When Shokwakhe finished, he pulled back from me and made me face him. He then gave me a hard kiss while our privates were touching, and that sent a thrilling shrill down my spine. He then backed away, pulled his trouser up, and walked out. When he was gone, I wore my pyjamas and pretend like I was studying.

The following morning, I woke up and found Shokwakhe in our lounge. “What are you doing here?” I asked.

“We slept here,” Shokwakhe responded, turning to face me.

“Where’s mom and dad? Ntandokayise and Sakhumzi?” I asked.

“Your mom and dad already left for work, and they offered your siblings a lift,” he responded.

“Shoot! I’m late!” I shouted.

“You’re not. It’s only six o’clock. They left early because your brother’s principal demanded to see your parents, and Ntando couldn’t let a lift pass her by,” Shokwakhe said.

I nodded before responding. “I have to shower then,” I said, turning on my heel.

As I was turning, Shokwakhe stood up and grabbed me from behind. “I miss you,” he said into my ear.

“I have to get to school,” I said, pushing him.

“Let’s shower together,” he suggested.

“With your wife and kid in the next room. I don’t think so,” I said.

“That didn’t stop you last night,” Shokwakhe said.

“You didn’t give me much of a choice,” I responded, shrugging.

“Well, let’s have a repeat,” Shokwakhe said, picking me up, and going with me to the shower.

When we were done, I went to school and, when I got back, Shokwakhe was still there. He had suitcases on either side, and he and his pregnant wife were bidding farewell to my family. I walked in, and they were all huddled in the lounge.

“And now? Who died?” I joked. My father looked at me and laughed. “I’m serious baba, why are you people so up close and personal?” I continued, also laughing.

***

Tell us: What do you think could be the reason for Sizwe’s parents and Shokwakhe looking serious?