CHAPTER 30

AMANDA MOFOKENG - CELE.

I must have dozed off around 3 a.m., still curled up on the couch with the TV on low, waiting for Mabutho to come back home — but he didn't. My neck is stiff, my back is sore, and the blanket that was supposed to keep me warm is halfway on the floor.

I rub my eyes gently, trying to adjust to the morning light creeping through the curtains when the door finally opens. There he is. Mabutho. He walks in slowly, shoulders heavy, eyes unfocused. He doesn't even look surprised to find me on the couch.

"Mkami." he greets softly, closing the door behind him.
("My wife.")