Sindie



It has been two years, two years of not being chased by Ndumiso and living a life of fear. I look at Naledi all grown up, she just turned nine two months ago, and she has seen so many tragic things in her life that no kid or anyone, for that matter, should have to see.

“Oh my goodness, Naledi, put that tablet down and finish your food. You are going to be late for school,” I sigh as I pour myself a cup of coffee.

Shawn rounds the table and kisses me on the lips, a smile on his face. “She’s growing up, give her a break.”

I take another second and take a deep breath. I roll my eyes, to hell with a break. Naledi has been a thorn at my side for way too long, growing an attitude that I can no longer bear. “You are too soft with her,” I say, taking a sip of my coffee, and turned around to look at Lloyd, who is a splitting image of his father. “Are you done?” He nods as he finishes the last remaining tidbits of his cereal.

“Naledi, go grab your bag,” I say, walking out with Lloyd by my side, heading to the car. Naledi comes walking out with her arms folded on her chest, pouting. “I want to sit in the front seat. I’m the oldest.”

“Please, Lord, not now,” I mutter under my breath. “Next time, hurry up, and you will sit in the front seat.”

As she walks to the backseat she angrily shuts the door behind her. “Is it because I am not Shawn’s child?”

My heart stops beating for a second or two. I turn around to look at her, only to find her with the earphones on, watching Bluey on the tablet.

I sit there for a moment, not knowing what to say. Naledi has never before uttered such words to me. For the first time, I don’t know what to say as I drive off.