The Khanyile family gathered in their beautifully decorated living room, fully engrossed in the heartfelt speech from Mr. And Mrs. Khanyile celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. The room felt cozy with shared memories, and the celebration echoed the enduring love between the couple.

As Mr. Khanyile shared stories from their journey together, a strong sense of togetherness filled the air. Every family member sat, completely absorbed in the couple’s words, soaking in the wisdom and love expressed. In the midst of this special moment, a sudden knock interrupted the atmosphere. The family members exchanged puzzled glances, and Bongiwe, seated by the entrance, gracefully rose to answer the door.

Anticipation filled the room as Bongiwe opened the door, briefly revealing the outside world. To everyone’s surprise, it wasn’t Tshepiso and Sihle at the doorstep. Instead, a different presence lingered, creating a sense of curiosity and intrigue among the family.

Sihle and Tshepiso’s absence hadn’t gone unnoticed, and whispers of speculation circulated through the room. The unexpected visitors became a mystery, and the celebration paused, waiting for the revelation of these newcomers who had arrived, possibly bringing their own stories to weave into the ongoing festivities.

On the door, was a woman who stood on the threshold, cradling a six-month-old baby in her arms. The woman’s eyes bore into Bongiwe’s soul, a mix of determination and accusation. As the tension in the room escalated, she revealed herself as the witness to the fateful day at the river six months ago. Bongiwe’s heart raced, realizing that the woman standing before her was a key player in the unresolved drama that had unravelled her past.

With careful words, the woman recounted the scene she had stumbled upon that day – the abortion by the river, Bongiwe’s heart-wrenching decision. Instead of leaving the fetus to nature’s course, this compassionate stranger had intervened, rescuing the unborn child. Over the months, she had cared for the baby, nursing it back to health.

Kudala ngifunana nalelikhaya, ngifuna yena u Bongiwe lona ( I have long been searching for this household, including you Bongiwe), says the woman. Sengikufune izinkalo zonke, sengize ngakuthola (I have searched all over and have found you) proclaims the woman. Ngiyazi awungazi, kodwa mina ngiyakwazi! Ngiwulo owakubona utetela ingane yomfana emfuleni ezinyangeni eziyisithupha ezedlule, ngenhloso yokuyibulala. Leyo ngane yilena oyibona ngiyiphethe ezandleni zami!

The weight of guilt and remorse descended upon Bongiwe as she faced the tangible consequence of her past decision. The child she thought she had left behind by the river was alive, thriving, and had found its way back into her life.

The room became a battleground of emotions – sorrow, anger, and a haunting sense of responsibility. Bongiwe had to grapple not only with her abortion but also with the living reminder of that choice.