rough
hands."
He took off his socks and got on the bed, "you
need to take off your top."
She removed the top and allowed him to rub her.
She knew his hands were the best when it came
to body rubs. "Mm, mm, the waist Mhlabunzima,
do the waist," she cried out when he was
focusing on the waist. He moved up to the
spine, he was freely rubbing her because he
knew 'abalele ngeke bevuke' he massaged her
shoulders.
"I will ask your mother for the ointment."
"Who'll rub you because I don't live with you?"
He asked, "lay back."
"I will see."
He clenched his jaw as he had the picture of
Mthuthuzeli rubbing her. "Can you stop
whatever friendship you have with Mthuthuzeli?
You're pregnant."
"Mm," she laid back, her hand was holding the
bed cover. She didn't get to put her pajama
pants on. She was completely naked.
"I am serious Zinhloso, stop saying 'mm!'" He
raised his voice but she wasn't bothered. He
tried to be calm and rubbed her tummy, her
lower abdomen and moving to her hip bone
Zinhloso released a soft moan. The moan made
his penis quiver and he was taken off guard by
this reaction. Was it because she was here and
not an imagination?
"Wenzani manje? Is that part of the rub?" She
opened her eyes, the rub on her hip bone made
her moist.
"I am following my mother's instructions on
where to rub you."
"Ngoba ungibuka ngathi uqhanyelwe nje!"
(You're staring at me with horny eyes) she
raised her voice and closed her eyes as he
didn't stop the hip bone rub, "stop it,
Mhlabunzima! Rub my shoulders and neck from
the front!" She screamed, she was trying to
save herself. She'd been so sexually hungry she
would even cry at night, imagining that if she
was still with him. He would have attended to
all her sexual needs. She was very hurt when he
actually took the same cows and sent them to
Lily's family for ilobolo. She thought everything
he said was out of anger and pain but she
realised he meant every word. She decided to
keep him away. She also decided to keep him
away because she knew if he was close she
was going to give into temptation and have sex
with him without stopping. That would hurt her
the most because he had a woman in his life.
She wished she was going through that phase
she went through during her first pregnancy, not
wanting that painful sex because of whatever
that was happening. She never craved sex badly
during that phase.
He was surprised that he had such a healthy
erection. What was happening?
He knelt by her upper body, "take the ointment,"
he pointed at it. It was on the bedside table.
His deep voice was deeper because of the
sexual tension. Things were strange and
awkward in the room. "I can't reach there I am
comfortable now, take it yourself."
He reached over the table, his body was going
above her as he was trying to reach the table.
He swore as his erection contacted her flesh.
"Mhlabunzima, please, how long is it taking you
to take that thing?" She raised her voice. She
was suddenly angry at him. She really was
supposed to ask his mother for this rub and not
him.
He looked down at her after getting it. She was
staring up at him with her kitten eyes, "you
failed to get it when it was your chance," the
way she was looking at him was really finishing
him.
Her breathing had changed, her hand held his
arm and she didn't remove her eyes from him.
She clearly felt his erection, she badly wanted
him and all of him. She was throbbing for him,
wishing he could enter her - all of him inside her.
She wanted him to take action and she didn't
care that he belonged to Lily. One thing for sure,
he wasn't enjoying any pleasure with her and for
that reason, Zinhloso wanted him to stick it in.
The last time he probably had stuck it inside her
was when he was busy making her pregnant.
She closed her eyes and accepted his lips. The
kiss was slow and gentle. It didn't match their
heightened breathing.
"Ah!" She raised her waist up when his hand
crept down to her lady parts. "You have the
ointment in your hands. What is it going to do in
my vagina?"
"Uyalifuna?" (Do you want it?)
She nodded like a shy child and she helped him
undress while he was still kissing her. She
wished they could just jump to it but this was a
process. She separated her legs and allowed
him to position himself in between her thighs.
"Oh!" She couldn't believe she was in this
position. He was gently rubbing himself on her
and she didn't even want to look at his sex face.
It had to be precious because he was obviously
not getting this.
She didn't want to think of all the bad things
that had happened between them. This was just
sex she'd been hungry for. She was only taking
it because of pregnancy.
He saw the gates of heaven opening as he
entered into her warmth. He was playing
himself - he wasn't supposed to be doing this
because he was going to want it again and he
was never going to get it. It was glorious - it'd
been six months already and he was having a
time of his life. The room was steamy and hot.
They were setting it on fire. They were both
enjoying themselves.
"Oh, please!" She cried out as she was about to
cum, "faster!"
Mhlabunzima changed his pace and gave it to
her as she wished. His cum was accompanied
by a deep groan. He collapsed next to her.
"Zinhloso?" Mhlabunzima called out after they
were both calm. They were both laid back on
the bed facing up, naked.
"Yea?"
"Did you put a spell on me? Or used muthi for
my penis not to work on any other woman
except you?" He asked after thinking of his
words, the words he said to that young woman
back at the supermarket.
She held her breath. How did he figure it out?
"Yes, I did and I will only undo it once I am also
married and having sex. After everything you've
put me through, you can't be happy while I am
not happy."
He couldn't believe he defended her when Lily
told him it had to be Zinhloso. He had so much
faith in her. He was lost for words, he sat up
straight and wore his clothes.
She looked at him as he dressed. She was
expecting he was going to throw tantrums and
scream, even wake his parents about it. She
wasn't expecting such a reaction from him.
"Where are you going?"
"I am going to sleep in my room." He glanced at
her. When looking at her innocent looking face,
he just couldn't believe it.
"So, should I sleep here alone? What if I wake
up at night or in the morning and I need you?"
She asked. She knew she was going to want the
repeat of what happened between them in
between the sheets.
He didn't say anything but he undressed and
switched off the lights after locking the door.
He joined her in bed.
"Aren't you going to hold me?" She asked as
Mhlabunzima was pulling the covers but his
hands weren't on her body. He moved closer to
her and held her into a spooning position. His
hand was on her belly. He was feeling the
movements of the babies.
"Goodnight," she said but Mhlabunzima didn't
say it in return. He kept quiet. They fell asleep in
each other's arms

In the morning, he was woken by Zinhloso for

the third time and he did everything she wanted.
He was enjoying himself, totally but he just
couldn't get over the truth. It shocked him so
much that even words ran out. He just didn't
have anything to say about it because it wasn't
going to change anything. She was going to do
what she said she would do. He wasn't even
going to waste his time begging.
"I will bring a bucket of water for you so you'll
take a bath," he said and left her on the bed
staring at him. He provided her with bathing
water and the basin. He went to his house and
inside his bedroom, he decided to sleep.
"Aybo, didn't you sleep at night? Wake up and
call your grandmother," she gave him her
telephone number, "I should ask her to explain
things to Zinhloso."
He yawned and stretched his arms, "where's
Zinhloso?"
"She's eating with your sister. You need to take
a bath so that you'll drive her home. You haven't
even eaten. What were you doing at night
because you slept alone?" She asked and
followed him to the living room. "You look tired."
"I was doing some reading." He answered and
sat on the sofa. He dialled the number for
Esther.
Esther took the phone and as soon as granny
accepted the call. Esther told her the reason for
calling. She didn't talk about a lot of things, "so,
I am asking if you can kindly explain things to
her."
"Are you serious, MaSibiya?"
"Yes, that's what she said, she needs to
understand the consequences or she'll give
birth at the hospital," she wanted granny to
understand the seriousness of the situation.
"When she's told these are customs of her
children she's asking for explanations?" Granny
shouted on the line, "who's she to give us
conditions? Isn't she a child and should respect
the elders' words? Isizulu asisho kanti ukuthi
indlela ibuzwa kwabaphambili?"
"I understand that gogo but I am just thinking of
the children-"
"There are wives who went to the grave, gave
birth to over ten children each at home. They'd
never questioned us. And a child that was born
yesterday is questioning us why we're doing our
customs?
"Who questions her family why they're doing
customs they do? Kuzomele ngichaze imilando,
namanyundululu omndeni ngichazele ingane
engaganile nokugana layikhaya!"
Esther knew this was what she was going to get
but she thought trying wouldn't hurt. Just for
her grandchildren's well-being. "Mama, already,
Zodumo is not-"
"It's sad because they didn't know. MaMnguni is
told but she's being stubborn. Ungumfazi lapho
kwaXulu wena MaSibiya. You respected what
we told you and now, a child who's not even
married wants to rule us. That will not happen.
If the hospital is her best option, she must go
there!
"She probably thinks people don't die in the
hospital. That's what they're teaching her at
school? That giving birth at home kills. Saze
savelelwa izifundiswa ezingenanhlonipho!" She
clicked her tongue and put the phone down.
"What did she say?" Mhlabunzima asked.
Esther shook her and told him to call Zinhloso's
grandmother. He called her and they spoke. She
promised to talk to Zinhloso. "If her
grandmother can't convince her we'll just have
to let it be." She headed to the door, "go and
take a bath." She walked out.
He found her seated on the bed with his sister.
They were talking and laughing.
"Let's go, Zinhloso!"
She stood up and said goodbye to Ngenzeni.
Zinhloso went to his parents.
"Nisale kahle, sesiyahamba."
"Uhambe kahle, take care of yourself and call if
you need anything," Esther said after her
husband. They left.
Mhlabunzima drove out of the premises. They
weren't talking in the car.
They entered her village, Mhlabunzima was still
quiet. Zinhloso decided to talk, "please, give me
space. I don't need you near me just like you
said you don't want me near you. The only thing
I have that belongs to you, are the children.
They're not born yet and so, please give me
space."
"Okay," Mhlabunzima said and Zinhloso wasn't
expecting that response. But she was pleased
by the response.
UMCEBO

Chapter 219
***Chapter sponsored by Jessica Maps**

"When are you going back to Zinhloso to talk to

her? Or you'll go back once you find a new
man?" Mzomubi asked Ziwinile.
She laughed, she wasn't expecting Mzomubi's
question, "no, I won't go back once I have found
a new man. I haven't been thinking much about
having a new man. I want to let go of what
happened and I am stressed by Bhekani not
coming to take his cows."
The two siblings were seated under the tree
having peanuts. Mzomubi didn't go to work and
Ziwinile was not working. The schools had
closed for June holidays.
"Don't worry about the cattle because we'll send
them back. What you need to do, focus on
yourself and forget about your past
relationship," Mzomubi advised.
She smiled and nodded, "thank you. I wonder
how Nobuhle is holding up? Did she reach John
safely?"
"She hasn't communicated. I gave her my work
email address."
"Alright, please do tell once she's
communicated." They looked at the gate as it
opened. "And then?"
Mzomubi laughed at the two women walking
through their gates, "let's wait and see," they
deliberately looked at Bhekani's wives until they
reached Mzomubi and Ziwinile.
When Ziwinile left her marital home, Bhekani
had hope that she was still angry she was going
to come back. He had pride that he was her first
love and women never get over their first lovers.
He was her virgin breaker, the man who paid
ilobolo for her - she was never going to forget
about him. She was going to come back but
weeks turned into months and Ziwinile didn't
come back as he'd predicted. He felt like he
was losing his mind without her in his life.
"Sanibonani!" Bhekani's fourth wife greeted
brother and sister.
Mzomubi showed them the straw mat where
his mother had been seated. They both sat
down, "how can we help?"
Ziwinile thought she was dreaming, she was
seeing smiles from these two women? And
these smiles were directed to her! What a
shocker!
Bhekani was no longer the man these women
knew. He was taking out his frustration of
losing Ziwinile to these women he married. He
was making their lives a living hell. He would
shout and blame them that they looked at
Ziwinile leaving and they did nothing. He was
horrible to them but not to his children. They
would cook and he would refuse food and say
he wanted Ziwinile's food. They were tired but
they weren't like Ziwinile and they didn't have
mothers and a brother like Ziwinile's brother
who would support them if they left their
marital home. It was a big thing to their families
that they married Induna's first born son.
Cynthia wasn't bothered at all, she knew how to
deal with Bhekani but the last two were feeling
the heat. They were getting burned.
"We thought we should come and talk to our
sister-wife," the fifth wife said with a shy smile.
She was smiling with her head focused on her
hands.
"Me? Your sister-wife?" Ziwinile was surprised
she was even addressed like that by the two, "I
am no longer your sister-wife. I gave your
husband divorce papers and I ended things with
him." She reminded them, "maybe you don't
remember because you didn't see me leaving."
"We remember!" They said in unison.
Mrs Mnguni showed her head on the front door
of her house and she went back inside the
house. "Why are you here then?" Mzomubi
asked.
"Mamkhulu-"
Ziwinile's laughter chased away the birds that
were resting on the trees, "mamkhulu? You
recognise me as mamkhulu?"
"Yes, you're our husband's first wife."
"How nice! What do you want?"
The fourth wife spoke as they decided on their
way that she was going to do the talking, "we're
pleading with you to please come back home.
Our husband is not coping without you. He
loves you and he misses you terribly. Please,
come back."
They were not willing to go back home without
her. Bhekani was blaming them for the way he
treated Ziwinile. He kept saying it was their fault.
They led him into temptation. When the fifth
wife tried to be defensive one day, he beat her
up.
"Are you out of your mind?" Ziwinile raised her
voice. She felt disrespected by these two
women. How could they request such from her?
"Please, leave. There's never a day where you
respected me as Bhekani's first wife. You
disrespected me and ridiculed me because I am
incapable of giving birth. Please, leave!"
She pointed at the gate, she was livid. They had
the nerve to come and stand before her. Why
would they do such a thing after everything they
put her through?
"Leave!" She screamed as they tried to talk.
"Hambani!"
"Anizwa?" Mrs Mnguni walked out of the house
with two boiling electric kettles and she rushed
straight to the women. She was given strength
by the anger fuelled by seeing them in her yard.
What did they want in her yard?
The two women screamed and stood up. They
ran for their lives and they were saved from
boiling water.
Ziwinile and Mzomubi were laughing at their
mother. "It's not funny, I was going to throw the
water at them for real." She clicked her tongue
and headed back inside the house. She was
walking slowly, not fast like how she left the
house.
****
She was seated on the chairs on the veranda of
her house. She was busy writing the
instructions on the paper for the creams she
had finished making. She would write any
information about the cream by hand and stick
it on the cream bottle or any container.
Mthuthuzeli got out of the car and he unlocked
the gate. Zinhloso gave him the keys to the gate
because her gate was always locked. It was
mainly locked for Mhlabunzima. She didn't want
him going in and out of the yard.
"The sheep are in the yard today?" Mthuthuzeli
sat on the chair next to her and he placed the
dish of food on top of the table.
She smiled at him, "yes, they're home today. I
gave them their feed and told the boy to rest for
today. Please, go and get drinks inside the
house."
He stood up and came back with cold juice and
glass, spoons for them, "the food is still hot let's
eat it before it turns cold. I will help you with
writing once we're done."
"Thank you," she gathered the papers away and
they started eating, "how are your siblings and
the children? You were supposed to bring them.
I baked, yesterday."
"I gave them duties at home."
"I will give you some cakes for them."
"Thanks, how are you feeling? I last saw you
that day when you were at your grandmother's
house," he lifted the drink up and looked at
Zinhloso. He saw distaste on her face and it
made him wonder what happened between her
and Mhlabunzima. He was always not happy
when he realised she wasn't over him even after
everything he said to her. The first act that
signalled that to him - was how much she didn't
want him close to her. He believed if she was
over him, she wouldn't stop him from providing
support throughout the pregnancy. Because
he'd seen that she needed support. The
pregnancy was high risk, she needed all the
support she could get. He was always wishing
she could get over him because he had good
intentions for her. He could picture them as a
family, his kids and her kids - them as parents.
"Yea, granny said I should go to his mom. I went
there and spent the night. She asked me about
the concoctions if I had been taking them." She
held her mouth and burped loudly. She closed
her eyes as Mthuthuzeli laughed.
"And what did you say?"
"I told her the truth that I didn't trust
Mhlabunzima."
He nodded, he knew Mhlabunzima - he could be
anything but not someone who would hurt
children, especially his children. It didn't matter
what he said to Zinhloso, children were
precious to him even back then, he was never in
support of violence against children. Even if it
was the children of his enemy. He'd tried to
make Zinhloso understand but she never
understood.
"And what did she say?"
"She didn't give it to me. She gave me
instructions on how to do it."
"I bet she was hurt."
She shrugged, "I don't care. I didn't put myself
through this situation."
He held her hand, "are you going to let him into
the life of children once they're born?"
"I don't know. Can we not talk about him? My
grandmother called and told me to give birth
there but I am not going to do it. They are not
giving me reasons," she drank her juice, "his
mother told me something so unrelated about
Zodumo being slow. How can the hospital
make the child slow? She's just like her mom. I
am not slow, my children will never be
something I am not."
"It really doesn't make sense. Do what's best for
yourself and the kids because if you can die, Lily
will raise those kids."
She nodded, "you see? And they'll be even
dumber." She said and they moved from the
topic of her visit to the Xulu family home. They
discussed their affairs. They were talking and
laughing about the old times. Zinhloso liked
how she could forget things whenever she was
with Mthuthuzeli.
The shopkeeper opened the gate for Ziwinile.
She thanked her and walked up to Mthuthuzeli
and Zinhloso. They were standing by
Mthuthuzeli's car.
She greeted them. Zinhloso headed to the
house with her after saying goodbye. They were
done with writing papers.
"I wasn't expecting you," Zinhloso sat down on
the straw mat inside the kitchen. Her feet were
swollen from sitting up.
Ziwinile didn't sit, she started cooking dinner for
Zinhloso. She would occasionally come one
after two weeks to help her out with cooking
and washing clothes if there were any. It was
their mother who told her to go and help her
after hearing she was occasionally losing
energy. Mzomubi fetched water for her using
the car.
"I know. You look better."
"I feel better. Mhlabunzima's mother gave me a
concoction, it's really working. How's everyone
at home and your mom?"
"That's better. They're fine, mom is not
improving, it comes and goes."
"She's still seeing Mhlabunzima?"
Ziwinile sadly shook her head, "ey, she's seeing
dad now and she would scream and tell him to
take her because Mhlabunzima wants to kill
her."
"She really thought Mhlabunzima was going to
do something to her."
She looked at her sister, "but honestly I thought
of the same thing."
"He wasn't going to do anything. I was his easy
target. He took it out on me."
"I am really sorry."
"It's not your fault."
Once Ziwinile was done with cooking and
cleaning up the kitchen. She assisted Zinhloso
up. They went to water the crops in the garden.
Zinhloso was laughing about Bhekani's wives
visiting.
"MaNtuli is crazy, she was really going to burn
them," Zinhloso laughed.
Ziwinile stopped and looked at Zinhloso, "I am
really sorry Zinhloso for everything I did to you. I
really was a bad sister to you for years. Please,
forgive me for everything."
She smiled, "I forgive you. You're brave, you
were able to leave Bhekani. Look at me, I still
love Mhlabunzima even after horrible things he
said to me. I still spend nights thinking about
him."
"It's still early and maybe what he said wasn't a
point of no return for you. Maybe at the back of
your mind you know what made him say those
things-"
"I thought I knew but he went on and acted on
his words. He paid ilobolo for Lily. So, this
means he would have really kill me."
"I get you but still, his words didn't end your love
for him. You see, me with Bhekani, that one slap,
it ended it all. It was my point of no return."
Zinhloso smiled, "I am happy for you. I just wish
I never met him that day. I wouldn't be in this
position of feeling so weak because of him."
"Just give it time, be patient."
"Thank you. I wish you could have as many
children as you want with a decent man. Who'll
love and respect you." She hugged her sister
tightly. She felt lighter on her chest after
forgiving her. She was happy that things were
going well for her and her siblings. The dark
days were over.
UMCEBO

Chapter 220

***Chapter sponsored by Jessica Maps***

Her head wasn't in one place, she was looking

around. What a big and busy city. It'd been long
hours of travelling. She couldn't believe she got
her first experience of flying so early. She was
really grateful to John's mother because
without her, she wouldn't have made it. There
were a lot of things to be done for her to travel
because she was black. Nobuhle almost gave
up but Mrs Hendricks told her not to give up.
She held her hand, went through the steps with
her until they had everything.
She also helped her finalize the divorce
between her and the guy who married her
because of the child.
She smiled brightly at white guy who was taking
her to John. They were walking on the streets -
the busy streets.
"Why are you smiling?"
Nobuhle noted their English accent was
different from the English of the white people
back home, "I have seen more than two mixed
race couples. They're walking on the streets
holding hands."
He laughed, "yes, even, I, my wife, is African
American."
She stopped walking, "really?" She laughed - she
was very happy, suddenly. She realised that
after so much brutality she'd seen white people
doing to their people in their country. She didn't
trust there could be somewhere, where black
people were free to love whoever they wanted
to love.
"Yes," he stopped a taxi and it stopped for them.
It took them straight to John's neighborhood.
Nobuhle was mesmerised by the beauty and
the difference between the city and their cities
back home.
"Is this his house?" Nobuhle asked as the gates
opened up to the big grey mansion. It was
bigger than the one he owned back home. She
couldn't believe her son had been through such
a transition. From the rural areas to the big city.
The man led Nobuhle inside. He worked for
John in the part of business he had in the city.
He'd had the business while he was still in
South Africa, way before he met Nobuhle.
Her heart was racing as she heard the laughter
of a grown man and a sharp laughter of a child.
She was touched by the sight of John and
Johnathan running after each other in the living
room. John would run after their son and then
he would turn, Johnathan would run after him.
When he was turning. He turned to Nobuhle and
his face fell. His son stopped playing and held
his leg.
"What's going on?" His eyes laid on the beautiful
woman's face and he was taken back to the
time when Nobuhle chose herself and her other
son over them.
"John!" The man moved forward with an unsure
smile, "your mother contacted me and she told
me to come to the airport for her. I will leave
you two." He took the boy from John and he
went upstairs to give the two adults some
privacy.
"John?" Nobuhle took one step closer and she
stopped when he raised his hand.
He held his hand in place, "can you kindly go
back where you come from."
"I won't do that."
"Excuse me?"
"I won't do that. I am sorry, okay? But I am a
mother and I was scared. It's not like I loved
Sbusiso more but I was just scared and
confused," her tears voluntarily streamed down
her cheeks. Now, she was scared he was going
to reject her. She thought he would be happy to
see her and he would run up to her and hug her.
"But after you left, I realised I would be a more
horrible mom if I have my son grow up without
knowing me. I realised I could make Sbusiso
understand but not Johnathan,
"He was just a little boy. Please, forgive me. I
did everything I could so that I could get here
and be with you and our little boy. I have been
miserable without you. I missed you."
He closed the gap between them, "I have been
miserable without you too," he said softly and
held her face. He wiped her tears using his
thumb and he swept her off her feet. Her legs
curled up on his waist and their passionate kiss
took them off the ground. It sent them straight
to heaven.
He took her to the closest bedroom. He couldn't
believe she was really here. She was brave
enough to contact his mother? That was a risky
move because his father could have found out.
She was determined and so, she succeeded. He
never felt so loved and special.
He got excited as Nobuhle pushed him back on
the bed, "I have missed you so much."
"Not like I have!" She took control. She wasn't
regretting coming to the city. She wasn't
regretting leaving her family behind. They were
going to be okay, she needed to live. Live for
herself and and live for her child. This city had
brought happiness and hope in her life. She was
going to get to live normally like every couple.
She was going to be able to go out on dates,
picnics and dinner dates. Hold hands with her
lover in public. She couldn't wait for all of it. All
that was ahead of her life.
"Oh, you're amazing!" John praised Nobuhle as
she bounced on him. It was a happy and a
steamy moment for them. He remembered how
deeply he loved this woman. He couldn't stay
mad at her for a long time. She had her fears
but she'd overcome them. She was here and
they were going to be a family with their child.
He also wished her boy could join them.
"That was beautiful." He kissed her cheek and
then her lips as she laid on his chest. It was like
a dream, "so, what if we made a baby?"
She giggled, "I would be more than happy to
carry that baby and I hope it'd be a girl."
He laughed and held her tightly, "this is the
happiest day of my whole life."
They walked out of the bedroom looking
beautiful and innocent. Nobuhle wanted to
meet her son. He'd grown up so big. This was it
- her family!
***
Ziwinile tightened isidwaba around her sister's
waist. She slept in Zinhloso's house the
previous day because they were going together
to Ngenzeni's ceremony. It was Umkhehlo, it
was going to take place at the sports ground
back in their village.
Zinhloso had totally forgotten about the
ceremony but Ngenzeni called to remind her.
She didn't want to disappoint her by not coming.
She asked Ziwinile to go with her because they
were also invited as a family. She wanted to go
and enjoy the ceremony, celebrate the love
Ngenzeni had found. It was precious.
Zinhloso had been doing well and better, her
health had improved since she started taking
Esther's concoction. She was working hard and
making more money than before. She was in
the right space of mind, especially since
Mhlabunzima had really kept his distance. She
thought he was joking when he easily agreed
but it seemed he wasn't joking. He only came to
deliver things his mother gave to Zinhloso. He
once came while she was outside, he spoke to
the shopkeeper and left without saying anything
more to her. He only raised his hand in greeting
and left. She wondered what went through his
mind when he decided to keep his distance.
Why? Was he respecting her word or was it
something else? Nonetheless, she was thankful
for the distance. It helped her with focus and
healing.
After wearing the white vest, Zinhloso put a
yellow fabric with beads over her seven months
pregnancy bump. She wore traditional sandals
and put a doek on her head. She felt beautiful
and looked beautiful.
"You'll definitely make Mhlabunzima leave his
seat with men and come to you," Ziwinile
commented as they walked out.
Zinhloso laughed, "he has Lily he won't notice
me."
"It doesn't matter. Kushiyana ukwenza and don't
forget, we're Mnguni's daughters. We're as
beautiful as our father was handsome," she
commented and they laughed.
Zinhloso took the driver's seat in her black van.
She bought it a month back. Mthuthuzeli helped
her with buying it.

The sports ground was full and colourful. It was

a big day, a good day - Ngenzeni was on a
journey to become someone's wife. Everyone
was happy for her. The ceremony was a
ceremony that was done for a woman who was
going to get married. Her father would
slaughter a cow for her and from that cow, they
would create *isidwaba* a skirt for married
women. That skirt would be the one she would
wear in her marital home. In case her father had
passed or her father didn't have power to afford
a cow for her. Her fiancé, who was taking her as
his wife. He would provide that cow and the
ceremony would be done for her. After the
ceremony she wouldn't be called 'Inguduso' but
she would be called 'inkehli'
Ziwinile and Zinhloso were seated on the chairs
- Mhlabunzima sent a child to get chairs for
them, mainly for Zinhloso. Most people were
standing, the old women were going up and
down ululating - others seated on the straw
mats. Ngenzeni was at the centre of the ground
with her delegation. They were singing and
dancing, the drums and whistles were loudest.
Zinhloso was smiling on her seat as Ngenzeni
was singing and coming to her direction. She
had two women accompanying her. "Sawubona,
skwiza!" Ngenzeni greeted and pointed the
spear on the ground before Zinhloso.
"Angiseyena njalo uskwiza wakho." She said
and took the spear.
"Uyazikhohlisa!" She laughed and walked back
to the others.
Ziwinile looked at her sister, "I hope you brought
money and lots of it. I want Lily to be jealous,
with those few ten Rands she gave Ngenzeni."
Zinhloso giggled. She was surprised that her
sister had also noticed what she noticed. "Don't
worry. I brought money. I wasn't bringing it to
show off to Lily but after seeing those sorry 10
Rands. I am happy, I brought it." They laughed.
They were whispering to each other.
Zinhloso took the blanket she bought for
Ngenzeni and Ziwinile took the one her mother
bought for Ngenzeni. It was the two sisters and
two other ladies.
When they were almost closer to Ngenzeni,
Zinhloso started dancing to the tune and
Ngenzeni met her halfway. The ululating rose
from old women. Zinhloso was laughing, taking
it slowly because of her heavy belly. Some
young women who had been laughing at her,
looked at Zinhloso with jealousy and envy. How
was she still doing great without
Mhlabunzima's money? She was even driving a
car - her own car, something no woman had
ever owned in the village.
They reached the others. Ngenzeni knelt on the
straw mat. Zinhloso opened the blanket and
she put it over her shoulders. The singing was
still proceeding. People were looking at
Zinhloso, waiting to see how many notes she
was going to give her former sister in-law.
Inside the bag of the blanket, she took out the
small umbrella. She opened the umbrella, it was
covered in red notes.
"Congratulations, sis, uziphathe kahle
emendweni!" Zinhloso said to Ngenzeni and she
handed the umbrella of money to her. They
ululated louder.
Once Ziwinile had given her blanket and money,
they walked away. Ngenzeni danced after them
as thanks and the others joined her in thanks…
Lily wanted to explode as she realised Zinhloso
had given Ngenzeni more money. She saw it as
showing off.
They sat back on the chairs and the ceremony
carried on. It became more spectacular when
Ngenzeni's brothers stood up, with their line of
men. They were wearing full Zulu traditional
gear for men. Mhlabunzima was leading them,
singing, walking up slowly to their sister.
Kusakusa had Ngenzeni's spear on his hand
and Mhlabunzima had a spear of Ngenzeni's
friend. It was a beautiful sight seeing her
brothers shower her with money. They were
very happy for their sister and they wished her
nothing but good things. She'd taken care of
them without complaining, there were those
sibling quarrels but in the end they loved each
other to the moon and back as children of one
man.
Ngenzeni's fiancé closed the show when it was
his turn to shower Ngenzeni with money. It
made other people envious. In the bad economy
of exclusion some blacks had money. They
were working hard for it.
"That was really beautiful, it's sad I won't see
her after but I will see her on her wedding day, I
guess," Zinhloso said. Her and Ziwinile were
walking away. The ceremony wasn't over yet
but it was drawing to a close. There were two
men who followed them. They were from the
groom's side. This other guy wanted to actually
talk to Ziwinile - he'd been looking at her from a
distance and his friend tagged along.
Robert and Mhlabunzima were carrying crates
of beer. They went to take it from
Mhlabunzima's van. It was for the church of
men they were seated with.
"Can you see you're marrying in line kwaXulu.
Firstly, it was your older brother and secondly it
was your sister. You'll be the last one, as the
last born."
Mhlabunzima laughed, he knew that was far
from him and he'd made peace with it. It was
the consequences of his actions. Zinhloso did
what she did out of hurt and bitterness. He had
no way to change it. He tried and failed.
"You're right about that." His eyes set on the
Mnguni sisters and the men with them. He was
totally moved by how beautiful Zinhloso was
along with her sister. She looked amazing and
pregnancy suited her well. It was good seeing
her. He could see she was happy and over him.
"Sanibonani!" Mhlabunzima greeted the two
sisters and their men.
"Yebo!" They greeted back.
Looking at him, Zinhloso felt like she didn't do
enough. She was actually supposed to do
'uduka nezwe' on him. Why did he look like he
didn't care about her? Why did it look like what
she did to him wasn't affecting him. She was
annoyed.
"Usuzitholele indoda njalo," (you've found a man
already) Zinhloso commented as she started
the car.
Ziwinile suddenly blushed, "aybo!" It was
confidence boosting to be noticed by a good
looking and respectful looking man.

UMCEBO

Chapter 221

***Chapter sponsored by Sphelele Shongwe***

Zinhloso drove through the gates of their home.

She was tired and all that she was thinking
about was her bed. She was no longer in the
mood to drive to her house. She decided she
was going to sleep at home. It was going to be
better than driving. She parked the car closer to
her hut and she yawned.
"Are you sleeping?" Ziwinile asked and opened
the door.
They got out of the car, "yes, I am sleeping. I am
tired. Ngisine kabi." She said and they laughed
their way into the house. Mzomubi and his
family were not home. He didn't say where he
was taking his family. He only said they would
come back the following day.
"You're back?" Mrs Mnguni looked at her
daughters as they followed each other into the
living room.
They sat down, "yes, it was very beautiful and
Ngenzeni was happy about the gift. I told her
about the blanket and your share of the money
you gave her. She said, thank you."
"Alright, it's well if her ceremony was a
success."
Ziwinile stood up, "we didn't go and eat, let me
see what we can eat." She left Zinhloso and Mrs
Mnguni.
There was a knock on the door. Aunt Comfort
walked in, followed by her son. She sat down
and greeted. Mrs Mnguni knew by the dish she
was carrying that she was going to ask for food.
Comfort greeted Zinhloso, who she hadn't seen
for a while. Zinhloso was surprised to even get
a greeting from her. "Sis, can you kindly give us
some cups of rice. We'll bring it back month-
end." Aunt Comfort requested from her sister-in
-law.
Mrs Mnguni called for Ziwinile, "give your aunt
some rice and that braai pack your brother
came back with yesterday." She said and looked
at the TV. It wasn't shocking for her that they
were always asking for food and vegetables in
her garden. She knew that after chasing
Zinhloso out like they did, this was going to
happen. They were all working, even Comfort
had found a job but they were not seeing where
their money was being spent. Mrs Mnguni didn't
have the courage to tell them, she was
watching as they became beggars.
Zinhloso followed Ziwinile to the kitchen after
aunt Comfort and her son left. "And then?
What's wrong with your aunt?" She grabbed a
chair and sat down.
"I really don't know because they don't even
drink alcohol but it seems their money is no
longer enough for groceries," Ziwinile
responded in a hushed tone, "every month they
ask for something different and they never
bring it back. I really don't know what's wrong.
Aunt Comfort is even working now."
"Aybo, this is shocking, everyone there was
buying groceries. There was never a shortage
of food." Zinhloso commented.
"We don't know but there's something wrong."
They went back to the living room with food for
themselves and their mother. They ate together
while Ziwinile was telling her mother all about
the happenings of the ceremony. Zinhloso was
commenting here and there. Ziwinile took the
dishes and left.
"How are you holding up with the babies? Are
you better now?" Mrs Mnguni asked Zinhloso.
She was looking at her big belly.
Zinhloso was surprised. Her mother was asking
about her pregnancy? "I am well since I started
having what Mhlabunzima's mother suggested."
"That's better. You should look after yourself.
Pregnancy can be very critical and don't stress,"
Mrs Mnguni advised. She never expected that
Zinhloso would still come back home after what
happened. She thought after that letter she was
never going to come back. She came back,
again and again, she knew it wasn't for her but it
was for her siblings and her brother's children.
"Yes, I will." Zinhloso felt like she was in a
different world. Her mother was showing
concern for her? Maybe she was hallucinating.
***
Mhlabunzima was in his bedroom reading. He
had recently asked for a piece of land from his
great father. The land belonged to his
grandfather, nobody was working the land after
his death. Mhlabunzima wanted to venture into
planting sorghum. There was money in that
business. He didn't want to stop his vegetable
garden. His great father agreed that he could
take it.
Lily walked inside the bedroom. She sat on the
bed and looked at what Mhlabunzima was
reading. She couldn't understand a thing, "what
are you reading?"
He closed the book, "some book about
business," he answered and sat up straight. He
looked at her. "I called you here because I want
us to talk."
"About?"
"Our relationship, I can't keep you unhappy and
unsatisfied." Mhlabunzima started the
conversation. It took him a week to make this
decision. He'd lived for years without a woman
and there was nothing wrong with him. Life was
going to carry on. It wasn't like he didn't have
any children to carry his legacy even though he
was worried that all these three children were
going to be the same. If Zinhloso insisted on
giving birth at the hospital, the twins were going
to be the same as Zodumo.
"What are you talking about?"
"I am freeing you to find another man who'll be
able to give you everything I can't give you. I
can't be selfish and keep you as my partner
while you're not getting me holistically. You
need to find someone. Umendo umendo
ngokwanda komndeni, akukho ukwanda
komndeni ngaphandle kocansi."
Lily didn't want to take this. She knew he was
right, she needed to be fully happy but she
couldn't let him go, "I don't love you for sex but I
love you for who you're."
He smiled - how comforting, "I went to a
traditional healer and he said I was bewitched
but he couldn't see by who."
Lily was certain it was Zinhloso but she didn't
want to keep bringing it up because it was
expected that he still cared for her. Or even love
her. She also cared for her ex-boyfriend. He just
didn't have money and if she could - she could
spend all the money she had now, with him. But
he wanted nothing to do with her because she
dumped him for Mhlabunzima. She tried to talk
to him but he didn't want to talk to her.
"We can't give up on our love. We have a child
together. We should be a family and it doesn't
matter however long it took to find help. I'll
always be here with you. I will make you a man
amongst men by being your wife," she said and
she could see Mhlabunzima was happy with
what she said. He paid ilobolo for her - her
father's cows all died and before her lobolo
cows could die, Lily's mother sold them and
kept the money safe.
Mhlabunzima kissed Lily, he remembered it
wasn't only his penis that could make a woman
cum. He didn't need to be miserable about it.
UMCEBO

Chapter 222
***Chapter sponsored by Sphelele Shongwe***

"Baba?" Mhlabunzima sat next to his father on

the bench outside his father's house.
Xulu was fixing his tobacco, "Gxabhashe?"
"Is there anyone who can possibly know the
consequences of Zinhloso giving birth at the
hospital?" Mhlabunzima asked his father. He
was coming from the bank, he'd opened a bank
account and he decided he wasn't going to tell
anyone about it except for his father. "I tried
speaking to granny and she would get very
angry at the mention of it."
"I don't know my son because she's the only
elderly woman alive."
He rubbed his forehead, he'd been trying his
best to get to the bottom of the truth but he
couldn't find the truth. He wanted Zinhloso to
know about it so she would comply but he
wasn't getting lucky.
"But mkhulu, it can't be that there's no one else
who knows."
Xulu remained quiet for a while, "I am not saying
he knows but there's a possibility your great
father could know. He was a very nosy young
man, he might have heard somehow. If not, dad
could have told him because he was the eldest
and he was supposed to tell him important
things about family so he would tell us. I was
too young to understand anything."
"So, you have no clue? Great father is away due
to work. I don't know when he'll return."
Xulu kept quiet and tried to think, "ey, I really
don't know but there's witchcraft and curses
involved. Let's wait for your great father. We'll
ask him and he might tell us something tangible
or the truth."
"I hope so." He told his father about the plans
he had for his grandfather's land. His father was
impressed, "but, the money from that land will
solely be for the twins. I opened an account. If
anything happens to me and I die married,
"My children from my marriage might want to
take everything. That will leave the twins with
nothing from their father. Kubalulekile ukuthi
bebe nomcebo wabo separately,
"I want that wealth to take care of them even
when I am gone. That's why I opened an
account, that's where I will keep this money for
them. From the land. I don't know what you
think."
Xulu shook his hands with him, "that's great
thinking. Yes, that's important because children
can fight for inheritance. Children from
marriage will always feel more entitled to their
father's wealth. Do that my son. It's great
thinking."
He smiled and stood up, "I will go."
He thought he was going to drive to the
supermarket but Esther gave him a small box of
things he deeded to deliver to Zinhloso. He was
playing music.
He parked the car before the gate and he got
out of the car with the box.
"Please, give this to Zinhloso " Mhlabunzima
placed the box on the counter.
The girl looked at Mhlabunzima with sorry eyes,
"Chwane?" She stopped him from walking away,
"I feel sorry for you."
"Why?" He looked back.
"MaMnguni doesn't use or eat all these things
you keep bringing here. The nuts, the dried up
vegetables, she just gives them to me to have,"
she told him what broke his heart, "I am telling
you so you would know and maybe you'll stop
wasting your time. The money? She also gives it
to me. There's a plastic of a few clothing items
with a wooden horse toy, you said your mom
said she should keep it because it was
something that belonged to you. She should
only open it once the babies are born. She
opened it, said it's old and worn out. She burnt it
with the trash she was burning."
He looked down. He told his mother not to give
those clothes to her, rather dress the babies
when they visit. But she was just too excited
and thinking of being sentimental. There goes
being sentimental.
"It's okay, the money mostly comes from me
but the nuts and all the dry vegetables, they're
always from mom. She said those types of nuts
are believed to be good for the development of
the baby's brain. She planted them months back,
specially for her when she heard she was
carrying twins. So, if she sends me to bring it
here,
"I can't tell her I won't bring it because she
doesn't take these things you give. It's okay,
keep eating it. At least it's not going to waste.
Thank you, I will go now."
"Alright, I totally understand."
He forced a smile and headed to the car. He
saw Zinhloso standing outside, on the veranda.
He didn't say anything, didn't greet but he
stepped inside the car and drove away. He was
really wishing this could be over soon, the
babies could be born.
That day, he returned home and not at the
supermarket. He found the young man who
looked after his sheep, he was home and he
looked like he was panicking.
"What's wrong?" Mhlabunzima asked the young
man. He was standing outside the sheepfold.
"Eh, Chwane, two sheep are missing."
"What?" He screamed and quickly looked at the
sheep inside the fold. She counted them, the
two were really missing, "how? What happened?
Let's go and look for them." He quickly pulled
the boy away and they walked out of the
premises. Mhlabunzima was already feeling
sad about his sheep. It was better slaughtering
them than losing them.
****
She'd been living a comfortable life, she wasn't
short of anything and life had been really good.
But she missed the time she used to spend with
her boyfriend. She realised that without his
manhood, she wasn't happy about her
relationship with Mhlabunzima. She was
annoyed that there was no sexual pleasure and
he thought he was really trying by using his
fingers on her. What were fingers? She wanted
the real thing, the fingers were nothing and they
weren't meant to enter there. When she refused
to have him use them, he said it would give her
pleasure.
"Sawubona," Lily walked inside her ex-
boyfriend's hut. She'd decided that maybe she
could try for the last time. They really loved
each other with Mduduzi. Maybe he was going
to forgive her if she explained what happened.
His face changed when he realised that it was
Lily on the door, "what are you doing here?" He
asked, he had a rough voice.
She sat on the chair that was closer to the door,
"Mdu, sthandwa, I am really sorry about what
happened between us. But I am asking that you
listen to me."
"Listen to what? You chose Mhlabunzima
because he's better, right?" He shouted at her.
He was really hurt when Lily left him for
Mhlabunzima. He thought it was because he
didn't have money like Mhlabunzima. He was
just a security guard. He was still hurting.
Lily quickly stood up and she took out a roll of
money from her breasts. Two days back, she
saw the coordinates of his safe where he kept
money and other important documents. She
was annoyed when she realised the coordinates
to open the safe were Qophelo's birthday. Why
were they the dead child's birthday? She stole
his money once he wasn't in the house.
Lily threw the roll of money on top of the bed
and there was excitement in the eyes of
Mduduzi. He'd never seen so much money, "I
went back to him because of money. It's his
aunt who fuelled me to go back to him and he
took me back because he was just hurt,
"I was blinded by money and there's nothing
happening between us because of his ex,
Zinhloso. She bewitched him. His manhood is
not working."
Mduduzi was shocked, "you're lying. It's really
not working?"
"No, it's not. If it was, I would be pregnant by
now because he wants more children."
He laughed, "I can't believe this."
"Yea, so, can we fix things? We'll never be
hungry again. Mhlabunzima will be like our
lifestyle sponsor," she said with a clean smile
as she sat on the bed, "I will take money from
him and we'll spend it together. We'll be happy
and buy anything we wish to buy but it should
be in secret so we won't be caught."
Mduduzi kept quiet, and he imagined this life
Lily was selling him. Things could really be
good if he could have Mhlabunzima's money.
He pulled Lily onto the bed and she laughed. He
tossed the money aside, soon, they were going
to have more than enough notes to even wipe
sweat with the notes. They would wipe tears
with money.
He attacked Lily with a kiss. He wanted to
perform his best on top of her - his woman had
been hungry. Young Xulu had a disabled
manhood. She was a brilliant woman and he
really loved her. He was happy again, his
woman was back in his life and she wasn't
coming empty handed - she was coming back
with Umcebo.
UMCEBO

Chapter 223

***Unlocked bonus chapter ***

Ziwinile had been doing really great emotionally

and physically since she returned home. She
was happy about how things were, she was
single and focusing on her life.
"I am fine and how are you doing?" Ziwinile
asked Zinhloso on the line. She'd finished
marking some school work for her class.
She yawned, "I am fine, I went for a check-up
today and everything looks better now. They
said I might not carry full term. It differs with
women and pregnancies because others do
carry full term. I want to give birth already."
"Be patient, you'll pop those babies soon. Where
are you going to give birth?"
"I spoke with my Doctor and asked if I could
make a booking at the private hospital and she
said money talks," Zinhloso responded and she
chuckled, "she didn't think I had that much
money because of my skin colour and also,
because I am from the rural areas."
"Those fools! I bet she asked how you make
money?"
"Yes, and I gained a customer after telling her
what I do."
Ziwinile laughed, "that's awesome. I should
come around your due date so I will accompany
you to the hospital if you're going for a private
one."
"Thank you. Yazi, something strange has been
happening."
"What?"
"I am dreaming of plants, it's like there's a
grandma who sits me down and takes me
through the lecture of what plants do. So, I tried
out what she said and I am scared to put it on
the shelves," Zinhloso said.
"You should call our great uncle and tell him
about that woman, describe how she looks. If
it's ancestor from the Mnguni side you'll know
and if it's not, you'll ask gogo, maybe it's an
ancestor from the Ntuli side of the family."
She sighed, "I didn't think of that, I will definitely
call them. Thank you and for checking on us."
"No problem. How's Mhlabunzima? Is he still
keeping his distance?"
She sighed, "yes, he only comes to deliver
things I don't even need."
"Like what?"
"Nuts, dried vegetables and even clothes he
wore as a baby. How do they even know my
babies will be boys or girls? The toys that are
old. I am not poor, I can afford clothes for my
kids."
"So, you turned them back?"
"I didn't want to hurt his mom's feelings. I burnt
them."
"That's not nice."
"What their son did to me is also not nice. The
scars are deeper, the hopes and dreams I had
about our future. He's enjoying my blood and
sweat with another woman - I don't even want
to talk about it."
"So, what are you going to do about asking him
to come and give you intimacy like the last time
before you give birth?"
"I will call and ask him to bring the ointment.
He'll obviously want to come in and rub me,"
she responded and they laughed. "Enough
about Mhlabunzima. Did your guy call?"
Ziwinile laughed, "bye, Zinhloso!" She hung up
the telephone and headed out. They walked out
with her sisters-in-law. They were going to the
river but they were going to start at the
supermarket to buy soap. They were going to
wash clothes.
"Uke ubone kodwa ukuthi uma into ihlelwe idlozi
iyazenzakalela bese kuba ngathi umuntu
uyathakatha," (ever realised when something
has been set by ancestors. It automatically
happens and it'll be like we're witches.)
Ziwinile turned back as she heard a familiar
voice. "Simon?"
He had an ebony skin with a few pimples on his
face but he was one those men who looked
effortlessly good even with pimples on their
face, "I am surprised you even remember my
name."
The sisters-in-law eyed one another, "should we
wait for you, skwiza?"
"No, go!" She blushed and they left. She focused
on Simon, "and then? What are you doing here?"
They continued walking, "you gave me a wrong
telephone number MaMnguni omuhle. I tried
calling and it didn't go through but because I am
a determined man. When I have seen
something I like I go for it. I decided to take a
risk since it's Friday and come here."
She laughed, she didn't tell him that she did that
deliberately. She wanted to see if he was really
going to give up after realising the number
wasn't working. And to her surprise, he didn't
give up. "I am speechless."
"I found out about the bus coming to this village.
I asked some people on the bus but they didn't
want to tell a stranger where your home is." His
voice didn't match his look - he looked like a
strong black man but his voice was small and
soft. Once would expect a deep voice from him.
"I luckily saw you and I quickly asked to get off
the bus. I have to be the luckiest man."
"I can see."
"I know you think I was going to give up after
realising the number is not working."
She laughed, "guilty!"
They had a good conversation, trying to get to
know each other. It was Ziwinile who was
asking more questions about him. He was from
the township, he was the eldest of the four
siblings. He knew Ngenzeni's groom from work
and was invited to the ceremony.
Ziwinile forgot about helping her sisters with
washing clothes. She was under the tree with
Simon having a good time.
"Oh, you left me for lesi sguqa sendoda!"
Ziwinile and Simon looked back, she was
annoyed when she saw him. "What are you
doing here?" She asked.
Bhekani didn't answer Ziwinile but he charged
at Simon, "what are you doing with my wife?" He
tried throwing a punch but Simon held his fist
into his big hand. Bhekani was tall and Simon
was medium height. The fight began between
the two men. Bhekani was fighting and talking,
Simon wasn't talking but he was dishing
punches to Bhekani.
Bhekani was bruised physically and his ego was
bruised. He picked himself up and ran back,
"you'll regret it with this woman. Inyumba leyo!"
He exclaimed and ran off.
Simon softly looked at Ziwinile who was shaken
by the scene. She was pinned against the tree
because of fear. "I am sorry, I didn't want to
show you that but I wasn't going to look at him
disrespecting me." He said and Ziwinile nodded,
"what's your relationship with him?"
Ziwinile told him the truth about her relationship
with Bhekani. She told him why she wasn't
getting children, by the time she was done - she
had mucus dripping off her. Simon circled his
strong and muscular arms around her. He did
boxing as a hobby in the township. Ziwinile
disappeared into his embrace and she felt safe.
"Don't cry, some situations bring the worst out
of us. Everyone has their good and a bad side,
it's up to an individual which side do you want
to rule. You're a good sister now and that's what
matters." He said and his words brought a smile
on her face.
****
August - Lily had been seeing Mduduzi in secret.
She no longer cared about Mhlabunzima's weak
pleasure of fingers. She knew she was getting
real joy and that was her boyfriend's manhood.
They were careful about everything and Lily
asked Mduduzi not to say anything to anyone
about Mhlabunzima's disability. It could put
their relationship at risk of being exposed.
People would know there was no way he knew
about this if he didn't hear it from his ex-
girlfriend.
Mduduzi realised she was right and so, because
he wanted to continue enjoying his money. He
kept quiet. He wished he could talk so
Mhlabunzima would be the talk of the village
but money was more important than village
gossip. The gossip wasn't going to feed him.
Lily had told Mduduzi to stop working but
Mduduzi refused because that was going to
raise questions. People were going to wonder
where he was getting money from. He was a
third born child of eight children. His father left
his mother with children, going to the city and
he never returned.
"Love," Mduduzi was brushing Lily's shoulder.
They were naked under the bedcovers at night.
"Yes, my love?" She was on his chest.
"Do you remember when I told you I am going
somewhere for the weekend? I will come back?
I will make you happy?" Mduduzi asked.
"Yes, where did you go?"
"You know that my mother is from Cape of
Good Hope province. I went there and spoke to
my aunt there. I found a plot for us," Mduduzi
told Lily exciting news.
"You're joking!"
"Serious! I took the money you've been giving
me and we got the land. The land is empty, we
need to build and move there. We'll need a lot of
money for that," Mduduzi suggested. It was in
their hopes and dreams to be together, freely
one day.
Lily wasn't expecting that could happen sooner.
Mduduzi was really serious about her unlike
Mhlabunzima who wasn't doing enough to fix
his manhood, "I have an idea!" She sat up
straight.
Mduduzi did the same, "what?"
"It'll be hard to steal all the money from his safe
at home but we can get more money if we can
try his safe at the supermarket," Lily came up
with a brilliant idea.
Mduduzi clapped once and kissed her,
"brilliant!"
"I am sure the coordinates are the same. He
keeps money there before taking it to the bank.
They don't bank everyday." Lily shared with
Mduduzi, "what I will do is, I will remove
incweba and we can freely do a break-in at the
supermarket. Take anything we like and we can
build our dream home."
Mduduzi was over the moon. He was going to
have his own yard and have a wife! That was
marvellous! He rewarded Lily with a good round.
It was a happy time for the lovers.
UMCEBO

Chapter 224

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

"Ngenzwel'umusa?" Esther screamed for

Mhlabunzima. She was outside her hut.
"Ma?"
"Come, it's ready!"
Mhlabunzima walked out of the kitchen and
went to his mother. He really didn't understand
why she was calling him to her hut. She was
supposed to come to the kitchen because she'd
been busy cooking.
"But mom, what's wrong if Ngenzeni goes to
give her this ointment?"
"Is Ngenzeni the father of those children?" She
shouted at him. Zinhloso called three days back
and luckily, Esther answered the telephone call.
She requested an ointment for her back pain.
Esther told her she was still going to make it for
her.
"No, but I still need to go and search for my
sheep. It's not a must that the ointment should
be delivered by me." He said, sadly. More of his
sheep were lost. He felt like he was being
punished for doing the job of stealing other
people's livestock. But he couldn't understand
why he was the only one punished. He wasn't
doing it alone and the others had no problem.
"You'll look for your sheep when you come back.
Go! Ngiyakuthuma ngiwunyoko!" She screamed
at him.
Mhlabunzima took the ointment and he headed
to his car. He didn't even finish up his food. It
was okay - he was Zinhloso's delivery boy.
There was a tent in the yard and women were
going in and out of the yard. They were dressed
nicely and there was a great aroma coming
from the yard.
Mhlabunzima parked the car before the gate.
He could see Zinhloso standing on the veranda
with Mthuthuzeli. She was talking and
Mthuthuzeli was taking whatever he was taking
out of Zinhloso's eye. He didn't go through the
gates even though the gates were opened. He
quickly went to the shopkeeper.
"Hey, sisi, I am dropping this for Zinhloso." He
smiled politely and put the small bottle on the
counter.
She smiled back and didn't take it, "she said if
you're bringing this I should tell you come
inside."
"No, I should come inside for what? She has
company and I am really in a hurry," he didn't
leave as he could see she was still talking.
"Yes, but her function hasn't started. You can go
and give it to her."
"I don't have time, she needs that, I have
delivered it. Bye." He quickly rushed to his car
and stepped inside the car. He drove away
without wasting any time.
Zinhloso saw Mhlabunzima driving away. She
didn't see him when he parked his car, she
turned to the car and realised he wasn't inside
the car. She didn't expect he would just get
back inside the car and leave - just like that!
She left Mthuthuzeli talking to her brother and
she went to the chemist. She took the ointment
that her employee had kept safe and she looked
at her, "didn't you tell him he should come
inside?"
"I told him but he said you have company and
he's rushing somewhere important."
She tightened her teeth, "I wonder what's more
important than his goddamn children! Tsk!" She
walked out of the chemist and she tried her
best to calm down. She was pissed that why did
he have to come at such a wrong time? She
really needed him, his hands and his affection
but he didn't even care to hear what she had to
say. What if something was wrong with the
babies? They were obviously not going to do
something because her yard was full and she
had a function to attend. But she was going to
tell him to come back. She was really going to
need him because she was going to have a long
day.
Her uncle told her the woman she was
describing was her ancestor - the Mnguni side
of the family. Zinhloso trusted the product and
put it on the shelves. It was her most bought
product.
She planned a function - seminar kind of a thing
with the women of the village.
"I saw Mhlabunzima, did he leave?" Mzomubi
asked as Zinhloso walked inside the house.
"Yes!" She went to the bedroom and put the
ointment safely, maybe she was going to get
courage and call him back.
The event started, the tent was full. Zinhloso
had called the women of the village. The event
was all about skincare. Her doctor was also
present at the event. The women of the village
were surprised by seeing a white person seated
with them. She also had a chance to speak to
them about different women's health problems.
She could speak their language.
When Zinhloso's turn came, she was teaching
them about skin care and how other skin
problems were internal. She explained some of
her products and gave them some free
products. Everyone was happy to be part of this
experience.
After the event, they had food, they ate until
they carried some of the food home. She had
also slaughtered one of her sheep for them and
she bought a cow for them to enjoy.
She was very happy about the success of the
event and she couldn't believe she really did the
event after being scared it wasn't going to be a
success.
After dressing up for bed, Zinhloso took a deep
breath and she called Mhlabunzima. The
telephone rang and rang without being
answered. She tried three times and put the
phone down.
She clicked her tongue, "he's probably busy with
the love of his life." She decided to sleep and
forget about Mhlabunzima.
***
He had driven around the whole village and
even at the neighbouring villages searching for
his sheep. The sun went back to its mother and
he was still not home. He walked by foot on the
mountains, searching for his livestock. He
couldn't find not even one.
Defeated and out of energy, Mhlabunzima sat
down under the tree, down the mountain. He
put his knees up and hid his face on his knees.
It all came back, the time they were struggling
when they grew up. How hard their father and
brother worked for them to have food on the
table.
He could remember like it was yesterday, the
first money he got on the job. He told his father
he was going to be different from every man in
the village. He bought his first sheep and they
thought he was going to slaughter it. He kept it
and years later, he had a flock of sheep. He'd
lost it all - not even one was left.
He didn't have any tears to cry, but he was
feeling immense pain. He quickly opened his
eyes as he felt like his head was spinning. The
world was going round and round. If there was
one ultimate thing he was scared of, it had to be
poverty.

Esther and Xulu were faced with a dilemma of

looking for their son. They heard he'd been seen
driving. It was dark and he was still not back.
Kusakusa decided to join his parents and they
looked for Mhlabunzima. Ngenzeni wanted to
join but Xulu told her to stay at home. Esther
was crying along the way - her baby boy! Where
was he? Her husband had told her to stay at
home too but she refused.
Kusakusa had a torch and he was the one who
saw Mhlabunzima's car down the mountain.
"There's his car!" He shouted and they ran to the
car.
"Kusakusa!" Esther held her mouth at the sight
of her son. He was shirtless and he kept moving
around the tree. Looking under the small
bushes around the tree, making noises they
made when communicating with the sheep.
"Mhlabunzima!" Kusakusa held his brother and
Mhlabunzima tried to fight him.
"I want my sheep!" He screamed.
Kusakusa gave the torch to his father and he
carried Mhlabunzima to the car. The parents
followed. Xulu was in shock by all this that was
happening to his child. Kusakusa drove them
home. It was a sour situation.
UMCEBO

Chapter 225

***Chapter sponsored by N.L***

"Yey, we-ntombazane. Where do you think you

are going?" Esther asked Lily, she was heading
to Mhlabunzima's house. Esther was inside the
kitchen hut when she saw a figure passing by.
Lily went to her mother-in-law, "sanibonani,
mama?"
"What do you want?"
"I went to the supermarket to visit Zodumo's
father and I heard from Ntokozo what
happened to him. I am here to check on him,"
Lily responded.
She pointed at the gates, "go back home. He's
sleeping. I don't want anyone to disturb him."
"I just want -"
"I said he's sleeping. Go back home!" She
shouted at her. She really didn't want anyone
who was going to wake him. She even told his
friends to go home when they came to check
on him. Mhlabunzima had difficulties sleeping
until his father burnt sage for him. Only then he
was able to sleep. She didn't want people near
him until he was awake.
"I will come back later."
"He'll call you if he wants you to come." She
said and she clicked her tongue as Lily walked
away.
Esther went to his house and she showed her
head on his door. He was still sleeping soundly.
She went back to the kitchen.
Kusakusa sat down with his parents and he
started talking about the issue of Mhlabunzima.
They were suspecting someone was behind the
sheep being stolen. It wasn't a coincidence.
"Who do you suspect?" Xulu asked.
"I think it's Zinhloso. She's bitter that my brother
left her and now, she wants him to go crazy."
Xulu stood up and headed to the door, "I
thought you were going to tell me something
sensible. I am not listening to nonsense!" He
walked out leaving mother and son.
Esther was only glaring at Kusakusa and when
he tried to talk. She pointed to the door for him,
"get out, now!" She screamed and Kusakusa
respected his mother. He couldn't understand
why his parents weren't seeing the bigger
picture.

Lily left the Xulu home upset about the way

Esther treated her. It was like she wasn't
Mhlabunzima's fianceé.
She didn't go home but she went to her
boyfriend's home. She didn't care about people
but she felt sorry for Mhlabunzima. She heard
that he was losing his mind because of his
sheep. That was his wealth, it was special and
Lily knew it was his aunt who took the sheep.
She realised after she had gotten back with
Mduduzi. Suddenly, aunt Maria had more
money and didn't need her to steal for her? It
was alarming to Lily but she was too busy
focusing on Mduduzi and their only agenda.
Their relationship.
"Are you crazy? Why are you here during the
day?" Mduduzi asked.
"I know we said we should break into his
supermarket tonight but can we abort the
mission?" Lily kindly requested and she sat on
his lap.
Mduduzi shook his head. He had tasted wealth
and he wanted more. "Where are we going to
get the money to build the house?" He shouted
at her. "Why are you being weak? Do you still
see a future with him? Did he fight for you when
you came back after suffering for years? No, he
didn't and now, you were not happy with him
and he didn't care. Why are you weak? Huh?"
"Okay, you're right. We'll do it tonight. I removed
incweba at the supermarket and we'll be free to
go tonight." She realized he was really being
weak.
He smiled and pecked her lips, "that's my girl.
Don't leave, your mom will think you're with your
fiancé who's in pain."
"Alright," she rested her lips on his lips and it
was down to business for them.

Before midnight, Lily and Mduduzi were inside

the premises of the supermarket. They jumped
the fence and went in through the back.
Mduduzi was the mastermind of how things
were supposed to go. He wanted things to go
smoothly. They were only going to go smoothly
if he was leading the operation.
Mduduzi unlocked the backdoor. Lily had cut
the spare key for the backdoor. It didn't have
burglar guards. They easily walked through.
Once they were inside, coming from the side of
the storeroom. Lily was leading the way. She
knew where the safe was - inside his office.
"Where's the safe?" Mduduzi asked.
She smiled and pointed to the cupboard, she
felt the boss as she opened the cupboard
showing the safe. She punched Qophelo's
birthday and just like that - it was opened. She
was strongly annoyed by this. He didn't even
think of making her child's birthday one of the
safe's coordinates. They both couldn't believe
the money they were seeing. The coins and the
notes according to their numbers.
"Is it the day's money?" Mduduzi asked and he
licked his lips like he was seeing mouth
watering food.
"No! Stop talking and put the money on the
sack!" Lily shouted at him and they quickly
worked on putting the money on the sacks.
They didn't leave anything, not even the notes.
"Why don't we burn it down?" Mduduzi asked
Lily. He was jealous that Mhlabunzima was
making so much money alone. Why?
"Are you crazy? I won't do that. Let's go!" Lily
pulled him to the gate. He helped Lily jump and
once Lily was out of the premises.
He didn't throw money at her, "I am going back.
I want to finish him."
Lily wanted to scream at him but she
remembered she didn't know who was
watching. She quickly ran and hid under the
trees.
Mduduzi couldn't find any gas to lit the
supermarket and so he decided to throw
matches on the chicken coops because there
was dry grass inside the coops. He ran back to
Lily.
He didn't care that Lily was angry about what he
did. He was very hurt when this woman left him
for Mhlabunzima because he was better. This
was going to make him feel much better.

Luckily, there were drunken men who were

passing by and they could hear the cry of
burning chickens, the aroma of burning
chickens and the smoke. They realised
Mhlabunzima's place was on fire.
"It's Chwane's place. Let's go and help!" One
man was sober within minutes. They quickly ran
to the gate. They jumped.
The water tank and sand came in handy. They
were quickly able to put out the fire before it
could reach the supermarket. The fire only
destroyed the chicken coops.
The men were too tired and they dropped on the
ground. They were drunk and tired, it didn't take
them long, they were sleeping right there on the
ground.
UMCEBO

Chapter 226
***Chapter Sponsored by N.L***

Mzomubi drove through the gates of Zinhloso's

premises. He was with Aunt Comfort. Aunt
Comfort reached home in the morning and
asked him to drive her to Zinhloso she needed
to talk to her.
They had enough of being beggars and so, they
consulted about what was happening to their
money. What was taking their money and
groceries. It showed that they had chased out
the child. At home where she belonged like
every child. The ancestors were not happy
about it and that was the reason they were
losing. They sent Comfort to talk to her and
apologize for what they did to her.
Comfort was very amazed by how beautiful her
yard was.
The house was no longer a two room house but
it was four rooms. She added another bedroom
and a living room.
"I am sure you want nothing to do with those
babies in your body now," Comfort commented
after greeting.
Zinhloso welcomed her into her living room.
She was ticked off by her comment because it
was all Mhlabunzima's fault. It was already
September and she hadn't given birth to the
babies. "Yes, I don't know what to do now."
"You have to be patient."
"What brings you here?" She moved from the
small talks. She was very surprised when she
saw her enter through the gates. She was
getting her visit? Why?
Aunt Comfort took a deep breath. She was very
nervous about this. "Zinhloso, ngane kabhuti. I
am here to humbly apologize. I was sent by the
family to ask for forgiveness for the way we
treated you and the way we chased you out of
your home. We're really sorry. I was horrible to
you while you weren't horrible to me,
"The pain took over and I lost my rationality. It's
a lot for you that I am here after everything that
happened,
"We didn't treat you like family and for that,
please forgive us. We want you to always know
that's your home. You're always welcome." She
said and forced her head down. She didn't want
to show weakness. Things have been very
difficult. They'd finally found the solution and
she was hoping they wouldn't be rejected.
She chuckled, "I am no longer even there yazi.
It's the past, let's put it behind us." She'd long
taken them out of her mind. She'd been dealing
with bigger things. They were also one of the
reasons she lost her child. Maybe if she didn't
leave home things wouldn't have happened the
way they did but it didn't matter anymore. It was
Mhlabunzima who hurt her the most and still
hadn't forgotten what he did.
Zinhloso kept her head down as aunt Comfort
was thanking her without stopping. She
requested a hug and they hugged each other.
Mzomubi brought water and they washed their
hands. They had drinks after.
"Did you hear what happened to Mhlabunzima?"
Mzomubi asked Zinhloso as they were eating
and relaxing after the talk.
"What happened to him? I'd be happy if you're
telling me he's dead."
Aunt Comfort slapped her thigh, "don't speak
like that."
"I am not joking. What happened?"
Mzomubi was no longer sure if what Zinhloso
was holding against Mhlabunzima was hurt and
pain or it was bitterness. She'd forgiven them all,
forgave Ziwinile who treated her badly for years,
since she was a teen until she found love.
Ziwinile was her blood and treated her like
nothing but she forgave her. She didn't have to
beg for that forgiveness and if Ziwinile had left
Bhekani before coming to her. She was
obviously going to forgive her. She'd forgiven
him and she'd forgiven aunt Comfort and the
family. These people were her blood, people
who were supposed to protect her and stand
with her but she had easily forgiven them.
Mhlabunzima? He was a lover - with lovers you
leave a room for disappointment. She told him
he had apologized twice and she never forgave
him. She also felt he wasn't doing enough to
earn her forgiveness but she was always
keeping him away from her. He really couldn't
understand what was going on with her. He'd
concluded that after how she easily forgave
Comfort and the family. It was no longer pain
she felt towards Mhlabunzima but it was hate
and bitterness. He'd spoken to her until he
stopped. He didn't wish they could get back
together but he wanted her to let go and free
herself.
"I went to see him-"
"You went to see Mhlabunzima? Didn't you say
you'll never associate yourself with him?" She
raised her voice at Mzomubi.
He only stared at her, "I can change my mind
just like you've changed your mind about
everyone who hurt you." He had forgiven
Mhlabunzima but he was still no longer friends
with him. He was keeping his word. Aunt
Comfort and Zinhloso kept quiet after
Mzomubi's words.
"He lost everything…." He told him about
everything that had happened to Mhlabunzima.
"He's literally losing his mind and what
happened to his supermarket made things
worse."
Zinhloso laughed, "heeee, ifa leziwula lidliwa
izihlakaniphi. I don't even know how but I am
sure it's his precious fianceé. What a shame!"
She remembered what the traditional healer
said to her. It had come to pass, Mhlabunzima
had fallen? The mighty Mhlabunzima was going
mad - unbelievable!
"But he'll recover, Mhlabunzima survived the
longest poverty in his life. He'll recover."
Mzomubi said. He really empathised with him.
Nobody deserved what happened to him.
Everyone was supposed to have their own
things by working hard for them not steal.
"Oh, you're really his friend now."
"Stop bickering you two. It's not right. What
happened to him it's not right. You're both
allowed to have different opinions and
reactions about it," Aunt Comfort stepped in
before it could escalate. They stopped bickering
about it.

At night, Zinhloso couldn't sleep, she kept

tossing and turning. She was feeling hot as if
there was someone starting a fire in the room.
She took off everything she was wearing and
tried to sleep.
She felt like she was losing her mind and she
quickly sat up. She closed her eyes and all that
she could see and hear - it was the face of the
traditional healer and his words about
Mhlabunzima.
"Why should I help him? After everything he did
to me?" She screamed and laid back on the bed.
She kept her eyes open hoping she would find
sleep soon but she couldn't sleep. She angrily
got up and got dressed. She packed a full outfit
and walked out of the house.
She took the driver's seat and drove out of the
premises. The time was after 8pm.
Zinhloso parked the car before Xulu's gate. She
was really angry with herself as she walked
through the gate. She was sneaking in - she
walked behind the houses until she reached his
house. She tried the door and it was not locked.
She could hear him talking alone in his bedroom
and when she entered the bedroom. She
couldn't believe what she was seeing.
Mhlabunzima was on his feet, taking his clothes
out of the wardrobe. He was wearing only his
underwear.
"Where are my sheep?" He kept asking, "my
money? I want my money Lily!"
"Are you searching for your sheep and money
inside the wardrobe?" Zinhloso asked and put
her bag on top of the bed.
He glanced at her and proceeded searching.
Since he heard about his supermarket, his
chickens and what happened to his money.
Things had been really bad. He could recognise
the people around him - who they were but he
didn't care about them. He wanted his money
and his sheep. His father called the traditional
healer into the yard and he told them who did it
but he couldn't help him. He couldn't even
suggest who could help.
"Can you please dress up?" Zinhloso took out
her clothes from her bag and pointed them. She
wasn't moved by his sight, she was only angry
that she was here helping him. Did she feel
sorry for him? No! She was actually wishing his
supermarket burnt down because that was her
blood and sweat. She knew she wasn't helping
him for the children either - he technically had
no claim over the babies she was carrying.
"I want my things!"
She decided to calm down because anger
wasn't going to help her. "Please get dressed. I
will go with you where we'll find your sheep. You
just have to dress like a woman so they won't
see us coming."
Mhlabunzima quickly believed what she was
saying and he wore Zinhloso's shirt dress. She
helped him put a doek on his head, going down
to his chin to hide his beard. "We'll really get my
sheep?" He ssjedy, like a lost child.
"Yes," she held his hand and she walked out of
the house with him. She didn't want to wake his
parents.

The traditional healer was seated on the door

and as soon as Zinhloso drove through - he
stood up.
He greeted and pulled Mhlabunzima out of the
van. "You should go inside that hut young lady,
sleep because you'll leave with him tomorrow
night." He pointed to the hut and Zinhloso went
there. She wondered what he was going to say
to him.
He told Mhlabunzima to undress, his mind was
calm the minute he entered the hut but he was
still talking about his sheep and money.
"You already know who did this to you," he said
and gave him muthi to lick. "Your child's life is in
danger because of her mother's boyfriend. He
wants only your baby mama and not the child.
The first thing to do when you leave here, go
and look for your child. Take her, it's sad that
she's a child who's struggling because of her
grandfather. He took her pregnant mother away
from the family without knowing everything
about your family customs and the child's life
will never be normal again."
"What are the consequences?" His mind was
fully into the room after licking muthi.
"I would be lying if I said I know.” He gave him
another muthi to lick.
“Will I ever recover from this? What happened to
me? From losing my daughter and this?” He
asked, sadly.
“If you let go of everything, don’t hold onto
anger but allow yourself to heal and focus on
building your future. You can still gain even
more than what you’ve lost. It's not like you lost
everything. Only if you focus and let go of the
past hurts. Live, live and live, you were able to
realise you took your anger on the wrong
person,
“You didn’t kill an elder as you deeply desired
because your child’s death is on her. That was
big of you and this means, you can still be well
again.” He started his process of healing and he
allowed him to ask questions.
"Your ancestors are watching over you but
there's one, one ancestor who's always in your
corner. Slaughter and give thanks after this. Ask
your question!"
“Will what MaMnguni did to me ever be
undone?” He explained what Zinhloso did to
him.
He laughed - he never thought Zinhloso would
choose such a thing. He thought she would go
for muthi when the time came but she decided
on this, “yes, but the only way is taking it back
to the sender.”
“What do you mean?” He looked at him and
closed his eyes as he cut his skin with a razor
blade.
“If you want me to help you undo what she did,
this will mean we’ll be sending the spell back to
her. What happened to you will happen to her
because what she did was a spell,” he explained
it clearly to him and Mhlabunzima kept quiet,
“what do you think?”
“It’s fine, I will live with it until she gets married
as she’d said.”
He wasn’t expecting such a choice, “if that’s
what you want. It’s also a good choice,” he
focused on the healing but they didn’t stop
talking. He felt like he was talking to a son and
he wished he could see more about how things
would be for him going forward just to give him
hope but he couldn’t. He left Mhlabunzima
sleeping inside the hut once he was done with
everything.
UMCEBO

Chapter 227

It reached their ears that Xulu had called a

traditional healer after the incident. What
happened to Mhlabunzima was the talk of the
village and most people sympathised with him.
And there were those who were happy, they
swore this was his downfall. 'How the mighty
had fallen' they said as they drank tea with their
friends, gossiping about the sad thing that
happened to Mhlabunzima.
Mduduzi was very scared of what might happen
to him and Lily. He convinced Lily that they were
supposed to run away from the village. Hide in
the township until they were ready to leave the
township.
Lily didn't leave Zodumo behind. She was
scared that Mhlabunzima was going to come
and take Zodumo away from her.
What Mduduzi did was leave money with his
mother. The money they took from
Mhlabunzima, he told his mother that she
should send people to Lily's mother and uncles,
they should take the money as ilobolo for Lily.
When Mhlabunzima came back to claim his
ilobolo back, they would give him, ilobolo that
belonged to him. The one that was no longer in
the form of cows but money.
His mother took the mother and promised to do
as her son wanted. She didn't believe what they
were saying about Mduduzi. She believed that
Mduduzi was promoted at work as he told her.
The people his mother chose, they went to Lily's
mother as planned. They explained the situation
to Lily's mother and uncles - Mduduzi and Lily
were wrongly accused and so, they decided to
hide for safety. The two got back together
because Mhlabunzima was no longer making
her happy. They were paying ilobolo for Lily, her
mother should take back Mhlabunzima's ilobolo
to him because Lily had chosen Mduduzi.
Lily's mother was very angry because she didn't
get a chance to confront her daughter. Lily left
without telling her anything. She didn't want to
accept the money but the uncles told her to
accept and give Mhlabunzima back his cows
because what was being spoken by people was
not tasteful.
She accepted against her will, she was only
respecting the word of her husband's brothers.
She didn't know where she was going to begin
to face the Xulu family because it was clear her
daughter was not going to come back.
"Please, tell Lily and this boyfriend of hers. They
should bring my grandchild. If what's said is
true, they can't rob Mhlabunzima and take his
daughter. That's double pain, they must kindly
bring back the child. She has a father and if Lily
is choosing another man. She must leave the
child behind," Lily's mother said straight
forwardly to the men who were negotiating for
Mduduzi. The negotiations were held very early
in the morning while it was still dark. They were
hiding everything from people.
"What do you mean she says I should leave
Zodumo behind? She's my daughter!" Lily
screamed at Mduduzi after learning that her
mother had instructed that Lily should leave the
child behind.
Mduduzi was very happy when he heard that
because he didn't want to leave the province
with Lily's daughter. He wanted only Lily.
"She's right, if we have Zodumo with us. It might
be very easy for Mhlabunzima to find us. His
ancestors might show him where the child is,"
he tried his best to convince her. He really didn't
want to make it obvious to her that he didn't
want her daughter. Every woman wanted her
child from the previous relationship to be
accepted by her next lover.
"Which ancestors? The ones that didn't save
him from us? The same ancestors that didn't
show him he had a child for seven years?" She
screamed at him. She was pissed by her
mother's request. They were arguing inside the
room they were in, in the morning after
receiving feedback about ilobolo negotiations
through telephone call. Zodumo was sleeping.
"Think before you act, let's leave her and we'll
make means to come back and get her at a
later stage," Mduduzi said what he knew
wouldn't happen. He had his plan in motion
after realising Lily didn't want to leave her
daughter behind. "He knows it's us. He'll find us
easily if we have his child and he'll kill us. After
the cruelty we did to him. It's best we leave the
child for him, come back once he'd forgotten
and take her away from him."
Lily wasn't in support of this plan but she
understood his point of view, "alright, please be
the one to take her home at night. I don't want
to face my mother. She might take me to the
Xulu family if she sees me back home."
"Alright, love, I will take her tonight. I will ask my
friend to drive us." He was very happy about this
because his plan was going to work accurately.
He was going to ensure there was no Zodumo
they would come back to. Mhlabunzima was
going to bury another child - he wanted to triple
his pain. He needed to feel like the world had
turned its back on him.
And truly, Mduduzi put poison into the child's
food without her mother realising. By that time
Lily was crying and saying goodbye to her
daughter. The poison was already in her system.
She didn't know about that.
Mduduzi's friend took them back to the village.
Zodumo wasn't crying because she was told
she was going to her father. She would see her
mother later.
"Where's my daughter? Why didn't you come
back with her?" Lily's mother shouted at
Mduduzi as she opened up her house for him at
night.
Mduduzi placed the sleeping Zodumo on the
bed, "she couldn't come. We're leaving tonight
mama. Don't worry I will keep her safe. I love
her," he promised her.
"I don't trust you and things weren't done the
right way. I was forced to take the ilobolo you
brought while Mhlabunzima's money for ilobolo
is still with me," she shouted at him. She didn't
like all this - that was happening.
"You'll take it back to him, bye, mama!" He
quickly walked out. He walked out free and with
no guilt. He was taking his wife and leaving the
province.
Lily's mother didn't sleep that night, Zodumo
was sick. She was crying about painful stomach.
She was forced to call the Xulu family and told
them about the child. She knew they were
stressed about Mhlabunzima who wasn't home.
They called her during the day to ask if she had
seen Mhlabunzima.
Kusakusa came to her and they drove with him
to the hospital. That was where Zodumo took
her last breath because of food poisoning. They
could not believe what had happened. There
were bad things after bad things.
****
The time came for Mhlabunzima to leave. That
day, the healer wasn't working on healing
people. He was closed until the next day.
Zinhloso had been inside the hut alone and
Mhlabunzima was in the healing hut, with the
healer most of the times. He was evaluating
him.
"I hope nothing will be triggered when you get
home. You're very well now," he commented to
Mhlabunzima as they walked out of the hut.
"I hope so too because I feel much better than
before. I don't know what I would have done
without her." He held the door of the car.
Zinhloso was already inside the car, waiting for
them.
"She was very kind, she was given no rest and
she listened." He shook hands with
Mhlabunzima. "She didn't have to help you after
everything that happened."
"Yes, she didn't have to." He glanced at Zinhloso,
she was looking at the steering.
The traditional healer went to her side, he shook
hands with her, "you did a kind thing. Take good
care of yourself."
"Thank you, baba!"
"Don't cross the river but take the other route."
He advised and Zinhloso listened.
She drove out of the premises. Mhlabunzima
was still dressed in her clothes. She was
relieved he found help.
"Thank you for-"
"I didn't do it for you. I did it so I wouldn't live
with guilt knowing who could actually help you
but not take you there. It would have eaten me
up that I knew but I didn't help you," Zinhloso
quickly shut him up as he was starting his
'thank you' speech.
He had a pained smile, "it doesn't matter why
you did it. I am only grateful for what you did for
me. It was selfless of you. I don't know how
long it was going to take my parents to actually
find a traditional healer that was going to be
able to help me. So, thank you and I am still
really sorry for everything I did to you,
"Everything I said to you. All the horrible words,
they can never be erased but I hope one day
you'd find it in your heart to forgive me. I also
hope we will be able to work together in
harmony as the parents of the twins."
Zinhloso didn't say anything after his words.
They continued to drive silently. She glanced at
him once they'd reached their village, "so, how
does it feel to be played and conned by the
good mother of your child? The best woman
who deserves to be taken as your wife? How
does that feel? You saw me as trash and her as
a precious woman."
"It hurt," the words came out thick. 'Isala
kutshelwa sibona ngomopho' were his father's
words when the traditional healer told them
who did it. "I wasn't even wrong, I was foolish
and I will just have to live to regret it for the rest
of my life. All I need is your forgiveness. I don't
have any excuses but an apology. I know words
can never be erased."
"I will never forgive you for breaking my soul like
that. I will never!"
Mhlabunzima forced his head down and kept
quiet. She was upset and he didn't want to
make her further upset.
After leaving Mhlabunzima dressing up in his
bedroom. Zinhloso went to his parents' house
and she knocked on the door.
She didn't knock for long and Xulu had opened
the door, "baba, sawubona," she could see that
he was surprised to see her.
"Yebo, ntombazane yami, what's wrong? Are
you in labour? What are you doing here so late?"
Xulu asked, question after question. He
sounded worried.
"No, but I brought back Mhlabunzima. I took
him last night. We went to the traditional healer
across the river." Zinhloso explained and she
saw the light in Xulu's eyes. It came back fully.
He rushed back to the house for his wife.
How nice it was to have a parent that loved you!
Zinhloso went to Mhlabunzima's house for her
clothes. She found him seated on the sofa, her
clothes were inside the plastic bag. His parents
walked in before Zinhloso could talk or sit.
He smiled at them and stood up. They hugged
each other tightly. "My son! We thank our
Creator for Zinhloso." She held his arms,
looking at him and it was really him. He was
alive. She hugged him again.
"My child, thank you, Sisi," Esther hugged
Zinhloso with tears. She was really grateful for
her. She thought they were going to bury both
father and daughter.
Zinhloso stood up, "I should go." She said once
everyone was calm. They tried to convince her
not to go but she wanted her bed. They couldn't
force her to stay - they thanked her again and
she left.
UMCEBO

Chapter 228

***Chapter sponsored by R encouraged by

Fighter and Mpho aka Chomlette***

The next day, Zinhloso got a visit from

Mthuthuzeli. She was seated on the veranda,
busy writing down her financial books. She
smiled when she saw him.
"How are you doing?" He grabbed a chair that
was closer to her and he sat opposite her on
the table.
"I am doing well and how are you?"
"I am well, I am coming from work. I thought I
should come by. I don't know if you heard about
what happened to Mhlabunzima," Mthuthuzeli
placed his hands on the table.
She closed the books, "yes, I heard Mzomubi
told me."
"I wonder how he is now because I heard he's
going crazy."
She shook her head, "he's fine now."
"How do you know?" He was surprised by her
response. Didn't she say she no longer cared
about what happened to him?
"I couldn't sleep at night…" She told him all
about what happened the previous night. She
was the one who helped him. She didn't know
hearing that would stir emotions.
Mthuthuzeli's armpits were itchy from hearing
what she was hearing. He'd been happy thinking
that Zinhloso was over Mhlabunzima. She'd
been better when talking about him, it wasn't
like before where he could her anger meant she
still cared about him. Why can't she see how
deeply he loved her? Mthuthuzeli had been
there, going up and down with her. Providing
support for her and where was Mhlabunzima?
He was very angry that she helped him. Why did
she help him?
"He's one lucky guy. You put everything behind
you just to help him."
"Yes, I did it so I wouldn't live with guilt."
He wasn't convinced. He knew she did it
because she still loved him and that made him
want to lose his mind.
****
Mhlabunzima couldn't believe that right after
being healed he received devastating news. He
didn't waste time like the healer had advised.
He went to Lily's home for Zodumo and what he
found there was his brother bringing back the
crying grandmother. He was really hopeful his
daughter was going to live and he had decided
he was going to take her out of school. It wasn't
working out for her - he had bigger plans to
make her life easier. He just didn't know that
dog killed her. It was clear it was Lily's boyfriend.
He was pained that both his children died
because of the people who supposed to protect
them. Qophelo it was her grandmother and
Zodumo, her own mother who chose a man
over her own child.
It'd been two weeks since Zodumo's passing.
Mhlabunzima was taking everything one step at
time. He didn't want to make the same mistake.
He was also trying to recover and fix his
business.
"I leave for just a short period of time and things
have turned upside down for you. Your aunt ran
away. I can't believe she would do such a thing
to her own child. You're her child,"
Mhlabunzima's great father said and gave him a
glass. He placed vodka on the table.
They were inside the old man's house in his
marital home. He didn't want to waste time
when he heard that his great father was back
home.
Mhlabunzima chuckled, "yes, I lost another child
and almost lost my mind. Zinhloso saved me."
"We're grateful for her."
"Yes, we're. I have started working on the land."
He said and that brought a smile to his father's
face.
"You're doing well, Xulu and I like your spirit of
not giving up."
"Thank you. I am actually here to ask for your
help. I know that elders want us to listen to their
advice and do family customs without asking
questions," Mhlabunzima started the real
conversation. "I personally don't have a problem
with that but the problem is, Zinhloso."
"What's wrong?"
Mhlabunzima explained the situation to him. He
told him about how much granny didn't want to
explain. It angered her whenever they asked for
clarity, "I don't know if you know anything."
He shook his head, "it's a deep topic. You
should really tell her to comply. This is not a
joke but it's serious. It started with our ancestor,
he was a witch. People feared him and he had
many wives. I think my father said he had six
wives and he wanted MaMnguni's ancestor as
his 7th wife."
"He wanted Zinhloso's ancestor?"
"Yes, Zinhloso's ancestor was gifted, she was a
prophet and was strong in doing spells. Her
spells were not weak spells you could easily
send back to the sender,
"Your grandfather said, when she had bonded
you or put a spell on you it was for life.
Zinhloso's ancestor didn't like our forefather.
Their spirits didn't click because one was a
witch and the other a prophet,
"She rejected him until she got married. Our
forefather was very angry. One famous thing
about him, he used lightning to kill his
enemies." He took a pause and had a drink. He
could see Mhlabunzima was a bit scared of
what he was telling him but he needed to know
just to save his kids.
"So, Zinhloso's ancestor got pregnant. She was
carrying multiple babies. Back then, they were
mostly giving birth at home but in our family.
They were giving birth in hospitals. It was said
that our forefather wanted the best care for his
wives whenever they were giving birth,
"So, he believed the hospital had the best care,
the best lighting and the best of everything
unlike at home. He was angry that the woman
he badly wanted was pregnant and married to
another man,
"Nobody knows how he found out she was in
labour. When she was giving birth he sent
lightning to her home. They say that lightning
blinded her newborn babies,
"Our forefather didn't send lightning only for the
babies to die but also for their father to die.
Their father died but the babies didn't,
"Zinhloso's ancestors was engulfed with sorrow,
bitterness and grief. Her four babies were blind
and her husband was dead."
Mhlabunzima had his eyes widened. It was like
he was told a scary story. "So, she put a spell on
him?"
"Not on him, on everyone of us, the children of
the Xulu sons. Her spell was that since he
glorified the hospitals, that lighting the hospital
provides when the baby is being born it'll be like
the lightning that was sent to her babies,
"The Xulu child would go through the shock as
if hit by lightning whenever he encountered the
light for the first time. It'll affect their mental
development, they'll be slow, have poor eyesight,
either early in life or later,
"And they won't reach thirty years old with
normal eyesight."
"You mean they'll be blind before they reach
thirty or anytime between?"
"Yes, she made the curse ten-times worse
because she said for all generations that came
from him. It really happened, his babies after
that and grandchildren from his boys, they were
dumb,
"Our ancestor was wealthy. Sometimes, you
remind me of him since I was always told about
him by your grandfather. The way you are so
passionate about money,
"Children after that, they couldn't keep the
wealth growing and carry on the legacy because
they were dumb and they got blind early. Our
family suffered from poverty like we were never
wealth because of these dumb children,
"All children who were Xulu were not children of
daughters. That went on and on until our
grandfather, your great-grandfather fell in love
with a woman who helped him,
"They couldn't break the curse but found a way
to prevent it. That's why our children are born at
home, in dimmed huts with only candles lit
because the candle doesn't have the strong
light like in the hospitals,
"The room is prepared a certain way before the
baby is born, the baby is bathed with certain
herbs and also the mother. It doesn't matter
whether the girl is married or not. You've seen
how Zodumo was, she was still going to be
blind and live a difficult life. You really need to
talk to Zinhloso."
He sprinted out of the house and he drove to
ematshane. He was praying and hoping she
was going to open up for him. This was very
important. The children needed to have normal
lives.
Mhlabunzima reached the gates and they were
locked as usual. He went to the shopkeeper,
"hey? Is Zinhloso home? Look, please open up.
It's about the babies' well-being. I need to talk to
her."
"Zinhloso left yesterday, she got her
contractions during the day and her sister along
with Mthuthuzeli, they drove her to the hospital
to give birth."
He held his head, "oh, what am I going to do? So,
she's given birth already?"
"I don't know, maybe not because her sister
hasn't come back."
"Okay, which hospital?"
"I don't know."
"Where does Mthuthuzeli live?"
The shopkeeper gave him directions and he
drove straight where he was told he should
drive to.
UMCEBO

Chapter 229

***Chapter sponsored by Pumza***

He luckily found Mthuthuzeli playing with his

children in his home. He had built a beautiful
home for himself.
He stopped playing as soon as he saw
Mhlabunzima. "Chwane? How are you?"
"I am not fine at all and how are you?"
"I am good, what's wrong?"
He didn't even want to enter the house as
Mthuthuzeli was pointing at the house, "please,
tell me Zinhloso hasn't given birth. I need your
help."
He shrugged, he didn't understand. "Didn't her
sister call you? I told them they should call you
before I left them at the hospital."
"No, they didn't call us."
"Zinhloso gave birth at 2am. Her sister was with
her in the room. She gave birth at a private
hospital."
He shut his eyes and his body dropped on the
ground. "I am really cursed. I never thought this
would actually happen. I thought maybe she
was scared and angry."
"For giving birth at the hospital? Come on, she
had high blood -"
He raised his hand, "don't even mention it. Didn't
she tell you she also had high blood pressure
the last time? Did it stop her from giving birth?"
"You're selfish, she said she almost died!"
Mhlabunzima stood up, "which hospital?"
"I am afraid she said we should tell the hospital
staff not to allow you in."
He clenched his jaws and nodded, "and my
parents?"
"Any member of your family. I tried talking to
her but she didn't listen."
"Are the babies well?"
"Yes, it's a boy and a girl."
"Thank you." He left the premises with anger.
Respecting the elders even when you feel like
they were stupid was everything they were
taught as children. He couldn't imagine the life
his children would live. He'd seen how difficult it
was for Zodumo. He would even get mad at
how she couldn't comprehend even the
simplest thing. He wanted to try and get her
into a school of skills to check if it'd work out
for her. He didn't get that chance. They took his
child away. How was it going to be for these
two children?
Zinhloso was obviously going to marry another
man. She was going to give birth to children
who were all good for that husband and his
children would be different. It seemed he was
far from feeling no pain. This was very painful
because it could have been prevented.

Zinhloso couldn't stop smiling at how cute her

two babies were. Giving birth was difficult for
her but it was worth it.
She was with her brother and sister on the third
day in the hospital. They were kept in the
hospital for six days and she couldn't wait to go
back home.
Ziwinile and Mzomubi suggested she should go
to their grandmother but she made an excuse
that her grandmother was old and she didn't
want to burden her. She hired someone who
was going to help her with the babies.
She actually didn't want to go to her
grandmother because she knew it was going to
be easy for Mhlabunzima to have access to
them.
"What's the babies' names? This is the third
day." Mzomubi asked, as he was holding the
baby girl in his arms. The girl was dark skinned
and the boy was fair.
She smiled, "my boy is Mkhululi and my girl is
Milani." She responded.
Her siblings were happy about the names.
Ziwinile had Mkhululi in her arms. She played
with him, "sawubona, Mkhululi!" She played with
the sleeping baby.
"They have beautiful names."
"Yes, they're beautiful." Mzomubi supported.
Zinhloso looked at her brother, "what happened
to the cattle that had been sleeping at home?"
She asked.
"Oh, I forgot to tell you. They paid Inhlawulo
using those cows."
"They did? When?"
"Yesterday, mom accepted it."
"She did?" She raised her voice. She'd been
scared about how much her mother was quiet
about the pregnancy. She even asked how she
was and that was strange.
"Yes, she accepted the cattle. The Xulu family
wanted to pay cows so the children would take
their father's surname but mom and uncle said,
that can't be done without you knowing."
Mzomubi said.
Zinhloso sighed - she was relieved they were
able to think like that, "I don't want that. They'll
be called by my surname."
Mzomubi and Ziwinile only eyed one another,
they spent more time with her until it was time
to leave them.

"You came back empty handed. Did you see the

babies?" Esther asked Mhlabunzima as he sat
on the sofa inside his father's house. The
parents were together in the house.
He chuckled, "I told you she won't let me. I
realised she would do this. I realised it long ago
but I thought time would change her mind. It's
locked like it'd been locked since she was
pregnant."
Xulu and Esther were saddened by what
Mhlabunzima told them would happen to the
babies. He told them the history that his great
father told him. Xulu asked his brother if there
was no loophole around this matter but he told
him there wasn't any. Only prevention was an
option, there was no cure.
They were looking forward to meeting their
grandchildren but their mother didn't want to
bring the children. And she also didn't want
them to come to the hospital.
"This means she'll also not allow us to see the
babies." Xulu said, sadly.
Mhlabunzima swallowed the lump on his throat,
"I am sorry, it's all my fault." He couldn't bear to
see his parents so sad but there was nothing he
could do, "maybe if the two of you go to her.
She would let you in, unlike me. You can take a
bus."
"I don't want to embarrass myself,
Mhlabunzima. If she made it clear she didn't
want us in the hospital. How is she going to
allow us in her home?" Esther asked and
Mhlabunzima kept quiet.
He stood up and left when his mother started
tearing up.
He took a risk and called Zinhloso. He knew she
wasn't going to talk to him but he wanted to try.
"It's Mhlabunzima! How are you?"
Zinhloso didn't shut the phone down, "I am good.
What do you want?"
"Can we talk? It's important."
"Talk!"
"Can you please come home with the children
or allow my parents to come and see them?" He
pleaded.
"Whose children?"
"Our children."
She laughed, "our children? You must be joking.
Didn't you abort your children the time you gave
me that mixture? You said Qophelo was going
to be the last child to call me 'mama' so now,
what children are you talking about?"
"Zinhloso, I am sorry for everything I said. I
know I was cruel and wrong. Can we please put
the children first?"
"Uyahlanya wena! I have been putting my kids
first and I can't say much about you. Didn't you
choose the good mother and cursed me?" She
raised her voice.
"Zinhloso, firstly, you gave birth at the hospital
while you shouldn't have…" he told her about the
history between their ancestors, which his great
father told him. "Please, can we come together
and try to find out if there's really no way to help
them. I am willing to even go to another country
if that's needed just to get help."
When he was done, Zinhloso yawned, a long
yawn, "I almost fell asleep from that boring
story you just told me. I gave birth at a private
hospital -"
"The private hospital doesn't have any lighting?"
He couldn't understand. When did she become
such a person? Why were children being
involved in her hatred for him? Why?
"Don't act dumb, they do but there's no lighting
that scared my child. They cried like any child
cries when they're born,
"And bhuti, don't even think I am capable of
giving birth to dumb children while I am not
dumb. Izingane zami ngeke zibe izidomu
njengale eyabulawa umama olungile omthanda
kakhulu!"
"This is not about us, Zinhloso!" He shouted and
quickly calm down, "please-"
"I am not bringing any children near you."
"Can you please take the clothes I left for them?
They're still at your chemist."
"I can afford clothes for my kids. I don't need
anything from you. I don't know why you can't
get the message!"
He acted like he wasn't told she burnt his
clothes. He just wanted to confirm if it was
really true, "so, you won't give them my clothes
and toys?"
She laughed, "I burnt those things. Wait, did you
see how those clothes were? Ufuna izingane
zami zigqoke izimphahla ezasezishukeke
kanjeyana. Izimphahla owawuzigqoka
usayischaka kwawena? Uyahlanya!" (You want
my children to wear such worn out clothes?
Clothes you wore while you were still poor?)
Mhlabunzima didn't have words after she'd said
that to him. He removed the telephone from his
ear and put it down. He held his chest tightly to
prevent pain from consuming him. He stood up
and headed out of the premises. He needed to
focus on something else.
UMCEBO

Chapter 231

"How's your sister?" Mrs Mnguni asked Ziwinile.

They'd just finished having dinner and Ziwinile
was cleaning the kitchen. Her sisters and
children had gone to bed.
"She's alright, Mhlabunzima is not home and so,
she took the children to meet their
grandparents," she wiped her hands and held
her mother's hand. She walked with her mother
to her hut.
"That's not enough. She's supposed to allow
Mhlabunzima to have a relationship with his
children. A child has a father and a mother for a
reason. It's sad that she's not learning anything
from things that happened before her. Was it
nice when Robert didn't want a relationship with
his son?"
"No, it wasn't."
"Mhlabunzima wants a relationship with his
children and your sister acts like this. I am really
disappointed in her." She sat down on her bed.
There haven't been any developments with her
health. She had suffered for a whole and few
months. But she was still not ready to sit down
with her daughter and apologize, she was
scared about what Zinhloso would say. She
knew she would reject her. She was also scared
to go to the Xulu family and apologize. She'd
wronged them greatly.
"Mom, let her be. She'll need him one day."
"And if that day doesn't come?" She looked at
her and Ziwinile was found without words. She
said goodnight and she walked out of the hut.
In the morning, Zinhloso drove through the
Mnguni premises. She was with a young
woman who was holding her children for her.
Esther asked the girl to go with her.
Mzomubi took the babies from the girl, "thank
you, sisi." He looked at Zinhloso, "you need to
buy a private car now and buy the children
those box car seats."
They went to the main house, "you're right I
should think about it."
"How did it go?" Mzomubi asked.
"It went well. Their grandmother did everything
for them, bathing them, feeding and they slept
with them. I was at the spare hut the whole
time," she responded.
"Where did they bathe?"
"I didn't think of bringing a bathing basin. I
thought we'll go take a normal basin from their
father's supermarket. I found their grandmother
already bathing them in a basin. I think they
bought them when they were born in case they
visit."
He nodded, "mom said you should come to her
once you get home."
"I will go with Mkhululi." She took her son and
walked out of the house.
Her mother's actions towards her had totally
changed. She was surprised when Ziwinile told
her she was actually the one who suggested
Ziwinile should always go to her and help her
out during pregnancy. She was also surprised
by her accepting Inhlawulo. After the children
were born she asked to see them and she
bought a lot of gifts for them - clothes and toys.
She had a relationship with the children.
Zinhloso gave Mkhululi to her mother. She was
seated on the straw mat under the tree. She
greeted her.
"How are you?" Mrs Mnguni asked.
"I am fine and you?"
"I am well. How did it go with the grandparents?
What did they say?" Mrs Mnguni asked and
played with her grandson. He was looking at her
straight and he smiled when she started playing
with him. Mkhululi hardly smiled but he always
smiled for Mrs Mnguni. "Who did they say he
resembles because he doesn't resemble
anyone from our family or the Mnguni family?"
"They spoke about grandfathers I don't even
know. I think they don't even know that
grandfather, they know him from pictures,"
Zinhloso responded.
"Oh, at least that grandfather was handsome."
She commented and Zinhloso laughed, "what
else did they say?"
"They spoke about Mkhululi not being able to
concentrate or look around him. He only
focuses on one place or person. I told them he's
just like that. He doesn't look around him but he
looks at where he's focused," Zinhloso
responded, "and they were surprised he's six
months and can't sit. Children can never be the
same."
Mrs Mnguni nodded but she wondered if her
daughter really believed what she was saying. "I
wanted to talk to you. Oh, Zinhloso, my child, I
don't even know where to begin. I am asking for
a chance to be your mother again. I haven't
been a mother to you. Your sickness showed up
and things changed,
"I am really sorry, my child. I shouldn't have
allowed my childhood traumas to rule me to an
extent that I failed you as a mother. I want to be
a mother to you, love you and support you like
any mother should,
"I am really sorry for everything that happened
between us. For everything I did. I want unity for
this family. I know all that happened in your
relationship with Mhlabunzima is my fault,
"I am really sorry for what I did to my late
granddaughter. I wanted to die during this time
because it was hard living with myself.
Everything that happened would be replayed."
She took a pause as Zinhloso was crying. Mrs
Mnguni was also crying. The pain she'd inflicted
on this child was a pain of years. She broke her
down.
"Please forgive me. I love you and I wish only
good things for you. I want to support all the
decisions you make even if you can tell me you
want to go back to Mhlabunzima. I will respect
and support your choices. Please, forgive me. I
am not saying now but please, try and find it in
your heart to forgive me."
Mrs Mnguni pulled Zinhloso under her wing as
she cried. Mkhululi started crying as his
grandmother was crying. The crying Mrs
Mnguni was trying to calm the baby and her
daughter. Lucy came and took the baby from
her mother-in-law's arms. Mrs Mnguni got to
hold Zinhloso tightly, brushing her back and she
kept saying she was sorry to her.
Zinhloso couldn't believe after so many years
she was hearing such words from her mother.
This brought back pain but after pain what she
felt was lightness, "I forgive you, mama!" She
cried and the weight on her shoulders felt like it
was lifted off. She wanted to feel her motherly
love and care. She wanted to feel her motherly
affection like she'd experienced it before she
was a teen. Mrs Mnguni loved them all as a
mother back then. Zinhloso also felt like her
mother had suffered enough. She had even lost
so much weight she was a slender woman
because of what she'd been going through.
Occasionally vomiting blood, headaches and
hallucinations. It took a great toll on her and all
that she wanted was for her to recover. Be the
woman she was so she could help them raise
children.
"Thank you so much, mntanami!" The pain on
her chest instantly ebbed away. This felt like a
new start and a second chance for her as a
mother. She held Zinhloso's face and kissed her,
making Zinhloso laugh in between the tears.
Mzomubi and Ziwinile were smiling as they
looked at them through the window of the main
house. They were happy their family was going
to be a normal family again. They wished
Nobuhle was home.
That day, Zinhloso didn't leave but she slept at
home. It was very peaceful in the household.
Zinhloso smiled as he saw his car parked a bit
far from the school gate. She pulled her friend
and they went to him.
"We'll give you a lift." Zinhloso said to her.
"Thank you."
Zinhloso took the passenger seat and her friend
took the backseat, "hey, love!" She greeted
Mthuthuzeli and she kissed his cheek.
He smiled, "you'll make your friend jealous," he
commented and drove off as the two friends
laughed. He only shook his head. He knew
where the friend lived because Zinhloso always
asked they should drop her off.
"She has her own fiancé, don't worry."
He glanced at her, "and I wonder when will I
become your fiancé?" He brushed his hand over
her cheek.
Zinhloso giggled, "it's still early for us." They
held a conversation that included the three of
them in the car.
They dropped the friend off and Zinhloso gave
Mthuthuzeli directions to a place she wanted to
go to.
"What do you want here?"
"She's gifted so I want to confirm if my kids are
really slow by nature. They'd been nagging me
about that," she lied to him. She couldn't tell him
the truth that she locked Mhlabunzima and it'd
been a year since she locked him. What was he
going to think about her if she told him the truth?
"Alright, I will wait for you here unless you want
me to go in with you."
"You can wait here."
After giving birth, Mthuthuzeli was very
supportive and he also helped with the children.
He would sleepover whenever the nanny went
home. He started asking her out, asking that
they have a relationship that they never got to
have because of what happened. Zinhloso
wasn't sure about it in the beginning but she
told herself she needed to move on. She once
loved him even though they never got to date.
She wanted to be loved and cared for, she
wanted affection. She wanted to forget about
Mhlabunzima. She decided she'd found a man
for her and she didn't need to get married first
before she freed Mhlabunzima. She needed to
actually free him so he would make his own
babies and leave her alone.
The old woman smiled, "you're back?"
Zinhloso sat down, "yes, I am back."
"How can I help you?"
She took a deep breath, "I want to free him. I
have found a man who loves and respects me. I
want to free him so he would also have his own
babies."
"What about your two babies? Aren't they not
his?"
"They're his by blood only."
She shook her head, "if you do this, you can't
change your mind and re-do it. It can only be
once."
"It's fine, let's do it!"
"I want you to speak and free him. Do it like you
did before."
Zinhloso closed her eyes, "I am freeing
Mhlabunzima Xulu, when he finds a woman his
manhood should work normally as it was
working before. I don't want him to suffer from
a dysfunctional penis anymore. He must be
normal and be able to have sexual intercourse
without problems." She opened her eyes once
she was done and the woman incarnated upon
her words, reaffirming them.
"It's done! He'll enjoy sex just like you're
enjoying it." She said and Zinhloso looked down
shyly. "Do you need anything else?"
"No, that was all!" She paid and walked out. She
was glad she did that - what she needed to do
next was tell him to make his own babies. That
was the main reason for freeing him.
"What did she say?" Mthuthuzeli asked and
drove out of the premises.
"She said it's natural," she lied and Mthuthuzeli
believed her lies.
They drove to Mthuthuzeli's home. He parked
his car before his house. The yard was quiet, "I
will get some food for us." He said and went to
the house. He realised the children went to the
river.
He turned on the music and they started eating.
When Zinhloso agreed to be in a relationship
with him - he couldn't believe it. He thought she
was joking. He'd been very happy with her. He
was not at peace about Zinhloso keeping the
children away from their father but he didn't
want to keep talking about it.
They slowly walked to his bedroom, their lips
were locked and they were both undressing
each other.
It'd been a month since they started being
intimate. She did everything properly for her
babies' sake when she had sex with him for the
first time.
Mthuthuzeli had lived in the township for years
and as a man from the township, Zinhloso had
higher expectations. She believed his sex was
going to be high bar compared to
Mhlabunzima's sex but it wasn't like that. She
told herself - it was still early they'd only been
intimate three times. They had the rest of their
lives together to do everything they wanted but
she didn't know if she'd gain the confidence to
suggest new things. She was comforted by the
fact that he did oral sex on her and that was
one of the things she loved the most.
She closed her eyes and she gasped as he
buried his face buried on her. His tongue licked
her furiously, making Zinhloso scream in
pleasure. Her hands held his bald head. The
harder licks deepened the pleasure. She gave all
of herself over him and cried louder as her walls
shut and the extreme pressure released her
thick cum.
Her hands were holding his firm buttocks as
Mthuthuzeli was on top of her, penetrating her.
She was moaning slowly as his thrusts were
slow and intense. She'd missed the joy of
having sex and she was happy again as she
was free, she could have it anytime she wished.
There was prevention now. She didn't need to
be scared of being pregnant again. They'd
planned on having one child once they were
married. They were going to get married after
she'd finished school.
She laid on his chest once they were done.
Mthuthuzeli fell asleep before Zinhloso could
gain the courage to talk about getting on top of
him. She wanted variety and not only
Mthuthuzeli being in control. He was good but
she also wanted to take control. She decided
she would raise it up next time.
UMCEBO

Chapter 230

***Chapter sponsored by Pumza***

Mhlabunzima asked his parents and great

father that they visit the grandmother who
helped Zinhloso give birth to Qophelo. He had
an idea that could work and that could make
the children have normal lives.
They were welcomed by granny into her home
and they didn't waste time. They told her that
Zinhloso had given birth and she gave birth at
the hospital.
"Mm, she really went ahead? Didn't you tell her
what I said?" She looked at Esther.
"I told her grandmother your reasons for not
telling her the truth and she's an elder, she
understood. She promised to speak to her,"
Esther responded to granny, "she spoke to her
and she failed to get through to her."
Granny clapped once, "if she couldn't listen to
her grandmother, what are we?" She shook her
head and looked at Mhlabunzima, "I hope you
won't go back to her under any circumstances.
Respect is very important and every home has
their customs. Does she know why her family
do the customs they do as she wanted to know
reasons for ours?
"I wasn't going to tell a child reasons while
elders above her don't even know reasons. It's
our culture that an elder knows family secrets.
And before an elder passes, she or he tells a
person who's next in line. Any Zulu person
knows this and this rule has been respected for
years,
"If a woman you love is not willing to respect
your family customs. What are the reasons for
being with her?" Granny asked Mhlabunzima
and he didn't answer her.
"There are no reasons," the great father
answered instead.
"It's sad that this has happened to the children
but she'll learn a lesson. She'll know that you
respect family customs whether you're given
reasons or not,
"Maybe this lesson will help her with her next
marriage."
Mhlabunzima looked at granny, "I think I have a
way of helping my kids?"
"What?"
Mhlabunzima told them about how Zinhloso
would say things and they truly happened, "and
so, I think she can do that for our children, break
this curse by affirming that the children should
be well and normal!" He stated the reason why
he called for this meeting.
His great father shook his head sadly, "I will tell
you something that will make you accept this
situation as it is. Stop having false hope. Her
ancestor was very powerful but she failed to
make her children gain their sight. She used
every spell but they were blind until death,
"The trick about this gift of spells they have is,
they can't do spells for themselves. She tried
everything but couldn't help her children,
"Do you think Zinhloso didn't speak upon
Qophelo's safety while her mother was
speaking, death upon her life?
"Do you think Zinhloso didn't speak and wish
you could come back and the two of you would
be happy? It's impossible that she didn't speak
out those things,
"But did they happen? None of it happened. You
came back and things went South. Qophelo
died,
"Inyanga ayizelaphi, my son. It's clear after what
you've said, Zinhloso took after her ancestor but
still, there's nothing she could do about this.
The only thing that has helped us for
generations, it's prevention." Great father's
words made Mhlabunzima lose all hope.
"We went everywhere when poverty attacked us.
We crossed borders but we were told to accept
the situation." Granny added.
The atmosphere was tense and sad in the room.
Mhlabunzima was having a difficult time
believing this was really happening, "can't she
communicate with her ancestor and ask for a
way to break this?"
"We don't know she can try but I doubt it'll work
because I told you the woman's spells were for
life. She cursed us for life."
Granny brushed Esther's back as she cried, "did
you tell her what would happen then since she
decided to do her will? You've surely told her."
"Yes, I did."
"And what did she say?"
"She said her children won't be dumb and blind."
Granny shook her head, "something tells me le
ngane would have said the same thing even if
we told her before giving birth. She's educated
and has money, she thinks we're stupid and
crazy."
"But gogo, if you told her maybe she would have
listened," Xulu raised his opinion. He was really
broken by this.
"No, I wasn't going to do that and worse she
was threatening us. Angenziwa njalo mina futhi
angizwani nezingane ezikuhlaza. The same
thing happened to Dludla's sister,
"Mkhize people told her not to wash the baby's
head. She'll only wash the baby's head once the
baby has signalled that her head should be
washed. She said she won't have a smelly baby.
She washed her child's head. The child had
wounds all over her head. They were going in
and out of traditional healers' homes looking for
help. They couldn't find help. The child died,
"It was very painful, the child dying because her
mother knew better than the child's family,
"That's exactly what Zinhloso did. She thought
she knew it all but she forgot the only thing she
knew about our family was Mhlabunzima's
penis!" She screamed, she thought after she'd
shouted, Zinhloso would show respect.
"There's nothing we can do to help except for
loving and supporting the children. Their
situation will not mean they don't deserve love."
"You're right!"
Xulu looked at his brother and granny, "the
problem we have is that, we can't even show
that love and support to the children because
their mother is refusing when we want to see
them."
"You haven't seen them!" She screamed.
"No!"
"Her grandmother said she would speak to her
but still, she doesn't want us to see them,"
Esther responded.
"Uke walubhebha ke uhlanya nawe
Mhlabunzima!"
"Hawu!" He looked down, shyly.
"We need to inform her family about this.
Ingane ayiziphethe. Her mother accepted
Inhlawulo, maybe she'll try to talk to her or
maybe her uncles. Our families should sit down
and talk about this."
"And if she still doesn't listen?" Mhlabunzima
asked, he knew that could be possible with
Zinhloso.
"We'll take the matter to Induna and the king, if
she still doesn't listen. There's absolutely
nothing we can do. You'll just have to wait until
she comes to her senses or you'll wait for the
day, the children will need their paternal family,"
Granny said and it was a sad situation. They
were at Zinhloso's mercy.
****
March, of the new year. The twins were six
months. When the year began, Zinhloso went
back to school and she would leave the babies
with their nanny. It was the same woman that
helped her after giving birth. She went back to
Standard 8. She didn't have any difficulties
picking up where she left off at school. She'd
done it before and she succeeded. Her friend
was doing Standard 9.
"How are they, today?" Zinhloso sat down and
took her daughter. She was coming back from
school on Friday. "Where's her brother?"
"He's sleeping."
"I heard their father is not home. He left on
Monday, he has some political commitment.
He'll be coming back next Friday." Zinhloso
played with her daughter.
"So, what were you thinking?"
"I was thinking of taking them to their
grandparents. He's been around the village, I
thought we would get an opportunity to go
while he's not home," Zinhloso looked at the
nanny, "the opportunity has come after six
months and I should take them home."
"That's great news. Are you going to sleepover?"
"I don't know if it won't be a problem for them.
They'll sleep with their grandparents."
The nanny was happy about it. It was really sad
that the children didn't have any relationship
with their paternal family. Mhlabunzima had
been really trying but Zinhloso wanted nothing
from him. Milani could sit and her brother
couldn't sit. The nanny told Zinhloso that the
children's development was slow, they were
supposed to be trying to crawl but she only said
children were different.
"That's good, I will also go home tomorrow,
then." She lived with them full time and would
go home month-end.
Zinhloso was nervous as she passed
Mhlabunzima's supermarket. She was with
Ziwinile inside the car. Ziwinile was coming
back from the township. She slept there at
Simon's home.
"Stop shaking!" Ziwinile slapped her shoulder.
She was watching over the children as she was
seated with them on the passenger seat.
"Leave me alone!"
Ziwinile laughed, they all decided to let her be
because she wasn't hearing any of them. The
two families sat together and they discussed
the issue of Zinhloso keeping the children away
from their family. Zinhloso didn't keep quiet
before the elders. She defended her actions by
telling them everything Mhlabunzima said to her
concerning Qophelo and having more children.
They fought Mhlabunzima after she'd spoken
and all that he could say was how sorry he was
without any justification of his words even
though Mrs Mnguni was with them. He avoided
her by all means. He didn't say anything
directed to her. When Zinhloso's grandmother
begged her to allow the children to have a
relationship with their father and paternal family
- she promised to allow them. The meeting
adjourned with hope but Zinhloso didn't do what
she promised. She still kept the children away
from Mhlabunzima.
Esther stopped washing the dishes she was
washing outside under the tree and she looked
at Zinhloso and her sister getting out of the car.
Her heart raced - what happened? She didn't
even have a clue what her grandchildren looked
like. Even when they had a meeting at the
Mnguni home, Zinhloso came alone without the
children.
"Sanibonani, mama!" Zinhloso greeted as they'd
reached Esther. Xulu walked out of his house.
Esther pointed at the kitchen, "let's enter." She
smiled at the babies, the boy was looking at one
place and the girl was looking around. It was
like she could see that she was in a new
environment.
"What's wrong? We're getting your visit," Xulu
spoke once they'd sat down inside the kitchen.
He never thought Zinhloso would do such a
thing. After six months, he was only seeing his
son's children. They had no relationship with
them and she didn't even take the things they
gave her for the babies. He thought he knew
what kind of a person she was but he realised
he was wrong about her.
They thought she was in their home to report a
problem? What twisted thinking from them.
"Nothing happened. I thought I should bring the
children so that you'd see them." She said and
she was expecting she would see happiness
written on their faces but they were only smiling.
"Can we meet them?"
The sisters both got up from the straw mat and
they gave the children to them.
"They're beautiful. It seems you're always
having girls that look like men. She looks like
her father," Xulu commented as his eyes
focused on Milani. She was making noises and
baby screams while her brother was quiet in
Esther's arms.
She smiled, "yes, she looks like him."
"What names did you give them?" Esther asked.
She couldn't believe she was holding her
grandchild after such a long time. She was full
inside her heart but she was sad because her
son wasn't home. Mhlabunzima heard from one
girl who attended the same school as Zinhloso.
The girl told him Zinhloso was always asking if
he's home or away. He couldn't understand
why she was asking that. He asked her to
pretend to have an interest in knowing why she
was asking about him. The response came
back that she wanted to bring the children if he
wasn't home. He told his parents he would go
away for the weekend and maybe she would
bring them. And they would get to meet them.
Esther was really sad that Mhlabunzima didn't
even know what his children looked like. He left
home so they would get to meet them.
"They have beautiful names. Thank you for
bringing them." Esther said.
Xulu nodded, "yes, thank you it's good to finally
meet them."
Zinhloso figured the parents weren't fully happy
and maybe it was because their son wasn't
home to see the children. She thought she was
doing this for them as grandparents and the
children but they were probably worried about
their son.
"If there's no problem, we can sleepover. I mix
feed, they can sleep with you and if they give
you problems. I will take them." Zinhloso
suggested.
Esther nodded with a smile, "we can never have
a problem. This is their home."
"Thank you," Xulu said and the parents made an
exchange with the children. They moved their
focus from Zinhloso, they focused totally on the
children. They were talking and laughing about
the children. It was really a great time for them
to finally meet their grandchildren. There only
wasn't a way to capture the moment for their
son.
UMCEBO

Chapter 232
***Chapter sponsored by Pumza***

"I really don't know what I should buy for him as

a gift," Ziwinile said to Zinhloso. They were in
the Empangeni station area. They were passing
by, their mother asked them to buy meat for her.
Their actual destination was Empangeni town.
Zinhloso had Milani in her arms and Ziwinile
was carrying Mkhululi. "Don't you know what he
likes? I am glad my birthday comes first and so,
I will weigh what gift to buy for him by seeing
what gift he bought for me," Zinhloso said,
which made Ziwinile and the women who were
closer to them in the queue laugh. "What?"
"That's not cool."
"You buy gifts for your men?" One woman
asked the sisters and they nodded at her. She
shook her head, "I can never spend my money
on a man. He should be the one to spend it on
me."
The two sisters laughed, "that's not right. You
should also make him happy."
"No! He'll make me a fool if I do that."
"Kazi iphi leyo ndoda yakho! Shuthi nje
uyigqilaza ngendunu kuphela awuthengi no
swidi obhaliwe Lo!" One elderly man who was
listening to them shouted and everyone laughed.
The young woman was defeated, she didn't
even know how to respond to the elder.
Mhlabunzima was at the front, he was with
Ngenzeni. They couldn't properly hear what was
being discussed but they could hear the people
laughing. They bought the meat and walked
back.
His eyes set on the little boy's cute fair toned
face. He could tell without guessing that
Ziwinile was holding his child. He didn't even
notice Zinhloso quickly covering his daughter
with the blanket. Mhlabunzima wasn't sure if
the boy was staring at him or if he was staring
at someone else or something else. He was
looking straight in his direction. For the first
time after six months, he was seeing his son.
He smiled at him, his smile was bright and it
brought joy for Mhlabunzima that he was able
to smile at the boy. Mkhululi blinked repeatedly
and he laughed as the man he'd been focusing
on was smiling at him. The child's laughter and
gummy smile brought light in his dark life. He'd
never thought he would meet them like this.
"Hi, Ngenzeni!" Zinhloso quickly greeted
Mhlabunzima's sister after covering her
daughter because she'd seen Mhlabunzima.
"Bye!" She turned to Ziwinile and held her hand.
She didn't get to hear her son's laughter
because she was focused on hiding Milani and
moving away from Mhlabunzima.
"Why are you doing this, Zinhloso?"
Mhlabunzima asked as he realised she was
running away from them.
"Let's go!" Zinhloso pulled Ziwinile away without
answering Mhlabunzima's question. She didn't
want him near her children. She didn't want him
to have a picture of how they looked.
"And then? That was uncalled for! Usuyahlanya
yini kanti?" Ziwinile shouted at Zinhloso as they
reached her car.
She started the car and drove out of the parking
lot, "I don't expect you to understand, okay?"
"And I don't want to understand, honestly!" She
shouted and looked at her as she breathed in
and out. "What's wrong with you?"
"After everything Bhekani did to you, were you
going to let him have a relationship with your
kids?" Zinhloso asked after she'd calmed down
"Yes! It wouldn't be my problem that they have a
scum bag as a dad. Nothing was going to
change, he's their father as long as he loves
them and wants to be with them," Ziwinile
responded.
"I guess we're not the same."
"So, if Mthuthuzeli hurts you after you've gotten
married and had children. You'll do the same
thing to him?" She asked and Zinhloso didn't
answer her, "even your boyfriend doesn't
support what you are doing. He'd been telling
you over and over again to let the kids have a
relationship with their father. You're not
listening to him."
"And I won't, he wasn't there when
Mhlabunzima said horrible things to me about
having children with him. He forced me to drink
that -"
"Forced you? Did he hold your mouth and forced
it down your throat?" She asked and Zinhloso
couldn't answer her, "I asked you a question!"
"No, he didn't but -"
"So, stop saying he forced you. If you wanted to
have these children, you weren't going to take
that mixture. You were clearly going to tell him
you'll have the baby if you conceived it and you
would raise it alone. But because you also didn't
want kids you took that mixture,
"I don't get it when you say he forced you.
Nobody can force you to do anything we've
seen, that. So, stop lying. You would have even
tried to vomit the mixture if you really wanted to
be pregnant. Stop giving us that lame excuse
because it's lies!" Ziwinile shouted and Zinhloso
was found with no words to defend herself.
"Did you even hear how your son laughed when
his father smiled at him?" Ziwinile asked after a
long silence. She couldn't get that moment off
her mind. Her heart jerked when she heard him
laugh.
She quickly looked at her, "come on! That's not
true, how can he laugh with someone he
doesn't know? He doesn't laugh with anyone,
not even me. He only smiles."
"Okay, then, sengiphumile kuwe. I am closing
this chapter. I only wish you won't regret your
actions one day."
"Thank you, now we'll live peacefully!" She was
really hoping Ziwinile was going to stop nagging
her about the twins and their father. Mzomubi
had stopped long ago.
****
Ziwinile was surprised to see Simon waiting for
her at the corner of the school's fence. "And
then? Why didn't you warn me that you will
come? I was going to leave the school early."
He smiled and held her hand, "I wanted to
surprise you. Do you remember the last time I
was here?"
"Yes!"
They walked into the alleyway closer to the
school fence. Ziwinile didn't even ask where
Simon was taking her. "I saw that big tree and I
could imagine myself under the coolness of the
tree, resting with you."
She laughed, "I will only agree to go with you
because it's no longer summer. There are no
snakes."
He stopped and looked back at her, "don't you
trust me? I would protect you even from
snakes."
Ziwinile laughed. She'd been really happy ever
since she started dating Simon. He was very
different from Bhekani. He was smart, patient
and kind. He was understanding and soft, she
didn't expect that he was soft. She was madly in
love with him and she loved spending time with
him. She could see a future with him.
They reached the big tree. The school was built
closer to the forest. It wasn't a big forest - it
was technically a few tall trees and small
bushes. The tree Simon saw was the biggest
tree.
"It's exactly as I imagined," he opened the black
bag he was carrying and he took out a small
throw. They placed the throw on the grass and
they sat down.
Simon's back was against the tree trunk and
Ziwinile was packed in between Simon's legs.
Her head on his chest. They were eating a
packet of chips Simon brought along with a
cold drink.
"I know you've been at my home but you haven't
met my mother." Simon said.
Ziwinile had been at his home several times. He
had a backroom with his own bathroom. Being
with him made her wonder how they were going
to live in such a small yard they had in
townships. After having children - what would
happen? She was a girl from a rural area, she
was used to freedom of movement and space
in a yard. She told herself not to stress and trust
he would make a plan.
"Yes, and your siblings also."
"Can you officially meet her next weekend? I
want us to take our relationship to the next
level." He was looking down at her as Ziwinile
had her neck facing up. She was staring into his
eyes, "we're not getting any younger. I want us
to take another step and have our own family."
She thought he would talk about taking another
step in their relationship, maybe a year after
dating. But she clearly thought wrong. She
pouted at him and Simon pecked her lips softly,
"I would love to meet your mother."
He laughed as she agreed. He recognised she
was a woman who'd been hurt and
disappointed in a relationship - her first
relationship. He promised himself to be patient
with her and understand where she was coming
from. He'd expected things would be difficult
because of her past scars but she surprised
him. He even failed to see her as a sister who'd
been bad because he only knew her kind side.
She had a temper but she was still kind and
beautiful. He wanted her in his life.
After 5pm, Ziwinile and Simon decided they had
enough time together and it was time to go.
Ziwinile was blushing, her back was against the
tree trunk and Simon was standing before her.
His hand caressed her smooth cheek and he
softly held her neck. Their lips met and they
discussed a conversation of their love. She
hung her arms on his shoulders as the kiss
deepened.
His hand lifted her skirt slowly and he gently
squeezed her butt cheek. They were in the
direction that didn't face the people's homes
that were closer to the forest.
From the butts, he pulled her underwear down.
He was expecting a protest because ever since
they started being intimate she didn't hide how
much she didn't know about sex. She once
cried because he turned her on the bed, making
her lay on her tummy. He saw her with her eyes
widened and when he asked what was wrong?
She only asked what he was doing? She legit
thought he wanted to enter her buthole. He
couldn't stop laughing and so Ziwinile cried.
"Are you comfortable?" He whispered.
"Yes!" She whispered back.
He lifted her up easily and out of instinct,
Ziwinile wrapped her legs around his waist.
"Simon!" She cried out as he entered her pot of
gold. She never knew sex could be so amazing.
Everytime they did it - he would leave her blown
away. She loved every moment with him
because every moment was a taste of
happiness.
His big hands held her slim waist and he thrust
into her without any limit. "Shit!" He cursed - the
two lovers were one and enjoying being in love.
The birds sang, accompanying Ziwinile's sweet
moans. The birds watched as two lovers
danced in motion. Simon swore he found a gem
and there was nobody who was going to take
her away from him. He would live for her until
the end of time.
"Ngiyakuthanda!" She cried out as she reached
her climax. She always wanted him but she
didn't have the confidence to initiate things
whenever she was in the mood. She smiled as
he kissed her again.
"Ngiyakuthanda nami." Once he was calm, he
went on his knees and pulled her panties up. He
chuckled, "I swear I didn't plan that."
She smiled like a love struck teen. "I am happy
about everything that happened." She said and
helped him with his pants.
They held each other's hands and walked out of
the forest talking and laughing.
UMCEBO

Chapter 234

***Chapter sponsored by Pumza***

He was seated on the sofa in his house with a

mirror looking at his face. It had healed and the
bruises were completely gone. He had ignored
using the mirror for over two weeks because
the mirror was a reflection of what he'd gone
through as a father who wanted nothing but
being a part of his children's life. A month ago,
Mhlabunzima decided he'd had enough of
Zinhloso's behaviour. He was going to fight and
break into her home if he had to. He made this
decision after they'd gone to Induna and the
chief about the issue of her denying
Mhlabunzima access to his children. They
advised Zinhloso to give Mhlabunzima access,
if she didn't want to see him - her sister or the
nanny should take the children to their
grandparents and father. Zinhloso agreed
before the elders and the traditional leaders but
she didn't do what they told her to do.
"You're using the mirror now." Esther smiled at
her son and she gave him a bowl of food, "eat!
You didn't eat last night."
He placed the mirror down and took the food,
"thank you, I was full from the supermarket."
Mhlabunzima went to her with a plan of fighting.
He didn't succeed in getting into the yard the
first time. Mthuthuzeli was there and he tried
telling him not to act the way he was acting.
The second time, he was about to break the
padlock of the gate and he was attacked by
three men. As small as he was, he fought them
and when they realised he was strong, the two
men held him and one man had his way with
him. He panel beat him and told him to stay
away from Zinhloso. He tried explaining he
didn't want Zinhloso, he wanted his kids but
they didn't care. Zinhloso was looking at them
attacking Mhlabunzima. She came down to the
gate and told him she never wanted to see him
before her gate again or else she was going to
have him arrested. She told him she didn't need
his support. Mthuthuzeli was man enough to
support her and the children. She was raising
his kids with the man she saw fit since he
wanted nothing to do with her because of her
mother and because she was a bad mother.
He didn't have energy to drive and because of
pain he wasn't able to drive. One man who knew
him, saw him and he drove him home to his
parents.
"Are you seated here because you want to
ensure that I eat?" He asked his mother.
"Yes, I don't want you to starve."
"I am not a child, mama."
"You're a child to me."
He couldn't get a chance to answer her as the
telephone rang. He was closer to the telephone,
"hello?"
"Mhlabunzima, it's Mthuthuzeli."
"How can I help you?"
"I am calling concerning the children…" he told
Mhlabunzima about the children's development
and their visit to the Doctor. "Are you still
there?" He asked after hearing no response
from Mhlabunzima for over a minute.
"Yes, I am here. Why are you telling me all that?"
"I am telling you because you're their father."
"So, if I am their father? Your girlfriend told me
she found a good man who's supporting her
and the kids. Right now, where do I enter in all
that because I have tried everything I could and
she has been constantly shutting me out,"
Mhlabunzima asked with a calm voice but he
was angry. This call was ticking him off, "and
even if I do want to help. How am I going to do
that? Do you have a solution?"
"I understand all that and like I told you before I
don't support what she's doing but she's
stubborn. I am just asking you to support her,
financially with the kids,
"She does have money but those services that
are needed for the children won't be a once off.
It'll be continuous. She can't sustain that alone
and also maintain herself and the children's
other needs."
Mhlabunzima wondered what full support was
Zinhloso talking about if her boyfriend was
telling him to provide money, "so, how will I give
that money? Haven't I been giving money and
she would give it to her employee?"
Mthuthuzeli was shocked, "I didn't know about
that, honestly."
"It seems there's a lot you don't know. Did you
know she hired people to attack me because I
came back and tried to get into her yard?"
"You're lying!"
"I am not, why would I lie?"
"I don't know, to break us up."
"I am not trying to get you to break up with her. I
don't even want her back in my life."
"I am really sorry."
"I heard from her sister about the children's
development and I was trying to break in so I
could talk to her. Ask her to give the children to
me and I was going to give them to my father,
"He was going to talk to our ancestors with
them. They need to step in, at least let children
grow normally. The curse shouldn't attack them
so early while they have ancestors but what did
your girlfriend do? She used her money and
hired people to attack me."
"I am really sorry, Chwane. I didn't know."
"How am I going to give that money? You'll
come and take it?"
"No, I think it's best if you give it to Mzomubi
and he'll pretend he's the one giving her money.
If you say she turned back the money it's best
we do it like that. I don't know what you think."
"It's fine, I will send the child to him with the
money and letter. What are the price ranges?
She's wasting money, those Doctors won't help
her," he clicked his tongue and Mthuthuzeli told
him about the prices, "alright, thanks, bye."
He put the phone down and told his mother
about the phone call, "I will give her brother the
money."
"Yes, do that." She was no longer surprised by
anything coming from Zinhloso. After hiring
people to attack her son - she washed her
hands. When her son cried to her, Esther told
him to let it go. They'd tried everything and they
failed.
"Do you still love Zinhloso?"
"Why are you asking, mama?"
"I just want to know."
"Of course, I love her. We have history together
but that doesn't mean I want her back in my
life." He responded and Esther nodded. She got
up and left, she wasn't surprised he still loved
her. She left her husband to struggle for years
with the children but even after years, the man
still loved her. She was only hoping he would
really stick to his words and never ask her to be
with him again.

Mhlabunzima had an order of sorghum porridge

from a creche at Ematshane. His mother
suggested he buy a grinding machine to grind
sorghum and pack it for porridge.
It was winter - July, the creche decided to
provide warm sorghum porridge for the children.
They had babies and toddlers. It was one grown
lady and her assistance. The creche was big
and it had two other rooms where children took
naps according to their age. It was built with
planks.
"Sawubona, Mhlabunzima! Thank you for
coming. We heard from one daddy that you sell
this porridge and thought we should order it,"
Mrs Madlala welcomed Mhlabunzima into the
yard.
They shook hands, "thank you, I am looking
forward to a long working relationship with
you."
"Yes, thank you."
Mhlabunzima helped her transport the bags
inside the creche. The children were together in
the main spacious room. He greeted them and
those who could talk - they all sang, "sawubona
malume!"
When Mhlabunzima was walking out. His eyes
were attracted to a little girl, she was trying to
crawl and the assistance was helping her -
cheering her up.
He quickly turned to Mrs Madlala, "can I talk to
you? In private?"
She smiled and let him into one of the rooms.
There was a baby sleeping. "We can talk to her."
Mhlabunzima saw his son, sleeping on the
sponges, "mam, Zinhloso is the mother of the
twins you have here, right?"
"Yes, she is."
He shut his eyes, "do you know who's their
father?"
"No, she brought them with Mthuthuzeli but he's
not the father."
"I am the father," he broke the news and Mrs
Madlala was surprised. Mhlabunzima told her
about the story between him and Zinhloso. He
didn't lie about anything. He told her nothing but
the truth, "I know I was wrong but I never
thought she would involve the children."
"Xulu, wait, are we talking about the same
Zinhloso? The one who's the owner of the skin
chemist?" Mrs Madlala was shocked. "That kind,
young woman?"
"Yes, that's her. She's kind but not to me."
She shut her eyes and shook her head, "I can't
believe this! What she's doing is wrong. She
brought the children here because the Therapist
suggested they should be around other children
and maybe they would be better when they see
others. I asked her about the father and she
said he's not involved."
"I am not involved because she doesn't want me
involved." He took out his wallet and showed
him the pictures of the kids that he cut, put it in
his wallet.
She really believed him after seeing the pictures.
She had little doubt because Zinhloso she knew
wasn't capable of doing such a horrible thing. "I
am really sorry."
He looked at the sleeping boy, "I really wish to
have a relationship with my kids."
"I was about to suggest to her that she should
try and talk to the grandparents even if the
father is not involved. I am glad you came," she
said, she knew what she was about to suggest
was wrong but she didn't like the situation the
children were in. It wasn't right, "I want to allow
you to have a relationship with them and see if
they wouldn't improve. This means we have to
keep it a secret,
"You'll have to come around 10am and leave at
12. Two hours, three times a week. Let's work
together and help the children. They might just
need someone from their paternal family, their
father is best," Mrs Madlala suggested but she
promised herself to confirm if he was really
speaking the truth or not. She needed to talk to
Zinhloso's shopkeeper.
Mhlabunzima got emotional over this
suggestion. It was the best thing someone had
ever done for him. "Thank you so much, mama!"
He shook hands with her.
"Anything for the kids." She went out and left
him in the room. She told him to take off his
shoes and sit on the sponge.
Mrs Madlala came back with Milani. She
handed her over to Mhlabunzima. He smiled
and took the baby. "Sawubona, sisi!" He greeted
his daughter. His chest had tightened, he was
going through different emotions and he
couldn't believe he was having such a moment
with his child. These children were really meant
to be born - his heart was filled with love.
Milani looked at him as if she was trying to
figure out who he was. She looked back at her
teacher and she cried for her.
Mrs Madlala laughed, "she's surprised by this
man she doesn't know. Don't feel bad, I will
always be with you and they'll get used to you."
She sat down and looked at Milani then
Mhlabunzima, "oh, you guys, are really father
and daughter."
Mhlabunzima laughed and he gestured to
Milani that she should come to him. She smiled
and opened up her arms for him. He laughed as
the child screamed. He glanced at her brother,
he was still sleeping. He pinched himself and he
believed this was real. He wasn't dreaming.
UMCEBO

Chapter 233

Mhlabunzima was busy cleaning the yard. He

would normally hire someone to clean for him
because he was always busy but today, he
decided it was best to take a day off. He needed
to rest because he'd been overworking himself.
He'd finally recovered what he lost and also
bought some sheep for himself.
The business of planting sorghum was a
success and because his grandfather's land
was bigger. Mhlabunzima was getting bigger
orders not only from villagers but also from
people who were sellers. He didn't use that
money for his own needs but for his children.
He didn't know when they were going to be a
part of his life but he knew that day would come.
"Ngenzwel'umusa, please come this side we
have visitors," Esther said to Mhlabunzima. He
was working by the fence at the back of the
houses.
"I am sweaty, who's that visitor?" Mhlabunzima
looked at his mother.
She had a nervous smile. She didn't know how
he was going to react from getting a visit from
this woman. "It's Zinhloso's mother and her
grandmother."
"I will take a bath first."
"Please, hury, I don't even have small talks for
them."
"Give them water mom and leave them alone
until I am done."
"You're right!"
He stopped what he was doing and he went to
take a quick bath. He couldn't sit down with the
elders while he was reeking of sweat. He
couldn't keep it off his mind - his son's laughter
when he smiled at him. He told his parents and
they were happy that the child got to laugh.
They told him he didn't laugh with them. That
image was everything to him.
"Sanibonani!" He took a seat next to his father
on the bench.
The women were seated on the straw mats.
Mrs Mnguni and granny greeted.
"How are you, my boy?" Granny asked.
He smiled shortly, "I am fine, gogo and how are
you doing?"
"Ey, I wish I could say the same. I was even
afraid to come here because of the difficult
issue we have with my granddaughter and the
children." She shook her head. She didn't know
what went wrong with Zinhloso.
"No, gogo, don't feel like that. It's not your fault.
You did your part. It's up to Zinhloso to do the
right thing." Mhlabunzima responded.
Xulu nodded, "yes, we can't hate each other
because of what our children do." They all
agreed in one voice. "I would like to thank you
for allowing me into your home. I really don't
deserve to be here." Mrs Mnguni started talking.
"Where do I even start?" She raised her eyes and
looked at them. They were all looking down and
not at her.
"It's a lot. I decided it's best I come. I know it's
been a year and a few months since Qophelo
passed." It was her first time addressing her
granddaughter by her name. Sadly, it was after
her hatred drove the child to the grave. "All
that's happening now is my fault. It's the
outcomes of my actions, my acts of hatred that
started with daughter and my granddaughter
suffered the same hatred,
"Ey, Mhlabunzima, I don't know why I was so
angry with you being with my daughter. If I was
a good mother to Zinhloso I was actually going
to be happy she ended up with you,
"You've outdone yourself, went all out to prove
to her that you love her and you have good
intentions. You taught her things even us, as her
parents didn't teach her or couldn't teach her,
"But I didn't care about all that. Hatred and
bitterness was everything I decided to hold on
to. There's no excuse." Her eyes met with Xulu's
eyes.
"There's indeed no excuse. Your husband loved
you so much but it always baffled me why you
couldn't love his child," Xulu commented, "some
women turn to hate children because their
partners left them to raise the children alone. I
will never understand why you treated your
daughter like that."
"I can never explain because I don't want
anything that will sound like an excuse and also,
because I have seen my reasons as not valid."
"What has brought you here?" Esther asked, she
wanted her to say her piece and go. This
woman didn't treat them right, from the
moment Zinhloso was realised to be pregnant.
She wasn't her favourite person. She didn't like
her as before.
"I came to apologize and ask for forgiveness.
Mhlabunzima, my son, I am really sorry for what
happened with Qophelo. I was supposed to
protect her as a grandmother, keep her under
my wing and shower her with love but the child
died with a cruel image of me,
"Please, forgive me because also what
happened between you and my daughter is
based on what I did. You took out your
frustrations, anger and grief on her just like
she's doing now. Using the children because
she's angry with you. Please, find it in your heart
forgive me."
There was silence in the room. A lot had
happened, they no longer had tears to cry but
only their souls could weap.
"Mhlabunzima, aren't you going to say anything
to her?" Xulu pressed his hand on his son's
shoulder.
"No!"
"I don't think forgiving and forgetting will be
easy but we appreciate that you came. That's
the first biggest step," Xulu commented
because his son had no words, "we weren't
expecting that you would come. We didn't even
think you'd ever see a need to apologize and we
also know most of us hardly apologize to
children."
"Ay, Xulu, I was also not expecting her to call
me and tell me she wants to come here but I
found peace in my soul because I always cried
that I will die and leave things like this," granny
said after Xulu. "I wish when I leave this world,
things would be well and peaceful between
these two families. You've been good
acquaintances."
"You're right, gogo and yes, my friend was a
difficult man but I believe his anger would have
never been to drive his grandchild to the grave."
She nodded, "yes, the man loved his kids."
"I also wish to appease the ancestors for being
the one to have a hand in the death of their
grandchild. Children are given to us by
uMvelinqangi and our ancestors. It'll give me
peace if you can allow that." Mrs Mnguni
requested. "Ngifisa ukushweleza kwabaphansi,
bangidlulisele okusenhlizweni Yami kumzukulu
wami."
Mhlabunzima spoke after a long silence. He
didn't know whether they were expecting him to
speak or what, "I think that's up to my parents
to decide. I am a child and have no say in that
matter. It's for our ancestors. I think it's my
parents' call to make."
Xulu drew a long breath, "yes, we accept that.
We can't stop it from happening, it's for the
ancestors. I only request that we wait for my
brother's return and we'll do the ritual. We'll let
you know."
Mrs Mnguni was relieved. She wasn't expecting
they would agree but they'd said, it was for the
ancestors. "Thank you."
"We'll wash hands with water on the day of the
ritual. Nihambe kahle," Xulu said.
Granny gave Mhlabunzima her hand, "help me
up, my boy!"
He held her hand and they walked out of the hut.
He was still holding her hand. Bhejeleni was
walking slowly before them.
"How are you holding up? You lost a child."
"It's better than yesterday."
"It should be like that. Her mother never came
back?"
"No, she didn't come back and it's a good thing I
don't want to see her."
"Did they give you back your lobolo?"
"Yes, it was no longer cows but money. I used
to gives thanks to the men who saved my
shop," he responded. They walked out the gates.
She nodded, "they did a great job. I have
something for you." She stopped walking and
her daughter didn't stop.
"What?" He smiled.
She lifted her pinafore dress and underneath
she was wearing a skirt with pockets. She gave
him folded pictures, "take this. I would like for
you to have it. Milani decided she wants to look
like her handsome dad."
He opened them and he laughed as he realised
it was pictures of his children, "she chose well.
She chose beauty," he commented and they
laughed, "thank you so much, gogo, I really
appreciate it."
She tightened her grip on him, "it'll all work out.
Hold on!"
"I will do that." He went back home with a big
smile on his face. It wasn't one picture but
pictures from when they were born until
recently. He showed his mother the pictures
and she couldn't stop smiling.
*****
Zinhloso was seated at the back seat of
Mthuthuzeli's car. They were coming from the
clinic - the twins had their vaccination. The
nurses went through the routine of checking
their development by asking their mother
questions. They told Zinhloso that both the
children's development was slow. It was June,
they were nine months old but they both
couldn't crawl. Milani was trying but her brother
wasn't. They also told her about the children's
eyes. Mkhululi's concentration in one place or
object at a time and didn't move his head with
the object placed before him was not normal
for the nurses. Milani could move her eyes
around but not as expected from a nine months
old. Other nurses said it was because there
were twins but this one nurse wasn't in support
of that statement.
"Do you think there's something wrong with
them?" Zinhloso asked, looking at her babies
who were sleeping on their car seats. She was
worried about what the nurses said.
Mthuthuzeli glanced at her, "everyone has been
telling you the same thing and you weren't
bothered."
"I thought they were just -"
"You didn't take them seriously because they're
not nurses or Doctors. They're not educated," he
told her the truth and Zinhloso remained quiet.
He couldn't figure out what was really wrong
with her. She'd changed, from not listening to
the elders telling her not to give birth to the
hospital, to dismissing everyone who was
telling her about the children's development. Did
she really value the educated individuals over
the elders?
They reached the optometrist's office and when
it was their turn. They both went in with the
children. Milani was making baby sounds and
screams and her brother was quiet. The Doctor
welcomed them.
She kept quiet for a long time after she was
done examining the children and asking all
relevant questions, "I will book for you, you have
to take them to an ophthalmologist. They can
see but they're also not well. I can't seem to
diagnose this problem."
"Will they help them?"
"Yes, the specialist will know the exact problem.
I will also suggest if you can afford it, take them
to Therapists who'll help them with
developmental delays." She gave her the paper
with prices and different therapists for children
and the prices for ophthalmologists.
"Of course, I can afford it," Zinhloso responded
after looking at the prices. She was annoyed by
the eye she was getting from the Doctor. "Being
black doesn't mean I don't have money!" She
shouted.
"I am sorry, that's not -"
Mthuthuzeli quickly explained what Zinhloso
was doing, he'd learnt never to trust white
people. She might even report them for being
able to afford and they'd be investigated - where
were they getting money?
She smiled, "oh, I really didn't mean to offend
you."
Zinhloso tried to calm down, "thank you." They
walked out of the office.
In the car, she kept looking at her babies and it
didn't ring in her mind that what Mhlabunzima
once told her might be what was happening to
the children.
"You need to call their father and tell him about
this. He should help you. You don't have to
shoulder this responsibility alone." He said and
Zinhloso didn't say anything. She was only
focused on the kids.
UMCEBO

Chapter 235

***Chapter sponsored by Sphelele Shongwe

dedicated to Joyce Muchengetwa Ranthokoane
in celebration of your birthday****

They were seated at the backseat of

Mthuthuzeli's car. The car was parked outside
the gates. Zinhloso had her head on his lap
laying on her back. Her knees were up. Her eyes
were focused on his eyes as he was busy
playing with her ears.
"You're so beautiful when you smile," he
complimented and kissed her lips.
She was giggling, "I feel more beautiful in your
love."
He smirked, he loved this woman so much but
what she was doing was breaking his heart. He
was scared, what if he would be him in
Mhlabunzima's shoes one day? Hurt her and
suffer the consequences. He hadn't found the
courage to confront her about hiring people to
beat Mhlabunzima. He didn't have the courage,
something deep in him was scared of the
answer he was going to get. He realised it was
best that Zinhloso didn't know about her gift of
bringing abundance because she was going to
be more prideful. Women with money were
prideful. His wife had money and she did have
the hint of pride but she was able to control
herself.
"Are we going to town this weekend?"
"Yes, we should buy clothes for our kids." She
responded, "Mzomubi gave me money and he
said he's helping me out with the bills for the
children's specialist."
"Did you take the money?"
"Yes, it's a kind gesture for his niece and
nephew. It'll be very helpful."
He smiled, "I am glad he thought of that." He
held her face and kissed her.
Zinhloso sat up straight, "I should go back to
the house now." She saw her brother's car
driving through her gates.
"Yes, your brother is here. I should also go," he
stepped out of the car after kissing her goodbye.
Zinhloso closed the gates and she rushed up.
Mzomubi was with her mother. She helped
them with plastic bags. "How are you doing?"
Mrs Mnguni asked Zinhloso but her eyes were
with Mthuthuzeli's car that was driving away.
"I am fine and how are you?"
"I am good. Where are the children ngoba ujola
nje la phandle?"
She avoided eye contact and walked forward,
"they're inside the house sleeping." She pushed
the door. She didn't fire her nanny but she still
worked for her, she would watch over the kids
whenever she was busy with either garden work,
school work or the chemist. Or when she was
sleeping out at her boyfriend's place.
They sat down in the living room, "do you trust
this boy?"
"Yes, he loves me."
"So, you plan on raising the children with him
and not with their father?"
"I don't love Mhlabunzima anymore."
Mzomubi chuckled, "why are you lying to
yourself? If you don't, you would have freed him
to have a relationship with his children."
"Your brother is right but we're not here for that.
I will let you do as you please, we'll see where it
will lead you." Mrs Mnguni said and Zinhloso
only looked down. "I went to Xulu's home."
"Why, mom?"
"To apologize for what happened to Qophelo
and to ask to appease the ancestors as I have
done with my husband's ancestors," Mrs
Mnguni responded.
"And? What did they say? Did Mhlabunzima
forgive you?"
"He didn't say anything, he didn't say whether
he's forgiving me or not."
She nodded, "oh! And his parents?"
"They said they'll wait for Xulu's brother to come
back. They sent a letter saying he's back and so,
we should do this ritual this coming weekend."
"That's a good thing that they agreed."
"Yes, so, I am asking you to come and you
should bring the children along."
She looked at her mother with questioning eyes,
"Mhlabunzima will be there?"
"That's not the answer I am looking for."
"I am asking, mama. I am not answering."
"Zinhloso!" She shouted at her.
She quickly forced her head down, "yes, I will
come."
"You're bringing the children, right?"
"Yes, it's not like I have a choice."
Mrs Mnguni nodded, "it's a good thing you
know," she stood up and went to the bedroom
as she heard a cry.
"How's it going with daycare? It's been a full
month now and two weeks." Mzomubi asked
Zinhloso as she returned from the kitchen. Mrs
Mnguni was back with Mkhululi.
She placed the food on the table, "I think it's
doing really great. Mkhululi's eyes can move
with an object if you place it before his eyes but
he doesn't turn his head."
Mrs Mnguni and Mzomubi were happy to hear
about these developments about the children.
"That's wonderful, mfana kagogo!" She played
with him, tickling him and he smiled brightly.
"Yey, le ngane ayinamusa! I have never seen a
child that doesn't laugh when you're tickling
them."
"He mustn't be like you and his mom," Mzomubi
made a joke but he was the only one to laugh at
his joke. Mrs Mnguni and Zinhloso only glared
at him, "even your glare it's the same!"
"Get out!" Mrs Mnguni screamed at him and he
laughed his way out, taking his plate of food.
"Do you remember that your father last spoke
about inheritance when things weren't great
between the two of you and I distributed the
inheritance amongst your siblings after his
death?"
Zinhloso looked at her mother, "yes, Mzomubi
gave me a share of his while I was still living at
home."
"Oh, he never told me and that's a good thing. I
am really proud of him. Mhlabunzima was really
a good influence as a friend," she smiled - her
son had made her proud with a lot of things.
"Yes, he wasn't bad."
"I kept your part of inheritance. I knew your
father made that decision only because he was
angry. He probably forgot to revisit the topic. He
was never going to exclude you in his normal
state."
Zinhloso was surprised by what her mother was
telling her. "So, when were you going to give it
to me?"
"I left a letter that your brother should give it to
you when I die. It's money and the cows. You
can take the cows if you wish or you can keep
them at home."
She smiled, "thank you, mama. I will keep them
at home because I have sheep here."
"I am surprised you haven't slaughtered any
sheep."
She laughed, "I learnt from the best but I will
slaughter one sheep when Nobuhle ofcomes
back."
"I can see. How's it going with school?" She
asked and fed Mkhululi from her plate. She
listened to her daughter talking about school.

"Are you going to call us in the morning?"

Nobuhle asked John. She faced him, she was
seated on the passenger seat of his car and
their son was on the backseat - he was sleeping
in his car seat.
He yawned, "I am really tired and I don't feel like
driving back. Three hours on the road is long at
night." He complained.
"I told you we shouldn't drive but you were
stubborn. What are we going to do because you
can't sleep at home?" She asked and John
shrugged, "don't shrug!"
He smiled as she snapped - he didn't mind it
anymore when she snapped for petty things. He
knew it was the pregnancy. They were
expecting their second child.
"Can't you make a plan?"
She took a deep breath, "I will go and call
Mhlabunzima. If he agrees you'll go to him and
if he doesn't, you'll drive."
"I know he'll agree. He likes me."
Nobuhle walked through the gates and she
loved the feeling of being home. She was happy
with her life, she loved being with her family but
there was no place like home. Her relationship
with John was stronger than before and she
was at her happiest. They got married two
months after her arrival in the country. She was
officially Mrs Hendricks. They decided to try for
a second child after getting married. Nobuhle
wasn't pregnant their first encounter - where
John thought she would probably get pregnant.
"Nobuhle!" Zinhloso screamed as her sister
walked inside the kitchen. Ziwinile ran from the
living to the kitchen. They both hugged her.
Nobuhle was laughing, they weren't freely
hugging her because of the pregnancy bump.
"You'll make me fall!" She was laughing
because she was happy.
"We're happy to see you!" They shouted and
Nobuhle got to hug her sisters-in-law and
brother next.
Mrs Mnguni glanced at her, "ihee, ayizali
Jehovah!" She clapped once, "is that a ring on
your finger?"
"Mama, can't you be happy!" Ziwinile raised her
voice and the others laughed.
"This is me, being happy!"
"How are you, mama?" Nobuhle asked and she
bent over for a hug.
"I am happy that you're back home, Yeyeye!"
She brushed her, "and where's my grandson?"
"He's sleeping in the car. I am here to call baba
kaQophelo. I need a favour from him," she said
and turned to her brother, "please, go and take
Johnathan for me. He's sleeping."
"Okay, I will go." He walked out.
"What do you want from him?"
"A favour!" She answered her mother and lifted
the telephone. She checked the number on the
telephone numbers' book kept on the table with
the telephone.
"Mhlabunzima, hello?"
She placed her fist on her waist, "baba
kaQophelo, how are you?"
"Hawu, mamdala, you're back!"
"Yes, I am. I am with the parent here, so I will
speak English."
He laughed, "alright, I am listening," he said in
English.
"John and I got to the village a minute ago. He's
complaining about being tired from the road trip.
He doesn't trust he'll be able to drive back now.
It's late."
"Oh, so, you need me to keep him for the night?"
He quickly caught up.
"Yes, please. He can't sleep here."
"That's not a problem. He can come."
"Thank you so much. It was great hearing your
voice."
He chuckled, "we're also happy that you're back
home safely. We'll see you if you still have time
around."
"Yes, I will see you. Goodnight!" She put the
phone down, "anizithandi izindaba senithule
cwaka!" She commented and walked out,
leaving them laughing. Her mother was asking
them what she was talking about but they only
laughed at her.
She went to tell John to go to Mhlabunzima's
home. She went back inside where they
attacked her with questions. She couldn't wait
to see her baby boy.
"This means Zinhloso will slaughter a sheep
tomorrow. She said she would slaughter when
you come back," Mrs Mnguni said and everyone
laughed as Zinhloso eyed her. They were happy
that Nobuhle was back for a visit. It was a
wonderful time for the family.
Nobuhle was left with her mother and brother in
the living room. She handed the letter to
Mzomubi and he read for his mother. "We got
married two months after I arrived in the city.
We've come back to visit and he also wants to
pay ilobolo."
"That's a very good thing. I am happy for you,
my child. You look very beautiful," she smiled at
her baby. She realised her daughters had been
through difficult situations and now, it seemed
like things were looking good for them.
UMCEBO

Chapter 236

He was very happy to see John again after

years of not seeing him. They stayed up talking
until late. Mhlabunzima let him sleep in his
bedroom and he went to sleep in his daughters'
bedroom. John woke up Saturday morning and
he left after seeing Mhlabunzima's parents and
having breakfast with them.
Sunday - Mhlabunzima was in the kitchen
dressed up for leaving. He was busy making a
cup of tea. The past month and few weeks have
been great since he started having a
relationship with his children. He would arrive at
10am, park his car at the back of the building
and leave at 12, every Monday, Wednesday and
Friday. Mrs Madlala kept her promise, whenever
he was around the first two weeks. She would
be with him and she stopped when she saw the
children were used to having him around. She
was very shocked when she first heard Mkhululi
laughing as his father was playing with them.
Mhlabunzima did fine motor skills with the
children and everyday of his visit he did
exercises to help Mkhululi move his eyes
around - mainly placing colorful objects and
moving them around. He would crawl along
with Milani and feed them, he would normally
leave them napping at 12.
He enjoyed his time with them and that made a
great impact in his life. He hadn't told his
parents about it. Sometimes, he would be
scared they would be caught and it would stop.
His parents would be sad for him again. He
didn't want them to worry anymore. Esther was
so worried at some point she was scared he
would commit suicide. She even wanted to
sleep in the children's bedroom in his house. He
didn't want anything to worry them anymore.
"Where are you going, Ngenzwel'umusa?"
Esther asked as she found him in the kitchen
having tea and cornbread.
"I have a delivery of carrots that I have to make
eNdabayakhe."
"No, you'll leave once we're done with
everything." Esther said and Ngenzeni walked
inside the house and greeted. She asked for
permission from her husband to come back
home for the ritual.
"I will deliver and come back," he tried to
convince his mother. He thought he woke up
early enough. He knew she wasn't going to
allow him to leave. It was important for him to
go there. He was going to return for the ritual.
"No, if you go you won't come back."
Ngenzeni saw he was upset, "why don't you call
one of your drivers to do that delivery."
He nodded at Ngenzeni and he walked out. He
saw his great father walking through the gates
with his wife and aunt. And under the guava
tree, the Mnguni family was already there.
Zinhloso and Ziwinile were carrying the kids. It
surprised him that she brought them. He rushed
to his house after greeting his family.
They walked out with straw mats. Outside the
gates, they laid the straw mats down.
"Go and call them, Mhlabunzima!"
He glanced at Ngenzeni and she only smiled at
him. Mhlabunzima went to them. His heart was
beating fast, he was praying and hoping the
children wouldn't go crazy when they saw him.
He stood next to Mrs Mnguni and forced his
head down, "sanibonani!"
"Yebo, Mhlabunzima, how are you?"
"We have nothing to complain about, we're
grateful for waking up. How are you?"
Mrs Mnguni was surprised he was saying such
long words to her, "yes, we're grateful for seeing
the sun," she smiled at Mkhululi as he was
looking at his father.
"Yea, dad said you can come."
"Thank you," she looked at Mhlabunzima as he
headed back without looking at anyone else and
not even the children, "waze wambuka we-bantu
ubaba wakhe! Hawu, look, his eyes are
following him." Mrs Mnguni commented about
Mkhululi looking at his father. The child started
crying as he realised Mhlabunzima didn't even
smile at him.
"Let's go, mom!" Zinhloso pointed to the road.
Mzomubi untied the goat. They moved from the
tree. She had a sleeping Milani in her arms. She
looked at her son, "keep quiet!" She brushed his
cheek.
"Why is he crying?" Esther asked with a smile.
She was already sitting down.
"Give him to his grandma," Mrs Mnguni said to
Ziwinile and she handed the baby to Esther.
They sat down. Mkhululi kept quiet and looked
at Esther.
The ritual began, they started talking about
what happened. What went wrong and who
wronged who - how? It was a lengthy
discussion that was led by Xulu's brother. After
the discussions, apologies followed from both
sides and after they were accepted. Ngenzeni
stood up with a small basin of water that had
coins inside. They washed their hands, all the
members of both families.
"We're grateful this has been done and now,
with no feeling of guilt MaNtuli. We can enter
into the yards," great uncle said. "We'll slaughter
the animal and talk to our ancestors on your
behalf."
"Thank you." Mrs Mnguni shut her eyes as her
tears overwhelmed her. If it hadn't been her
actions none of this would have happened. She
needed to forgive herself also for everything
that happened.
"I have stopped Ngenzwel'umusa from cleaning
his daughter's grave last week. I thought it
would be of sentimental value that as her
grandmother you should do it after we've done
appeasing," Esther said. They had spoken about
this with her husband - MaNtuli coming to
apologize, they decided it was going to be best
to accept her apology and move on. The
grudges were going to enslave them in their old
age. She was skeptical about telling
Mhlabunzima to stop cleaning Qophelo's grave
because of her grandmother. He'd already
started with Zodumo's grave as she was also
buried next to her sister. When she told him, he
didn't throw a fit or refused. He only said there
was no problem. He left it uncleaned. She saw
that as part of letting go slowly, because she
knew her son. He would have never agreed if he
wasn't letting go.
"Thank you so much, MaSibiya, Xulu and
Mhlabunzima."
They stood up. Ziwinile took the baby from
Esther, "I will take him once I am done with
everything."
Mhlabunzima and Ngenzeni stood as the family
members walked through the gates. Zinhloso
looked at Ngenzeni, she wasn't even sure if she
would smile back at her considering the last
time they met, "sawubona, Ngenzeni?" She
greeted her with an unsure smile.
"Yebo, sawubona, Zinhloso."
Mhlabunzima was looking at her - the last
picture he had of her, was when she was
standing behind her gate glaring at him as she
spoke all the horrible things she said to him that
day.
"Why are you looking at her?"
He glared at her, "leave me alone, Ngenzeni!"
"I am just asking."
"Naka izindaba zakwakho!" He chuckled as
Ngenzeni laughed out loud. They gathered the
straw mats together and they followed them
inside.

The goat was taken into the cattle pen by the

Xulu men and without burning any sage, they
spoke to the ancestors - they pleaded with them
to pass MaNtuli's heart to the child and accept
her apology.
As everything carried on, the slaughtering of the
goat and everything else, Zinhloso was with her
mother as she cleaned her daughter's grave.
"Did you see him, then, mom?"
"Who?"
"The same person whom you asked me to bring
children for. He didn't even turn back when his
son was crying," Zinhloso spoke about
Mhlabunzima's reaction. It was surprising - he
was the same person who was trying to break
into her home for the children. When they were
right before his eyes, he didn't even spare them
a glance.
"He was probably taken off guard and don't
forget, you didn't say I have brought the children
to you." Mrs Mnguni said and Zinhloso
remained quiet. "Did you come here for her
grave?"
"No, I have never. It's not easy reliving the
memories of that day."
"Sorry, child."
"It's okay." They went to the hut where their
family was. The other men had joined to help
with slaughtering. Mzomubi was also with them.
"Where's Mkhululi?" She asked her sisters.
Milani was still sleeping on the small sponge.
"Ziwinile gave him back to his grandmother."
Nobuhle responded.
"Alright."
"You should take them to their father before we
leave," aunt Comfort said and there was no
response from Zinhloso.
Zinhloso didn't know how she was supposed to
do that for someone who showed they had no
interest in the children.
After they'd eaten and had drinks as a sign of
accepting the apology and showing there was
no longer any bad blood between the families,
the Mnguni family was ready to leave.
Zinhloso was heading to the kitchen hut when
she saw Mhlabunzima driving out. She
wondered if he did go to the twins as they'd
been with his mother. She couldn't understand
how his head worked.
There was too much noise coming from the
kitchen hut, cheering and laughter. Kusakusa's
two years old lastborn and his middle child
were on the floor crawling with Milani. She was
laughing and screaming, her grandmother,
Mhlabunzima's aunt and Ngenzeni, they were
cheering her. Esther was on the straw mat with
Mkhululi, she was showing him to clap hands
for his sister and he was clapping his tiny hands
with a smile. The sight was too beautiful and
heartwarming, she hated to be the one to break
it. She quickly turned.
"Can you guys be the ones to take them?" She
asked her sisters and they didn't refuse
because they thought maybe Mhlabunzima was
inside the kitchen.
Nobuhle and Ziwinile walked out with crying
babies. They were having fun and weren't ready
to leave.
Nobuhle couldn't believe everything she was
told about Zinhloso. She couldn't even talk
because she was heartbroken. She was trying
to gather courage.
"Thank you so much, mama for doing what you
did. I am sure my daughter's soul will rest in
absolute peace after that," Zinhloso said to her
mother as they were walking back home. The
children had calmed down. "This was a very
important day."
"Yes, you did a good thing, skwiza and
Mhlabunzima will also come around. He'll
forgive you," aunt Comfort said.
Mrs Mnguni sighed, she felt very better and
even if she could die today. She would die a
peaceful person, "yes, I am really grateful to his
parents."
The day had ended, it was a very important day
and it was a success.
UMCEBO
Chapter 237

***Chapter sponsored by Phat Chef***

Mhlabunzima drove back home after 6pm. He

was tired from the work they'd been doing since
morning and he wished he could sleep. There
were still some guests at his home and he
wanted to die. He wished he could tell them to
go but that was going to be rude of him.
"I will come back!" He raised his hand as they
called him to them and he headed to the
kitchen.
His parents were both inside and it was like
they were waiting for him. They took him on, the
minute he walked inside the kitchen hut. "How
could you do this?"
He took a seat on the bench, "what did I do,
mom?"
"You're even asking your mother that question.
Didn't you ignore your children? I was looking at
you when you went to tell the Mnguni family
that they should come to us," Xulu growled after
his wife, "you kept walking while the child was
looking at you, crying."
"How is Zinhloso going to take you seriously if
you ignore the children like that?" Esther
screamed at him.
"She'll never take me seriously, mom. No matter
what I do."
"That's not true! You were supposed to jump at
the opportunity when you saw them," Esther
said, "because we're here it's because of your
cruel words towards her. I don't know if she's
still angry or she's being spiteful but it's your
doing."
"For that reason, you really needed to show her
you're trying!"
He knew they meant well and so, it was better
he told them the truth. He didn't need to fight
them or get defensive, "I have seen there's
nothing that will ever be enough for her coming
from me. But I did that for a reason."
"What?" They asked in unison.
"I was trying to avoid them so that they wouldn't
recognise me," Mhlabunzima explained about
meeting up with his children at the daycare, "I
am sorry for not telling you this but I was
scared we were going to be caught and that
was going to break your hearts again." He could
witness the excitement in their eyes.
"Mhlabunzima! That's wonderful news! You
were supposed to tell us. It doesn't matter
whether you get caught or not. You're our child,
if you're happy, we should be happy with you,
"If you are sad, we should be sad with you.
That's what parents do for their children."
Esther said and her husband supported her
words.
"I don't know what I would have been without
you, mama no baba. Thank you." Mhlabunzima
said. The parents were happy he was finally
having a way of seeing his children. It was a
blessing.
"You should build memories with them. They
should never forget you as their father. It
wouldn't matter whether their mother gets
married or not but you'll always be their father,"
Xulu advised.
"Yes, and I would actually be pleased if you can
find a woman." Esther said and father and son
laughed, "there's nothing funny there. You'll
always love Zinhloso until you find someone
else. It's better you find someone else."
"He still loves her?" Xulu was surprised by this
and he looked at Mhlabunzima but he was
looking at his mother.
Esther cleared her throat, "you can't blame him,
baba. You also loved me even after years of
being away from you. Years after I hurt you."
Xulu wanted to talk but what his wife had said -
it shut him up. "I wish you won't model me,
though. I couldn't find a woman like your
mother."
Mhlabunzima laughed his face off, "and if I can't
find a woman like Zinhloso?" He challenged his
father.
"Don't look for a woman like her!"
Esther and Mhlabunzima laughed - matters of
the heart were complicated but he was grateful
that as much as whenever he saw her he would
have his heart skip a beat. It would skip another
beat whenever he got the image of everything
he'd been through for his children.
"You decided to leave us!" Robert walked out of
the premises with Mhlabunzima. Everyone had
gone back to their homes. Mhlabunzima was
walking Robert out.
"I have a problem!" He pressed his lips together.
He couldn't see his face because it was already
dark.
"What?"
"So, there's this woman I met. She's good
looking and my problem is whenever I try to talk
to her, words get stuck on my throat," he said
and Robert laughed at him, "there's nothing
funny about that!"
"You're so miserable now, Chwane!"
"Gwani, I haven't been approaching any woman
for over five years." Mhlabunzima pushed him
by his shoulder. It was when he saw this
woman - the day he realised his manhood could
work normally again. He was at the
supermarket behind the telephone counter that
day and his eyes were set on the woman's
nicely shaped butts. He could recognise he was
being lustful but it didn't matter because she
couldn't read his thoughts and she couldn't see
he was actually looking at her. Mhlabunzima
surprisingly got an erection from the fantasies
he'd created and it was by luck that he was
alone behind the counter. He remember very
well, he was really sad that week because
getting an erection meant Zinhloso had undone
the spell she did and she was getting married.
He was convinced she was getting married, she
was going to get married without forgiving him
for what happened and without having a
relationship with his kids. Also, she was moving
on with another man, would build a family with
another man, give birth for another man. He
was grumpy and throwing tantrums the whole
week until he told himself - the woman had
already made it clear she didn't want him. He'd
been doing well following those instructions of
staying away from her. And precisely, he was
the first to tell her he didn't want to see her
again - what was need for throwing tantrums?
And later, he realised when she hired people to
attack him - she'd undone the spell because she
was back together with the love of her life. He
was no match there. The man who was brave
enough to face her father. Who was he there?
Nobody! Just a man she hated and had children
with.
"You need a woman even if you're not serious
but get a woman to clear your head. You'll go
crazy!"
He kicked him, "I wish people could stop telling
me I need to get a woman because it doesn't
happen when you tell me."
"You're right. We'll keep quiet then. Kodwa yeka
ukuba negwababa." He said and they laughed.
Who would have thought life would turn out like
this for him and Zinhloso? He thought she was
definitely his forever - after they'd overcome
that difficult phase where he wished things
could end because of how she was treating him
when she was pregnant with Qophelo. He
thought nothing would break them up. It really
ended and it ended badly. It was time to move
on.
****
Ziwinile was wearing a black high waisted
pleated skirt and white shirt, tucked into the
skirt. She had renewed her pam, she felt really
good but she was nervous about meeting
Simon's mother.
Simon was already waiting for her at the bus
stop and the minute she got off the bus. He
saw his future wife.
They hugged each other, "you look amazing," he
kissed her cheek, making her giggle softly.
"If your mother says she doesn't like me. What
should I say?" She asked as Simon opened the
gate.
He chortled, "she'll like you." He was also
nervous because he had the devils as sisters. It
was them who were going to ruin things for him
but not his mother. He asked them kindly in the
morning to behave.
Ziwinile realised he resembled his mother. She
was tall and chubby. His sisters had mean
looking faces.
"You must be Ziwinile. My son has been talking
about you," Simon's mother smiled at Ziwinile
and they shook hands.
They were already waiting for her at the dinner
table, "no, mom, he hasn't been talking about
her and why do you like saying the same line to
all the girlfriends he brings home." The older
sister said before Ziwinile could say anything
and the other two laughed.
Their mother glared at them, "don't speak
nonsense. Your brother has been preaching
about the arrival of his girlfriend and you've
been annoying us, that you can't wait to meet
her."
"Please, don't fight and you, if you can't behave
you'll leave. I brought her here for mom and not
for you," Simon said clearly and his sisters kept
quiet.
Simon's mother was the one having a
conversation with Ziwinile on the table. They
were getting along pretty well. She asked her
questions about her family and she didn't ask
much about anything else. She'd already
concluded that there wasn't much to her
because she was a girl from the rural areas.
They hardly had ambitions. They went to school
only to know how to write letters to their
husbands or fathers.
"Why are you not married?" Simon's mother
asked.
Ziwinile swallowed the lump on her throat, "I
was married to an abuser. Our marriage didn't
work out." She responded without explaining
too many things.
"I am sorry but I am glad you left. My son will
love you and treat you well," she promised her
and Ziwinile looked at Simon with a smile and
love. The sisters rolled their eyes. They weren't
happy with their brother's choice.
Simon walked back in the house from dropping
Ziwinile at the bus stop. He knew that now - he
was going to get honest opinions about Ziwinile.
She was gone.
"I like her. She sounds well mannered."
The sisters were surprised, they didn't think she
was being genuine. "Don't encourage him to
take that farm girl. Girls from the rural areas are
boring, they're dumb and amaqaba." The older
sister commented.
"I bet she doesn't even know how to use a toilet
and flush it. She'll probably drink the water from
the toilet seat thinking it's spring water,"
another sister commented and they laughed,
hilariously.
"Well, sorry to disappoint you but she's
educated. She's an educator, with a college
qualification." He attempted to leave them with
that information but he turned back to them,
"actually, all her siblings are educated. Where
are your qualifications?" He asked and his
sisters couldn't answer him. His mother
laughed her lungs out.
UMCEBO

Chapter 238
***Chapter sponsored by Phat Chef***

They were naked under the bed sheets, facing

each other. Zinhloso was sleeping over at
Mthuthuzeli's home. The twins were with their
nanny in the house. She left after putting them
to bed.
"How are going to celebrate the twins' first
birthday next month?" Mhlabunzima asked
Zinhloso. He wiped her sweaty nose.
"I really don't know. I am not into celebrating
children's birthdays. I only buy a cake and gifts.
It was Nobuhle who actually helped me with
Qophelo's birthday celebration," Zinhloso
responded and she yawned, "their father is the
one who always spoke about grand birthday
celebration when we had Qophelo."
"How? Chwane, doesn't even celebrate his own
birthday."
"I don't know," she responded. She didn't want
to share with him reasons why Mhlabunzima
never loved to celebrate his birthday.
"So, are you going to let him help you with
celebrations?"
She looked at him like he was crazy, "after what
he did? I can never!"
"What did he do?"
"Last weekend when we were at his home for
the ritual. He pretended like he wasn't seeing
the children." Zinhloso responded, "Mkhululi
cried for him and even after mom said he was
crying for his father. He pretended not to care."
"Okay, how do you expect him to care because
precisely he doesn't know these children?" He
asked, he wanted to ask this question to get her
answer and reaction. He was actually tired of
this issue of Zinhloso denying Mhlabunzima his
children. He decided he was going to put an end
to it. This was also going to help him figure out
if Zinhloso was serious about their relationship
or she wasn't.
"It doesn't matter but Mkhululi might have felt
drawn towards him and he wanted his attention.
His father decided not to even smile at him,"
she raised her voice. She realised what he did
hurt her again. Why did he do that to the child?
"He's been nagging me about these children-"
"If he gave them attention was it going to
change your mind? Were you going to allow him
have a relationship with them?" He asked, his
eyes were widened at her.
Zinhloso shook her head, "I don't know, but-"
Mthuthuzeli stopped her from talking and he sat
up on his butt, "get up, I want to talk to you
seriously."
She sat up straight and covered her breasts
with a bed sheet. "I am listening."
"This will be the last time I am talking about
Mhlabunzima and how you don't want him to
father your children. I have had enough of it
because you talk about him being cruel and you
don't realise you're no better than him,
"Worse, you're doing that cruelty to your own
children. This is what will happen, if this year
ends and you haven't given Mhlabunzima an
opportunity to be a father to his children. Our
relationship will end." He could see that she
was shocked but he didn't care. He'd thought
this through. There were lot of things that
Zinhloso had done that made him think twice
about thier relationship. The nastiest of them all,
had to be her, refusing even Mhlabunzima's
parents to have a relationship with their
grandchildren. His parents did nothing to hurt
her but Mhlabunzima did.
"You're not serious."
"Oh, yes, honey, I am serious. Your mother was
really cruel to you for years. You always cried
when talking about the things she'd done but
she has a relationship with your children,
"You said chwane kicked you out like a dog. Do
you know who did that? It's your own mother.
She kicked you out of your home like a dog with
your sick, crying child at night! But that woman
is laughing with your kids,
"Chwane said cruel things to you, we'll never
excuse that but even with anger and grief he
was feeling, he gave you a home. It's not about
that house carrying memories of your
relationship,
"He would have given the land back to its owner,
that is the king who gave the land. He knew you
had nowhere to go and he gave you a fresh
start, a home of your own, but today he's not
worthy to have a relationship with his children.
Children who actually need their paternal family,
"I won't be with you if you're still carrying on
with this madness by the end of the year," his
voice reflected the seriousness of the situation.
There wasn't any softness in him, "you know
how much of a good father he is and you still
don't care."
"I love you -" she was shaken by what he was
saying because she wasn't sure if she was
ready to do what he was saying.
"I didn't say you don't but I only want you to do
right by your children."
"I am!"
"No, you're not and if you choose your anger, it'll
show me that Mhlabunzima was right to say
you're a bad mother. I wouldn't want to have a
child with a bad mom. You'd do the same thing
to me." He said and Zinhloso looked down,
"we're not fighting but I am trying to do what's
right for the kids, protect myself and help you
make a right decision."
She looked at his back as he walked out of the
bedroom. She couldn't really believe he'd placed
conditions on their relationship. She needed to
do what he said if she wanted to save their
relationship? Was she ready to co-parent with
Mhlabunzima? She wasn't!
In the morning, Mthuthuzeli woke her up with a
kiss and when it was getting heated up. She
stopped the kiss and looked at him with her
innocent kitten eyes. They always worked with
Mhlabunzima whenever she wanted something
from him.
"Can I take control?" She asked, softly. Saying
these words took so much courage. It took her
months to final say it.
He frowned, "control of what?"
"Ngizogibela phezu kwakho kube yimi owenza
wonke umsebenzi," (I will get on top of you and
do all the work.)
He chuckled, "why? Are you seeing yourself as a
man now?"
"No, but we might both enjoy it."
"Is that what you did to Chwane?"
She was surprised by his tone rising. Why was
he suddenly angry? "No, but I heard some of my
friends talking about it."
"No, that will not happen. Uzokhwela phezu
kwami uyisifebe yini? Into yezifebe leyo. Izinto
ezingayihloniphi indoda. Wangikhwela shuthi
uyongikhwela nasekhanda phela ungidelele," he
was really pissed off and he didn't know what
Zinhloso took him for, "angisalifuni nalelo cansi
lolo! Gha!"
Zinhloso was left defeated as Mthuthuzeli
walked out of the bedroom. What just happened?
She couldn't get why he was so angry. He
could've have easily told her 'no' without so
much anger.

Zinhloso found Nobuhle in the house and she

joined her in the living room.
"I am glad you came back I was about to leave
because we've fed them and put them to sleep
for their day nap," Nobuhle said to Zinhloso as
she joined her.
"We went to town to buy a few things with
Mthuthuzeli and the kids."
"How are his children?"
"They're great and his siblings too."
She smiled, "that's nice. I am glad that you're
moving on. What happened was really horrible.
Mthuthuzeli loves you and I am sure he'll treat
you well."
"Thank you." She smiled, she loved that Nobuhle
wasn't questioning her relationship like
everyone had been doing.
"I just really didn't expect that you would shut
Mhlabunzima out of the children's life." Nobuhle
looked at her and Zinhloso's face changed but
she didn't stop, "he deserves to -"
"Have you forgotten what he said to me and
how cruel he was to me?"
"You'll prove him right that you're a bad mother.
And I haven't forgotten but when I was pregnant
with Johnathan, John also -"
Zinhloso quickly raised her hand, "woah! Hold it
right there, sis! Our situations are not the same!
You wanted to abort his baby, that's a cruel
thing you wanted to do. That's being a bad
mom, I am the one who saved that relationship
by giving you that advice I gave you,
"You want to talk about a bad mother? You
didn't care what happens to Johnathan as long
as your precious Sbusiso was happy and safe
with his father and closer to you. That's a bad
mom, who can't keep all her children safe,
"I am also the one who convinced you to go and
be with your other son. The son who actually
needed you the most and today, you want to
compare situations and call me a bad mom?
Think again!"
Nobuhle was surprised by her outburst and all
the things she was saying to her. She grabbed
her bag, "alright, I guess the difference between
me and you is, I also do things out of fear but
when I am being advised I listen because I don't
know it all. I let people who are judging my
situation from the outside to show me the right
way. I guess you're not listening to anyone
because you know it all. Goodbye then!"
Zinhloso looked at her sister as she walked out.
She didn't stop her from leaving. She didn't care.
**
The following weekend, John was paying
ilobolo for Nobuhle. The Mnguni household was
going up and down, because of the South
African laws, John asked black men to
negotiate for him. His father was in the dark
about everything that was happening but his
mother knew about everything. Everyone was
happy for Nobuhle. She was going to officially
leave home the right way - she would continue
building a life with John freely, knowing he'd
honoured her parents and respected her
ancestors.
Zinhloso was present at home for the
negotiations. They hadn't spoken with Nobuhle
since her last visit. She was pissed off with
everyone who was having opinions about her
relationship with Mhlabunzima, and their
children. They were too opinionative and they
didn't want to understand her.
Zinhloso was closer to the telephone when it
rang. She answered, "Zinhloso, hello?"
"Sawubona, it's Mhlabunzima, is your brother
home?"
"He's busy. What do you want?"
"MaNkomo has been admitted to the hospital
and since he occasionally visited him, I thought
I should tell him." He was speaking in a hurry.
Her heart skipped a beat - poor old woman, "I
will let him know…. Uhm, where's her grandson
since she's in the hospital?"
"He's with me."
"Alright, I will tell Mzomubi."
"Thanks."
She put the phone down and wished she could
go with Mzomubi to see her. She needed to do
that. It'd been a while, she'd forgotten about her.
UMCEBO
Chapter 239

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

Simon and his two brothers were seated on the

table after dinner. Their mother and sisters had
left them for bed. They were having beer over a
soccer game discussion.
"Bro, I heard from mom that you brought a girl
home," his brother commented as they moved
from the topic they were discussing.
The younger brother laughed, "Mom said your
girlfriend is educated and our sisters were
criticising her without knowing she's an
educated girl from the rural areas."
He chuckled. "Yes, they thought she didn't even
know how to flush a toilet," the brothers
laughed, "they're crazy!"
"You'd swear they have qualifications. The two
of them didn't even finish school. One is better
because she has Standard 10."
"Bhuti, are you going to live with your wife here?
Mom said you spoke about ilobolo," the younger
brother asked.
"Yes, I was still going to discuss that with you. I
want to get married now. I am old."
They were suddenly happy for him but they
were worried about something, "we'll support
whatever you do but are you going to live here
with her?"
"Where should I live? The two of you work far
and if I can decide to leave home that'll be a
problem for mom," Simon responded. He'd also
been thinking about whether it was going to be
the best idea to stay with his wife and his
mother and sisters. But he also understood his
mother's fears. It wasn't going to be right to
leave women alone at home.
"We understand that but don't forget how our
sisters are," they reminded him,"don't forget
how many relationships of ours they'd ruined
because of their stinky attitude."
He rubbed his eyes, "yes, I get you. Let me get
married first and see how it'll go. If they treat
her badly I will leave."
They looked at each other. They knew it wasn't
going to be easy for him to leave their mother if
he didn't tell her from the beginning that he
wasn't going to stay with them. They
understood his fears, it wasn't going to be right
to leave them alone but their sisters weren't
great sisters-in-law.
Simon was tipsy by the end of the night with his
brothers but he couldn't sleep without calling
Ziwinile. He didn't know whether the telephone
was going to be picked up by her or someone
else.
"Yebo?"
Simon quickly put the phone down as it was
picked up by Ziwinile's brother. He laughed at
himself on his way to his house as he
remembered the brother was actually a child to
him. He didn't have to be that scared. As he
dropped his body on the bed, he told himself it
didn't matter, he was their only brother and they
respected him. Ziwinile spoke highly of him.
****
Mhlabunzima grabbed a chair and sat down
closer to the hospital bed where MaNkomo was
lying. She didn't look good.
"Mama, what's wrong?"
The old woman tried smiling, "they say it's my
kidneys. They're not good. I really don't have
energy."
"Are they giving you any help? I can move you to
a different hospital where you'll be treated
without delays," Mhlabunzima suggested, he
didn't like how the old woman looked and he
knew Buzwe would have provided the best care
for his mother.
She shook her head, "no, I don't want to bother
you, my son. You've done enough for my
grandson and I."
"You wouldn't be bothering me. I want to do this
so you'll live and see him grow into a big man,"
he smiled - he wondered if he was ever going to
see his son grow into a big man. "I can do
anything to see you well and alive, money is not
a problem."
"No, I only need one thing from you."
He took the old woman's hand as she was
giving him her hand, "what, gogo?"
"My grandson! Mhlabunzima, he doesn't have
anyone without me. Please, take him, take
Menzi and raise him as your own child. That's
the only death wish I have,
"I don't want my grandson to live as an orphan
and suffer with no one to guide him into the
right path. You're a sensible young man I don't
even want to ask anyone but you, Gxabhashe,
"Please, love him and raise him into the good
man that you're. Tell him, I said he should
respect you and take you as his father. I spoke
to the ancestors when I saw things weren't
good. I told them about this, please keep our
home for him. Komele avuse umuzi wakubo
uma eseyindoda. That's the only thing that's
holding me back." The old woman pleaded with
tears streaming down her wrinkled cheeks.
Mhlabunzima was overwhelmed and he was
emotional, he wasn't ready for MaNkomo to do
this - give in to death. He was honoured that
she saw him as worthy of raising her grandson,
"you can trust me. I will do exactly as you've
asked of me."
She smiled, "oh, my child. You've kept your word,
looked after me like you were my own son. Even
your woman, she didn't stop looking after me
because you were gone. I wish you two a long
happy life together."
He chuckled, "we're no longer together,
remember gogo. She has found someone else."
"Really? She has?"
"Yes, she was bound to move on. I don't blame
her, I moved on too after her."
"I thought there was still a chance."
"No, there isn't."
"May our Creator and your forefathers bless you
with a beautiful intelligent wife who'll give you
more children," MaNkomo blessed him and
Mhlabunzima received the blessings by shaking
hands and reciting her clan names. He didn't
leave right away but he stayed, he helped her
with her lunch. He fed her and gave her water
after eating. He left her sleeping. He was really
sad not only for Menzi but for himself, he was
used to taking care of her. She was a big part of
his life.
Mhlabunzima got home and found his parents
eating izinkobe with Menzi under the tree. He
sat on the bench with his father.
"How did it go?" Xulu asked.
"Yes, how's she?"
He shook his head, "it's not looking good and
she refused when I suggested taking her to a
different facility where we'll pay for her
treatment."
"She's old, she might be accepting death."
"Yes, it's like that dad," he said to his father,
"she asked me to do something for her." He
looked at Menzi with a smile. He was focused
on eating.
"What?"
"She asked me to take Menzi and raise him as
my own child."
"Oh, my child, that's a good and a big
responsibility. Did you accept?" Esther asked
with a big smile on her face.
"Yes, I accepted. I have a big son now. Nine
years old," he said and his parents laughed
happily. He looked at his father, "his
grandmother said she'd spoken emsamo with
him."
"We'll follow proper channels, inform induna
and the king, inform our ancestors that he'll be
part of our family now. But first, you need to go
with him and gather his clothes. I will go right
now to Induna," Xulu said.
"Alright, we'll drop you off then, baba."
Esther looked at Menzi, "can you hear that
Menzi? You'll live with us now and here's your
father, okay?" She pointed at Mhlabunzima.
Menzi smiled at Mhlabunzima shyly, "I should
call him baba and not malume?"
"Yes!" Xulu and Esther exclaimed.
"Yebo, ubaba!" He giggled as Esther and Xulu
clapped hands for him. Mhlabunzima was just
smiling.
****
She walked through the gates with a nine
months pregnancy bump. She was dragging her
small case of clothes. She was tired of traveling
from one province to another province.
Lily's mother dropped a dish of grains as her
daughter walked through the gates. She never
thought she would see Lily again. What they did
with her boyfriend was shameful!
"Mama?" Lily greeted and looked down.
Her mother looked at her up and down, "what's
eating you up? Didn't you leave with
Mhlabunzima's money? Why are you slim like
you're not eating."
"This pregnancy doesn't treat me well," she lied
- when they got to the new province. She told
Mduduzi to open a shop so they would continue
making money. There was no shop in the area.
They used the money for building a home and
the shop. Lily worked at the shop, what
Mduduzi knew was coming into the store and
taking money. He would go spend that money
with other women in shebeens. He started
doing this after Lily got pregnant, he changed.
Lily would struggle alone and take the little
money left to buy the stock so the shop
wouldn't collapse. Lily was not happy at all with
Mduduzi. She thought she was going to live her
best life with him but she missed Mhlabunzima.
She missed him much with his dysfunctional
penis.
"I am sorry about leaving the way I did. I knew
you were not going to support me. I am really
sorry," she said and looked down when her
mother didn't say anything, "I will go put my bag
down and I will go to the Xulu family to take
Zodumo. I have missed her so much."
"Zodumo! Which Zodumo?" She cuffed her
waist and stared at her.
Lily smiled nervously. Did the Xulu family do
something? "My daughter, Zodumo."
"So, your boyfriend did not only kill the child but
he didn't tell you that your daughter is dead? He
killed her with poison," she asked, she didn't ask
as a mother who felt sorry for her daughter.
"That's not true! Mdu loved Zodumo," she
screamed when her mother left her after
shaking head. She didn't care about her wailing
- only her siblings came out.
UMCEBO

Chapter 240

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

Zinhloso's house was full of her family

members, her sister Ziwinile, sisters-in-law and
their children. Mthuthuzeli's children and
siblings. Two young children of Robert's uncle's
wife. Mzomubi and Mthuthuzeli. It was a
birthday celebration for twins on the 26th of
September.
The party table was in the living room where the
party was taking place.
It'd been almost three months since they
secretly had their father in their lives. Mkhululi
could move his head and look around like his
sister. He could crawl and Milani could stand
using objects. Zinhloso was very happy about
these improvements but looking at them, for
the past week. It had been ringing in her mind,
what if Mhlabunzima was right? What if her
children would dump and blind before thirty.
She would tell herself not to stress, give it some
time and see what would happen to them.
Milani and Mkhululi were no longer on the
chairs on the party table but they were seated
down, their mother was feeding them. Everyone
was eating. The two children could see a lot of
people in the house and all these people were
familiar faces but they couldn't see one face.
They didn't understand where he was. Why
wasn't he with everyone they knew? They didn't
know what was happening but they could see
everyone was gathered in one place. Why was
he not in one place with everyone else?
Milani saw her brother crawling to their
mother's bedroom and she followed behind.
There was nobody in the room. They followed
each other to another bedroom and when they
reached the kitchen, they started crying.
"What's wrong now?" Zinhloso knelt before the
crying children and they didn't stop crying. She
lifted them up and went to her bedroom with
them. She thought maybe they were tired of
people.
They cried until she was able to put them to
sleep. She really didn't understand why they
were crying. They couldn't pronounce any words
- it would have been better if they could actually
try pronouncing.
Everyone was gone, Zinhloso was left with
Ziwinile and they were seated on the veranda at
night having meat. The children were sleeping.
"The twins were very happy, today," Ziwinile
commented and she looked at her sister. She
was smiling.
"Yes, they were happy."
"I thought their father was actually going to
come. Drop by, maybe leave a gift," Ziwinile said
and lifted a glass of juice.
She shook her head, "he wasn't going to come.
It's been four months without him coming or
trying to call. He's doing absolutely nothing for
them now. I guess he no longer cares."
"But honestly, that was expected, sometimes
you have to accept you're not wanted and let go
even though it's painful," Ziwinile faced Zinhloso,
"the only question I have for you, is."
"What?" She asked without looking at her.
"What are you going to tell them when they start
asking questions about their father?" Ziwinile
folded her arms before her chest and waited for
an answer from her.
She drew a long breath, "I never thought of that
but I will probably tell them the truth." She
yawned, "my worry is that, I only have three
months before the year ends."
"Mthuthuzeli?"
"Yes, I am not ready to do what he says and I
am also not ready to let him go," she brushed
the table. "But I guess I would rather lose him
then because he doesn't even want to explore in
bed."
Ziwinile laughed her lungs out, "you're not
serious!"
"I am serious. It's him, always on top of me no
other way. I suggest things and he doesn't take
any suggestions," Zinhloso shared - there was
nothing that pissed her off like what he was
doing. "I am sure Simon is not like that." She
looked at her sister. She didn't know if she was
going to share or keep to herself. They'd never
spoken about intimacy.
She giggled, "no, he's not but Bhekani was like
that. I went through shock when I was with
Simon but I enjoyed every moment."
"Do you get on top of him?"
She laughed, "I do now, he told me to do it and
how to do it." She responded and she cried
tears when Zinhloso told her what Mthuthuzeli
said when she wanted to get on him, "that's so
unlike him. Are you not scared to ask for it?"
She smiled but she had a pained look, "with
Mhlabunzima I wasn't scared. He also refused
some things but ended up agreeing but even
when he was refusing I wasn't scared to ask
again. But Mthuthuzeli, I am not as free. It took
me months to actually ask to get on top of him.
I got that response."
Zinhloso looked at her sister, "don't be scared
to tell him as it is or you can just sit on him. Or
just hold his manhood and play with it," they
laughed.
"Zinhloso!" She looked away.
"I am serious, that's your organ of joy and he'll
love it when you take initiative. Mhlabunzima
always loved it. It made him feel wanted," she
smiled and shook her head, "sometimes, I really
miss him, all the beautiful times we had
together. In and out of bed. Everything he did to
my body was amazing."
"So, after he'd learnt his lesson with Lily, why
didn't you fix things with him?"
She looked at her sister like she was crazy. "It
was supposed to be me? It was supposed to be
him but he didn't try, he only wanted his kids, his
kids that, his kids this and nothing about us.
Not even a mere I miss you, Zinhloso. Not even
an explanation of why he said all those horrible
things to me whenever he apologized."
"But Zinhloso, you're the one who pushed him
away and remember, you once told me you
didn't like it when he made excuses for his
actions. I am sure that's why he wasn't
explaining himself."
She couldn't hold tears back, "I love him,
Ziwinile and I hate myself for it. I am angry with
myself because I still love him even today. I
thought keeping him away would help me but
it's not helping. I resent myself for loving him so
much and I wish he could suffer for that. I wish
things could change because I don't know what
to do anymore."
"Just let him come close."
"And what about Mthuthuzeli? If Mhlabunzima
comes close to us, to the children I won't hold
myself. I will want everything I am not getting
from Mthuthuzeli. I am not a cheater." She
wiped her tears, "when we were at his home, he
didn't even look at me, Ziwinile. I don't even
want to talk about looking at his own children.
When I saw him during pregnancy, he used to
look at me but now, it's nothing. He hurt me
badly and got over me. Do you think that's nice
after I have waited so long for him? After young
women had laughed at me for waiting for him? I
hate myself for still remembering the good
times and good things. I hate myself for
knowing the good man I fell in love with, is still
there in him. I get confused and angry. I just
want to punish him so bad for everything he put
me through. I will stop when I have gotten over
him and there's nobody who'll change my mind."
She brushed her back. She could understand
why she was feeling that way. She was still
hurting and Ziwinile thought she was strong.
She was only human. Ziwinile only hoped it
wouldn't be too late for the children when she
got over him, "it's not nice. I am so sorry for all
this you're going through. Maybe, keep him
away until Mthuthuzeli ends things with you and
allow him to get close after that. What should
happen between the two of you, will! Don't stop
anything from happening, it's okay to love him.
Look, you were capable of forgiving and loving
mom and I. His only mistake has been being
cruel to you for Qophelo's death. The person
who deserved all that was mom."
She nodded, "okay, I will think about it."
"And don't forget, you've also hurt him and
maybe he's going through the same thing but
he's just good at hiding it."
"Do you think he also loves me?"
"Yes, I think so."
"But I didn't hurt him like he did with me. I didn't
crush his hopes and dreams."
Ziwinile decided to let it be. She wasn't going to
see that they were even now. She would see it
as her own time. She was only grateful that her
sister was able to be honest about her feelings
and actions. She'd been hiding why she was
acting the way she was acting. There was hope
for her - she would be better.
Zinhloso felt a little light after confessing
everything to her sister.
***
He walked out of the car carrying a plastic bag.
He didn't forget the children's birthday and he
wished he could be with them but their birthday
was on the weekend. He attempted to call - just
to get what Zinhloso planned and he realised
she wouldn't talk to him. It would be useless.
He wanted to bring more gifts for them but he
realised it was better they get these two gifts
and keep them through lies.
When Mhlabunzima walked through the door,
the children greeted him as usual and his two
children beamed at his sight. They were both
laughing as they crawled up to him. Milani was
fast and her brother was crawling at a normal
pace.
"They can really recognise you now," Mrs
Madlala commented, standing next to
Mhlabunzima.
He smiled and picked them up. He played with
them by kissing their chests and cheeks. They
laughed, "yes, it makes me very happy. I brought
them toys for their birthday."
"That's wonderful. Are they going to take it
home?"
"I don't know. What can we say to their mom?"
He looked at Mrs Madlala.
"We'll say the creche gifted them for their first
birthday. We gift babies on their first birthday,"
she led him to the empty room.
Mhlabunzima sat down with the children,
"alright, that would be lovely. I would love to
give back to the creche by buying toys and
other learning tools for the children. And when
you close for December, I would like to build a
proper building for the children. I will bring
someone who'll discuss a plan with you."
She smiled, "you and their mother think alike.
She has also donated toys and spoke about
contributing towards a proper building."
He chuckled, "I am not surprised. I told you
she's kind. You can tell her you have another
sponsor and so, we'll join the money but I will
remain anonymous."
"Perfect, thank you. I will do that." They shook
hands.
Mhlabunzima opened up the food his mother
cooked for the twins. He fed them, Mkhululi
would take fish out of his mouth and feed it to
his father. Mhlabunzima wanted to die but he
couldn't disappoint him. He would eat it. He
refused them when his sister followed suit, they
cried at the same time and so, he had no choice
but to take the food from their mouths. His time
with them came to an end when they took their
daily nap.
Zinhloso arrived at creche at her usual time to
take the children. She was driving Mthuthuzeli's
car.
The children quickly recognised her. They were
happy to see their mother. She took their bags
from their teacher, "how was our day today?"
"It was a normal day. I think her brother is
fighting to stand like her now. He's tired of
watching her do things," Mrs Madlala updated
Zinhloso.
She laughed and looked down on them, they
were at her feet, "that's wonderful. The way he
looks at her. It really shows he wants to do
what she does."
"It's a good thing. We bought them these toys
for their first birthday. It's what we do as the
creche when the child turns one year old," she
gave her a plastic bag of the toy truck and a
baby doll.
Zinhloso was very happy about it, "thank you so
much. I am sure they'll be happy to play
together with the toys."
Mrs Madlala told Zinhloso about the sponsor
for the creche, "it's a white woman who would
like to remain anonymous." She responded
when Zinhloso was asking who was the
sponsor.
"That's great. I am happy that there are people
who want to do good for the children," Zinhloso
commented and Mrs Madlala nodded. She
walked Zinhloso out and they decided on the
plans of rebuilding the creche. Zinhloso was
happy to give back to the creche. They'd done
an amazing job for her children.
UMCEBO

Chapter 241

******Chapter sponsored by Khayo Gumede***

She was completely shuttered by the news of

her daughter's death. She couldn't believe that
Mduduzi was responsible for her death. Her
siblings confirmed what her mother had told
her. She was confused, when they parted ways,
Zodumo was well and healthy. When did he get
the chance to kill the child?
She couldn't breathe and she couldn't sleep at
night. The death of her child was haunting her.
She went through hell with that child - with no
support from her father for seven years not by
choice but by force. That child was gone? It was
unbelievable.
She walked through the gate of the
supermarket and she wanted to run back home
when she saw Mhlabunzima. He was standing
at the corner of the building. He was leaning on
the wall, smoking a cigarette. His head was
facing up.
He could see her, and he figured she was trying
to decide whether to enter or turn back,
Mhlabunzima wished she could actually leave
and never return. He didn't want to see her,
seeing her made him think of nothing but the
gun. A bullet would look very pretty on her
forehead. When she decided to enter,
Mhlabunzima took a corner and headed to the
back. He entered through the backdoor. The
same door Lily used to enter with her boyfriend
and robbed him. The foolish woman who
robbed her child of her inheritance. He'd never
seen such a foolish woman. What happened?
He was probably dizzy when he approached her
or they didn't have much time together as a
couple to actually realise who she was. He was
also foolish! How could he blame Zinhloso for
thinking Zodumo was dumb like her mother?
Don't they say, 'like mother, like daughter?'
He was going through different emotions as he
opened his safe.
"AHHHH!" Everyone in the shop screamed as
they saw Mhlabunzima walking through the
alleyways of the supermarket holding a gun in
his hands. He wasn't fazed by the screams.
"Muphi!" (Where's she?) He growled as he
couldn't see Lily anywhere. Everyone went down,
they slept on their stomachs. They didn't want
to catch stray bullets should he shoot. "You're
here! What are you doing here didn't you shop
enough when you robbed me with your cunt of a
boyfriend?"
Lily was paying for the things she was buying.
She shook her head when she heard
Mhlabunzima's voice. The lady at the cash
register went down, "I-am-sorry!" She faced
Mhlabunzima with hands up. "But it was your
aunt Maria who told me to do it," she stuttered.
"She also told you to run away with your
boyfriend and kill my child?" He pointed the gun
at her and placed his finger on the trigger.
"You are really foolish, run!" Ntokozo screamed
at her and truly, Lily ran off. Mhlabunzima ran
after her. She was screaming as she was
running. She didn't even feel the heaviness of
her pregnant belly. He pulled the trigger and not
only Lily screamed but the people who were
inside the supermarket. He was outside but
they were screaming for the gunshot that was
outside. He didn't shoot at her, he ran faster,
outside the gates of the supermarket and
before he could shoot. Zinhloso's van stopped
before Lily and she opened the door for her. She
was driving through the supermarket when she
heard two women coming out that
Mhlabunzima was carrying a gun for Lily. She
drove out and stood by. She was grateful that
she didn't leave.
"Uqhamukaphi lo?" (Where did she come from?)
Mhlabunzima growled and ran after the van. At
that moment he didn't care who he was going
to shoot but he was desperately aiming for Lily.
"Iyahlanya le ndoda. I am trying to save him
from doing something he'll regret!" Zinhloso
screamed as Mhlabunzima fired another shot.
She sped off and only breathed when she was
out of sight.
"Thank you," Lily said, her hand on her chest as
she was panting. She was wet, she peed on
herself when Mhlabunzima fired the gun when
they were outside.
Zinhloso clicked her tongue and stopped the
car immediately, "get out. I wasn't doing that for
you. You actually deserve every single bullet he
was going to shoot into your body."
"Zinhloso, I am-"
She glared at her, "just get out!" She screamed
and Lily quickly got out of the car. She drove off,
hitting her with the dust.

It was after 8pm, Mhlabunzima was still at the

supermarket. He was having vodka from the
bottle. He kept brushing his gun and thinking
about the missed opportunity of shooting Lily.
He lit a cigarette and lifted the telephone. He
made a telephone call to Zinhloso. He didn't
care whether she was going to talk back or not,
he wanted to pass the message to her.
"Zinhloso speaking, hello?"
"I was so close, very close, to end her and you
came, interfered where you were not needed.
You ruined my moments." He spoke slowly and
clearly, he was fuming. His voice was deeper.
"Mhlabunzima?" She was polite.
"Why, Zinhloso? Why did you do that?"
"I was trying to help you from doing something
you'd regret later."
"I didn't need your help. You stood in my way -"
"You were going to go to jail and make
headlines!" She screamed in frustration.
He drew a long smoke on his cigarette, "why do
you care? Why do you care if I go to jail?"
"You have children, don't you remember?"
"Which children? Huh? The two dead or the
ones you told me are yours and your boyfriend?"
"Stop what you're trying to do!"
"I won't hear from you."
"Lalela la, you'll do exactly what I am saying to
you. You'll stop following Lily and trying to kill
her. She's not worth it."
"That's not up to you to decide. She didn't get
your child killed!"
"I still have her home telephone. I will call and
check on her. If I ever hear that you did
something to her, I will never forgive you. I am
telling you!"
"Don't do that Zinhloso, don't make this about
you!"
"I am not joking with you!"
"Don't you forget you haven't forgiven me for
anything I did but I am still alive. I will still live
whether in jail or out of jail even if you don't
forgive me for anything I will do to Lily." He
didn't even have the energy to shout back
anymore. He was sweating and the way his
heart was beating, it was making him numb.
"If you still care and love me, you'll do what I am
telling you!"
He clenched his jaws and tightened his hand on
the phone. He clicked his tongue and put the
phone down without responding. He grabbed
the bottle of vodka and slammed it against the
wall. He grabbed his car keys and stood up. He
had a child at home. He was probably waiting
for him to help him out with his school work. He
locked and drove out.
***
Before she knew it - it was already December.
She truly did check if Mhlabunzima stopped
trying to kill Lily or he didn't. When she called
after a few weeks, her mother answered the
telephone. She told her he never tried anything,
they'd met on the road three times but he
pretended like he wasn't seeing her. Lily hadn't
gone back to the supermarket. Zinhloso was
comforted that Mhlabunzima listened to her.
His actions showed her that he still loved and
cared for her. That was everything she wanted
to know, he proved it by action and not words. It
made her feel better, she wasn't crazy for loving
him even after everything he did. He also had
shown he loved her even after everything she
did to him.
Zinhloso heard Mhlabunzima wasn't going to be
home for the whole December. He was going to
the city of gold for the whole month due to his
political commitment. She decided to call
Ntokozo at the supermarket and confirm, he
confirmed that he would be leaving.
First week of December Zinhloso decided to
take the children to their grandparents. She
wasn't done with exams. She confirmed with
Esther first if it was going to be alright to bring
them for a week. She agreed. They were happy
to receive them. By the end of the first week
she was done with school. She went home, she
took the children for the weekend and she sent
them back to their grandmother for the second
week.
It was the beginning of October when Simon
sent his people to ask for Ziwinile's hand in
marriage. Bhekani went crazy when he heard
Ziwinile had a man who wanted to take her. He
came drunk at the Mnguni homestead to cause
havoc on the day. They chased him away, telling
him they gave him his cows back and ancestors
were informed that the relationship had ended.
He kept screaming for the negotiators that
Ziwinile was barren and that changed
negotiations. The Mnguni family only told them
Ziwinile's father wasn't happy about the union
that's why she wasn't getting children. They
didn't want to explain much. By the end of
October, they had the first ceremony. November,
it was the second ceremony. They didn't do
umkhehlo twice, her mother refused for it to be
done twice and so, Simon only bought a cow to
be slaughtered so she would get isidwaba
made for her. He didn't want her coming into his
home with isidwaba from her previous marriage.
Esther didn't attend the wedding and so,
Zinhloso left the children with her. It was on
Saturday at the sports ground in the township.
A bus was hired for people to be transported
there to the wedding field.
People couldn't close their mouths about how
Ziwinile was having grand weddings. The others
gossiped that this wedding was also not going
to last because she was barren. The two
couples were very happy about their wedding
day.
"Can you realise, you did things wrong on your
first wedding?" Zinhloso asked, as she was
standing before her car with her sister. They
were leaving, heading home on Sunday after the
church wedding.
"Yes, I started with the white wedding and
nothing happened to stop that wedding. I guess
I was never going to be happy, vele in that old
marriage," Ziwinile said, she'd also been
thinking about it.
Zinhloso opened her arms for her, "I am really
happy for you."
"I am happy too and I can't wait to attend
yours."
She laughed, "you'll wait for a long time then, I
haven't taken the children to their father. When
Mthuthuzeli ends things with me. I decided I will
focus on my education, the business and the
children."
"That'll be awesome too. You didn't give
yourself time to come to terms with what
happened before being with Mthuthuzeli. And it
seems this relationship didn't heal you," Ziwinile
shared, "I also quickly moved to another
relationship but mine healed me. It mended
what was broken."
"You're right. I didn't see it that way. I guess I
wanted to go back to him just to see what could
have been, had we been together back then.
He's such a great man but not for me," she
smiled shortly.
Ziwinile hugged her again, "I am happy for you.
You're really getting better now. I love you so
much, Sisi."
She got emotional - she'd never heard those
words from her, "I love you too, mtakababa. Go
and make your man happy, give him a baby,
already!" She pushed her into the yard and
Ziwinile laughed her lungs out. Zinhloso turned
to the car, she was driving with an old granny.
They had a conversation until she dropped her
off at her home. What a beautiful weekend they
had!
UMCEBO

Chapter 242

**Chapter sponsored by MilaMelo Sami***

1st January - new year, Zinhloso decided it was

time to go home after celebrating the new year
with her family. She spent the whole December
holidays with her family and it was awesome.
"Why are you leaving already because the
schools haven't opened?" Mrs Mnguni asked
Zinhloso. She was inside her hut to say
goodbye. Mrs Mnguni had regained her strength
and normal body weight after doing the right
thing. She'd been at peace but she was still
worried about her daughter - Zinhloso. She
wanted her to be better too and live her life to
the fullest.
"I have to go and work, mama. I have run out of
some stocks."
She lifted her mattress and took out one note.
She gave it to Zinhloso, "you will buy toys and
food for my grandchildren. I didn't spend
Christmas with them but I am happy you took
them to their grandparents. I am sure they were
very happy about it."
"Yes, they were. Thank you, mama." She wasn't
expecting so much money from her mother.
She said goodbye and left. She passed by the
kitchen and took her meat. She drove out after
saying goodbye to her family members and the
children.
"Sawubona, sisi," Menzi greeted Zinhloso.
She smiled, "yebo, unjani Menzi?" She was really
surprised when she heard Menzi was
technically Mhlabunzima's son. She was happy
for the child but she had mixed emotions about
it. Was Mhlabunzima going to completely forget
about his children because he had a child? She
felt like he'd really forgotten about them and it
was her fault that he was no longer trying. He
stopped after she hired people to attack him,
maybe she shouldn't have done such a thing.
"Where's your brother and sister?" She asked,
since he was Mhlabunzima's son. That made
them siblings. She was really sad about the
passing of MaNkomo but what comforted her
was that she had seen her before she took her
last breath. Zinhloso had a really good
conversation with the old lady, she thanked her
for looking after her for all those years and she
gave her blessings, blessing her to be happy
and find a hardworking man who would love
and dedicate his life to her and their children.
She attended her funeral and it was really sad
for everyone.
"Granny is giving them a bath. She said that if
you come, please wait in dad's house." Menzi
held her hand and they headed to
Mhlabunzima's house.
Esther put the children down on the doorstep of
their father's house. They were dressed for
leaving with their mother. They'd had awesome
holidays with her husband. Their grandchildren
were home and Kusakusa's children also came
home for the holidays. It was good to have
Kusakusa's children and Menzi because they
kept the twins company when Esther was busy
with cooking and other chores.
"Nangu umama!" Esther pointed at Zinhloso for
her grandchildren.
They looked at their granny and back at their
mother, "Mama!" The twins both screamed at
the sight of their mother and they took big
counted steps towards their mother. They fell
on their butts before they could reach her. They
didn't cry but they crawled to her.
Zinhloso was holding her mouth. They both
called her - "Mama!" She looked at Esther after
lifting them off the floor, "they can both take
steps and they can say, mama? When did it
happen?" She was the happiest mother and she
couldn't stop showering them with kisses.
"Kusakusa's children were here since the
beginning of the holidays and so, they were
running around, holding them and teaching
them to walk," Esther informed Zinhloso,
"children do better when they're with other
children."
"Yes, that's why I took them to creche."
"Oh, that's good, they'll be fine then. They were
also teaching them to pronounce, mama and
baba," Esther said, they were happy about
getting the visit from their grandchildren. They
called Mhlabunzima and told him about it. They
weren't expecting it - he was away because of
politics. They didn't stop him from leaving. He
was very happy that the children were home
with his parents. He asked them to do what he'd
always wanted to do - to talk to the ancestors
with the children. Xulu took them into the cattle
pen and he pleaded with their ancestors to
protect the children. They asked for life, that
their grandchildren may have normal childhood
with no eyesight difficulties. They understood
they couldn't stop what was bound to happen
but they just didn't want it to happen sooner.
They wanted them to grow, be happy and see
the beauty of earth. They wanted them to be
happy even when blindness reached them. They
asked them to watch over them wherever they
go with their mother.
"I am so happy, mama. Thank you so much. I
can see they're very happy."
"Yes."
"Who wouldn't be happy, kodwa, spending time
with their grandparents. Kumnandi Kwa gogo!"
She looked at the twins, "bekumnandi Kwa
gogo?" She asked and Milani pointed at Esther
as she heard the term 'gogo' Zinhloso and
Esther laughed.
Kusakusa's children came and they helped
Zinhloso with carrying the bags. Menzi took one
twin and they walked her out.
"Baba is not home?"
"No, he went to his brothers this morning." She
played with Mkhululi's cheeks. "I will miss you.
Goodbye!"
Zinhloso gave the children money to buy
sweets. "Bye!" She drove out of the premises
with her crying children. She didn't mind that
they were crying, they'd enjoyed being with her -
for the whole month. She took them only for
two weekends. She didn't regret taking them to
their grandparents. It seemed it had a positive
outcome for them. They could finally walk! She
was a happy mother.
****
Mhlabunzima returned home on the 3rd of
January. He had a very great trip and he enjoyed
the trip the most after hearing the children were
spending the holidays with his parents. He was
pleased.
"You're back, thank you!" Xulu shook hands with
his son. "I was worried you wanted to leave us
for years again."
Mhlabunzima laughed and greeted his mother.
She pulled him into a hug, "welcome back home.
You've just missed your sister. She slept over
and left this morning. She's expecting a child."
He sat on the chair next to his father, "oh, that's
wonderful news. I will call her. Yes, I am back.
We had a great trip."
"Are you still hoping you'll save the country?"
Xulu asked.
Esther shook her head, "baba, let him be
passionate about something because it seems
he's no longer passionate about women."
Mhlabunzima couldn't stop laughing, "we'll take
back the country no matter how long it takes,
we want our children to enjoy a free country. We
only need to try and stop violence against each
other, that's the important thing we want to
face."
"Yes, that's important. Two political parties can
co-exist. There's no need for bloodshed
because of different choices," Xulu supported
this.
"Yes, how was having my babies?" He asked
and he could witness happiness on their faces.
They told him all about the holidays they had
with the twins. He was really happy about the
development of the babies. They'd made huge
improvements.
"That's wonderful. Thank you so much."
Mhlabunzima said to his parents.
"Their mother was very happy, she even shed a
tear when they called her mama."
Mhlabunzima chuckled and smiled, "she's like
that, she also shed a tear when Qophelo first
called her mother. Women!" He shook his head
and walked out. He left his parents eyeing one
another.

Xulu and his family were at the Xulu high

homestead. They'd slaughtered a cow, most
members of the family were going back to the
cities - back to work. They were getting together
before the others left for the city. They didn't
get together on Christmas day. It was busy, the
yard only had them and one neighbour. It was
great being together.
The men of the family were gathered under the
tree having meat according to age groups. They
all turned their heads when they saw a figure
that looked like aunt Maria.
"Imihlola!" Great father stood up and all of
Maria's brothers stood up. They quickly went to
Maria before she could advance further into the
yards.
"What are you doing here, Maria?"
The other aunts of the family came out of the
hut when they heard their brother shouting.
They weren't expecting Maria back, to be back
so soon? Didn't she steal a herd? Wasn't she
the richest woman?
"I am sorry," she couldn't even look at them -
she was ashamed but she had no choice. Her
money from the sheep she stole from
Mhlabunzima ran out faster than she thought.
Before she knew it, she had no money left to
spend. Not even two years? She thought the
money would last her for a lifetime. It was a lot
of money. She got to live her best life but it
ended within a blink of an eye.
"I was foolish and I made the wrong choice. I
was blinded by greed. Please, forgive me." Aunt
Maria started crying.
The eldest aunt clapped hands, "not with
crocodile's tears. Please! Where's the sheep you
stole? Huh?"
"Can we sit?"
"No, you don't even deserve to stand in these
grounds, not after you did to your nephew."
great uncle pointed at Mhlabunzima, "when this
child was casted out by our father. You didn't
lift a finger, none of us did and so nobody here
deserves a claim on our brother's and his
children's wealth. Our father still has other
vacant land, nobody is using it. You didn't think
of taking that land and work? You want stolen
things?"
"I am sorry!"
"No, go back where you're coming from!" He
held her hand and showed her to the gates.
Nobody helped but they watched as aunt Maria
was thrown out.
"I have nowhere to go, bhuti!" She screamed
and tried to resist but her brother didn't care.
"Please!"
"Go back where you come from!" He growled
and threw her outside the gates. He closed
them. He was very angry - he couldn't believe
his sister had the nerve to come back, show her
face after what she did! She was evil.
UMCEBO
Chapter 243

***Sponsored by MilaMelo Sami***

She went back to school, she was doing

Standard 9. She couldn't wait to actually finish
school and move onto the next level of
education. She'd been communicating with
Nobuhle through e-mail. She wanted to know
how possible it would be for her to join her and
study abroad. Black people were excluded for
higher specialised fields of study. She
desperately wanted to study to be a
dermatologist. She couldn't believe how quickly
her dream changed - she thought she would be
strictly into business. She strongly felt this field
was her calling and so, she would do both.
Nobuhle promised to tell John about it and he
would find information for her.
She was in the garden harvesting corn. She had
an order of corn that she had to deliver. It was
Friday, after school she didn't rest but she
decided to carry out the task. The twins were
sleeping in the house. She was quickly done.
She was packing the corn when she saw
Mthuthuzeli's car driving through. He wasn't
around since the beginning of the year. The
children were with their maternal family along
with his siblings.
Seeing him, Zinhloso's heart skipped a beat
now that he was back. She knew exactly what
was going to happen and she was ready for it.
She was ready for everything.
They hugged each other. She smiled, his scent
was always overpowering. "How are you?"
Zinhloso asked after he'd finished loading the
corn in the van for her.
"Give me the keys. I will drive for you. Where are
you going?" He took the keys from Zinhloso and
they headed to the car.
"ODondolo, the lady who sells cooked corn in
the market," she said, as she fastened the seat
belt.
Mthuthuzeli drove off, "it's been long. How were
your holidays?"
She gave him a bottle of cold water she kept for
herself in the car. "They were pretty amazing
and I wasn't even ready to go back to school
and work. But I really missed you. The four
weeks were too long." She gave him a pure
smile.
He laughed, "it's unlike you not to want to go
back to school. You're really passionate about
school."
"Yes, being pregnant really set me back. I would
have been done with school the previous year,"
she looked down sadly. She'd been thinking so
much about how things would have been if she
never got pregnant in the first place. She would
have finished school and would be probably
arguing with Mhlabunzima about whether it
would be okay with him for her to leave the
country and study abroad.
"It doesn't matter. You'll still finish school."
Mthuthuzeli held her hand tightly.
She drew a long breath and looked at him, "and?
Yours? How were the holidays?" She listened to
Mthuthuzeli telling her all about his holidays.
She was laughing at the funny moments and
she got to share her own funny moments. They
were talking until they made it back home after
the delivery was completed.
"So, it's the new year. Did you send the children
to their father?"
She looked down as she received the question.
They were seated on the veranda. They were
back from making the delivery. "No, but I did
send them to their grandparents for the whole
month."
"I am talking about their father."
She looked at him with soft eyes. "I know you
said their father but can't you see that I am
trying? I am not ready for what you want me to
do. I need to heal first before I deal with
Mhlabunzima."
"This is not about your healing, it's about your
children!" He raised his voice. He was really
disappointed in her. What was so difficult for
her to let the children have a relationship with
their father? He couldn't believe this would be
the end of the road for them. He couldn't take
any risks. If Zinhloso did such a thing to
Mhlabunzima, the man she had a long term
relationship with - what would stop her from
doing the same thing with him? Nobody knew
what tomorrow held and sometimes, one hurt
the other person un- intentionally.
"Please, understand that I love you but I just
need time."
Mthuthuzeli didn't waste any time but he stood
on his feet, "I guess this is the end of the road
for us." He was hurt by this but this was a
decision he'd thought of - long and hard. It was
a very critical decision, choosing the type of
woman you would spend the rest of your life
with. And after seeing such actions from her, he
didn't have any other choice but chose to back
away from her.
Zinhloso stood up after him. She had a little
hope that maybe he would choose to be patient.
He would choose to understand, even though
she didn't mind this break up she was still a
little hurt. It was like Mthuthuzeli was already
waiting for her to make this choice.
"Look, I took them to spend time with their
grandparents and this means I will take them to
their father next-"
He shook his head, "you clearly don't get it.
Every child needs both parents, both paternal
and maternal family. This is very important in a
child's life. This will also have an impact on the
type of adult they'll become in future. I can't
plan a future with a woman who doesn't
understand such a simple thing. If
Mhlabunzima was a bad, violent father I would
have supported you but it's pretty bad that he's
not that." He kissed her cheek, "be well. We'll
meet whenever we meet."
The best thing any person could do for
themselves, was to choose a person who would
choose them. If their relationship was
important to her, Zinhloso would have made
arrangements to get the children to meet their
father even if it meant not meeting him
personally. But she didn't care about their
relationship. She chose to hold on to whatever
that she was holding on to.
He drove out of the premises with a throbbing
heart. He really loved her and he loved how
peaceful their relationship was. But after
leaving politics, he promised himself to always
think things through before taking a decision.
He'd thought this one through but it was hurting
because he'd hoped she would listen to him for
the sake of their relationship.

The next day after work, he drove through the

gates of the supermarket. He couldn't sleep at
night. It was difficult to come to terms with the
fact that his relationship had ended. He thought
they would get married. It was never about her
gift and even when his mother was alive, she
didn't support him because she knew about her
gift.
"Why are you not following her? What's the use
of staring?" Mthuthuzeli asked, as he stood next
to Mhlabunzima under the tree. He found him
there, smoking.
He chuckled and threw the cigarette on the
ground, he stepped on it. He remembered he
didn't smoke, "I was only able to greet her and
after that, I just don't know what happened.
Words couldn't make it out of my mouth. It's not
the first time this happened."
He laughed his lungs out, "you have igwababa?
You're scared of a woman?"
"I am not scared of her!"
"Yea, you're!"
"Mxm, why are you here?" He looked at him. He
didn't want to dwell much on the issue of this
woman. He didn't know what was really
happening. He was hardly scared of
approaching a woman
"Ey, I am here to talk to you. I just want you to
know that there's no bad blood between us and
they'd never been," he faced Mhlabunzima.
He raised an eyebrow, "where's that coming
from?"
"It's about my relationship with Zinhloso. I was
never in support of what Zinhloso was doing
but I tried to give her support," he sighed and
looked down, "and the children. I told her to give
you access to the children or else our
relationship would end. I gave her until the end
of the year."
"And she didn't do that?"
"Yes, I don't even understand why. She's not
even giving reasons. I realised if she's doing
this to you. She may do it to me too one day," he
said. "There's actually no need for me to tell you
this but I want you to know and understand that
I empathise with you a lot. And maybe this
would give her a wake up call."
He smiled and gave him his hand, they shook
hands and they hugged each other tightly,
"thank you and for actually supporting her and
the children. I know you did it because you love
her but I am still thankful."
"Children are always innocent and your children
are my children."
Mhlabunzima praised his clan names and
invited him into the supermarket for a drink.
"Okay, let's go so I will give you tips on how to
approach that woman." He crackled as
Mhlabunzima swore at him.
Mhlabunzima kept looking at Mthuthuzeli, he
couldn't believe he was able to make such a
sound decision. He didn't even look like
someone who'd ended a relationship with a
woman he loved for years. It seemed he had
really changed. This was something he was
really trying to do, to grow from, to be able to
make sound decisions. Most of the happenings
were the outcomes of his hasty decisions.
"Do you think you'll ever quit politics?"
Mthuthuzeli asked as they were seated on the
office desk.
He shook his head, "no, not after everything I
went through because of it. I chose to go to
exile so that I would live for my daughters and
not die. I was going to be killed. I lost those two
daughters. I can't lose hope after losing so
much."
"I understand, we all joined because we wanted
a better tomorrow for our children and families.
I believe we'll get there."
"Yes! We should." He looked at his glass - they'd
come very far. Giving up wasn't an option for
him.
UMCEBO
Chapter 244

March - Mhlabunzima had been working with

Menzi since morning. It was Saturday. They
were making deliveries of taro to the buyers
across the village. They traveled from the
gardens to the villagers. He was teaching him
about money - where his money came from.
"Baba, you don't have a job from the white
baas?" Menzi asked Mhlabunzima.
They were walking back to the supermarket.
They left the van there and walked by foot to
deliver the small bag of taro nearby, "no, boy, all
life and riches are found in the soil. I am my
own boss, I work the soil and that's where I get
money."
"Haaa! I also want to be like you when I grow
up," the boy said.
Mhlabunzima laughed and pulled him under his
wing, "you can be like me or be even greater.
You only have to be a hardworking man, okay
and love school?"
"Yebo, baba, I will do that."
They met up with an old man and they greeted,
"how are you, mkhulu? I haven't been seeing you
around."
"Ey, Mhlabunzima, I have been sick that's why
you haven't been seeing me around and it was
very difficult because I live alone. I have no
wife," the old man responded.
"I am sorry to hear that old man but it's better
because we're seeing you walking again,"
Mhlabunzima said.
He nodded with a smile, "yes, please, get
married and find someone you'll share a life
with. Don't die alone."
The picture of that woman flashed before his
eyes, "mkhulu, kuyabheda ke ngapho. I can't
seem to find someone."
"You'll not get someone if you don't manifest
someone."
He raised an eyebrow, "what do you mean,
mkhulu?"
"Start preparing for the coming of your wife. Do
you have a house for her? If you can get married
tomorrow."
He laughed, "no, I don't have it. I want a bigger
house for her. Where she'll live with our many
children."
"You have money! Start building that house,
show uMvelinqangi and your ancestors that
you're serious and they'll give you a suitable
wife. Think about her character every morning
before you wake up and think about her
character every night before you sleep. This is
an ancient way our forefathers used to get
things before this apartheid government," the
old man advised.
Mhlabunzima found this interesting, "so,
mkhulu if you know this, why don't you have a
wife?"
"Because I never saw the importance of a wife
and children." They shook hands with
Mhlabunzima, "family is important, family
should be above everything. Let's not allow the
oppressor to kill our families. They're doing so
by taking the man away from his family, telling
him to go work in the city because he needs
money and the family is left without a father.
The mother will struggle alone without her
husband."
He shut his eyes, "you're very right mkhulu.
Izinto zivele zonakale."
"Exactly! Go well my boy. I am glad you're
working with this little one," he brushed Menzi's
head and walked away.
He couldn't keep it off his mind what the old
man had said to him. He really wanted to have a
family of his own.
Mhlabunzima kept looking in one place and
nodding his head. He wasn't alone in the
kitchen but he was with his parents and Menzi.
They were having dinner.
"What are you thinking about, Xulu?" Esther
asked her son, he seemed very deep in thought.
He chuckled and looked at his mom, "I want to
save up for a house. A house I will build for my
wife."
"Your wife!" The parents screamed.
"Yes, my wife and children. I want a bigger
house. It can take me a year to save up for it
and hopefully our ancestors will actually see
that I am serious," he said and told his parents
about what the old man said.
They laughed at him happily, "do it, Donda! If
you believe it'll work, it'll work. Do it!" Xulu
encouraged his son.
Esther supported, "I would like to have a
daughter-in-law, someone who'll look after the
family."
"I will get you one but for now, I decided to hire
someone who'll work here."
"Work, how?" Esther asked.
"You're old now, mama. You can't be getting in
house to house cleaning. I found someone
who'll do all the cleaning and washing for you. I
will continue fetching water the way I was
doing."
Esther shook her head, "no, I don't need that
person I am not old."
"Let the boy find easy hands for you, Nkosikazi!
You can keep cooking because I love your
food," Xulu raised his voice. He'd also
suggested it but she refused.
She smiled, "okay, baba, I will continue cooking
for you."
Mhlabunzima shook his head - she thought a
young woman would be cooking for her
husband! Women!
He went to bed that night and he started
thinking about the type of woman he wanted.

He finally got the courage to follow this woman.

She was the same height as him and she was
brown skinned. She was pretty and she dressed
cleanly, chubby with smooth skin.
"Sawubona, Sisi," Mhlabunzima greeted the lady
as she was walking out of the supermarket.
She glanced at him, "yebo, how are you?"
He looked down, the woman had a pretty deep
voice. "I am fine and how are you?"
"I am well. Did I leave something behind?"
"No, but I just wanted to ask something."
"What?"
"Ngabe intokazi ithanda kwabani?"
She laughed, "why do you want to know about
my relationship status?"
"It's just I don't want to step in and be later
killed because I didn't ask anything."
"Nobody will kill you and I am not looking for
love." She quickly said.
They were far from the supermarket, "you don't
have to look for love because love has brought
itself before you."
She couldn't stop laughing, "I don't think I want
you. I have heard about everything that
happened between you and your ex fianceé. Not
Lily but MaMnguni. Your cows killed the cows in
Lily's family kraal. I think that's because you
hurt Mnguni's daughter."
He chuckled, people had such a theory, "no, it's
not like that. Those cows died because Lily's
father didn't want me for his daughter even on
the grave." He told her the truth, "all his cows
died but mine didn't. He was just showing his
anger but her mother never wanted to consult."
"Oh, how sad!"
"Good, because his daughter actually turned out
to be bad for me. I even lost my child."
"I am sorry for your loss," she said, kindly.
"Thank you."
She pointed at her home, "I am almost home. I
don't want anyone to see me with a man."
He nodded, "I will go back and I hope you'll get
to think of me." He turned back with great relief.
He was very happy he took such a big step. He
didn't say much to her but he took a big step.
She would know he was interested in her.

****He was seated on the bench before his big

house that he had built for the arrival of his wife
in his life. He was very proud and happy. He
was finally going to be a family man.
Mhlabunzima quickly got up as the door of the
house opened and a tall dark skinned man
walked out of his house. The very same house
he built for his wife. He recognised he looked
like his son.
"Akayena owakho lo. Myeke, angisafuni
nxushunxushu kulo muzi!" (She's not yours,
leave her. I don't want any conflicts and
commotions in this household) the old man had
a bold and deeper voice.
His blood pressure rose up. What did this old
man mean? He wanted that woman.
"Gxabhashe, muphi owami? Kumele ngife
ngiyimpohlo?" (Where's mine? Should I die,
single?)
His face changed, "I am the one who's
supposed to ask you that question, boy! And
ask you about your children who are growing up
in the mountains. Uyangikhathaza
Ngenzwel'umusa, angikutholile ukuphumula
ngawe!" He shouted at him and went back to
the house angry.**
Mhlabunzima woke up wet from the dream. He
felt like the room was on fire. He kicked the
blankets angrily. He got out of the house and
sat on the doorstep. He was pissed off. He
didn't even want to go back to sleep.
"Menzi, are you done with eating? Let's go."
Mhlabunzima asked after greeting his parents
and Menzi inside the kitchen, the next morning.
"No, I am not done, baba."
Esther looked at him, "are you not eating? Why
do you look upset?"
"It's nothing. You'll find me in the car, Menzi." He
said to Menzi and walked out of the kitchen
without taking not even a single fruit. He didn't
have any appetite. He was still upset - he was
angry. Why was this happening? All his courage
for nothing!
"And then? What has happened to your son?"
Esther asked her husband.
He shook his head, "let him be. He probably
woke up on the wrong side of the bed." He
responded but he was also wondering what
was wrong with him so early in the morning.
UMCEBO

Chapter 245

***Chapter Sponsored by Nobuhle Shezi –

“Hope for Zinhloso to heal!”***

June - Ziwinile was brushing her five months

pregnant belly. She was seated on the sofa in
the living room of her marital home. It was after
8pm and she was looking around the messy
room. Her other hand was holding the
telephone.
"I am well, sis and how are you doing?" Ziwinile
asked Zinhloso on the telephone. She was tired
and sleepy. Her heart would sink whenever she
raised her eyes and looked at the room.
"I am fine and tired, I am just grateful those two
naughty children are not here to bother my
soul," Zinhloso responded.
Ziwinile laughed, "are they visiting their
grandparents or mom?"
"They're visiting gogo and mkhuyu. I am really
nothing when it comes to their grandparents."
"That's good, their father is not around?"
"No, it seems he decided to get married to
politics. He's always travelling for politics." She
said, irritatedly.
Ziwinile was on the floor with laughter, "why do
you sound annoyed?"
"I am not! What are you doing?"
"I am seated on the sofa looking at this messy
living room and kitchen. I have to clean before I
go to sleep," she yawned, "I don't want to wake
up to a dirty house."
"Why are you cleaning at night?"
"His older sister was hosting a party with her
friends. They finished and left the house
messy," Ziwinile was angry when she got to the
house and found a mess. She had been happily
married to Simon but her sisters-in-law were a
nightmare. She hadn't gotten courage to tell
him they should try and find a place of their own.
It'd been six months but she was already tired
of them. She would come back from work to a
dirty house and dirty dishes but they were
always home.
"Don't bother yourself. Go and sleep with your
husband. Is he back home?"
"Yes, I left him bathing. I can't sleep while it's
like this."
"Call them to clean the house. Don't do it.
Bazokujwayela kabi. Ngenzeni never did that,
just because I was the daughter-in-law she
would let me slave and do everything. Never!"
Zinhloso was angry on her sister's behalf.
"I won't tell them but I will tell their brother
because I thought they would realise they're
wrong," Ziwinile said.
"Okay, but they'll defend themselves and say
you never told them."
She sighed, "you're right. I will see what I can
do."
"Goodnight, I will come visit next weekend. Will
the twins be back?"
"No, I will tell you when they come back." She
promised and they ended the call. Ziwinile
stood up and cleaned the living room mess. It
was Friday, she wanted to rest the next day.
By the time she was washing the dishes she
was very tired. She'd left the living room
sparkling clean.
"MaMnguni!" Simon pushed the door. He was
defeated by seeing her washing the dishes. "Did
you see the time?"
"No, what time is it?"
"It's 9pm. Did I marry you to wash dishes and
leave me alone at night? I finished bathing and
kept looking at the door hoping you'll enter," he
was upset.
She placed her fist on her waist, "did you see
how the house was? I couldn't sleep and left it
like that."
"Did you make it dirty?"
"No, but your sister had a party -"
"Which sister?"
"Your older sister, Nakanjani."
Simon didn't ask much but he went to their
sister's bedroom. The room was a three
bedroom house. His three sisters shared a
bedroom, "Nakanjani!" He banged the door.
"Nakanjani!"
She opened the door, "bhuti?"
He pulled her by hand and told the others to
follow him. He found Ziwinile proceeding with
the dishes. He stood next to his wife and held
her hand, "this is my wife. I married her because
I love her. I didn't marry her so she'll be your
maid. You party and make the house dirty, you
clean!"
"But she's the wife. Isn't that what she was
taught by her mom? To clean for her husband's
family? All rural wives do that." Nakanjani asked,
cheekily.
"Ungangidakelwa mina. Clean your own mess.
You're not getting married because you want
my wife to clean for you? Uyagula!" He pulled
Ziwinile away from the sink, "finish up here!"
He locked the door and looked at Ziwinile as
she struggled to get on the bed because she
was dead tired.
"You make me angry because what you should
be doing is to rest. You were standing on your
feet the whole day and you came back to clean
a mess you didn't create," he helped her into
bed.
"I didn't want to wake up to a dirty house."
"It doesn't matter," he said and joined her in bed
after rubbing her feet. He slipped into her back
and placed his hands on her belly. "How does
being pregnant feel?"
She giggled, "it was amazing at first but now I
feel like I have a long way to go."
"Don't worry, I will make it fun and you'll miss
being pregnant." He said, kissing her neck and
he lazily gave her pleasure to put her to sleep.
****
Zinhloso finished studying after 9pm and she
decided it was time to sleep. She was studying
for June exams. She was feeling the pressure -
Standard 9 was tougher than Standard 8 but
she didn't want to give up. Nobody said it was
going to be easy.
She stared at the telephone for over fifteen
minutes and she finally got the courage to lift
the phone. She called Mhlabunzima's telephone
number.
"Xulu, yebo!"
She held her breath at the sound of his voice, "hi,
it's Zinhloso."
"Yes?"
She shut her eyes, "how are you doing?"
"I am good and you?"
"I am fine. I need your help."
There was a few minutes of silence. Zinhloso
figured he might be shocked but she knew
there was nobody who could advise her better
than him. She asked her teacher and she told
her to go for it. She decided to ask for a second
opinion. There was no person who knew the
minds of white people better than him.
"I am listening."
"There's a white female doctor, I was attending
her for my antenatal care during my pregnancy
with the twins. She happened to know about my
products,
"I kept supplying for her whenever she ordered.
She recently told her dermatologist friend about
my products. The dermatologist tried it out,
"They invited me last weekend for tea. We
discussed my products. They gave me a
proposal. You know us, blacks, we can't have
our work out there. Anything that will make us
rich is suspicious,
"So, they want to have my products given
proper branding and be sold nationally. They
can also have it internationally if people
respond positively to it."
"What's the catch?" He quickly asked as he
realised where this was going.
"They won't put my name on the products. I will
remain anonymous as a creator of the products.
They'll give me all the money made from the
products but they'll get a certain percentage as
investors." She responded, she was surprised
he was even listening up to this far. She thought
he wouldn't even want to listen to him. "I am
tempted. I don't know what to do. Can you
kindly advise me on what to do?"
"Don't agree. Let's say five years or ten years
from now, we're living in a free country. The
whites have your products and they want to rob
you off, claim it as their own. Who'll believe that
a black woman with standard 8 created those
products? Hold on to your products, Umcebo
wakho lowo. The time will come, where you'll
make it national and international without those
crooks,
"You'll need help then, men like John or
Petersen would honestly help you. Why do they
want to eat through you? If that dermatologist
is educated with high qualifications, why can't
they create their own better products? Bahlulwa
uStandard 8 from rural areas?"
She smiled and nodded, "you're making so
much sense. Thank you so much."
"No problem. Was that all?"
She was hoping he would ask or say something
about the children but it seemed like he wasn't
interested. Was having Menzi enough for him?
"I will bring the children to you. I just need a
little more time," she promised and waited for a
response but there was no response from him.
She could hear his breathing, "goodnight,
thanks." She put the phone down and shut her
eyes. Her heart jumped up to her throat as the
telephone rang again. She quickly answered the
telephone thinking it was probably him.
"Zinhloso?"
She sighed when she heard Lily's sorry
annoying voice, "yes?"
"How are you-"
"What do you want?"
"Can you please help me? I need a job," she
begged, she was crying.
Her tears didn't move Zinhloso, "a job? Where
do you think I will get that job for you?" She
couldn't believe the nerve of this woman.
"In your garden or anywhere, I can even clean
your house. Mduduzi kicked me out of our
house with my baby and he brought a new
woman home," she cried, pouring her heart out
to Zinhloso. "I really need a job to look after my
son."
"I don't have a job for you. I took you as my
friend after so many years with you but you
betrayed me. You knew very well that
Mhlabunzima was going through grief and loss
of losing our daughter,
"You couldn't wait to step in and keep him even
further away from me after everything I did for
you."
"Zinhloso, I tried to tell him to forgive you
because you're innocent -"
"You were supposed to tell him whatever that
you told him and back off! He was eventually
going to heal and come back to me. To me and
my children but you, you turned him into a crazy
man. Drove him into insanity! Those are the
consequences of your actions, you betrayed
two people, your daughter and I. I can never
help you, you're a snake! You took advantage of
the pain indoda yami was going through,
"I would have never done that to you, never!
Please, don't ever call me again." She clicked
her tongue and put the phone down. She was
angered by Lily calling her. Where did she get
the nerve?
UMCEBO
Chapter 246

***Chapter sponsored by Tebogo mthombeni

ka Gama – Sithole
Dedicated to my younger sister, Duduzile Gama
and my friends Lumka gqozo and Tebogo
Cathrine Tladi.****

She was loving his warmth in the morning. It

was very cold outside and all that she wished
for was some warmth. His warmth. He was
spooning her. She opened her mouth but words
couldn't come out of her mouth.
She tried to imagine herself being freaky but
she was very scared, "sthandwa sami?" Ziwinile
softly called Simon.
"Are you well?"
"Yes, I am and you? Did you sleep well?"
"Whenever you're next to me I sleep peacefully."
He kissed the nape of the neck. "How did you
sleep?"
"Very well." She giggled.
"What?"
"Benginescelo!" (I have a request)
"Yes?"
"Bengicela sijabulisane ekuseni," (can we make
each other happy?) She hid her face on her
hands as Simon laughed at her. "Why are you
laughing?"
"I am laughing because I am happy." He was
very happy about her requesting such from him.
He'd been worried that maybe he wasn't
satisfying her enough because she never
initiated intimacy. "How do you like it? How
should I make you happy?"
"I love it a lot when we're in this position like last
night. It's very satisfying." She couldn't believe
she was saying such. All she knew was - sex
was for the happiness of the man. She would
avail herself only when her husband needed her
to. She didn't know she was missing out on so
much and her sister seemed to be very
informed. She was younger but she was very
liberated. Where did she get the courage? This
wasn't what was known as normal and she was
living this new life, asking when she wanted it.
Not waiting for him to be in the mood.
The friction of their bodies against each other -
it was super amazing. Ziwinile's moans were
like music to his ears. The best thing to move
his heart. He wasn't rushing her but he was
giving it to her smooth and slow.
"I love you," she faced him once she had calm
down from the climax. She'd never felt such a
peak of sex with Bhekani. She wondered what
was he really doing.
"I love you too. I want to make some breakfast
for you. I will serve you in bed, give you some
queen treatment," he jumped out of bed making
Ziwinile laugh because she didn't trust that he
was really going to make some breakfast for
her.
Simon found his mother in the kitchen and his
sister Nakanjani. They were having tea. "Good
morning."
"Good morning, my boy, I heard you shouting
last night. What happened?" Simon's mother
asked.
He glanced at his sister but she was focused on
her tea, "didn't your daughter tell you?"
"No, she didn't."
"They host parties and they don't clean up after
themselves. They expect my wife to clean for
them. I won't tolerate that." Simon explained to
his mother.
"They're just happy to have a sister-in-law." She
defended her daughters.
He chuckled and put the pan on the stove, "no,
they're seeing their slave. I won't let my sisters
ruin my marriage. You should talk to your
daughters." He didn't get a response from his
mother.
"Are you making breakfast?" Nakanjani asked.
"Yes, for my wife and mom. Are you only having
coffee today?"
She shook her head, "ayi, igugu la my wife!"
Nakanjani said and left her mother laughing.
Simon was freely left with his mother, they were
having a conversation while he was making
breakfast. They were talking about the arrival of
the new baby. The first grandchild in the family.
****
Before she knew it, that year ended and she
passed her Standard 9. She wasn't hopeful that
she was going to pass the way she passed but
she fought through. Her children turned two
years that year and she wasn't with them on
their birthday. She was busy with trial exams,
they were with their grandparents. Zinhloso
spent her December holidays with her maternal
grandmother and her children.
The new year began and the struggle of fighting
to pass Standard 10 began. She needed to pass
with higher marks if she wanted to study
abroad. John advised her to give it her best
shot so they wouldn't deny her access because
of the education system. Zinhloso wanted
nothing but the best pass rate for all her
subjects. Her children were mostly with her
family or their grandparents. Their father was
up and down, his business and politics. The
year ended and she'd seen him a several times.
They would only greet each other and pass.
Zinhloso had told herself he no longer cared
about having a relationship with the children.
He'd completely stopped trying to get close to
them. Or maybe he actually spent time with
them when they were with his parents? She
never knew whether he was really away or he
would come back while they were there. It didn't
matter much because she focused on studying.
She was at peace with herself - it all got better
and her deepest desire was for Mhlabunzima to
have a relationship with the children. That year,
they turned three years old and she was with
them for their birthday. Just the three of them.
Mthuthuzeli completely moved on from their
relationship. He got married again, a year after
their break up. She was happy for him but not
enough to attend his wedding.
She was alone in her living room, her children
were sleeping in her bedroom, taking their day
nap. Zinhloso lifted the telephone and called
Xulu's home.
"Sanibonani, mama, unjani?" Zinhloso greeted
Esther on the line.
She laughed, "MaMnguni, you called I thought I
was going to be the one to call you. I met your
mom and she told me you passed your
Standard 10 very well. Congratulations, my child.
You've made not only your parents but everyone
of us proud. I hope you'll spread your wings and
go for your dreams."
"Thank you so much, mama."
"How are my grandchildren?"
"They're well, they're taking their nap. We came
back today, we went to visit grandma." Zinhloso
responded.
"That's good, I am sure they were talking non
stop."
She laughed, "yes, and we can't even hear some
words. Bayakwitiza nje," they laughed - her
relationship with Esther got better after
Zinhloso started occasionally sending the
children to her. She was no longer distant and
quiet. "I was calling to ask if their father is home?
I want to come with them. I want to talk to him
and bring the children to him."
"No, he's not home. He'll be coming back the
day after tomorrow."
Disappointment! "Alright, I will see him then but
please, don't tell him I am coming."
"Alright, no problem."
She put the phone down and drew a long breath.
She didn't know whether what she was about to
do was wrong or right. Or maybe he was going
to hate her even more. She knew and was
certain that Mhlabunzima hated her. If the
tables were turned - she would have hated him
too.
Zinhloso stood up from the sofa when she
heard a cry. She found them awake, seated on
her bed.
"Why are you crying, Mkhululi?" She lifted her
son after putting her daughter down.
"Nifuna ubaba mama!" (I want my father)
Her heart skipped a beat - what did he say?
"Your father? Where do you know him from?"
She asked and didn't receive a response from
her son. She prepared food for them but she
kept thinking about Mkhululi. He wanted his
father?
"Have you seen your father at home?" She
asked both Mkhululi and Milani. She was seated
in the living room with them, feeding them.
"Cha!" (No!) They both answered. Zinhloso
looked at them and she believed they were
speaking the truth. She concluded that their
grandmother might have shown them their
father in pictures.
At night, Zinhloso and the twins were watching
TV. It was time for the news. She didn't change
the channel. As they were watching, a black
political rally in Durban was shown on the news.
It reminded Zinhloso of the very first time she
went to Durban - taken by Mhlabunzima. There
were lots of people, and also, authorities were
there. It was like the last time.
Unexpectedly, Mhlabunzima showed up on
screen. He was doing a speech to fellow black
people.
"Mila, nangu ubaba wethu!" (Here's our father,
Milani) Mkhululi screamed happily and he
pointed at the screen as they were clearly
seeing their father.
Milani quickly held her brother's mouth and she
looked at her mother. They were both looking at
her with eyes out. They knew they weren't
supposed to say anything about their father but
Mkhululi's memory failed him. He was over
excited when he saw his father on screen.
"Ubani?" (Who?) Zinhloso shouted.
The two children were suddenly scared as their
mother was shouting. "I am talking to you!
Where have you seen him?" She asked and they
started crying. "Milani, talk if you don't want me
to whip you!"
"Ekoyeni, mama, uyafika yena ubaba njalo
ezoshibona thina. Pheya thina shizingane zakhe
nje." (At creche, dad comes around to visit us.
We're his children!)
It finally made sense - Mhlabunzima giving up
on his children never happened. He never gave
up but he actually found a way of spending time
with them - spending time with them behind her
back! How did it happen? How did he know?
She grabbed the remote as anger took over, she
switched off the TV. She no longer cared about
what Mhlabunzima was saying in his speech.
How could he do this? The teacher - she placed
her children under her care and without
consulting with her, she allowed Mhlabunzima
near her children. She didn't even know her
reasons for keeping him away from them but
she broke such a big security rule.
She pointed the two children in the direction of
her bedroom and they stood up. She could see
Mkhululi was upset, it might be because she
switched off the TV while their father was still
speaking. She promised herself she wasn't
going to wait for the creche to re-open, she was
going to confront Mrs Madlala and when
Mhlabunzima returned, she wasn't going to wait
but was going to go wherever he would be, for
confrontation. These children were three years
old and would turn four years old in September.
They'd been keeping such a big secret, doing
such a thing behind her back? She was so angry
she couldn't even sleep. She'd been a fool all
along.
UMCEBO
Chapter 247

Zinhloso drove through Mrs Madlala's home.

She'd driven her children to her mother. Their
nanny was away on holidays. She'd told her not
to come back because she was supposed to
leave the country. She'd communicated with
John after receiving her results and he gave her
all instructions.
Mrs Madlala welcomed Zinhloso into her house.
"Zinhloso, I wasn't expecting you. How are you?"
"I am not fine. I was watching TV with my
children…" she told her about what had
happened the night she was watching the news
with the twins. "Did you allow their father to
have a relationship with them behind my back?"
Mrs Madlala shifted uncomfortably, "yes, I did
but I didn't just take his word for it. I confirmed
what he told me with another person. They
testified to it."
"Did you confirm with me? Why did you ask
another person who's not involved? Do you even
understand what that man put me through?"
Zinhloso asked, she was very angry but
because she was speaking to an elder. She
wasn't shouting.
"Yes, I understand but children are not involved
in your relationship-"
"They're! He cursed me while I was carrying his
children and he said I was a bad mother. I didn't
deserve to be a mother again."
"I understand that but Zinhloso, no one between
the two of you knew about the pregnancy then.
He was wrong and from the way he spoke to
me. He realised his wrong. He wanted to be
there for his kids."
Zinhloso thought this woman would realise how
wrong she was but she wasn't realising it, "do
you understand what you did is a crime against
me? I can have you arrested for it?"
Mrs Madlala shrugged, "if you see it fit, do it, my
darling child but I am not sorry for giving those
little children an opportunity to feel the warmth
and the love of a father. I am not sorry that
allowing him into their lives brought a positive
change in their life,
"He's the real reason behind their development.
They're his children, he understood them better
and was more patient with them. They needed
their father, especially Mkhululi. Mhlabunzima
did everything in his power for that child to at
least be at be at the level his sister was. He
tried his best to close the gap. I was there
watching him,
"And from what he told me about his life, his
father taught him well. If you see it fit to get me
arrested for giving your children their father. Do
it, mntanami!"
Zinhloso looked at Mrs Madlala for a long time
and she stood up after. She closed the door and
headed out. He was actually responsible for
their development?
****
She was blaming herself, she should have tried
to find out why Mhlabunzima was no longer
interested in being involved with the children.
She didn't even think of asking his mother about
it. She thought he was good with having Menzi
and she also thought what she did - hiring
people to attack him caused him to step back?
She clearly knew he loved the children and
wanted to be in their lives. He wasn't going to
easily give up like that. She was foolish!
She drove through the supermarket, she was
coming back from delivering the church woman
who'd hired her car. She walked through the
doors. She spotted Ntokozo and she called him.
"I am also fine, Ntokozo. Where's
Mhlabunzima?" Zinhloso asked and looked
around. The supermarket had customers but
she couldn't see him. "Is he not back?"
"He's back, he walked out."
"Which way?"
"I don't know, you can ask anyone you meet
outside."
She smiled and walked out of the supermarket.
She asked the boys who were under the tree
inside the supermarket. They had a litre of cold
drink before them. It was getting dark but they
were still hanging around the supermarket.
"Hey, guys, did you see Mhlabunzima?"
The boys looked at one another, "yes, he
followed some lady. They went to that side."
The boy showed her where Mhlabunzima went.
"Thanks." She quickly rushed to her car. She
was pissed off by everything. Why did he fool
her so much? All along she was angry and
confused because she thought he'd stopped
caring but he did care. He only stopped showing
her how much he cared and that was everything
that was wrong. In the first place they were here
because he wronged her.
Zinhloso couldn't see anyone on the road
except for one drunk man. She stopped the car
before him and asked, "sawubona, bhuti? Did
you meet up with a man and a woman on the
road? Mhlabunzima?"
"Yes, chwane went into that one way road into
the forest. I think he's walking the lady home."
He responded and pointed at the short right.
The forest of the roadside - at the end of the
forest, it was the other side of the village.
Zinhloso entered the one way road in between
the forests.
She could see the two people on the road, a
man and a woman. It was definitely him! He
was busy following women. Was she his
girlfriend or was he asking her out?
She stopped the car behind them. They'd
stepped aside thinking she was passing.
Zinhloso didn't turn off the lights of the car. She
opened the door and stepped out of the car.
"Sanibonani!" She stood before them. They
were still standing in the same position,
stepping aside for the car. Zinhloso didn't know
who this woman was. It was already dark but
with her car lights, she could clearly see them.
The lady greeted back but Mhlabunzima didn't
greet her. He was just staring at her, wondering
why she was here?
"Zinhloso, is something wrong?" He asked in a
low tone.
Zinhloso didn't say anything to Mhlabunzima
but she looked at the lady next to him, "did he
tell you that he has children? Two dead children
and two alive. Is a father to the two alive? No,
he's not! That's because of his actions. He
cursed his children before they were born. Is
that the kind of man you want for yourself? He'll
hurt you so bad you wouldn't even recognise
yourself in the mirror,
"It's been three years but I am so messed up
because of him. I have become the kind of
person that I am not. Do you want that?" She
shouted at her.
The lady glared at Mhlabunzima but he was
staring at Zinhloso, "why didn't you tell me all
that?"
"Do you believe everything she's saying?" He
asked her.
"She's the mother of your children and she
knows you better. Why would she lie?"
"He'll not admit anything!" Zinhloso added.
"Please, stay away from me! Don't even greet
me when you meet up with me on the road. I
don't associate myself with men who don't look
after their children," she screamed and picked
up her feet. She ran home. Mhlabunzima had
promised to accompany her home because it
was late, people hardly walked in between the
forests at night but she no longer wanted him
near her.
Mhlabunzima didn't even want to spend a
minute talking to Zinhloso, he walked away
after taking a good look at her face.
"Why are you walking away? I am here to talk to
you, Mhlabunzima!" She rushed after him but
was careful not to let tree branches hanging on
the road hurt her. The car had taken space.
She grabbed his hand, "Mhlabunzima, I am
talking to you!" She yelled.
He turned to her, "what do you want from me,
Zinhloso? Ufunani kimi?"
"Don't ask me that question because you'd been
fooling me for years! You'd been getting closer
and closer to my children for over two years
now, without my permission!" She let go of his
hand. They were standing behind the car, facing
each other. "I told you I needed time but you
never wanted to be patient. You decided to
betray me after hurting me that badly. You
ruined my life Mhlabunzima and now, you've
ruined the way my children will look at me.
What kind of a mother they'll think I am? They'll
see you as a good father and not even consider
what you did,
"Only because you were able to see them
behind my back? Why do you keep hurting me?"
"If you gave me an opportunity to be a father I
wasn't going to do that. And I didn't say
anything bad about you to them. I only told
them not to tell you I met with them," he
responded to her outburst.
"It doesn't matter what you told them but as
little as they're. They can think!"
"You know what? I can be sorry for everything
but not for trying my best to be a father to them.
If you think I did it to hurt you, that's your
problem and not mine. Let's not pretend like
you've been an angel to me. And I don't even
want to talk about this. I guess now, you'll take
them and move them into a new place,
"Where I won't have any access because I am
evil and you're a good person. That's not really
hard to guess!" He turned away but Zinhloso
wasn't ready to let him go. She hadn't said half
of the things she wanted to say to him.
"Don't you dare walk away from me, again! I am
not done talking to you."
He looked at the hand she was holding. At the
back of the car it wasn't entirely dark because
of the back lights and the front lighting gave
them a glimpse of light.
"You told me to stay away from you and I did
that after a long time of begging and showing
you I want to take responsibility! You didn't care
about any of the things I did. You only wanted
me away from you. I did that, I moved on, you
moved on with the love of your life, a better
man who was more deserving to father my
seed,
"So, what else do you want from me, huh? Do
you want my life? Do you want my soul? Do you
want my heart and body? What do you want?"
He growled, hitting his chest with his fists as he
growled.
"After I have waited for you, Mhlabunzima. For
three years, almost four years, I was lonely, I
was a laughing stock in the village. You were
my hope and dreams and you came back only
to break my soul."
"Leaving aside what I did. What do you think I
was doing for three years away from you? I was
having the best time of my life and having a
mini family? I was a laughing stock to my peers
too. The men would laugh at me for being
faithful to you,
"I was called weak, they said I have been fed
love potion, they went as far as convincing me
you have moved on. I will find you pregnant. I
would go to bed imagining the life you're living
back home, I was also lonely, I also needed love
and affection,
"It wasn't easy for me too but I stayed faithful to
you because I knew what I wanted. I didn't want
to create a mess and hurt you. I chose to trust
you,
"Yes, I was wrong for coming back and crashing
your soul. I had been apologizing Zinhloso!"
"It wasn't sincere!"
"What's sincerity to you? I have apologized
before you, I have apologized before your family,
I have apologized before Induna and the chief!
What's sincerity?" He raised his hands in the air,
"if you don't want to accept my apology. What
do you want to accept coming from me? You
don't want to accept my apology, you don't want
to accept anything I try to do for the kids, you
don't want me near you. What do you want from
me?" His voice broke. It'd been a roller coaster
and still nothing was going well for him in
relationships. One thing or the other messed up
every opportunity he had with a possible
woman. He didn't understand what was
happening.
Zinhloso was panting, staring at him as he was
shouting. She didn't think much, she jumped on
him, as much as he wasn't expecting such an
action, Mhlabunzima held her thighs, "what are
you doing?" He asked, he was surprised.
"I am taking what I want," she attacked him with
a kiss and he didn't stop her. He willingly kissed
her back. She could smell his overpowering
scent and she realised, this man was smart
enough to never wear any cologne when
spending time with the children. She would
have easily picked up the scent on their clothes
if he did.
The taste of his minty breath was pleasing and
the thudding of his heart matched hers.
Zinhloso's hands fumbled to take off his
clothes and he still didn't stop her. None of
them were conscious of the place they were in -
on the one-way road, between the forests. He
walked with her until her back was against her
car, while she was taking off his shirt. He was
opening the back of the van. It didn't have a
canopy. There was a sponge at the back, where
the church women had been seated. He put her
down.
"Iyona nto oyifunayo le? Ngilungele
ukubhebhana nawe nje mina akukho okunye?"
(This is what you want? I am only good for sex?)
Mhlabunzima asked, staring at Zinhloso as she
was busy undoing the belt of his pants. When
she didn't answer him, he pushed her back and
her back and head landed on the sponge.
Mhlabunzima was still standing down and
Zinhloso, up in the car. Her lady parts were
already quivering in anticipation.
He pulled down her full panties and he threw
them in the car. He looked up, she was busy
taking off her black silk shirt and Mhlabunzima
off her black short pleated skirt. He went down
on his knees, where his knees had landed, there
was soft grass. He pulled her down by her
thighs. Her butts rested on his chest and her
thighs on either side of his shoulders. He slowly
licked her wetness, up and down, he could hear
her - she gasped and her moans followed.
Zinhloso was lost in pleasure, the waves of
pleasure building up as he licked her without
stopping. They were incredibly great. The
sensations she was feeling all over her body
were pleasing, "ah, ah, Mhlabunzima!" She
screamed his name when his tongue focused
on her clitoris, the pleasure was sharp and
intense. It made her hold his head. Her hands
softly brushed his head and her back left the
sponge as he doubled it, finger rubbed her clit
and his tongue focused on her wet openings.
Bigger waves of pleasure crashed over her as
he did it double. And without realising she
found herself screaming, "Ngiyakuthanda!" Her
toes dug into his back as her whole body
tensed. Her eyes rolled and she was out of
breath.
She held onto his head until she was calm. She
moved back into the van, "gibela!" (Get onto the
car) She sat on her butt until he was up in the
car. She got on top of him.
They owned the road, the dwellers in the forest
were making pleasing noises. It was like music
in the background of a hot steamy room.
His head was still a bit wobbly. Was this really
happening?
Her breasts were warm as they rested on his
hairy chest, she was kissing him again.
"Nakhoke!" He cried out, his deep voice
vibrating as Zinhloso rubbed her on him.
"MaMnguni, yini ungenza kanje? Yini
ungihlukumeza kangaka?" He shrieked as she
inserted his organ into her body. That warmth!
It'd been years without feeling this warmth and
wetness.
"Thula!" (Shut up!) She pleaded and started
moving her hips in a steady circular motion.
This! This was everything she'd been yearning
for, feeling his hardness rub against all sides of
her vaginal walls. She'd missed this.
Her hand moved down onto his chest until it
was on his neck. She started bouncing on him,
with her hand holding his neck, she drove it
slow and fast. Whichever way, she wanted. She
felt more confident and powerful when he
groaned and held her waist tightly. The car was
bouncing with her. "You've pushed me to look
for love in the wrong places. I hate you for that!"
Zinhloso's voice came out thick, "Ah, oh, my
god!"
"Don't kill me, forgive me." He said, deeper - the
intensity was nothing like before. It was like she
was a different person.
"Mhlabunzima, meet me halfway. Ungabi
isdindi!" She ordered and he listened, it took her
there - where she'd been wanting to go for the
past years. She tightened her grip on his neck
as her wall shut around him, his groan
deepened and she was done for.
He got back down, pulled her down when she
was no longer shaking. "Stand before me, face
the car." He slipped his fingers onto hers and
pushed her down. Her upper body was pressed
down on the car. Her arms stretched out above
her head by him. He laid his body on top of her
back and he drove into her from behind.
"Ngicela uyeke ukungisanganela. Uma ufuna
kulunge izinto phakathi kwethu. Shono,
angibhuli!" (Stop acting crazy. If you want us to
fix things, say it!) He said as he intensely
thrusted into her. He rolled into his hand, the
long singles(braids) she had on her head.
She could hear everything but what was most
important was the moment he was making her
experience, "ungipha kamnandi, Donda!" She
moaned softly.
He looked ahead and by the end of the lights, he
saw two male figures approaching, "Jikani, ngi-
busy!" "Turn back, I am busy) He screamed, he
made circles with his waist and that deepened
her moans.
"Aybo, ichwane lelo?" One man asked, they
could hear the moans of a woman.
He heard one familiar voice but he couldn't
figure out who it was - he was too high in
pleasure as he was still thrusting, "Ngithe, jikani,
zinja!" He growled and they quickly ran off. He
finished off and as he reached his climax he
pulled her singles making her scream.
"Ngi-ya-ku-tha-nda na-mi!" He said, catching his
breath. He held her waist until she had stopped
shaking. He looked for their clothes as she was
still calming down. He gave her her clothes.
They dressed up quietly.
"I will drive you home or back at the
supermarket?" She asked, standing beside him
as he was closing the car.
"At home."
They stepped inside the car and Zinhloso drove
back. She drove straight to his home.
Mhlabunzima glanced at her, "we're in this
mess because of my reaction when I came
back. I admit but you really didn't want me
closer to you no matter how hard I tried not to
make it about you but the kids. So, once you
know what you really want, call me so that we'll
talk things through. Ngeke ngiyimele le oyenza
kimi. Uma ngithi ngizama ukuqhubukela
phambili uyalwa nami. Ngimuhle uma
ngithondoza wena qha, ngiwusathane uma
ngingakwenzi lokho. But I didn't fight you with
your ex-boyfriend."
Zinhloso kept quiet. She really didn't know what
to do after this? Was she going to remain in
South Africa? Fix things with him and build their
family? Settle for an ordinary career? Or was
she going to take a plane in a week Android
leave the country to pursue her dreams? This
man had his qualifications and what about her?
"Goodnight," she said as Mhlabunzima got out
of the car. He said it back. Zinhloso sped off
and headed home where she left her children
with her mother. She wished someone could
show her the right way.
UMCEBO

Chapter 248

***Chapter sponsored by Sponsored by

anonymous Dedication to Oritonda***

***She was seated under the mango tree in one

of Mhlabunzima's gardens. Milani and Mkhululi
were getting mangoes from the tree. They were
putting the mangoes next to their mother.
"Mama, why are you eating the mangoes? Dad
will come and he will shout!" Milani screamed at
her mother. They were both looking at her
eating the mangoes.
She shook her head, "he won't do that. He
planted the mangoes because I love them."
Zinhloso stopped eating the mangoes as she
saw Mhlabunzima's car driving through at high
speed.
He got off the car looking angry and he shouted
the twins' names, "Milani, Mkhululi, come here!"
"Where are you taking them? Are you leaving
me behind?" She asked and Mhlabunzima didn't
answer her. He got into the car with the children.
When she stood up, she saw her ancestor
getting out of the car and she looked at the car
as it drove off. Zinhloso screamed his name.
"Let him be, he'll come back. Sit down," She
pointed down where Zinhloso had been seated.
She sat with her.
The ancestor took Zinhloso's hand into hers
and she smiled at her, "ngifuna ungene ezweni
lamankengane ufike uthathe lonke ulwazi
ozoluthola. Ubabonise ukuthi ayikho into
umuntu onsundu angeke akwazi ukuyenza.
Ukuhlakanipha sinakho. Uzokwitiza nabo, udle
nabo kodwa ungalinge uye ocansini nabo.
Kwanele ngodadewenu. Uma kufika iskhathi
buya uze khaya. Uzolapha abantu bakini." (I
want you to go into the country of the whites,
take all the knowledge you'll get. Show them
black people can do anything. Show them we're
intelligent. You'll speak their language, dine with
them but don't you dare mate with them. It's
enough with your sister.)
She opened up Zinhloso's hand and she gave
her a silver coin.***
She woke up panting. She wiped her sweaty
face with her hands. She was sleeping alone on
her bed inside her hut at home. She sent the
children to their home. Their father was also
home.
It was still dark outside, she fixed her pillow and
she saw a shiny silver coin. She took it and
placed it on her chest. She closed her eyes and
freed her tears. She'd decided she wasn't going
to leave the country anymore. She was going to
stay and work things out with him, study a basic
job in chemistry and make it work. Maybe as
the years went by, things were going to change,
blacks would be included everywhere and she
was going to reach for the stars. And now, she
had to change her plans!
In three days, she had finished with all the
preparations she thought she was dropping
because of her relationship. She had to tell her
mother and brother she was proceeding with
her trip. She had written a letter to her children's
grandparents and was going to have it sent
after she was gone.
She sat next to her mother on her bed inside her
hut. She was dressing up after taking a bath.
She'd been working in the garden.
"Mama?"
"Yeah?"
"You know that I have passed my Standard 10,
right? And what I wish to study is not available
for black people here in South Africa. I was
planning on leaving," she started the
conversation.
She nodded, "yes, what have you decided to
study? I am glad you sent the children home
while their father was there."
She avoided eye contact with her, "I had a
dream…" she told her mother about her dream,
"I also wanted to go and study abroad. I had
planned everything with Nobuhle and her
husband but after seeing Mhlabunzima and
talking to him. I decided that maybe it's time I
fix things with him and then, this happened."
Mrs Mnguni looked down, she was saddened by
Zinhloso leaving, "oh, my child, I am really sorry
but you have to listen to your ancestors. They
know better and every gift and intelligence
comes from them." She pulled Zinhloso into her
arms as she cried, "don't cry, please!"
"I don't want to sound ungrateful but I thought I
had figured it out."
"It's okay, time will fly." She wiped her
daughter's tears. "The children?"
"Mhlabunzima was really angry in that dream. I
don't know what that means, I am going to
leave with them."
"Zinhloso! How's that possible?"
"We had asked their Doctor to write a report
about their developmental issues and explained
that they should be with me. They'll be
attending the best specialists in the country
where I am going. It was approved. John
contacted people to help me with getting
everything approved." Zinhloso explained.
"You were going to leave with them even before
you saw their father's anger in the dream?" She
raised her voice and Zinhloso nodded slowly.
She wasn't looking at her mother. She was
wishing she never went to confront
Mhlabunzima. All this was going to be easier
but he told her he loved her. All along she
thought he no longer loved her. She was wrong.
She was very hurt but she didn't want to obey
her feelings over her ancestors.
Mrs Mnguni couldn't hold her tears, she held
Zinhloso into a hug. Her child was going into a
foreign country with her young children. How
was life going to be for her there? "Don't cry,
mama, there's Nobuhle there. She'll look after
us and I will look after myself and the children."
"If you have a chance, do visit home, my child. I
feel like I am losing you after getting you."
"Yes, I will visit."
"I am proud of you, Zinhloso. I love you so much,
ngane yami."
She smiled brightly, "I love you too, mama." She
stood up and helped her fix her head wrap. Mrs
Mnguni was talking about all the things she
wanted her to do - mostly, she wanted her to
take pictures with her grandchildren. Nobuhle's
children.

Zinhloso laughed and stood up when her

children got into the house running. They were
back from their paternal home. She hugged
them, "thank you for taking them, bhuti."
Zinhloso said to Mzomubi and she sat on the
sofa with them.
"Their father asked if you're not home. I think he
expected you'll come and take them," Mzomubi
looked at Zinhloso suspiciously, "did something
happen between you and him?"
"No, nothing happened."
"Why did you suddenly send the children to him?
Is it because you're leaving?"
Zinhloso gave her children the juice she was
having, "yes, it's because I am leaving and they
already have a relationship with him. I wanted
them to see him before leaving."
"So, why don't you tell him you're leaving?"
She didn't look him in the eye, "I told you about
the dream. I don't want to fight with him. I don't
want to have any more harsh words shared
between us."
"Zinhloso, you know how Mhlabunzima is. He
can never have a problem with you going to
study. He's for women who have dreams. And
even if you were still his partner he wouldn't
have stopped you. Don't think on his behalf but
go and tell him that you're leaving." He tried to
make her see the bigger picture.
She shook her head, "no, I am scared of the
outcome. We will leave. I have decided it's the
best thing to do."
"Do what you see best." He said and stood up.
He left Zinhloso asking the children about their
visit to their father. They were talking freely,
Zinhloso could see even Mkhululi was speaking
loudly as he spoke about his father. He wasn't a
loud person - this made her realise he was
really fond of his father. She was ashamed,
she'd been depriving her children of such joy
and now, she was taking them and leaving with
them. She couldn't leave them behind. They
were everything to her, she wouldn't be able to
survive without them. She needed to see them
growing before her eyes like she'd seen
Qophelo.
She couldn't believe she was really going to
leave the country. She needed to reach for the
stars - just like she'd been told. She was hoping
he would understand, even Mhlabunzima's
mother had told her 'spread your wings'. She
needed to do that - live for herself, follow her
dreams but she couldn't do it without her
children next to her.
****
After three days his children left and went back
to their mother. Mhlabunzima decided to go to
Zinhloso's house. She'd been calling the house
and there was no one taking the telephone call.
He was very happy when he saw his children
walking through the gates with their uncle. He
couldn't believe they were coming home while
he was there. Mzomubi told him Zinhloso
wasn't mistaken; she knew he was home. Her
intentions were bringing the children to him.
This brought hope to him, things were going to
get better. This was the second step. They were
going to be a family.
He stopped the car before the locked gates. He
went to the lady at the chemist.
"Sawubona, sisi." He greeted her with a smile.
The lady smiled back. She was still selling the
remaining products and she was informing all
her customers that Zinhloso had gone to study
abroad. They were sad but all happy for her.
They had hope she was going to come back
with the best products for them. She would be
the first black woman in the country to have a
title of 'Dermatologist'
"Chwane, it's been a while. How are you?"
"I am well, and how are you?"
"I am good. How can I help you?"
He looked ahead and he realised the shelves
weren't full like they normally were. "I am here
for Zinhloso, is she home? Please, let her know I
need to talk to her even if she comes to the
gate."
Her heart tightened, "uhm, you don't know?"
"What?"
"She's gone."
"What do you mean, she's gone?"
She took a deep breath, "she left the country
with the children. She's going to study abroad. I
thought you knew."
Mhlabunzima's ears rang - what was this he
was hearing? "Are you sure?"
"Yes, she left two days back. Her brother drove
her to the airport."
"Did she leave the twins with her family?"
"No, she took them with her."
He held the wall, everything was suddenly dark.
He held his chest trying to hold his breath. The
chest pains, they were greater. Why? This
means, all that she did - her intentions were to
hurt him for the last time before leaving. He
couldn't even talk but he raised his hand to her.
He got into his car and drove back.
"Phela, thina baba simtshelile ukuthi siyizingane
zakho!" - these words from his son were
everything Mhlabunzima could hear. Those
were his son's words to him when he asked
them - what did they say to their mother when
she found out about their meeting?
He couldn't believe he was a fool like that. Fell
right into her trap. He would have found it
suspicious that she was back - just like that. He
stopped the car on the roadside and he hugged
the steering wheel. He kept gasping for air,
trying hard to bring it into his lungs so he
wouldn't cry. If only he knew he was seeing
them for the last time - he was clueless. He was
played by their mother and she achieved her
goal. She had hurt him where it hurt the most.
UMCEBO

Chapter 249

***Chapter sponsored by Sphelele Shongwe***

Esther knocked on the door of Mhlabunzima's

bedroom. He'd locked himself inside his room
since the previous day. She didn't know what
else she was supposed to do with Mhlabunzima.
They'd tried everything they could but nothing
seemed to be working. He was in deep pain,
they were also hurting but it was worse for him.
He was the father to the children and all that
was happening - it wasn't right.
"My son, please open up. I am a mother and
what you're doing to yourself is hurting me."
Esther said sadly, she was hoping she could get
through Mhlabunzima. He needed to live, even
though Zinhloso did what she did. He needed to
carry on. He'd been very happy ever since he
found a way of spending time with his children.
She left the country without even leaving a
simple letter for him.
She sighed when he opened the door. She
placed the tray of food on the bedside table. "I
have made you lunch. You didn't have your
breakfast."
"I am not hungry, mama."
"Don't do this to yourself! This is not the end of
the world. You can still meet an amazing
woman and have children together," Esther tried
to console him but she could see she wasn't
getting through to him. It was really bad.
"I don't want any woman. I want my children. To
hell with women I want my kids. Where did she
take them?"
She didn't have an answer for him but she
pulled him into her arms, "let it go now my child.
You've tried your best. We're all witnesses, we'll
explain to them that you never abandoned
them."
Xulu walked in while Esther was comforting his
son, "Mhlabunzima -"
He let go of his mother with pain, "please
change my name, baba. Give me a new man or
erase this name from my life. There's no child
of yours that has suffered like I did. Do you
know when I dreamt of our forefather, he didn't
address me as Mhlabunzima but he addressed
me as Ngenzwel'umusa."
Esther looked at him, "please, consider it."
"I will call my brother and we'll do the ritual for a
name change. But after that, I will need you to
live," Xulu said, loud and clear, "I will need you to
put behind everything that happened, you still
have a child here. You were entrusted with him,
since Zinhloso doesn't see you as worthy of
being a father to the children she gave birth to.
Let it go, she'd shown you over and over again
that she doesn't need you. Now, people are
saying bad things about you across the village,
"They're gossiping lies she said about you.
You're shamed for deadbeat but you're not even
close to being that. They don't know the
struggle you'd faced, fighting that woman. Let it
go, xola, focus on your son, Menzi, your
business and politics." Xulu could see they were
surprised he was suggesting he focused on
politics, "yes, focus on everything you love and
forget about women for a while. I will go talk to
your great father about the name change. We'll
also have to go to home affairs and remove the
name from both your birth certificate and
Identity document."
"Thank you, baba." He said and looked at his
mother. She was smiling. He took the bowl and
started eating.
Esther brushed his shoulder, "don't stress, life
will carry on."
"Yes, it will." He took the bowl of food and glass
to the living room. He started eating and
watched TV. He'd been forever feeling sorry for
himself. He needed to stop. It was all well - he
had Menzi as a child. Zinhloso took her children
- she'd been emphasizing they were not his. He
needed to get that into his head before he went
crazy.

The news of the ritual of Mhlabunzima's name

change spread like wildfire in the village.
Everyone was talking about Mhlabunzima no
longer being Mhlabunzima. Some were moved
by this and some didn't see the importance.
What impact did a name have in one's life?
The next day, a goat was slaughtered - Xulu, his
brothers, his wife and his three children went
into the cattle pen with the goat. They spoke to
their ancestors.
"Bo-Donda, bo-Gxabhashe, here's a child you
blessed me with. My wife and I had received the
news that we would never have children after
our daughter, Ngenzeni,
"But a miracle happened, you blessed us with
yet another child. I was facing a hard and
difficult time. I didn't take him as my blessing. I
named him after the situation I was facing, I
didn't listen to my wife telling me against,
"This child had spent his entire life fighting
against this name, trying to make his world less
difficult. But one way or another, it kept
dragging him down,
"I hereby, declare with your permission that he's
no longer Mhlabunzima. He's Ngenzelw'umusa
Smangaliso Xulu. He's Smangaliso, because
he's a miracle child. Please, accept this plea,
watch over this child as you've done with her
brother and sister,
"My two eldest have their own families and are
living comfortable lives. We thank you for that.
We hope you'll do the same for your last born,
Ngenzelw'umusa!" Xulu finished speaking and
his brother spoke after him. They praised the
family clan names and after that, they sang
their family hymn. Ihubo lomuzi.
Big three legged pots were taken out, scores of
fires were made and Xulu ordered them to cook
the goat and slaughter the cow he'd bought the
previous day with his brother for this day.
People started coming into the Xulu yard, in
numbers and before they knew it, it was full.
Everyone was happy and merry, they all started
addressing him as Ngenzwel'umusa.
****
***5 years later***

It was after Christmas, Zinhloso was at the

back house where she lived with her children.
She was with Nobuhle.
Five years back, when she arrived in America,
John and Nobuhle took her in. She didn't want
to stay with them, she didn't want to pry and
crowd her sister in her marital home. But John
refused to have Zinhloso live alone with the
children. He had reasons that Mhlabunzima
would never forgive him if years later he learnt
that he let her stay alone in a foreign country.
Another reason was, she was new in a foreign
country, she needed security the most.
They gave her the back house, two bedroom
house, kitchen and bathroom. She cooked alone
with her children and sometimes, she would
join Nobuhle and her family when they were
invited.
"I am proud of you. You've passed all modules
since the very first year. I wouldn't be surprised
if you tell me, our ancestor gives you answers
during the exam," Nobuhle said to Zinhloso and
they laughed. She had a statement of results of
Zinhloso's fifth year of study. When she arrived
five years back, she didn't start studying at the
beginning of the year. There were a lot of things
that needed to be done for her to start studying
and for her to remain in the country for the
period of seven years with her children. John
was going up and down with her, until
everything was completed. She started June,
the second semester was her first semester.
Her year of study always ended in June. So -
currently, it was June, summer in the country
and she'd just passed her fifth year. She was
specialising in dermatology.
"She doesn't tell me any answers but I know
that I am doing this not only for myself but for
her." She smiled and looked at her, "we're our
ancestors' wildest dreams, Nobuhle. All four of
us."
She held her sister's hand, "you're right. Life is
really good."
Nobuhle was a Doctor. She completed her
studies and after getting her degree in medicine
she specialised in surgery. She was a surgeon.
Together with John, they had six children. Four
girls and two boys. They'd decided on three but
got an extra three, after the last born - she
blocked her fallopian tubes. They didn't want
any more babies. The six was enough.
Milani rushed into the house with a newspaper
in her hands, "mama, uncle John said I should
show you!" She placed the newspaper on the
table. She was smiling at the front page - that
was her dad! Milani could speak and
understand English but her brother only
understood a few words. It was helpful that
John and his children knew Isizulu, they could
communicate with Zinhloso's children well.
Milani was attending school. She was repeating
her current class - the first year class. She
wasn't bad, she was always too close at
passing. Mkhululi, school didn't work for him -
John decided to homeschool him for
convenience. The twins were going to turn eight,
September.
Zinhloso took the paper and her hand brushed
over his face. He was held up by a group of
young men. He had a rolled paper, on his raised
hand. The hand gesturing, victory! Zinhloso read
the article and she passed the paper to her
sister.
"What does it say? I don't have my glasses with
me." Nobuhle asked but she could see that it
was Mhlabunzima on the front page. The
country had newspapers that were reporting
about things that were happening in Africa.
Zinhloso followed every news about apartheid
in South Africa and the political news of the
country.
"After three years, Mhlabunzima had won the
fight. It says, with his group, they had liaison
with organisations from France and America.
They helped them in fighting for inclusion of
black people in specialised fields of study." She
responded.
Nobuhle widened her eyes, she was suddenly
excited, "aybo, Zinhloso? He has really
succeeded?" She tapped Milani who was still
standing next to her mother, "baby, go and get
my glasses!"
"Yebo, mamdala!"
"Milani, is Mcebo still sleeping?"
"Yes, mom!" She rushed out.
Zinhloso looked at her sister, "what should I do,
Nobuhle? Should I go back home and finish
studying there?"
"No, don't do that. I know you desperately want
to go back home, give the children to their
father and possibly mend things with him but,
"He'd recently gotten this victory. It'll be a long
process until this is finally finalized and
specialised fields of study are available in black
people's Colleges and universities. You only
have two years left. That year, June, you'll be
done. Bekezela ntombazane. Finish what you've
started here." Nobuhle advised. "And even if it's
not like that, it'll be difficult to adjust, leave the
children at home and go to Durban or the city of
gold to study."
She lifted the paper again and looked at the
newspaper again. She drew a long breath. He
looked pretty good and happy - he should be
happy. This was the greatest achievement in
his entire political career.
"I am happy for him. He's a fighter," she said
and put the newspaper down.
"Hey, don't cry!"
She pulled her hand away from Nobuhle as she
was holding her hand. She rushed to her
bedroom before her daughter could return.
Nobuhle was sad for her sister.
"Where's, mama?" Milani asked.
She pointed in the direction of the bathroom,
"she's in the bathroom. Go and play, you'll talk
about the article later."
She didn't go right away, "is she crying again?"
Milani asked.
Nobuhle smiled, "no, she's just happy for your
father. Go."
"Yebo," Milani left the house, wondering if she
was really in the bathroom.
UMCEBO

Chapter 250

She was carrying her 2 years old daughter on

her back while standing on her feet inside the
kitchen cooking. She was very tired, coming
from work and getting no rest, cooking and
cleaning.
Ziwinile was no longer a teacher at the school
back in her village but a Principal. She furthered
her studies while working. When the school
principal left for another school. Only Ziwinile
qualified to be promoted as a school principal.
She was a principal and the job came with more
responsibilities. But she really loved her job.
"Mama, can I have water?" Her first born son
ran into the house. The boy was six years old.
Ziwinile had three children, they all had a two
year age gap. They'd planned on having four
children with her husband but she was no
longer sure if it was a good idea to bring the
fourth child. Six years later in marriage, they
were still living with his family. During her first
pregnancy, Simon added a room to his back
room - the room was a bedroom for their child.
Ziwinile had told him if they were planning on
having four children, one room wasn't going to
be enough. But there was nothing that could be
done because there was no longer space in the
yard for another room.
"Here's your water. Philani, where are you
playing with your brother? Don't play on the
road, please!" Ziwinile raised her voice to the
child. Raising children was a job and a half but
she was grateful for a husband like Simon. She
didn't feel the load.
"We're playing inside the garage. We'll stop
once dad comes back home. Bye!" He rushed
out.
Ziwinile tapped her daughter's bums on her
back, "are you still awake?"
"Mama?"
She wanted to scream when she heard her
response. She thought she would be sleeping
after ten minutes on her back.
"Sthandwa, I am home," Simon walked into the
kitchen. He looked around and kissed Ziwinile's
cheek.
She smiled, "hey, how was your day? Sit down, I
will give you a snack."
"It was good. Why are you cooking with the
baby on your back? Weren't you cooking
yesterday and the day before?" Simon asked
and took his daughter off her mother's back. He
sat on the table with her
"What should I do? I have children who can't go
to bed hungry because other people don't feel
like cooking," Ziwinile responded. She was
always annoyed whenever he asked such
questions. She'd requested twice, asking him
they should leave and find a place of their own.
He would make his mother an excuse. 'I can't
leave mom alone with my two sisters!' That was
always the excuse. Her youngest sister got
married and Ziwinile's weight was enlightened.
He looked around, "where's everyone? Mom and
my sisters?"
"I don't know. I found the house empty and dirty,
no dishes washed," she gave him a snack,
"honestly, I am really tired."
"I will talk to them."
"Yea, that's what you've been doing for the past
six years." She walked out of the house after
leaving the pot on low.
Simon felt like he was strongly failing his wife
but he also didn't want to just leave his mother
alone. It wasn't safe, he'd been trying to make
Ziwinile understand but it wasn't working out.
"Mama, where were you and your daughters?"
Simon asked, his mother and sisters had joined
them for dinner. He assisted Ziwinile with
bathing the children. She was starting with
bathing them while the pots were cooking.
They were not seated on the kitchen table but
they were on the sofas in the living room. "I
asked your sisters to accompany me home. I
wanted to meet your uncle's child," she
responded.
"But couldn't you have left the house clean and
washed the dishes if you knew you'd come back
late? It's really not fair on my wife. Coming back
from work, she does all these things, things that
were left deliberately?" Simon's spirit was down.
He was tired of talking about one and the same
thing with them.
"You're still complaining about that? Why can't
she hire a maid if she's always tired from work?
We left in a hurry," Nakanjani answered the
question instead.
"That's not the way you should speak because
you create a bigger mess here in the morning
when you fix your child for daycare." Simon
shouted at his sister.
His mother stopped him, "we were in a hurry,
Simon. We had to catch a bus. They didn't leave
the house dirty deliberately. It seems your wife
is always complaining." She said as if Ziwinile
wasn't with them.
"She didn't complain about anything but I found
her here, cooking with my daughter on her back.
Do you think that's fair?" Simon's mother took
her tea cup, "I am tired of hearing one and the
same thing, Simon. If she comes back tired and
to a dirty house, she must leave it like that." She
raised her voice. Simon was defeated.
Ziwinile stood up with her daughter after she'd
finished feeding her.
"Where are you taking my granddaughter?"
Simon's mother asked. She loved her
grandchildren but Ziwinile felt like she loved
children from her daughters the most. Her
daughter slept with her every night since she
was a toddler.
"We're going to sleep."
Simon asked, "are you not going to leave her
with mom tonight?"
"No!" She walked out. Her boys slept alone in
their bedroom.
Simon walked inside their house and he went to
the boys' bedroom with them. He closed the
door once he'd put them to sleep. "She's
sleeping, can I take her to mama?" Simon
requested. He was looking at Ziwinile seated on
the bed reading.
She put the papers away and took off her
glasses, "no, why would you do that? She's
sleeping here tonight."
"She was also sleeping here last night."
"So, what's wrong with that? This is her parents'
room."
Simon was suddenly pissed off. He didn't
understand why she was acting this way.
Everything was great between them and
suddenly, she was acting like this? "I can't touch
you while there's a child on the bed."
"I am not even in the mood for that."
"I thought we're supposed to be trying for our
last born because our daughter is two years
old," Simon reminded her.
She looked at him, "no, we can't bring another
child here. I thought you would have seen the
importance of us having our own space but you
still can't see that importance."
"It's not even once, you've seen how violence is
here and I always had to go out to protect you,
our children, my mother and sisters," Simon
argued with her, "if I wasn't home to protect you
all, who knows what would have happened. It'd
been happening over three times in a year. I
really don't get why you would be so selfish and
want me to leave my mother and sisters all
alone here."
Ziwinile didn't argue back but she fixed her doek
and pulled the covers.
"She'll cry when she wakes up in a dark room.
You know that."
Simon didn't switch the lights back on, "she
sleeps with mom where the lights are on until
morning." He said - his breathing was not
steady. He thought after she'd seen the violence
in the area she would understand why he wasn't
leaving home. But no, she wasn't understanding
anything.
She closed her eyes and remained quiet.
*****
"Where's my boy, mama?" Mhlabunzima asked
his mother after he'd put his bags in his house.
He'd just gotten back from his trip - he was in
The Cape.
"He came back from school, ate his food and
went to the supermarket." Esther answered and
pointed to the chair. "Sit down and have your
food. You'll call him home once you're done."
Years had gone by and Esther still didn't look
like her age. She was 66 years old but she didn't
have any wrinkles to show that she was aging.
Her husband had recently started having
wrinkles at 70 years old and Esther would
always tell him it was an excessive intake of
meat, alcohol and smoking. The old man didn't
care. He would defend himself by saying he still
looked good.
"How was your trip?" Esther asked and put the
food on the table. They'd bought a kitchen
dining table when they were renovating the
kitchen hut and buying new furniture.
"It was great and productive, we met with the
organisation from France. We really want
freedom mama and the people who'll help us
are outsiders," he responded.
Esther smiled, things had been really great for
him, career wise. After the name change she
saw things changing but she was worried about
how much he'd erased the existence of his
children. He never mentioned not even their
names. Never spoke about them - just
wondering if they were well or not. When he
was changing the look of his living room, he
didn't even hang the twins' pictures on the wall.
It was only the two late daughters and Menzi.
She wasn't sure if he still had their pictures or
not. It was like he'd told himself he didn't have
other children. She didn't even want to ask him
about it because when his father asked, he
completely ignored him.
"I thought you were going to come back with
Julia?" She glanced at him.
He shook his head, "no, we broke up."
"Hawu, why?"
"She's only politically smart. Ungugimbela
kwesakhe. I don't need that type of woman. We
both decided it wasn't working out," He
responded. He'd dated the woman he met
through traveling for politics, she was also in
politics. They'd been dating for six months until
Mhlabunzima realised it wasn't working out. He
started being distant so she would be the one
to end things with him.
"You're 41 years old now, Ngenzwel'umusa."
Esther made him realise.
He laughed, "I know, there's no rush."
He'd been at peace about how things were in
his life, especially the political growth. He'd
been travelling in and out of the country with
the other members of the party. There was
hope for the future, that gave him hope that
their fight wasn't for nothing. His greatest
achievement had been having black people
included in specialised fields of study. When he
started that fight, nobody believed they would
win.
He hung his arm over Menzi's shoulder, "how
are you, boy?"
They were standing at the corner of his house
at night. Mhlabunzima went to the supermarket
and he found Menzi working. He called him out,
he needed to talk to him. They went home.
"I am fine, baba and how are you?"
"I am good, let's go inside the house. I want to
hear about how you've been." He led him into
the house. They sat on the sofa. Mhlabunzima
listened as Menzi told him about how things
had been without him. He loved being a father
to him, they had a great relationship. Menzi was
15 years old and was doing Standard 6.
"That's great, if you need extra hands with
school. Please, do tell me. I will hire someone
who'll help you." He said.
"Yebo!"
"I want us to talk about puberty," he looked at
Menzi and he saw a frown, "why are you
frowning?"
"What's wrong about puberty, baba?"
"Have you reached that stage? When a woman
visits -" he laughed as Menzi closed his eyes,
"why are you closing your eyes? Has it
happened?"
"No, but I heard my friend talking about it. We
didn't think it's true when the teachers taught us
about it. And she didn't explain much on the
subject," Menzi responded, avoiding eye contact.
It was an awkward conversation.
"I am glad I am not late then. In the village, we
used to have old men who taught us about
puberty and all things a young man was
supposed to know including muthi used by
young men for different purposes. But as years
went by, most people moved to the city to work.
That ended up not being done," he took a break
and looked at Menzi. "Ephashini?"
"Oh, I understand."
"So, I thought it's important I teach you about
this. When the time comes, you'll have that
dream. The minute you wake up, you'll come to
me before the sun comes out. Don't talk,
"Shake me awake and I will know. We'll go to
the running river and you'll bathe. We'll go to
your family home and slaughter a goat. You're
old enough to burn sage for the ancestors, we'll
talk because they know you're under my
custody. Only then, myself, uncle Kusakusa and
other old men will we talk to you about what it
means what happened to you. How you should
behave and how you should carry yourself. How
you should behave around young girls. Do you
understand?" Mhlabunzima asked.
He nodded, "yes, I understand, baba but what's
the importance of all this?"
"Girls go to the reed dance and they're taught
everything about how to behave and carry
themselves as maidens. So, also, this is for
young boys. You get cleansed in the river to
remove that bad spirit you dreamt of. This will
have a good impact on your growth as a young
man. Asfuni ube ihlongandlebe, uhambe
namathunzi amnyama, angithi?"
He smiled as he clearly understood, "yes, I
understand. I will do everything as you've taught
me." He laughed as Mhlabunzima played with
him, bringing him under his wing and brushing
his head.
"Baba?"
"Yeah?"
"So, since Mkhululi left with his mother who'll do
that for him once he reaches puberty?" Menzi
asked, he was scared of asking him because he
never spoke about them. But he couldn't hold
himself.
Mhlabunzima clenched his jaws, "you should go
and sleep now. That's all I wanted to talk to you
about, today."
"Yebo!" He didn't waste any time but he quickly
stood up and went to his bedroom.
Mhlabunzima grabbed a newspaper and he
lounged back on the sofa, he read the
newspaper.
UMCEBO

Chapter 251

***Chapter sponsored by Motsei in celebration

for her birthday (02/Oct)**

The gravel roads were still the same but it

looked like they'd done some work on making
them less bumpy. The lands were still as green
as she last saw them. The people, going up and
down, some with water buckets, some with
bags of vegetables. The livestock on the road -
she'd missed all this, the village life.
"Why are you starting here? You're supposed to
go home." Mzomubi asked Zinhloso. He'd
received communication through an email from
Zinhloso. She was asking him to come for them
at the airport.
"I want to see how my house is. If that lady has
really been keeping everything in shape." She
responded, she didn't want to tell him the actual
truth. She wanted to consult with her children
before going back home to her family. She
didn't want anyone to know about it.
"She's been looking after the place very well and
she kept the garden business going. She's been
good and loyal," Mzomubi informed Zinhloso.
She looked back at her children, they were all
sleeping, "Mzomubi?"
"Yes?"
"Is Mhlabunzima married?"
Mzomubi looked at her surprised by her
question, "why are you even asking about that?
Why is it any of your concern?"
"I am asking because I want to know."
"Don't forget, I clearly told you I won't support
you going back to him."
She looked at him with a scowl, "how can you
say that? Can't you see what's happening?" She
pointed at the children in the backseat.
"I don't care!"
"You should care, I can't raise these children
alone!"
"You're only seeing that now?"
She decided to keep quiet and not answer him.
She didn't have the energy to answer him. She
was finally back home - back as a qualified
dermatologist. She was supposed to be over
the moon - stand on top of the mountains and
scream her happiness. She was proud of
herself, proud of her accomplishments, proud
that she had done exactly as she'd been told.
Study, behave and come back home. But she
was scared. What awaited her at home? With
Mhlabunzima? What was going to happen. She
wished things were different - she had realised
back then that she was actually supposed to
tell him like Mzomubi had suggested. She was
supposed to hear what he had to say and
whether he was agreeing or not - she was
supposed to leave, leaving knowing she had
told him. But she allowed fear to get the best of
her. She would have had something to defend
herself with but currently, she had nothing. She
had been hoping and praying he would
understand all the reasons she would present
before him. They had children, they needed
each other. She didn't care whether he had a
woman or not.
Her yard was still as clean as she left it. Her lips
curved - her sheep, her garden. It still looked like
a home, a warm home that had so many
memories for her and her children. A home that
had so much history. No matter what, she was
never going to let this home go. The place was
special to her. This place was her peaceful
place.
"So, when are we going to see you at home?"
Mzomubi asked Zinhloso after he'd finished
transporting her belongings into her house. The
children were still sleeping. "You should come
home, we'll perform a ritual. We should thank
our ancestors that you're back with a
qualification. You're back healthy with the
children. We're all proud of you. We should
celebrate."
She smiled, "I will come but don't tell mom that I
am back. She'll be upset that I didn't come
straight home."
"Alright, goodbye, it's good to have you back
home. You're more beautiful now. I will charge
your husband the highest amount," he hugged
his sister. Zinhloso was only laughing.
She went into the house and sat down with the
lady who'd been managing her home. "I thought
I will come back, find a husband and children
here." Zinhloso said and their laughter
enlightened the house. They caught up on what
had been happening in their lives. Zinhloso was
very happy that she was back home but there
was just - something in her heart. Fear!

She decided not to bring the children with her.

She wanted to be free with the prophet. She
was told to enter after the person who was
inside had finished. Zinhloso jumped the line
and went inside.
She sat on the straw mat inside the lit hut and
she greeted.
"I see a lot of heaviness in your heart. What's
bothering you the most?" The prophet asked.
He was wearing a white robe with yellow stars.
She took a deep breath, "it's my twins who are
bothering me the most."
"What should bother you there? They're the way
they're today because of you. You decided not
to listen when you were told how things were
done in your children's paternal home," the
prophet raised his voice as if he was angry.
"I just wanted -"
"I don't want to hear your excuse because it'll
not change anything. It'll not change the
children's situation." He clapped once, making
Zinhloso jump in fright, "you need to accept this,
accept their situation and try your best to
support them as a mother. Love them as you
love them now. Stop feeling sorry for yourself
and the children."
She'd been very regretful for years, the moment
she realised her children were not doing well
academically. It hit her that Mhlabunzima was
telling the truth. This was the consequences of
her actions. She'd long suspected it even when
she was still in South Africa but she didn't want
to believe it. She didn't know how she was
going to live with herself, how she would look at
them struggling, struggling because of her. Why
did she allow her anger for Mhlabunzima to
blind her so much?
"The father of these children is not prideful,
you've seen that and if you still have some hope
for the future with him. Let go of your pride. Go
to him, give him the children or his ancestors
will bring the children back home in a very
painful way." He warned her, pointing at her with
a small cross.
"I am scared," she started tearing up, "I am
really scared. I have hurt him so much and it's
been seven years. Where will I begin?"
The prophet shook his head, "what went wrong,
MaMnguni? I can see you changed into a
person you were not."
"I had put so much trust in him and I left no
room for disappointment. He'd been my
everything, my place of joy and peace. I didn't
expect what happened. I wanted to hurt him the
same way he hurt me but I went the wrong way
about everything. There's not even a single
thing I did right. I regret my actions." Zinhloso
closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "When
he took his cows to the mother of his child I
believed everything he said, he meant it. That
hurt me the most."
"That shouldn't have hurt the most. It's
meaningless. Xola. You see, those cows were
his money, his hardwork and after taking them
as sign of breaking your relationship. He would
have taken them to any woman he chose,
"Let's say he didn't have money as he did and
those cows were his only wealth. He wanted to
move on and get married. Did that mean
because he'd paid ilobolo for you, he was
supposed to wait for years until he's got
another cattle and pay ilobolo?" He asked and
didn't get a response, "I guess not, don't worry
about the person he sent the cows to. That
woman was his repercussion,
"His words were inhuman. Your actions were
inhumane. Don't be afraid, face him. Take the
children home. You've made your ancestors
proud. You were destined for greatness, child."
"Thokoza!" Zinhloso clapped hands and she left
the healing hut with mixed emotions. She
needed to face him.

"Hhaybo, Zinhloso, they'd grown up so much!"

Ziwinile commented and they walked out of the
house leaving the children playing inside. They
sat on the veranda.
It was four days after Zinhloso had consulted.
She had come to terms with her twins'
condition but guilt, it kept eating her up
whenever she looked at Mkhululi. Milani was
better, she even managed to pass her first year
class after repeating it.
"Yes, they're grown. I just - kubuhlungu Ziwinile.
I did my children bad and it's so painful. What if
they live difficult lives and they realise I am the
reason they're living difficult lives? They'll hate
me. I have accepted it but it's hard to forgive
myself. I want my children to live normal lives."
She held her mouth, "I reflected so much about
everything I did, I can't believe half of the things
I did. I was so cruel, I can't even believe that
was me. I changed so much I couldn't even
recognise myself."
Ziwinile pulled her sister into a hug, "oh, sis, this
should be a lesson, never think you know better.
You don't have to know everything, every
reasons for any family customs. And never hold
on to hate, you only hurt yourself the most."
"He probably hates me Ziwinile. I am afraid. It's
been years."
She brushed her back, "don't you dare make the
same mistake twice, don't think on his behalf
but go to him. You hear-" she stopped talking as
they heard sharp screams of children and
people shouting.
"Milani!" Zinhloso screamed and quickly got up
from the chair. She ran to the gate as she heard
someone screaming her name. "Did we leave
the gate opened?" Zinhloso asked Ziwinile.
"No!" They rushed to the road. There was a
bakery truck on the road and people had
gathered around the front of the truck. Most
people had their hands on their heads. They
moved aside when others said 'Nangu!'
"Hhiiii," Zinhloso screamed and turned to
Ziwinile. She hid her face on her sister's chest
and she wailed. Ziwinile shut her eyes as she
couldn't take the picture of her sister's children
on the ground, their bodies covered in blood.
"How did this happen?" Ziwinile screamed and
held Zinhloso tightly. Zinhloso's whole body
was shaking.
The truck driver stepped forward, "I really don't
know what happened and where the children
came from but I heard screams. I am really
sorry, what can we do?"
"Please, help me hold their mother. We'll have to
call an ambulance. Is there any pulse?" Ziwinile
bravely went down to her sister's children. Two
women were holding Zinhloso, sheilding her
away from seeing such a scene. "They all have
a pulse, Zinhloso. They're alive."
She ran back to the yard. She was very
confused. When did these children leave the
yard? Why did they not see them? What
happened? How?
Zinhloso refused to get back inside the yard but
she sat down next to her children. She didn't
look at them. She didn't listen when they told
her to go back inside.
"Don't cry, Sisi, they're alive and everything will
be alright," Ziwinile tried her best to keep
Zinhloso calm.
"I should have taken them to their father the
minute I returned."
Ziwinile brushed her back, "don't blame
yourself!" and the others joined, they comforted
Zinhloso.
The ambulance finally came…
UMCEBO
Chapter 252

At night, they were still seated at the benches of

the private hospital in Richards Baai. Ziwinile
had called their mother and brother. The
situation was tense and scary, they didn't know
what was going to happen to the children.
"You should let go of your stubbornness,
Zinhloso! Yeka inkani ngane yami
ngiyakuncenga!" Mrs Mnguni shouted,
Zinhloso's head was on her mother's lap. Her
mother's skirt was wet because of tears but
Mrs Mnguni didn't care about that. Her daughter
was in pain.
"I was going to take the children home. I called
Ziwinile because I wanted to talk about that
with her. I didn't want to go there, alone."
Zinhloso responded to her mother. She was
waiting, hoping the Doctor would come back
with good news. Her children needed pints of
blood because they'd lost blood. Zinhloso knew
she wasn't a match and so, she didn't bother
going through tests. She requested they get
them a donor or search for blood type AB-
because they didn't have the blood type in their
blood banks.
Ziwinile had to call their mother and brother to
get tested. They could possibly be a match.
Zinhloso knew their father was a match for all
of them but that wasn't a way she wanted to go
back to Mhlabunzima.
"Your grandmother died worried about you. She
wasn't at peace that she was leaving things like
this between you and the children's family,
especially their father. I really don't understand
you," Mrs Mnguni complained, "you only wrote a
letter for their grandparents, kanti?"
"Mama, the dream confused me!"
"You were supposed to go and look for the
interpretation if you were confused!"
Ziwinile brushed her mother's shoulder, "calm
down, mama, she's in pain right now and all this
talk is not happening at the suitable time," she
made her aware and Mrs Mnguni took a deep
breath. She had a lot of emotions going on
when she heard Zinhloso was back but she
didn't come straight home. She was upset
about the children's situation.
They sat up straight when the Doctor returned
with a report file, "we've run tests," she read
through the reports for them, "and unfortunately,
none of you are a match."
"Oh, Oh!" They were all disappointed.
Mzomubi stood up, "what should be done?"
"I believe you're all the mother's side of the
family?" The Doctor looked at them.
"Yes!"
Zinhloso closed her eyes as she had guessed
what was coming next. She was very
unfortunate.
"I will need the father's side of the family. I am
certain we might find one match there. We'll
start with their father if he's still alive," The
Doctor looked at Zinhloso, "do you understand,
mam?"
"Yes, we'll go to them tomorrow. What can we
do for now?" Zinhloso asked.
"There's nothing we can do but you need to go
home and rest. We should get this blood by
tomorrow night or else it'll be really bad for your
children. We wouldn't want that to happen." She
gave Zinhloso a comforting smile, "go home
and rest, you'll come back tomorrow. Let the
children rest too, you'll see them tomorrow.
They're still unconscious."
"Thank you." Zinhloso packed her face into her
hands. She breathed in and out, "I really didn't
want to go to Mhlabunzima like this. Go to him
only because I need his help. Why are things so
unfair?"
"You'll have to go to him, child. Do you think in
his family we'll find a match?"
She looked at her mother with teary eyes, "I
thought the private facility would be able to find
their blood type easily even if it's a rare type.
Their father is a match, mama. He shares the
same blood type with his children."
There was silence before Mzomubi decided to
break it, "I understand why it's hard for you to do
this but there's nothing you can do. You need to
go to him, he'll help them."
"Yes, let's go home and rest."
They followed each other out. Mzomubi drove
with his mother and Ziwinile drove Zinhloso's
car. Ziwinile could drive but she hadn't bought a
car. She'd been saving the money, thinking they
would build a house but it seemed years later,
there were no such plans. It was heartbreaking.
*
Ziwinile gave Zinhloso tea with lemon. They
were in the living room at home. Their brother
and mother had gone to sleep. Zinhloso wanted
to eat.
"Have some tea and we'll go to sleep together in
your hut." Ziwinile sat down on the sofa with her.
"Thank you. I don't even know if I will be able to
sleep." Zinhloso looked at her.
She held her hand, "you have to rest and don't
stress yourself. He'll help, they're his children. I
am sure he'll jump and help them. You need to
be positive."
"And what if he doesn't jump? What if he's angry
and will not want to help? I will lose my mind
Ziwinile if I can lose those children. I will really
follow them to the grave." Her shoulders
convulsed as she cried intensely. It'd only been
four days and she wanted her sister to
accompany her to the Xulu family with the
children. She didn't want to go alone. She
wished she hadn't waited for another day.
"You won't lose them." She took the cup from
her before she could burn herself. She put it
down.
She wiped her face, "thank you for everything."
"Don't be silly! I didn't do anything." She brushed
her back, "are you going to need me to go with
you tomorrow?"
"To their father?"
"Yes, it's Friday tomorrow, I can skip work and
go with you."
"No, go to work. I will face him alone."
"Are you sure?"
Zinhloso gave her a small smile, "yes, let me go
to bed. Call Simon before it's too late. I am sure
he must be worried."
Ziwinile nodded and looked at her sister as she
walked out. She sat on the sofa next to the
telephone.
"Simon, speaking!" He quickly answered the
telephone as if he'd been waiting.
She closed her eyes, "it's Ziwinile-"
"Why didn't you get back to me! I was very
worried about you. I thought something bad had
happened!" Simon raised his voice. He was very
scared when hours later, there was no
communication from Ziwinile. He knew she'd
gone to visit her sister but he was told she
would return.
"Zinhloso's children had an accident. We had to
rush to the hospital."
He gasped on the line, "that's bad. I am really
sorry to hear that. How are they?"
"It's bad but there's hope."
"Alright, are you going to need anything?"
She shook her head as if he was with her in the
room, "I will use the clothes I have here. I will
come back tomorrow evening after seeing my
sister and the children."
"Alright, it's a good thing I am not going to work.
I will take Philani to school and the two won't go
to daycare."
"How are they?"
"They went to bed sad. They had been waiting
for your return."
"Did they eat?"
"Yes, I told my sister to cook."
If she was told to cook - she was probably
waiting for her to come back and cook. Such
selfish and foolish women. "Alright, goodnight."
"Asixabene, right?"
She remained quiet for a minute, "no," she
responded simply.
"Ngiyakuthanda, ulale kahle."
"Goodnight to you too." She placed the phone
down and went to Zinhloso's hut. She thought
she was going to ask for advice from her sister
on what to do but she was going through a lot.
She didn't want to further stress her.
UMCEBO

Chapter 253

***Chapter sponsored by Motsei in celebration

for her birthday (02/Oct)**

Her hands were shaking after she'd parked the

car under the guava tree. She looked up at the
tree and the memories returned. She could still
remember the very first day she came to the
Xulu home with her sister. Mhlabunzima's dog
charged at them and she ran, climbed the tree.
She was looking forward to meeting the famous
Mhlabunzima that day but couldn't meet him. A
lot had happened under this tree and today, she
was back. She didn't know how he was going to
receive her.
Zinhloso walked through the small gate, her
eyes set on the big house that wasn't there last
time she was at the Xulu home. What came to
mind was - he was already married and had
other children? How could she forget?
Mhlabunzima had promised her that he would
build a bigger house for her. The house would
have more bedrooms for their nine children.
She was certain that house was built for that
purpose, for his wife and his wife wasn't her.
She decided to marry her anger rather than
trying to fix things with him after he'd brought it
to the table.
Was he going to agree to help her? Was his wife
going to understand?
The house was built at the right side of the yard
- it was walks away from Mhlabunzima's house.
It was totally beautiful with a front porch. She'd
never seen such a house in the village. He was
probably the first to build the Morden style.
Zinhloso could hear the laughter coming from
the back of the kitchen hut. The huts and
houses were no longer painted in two colours
but it was one colour - dark grey.
Her heart tensed as she saw him - he was
topless, playing a soccer ball with a boy child.
Was that his child? No! She could tell the child
was older than her children. Was he being a
father to another man's child while his children
had no father? He was happy with this boy, he
was laughing and her sons? Her sons didn't
have such moments with him because he never
wanted them before he knew they were there.
Her sons didn't get to run around him and laugh
with him, calling him 'baba' like this boy did.
That was because he said she was a bad
mother and she had held on to that. She'd let it
go but her heart kept reminding her. And her
mind kept reminding her things were better and
she messed up by leaving without telling him.
She knew her mind was right.
This was a beautiful sight - father and son but it
brought pain in her heart. This was supposed to
be her children!
"Sanibonani!" She fully appeared before them
and they stopped playing. She realised this was
Buzwe's son - Menzi. She'd forgotten he was
given a child.
He couldn't believe it after seven years - there
she was standing, greeting him. She'd grown an
inch tall. She was more beautiful than the last
time, her kitten innocent looking eyes and the
beautiful full sensuous lips, they hadn't changed.
She was once everything to him. Her beauty had
knocked him off, the very first day he laid eyes
on her. She'd gained more weight, curvy and
chubby, and fairer in tone. Looking at her, he
wondered if Zinhloso resembled her ancestor in
beauty? His ancestor probably couldn't rest
without having such beauty?
Zinhloso? That woman who crushed his soul
and spirit over and over again. She did so until
she left nothing but a shell. If he didn't have
Menzi, he would have long taken his life. "What
are you doing here?"
Electric shock attacked her body as he spoke.
There was no kindness in his voice and no
kindness on his handsome face. He was no
longer small in body but he was fit. He looked
more appealing to the eye.
"Can we talk? It's very important and -"
Esther's voice disturbed Zinhloso from finishing
what she was saying. "It's very hot! You two
should have some cold juice." She was smiling
as she put the tray of juice down. "Yehheni!" She
screamed when she saw Zinhloso standing a
bit far.
"Sawubona, mama."
"What do you want?" Esther asked.
There was also no kindness in her voice. The
kindness she had when she was talking to her
son and Menzi.
She nervously looked at Mhlabunzima, "it's
about our children. They need your help."
Mhlabunzima clapped once and laughed, he
looked at her as if he was expecting she would
say she was joking. She was just here to boast
there was nothing wrong with her children, "Our
children? Are you serious? It's our children
now?"
"Ngenzwel'umusa, you're going to the house
and you'll listen to her." Esther shouted at
Mhlabunzima. She didn't want to hear anything
else.
"I won't do that."
"Angizwanga!" Esther picked up a stone.
Menzi kept tapping Mhlabunzima's shoulder,
"baba, go!"
He turned to his shirt that was on the ground
and he picked it up, "I will go and take a bath."
Esther looked at Zinhloso, "wait for him in his
house -"
"Whose house? There are huts here -"
"I will double slap you!" She warned him and
Mhlabunzima was found with no comment. He
quickly walked away. "Are you going to speak to
him only?"
"Please, be present, mama. I can't handle him
alone." She said and Esther only nodded.
Zinhloso left her giving the juice to Menzi. Being
back here brought so many memories not just
of herself but her late daughter.
She bumped into him on the door on his way
out. He had his towel and bath soap on his
hand. Mhlabunzima softly pushed her aside as
she wasn't moving from the door. "I am sorry."
She looked at him as he walked out of the
house without a word.
She smiled shortly at the framed pictures on the
wall, Qophelo, Zodumo, Menzi and their father.
She realised the twins were not included in the
pictures. Didn't he take pictures when he spent
time with them at the creche? The living room
had changed a lot but the new look was good.
"I robbed my children so much and there's a
possibility of losing them," she put her hands
together, "please, can they be safe? Can their
father agree to help them?" She waited quietly
but her head was buzzing. She couldn't get the
scene of the accident off her mind. Her three
babies. All almost killed by a truck. Their lives
were hanging in the balance. Anything could
happen, should their father refuse to help them.
She was wishing he could soften his heart for
the children's sake.
Mhlabunzima walked back inside the house and
headed to his bedroom. He really didn't want to
see Zinhloso. He didn't want to sit down and
talk to her but to respect his mother. He had to.
Xulu walked inside the house followed by his
wife. They sat on the same sofa.
"Sawubona, baba," Zinhloso greeted Xulu.
"Yebo!"
Mhlabunzima walked out of the bedroom
dressed in black shorts and a white vest.
Zinhloso didn't get an opportunity to ask Xulu
how he was doing as Mhlabunzima spoke, "get
straight to the point."
"Mhlabunzima-"
"That's no longer my name."
She swallowed hard, "Ngenzwel'umusa, I would
like to apologize for what happened between us.
What I did -"
"Zinhloso, just say what you need and stop
wasting my time. You're not here to apologize
but you're here because you need help, say
what you want to say," Mhlabunzima
straightforwardly said.
It seemed this was going to be harder than she
thought, "but I am here to apologize. I know
everything I did is wrong-"
He looked at his mother, "honestly, I was having
a good time with my son outside and I came
because you said so, she's wasting my time. I
have things to do."
"MaMnguni say what you need." Esther
encouraged.
She looked at Mhlabunzima with tender eyes
but she was scared, "the children were involved
in an accident. They're in the hospital fighting
for their lives."
"Jehovah!" Esther looked at her son but she
didn't see anything that showed he was
shocked or moved.
"I am not a Doctor, you know that, right?"
She tightened her teeth, "yes, I know that. They
need blood because they lost a lot of blood.
We've looked everywhere for their blood type
but can't find it anywhere. I remembered your
blood type is AB-, same as their blood type. Can
you please help them? I am begging you."
"No, I won't."
"Hhaybo!" Xulu and Esther screamed.
Xulu moved to the edge of the sofa, "what do
you mean? They're your children."
"That's not what she said to me. Have you
forgotten what I went through?" He asked his
parents. The day he decided to let go was the
day he told himself he didn't have children who
were alive except for Menzi.
He looked at Zinhloso, "you left me, you took
your children and left, no letter, no message,
nothing. I decided that day that I have no
children except the two dead and Menzi. I had
fought with you for over a year, you chose a
father for your kids because I wasn't worthy.
Why am I worthy to help them now?"
"I am really sorry for everything I did. I know I
was horrible to you but I thought you'll also read
the letter -"
"You left that letter for my parents, not for me!"
Xulu stepped forward, "Ngenzwel'umusa, this
back and forth will not help anyone. Go and get
dressed, go to the hospital with her now. I don't
care who said what, and why they said that.
This is about your children."
"I think I didn't make myself clear. I won't help
with anything." He stood on his feet and wasn't
moved by her tears. "Did you come back today?
And they had that accident today?"
"Sit down we-mfana!" Esther screamed, she
couldn't understand what was wrong with her
son. She didn't expect he would decide to hold
on to hate. "A parent gives life to his children
and that's what you'll do! You'll give them life."
Zinhloso was comforted as he sat down, he still
listened to his parents and maybe they were the
ones who were going to help in this situation. "I
was scared to come back. I didn't know where I
was going to begin. I wasn't ready to face you
but I wanted to come back and explain myself
to you. This happened unexpectedly. Please, I
am begging you. We only have today or their
situation will get worse. They might die. I can't
lose them,
"We lost Qophelo Ngenzwel'umusa and we lost
everything. Please, we can't lose these children
-"
"I long lost them, maybe you've forgotten.
Remember, the things I said to you? Those are
your reasons for excluding me in their lives. So,
what connection do I really have with your
children, Zinhloso?"
Everyone in the room was shaken by how
emotionless Mhlabunzima was. There was not
even a slightest pain in his eyes. His voice was
steady, it wasn't even breaking. Did he feel any
care?
"You're their father. It doesn't matter what
happened between us but there's nothing that
could change that," she was willing to beg him
until he saw the reason to help them. "Please,
don't make the same mistakes I did, letting your
anger stop you from doing the right thing."
"And you can't be the reason your two children
will die and even if it's one child, no, the child
shouldn't die because their parents didn't want
to help them. They didn't want to help them
because they're angry," Xulu added to
Zinhloso's words.
Zinhloso shamefully looked at the grandparents,
"it's three now."
"Three, what?"
"Three children!" Zinhloso held her breath.
Mhlabunzima widened his eyes at Zinhloso, "are
you saying Qophelo died because of me?"
"No, I mean we have three children. It's three
children who are in the hospital. The twins and
their younger brother." She looked at
Mhlabunzima and all she saw was
disappointment and hurt on his face.
And the parents, they were just confused. They
were looking at Mhlabunzima, "what is she
talking about, Ngenzwel'umusa?" Xulu growled.
"How should I know, baba? I am not the one
who gets pregnant."
Xulu glared at Zinhloso, "MaMnguni? How did
this happen? The two of you have been, oil and
water!"
"It happened, he knows unless he'll deny it,"
Zinhloso looked at Mhlabunzima with no
tenderness. He wouldn't dare deny her child.
When she found out she was pregnant. She
wanted to pack her bags and go back home but
Nobuhle stopped her. Told her about what was
important. She carried the pregnancy with a
heavy heart because she knew if she was home.
It wasn't going to be like that. She was going to
get all the tender treatment from Mhlabunzima
like he treated her with Qophelo. She always got
everything she wanted. He was supportive.
"I didn't know that I had created another baby
with her. She didn't tell me."
Esther clapped once and Xulu was livid. He
didn't understand how things worked out
between these two, "the two of you just decided
to meet and have sex? Huh? Now, there's
another baby born in the hospital and like his
siblings, he'll struggle! Yayoneni Kanti ingane
yami!"
"I didn't give birth at the hospital. I told Nobuhle
about what Ngenzwel'umusa told me, the curse
and how the room was when I gave birth to
Qophelo. I gave birth at home." She looked at
Esther, "I hope not having herbs won't-"
Esther was very relieved, "no, the herbs are an
addition just for our children just like we bathed
the twins when you brought them home at six
months. The light is what's more important. He
can still come and we can still bath him. How's
he?"
"He's normal like Qophelo. There's nothing
wrong with him."
"That's good, you did a good thing." Esther said,
it would have killed her if another child was yet
to struggle like his siblings.
Mhlabunzima stood up, "all that doesn't involve
me because I was told over and over again that
I am not needed. Nothing coming from me was
ever good enough for you. Nothing! Not even
things I had as ischaka moved you. Why would
you need and accept such a critical thing from
me?"
"It's not about me but it's about the children.
They're yours, whether you like it or not!"
"They're mine when it suits you? I know you by
now, you're saying all these things because you
want something from me!" He shouted at her,
"once you have what you want you'll take your
children and go, leaving me picking up the
pieces. So, why don't we just both lose?
Asilahlekelwe sonke iphele yonke lento."
"Please, don't make the same mistake I did. Our
twins are the -"
Xulu stood up as Mhlabunzima was heading to
the door without hearing what Zinhloso was
saying, "Ngenzwel'umusa! If you dare ignore
your children's cry, crying for your blood. You'll
have to find new parents and new ancestors.
NgiwuYihlo, uzokwenza lento engiyishoyo.
Awuzokwenza intando yakho! Angilawulwa
ingane mina!"
Mhlabunzima stopped for a second and he
walked out of the house.
Esther huffed, "don't worry, he'll do it!" She
wasn't worried much because she knew he was
only talking out of anger. He was going to do it.
UMCEBO

Chapter 254

****Chapter sponsored by Wisani***

Accidents happen, but how did three children

get to the point of losing blood and needing a
donation? Why was their mother unharmed?
"Chwane! I have been looking for you." Robert
screamed after Mhlabunzima as he saw him
walking through the supermarket door. He
wasn't sure if he was well or he was upset. His
face wasn't friendly.
Mhlabunzima only raised his hand to him and
headed to his office. He took a seat on the chair,
breathed in and out before taking the telephone.
He called Mnguni home, he wanted to speak to
Mzomubi.
"Hello?"
He rubbed his forehead as Mrs Mnguni
answered the phone, "yebo, sanibonani. It's
Ngenzwel'umusa, can I speak to Mzomubi?" His
voice came out thick and deeper because of the
different emotions he was going through. The
minute he left his home, everything came back
crashing. He was angry, hurt, broken and sad.
He couldn't understand anything. How did the
children get hurt? All three - three, speaking of
three, he didn't even have a picture of how the
last born looked like. Precisely, he would have
never known how the twins looked if Zinhloso's
grandmother never gave him pictures. If he
never saw them at the daycare. He would be
clueless about the appearance of his own kids.
"No, my son, he's not home."
He sighed, "do you perhaps know the hospital
where your grandchildren had been admitted
to?"
"Yes, the private hospital at Richards Baai." Mrs
Mnguni responded, "I am really sorry about
everything that has happened. I really don't
know what has gotten over Zinhloso. Please,
forgive her wrongs."
"I have to go." He put the telephone down and
rubbed his eyes furiously. He thought Mzomubi
was home and he was going to go with him. He
stood up, deciding he was just going to go
alone and find his way.
"Robert, I am sorry, I am in a hurry."
Mhlabunzima stood next to Robert, he was
standing by Mhlabunzima's car.
He backed away from the car, "it's about
Zinhloso. Did you know that she's back?"
"I didn't know. She came home today."
He sighed, "oh, I saw her in town three days
back. He was with a child, a young boy, I tell
that boy is yours. Did you two?" He gestured
hands together, trying to understand how they
came about having a young child together.
He shook his head, "I supposed he's mine if you
say he's mine. I am in a hurry, we'll catch up
tomorrow. We have to talk about the trip to
Durban."
"I will come home. I will hear from you."
Mhlabunzima got inside the car, "no, problem!"
He drove out of the premises. He was trying to
calm down along the road but it wasn't easy.
He'd buried this thing of having children deep
and he didn't revisit their memories. He had
been living a normal life and now, he was back
to square one. Back to pain. Either way, he
needed to do what was right for the children not
because his father said so but because it was
the right thing to do. He didn't have to do the
exact same thing Zinhloso did. He was
supposed to do better - these children knew
nothing about their fights. He needed to do
better as their father even if Zinhloso would
take them away. They would be alive where she
wanted them to be.
****
Zinhloso was left dizzy. She didn't know what
was going to happen next. Mhlabunzima had
left even after his father shouted at him. She
heard his mother giving her hope that
Mhlabunzima would come around. But, that
was the same thing she said to her. She told her
not to leave, he was going to come around.
Mhlabunzima never did, he still broke things off
with her.
"I don't get why you allow my son to make you
pregnant, over and over," Xulu said, looking at
Zinhloso, "there was absolutely no need for the
two of you to have another child because you're
no longer together. How did you even agree to
his advances?"
Zinhloso looked down, she didn't have any
answer to his question. She knew it wasn't his
advances but she was the one who started it.
She was the one who jumped on him and there
was absolutely no need to tell his parents the
truth.
"Baba, that's no longer important. The child is
already here." Esther said.
"I want to understand because since she's back,
are they going to mate again and have another
child? Because it seems that's their style!" Xulu
was upset - these two children had been a
headache since the beginning of their
relationship. They'd been making their heads
spin. "I will go and find this boy. He'll do this."
Zinhloso didn't know whether she was
supposed to stand up and leave. Or she was
supposed to wait for Mhlabunzima, hoping he
would come back?
She raised her eyes to Esther. She was just
staring at her. "I am really sorry about
everything, mama. I just didn't know what to do
and I wanted to do the right thing but I was just
scared of his reaction," Zinhloso tried to explain
herself to Esther but she didn't say anything.
She only looked at her, "I think I will leave and
go back to the hospital. Just to see if there's
any developments. Nisale kahle."
She stood up after getting no response from
Esther. She really didn't know what this meant.
Yes, she didn't expect that they would jump for
joy because she was back with their children
but she definitely didn't expect Mhlabunzima's
reaction. She didn't think he would say
everything he said - about not helping the
children so they would both lose them. Three
children?
Zinhloso found her mother feeding her brother's
last born daughter. She sat on the free sofa.
"I will take a bath and go back to the hospital.
He refused to help the children," Zinhloso sadly
informed her mother.
Mrs Mnguni raised an eyebrow, "he refused?
But he called and asked which hospital the
children were admitted to."
She smiled, "really? What else did he say?" She
stood on her feet. It was like hope had been
pumped back to her hopeless and tired body.
"He only asked about the hospital and nothing
much. Please, go there." She quickly
encouraged her.
Zinhloso ran out of the house. She didn't even
take a bath she was thinking of taking but she
grabbed her bag, jersey and she rushed to her
car.
"Oh, my God! I hope he really went to them. I
want my children to have their father in their
lives. Please, even if he doesn't want me
anymore. Can he need his children?" She said a
short prayer as she drove to the hospital. She
kept breathing in and out, trying to calm down.
She was taken off guard by this. His words - his
face - she really thought he didn't care.
UMCEBO

Chapter 255

***Chapter sponsored by Wisani***

After explaining himself and even showing

identification, answering security questions and
calling the Mnguni home to confirm his identity.
Mhlabunzima was allowed into the hospital
room where his three children were. They were
in the same room.
"I will leave you with them unless you need me
to stay with you," the nurse said to
Mhlabunzima with a kind smile.
He glanced at her, "no, I will be fine." He was
seated in between Milani and Mkhululi. He last
saw these two children when they were three
years old. Young, beautiful and innocent. Years
later, they were ten years old and grown. They
had tubes connected to their bodies and the
machines were beeping.
He kept looking at the twins but there was no
benevolence and nostalgia he was feeling
towards them. He felt bad - these were his
children and no matter what had happened.
They were his blood.
But he still felt no affection and connection a
father would feel for his children. Children he
hadn't seen for seven years.
The only thing he could remember when looking
at them - was how much he'd been shamed
across the entire village. A week later after
Zinhloso had left, people started talking about
how much of a bad father he was. The young
woman whom Zinhloso had told he was a
deadbeat father - spoke about that with her
friends. Everyone in the village started
whispering about it - some men confronted him
about it. They were angry he was being a father
to Menzi and not his children, they were angry
he wasn't being a good example to other young
men in the village as a prominent leader.
No woman looked his way, they were scared he
would make them pregnant and neglect the
child. Some people went as far as saying
Zinhloso left because she was tired of begging
Mhlabunzima to be a father to his kids. They
said she was protecting the children. She didn't
want them to see their father loving another
child and not them. This also affected Menzi.
Mhlabunzima never knew how to respond to
people who were bold enough to confront him.
Honestly, he didn't blame them for being angry,
they were disappointed and sad for the children.
Only - they just didn't know the truth. He didn't
say anything to defend himself.
This disconnection he felt, he didn't understand
it. He didn't blame his children for what
happened. It was their mother who told lies and
not them.
"I thought I would never see the two of you
again." He looked at Mkhululi last. He looked
taller and his daughter, still short and
resembling him. He didn't even touch the
children but he stood up.
He rammed his hands on the pockets of his
shorts. He took a good look at his last born.
When this child was conceived, he thought
things would work out. He thought they would
be a family and live a long and a happy life but
his mother had other plans. Mhlabunzima
picked up his last born's file. "Mcebo?" He read
the child's name out loud and put the file down.
He was brown skinned and resembled his
mother - Zinhloso. He could see some of his
features on the child's face.
When he turned to the door, Zinhloso was
standing at the door looking at him. She'd been
standing there the minute he lifted Mcebo's file.
She heard him when he read their child's name.
Zinhloso stepped aside as Mhlabunzima
headed straight to the door of the room. He
didn't even glance at her, "they love you and
they all know you're their father. They'd been
looking forward to seeing you. I have read for
them almost every newspaper article about the
struggle you were part of."
He didn't respond to her words but he closed
the door behind. He found the nurse and told
her he was ready to start the procedure. They
explained everything to him and once he'd
signed relevant documents. They started
running tests.
The Doctor who was handling the children's
case smiled at Mhlabunzima, "finally! You're a
match and we should start drawing blood as
soon as possible."
"Will the blood that you'll take from me be
enough for three children?" Mhlabunzima asked
the Doctor as they were taking him to the ward.
The Doctor glanced at him, "I keep looking at
you because the girl looks so much like you. It's
amazing," the lady commented.
He chuckled, "yea, her late sister looked like my
father."
"I am sorry to hear that. Is it the same mother?
If you don't mind me asking."
"Yes!"
She pointed at the bed as they had reached the
ward, "the children need different pints of blood
and so, the total pints of blood you can draw at
a time will be enough and we'll monitor their
progress."
"Alright, let's do it." He closed his eyes as they
began with the procedure.
"Draw as much as you can. As long as it'll help
my children." Mhlabunzima said he was feeling
a little dizzy and wished he could sleep. He
hated needles, they'd never treated him well
since he was a child. But he needed to do this.
"We'll draw what will be enough and allowed.
You also need to be healthy for the children's
sake." The Doctor closed the file and from there
- only he could only hope the children would be
well.
Zinhloso quickly stood up when the Doctor
walked through the door. "Doctor?" She'd been
worried sick, she kept tapping her foot on the
floor.
"We'll ask you to excuse us. Their father is a
match and we'd taken blood," the Doctor took
her out of her misery.
She held her flat tummy, "and? How's he? He
hates needles. Is he alright?"
"He's sleeping."
"Where's he?"
The Doctor gave her directions and she rushed
out of the room. She rushed to the ward where
Mhlabunzima was. She opened up the curtain
and was shocked by seeing his mother seated
on the chair looking at him.
"Ma, you're here!"
"Yes, his father didn't find him at the
supermarket and so, he suggested I come and
get tested. He would keep looking for him,"
Esther responded to her, "I have called Menzi
and told him to look for his grandfather and tell
him his father is here."
Zinhloso looked down at Mhlabunzima's hands,
"thank you so much."
"We want the children to live whether you take
them again or not."
She raised her eyes to Esther, "I promise I won't
take them again. Like I explained in the letter I
only left to fulfill my ancestors' dream and
instructions. It's not because I wanted to leave.
I didn't want to leave the way I did. I didn't want
to leave him," she looked at him sleeping on the
bed and some good memories hit her.
"I am really hoping the two of you will focus on
the children because after everything that had
happened. What relationship can you possibly
build?"
Zinhloso looked away, she didn't want to
answer Esther.
"You've hurt each other so much, both of you
and you should close that chapter."
"I love him," the words slipped out of her mouth
unplanned. "I know I have done the most
inhuman and cruel thing but I won't lie and say I
don't love your son."
Esther was taken off guard by her confession.
She really didn't expect she would be so bold,
say it as it was, "you love him after all the things
he said to you?" She asked - she knew it would
be very difficult to accept Zinhloso again as her
daughter in-law. They'd been through so much
pain, she'd included them in a fight that didn't
need them. What would stop her from doing it
again?
"Yes, I love him. He said everything out of pain,
pain caused by my mother."
Esther shook her head, "I really hope he doesn't
feel the same way about you. It's not because I
hate you but I don't want my son to get hurt
again. I also want the two of you to stop making
babies while you're not in a relationship." She
stood up and followed a nurse. She needed a
bathroom.
Zinhloso focused on Mhlabunzima, she didn't
care about anything his mother had said. The
only person who had the power to stop her -
was him! He was the one who started this
relationship with her and if he no longer wanted
her - she would be hurt but she would
understand. "Ngiyabonga kakhulu, Donda." She
bent over and pecked his soft lips. She took
time looking at him as he was sleeping.
She was happy as the nurse came to tell her the
transfusion had been done. She held his hand
tightly and quickly let go as Esther walked back
in, "would you like to see your grandchildren and
meet the last born?" She asked with a short
smile.
"Not yet," Esther said.
She swallowed the lump on her throat, "okay, I
will go!" She left her. She didn't understand the
meaning of all this. Did this mean they would
distance themselves from her children because
of what she did? Why would they do that to
them?
UMCEBO

Chapter 257

***Chapter sponsored by Lee***

It'd been two days since the children had gotten

blood transfusion and they were still in the
hospital, recovering well.
The next day, their aunt Ngenzeni arrived at the
hospital with her two children. She was visiting
the children, she was told by her mother about
the children being back in the country. They
were very happy to meet their aunt and they got
to talk with their cousins. Zinhloso was with
them, Ngenzeni told her not to worry, her
brother was going to come around. He went
through a lot where the children were
concerned, he needed time.
In the morning, Kusakusa dropped by before
going to work. He spent a few minutes with
them, he brought some fruits and juice for them.
He left after requesting they should ask their
mother to let them visit home.
"They told me ubaba omdala wabo came to visit
in the morning. I wasn't there," Zinhloso walked
through the children's room. The nurse had just
finished changing Milani's bandages.
"That's a good thing and this means, it'll only be
a matter of time before their father comes."
Mzomubi said to his sister and their presence
shifted the children's attention. They were
already annoyed by the hospitals and whenever
they got visitors. They got distracted.
"Mama, I want to go and play outside now."
Mcebo didn't give his mother a chance to greet
them. He stated his grievances to her.
She brushed his back, "don't worry, the Doctor
will allow you to go home tomorrow."
"Really?" Milani looked at her uncle for
confirmation and he nodded.
Mkhululi sighed, "we'll finally get to see dad. I
think he hates hospitals."
Zinhloso and Mzomubi eyed one another as the
children supported each other. Zinhloso was
comforted that at least they didn't think he
didn't want them.
The door was opened and the grandparents
walked in following each other. Esther was only
carrying her handbag and Xulu had a plastic bag
full of children's food.
Zinhloso introduced them, "Mkhululi and Milani,
do you remember, granny and grandpa. Your
father's mother and father."
"Gogo and Mkhulu?"
"Yes, these are your grandparents!" Hope was
pumped back into her body as she finally saw
the grandparents. They were getting there.
"Mina ngiwu Mcebo, akaze nganibona, gogo no
mkhulu," Mcebo introduced himself and the
grandparents laughed.
Esther lifted him off the bed and sat on the
chair with him. He no longer had any tubes
connected to his body. He had cuts on his leg
and scratches on his back.
"We're happy to finally meet you. You should all
come to grandma so that you can tell me about
the big city," Esther looked at the twins after
Mcebo.
Mcebo placed his hand on his granny's cheek,
"gogo, you'd never been in a big city and on a
plane?"
She laughed, "I haven't been on a plane. Are you
going to take me?"
"Yes, when I am rich like mom and dad."
The adults laughed, "who told you that your
parents are rich?"
"Uncle John, mkhulu, he said if we love school
we'll be rich like them."
Xulu nodded, "he's right, your grandpa is also
rich." The children laughed hilariously. They
didn't believe that the old man was rich.
Zinhloso widened her eyes at the children but
with a smile on her face, "why can't you believe
grandpa is rich?"
"He's old, mama, he gets a pension to buy old
age medicine." Milani responded and the room
was filled with laughter. Esther and Xulu were
filled with warmth and comfort as they spent
time with their grandchildren. Xulu was most
grateful that his son had done the right thing -
he gave the children life. When it was time to
leave, Esther asked Zinhloso aside.
She opened her small handbag and took out her
purse. She gave Zinhloso money wrapped in
black plastic bag, "this is money from their
father. He asked me to give it to you. It'll help
you with their medical bills."
That was huge progress and Zinhloso was
grateful for it. "Thank you so much."
"Keep well." Esther closed her bag and she went
to her husband.
Zinhloso stopped her, "how are you going to get
back home? We can drive together."
Esther looked at her husband and he nodded.
They followed Mzomubi and Zinhloso. They
drove with them back home. Nobody was
talking in the car.

"Zinhloso, why is my grandson crying?" Mrs

Mnguni walked into the living room with Mcebo
in her arms. He was no longer crying but he was
furiously rubbing his eyes. "I found him under
the tree, crying."
"He wants his father, mama, where should I get
him if he's not available for them?" Zinhloso
asked her mother. The children returned from
the hospital two days back. She sent her
nephew to the Xulu home. She asked him to tell
them the children were back home. He came
back with ointment from Esther, for the wounds.
There had been no communication from
Mhlabunzima. She called the supermarket
yesterday and she was told he was out.
"Take the children home. Go and put on a dress
and take them to him. Mufunze zona ngenkani
ke. Azingakhali izingane ubaba wazo ehlala la
enqulwini yekati."
"But mama, he doesn't want them!"
"He doesn't want them or he doesn't trust you,
huh?" Mrs Mnguni shouted at Zinhloso and she
quickly stood up after those words. "Don't cry,
she'll take you to your dad." She sat down with
him and Mcebo completely kept quiet.
Mzomubi was going to town with his first wife.
He dropped Zinhloso and the children at the
Xulu family home's gate. Mzomubi was still
married to his two wives and he had eight
children.
Zinhloso went down and Mcebo got on her back
after he'd finished being fascinated by the big
family yard. Zinhloso realised he just enjoyed
praising anything from his paternal side of the
family. Their maternal home was bigger but he
couldn't see that. He was only seeing his home
as bigger.
"Mama, who's the owner of the bigger house?
Wow, mom, I want to live in that house." Mcebo
couldn't stop talking. Zinhloso had seen Esther
in the garden. The helper was washing the
dishes outside the kitchen hut.
Mcebo laughed before getting an answer from
his mother, "mama, there's also sheep at home.
I don't care about your sheep anymore. I will ask
dad to give me a sheep."
"Who said it's your dad's sheep?"
He laughed, "because he's rich!"
"Mcebo, you talk a lot!" Milani rushed to her
grandmother and hugged her, "gogo, Mcebo
speaks a lot."
Esther hugged the child back, "let your brother
talk. He's home. Unjani, mfana kagogo?" She
pulled Mkhululi into her wing. She'd long seen
that Mkhululi wasn't a child of many words but
he was different when he was with his father.
She realised that years back, when Zinhloso
brought the twins home with their father around.
"Yebo, gogo, unjani?"
"I am fine. I am glad that you've come home."
Zinhloso looked at Esther, "I had to bring them
home because Mcebo had been crying. He
wants his father. I don't know if he's home or
not. I really don't mean to push them down his
throat but I don't know what else to do."
"Don't apologize. You don't control what the
child wants. He'd never seen this man, it's
understandable." Esther pointed at the house.
"He's home, you can go to him. If there's a
problem, call me."
"Thank you. Come, let's go!" She pointed at the
way up using her head.
They knocked at the opened door.
Mhlabunzima lifted his eyes, he was seated on
the sofa writing. The TV was on. He closed the
book and placed it on the telephone table. He
wasn't expecting this visit but he could see
from their faces, they were excited about being
home.
Zinhloso put Mcebo on the floor. He didn't need
to be told but he limped to his father. He stood
before Mhlabunzima with a pure smile
reflecting on his face. He placed his finger on
his mouth and he didn't say any of the words
he'd planned to say to him.
The twins came from either side of
Mhlabunzima and they hugged him. Milani was
holding his neck tightly, "sawubona, baba! We're
back!"
"Sanibonani!" He laughed as Milani was still
holding him, "uzongibulala phela, sisi!"
She giggled and let go, "sorry!"
Mhlabunzima lifted Mcebo off the floor and he
put him on his lap."Ubani lo?" (Who's this?) He
asked the twins. Mcebo was looking down,
shyly but still with a smile on his face. This
shyness reminded Mhlabunzima of the first
time he met his mother. She was shy.
"Baba, ingane yakho le enye yomfana ethanda
ukukhuluma!" (This is your other son who likes
talking) Milani responded.
Mhlabunzima laughed as Mcebo cried, he
playfully hit Milani. "I have hit her for teasing
you. Stop crying."
"Milani and Mkhululi sit down or grab chairs if
you want to sit closer to your father.
Useyamelwa umuntu omdala?" Zinhloso asked
the twins and they quickly grabbed chairs. They
sat next to their father on either side of the sofa.
Mhlabunzima fully recognised Zinhloso in the
room. "You can go home. I will bring them
back," he said to her. He was taken off guard by
their visit but he was glad they came. The past
days, he had given him time. He took out the old
photos of the children - the twins, photos he'd
hidden. He went through their photos,
remembering the times shared with them. Every
moment, he revamped everything from his
memory.
She stood up, "alright, I will hear from you." She
looked at the kids, "I will go home. Your father
will bring you back."
Mcebo shook his head, "no, don't go mama!" He
opened his mouth boldly. "Mama, woza
uzogona kubaba wethu nawe njengo mamdala
egona kumalume John," (come sit on dad's lap
like Nobuhle) Mcebo made a request.
Zinhloso's laughter was loud and sharp. "We're
not married, Mcebo!"
"Why are you not married?" Milani asked.
Mhlabunzima held Mcebo's hand, "we were
almost married but it didn't happen. We just
decided it's best we buy babies even if we're not
married," he responded.
"So, are you going to get married now?"
Mkhululi asked.
He glanced at their mother. She was just quietly
staring at her feet, "that's not important for now
but what's important is - you're home!" He held
Zinhloso's hand, stopping her from leaving, "I
think it's best if you don't go, please, I can't
answer all these questions alone."
Mcebo looked at his father once his mother had
sat down, "baba? Ngicela ukuhlala kuleyandlu
enkulu!"
"But you live with your mother."
He nodded, "she can come and live with me in
the big house. If she doesn't want to, I will leave
her at home."
"Uyaphapha wena!" Zinhloso commented as the
twins and their father laughed.
The maid walked into the house and put the
tray of food on the table. They thanked her and
she walked out. Mhlabunzima took Mcebo's
dish.
"Baba, can I also have a sheep?" Mcebo
requested kindly.
"What are you going to do with it?"
"I will own one and eat the other."
He chuckled, "I will give you one when you're a
big boy, you'll have to look after the sheep so
that I can see if you can be responsible. I will
also give one to Mkhululi," Mhlabunzima
promised the child, "I have given one to your
older brother Menzi and he looks after it very
well. His sheep has two lambs now. He looks
after his sheep very well."
"And what about me, baba?" Milani asked as
she heard she wasn't mentioned.
"You're a girl!" Mhlabunzima responded.
Milani shrugged, "so?"
He looked at Zinhloso and she also shrugged,
"don't look at me!" Zinhloso said. She wanted
him to answer her.
"You can't look after sheep because you have
different duties from boys. You won't get time,"
he responded.
"But mom is a girl and she has a lot of sheep."
Mkhululi nodded, "yes, baba, so, why won't you
give my sister one?"
"I will give her chickens. Girls look after
chickens."
"No, the chicken is small!"
Mhlabunzima closed his eyes, "okay, I will give
her one, then when she's older!" He could see
they were happy. He looked at Mcebo, "I will call
your mother to bring you home and we'll
slaughter one for you."
"And what about me?" The twins asked.
He looked at Zinhloso as she was laughing her
lungs out, "why are you laughing? I didn't ask
you to stay so you can laugh."
"Aybo, awungyeke!"
"It'll be for everyone." He rubbed his eyes as
they refused. He'd never seen such demanding
children, "Mkhululi and Milani, you'll get one
slaughtered for you because you're twins.
You're one person and Mcebo will get his."
Mhlabunzima was relieved he'd finally solved
the mess. He almost found himself
slaughtering three sheep. They spent more time
together, the children telling him about their
lives abroad.
Later, he walked them home. They had said
goodbye to their grandparents. It wasn't dark
yet and because his cars were not home.
Mhlabunzima decided to walk with them. He
had Mcebo in his arms.
"Hawu, Chwane, you see? Now, you're being a
good man, we know. You're being responsible
for your children," one of the men in the village
said to Mhlabunzima as he met up with him,
with his children and their mother. He looked at
Zinhloso, "we're sorry for his actions,
MaMnguni."
The man shook hands with Mhlabunzima. He
didn't say anything to the man.
Zinhloso looked at him, "what's he talking about
Ngenzwel'umusa?" She asked and he didn't
respond. He pretended like he couldn't hear her.
At home, the children went to their grandmother
and Zinhloso looked for her sister-in-law. She
told her about the man they met on the road
and what he said.
"Oh, everyone was talking about him being a
deadbeat father after you've left. They were
saying you left because of him not wanting your
children."
Zinhloso held her mouth and walked away. She
headed to her hut. That bloody woman! She
needed to find out if she was still around or not.
She threw her body on top of the bed. She
replayed the moment her children had with their
father. She desperately wished they could be a
complete family. All her siblings had their
families and were married but hers - it was
messed up.
"I did everything you asked of me, khokho.
Ngiyacela, ngicela indoda yami ibuye kimi
nezingane zethu sibe umndeni." She requested
out loud. That was her only wish, currently.
UMCEBO

Chapter 256

***Chapter sponsored by Lee***

"Why did you take her food?" Ziwinile rocked her

daughter into her arms.
She was crying after her aunt slapped her. She
was slapped because she took a piece of meat
on the plate she left on top of the table. Her
aunt returned, she was trying to run away when
the plate fell. Her aunt slapped her.
"I asked for meat and she refused."
Simon walked into the room coming back from
work. "What's wrong?" He took his daughter
from her mother. He calmed his daughter down.
He kept looking at his wife, she was folding
clothes she had finished ironing.
"MaMnguni, why is my child, crying?" He asked
after telling her to go and play with her brothers.
She took clothes from the bed and put them
inside the wardrobe, "go and ask your pregnant
sister."
"Ziwinile, that's not the way you should speak to
me." He held her hand as she was walking out
of the room, "what's wrong with you?"
"Your sister slapped my child for taking meat on
her plate. The meat I cooked. Is there anything
you'll do about that? No, you'll only say. 'mom,
mom, I don't like what she did," she burst, she
tried ignoring him because she didn't want to
keep arguing about one and the same thing.
"Did you confront her about it?" Simon asked.
She pulled her hand off his hold and she walked
out of the house. She needed to talk to her
mother about this. She was tired. Maybe she
was going to give an advice. She didn't want to
act out of anger.
Ziwinile woke up early in the morning before
everyone woke up. She called her mother.
"Why do you sound down?" Mrs Mnguni asked
her daughter on the line.
She held her tears back, "I am not happy about
the treatment I get from his family. I don't know
what to do…" She told her mother about
everything that has been bothering her. What
her in-laws had been doing. "I can't believe she
slapped a two year old, mama. Thobile is just a
child."
"That's what they do. Your aunts did the same
to me until your father had enough money to
build a home away from them. Talk to your
husband, make him understand." Mrs Mnguni
was saddened by this situation. She knew how
painful it was and she wished she could help
her.
"I have tried, mama, it's all about the safety of
his mother and sisters. It doesn't matter how I
feel. He didn't even say a thing to his sister last
night." Ziwinile responded to her mother, "I am
even thinking of taking my children and leave. I
can find a place of our own where they'll be
free."
"No, Ziwinile! Things are not done like that."
"How are things done, mama? Is what
happening to me, okay? I am already expecting
a fourth child I found out yesterday morning. I
haven't even told him about that," she cried to
her mother, "his old sister has a child and the
second sister is pregnant. We don't have space
for another child here. I am not used to this,
mama."
Mrs Mnguni sighed, "you got married knowing
the living arrangements there. You were
supposed to tell him from the onset that you're
not getting married without a place of your own.
Now, you want to separate the children from
their father?" She shouted.
She realised her mother wasn't helping her. She
loved Simon too much. He'd been a good son-in
-law. He would come home whenever they were
doing things like rituals or ceremonies, he didn't
act like a guest but he acted like a son. He
would visit her mother just to have tea with her.
Mrs Mnguni loved him, she probably didn't want
her to lose him as a husband.
"I have to go, mama." She put the phone down
as Simon walked inside the house.
"What's wrong? Why are you making phone
calls so early in the morning?" Simon asked, "I
woke up to an empty side of the bed."
She stood up, "it's nothing. I wanted to check if
Zinhloso was home." She walked out of the
house before he could talk.
****
His lashes moved, it felt like he'd been in a very
deep sleep. His body was numb. He forced his
eyes open and by the brightest light his eyes
were set to - Mhlabunzima remembered he was
at the hospital.
He looked around and his eyes locked with
Zinhloso's bright eyes. His heart tensed.
"Ungibukani?" (Why are you looking at me) He
stared at her face as she shifted uncomfortably
on the chair.
"I am sorry I just wanted to check if you're well."
She removed her eyes away from his face, "I
know you don't like needles."
He kept his mouth shut and looked at the side
tables. The jug of water and glass were at her
side. Mhlabunzima tried to pour water for
himself. He glared at Zinhloso as she held his
hand. Her hands were cold and soft.
"I will pour water for you. It's not a big deal," she
said and poured water on the glass for him. She
handed the glass to him. "Here!"
"Ngiyabonga." He drank the water and sat up
straight, "why are you here? Shouldn't you be
with the kids?"
"I was with them. They're still unconscious. I
wanted to check up on you."
His body felt much better after the well
deserved sleep. He needed it. He raised his
eyes at the sound of curtain opening. It was the
nurse.
She smiled at them, "parents, the children had
regained consciousness. They'd been asking
about their mother and father."
Mhlabunzima looked at Zinhloso - she looked
happy and relieved by the news. He removed his
eyes from her when she looked at him. He
stared at the glass.
"Can you kindly come with me?" Zinhloso asked,
softly, "she says they asked about you. They are
expecting to see you."
"You go to them."
Zinhloso lifted her body off the chair, her eyes
still with him. "Are you really going to remove
yourself from their lives?" She didn't care about
the nurse who was looking at them with
confusion.
"I can't believe you're really asking me that
question."
She pushed the chair back, "thank you for
helping them, then." She left the room alone.
She didn't know where this was going to end.
She smiled brightly and laughed at the beautiful
faces of her children. They were seated on their
butts eating.
"Mama! Come to me and feed me, please!"
Mcebo screamed at his mother.
Zinhloso laughed, "you're six years old Mcebo,
you can feed yourself."
He folded his lips sulking, "where's my father?
You said he'll do everything I want when we get
home."
"Yes, mom, where's our father?" Milani asked.
They were all looking at their mother with
hopeful eyes, "we want to see him and what
happened to us?" Mkhululi added.
She didn't know how to answer their questions.
"Your father is busy. He came to see you here
but you were all still sleeping. You got hurt, a
truck hurt you," she didn't want to blame the
children because she knew what happened
wasn't their fault. It was what she was warned
about. She couldn't reprimand them for that. It
had to happen. The Doctor had told her the
children didn't have many scars and it was
confusing why they had lost so much blood.
Zinhloso understood but she didn't explain
anything to the white lady.
"Mama, that's why we have bandages?" Milani
asked, she lifted her bandaged arm.
"Yes, your father came and he gave you his
blood so that you can be well."
"WOW!" They were all surprised - to them - it
was a cool thing.
Mcebo was fascinated, "mama, I have his blood
in me?"
She laughed, "you're his child Mcebo. You
already had his blood in your body. You just
needed more to be well."
He smiled and looked at his body. Zinhloso's
heart tensed. She really wished she could do
magic and bring Mhlabunzima to them but
things weren't going the way she hoped they
would.
She left them having sweets talking about
things they would say to their father. She went
to Mhlabunzima's ward. She needed to try
harder - she wanted him to show his face
before them. Why was he angry towards the
children?
"Where's the man who was here?" Zinhloso
asked the nurse who was making the bed. She
was removing the old bedding and putting the
new one.
"He was discharged. There wasn't much left for
him. He regained his strength and left. He just
left I don't think he's made it out of the
building."
Zinhloso turned and rushed out. She was
looking around for him. She finally saw him
heading to the corridor that was going to take
him to the reception area.
"Ngenzwel'umusa!" She took steps closer as he
stopped walking but he didn't look back,
"ngiyakuncenga, Gxabhashe. Just for today, can
you please come and see them. They're really
excited about meeting you." She held her breath
and she released her tears as Mhlabunzima
continued walking. What did her children do to
him? He was probably doing this because he
had Menzi. He didn't care about them. He only
cared about the child next to him - the child who
wasn't even biological his.
UMCEBO

Chapter 258

***Chapter sponsored by Lee***

Ziwinile decided to take a brave move and talk
to her mother-in-law. She thought maybe - she
didn't have a problem with them moving out,
maybe she would understand her situation.
She served her, tea and biscuits. She sat on an
empty sofa. "Mama, I thought we should talk.
There's something that's bothering me."
"What's wrong?"
Ziwinile told her mother-in-law about what her
daughter did, slapping her daughter for food,
"that didn't sit well with me and I told her father
about it but he didn't say anything to his sister. I
am not against my child being disciplined but it
should be done the proper way."
Her mother-in-law called her daughter. She was
angry about hearing this. "What is it that I am
hearing now?"
She sat down, "what are you hearing, mama?"
She asked.
"You slapped Thobile for taking a piece of meat
on your plate!"
"Yes, I was teaching her manners!"
Her mother threw a backslap at her, "manners!
What manners are you teaching a two year old
by slapping her, huh?" She yelled, "her parents
buy food every month without complaining and
you refused to give your brother's child a simple
chicken?"
"I am sorry."
She pointed at the door, "voetsek!" She looked
at her daughter as she stood up and left, "I don't
know why Simon didn't say anything about this.
You must have said something that made him
upset."
"I don't know but I have spoken about moving
out to him."
"Moving out!" She screamed.
"Yes, we have children, mama and the space is
no longer enough for us." She proceeded to talk
even though she could see she was suddenly
angry at her.
"Where do you want to take my son? Huh? Isn't
he home here and his children should grow up
here?" She didn't stop shouting at her. She
could understand where she was taking the
courage to want to take her son away from
home. This was their home where he grew with
his siblings.
Ziwinile tried to explain, "his sisters -"
"Don't even start!"
Simon walked inside the house with a plastic
bag of meat. He went to town to buy meat. He
wanted his wife to cook it for him and his
mother, "what's wrong? Why are you shouting?"
His mother pointed at Ziwinile, "she's telling me
she wants to take you and live away from home.
She wants to leave with her children. What's
this, Simon?"
He took a seat next to Ziwinile. He looked at her,
he was disappointed that she'd spoken to his
mother about this after he'd made herself clear
that they were not going to leave home. "Why
can't you take what I told you? Kanti, what's
wrong with you?" Simon asked.
"This environment is no longer right for my
children."
Her mother-in-law clapped once and laughed,
"this environment! That's how you address my
home? I gave birth to Simon so that you'll take
him away from me? That abusive husband who
made your life miserable, did he build a home
away from his parents for you? I raised a decent
boy, he made you a wife after your miserable
marriage and now, he should leave me here."
Ziwinile looked at her with hurt - it had come to
that? She was using her past.
"Mama, don't bring her past into this. This has
nothing to do with that."
Ziwinile stood up, this woman clearly didn't
know her. She was MaNtuli's daughter and she
wasn't going to let her speak like this about her.
Was it her fault that she was in an abusive
marriage? "Well, he was abusive but he had built
a home for me. He built that home before he
even learnt I couldn't have kids with him. That's
what men do, especially men with evil sisters
like your daughters." She looked at Simon who
was looking at her with disbelief, "it's fine,
zizokhula kuso lesisiyonkotho izingane ngoba
kuyakujabulisa ukuhlunkunyezwa kwazo."
She walked out of the house, leaving Simon
shocked. He couldn't believe she spoke like that
with him and his mother.
Ziwinile sat on the bed and tried to calm down.
The bags were packed in the morning because
they were going home for the weekend with the
children. Zinhloso was going to come by and
drive them. She went to town and told her she
would pass. Ziwinile had told Simon the
previous day and he agreed.
"Why were you so rude to my mother?" He
asked and slammed the door behind him.
Ziwinile kept quiet, "I am talking to you."
She stood up and went to the children's
bedroom when she heard a hoot. "Come, we're
leaving now. Your mother has arrived," she said.
They'd been seated together waiting for the car.
"I am still talking to you and I think it's best you
don't go home this weekend."
Ziwinile took the bigger bag, "I had already told
my mother we're coming."
"I don't care but you should stay. We need to
talk. We need to fix this thing."
She pointed to the door for the children and
they walked out, "there's nothing to fix. You only
want to gang up on me with your mother. Think
again. I am not sorry about anything I said."
"So, that fool, Bhekani is a better man than me?"
"You decide!" She walked out of the house. She
didn't pass by the house to say goodbye to her
mother-in-law.
"Did you say goodbye to your grandmother?"
Ziwinile asked the children after stepping inside
the front seat of the car. Zinhloso was driving a
private car.
"Yes!"
"What did she say?"
"She said she'll talk to you."
Ziwinile chuckled and looked at Zinhloso, "drive,
I am not going back in there to say a thing to
her. Bafuna ukungibona ukuthi ngikuhlaza laba."
"Hhaybo!" Zinhloso drove away.
"Don't even ask about it." She said and took a
deep breath.
****
Zinhloso was led into the office by Ntokozo.
"Are you sure it's okay if I sit here and wait for
him? I don't want to intrude," she asked
Ntokozo after he'd opened up Mhlabunzima's
office for her at the supermarket.
"Come on, you're the mother of his children.
Why would he mind? He'll come back soon." He
smiled at Zinhloso, "I will bring a drink for you."
Zinhloso waited for Mhlabunzima - she was
looking around the office and was taken back to
the time she was building this place. She didn't
know where she got such courage. She looked
back when the door was opened. He walked in -
she held herself from smiling. Years later, he
was still wearing the very first gift she bought
for him. The hat. He didn't throw it away?
"What's wrong? Did something happen to the
children?" Mhlabunzima asked, he got a
surprise visit in the morning. The woman he
asked out years ago - the one Zinhloso told
Mhlabunzima was a deadbeat. She came to
apologize and she surprisingly asked if they
could have another chance? He didn't want to
hear anything about that because she chose to
believe what Zinhloso said without verifying it.
"No, I only need to talk to you."
He sat down, "about?"
"About what happened between us."
"Is there a need? What happened, happened and
there's nothing that could change it."
Zinhloso felt this was going to be difficult, "no, it
shouldn't be like that. I was wrong for
everything I did. I treated you badly, so bad I am
even ashamed to start apologizing."
"Like, I said Zinhloso, there's no need. We'll only
focus on the children." He didn't want to
confront this - what happened between them. It
was enough with the children.
"No, it's not and please, hear me out. The last
time we were together-"
He stopped her from talking, "you used me for
sex and once you got what you wanted you left.
You lied about still loving me, you brought the
children to me so I could have hope and you
snatched them away from me so you could
break my spirit. There was no explanation, no
goodbye, no letter, nothing!"
"No, it's not like that! I wrote a letter-"
"For my parents! You wrote a letter for my
parents, even on that letter,
"You didn't even say where you're going. You
only said why you're leaving and left not even a
line for me. The man you supposedly love. Were
you in a relationship with my parents?" He
asked.
"No, but it's about the dream I had…" she
explained her dream, "I had decided I am no
longer leaving but I was scared of your reaction
from the dream. You were angry you took the
children and left. I was scared you'll not want
me to leave."
"I wouldn't want you to leave? Can you hear
yourself?" He raised his voice. He was pissed
off by this.
"Yes, it's far and I was going to leave-"
"Am I not the same person who fought for you
to go back to school? Why would I have
stopped you from studying while I have more
than one qualification?" He shouted, he wished
to throw things, "it's worse that your ancestor
wanted you to do this. You are trying to tell me I
was going to defy your ancestor?"
She was having regrets. Mzomubi was right.
Why did she take such a decision? "I was
scared, Gxabhashe. I didn't want us to share
any more harsh words towards each other. I am
really sorry for everything I did to you and the
children. I am sorry for letting anger get the
best of me. Hate blinded me."
"I was going to say harsh words to you because
you wanted to go and study? What do you take
me for?" He couldn't believe everything she was
saying to him. Why did she think like this? It
wasn't like he'd stopped her from achieving
anything in her life. Even when she got pregnant
with Qophelo he kept emphasizing that she
would leave the child with his mother and
continue going to school.
"Ngicela ungixolele."
He shook his head, "it's fine, please, give me
space."
"I am not done. I want to do things right
between us. I want to properly atone for my
wrongs," she took a gamble and held his hands.
He didn't stop him but he looked at her hands,
"can you give me a chance? Can we work things
through and work on us? I recognise everything
I did and I admit I shouldn't have hurt you by
using the kids."
"What do you mean you want us to work on us?"
Mhlabunzima asked, Zinhloso was still holding
his hands.
She looked at him, "I mean, I wish to fix things
and be in a relationship again. I want us to be a
family, you and I, our children. The four of
them."
He pulled his hands away from her, "me? Do
you want a relationship with me again? You'd
proven and admitted you don't even know me.
Taking a decision to leave because I was going
to refuse for you to study, shows you don't
know me. Why would I want to be with you after
that?
"You honestly think I was going to keep you
from going for your dreams? Why would I fight
for the inclusion of black people in education
and stop my partner from studying?
"One thing I was going to refuse, was going to
be, taking the kids to another country but not
your dreams!"
"I have realised my mistake and that's why I
have decided to put my pride aside. I decided to
come to you and apologize because I believe
we can fix what's broken."
He shook his head, "you did what you did
because of everything I said to you. You hired
people to attack me because I hurt you. There's
no longer a future between us."
She knew and understood she wasn't going to
be accepted back on the first try, not after what
she did the last time. Not after giving him hope
and leaving him suffering. "Please, give me
another chance to gain your trust."
"We had a good relationship, Zinhloso, and we
have beautiful children. Let's make peace with
how things are now." He stopped fighting and
used his normal tone. His eyes fixed on her tear
glistening eyes. He wasn't moved by anything.
Not after everything he went through, "I was
willing to put everything behind us before, but
not now. It's really over."
She shut her eyes. She didn't want to believe
that this was the end of the road. Not after
she'd done everything to please her ancestor.
Why would she look at her lose her relationship
like this? She didn't want to be told there was
another man for her. She wanted to be told,
'things will work out. Be patient.'
"Please, think about us. We still have a chance. I
know it." She said standing on her feet. She
didn't let her tears fall.
Mhlabunzima stood up and walked her out of
the office. He didn't care about the people who
were looking at them.
"How's Mcebo and his siblings?"
She glanced at him. She didn't even expect he
would walk her out, "he's fine. He can't keep his
mouth shut about his home and the big house
he'll live in."
He chuckled, "the house is not furnished, maybe
we should buy furniture for his room in the
house."
She looked at him, surprised, "he'll have a room
there?"
"Yes, he asked for it."
"Did you build the house because you were
going to get married?"
He looked at his feet, and they walked out of
the supermarket, "it's better I don't answer that
question. Are you going to be able to do it? I can
ask my sister if you can't."
"How will Mcebo sleep alone in that house?"
He shrugged, "he said he wants to live inside
the house and he has siblings, he won't sleep
alone."
"I will let you know when we can go."
"Alright, goodbye."
"Bye," she looked at him as he walked back. She
held her chest and went home. She kept
replaying their conversation. He only showed
one emotion - anger and Zinhloso saw he was
holding back.
UMCEBO

Chapter 260
***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

There was noise in the backyard of the Xulu

home. Mhlabunzima was playing a soccer ball
with his three sons and his brother's two sons.
Kusakusa's boys came to visit Menzi for the
day. They didn't know their other siblings were
home.
Mkhululi was a goalkeeper. It was Mhlabunzima
and Mcebo against three. Mcebo was clueless
about the game; he would even take the ball
using his hands and run to his father with the
ball. Everyone would scream at him and he
would just laugh until he'd given the ball to his
father. Esther and Xulu were seated behind
Esther's hut on the straw mat watching the
game.
"Baba, can I play too?" Milani screamed for her
father and they stopped playing. They all looked
at her, even the grandparents.
Mkhululi walked away from the net, "you're a girl
Milani. Go and sit with our grandparents."
"No, I want to play!"
Mhlabunzima huffed, "go and wear your tights
so you won't get hurt easily." He knew if he
refused she was going to start crying. She
behaved like her mother. Once she'd run off,
Mhlabunzima turned to the boys, "we'll end the
game soon and go to buy a cold drink. I don't
want your sister running around in the hot sun."
"Yebo!"
They proceeded with the game. Milani joined
Mhlabunzima's team.
"I think this time around their mother is
genuine," Xulu commented as they looked at
their son playing with the children.
Esther smiled, "yes, Ngenzwel'umusa is very
happy to have his children back. He did a good
thing by giving them his blood because we
would be talking a different story by how."
"Don't even mention it."
She sighed, a worried sigh, "I just wonder who'll
be this wife he's hopeful that he'll get. This
house has been empty for years now." She
glanced at her husband.
He laughed, "we don't know but hopefully it'll be
someone who'll love his kids."
"Yes!"
Esther stood up and went to get a cold drink for
them as they'd ended their game. Menzi's team
had won and Mcebo kept blaming his father for
losing but he was the one who didn't even
understand the game. Milani kept telling him he
was the reason they lost and not their father.
Mhlabunzima was just happy, whether they lost
or won, he didn't care. He got to bond with them.
They went to bathe after they'd had a drink.
Mhlabunzima drove to town, they did some
clothing shopping and after that they went to
Empangeni station area with the children.
They returned to the village a bit late,
Mhlabunzima dropped off Kusakusa's sons at
home and he drove home with his children. He
left them with his mother and drove to the
supermarket to check on things and close for
business.
After dinner, the children were seated around
Menzi on the coffee table. He was doing his
homework. They were just looking at what he
was writing.
"Do you understand everything you're writing,
bhuti?" Mkhululi asked, "you write very fast!"
"Yes, I understand everything."
"That's nice. I always see many words and don't
understand what they mean."
"Dad will help you out. Don't worry about
anything." Menzi said.
Mhlabunzima smiled, "do you need help with
your homework? I want to go and sleep. I am
tired."
"I am done, baba. I need your signature." He
finished off and gave him the homework book.
Mhlabunzima signed after checking the
homework. "Mcebo, let's go and sleep."
Milani stood up and pulled Mkhululi up, "let's
follow them. We'll sleep with them."
"And I will sleep alone?" Menzi asked.
They waved at Menzi, "yes, goodnight!"
Mhlabunzima helped them onto the bed and he
switched off the main light, leaving the beside
light on. He changed and joined them in bed.
They didn't sleep right away, Mcebo and Milani
were talking to their father and Mkhululi fell
asleep quickly. They were all tired, it didn't take
long before they fell asleep.

After four days, they went back to their mother.

Mcebo was upset about it. He really thought he
would live with his father and he would only go
to his mother when he missed her. Their mother
called, and she asked Mhlabunzima to bring
them back because she'd kept some meat for
them from the ritual. The children didn't mind
that meat because their father had slaughtered
the first sheep for them as he'd promised them.
"Mcebo, I don't want to whip you! Don't you
want to see your mother now?" Mhlabunzima
shouted at him.
"Why can't mom come and live with us at
home?" He sulked and tears streamed down his
cheeks.
He pointed at the gates, "go and call your
mother Milani!" He sat back on the driver's seat.
Mcebo was in the passenger seat and Mkhululi
at the back, "your mother and I are not married,
that's why we can't live together."
"Get married!"
Mhlabunzima got to breathe when Zinhloso
came out of the premises. Zinhloso asked what
was going on and she was told. "I can't believe
a six year old is rulling you! Uzwa ngengane
ukuthi kumele kwenzekeni."
"Wena naye niyizithupha ziy' egwayini!" (You
two are the same!) He said.
Zinhloso rolled her eyes and opened the door.
She could tell Mhlabunzima was slightly pissed
off. "Get out of the car and go home. I won't
repeat myself." She said sternly and the crying
Mcebo stepped out of the car.
It saddened his father to see him crying. He
lifted him up, "don't cry, I will come again and
you'll be with me until you miss your mother,
okay?"
"Yebo!"
Mhlabunzima pulled the other two under his
wing, "I will see you again. For now, go to your
mother." He said and they said goodbye to him.
He looked at Zinhloso. He never imagined her
as a tough mom.
He handed Mcebo to his mother, "if you're no
longer busy, can you kindly come to me at the
supermarket? We need to talk about the twins."
"Okay, I will come."
He looked at them as they walked into the
Mnguni home. He stepped back into the car and
drove straight to the supermarket.

Mhlabunzima walked into the office with a tray

of braai-ed lamb meat with pap, salsa and coca
cola. He placed the tray on top of the office
desk. He removed the papers and files from the
table.
"This is the meat your children asked for," he
placed the chair next to her and sat down. "They
should come back and finish it off."
"You didn't even think of giving them some to
come home with." Zinhloso's mouth salivated
and she started eating.
"Didn't your family slaughter a cow and didn't
think of giving us even a kidney of a cow?" He
looked at her, acting surprised that she was
saying such.
She laughed, "come on, we're a big family!"
"We're also a big family."
"No, you're not because that sheep didn't
include extended family members."
He took a piece of meat, "it must be your kids
who told you that. We gave them the meat – ah,
Zinhloso!" He raised his voice as Zinhloso
spilled the salsa and it made his pants dirty on
the thigh.
She held her mouth, "I am sorry!"
"Ey, ngisho usuwu Dokotela usadla njengo
festiya!" (Even when you're a Doctor you still
make a mess when eating.)
"Ah, voetsek ke!" She screamed, laughingly.
Mhlabunzima pushed her using his elbow,
"uthuka indoda, kanti unjani?"
She smiled and wiped his pants with a cloth
that was on the table, "xola, hawu! Phela, nawe
usuke wathi ngidla njengo festiya." (But you
teased me)
"Udla kanjani kanti?" (How do you eat?) He
removed his eyes from her hands that were
cleaning him. "UMcebo udla kangcono
ukunawe."
"Kodwa wawungithanda ngidla khona njengo
festiya lowo." (But you loved me like that) she
glanced at him and she saw a smirk on his face
but he was looking at the meat before his eyes.
He shook his head, "I think your ancestor told
you a spell to use on me!" He laughed and
pushed the chair back as Zinhloso attempted to
hit him. "I am joking!"
She looked at him as he put the chair back
where it was. They focused on eating.
"I called you here so that we can talk about
what we should do concerning the children," he
started the conversation while they were still
eating, "about school and how are we going to
go about things considering their situation. How
were you doing things abroad?"
Zinhloso told Mhlabunzima about the twins,
how they were schooling back in America. She
got emotional talking about this and
Mhlabunzima kept a still posture throughout.
He was heartbroken by the difficult lives their
children had lived, "I once went to a fortune
teller, she was black. I don't remember
descending from which country and I didn't get
help. And back here, the prophet said nothing
can be done. It's painful because they're like
this because of me. I don't know-"
"It's no use crying now."
"It's painful," she looked at him, her face was
pinkish. "They'll learn the truth and hate me. It's
painful that my children are suffering for
something I could have prevented."
He gave her a tissue, "you said once you've
forgiven you move forward and don't keep
bringing the past. Please, do that. Let this go, it
has happened and there's nothing you can do to
change it. We need to make their lives as
normal as possible. That's why I called you
here."
He was right, crying and feeling sorry for herself
wasn't going to change anything, "are we going
to continue homeschooling, Mkhululi?" She
asked.
"No, I think we should put him in a school of
skills. I don't believe he'll be mentally challenged
to an extent that he can't have a skill he
knows?"
She nodded, "yes, that can be a good idea. I
never thought of it. There's a school of skills at
Empangeni, right?"
"Yes, we'll enroll him there and Milani, it'll be
better if she attends school here because
there's your sister as principal. We'll ask her to
keep an eye on her, especially when it comes to
bullying. We'll get extra support for her. If
opportunities open up at the schools in town for
black people, we'll take her there."
"Alright, but I will go back to my place next
month. Once I start working I don't know what
arrangements we'll make for Milani's transport."
Zinhloso looked at him. She didn't expect he
wouldn't keep bringing it up how much it was
her fault that the children turned out like this.
"I will always come and take her to school. If I
am not around, one of the drivers will come for
her."
"That'll be much better."
"And what about my boy? What will he do while
you're at work and his siblings are at school?"
"Mcebo?"
"Yes, he should really live with me."
She glared at him, "he can go with his sister and
maybe start school already. We'll ask for an
exception from the principal and her H.O.D."
He sighed, "alright, we'll have to go to these
schools tomorrow and we can do the furniture
the next day. If you're not busy."
"No, problem." She sat back as Mhlabunzima
gathered the dishes and he left. She rubbed her
hands together. She was desperately hoping it
would work out for her children.
He showed his head on the door, "come, I will
drive you. It's getting chilly outside."
They walked out of the supermarket,
Mhlabunzima was asking her other questions
about the children's time in America. They were
discussing their children until they reached the
Mnguni home.
"Hhaybo!" Zinhloso exclaimed as Mcebo came
out of the yard running. She saw his head
showing through the gates as the car
approached and when it stopped, he came out.
He ran past his mother.
Mhlabunzima laughed and stepped out of the
car, "let him be, we'll go with them to the
schools tomorrow."
"What about his siblings? They'll be upset if he
leaves with you, without them." She looked at
Mcebo as he was up in his father's arms.
"You'll tell them we'll see them tomorrow.
Badala futhi, ngeke bephikisane nengane."
She shook her head, "alright, goodbye."
"Bye, mama!" He waved. Mhlabunzima put him
in the passenger seat and he drove off.
UMCEBO

Chapter 259

Ziwinile was supposed to go back to her marital

home on Sunday but she decided not to go
back. Her son, Philani attended the school in
the township. Zinhloso drove him to school
every morning and drove to fetch him every
afternoon. Mrs Mnguni didn't ask any questions
to why Ziwinile wasn't going back. She thought
she was visiting because her husband agreed.
"It's Wednesday today, are you home because
you had an agreement with your husband?" Mrs
Mnguni asked her daughter. She was in the
living room feeding her daughter. She'd just
gotten back from school.
Before Ziwinile could answer, the telephone
rang. Mrs Mnguni told her to answer it because
she was near it. She lifted the telephone.
"Hello?"
"Mama kaPhilani, is that you?"
She kept quiet for a second, "yes, it's me."
"What's wrong? Didn't we agree that you're
going home for the weekend? What's the
meaning of you not coming back home until
Wednesday?" Simon asked Ziwinile on the line.
He sounded upset but Ziwinile didn't care.
"I am home, trying to heal from all the abuse we
are subjected to there."
"Abuse? Abuse?"
"Yes, do you want me to get into teacher mode
and teach you what's abuse?" She ignored her
mother who was widening her eyes af her.
"Your child was slapped but you kept quiet. Is
that not abuse?"
"What did you say to me about that?" He asked
and didn't get an answer, "Can you please come
home?"
"No, I am trying to-"
"We're married! And my children should be
where I am unless if they're called by Mnguni
now."
She chuckled, "yazi, kwaMnguni, they don't cry
for food and be slapped for food."
"I am sorry, okay? But don't do this."
"If you're not serious about us. I am not going to
come back." She put the phone down. She
pretended like her mother wasn't looking at her.
"Okay, say it, mama!"
"You'll keep running until when? Didn't you get
married knowingly that he lives with his mother
and sisters?" Mrs Mnguni shouted.
"I did but I didn't think they'll treat my children
badly and mom, I don't think you have any say
because my father did everything he could to
protect you from his sisters who didn't want
you."
"But you should be putting terms and conditions
while you're home! You're pregnant, does he
even know?"
She shrugged, "it's not like my pregnancy will
change anything. I want him to do the right
thing." She stood up and left her mother
because she was siding with her son-in-law.
She'd forgotten she was the one who told her
she always had a place at home when things
were not fair on her.

She finally managed to put Mcebo to sleep. He

was crying after dinner - Zinhloso had promised
him he'll go for a sleepover at his home. He'd
been nagging her about going back to his father.
She sent her nephew to the Xulu home and she
was told Mhlabunzima wasn't home for the
night. He went to Durban with Robert. Zinhloso
tried to explain it to Mcebo but he didn't
understand a thing. She was with Mcebo only in
her bed. Milani was with her grandmother and
Mkhululi was with Ziwinile's sons.
Zinhloso had decided to spend at least a month
at home and doing no work, just relaxing before
starting to work again. She'd worked very hard
to get her qualification. She wanted to be
around her family, recharge and ensure her
children had a solid bond with their father
before working again. It was already beginning
of August. She returned at the end of July.
She sat up straight and opened the drawer of
her bedside table. She took out a photo frame
and looked at it.
Their very first photo together, when they were
in Durban to buy his car. "I wonder if I didn't
leave how would our relationship be?" She
closed her eyes and faced up as her heart
pained, "how can I lose him after everything I
did? I did everything you asked of me khokho. I
chose to abide by every rule. If you don't want
him because of the history between our
families, why didn't you ensure we don't form a
love relationship?" She placed the picture on her
chest, holding it tightly, "Please, if I should lose
all hope, show me a sign."
She ran her hand over the picture and she put it
back on the drawer.
The Mnguni family home was full. It was the
extended family members and some close
family friends. They were going up and down, in
preparation for the ancestors' ritual. Their
daughter was back home with a qualification
and they were proud. They needed to give all
thanks to their Creator and their ancestors.
Mcebo didn't care about the busy yard and
everyone who was happy and keen to meet him.
He wanted his father and his mother had been
ignoring him. She was busy and didn't have
much time to entertain him. Mcebo was crying,
looking for his cousin - Mzomubi's elest son.
"Why are you crying?" His cousin asked. He
found him inside his father's house. He was
watching TV. He was one person who didn't like
many people unlike his other siblings.
Mcebo wiped his tears, "can you make me call
my father? I want to talk to him."
"Why don't you ask your mother?"
"She's busy and she'll refuse. Let's use uncle's
telephone because there are people where
there's gogo's telephone, please," Mcebo
suggested as his cousin got off the sofa he was
seated on.
His cousin took the book with telephone
numbers and searched for the Xulu family
telephone number. He punched the numbers
and waited. He quickly handed it to Mcebo once
it was ringing.
"Baba! Baba! Hello?" Mcebo didn't even wait to
hear the person who picked up the phone was
really his father or not.
"Mcebo? It's your grandmother. You want to
speak to your father?"
He smiled, "yebo, gogo, is he not home?"
"Wait, I will call him for you. He's back."
He waited patiently and when his father's voice
came through he laughed, "baba, how are you?
It's your boy, Mcebo!"
"Unjani mfana wami?"
"I am fine, baba and how are you?"
"I am fine. Your grandmother tells me you
wanted to come home?"
"Yes, baba, I want to sleep at home with you.
Baba, please come and take your boy. I want to
live with you at home now. It's busy here."
Mhlabunzima chuckled on the line, "go and call
your mother first. I will talk to her."
Mcebo gave the phone to his cousin and he
rushed out of the house. He was told his
mother was washing dishes outside.
"Mama, mama, baba is calling for you on the
phone. Please, come!"
Zinhloso's cousins looked at her, "are you guys
back together?" One of them asked.
She shook her head and followed her son. "Is he
the one who called?"
"No, but his boy called him."
Zinhloso frowned, "who's his boy?"
He pointed at his chest, "it's me, mama!"
She shook her head, defeated. It seemed
Mcebo wanted his father more than the twins
but it was them who previously had some bond
with him.
Zinhloso lifted the telephone, "hello?"
"Yebo, I hope you are well. He called and asked
me to come and take him. I don't know if it'll be
convenient."
"He long wanted to come but we were told
you're not home."
"Yea, I was in Durban. When should I come? You
must be busy."
"I will just give him a bath and will tell you to
come because if he doesn't go now. I won't
know peace."
"Alright, I will hear from you."
She put the phone down and looked at her son.
"Come, I'll give you a bath. Uyaphapha, ngoba
ubuzohamba ntambama."
"Cha, kuyaphithizela la."
"Aybo, your father will take you to his busy shop.
It's not like you'll relax." She saw he didn't care
about anything but he wanted to go to his father.
She was happy for him, for her children.
Zinhloso had called Mhlabunzima and she'd
informed her mother that Mcebo was leaving.
She finished packing a small bag for him and
when she looked at him. She was upset.
"What's wrong now?"
"Mama, this bag is small. I told dad we'll live
together now. The two of us."
Before she could answer him, the twins rushed
into the hut. "Mama, gogo said Mcebo is leaving.
We want to leave too."
"But look at you, you're dirty and Mcebo has
taken a bath."
"We'll bath too!" Mkhululi pulled his sister out of
the hut.
Zinhloso turned to Mcebo, "you'll go with this
bag. You're visiting your father. You stay with
me." She made herself clear but she could see
he wasn't happy.
She pushed them out of the hut. They were no
longer bandaged, the scars were healing
without bandages on.
Mhlabunzima was driving his private car. He
stepped out of the car when he saw the children.
He held them as they all hugged him. He
greeted them.
"I thought it was only your brother who was
missing his father and you two didn't miss me,"
he brushed Mkhululi's head.
Milani smiled, "we missed you too but you were
not home. Mcebo didn't even tell us that he was
going."
"Baba, mama, packed a small bag for me.
Please, tell her, to pack a big bag because we'll
live together now."
He chuckled and looked at Zinhloso. "Don't even
start with me."
"It's not me, it's him!" Mhlabunzima raised his
hands.
"I don't care, he's a child. You don't have to give
him everything he wants."
"But I have missed six years of his life, actually
it's seven years of his life. From since he was in
your womb." He knew she wouldn't agree to
that.
"So, you'll punish me for that by taking him?"
"No, but let me pay-"
"No, just forget about that. I won't agree."
"You'll come and visit him."
She widened her eyes, "really? I will come and
visit him? He'll not even come to me." She
raised her voice and pointed at the twins, "and
why does this talk exclude these two children?"
"They didn't say they want to live with me." He
looked at the three children, they were not
looking at them in the eyes as they argued.
Their heads were forced down. He noted she
raised them well.
"Can you please, go, you're wasting my time. I
am busy."
"Wait!" He opened his backdoor and grabbed a
big white plastic bag. He handed it over to
Zinhloso, "Congratulations on your
achievement!"
She laughed happily, way over because she
didn't expect anything from him. "Thank you so
much." She looked at her children and said
goodbye to them.
"What's that, mama?" Milani asked.
She walked away, "uthanda izindaba!" She
rushed into the yard and straight to her hut. She
sat on top of her bed and took out the big black
square box.
She ran her fingers on the name - Dr Mnguni. It
was engraved in silver on the box. She opened
the box and picked up the note. 'For your first
practice. Congratulations!'
She lifted the silver dermatoscope that was on
top of the white coat. The dermatoscope was
engraved in black 'MaMnguni'. She smiled and
put it down, she lifted the white coat - it also
had her surname 'Dr Mnguni' on the left breast.
"Aybo, have you found a job and they sent you
these?" Ziwinile asked as she walked inside the
hut. "Can you wear the coat?"
Zinhloso stood up and she wore the coat for
Ziwinile, "no, it's a gift from ubaba wezingane."
She laughed and clapped once, "aybo, kwahle
wena! It's so beautiful. You look amazing on it."
She folded her lips and looked at her, "are you
guys?"
"No," she quickly took off the coat and folded it.
She placed everything back on the box and she
smiled alone. She came back to her senses
when Ziwinile cleared her throat. "Konnje, why
are you here?"
"Aybo, it's your ritual. Have you forgotten?
They're calling for you!"
Zinhloso laughed and followed her sister out.
UMCEBO

Chapter 261

***Chapter sponsored by anonymous***

A week ended with Ziwinile at home with her

children. The children weren't even asking about
their paternal family. They only asked their
mother about their father. She could see they
badly missed him but she wasn't ready to go
back.
"I just wish I had the courage to get my own
place but I don't want to go about things the
wrong way," Ziwinile held on to the hoe. It was
Saturday morning. Zinhloso and Ziwinile were in
their mother's garden. They were working and
she was inside the house relaxing while her
daughters-in-law were doing other chores.
Zinhloso looked at her, "you're right, if you act
out of anger right now, you might do things that
you'll regret one day. So, I think it's better you
tell mom to request a meeting between the two
families. They should sit down and resolve this.
It's not healthy what's happening. I am sure you
don't want to lose your husband."
"Yes, I don't want to lose him Zinhloso. I love
him, loya muntu wangenza umfazi wapholisa
amanxeba enganginawo." She smiled and
shook her head, "the only flaw he has right now
is this one we're facing. Otherwise, he's been a
great husband."
"That means you can't take decisions that will
make it look like you no longer care about him
or your relationship." She proceeded to work on
the soil. They were sowing corn for their mother.
"What you can do, ask him if he enjoyed going
for a week without you and his children? Then,
tell him you'll leave forever if he doesn't put your
happiness and safety first."
"I will do that. I guess we'll have to go back
tomorrow then."
Zinhloso laughed, "it seems like you're going
back today." She said as Simon's car drove
through the gate. He'd bought the car three
years back. It was a second hand car. "I will
miss having you around. Now, I have no
children, they've chosen their father and left me
alone."
"Why don't you go?" Ziwinile laughed as
Zinhloso gave her a dead stare.
"Ayingifuni indoda ifuna izingane zayo kuphela.
Manje ke ayikho into engingayenza." (The man
doesn't want me but he only wants his children.
So, there's nothing I can do) Zinhloso said and
her sister didn't even know what to say after
that. She couldn't believe it was going to be
over just like that between them.
"The two of you should leave that now. Ziwinile
your husband is here for you and the children,"
Mrs Mnguni called out for her daughters. She
was standing before the door facing the garden.
"Zinhloso, Milani's father is coming to take
Milani's uniform. He said her grandmother will
fix it for her. Hurry up ke, nobabili!"
They finished up the line they were doing and
walked out of the garden. Ziwinile went to take
a bath and Zinhloso took her daughter's
uniform. She walked out of the premises. He
was driving his van.
"You came alone!" She stood by the driver's side
and handed the plastic to him.
He took it, "yes, I left them bathing. We're going
to fetch my father and his brother in town."
"Alright, I was working inside, I should go back."
He chuckled, "unguDokotela o-right usebenza
negeja!" (You're a good Doctor, you can work
the soil)
"Ukuqoma wena nje okwangenza ngafunda
nokusebenza igeja," (it's being in a relationship
with you that made learn how to work the soil)
"Mm, yazi, kusho ukuthi ngiyiphilisi wonke
umuntu wesimame alidingayo." He blew his
own horn and he laughed as it seemed Zinhloso
was annoyed by his statement, "wait, there's
something else I wanted to talk to you about."
He quickly stopped her as she was walking
back to the premises.
"What?"
"Can you please talk to your mom and brother? I
want to come tomorrow if possible. For
Inhlawulo for Mcebo and ukugeza onke
amagama abuhlungu engawasho kuwe (to do a
reparation for the cruel words I said to you)
when I learnt about Qophelo's death."
"I have forgiven that."
"Yes, thank you but it's necessary for me to do it
the right way, for your sake and the children's
sake. Also, I can be at peace about it. You didn't
accept it the last time. I thought maybe you'll
accept now."
She nodded, "yes, you can come. I will tell my
mother and brother, and will call you to let you
know if tomorrow will be convenient or not."
"Thank you so much." He drove off once
Zinhloso had gone back to the premises.
Back in the house, Simon and Mrs Mnguni had
asked the children to excuse them as Ziwinile
had walked inside the room.
"Sawubona, baba kaPhilani." She sat next to her
mother and greeted Simon.
Mrs Mnguni looked at her daughter after Simon
had greeted her. "My son-inlaw says he's here
to take you and the children. He needs you
home."
"Oh!"
Mrs Mnguni looked back at Simon, "I hope you
heard everything I said to you. Do the right thing.
When we married my daughter off, I told her
she'll always have a place at home if she gets
subjected to abuse." She didn't like Ziwinile to
break up with her husband but she wouldn't
hesitate to take her back if she'd had enough.
She only believed this matter wasn't big - Simon
would fix it, if he can find courage. She also
didn't want Ziwinile to easily give up.
"I am sorry, mama, I will try my best to solve
this."
"You can take your wife, then!"
Ziwinile stood up and went to her bedroom. She
called her children and they transported their
bags to the car. She went to say goodbye to her
sisters-in-law, Zinhloso and the children. She
had a great time home but it was time to go
back.

In the car, Simon was only talking to their

children. He didn't say not even a single word to
Ziwinile. She didn't know whether he was
crossed or he was only focusing on the children.
When they got home, Ziwinile went to the back
with some of the bags while the children went
to greet their grandmother.
As soon as Ziwinile walked into the living room
where her mother-in-law and her daughters
were, her mother-in-law took her on. "I have
always heard about disrespectful daughters-in-
law. I never thought I would have one. You left
here, without even saying goodbye to me and
you leave for a whole week,
"You're bothering my son! He should be going
up and down, running after you, Queen!" She
yelled at Ziwinile, "I don't know how your mother
allowed you to stay with her for a week knowing
you're married. She's grooming you the wrong
way. I hate what she's doing!"
Ziwinile wanted to laugh because her mother-in-
law's married daughter - she would stay with
them for two weeks. She would come whenever
her husband was away due to work. Her mother
-in-law never saw anything wrong with her
daughter staying at home for over a week while
she stayed with her in-laws.
Ziwinile stood up once her mother-in-law was
done with shouting. She went back to the back
to change her daughter's nappy. She left them
talking alone. She didn't have the energy for
them.
Simon closed the door behind him after their
daughter had left their bedroom.
"Were you trying to break up with me?" Simon
asked Ziwinile. He was very miserable without
his wife and children. He'd never gone for a
week without seeing them. They were his life.
"No, I told you why I left and if you don't take me
seriously. I will leave forever the next time."
Ziwinile said and took off her clothes. She got
on the bed and looked at him without talking,
Simon clicked his tongue. He took off his
clothes and joined her. On the bed, he didn't talk
much but he kissed his wife and they had a
passionate intimate moment.
"I will try and talk to my brothers. I will ask one
of them to transfer back home if it's possible
because they're not married," Simon promised
Ziwinile. She was laying her head on his chest
after their session. "We'll then look for a place
once they're back home." He said and Ziwinile
didn't say anything. She didn't trust his words,
she only wanted to see action.
Friday, Zinhloso was the one who had the duty
to fetch Mkhululi from school because their
father wasn't home. She took Ziwinile from her
school, they passed by Philani's school, took
Ziwinile's children from daycare and they
headed for Mkhululi.
"How did things go on Sunday? Simon didn't
allow me to come because he thought I was
going to stay at home for another week."
Ziwinile asked Zinhloso, she was seated in the
passenger seat. They were going for Mkhululi.
"Everything went well. They came, Inhlawulo
was done after the ritual," Zinhloso narrated the
events for her sister.
Mrs Mnguni and Mzomubi agreed that
Mhlabunzima and his family could come the
next day for Inhlawulo and a reparation ritual.
Early in the morning, they started by doing the
ritual. Zinhloso's uncles and two aunts were
present. And from her mother's side, her eldest
uncle came.
The ritual was an intense and emotional ritual
that evoked emotions of pain and grief for
Qophelo's death. They confronted what
happened, spoke about the damage the child's
death did because of different reactions that
came from the pain of losing her. Mhlabunzima
apologized for his behaviour and the words he
said to Zinhloso. The goat was accepted to
perform the ritual and present it before their
ancestors as evidence of what had been done.
"I won't lie after that ritual, I felt very different
and very light. I wish I had allowed it to happen
earlier. A lot of things would have been
avoided," Zinhloso said to her sister. She was
speaking freely, her voice carrying no painful
emotion, "sometimes, I would look at the twins
and would be attacked by woefulness because
of everything that happened after they were
conceived."
"You no longer feel like that now?"
"No, I don't feel like that anymore."
She smiled and held her free hand tightly, "I am
very happy for you."
"Thank you. I just wish he can also open up to
forgiving me. I won't push it. I know he'll forgive
once he's ready. I have put him through a lot,
really." Zinhloso reflected.
"Yes, it'll happen in a good time."
Ziwinile asked Zinhloso to take them to the
Empangeni station area and over there she
bought food for her children. They enjoyed the
good cooked food and the food they left,
Ziwinile packed the food on the children's
school lunch boxes.
"Today, they'll sleep hungry. If my children are
full, I am not cooking," Ziwinile told Zinhloso as
they approached her home.
She giggled, "that's why you packed their
leftovers?"
"Yes, their father is working the night shift for
overtime. I have been cooking since I came
back."
Zinhloso supported her sister, "don't cook. Your
children are full." They laughed.
Her children were already sleeping, after taking
their bath they went to watch TV. They returned
to their mother early because they wanted to
sleep. Ziwinile put her daughter on her bed but
she didn't join her to sleep right away.
She took a glass and went to the kitchen for
cold water. She found the kitchen not cooking.
She wondered what they were going to eat.
"Aybo! Where's your sister in-law? Am I not
eating tonight?" Her mother-in-law screamed
from the living room.
Nakanjani stood up, "I will go and ask her when
is she going to start cooking."
She didn't find Ziwinile in the kitchen and so,
she went to knock on her door. "Ziwinile?" She
yelled.
"Yes?"
"Aybo, you're in there kanti? Mom is shouting,
she's asking when is she having dinner? You
haven't cooked," Nakanjani yelled at Ziwinile.
She wasn't surprised they came, they had no
shame, "I was the one cooking yesterday,
actually since the week began. So, I shouldn't
be expected to cook tonight."
"What should mom do? Sleep with an empty
stomach?"
"She's surrounded by her daughters. Why would
she be hungry?" Ziwinile held her mouth as
Nakanjani walked away, she was swearing as
she walked away. That night, Ziwinile slept
peacefully.
UMCEBO

Chapter 263

***Unlocked bonus chapter for (29/Sept)***

Ziwinile left Simon and her daughter on the bed.

She didn't even hear him when he came back in
the morning. She went to the kitchen and
started making breakfast. She wasn't going to
work. She had a workshop she was attending at
1pm.
Simon walked inside the kitchen carrying his
daughter. He greeted his wife with a baby kiss,
"how did you sleep last night without me?"
She smiled and put the plates on the table. She
was done with breakfast. "I missed you but it
was better because I wasn't alone. Thobile was
next to me."
"I am not doing any night shift today. You'll have
me all to yourself."
She giggled and pointed to the chair, "can you
sit down and have breakfast. I will go and
prepare the boys for school."
"Thank you, mkami."
Ziwinile walked out, leaving Simon eating with
his daughter. Minutes after she left, her mother-
in-law joined her husband on the table.
"Sawubona, Simon, my boy and my
granddaughter!"
"Yebo, mama, how are you doing?"
"I am not fine, I slept with bread and it's God's
mercy that I am waking up to breakfast. I think
that's because you're home." She took her plate
of breakfast and started eating. She went to
bed angry and she couldn't understand where
Ziwinile was getting such disrespect from.
She'd been a good obedient wife and suddenly
she changed.
"Why did you sleep without proper food?
There's no groceries at home? Ziwinile didn't tell
me we've run out of food." He looked at the
food on the table and looked around as if he
was going to see the food on the cupboards
while seated.
"There's food but your wife decided she'll not
cook and we slept without eating," she
responded and poured tea on the tea cup.
Simon put the tea cup on the table, "so, you
slept without dinner because Ziwinile didn't
cook? Is she the only daughter you have? You
have two other daughters and since the week
had begun. I have heen coming back to her
cooking."
"She's your wife and it's her duty to look after
me."
He looked at his mother, surprised by her words,
"before she came here my sisters did everything.
What changed? Please, mom, stop undermining
my wife. She's not a superwoman, she needs to
do everything she can and my sisters will do the
rest."
"I knew you would side with her! She did this
because you were not home. She no longer
respects me and you see nothing wrong with
that," she complained with her voice raised and
Simon decided not to argue with her. He
realised she wasn't going to see reason
because she didn't want to do that.
Simon found Ziwinile done with dressing the
boys for school. Thobile wasn't going to
daycare because her father was going to be
home the whole day.
"Sthandwa, what did you and the children eat
last night? Because I hear nobody cooked,"
Simon asked and took the children's school
bags. The second born was attending daycare.
He refused to miss a day at daycare.
"We were driving with Zinhloso and so, I bought
food for them. I didn't think they wouldn't cook. I
don't know if you'll blame me-"
He quickly shook his head, "no, no, I don't blame
you. Mom went to bed hungry because she
wasn't hungry. If she was hungry she was going
to tell my sisters to cook. You're not the only
one who's supposed to cook here and I have
long told you to stop cooking everyday
bazokujwayela kabi." He said and lifted the four
year old, "I will take them to school. Go and eat,
get ready for work. We will drive you with
Thobile."
Ziwinile said goodbye to her children and once
they had left. She started cleaning the bedroom
before taking a bath.
****
They had to open up their wardrobes and
search for their graduation gowns. The king had
invited them and the villagers to celebrate their
achievements. The number had grown to fifteen
people in the village who were graduates. That
was the greatest achievement for a black
person. They were an inspiration to many young
children in the village.
Mhlabunzima, Mzomubi, Robert, and the other
men were on the same table. They were all
wearing gowns for their qualifications. The
table was on the front and on the opposite table,
Ziwinile, Ngenzeni, Thuli, Zinhloso and other
women were on their own table. Nobuhle was
the only young woman who was missing from
the table. They'd left her chair empty.
It'd been a week since the dream and
Mhlabunzima hadn't confronted Zinhloso about
fixing things. She'd been trying her best to avoid
him but Mhlabunzima didn't give her a chance
to act cold towards him. He would come by to
drop Mkhululi or take Milani to school. Zinhloso
would be inside the house whenever he wanted
to personally talk to her. She would be someone
who's busy. Mhlabunzima would walk inside her
house without being invited. He would say
whatever he wanted to say to her and leave.
This made Zinhloso upset because she was
trying her hardest to push him away so she
would also suppress her feelings.
The king's chair was in the middle of the tables,
facing the villagers.
Mhlabunzima was seated on his chair looking
at Zinhloso from her table. She was talking and
laughing with her sister and Ngenzeni. The only
thing that was stopping him from going to her,
and taking her as his - it was trust. The mother
of his children was very spiteful and he was
scared of the life they would live. He hadn't told
anyone about this dream.
Blood pumped up from his heart and across his
body as Zinhloso smiled at his sister, Ngenzeni.
He wondered if her ancestor was as beautiful
as she was.
"Are you staring at my sister or you're staring at
someone else?" Mzomubi asked Mhlabunzima.
He slightly jumped from his seat. "Ey, leave me
alone, Mzomubi!" He pushed his shoulder back.
Mzomubi didn't back off, "I hope you remember
we promised each other you're not going back
to her."
"Ey, gwani wena. Stand up, there comes the
king." All the men stood up and they sang
praises to the king. They only sat down once he
was seated.
The ceremony began. There were different
speakers, mostly, speaking about how proud
they were of these children and performances
of young children - singing and dancing.
Everyone on the table felt special and their
parents were even more proud as they were
mostly praised for supporting their children's
dreams.
The king had asked Mhlabunzima to speak on
behalf of the male graduates and say words of
inspiration to the others. But he declined and
asked him to choose another speaker.
Someone, who wasn't regular like him. He
chose a young man who was a Nurse. And for
women, he chose Zinhloso.
Mhlabunzima had an irritating feeling in his
stomach as the Nurse helped Zinhloso up by
holding her hand. They walked to the front
beside the king's chair, holding hands. He was
taller than her. They stood together and the
man started talking.
Zinhloso smiled at him as he finished his
speech. He didn't leave her, he remained
standing next to her.
"It's a coincidence that we were chosen to
speak as health care workers," Zinhloso started
her speech and looked at the king. She bowed
her head, "I don't know if that's some sort of
sign, Ndabezitha!"
"This means health care is ruling!" The King said
and everyone laughed.
Zinhloso smiled at the villagers, "I don't have
much to say. There are two women who'd given
me words of wisdom and courage," her eyes
locked with Esther, "one said, I should spread
my wings and the other who's a part of my
blood, she said I should reach for the stars.
That's what I want to say to every young girl in
this room. It's okay to have big dreams, don't
stop dreaming because dreams do come true.
It doesn't matter who you are and where you
come from, only your mind can limit you."
Words got stuck on her throat as she was
overwhelmed by different emotions. This was
really her - that young girl who never showed
herself to the face of the villagers. That young
girl who always hid in her hut and kept quiet.
That young girl who'd suffered from different
injustices. This was her! The first black female
dermatologist. There wasn't even a black man
who was a dermatologist in the country. It was
only her and it was unbelievable.
She faced the men's table and she looked at
Mhlabunzima. Everyone looked at him as her
eyes were on him.
"Donda!" Zinhloso said, politely and old women
ululated. Mhlabunzima showed a small smirk
and looked down. "You're the first man in this
village who believed a girl child deserved an
equal opportunity to study as a male child.
You're an inspiration to many and even myself.
We're grateful to you and your team as a whole.
We're grateful, Makhathini, Gxabhashe, Donda
wasenkweleni!"
The ululating rose up again and Zinhloso closed
her speech by thanking their parents and the
king. "We thank you, bazali for supporting us
even though you also didn't think it would be
possible for us because it was never possible
for you. Siyabonga bazali bethu!"
She held the nurse's hand and they raised them
up, "Amandla!" Zinhloso roared.
"Awethu!" There was a loud clap as they went to
sit down.
Robert whispered to Mhlabunzima, "uyabona if
you didn't refuse to say a speech ngabe nguwe
obumbambile!"
Mhlabunzima laughed and pushed him away
from his face. The nurse took his seat next to
Robert.
Robert looked at him, "ey nawe ke,
ubusuwenzani ubamba isandla somfazi ka
Chwane?" (What were you doing holding the
hand of Chwane's wife?)
Mzomubi showed his head forward, "umfazi
wakhe wamkhiphela ezingaki?" He asked and
the men laughed on the table. The MC told
them to keep quiet.
The king stood up to close the ceremony, "I
don't have many words. I only want to say how
proud I am of you, my children." He said and the
people clapped hands, "okukugcina ngithi
ningazithakathi ke izingane!" He said to the
villagers and everyone laughed.
The ceremony ended and what followed next
was - the food and drinks. The king had
slaughtered two cows for the village. It was a
very big day.
Mhlabunzima looked around, he'd exited the
tent. Some people were leaving. He also wanted
to leave but his parents were still eating and
talking with people they were seated with.
He spotted Zinhloso next to her car. The nurse
was talking to her carrying a plastic bag for her
and she was opening the door of her car. He
waited until he was gone and he went over to
her. She was taking off her gown.
"It's actually not appealing when the Doctor and
nurse date. It'll actually never work out." He
stood before her and rammed his hands on the
pockets of his grey pants.
She laughed, "really? Who told you that?"
"I know and I know for a fact that my boy won't
like that nurse!"
She wasn't looking at him as she laughed. She
wasn't sure whether he was being jealous or
just joking with her, "that one has no say
because already, he has chosen his father over
me."
"But he always tells you to come and live with
him in the big house. What's stopping you?"
Words were freely coming out of his mouth. He
was lost in her beauty. He allowed himself to
feel again and it was overpowering what he felt.
She pointed at him, "his father is stopping me. I
have manners I can't force myself."
"Oh, really? That's not what you did when we
made that child."
She blushed, ashamed of herself, "pho manje
ufuna ngikukhwele khona lana yini?" (So, now
you want me to get on you, right here?) She
flapped her lashes.
He let out a low grunt, "ubuhle bakho
buyathokozisa. Ngiyacabanga neziguli zakho
zonele zikubone umamatheka zilapheke inyama
nomphefumulo uqobo!" (You're so beautiful!)
She blushed and held her tummy, the butterflies
on her tummy. She never understood why no
man made her feel the way he did. They also
had a way with words but not like him. His
words always shot straight for her heart and
made her weak on the knee. "Ngiyabonga, baba
wezingane zami."
He smirked, "tomorrow, can we go together to
the parents' meeting at our son's school?"
She nodded with a smile, "yes, we'll drive
together."
He rubbed her earlobe, "I will see you
tomorrow." He said and walked back to the tent.
Zinhloso drew a long breath and quickly turned
to the car. One thing she was grateful for - she
wore her panties on after she'd thought of not
wearing them!
UMCEBO

Chapter 262

"Uzomshaya yini baba ubhuti?" Mcebo asked

his father. They were seated at the doorstep of
Mhlabunzima's house. They were waiting for
Menzi. Mhlabunzima was with Mcebo when
Robert told him that Menzi had joined the sport
of stick fighting. He'd been wondering why he
was coming back home late and when he asked.
Menzi told him he was playing soccer.
"No, mfana wami, I won't hit him but I will talk to
him and if he repeats I will do that." He looked
at him and realised that made him scared. He
hadn't reprimanded Mcebo by hitting him and
he realised he was very scared of corporal
punishment.
Zinhloso and the twins had gone to the house
at Ematshane. It was the beginning of
September. Mcebo and his siblings were born in
the same month. Mcebo was born the next day
after the twins' birthday. Mhlabunzima and
Zinhloso went to town and they bought
furniture for the children's bedrooms. They
furnished two bedrooms. Milani had her own
room and Mcebo and Mkhululi shared a
bedroom. They were very happy about the
rooms.
Mhlabunzima decided to let Menzi's room
remain in his house but had decided that once
the children started sleeping in the house. He
was going to have to move his bedroom to the
other house. The house was a six bedroom
house, with a living room space, kitchen space -
the empty room he'd planned to make a study
area for the children once he was married.
Menzi approached his father's house slowly. He
could see them on the doorstep. He was
suspecting he was going to get a hiding.
"Come, I am waiting for you!" Mhlabunzima
exclaimed and Menzi walked faster to his father.
"Sanibonani."
"Why are you coming back home so late? Did
you even do your homework?" He shouted at
him. He saw his mother walking out of the
kitchen hut and standing outside. She was
looking in his direction. He knew she didn't like
it when he whipped children but he didn't
usually do it.
"I will do it now."
"Why are you stick-fighting during the week?"
He stood up and Menzi took a step back.
"Uyaphi? Answer my question!"
He didn't expect he would find out so soon. "I
like the sport."
"You'll stop it! You're still young for that sport.
You've never done it before, you're just doing it
without a proper guide. You'll get hurt. I don't
want that. Do you understand?"
"Yes, I understand."
"Angiyifuni ngampela lento. You're coming back
late at home. You'll lose focus on school. Go
and take your bath, eat and do your homework."
He pointed the way to the bathroom, "if you
keep doing this I will give you a hiding you'll
never forget."
"I am sorry, baba!" He walked away.
Mhlabunzima chuckled as Mcebo sighed the
minute Menzi left. He was probably holding his
breath - no whipping to be involved. They went
back to the house to attend the telephone call.
"Yebo, I am good and how are you?" Zinhloso
asked Mhlabunzima on the line.
"I am fine, how are the children? I couldn't see
Mkhululi today." He lifted Mcebo up and put him
on his lap.
"They're well, they want to come over this
weekend. That one should come this side. I
don't want to be alone."
"Alright, he was asking about you this morning.
Should I give him the phone?"
"Yes!"
Mhlabunzima handed the telephone to Mcebo.
"Sawubona, mama!"
"Yebo, don't you miss me? You've been with
your father for two weeks now."
He smiled, "I miss you. When are you going to
come and live with my father and I? We'll all be
together and be happy."
Zinhloso chuckled, "it doesn't work like that,
baby, I can't live with you and your father. Your
siblings will visit and you'll come this side, okay?
I don't want to be alone at night."
"Okay, mama, I will come and be with you."
"Thank you, goodnight."
"Goodnight, should I give it to dad?"
"Tell him goodnight. Mcwaa to you, baby!"
He laughed, "mcwaa, mama!" He handed the
phone to his father. "Baba, mom said I should
say goodnight and mcwaa to you!"
Mhlabunzima laughed because his son was
lying. He heard Zinhloso wishing him a
goodnight only.
"Alright, thank you."
He waited for Menzi, once he was back. He
helped him with his homework and they went to
bed with Mcebo.

Mhlabunzima was bringing Mcebo to his

mother and taking the twins. He found Zinhloso
helping Milani with Isizulu. Milani was put into
Standard 1. They didn't make her start 2nd year
again. They made this decision based on the
level of education and the system.
"Is she struggling with IsiZulu?" Mhlabunzima
sat next to his daughter and put the sleeping
Mcebo on his lap. They were seated on the
veranda.
She shook her head, "it's really bad! She didn't
do it back in America so now, it's a whole new
thing."
"My father will help her. He's very good at it. Do
you remember Zodumo got help from him?"
Mhlabunzima asked and looked around for
Mkhululi.
"Yes," she looked at him and placed her hand on
top of his hand, "that's why I wish you can open
up your heart again and we can be family, so
the children can have a proper home. I really
don't like this up and down. After two weeks, I
am only seeing my son now."
"You're asking the impossible from me,
Zinhloso. We're civil with each other -"
"And I didn't say we're not. I was only trying to
express myself and wishes but I understand
that you don't want me anymore. I am no longer
good enough." She removed her hand from his
hand. It was heartbreaking, a month later there
was still no progress on them. Some days, he
just didn't want to talk about it.
"I didn't say I don't want you. I just think there's
no need for us to be together just because
we're parents."
She looked at him with an eyebrow raised,
"really? So, you think I want us to be together
again only because we're parents!"
"That's what you just said!"
She looked at him straight in the eye, "you no
longer have feelings for me? You don't love me
anymore?"
"Zinhloso, don't make me confront feelings I
had decided to suppress, please."
She stood up, upset, this whole thing was unfair
and making her angry, "oh, how nice of you.
How did you do it then so that I can do it too?"
She raised her voice.
He pointed at the two children with his head,
Milani was still focused on her workbook and
Mcebo was sleeping in his arms, "there are
children here, come on!"
"So, you don't want to tell me how you did it
because it's good if I go around with a heart
that beats for you while you have decided to
actually suppress yours?"
"Where's my son?"
"I am still talking to you! Can't you see me
before you?"
He clenched his jaws, "I don't want to do this
with you, can't you see?"
She swallowed the lump on her throat, "okay,
fine, I think going forward it's better we don't
communicate. You'll call my chemist telephone
line if you want to talk about the children-"
"Don't be petty. Did I make these children with
your chemist?" He raised his voice and Milani
quickly took her book. She left them. He pointed
at the child, "this is you not having timing!
There's no chemist I will call. Angikhumbuli nje
ngibhebhana ne-chemist mina. Tsk!" He stood
up with Mcebo, leaving Zinhloso frustrated
outside. She covered her face with her hands.
She breathed in and out, she told herself she
would also suppress those feelings and move
on with her life. It was no use to want someone
who was making it clear they didn't want you.
He wasn't even asking for time, he flatly didn't
want her back.
She smiled at the children and opened up her
arms for them. She hugged them tightly. "I will
miss you. I will see you on Monday."
"Goodbye, mama!"
Mhlabunzima looked at Zinhloso as she was
avoiding eye contact with him. "I will call Mcebo
in the afternoon." He followed his children as
she was quiet. When he decided to suppress
his feelings for Zinhloso, he promised himself
never to confront them again. He didn't like how
she was behaving, she wasn't understanding.

***Mhlabunzima was busy making flower beds

on either side of the front of the big house he
built for his wife. The door was opened and his
tall, dark skinned ancestor walked out carrying
Mcebo in his arms. They were talking and
laughing. Mhlabunzima stopped working and
went to sit on the veranda after being called by
him.
The man took his sweet time looking at
Mhlabunzima, "sekumele ngikutshele yonke into.
Ngikufunze yonke into ngoba awuboni
emehlwen!" (I should tell you everything and
spoon feed you because you can't see!)
"What are you talking about, mkhulu?"
"You asked me who's the one for you. The one
for you is right before your eyes but you still
want to nurse your feelings!" He slapped the
table on the veranda, making Mhlabunzima
jump in fright but Mcebo didn't jump.
"You can't possibly talk about his mother!"
Mhlabunzima exclaimed and pointed at his son.
He kept shaking his head, he couldn't believe he
was doing this.
The old man chuckled, "it's great that I don't
even have to spell it out for you!"
"Don't do this to me. After everything she did to
me?"
He widened his eyes at him, "yey, yey, iphutha
likabani lelo, huh? Elikabani!" (Who's fault is
that?) He asked and didn't receive an answer,
"elikabani!" He shouted at the quiet
Mhlabunzima.
"It's mine."
"It's either you take her, make her your wife, and
have more children or this house will remain
empty. You'll die without a wife." He stated
clearly, "and it should be only her in your life.
Angifuni sphithiphithi la. Ngiwakhe kanzima lo
muzi."
"Why are you abusing me like this, mkhulu?"
"I am mistreating you!" He growled at
Mhlabunzima, "aren't you the one who'd always
complained about being single?"
"Oh, so, you want me to take her because you
failed to get her ancestor as your wife."
Mhlabunzima almost fell off the chair as the
lightning struck the tree in the yard and it went
into flames.
"Ungeyisi, Ngenzwel'umusa!" (Don't be rude) He
warned calmly.
He looked down, "I am sorry, Gxabhashe."
"It's either you build this home or you'll chase
after money, have a lot of it but with no woman
to spend it on. Open up your heart and forgive
the past mistakes and wrongs. Be a man to her
and fix all your wrongs. Love and heal her her
heart, she'll love and heal yours,
"Nizosulana izinyembezi zeminyaka. Akekho
omunye ongenza lokho. You'll always feel the
void no matter how many women you can have
sex with, trying to move on.
"If you don't see how your lives are similar, from
how you were both born and the lives you've
lived. Everything, If you don't see, you'll never
see!" He stood up with Mcebo, he stared at
Mhlabunzima, "I don't want to take anything
from you. Ngifuna umfazi kulo muzi. Izingane
zakho zibize isbongo so-Gxabhashe!" He went
back to the house leaving a thunderstorm.***
Mhlabunzima woke up from the dream, panting.
There was a thunderstorm outside. He looked
at Milani sleeping next to him. He covered her.
He rubbed his eyes and tried to think of this
dream - he didn't know what to do. He was
clueless.
UMCEBO

Chapter 264

***Unlocked bonus chapter for Zubenathi***

Zinhloso sat before the mirror and sprayed her

dry pam. She made it look brand new. She
applied red lipstick after powdering her face.
She stood up and checked if her handbag had
everything she was going to need. The twins
had gone to school. Mcebo was coming with
his father, they were going to Mkhululi's school.
Last night, she couldn't stop smiling as she
thought of the good day they had. How tenderly
he looked at her and how sweet he spoke. She
was wondering if he'd decided to open up his
heart for her again?
He drove through the gates with Mcebo seated
on the passenger seat. He was talking to his
father about his day without him and the
grandparents.
His son's words became an echo as his mother
walked out of the house. The tropical print wrap
around dress fitted her perfectly. It was short
sleeved, it had a belt that cuffed her figure so
nicely it made him wish to see what was
underneath the dress. The curves, the nicely
shaped legs and that bust - it showed how
much she'd grown as a woman.
He stepped out of the car. Mcebo was already
next to his mother, getting hugs and kisses
from her. "Sawubona, nkosazana emhlophe."
Her lips curved up, "sawubona, Xulu. How are
you doing?"
"I was very tired from the long day we had
yesterday but when I saw you. My body got
ironed out. You're like an energy drink into my
system." He spoke softly and deep, his eyes
were fixed on her.
She didn't know what to do with herself, her
cheeks were aching, "I think it's safe to say I am
good for you."
He chuckled, "ophikayo unomona!" He
exclaimed and Zinhloso laughed. He slipped his
pinky finger into hers, "ngiyafisa ukuthi ngelinye
ilanga ngikubone ufake iphinifa elihle
elimbalabala, iskhafu siphambane esfubeni
sakho. Uthwele elihle iduku, unyathele kancane
emzini ka-baba uzongipha inyama
namadombolo." (I wish to see you in my father's
yards, dressed as a wife, serving me.)
"I also wish to see you coming into our house,
bringing me the wild fruits and some rabbits
from your hunt," she looked at him with
softness that came from her heart. She was
very hopeful, maybe things were going to get
back to normal for them.
He pulled her into a hug, "how was your night?"
He asked into her ear.
"Lonely without you next to me."
"I suffered the same."
Mcebo tapped her mother's thigh, "mama, can I
get a hug too?"
Zinhloso hugged her son, making him happier.
They got into the car and Mhlabunzima drove to
the school. The three of them were having a
conversation in the car. Mcebo was leading and
driving the conversation. He was seated in the
backseat, his mother in the front.

"How's he doing?" Mhlabunzima asked

Mkhululi's teacher. They were with her outside
the class with Zinhloso after the meeting.
She looked at Mhlabunzima with a kind smile,
"he's taking everything one step at a time. I
think what he loves the most is painting. I am
yet to discover his strength and weakness."
Zinhloso held Mhlabunzima's hand back and
she smiled at the teacher. She shook hands
with her, instead, "thank you so much. Does he
have any friends? He's always anxious about
talking to children he's not used to."
She focused on Zinhloso, "oh, yes, he keeps to
himself but I saw him share his lunch with a
young girl who didn't have any lunchbox."
That warmed the parents' hearts, "thank you."
They said goodbye and they headed to the
parking lot without seeing Mkhululi. They didn't
want to distract him.
Mhlabunzima drove out of the school premises
and glanced at Zinhloso. He cleared his throat,
"I am not allowed to shake hands with my son's
teacher?"
"You're allowed but I don't like women who look
at you like they want you."
"I don't want them." He glanced at her and she
only smiled…Everything was supposed to be
difficult, it was supposed to be hard to smile
and laugh with her again. It was supposed to
take him at least a month or two to fully open
up to her. He didn't know for her - but for him it
wasn't supposed to be easy. Strangely, he was
laughing again, he was praising her beauty and
he was smiling because she was smiling.
"Is there anywhere you would like to go or you're
going home?" Mhlabunzima asked.
Zinhloso counted a number of places she
wanted to go to before going home.
They were going in and out of the stores,
Zinhloso was buying even unnecessary things
because she enjoyed spending time with these
two men and she wished her twins were also
with them.
"Aw, mama, udla ngathi sino baba manje.
Siyangena, syaphuma asphumuli. Udlala ngathi
sino baba ngeke!" (Mom, you're toying with us.
We're going up and down.) Mcebo couldn't hold
himself anymore. They'd been going up and
down for too long and he was tired.
Mhlabunzima huffed, "woah! Thank you,
mfanawami. We're really tired and we should be
driving to school to get his siblings now. Are
you not done?"
"I wasn't done but we'll go to their school then,"
Zinhloso said. She could see they were really
tired and fed up but she was enjoying her time
with them.
They drove to Mkhululi's school first because
they were already in town. Mcebo fell asleep the
minute the car started moving.
"How's it going? What are your plans? Are you
going to practice or do you want to work in a
hospital?" Mhlabunzima asked Zinhloso. He
was no longer on the driver's seat but Zinhloso
was.
She took a deep breath, "I won't open my
practice yet. The time hasn't come for it. I have
offers from the government's hospitals and I
am having a difficult time choosing. I didn't
even have to apply. I think it's the newspaper
article that Thuli wrote on me that opened up
the opportunity of having offers."
"They still think you're only good enough to cure
just black people?"
She laughed, "you know how these people are
and honestly, that's who I want to cure. My
people, that's what she said to me when she
told me to go and study."
"I understand and so, which hospitals?"
She glanced at him. She'd made a decision she
was going to move to the city, leaving Mcebo
with his father and the twins with her. She made
this decision because Mhlabunzima didn't want
her back and now, she wasn't going to tell him
about that. She was going to keep it to herself
that she wanted to do such.
"It's two hospitals in the city of gold, one in
Durban, one in the Cape," she could see his face
was tense as she named the hospitals, "and our
hospital at Empangeni." There was relief, finally.
"And which hospital are you taking?"
"I haven't decided." She wasn't sure what was
really going on between the two of them and
this answer was safe. If he was trying to accept
her back into his life, he needed to act fast,
show her. Before she could make a decision.
"Which hospital would you like to work in?" He
asked, he had hope because there was a
hospital nearby but knowing her, she could
choose any place of her choice. He would have
no say - it would be her choice even though he
would prefer she worked closer to home. Where
she could travel everyday to and from work.
"Any hospital but I think Empangeni would be
the best choice since we have children
together." She didn't want to quickly mention
'them' in case there wasn't - them!
Their eyes locked for a second, "yes, they need
us both closer since we've been apart for
years." He was relieved that it came from her
and not him. He needed to act right very fast
before she could make a decision to go further
away. He knew she was capable of that.

Mhlabunzima's driver drove through the gates

of Zinhloso's yard. He had Mkhululi and Milani
in the car. He took Milani from school in the
village and drove straight to Mkhululi's school.
He got out of the car and asked Milani to call
her mother if she was home. Zinhloso walked
out of the house wiping her hands on her apron.
She greeted and took the envelope from him,
"what's this?"
"It's a letter from Chwane. He said I should give
it to you."
She nodded, "it doesn't need any response I
supposed."
"He didn't say but I think you'll call him if it
needs a response."
"Thank you."
****MaMnguni

Ngiyathemba uyaphila, sphalaphala.

Bengicela ukuthi kusasa, nilunge nibe bahle
wena nabantwana bethu, owangizalela bona
ngingakufanele nalokho. Akukho okwanele
engingakubonga ngakho.
Ngizofika ngizonilanda, ngifisa sike siyoshawa
umoya. Sosheshe sbuye.

Ngiyazindla ngawe mntanomuntu.

Obhalile
Umthokozisi wenhliziyo yakho.***
She smiled - when last did she receive such
letters? His writing was everything - there were
telephones. He could've easily picked up the
phone and called but he chose to take his time
and write a letter for her. How precious!
She rushed to the house to tell the children they
had a day out planned with their father the next
day. Mcebo was also home. They were very
happy about going out with their father.
After putting Mcebo to sleep, Zinhloso decided
to also sleep. She closed her eyes but all she
was thinking about was Mhlabunzima.
***She was seated on the doorstep feeling
alone and sad. Mhlabunzima had come and
taken his children. They were visiting him for
the week. Zinhloso was sad because he was
still not agreeing to being with her again. She
was heartbroken. She raised her eyes at the
sound of the gates opening. Her heart raced as
she saw her ancestor walking through the gates.
She was wearing her full Zulu traditional regalia.
She had a basket with fruits and flowers. She
smiled at Zinhloso when she reached her.
"Why do you have a long face?" She smiled,
holding her chin up, "smile!"
Zinhloso shook her head and cried, "I have been
crying to you and you haven't been listening."
"I haven't been? I always listen to you. I am
always with you, child!"
She looked at her with a sad face, "is he not the
one for me? I want him, only him. I know what
happened between you and his ancestor but
please, MaMnguni. I have been obedient. Don't
tell me you have someone else for me. And my
children? Can't you help my children? Why did
you look at me making such a huge mistake?"
She handed the basket to Zinhloso, "if I had
helped you. You were never going to learn.
Ngoba ufuna ukugana nje, lalela! Uma emzini
bethi umalokazana layikhaya uhlala emva
kwesvalo, hlonipha wenze okushiwoyo!"
(Respect what your in-laws say you must do!)
She shouted at her, "uma kumele wazi izizathu
zokwenziwayo uyotshelwa! Ucabanga ukuthi
ukugana yini kanti? Kuzolalelwa imithetho
yakho?" (If they want you to know reasons
they'll tell you)
"No!"
"Oh, child, you've grown up." She placed the
flowers on her lap, "ukuhlangana kwenu
ngokwenyama nomphefumulo njenge ndoda
nomfazi kokhulula izibopho namajoka
kwabazayo. Hhayi nje kwabazophuma esendeni
lika mkhwenyana wami. Isizukulwane sonke
sika khokho wakhe. Konke okungalungile
kolungiseka ngani, (you and him, coming
together as one will break the bondages of the
curse for the children to come. Not only his but
the entire generation.)
"Khulula inhliziyo yakho, yamukela isimo
esenzeka. You're a strong and a good mother,"
she smiled at her, touching her cheek. She
walked into the house leaving Zinhloso
smiling.***
She opened her eyes and she smiled. She
wondered if his parents and her brother
wouldn't stand in their way.
UMCEBO

Chapter 265

They left around 10am, Mhlabunzima arrived

with Menzi while Zinhloso was giving the
children breakfast. He joined them and had the
small portion of food they were eating because
he'd eaten at home. Mcebo forced him to eat
with them. Menzi had no problem, he ate the
food he was given.
He drove with his children and their mother to
Durban. They went into the spots black people
were allowed into. The children were the
happiest. They got to mingle with other children
who were there and they got to sit back as
parents and relaxed.
"Is Menzi hitting on a girl?" Zinhloso asked
Mhlabunzima. She had a glass of juice in her
hand.
Mhlabunzima chuckled and looked at her, "he
has reached puberty now and he's more aware.
I think he's allowed to hit on girls. We
performed a ritual for him."
She gave him the look, "really? Would you say
the same thing for Milani? I don't want to be a
grandmother so young."
"Well, Milani is young-"
She faced him, "don't act dumb, Xulu, you know
what I mean."
He laughed, "it's different and remember, you're
only 34 years old. You're not young."
"Yes, lokho kusho ukuthi imina ofanele azale ayi
izingane." (I am the one who's supposed to get
pregnant not children)
He laughed his lungs out, "okay, you sound like
your mother now."
She held her mouth and giggled, "well, she was
speaking the truth. Wathelwa ngenyongo yena."
(She fully married)
"Wena usuthelwe ngenyongo nawe?" (Are you
also married?)
She pushed him lightly, "phela nami uma
sengiyitholile indoda engithandayo efuna
ukungenza umfazi wayo. Ngizothelwa ngayo." (I
will also get married when I get a man who
loves me) She sang a different tune that
seemed to slightly annoy Mhlabunzima.
"Uyangisanganela!" He exclaimed and stood up,
leaving her hiding her smile by folding her lips.
He went to join the children.
By the time they took the road leading to the
village it was after 9pm. Zinhloso looked at him,
"are you taking me home? I want to go to my
house."
"The children said they wanted to go home.
We're going there with you." He eyed her and
she was staring at one place. "But unless you
want to sleep alone?" He tried to give her a
choice.
Zinhloso turned to him, "why would I want to
sleep alone?" She held her breath as she got an
electric shock from his eye.
"It's settled then, Menzi will sleep in the house
with the boys and Milani will sleep in my house
with us."
"Alright." She held her tummy and looked on the
roadside.
Menzi assisted Mhlabunzima take the three
children into the house. They were all sleeping,
Mhlabunzima woke Menzi up.
"Lock the door and sleep. Milani will sleep in
your room on her sister's bed." He said to Menzi
and closed the door. He went to his house. In
his bedroom, he found Zinhloso applying his
body lotion on her naked body. "Which towel did
you use to bathe?"
"I used your sponge and the big towel to wipe
my body. I need something to sleep on. I can't
sleep on my dress."
"I will give you my t-shirt. I will go take a quick
bath too."
She accepted the shirt, "I know that means
you'll wash your feet only."
He laughed his way out of the room. Seeing her
naked body again, he was very much tempted.
He didn't plan on actually taking a bath. He
wanted to rest but he wanted to quickly leave
the room before she could realise his body
sexually wanted her. They needed to talk and
get married first before things got messy.
"I can see you've been going through my
drawers!" He commented, seeing Zinhloso
paging through their photo album that he'd kept
hidden in a drawer inside his wardrobe.
She smiled and looked at him, "I wanted
something I was going to put on my head. I saw
the photo frame and the album. I didn't think
you kept it."
"Did you burn yours? Or Mthuthuzeli told you to
burn it?" He joined her in bed after moistening
only his hands and feet.
She rolled her eyes, "I guess Lily said it's okay if
you keep it."
He chuckled and took it from her hands. His
back against the headboard he asked her to sit
in between his legs. "MaMnguni?"
She looked up at him, "yes?"
He placed her head on his chest, his arm
supporting the back of her head so she could
easily look up at him, "you are bad at asking for
love back." He teased her and Zinhloso laughed,
she tried to move away from him but he held
her, "where are you going?"
"Don't tease me!"
"I remember back then, you couldn't even write
two sweet lines when writing a letter to your
boyfriend, me!" He chortled and kissed her
cheek as she hid her face on him. "But I love
you like that and I accept your love back if you
accept mine."
She wanted to jump for joy, "yes, I will accept
yours." She closed her eyes and accepted his
cold lips and as their lips smooched against
each other. His lips got warm, warmed up by
the love they were both sharing for each other.
The love they were both accepting back after
years of being apart, years of hurt and pain. He
held her even closer to his chest and he felt the
beating of her heart. She'd told him her heart
beat for him, he felt it and he loved it. It was in
this very moment, where he was fixed on this
kiss that he realised maybe he wanted the other
women to be like her. He'd expected Lily to do
things Zinhloso did to him but she was never
open to it even before she realised there was a
problem. Julia didn't want to explore and be
spontaneous in bed, that frustrated him so
much. She only accepted him being on top and
spooning. She rejected every suggestion he
brought forward to make their sex life fun. He
realised - maybe even if his ancestor didn't give
him a wake up call. He would have found
himself back to her one way or the other
because he was actually searching for
someone like her in different bodies.
"Ngiyakuthanda ngenhliziyo yami yonke," he
said, honestly.
She pecked his lips, "ngiyakuthanda nami,
kakhulu, without you things were different and I
never found a man like you."
"I thought I would find someone better but
there's no one better than you." He held her
hands, "I have learnt from my mistakes, I
promise to do better. To be more emotionally
intelligent because that's the reason I hurt you. I
failed to reason because of pain. I turned you
into a person you were not."
"Yes, you did the other things but not the last
one. You didn't change me but I changed myself.
I was in control of everything. I chose the path I
chose because I wanted to hurt you worse than
you did to me,
"That's what I need to change. I need to stop
being spiteful towards you but I am not saying
hurt me because of that."
He was relieved to hear that coming from her. "I
promise to do better and I am giving you
permission to come and properly appease my
family and ancestors as you wanted to."
She didn't say anything but she smiled at him
and attacked him with a kiss. The kiss was
passionate and pleasing to both parties but
Mhlabunzima quickly stopped it before it got
out of hand.
He kissed her forehead, "we should sleep.
Mcebo wakes up early in the morning."
"Yes," she moved away from him, "goodnight."
She snuggled her body into his body and they
fell asleep.

In the morning, she was woken up by the need

to pee. She went to the empty room where
there was a bucket. She realised it was no
longer dark outside.
"Ngenzwel'umusa!" She shook Mhlabunzima
awake. "Good morning, wake up!"
He yawned, "why am I waking up so early?" He
raised his head.
"I should go home it's already dawn."
He pulled her back into the covers, "no, we're no
longer young like that. We have children for
goodness sake. There'll be no sneaking in and
out going on."
"But at least your parents should know-"
"Yes, they should know but that doesn't mean
we will sneak out. I am over forty, MaMnguni."
She changed position to properly look at him
and she blushed when his morning erection
rubbed on her. She looked at him, he was just
staring at her with horny eyes but he didn't act
on it. Zinhloso decided to hold herself, if
something was meant to happen she was going
to let him initiate it.
Before he could give her a morning kiss, the
knock on the door disturbed them.
"Baba, please, wake up. I am awake too. We
were sleeping in the big house with my
brothers." Mcebo's happy voice reached his
parents.
"Oh, Nkosi!" He kicked the blankets and
unlocked the door for him.
He came into the room running, "mama!" He
screamed and stopped getting on the bed but
he rushed out.
Zinhloso sat up straight, "he'll probably tell your
parents or his siblings."
"I will go to the kitchen. You'll relax here."
He walked into the kitchen and his children
were with his parents eating. By the looks he
was getting from his parents he could tell
Mcebo had dropped the bomb.
"Go and eat in the big house, children," Xulu
chased the children out and they didn't ask
much. They stood up and followed Menzi who
was leading them.
"We've heard from Mcebo that his mother is
here. In your bedroom." Xulu didn't waste time.
Mhlabunzima could tell his father was pissed
off, "yes, she's here."
"Why is she here?" He asked.
He looked at his mother, she was staring at him,
"she's here because we're fixing things. We've
gotten back together."
"Are you insane!" Xulu shouted, "why would you
go back to her after everything she put you
through?"
"I asked for love back because I love her
regardless of what happened," he answered, he
decided he wasn't going to tell anyone about his
dream, especially not his family. They were not
going to respect Zinhloso as his wife. They
were going to have an idea that he was with her
because he was forced. But he wasn't forced,
he could've easily chose to be single for the rest
of his life if he really didn't want to be with
Zinhloso. But because he still loved her, he
decided to fix things with her. He wasn't going
to explain that to anyone. He decided he wasn't
even going to tell Zinhloso herself.
"Love! Is love enough? That woman broke you
beyond!"
Esther held his hand. They were seated next to
each other on the table, "baba, calm down. Why
are you shouting?"
"Don't you remember what this child went
through?"
Esther looked at her son, "I remember and also
don't want them back together but it's not our
decision to make. It's his life and not our life."
"I can't believe you're saying that! If this woman
does what she did again. Who'll be there to help
him pick up the pieces?" Xulu was livid, he
couldn't believe his son could be so foolish.
Were there no any other women he could
choose?
"It'll be us if we'll be alive."
Mhlabunzima looked at his father, "I want my
children to grow in a comfortable home. I don't
want them to grow in a broken home, torn
between parents. Already, Mcebo is torn
between us."
"Those are consequences of both your actions."
Xulu slapped the table, "angazi wambhebha
kanjani umuntu owakuhlukumeza ngalola hlobo!
Wangambhebhela ukuzijabulisa, angazi
nokuzijabulisa wawungajabula kanjani. Wena
wavele wamshiya nengane esiswini!"
He looked at his mother, "what's your say,
mama?"
She shrugged, "it's your life Ngenzwel'umusa. I
don't have a say and if you think Zinhloso is
best for you. What can I do to stop you?"
"I am not happy about this. She'll break your
heart using the children again." Xulu said, "I
don't want this relationship, for real this time
around."
"I love her and I want to marry her. I want to
send people to her family after she'd appeased
the ancestors. I don't need permission to be
with her again but I need your support."
Mhlabunzima wasn't fazed by his father. Xulu
clicked his tongue and walked out of the
kitchen hut.
Esther pointed the pots, "there's breakfast on
the pots. Give her food before she badmouths
us and say, we starve her."
He realised his mother was being sarcastic but
he didn't take any offense. He stood up and
dished up the food for both of them. He left the
kitchen with the tray.
"What did they say?" Zinhloso was no longer
seated in the bedroom but in the living room.
She had made the bed and swept the floor, also
made the bed for Milani.
He put the tray on the table, "they'll come
around let's eat." He didn't look at her even
though he could feel her eyes on him.
Zinhloso didn't ask much. She knew she also
had Mzomubi to deal with.
UMCEBO

Chapter 266

***Unlocked bonus chapter***

He was staring at her going up and down in

their room. She was wearing his shirt. He was
trying to figure out if she'd gained weight or if
she looked good on his shirt.
"Baby, I will come back now. I want to talk to my
mother about something," Simon got up from
the bed and left his wife cleaning around their
bedroom. He assisted her with folding clothes.
"You're running away from cleaning!"
He laughed and left the door open. He'd decided
it was time to talk to his mother about moving
out. His wife wasn't fully happy and he'd
realised his children weren't really free around
his sisters. What kind of a man would he be if
he lived to protect his mother but watch as his
family was unhappy?
"Can we talk, mama?" Simon sat on the sofa
next to his mother.
She nodded, "I am listening."
"I have made a decision that it's time I build my
own home for my children and my wife." Simon
announced and he waited for his mother to
start shouting but his mother only looked at him.
His mother put the tea cup on the table and she
took her time staring at him, "are you serious?"
She asked.
"Yes, I am serious. I have thought this through
and so, after taking my time thinking about it. I
decided to talk to one of my colleagues from
the neighbouring villages,"he fully explained to
his mother. "They helped me go through the
process of getting a site to build my children
their home. Induna and the Chief of uDondolo
village had given me a plot. I will start building a
home there for my family."
Simon decided he was going to go through this
process without talking to Ziwinile about it. He
wanted to surprise her and make her happy by
showing her, he was serious about her. He was
considerate of her feelings and wellbeing,
including their children's well-being and
happiness.
"So, your wife has finally managed to poison
you against us?" She was very heartbroken.
How could he decide to leave home after so
many years?
He shook his head, "no, but from the very first
day, you never sided with Ziwinile. You watched
and laughed as your daughters ridiculed her.
You didn't tell them they were wrong,
"What did my sisters achieve in life, mama?
They stay at home everyday but the very same
person who's helping me put food on the table
is expected to come back from work everyday
and cook,
"Cook for two grown capable adults. My wife is
actually supposed to cook whenever she feels
like cooking. They should be meeting her
halfway but no, your daughters found a maid,
"They sit down all day and you keep quiet. You
go to bed hungry instead of telling them to cook.
You're enabling their behaviour,
"My children aren't even free around them now.
They're not happy and I can't allow that to
happen. We need our own space where they'll
be happy and free."
Simon's mother could not believe this was
happening, "Simon, Ziwinile is a wife here and
how do you expect me to treat her?"
"I guess you're not hearing what I am saying. I
asked my cousin to move in at the back so
there'll be a man in the yard. My brothers have
no transfer available," Simon explained, "he'll
live with you and also, I will still give you the
monthly grocery money and my brothers will
also add there. My contribution will no longer be
the same than before because I will also be
looking after my family."
"Your cousin is not my son! I didn't give birth to
you so live to please another woman. You're
my son," his mother screamed but Simon
wasn't moved.
He thought his mother would be touched and
she would be considerate of his wife's feelings
but it was clear she didn't care but she only
cared about her children and her
granddaughters. Ziwinile was right!
He stood up, he didn't want to keep arguing with
her, "this is my life and I choose to live for my
family. I need peace and not fights. I can't lose
my wife over your daughters who don't even
know what they want in life." He stood up and
left his mother crying. He didn't care because
she was not seeing reason.
"Mkami!" Simon placed his hand on Ziwinile's
butt. She was sleeping. It was Saturday during
the day and she was sleeping. She hardly slept
during the day. He looked around the room and
she'd finished cleaning up.
"I am resting!"
He rubbed his hand on her exposed thighs and
she giggled, "wake up, why are you sleeping
during the day?"
She sat up straight, "I am resting."
"You never sleep during the day."
She hadn't told him about the pregnancy
because she was still not happy about it
because of the way things were. It was
stressing her out, "I am tired."
"Can you please dress up? We're going to meet
with a man who'll draw the plan for our house,"
Simon requested.
Their children were visiting their maternal
grandmother. Ziwinile wanted to go with them
but Simon refused.
"Our house? Baba kaPhilani, where are you
going to build a house here?" She asked, she
was annoyed by this suggestion because he
was pulling her leg. She desperately wanted to
move and be free in her own space.
He smiled, "yes, not here…" he told Ziwinile
about the plans he'd made, which came true
over the past two months. "So, we need to have
a plan to build our home."
She held her mouth and she playfully hit Simon,
"don't joke like this!"
"I am not joking. I want to make you happy."
Ziwinile strangled her husband into a hug. She
couldn't believe this was finally happening. She
quickly sat on him, "thank you so much and now,
can we help our little baby grow inside
mommy," she laughed and kissed him, giving
him no chance to celebrate the pregnancy. She
wanted to give him the best of health. Ziwinile
was happy that finally, Simon had come to his
senses. He was finally doing what she'd always
yearned for - a home for her children.
This life! Looking back, she never thought she
would be here and this happy. At this very
moment, she wished she was going to live to
see the new South Africa. She was at her
happiest.
***
"Zinhloso, were you appeasing his ancestors
and asking for forgiveness to him and his
parents that weekend because you're back
together with him?" Mzomubi shouted at
Zinhloso. He walked inside the house angry and
he wanted to see Zinhloso. He couldn't believe
her.
She frowned at him, "what are you talking
about?" Zinhloso was home. She told her
mother about appeasing and getting back
together with Mhlabunzima. Mrs Mnguni was
very happy for her daughter and she wished
nobody was going to stand in her way. Mrs
Mnguni wrote a letter informing the Xulus they
would like to come and they accepted. The
ritual was done with respect and there were no
quarrels. Zinhloso had expected Mhlabunzima's
parents would ruin things and talk about how
they didn't want their relationship but that didn't
happen. They both didn't say anything to her,
they only spoke with her uncles, brother and
mother.
After that weekend, Zinhloso wrote letters of
rejection to other hospitals and she accepted
the job offer at the hospital in town. She was
supposed to start working on Monday of the
upcoming week as it was Wednesday.
"Where were you today?"
She widened her eyes, "aybo, Mzomubi, I am
older than you. You can't ask me that."
Mrs Mnguni walked into the house and asked
what was happening. Why was Mzomubi
shouting at his sister?
He pointed at Zinhloso, "she'd done a foolish
thing and went back to Mhlabunzima. Can you
believe it? I saw them today, they were together
and it wasn't hard to tell they're in a relationship
again." Mzomubi told his mother.
"He's no longer Mhlabunzima -"
"I don't care!"
"Oh, you have to care and address him correctly
because he's the father of my children and I
love him." Zinhloso shouted back at Mzomubi.
He chuckled and clapped once, "have you
forgotten what he did to you, huh?"
"Should I hold on to that until I die?"
Mrs Mnguni intervened, "Mzomubi, your anger
is justified but your sister has chosen Milani's
father and there's nothing you can do but
accept this relationship."
"I will never!" He slapped the table and walked
out of the house.
Mrs Mnguni brushed her shoulder, "don't worry,
nothing will stop you this time around. Nobody
will stand in your way of happiness and I will
ensure that."
She smiled, "thank you, mama." She wasn't
staying for the night at home but she was
leaving. She only thought she should wait until
the school was out and she would drive to the
school for her children. Mcebo has been with
her since the beginning of the week. She was
with her after two weeks of being with his
father. She was very happy that this time
around - she had her mother's support. Her
mother was a dragon lady and soon, Mzomubi
was going to accept this relationship.

Mhlabunzima closed the bedroom door of the

children. He arrived at Zinhloso's house,
Ematshane, after 6pm - dinner time. He joined
them and after dinner, he went to help Milani
with her homework. Mkhululi didn't have any
school work. After helping Milani, he sat on the
chair in between their two beds and he had a
conversation with them. Asking them about
school and their friends from school. He was
happy about his children's progress.
"Mcebo, why are you not sleeping? Your siblings
are sleeping." Mhlabunzima took a seat next to
his son on the sofa.
He sulked and looked at his mother with sorry
eyes, "baba, mom doesn't want us to go and
sleep."
Zinhloso looked at Mhlabunzima, "I don't want
him in my bed. He must sleep with his brother."
Mhlabunzima lifted Mcebo and put him on his
lap, "sleep on me. I will take you to bed once
you're sleeping." He promised lies to the child
and he quickly got onto his father's lap. It didn't
take him much time and he was fully sleeping.
Mhlabunzima left Menzi at home. He'd been
getting a cold shoulder from his father and to
avoid that from escalating, Mhlabunzima called
his great father and Kusakusa. They spoke with
his father and told him to accept that they love
each other. He decided to accept the
relationship when his brother reminded him of
how he gave Esther another chance after she'd
put him through hell.
"Sthandwa sami?" Zinhloso called out softly.
They were in bed, she was laying on his chest
and he was facing up.
"Yes, mtakwethu?"
"Can we reconnect?" She requested shly - it's
been over three weeks since they got back
together. Mhlabunzima had been coming
around the house and Zinhloso had gone back
to the Xulu home after their trip in Durban. But,
they haven't reconnected sexually. She was
waiting for him to make a move but it seemed
he was taking forever. She was tired of waiting.
"How? Haven't we reconnected - ah, what are
you doing?" He raised his voice as Zinhloso
grabbed his manhood.
She looked at him with hungry eyes, "I am
talking about this. I want you. I am hungry for
you, get in between my legs."
He pecked her lips, "love, we should get married
first. I want you too but let's do things right,
please!"
She quickly moved away from him, "get married
first? When will that happen?"
"I wrote a letter with my uncle. We'll give it to
you and you'll give it to your mother."
She wanted to scream, "still, that's very far, Xulu!
Come on, I have to wait for months. The date
has not even been set!"
"I don't care but we're not having sex until then.
I am doing this for your own good."
She widened her eyes,"my own good!"
"Yes, let's not forget. Njalo nje emva
kwesikhathi eside, uma isbeletho sakho sibona
ipipi lami lilunguza nje sivele sikhamise
simumathe ingane."
"Really? That's the reason we're not sexually
active right now? Don't we actually need
another baby? I am not getting any younger."
He tried to pull her back into his arms but she
didn't want that, "yes, MaMnguni. You're starting
a new job soon and that means you shouldn't
get pregnant. It'll also be difficult if you get
pregnant before getting married,
"You'll be suspended at work for being pregnant
while you're not married. You know that's not
allowed at any government work facilities. You
can't be pregnant and work while not married."
She knew he meant well and he was speaking
the truth but this made her further angry, "okay,
let's go to home affairs tomorrow and get the
marriage certificate."
"I thought it's not done like that with your
ancestors, legal wedding first."
Zinhloso threw pillows at him, "you have an
excuse for everything I suggest. It's clear I am
the only one who wants this."
"Uyabona ke, angifuni kulwa ebusuku specially
fighting for something that's good for you!" He
raised his voice out of frustration. He angrily
removed the blankets and showed her his
erection. "I am trying to think with my head
unless my penis is more important to you than
working now."
She pressed her legs together as she looked at
him. He was right and she hated it. She hated
the fact she couldn't go for prevention - it would
take longer to clear off her system. She really
wanted another baby after the wedding.
"Uzolithola for the rest your life. There's no rush.
I want you to work and have no obstacles."
She looked at him with kitten eyes. She was
surprised she didn't cry, she really felt like
crying, "at least ikhothe ke. It's been seven
years, Gxabhashe. I will go to sis Khosi and ask
her to help me, start tracking my circle again,
ngeke mina ngilinde umshado engingawazi
ukuthi owanini."
He pulled her back in his arms and without
speaking - he kissed her…
UMCEBO

Chapter 267

Zinhloso was seated on the straw mat with her

mother. She'd given her mother the letter of
negotiations from Mhlabunzima. Her mother
showed the letter to Mzomubi. He was very
angry and told her mother they wouldn't hold
any negotiations with Mhlabunzima. Zinhloso
tried speaking to him, trying to make him see
reason but he didn't want to hear her. She
wanted them to understand that she loved this
man without any influence from her ancestor.
She wanted him and only him. She only told her
mother about the dream and that gave Mrs
Mnguni a stronger motive to get her daughter
married to Mhlabunzima.
Mzomubi called his uncles and told them about
the letter. They were all not in support of
Zinhloso going back to Mhlabunzima. Her aunts
were with her but the men who were actually
needed for the negotiations were saying 'No!'
Mzomubi called his uncles into a meeting with
his mother. He also called Zinhloso to come.
Zinhloso had started working at the hospital
and she loved every moment of it. She felt really
empowered.
"We see the letter but MaNtuli, I can't believe
you want this child to go back to Xulu's son!"
Zinhloso's great uncle put the letter down and
looked at his brother's wife. "I had said it before
that I hoped that was the real end of our
relationship with the Xulu family."
"And you were wrong to make that decision. It's
not you who started this relationship but these
two children started the relationship." Mrs
Mnguni responded. She couldn't believe these
men thought they could decide whether
Zinhloso was going back to Mhlabunzima or
not.
Mzomubi looked at his mother, "we were
thinking of her well-being. Have you forgotten
what he did to her? How humiliated was she in
the village because of him?" He was really
pissed off by his mother but he wasn't
surprised she was supporting Zinhloso. He
wanted the best for his sister and according to
him, Mhlabunzima wasn't what was best.
"They'd equally hurt each other, Mzomubi and
the families had appeased one another. Why do
you want to make decisions for Zinhloso?"
"He's her brother and he cares about her!"
Mrs Mnguni realised she wasn't going to win if
she was begging these people. She needed to
tell them where to get off. Her son included, "all
of you, are not perfect! But your wives are still
with you and now, you want my daughter to be
single until when? She loves Ngenzwel'umusa
and that's okay!"
"We're not holding those negotiations!"
She laughed, "alright, I will hold them alone.
Zinhloso is actually my daughter and I won't be
told by you men, who don't even know how to
birth a child. You won't tell me what should
happen."
"You'll hold negotiations? Where have you seen
that happen?" Great uncle shouted.
"You'll see it," Mrs Mnguni glared at her son,
"you! I will get into that hut and talk to your
ancestors. I will tell your grandparents to bring
your father forward for me. I will tell him what
you're doing after he'd clearly said you should
support your sister."
"You can't do that!" Mzomubi exclaimed!
Great uncle moved to the edge of the seat,
"you'll skip protocol and jump to talk to the
ancestors?" He shouted.
"Yebo, ngiwumfazi omdala, nginabazukulu
nokuba nabazukulu. Angisayi naseskhathi,
ngongena ngikhulume nabo kahle!" She shouted
at them and they looked down ashamed at the
mention of her no longer getting her periods.
"My husband will hear me and I will hold these
negotiations. You can all sleep in your homes.
Ngiwu MaNtuli mina, angincengi ndoda!"
She glared at her son again, "wena! Stop acting
like you're perfect. Just a year ago, your wives
wanted to leave you for cheating on them with a
younger woman. I fought for you, so they can
stay and your children will not have their family
ruined,
"I told you what to do to make things right and
today, you see yourself as better? You want
your sister's children not to have a complete
and a warm home with both parents who love
each other?
"Should she meet another man, she should
leave these children here and they'll resent her
for leaving them behind? Udakwe obamaganu
ngane yami." She pointed at Zinhloso, "lo,
uzogana whether you like it or not! You can go!"
She gave Zinhloso her hand. Zinhloso stood up
and assisted her mother. They walked out.
"I can only accept him if he pays the same
number of cows but doubled, this time around!"
Mzomubi said bitterly. Mhlabunzima did a
number on his sister and if he didn't make him
pay, he would repeat the same thing knowing he
would be accepted.
The uncles nodded, "yes, go to him and tell him
that. If he accepts, we'll hold the negotiations."
Mzomubi stood up and told his uncles not to go
yet, his wives were going to bring them drinks.
He found his mother and Zinhloso inside the
kitchen.
"Yini?" (What?) Mrs Mnguni asked as Mzomubi
was looking at her, "wafutheka njenge xoxo nje!"
He looked at Zinhloso, "let's see if this baby
daddy of yours is really serious about you. I will
only hold negotiations if he doubles the same
number of cattle he paid before."
"Mzomubi! Don't be greedy! 18 cows!" Mrs
Mnguni screamed.
"Yes, he made me go back on my word. Ngeke
ngenziwe enye indoda upopayi mina!"
Zinhloso held her mother's hand as she tried to
talk, "let him be, mama!" She looked at her
brother. "Go and tell him that condition."
Mzomubi nodded and walked out of the house
after telling his wives to give his uncles food
and drinks. He didn't waste time but he went to
his car. He drove straight to the supermarket.

Mzomubi found Mhlabunzima at the back with

the chickens. He was with Mkhululi and Mcebo,
they were giving the chickens water. He
stopped working once he saw Mzomubi. "Go
and ask uncle Ntokozo to give you cold drinks."
They walked away after greeting their uncle.
Mzomubi and Mhlabunzima sat on the benches,
"is there something wrong?" Mhlabunzima
asked.
Mzomubi was mad but he needed to do this for
his sister, "so, if Zinhloso had died who would
you be getting back together with by now?"
"Nobody!"
He chuckled, "you're lying, you would be living
your best life and forgetting about her existence.
I don't understand how you want her again after
everything that has happened between the two
of you!"
"I don't intend to make you understand. I just
want my wife that's all."
Mzomubi was ticked off by his arrogance, "your
wife? Isn't Lily the best for you?"
"No, she isn't and I think the whole community
saw that, right?"
He chuckled and shook his head. He couldn't
understand why Zinhloso wanted to go back to
him, "I will accept you in one condition!"
"Yes?"
"The cattle you paid before, you'll double that
and only then, I can call you my brother-in-law
again." 18 cows! He kept quiet and his silence
made Mzomubi laugh because he was thinking
he was second guessing his decision. "Can't
afford it? I guess you're not that serious about
her." He stood up from the bench.
He smiled, "don't undermine me!" He wasn't
going to give Mzomubi a chance to make
himself believe he didn't deserve Zinhloso. He
deserved her, she'd forgiven him and it was her
he was going to build a home with and not her
brother. "You'll get everything you want as you
want it, the colour, shape and size, you name it.
I will give it to you."
It was a hefty price but it was going to be worth
it. This woman had served his family for years,
loved them like her own, loved his child like her
own. So, why? Why would he cry for nine more
cattle.
He clenched his jaws, "I will only shake hands
with you after you've fulfilled your promise,
you've broken a lot of promises before!" He said
and left. Mhlabunzima breathed once Mzomubi
was gone.

"I am actually in a hurry. Ave uthanda

ukungigubhisa, Zinhloso. It's like you're
pregnant!"l You want this and that."
Mhlabunzima grabbed the plastic from the
passenger seat.
It was the new year, end of January. Zinhloso
had called Mhlabunzima in the morning. She
asked him to bring guavas from the tree by his
home. Zinhloso was at her home, KwaMnguni.
The children were at the Xulu high homestead
there was going to be a ritual taking place there.
Xulu called them home.
Zinhloso smiled, "well, you know I love guavas. I
am too old to climb the trees now." She said
and took the plastic bag, "and I also wanted an
excuse to see your handsome face."
He smirked, "okay, give me a kiss so I will
quickly go." He opened the door and showed his
face. He accepted her brief kiss. "I love you, I
will bring your children tomorrow with your
meat."
"Thank you, sthandwa sami." She stepped back
and she looked at him as he closed the car and
drove off. She could tell he was really in a hurry
but he made time for her. She felt extra special.
Mhlabunzima reached the high homestead and
he joined everyone. They were having a ritual
they held yearly when the year had begun. It
was busy.
After Mzomubi had made demands,
Mhlabunzima prepared to fulfill his demands.
This brought an uproar in the family. They were
all advising him against but he didn't care. He
wanted to prove himself to Mzomubi and
Zinhloso because she also knew about these
demands. Everyone was unhappy but they didn't
have a choice but respect what he wanted.
Mhlabunzima wanted to hold Izibizo for
Zinhloso by the end of November but there
were always set backs. His father was always
coming up with excuses or something would
come up. He spoke about December and still,
there was something that stopped him. He
didn't know whether he was doing this
deliberately or there were really setbacks. Over
two months late, no pre-wedding ceremony had
been done, only ilobolo negotiations. He tried
confranting his father but he denied everything.
He was very angry with his father - his mother
wasn't helping with anything even after he'd
asked her to speak to him.
The men of the family were seated together
eating, outside and the women were inside one
hut and the children were with other children in
one hut.
"Ngenzwel'umusa, why are you quiet?" Great
uncle asked Mhlabunzima. They were all talking
but he was just quiet.
"It's nothing, Bab' omdala."
"When's the wedding? I thought by now you
would be a husband because you seemed to be
in a hurry," he asked and took the glass of water
from Xulu.
Mhlabunzima looked at his father, "I don't know,
you should ask your brother."
Everyone looked at Xulu, "he's crazy, there had
been setbacks for his first ceremony and he
believes I am behind that."
"Why do you believe your father is the reason
there are setbacks?"
Mhlabunzima stood up, "I don't want to talk
about this." He left them and went to smoke.
Recently, his father got on his nerves. He didn't
know what was his problem. He was playing
dirty.
He threw the unfinished cigarette on the ground
as his name was called. He went back and
everyone was out except for the children. They
were all under the tree and prophetess
MaDuma was seated alone on the straw mat.
Mhlabunzima sat back down and he greeted her.
"Siyabonga, mndeni kaGxabhashe," she saw
they were all gathered together, "I don't have
much to say. I have a message. I received it the
day before yesterday and I thought a family
member would come for any reason. I would
relay the message."
"What's the message, mntwana wedlozi?" The
great uncle asked.
She looked at Xulu, "you're standing on the way
of the future of this family. This wedding you
don't want to happen it's the key to solve the
main problem of this family and fix the
mistakes of the past."
Xulu wished the earth would open up and
swallow him. He thought he had accepted this
relationship but after Mzomubi demanded more
cattle from his son he was livid. He felt like he
was robbing him.
"Bhuti, didn't you say you have nothing to do
with the setbacks?" Great father raised his
voice at his younger brother and Xulu didn't
respond.
He only looked at MaDuma, "what problems? I
don't want my son to go back to Mnguni's
daughter."
"That's not up to you to decide. If these two are
bonded together by marriage. UMaMnguni
athelwe ngenyongo abe umfazi woGxabhashe,
the curse will be broken for the children to
come but sadly not for the twins."
Everyone gasped, "hhaybo!"
"Are you speaking the truth?" Xulu asked
MaDuma.
The old woman looked at him with a scowl, "do
you think I have time to joke?"
Esther raised her head, "I think my husband
doesn't mean it that way."
"Yes, please explain it to us."
"This means every children born from now can
be born in the hospitals and they'll be normal
like other children. This will happen only if these
two get married."
The son who had a pregnant wife who was
scared of giving birth at home, stood up quickly,
"yes, they'll get married and I don't think there's
anyone who'll stand in their way." Everyone
agreed.
Great father looked at his brother, "yes, nobody!
I hope you understand, bhuti."
"Nobody will stand on their way!" Xulu said and
there were ululations. More and more young
wives were getting scared of giving birth at
home because there were hospitals. These
news were good news, these news were
precious. They were the best news they'd ever
heard.
Mhlabunzima was very relieved deeply, that this
was said for the whole family to hear. He was
happy for his future wife - there was no longer
anything she could worry about. Life was going
to be good again.
UMCEBO
Epilogue

March - she was seated inside the hut with her

sisters and cousins. They were going to start
practicing wedding songs a bit late.
It'd been a good and happy past months -
Mhlabunzima told Zinhloso about MaDuma's
visit. She remembered not telling him about
that specific part of her dream. She told him
about it and Mhlabunzima was happier, his
family generations would be free because of
them. He was happy there was never going to
be a stress about whether she was going to the
hospital or not.
At the beginning of February, the first ceremony
was performed at the Mnguni home. The Xulus
gifting the bride's family. By the end of February,
it was Ingqibamasondo and the 1st of March
they had umkhehlo.
Zinhloso couldn't believe this wedding was
really going to take place.
"Mama, ubaba is outside and he's asking for
you to come out," Milani whispered to her
mother.
Zinhloso looked at her daughter, "he's asking
for me to come out. Why is he here?"
"He came to ask for Mcebo's shoes that he'll
wear tomorrow at the wedding."
She was annoyed by Mhlabunzima calling her.
He knew pretty well that she was supposed to
stay with the other women, "go and tell him, I
will see him tomorrow."
Zinhloso couldn't believe Xulu really didn't want
this wedding to happen. She'd wondered if he
was going to sabotage it until when? Ever since
Mhlabunzima paid ilobolo for her, she usually
went to his home without hiding. She could tell
the parents were just tolerating her, they were
no longer free and welcoming like they were
with her before. She didn't know how she was
going to live with them because she was
supposed to live with them.
"Mama, he says come. He needs a minute."
Milani returned with a message.
She wanted to scream, "where's he?"
"Up at the end of the fence."
"Okay, go to the other children. I will go to your
father."
Zinhloso looked at Ziwinile, "I will come back,
cover for me." She stood up and walked out. It
was after 8pm, and the yard was still busy.
Everyone was preparing for the wedding
tomorrow.
She opened the door of the van and stepped
inside the car, "you're putting me in an awkward
position."
"I miss you, I haven't been seeing you for over
two weeks." He gently pulled her to him by her
neck and his lips loved hers into a hot kiss. He
slipped his hand into her blue shirt that she was
wearing with a black skirt, he massaged her
nipples. Her moans came out low.
"Sthandwa sami, ngiyakucela!" (Love, please)
she softly whispered as their foreheads were
against each other after he had ended the kiss.
"What are you requesting?"
"Just one time, tonight!"
Zinhloso went to Khosi for help to track her
periods and she wasn't home. She'd gone to a
hospital in Durban with her sick mother-in-law.
She had to wait because Mhlabunzima had
refused to take any chances. She started
working and she hardly had free time. The
children were mostly with their father until she
was on her two feet at work.
Mhlabunzima travelled to the city of gold after
their ilobolo negotiations. He had a political
commitment business. They were busy but she
did visit a counted times.
"It's our wedding tomorrow. We'll consummate
our marriage."
She moved away from him, "it's been months,
Ngenzwel'umusa! Why does it look like you're
avoiding me or you no longer find me
attractive?" She raised her voice. She couldn't
understand why he had so many excuses.
He didn't answer her but he started the car. He
was ticked off by her implying he didn't find her
attractive anymore. He couldn't understand
what he was doing that showed he didn't find
her attractive. He couldn't understand how
thinking of her future at work meant he didn't
find her attractive.
She looked at him as he got out of the car after
parking it before the garage. She wondered
what was going through his mind as he didn't
even say a word to her about what she said.
She followed him to his house. She could hear
laughter and the sound of radio coming from
Xulu's house. It made her wonder what the
parents were discussing. Were they still
sexually active? Probably not! They were too old
for that.
After the wedding date had been set,
Mhlabunzima told Menzi to move into the big
house. He didn't want any child in his house. He
wanted only his wife. He didn't want to have her
scream at night and children accidentally
hearing her.
He turned the lights on and pulled Zinhloso into
his bedroom. "What am I doing that makes you
say I don't find you attractive?"
She could see he was angry. Her body bumped
into his body. A gasp shot out her mouth, "your
actions."
He didn't say anything else but he held her tight
into a reclining position, having her on a surface
and leaning into their body. His lips were locked
with hers, kissing her passionately as they
walked until her back was against the wall.
Clothes flew across the room, both their hands
were all over each other's bodies. He groaned
deeply as her hand rubbed his hard manhood.
Only a few hours until their wedding, he only
wanted to see her and kiss her but she wanted
more.
"Let's go to bed." She whispered and faced up
as he kissed her neck. Her hand held the back
of his neck.
From her nipples, back to her lips, "I will have
you here and don't you dare ever assume
things!" He lifted her up and Zinhloso quickly
wrapped her legs around his waist. She held
onto him.
"I am sorry." She cried out. He tightened his grip
on her waist "Manje, Donda!" She ordered him.
He patiently tried his way in but it wasn't as
easy as it normally was - but she was wet
enough. "Hhhh, hhh!" He sucked in air as he
finally entered into her glory.
The pleasure started building up slowly as he
thrusted into her slowly. After seven years of
loneliness, this was everything she needed. She
needed light legs to get into that wedding field.
When they were practising wedding songs and
dance moves, she'd been feeling like her body
was stiff. She didn't feel light and easy to move
around. She needed this.
When he held her waist tightly and hit her in a
different angle that gave him a deeper
penetration. She cried out. "Oh, Gxabhashe, I
have missed you so much."
He moved with her from the wall and put her on
the bed. She was on the edge of the bed and
Mhlabunzima remained standing, "uyohlezi
umuhle kimi, noma kungadlula iminyaka,
uyohlezi umuhle." He affirmed her beauty
because it made him upset what she said.
When Zinhloso met him halfway, thrusting
underneath - he lost his senses and what came
out of his mouth didn't make any sense. The
pleasure was high. The climax came really
quick for him. He wasn't expecting it. "Are you
satisfied?" He asked, after kissing her again.
She smiled, "yea, I will be flying on the wedding
field tomorrow."
He kissed her forehead, "let me take you back
home." He found her clothes for her and he
dressed her up once she was calm. They held
hands and walked out of the house.
Esther was inside the kitchen to get a jug of
water for the night. She didn't realise they didn't
have any water. She quickly walked out of the
kitchen as she saw two figures quickly passing
by.
"Ngenzwel'umusa!" She screamed and heard
her son telling the woman to quickly get into the
car. "Ngenzwel'umusa!"
"Ma?"
"Who's that? Are you not getting married
tomorrow? What are you doing now, huh?"
Esther shouted at Mhlabunzima.
He didn't stand closer to his mother, "it's not
what you think."
"What do you mean by that, huh? Are you trying
to ruin this marriage before it's started?"
He brushed his head, "no, don't worry."
Esther realised he wasn't going to tell the truth
about the woman she saw him with.
"Aw, mama, come on! Don't intrude!" He rushed
after her.
But Esther was tall and so, her strides were
quick. She was shocked to see Zinhloso on the
passenger seat. She didn't even greet back
when Zinhloso greeted her, looking like a child
who'd stolen candy. She looked back to her son.
"Ngenzwel'umusa!" She screamed.
He rubbed the back of his neck, "mama, please,
there's something I needed to give to her -" he
held his forehead as his mother clapped once
and walked away.
Zinhloso was also puzzled by his response to
his mother, "really? Something you were
supposed to give me?"
"Ah, what was I supposed to say?" He took the
driver's seat and drove out of the premises. "It's
all your fault!"
"You're the one who can't tell lies!"
He chuckled and looked at her, "but did you
enjoy yourself then?"
"Yes," she blushed, "I can't wait for tomorrow."
"For the wedding or?"
"For everything!" She responded and they
laughed. He held her hand.
He stopped the car where he'd parked it before.
He kissed her, "can you hear the drums? They
started without you."
"A very awkward position you've put me in,"
Zinhloso said and laughed her lungs out as
Mhlabunzima widened his eyes at her. She
pecked his lips and got out of the car. She
headed home.
She seriously wanted to disappear when the
heads of people who were practising turned to
her. She ran to the hut.
"Aybo! You disappeared just like that and mom
has been shouting that you left. I tried covering
for you but Milani told the truth that you left
with her father." Ziwinile walked in quickly after
Zinhloso.
She groaned, "that child! We needed to talk
about our affairs. MaNtuli will understand." She
giggled as Ziwinile walked out laughing. She
followed her sister out. She joined the others.

Mhlabunzima had invited his acquaintances in

politics. The king himself wanted to witness
this wedding, he was present with his wife. Xulu
was like a child to him and his children were like
his grandchildren.
The whole village wanted to witness their one
and Only Mhlabunzima wedding to his Doctor.
Finally, he was getting married.
The sports ground was where the traditional
wedding was taking place.
Mhlabunzima was at his happiest, he never
thought he would see this day, especially with
Zinhloso. He'd long made peace with their failed
relationship.
He was accompanied by his brothers, cousins
and the men he was leading in politics. They
were all in traditional leopard regalia, singing
and dancing.
Happiness was written on his face and
everyone could see he was joyful. The way he
danced as he sang, it was like he was bragging.
He was taking the most beautiful woman - the
one they never wanted before and they only
wanted after her problem ceased to exist.
Mhlabunzima had also invited the traditional
healer from across the river and he accepted
the invitation. He was seated with other men,
where Mhlabunzima's father was. He didn't
want to miss this wedding at any costs. He felt
like he also had a hand in the success of this
relationship.
When Zinhloso joined the wedding field with her
delegation and family members, Mhlabunzima
was already seated down with his men. His
heart stopped as his eyes laid on her. Isidwaba
cut from the cow of Umkhehlo, it fitted her very
well with amagxaba (the beaded fabric) on top,
her nicely shaped legs had izigqizo, her ankle
decoration. She was wearing traditionally made
sandals. Her delegation was singing and she
was putting her feet on the ground slowly
matching the tune of the song and the drums.
What a beautiful bride! Everyone was blown
away.
"Muhle kodwa umfazi wakho," Robert
complimented Zinhloso to Mhlabunzima.
He smiled without looking at him, "uyambona
yini? She's really going to be my wife. I can't
believe it."
He smiled, her headdress was small and black,
they had put umbhama on the headdress, the
beaded band symbolising that she had children.
Her leopard chest cover hid her breasts.
Whenever she saw married women dressed in
traditional clothing she believed she would
never until Mhlabunzima came and changed
everything. She was happy that she was
dressed like this for him.
The wedding celebration began, groups of two
families - Mnguni and Xulu, would dance and
meet in the middle of the field competing with
different songs. The Xulu family would take
Zinhloso from her family and dance with her in
their group; she would be next to Mhlabunzima.
The Mnguni family would do the same with
Mhlabunzima. It was a happy occasion.
"Uyabuza umthetho, ukuthi umshada nje
uyamthanda yini!" (The law asks, are you
marrying him because you love him?) The
chief's traditional police asked Zinhloso.
She was seated on the straw mat and after the
question, she kneeled and took the small straw
mat onto her right hand and the left hand had
the knife.
"We-Gxabhashe, olibamb' uvalo sakh'umuzi!"
Zinhloso sang the free song that was
symbolising that she was marrying
Mhlabunzima because she loved him. The drum
accompanied her, the song was a slow tune.
She had to give the straw mat to the traditional
police. He was standing in the middle of the
field.
Zinhloso was dancing slowly, her head forced
down as she headed to the police. When she
was closer to him and the old man had opened
up his hand, taking the straw mat. The old
women were ready to ululate the minute that
straw mat sat on the hand of the traditional
police. But Zinhloso pulled the straw mat back
and everyone screamed in disapproval. She
moved back, still dancing to the same tune. It
was a good show, everyone watching the bride,
parading her beauty before getting into the
covenant of marriage. She danced around the
policeman until she gave him the straw mat.
The old women ululated and the spectators
went insane. Mhlabunzima stood up and
danced after his wife. What a journey!
Zinhloso gifted her in-laws with blankets, straw
mats, pillows and other things. That completed
the wedding ceremony. They sang and danced
with her, taking her into the Xulu yard.
They finally performed traditional customs, the
bile was the final stage that signalled she was
fully the Xulu wife.
"Ngenzwel'umusa, my son, MaMnguni is finally
your wife. You should treat her with love and
respect," Xulu said to his son after they'd
finished the traditional customs inside the
ancestral hut.
"Yebo, baba!"
"Usuyindoda ke manje, uMaMnguni ukwenze
indoda, hold yourself like that. You have your
own family." He proceeded.
"Gxabhashe!"
Xulu looked at his son, "Tonight, as is our family
custom, you won't sleep with your wife but you'll
sleep alone."
"Hawu!" Mhlabunzima was shocked. Everyone
who was in the hut with them laughed. Zinhloso
wanted to die when she heard that.
"Yes, she'll sleep here for the night."
He looked at his father, "alone?"
"Yes, alone!"
Everyone said words of welcome to Zinhloso.
Right after leaving her inside the ancestral hut,
the weather changed. It was already dark
outside.
Kusakusa pulled Mhlabunzima into his house
and he gave him a plastic bag, "since
usuyindoda eganiwe ke manje. Thatha nawa
amabhuku akho. Kubalulekile ukujabulisa
umfazi wakho."
Mhlabunzima opened the plastic bag and he
laughed, quickly he closed the plastic bag. It
was the porn magazines, "thank you so much,
bafo!"
"Congratulations!" He stood up and they hugged.
They came a long way.
At night, there was a thunderstorm and
lightning. Mhlabunzima went to his father's
house. He knocked on the door.
"Baba?" He screamed until Xulu opened the
door.
He looked at his son with a frown, "Smangaliso?
What's wrong?"
"Baba, my wife is sleeping alone in there. She
must be scared. What will be wrong if I go and-"
"Go and sleep in your room before we fight. She
was sleeping in her hut all these years. What
will go wrong now?" His father was annoyed by
him.
"It's different."
"Hamba uyolala! You're not even thinking of the
children but a grown woman." He slammed the
door. Mhlabunzima decided to go and sleep
with his children. He slept in Zinhloso's fully
furnished bedroom after checking on the four
children. They were all soundly sleeping.

Esther led Zinhloso into her house early in the

morning, "you'll change your clothes and wear
the ones we gave you last night. You'll come to
the kitchen and make tea for us. The old
women will be up very soon." She opened the
bedroom and shook her head seeing her son
sleeping on the bed. Esther pointed at
Mhlabunzima, "since he's sleeping here I am not
saying let him take you into the sheets. Don't
waste time, have your bath and come to the
kitchen."
She avoided eye contact, "yebo, mama."
She breathed once Esther was out. She quickly
woke Mhlabunzima up.
She smiled happily, "good morning, husband!"
She laughed as Mhlabunzima pulled her into the
bed. "Mama said I should take a bath and go
make tea."
"But they kept you away from me."
She giggled and accepted his lips, the kiss was
slow and awakening the hunger for each other
in both husband and wife. Mhlabunzima
removed isidwaba, she slept on the straw mat
with her traditional gear except the beads and
headdresses. She had iduku instead. She knew
what was said to her and it was ringing at the
back of her mind but she also wanted him.
"Ufuna ngikuphe kanjani? Ngifuna ukunika
elasemshadweni manje," (how do you want me
to give it to you?) He asked softly, planting
kisses on her neck, down to her breasts.
"Let's take it back to the beginning." She smiled
as Mhlabunzima positioned himself in between
her thighs. "You're really my husband?"
He smirked and rubbed himself on her wet body
entrance, "Yes, how was your first night as my
wife?" He loved the look on her face as the
pleasure built up.
"Xulu, lifake I don't have time!"
There was a knock on the bedroom window, "I
am not seeing you outside, heading to the
bathroom, MaMnguni!"
Zinhloso quickly pushed Mhlabunzima off her. "I
was having a difficult time taking off isidwaba! I
am coming out." She jumped off the bed,
leaving Mhlabunzima staring at her in longing.
"Aybo! Aybo!" Esther screamed and walked
away from the house.
He jumped out of bed, "this is wrong! You're my
wife."
She kissed him, "I will be yours after all this is
done. Ngiyakuthanda and I hope you'll agree to
everything I want to do to you tonight."
He chuckled, "not where your mind is!"
She looked at him, upset, "when are you going
to be open to this?"
He held her hands, "once we reach a time where
I am Minister of Higher Education." He held her
hand tightly as she attempted to walk away
without saying a word, "I promise, I will let you
do it then with no limits!"
"Let me go." She walked out of the house and
she couldn't keep his promise off her mind.
When would that time come?

****
****Years Later****

It was a very cold Monday afternoon in winter,

after six days in the hospital. Nokulunga Xulu
finally walked out with her baby girl wrapped in
one single big baby blanket. The baby was
dressed in warm clothing she bought with her
allowance money.
Nokulunga was just a teenage girl, with big
dreams - she wouldn't have dreamt small. Her
mother was a dermatologist who got her
qualification during the apartheid South Africa.
Her mother was an inspiration to many, not just
in the country but neighbouring countries. Her
father was a well-known politician. She couldn't
be a girl with no dreams.
She was regretting her decision, not to attend
schools near home and opt for a boarding
school. Her father was against the idea and her
mother convinced him to agree to it. She
started a boarding school in Durban. She hadn't
been home for months, the parents were too
busy to notice. Her father was working hard,
trying to prove himself as worthy of being
appointed as Minister of Higher Education.
Nokulunga carried her pregnancy to full term
without her parents knowing. Nobody knew, not
even her eldest sister, Milani. Not even her
grandmothers.
She placed the basket she bought for the baby
on the ground. She put the baby inside the
basket with a piece of paper that had the baby's
name and date of birth.
She finally found a spot after walking around
with her baby. It was getting dark and there
were no longer a lot of people on the road.
There were three municipal bins, and
Nokulunga put her baby basket behind the bin.
She looked at the sleeping baby and a tear
escaped.
"I am really sorry, my baby. I love you but I can't
be your mother for now. Your father chose his
dreams. I can't disappoint my parents and
possibly, lose my family. I choose my dreams
too. I hope someone who's kind and loving
would find you and raise you," she kissed her
cheek and forehead. She turned back on her
baby like she didn't almost died six days back,
giving birth to her….
THE END