I come to, and find Mphikiseni sitting next to me. I opened my eyes and smile.

“Mphi..Kis..Eni.” I say

He looks up at me and brushes my hair back, “My love. It’s done.” He tells me.

My hand instinctively runs to my stomach, it’s not flat, but I feel nothing inside either.

“He’s gone?” I whimper.

Mphikiseni nods

“Did you see him?” I ask

“The doctor will bring him to us.” He says.

A nurse walks in, with a baby wrapped in a black blanket, my eyes watch him as he approaches our bed with the baby in her arms. He gives him to Mphikiseni then stands near my bed.

Mphikiseni glances at the baby, his eyes water and tears fall. I’ve never seen him cry before.

“Mphikiseni?” I cry too.

“Oh, Khumalo. Siyamkela Khumalo.” He names the child.

Hiccups hit me, as I watch Mphikiseni crying and kissing the baby.