CHAPTER 5

MABUTHO CELE.

Losing my temper wasn't something I planned — it just happened. When she acted like she didn't understand what I was talking about, that's when I lost it. Again. I light another cigarette, my fifth since morning, and lean against the veranda column. The smoke drifts lazily into the air, disappearing like my patience.

Everything feels tense inside this house lately. Every breath, every word — it's like walking on glass. I take a slow drag, feeling my chest ease a bit, until my phone rings in my pocket. I take it out, glance at the screen, and exhale sharply before answering.

"Khuluma nami, Nca."
(Speak to me, Nca.)