Nokuzola goes to Sithandile’s room to speak to her about the argument they had the previous day.

Nokuzola: Sanalwam, how are you this morning?

Sithandile: (nonchalantly) Nothing you wouldn’t expect.

Nokuzola: I am sorry.

Sithandile: OK.

Nokuzola: Come on, I am trying.

Sithandile: I don’t think we can speak about anything else besides the truth, I need to know.

Nokuzola: Fine. A few months after I gave birth to you, your father and I had many unresolvable arguments and constant conflicts. I…then got into another relationship, and then he got angry. He was angry because he wanted us to be a family and I just couldn’t, the relationship had been too toxic for me. He obviously didn’t take that well and started drinking and smoking just to escape his problems. That didn’t concern me, so I went on with my life.

Sithandile: (shocked) Why didn’t you care?

Nokuzola: Because he wasn’t my responsibility. He ruined his life by himself for his reasons and I wasn’t going to feel guilty because of that. I still don’t.

Sithandile: Oh OK. But why do I have to suffer for that? I didn’t do anything to him.

Nokuzola: I am sorry, OK? But the truth is that if he wanted to be a part of your life, he would have made the effort. And I am sorry you felt forced to talk to him. I have thought my decision through; I will take a loan for your studies.

Sithandile: (her face lighting up) Really?

Nokuzola: Of course, you have earned it, baby. And I want to see you thrive, and if that means taking a loan, so be it.

Sithandile: Enkosi, Mama. I appreciate it, and I promise I won’t let you down.

Nokuzola: I know. (They hug.)

Nokuzola: And baby, you are fine without your father. You have me, you have your grandmother, and you have good friends who support you.

Sithandile: You’re right, Mama. (They smile at each other.)

Epilogue