There was no way I could concentrate on my work. I wondered if I should refuse my promotion to make my husband happy. But I always wanted to be a secretary. My pay would help us if we decided to have children.

“What’s on your mind?” Lebo, a co-worker asked me.

“Oh, sorry, I’m fine.” I lied with a fake smile.

My mind was everywhere. How could my husband suddenly treat me like this after two years of being happily married? I wanted this drama to just disappear.

“You don’t look fine, what happened to your cheek?” She asked concerned.

“Oh, that? Nothing, I bumped myself while picking up a spoon on the floor.”

I couldn’t let Lebo know the truth. The word might go around. I can’t have the entire staff looking at me differently.

“Are you sure? Is Chido using you as a punching bag?” She asked.

“Lebo, I need that file now, please. Get it for me.” Victor said, walking past.

“We’ll talk later,” Lebo said, walking off with the file.

I breathed slowly and put my hand on chest. I looked as she went away. I can’t tell her. Maybe Chido will change.

I caught a taxi to Midrand after work. The company I worked for was in town and Chido’s workplace is in Germiston. He had brought a car which he paid an installment on.

I arrive home, it was quiet and the TV was on. I knew he was home. I entered the lounge and he sat there, saying nothing.

“Good evening Chido, how was work today?” I asked approaching him.

He looked at me agitated. I knew by the look on his face he was still angry with me.

“Is something wrong? Talk to me.” I insisted.

“Why don’t you have manners?” He said shouting and stood up.

I looked at him confused.

“Don’t act stupid. This morning you showed no manners by just walking out like that without even saying goodbye.” He said coming towards me.

I was afraid he would beat me again. My body shook in fear.

“I was running late,” I answered and he hit me hard against the wall.

“Don’t you dare backchat me!” He shouted angrily.

I stood up thinking I would make it better . I looked at him in the eye.

“Baby what am I doing wrong?” I asked.

He slapped me again after that, this time on both cheeks. I felt the pain and began to cry, that’s when he pushed me on the floor and kicked me in my stomach. I felt confused and a deep ache formed within me. He left and went to the bedroom leaving me on the floor.