The modus-operandi of gangsters in the township was always known. Those involved with them tried by all means not to be disobedient to their bosses because they had seen the most innocent people suffer from the consequences of their family’s criminal acts

Unfortunately, Thando was new in the business, and he never had interest in knowing the ins and outs of what happened to the betrayers. Bra Easy-Money killed his father in cold blood, right in his presence. He shot him instantly, right before Thando could explain himself. Bra Easy-Money had heard about Thando’s shenanigans, and he wanted to teach him a lesson he would never forget. He also did not want to get undermined by people who were yet to join his gang.

Thando was shattered after witnessing his father wheezing his final breath. He tried screaming his lungs out, but his voice could not come out. He just stood beside his father trembling, shaking, and calling him with the hope that he might respond. He felt crushed beyond repair when he did not. A single tear rolled on his cheek, and it was at that exact moment that he realised that he was not only whimpering for his father, but for his late mother as too.

The day after the incident, mourners came in numbers to send their condolences, and the police came to take the statement from him.

“The loss of a loved one is painful in such a way that you can lose yourself along the process of grieving. You can search for ways to nullify the pain, but instead worsen it. What Thando is experiencing is what I also went through, but I am glad I had emotional support before destroying my life. Criminal gangs usually prey on vulnerable people to join them,” one of the neighbours said.

A short, slim-figured woman arrived with suitcases while the neighbours were busy preparing tea and scones. She looked side by side and spotted Thando and two female police officers at another corner of the sitting room, and then went to him.

“Condolences my son,” the woman said, tapping Thando on the shoulder. “I know this is not the right time,” she continued. “My sister called me yesterday regarding your father’s death, and I thought it was the right time to finally set myself free. After I broke up with your father, I learned that I was pregnant. Unfortunately, when I broke the news to him, he was already married to another woman. We made a decision that he could adopt you and raise you with that woman. I am your biological mother.”

After speaking, the woman released a heavy sigh and asked the police officers to give her space with “her son”.

Thando stood up furiously and screamed. “Why! Why! Why is my life so painful?” he asked.

The mother Thando knew his entire existence and buried was not his biological mother, and everyone kept the secret from him. His grief was endless, and it truly was an unending grieve.

***

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