Sthembiso

As I lay in bed, guilt consumed me. I had turned Melokuhle away, refusing to let her spend the night. The reason was simple: Melusi was still awake, and I knew he’d catch us if we were together.

I tried to shake off the feeling, but it lingered. I knew I’d made the right decision, but it didn’t make me feel any better. Just as I was starting to drift off to sleep, I was jolted awake. Something had disturbed me, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on what it was.

I sat up in bed, my heart racing, I looked into the darkness. The room was silent, except for the sound of my own ragged breathing. And then, out of the corner of my eye, I saw him. Melusi. Standing in the shadows, watching me.

My blood ran cold. I knew I was in trouble. Melusi’s voice was low and even, but it sent shivers down my spine. “I really cared about you,” he said, the words dripping with betrayal.

I jumped out of bed, my mind racing. “I can explain,” I blurted out, but even I knew it was a weak excuse.

Melusi’s face twisted with anger. “Aren’t you curious how I found out?” he asked, his voice cold and hard. “I saw Makukhanye’s shoes this morning, and I knew something was off. Menzi confirmed my suspicions.”

Melusi’s anger was evident. “You know how I feel about Melokuhle,” he growled. “I’ll do whatever it takes to protect her from guys. And you… you got involved with her.”

He grabbed me by the throat and slammed me against the wall. I felt a surge of fear rise, “What should I do with you?” he hissed, his eyes blazing with fury.

I knew begging for mercy would be pointless. Melusi’s grip on my throat tightened. “Stay away from Melokuhle,” he spat. “Don’t even go near her.”

He released me, and I gasped for air. “I want you out of my house before crack of dawn,” he snarled, turning to leave.

***

By 6 a.m, I was driving down the highway, unsure of where I was going. The road ahead was a blur. Two hours later, I stopped the car and found myself outside Sindie’s place.

I took a deep breath, got out of the car, and crossed the street. I stood outside her gate, hesitating for a minute before ringing the intercom.

“Who is it?” Sindie’s came blaring out, making my stomach drop. It had been a long time since I’d heard her voice.

“It’s Sthembiso,” I replied.

The line went silent, and I worried she might have hung up. But then her voice came back, soft and shaky. “Is it really you?”

She didn’t wait for an answer. The gate slid open, and I walked in. My sister stood on the driveway, her hand covering her mouth. Tears filled her eyes.

“Hey, little sister,” I said, with a small smile.