PROLOGUE

[PRESENT DAY]

It was a quiet Sunday afternoon. I was with

my girls Chicago & Kedibone driving to the
Cinema. We were out
celebrating Kedibone’s birthday it was
yesterday. We cancelled our outing
yesterday Chicago wasn’t around and we
couldn’t celebrate without her.

We
decided to pass by the mall to buy snacks;
Chicago also wanted to withdraw
cash. I was left with Kedibone in the car
Chicago had stepped out. Kedibone
snapped her fingers before my eyes trying
to grab my attention. I was just
sitting looking outside the window. I was
physically there my mind was
somewhere else.

Kedibone:
What’s up? You so quiet today.

I
looked at her and smiled faintly.

Me: I
am fine.

Kedibone:
No you not. You forget that I know you?
What’s up chipmunk? Talk to me…

Me: It’s Landan.

Kedibone:
What has he done now?

Me: I really and honestly feel like we are

wasting each other’s time. Our
relationship is falling apart and I don’t know
how to fix it. I don’t know if
we will feel in-love again.

Kedibone:
Chipmunk you’ve been with Landan for
almost three years now. It’s normal to
feel that way there’s nothing wrong with it.

Me:
Maybe.

Kedibone:
How do you really feel?
Me: Naming the emotions is difficult; I
mean emotions are just emotions.
(Sighs) I really don’t know what I want.

Kedibone:
Do you love Landan?

Me: Of course I do. He is my first love… I

love him but-is it enough?

Kedibone:
There’s one person who can answer that
question and that’s you.

Me: I
want us to work I really do.

Kedibone:
Then fight for your love. Communicate your
feelings with Landan. Break the
silence and improve your relationship.
Don’t just sit and wait for a miracle to
happen.

Me: It
will take time to get where we were but it’s
worth a try right?

Kedibone:
It is. You guys are our own Beyoncé and
Jay-Z. Fight for what’s yours.

We
both laughed.

Me:
You so stupid twinkle.
We saw
Chicago walking out of the mall. She was
talking on the phone as she walked up
to the car. She stepped inside and
continued to talk on the phone after a min
she hung up and looked at us.

Chicago:
Wat het ek gemis? (What did I miss?)

Kedibone:
Chipmunk here is having relationship
problems.
Chicago:
Is it? Did he cheat?

Kedibone:
Chicago?

Chicago:
What? I am asking. So did he?

Me:
No. He didn’t.

Kedibone:
I don’t know why you would ask something
like that.

Chicago:
Are you going to tell me what has happened
or you will keep me in suspense?

Me: I
was just telling Kedibone how unsure I am
with my relationship. I feel like the
two of us are falling apart.

Chicago:
I am not going to bush around I will tell you
as it is. If you feel like the
relationship has expired then it has expired.
You can never fix something that
is broken.

Me:
But I never said it was broken.

She
buckled her seat and leaned her back on
the seat.

Chicago:
You didn’t have to. For all we know he has
found someone better than you.

Kedibone:
Come on there’s no need to say that.

Chicago:
I am stating facts. I mean look at her she is
… she is what she is. You are my
best friend Chipmunk but I have to be real
with you. Landan is working he see
different girls with different figures every
day. I am not saying you are not
attractive but you know boys love girls with
thin waist and tiny boobs. You
don’t even apply make-up let alone a
lipstick.

Me:
Are you honestly saying all of this to me?
Like honestly Chipmunk?

Kedibone:
I feel like you are too harsh. Why are you
talking about her body? You always
do this Chicago and it’s not a nice thing to
do.
Chicago:
So I should keep quiet and not say a thing?

Me: That’s not what we are saying.

The
girls and I had different body shapes; I had a
thick body and a bit short.
Chicago and Kedibone were tall and slim. I
could say Chicago had the perfect
body than me and Kedi.
I was
ridiculed over my body students made fun
of my body and size all the time. Our
mates always made me feel uncomfortable
to be around Chicago and Kedibone but
the girls made me feel welcomed and loved.
They defended and stood by me and
for that I’d forever be grateful.

Me:
Can we just let this issue rest? Twinkle
should have never mentioned it.
Kedibone:
We can’t always not talk because we afraid
of what Chicago will say.

Chicago:
Oh God! I am sorry okay? I shouldn’t have
said the things I said. Forgive me.

It was
going to be a long day. I was no longer in
the mood to go with them; Chicago
knew how to bore a person. That was her
bad trait.

Kedibone:
You expect us to forget?

Chicago:
What do you wanna do? Time is not waiting
for us; some of us got things to do.
serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:
major-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:major-lat
in;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">Chicago:
What do you wanna do? Time is not waiting
for us; some of us got things to do.
Me: Kedi I am sorry but I don’t think I will
go with you. It’s obvious this outing is
doomed.

Chicago laughed softly.

Chicago: You are not leaving with us? This is

stupid.
Me: Stupid? Okay. The two of you can go. I
am no longer in the mood. I am getting off.

I met Chicago and Kedibone in eighth grade.

I first met Kedibone; our teacher paired us
to sit together. At that time she was already
friends with Chicago their parents were
friends. We didn’t talk much that day she
was shy hardly said a word. I saw her and
Chicago hanging out every day until one day
they invited me to join them. We started
hanging out more and more.
We slowly became friends. By the end of
eighth grade the three of us were best of
buddies; before we knew it we were
inseparable.

Loyalty between us was shown in times of

challenges and difficult situations. We cared
for one another and we played different
roles in each other’s lives. They came from
well-off families; I came from a less-off
family but they never made me feel
somehow about it.
****

A week went by and Chicago wasn’t talking

with me. Things were still rocky between
the two of us. She was in communication
with Kedibone. I didn’t try to reach out to
her I let her be. I was used to her but it
didn’t make it any bearable. I had missed
her a lot.

I sat in front of the TV and greeted my sister

Lesego who was glued to the program that
was playing.

Lesego: How did it go?

Me: I was late the lady who was taking CVs
refused to take mine. She said it’s against
the law. She doesn’t wanna get into
trouble.

Lesego: I am sorry ntwana. I know how

much you wanted this job.

Me: I am losing hope in everything. Nothing

is working out for how long am I supposed
to wait?

Lesego: Good thing come to those who

wait.

Me: God knows.

I leaned back on the couch and ran my eyes

around.

Me: Where is Kabelo?

Lesego: He went to the playground with his

friend.
I nodded and took my phone; I checked few
texts that I had received.

I was on Facebook when a post popped on

my newsfeed in fact it was a picture that
Chicago was tagged on. Someone was
congratulating her on her wedding. Lot of
people were; you know how whites are like.

To say I was shocked would be a lie didn’t

even know she was dating. She always said
relationships are waste of time. Another
picture nearly sent me to ICU. It was not
that clear but I could tell it was Cago and
Landan a baby was in Landan’s arms. The
baby was probably two months old.

Lesego: Lorato I am talking with you!

My sister shouted. I couldn’t take my eyes

off the phone. I gave her my phone.

Me: Please tell me I am dreaming and I

didn’t read the caption right.

Lesego: What? You are scaring me?

She took the phone and looked at it. She

didn’t say anything for like a min I didn’t to.
I didn’t know what to say. Chicago couldn’t
do hurt me like that Landan too.

Lesego: Do you think…

Me: Think what? No! They can never do this

to me. No Sego no!

I took the phone from her and rang

Kedibone. She answered immediately.

Kedibone: Chipmunk.

Me: Did you know?

Kedibone: Know what?
Me: Did you know Landan and Chicago
were dating? No having an affair.

She kept quiet.

Me: You knew and you didn’t think of

telling me? Is that friendship huh?
Kedibone: Lorato please listen to me. I
learned about this a week ago I didn’t know
how to tell you. You have to believe me.

Me: Believe you? Are you insane?

Kedibone: I was going to tell you I swear.

Me: And the baby?

Kedibone: What baby?
Me: Durf jy nie vir my lieg nie! (Don’t you
dare lie to me!) Their baby!

Kedibone: Ek weet nie van watter baba jy

praat nie. (I don’t know what baby you are
talking about.)
She was either lying or telling the truth but
It didn’t make sense when did Chicago fell
pregnant and how did we miss it?

The pain I was feeling was too much it was

leaving deep wounds. My heart was pierced
and wounded. I was feeling a loss of trust
my best friend and boyfriend betrayed me
in the cruellest way. It was painful I was
feeling alone and vulnerable. I had
questions with no answers. The wound of
the heart last forever.
My name is Lorato Kokoisi and this is my
story.
A YEAR AGO]

LORATO KOKOISI

My phone rang as I was walking to

my mother’s room it was a landline
number. It didn’t ring more than once I
answered immediately.

“Good day am I speaking with

Miss Lorato Kokoisi?” the person asked. I
cleared my throat before I could
answer.

Me: Speaking.

“You are speaking with Mrs Chauke

from Rainbow agency; you applied for a
receptionist post. Am I right?”
Me: I did.

I half closed my eyes and said a

little prayer there’s nothing I wanted than
getting a job. Staying at home was
starting to mess with my mind.

What Mrs Chauke said next crushed

the little hope I had. I didn’t get the job it
was another disappointment I
didn’t need.
Mrs Chauke: We will surely keep
your CV for future available vacancies.

As if they’d call but I couldn’t

argue with them right? I had to agree.

Me: Thank you for getting back to

me.

Mrs Chauke: Have a blessed day.

Me: Thank you you too.

I hung up and walked to mom’s
room. I entered and leaned my back on the
door. I stood there and looked at my
mother.

Ma: And that face? What happened

baby?

Me: I didn’t get the job.

Ma: I am sorry.
Me: I am tired old girl.

Ma: Stop stressing yourself.

Things will get better soon you will see.

Me: What am I expected to do? I

am going crazy by sitting home doing
nothing. My peers are out there studying
and doing well. They are getting their lives
in order; my life is stuck on one
place.
Ma: I know how you feel I
totally do. I will talk with our pastor; he
might find something for you.

Me: Life is not fair is time

like this where I wish dad was still alive. Life
is very hard without him. I
know you are doing the best you can to
make sure we are fine and fed and we
appreciate you Ma.
My mother had always been my
biggest fan and supporter. She became my
role model at a very young age.

I was raised in a warm house

filled with lots of love. My mother used to
work as a nurse but she retired two
years ago. Her savings didn’t do much
especially when you have three children
with no other financial support. They
become your burden.
Ma: Your sister is working and
your brother is also looking for a job. What
you need to do is pray and as God
to open doors for you. Stop stressing about
supporting me because I know that’s
another reason why you are worked up.

My sister was working as a

cashier at OBC and my brother Kabelo
wasn’t but he was job hunting. My
sister’s salary wasn’t enough she had a
daughter who depended on her but she
was trying to support us.
Me: I will try…

Ma: Don’t try Rato just do it.

I nodded.

Ma: Give me two or three days I

will give you money you will go and register
for a short course in Computer.
It’s better than staying home…

Me: Thank you.

I did my matric last year; I
passed but my marks weren’t enough to get
me admitted in University. Even NSFAS
couldn’t fund me if it did I would have went
to College instead. My best
friends were fortunate; they were doing
their first year. I was happy for me no
lie but a part of me wished I was with them.

Me: Let me go and take a bath. I

am feeling tired.

Ma: Okay.
I walked back to my room.

LANDAN KOTZE

I approached the table where my

best friend Holy was sitting. We were
meeting for drinks it didn’t matter
what time of the day it was. If we wanted
drinks it was drinks we were going
to get.

Holy was sitting with one of his

booty calls; she was sitting on top of him.
His hands were all over her booty.

Me: My dawg.

I said sitting down.

Holy: I thought you weren’t
coming anymore.

Me: I sent you a text didn’t you

see it?

He whispered something to the

girl; she got off him and walked away.

Holy: My phone is off. What’s up

dawg?

Me: Nothing much. I am stressed over

work.
Holy: You didn’t sign the deal?

Me: I didn’t the client is giving us a hard

time. I am starting to doubt if we
will get it.

I worked as an architect in my
father’s company. I graduated last year and
had been working since then.
I was born in Cape Town moved
down to Limpopo when I was 15 years old.
Mom got a job in LP; we had to leave
our lives in Cape Town and started a new
one here.

Me: My father is not giving me

peace; he is breathing down my neck. You
know how he is.

Holy: You don’t have to repeat

it I know. Nothing and no one can separate
that money with his money and he
makes sure of it.

Me: Enough about work. I need a

drink. Where is the barman?

I looked around. My phone rang

it was my girlfriend Lorato.

Lorato was my high school

sweetheart the only girl who was able to
steal my heart after few heart breaks.
We’d being dating since she was in 10th
grade. I loved her so much;
she was the best thing in my life.

Me: Better half.

Lorato: You busy?

Me: You know I can drop anything for you

talk to me.

Lorato: I don’t know how to say

this but can you please lend me cash. I will
pay you back…
Me: How much do you need?

Lorato: R200.00.

serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:
major-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:major-lat
in">Me: How much do you need?
Lorato: R200.00.
Me: I will transfer right after this call. Better
half is everything okay?

Lorato: Yeah I just need to buy few things.

Ain’t got any cash…

Me: You sure? You know you can talk with

me.
Lorato: I am.

Me: Okay. I love you.

Lorato: I love you too.

Me: Talk later bye.

She hung up. I didn’t waste time; I
transferred R1000.00 into her account. I
knew she wanted more than what she had
asked but didn’t want to come out as a
burden.

The barman brought drinks to our table.

Me: My dad will flip if he find out I am here

drinking instead of working.

Holy: Your old man is a slave driver. How do

you deal with him?
Me: I ask myself the same question every
day.

We looked at each other and laughed.

CHICAGO EVANS

I sat on the couch near the window in my

room and flipped through the pages of my
textbook. I was writing a test tomorrow
something I wasn’t looking forward to. I was
studying Psychology at University of
Limpopo.

As I was busy my bedroom door was

opened it was my stepmother Charlene. My
mother died minutes after giving birth to
me so I was told. I was raised by my
maternal grandmother stayed with her until
I was 10 years old.
My father and Charlene got married last
year after a year of dating. I never had a
problem with my father dating before
Charlene he made sure he respected me
and my brother-never brought a woman in
our house.

Charlene: Your father and I are eating out

tonight are you joining us?
Me: No. I already have plans.

I didn’t have a healthy relationship with

Charlene but I respected her. My father
didn’t take nonsense he was very strict a
man you wouldn’t want to disrespect.

Charlene: It means I will tell Mary to go

home early today.

I gave her a slight nod and concentrated on

my books.

Charlene: Let me leave you to it.

Me: Sure.

She closed the door. I rolled my eyes and

closed the textbook. I reached for my
phone that was on the small table. I texted
Lorato she called right after receiving my
text.

Lorato: Chipmunk we still on.

We were going to a reunion party that was

taking place downtown.

Me: I am not sure about Kedibone she

hasn’t said anything or she has to you?
Lorato: No but I doubt if she will join us
tonight. She is stressing over the issue of
the course.

Me: She did say. I guess it will be the two of

us.

Lorato: I invited Landan; I hope it’s not a

problem.

Me: Not at all. The more the merrier.

Lorato: You can invite your Ken I am sure

he’d love to join us.
Me: Never! He is just going to embarrass
me that one that what he does. I am good; I
will be fine on my own.

Lorato: I don’t understand why you are

wasting his time that guy is into you like so
into you.

Me: You will not understand and I don’t

expect you to understand. Something things
are better not said babe.

Lorato: If you say so let me get back to what

I was doing. See you later.
KEDIBONE MOHALE

I was standing outside in the garden sipping

on my Cranberry juice as I talked with my
mother. She was sitting on the bench
knitting.

Me: But I told you and dad that I didn’t

want to do Law but you insisted. Now look
at what’s happening.

Ma: No Kedibone what you are doing is

playing. What’s so hard about Law that you
can’t do?

I let out a loud sigh. My parents didn’t

understand the struggle I was facing.

I always wanted to study Medicine but my

father forced me into choosing Law.
Everyone in the family studied Law I was
surrounded by Lawyers and because of that
I had to choose it. I wasn’t feeling nor
wanting to do the course.

Ma: Your brother is doing well in that field

why can’t you? Hay Kedi stop with your
nonsense and focus on your books. I am
done talking about this.

My twin brother was also doing Law but

unlike me he was enjoying what he was
studying.

Me: But mom…

Ma: Ma nothing. We are paying a lot of
money for you to go and fail.

I wasn’t covered by bursary so my parents

were digging deep inside their pockets to
pay for my tuition fees. I understood my
mother’s anger they were paying a lot of
money and I was failing.

Me: Can you at least talk with dad? I am

begging you Mom.
Ma: I am not talking with your father about
anything. What you need to do is to go to
your room and give your books time. That’s
what you need to do nothing else.

Me: Why did I expect? You never support

me; you always do what dad say.

Ma: What did you say?

Me: Nothing.

I gave her my back and walked away.

Ma: Hey Kedibone I am talking with you.

What do you think you are doing walking
away when I am still talking?

I kept on walking didn’t care she was

shouting at me.

LORATO KOKOISI

I didn’t like bothering Landan with money I

didn’t want him to take advantage of my
situation but he was the only one who
could help me. Kedi and Chicago had money
but I didn’t like asking them. I knew when
to ask and when to not ask.

Landan transferred R1000.00; it was more

than what I had asked. I was going to use
some of it into registering for a short course
that Mom had mentioned.

It wasn’t much of a qualification but it was

also a qualification that could get me small
jobs. I was at a stage where any job was
fine; let it be a cleaning job or cashier. It
was okay.

To be continued…
KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

I’d been trying to call Lorato

for the past two hours; she was not
answering nor replying to any of my texts.
I wanted to find out if her mother had
agreed for me to come and stay with them
for a short while. I honestly wanted to
escape my reality and be free of my
parents for few weeks.

I was in the kitchen making

myself lunch when I received a call from my
“boyfriend” I said “boyfriend”
because it wasn’t anything serious. He was
of course happily married. We met in
a club a while back when I was out with the
girls. We exchanged numbers and
started talking.
“Hello.” He said with his deep
voice it made me go crazy. His name was
Dean he was a Doctor.

Me: You finally decided to call

me back.

Dean: And you are acting like you

didn’t know I was away with my family. are
you suffering from senile?
Me: What do you want?

Dean: I want to see you tonight. I miss you.

Me: That won’t be possible I

already have plans for tonight and I am not
going to cancel them because you
want to see me.

Dean: Are you really angry at me?

What’s this Kedibone?
I was catching feelings for Dean
and so hard. I always switched off feelings
when getting involved with these
men but with Dean it was different. It was
the way he treated me the way he
made me feel when we were together.
Things weren’t supposed to be that way.

Me: It’s nothing.

Dean: Kedibone ain’t got no time

to play games with you. You either telling
me what’s wrong or I am cutting the
call right this minute. Now talk!

I took a deep breath and calculated

my words.

Me: I think I am falling for you.

I don’t know how it is possible but I am.

Dean: Are you hearing yourself?

We talked about this.

Me: I know we did.

Dean: Then what is this? You want
me to leave my wife and kids for you? My
whole family for this nonsensical
thing? You are 19 Kedibone 19 years old for
God’s sake. What we have is
nothing but sexual relationship and I’ve
already told you.

I kept quiet.

Dean: Sort your feelings and get

back to me but whilst doing that I want you
to know that I am not leaving my
wife for you. I will never what we are having
is pure fun. Get that.

He said that and cut the call. I

balanced myself on the kitchen counter and
closed my eyes. I was feeling lot of
pain; my heart had no right to fall for Dean.

CHICAGO EVANS

We were back home and the tension

between Charlene and I was still thick. My
father noticed he called us into
the lounge.

I wasn’t sure anymore if u wanted

to tell my father about my suspicious or
not.

Dad: is anyone going to tell me what’s

going on? In the morning the two of you
were talking but now you can hardly
look into each other’s eyes.

Charlene: I don’t know what you

are talking about honey.

Dad: Hey! Don’t make me crazy I

can sense and see the tension between you
and Chicago.

I leaned back on the couch and

played with my fingers. Charlene didn’t
respond to my father she quietly sat
on the couch.

Dad: Okay you wanna do this?

Fine we will sit here until one of you
decides to tell me what’s going on. I
got time.

I exchanged nasty looks with

Charlene one of us had to break first and I
didn’t know who it was going to
be.
Charlene: The only mistake I
committed was telling your daughter that
loving Landan is not a good idea it
will hurt Lorato and their friendship in the
process should she continue loving
Landan whether secretly or openly.

She spoke first should have

known.

Dad: Is it?

Charlene: Yes and I already told

you honey. I was only talking with her as a
mother.

My father looked at me.

Dad: Do you have anything to say

young lady?

Me: No.

Dad: Your mother is right; you

need to forget about Landan before things
get out of control. I don’t know how
you gonna do it but you have to do it.
Me: I am now forced to switch off
my feelings because of someone?

Dad: That someone is your friend your best

friend.

Me: Fine I will do that but

that’s not all. Charlene has something to tell
you. Mind telling him mommy or
I should?

Dad: What is she suppose to tell

me?
Me: Wait she will tell you
herself.

Charlene: I have nothing to tell

you Chicago is just pulling your leg. We okay
right Chicago?

Me: Yes.

Dad: Is that all? Nothing more to

say?

Me: Yes.
Charlene: Please excuse me I
need to call Leigh.

Dad: You are excused honey.

She got up and went to kiss my

father then walked upstairs. I looked at her
as she walked away.
serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:
major-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:major-lat
in">LANDAN KOTZE

When I was at work I received a call from

Lorato’s brother Kabelo telling me that
Lorato was arrested for assault. I wasn’t
surprised at all we all told her about the
consequences of her actions.
I immediately drove to the station upon my
arrival I found her brother and sister. They
looked distraught their baby sister was
detained. I would too.

Lesego: What was Lorato thinking?

Someone tell me. Did she honestly think
she’d beat those rich kids and get away
with it? Now where are we supposed to get
money for bail?
KB: Calm down sis we will make a plan.

Lesego: Make a what? We got no cash; do

you want me to shout it out?
Lesego was livid no matter how hard KB
tried to reason or calm her down she wasn’t
having none of it.

Me: Let us all calm down. We can’t be

stressing and stressing Lorato. She is going
through the worst she is alone in there. We
have to be strong and give her the support
she need.

Lesego sighed and sat on the bench.

Lesego: You are right. Today is Friday; you

think they will release her?
Me: No. She is spending the weekend; she
will be appearing in court next Monday.

KB: Oh God. Can we see her?

Me: Let me go and find out.

They nodded. I walked to the front desk to

ask if we could see Lorato. I wanted to find
out more about these girls I wasn’t going to
let Lorato go to jail.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
I was still in my feels I’d been trying to call
Dean but he was rejecting my calls. Maybe
telling him my feelings wasn’t a good idea I
shouldn’t have.

I was in my room watching a series on my

Laptop when my father walked in.

Dad: Did you know your friend was

arrested?
I lowered the volume and looked at him.

Me: Which friend?

Dad: Lorato Kokoisi. I am representing the
girls she assaulted.

I jumped off the bed.

Me: Lorato was arrested but when? I knew

those cheap steaks were going to open a
case.

Dad: The parents of these girls want to

make an example out of her.
Me: What example when their kids were
the ones who bullied Lorato? Do you think
she woke up and decided to beat them?
They provoked her.

Dad; Still baby girl she shouldn’t have.

Me: Dad you have to help her. Please I am

begging you.

Dad: What can I do? I can’t represent all

three of them. I am sorry.

Me: No no.
I took my phone and called Chicago. She
answered right away.

Chicago: I was about to call you…

Me: You’ve heard?

Chicago: Yes. I am actually on my way there.

Me: Okay I am on my way too. See you.

I ended the call.

Me: If you are not going to help to Lorato

it’s okay. I will try to help her.

Dad: Is not that I don’t want my hands are

tied.

Me: Let them be tied forever.

I grabbed a jacket and my purse.

Dad: Don’t do anything illegal…

LORATO KOKOISI
I was sitting on the small bed leaning my
back on the wall. I was sharing a cell with
other two girls we arrived the same time. I
had not spent four hours but I was already
feeling like a criminal.

I was charged and awaiting to appear

before the Judge. I wasn’t told the date but
I knew it was next week since it was Friday.
I didn’t know how to feel about the whole
thing but I didn’t regret what I did.

“Kokoisi you have a visitor. Get up.” The

guard said unlocking the cell. I got off the
bed my eyes met with Landan. I became
emotional. I put my hand over my mouth
and shook my head; tears were already
streaming down my cheeks.

Landan: Don’t cry come here.

I laid my head on his chest and held tight to
him.

Landan: I am sorry I am so sorry.

Me: I wanna go home I don’t wanna be

here. Please get me out of this place.

Landan: I promise I will try my best to get

you out of this place.

I let go and looked at him. He cupped my

face and kissed me.
To be continued…

LORATO KOKOISI

Landan left the cell to take a

call I was left with Lesego. The officer
refused to give us a room so that we
talk. We were forced to talk in the cell I was
locked in.
Lesego was standing on the other
side. Kabelo wasn’t a fan of jail but he did
came and see me.

Lesego: How are you holding up?

Me: I am fine. How is Mom? I am worried

about her.
Lesego: She is not taking this
well. This is hard for everyone.

Me: I imagined. I am sorry sis I

didn’t mean for things to be this way.

Lesego: I know you didn’t. We

will get you out of this place. I promise you.

Me: How are you planning on doing

that without tarnishing my name? I will get
out of here with a record on my
name.
Lesego: I don’t know how but
Landan said he will try and talk with those
girl’s families. Hopefully they will
listen and drop the charges.

Me: Things weren’t supposed to be

this way but I am human Sego. I get hurt
like anyone else. Yes I should have
walked away but would you have walked
away? They were saying hurtful things I
couldn’t take it anymore. I had to fight and
defend my honour.

Lesego: You don’t have to explain

anything to me. I am upset that you chose
violence to solve things but I
understand why you did it. I would have
reacted the same way.

Me: They are going to get away

with it rich people never get punished. The
poor always suffer.

Lesego: Not this time around we

will fight tooth and nail to get justice for
you to get justice for all the
victims of bullying. No one choose to be
who they are and no one has a right
to ridicule them. No right at all.
I wiped the tears on my cheeks
and sniffed.

I wasn’t at fault; my sin was to

defend myself. It was a shame that in my
country only money talked. I knew
better than to expect a miracle. I was in
deep ish.
LANDAN KOTZE

I was on a phone with Holy. I

really wanted to help Lorato I didn’t know
or rather wasn’t sure on how to
approach the issue without implicating
Lorato in the process. A lot was at
stake my helping could land Lorato in deep
ish but it could also help her.
I had to carefully think about it
before rushing into making decisions.

Holy: Talking with the girls is

not a good idea. I am sure even their
lawyers have told them to play far from
anyone related to Lorato.

Me: But I can’t sit and do

nothing. I promised Lorato and I gotta help
her.

Holy: Yes you did but we have to

trend careful or we gonna get our fingers
burnt.

Me: Find something on them they

are teenagers. It can’t be hard to find
something that we can use as leverage.
Something even their parents won’t be able
to run from it. Rich kids are used
to commit crimes every now and then…

Holy: I will try my level best to

find something. I give you my word.

Me: Thank you dawg I really

appreciate your help.

Holy: Anything for better half.

Me: Sure.

I cut the call.

CHICAGO EVANS

I was leaning against the car

waiting for Kedibone. I was outside the
station.

My phone rang; it was one of the

girls that Lorato had beaten Clara. I was the
one who told the girls to talk
bad about Lorato in her presence. I knew
she was going to explode Lorato was
my best friend and I knew which buttons to
push.

Me: Don’t drop the charges now.

Even if they pressure you and Isa into
dropping them I want you to wait before
doing so. Landan will come and try to talk
with you tell him you have nothing
to say to him.
Clara: Are you sure about this?

Me: I never been sure. Trust me.

Clara: I don’t wanna get into

trouble. If my parents ever find out…

Me: They will never find out.

Clara: Okay.

Me: And you better not dare and

betray me Clara. ‘Cause I will not let it lay
low.
Clara: I am not planning on
betraying you. I got no reasons to.

Me: Keep it that way.

Lorato didn’t have it all; she

didn’t have the life I had but she was the
happiest girl living. I didn’t
understand nor knew how she was able to
achieve that. She didn’t let any
circumstance
become an obstacle she faced them straight
on. I had everything money luxury
life but I wasn’t that happy with my life.

She got into Bridgeway High

School through scholarship. She was one of
few students who got lucky to be in
that school she did well academically until
Grade 12. She dropped the ball and
performed bad.
serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:
major-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:major-lat
in">
Lorato first met Kedibone and at that time
Kedi and I were already friends. When the
three of us became friends Lorato and
Kedibone became best of buddies made me
feel like an outsider. Did most of things
together I sometimes heard about their
plans at later stage or they didn’t tell me at
all. It hurt me a lot. Slowly Kedibone and I
drifted apart; I was in their lives but not
really there. As time went by we became
tight the three of us became inseparables
the Chipmunks.

I couldn’t say I hate her I loved her. We

went through a lot together not once did
we leave each other’s sight. I didn’t wanna
hurt her but I had to put myself first.

I didn’t wake up and decide to love Landan I

had always liked him but he never paid
attention to me. I was the one who
introduced Landan to Lorato. They kicked it
off instantly for Lorato’s sake I tried and
fought my feelings but they only got worse.
They became more than feelings I fell for
him. Things between him and Lorato were
serious he was serious about her. He did
everything in his power to protect her. That
killed me inside.

I only wanted one thing and that was

breaking Landan and Lorato. And it was
time for Landan to notice me and what a
better way than being supportive during
time like this?

Me: Don’t let your guard down.

Clara: I won’t.

I saw Kedibone walking up to me. I hung up

and slid my phone inside my purse.

LANDAN KOTZE
I held both her hands and kissed them.

“No touching no touching.” The guard

shouted. I let go of her hands and smiled
she smiled back.

Me: My father wanted to see you tonight.

Lorato: Your father? You never mentioned it

to me.
Me: I didn’t know too. Well he found out I
have a girlfriend and wanted to meet her.

Lorato: Look at the girlfriend she is behind

bars. He will definitely think I am a bad
person.

Me: He will never think like that. I will

explain the situation to him he will
understand.

I honestly didn’t know how he was going to

act but I wasn’t going to tell Lorato. I didn’t
want her to feel worse than she was.

She quietly looked at me; I looked at her

and said nothing. She had something to say
and I was giving her time to say her peace.

Lorato: Better half what is going on? You

are hiding something from me.

Me: I am not hiding anything from you.

Lorato: You are worried of what he is gonna

say ain’t you?
I gave her a slight nod.

Lorato: Don’t worry about me. If your family

think I am not good enough…

Me: Don’t even think of saying it. No one

not even my father will tell me who to love.
I love you inside out and I am here to stay.

Lorato: Some things are beyond our control.

Me: Let’s not fight better half.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

We were told to wait few minutes Lorato

had a visitor. We were sitting in the waiting
room. I was drinking water and Chicago was
sitting on the table that was in front of me.

Me: I always knew Clara and Isa had it for

Lorato. Those girls never liked her.
Chicago: And they never hide it.

Me: Can you believe my father is

representing Clara and Isa? I asked him to
help Ratu and he said no.

Chicago: We can get her a lawyer

Government are lazy to do their job.

Me: I don’t have any cash to pay one.

Chicago: Don’t stress yourself about that. I

will cover the costs; I just want her to be
released.
Me: She has to that’s our girl.

Chicago: She is.

I looked at time on my phone; we were left

with less than ten minutes to see her.

Me: Excuse me I wanna take a piss.

Chicago: Don’t take long.

Me: I won’t.

I got up and walked to the toilet.

To be continued…

LORATO KOKOISI
To say I had a great weekend
would be a lie. I was feeling alone and out
of place. I asked myself why people
talked about prison as a nice place to be in.
I wasn’t even in prison but I
felt the heat of being locked up. Not having
power to do what you want in your
own time.

I was out on bail the bail was

R5000.00. Landan took care of it I wasn’t
expecting him to pay but I was also
hoping he would pay. We didn’t have that
kind of cash at home I was grateful.

I was back at home; set to appear

in court next month. I didn’t know what to
expect. Landan’s lawyer was the one
who represented me.

I wrapped my body with a towel

and sat on the edge of the bed. As I was
about to apply lotion on my legs my
phone rang the caller was Chicago.

Kedibone and Chicago were very

supportive;
they became the best friends I needed.
They went as far as asking or rather
begged Isa and Clara to drop the charges
but their actions were in vain.
Chicago: How does it feel to be
free?

Me: You have no idea it feels good.

Chicago: I am happy you are out.

We were worried about you.

Me: I was worried about myself

too.

Chicago: Everything will be fine don’t worry.

Me: I know. And I scored myself a
job interview.

When I got back I was told the

Pastor is looking for a secretary a temp.
Their current secretary was going on
a maternity leave. I was crossing fingers.

Chicago: Talking about luck girl

congratulations. This job is yours we ain’t
arguing about it.
Me: There’s nothing I want than
that.

Chicago: You got this Chipmunk.

Listen I gotta go talk later.

Me: Cool.

She cut the call.

I was happy for the sudden light

in my life I didn’t know it was going to shine
until when but I was happy for
the breakthrough. The only thing that was
scaring me was the pending case.

CHICAGO EVANS

I put my phone on the table and

looked at my brother. I was at a restaurant
with him having lunch.
Me: Sorry about that.

Justin: It’s fine. I talked with

dad last night and he told me you and
Charlene are not seeing eye to eye.
What’s going on?

Me: I never liked Charlene and

you all not that.

Justin: That’s all or there’s

something going on? Because dad is sure
something else is going on.

I wanted to tell my brother but

wasn’t sure if I must tell him or not.

Justin: Chicago?

Me: She is cheating on dad…

Justin: I know even dad knows.

I widened my eyes. My ears

received the shock of the year.
Me: He knows and he is still with
her? But how is possible?

Justin: Yes. Dad loves Charlene a

lot Cago.

Me: But he doesn’t believe in cheating.

Justin: He doesn’t that’s why he

never confronted Charlene about it. He
decided to keep quiet and pretend as if
he doesn’t know.

Me: Tell me you are joking.

Justin: Do I look like I am
joking?

Me: That woman fed dad love

potion there’s no way dad could still be
with her even after knowing what she
is doing behind his back.

Justin: I am only going to say

this once stay out of it. It’s none of our
business. Dad knows how to deal
with it.
Me: He what?

Justin: Chicago I am not playing

with you. Stay out of it.

Now more than ever I wanted to

get rid of Charlene no woman was going to
hurt my father and live to tell a
tale.

Justin: Promise you will stay out

of it.

I didn’t respond.
Justin: Didn’t you hear what I
just said?

Me: I promise.

Justin: Good.

He looked at his wrist watch.

Justin: I gotta go to a meeting.

I gave him a slight nod.

LANDAN KOTZE

My parents walked into the

kitchen when I was busy preparing lunch.
No maid stayed longer in our house my
mother was unbearable and bossy. The
helper who was working was fired on
Saturday after a silly mistake; my mother
made it a big issue. She fired her on
the spot.
serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:
major-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:major-lat
in">Dad: Is lunch ready?
Me: Not yet.
Mom: We should have gone out. Landan is
taking forever and I am hungry.
Me: If you had not fired aunty Ntombi you
wouldn’t be saying that.

Mom: Not that again.

Dad: On the other news I’ve since invited

Loanda’s girlfriend over for dinner but till
today we haven’t heard if she has agreed or
not. I am starting to wonder what kind of a
girlfriend is she. She is starting to show
colours what’s gonna happened when she
has the Kotze surname.

Me: Not everything is about the surname.

There’s life beside that in case you didn’t
know.

Mom: I can hear from the way you are

defending her she is definitely from the
streets.

Me: Mom please don’t talk like that about

my girlfriend. You don’t know her but you
are already judging her. What kind of
people are you?

Dad: Now more than ever I need to see this

girl. She is that important that my own son
will disrespect us?

Me: And what do you call what you are

doing? You will finish up.

Mom: You are leaving?

Me: What do you think?

Dad: Landan!

Me: Dinner tonight 8pm.

I said that whilst walking out of the kitchen.

I slid out my phone from my pocket and
rang Lorato. It rang few times before she
answered.

Me: Better half.

Lorato: Skat.

Me: What you doing?

Lorato: Nothing what’s up?
Me: I am coming to see you.
Lorato: Now?
Me: Yes.

Lorato: Okay see you.

I hung up.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

Nolan: Come on Kedibone what are you

doing? Catch the ball. Wake up girl!

My brother shouted; we were playing

football in the garden. I stopped to take a
breather. I bent and put my hands on my
knees.

Me: I am tired are you trying to kill me?

He laughed walking up to me.

Nolan: You are such a baby.

Me: I am fine as baby this is torture.

I sat down and looked at him.

Me: You never told me when you are

leaving.

Nolan: I am still here for few days.

Me: At least I got someone to defend me.

Nolan: You don’t need protection; you

handle dad and mom very well.

Me: You don’t know what I have to do to

achieve that.

Nolan: So you are going ahead with you

know what?

Me: I am no going back.

Nolan: You know they are going to ask why

you are not attending anymore.
Me: I will lie for few months then tell them.
In the meantime I will be registering for
another course registrations have begun.

Nolan: I always thought I was the rebel one.

Me: You are.

Nolan: Feel like going out mind if we visit

my girl. Wanna see those big eyes and smile
gosh!

Me: Didn’t know you were dating. Why

didn’t you tell me?

Nolan: I wasn’t and we are visiting Lorato.

Me: You are so stupid Nolan.

Nolan: Let’s go and we are going no not

taking no as an answer.
He extended his hand to me. He helped me
get up.

LORATO KOKOISI

I received a call from Kedibone telling me

that she is coming with Nolan.

Me: Nolan is back?

Kedibone: Yes forgot to tell you.

Me: You coming now?

Kedibone: Yes.

Me: Landan is on his way I know him and

Nolan don’t see eye to eye.

Kedibone: I foresee danger let me lie to

Nolan and say you are busy.

Me: As if he will listen to you.

We both laughed.

Kedibone: Let me try. I will call and let you

know what he said.

Me: We all know what he is going to say but

try. He might surprise us.

HICAGO EVANS
After that breakfast with my
brother I called Ken my boyfriend and asked
him to come over. I was home
alone; dad and step-mother were out.

I wanted to end my relationship

with him. My heart was no longer in the
relationship; we had been dating for
months. Ken was all in the relationship on
the other hand I was just pushing
time but I realised I wasn’t wasting his time
only but mine too. Ken was two
years older than me.

I had no idea as to how he was

going to react to the news it might get
messy but I was not worried since I
was at home and security was tight. I had
less stress.

I sat across him and crossed my

legs.

Me: Would you like something to

drink?

Ken: No. Why you sitting there?

Me: No reason.

He nodded.

Me: Let me get straight to it.

Ken: Okay what’s up? You look

like someone who has lot to say.

Me: Thing is Ken after giving it a lot of

thought I have decided to end our
relationship. I feel like we are wasting each
other’s time. I no longer wanna
be in a relationship with you.

He took few minutes before he

could respond to what I’d said.

Ken: I am not surprised I saw it

coming Chicago I was wondering when you
were going to drop the bomb at me. I
am not going to beg you to take me back or
try to change your mind.

Me: You are too much and I don’t…

Ken: Please don’t try and

explain yourself to me. I mean why bother?
You called me here it’s obvious you
had thought about this over and over and
this is your decision.
He got up from the couch and
looked at me.

Ken: For what is worth I loved

you. I honestly thought we were on the
same page and I wished you had let me
know about your feelings; I would have
listened and changed if possible.

He was getting emotional; I could

tell he was hurt and angry.

Ken: Thank you for the good times

we had together. I don’t regret being with
you. Good bye Chicago and take care
of yourself.

He came and kissed me on the

forehead.

LORATO KOKOISI

Kedibone and Nolan did come they

arrived before Landan. The four of us were
sitting in the front stoep drinking
and engaging in this and that. As usual
Landan and Nolan were butting heads.

Nolan: I still say if you love

someone you have no reason to hide them.
I mean why hide someone you love?
That’s ish and a half.

Kedibone: Oh easy tiger

language.
Nolan: Sorry…

Landan: Showing someone off

doesn’t mean you love that person. You can
be doing that and still have other
intentions that aren’t pure.

Nolan: Listen to this guy trying

to justify his actions. Dude your girlfriend is
supposed to be your trophy not
some hidden old couch.

Kedibone: Come on guys are we

really gonna talk about this? You are talking
as if we aren’t here.

Me: She is right. I mean I am a

private person and I enjoy that part of my
life. Landan and I agreed on
keeping our relationship private…

Nolan: If I was your boyfriend I

would have never let you reach that
decision.

Landan: Well you are not her

boyfriend…

Nolan: Unfortunately.

Nolan looked at his sister.

Nolan: Think it’s enough for the

day. Can we go now?

Kedibone: But we just got here.

Nolan: You can stay if you want

I am leaving.

Me: You are not serious.

I never got to understand why

Nolan didn’t like Landan as much as I tried.
It’s like they had it for one
another.

Nolan: You can give me the car

keys if you wanna stay behind. I will come
and fetch you.
Kedibone: Sure thing. I really
don’t feel like going home now.

Nolan: Lorato it was nice seeing

you.

Me: It was nice seeing you too

even though you are leaving.

Nolan: Next time.

He took the car keys from

Kedibone and walked away.
Landan: Can you please excuse me?
I just wanna have a word with him.

Me: Go ahead.

Landan followed Nolan. I was

crossing fingers they don’t get physical.
Landan had a temper Nolan too.
serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:
major-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:major-lat
in">
LANDAN KOTZE

I followed Nolan to the car.

Me: Hey.
I called out; he stopped and turned to look
at me.

Nolan: What do you want?

I walked up to him.

Me: What’s really your problem with me?

Just tell me maybe I will understand.

Nolan: My problem is you I don’t like you

and I will never pretend to like you. You
present yourself as this good boy but deep
down you know you are not.
Me: Is this about what has happened a year
ago in that club? Is that it?

Nolan: Wanna talk about that today?

Really? You full of drama. Move aside I
wanna get inside the car.

Me: I know you like Lorato and you trying

make me the bad person in front of my
girlfriend.

Nolan: I am not doing anything you are

doing yourself. Now move aside.
He pushed me out of the way I didn’t resist.
He got inside the car and rolled down the
window.

Nolan: She is going to find out about that

night it might not be today or tomorrow but
she will find out.

Me: Are you going to tell her?

Nolan: No you will do it yourself. It’s in your
blood; you are bond to mess up soon.

He started the car and drove off.

LORATO KOKOISI

Nolan drove away leaving Landan standing

there. Instead of walking back to us Landan
walked to his car.

Me: I am now getting worried about

whatever situation these two have. Nolan
and Landan are like a cat and a mouse.
Kedibone: I wouldn’t stress myself I was
you.

Me: How can I not? I somehow feel like I am

the reason for their continuous fights…

Kedibone: Oh you are girl.

Me: What did you say?

Kedibone: Are you honestly telling me that
you don’t know that Nolan like you? Like
really?
Me: Nolan like whom?
I laughed.

Me: Now you being crazy.

She looked at me and not said a word. She

wasn’t lying.

Me: Why didn’t you tell me?

Kedibone: You weren’t supposed to know

but I couldn’t keep quiet anymore. Nolan
really likes you and he didn’t start liking you
today.

Me: And I never noticed. I feel so stupid

right now.

Kedibone: Don’t enough about men let’s

talk about the job. Are you ready?
Me: I am anxious and excited at the same
time. This is a big step in my life.

Kedibone: I know you got this.

CHICAGO EVANS
I was lying in the bed when I received a call
from Mr Kotze Landan’s father.

Mr K: I hope I am not disturbing you.

Me: You are not.

Mr K: Can you come to my office?

Me: Unfortunately I can’t. I have online test
in like 30 minutes.
Mr K: No problem at all. I can brief you on
what I want us to talk about.

Me: I am listening.

Mr K: It’s about Landan and you.

I sat up straight.

Me: Me and Landan? What’s that supposed

to mean?

Mr K: I want you and Landan to get married.

He didn’t beat around the bush; he put it as
it is.

Me: But Landan has a girlfriend and…

Mr K: And nothing. Landan will never marry

that girl; she is not worth my surname. Let
him waste her time.

Me: You talk like you know her.

Mr K: Of course I know her I had her

investigated. She is what I expected her to
be poor and needy. Landan is fooled by her
love; I don’t want someone of her status. I
want to have a daughter in law like you.
Someone who fit into our world… Landan is
about to take over my businesses and he
need someone like you by his side. You are
smart.

Me: My father will never agree to it.

Mr K: Let me worry about him. What’s

important is what you want.

I had to be sure about my decision; there

was no turning back from it. Agreeing to
this meant losing my friendship with Lorato
possibly Kedibone too.

I loved and wanted Landan; the opportunity

had presented itself to me.

Me: What do you have in mind?

Mr K: That’s more like it.

To be continued…

PROLOGUE
Open

HICAGO EVANS

My father got back home few

minutes ago but he was alone said Charlene
went to see a friend who was
admitted at hospital. She was lying probably
went to see her lover. My father
was very naïve.

It seemed like Mr Kotze had told

my father what we talked about and as
expected he wasn’t pleased in fact he
was to a point of no return.

Dad: How dare Liam call you and

talk about marrying you off to his son and
you agreed? Am I not your father?
You are stupid what did I do to deserve a
child like you? You are that
desperate to have Landan that nothing else
matter to you.

Me: But…

Dad: Did I say talk? Did I?

I shook my head no.

Dad: Listen and listen to me very

well there will not be a wedding. Not today
not tomorrow. You are not going
to marry that boy. Now call your friend and
let him know.

Me: I love him and I know he feel

something for me too.

Dad: You know nothing about love

you don’t love Landan. You are obsessed
with him. Can’t you see? You are not
even giving your friendship with Lorato a
thought that’s how obsessed you are.
Me: Maybe I am obsessed but you
are not going to stop me from marrying
Landan.

Dad: Is that a threat?

M: It’s not a threat.

Dad: Okay we will see. You

clearly want to push my buttons and you
are doing a very good job at that.
He said that and turned around
walking away from me.

As much as I tried to explain to

my father how much I loved Landan he
didn’t understand. He was hell bent on
standing before my happiness.

LORATO KOKOISI
Landan was leaning against his
car and I was standing between his legs. We
were kissing; his hands were on my
butt gently squeezing them. He was not
parking in front my home we were few
streets away and it was getting dark.

Me: Are you ever going to tell me

why you always fighting with Nolan? I don’t
like the tension.
Landan: Nolan is controlled by
emotions don’t take it to heart.

Me: How can I not when you always

butting heads each time we are together
the two of you are fighting.

Landan: What are you even doing

with him? He is not your friend…

Me: He is my best friend’s twin

brother and we went to the same school.

Landan: I really think you should

stop hanging with him.

Me: Stop what? Are we doing this

now?

I pulled from his grip and stepped back.

Me: You are now going to choose

who I talk and not talk with? How did we
get here?

Landan: I am not doing that but

better half; you can see Nolan is a
troublemaker. He is out to get me.

Me: That’s what I don’t get…

Landan: Can we not talk about

Nolan this is our time.

Me: Fine but I am not cutting

ties with him just because you say so.
Forget it.
Landan: Okay. About dinner…

Me: I am still coming.

Landan: Mh…

Me: What now?

Landan: I just want you to know that my

parents are little too much I know
they are going to say things and those
things might hurt you. It’s how they
are…
Me: Are they racist?

Landan: What? No they are not. They just…

how can I put it for you?

Me: Is this about my background?

Landan: I wouldn’t say that.

Me: Of course it is.

Landan: Better half…

Me: Just know that I am not going
to pretend to be someone I am not. There’s
nothing I can do if your parents
don’t like me. It’s up to you to defend me.

Landan: I will never let them

bully you.

Me: Did you tell them I was

arrested?
Landan: I didn’t.

I had a burning question for

Landan and I wanted to ask him but didn’t
know how.

I half-closed my eyes and

massaged my forehead.

Me: Landan are you ashamed of

me?
Landan: What? Where is that coming from?
Come on Lorato.

Me: I asked you a question why

don’t you answer it then throw questions at
me later?

Landan: I am not ashamed of you. Why are

you even thinking like that?

Me: Because it feels like you

are. You choose what to tell your parents
about me

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 Landan everyone in my
family know you. My mother too!
Landan: This has nothing to do
with you asked me. How can you put two in
line? I am not ashamed of you Lorato.
You think I’d be here if I was? Lorato answer
me!

Me: No.
Landan: I should go before we say
things we both don’t mean.

He leaned and kissed me.

Landan: I love you.

He got inside the car before I

could answer him and drove off.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
I heard my father making noise
and calling out my name when I was in the
bathroom. I heard the bedroom door
opening; I reached for my robe and put it
on.

Dad: Kedibone Ramohale! Kedibone!

He shouted my name at the top of

his lungs. I walked out.

Dad: Get here.

I stood at the door and looked at

him. I wasn’t planning on going to him. The
man was furious and I didn’t know
why.

Dad: I said get here Kedibone.

Me: You are scaring me dad.

Dad: I am scaring you? Did you

think of it before you took the decision to
quit varsity?

Me: Quit? No…

Dad: Hey hey don’t you dare lie

to me. I will beat you you hear? I talked
with Mrs Naidoo she told me about
your plans dammit!

Of course she told him. What was

I thinking when by telling her? It didn’t take
her long to run her mouth.
Traitor!

Me: But dad I’ve told you I don’t

like Law. I should have done this a long time
ago.

Dad: And I told you that you will

never quit. Who is going to pay for your
course? Me?

I didn’t respond.
Dad: You didn’t think about it
now did you?

Me: I will apply for bursary like

any other child but I am not going back to
Law. I refuse to be bullied by you.

Dad: You are now being bullied?

Why don’t you do me a favour and leave my
house? How about that? Go to a place
where you won’t be bullied. Leave my
house!
He walked out.

LANDAN KOTZE

On my way home I rang Chicago and

asked her to meet with me. We had
pending issues to iron.
Sunday night she came to my
house she was sent by her father to deliver
some documents. Everything
happened fast one minute we were talking
and the next minute we were kissing.
Well she kissed me and I kissed her back
something I shouldn’t have done. We
ended up in bed having sex.

My fault was kissing her back and

I was feeling guilty. Last time I did
something like that was a year ago and I
was drunk. The girl threatened to tell Lorato
but I begged her not too Nolan
somehow found out about it. He too didn’t
tell Lorato didn’t know why.

Me: Thank you for coming. I will

not waste your time.

We were at the café.

Chicago: Rushing to dinner?

Me: Yes that. About the other
night…

Chicago: You called me here to

say it was a mistake?

Me: Listen Chicago you are very

beautiful and attracted and I am sure any
guy will be happy to have you but I
am in a relationship with your friend.

Chicago: And you didn’t think

about her when you were having sex with
me? Calling and moaning my name tell
me?

Me: Tha night shouldn’t have happened.

Chicago: But it did.

Me: It did but please don’t tell

Lorato she can never find out.

Chicago: I will not tell her. She

is going through a lot at the moment…

She rubbed her leg between mine

under the table.
Chicago: But that can work in our
advantage.

Me: No didn’t you hear what I

said? It was a once off thing.

Chicago: You sure?

Me: I am.

Chicago: Okay. Can I go now?

Me; Just like that?

Chicago: What? You thought I will beg or cry
for you? No I know you will come
back.

She got up and fixed her skirt

then walked away.
HICAGO EVANS

My father got back home few

minutes ago but he was alone said Charlene
went to see a friend who was
admitted at hospital. She was lying probably
went to see her lover. My father
was very naïve.
It seemed like Mr Kotze had told
my father what we talked about and as
expected he wasn’t pleased in fact he
was to a point of no return.

Dad: How dare Liam call you and

talk about marrying you off to his son and
you agreed? Am I not your father?
You are stupid what did I do to deserve a
child like you? You are that
desperate to have Landan that nothing else
matter to you.

Me: But…

Dad: Did I say talk? Did I?

I shook my head no.

Dad: Listen and listen to me very

well there will not be a wedding. Not today
not tomorrow. You are not going
to marry that boy. Now call your friend and
let him know.
Me: I love him and I know he feel
something for me too.

Dad: You know nothing about love

you don’t love Landan. You are obsessed
with him. Can’t you see? You are not
even giving your friendship with Lorato a
thought that’s how obsessed you are.

Me: Maybe I am obsessed but you

are not going to stop me from marrying
Landan.
Dad: Is that a threat?

M: It’s not a threat.

Dad: Okay we will see. You

clearly want to push my buttons and you
are doing a very good job at that.

He said that and turned around

walking away from me.
As much as I tried to explain to
my father how much I loved Landan he
didn’t understand. He was hell bent on
standing before my happiness.

LORATO KOKOISI

Landan was leaning against his

car and I was standing between his legs. We
were kissing; his hands were on my
butt gently squeezing them. He was not
parking in front my home we were few
streets away and it was getting dark.

Me: Are you ever going to tell me

why you always fighting with Nolan? I don’t
like the tension.

Landan: Nolan is controlled by

emotions don’t take it to heart.

Me: How can I not when you always

butting heads each time we are together
the two of you are fighting.

Landan: What are you even doing

with him? He is not your friend…

Me: He is my best friend’s twin

brother and we went to the same school.

Landan: I really think you should

stop hanging with him.

Me: Stop what? Are we doing this

now?

I pulled from his grip and stepped back.

Me: You are now going to choose

who I talk and not talk with? How did we
get here?

Landan: I am not doing that but

better half; you can see Nolan is a
troublemaker. He is out to get me.

Me: That’s what I don’t get…

Landan: Can we not talk about

Nolan this is our time.

Me: Fine but I am not cutting

ties with him just because you say so.
Forget it.

Landan: Okay. About dinner…

Me: I am still coming.

Landan: Mh…

Me: What now?

Landan: I just want you to know that my

parents are little too much I know
they are going to say things and those
things might hurt you. It’s how they
are…

Me: Are they racist?

Landan: What? No they are not. They just…
how can I put it for you?

Me: Is this about my background?

Landan: I wouldn’t say that.

Me: Of course it is.

Landan: Better half…

Me: Just know that I am not going

to pretend to be someone I am not. There’s
nothing I can do if your parents
don’t like me. It’s up to you to defend me.

Landan: I will never let them

bully you.

Me: Did you tell them I was

arrested?

Landan: I didn’t.

I had a burning question for

Landan and I wanted to ask him but didn’t
know how.

I half-closed my eyes and

massaged my forehead.

Me: Landan are you ashamed of

me?

Landan: What? Where is that coming from?

Come on Lorato.
Me: I asked you a question why
don’t you answer it then throw questions at
me later?

Landan: I am not ashamed of you. Why are

you even thinking like that?

Me: Because it feels like you

are. You choose what to tell your parents
about me

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 Landan everyone in my
family know you. My mother too!
Landan: This has nothing to do
with you asked me. How can you put two in
line? I am not ashamed of you Lorato.
You think I’d be here if I was? Lorato answer
me!

Me: No.

Landan: I should go before we say

things we both don’t mean.

He leaned and kissed me.

Landan: I love you.

He got inside the car before I

could answer him and drove off.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
I heard my father making noise
and calling out my name when I was in the
bathroom. I heard the bedroom door
opening; I reached for my robe and put it
on.

Dad: Kedibone Ramohale! Kedibone!

He shouted my name at the top of

his lungs. I walked out.
Dad: Get here.

I stood at the door and looked at

him. I wasn’t planning on going to him. The
man was furious and I didn’t know
why.

Dad: I said get here Kedibone.

Me: You are scaring me dad.

Dad: I am scaring you? Did you

think of it before you took the decision to
quit varsity?
Me: Quit? No…

Dad: Hey hey don’t you dare lie

to me. I will beat you you hear? I talked
with Mrs Naidoo she told me about
your plans dammit!

Of course she told him. What was

I thinking when by telling her? It didn’t take
her long to run her mouth.
Traitor!
Me: But dad I’ve told you I don’t
like Law. I should have done this a long time
ago.

Dad: And I told you that you will

never quit. Who is going to pay for your
course? Me?

I didn’t respond.

Dad: You didn’t think about it

now did you?
Me: I will apply for bursary like
any other child but I am not going back to
Law. I refuse to be bullied by you.

Dad: You are now being bullied?

Why don’t you do me a favour and leave my
house? How about that? Go to a place
where you won’t be bullied. Leave my
house!

He walked out.
LANDAN KOTZE

On my way home I rang Chicago and

asked her to meet with me. We had
pending issues to iron.

Sunday night she came to my

house she was sent by her father to deliver
some documents. Everything
happened fast one minute we were talking
and the next minute we were kissing.
Well she kissed me and I kissed her back
something I shouldn’t have done. We
ended up in bed having sex.

My fault was kissing her back and

I was feeling guilty. Last time I did
something like that was a year ago and I
was drunk. The girl threatened to tell Lorato
but I begged her not too Nolan
somehow found out about it. He too didn’t
tell Lorato didn’t know why.

Me: Thank you for coming. I will

not waste your time.

We were at the café.

Chicago: Rushing to dinner?

Me: Yes that. About the other

night…
Chicago: You called me here to
say it was a mistake?

Me: Listen Chicago you are very

beautiful and attracted and I am sure any
guy will be happy to have you but I
am in a relationship with your friend.

Chicago: And you didn’t think

about her when you were having sex with
me? Calling and moaning my name tell
me?
Me: Tha night shouldn’t have happened.

Chicago: But it did.

Me: It did but please don’t tell

Lorato she can never find out.

Chicago: I will not tell her. She

is going through a lot at the moment…

She rubbed her leg between mine

under the table.

Chicago: But that can work in our

advantage.

Me: No didn’t you hear what I

said? It was a once off thing.

Chicago: You sure?

Me: I am.

Chicago: Okay. Can I go now?

Me; Just like that?

Chicago: What? You thought I will beg or cry

for you? No I know you will come
back.

She got up and fixed her skirt

then walked away.
LANDAN KOTZE

It was seven in the evening and I

had just finished taking a bath. My mind
was distracted and occupied with lot
of thoughts. As much as I was trying I
couldn’t take Chicago out of my mind I
couldn’t stop thinking about her and it was
messing with my head.

My mother walked in my room as I

was dressing up.

Mom: Can we talk?

I gave her a slight nod.

She sat on the sofa and leaned
back.

Mom: I want us to take about this

girl you are seeing.

Me: Okay. Should I be worried?

Mom: No. I just wanna know do you love

her?

Me: A lot.
Mom: Your father has investigated
this girl he knows all about her…

Me: He did what?

Mom: Yes and I shouldn’t be telling you but

I feel the need to tell you. This
time around I want to be a mother before
instead of a wife to your father. If
you really love this girl I want you to protect
her from your father. He is
going to do everything in his power to
separate the two of you and you will
lose your girl if you let him.
Me: I know how dad operates and I
am not going to let anything get between
the two of us.

Mom: I want you to be happy and

I’ve realised how much she makes you
happy. You don’t talk much about her but
as a mother I could tell she’s responsible for
the happiness you have.

Me: She is mom.

Mom: I can’t wait to see her. I
gotta meet this girl and just thank her for
the love she is showering you with.

I didn’t expect my mother to

react that way I expected her to give my
relationship to Lorato a hard time.
To have her in my side was what I wanted.

Mom: Let me go and finish

cooking my future daughter-in-law will be
here soon.

Me: You more excited than me.

Mom: I am getting a daughter so…

I laughed walking to her; I

kissed her on the cheek.

Me: Thank you Mom. This means a

lot to me.
LORATO KOKOISI

Landan was picking me up in less

than 40 minutes. I was almost done wasn’t
a fan of make-up so I wasn’t going
to take lot of time. I stood before the
mirror and looked at myself. I was wearing
a maroon sleeveless loose jumpsuit and
black sneakers. I had worn my braids down.
Me: How do I look?

I asked Lesego who was sitting on

my bed. She nodded and smiled at me.

Lesego: Beautiful. God you look

gorgeous.

Me: You not lying right?

Lesego: Have I ever lied to you? You look

beautiful.
Me: I am feeling anxious.

Lesego: Relax and take a deep

breathe. You are going to be fine.

I went and sat on the edge of the

bed.

Me: I fought with Landan.

Lesego: What happened?

I started telling the story and what led to
our fight. She kept on widening her
eyes as I went on.

Lesego: Don’t let her control

you. I did that with Banele and I regret it.
Do not.

Me: That’s what I said to him. I

mean it will start with who I must chill with
and before I know it he will be
telling me not to go out or inform him
before I do something.
Lesego: Exactly. And it’s not
like you tell him who to hang with or you
do?

Me: No I will never.

Lesego: Landan give me bad vibes

I don’t know but sometimes I feel like he is
being too good. You know what they
say; he is too good to be true.

Me: What are you saying?

Lesego: I am saying be careful. I know he is

your first love and you love him
but Ratu the world is cruel. And even the
one you love can turn into the one
you hate.

Me: That I know.

Lesego: And don’t let them bully

you if they do add another case. Beat the
hell out of them.

I threw a pillow at her.

Me: You want me to rot in jail.

My phone vibrated it was a text
from Landan. I got to my feet.

Me: He is here.

Lesego: Don’t forget the

earrings.

Me: Yes ma’am.

I wore the earrings and grabbed

my purse.
Me: See you later love you.

Lesego: Love you. DO NOT LET THEM

BULLY YOU!!!

I walked out laughing. I was

praying for a peaceful night.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
My father was damn right about
kicking me out of his house; I didn’t expect
him to kick me out. Yes

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I knew
he’d be angry but not to that extent. He
took my car and laptop. Said I could
only take my clothes.
With tears streaming down my
cheeks I kneeled in front of my mother and
held her hand.

Me: What kind of life is this if

I don’t have say in what I want? This is not
fair mom; you and dad can’t force
me to be someone I am not. You taught me
that. I am not something you didn’t
teach me I am living the truth that you
taught us.

Mom: Your father only want what’s

best for you princess.

Me: What about what I want? That

doesn’t matter to you?

Mom: It does but you know your

dad…

Me: I am done dancing to dad’s

tune I don’t know where I will go or what I
will do next but I know I will be
happy and free wherever I will be. I will be
out of this hell you call a home.
I wiped my tears and got up.

Me: I will go…

Mom: Kedibone.

Me: Why you crying? You never

stood up for me you always sided with dad
and it’s fine. I learnt to live with
it. Bye.

I gave her my back and wished

myself best of luck.

CHICAGO EVANS

I received a call from

Kedibone.

Kedibone: I got into a huge fight

with my father and he kicked me out.

Me: He did what?

Kedibone: Yeah he knows I am planning to

quit.

Me: Oh I told you girl. Now where

you at?

Kedibone: Waiting for Dean he booked a

hotel room for me.
Me: And then the day after and
the next? Where will you be staying? Get
real.

Kedibone: I don’t know but I got

nothing no cash. Literally nothing!

Me: Tell Dean to not worry I

will come and pick you. You can stay here
until you know what to do next.

Kedibone: You sure?

Chicago: I am. Now call him.

Kedibone: Okay let me call him.
Thanks Chipmunk.

She cut the call.

I lifted my head when I felt eyes

on me. My father was the one looking at
me.

Me: Dad?
Dad: Who were talking with?

Me: Kedibone her father kicked her out.

Dad: And you thought it was best

for you to invite her over when you don’t
even know your fate in this house?
Where are you gonna take her when I kick
you out as well?

Me: Kick me out? Why would you do that?

Dad: Why shouldn’t I? You don’t listen to

me Chicago you do as you please so I
am imagining it’s because you are old
enough. We can’t both be old in the same
roof or it’s possible?

Me: I will not marry Landan. I

will leave him alone. Is what you want
right? Then I will not do it.

Dad: I got nothing to say to you

do what you want but don’t come back to
me when things go south.
LORATO KOKOISI

I followed Mrs Kotze into the

lounge; Landan was outside in the garden
talking to his father. Talking about
his father he’s intimidating to look at twice
but he was welcoming but not as
welcoming as Landan’s mother.
I couldn’t stop my eyes from
running around the house; it looked
different from the last time I came here.
The
white paint on the wall displaying family
pictures on it. Different flowers
were hanged between the images.

Mrs K: Seems like you know this

house very well…

Me: Sorry?
Mrs K: The house you seem to
know it and its corners. You’ve been here
before haven’t you?

I looked down feeling shy.

Mrs K: Don’t feel shy; Landan’s

father sneaked me into his home too. One
other night his mother found out. Did
she not beat us?

She turned and looked at me.

Mrs K: Feel at home I don’t
bite.

Me: I will try.

Mrs K: You look so beautiful and

that outfit look good on you.

Me: Baie Dankie Mrs Kotze. (Thank

you so much.)

Mrs K: En sy praat Afrikaans.

Welkom in die familie. (And she speaks
Afrikaans. Welcome to the family.)
I laughed softly.

Mrs K: And call me Carmen. I’d

like that a lot.

I nodded.
To be continued…

LANDAN KOTZE

It was seven in the evening and I

had just finished taking a bath. My mind
was distracted and occupied with lot
of thoughts. As much as I was trying I
couldn’t take Chicago out of my mind I
couldn’t stop thinking about her and it was
messing with my head.

My mother walked in my room as I

was dressing up.

Mom: Can we talk?

I gave her a slight nod.

She sat on the sofa and leaned
back.

Mom: I want us to take about this

girl you are seeing.

Me: Okay. Should I be worried?

Mom: No. I just wanna know do you love

her?

Me: A lot.
Mom: Your father has investigated
this girl he knows all about her…

Me: He did what?

Mom: Yes and I shouldn’t be telling you but

I feel the need to tell you. This
time around I want to be a mother before
instead of a wife to your father. If
you really love this girl I want you to protect
her from your father. He is
going to do everything in his power to
separate the two of you and you will
lose your girl if you let him.
Me: I know how dad operates and I
am not going to let anything get between
the two of us.

Mom: I want you to be happy and

I’ve realised how much she makes you
happy. You don’t talk much about her but
as a mother I could tell she’s responsible for
the happiness you have.

Me: She is mom.

Mom: I can’t wait to see her. I
gotta meet this girl and just thank her for
the love she is showering you with.

I didn’t expect my mother to

react that way I expected her to give my
relationship to Lorato a hard time.
To have her in my side was what I wanted.

Mom: Let me go and finish

cooking my future daughter-in-law will be
here soon.

Me: You more excited than me.

Mom: I am getting a daughter so…

I laughed walking to her; I

kissed her on the cheek.

Me: Thank you Mom. This means a

lot to me.
LORATO KOKOISI

Landan was picking me up in less

than 40 minutes. I was almost done wasn’t
a fan of make-up so I wasn’t going
to take lot of time. I stood before the
mirror and looked at myself. I was wearing
a maroon sleeveless loose jumpsuit and
black sneakers. I had worn my braids down.
Me: How do I look?

I asked Lesego who was sitting on

my bed. She nodded and smiled at me.

Lesego: Beautiful. God you look

gorgeous.

Me: You not lying right?

Lesego: Have I ever lied to you? You look

beautiful.
Me: I am feeling anxious.

Lesego: Relax and take a deep

breathe. You are going to be fine.

I went and sat on the edge of the

bed.

Me: I fought with Landan.

Lesego: What happened?

I started telling the story and what led to
our fight. She kept on widening her
eyes as I went on.

Lesego: Don’t let her control

you. I did that with Banele and I regret it.
Do not.

Me: That’s what I said to him. I

mean it will start with who I must chill with
and before I know it he will be
telling me not to go out or inform him
before I do something.
Lesego: Exactly. And it’s not
like you tell him who to hang with or you
do?

Me: No I will never.

Lesego: Landan give me bad vibes

I don’t know but sometimes I feel like he is
being too good. You know what they
say; he is too good to be true.

Me: What are you saying?

Lesego: I am saying be careful. I know he is

your first love and you love him
but Ratu the world is cruel. And even the
one you love can turn into the one
you hate.

Me: That I know.

Lesego: And don’t let them bully

you if they do add another case. Beat the
hell out of them.

I threw a pillow at her.

Me: You want me to rot in jail.

My phone vibrated it was a text
from Landan. I got to my feet.

Me: He is here.

Lesego: Don’t forget the

earrings.

Me: Yes ma’am.

I wore the earrings and grabbed

my purse.
Me: See you later love you.

Lesego: Love you. DO NOT LET THEM

BULLY YOU!!!

I walked out laughing. I was

praying for a peaceful night.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
My father was damn right about
kicking me out of his house; I didn’t expect
him to kick me out. Yes

Sponsored

I knew
he’d be angry but not to that extent. He
took my car and laptop. Said I could
only take my clothes.
With tears streaming down my
cheeks I kneeled in front of my mother and
held her hand.

Me: What kind of life is this if

I don’t have say in what I want? This is not
fair mom; you and dad can’t force
me to be someone I am not. You taught me
that. I am not something you didn’t
teach me I am living the truth that you
taught us.

Mom: Your father only want what’s

best for you princess.

Me: What about what I want? That

doesn’t matter to you?

Mom: It does but you know your

dad…

Me: I am done dancing to dad’s

tune I don’t know where I will go or what I
will do next but I know I will be
happy and free wherever I will be. I will be
out of this hell you call a home.
I wiped my tears and got up.

Me: I will go…

Mom: Kedibone.

Me: Why you crying? You never

stood up for me you always sided with dad
and it’s fine. I learnt to live with
it. Bye.

I gave her my back and wished

myself best of luck.

CHICAGO EVANS

I received a call from

Kedibone.

Kedibone: I got into a huge fight

with my father and he kicked me out.

Me: He did what?

Kedibone: Yeah he knows I am planning to

quit.

Me: Oh I told you girl. Now where

you at?

Kedibone: Waiting for Dean he booked a

hotel room for me.
Me: And then the day after and
the next? Where will you be staying? Get
real.

Kedibone: I don’t know but I got

nothing no cash. Literally nothing!

Me: Tell Dean to not worry I

will come and pick you. You can stay here
until you know what to do next.

Kedibone: You sure?

Chicago: I am. Now call him.

Kedibone: Okay let me call him.
Thanks Chipmunk.

She cut the call.

I lifted my head when I felt eyes

on me. My father was the one looking at
me.

Me: Dad?
Dad: Who were talking with?

Me: Kedibone her father kicked her out.

Dad: And you thought it was best

for you to invite her over when you don’t
even know your fate in this house?
Where are you gonna take her when I kick
you out as well?

Me: Kick me out? Why would you do that?

Dad: Why shouldn’t I? You don’t listen to

me Chicago you do as you please so I
am imagining it’s because you are old
enough. We can’t both be old in the same
roof or it’s possible?

Me: I will not marry Landan. I

will leave him alone. Is what you want
right? Then I will not do it.

Dad: I got nothing to say to you

do what you want but don’t come back to
me when things go south.
LORATO KOKOISI

I followed Mrs Kotze into the

lounge; Landan was outside in the garden
talking to his father. Talking about
his father he’s intimidating to look at twice
but he was welcoming but not as
welcoming as Landan’s mother.
I couldn’t stop my eyes from
running around the house; it looked
different from the last time I came here.
The
white paint on the wall displaying family
pictures on it. Different flowers
were hanged between the images.

Mrs K: Seems like you know this

house very well…

Me: Sorry?
Mrs K: The house you seem to
know it and its corners. You’ve been here
before haven’t you?

I looked down feeling shy.

Mrs K: Don’t feel shy; Landan’s

father sneaked me into his home too. One
other night his mother found out. Did
she not beat us?

She turned and looked at me.

Mrs K: Feel at home I don’t
bite.

Me: I will try.

Mrs K: You look so beautiful and

that outfit look good on you.

Me: Baie Dankie Mrs Kotze. (Thank

you so much.)

Mrs K: En sy praat Afrikaans.

Welkom in die familie. (And she speaks
Afrikaans. Welcome to the family.)
I laughed softly.

Mrs K: And call me Carmen. I’d

like that a lot.

I nodded.
To be continued…
HICAGO EVANS

Me: See you tomorrow and don’t

forget the manual. I might as well kiss exam
goodbye if I don’t get it.

I said to class mate as we parted

ways. She walked to her car as I walked to
mine. I searched for my phone in my
backpack. I wanted to call my gynaecologist.

I had a new plan in hand; my plan

was to internationally get pregnant. If I
couldn’t have Landan I’d be the
mother of his child.
Dr Spencer: Ms Evans what a
lovely surprise.

Me: Dr Spencer am I disturbing

you?

Dr S: No. How can I be of help today?

Me: I’d like to set an appointment.

Dr S: And you couldn’t call my

PA?

Me: Don’t get me started with that one we

both know why I didn’t call him.

She laughed.

Dr S: The things you do to my PA

it’s not funny.

Me: I don’t know why he is still

working there.

Dr S: I like him and he is

trying. But that is that when do you wanna
come?
Me: Friday afternoon after class.

Dr S: Let me check my dairy.

I got inside the car and buckled

up as I waited for Spencer to get back on
the phone.

Dr S: You are lucky my afternoon

is cleared.

Me: Thank you. See you then.

Dr S: Bye.

She cut the call.

A message came through a minute

later; it was a text from Kedibone. We had
planned to go out later on she was
checking if we were still on. I replied to her
text and started the car.
LORATO KOKOISI

Mr Miller dropped us off few

minutes ago he didn’t take time when I
asked him to go and fetch Lesego from
the hospital.

I helped Lesego sit on the bed.

Me: You are lucky it was a closed
head injury if not; we would be saying a
different story now.

Lesego: I know and I was scared

when I woke up confused I thought it was
something serious.

Me: What are you going to do now?

Lesego: I am going to leave him.

Me: I’ve heard that song before…

Lesego: This time I am serious I
don’t want to die Lorato. I have a daughter
and she still needs me.

Me: Talking about her when last

did her father call?

Lesego: That one? I don’t even remember

he doesn’t wanna be in our lives and
forcing him is starting to mess with my
mind. He has shown me so many times
that he doesn’t care I am done begging him.
Me: Jewel needs a father.

Lesego: And I was hoping Banele

will be that person. You know when we got
back together he promised to be
Jewel’s father he gave me his word.

My sister dated Banele before she

met Jewel’s father she broke up with Banele
because of the abuse. She met
Jewel’s father things didn’t work out. Years
later Sego and Banele got back
together somehow my sister always found
herself back in Banele’s arms. I
didn’t know how it was possible but it was.
Me: God Lesego! You still
thinking about him? You don’t learn do
you?

Lesego: I am just saying.

I looked at the time; it was

14:20pm. I remembered my lunch date with
Carmen.
Me: I have to go now.

Lesego: Where are you going?

Me: Carmen invited me for lunch.

Lesego: Carmen Kotze or another

Carmen?

Me: The one and only.

Lesego: Since when are you best

of buddies?
Me: We are not. I think she is trying to be
nice to me and I really like the
fact that she is trying.

Lesego: Yeah right.

Me: I will see you later.

I walked out and made my way to

my bedroom to change my clothes.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
I was folding my clothes for
packing. I was moving in my apartment
tomorrow and I was excited.
serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:
major-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:major-lat
in">
Dean and I talked and the agreement we
came into was to end our relationship or
whatever it was. Dean was never gonna be
mine and I was a fool to think he’d be.

The door opened Mr Evans walked in.

Mr E: Kedibone.

Me: Good day.

Mr E: I see you are getting ready to leave. It
seems like you can’t wait to leave this
house. Didn’t we treat you well?
Me: It’s nothing like that.

Mr E: I see.

Me: And thank you for welcoming me in

your house when I needed shelter. You
could have refused but you didn’t.

Mr E: You and your father come a very long

way I would have never.
Me: Still thank you.

Mr E: Talking about him have you tried to

reach out to him?

Me: No. I think it’s best this way.

Mr E: Your father is stubborn but he is still

your father. There’s always something that
can soften him no matter how angry he is.

Me: You out of all people know how hard it

is to crack him. If he has set his mind on
something nothing and no one can get
through him.
Mr E: I believe everything has a solution.

There was truth in his statement but I didn’t

know what to do in my case. Granting my
father his wish for the sake of peace or do
what I wanted.

LORATO KOKOISI
The ride to the restaurant took about thirty
five minutes; Carmen was already there
when I arrived. She was sitting at a table by
the window. I walked to the table and
joined her.

The waitress came and took our orders.

Carmen had already ordered drinks for the
both of us. She was having wine and I was
drinking juice.

Me: Thank you for the invite.

Carmen: You are welcome. How’s your
sister?
Me: Getting better.

She took a sip on her wine before she

opened her mouth to talk again.

Carmen: Landan told me you got a job

started last week.

Me: What has Landan not tell you?

She laughed and shook her head.

Carmen: I know almost everything but good

things.
Me: Who knows? But yes I got a job. It’s not
permanent but it will keep me busy for
now.

Carmen: Why didn’t you go to Varsity if I

may ask?
Me: Money.

Carmen: Tried bursary?

Me: I did but never got lucky. We all can’t
get lucky some of us were called in this
world to suffer and there’s nothing we can
do about it.
Carmen: Don’t say such things. God knows
and one day you will realise that He was
never asleep. He was preparing good things
for you.

Me: The day I see myself as a therapist

would be the day I believe what you are
saying.

Carmen: Oh so you wanted to study

Psychology?
Me: Yes it has always been my dream and I
hope one day I achieve that dream.
LANDAN KOTZE

I was in a meeting with my father and the

client.

Me: How many offices are we talking about

here?
Client: Ten. 5 downtown and 5 in the city. A
friend of mine told me about you guys and I
absolutely fell in love with what I saw. I
knew I gotta come here.
I looked at my father and he nodded.
Getting my father’s approval wasn’t a walk
in the park for him to approve meant I was
on the right track with my work.

Me: And I promise to deliver. Expect a

detailed quotation next Monday we will
send you an Email. You will get back to us.

Client: Looking forward to work with you.

Dad: You will not regret your choice of

coming here.

Client: Thank you.

I extended my hand for a handshake so did
my father.

Client: Will hear from you.

He walked out. My father stood up and

softly clapped hands.

Dad: Now this is what I am talking about.

That was nice & smooth. You spoke and
handled everything like a true business
man.

Me: Of course you will be happy.

Dad: How can I not when my son is making
me proud? I’ve always wanted this for you
to take this job serious and sign deals left
right and centre.

I closed the file and got up. I walked to the

window and slightly opened it.

Dad: Landan this is your legacy. I built this

company knowing one day you going to be
the owner of it. I am going to retire soon
and I will be giving you the ropes.

Me: I know dad.

Dad: Make me proud son be the son I
always wanted.

He put his hand on my shoulder and

squeezed it. It felt amazing to hear my
father speaking like that it made me feel
important. He was acknowledging my
efforts.

ORATO KOKOISI
I glanced at the clock on the
wall; it was almost seven in the evening.
The girls and I were hitting
the club in an hour. I was not ready yet but
there’s still time I knew they
were going to be late too.

I had few minutes to spare so I

decided to ring Nolan. He texted me 30
minutes ago saying he arrived safe and
sound.
Nolan: Here it’s raining. I am in
bed as we talk.

Me: Here it’s hot; you should

have taken me with you.

Nolan: I can always book a flight

for you.

Me: Please do.

It went quiet for a while.

Nolan: Are you happy?

Me: Huh?

Nolan: You heard me.

Me: Wow… where is that coming

from?

Nolan: It doesn’t matter where it’s coming

from just answer my question.
I didn’t know how to answer his
question because I had never asked myself
that question.

Me: I’d like to believe that I am

happy.

Nolan: You sure Lorato?

Me: I mean I am not where I wanna

be but all of that is not stopping me from
enjoying the little I have. I got
people in my life that are supporting and
walking this journey with me. I
believe that’s my happiness.

Nolan: Are you happy with Landan?

Me: Very much happy.

Nolan: Listen Lorato there’s

something that I need to tell you…
something I should have told you long time
ago but didn’t know how to… or rather
didn’t want to tell you because…
“Lorato!” my mother shouted my
name.

Me: Can we talk later? My mother

is calling me.

Nolan: Can’t we talk first?

Me: You know Brenda Kokoisi doesn’t play;

she will barge in here and drag me
out of this room.

Nolan: Yeah she is capable of

doing that.

Me: See? I will call you.

Nolan: Okay.

I cut the call and jumped off the

bed. I slipped on my sleepers and walked
out to my mother’s room.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
I sat on the couch in the living
room with a glass of wine in my hand. My
phone vibrated on the table I put the
glass on the table and picked the phone.

I widened my eyes and blinked few

times. The caller was none other than Mr
Ramohale. I wasn’t expecting his call.
I got up and answered.
Dad: Kedibone.

Me: Daddy.

Dad: When are you coming home?

Me: You forget that you kicked me out?

Dad: I want you home.

Me: I am not coming back home

dad not before you let me take my own
decisions about my future.
Dad: Come back home first we
will talk about this.

I didn’t respond.

Dad: Don’t make me beg.

Me: No dad I am not coming back.

Dad: Kedibone…

Me: No. Your days of you

commanding me are over. I am tired dad I
don’t even know what’s gonna happened
when I get there. You can decided to kick
me out again what am I gonna do
then? Go back to square one?

Dad: Nothing of that nature will happen I

give you my word. Just come back
home princess.

Me: Okay I will be there first

thing in the morning but I swear dad if you…

Dad: I will not I promise you.

Me: Fine.
Dad: Kedi?

Me: Dad.

Dad: I love you so much and I am

sorry for the way I’ve treated you. I
shouldn’t have it was wrong of me to
kick you out. Please forgive me.

The man talking was definitely

not my father because Donald Ramohale
would never apologize. Let alone admit he
was wrong.

LANDAN KOTZE
serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:
major-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:major-lat
in">I laid the phone on my chest as I stared
at the ceiling. I was lying on the couch.

My mind switched to Chicago. The way I

was feeling was starting to confuse the ish
out of me. I couldn’t understand my sudden
feelings for Chicago or where they were
coming from. I had been texting and trying
to call her but she wasn’t reacting to either
one of them it was frustrating.
“Landan food is ready.” my mother said
standing next to me. I opened my eyes and
looked at her.

Me: You scared me.

Mom: What’s going on with you?

Me: Nothing. I was resting my mind.

Mom: Something is going on with you Talk

to me.

I sat up straight.
Me: It’s complicated mom I don’t
understand it myself.

Mom: Work or relationship related?

Me: Relationship.

Mom: Are you fighting with Lorato?

Me: No.

Mom: Is there someone?

Me: No…

Mom: Landan?
Me: There’s no one.
Mom: You better be telling me the truth
because Lorato is a nice girl and she loves
you.

Me: When did you start liking Lorato? The

other day you wanted nothing to do with
her what’s changed?
Mom: What’s not to like about her? I know I
said things when I learned you have a
girlfriend but that was then.

Me: You keep on surprising me.

Mom: Sort whatever issues you have with

whomever. I don’t wanna hear stories
Landan Kotze.

“Why does it sound like you are forcing him

to be with this girl?” My father said. We
turned around to face him.

Mom: I am not forcing him; I am only letting

him know. Landan is not a child anymore.
He should know what he wants.

Dad: And that girl is what he wants? Get

real Carmen.

Me: Mom is right…

Dad: Your mother knows nothing. She is
using her emotions in this situation she
knows how it’s like to be poor and be in
love with a rich guy. She no different from
Lorato…

Mom: That’s my cue to go. Food is ready; I

am just setting up the table.

My mother said that and walked away.

Me: Really dad? Was that necessary?

Dad: I didn’t mean it like that.
Me: Go and tell her that.

CHICAGO EVANS

I walked into my father’s study I found him

talking on the phone. I waited for him to
finish he did after two min.
Dad: Going somewhere?
Me: Yes. I will be back later.

Dad: You spending lot of time out when do

you get time to study?
Me: I study dad.

Dad: You will fail if you don’t take your

studies serious.

Me: Can we not do this now? I mean it’s

late and I am on my way out.

Dad: Don’t drink and drive.

Me: I won’t. Dad can I ask you something?
Dad: Yes.

Me: Is there something you did and

Charlene knows about it? Something that
can land you in hot water?
He coughed…

Dad: What are you talking about? Of course

not.

Me: You sure?

Dad: Yes. You and silly questions.
I gave him a slight nod and walked out. I
didn’t believe him he surely did something
and it was serious whatever it was.

LORATO KOKOISI

When I called Nolan again his phone went

straight to voicemail. He sounded serious
earlier when we talked; I wondered what he
wanted to tell me.
Kedibone was the one who came and
fetched me. Said Cago will follow later. She
was telling me about Dean and her father.
Both stories were shocking.

Me: Maybe he realised his mistakes and

want to fix things with you.

Kedibone: And I am not refusing that but is

he gonna agree to my decision? I am not
backing down.
Me: I am saying go and see him hear him
out before you make any conclusion.

Kedibone: I will go. I don’t want him to say I

shut him out when he reached out.

Me: Parents are like that they do things and

later ignore.

Kedibone: Donald Ramohale? That one is an

alien not a human.

We laughed.

LORATO KOKOISI
It was a cold Thursday morning;
windows in the kitchen were fog up.
Between summer and winter I’d choose
winter. I hated summer hated the hotness
that came with it. I preferred &
enjoyed dressing my body with jerseys
sweatpants & boots. That was the life
I signed up for.
I was still feeling sleepy; I
kept on rubbing my eyes. I dropped off to
sleep soon after I got back three
hours later my alarm woke me up.

Lesego set down two mugs on the

table and poured boiled water.

Me: Care to tell me why you are

awake at this time of the morning? You are
not going to work. It’s 06:30am
girl.

Lesego: I am going to Tzaneen I

miss my daughter. So why not abuse these
days I have and go to see my daughter.

Me: I miss her too. I wish I

could go with you.

Lesego: Maybe I will come back with her

but you know Jewel…

Me: I will call her.

I took a mug from her and drew
back the chair I sat down.

Me: I am never going out during

the week. I am tired; I honestly don’t know
how I am going to survive this day.
Like I have no idea.

Lesego: Who parties in winter

until morning? You guys are wild and crazy.

Me: See me going there again. And

today is going to be busy there’s a semi
what-what at church.

Lesego: Mom mentioned it. And I

heard they can take up to whole day.

I rolled my eyes and let out a

soft sigh.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
The next morning I woke up
feeling sick. I could not keep anything in the
stomach; I was suspecting food
poison or viral stomach flu.

The girls and I partied until 2am

in the morning; even forget it was in the
middle of the week. Lorato had to go
to work and Chicago had morning classes.
By 08:00 I was at my parents
didn’t want to be late. My father usually
leaves the house around 09:00 so I
knew thirty minutes would be enough to
talk.

I was in the kitchen helping my

mother she was preparing breakfast. I
suddenly felt the urge to vomit as we
were busy I let go of the knife and put the
hand over my mouth.
Mom: Kedibone are you pregnant?

Me: I am not pregnant.

Mom: You sure you are not pregnant?

Me: I am sure.

Mom: Okay. Let me finish this

you go and talk with your father.

Me: I am scared you think he

will listen to me this time?
Mom: I believe he will. I talked to him and
he seemed to understand. Use this
opportunity because if you don’t…

Me: He will change his mind.

She nodded.

Me: Let me go to him.

Mom: Kedi you sure you are not

pregnant?

Me: I am not Mom. What makes you

think I am pregnant?

Mom: You’ve been trying not to throw up

since you got here. And the glow one
would swear you are pregnant.

Me: You just missed me Mom. What

glow?

Mom: If you say so.

I smiled at her and walked out of
the kitchen.

Me: Imagine me being pregnant.

Mom is getting old.

I said to myself as I walked to

my father’s study.

LORATO KOKOISI
Later that morning I had an
interesting visitor Mr Kotze paid me a visit. I
didn’t know how he knew where
I was working but I thought maybe Landan
told him.

He was sitting across me on the

chair.
Mr K: What’s gonna take for you
to leave my son?

Me: Excuse me?

Mr K: You heard me. What do you want?

Huh how much? Just name your price and
we settle this.

Me: I don’t mean any disrespect

but I don’t want your money. I am not with
your son because of the money you
have. I am with him because I love him.
Mr K: Cut the crap you girls are
all the same. You are after one thing and
that’s money. Just name your price
and disappear from my son’s life. You will
find someone of your status…

you girls are all the same. You are after one
thing and that’s money. Just name your
price and disappear from my son’s life. You
will find someone of your status…
Me: Not everything is about status and it’s
like that in this case. Before your son come
and break up with me I won’t be leaving
him.

Mr K: Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

He got up and fixed his tie. He looked down

at me and shook his head.

Mr K: Look where you are and check where

Landan is two different worlds. Yours will
never merge with our world.
I got up and leaned forward.

Me: And no one didn’t tell you what you are

saying now when you went for Landan’s
mother? No one did?

Mr K: How dare you bring my wife into this?

Me: How dare you come to my workplace
and insult me? Did I say I want your money?
Did I come to you and beg for it?

Mr K: And you want me to welcome you in

my family with that big mouth of yours?
Me: The choice is yours Sir. Now if you can
excuse me I got things to do. Talking with
you won’t pay my bills or it will?

He just looked at me and not respond.

Me: Thought as much. It was nice seeing

you.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
I was playing with my fingers as my father
talked. I was feeling nervous and he could
see.

Dad: Will you relax? We are here to talk not

to threaten one another.

I nodded.

Dad: I am willing to let you study Medicine.

Me: You are?

Dad: Yes. If you want to study Medicine
then it’s Medicine that you will study.

Me: Thank you so much dad. You have no

idea how much this means to me. I long
waited for you to say this.

Dad: I should have never forced you to

waste a year studying something you don’t
like. I thought because your mother and I
are lawyers you and your brother will like to
follow our steps but I was wrong to make
such conclusion. As a father I should have
listened to what you wanted and let you be
and for that I apologize.
Me: You always make decision for us dad
and what you want is not always what we
want.

Dad: I learnt that the hard way. It will never

happen again. From now on I am going to
let you and Nolan take your own decisions. I
will not interfere.

Me: Can I get a hug?

Dad: Did you have to ask?

I got up and went to him. We shared a hug.
Dad: Go and do what you love I will support
you.

Me: Thank you.

LORATO KOKOISI

I walked out of the office and went to

where my mother was seated. She was with
some ladies they just finished praying.

I needed someone to talk to and my mother

was the only person close by. She followed
me outside were we could talk freely.

Mom: The nerve of this man. Why didn’t he

come when I was here? I would have taught
him a lesson.

Me: Trust me I did. I don’t think he will ever

think of coming here.

Mom: These rich people think they can play

us like a ball. Who said we need his money?
Have you told Landan?
Me; No you think I should?
Mom: You should. His father is obviously
going to tell him another version of the
story.

Me: What if he has already?

Mom: Just tell him. I am sure Landan know

his father and he will not doubt you for a
second.
Me: I don’t need this kind of stress. I am at
peace right now and I wanna remain like
this.

Mom: Don’t stress yourself over this. Things

like this are bound to happen and brace
yourself if you wanna be with Landan.
People are still going to gossip about you
talk and belittle you. Landan’s world is
foreign; you ain’t use to his world and how
they do things. Rich people are unbearable;
it’s their way or high way.
Me: I don’t think I will survive this. It’s too
much for one person.

Mom: You will have to.

My phone rang it was Landan.

Me: Landan is calling me.

Mom: What are you waiting for answer.

I sighed.

Mom: Tell him everything don’t leave out

anything.

Me: I won’t.

Mom: Let me go back inside.

She walked away; I sat on the bench and

called him back.

Landan: You busy?

Me: Not really.

Landan: Meet me in our spot in 30 minutes.

Me: Is everything okay?

Landan: Yes. Just wanna talk with you.

KEDIBONE
RAMOHALE

I gave what
my mother said a lot of thinking so much
that I drove to the Doctor. After mom
made those comments I had to be sure.

Dean and I
hardly used protection and I wasn’t faithful
to the pill. Chances of being
pregnant were high but it never occurred to
me that I might be pregnant.
Oh my
goodness did Dr Morgan stutter? Was I
really pregnant? That was the last thing
I wanted. My parents were going to be
disappointed in me.

Me: What do
you mean I am pregnant? How can I be
pregnant?

How can you

be pregnant? Girl you had unprotected sex.
You knew the risks of that.
Me: God
this is not happening. Not when I have
solved things with my father.

Dr: Take a
deep breathes…

Me: Take a
what? I am PREGNANT for Pete’s sake. My
dad is going to kill me he is not
gonna spare me. What have you done
Kedibone Ramohale? What have you done?
Big fat
tears streamed down my face.

Dr: Are you

okay?

What did she

think? Nothing was okay I didn’t expect the
news. I wasn’t supposed to be 19
and pregnant; it was never part of my plans.

Dr: I know
you are feeling alone and scared right now
but you will get over the shock and
accept the news.

Me: There’s
nothing to accept because I am not keeping
the baby.

Dr: Ms
Ramohale now is not the time to make
decisions. Go home and think about it.
Just don’t make harsh decision. Talk to
someone and…
Me: I don’t
want this baby so there’s nothing to think
about. When can I terminate?

Tears
continued to roll down my face. I was trying
to pull myself together but it was
hard.

Dr: You are

5 weeks pregnant so you are not late to
have an abortion. I am going to give
you a pill that you take by mouth…

Me: Okay
okay. Spare me the details for now. How
late can I have an abortion?

Dr: The end of second trimester.

I gave her a
slight nod.

Dr: I know
you said you don’t wanna think about it but
Ms Ramohale terminating is a very
big step. There’s no turning back after
taking the decision. You will have to
live with what you’ve done. Do you really
wanna go ahead with it? You can keep
the baby and be a mother to that little
human inside you.

I could Dean the news but I knew nothing

was going to change. He was probably
gonna say the same thing I was thinking
aborting.
LORATO KOKOISI

Landan
kissed me on the forehead and sat beside
me. Our spot was the park by the mall.

Me: I
thought you weren’t coming anymore; even
your phone was off.

Landan: I am
sorry about that. Right after talking with
you I received an important call; I
couldn’t leave before attending to it.

Me: I
understand. What’s up? Is everything okay?

Landan: I talked with my father…

Me: I knew
he was gonna come to you.

Landan:
Lorato did you really… and please don’t lie
to me. I wanna know the truth.

Me: What are

you talking about? What did your father say
to you?

Landan: Did you really offer to break up

with me in exchange of money? Like our
relationship mean that little to you?

I couldn’t
help myself but burst into laughter. Liam
was old enough to be playing games.
Landan looked at me while I laughed it
wasn’t funny but it was funny a little.
If there’s sense in it…

Me: Your
father said that to you?

Landan: Did you or did you not?

Me: Ek weet nie watter speletjie jou pa
speel nie en om eerlik met jou te wees
hou ek nie daarvan nie ook nie. (I don’t
know what game your father is playing
and to be honest with you I don’t like it not
one bit.)

Landan: Wat
tussen jou en hom gebuer het? (What
happened between you and him?)

Me: Hoekom
gaan vra jy hom nie? (Why don’t you go and
ask him?) It’s obvious your father
has a problem with me and whatever I say
will not matter.

Landan: I
don’t know what to do or say to my father
to make him accept you.

Me: Don’t do
anything. Why force him to love me? Who
am i? I am not even God let alone His
son Jesus. I am Lorato a poor girl.

Landan: Why
you talking like that?

Me: That’s what your father said to me I am

a poor girl and I will never match
your status. I will never know how to
behave myself in your business meetings as
if all of that matters. It doesn’t! You know
there’s life beside luxury life
you and your friends feel proud about? Yes I
don’t come from your world but my
world is damn well peaceful. People in my
world don’t go around offering money
to people like money fall from trees; they
don’t go around investigating other
people instead of sitting in the front stoep
and enjoy Joko tea. Do you
understand what I am saying?

Landan: I’ve
always defended you from my father.

Me: It never
stopped him from insulting me. He keeps on
and will keep on reminding me who I
am. I don’t know for how long I will tolerate
it.
He took my
hand into his.

Landan: I
love you for who you are. I don’t care about
where you come from and I think
I’ve showed you that. I don’t care about my
father or people from my world
like you’ve put it. I want you and I want you
for who you are.

Me: Landan
don’t ever feel pressured to be with me. I
am lovable if you feel like where
you are right now is not where you’d like to
see yourself in future just go. I
will cry but I will never die. I will heal and
forget about you.

Landan: You
are starting now what are you talking
about? I never said I want to leave; I
am happy where I am. I am here on my own
will no one is forcing me.

Me: Good.
Now can I go back to work?

He learned
and kissed me.

Landan:
Let’s go.

CHICAGO
EVANS

I was in my
room studying when Charlene walked in my
room. She walked further and sat on
the sofa.

Me: I am
busy in case you didn’t notice.

Charlene: I
love your father and a lot. What I am doing
with Donald is nothing but having
fun. My heart is with your father and no
one else.
and a lot. What I am doing with Donald is
nothing but having fun. My heart is with
your father and no one else.
Me: What do you want me to do? Give you
an award for that speech?

Charlene: I am telling you so that you know.

If I didn’t love him I wouldn’t be here I
would have long left.
I closed my laptop and got off the bed since
I was sitting on it.

Me: You still with him because of money if

it wasn’t the reason yes you would have
long left.

I leaned to her face.

Me: What secret are you keeping?

Charlene: Your father has an ugly past and I
don’t think it’s my place to tell you.

Me: Just the other day you wanted to tell

me what changed?
Charlene: Like I said it’s not my place to tell
you. Ask your father he will tell you.

Me: Okay fine I wonder what Wendy is

gonna say or do when she learns you are
sleeping with her husband. The scandal
she’s gonna cause.

Charlene: You wouldn’t dare…

Me: Don’t hold your breathe.

She stood up and looked at me.

Charlene: It has to do with your mother
and…

The door opened and my father entered.

Dad: Oh here you are I was looking for you

all over the house.

He came and wrapped his arms around

Charlene’s waist.

Charlene: Catching up with my

step-daughter.

I faked a smile.
Dad: Can I steal my wife for few minutes?
Me: Yes. Me and her will continue later
right Charlene?

Charlene: Yes.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

I was sitting in my car crying my eyes out. I

didn’t know what to do my mind was all
over the place.

I tried calling Chicago but her phone went

straight to voicemail trust her to go AWOL
in time of need. I called Lorato as usual she
answered.

Lorato: Stop crying and tell me what’s going

on? I saw your text but I didn’t understand
it.
Me: I am pregnant Ratu…

Lorato: Preg? You are pregnant?

Me: Yes and Dean is the father. Why now? I

broke up with him why did I have to fall
pregnant?
Lorato: I don’t know what to say Twinkle;
this is a life changing matter.

Me: There’s something else I am aborting.

Lorato: No!
Me: Yes.

Lorato: Don’t Kedibone.

Me: What do you want me to do?

Lorato: I am knocking off in 25 minutes
meet me in my house.

I wiped my tears.

Me: Okay.
LANDAN KOTZE

Me: Dad? Dad?

I shouted his name from the lounge. My

mother came out of the kitchen.

Mom: Why you shouting?

Me: Where is dad?
“I am here. Your mother asked why you are
shouting care to tell me?” He asked making
his way to me.

Me: You lied to me. You went to Lorato and

offered her money. How many times did I
tell you to stop threatening Lorato?

Dad: I did what I had to do.

Me: I didn’t ask you to! What part of that

don’t you get? I chose Lorato.

Dad: Did you choose her when you were

sleeping with her best friend?
Mom: You did what? Landan Kotze?
Me: Mom not now.

She grabbed me by hand.

Me: That was not your business to tell. It

was a once off mistake.

Dad: You should be happy I didn’t tell

Lorato.

LORATO KOKOISI
I called Chicago after talking with Kedibone;
I briefed her on the matter. Unlike me she
was supporting Kedibone on the decision
she wanted to make.

Chicago: I don’t see why she must not

terminate if she want to. It’s her body; she
can do whatever she likes.

Me: We all know the risks and we can’t shy

away from them. She didn’t impregnate
herself Dean must take responsibility. Why
must she go through this alone?
Chicago: Kedibone don’t listen to her.
Lorato always do this she always she the
bad of everything.

Me: And you see the good only? What’s

good about this act? Tell me miss know it
all?

Chicago: It’s unfair and you know it.

Kedibone is still getting her ish together this
child is only gonna take her ten steps back.

I sighed.
Chicago: What me & you can and will do is
support her and this decision. Okay?

Me: Kedibone stop crying! Crying is not

gonna help you. Stop dit. (Stop it.)

LANDAN KOTZE

Later that
day I went to see Holy at his workplace. We
were sitting in the lobby.
Me: I think
I love both of them.

Holy: You
are crazy to think that.

Me: Obvious
I don’t love Chicago as much as I love Lorato
but I do love her. Well I think I
love her. My feelings for her are complex.
Holy: You
wouldn’t be feeling this way if you honestly
loved Lorato it’s impossible. For
you to take interest on Chicago mean you
are done with Lorato.

Me: That’s
not the truth.

Holy: It is
and I think it’s time you face the truth. You
only love Lorato because she is
grounded; in fact she is everything a man
would want in a woman something I
wouldn’t say about Chicago.
Me: How do I
stop thinking about Chicago? It’s starting to
mess with my mind no day passes
without me thinking about her.

Holy: Set
Lorato free.

Me: No.

Holy: You
are being selfish right now; you can’t keep
Lorato in your life if you are
still thinking of Chicago. It doesn’t work like
that and I am not gonna sit
here and tell you to go for Chicago. No my
friend I am your friend and I must
tell you the truth. Even if it’s bitter truth I
will tell it as it is.

Me: I love
Ratu and I wanna be with her.

Holy: Then
stop entertaining likes of Chicago. You can
see this girl is trouble; she is willing
to betray her best friend. I am talking about
someone she has shared secrets
with someone she has spent years with.
What more is she capable of?

He shook his
head.

Holy: If you
ask me this girl is problem. Stay away from
him.
LORATO
KOKOISI

My mother
took out a brown envelope from her drawer
and gave it to me.

Mom: You
will use this one to pay for next month’s
monthly fee.

I was paying
R200.00 at the Computer Academy and
then R1000.00 on the sixth month of
graduation. It included everything.

Me: Thank
you Mom.

Mom: Why you

thanking me? I am your mother and it’s my
job to do this.

Me: I know
but still thank you.
Mom: Yeah.
Did you talk with Landan?

Me: Yes. His father lied to him yoh Ma.

I told her
what Landan had told me.

Mom: That
man is Hell itself.

Me: Exactly
what I thought. He is capable of anything

Mom: I am
starting to hate what’s happening. I don’t
want you to suffer Rato and by how
things looks you gonna suffer under this
love.

Me: I know
Mom sometimes I feel like I am wasting my
time with Landan. Yes we love each
other but is it enough to stay and hold on?

Mom: I
should be asking you that question.

Me: I don’t
know I really don’t know.

Mom: You
need to make some serious decisions; time
is not on your side.

Me: I know
let me go on this weekend gate away. I will
come back with a clear mind.

She gave me
a slight nod.

Me: Let me
go and practice tomorrow I have practical
test. Kedibone gave me her laptop.

Mom: Okay
go ahead.

I walked out
and walked to my room. I checked my
phone and there was no text from Landan I
switched off my phone and plugged in the
charger.
KEDIBONE
RAMOHALE

I had asked
Dean to meet with me. I wasn’t going to
terminate without telling him I
thought it felt right to let him know. He
deserved to know I already knew what
he was going to say. No man would want a
child outside his marriage that was no
brainer.

We were
sitting in his car; it was seven in the
evening.

Dean: You
are not aborting.

Me: I am. I
wasn’t asking you Dean.
Dean: Please
don’t abort I am begging you.

Me: Why do
you want me to keep your child when we
are no longer together?

Dean: We are talking about an innocent

child here Goddamnit!

Me: Keeping
this child will not make you love me the way
I wanna be loved it will only
bind me with you and you know how
painful that is going to be? I will die
before your wife kills me.

Dean: My
wife and I are divorcing. I just found out
that… she has been seeing another
man. And not just a random man a man
who is supposedly the father of my
children.

Me: What?
Dean: Yes. She told me everything and sent
me divorce papers. So please…

He held both
my hands.

Dean: Don’t
rob me a chance of being a father a father
to my own child.

Me: You
doing this for your own reasons what about
me?
Dean: I will be here for you you will never
lack anything. I will give you my
immense support. Just don’t take away this
chance from me.

I shook my
head.

I shook my
head.

Dean: Is
love you want? I will learn to love you
slowly but surely I will give you my
heart. I know how much you love me and I
hurt you when I said I will never
leave my wife for you. I will keep on
apologizing for ever saying that.

CHICAGO
EVANS

I was
surprised to receive a call from Landan
saying he is outside my house. I was
lucky because Kedibone was not home if
not she was going to ask questions.

Landan was
drunk; he kept on saying things that didn’t
make sense.

Me: You need

to go home before Kedibone come back.
He laid his
head on my thigh. We were in my bedroom.

Landan: I
don’t know what to do I really don’t know.

Me: This is
not you talking but the booze. Get up I will
call Holy. He will come and take
you home.

He raised
his head and looked at me.
Landan: I
think I am falling for you Chicago and I am
falling hard for you.

I didn’t say
anything.

Landan: I
know what I am about to say sound insane
but I want both you and Lorato.

Me: You
can’t have your bread buttered on both
ways being with me means losing Lorato
for good. She will never forgive us for the
betrayal.

Landan:
Let’s worry about that later. I don’t know
what is that I wanna do but what I
know now is that I want you. I want to be
with you.

Me: You know

my answer to that and I feel like I am the
one who is going to get hurt in the
end because I love you I don’t think that I
love you. I am sure of my feelings
and I feel like we are going in circles about
this.

Landan:
Wanna give it try?

Me: Give
what a try?

Landan: Us. We will stop whatever we will

be doing if it doesn’t work.

Me: You
sure?

Landan: No but at least we will know that

we tried.

Me: I want a
baby.

Landan:
Mine?

Me: Yes. I want to have your son.

Landan:
Cago we can’t just have unprotected sex.
We gotta test first; we need to think
about Lorato’s health too.

Me: I know
we will use protection today.

I put my
hands on his chest and leaned forward to
kiss him. As soon as our lips meet I
felt electric all over my body. He put his
hands on my waist and gently
squeezed them. The kiss went on for a
while; it was a long passionate kiss.
Me: Now make
love to me.

He didn’t
protest he picked me and sat me on the
bed. I had being intimate with Landan
before so I knew his romantic side my body
understood the great joy of his
touch. I was in for a treat.
We went from
kissing to taking off each other’s clothes.
When we were completely naked he got
in between my legs. He ran the back of his
hand on my face moving down to my
tits. He massaged each slowly and gently. I
closed my eyes and let out a soft
moan. He kissed me on the cheeks I relaxed
my body and enjoyed for a moment.

He had me
lie on my back with a pillow under my butt
my legs were opened wide. I could
feel some fresh air. He kneeled in between
with his face facing my coochie. He
started using the tip of his tongue inside out
my coochie pausing to circle it
around my clit.

I grabbed
the sheets and curled my toes. He went on
with his tongue eating my coochie
building up the pleasure. He used his tip to
run circles around my hole; his
tongue was feeling amazing on my skin. I
was trying so hard to not moan out
load I pressed my lips together and
controlled my moans. He used his hand to
spread my labia he ran his finger around
him He went back in and swirled his
tongue.

Me: Ah
Landan… oh!

LORATO
KOKOISI
I received a
call from my former class mate Lebogo. We
attended 11th and 12th
grade together.

Lebo: Long
time without hearing from you.

Me: Tell me
about it. How are you?
Lebo: I am good how are you?

Me: Same-same. There’s nothing

interesting on my side. You are in Western
Cape
right?

Lebo: Yes but I got a transfer. I am coming

back to Limpopo next month.

Me: What’s
wrong?
Lebo: Some family issues.

Me: I see.

Lebo: I hope
I will see you.

Me: You
don’t have to ask you will see me.

Lebo: Reason
why I called I talked with Kedibone last time
and she mentioned how you are
struggling to get a job and stuff.
Me: Yes but
right now I have a job. It’s temp though.

Lebo: The
contract of this one is starting August. I just
don’t know what job you will be
doing. It’s my uncle’s company it’s yet to
open.

Like some of
my former class mate Lebogo also came
from a well off family his father was
into politics. The uncle he was talking about
was in construction business. i
didn’t mind which job was offered to me as
long as it paid the bills.

Me: Oh I
will be free by then.

Lebo: I will
keep in touch with you.

Me: Thank
you so much Lebogo it means a lot.

Lebo: Just
get the job that would be the thank you.
God was not
sleeping on me; He was helping in any way.
It made me happy to know another
door was opening for me. I didn’t know
what I was going to do when my contract
ended but God came through.
To be
continued…

LANDAN KOTZE
Our sexual intimacy was interrupted by
Chicago’s phone
call; I wasn’t expecting her to contact me.
We agreed to no contact when I am
with Lorato she obviously agreed for the
sake of agreeing.

I went to the bedroom to take the call. I lied

to Lorato
and said it’s our client calling. Being waiting
for his call I felt really bad
lying to her.

Me: Cago we talked about this. Why you

calling me now?
You want to get me into trouble with
Lorato?

Cago: No.

Me: Then what do you call this?

Cago: It’s hard knowing you are there with
her instead of me is killing me. I
am going crazy over here.

Me: Don’t make me regret my decision. You

came to me you
made me realise my feelings to you and we
talked. We agreed on seeing how our
“relationship” is going before we make a
permanent decision. What you are doing
now is not what we had talked about.

She let out a sigh.

Cago: I miss you.

Me: I know. I miss you too but respect my

time with
Lorato. We owe her that much.

Cago: I am sorry for calling. We don’t want

Lorato
suspecting anything.

Me: If you continue like this she will

eventually
suspect. We both know Lorato is not stupid.
Stop calling I will see you
Monday okay?

Cago: Fine. Bye.

I hung up and blocked her numbers. Cago

was unstable; I
couldn’t take her word and run with it.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
When Chicago left I decided to go out and
get fresh air
being cooped up in the apartment all day
was driving me crazy.

I was at Ackermans checking baby clothes. I

wasn’t
excited about the part of being pregnant
but I was at least trying to enjoy the
journey.
“If I were you I’d take the navy one. It’s
beautiful and
eye catching.” I slowly turned around at the
sound of that voice. It was this
medium skin tall guy. Light brown eyes buzz
cut and well-trimmed beard.

Me: I wasn’t sure about it but I think I will

take it.

His bottom lip curved into a smile.

“Onalerona Moloi.” He
extended his hand to me.
Me: Kedibone Ramohale. You work here?

Onalerona: What? No I am accompanying

my sister. I saw you
from over there.

Me: And you thought of coming to me?

Onalerona: Oh I did.

“Onalerona!” he turned around and waved

at this other
pregnant. She walked to us.
Onalerona: Kedibone my sister Lesedi.
Lesedi this is
Kedibone.

Lesedi: Nice meeting you.

Me: Me too.

Lesedi: Don’t feel scared my brother is like

this with
everyone. He befriends everyone.

Onalerona: That’s not true. Don’t listen to

her she is
like this.

You could tell the two were close reminded

me of Nolan.
I stood there and watched them as they
talked. I laughed softly.

Me: I would like to enjoy all of this but I

gotta go.

Onalerona gave me a slight nod.

Lesedi: I hope I didn’t interrupt the two of

you.
Onalerona: You didn’t.

Me: We might meet again

Sponsored

reminded me of Nolan.
I stood there and watched them as they
talked. I laughed softly.
Me: I would like to enjoy all of this but I
gotta go.

Onalerona gave me a slight nod.

Lesedi: I hope I didn’t interrupt the two of

you.

Onalerona: You didn’t.

Me: We might meet again who knows?

Onalerona: I am counting on that.

I sure was.
LORATO KOKOISI

I was sitting in the lounge watching TV. I

was a little
upset at Landan; he dared to answer a call
during our moment. It was
disrespectful from his side.
Landan: I am sorry about earlier…

He said sitting next to me.

Me: Whoever was calling must be

important for you to stop
what we were doing.

Landan: Business calls.

I took the remote and mute the volume.

Me: You are getting lot of that lately

Landan.

Landan: I am sorry. Tell you what let me

switch off my
phone and give you my full attention

Me: This weekend is about us not you and

your business
calls. I should rather go home if things are
going to be like this. I mean
what’s the use of being here when you will
be busy with your phone.

He cupped my face and leaned for a kiss.

Landan: I am sorry please forgive me.

Me: Whatever!

Landan: Better half…

He held my hand.

Me: I will believe it when I see it.

Landan: I promise you it will not happened

again.

I nodded.
Landan: I got you something.

Me: What is it?

Landan: Come let’s go to the bedroom.

I got up from the couch and followed him to

the bedroom.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
For the first time I was taken by a guy my
age I didn’t
know Onalerona’s age but I could tell he
was not that old. He was probably in
his early 20s.

As I stepped inside my car my phone rang it

was my
mother. I felt scared instantly.
Mom: Nana.

Me: Ma how are you?

Mom: I am good and you?

Me: Fine.

Mom: You at the apartment?

Me: No went to the mall.

Mom: Text me when you get back.

Me: Is everything okay?

Mom: Yeah. I just want to get out of the

house maybe spend a night or two with
you.

Me: You sure everything is okay?

Mom: I already said yes why you insisting?

If you can’t accommodate me just
say so.

I kept quiet. She heaved a deep breath.

Mom: I am sorry; I didn’t mean to shout at
you. I am just
going through some…

Me: Don’t explain anything. I will see you

later.

CHICAGO EVANS
Later that afternoon I went to my brother’s
like I had
said. We were sitting in the veranda.

I was telling him how dad reacted when I

talked about
visiting our grandmother.

Justin: It’s unlike dad.

Me: I am telling you. He never used that

tone to me
before it was like he was possessed or
something.

Justin: Your father is unpredictable.

Me: And I hate that about him. I am going

to ask Grams…

Justin: What you going to ask?

Me: I want to know what’s going on.

Charlene the other day mentioned
something
about Mom and that got me thinking.
He looked at me.

Me: I feel like dad has something to do with

her death.

He widened his eyebrow.

Me: Just think about it why would he

refuse? He wants
nothing to do with mom’s family. And for
him to let Charlene cheat it means
Charlene knows what he did and for her to
not say anything he gotta dance to
whatever tune Charlene play.
Justin: But dad killing mom? Now that’s
crazy.

Me: To you it sound crazy but to me it

doesn’t.

LORATO KOKOISI

Landan got me a sweater my name was

personalized at the back. It was sky blue
in colour. I stood in front of the mirror and
put it on.

His phone vibrated on the bed it vibrated

more than once thinking it’s urgent
I went to get it I accidentally touched the
screen. It showed he had a
passcode that was new. He never had one
and always said he doesn’t need
one.
To be continued…

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

Chicago called and said she’s on her way to

my place. I
was really not sure about seeing her I didn’t
wanna come out as a traitor or
backstabber and what was happening was
going to make me one.

We were sitting in the lounge.

Me: You were always jealous of Lorato

weren’t you? What
kind of a person are you Cago? Because I’d
never think of betraying a friend
like you did.

Chicago: What’s good is defending myself if

you will not
listen to me?

Me: You have a baby with Landan that’s

insane. What did
Lorato ever do to you?

Chicago: This has nothing to do with her.

Me: It has everything to do with her you

betrayed her.
You don’t do that to your friend. How do I
know one day you will not wake up
and decide to take Onalerona?
Chicago: I will never do that to you…

Me: What’s so special about me? You are a

snake and one
day your son is going to pay for your
mistakes.

Chicago: Oh same way Oarona will? You are

no saint; I and
you are the same. Cut from the same cloth.
Stop acting innocent.
Me: I think you should leave; we have
nothing more to
talk about.

Chicago: I knew you were gonna choose

Lorato over me.

Me: Do you blame me?

She got up from the chair and grabbed her

purse.
Chicago: I never thought I’d lose you over
choosing
happiness.

Me: You didn’t lose me; I just don’t want

you in my life
right now. I have lot in my plate dealing
with your drama is the last thing I
want.

Chicago: I understand.
LORATO KOKOISI

There’s only one place left for me to go and

check and
that was Cago’s house. I had a feeling they
were there and I was not wrong.
When I arrived there I found Landan sitting
in the lounge busy with his
laptop. You could tell he wasn’t expecting
me.
He got up from the chair and
walked up to me.

Landan: Better half…

Me: Better half my left butt.

Landan: I can explain

everything everything is not as it seems.

Me: What do you wanna explain?

Huh? Where is your wife? I think she should
join us for this. Chicago? Get
here come and face me.
Landan: Calm down we can talk
about this calmly.

Me: Hey hey don’t you dare

tell me about calming down. You have no
right to.

He tried to touch me but I

pushed him. I didn’t even know where I got
that strength from. He staggered
back and looked at me.
Landan: Rato?

Me: How could you? How could

you rip my heart in pieces? Was I not
enough for you?

Landan: You were and still are.

Me: You couldn’t even look into

my eyes and tell me you were having an
affair with my best friend. You made
love to me; you told me you love me
knowing you were with her. You sold me
dreams;
you made a fool out of me. You
impregnated her and helped her hide it
from me
if it wasn’t enough you went and get
married. I had to find out from social
media. Do you have any idea how that felt
like?

Landan: I didn’t mean to. I

never meant to hurt you.
Me: You were with me last
night; you proclaimed your love for me.
Was it easy lying to my face? How did
your wife feel when you were with me? Did
you wash your body after sex washed
my scent from your body? How did you feel
next to her instead of me? Did you
think of me? Did you miss me? Answer!

Landan: Don’t do this to

yourself.

Me: You can’t even be honest

with yourself. I loved you; I let you in my
heart. Out of all the girls you
could have dated you went for my best
friend.

Landan: I love you Lorato I

really do.

Me: No you don’t if you did

you wouldn’t have done what you did. You
don’t hurt the person you love you
don’t!

Landan: I know and I am sorry.

Forgive me my love I didn’t mean to break
you like this. I should have told
you…

Me: You should have left me

when you realised you have feelings for
Chicago.

I wiped my tears.

Me: Do you love her?

He kept quiet.
Me: I asked you a question do
you love her or not?

Landan: I love her but I love you too.

Me: You don’t and you never

loved me you were with me for the sake of
being with me. I was honest and
loyal to you but you weren’t. Nolan told me
everything; I now know why you
never liked him. You made my friends lie to
me your lies cornered them.

Landan: I never cheated on you

yes I slept with that girl but that was the
first and last time. It was a
mistake…

Me: Well you seem to be doing

lot of those.

I pointed at him.

Me: I never wanna see you

again…
Tears were soaking my cheeks.
It hurt it hurt deeply. I loved this man I
wanted more with him. I thought he
was happy with me I was clearly wrong.

Me: I will utter the words you

failed to… it’s over Landan Kotze. This is the
last time you’d ever see me cry.
I wish you nothing but happiness with
Chicago.

Landan: Lorato don’t do this.

Don’t do this to us; we can still work things
out.
Me: No I no longer fit in your
life. You now have a wife and a baby

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focus on them.
I gave him my back and walked
away.
Walking away was the hardest
thing to do. I was experiencing a range of
feelings I felt angry betrayed and
alone. It was going to be a process to let go
of Landan I really loved him.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
My mother was supposed to come
with us to the Dr but she couldn’t last
minute meeting. My father was out of
the province. Their divorce was finalised
two months ago they went their
separate ways. It was hard coming to terms
with it.

I was sent for an MRI so they

could see what stage cancer I was we were
then asked to wait while the
pictures are checked. We were sitting in
Perry’s office waiting for her.

Me: I am scared.

Onalerona: Don’t be scared

everything is going to be fine. We are going
to beat this thing; I know we are
going to.
Me: What if I don’t get better?
What’s gonna happened to my daughter?
She is too young to grow up without a
mother.

Onalerona: Stop saying things

like that you are not dying. Well not today
or tomorrow you are going to see
our daughter growing up.

Me: You are only saying this to

make me feel better. Ovarian cancer is
deadly.
Onalerona: Just stop will you?

The door opened Dr Perry

walked in. She hung her coat over a chair
from the back and sat down.

Dr: How are you feeling?

Me: I am feeling fine Dr. Let’s

talk about the results can we?

I held tight to Onalerona’s

hand.
Dr: The tumour has spread and
larger than anticipated. It has advanced…

That was devastating to me and

for Onalerona. We had hoped for good
news clearly we weren’t getting them.

Me: Stage… what stage?

Dr: Your cancer is in stage 3C

it means…

Me: I know what it means I am

a medical student.

My dream of studying Medicine

finally came true I was accepted at
University. I was on the right track with
my studies.

Dr: You need to start with the

treatment as soon as possible. Chances of…

I got up from the chair.

Me: Please excuse me.

Onalerona: Honey.

Me: I just wanna be alone not

now honey. Please…

I kissed him and walked out.

CHICAGO EVANS

Nine months later my father

was still in a coma hope was lost. He was in
a persistent vegetative state but
still had a brain activity. That was one of the
reasons why we had not pulled
the plug.

Justin and I made a decision to

bring him home; we hired nurses to take
care of him at home. They were four of
them; each had a responsibility of his own.
I walked to my father’s room. I
found nurse Evander bathing him.

Me: How is he?

Evander: Still the same.

Me: I should stop asking

questions like this.

Evander: I understand. I guess

I’d do the same if I was in your shoes.
I looked at my father and my
heart ached.

Me: Seeing him in this state

break my heart. I wish there was something
I could do for him.

Evander: You are doing a lot

being here means is one of them. You could
be with your husband and son but you
are here.

I nodded.
Me: Let me leave you to it I
just came to see him. I have to go and pick
Nasir; he is spending the night
with us.

Evander: Can’t wait to see our

Camp. We missed him.

LORATO KOKOISI
I called Roanda to come and
pick me up from Cago’s he didn’t take his
time. He drove me home. He was
parked at the gate.

Roanda: I can’t pretend to

understand how you are feeling but you
have to understand that many people wear
a mask. You give so much love to only get
less it’s life and it will never
change. Your closest friends are your
downfall.
Me: So I am supposed to be fine?
Supposed to pretend as if this didn’t
happen my boyfriend and best friend
didn’t betray me?

Roanda: That’s not what I am

saying. I am saying make peace with what
has happened; it’s the only way for
you to heal. What’s the use of crying for
someone who’s not worth your tears?
Someone who could be making love to his
wife as we talking?

Me: I am scared I’ll fall into

depression again; I gave Landan my heart
and soul. I don’t wanna live without
him.

Roanda: You said it right; you

don’t wanna live without him meaning it’s
not impossible to live without him.
There’s life beside him and I am saying you
will learn to live without him.
There’s a ransom to pay in love and
unfortunately this was yours.

A tear dropped to my cheek.

Roanda: I feel like eating ice
cream.

Me: You don’t even like ice

cream.

Roanda: But you do and you need

it right now. Shall we?

Me: Please hold me.

Roanda: Oh big eyes come here.

I am sorry you are going through this; if I
could I’d share your pain.

Me: Your presence is enough.

I laid my head on his chest. He

slowly ran his hand on my back.

Roanda: Just stop crying. He

doesn’t deserve your tears. This too shall
pass.

Tell that to my heart.

To be continued…

LORATO KOKOISI

I didn’t sleep a wink last night; I kept on

tossing and
turning. I spent the whole night trying not
to think about Landan and Chicago
I felt disgusted by just thinking about them.
The disgust was beyond the word.

I didn’t wanna fall into depression; I spent

hours
staring at the razor. My mind was occupied
by many thoughts and cutting myself
was one of them but I had told myself I
would never go back into that dark hole
ever again. It wasn’t a pleasant space it
feasted on my happiness.
I was in the kitchen preparing breakfast for
everyone. I
poured water in the basin and washed the
cups.

I was currently not working my contract

ended six months
ago and since then I had not being luck. I
completed my short course in
Computer and graduated it was a beautiful
day. It wasn’t much of a
qualification but to me it was more than a
six months qualification.

Lesego: With that rate no one will eat

today.

Me: I am finishing up. Give me thirty

minutes.

Lesego: That’s what you said thirty minutes

ago let me
help you.
She drew back the chair and sat down. She
reached for the
bread and margarine.

Lesego: I heard you sobbing in the early

hours.

Me: I am sorry if I woke you up.

Lesego: You didn’t I couldn’t sleep too. I

think I am
coming down with cold

Me: You should go and consult.

Lesego: I will go after work.

I had notice Lesego was losing weight and

always tired. Something
was wrong with her and it didn’t sit well
with me.

Me: Please do.

LANDAN KOTZE
I got out of the bed and walked out of the
bedroom. I
spent the night with Chicago.

I rang my mother.

Mom: Calling so early in the morning is

everything fine?

Me: Everything is fine; I just wanted to talk

with you.

Mom: You don’t too well. You didn’t get

enough sleep?

Me: No. Lorato is aware of everything. She

confronted me
yesterday. You could have seen her face she
was so hurt. I broke her Mom.

Mom: Crying over spilt milk is pointless the

damage is
already done. I just wished you had not
listened to your father. You had a good
thing going with Lorato but you messed it
up. I just hope and pray you don’t
wake up one day and regret because there’s
a baby involved. You are tied to
Chicago for life you made vows and you
bound to respect them. And I really
hope history doesn’t repeat itself.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
I checked the time and it was eight in the
morning.
Onalerona wasn’t in the bed; Oarona wasn’t
in her cot bed too.

I sat up straight and noticed a note. A love

note was
hidden beneath the pillow; I smiled and
shook my head. I was blessed to have
someone like Onalerona; he was the best
thing not only to me but my daughter
too.
“Right now you feel like your world has
come to an end
and I don’t blame you. I would too if I was
in your shoes but my love I want
you to know that you are not alone in this. I
will walk this journey with you;
I will do my best to see you happy. Now get
up and smile because there’s
nothing to be depressed about.
I went for a walk with Oarona called in sick
at work. I
love you Kedibone don’t ever forget that.
Oarona is proud to have you as her
mother do not let her down.”

Me: I love you.

I folded the note and leaned on the

headboard.
I was trying my best to be kind to myself;
my emotions
were coming to play. My sense of hope and
confidence increased in the presence
of Onalerona and Oarona I’d be telling a
different story if it wasn’t for
them.

LORATO KOKOISI
Later morning I went to see the Pastor’s
wife Michelle.
I was feeling scared and worried about my
mental state. I couldn’t talk with my
mother didn’t want to worry her.

I put the cup of tea on the table.

Me: Last time I felt like this was when I was

bullied; I
always felt this heavy pain in the centre of
my chest. When I couldn’t talk I
resorted to cutting myself I felt better
afterwards.

Michelle: You are afraid of slipping back?

I nodded. I had told her everything.

Michelle: In the mist of this I want you to

remember that
you matter and it’s absolutely okay to feel
this way. You are hurting and your
mind right now is trying to manipulate you
telling you what you need to hear.
This is not the end for you it’s actually the
beginning. Yes you can cry but
don’t cry for long. There’s life out there
waiting for you you think it will
wait when you are busy feeling sorry for
yourself? Busy asking yourself
questions you have no answers to? The
same people who hurt you are out there
enjoying and probably forgot about what
they’ve done.

She held my hand.

Michelle: Find comfort in your loved ones.

Think about
your mother if you feel like giving up

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 think about the pain she would feel if
you try and hurt yourself. You are in charge
of your happiness; no one has a
right to take that from you. Accept what has
happened hold your head high and
walk like the Queen you are.
I nodded repeatedly.

Michelle: Forgive them by doing so you are

setting
yourself free. Whether they come and
apologize or they don’t forgive them.
Wish them good be happy for them. Our
Father in Heaven will fight your battles
and even if they don’t get their Karma
today or tomorrow be happy for them. I
know all this might be hard for you to do
but just try.

Me: I will… I will try.

I felt a bit different I came carrying a huge

burden on
my shoulders but I was feeling lighter.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

A doorbell rang for the second time.

Me: Honey? Someone is at the door.

I yelled Onalerona replied from the

bedroom.

Onalerona: Changing the baby’s diaper get

the door.

I put the magazine I was reading on the

table and stood
up. I went to the door. I opened and stared
at Nolan with my mouth wide opened.

Me: What are you doing here?

Nolan: And I thought I will get a hug.

I threw myself in his arms.

Me: Why didn’t you say anything?

Nolan: I wanted to surprise you.

Me: You have no idea how much I wanted

to see you.

We walked to the lounge still holding

hands.
Me: I missed you.

Nolan: I knew you missed me. Where is my

niece?

Me: With daddy.

Nolan: Which dad?

I hit him on the shoulder.

Me: Onalerona of course.

Nolan: Where is Dean?

Me: Around you will see him soon if you
missed him. He
is coming to see Oarona.

He rolled his eyes.

Nolan: And… I came with someone.

I raised an eyebrow.

Me: Who’s someone?

Nolan: Maureen my girlfriend.

Me: Your what? You have a girlfriend Nolan
Ramohale and
you never thought of telling me? Wow I am
hurt.

Nolan: That’s why I brought her for you

guys to meet.

Me: You have a girlfriend? This is shocking; I

thought
you had feelings for Rato.
He sat on the couch.

Nolan: I did but I couldn’t just sit and wait

for her
when she was happily in love with Landan.
She told me straight up that we will
never be more than what we are she sees
me as a friend if not a brother. I
loved her from distance for too long I had to
move on and find someone. Lorato
encouraged me to find someone. What was
I supposed to do?

Me: Nothing so for how long have you been

together?

Nolan: Ten months.

Me: I am happy for you at least someone is

happy. Some
of us are just… life is showing us flames.
Don’t know if you coming or going.

Nolan: So tell me when you starting with

your treatment?
LANDAN KOTZE

Chicago was awfully quiet at the eating

table; she was
playing with her food. She seemed to be
lost in thoughts.

I waved my hand before her eyes.

Me: Penny for your thoughts?

Cago: You were saying?

Me: What are you thinking about?

Cago: Nothing.

Me: Talk to me.

Cago: I think I’ve lost my other best friend.

Me: Kedibone?
She nodded.

Cago: You should have heard the things she

said to me
yesterday they were hurtful. I never
thought she’d say those things to me.

Me: Love you need to understand that not

everyone is
going to be happy for us or accept our
relationship. People are going to say
lot of things how we deal with me is entirely
up to us. We either let them
break us or build us.
Cago: You are taking this well…

Me: I am not. Losing Lorato is…

I let out a soft sigh.

Me: I just need time to come into terms

with our
break-up is not gonna be easy. That’s all I
am gonna say I will not dish my
feelings to you. It will not be fair.
Evander walked up to us Nasir was in his
arms.

Evander: He is awake.

Cago: Let me feed him he must be hungry.

She stood up and met Evander halfway she

took Nasir from
him.
I looked at them and smiled. Things ended
badly between
me and Rato but in front of me was a
beginning of great things. I wasn’t
planning on ruining things between Cago
and me; I wasn’t doing for the two of
us but Nasir too.
KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

Dean laid Oarona down in her crib

and turned to me.

Dean: She is growing up so fast.

Me: She is.

He walked up to me I was
standing at the door.
Dean: It hurts to know she will
never grow up with both her parents and
it’s unfair.

Me: Dean we talked about this

and I am not changing my mind respect
that. I am with Onalerona and I expect
you to live with it.

Dean: I left my wife for you; I

thought the two of us would be together.
Me: No sir you didn’t. I came to
you and what did you do? You rejected me
like a disposed nappy when you found
out I was pregnant you forced me to keep
the baby. I didn’t even wanna keep it.

Dean: You still wish you had

terminated? If that’s it then why don’t you
give me my daughter and play happy family
with your boy? I will raise my daughter
because it seems like I am the only one
who wished for her to be born.

Me: You are insane. I will never

give you my daughter go and make yours
with whomever.

Dean: Oh you’d rather have my daughter

raised by
another man? No make it a boy.

Me: Dean please leave. I don’t

wanna argue with you. Leave.

Dean: Kedi…

He reached for my hand and

enclosed it with his.
Dean: Do not do this to our
daughter to us. I know we can be happy the
three of us under the same roof.
Please.

Me: What part of I don’t want you

don’t you understand? We are done it’s
over. I will never go back to you.

I yanked my hand from his grip. I

showed him the door.
Me: Go Dean.

LORATO KOKOISI

After talking with Michelle I

knew there was one last left for me to do
and that was facing Chicago. I wasn’t
going to move on before she looked into my
eyes and tell me why she did it. Why
she betrayed me.
When I got there I found Mary
their helper. She told me Cago was in the
garden. I made my to the garden but
stopped when I heard her talking on the
phone.

Cago: Lorato should never find

out I was the one behind Clara and Isa’s
saga she must never.
I swear my heart stopped beating
for a second or two. I couldn’t believe my
ears.

Cago: Yes so what if I am

jealous of her? You are telling me at some
point in life you never felt like
being someone else? Never wished you had
something someone else had? What I did
was cruel but it felt right. I wanted Landan
because I loved him he should have
never went for her.

I slowly clapped hands that got

her attention.

Me: Wow just wow Chicago. Now I

don’t have to ask why you did the things
you did to me.

Cago: I will call you back.

She cut the call.

Me: All this time I thought I had

a friend a sister meanwhile I had a snake by
my side.
Cago: Lorato…

Me: What did I ever do to you? I

must have done something for you to hate
me this much I mean I have nothing.

Cago: I don’t hate you… I only…

my life is…

She swallowed.

Me: You only what? You are only

jealous of me? You always wanted what I
had? What is that? I have absolutely
nothing.

Cago: I am sorry about everything

I’ve done to you.

Me: What are you sorry for for

getting me arrested or for taking my man?
Which one is it?

She didn’t say anything.

Me: I loved you. I confided in you let you

in my pain. You
know things about me that no one else
knows you and Kedi were my family. Even
when you talked ill of me I still loved you.
When you commented about my looks
and body I still loved you. Why Chicago? Tell
me!
CHICAGO EVANS

I didn’t know what to feel I was relieved

that
everything was out in the open but at the
same time I hated how things had
turned out. I could say whatever liked but
Lorato was part of me.
What I did was horrible; looking back I could
say I was
lucky to have her in my life.

Evander: Ma’am would you like something

to eat? I am
preparing food for myself and others.

Me: No I am fine. Don’t worry about me.

Evander: Are you fine? You seem lost in
thoughts.

Me: Do you think I am a bad person?

Evander: I don’t know you that much to

conclude that.

Me: My husband… he was my best friend’s

boyfriend. I
plotted to get him trapped him with a baby.
I have what I have because of the
bad things I have done things that hurt lot
of people.
Evander: It’s obvious you never loved your
best friend
because if you did you would have never
thought of betraying her. In all of
this do you think you’d be able to live with
yourself?

Me: I thought I would but not anymore.

Evander: It’s little too late for that now

what you need
to do is enjoy your new life with your family
and forget about your best
friend. Let her live her life peacefully. You
think you can do that?

I nodded.

Evander: Good. Still don’t want food?

Me: No I will eat when Landan get back. He

should be here soon.

Evander: I understand.

LORATO KOKOISI
I checked the time; it was few minutes
before 20:00pm.
Lesego wasn’t back yet she wasn’t working
and her phone was off. I was worried
because her phone was always on.

KB: I am sure she is with Banele.

I turned and looked at him.

Me: She calls and you know it.

KB: Rato the person you are worried about

is 34 years
old. We are not talking about a small child
here she will come back home.

Me: If you say so. When are you leaving

again?

KB: Friday. There’s an event that is taking

place Friday
night the manager asked if I could come and
work.
My brother was working at PLK it wasn’t a
fancy job but
it paid the bills. He was working as a waiter
in a cocktail bar.

Me: Knowing you and money…

KB: I said yes of course.

Me: At least you are working; some of us

are stuck inside
these four walls.
KB: Things will get…

My phone rang it was Lebogo. Last time we

talked was
five months ago he called to let me know
about the progress of his uncle’s
construction. I answered immediately.

Lebogo: Ms Kokoisi.

Me: Good evening how are you?

Lebogo: I am fine how are you?

Me: I am good.

Lebogo: Well let me add some good news

to that.

Me: Mh?

Lebogo: My uncle would like to see you

next Monday.

Me: What? Are you being for real?

Lebogo: Yes. I told him about you and the
rest is history. Just get your
documents ready I will send you the
location tomorrow. If you feel uneasy feel
free to go with someone. I am busy with
school work if not I would accompany
you.

Me: I will and Lebo… Thank you so much I

will never
forget this. I owe you.

His uncle’s company was in PLK. I didn’t

worry about
accommodation since my brother was that
side.

Lebogo: Don’t mention it.

LANDAN KOTZE

I woke up to the sound of my mother

drawing together the
curtains. I fell asleep on the couch. My neck
was in pain.
Mom: Sorry

Sponsored

I didn’t mean to wake you up.

I sat up straight.
Me: It’s okay. What time is it? Cago must be
worried.

Mom: She called me said your phone is off.

I checked and it was off.

Me: I forgot to charge it. I should get going.

Mom: I don’t like this up and down why is

Cago not
moving in? She is your wife isn’t she?

Me: I didn’t think you’d like it if she move in

I know you don’t like her.

Mom: That is the truth but she is the

mother of my
grandson and I don’t like the fact that her
brother is the one staying with
Nasir when I can look after him.

Me: I will talk with her.

Mom: Knowing her she is going to say no.

Me: Let me talk with her first.

I went to hug her.

Me: Let me go it’s getting late.

Mom: Drive safely.

Me: I will. I love you.

Mom: I love you too.

LORATO KOKOISI
Lesego came back around 21:00 she didn’t
even greet us.
She went straight to her room and locked
herself inside.

I was standing outside her door she wasn’t

responding.

Me: Sego? Open the door.

I heard her sobbing.

Me: I am worried; open this door before I

tell Mama.

I heard footsteps the door was opened.

Me: You are crying. What’s going on?

I walked inside.

Me: Did Banele hit you again? Did he?

Lesego: He didn’t.
Me: Tell me the truth Lesego.

She sat on the edge of the bed and wiped

her tears.

Lesego: I am HIV positive Rato. The weight

loss fatigue…
I am positive.

Me: What are you saying Sego?

Lesego: That bastard infected me all this

time I thought he was faithful. He
was busy with other girls whilst I was
devoted to him. I took my heart and gave
it to him I became blind for him.

Me: You are HIV positive? Oh God! You see

where your
stubbornness has got you? How many times
did I beg you to leave this guy? Look
now you are leaving with a permanent mark
something that will forever remind
you of him.
I was close with both my siblings we grew
up together.
My mother made sure we bonded we had
unbreakable bond and seeing my sister in
that situation broke my heart. I wished
there was something I could do for her
but there wasn’t.

LANDAN KOTZE
I walked into Nasir’s room where I found
Chicago playing
with him. They were lying on bed; I closed
the door and took off my shoes. I
went to join them in the bed. I kissed Nasir
on the forehead and then Cago.

Me: My love.

Cago: You finally home.

Me: I am sorry but my phone was off I

didn’t realise it
was battery low when I went to home.

Cago: I really wanted to talk with you when

I called. I
was feeling alone and sad.

Me: What happened?

Cago: Nothing like I don’t wanna talk about

it anymore.

Me: We hiding things from each other now?

I thought they
were no secrets between us.

Cago: It’s still like that. Amor I just want us

to
forget about everything and focus on our
marriage. I mean we can’t change
what’s done or we can?

Me: Of course we can’t. What do you

wanna talk about?

Cago: I talked with the builders; they should

be done next week. I can’t wait
to move in.
Our house was been built.

Me: Talking about moving in my mother

wants you to move
in.

Cago: Move in as in move in with her and

your father?

Me: Yes.

Cago: Oh…
A FEW DAYS LATER

LESEGO KOKOISI

These past few days had been tough; I was

having
difficult time accepting my status. I went for
counselling sessions they told
me I must take things slowly and everything
would be okay. I wanted to feel
positive and strong but I felt numb. The fact
that I was not sleeping around
with many partners made things worse.

I called Banele and told him I tested positive

he
started cursing and told me to pray he is
not positive.
I first dated Banele when I was 15 it wasn’t
something
serious. You know teen love and their
fairy-tales. We dated for few months and
in that period he had already showed me
another side of him. Out of fear I
decided to leave him a week later I found
out I was pregnant by him. I was 16
then; I found another boyfriend and pinned
the pregnancy on him. I didn’t want
Banele to know he was going to be a father
but my then boyfriend realised he
wasn’t the father when Jewel was born he
then left me. Years later Banele and
I met again we rekindled and got back
together the naïve me thought he had
changed. Never told him about Jewel but I
did reach out to George and confirmed
his suspicions about not being the father to
Jewel.

[FLASHBACK]

Me: Banele you are drunk and not thinking

straight.
Unchain me so that we talk.
I was chained to the foot of the bed as I
kept on
receiving his kicks.

Banele: You think you can go around flirting

with men?
Humiliating me? You don’t respect me
Lesego.

Me: But I wasn’t flirting with him you got

the wrong
impression. We were only talking…
Banele: And you expect me to believe that?

I had been chained to the bed for about

three hours; he
wasn’t hearing anything I was saying.

Me: We can talk about this calmly.

He unchained me and forcefully grabbed

my arm.

Banele: Strip off your clothes.

I did as told.
***************

I wiped my tears and got up from my chair. I

was at work
it was breakfast time. I was in the staff
room at the back.

“Ke masoabi ka ho nka nako e telele mola o

ne o le
molelele. (I am sorry I took long the queue
was long.” my colleague Joyce
said closing the door. I turned and looked at
him.
Me: I didn’t even notice.

Joyce: Have you been crying Lesego?

Me: Eng? Che. (What? No.)

Joyce: You lying your eyes are red.

I tried holding back the tears but I couldn’t

for long. I
broke down.
LORATO KOKOISI

My interview went well; I was hired on the

spot. I was
hired as a tea lady; my job was to supply
tea/coffee snacks for meetings. I
was also assigned to delivery drinks and
make breakfast & lunch for workers
and also responsible for general cleaning
duties.
I was put on probation for three months my
salary was
less compared to the salary of a permanent
employee and it was not including
perks and other benefits. I was going to
earn R5000.00 p.m working Mon-Fri from
08:00 till 16:00. We were offered
accommodation. I was given a week to sort
out my things next Monday I was
starting to work.
I was having breakfast with Roanda.

Me: Let me taste your burger.

Roanda: Listen to this girl we are both

having burgers.
Why do you wanna mine?

Me: Mine doesn’t have crispy bacon.

Roanda: You said you don’t want it are you

senile?

Me: That’s harsh. I just want to taste.

Roanda: When are you leaving? I can’t wait
to get rid of
you.

Me: You lying you are going to miss me.

I took bacon and threw it in my mouth.

Me: I am worried about Lesego you know.

She is going
through a rough patch and I am leaving.
With me and Kabelo away she’d feel
alone.
Roanda: Why don’t you call Jewel and ask
her to come? I
am sure seeing her daughter will do her
good.

Me: Why didn’t I think of it?

Roanda: Do I have to say it?

Me: Oh please don’t.

Roanda was definitely the right person in

my life he was
meant to be in my life. I wished I had met
before I met the likes of Chicago. I
felt positive energy when I am around him.

CHICAGO EVANS

Landan ended up convincing me to move in

with him until
our house was finished. I didn’t want to stay
with my in-laws especially
mother-in-law. Carmen didn’t like me and
she didn’t have to try hard to show it
to me it was that plain to see.

I left my father with Aunt Pamela his

younger sister. I
couldn’t have left him with the nurses only
he needed family.

I was bathing Nasir when Carmen walked in.

Carmen: Oh I thought you were done
bathing him; I need a
hand in the kitchen.

Me: Can’t Joel help you?

Carmen: I excused him for the day.

Me: You did? Who is going to cook for us?

Carmen: You and me. Since you moved in

here you have not lifted a finger. All
you do is order Joel around.

Me: He is being paid to do all of that and he

doesn’t
complain. Why must I do his job? It doesn’t
make sense at ll.

Carmen: That’s where you are wrong Joel is

not your
slave and I will not allow you to turn him
into one.

I wrapped Nasir with a towel and walked to

the bed. I put
him down and looked at Carmen.
Me: You are doing this to punish me aren’t
you?

Carmen: You are the daughter-in-law of this

house and I’d be happy if you act
like one. Your husband needs to eat and as
his wife you must make sure he eats.
Okay?

I nodded.

Carmen: Good. Finish up and join me.

She walked out and closed the door.

Living with Carmen was starting to be a

nightmare

Sponsored

she
was impossible to please. I needed to talk
with Landan before I go insane.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

I was set to start with my treatment this

coming Friday.
My treatment consisted of both surgery and
chemotherapy. I was told the stage
of my cancer’s often difficult to remove
completely that didn’t sit well with
me. I had a 70-90 percent chance of
recurrence but there was no telling if the
cancer would recur.

I had an exam in few days so I was in sitting

in the sitting
room studying. I was very much focused in
my studies I didn’t wanna disappoint
myself.

I received a call from unknown number.

Me: Hello.

“Am I speaking with Kedibone Ramohale?”

Me: This is she who is this?

“Fatima Davies.” I got up to my feet and ran

my eyes around as if she was here.
I knew who Fatima Davies was I knew her
very well.

Me: How can I help you?

Those words struggled to come out of my
mouth.

Fatima: I came to you and asked if you had

an affair with my husband and what
did you say to me?

I didn’t respond.

Fatima: You looked into my eyes and said

no.

Me: But that years ago I was still you and…

Fatima: And stupid for sleeping with your
teacher a man
who’s old enough to be your father. I cried
myself to sleep when he was meeting
with you probably having the best sex of his
life. He threatened to leave me
and his children whilst you were enjoying
every bit of him.

Me: Okay I know I was wrong for sleeping

with your
husband but Fatima it happened four ago.
Why are you bringing it up? I am no
longer seeing your money.
Fatima: It happened years ago but the pain
is still there…
I promised him that I will make both you
and him pay and I think that day has
arrived.

Me: I am sorry for the pain I’ve caused you I

truly am.
I had no right to come between…

Fatima: If you find time check Dark Strip

Chat.

Me: What?
Fatima: You heard me. Next time think
twice before
messing with married men.

Me: Fati…

She hung up.

Me: Oh my God! This better not be it. It

can’t be.
The website she was talking about was a
website where
sexually explicit videos were posted and
that meant one thing. The video her
husband made was definitely uploaded.

LORATO KOKOISI

After my breakfast date with Roanda I

decided to go and
see Lesego. She was busy when I got there
she told me to wait for her.

I was sitting outside the store when Holy

walked up to
me.

Holy: Lorato how are you?

We shared a hug.

Me: Fine and you?

Holy: Good. You are looking beautiful.

Me: Thank you you not looking bad

yourself.

Holy: Well well… thank you. How is it going?

Me: If you referring to them I am fine. I

have moved on
life is too short to hold onto ish.

Holy: This is what I like about you. You don’t

let
anything get you down.

I saw Lesego coming out of the store.

Me: Life is unfair we don’t always get what

we want but
that doesn’t mean we must stop living
right?

Holy: You are right.

Lesego: Hey guys.

Holy: Hey Sego been long.

Lesego: You know where I live Holy.

He laughed.

Holy: I will come and see you I promise.

Lesego: Lorato is my witness.

Holy: Let me go ladies it was nice seeing

you.

Me: The feeling is mutual.

He walked away.

Lesego: Sorry I kept you waiting it month

end. You know the
drill.

Me: It’s fine. It’s not like I have anything

important to
do at home.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
I was pacing up and down in the sitting
room. I had been
trying to call Fatima for the past one hour
but she wasn’t answering. I didn’t
like this at all.

I heard the door opening it was Onalerona.

Me: Motho waka.

Onalerona: Lerato la pelo yaka what you
busy with?

Me: Mh?

Onalerona: Where’s your mind at?

I laughed nervously.

Me: I’ve been studying since morning and

Oarona is very
restless.

Onalerona: You need to rest.

Me: I know.

Onalerona: I think it’s time we get hire a

nanny. You
will not cope; the coming weeks are going
to be hard for you. You are going to
need extra hands to help with Oarona.

Me: I don’t want anyone around my

daughter.

Onalerona: We will not get anyone; we will

find someone
we can trust.
Me: I really don’t know.

Onalerona: Stop being stubborn and think

about it.

Me: Maybe it’s not a bad idea to hire a

nanny.

He shook his head.

Me: I love you.

He squeezed my cheek and kissed me on

the forehead.

Onalerona: I love you too.

Onalerona and I met in a funny one and not

once did I
think we would be here today. We were in
love and that’s what I always wanted.
He was the best father to my daughter a
man I’d raise Oarona with.
But I didn’t know how he was going to take
the “sex
tape”” issue.

Onalerona: My parents invited us for dinner

tonight.

Me: They did?

Onalerona: Yes.

Me: You should have talked with me before

agreeing my
mother is coming to see us tonight.

Onalerona: And don’t you think you should

have done the
same? Checked if I didn’t have plans for us?

Me: We both fucked up.

LESEGO KOKOISI
Lorato: You sure about this?

Me: Are you the one asking me this? Lorato

you always told me to leave him.

Lorato: And you never listened so excuse

me for not
believing you.

Me: I am serious this time. I want nothing to

do with
Banele. He has already given me this
permanent scar.
Lorato: HIV is not a death sentence and you
defiantly
don’t need Banele.

Me: I don’t wanna go to his house alone I

am scared of
what he might to. I need to go and take my
things. I don’t want his girlfriends
to bewitch me. Do you mind coming with
me?

Lorato: Of course I don’t mind. I will

accompany you.

Me: Thank you. You are the best sister ever.

Lorato: I know; you don’t have to say it.

Me: You so full of yourself.

Lorato: I know that too.

I hit her on the shoulder she laughed.

To be continued…

PROLOGUE
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TERMS AND PRIVACY POLICY

CHICAGO EVANS

My stay at Kotze’s was becoming a living

hell since I
got here I had not get any peace. Well from
Carmen the woman was coming at me
with anything.

I was on the phone with my sister-in-law

Sabrina.

Me: She is making it a mission to punish me.

Like what
did I do? Did she love Lorato that much? I
mean Lorato was still on the
girlfriend line.
Sabrina: Then it’s obvious she loved her and
you got
pull up your socks girl. She is going to make
your stay there a living hell.

Me: I can’t wait for my house to be finished;

I want to
get the hell out of here. This is Hell on
Earth.

Sabrina: We can say whatever we like but

they are your
in-laws and she is right you have to perform
all your duties.

I sighed.

Me: I didn’t sign up for this.

Sabrina: You thought marriage was a walk

on a park? No
darling it’s gonna get hard.

Me: I am too forward.

I switched off the kettle and poured water
in the pot. I
switched on the stove and walked to the
refrigerator to take out chicken.
Dinner was being prepared by me. I didn’t
even know what to cook.

Sabrina: What you cooking?

Me: I don’t know Google will come to the

rescue. As long as they eat God!

She laughed.
Sabrina: Cago?

Me: What? I have never cooked in my life

and this woman
ordered me to make dinner. Like is she sent
to make my life miserable?

Sabrina: “This woman” is your

mother-in-law.

Me; Maybe I should order pap…

Sabrina: You can’t do that.

Me: Don’t blame me if the whole family end
up in
hospital. I warned you all.

Sabrina: Let me leave you to your cooking.

Talk later.

Me: Later.

She cut the call. I looked at all the

ingredients on the
kitchen counter and sighed.
LORATO KOKOISI

When I arrived at home I found my mother

having her
moment with God. I went to join her she
gave me the bible.

Mom: Read Hebrew 11:6.

Me: ‘And without faith is impossible to

please him for
whoever would draw near to God must
believe that he exists and that he rewards
those who seek him.’

Mom: You did well by coming back now I’ve

been watching
you for the past few days and I could feel
you are drawing far from God. Even
going church is a chore to you…

Me: It’s a matter of disconnecting with Him

doubting His
promises and word. Mom look at me. I have
nothing to show nothing to show
off. Everything I touch turn to dust I am not
getting young. I wake up and
pray before I sleep I pray what are the fruits
of that? Why is God not doing
anything about my situation my sufferings?
Why is he taking time to answer me
when I talk to him every day? What am I
doing wrong before His eyes?

Mom: You must know at all times that a

Christian’s faith
is not escape of hardships but something
that a Christian is meant to have.
With faith you can attack any battle and win
it. Faith is your best weapon; you
can command any situation and rise above
it. It comes from hearing and
believing His word. Sometimes is not that
God is sleeping on your prayers no
is you not believing in your prayer. Is when
you pray and later doubt if your
prayer has reached Him.

Me: Sometimes is hard to be broken and

still have faith
in God. How do I believe He will help me
when he has allowed hardships in the
first place? He has the power to prevent
pain but he still allowed it. And you
want me to have faith in that kind of a
person? No Mom.

Mom: That’s the whole point of faith Rato.

You trust in
Him and believe He has plans for you plans
that are greater than your pain.

Me: I don’t know.

Mom: Let faith tame your pain. Humble

yourself before Him
and let Him work through you.
LANDAN KOTZE

I was about to leave the office when my

father walked in.

Dad: Did I catch you at bad time?

Me: Not really I am on my way home.

He pulled the chair and sat down.

Dad: Thought we can talk before we get
home.

Me: What’s up?

Dad: I want us to contest in architecture

tender
design-bid-build.

Me: Since when are we into tendering?

Dad: There’s a first time for everything. This
is an opportunity we can’t miss.

Me: Dad are we in financial trouble?

Dad: No.

Me: Dad?

Dad: Truth is the company is carrying too

much debt and
I am not talking about R150 000.00 debts.
It’s more than that.
Me: In other words we on the verge of
bankruptcy?

Dad: If we don’t win this tender yes.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

Later that day I went to the store to get few

things. I
didn’t wanna show up at Onalerona’s house
empty handed a bottle of wine and
flowers for Onalerona’s mother.

I was walking in parking lot heading to my

car when I
suddenly stopped walking. I saw Dean
standing next to my car; his car was
parked close by. I continued walking.
Me: Dean

Sponsored

what are you doing here?

Dean: I was waiting for you?

Me: What do you mean waiting for me?

How can you wait for me in the parking
lot? Couldn’t you have called instead?
Dean: I wanted to see you.

Me: Still you should have called.

I put the grocery bag in the car and closed

the door.

Me: Are you drunk?

Dean: I am not.

Me: I think you need to go home.

Dean: No… I want you.

Me: Dean. I don’t like this.

Dean: Just tell me why you played me.

Me: I really don’t like this.

He chuckled loudly.

Dean: You... you want me to leave? Why

are you with him
and not me? What does he have that I don’t
have?
I was starting to get scared; he was acting
out of
character not forgetting he was drunk.

Dean: I want to be with you Kedibone and I

was stupid to
choose my wife over you. You told me you
loved me but I didn’t listen.

Dean: I love you so much. (Crying) Why you

doing this to
me? We have a beautiful daughter that we
need to raise together.

I shook my head and he grabbed my arm he

pulled me into
a hug. The hug wasn’t an ordinary one; he
was squeezing me so much that I
couldn’t breathe. I felt my tiny bones
breaking.

Me: You are hurting me. Dean you are

hurting. Let go. I
can’t… brea… th…
Dean: I love you Kedibone I love you. Why
you doing this
to us? Why? I don’t understand. I gave up
everything for you my wife and kids.

Me: I didn’t ask you to…

Dean: You knew I was married.

I continued coughing. Tears were on the

verge of coming
out. I was losing breath and he wasn’t
letting go. He was squeezing the life
out of me.
CHICAGO EVANS

Landan came back home at around 18:00

he found me
sitting in the garden. It was a bit chilly
outside.

Landan: Mrs Kotze.

He kissed me on the neck.

Landan: Why you sitting here alone?

Me: Wanted to breathe.

He sat beside me.

Landan: Fought with my mother?

Me: Not really.

Landan: You will have to give me more than

that.

Me: I don’t wanna cause problems between

you and your
mother. I will be fine.

Landan: Honey you need to understand

where my mother is
coming from. She has not come into terms
with our marriage.

Me: Well it seems like she will never.

Landan: Don’t say that.

Me: She doesn’t say it but deep down I
know she wish I
was her.

Landan: No she doesn’t.

Me: I am not making this up babe your

mother hate me.

Landan: Be patient with her please.

Me: For you.

Landan: Thanks. I will get you out of this
house just be
patient. Okay?

Me: Okay.

LESEGO KOKOISI

I was missing my daughter so much that I

called her. I
was lying in bed.

Me: How are you?

Jewel: Not good.

Me: What’s wrong?

Jewel: I am feeling restless like something is

weighing me down.

Me: Are you on your periods?

Jewel: No.
Me: I am sure you will wake up feeling
better.

Jewel: Yeah. I miss you Sego.

Me: I miss you baby. Tell you what I will

send you money
on tomorrow. You will come and spend the
weekend here.

Jewel: I’d like that a lot. I miss Aunt Lorato.

Me: Ha you see now you only wanna come

here because you
miss your aunt. This girl be loving her aunt
more than me her mother.

Jewel: Aunt Rato is the best and you know it

Mom.

Me: You are the one feeding her this

nonsense of being
the best.

The door opened it was Lorato.

Me: Speaking of the devil.

Lorato: Who is the devil?

I put Jewel on louder speaker.

Jewel: Aunt Rato.

Lorato: My precious Jewel how are you?

She took off her shoes and climbed the bed.

ONALERONA MOLOI

I checked the time and it was seven

Kedibone was still
not back. I last talked with her an hour ago.
It was getting late; we had
dinner to go to.

I walked out of Oarona’s room and walked

to our bedroom.
I took my phone and called her again her
phone rang unanswered.

Me: Honey come on. Pick up the phone.

I hung up in frustration.

Me: Where are you honey?

My mind was occupied by many thoughts;

it’s unlike
Kedibone to not answer my calls or to lose
track of time.
LANDAN KOTZE

My mother threw the napkin on the table

and pushed the
plate forward.

Mom: What is this Chicago? You honestly

call this food?

Dad: This is horrible; no one can eat this

suicide son.

Me: Folks?

Mom: What? Your wife is trying to kill us or

what?

Dad: I have to agree with your mom on this

one. The food taste bad.

Chicago: I… I am sorry. I tried.

Mom: You tried? The chicken is burnt; the

stew is salty
not to mention the pap. I can kill Goliath
with it. The stone got no weight to
this pap.

Me: Mom please it’s not that bad.

Dad: No Landan this is bad. We are not

going to eat
this.

My mother got up from the chair.

Mom: If you wanna kill yourselves continue

and eat as
for me I am not eating this poison.

Dad: Honey order us food.

Chicago: I spent hours preparing this.

My mother laughed and clapped hands.

Mom: Wasted hours. Eat with your

husband; I am sure he is
use to this.

My mother walked away dad followed her.

Chicago: See what I was talking about?

Me: You being for real?

Chicago: What?

Me: Cago your food has no taste. Did you

expect my parents to eat this rubbish?
One can get sick from this. What were you
thinking when you were cooking?

She didn’t say anything.

Me: Go and put something warm we eating

out. There’s no
way I am eating this.

I shook my head and looked at her.

Me: Recreation of Goliath stone? You trying

kill us Mrs
Kotze? Our very own David!

I laughed while getting up.

ONALERONA MOLOI
I thought Nolan would take long to arrive
but he didn’t.
We all wanted to rescue Kedibone; I knew
she was inside there. My instincts
never lie.

It was seven in the evening not a best time

to confront
a person in their space but we had no
choice.
Me: Did you tell your mother?

Nolan: I only told her where we were going

and she must call the cops if we are
not back by 20:00. I didn’t wanna give her
false hope.

Me: I understand.

I knocked on the door and waited for

someone to answer
but nobody answered. I was feeling anxious
what if Dean saw me? A lot was at
stake.
Nolan: No one is coming to our aid. Plan B?

Me: The backdoor. Let’s go and check it.

Nolan: Good idea.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE
When Dean got back he found me still on
the floor
unresponsive but still breathing. He revived
me to consciousness. I shudder to
think what would have happened if he had
not come back in time. Funny but I was
grateful to him.

Dean: Have some water.

He helped me sit on the side of the bed and

gave me a
glass of water.

Me: Thank you.

I drank the whole glass of water. You could

tell I was
thirsty.

Me: Dean you need to let me go. You can

see I am sick I
need medication or I won’t make it.

Dean: I talked with a friend of mine. He is

coming
tomorrow to check you. I am going to make
sure you get better.

I shook my head.

Me: Let me go.

He took the glass from me.

Dean: It’s little too late for that. You will go

to the
police if I let you go.
Me: I will not tell them who kidnapped me I
give you my
word.

He laughed.

Dean: You think I am stupid? I will take your

word for
it? The first thing you gonna do is run to the
police. This won’t go
unpunished.

Me: I swear to God I will not tell on you. Let

me go.
Dean: I said no! If it goes well Oarona will
be with us
tomorrow.

I got up from the bed.

Me: You will play far from my daughter.

Dean: She is my daughter too and I am

doing this for her
for us.

Me: Over my dead body.

ONALERONA MOLOI

As were sneaking to the back we passed a

room where we
heard voices. Nolan stopped walking and
looked at me.

Nolan: You heard that too?

Me: I did. I was right she is in there.

Nolan: Son of ish. I am going to kill him I

swear to
God.

Me: Relax. We need to make sure Kedibone

is safe. Dean is
unstable; we don’t want him to harm
Kedibone.

Nolan: You right.

We reached the back door I tried to open it

but it was
locked.

Me: Dammit it’s locked. Plan C; let’s look for

something
that will help us unlock the door.

I scanned my eyes around. I saw a toolbox

by the tree I
went and opened it. I was lucky to get a
screwdriver.
I walked back to the door. I pushed the
screwdriver into
the hole on the doorknob and turned the
screwdriver. I did that until it
opened.

Nolan: That was smooth and nice.

We walked inside and not close the door.

The door led us
to the eating room; we walked from the
living room to the lounge.

Nolan: I think the voices are coming from

that side down
the passage.

Me: I think so too.

We didn’t have anything to defend

ourselves we also
didn’t know if Dean was armed or not.

LORATO KOKOISI
I read and watched news about women
being killed by their
partners but not once did I think the
tragedy would befall my family. It was a
difficult time for everyone Jewel was locked
in the room and so was my mother.
We were set to start with the funeral
preparations tomorrow. Something I wasn’t
looking forward to do but I had to. My
brother was coming back tomorrow; he was
going to fetch my aunt from Tzaneen.
I was sitting in the front stoep drinking
savannah. I didn’t
drink but that night I needed something
strong.

As I was sitting there a car parked at the

gate I
couldn’t see whose car was it since it was
late. I heard the gate opening I
stood up.
I chuckled lightly when I saw who it was.
Landan Kotze
the last person I expected to see.

Me: What are you doing here?

He walked up to me. He had flowers with

him.

Landan: Ï came in peace. I am here to pay

my respects I
heard what happened and I know how
much you loved your sister. I couldn’t sit
and pretend as if you are not going through
a difficult phase.
Me: You have no business here Landan.

I took the flowers and threw them away.

Landan: Lorato…

Me: Don’t Landan please.

Landan: You are not taking this well. Look at

you

Sponsored
 please.
Landan: You are not taking this well. Look at
you you
don’t drink but here you are drinking.

Me: I drink.

Landan: No you don’t. I know you.

Me: You know me? Quit tripping and leave

my house. I have
nothing to say to you.

Landan: My thoughts are with you.

Me: Take your thoughts and shove them

where the sun
doesn’t shine.

I turned around and left him standing there.

I didn’t
have time for his stupidity.
KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

As I was still arguing with Dean the door

was wide
opened. My eyes widened when I saw
Nolan and Onalerona walking in.

Me: Honey. Nolan.

I wanted to run to them but Dean held me

back.
Dean: Well well what do we have here? I
should have
known you’d do something like this.

Onalerona: Seems like you underestimated

me.

Nolan: Let her go Dean. It’s over; the police

are on the
way here.

Dean: It’s not over until I say so.

Nolan: Oh it is let Kedibone go.

He grabbed me by the arm and pointed at

them.

Dean: You will move out of the way if you

want her alive
and I am not tripping.

Onalerona: You think I will let you do that?

Come and
face me as a man.

Me: Honey please don’t.

Onalerona: Honey I didn’t come here to
watch him take
you away. I came here to rescue you from
him.

Dean: Is that so?

Onalerona: Yes.

Onalerona took a step forward Dean took a

step back
still grabbing tight to my arm.
Onalerona: Let go of her.

Nolan signalled to me I knew what he

meant by that
signal. Our father once enrolled us into
karate school but we only attended a
month.

I turned with my elbow and brought it close

to his. I
swung my hand up into the inside and
straight it down to break the grip. He
didn’t see that coming. I ran to Nolan
Onalerona charged at Dean.

Nolan: Are you fine? Did he hurt you?

I started feeling dizzy again.

Nolan: Kedibone can you hear me?

I nodded.

Nolan: Go to the car it’s parked outside. Call

the
police; we will make sure this one doesn’t
escape.

Me: I am not gonna leave you alone with

him.

I turned when I heard Onalerona groaning

in pain. Dean
was pressing his knee on his neck. Nolan
went to his aid and grabbed Dean by
his neck from behind. He brought him down
and started punching his face.

Nolan: You thought you’d kidnap my sister

and get away
from it?
He continued to punch him senseless.
Onalerona stopped
Nolan and forcefully pinned Dean against
the wall and wrapped his hands around
his neck.

Me: Onalerona stop! You are not a

murderer.

Nolan: He will not kill him go and make that

call.
I hesitated but I walked out. I was too weak
to run. I
didn’t want Nolan or Onalerona to kill Dean.
That was something I didn’t want.

CHICAGO EVANS

My phone was in my ear as I paced up and

down. Landan
left after dinner but didn’t say where he
was going. I called Holy and he said
Landan went to see Lorato; it was slip of a
tongue. Landan didn’t tell me he
was going to see Lorato.

I would have never allowed him to go.

Lorato was in
vulnerable state and we all know what a
person can do in that state.

Me: Dammit Landan Kotze!

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

As I stepped inside of the house I heard

gunshots. My
heart stopped as I slowly stopped walking.

I don’t know where the gun came from or

who had the gun
but when I heard four gunshots repeatedly.
I froze; I didn’t wanna go to the
room. God knows where I gathered the
strength from but I ran back to the
bedroom. I bumped into Dean in the
passageway; he was the one holding the
gun.

Me: What did you do?

He pushed me out of the way and ran off. I

kept on
telling myself he didn’t shoot anyone but
Nolan nor Onalerona was running after
him it meant one of them were hurt.
I stopped not far from the door when I saw
both of them
lying on the floor bleeding profusely he shot
both of them. He shot them from
behind because they were lying on their
stomachs.

Me: No! No! Nolan Onalerona!

I went down on my knees and crawled to

them. I turned
Nolan first and tried to talk to me but he
was non-responsive.
Me: Don’t do this to me buddy please.
Don’t die on me.

I looked at Onalerona; I swallowed and did

the same to
him. Unlike Nolan he responded.

Onalerona: Honey…

Me: Don’t say anything honey. Please don’t.

I took out the phone from my sweater and

called for help.

Me: Help is coming hang in there.

Onalerona: I love you…

Me: I love you too. Don’t you dare die on

me I am
begging you.
To be continued…

LORATO KOKOISI

I woke up to the news of Kedibone being

found but at the
cost of Onalerona and Nolan’s lives. That
was something neither of us were
expecting it was a lot to take it. I didn’t
know what to do; I was going through
difficult time.
KB stood next to me. He arrived in the early
hours of the
morning.

KB: Mom wants to talk with you.

Me: I’ve been avoiding her since I woke up.

I am
struggling to be strong for her KB.

KB: We all trying to be strong but it is hard.

Me: I just want this moment to pass. It’s too
much.

KB: Yola told me about Kedibone how is

she?

Me: I don’t know. I last talked with her

mother last night I don’t even know
if Nolan and Onalerona are alive or not.

KB: You see why I always warn you about

dating older
guys? Look now it’s a mess.
Me: Who would have known that Dean is
unstable person?

KB: Do they come with price tags? They

don’t young lady.
I am not saying Kedibone deserve what is
going on but let this be a lesson to
you.

Me: I’ve heard you.

KB: Mom is waiting.

I picked the cup of tea and walked out of
the kitchen.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

I opened my eyes to the light of the sun

through the
window. It was then I realised that I was in
hospital. I was feeling a bit
weird I could feel something was missing
but I couldn’t wrap my head around
it.

I looked to my right side and saw my

mother sleeping on
the couch my father was standing by the
window his back was facing me.

I sat up straight and cleared my throat. He

quickly
turned around.

Dad: You are awake.

He walked to the bed.

Me: For how long have I been out of it?

Dad: Few hours you were heavily sedated.

You were not in
good state when they brought you here.

My mother woke up to the sound of our

voices. She looked
like someone who had been crying her eyes
were evident.

Me: Is anyone going to tell me how is Nolan

and
Onalerona?

They looked at each other nothing was said.

Me: I am waiting. Where are they?

Mom: Princess there’s something you

should know…
Me: Talk mom!

Mom: Donald say something. This is difficult

for me.

Dad: Your brother didn’t make it; he lost his

life during
operation. Onalerona is fighting for his life.

I laughed loudly and rolled my eyes. I wasn’t

sure I
heard him right. Why would he leave me? It
didn’t make sense.
Me: I know he got you to say this. Nolan
don’t know how
to play nothing about this is funny.

My mother held my hand; I could see she

was trying to
fight off tears.

Me: No mom dad? No! He is not dead

Nolan is not dead.

Mom: I am sorry but he is no more.

Me: Daddy?
I slowly broke free of my mother’s grip. I
looked at her
for a while then got out of the bed.

Mom: Where are you going? Kedibone you

are not strong
enough to be walking around.

Me: Let me mom. I want to see for myself

that Nolan is no
more take me to him.
Dad: I don’t think…

Me: You don’t think nothing dad. Take me

to him now!

I shouted.

CHICAGO EVANS

I woke up to breakfast in bed. Landan was

in dog box and
he knew it serving me breakfast was his way
of warming my heart.

Me: It will take more than this to get my

forgiveness.

Landan: Come on Mrs Kotze I know I should

have called. I
lost track of time.

Me: You didn’t tell me where you were.

Landan: Oh I was… I was with Holy.

He said that getting off the bed. I didn’t tell

him I
talked with Holy; i wanted to find out if he
would be faithful about it. But
there he was lying through his teeth.

I nodded and continued to eat my

breakfast.
Me: I am thinking of sending flowers to
Lorato. I know
going to her house will be a bad idea but I
honestly wish I was there for her.

Landan: I don’t think it’s a good idea. She is

still hurt
by what we did to her.

Me: But we are talking about death here

Landan. I just
want her to know I am thinking about her.

Landan: Please listen to me and not do

anything. It will
not end well please Cago.

Me: Okay I won’t do anything.

My phone rang it was on the pedestal.

Landan passed it
to me; it was a friend of mine Gia. I put the
tray on the bed and answered.

Me: Hello.

Gia: Did you hear what happened?

Me: What happened?

Gia: Nolan is dead he was shot. My mother
just told me said he passed last
night.

Me: You sure Gia?

Gia: I am sure; I wouldn’t lie about

something like this.

I cut the call and looked at Landan.

Landan: And then? Who was that?

Me: Gia and you won’t believe what she
told me.

Landan: What did she say?

Me: She said Nolan is dead he was shot.

Landan: Shot? But who would shoot Nolan?

Me: I don’t know. You think it has

something to do with
Kedibone’s kidnapping?
Landan: I am thinking it does.

I got out of the bed and put on a robe and

slippers.

Me: I need to go and see Kedibone and you

are not going
to stop me Landan. I need to be there for
her

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 he was shot.
Landan: Shot? But who would shoot Nolan?

Me: I don’t know. You think it has

something to do with
Kedibone’s kidnapping?

Landan: I am thinking it does.

I got out of the bed and put on a robe and

slippers.
Me: I need to go and see Kedibone and you
are not going
to stop me Landan. I need to be there for
her she needs me.

Landan: I understand babe. Unfortunately I

can’t take you
there I need to go and pick my cousin from
airport.

I walked to the closet.

Me: Cousin?
Landan: Yes I told you about him. Lorenzo
Le Roux?

Me: Oh yeah okay I will see you later.

He kissed me on the cheek.

KEDIBONE RAMOHALE

I stood at the door and there he was; his

lifeless body
was lying on the embalming. My legs were
shaking; I asked to go in alone.

I slowly walked over to the embalming and

now that I was
closer I could feel the pain and discomfort
in the centre of my chest. I set
my eyes on the toe tag and covered my
mouth.

Me: Nolan why? Why did you leave me?

I removed the white cloth that was covering
him below his
chest. His skin colour had changed; they
were blue and reddish blemishes on the
body.

Me: You died trying to save me it’s not fair.

It should
have been me instead of you. Nolan you
can’t leave me you can’t. You are my
better half my best friend…
I felt like a part of me was being ripped off. I
felt
like my left arm was missing and
permanently so and I’m waiting for it to
come
back.

Nolan and I enjoyed being twins we had a

lovely
childhood. We did everything together got
in lot of trouble together. The
thought of being alone didn’t feel right
Me: I had experienced much more but I
never thought
anything could be more painful than those
experiences. How do I move on without
you because a part of me died along with
you?

LORATO KOKOISI

Roanda sat beside me and squeezed my

cheek.
Roanda: How you feeling?

Me: Better than yesterday.

Roanda: Still no word about Banele?

Me: No it’s like he disappeared. I am not

even sure if the cops are still
looking for him.

Roanda: Our law has failed us long time

ago; I wouldn’t
be surprised if they have forgotten about it.
Me: It’s possible.

Roanda: When is the funeral?

Me: Sunday.

Roanda: Okay. You are starting the job on

Monday right?

Me: Yeah but I am not sure if I will go…

Roanda: What do you mean by that?

Me: I can’t leave my mother alone she need
me. I am not fine also; the death
of Sego is weighing me down.

Roanda: That can be solved; we will get you

someone to
talk to. On the issue of working I am sure
your mother also needs you to work.
Have you talked with her?

Me: I tried but I couldn’t tell her.

Roanda: Don’t rush the decision; this might

be your only
chance. Think about it big eyes.

LORENZO LE ROUX

I leaned against the cell and heaved a deep

breathe. Dre
and Shaka were sitting on the small bed
that was by the corner; Ginger was
[A WEEK LATER]

LORATO KOKOISI

Mr Randall Annie along with their puppets

was fired.
Lebogo with my help made sure it happens.
Mr Mlonyeni fired them right away
it turned out Mr Randall had been doing
that for some time and he recently
recruited Annie.

Mr Mlonyeni wanted me to return back to

work but it was
unfortunate because I’d made my decision I
wanted nothing to do with that job.
I had applied to a few companies; I was
applying for anything that accommodated
me. I knew something would give.
I was watching TV with my mother when
my phone beeped it
was a bank notification.

Me: Oh my! He did not.

Mom: What?

Me: I just got paid…

I resigned before pay day I honestly thought

I’d not
receive the full amount instead I got more
than my salary.

Mom: As you should.

Me: It’s more than my salary.

Mom: Mr Mlonyeni did say he’ll give you

money he
obviously meant it. He’s compensating your
tears and sleepless nights of
worrying about your safety. You deserve it.
It’s also his way of thanking you
if it wasn’t for you… Randall with his side
kick would still be eating his
money and getting away with it.
Me: You right. With this money you will be
able to go to
the doctor.

Mom: I am fine Rato. This is your money

use it for
yourself.

Me: No you not. Few check-ups with the

doctor won’t hurt.

Mom: But…

Me: But nothing. You’ve done a lot for me

and I’d rather
spend my money on you than anyone else
even myself.

Mom: Fine. We will go and I am only saying

this because
I don’t wanna see your ugly self-crying.

Me: You calling me ugly? Wow this old girl.

She threw a cushion at me I caught it and
laughed.

LORENZO LE ROUX

“When were you going to tell me?” Landan

asked standing behind
me. I slowly turned around. I buried my
hands in my pockets and set my eyes on
him.

Yesterday my uncle and Landan found out

who bought the
company and as expected they weren’t very
much happy about it. Uncle moved
out Carmen and Landan stayed behind.

Me: This has nothing to do with us cousin.

It’s between
our fathers. Let’s not fight over this.
Landan: Says someone who played a big
role in this. You
actually looked into my eyes and said
nothing. I thought we cared for one
another.

Me: Tell me maybe I lost the memo… how is

this affecting
our relationship? The company was not
even yours it was your father’s and you
hated working for him. You always wanted
to have your own architect company.
Now this is your chance to make a name for
yourself.
Landan: Just like that? Pretend as if my
beloved cousin
didn’t lie to my face? You should have told
me said something.

Me: I admit maybe not telling you was

wrong from my part but my father finally
got what’s his. Uncle got served.

Landan: Wow just wow! Nice cousin.

Me: Come on Landan really?

Landan: I got nothing to say.

He gave me a slight nod and walked away.

LORATO KOKOISI

Later that morning I decided to go and buy

grocery I hated
doing that but I had no other choice. It was
my responsibility.

I felt hands on my waist and smiled before

turning around.
I didn’t go to the store alone Mpendulo
accompanied me. Mpendulo being
someone
I was seeing. We met when I was still
working at church

Sponsored
 told him I was in a
relationship and he said he’d wait and he
did. We decided to give “us” a shot
but under slow motion. We were taking
things slow seeing where it leads us.

I had stayed single for too long I was ready

to give my
heart another chance. I wasn’t gonna deny
myself happiness because someone
fucked me up. Life’s too short for that.

Mpendulo was few years older than me

self-employed. He
was residing in the same neighbourhood as
me. For the first time in the longest
time I was happy to be with someone. I was
enjoying spending my time with
someone with Kedibone gone… I needed
that kind of a person.
Mpendulo: Garlic and herbs.

He put them inside the shopping basket.

Me: My feet are killing me.

Mpendulo: We are almost done.

Me: Thank you for being here I’d be dead of

boredom.

Mpendulo: You know I got you.

He kissed me on the cheek.

Mpendulo: I think I am falling for you.

Me: We talked about this Mpendulo…

Mpendulo: I know we talked about this and

I am not
forcing you to say it.

Me: I really like you like a lot and I enjoy

being with
you. I would hate it if something like this
come between us.
Mpendulo: No it won’t.

Me: You sure?

Mpendulo: I am.

He kissed me again.

Mpendulo: Let’s enjoy whatever that is

happening between
us without pressure. Can we?

Me: Yes we can.

LORENZO LE ROUX

I received a call from Bloom’s mother she

asked me to
come and see her. I didn’t know what the
visit was about but I still went.

I imagined it had something to do with

Bloom because I
had not talked with her for about two days;
she wasn’t taking my calls or
replying to my texts.

I sat beside Mrs Hector. I thought Bloom

would be present
but she wasn’t.

Mrs H: Thank you for coming.

I didn’t say anything.

Mrs H: Lorenzo I called you here because

Bloom asked me.
There’s something she left for you she
couldn’t tell you face to face and I am
sure one day you will understand and
forgive her.

Me: I don’t think I understand Mrs Hector.

She gave me a letter; I looked at it before I

took it.
Mrs H: Everything you need to know is
inside there. Read
it…

I took a deep breath and unfolded the

paper. I started
reading what was written in it.

“I lied when I said I am ready to be a

mother I am not
ready and keeping this baby would have
been the biggest mistake of my life. I
heard you the other night talking to Ginger
you don’t want this baby. You are
only present because you are trying to do
well by me; you don’t want to leave
me with a baby. But you don’t have to
anymore. I decided to terminate the
pregnancy and I am never coming back. I
hope one day you will find it in your
heart to forgive me but we both know it
was never gonna work…

And if you ever find that girl be happy with

her. Give
her the love you couldn’t give me. Love
Bloom.”
I slowly folded the letter and looked at her
mother.

Mrs H: I am sorry son. Take heart.

Me: You read it?

She nodded.

Me: Where did she go?

Mrs H: She asked me not to tell you she said
she will call when she is ready.

LANDAN KOTZE

Later that day I went to see Chicago that

was after Mary
called and asked me to go and see her.
Apparently she wasn’t doing well; I
wasn’t sure where it rooted from. A lot was
going on in her life few days
before Mr Evans burial bones were
discovered in their yard and his father’s
death was a mystery and our falling
marriage.

I had asked my lawyer to draft divorce

papers I was
leaving Cago. There was no hope in our
marriage.
Me: Where is she?

Mary: In her room she hasn’t come out

since morning.

Me: Okay. Let me go to her.

I walked to her room. I was welcomed by

bottles of wine
and champagne her room smelled like
brewery.
Me: Cago?

She was sitting on the couch by the window

holding a huge
teddy bear and a glass of wine on the other
hand.

Me: What’s going on with you?

Chicago: What do you want? I and you are

separated or
you’ve forgotten?

Me: Trust me I didn’t want to come here

Mary asked me to
come because she is worried about you.

Chicago: Go away.

Me: You are an alcoholic Cago?

Chicago: You think I am drinking for

pleasure? I just
want her to stop tormenting me when I
drink I don’t see her.

Me: Who are you seeing?

Chicago: I just want her to stop!

Me: Girl you going crazy. Who you talking
about?

I went and took the glass from her hand; I

put it away
and went to kneel before her.

Me: Who’s this person you seeing?

LORATO KOKOISI
Mpendulo gave me the last plastic.

Me: Thank you.

Mpendulo: I am gonna see you later?

Me: I will let you know.

Mpendulo: Okay. Bye.

He got inside the car and drove off. I walked

to the
house I found my mother sorting the
grocery.

Mom: He is a nice guy.

Me: Ain’t they all?

Mom: Why do I get a feeling you using this

guy Lorato?

Me: I am not Mpendulo know where I stand

with him.

Mom: Does he now?

Me: Yes. I just wanna be with someone and
feel a bit alive Mpendulo is helping
me. We enjoy each other’s company. I am
no longer in my deepest pain.

Mom: I see.
To be continued…

CHICAGO EVANS

I was living proof that mind can be your

worst enemy. My
imagination was running wild and I was
jumpy. Chloe was living in my mind; she
was tormenting the sanity out of me.
I didn’t wake up and decide to end my
cousin’s life it
didn’t happened that way. It took me some
time to make peace with her death I
wanted to come clean but my father
warned me against it. He said he’d take care
of it never knew what he meant by that.

When I was 16 I got into a fight with my

cousin. It was
nothing new there; we used to bicker a lot
but that night things were
different we were both drunk. Our fight
started in the bedroom I decided to
walk away from the fight but she followed
me up to the stairs where I
accidentally pushed her. She fell over to
death. I panicked and called for
help my father being that help.

To the world and family Chloe ran away

with her boyfriend.
I didn’t know how my father managed to
convince Aunt Pam but he did and Pam
believed him because Chloe used to do
that. See Chloe was a rebel child. I felt
bad and I wanted to confess but I was given
no choice. I eventually learned to
live with it after getting lot of therapy
sessions.

Everyone was awaiting the DNA results of

the bones; I
wasn’t looking forward to the results as it
meant my downfall.
I gulped down another glass of wine and
poured some.

Mary: Chicago you really need to slow

down. Drinking
this much is not good for you…

Me: Why you still here? My father is no

more this house
doesn’t need you. Just go and be with your
family.
Mary: I know you and this person in front of
me is
definitely not Chicago that I know.

I darted my eyes to the window and I saw

Chloe she waved
at me. I blinked once and she wasn’t there.

Me: You saw her didn’t you?

Mary: See who? There’s no one here

Sponsored

it’s me and you.

Me: I am not crazy. Why are you treating
me like a crazy
person? I saw here she was here.

Mary: I don’t know what’s going on with

you but this is
indication that you are not well and I think
your brother has to know.

Me: I am not crazy!

Mary: I am calling your brother.

LORATO KOKOISI

One might say I was not emotionally ready

to be in a
relationship or I was using Mpendulo but
that wasn’t it. I spent a year without
fantasizing any guy; I had all the time in the
world to heal and prepared my
heart to love again.

Mpendulo knew exactly where we stand

with each other; we
talked and understood one another. He
falling in love with me was something
neither of us of could have prevented; you
don’t tell your heart when to love.
I was doing laundry when a call came
through from
Kedibone. My girl was living her best life in
Mpumalanga and I was happy for
her.

Me: Chipmunk.
Kedibone: When were you going to tell me
about you and
Mpendulo?

Me: I was going to tell but what’s important

now is who told you.

Kedibone: Onalerona told me they are

friends and he told
him about you.

Me: And you happened to know me wow!

Kedibone: So is it serious?
Me: Not yet but I do like him.

Kedibone: Mh?

Me: I am serious; I like him and a lot.

She kept quiet.

Me: Not you too. Why don’t you believe

me?

Kedibone: Because I know you.

Me: He is not a rebound and not all
relationships start
with I love you. And not everyone is as lucky
as you.

Kedibone: I know but I don’t want you to

get hurt or to
hurt him.

Me: I will not hurt him… I just want to do

this on my own
pace
LANDAN KOTZE

Me: I found us an apartment.

I said to my mother.

Mom: With what money?

Me: Savings and I’ll soon start looking for a

job.
Mom: I should too. Your father’s mind is all
over the
place I don’t even know where he is.

Me: I talked with him few hours ago; he

said he needs
time alone. He is just running away from
responsibility if you ask me.

Mom: He is good at that. And you you still

going ahead
with the divorce?

Me: Yes my marriage is over. I just wanna

focus on myself.
Mom: I am sorry things didn’t work out.

Me: You are? I know you are happy you

never liked
Chicago.

Mom: And you blame me?

Me: No.

LORENZO LE ROUX
I went to see my father at the office.

Dad: You said you wanna come and work

with me but you are
hardly here.

Me: Office life is boring and you know it. I

will die of boredom here.
He sat on the edge of the table and crossed
his arms over
his chest.

Dad: I want you in HR for few days.

Me: Doing what there?

Dad: Doing what HR do the next few days

we will be calling people in for
interview and you are sitting in. It’s time
you do something legal and
professional you didn’t go to school for
nothing.
Me: No I am not sitting in.

Dad: Yes you are Lorenzo.

Me: Are you trying to punish me or you are

trying to
prove a point?

Dad: Both. Now go to HR and familiarize

yourself with everything. Stacy will
give you CVs and you will shortlist the
candidates.
I got to my feet and fixed myself.

Me: Do I have any choice?

Dad: Not really.

I gave him a slight nod.

Dad: We still have time call few candidates.

Start with
the cleaning department.

Me: Okay sir.

CHICAGO EVANS

I received a call from my lawyer.

Lawyer: I just got off the phone with your

husband; Mr
Kotze is filing for divorce.

Me: And he didn’t have the guts to tell me

face to face.

Lawyer: Would you like to contest the

divorce?

Me: On what grounds?

I took a sip on my drink and leaned back on

the couch.

Me: It’s clear our marriage is over. I am not

gonna
fight.
Lawyer: I will come and see you tomorrow.

Me: Okay.

I cut the call.

CHARMINE PETERSON (CAGO’S COUSIN)

I was on my way to the bedroom when I

heard Cago talking
on the phone. I stopped and listened
through the door. It was interesting to
hear Landan was going through with the
divorce Cago deserved that and much
more.

Chloe was my younger sister and we spent

years believing
she ran away from home with a guy. My
dearest cousin killed my sister; with the
help of my uncle they buried her like a dog.
She deserved a decent burial; we
would have forgiven Cago if she had come
clean.

I came to learn about Cago’s involvement in

Chloe’s death
the night the bones were discovered I
overheard Cago talking with her brother.
They didn’t see me; it was shocking to hear
my cousin had a hand in our
suffering. Revealing the truth to my mother
and telling her to keep quiet was
hard she wanted Cago arrested but I told
her to calm down and let me deal with
her before anything else. I was still in the
house for revenge.
To be continued…
CHARMINE PETERSON

Detective: Murder was committed here and

it’s my job to
find out who did it.

I looked at Chicago and back to the

Detective.

Detective: The DNA results came back and

it’s confirmed
it’s Ms Peterson’s sister who I believe was
reported missing seven years ago.

Me: Trust me when I say I am shocked. We

all believed my
sister ran away from home and now we are
finding out that she was buried in my
uncle’s backyard. It’s shocking and doesn’t
make sense. How is it possible?

Chicago: I wanna say something…

“Don’t say anything Chicago because
everything the
Detective or Peterson family wants to know
is here in this letter.”

Charlene said descending the stairs. She

walked up to us.

Charlene: I found this amongst my late

husband’s things.
It’s a confession…

Detective: A confession?
Charlene: Yes he killed his niece. Take the
letter and
read for yourself. He detailed everything
that happened the night Chloe died.

I didn’t know what game Charlene was

playing but I knew
she was doing that to save Chicago’s skin.

LORENZO LE ROUX
I looked at the CVs I had shortlisted and let
out a sigh.
My father was out to get me for my
behaviour and he was making sure I feel the
heat.

Stacy: We running out of time Mr Le Roux I

knock off at
16:00pm and it’s 15:30pm. We need to get
moving.

Me: You just scared of my father; he will

not do anything
to you. Relax Stacy.

Stacy: Take the phone and start calling.

I took five CVs and dialled the first

candidate her excitement
when I told her she’s chosen for interview
was unmatched. It actually made me
realise how unfortunate I was to have what
I have.
Stacy: Here the last one.

Me: Lo… Lo what? I can’t pronounce this

name Stacy.

Stacy: Lorato Kokoisi read my lips. Lo-ra-to…

Me: Please call her; I don’t wanna sound

like a racist.

Stacy: You owe me.

Me: I know.
She took a seat beside me and rang the
candidate.

Stacy: Good afternoon Ms Kokoisi I am

calling from Le
Roux Insurance… I am delighted to inform
you that your application was a
success and you are invited to interview…

She removed the phone from her ear and

laughed. The
candidate was probably screaming her
lungs out; it’s not every day where you
get invited to interview especially in South
Africa.
LORATO KOKOISI

Me: Thank you so much. I will see you then.

Stacy: See you then Ms Kokoisi.

She cut the call and I ran to my mother’s

bedroom. I
didn’t even knock; I just barged in like a
maniac person.

Mom: Kodwa Lorato what’s with you?

Me: Guess who’s going to an interview?

She opened her mouth and raised her

hands.

Mom: Glory to God. You see? I told you to

believe in Him.

Me: I still can’t believe it. I thought I was

gonna lazy
around but no.

Mom: Come let’s thank God. Without Him

this wouldn’t be
possible.

Me: It wouldn’t.

We joined hands and prayed.

CHARMINE PETERSON
I took one capsule and mixed its contents
with the soup I
was making for Chicago. I’d been drugging
Cago with a drug called
hallucinogenic drug. It was the one messing
with her head; she was starting to
think Chloe was alive and real. I wanted to
drive her to insanity

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 let’s thank God. Without Him this wouldn’t
be
possible.
Me: It wouldn’t.

We joined hands and prayed.

CHARMINE PETERSON
I took one capsule and mixed its contents
with the soup I
was making for Chicago. I’d been drugging
Cago with a drug called
hallucinogenic drug. It was the one messing
with her head; she was starting to
think Chloe was alive and real. I wanted to
drive her to insanity having her
arrested was small waters. Charlene had
money and she was gonna make sure she
doesn’t stay long in prison.
I took the soup to her; she was sitting in the
lounge
watching TV or rather TV watching her.

Me: Cousin here’s your soup.

Chicago: Thank you.

I sat beside her. She started eating her

soup.

Me: Where is Charlene?

Chicago: She went out should be back soon.

Me: You know it’s hard to believe what
uncle did he gave
us the support we needed when we
thought Chloe had left. All this time he was
laughing with us… he kept us in the dark for
years.

Chicago: But he clearly said it was a mistake

he didn’t
mean to push her… she slipped and fell
over. It must have been hard looking
into her sister’s eyes and lie to her. Chloe
was his niece…
Me: That makes it right? He could have told
us but he
chose to keep quiet. I will never understand
why he thought burying her was a
good idea. Secrets have a way of coming
out. Nothing stays hidden forever.

Chicago: We will never know why he did it.

Me: I guess we will never.

Chicago: This taste nice can I please have

some?

Me: With pleasure.

LORENZO LE ROUX

Later that evening I met with my friends for

drinks. We
were at some bar downtown.

Ginger: I heard today someone was at the

office. How was
it?

Me: It was anything but fine. Le Roux was

punishing me; I sorted like 100 CVs
in less than 60 minutes.

ORATO KOKOISI

I didn’t sleep at all last night. I was feeling

anxious
throughout the night I felt like I was being
watched. It was either that or I
was being paranoid for no reason.

My phone vibrated beneath the pillow I

slightly raised
my head and slid my hand under the pillow.
I looked at the screen & I
didn’t recognize the numbers I answered
anyway.
Me: Hello.

“Good morning Mami.” The sleepy voice

said on the other
end I removed the phone from my ear and
checked the numbers again. I still
didn’t recognise them.

Me: Mh who is this?

“It’s Lorenzo.” Oh god. I kicked off the

blankets and sat up straight. I wanted
to ask where he got my numbers but I
thought it was so 1970s.
Lorenzo: My heart is breaking and you are
the reason.

Me: I am really sorry about yesterday.

Something came up
and I lost track of time.

Lorenzo: Is that your excuse?

Me: No excuses.

Lorenzo: Then have breakfast with me.

Me: Breakfast? I can’t…

Lorenzo: I am sure you can skip a day at

work. No one
will fire you.

Me: I don’t know.

Lorenzo: Do you really want me to beg?

Me: No. I will join you for breakfast.

Lorenzo: Thank you. Text me your address I

will come and
pick you up.

Me: I will catch a taxi.

Lorenzo: I will be waiting for that text.

With that said he cut the call. I yawned and

got out of
the bed.
LORENZO LE ROUX

I filled the glass with water and walked out

of the kitchen.
I bumped into my mother.

Mom: I didn’t think you’d be awake. You

got back very
late.

Me: I needed that my body needed it too.

Mom: You going to the office looking like
this?

Me: How do I look? And no I am not going

to the office. I’ve other business to
attend to.

Mom: You look like ish.

Me: Mom? Did you just swear?

Mom: Did I? Let me go and prepare

breakfast for my
husband. You are joining us?

Me: No. Count me out.

I ran to the stairs and walked to my

bedroom. I wasn’t a
fan of social media I did have accounts but I
wasn’t that active. I used
WhatsApp more.
I threw myself on the bed and checked my
Facebook. I had
lot of notifications I got curious.

Me: F*ck me now! What the hell?

Bloom was starting to become a problem.

What she was
doing wasn’t it and I didn’t like it one bit. I
called her but she didn’t
answer her phone. I sent her a text instead.
I didn’t like psychos and she was
starting to show signs of a psycho. Why
didn’t I see it before? I would have
never taken things far.

LORATO KOKOISI

Following the events of last night I found

my mother’s
flower pots damaged. They were on the
floor a chair and a bench in the front
stoep were moved to the ground. That was
confirmation someone was here last
night. It wasn’t my imagination.

Our neighbourhood was a safe

neighbourhood hardly had a
case of break-ins. My home was respected;
guys didn’t even set a foot unless my
brother was in.
I called my brother to let him know

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hardly had a
case of break-ins. My home was respected;
guys didn’t even set a foot unless my
brother was in.
I called my brother to let him know he was
also
surprised.

KB: That’s unusual. You sure you will be

fine?

Me: I don’t know for sure.

KB: Maybe I should come back until mom

comes back. You
can’t be alone.

Me: What about work? You can’t come

back home.
KB: We are talking about your safety here
Lorato work
can work.

Me: Let me talk with my colleague first; ask

her if she
can’t spend few nights with me.

KB: Do that or I am coming back.

I grabbed the broom and walked back

outside.
LANDAN KOTZE

“Here.” my colleague Meira gave me a

sketch pad.

Me: You joining me for the briefing?

Meira: No. I have a meeting with the CEO in

about twenty minutes.
Me: Okay. I will fill you in later.

Meira: Sure.

She walked out and my phone rang. I

answered.

Me: Landan Kotze.

“Hello it’s Cyrus.”

Me: Cyrus Kotze?

Cyrus: Yes.

Me: How can I help you?

Cyrus: Dad was admitted to hospital last

night he suffered a stroke.

Me: Okay. Is that all?

Cyrus: Yes I just thought you should know.

Me: Thank you for letting me if that’s all I’d

like to
get back to work.

Cyrus: It is.

I cut the call and went back to what I was

doing.

LORATO KOKOISI
Lorenzo came to pick me up. He looked
handsome dressed
in casual wear. I was happy because I was
also dressed in casual wear not
overdressed for the occasion. My afro
nicely combed. It was making the
statement.

He opened the door for me and I got inside.

A song was
playing I’d like by Freshly ground to be
specific. I grew up listening to the
song hearing it after such a long time felt
amazing. I leaned back on the seat
and relaxed.

Look at me relaxing in a car that’s not even

mine. Lorato
you’ll die young shame. Lorenzo buckled up
and started the car.

Lorenzo: Where are we going?

Me: You asking me? I thought you had it
figured out.

Lorenzo: Not really. I woke up and the first

thing on my
mind was the girl who stood me up
yesterday.

Me: I am never gonna hear the end of it. I

said I am
sorry Lorenzo Le Roux.

Lorenzo: And you are not forgiven Mami.

I found myself blushing.

Lorenzo: And she is blushing.

Me: Just stop calling me that. It’s making

me blush…

Lorenzo: Ok I will stop.

“What would you do if I kissed you?

What would you do if held your hand and

laid you down?
Would you recognize is a need I’ve been
fighting for so
long?

Would you recognise it’s a hunger only you

can fill?”

We looked at each other for few seconds

and I looked
away. I didn’t like what was happening but
it felt f*cking amazing to ignore.

CHARMINE PETERSON

Later that morning Chicago’s doctor called

Charlene and I
to the hospital said she had something to
discuss with us. Unfortunately
Charlene couldn’t join me.
Dr: Chicago started feeling unwell; we got
concerned and
did some tests. It turned out she is
pregnant.

Me: What did you say Doc?

Dr: Chicago is pregnant.

Me: She is pregnant but how? What kind of

stupid question
is that? How far along is she?

Dr: Eight weeks pregnant meaning she

came here pregnant.
Mh there’s something else.

Me: What now?

Dr: One of our nurses is suspecting that Mrs

Kotze is
being sexually assaulted.

Me: God who is she suspecting? Your

colleagues or one of
your patients?

Dr: Not sure Ms Peterson but we will look

into it. This
is a serious matter.
To be continued…

CHARMINE PETERSON

The Dr who was caring for Chicago was the

same Dr I had
paid to keep on drugging her. I really didn’t
want things to be like this; what
I wanted was to make Cago pay. I wanted
her to suffer like we did but this? It
was not it and I had to stop it before
anything else.

Me: I want you to stop drugging her just

stop with the
medication and let her recover.

Dr: Are you sure?

I turned to her.
Me: I am sure; she is still my cousin okay?
And I didn’t
think one of you here will take advantage of
her. I had everything planned but
this; this wasn’t part of my plan. She is even
pregnant if Landan ever find
out about this… I am finished.

Dr: The medication didn’t harm the baby.

Me: How sure are you because you all

didn’t know she was
pregnant or she’s being raped? God
dammit! I need to fix this.
Dr: And we will I assure you. My job is at
risk.

I grabbed my purse and head to the door.

LORATO KOKOISI

For our breakfast we went to Mugg & Bean

restaurant
and spent the meal discussing general
topics. I was having a great time and I
think Lorenzo was too. For a moment I
forgot about my problems.

Lorenzo: Did I ever tell you how beautiful

you are? You
are beautiful.

Me: Thank you. You don’t look bad yourself.

He shook his head and bit his lower lip.

Me: A normal person will say thank you.

Lorenzo: I was gonna say thank you…

I took a sip on my juice.

Lorenzo: I think it’s pretty clear what’s

going on here.
We are not kids and we not gonna act like
kids.

Me: I think we do.

Lorenzo: I am openly honest about what I
want and right
now I want you. I really like you Mami and I
don’t want any minute going to
waste without me telling you. This here?
This is what I want I am not saying
let’s go I love you and I love you too. I know
it’s too early for that we
gonna be patient about it. I just want you in
my life no pressure.

Me: I think I like you too.

Lorenzo: You think? Girl come on. You are

playing with
me now?

Me: Ha Lorenzo your confidence is too

much.

Lorenzo: Just a little.

Little? Hell to the no!

Lorenzo: I am a very honest person and so

far that has
worked for me it has saved me from lot of
things.
Me: I second that.

Lorenzo: Is anyone else in the picture?

Me: No… well yes. Eish it’s complicated.

Lorenzo: Un-complicate it for me.

Me: I was seeing a guy who has a wife I

didn’t know
until the wife showed up and said it all.
Lorenzo: Did she hurt you?

Me: No she didn’t. It wasn’t serious but it

didn’t make it right.

I had not asked him about Bloom I didn’t

know how to but
now was a perfect time to ask him.
Me: And you? Are you seeing someone?

Lorenzo: I wouldn’t be here if there was

someone else in my life. So no
there’s no one.

Me: Really?

Lorenzo: What do you know Mami? Spit it

out.

Me: Well I stalked your accounts…

He laughed softly.
Lorenzo: Of course you did. I am not
surprised and Bloom
is not my girlfriend she someone from my
past.

Me: That post said something else. And I

don’t really
want drama had lot of that to last me a
lifetime.

Lorenzo: I am sorting that out; you have

nothing to worry
about. I promise you.
I gave him a slight nod.

Lorenzo: Give me your hand.

I did without asking lot of questions. We

made eye
contact it wasn’t awkward like before. His
soft touch on my hand sent a warm
feeling to my heart. I felt a rush from his
hand; I was getting excited from
touching him.
Lorenzo: Your hand is so soft.

CHARMINE PETERSON

Charlene: I am going to sue that hospital.

I had told Charlene and she was not

pleased. She was
breathing fire. It was expected she loved
Chicago.
Charlene: Did you see her?

Me: Yes I saw her before I left but she was

sleeping.

Charlene: I failed her. I should have never

taken her
there. She didn’t want to go but I insisted.

Me: We both failed her.

She looked at me and chuckled loudly.

Charlene: No you should be happy you
wanted this.
Avenging your sister? Remember that?

Me: I know what I said and did but I never

wanted this to
happen to her. Cago is family.

Charlene: Whatever Charmine the damage

is done.
Me: Are we going to tell Landan?

Charlene: Tell him what?

Me: That she is pregnant?

Charlene: No we not are telling him

anything. He and Chicago should have never
got married

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 we not are telling him anything. He and
Chicago should have never
got married they just toxic for each other.
Just keep quiet about it.
Me: But he is the father he deserve to
know.

Charlene: Just stay out of this. Chicago

signed the
divorce papers they are done. Let’s wait for
Cago to come back home we will
see what we do.
She sat on the armrest.

Charlene: I just want her far from everyone.

She has to
leave this place and I am gonna make sure
that happens.

Me: You are right

Charlene: Of course I am right.

CHICAGO EVANS
There was a time in my life when I felt
burdened and the
world was full of challenges the mistake I
made was channelling my sadness and
hurt to people around me in result I hurt
them. To me what I was doing felt
right it was the right thing to do.

Every day I woke up and lacked nothing. I

had it all but
love. There were days I felt like I owed the
world nothing to hell with them.
And now? I wake up and feel like a prisoner.
Looking back I could say my sins
I catching up with me in a most harsh and
cruel way. You don’t choose your
karma right? I wished someone had warned
me had told me where life would get
me.

You know guilt can get you worked up and

messed up? Chloe
was still part of my mind. My conscience
was working against my brain and it
was speaking volume I was feeling guilty
and that’s the reason why she was
still part of me. I had developed a lot of
self-hate and that was built from my
conscience. I just wanted to end it all end
the suffering and the pain I was
feeling.

Nurse Jackson ran his hand on my thigh and

leaned forward
to kiss me. A tear left my eye.
Jackson: You know your tears turn me on
right? Why you
fighting this? Do you want me to increase
your dosage maybe then you will
co-operate.

I was not in the finest stage of mind but I

knew what was
going was wrong it was so wrong and
Jackson was enjoying every moment of it.

Me: Please stop…

I tried to push him off me but I was too

weak. The
medication I was getting was too strong;
sometimes it knocked me out for hours.
I didn’t know if that was normal or not.

Jackson continued fondling my breast; he

wasn’t pressing
them too hard. His other hand moved to
the back of my neck while he kissed me
on the neck he even moaned in my ears. His
fingers gently touched the skin
around my nipple my nipples were
hardening.
I was trying to not look at his face; I didn’t
want his
face to haunt me. I just wanted him to finish
that’s all.

He placed his hand on the other breast and

kept on
massaging it. He was trying so hard to
humour the tension between the both of
us I wasn’t enjoying he was enjoying.
LORATO KOKOISI

I was comfortable being myself around

Lorenzo. The
chemistry was building up and that was the
important thing. I didn’t feel the
need to force things being with him felt
natural.
I couldn’t stop laughing or smiling. I was
starting to
look like a fool in love.

Lorenzo: Let me taste yours.

I stopped and looked at him. After breakfast

we went to
Wimpy to buy milkshake.
Me: No you not.

Lorenzo: Just a sip.

As I was about to give him my milkshake an

earthquake
decided to shake the world. Can’t a girl
catch a break?

“Isn’t this lovely?” Mpendulo said.

Me: Mpendulo.
Mpendulo: It didn’t take you long to find
someone else? I
meant that little to you.

Me: Please don’t cause unnecessary

attention.

Mpendulo: Now I am causing attention

Lorato?

Me: You are embarrassing me.

Mpendulo: Na ke ntho ea hau ho laetsana le

basoeu? (Is
your thing to date white guys’ neh?) What
do they have that we don’t have?

Me: I am not doing this with you.

Mpendulo: Did she tell you about me?

Lorenzo: Was she supposed to?

Mpendulo: You know how to pick them.

Me: Lorenzo let’s go.

Mpendulo: I loved you Lorato. I know I
made a mistake but
I loved you. You didn’t even give me time to
apologize.

Lorenzo: If I knew we’d have company I

would have come
with audience.

Lorenzo walked to him.

Lorenzo: It’s clear that Lorato no longer

want you.
There’s a new resident in her heart you are
no longer accommodated.

Mpendulo: You think I am scared of you?

Do you know who I
am? You think because you are white I will
be scared of you? I come from the
hood; I can destroy you in blink of an eye.

Lorenzo: That was a wrong move.

Me: Lorenzo let’s go. He is not worth it.

Mpendulo: Listen to your girl.

Lorenzo nodded and looked at him one
more time.
To be continued…
LORATO KOKOISI

I didn’t know what to say to Lorenzo. The

embarrassment
was eating me up Mpendulo acted like a
hooligan. He purposely started stupid
fights. I never had guys fight over me
before. It was embarrassing.
I cleared my throat and stole a glance at
him.

Lorenzo: Wanna get something off your

chest?

Me: I don’t even know where to start. I am

very sorry
that Mpendulo caused the commotion and
threatened you. I will understand if you
don’t wanna anything to do with me after
today.
Lorenzo: You are not responsible for that
guy’s actions;
he came at me not you.

Me: I am the reason.

He pulled the car over.

Me: Thank you for the way you handled the

incident at the
time.
Lorenzo: Trust me if I had acted he would
be in hospital.

Me: Mh?

Lorenzo: Don’t worry about that. I am

worried about you. You sure you will be
fine? I didn’t like what I saw there.

Me: I will be fine.

Lorenzo: Promise you will call me…

Me: I will call you if I feel scared.

Lorenzo: This is not a joke Mamacita.

A smile formed at the corner of my mouth.

Lorenzo: You smiling when I am worried

about you?

Me: I like it when you call me that.

Lorenzo: When I call you Mamacita? Huh?

Me: Yeah and you’ve never called me by
name.

Lorenzo: That’s another story… a funny one.

Me: Let’s stick to Mami for now.

CHICAGO EVANS

After the whole ordeal I needed to wash off

his scent. I
spent an hour sitting in the bathtub
shattered.

What was happening was making me

suicidal for a long
time I avoided the thought but it was
becoming hard to shut it out. I felt like
I had no voice.
I was lying on bed looking at the ceiling
listening to
the thoughts in my mind. The sound of an
opening door disturbed my thoughts.

“Chicago.” My doctor said from the door. I

sat up
straight.

Me: Is it time for my medication?

Dr: No. it’s not. There’s something I wanna
discuss with
you.

She sat beside me.

Dr: Mh remember the tests we took few

days ago?

Me: Yeah.

Dr: You are pregnant.

Me: I am pregnant?
Dr: Yes.

The first thing that came to my mind was

that Jackson
impregnated me. He was the only man I’d
been with and he refused protection.

Me: I can’t be pregnant… no it’s a lie.

Dr: I know it’s a lot to take in but a baby is a

blessing
and you will soon be out of this place… we
are discharging you you are getting
better.

Me: You don’t understand. I don’t want this

baby. I don’t
want his child… I can’t have his child!

I got out of the bed and went for the chair

that was
close by. I threw it against the mirror wall
the Doctor jumped with fright.
Dr: Chicago calm down. You will hurt
yourself.

Me: Not like this not his baby. Please!

She ran to the door and called for help.

Seconds later
two nurses walked in one of the nurses held
me and the other gave me a shot.

Me: Please…

I slowly closed my eyes and lost

consciousness.
LORENZO LE ROUX

I didn’t like what happened earlier on what

that guy did
was pure disrespect. No woman should be
treated the way he treated Lorato. If a
girl say to you it’s over you take it like a
man and move on. Lorato looked
absolutely terrified her eyes didn’t lie.
Mpendulo was a problem that needed
solution.

Ginger turned the chair and sat down.

Dre: So you met a hood gangster? Dawg

you will get
yourself killed.

Me: Imagine. I wanted to deal with him

right there but I
couldn’t. I didn’t want to scare Lorato.
Ginger: What do you wanna do?

Me: I don’t have a good feeling about this

guy. Someone has to put him in his
place before he hurt her.

Dre: You think he is capable of doing that?

I stood up and walked to the window.

Me: You didn’t see him and the look on his

face. The
sight of us provoked something inside him.

Ginger: Don’t worry we got this.

Me: Make it first. I want nothing to come

between me and
Lorato.

Dre: Talking about that

Sponsored
 dawg Bloom is losing it.
Me: That one is getting on my nerves.

Ginger: The girl is blowing our phones like a

mad person.
She is saying lot of things… she threatened
to end her life.

Me: We there already?

Dre: Yeah.
Ginger: Your sugarcane was probably the
sweetest she has
ever tasted in her life.

Me: Did you compare my guy with

sugarcane?

Ginger: At least I chose sugarcane; imagine

if I had
chosen a lollipop. You get what I am saying
right?

Dre: Ginger you are the real ish. No cap.

Me: You need a man!

LORATO KOKOISI

I didn’t know what was happening but I

knew something
was going on.

I stood in the middle of the living room and

looked
around. When I got home I found my home
burglarized it seemed like nothing was
taken. A note was left on the table I
hesitated to take it but I eventually
did.

“A death threat is a death threat. Keep your

mouth shut
or we will.”
Ish was hitting the fan and real hard.
Someone was after
me but why me? I didn’t even own ish to
my name. If going to Heaven needed a
cent Lorato was going straight to Hell.

I took my phone and rang Val. I wasn’t

spending another
night in the house.
Me: Girl I need a place to crash.

Val: What’s wrong?

Me: Someone broke into the house.

Val: Did you call the police?

Me: I am going there.

LORATO KOKOISI
Going to the police wasn’t a waste of time;
they didn’t give
me a run around. I think that came with me
being a witness because when the
detective who was in charge of Sego’s case
heard what happened he immediately
put two and two together. Banele was
behind the threats; they’d been keeping an
eye on him. He said it wasn’t something
foreign; witnesses tend to be
threatened before trials start.
They stationed two police officers outside
the house so I
didn’t go to Val’s place there was no need
for that. I was safe.

I was on a phone call with KB.

KB: I am sorry little sister.

Me: He honestly thought his threats will

stop me from
testifying? He has another thing coming like
I am tired of people thinking
they can walk all over me. Not anymore. I
am not gonna walk around with a
shoulder over my head.

KB: That’s the spirit way to go.

Me: Let me call you back. I need to get

ready for work.

KB: Be safe Lorato.

Me: I will.

I cut the call.

It was a Friday morning and I was working a
morning
shift. It was a long week and I couldn’t wait
for the day to come to an end.

I had a date with Lorenzo later on

something I was
looking forward to. I felt like Lorenzo came
at a right time. My life was
stable less problems. The only thing in my
mind was the trial and nothing
more. Not even Mpendulo was stressing
me.

LORENZO LE ROUX

The following morning I went to see Bloom

at her home. I
was hoping to knock some sense to her.
I knocked and waited for someone to open.
After few
seconds the door was opened. She was
surprised to see me.

Bloom: Lorenzo you are here?

She excitedly fixed herself.

Me: Can I come in?

Bloom: Yeah sure. I am very happy you are
here.

She led the way to the living room.

Me: Where is everyone?

Bloom: All out I am alone in the house.

Me: Good it will give us time to talk. We

really need to
talk.
I took a seat.

Bloom: Would you like something to drink?

I can even make
food for you.

Me: No sit down Bloom. I didn’t come here

for food.

She nodded and sat down.

Me: I don’t like what you are doing and I

want you to
stop. We have nothing going on so you
can’t be going around acting crazy and
posting pictures of us. Where’s
self-respect?

Bloom: You found someone didn’t you?

Me: What if I did? You left me and you

didn’t even think about
me and now you wanna act like everything
is fine when it’s not?
Bloom: I don’t know what was going on
with me but I was
wrong… maybe it was the pregnancy. I
should have never left. I am sorry
Lorenzo.

Me: Was the baby even mine?

She slapped me across the face.

Bloom: How dare you Lorenzo? It was your

baby how can
you even think it wasn’t yours? You were
the only man I was with.
Me: Bloom I want you to stay away. I found
someone and I really like her.
Accept it and move on with your life.

Bloom: Just like that? Like I was never in

your life? I
meant that little to you?

Me: You know the answer to that.

I got to my feet.

Me: And stop calling my friends their loyalty

lie with
me. And please don’t even think of going
after the lady I am with don’t even
try.

With that said I walked away. I hoped she

listened and
would leave me alone.

LORATO KOKOISI
Val was not in she called in sick. It was going
to be a
long boring day without her; I was used to
her more. I was working with
Darling the girl was talkative. I was just
agreeing to whatever she was
saying.

She stopped dusting and looked at me.

Couldn’t she
multi-task? Guess not.
Darling: I am telling you these rich guys are
nothing but
trouble I dated one and girl did he not break
my heart? He left me for a rich
girl. Imagine I say stick to your league.

Me: That’s life ish happens.

She continued dusting but stopped again

she turned to
me.
Darling: Everyone is talking about you and
Lorenzo. Are
you guys dating?

See? I hated office gossip I hated it with

passion.

Darling: You can tell me I promise I will not

tell
anyone.
Me: I don’t know how my business is any of
your business.
What I do with my life is none of your
business.

Darling: It’s not like we are fighting. We just

admire
you girl you keeping it in the family. That’s
goals.

Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the

family.

Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to

some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.

Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you

are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.

Were they updated to everything? Girl

knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said

Sponsored

you keeping it in the family. That’s goals.

Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the
family.

Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to

some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.
Me: I still don’t get what you are saying
Darling.

Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you

are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.

Were they updated to everything? Girl

knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said you never know

who your true
love is.

Landan and Lorenzo the f*ck? I didn’t see

that one
coming and Landan never mentioned
Lorenzo not even once. Who the hell
doesn’t
mention their cousins? Or they were not
close?

Daring: Let me go to Mrs Mbengu’s office

today she is
not it. It’s best to clean her office now.

Me: Sure.

She walked away.

CHICAGO EVANS

LORATO KOKOISI
Going to the police wasn’t a waste of time;
they didn’t give
me a run around. I think that came with me
being a witness because when the
detective who was in charge of Sego’s case
heard what happened he immediately
put two and two together. Banele was
behind the threats; they’d been keeping an
eye on him. He said it wasn’t something
foreign; witnesses tend to be
threatened before trials start.
They stationed two police officers outside
the house so I
didn’t go to Val’s place there was no need
for that. I was safe.

I was on a phone call with KB.

KB: I am sorry little sister.

Me: He honestly thought his threats will

stop me from
testifying? He has another thing coming like
I am tired of people thinking
they can walk all over me. Not anymore. I
am not gonna walk around with a
shoulder over my head.

KB: That’s the spirit way to go.

Me: Let me call you back. I need to get

ready for work.

KB: Be safe Lorato.

Me: I will.
I cut the call.

It was a Friday morning and I was working a

morning
shift. It was a long week and I couldn’t wait
for the day to come to an end.

I had a date with Lorenzo later on

something I was
looking forward to. I felt like Lorenzo came
at a right time. My life was
stable less problems. The only thing in my
mind was the trial and nothing
more. Not even Mpendulo was stressing
me.

LORENZO LE ROUX

The following morning I went to see Bloom

at her home. I
was hoping to knock some sense to her.

I knocked and waited for someone to open.

After few
seconds the door was opened. She was
surprised to see me.

Bloom: Lorenzo you are here?

She excitedly fixed herself.

Me: Can I come in?

Bloom: Yeah sure. I am very happy you are

here.

She led the way to the living room.

Me: Where is everyone?

Bloom: All out I am alone in the house.

Me: Good it will give us time to talk. We

really need to
talk.

I took a seat.

Bloom: Would you like something to drink?

I can even make
food for you.

Me: No sit down Bloom. I didn’t come here

for food.

She nodded and sat down.

Me: I don’t like what you are doing and I
want you to
stop. We have nothing going on so you
can’t be going around acting crazy and
posting pictures of us. Where’s
self-respect?

Bloom: You found someone didn’t you?

Me: What if I did? You left me and you

didn’t even think about
me and now you wanna act like everything
is fine when it’s not?
Bloom: I don’t know what was going on
with me but I was
wrong… maybe it was the pregnancy. I
should have never left. I am sorry
Lorenzo.

Me: Was the baby even mine?

She slapped me across the face.

Bloom: How dare you Lorenzo? It was your

baby how can
you even think it wasn’t yours? You were
the only man I was with.

Me: Bloom I want you to stay away. I found

someone and I really like her.
Accept it and move on with your life.

Bloom: Just like that? Like I was never in

your life? I
meant that little to you?

Me: You know the answer to that.

I got to my feet.

Me: And stop calling my friends their loyalty

lie with
me. And please don’t even think of going
after the lady I am with don’t even
try.

With that said I walked away. I hoped she

listened and
would leave me alone.
LORATO KOKOISI

Val was not in she called in sick. It was going

to be a
long boring day without her; I was used to
her more. I was working with
Darling the girl was talkative. I was just
agreeing to whatever she was
saying.
She stopped dusting and looked at me.
Couldn’t she
multi-task? Guess not.

Darling: I am telling you these rich guys are

nothing but
trouble I dated one and girl did he not break
my heart? He left me for a rich
girl. Imagine I say stick to your league.

Me: That’s life ish happens.

She continued dusting but stopped again
she turned to
me.

Darling: Everyone is talking about you and

Lorenzo. Are
you guys dating?

See? I hated office gossip I hated it with

passion.

Darling: You can tell me I promise I will not

tell
anyone.
Me: I don’t know how my business is any of
your business.
What I do with my life is none of your
business.

Darling: It’s not like we are fighting. We just

admire
you girl you keeping it in the family. That’s
goals.

Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the

family.
Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to
some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.

Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you

are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.

Were they updated to everything? Girl

knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said

Sponsored

you keeping it in the family. That’s goals.

Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the
family.
Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to
some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.

Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you

are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.

Were they updated to everything? Girl

knew a lot.
Me: Oh that? Like you said you never know
who your true
love is.

Landan and Lorenzo the f*ck? I didn’t see

that one
coming and Landan never mentioned
Lorenzo not even once. Who the hell
doesn’t
mention their cousins? Or they were not
close?
Daring: Let me go to Mrs Mbengu’s office
today she is
not it. It’s best to clean her office now.

Me: Sure.

She walked away.

CHICAGO EVANS
LORATO KOKOISI

Going to the police wasn’t a waste of time;

they didn’t give
me a run around. I think that came with me
being a witness because when the
detective who was in charge of Sego’s case
heard what happened he immediately
put two and two together. Banele was
behind the threats; they’d been keeping an
eye on him. He said it wasn’t something
foreign; witnesses tend to be
threatened before trials start.

They stationed two police officers outside

the house so I
didn’t go to Val’s place there was no need
for that. I was safe.

I was on a phone call with KB.

KB: I am sorry little sister.

Me: He honestly thought his threats will
stop me from
testifying? He has another thing coming like
I am tired of people thinking
they can walk all over me. Not anymore. I
am not gonna walk around with a
shoulder over my head.

KB: That’s the spirit way to go.

Me: Let me call you back. I need to get

ready for work.

KB: Be safe Lorato.

Me: I will.

I cut the call.

It was a Friday morning and I was working a

morning
shift. It was a long week and I couldn’t wait
for the day to come to an end.
I had a date with Lorenzo later on
something I was
looking forward to. I felt like Lorenzo came
at a right time. My life was
stable less problems. The only thing in my
mind was the trial and nothing
more. Not even Mpendulo was stressing
me.

LORENZO LE ROUX
The following morning I went to see Bloom
at her home. I
was hoping to knock some sense to her.

I knocked and waited for someone to open.

After few
seconds the door was opened. She was
surprised to see me.

Bloom: Lorenzo you are here?

She excitedly fixed herself.

Me: Can I come in?

Bloom: Yeah sure. I am very happy you are

here.

She led the way to the living room.

Me: Where is everyone?

Bloom: All out I am alone in the house.

Me: Good it will give us time to talk. We
really need to
talk.

I took a seat.

Bloom: Would you like something to drink?

I can even make
food for you.

Me: No sit down Bloom. I didn’t come here

for food.
She nodded and sat down.

Me: I don’t like what you are doing and I

want you to
stop. We have nothing going on so you
can’t be going around acting crazy and
posting pictures of us. Where’s
self-respect?

Bloom: You found someone didn’t you?

Me: What if I did? You left me and you

didn’t even think about
me and now you wanna act like everything
is fine when it’s not?

Bloom: I don’t know what was going on

with me but I was
wrong… maybe it was the pregnancy. I
should have never left. I am sorry
Lorenzo.

Me: Was the baby even mine?

She slapped me across the face.

Bloom: How dare you Lorenzo? It was your
baby how can
you even think it wasn’t yours? You were
the only man I was with.

Me: Bloom I want you to stay away. I found

someone and I really like her.
Accept it and move on with your life.

Bloom: Just like that? Like I was never in

your life? I
meant that little to you?

Me: You know the answer to that.

I got to my feet.

Me: And stop calling my friends their loyalty

lie with
me. And please don’t even think of going
after the lady I am with don’t even
try.

With that said I walked away. I hoped she

listened and
would leave me alone.
LORATO KOKOISI

Val was not in she called in sick. It was going

to be a
long boring day without her; I was used to
her more. I was working with
Darling the girl was talkative. I was just
agreeing to whatever she was
saying.
She stopped dusting and looked at me.
Couldn’t she
multi-task? Guess not.

Darling: I am telling you these rich guys are

nothing but
trouble I dated one and girl did he not break
my heart? He left me for a rich
girl. Imagine I say stick to your league.
Me: That’s life ish happens.

She continued dusting but stopped again

she turned to
me.

Darling: Everyone is talking about you and

Lorenzo. Are
you guys dating?

See? I hated office gossip I hated it with

passion.

Darling: You can tell me I promise I will not

tell
anyone.

Me: I don’t know how my business is any of

your business.
What I do with my life is none of your
business.

Darling: It’s not like we are fighting. We just

admire
you girl you keeping it in the family. That’s
goals.

Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the

family.

Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to

some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.

Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you

are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.
Were they updated to everything? Girl
knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said

Sponsored

you keeping it in the family. That’s goals.

Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the
family.
Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to
some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.

Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you

are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.

Were they updated to everything? Girl

knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said you never know

who your true
love is.

Landan and Lorenzo the f*ck? I didn’t see

that one
coming and Landan never mentioned
Lorenzo not even once. Who the hell
doesn’t
mention their cousins? Or they were not
close?
Daring: Let me go to Mrs Mbengu’s office
today she is
not it. It’s best to clean her office now.

Me: Sure.

She walked away.

CHICAGO EVANS
LORATO KOKOISI

Going to the police wasn’t a waste of time;

they didn’t give
me a run around. I think that came with me
being a witness because when the
detective who was in charge of Sego’s case
heard what happened he immediately
put two and two together. Banele was
behind the threats; they’d been keeping an
eye on him. He said it wasn’t something
foreign; witnesses tend to be
threatened before trials start.

They stationed two police officers outside

the house so I
didn’t go to Val’s place there was no need
for that. I was safe.

I was on a phone call with KB.

KB: I am sorry little sister.

Me: He honestly thought his threats will

stop me from
testifying? He has another thing coming like
I am tired of people thinking
they can walk all over me. Not anymore. I
am not gonna walk around with a
shoulder over my head.

KB: That’s the spirit way to go.

Me: Let me call you back. I need to get

ready for work.
KB: Be safe Lorato.

Me: I will.

I cut the call.

It was a Friday morning and I was working a

morning
shift. It was a long week and I couldn’t wait
for the day to come to an end.
I had a date with Lorenzo later on
something I was
looking forward to. I felt like Lorenzo came
at a right time. My life was
stable less problems. The only thing in my
mind was the trial and nothing
more. Not even Mpendulo was stressing
me.

LORENZO LE ROUX
The following morning I went to see Bloom
at her home. I
was hoping to knock some sense to her.

I knocked and waited for someone to open.

After few
seconds the door was opened. She was
surprised to see me.
Bloom: Lorenzo you are here?

She excitedly fixed herself.

Me: Can I come in?

Bloom: Yeah sure. I am very happy you are

here.

She led the way to the living room.

Me: Where is everyone?

Bloom: All out I am alone in the house.

Me: Good it will give us time to talk. We
really need to
talk.

I took a seat.

Bloom: Would you like something to drink?

I can even make
food for you.

Me: No sit down Bloom. I didn’t come here

for food.

She nodded and sat down.

Me: I don’t like what you are doing and I

want you to
stop. We have nothing going on so you
can’t be going around acting crazy and
posting pictures of us. Where’s
self-respect?

Bloom: You found someone didn’t you?

Me: What if I did? You left me and you

didn’t even think about
me and now you wanna act like everything
is fine when it’s not?

Bloom: I don’t know what was going on

with me but I was
wrong… maybe it was the pregnancy. I
should have never left. I am sorry
Lorenzo.

Me: Was the baby even mine?

She slapped me across the face.

Bloom: How dare you Lorenzo? It was your

baby how can
you even think it wasn’t yours? You were
the only man I was with.

Me: Bloom I want you to stay away. I found

someone and I really like her.
Accept it and move on with your life.

Bloom: Just like that? Like I was never in

your life? I
meant that little to you?
Me: You know the answer to that.

I got to my feet.

Me: And stop calling my friends their loyalty

lie with
me. And please don’t even think of going
after the lady I am with don’t even
try.

With that said I walked away. I hoped she

listened and
would leave me alone.
LORATO KOKOISI

Val was not in she called in sick. It was going

to be a
long boring day without her; I was used to
her more. I was working with
Darling the girl was talkative. I was just
agreeing to whatever she was
saying.
She stopped dusting and looked at me.
Couldn’t she
multi-task? Guess not.

Darling: I am telling you these rich guys are

nothing but
trouble I dated one and girl did he not break
my heart? He left me for a rich
girl. Imagine I say stick to your league.
Me: That’s life ish happens.

She continued dusting but stopped again

she turned to
me.

Darling: Everyone is talking about you and

Lorenzo. Are
you guys dating?

See? I hated office gossip I hated it with

passion.
Darling: You can tell me I promise I will not
tell
anyone.

Me: I don’t know how my business is any of

your business.
What I do with my life is none of your
business.

Darling: It’s not like we are fighting. We just

admire
you girl you keeping it in the family. That’s
goals.
Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the
family.

Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to

some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.

Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you

are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.

Were they updated to everything? Girl

knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said

Sponsored

you keeping it in the family. That’s goals.

Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the
family.

Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to

some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.

Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you

are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.
Were they updated to everything? Girl
knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said you never know

who your true
love is.

Landan and Lorenzo the f*ck? I didn’t see

that one
coming and Landan never mentioned
Lorenzo not even once. Who the hell
doesn’t
mention their cousins? Or they were not
close?

Daring: Let me go to Mrs Mbengu’s office

today she is
not it. It’s best to clean her office now.

Me: Sure.

She walked away.

CHICAGO EVANS

LORATO KOKOISI

Going to the police wasn’t a waste of time;

they didn’t give
me a run around. I think that came with me
being a witness because when the
detective who was in charge of Sego’s case
heard what happened he immediately
put two and two together. Banele was
behind the threats; they’d been keeping an
eye on him. He said it wasn’t something
foreign; witnesses tend to be
threatened before trials start.

They stationed two police officers outside

the house so I
didn’t go to Val’s place there was no need
for that. I was safe.
I was on a phone call with KB.

KB: I am sorry little sister.

Me: He honestly thought his threats will

stop me from
testifying? He has another thing coming like
I am tired of people thinking
they can walk all over me. Not anymore. I
am not gonna walk around with a
shoulder over my head.

KB: That’s the spirit way to go.

Me: Let me call you back. I need to get
ready for work.

KB: Be safe Lorato.

Me: I will.

I cut the call.

It was a Friday morning and I was working a

morning
shift. It was a long week and I couldn’t wait
for the day to come to an end.

I had a date with Lorenzo later on

something I was
looking forward to. I felt like Lorenzo came
at a right time. My life was
stable less problems. The only thing in my
mind was the trial and nothing
more. Not even Mpendulo was stressing
me.
LORENZO LE ROUX

The following morning I went to see Bloom

at her home. I
was hoping to knock some sense to her.

I knocked and waited for someone to open.

After few
seconds the door was opened. She was
surprised to see me.
Bloom: Lorenzo you are here?

She excitedly fixed herself.

Me: Can I come in?

Bloom: Yeah sure. I am very happy you are

here.

She led the way to the living room.

Me: Where is everyone?

Bloom: All out I am alone in the house.

Me: Good it will give us time to talk. We

really need to
talk.

I took a seat.

Bloom: Would you like something to drink?

I can even make
food for you.

Me: No sit down Bloom. I didn’t come here

for food.

She nodded and sat down.

Me: I don’t like what you are doing and I

want you to
stop. We have nothing going on so you
can’t be going around acting crazy and
posting pictures of us. Where’s
self-respect?

Bloom: You found someone didn’t you?

Me: What if I did? You left me and you
didn’t even think about
me and now you wanna act like everything
is fine when it’s not?

Bloom: I don’t know what was going on

with me but I was
wrong… maybe it was the pregnancy. I
should have never left. I am sorry
Lorenzo.
Me: Was the baby even mine?

She slapped me across the face.

Bloom: How dare you Lorenzo? It was your

baby how can
you even think it wasn’t yours? You were
the only man I was with.

Me: Bloom I want you to stay away. I found

someone and I really like her.
Accept it and move on with your life.

Bloom: Just like that? Like I was never in

your life? I
meant that little to you?

Me: You know the answer to that.

I got to my feet.

Me: And stop calling my friends their loyalty

lie with
me. And please don’t even think of going
after the lady I am with don’t even
try.

With that said I walked away. I hoped she

listened and
would leave me alone.

LORATO KOKOISI

Val was not in she called in sick. It was going

to be a
long boring day without her; I was used to
her more. I was working with
Darling the girl was talkative. I was just
agreeing to whatever she was
saying.

She stopped dusting and looked at me.

Couldn’t she
multi-task? Guess not.

Darling: I am telling you these rich guys are

nothing but
trouble I dated one and girl did he not break
my heart? He left me for a rich
girl. Imagine I say stick to your league.

Me: That’s life ish happens.

She continued dusting but stopped again

she turned to
me.

Darling: Everyone is talking about you and

Lorenzo. Are
you guys dating?

See? I hated office gossip I hated it with

passion.

Darling: You can tell me I promise I will not

tell
anyone.

Me: I don’t know how my business is any of

your business.
What I do with my life is none of your
business.

Darling: It’s not like we are fighting. We just

admire
you girl you keeping it in the family. That’s
goals.

Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the

family.

Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to

some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.

Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you

are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.

Were they updated to everything? Girl

knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said

Sponsored
 you keeping it in the family. That’s goals.
Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the
family.

Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to

some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.

Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you

are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.

Were they updated to everything? Girl

knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said you never know

who your true
love is.

Landan and Lorenzo the f*ck? I didn’t see

that one
coming and Landan never mentioned
Lorenzo not even once. Who the hell
doesn’t
mention their cousins? Or they were not
close?

Daring: Let me go to Mrs Mbengu’s office

today she is
not it. It’s best to clean her office now.

Me: Sure.

She walked away.

CHICAGO EVANS

LORATO KOKOISI

Going to the police wasn’t a waste of time;

they didn’t give
me a run around. I think that came with me
being a witness because when the
detective who was in charge of Sego’s case
heard what happened he immediately
put two and two together. Banele was
behind the threats; they’d been keeping an
eye on him. He said it wasn’t something
foreign; witnesses tend to be
threatened before trials start.

They stationed two police officers outside

the house so I
didn’t go to Val’s place there was no need
for that. I was safe.
I was on a phone call with KB.

KB: I am sorry little sister.

Me: He honestly thought his threats will

stop me from
testifying? He has another thing coming like
I am tired of people thinking
they can walk all over me. Not anymore. I
am not gonna walk around with a
shoulder over my head.
KB: That’s the spirit way to go.

Me: Let me call you back. I need to get

ready for work.

KB: Be safe Lorato.

Me: I will.

I cut the call.

It was a Friday morning and I was working a

morning
shift. It was a long week and I couldn’t wait
for the day to come to an end.

I had a date with Lorenzo later on

something I was
looking forward to. I felt like Lorenzo came
at a right time. My life was
stable less problems. The only thing in my
mind was the trial and nothing
more. Not even Mpendulo was stressing
me.
LORENZO LE ROUX

The following morning I went to see Bloom

at her home. I
was hoping to knock some sense to her.

I knocked and waited for someone to open.

After few
seconds the door was opened. She was
surprised to see me.

Bloom: Lorenzo you are here?

She excitedly fixed herself.

Me: Can I come in?

Bloom: Yeah sure. I am very happy you are

here.
She led the way to the living room.

Me: Where is everyone?

Bloom: All out I am alone in the house.

Me: Good it will give us time to talk. We

really need to
talk.

I took a seat.
Bloom: Would you like something to drink?
I can even make
food for you.

Me: No sit down Bloom. I didn’t come here

for food.

She nodded and sat down.

Me: I don’t like what you are doing and I

want you to
stop. We have nothing going on so you
can’t be going around acting crazy and
posting pictures of us. Where’s
self-respect?
Bloom: You found someone didn’t you?

Me: What if I did? You left me and you

didn’t even think about
me and now you wanna act like everything
is fine when it’s not?

Bloom: I don’t know what was going on

with me but I was
wrong… maybe it was the pregnancy. I
should have never left. I am sorry
Lorenzo.
Me: Was the baby even mine?

She slapped me across the face.

Bloom: How dare you Lorenzo? It was your

baby how can
you even think it wasn’t yours? You were
the only man I was with.

Me: Bloom I want you to stay away. I found

someone and I really like her.
Accept it and move on with your life.
Bloom: Just like that? Like I was never in
your life? I
meant that little to you?

Me: You know the answer to that.

I got to my feet.

Me: And stop calling my friends their loyalty

lie with
me. And please don’t even think of going
after the lady I am with don’t even
try.
With that said I walked away. I hoped she
listened and
would leave me alone.

LORATO KOKOISI

Val was not in she called in sick. It was going

to be a
long boring day without her; I was used to
her more. I was working with
Darling the girl was talkative. I was just
agreeing to whatever she was
saying.

She stopped dusting and looked at me.

Couldn’t she
multi-task? Guess not.
Darling: I am telling you these rich guys are
nothing but
trouble I dated one and girl did he not break
my heart? He left me for a rich
girl. Imagine I say stick to your league.

Me: That’s life ish happens.

She continued dusting but stopped again

she turned to
me.

Darling: Everyone is talking about you and

Lorenzo. Are
you guys dating?
See? I hated office gossip I hated it with
passion.

Darling: You can tell me I promise I will not

tell
anyone.

Me: I don’t know how my business is any of

your business.
What I do with my life is none of your
business.
Darling: It’s not like we are fighting. We just
admire
you girl you keeping it in the family. That’s
goals.

Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the

family.

Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to

some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.
Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you
are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.

Were they updated to everything? Girl

knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said

Sponsored
 you keeping it in the family. That’s goals.
Me: What? I am keeping nothing in the
family.

Darling: Don’t be shy; it has happened to

some of us. You never who your true
love is! Embrace it girl.

Me: I still don’t get what you are saying

Darling.
Darling: I mean Lorenzo and Landan… you
are now dating
the cousin of your ex. I can’t imagine how
it’s like; Landan must be dying with
jealous… I give it to you.

Were they updated to everything? Girl

knew a lot.

Me: Oh that? Like you said you never know

who your true
love is.
Landan and Lorenzo the f*ck? I didn’t see
that one
coming and Landan never mentioned
Lorenzo not even once. Who the hell
doesn’t
mention their cousins? Or they were not
close?

Daring: Let me go to Mrs Mbengu’s office

today she is
not it. It’s best to clean her office now.

Me: Sure.
She walked away.

CHICAGO EVANS

CAGO EVANS

I walked into Dr Khumbulani’s office where I

found
Charlene and Charmine Charlene was
signing some papers. I greeted them and
went to sit on the couch.

Charlene: Cago you are going home. I just

signed off
your discharging papers.

I didn’t respond. I sat there and listened to

my
thoughts.
Charlene: Did you hear what I said?

She crouched and held my hand. I gave him

a blank look.

Me: Okay.

Charlene: We… I…

She looked at the Dr and Dr K nodded.

Charlene: We know you’ve been sexual

assaulted one of
the nurses told Dr Khumbulani and she
informed us.

I closed my eyes as tears streamed down

my face.

Charlene: I am very sorry I wasn’t here to

protect you.
No pain is greater than being molested no
deserve that. I am sorry baby.

Dr: We gonna need the name of the person

Chicago. We need
to inform the police. Who is he?

Charlene: Yes she is right. This person has to

pay so we
need the name.

Charmine: Please excuse me.

She ran out of the office.

Charlene: Chicago please. Don’t let this man

get away
with it. Today is you but do you know who
is gonna be his victim tomorrow?
Me: Nurse Jackson.

His name left my lips.

Me: Nurse Jackson.

Dr: Oh God. Oh what is this?

Charlene got up and walked to her.

Charlene: You have the name. You know

what to do next
and best believe I am going to sue this
hospital. I am going to make an example
with you.

She took a step back and rested her hands

on the edge of
the table. Charlene stood on the other side
of the table.

Dr: She has to take another test…

Charlene: What test?

Dr: Nurse Jackson is… he is HIV positive.

Charlene: What did you say?

Dr: Yes but wait if he is faithful to his

medication then she is not infected.

Charlene: Dammit! Dammit! Look at her;

take a good look
at her. See what your negligence has done?
We trusted you with our loved ones…
I just sat there my back against the couch
and let tears
do the talking. I didn’t have anything to
console my breaking heart. Was it
God’s will? I didn’t know. If anyone could
see beyond my heart they’d tell you
the scar on it. How cursed can one be?

MPENDULO MOJALEFA
I didn’t know where I was driving to or if I
was
kidnapped or not. Ginger wasn’t
entertaining questions I had.

She was very vocal with her friend; they

were engaging in
general topics as if I wasn’t there. I was a
stranger in my own car. The other
friend was now in my car they left his car
behind.
I was told where to park the car and I did.
We all stepped
out; I looked around and saw this
abandoned house.

Ginger: Mh we are here. Let’s go kiddo.

The three of us walked to the house I could

barely feel
my legs walking. I was taking baby steps.
My heart was beating fast and my
hands were sweating.

Ginger: Are we practicing how to walk now?

Me: No.

Ginger: Move it.

The other guy just looked at me and shook

his head I
didn’t know his name. I paced my walk and
followed them.

Me: Am I kidnapped?
Ginger: No we are going on vacation. Shaka
shut this guy
up before I do.

“Look who is here. Welcome to my space.” I

opened my
mouth in complete shock. Lorenzo was
behind my capture?

Shaka: Sorry we took long Mr Hood peed

himself had to
get clean jeans for him.

Lorenzo: You said pee? The gangster

himself peed on his
pants?

Ginger: This one gangster? I need a drink.

I was tongue tied. I wasn’t in my territory

even if I
was these guys looked scary. They weren’t
gonna think twice before putting a
bullet between my eyes. What did I get
myself into?

LANDAN KOTZE

Meira: The client wants us to design all his

new offices.

Me: Do you have their previous design

plan? I wanna look
at them.

Meira: It’s somewhere in my office you will

have it by the end of today.

Me: Please. We don’t have to shift far from

their current
style I am sure they will agree with me.

Meira: Yeah.

Me: Hand me the pencil please.

Meira: Here.

I took the pencil and flipped the page of the

sketch pad.
My phone rang.

Me: Sorry I thought it was on silent. Let me

switch it
off.

Meira: You can answer it. I will get us

something to
drink.

I gave her a slight nod. I answered Charlene

was the
caller.

Me: Charlene what a lovely surprise.

Charlene: I wish I called bearing good news.

I got to my feet.
Me: What’s wrong? Is Cago okay?

Charlene: Unfortunately no she need you

Landan.

Me: Charlene I am trying to create space

between me and
Cago. I don’t want us to keep on going back
and forth; if we wanna be separate
then…

Charlene: I don’t like you Landan and you

know that but
this is deep and I really need you to help me
with her. Chicago need you too
please.

Me: I don’t think you understand…

Charlene: She is pregnant with your child

dammit!

Me: See? This is what I am avoiding your

endless lies.

Charlene: I am not lying. We found out

yesterday that she
is pregnant and that’s not all. Just Landan I
am begging you.

LORATO KOKOISI

Later that afternoon I went to see Val. I

found her
tucked in bed she was not looking good. I
forced her to get out of the bed; we
were chilling in the sitting room.

I sipped my coffee and carefully placed the

cup on the
table.

Me: I really didn’t like the way Darling was

dishing my
personal business.

Val: And you always wondered why I don’t

chill with those
girls? I am avoiding such things; they don’t
know how to keep their noses out
of other’s business.

Me: When we don’t talk with them they will

say we feel
ourselves.

Val: People are gonna talk Rato whether we

like it or
not. I don’t wanna start with me my
sexuality is the talk of the office you
know that.
Me: When did we arrive here?

Val: Just know we did.

Me: Get better and come back to work. I

can’t deal with
those girls.

Val: Stay far from them that’s what I do

when you not at
work. And stop telling people your business

Sponsored
 not everyone like you.
Me: I learnt that the hard way.

Val: Pass me the remote this movie is

boring.

Me: But I like it.

Val: Liar.
I gave her the remote and she changed the
channel.

LORENZO LE ROUX

I stood behind him and put my hands

around his neck but
not too tight to choke him.
Mpendulo: You gonna kill me now?

Me: Why will I kill you? I brought you here

so that we talk.

Mpendulo: You think I am stupid? Who talk

in an abandoned
house?

Me: Lorenzo Le Roux.

I removed my hands and told him to get up.

He stood up
and we came face to face. I couldn’t miss
fear in his eyes I even felt sorry
for him.

Me: I want you far from Lorato don’t even

look the where
she is looking or inhale the same air she’s
inhaling. You hear me?

Mpendulo: I don’t know if that’s possible

but…
I pushed him against the wall and kneed
him on the balls.
He groaned in pain

Me: You have a habit of saying wrong things

and I’ve told
you before. You will get yourself killed.

Mpendulo: I heard you. I will never bother

her… I swear
to you.
I grabbed his arm and turned him around
his face came
together with the wall. I didn’t let go of his
arm I twisted it as I pressed
his face on the wall.

Me: I feel like you are forgetting something

don’t you
feel the same way?

Mpendulo: I am sorry okay? I should have

never threatened you it was uncalled
for.

I pressed his face even harder and he

screamed in pain.
He tried to break free but I was stronger.

Mpendulo: I am sorry Lorenzo. Please

forgive me.

I let go of him arm and he turned around.

His cheek was
bruised.

Me: And don’t even think you will go and

report me to the
police. You won’t know peace if you do
that.

Mpendulo: I will not. You are never gonna

see me after
today.

I took a step back still looking at him.

Me: Oh and Chase said hi. I am sure you

know who I am
talking about.

He looked at me shocked by what I said.

Me: You come from the hood right? I am
the hood you come
from and Chase is one of my rats but you
wouldn’t know because you are not
from our world.

I called Ginger and Shaka back I had asked

for private
talk. They walked back Ginger was grinning.

Me: I know that look.

Ginger: I just need a min with him.

She walked up to him without saying a word

she punched
him on the face. He fell on his butt.

Ginger: Women are to be respected at all

times.

Me: I’d like to stay and enjoy the show but I

have a lady
waiting for me.
I looked at them.

Me: Don’t kill him; he has a wife and a

mother.

I walked away.

LANDAN KOTZE

I drove to Chicago’s in a heartbeat.

Charlene was forced
to tell me everything over the phone and
now words could begin to explain how
I was feeling. Chicago didn’t deserve the
misfortunes it was too much.

I didn’t know if she or our baby was

infected. The damage
was too much and there was no turning
back. We had to deal with the aftermath
of it but one thing for sure; Chicago wasn’t
gonna be the same ever again.
Charmine: She is in her room.

Me: Is she sleeping?

Charmine: No she was taking a shower but I

am sure she has finished.

Me: Okay.

Charmine: Wait she doesn’t know you are

the father of
the baby. She is thinking Jackson is the
father.

Me: Why haven’t you told her?

Charmine: We were going on; a lot has

been going on.

Me: Okay let me go to her.

I walked to her bedroom and knocked

before walking
inside.

Me: Cago?

She was standing in the middle of the room

whispering to
under her breathe. I walked to her and
hesitated to touch her. I didn’t want to
scare her.

Me: Chicago it’s me Landan.

She looked at me and blinked. Her face was

swollen from
the crying.

I really didn’t know what to say to her

words were just
failing me. The first words that came out of
her mouth were “I wanna die. I
just wanna die.”

Me: No don’t say that. You can’t die now

not when God
has blessed us again.
Chicago: Mh?

Me: He is not the father; I am the father of

this baby.

She shook her head no and pushed me.

Chicago: Get out of my room. Leave don’t

come near me.

She screamed that out. Coming here was a

bad idea.
LORATO KOKOISI

I asked Lorenzo to come and pick me up

from Val’s. He
couldn’t come instead he sent his friend
Ginger to come and pick me.

Lorenzo: Mami she is outside.

Me: You really sent your friend?

Lorenzo: Yes I am sorry. I had something to

attend to. I am sure you gonna
love her.

Me: I am sure.

Lorenzo: Don’t be sad I will see you later.

Me: Okay bye.

I hung up.
Me: Val I am leaving. My lift is here.

Val: Thank you for coming it means a lot.

Me: Get better. I will call you later.

We shared a hug.
To be continued…

INALE

[SIX MONTHS LATER]

LORATO KOKOISI
What a great way to start your day?
Morning sex yes you
read that right. It’s said morning sex is the
best and whoever said it wasn’t
lying. It’s everything a woman should get
God forgive us for sinning.

Lorenzo’s cupped his palms over

my breast. He took his time brushing it and
wrapped his full hand around it. He
gently massaged the other breast and
lightly squeezing it. He wasn’t rushing
it; he was taking his time and enjoying the
moment. I was feeling the sensation
as he opened his hand caressing the nipple.
He went on to rub the other nipple
with his finger.

We were very adventurous and we

enjoyed trying new things. It worked for us
all the time.
He put the ice in his mouth and
sucked on my nipple. He was sucking the
whole of it into his mouth. He guided
the ice circling around it.

Me: Oh… Lorenzo don’t stop.

Ah!

He ran the ice back and forth

leaving a cold chill on my skin.

My hand moved all the way down to his

hardening cock as
he sucked on my bottom lip. That went on
for few seconds.

Me: Papi… ah!

My legs wide apart he rubbed his finger

against my
coochie lips. I felt his touch against my skin.
He went on to draw circles
around my clit with his thumb. He slid his
finger and slowly finger f*cked me.
Damn! He gently pumped in and out.
He held himself on top of me. I pressed my
hands on his
bare chest. He brought his face close to
mine and rubbed his nose against mine.

He slid inside me pushing through the walls

of my
coochie. I felt him… I closed my eyes biting
my lower lip. He started thrusting
in and out in a slow pace. He wasn’t
speeding his rhythm but his strokes were
getting strong.

He pulled it out just to push back inside me.

I felt
moisture on my thigh.

Lorenzo: F*ck Mami. Yes baby…

Making love to this man was the best thing.

I enjoyed
being his and he enjoyed being inside of
me. He fastened his pace and moved
inside me. The pleasure was building up;
boy was hitting the right spot. I was
feeling him and didn’t want the feeling to
fade. My waist involuntarily
swayed slowly so. His finger traced on my
thigh.

Lorenzo: Yes Mami… ish.

He continued to thrust inside me making

my toes curl. He
deepened his cock inside me stroking real
hard. The moisture filled me eyes
those were tears of pleasure. I stared into
his eyes as he moved inside me. His
eyes focused on mine.

Lorenzo: Good morning Mami.

Me: Good morning Papi.

He leaned forward for a kiss. A slow and

passionate kiss!

CHICAGO EVANS

I sat in the eating room and played with my

food.

Ever since that issue with Jackson happened

my life had
not been the same. I was struggling to move
past it it was hard. I was seeing
a therapist but it wasn’t helping that much.
Nightmares were part of me.

I still had suicidal thoughts; I had no life in

me. I
often begged God to take me and save me
from the pain I was feeling. Nothing
could make it better not even Jackson’s
arrest. Charlene went ahead and sued
the hospital it turned out I wasn’t the first
patient to be sexually
assaulted. Some family members came
forth; it was shocking to hear that.

Good thing about it was my status I took a

test and it
came back negative but I had to be treated
for STIs.

I stared at my half eaten food and let out a

sigh.
Charlene: Come on Chicago you need to eat
something. You
are pregnant for God sake.

Me: I am not hungry.

Charlene: For how long are you gonna be

like this?

It could be weeks months or years.

Me: How am I supposed to know? Huh tell
me? I didn’t wake up and choose this
okay? I didn’t it happened and now I have
to leave with it. It’s not easy. I
am scarred for life.

Charlene: I know but you need to fight baby

girl. You
need to claim your life back; you have the
baby on the way. In a month your
baby will be here do you want her to
experience this energy? Do you really
want that?
Me: I wish everyone can just let me be. If
it’s not you
it’s Landan or Charmine. I want you all to
leave me the hell alone.

She got to her feet.

Charlene: Charmine called she is on her

way. I am going
to the funeral; one of us has to support
Landan during this time.

Me: I don’t need a babysitter.

Charlene: I am not entertaining your
nonsense. It’s time
I give you tough love.

Me: I just need time…

Charlene: Time you say. Chicago you no

leave the house
unless you are going to your appointments
even so I have to drag you out of the
house. You’ve lost touch with reality. I am
not gonna allow it not anymore.
You have a life to live.

With that said she walked away.

LORATO KOKOISI

Right after we finished our steamy session

we went to
take a shower. We had a funeral to attend
in exactly an hour.
When we finished with shower I started
ironing our
clothes. Something I should have done last
night but you could never do
anything with Lorenzo by your side. He’s so
clingy.

He hugged me from behind and kissed me

on the neck.

Me: Stop it or we will be late.

I giggled.
Lorenzo: Another round?

Me: What? No Papi. Get dressed.

Lorenzo: Okay fine

I broke free from his grip and gave him his

clothes.

Me: You ain’t supposed to be here you

should be with
Landan.

Lorenzo: I called him and told him I will be

late. I will
leave you behind you will catch a taxi.

Me: No problem.

My phone rang it was my brother. I excused

myself.

Me: Ntwana.
KB: How are you ntwana?

Me: Fine and you?

KB: Fine. At what time is the service

starting?

Lorenzo bought an apartment two months

ago the place I
was spending most of my time at.

Me: 09:00am.
KB: Okay I will see you there.

Following the trial of Banele it was

postponed yet again. The delay was
unreasonable Banele’s lawyer was planning
dirty and he was succeeding in it.

CHICAGO EVANS
My hand moved across my stomach and I
felt faint kicks.
That was supposed to excite me but it
wasn’t. I didn’t have any connection to
the baby I thought as time goes I’d feel
something but I wasn’t. I didn’t know
if that was normal or not. My Dr said I
should be patient.

I was sitting in the garden reading a book

when Charmine
came and sat beside me.
Charmine: What are you reading?

Me: The shape of a hundred hips.

Charmine: I see you are reading lot of these

books. You
think is advisable?

Me: I am hoping it will help me heal from

my trauma.
These ladies went through what I went
through.
Charmine: Okay if you say so.

Me: Is that all?

Charmine: Chicago I am very sorry. I feel

responsible
for what has happened to you…

I closed the book and looked at her.

Me: It’s not your fault. I had to be admitted

I was
losing control. I am the one who is sorry; I
killed your sister and lied about
it. You being here supporting me makes me
feel like a bad person. I don’t
deserve this at all.

Charmine: Let’s leave the past in the past.

We all want
you to heal and move on with your life.

Me: It’s gonna take some time but I will be

able to move
on one day.
LANDAN KOTZE

Never in my wildest dream did I think I’d

bury my mother.
It felt wrong and it was difficult processing
everything. I was emotionally
exhausted.
Two weeks ago my mother started
complaining about a very
strong headache. It became severe and she
was admitted spent three days at the
hospital.

A day later she went to sleep and never

wake up. The
whole family was in shock due to her death
she looked fine in their eyes.
To say we were close is an understatement
my mother was
my world. I certainly haven’t processed the
pain. I was her only child and she
was my only mom. She was gone gone for
good.

The door opened and closed. Lorenzo

leaned his back on
the door.
Lorenzo: Ek het gedink jy skuil dalk hier. (I
thought you
might be hiding here.)

Me: Hey neef.

I was in my mother’s room.

Lorenzo: They prepared something for you

to eat.

Me: I am not hungry.

He came and sat on the edge of the bed.

Lorenzo: It was a beautiful service. She had

a dignified
send off.

Me: She did. I am sure she is smiling down

at us.

I struggled with planning her funeral even

so I refused
help from people. I wanted to be the one
who choose her coffin in fact
everything. I thought it might soothe my
heart. Lot of things had to be done
like writing her obituary… I did them.

Me: I stayed up last night looking at our

pictures. It
feels unreal… I feel like she will show up
and say it was a prank.

Lorenzo: I can’t imagine the pain you are

feeling.

Me: I lost the only parent who loved me. I

am left with a
useless father why did God do this? Am I
evil to wish death on my father?

Lorenzo: You are not. You loved your

mother and it’s understandable. No love is
greater than a love of a mother.

Me: She is really gone Carmen is gone. I will

never see
her ever again.

I was trying to fight off the tears but they

weren’t
having any of it. Lorenzo pulled me into his
arms. I broke down. I felt like
crying would make the pain less bearable.

LORATO KOKOISI

I was in the tent helping Landan’s cousin

with food we
were serving guests. People came in
numbers; Carmen was loved by many
people.
She had a gold and pure heart and she lived
her life treating people well and
gave them love.

I put a bowl of beef stew on the table and

turned to Nos.
I took plates from her and gave them to
Abby.

I felt a tap on my shoulder I turned around.

I opened my
mouth in shock…
Me: Mrs Moloi? Oh my word! What are you
doing here?

Kedibone: I don’t get a hug?

Me: I am sorry. I am… come here.

We shared a tight hug.

Me: When did you get here?

Kedibone: I landed two hours ago.

Me: Where are Onalerona and Oarona?

Kedibone: I didn’t come with them Oa is not

feeling
well. Onalerona stayed behind with her.

Me: Oh my God. I am so happy to see you. I

missed you a
lot.

Kedibone: That’s why I am here.

We hugged again. I was happy to see her so

happy.
We moved from people and walked to the
front veranda. We
sat there.

Kedibone: I still can’t believe Carmen is no

more.

Me: Me and you both.

Kedibone: How’s Landan doing?

Me: Not good. He has a lot going on. His
father is on the
wheelchair his mother passed on… I don’t
wish to be him right now.

Kedibone: It can’t be easy. Chicago too I

heard what
happened to her. I tried calling but she
didn’t take my calls. I ended sending
a text thought she’d get back to me but she
didn’t.

Me: That’s another story. My heart is

breaking for her
Chipmunk.

Kedibone: Mine too.

Me: I think we should go and see her.

Kedibone: You sure?

Me: Life goes on Kedi. I think she is paying

for her evil deeds who am I to
play God? I am not a saint I did things too…
I forgave Landan why can’t I
forgive her?
Kedibone: You are right. I am sure she’d be
happy to see
us.

Me: And tomorrow is her birthday she will

be happy to
see you.

Kedibone: We will see.

Me: Let me go and tell Lorenzo.

Kedibone: The man I wanna meet. Waar

is hy? (Where is he?)

Me: Wag ‘n minuut. (Wait a minute.)

Kedibone: Girl I am married.

We both laughed.

LORENZO LE ROUX
I walked to Ginger and Dre; they were
sitting by the
pool.

Me: You good?

Ginger: We goo. Mamacita served us.

Me: You are here abusing my girl?

I hit her on the shoulder.

Ginger: Are you jealous?

Me: You wish.

Dre: How is he?

Me: Not good. He took some pills he said he

wanna sleep and rest his mind.

We saw Lorato; she was making her way to

us. She was with
her friend I knew her from the pictures.
Lorato: Papi…

She hugged me and I kissed her. I wasn’t

ashamed of
expressing and showing my love and I made
sure of that.

Ginger: Get a room.

She threw a hat at me.

Me: Now who is jealous?

I looked at Lorato and ran my finger on her
face.

Lorato: Papi meet my best friend Kedibone

Moloi…
Chipmunk meet the love of my life Lorenzo
Le Roux… and his friends Ginger
and Dre.

Ginger: She is married? It seems like I will

die alone
no hope for me.
Dre: Nice meeting you Mrs Moloi.

Kedibone: The feeling is mutual.

I went and hugged her. We exchanged few

words.

Lorato: Papi a minute please.

I followed her.

Me: What’s up?

Lorato: Kedi and I are going to see Chicago.

Me: You are?

She nodded.

Lorato: I just wanna see her Papi. She

once… I loved her
once.

I put my hands on her waist and stared into

her eyes.
Me: You have a beautiful heart and that’s
one thing I
love about you. Go and see your friend. I
am sure she will be happy to see you.

Lorato: I love you.

Me: I love you even more Mami.

I loved this lady. I didn’t have the right

words to
explain how much I loved her she was
everything I needed and wanted in a lady.
I wanted her close to me at all times. Above
all I wanted to make her my wife
and I knew one day I’d make her my wife.

CHICAGO EVANS

I was on a phone call with my sister-in-law

Sabrina.

Sabrina: What are your plans for

tomorrow?

Me: No plans.

Sabrina: It’s your birthday for God sake…

Me: I know and I am not entertaining it.

There’s still
next year.

Sabrina: You such a bore…

I was watching a documentary as I talked
with her. The
doorbell rang; I cut the call and went to get
it. I was surprised and happy at
the same time to see Kedibone. She was the
last person I was expecting to see.

Me: Kedibone am I not happy to see you.

Come in.

Kedibone: I didn’t come alone there’s

someone who would
like to see you.
I shrugged my shoulders.

Me: I am really not in the mood to see

anyone…

“Not even me?” I gasped at the sound of

the voice. I was
definitely dreaming.

Me: Lorato?
She stood beside Kedibone and looked at
me.

Me: You both here?

Lorato: To see you. Can we come in?

MPENDULO MOJALEFA

I dragged Fifi’s suitcase to the bathroom

and locked the
door. I walked back to her.

Fifi: What are you doing? Give me the key

Mpendulo. I
wanna leave.

Me: You are not leaving me. You said you

want us to work
things out and now you are leaving. Who is
this man you leaving me for?

Fifi: Does it matter? You never wanted me

Mpendulo I forced you. Your belonged
to someone else and I was stupid to think
you will love me.

Me: Am I with that someone else or I am

with you? Tell
me.

Her phone rang I took it from her. The caller

was Dr
Charles the therapist we were seeing.

Me: Are you kidding me? You are f*cking

the therapist?
Fifi: Give me my phone.

I laughed loudly.

Fifi: I am leaving you and you will not force

me to stay
with you. I am done. I am granting your
wish.

Me: You are crazy.

Fifi: You should be happy I am setting you

free. You can
do whatever you want now.

Me: Fifi I am not playing with you. You are

not leaving
this house… you are not gonna make me a
laughing stock.

Fifi: Give me my phone.

Me: I said no!

She tried to take it from me with no luck.

We started
fighting for the phone.
Me: Fifi stop what you are doing.

She jumped on my back and bit me on the

neck. I managed
to get her off me but it came with a price.
She fell and hit her head.

Me: God. Refilwe!

I saw blood on the floor. I knew I had f*cked

up.
LORATO KOKOISI

Chicago couldn’t believe we were there no

matter how
hard she tried. I thought I’d hard time being
in the same space as her but I
didn’t that meant there was no longer bad
blood between us. I’d moved past the
betrayal. I had no reason not to; I had a
beautiful man in my life.
If Landan and Cago had not being together I
would have
never be with Lorenzo. Or I would have.
Who knows?

Kedibone: You honestly thought we will let

you celebrate
your birthday alone? Never!

Chicago: I didn’t expect to see her…

She looked at me.

Me: I am over it that’s why I am here. I

know the two of
us won’t be best of friends… well not
overnight but I want you to know I am
here when you need me. Let the past be the
past. You are going through a lot…
you need friends…

Kedibone: What she is trying to say is we

are here for
you.
Chicago: I am terribly sorry Lorato no words
will be
enough… what I did…

Me: I know you are sorry and I forgive you

Chicago. We
didn’t come here to dwell on the past; it’s
called a past for a reason. Can we
try and forget about it?

Chicago: I think we can do that.

Kedibone: Isn’t this nice? The three of us

under the same
roof… I missed this.

Cago & me: We did too.

We spoke over each other.

Sure thing by Miguel started playing on TV.

We looked at
each other and laughed.

Me: Our song! Yeey!

Kedibone got to feet and started dancing I
did too. Chicago
remained seated.

Kedibone: You gonna sit and let us dance?

Get your behind
up.

She shook her head no as we helped her get

up. Her belly
bump wasn’t that big she could lift a leg.
We continued to dance whilst
laughing and singing along.
“Even when the sky comes falling

Even when the sun doesn’t shine

I got faith in you and I

So put your pretty little hand in mine.”

Cago: Aaaah! God…

We stopped dancing and looked at her. Her

eyes went to
her legs and ours followed too.

Cago: My water broke.

Are you kidding me? It had to be now like

really?
THE END…

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