Name: KGOTHATSO
Author: Mabotle K's Writings .

Chapter 29

KGOTHATSO .

CHAPTER : 29

As the day goes on , the families exchanging gifts . Kgothatso and her sisters walk back inside so she can change into her zulu attire .

Kelebogile : your man looks like a snack from Prada !

Kgothatso : and he's for my eyes only .

Kelebogile : relax ..

Realeboga : I can't wait for you to change into your tswana attire , you're gonna love it !

Kgothatso : yeah ..

They walk into the bedroom as she starts changing into her traditional attire . Kelebogile gets teary eyes glancing at her dressing up ..

Kelebogile : you were 10 just yesterday and today you're getting married.

Kgothatso : you guys need to stop crying for real . I'm done , we can go .

They walk once more as everyone glances at her from the door ..

A vision of beauty in her stunning traditional Zulu outfit. Her beaded skirt sparkles in the sunlight, a kaleidoscope of colors that shimmer and shine with each step. Her headdress is a masterpiece of colorful beads and feathers, a work of art that showcases the skill . She walks gracefully, her head held high, as she makes her way to the ceremony area, her eyes shining with happiness and excitement.

Samkele : I'm gonna go to her , there's no way .

Mpiyakhe : why don't you relax ? she's coming over here anyways .

Mandlawenkosi glances at her with his face beaming with pride , he's watching her giggling and laughing with her sister . He is surrounded by his friends and family, all dressed in their finest traditional clothing, their faces filled with joy and celebration. He holds a traditional spear, symbolizing his strength and courage, his eyes fixed on Kgothatso as she approaches .

Mpiyakhe : Ma'Gatsheni !

Kgothatso : yes yes , it's her .

She says turning around and making a face , Mandla smiles ..

Kgothatso : oh you guys look so good , your attire is just amazing .

Samkele : and you look even more beautiful !

She glances at Mandlawenkosi ..

Kgothatso : such a bad day to be shy .

Mandlawenkosi : I'm not shy , I'm just admiring a beautiful creation .

Kgothatso : is that supposed to be me ?

He smiles and nods lightly ..

Kgothatso : I can hug my husband right ?

Mpiyakhe : go ahead ..

She gladly goes into his arms as she inhales his cologne ..

Mandlawenkosi : I missed you .

Kgothatso : missed you too .

Mandlawenkosi : you look like a true Zulu bride .

The ceremony area is a sea of color and movement, the villagers gathered around the perimeter, eager to witness the union of the young couple. The air is filled with the sweet scent of traditional incense, the smell of burning herbs and spices that carry the prayers of the people to the ancestors.

The elderly Zulu elder which is Mandlawenkosi's eldest uncle , respected and revered by all, stands at the center of the ceremony area, his eyes twinkling with wisdom and experience. He raises his hands, and the crowd falls silent, awaiting the start of the ceremony . While Kgothatso and Mandla walk to the front .

Mandla's uncle : Today we gather to celebrate the union of Kgothatso and Mandlawenkosi .

he begins, his voice booming across the ceremony area.

Mandla's uncle : A union that is blessed by the ancestors, and witnessed by our community .

The crowd erupts in cheers and applause, the sound of drums and singing filling the air. Kgothatso and Themba exchange vows, promising to love and honor each other, as the crowd looks on . He goes on to speak ..

Mandla's uncle : marrying into the Ndlovu family makes you a part of our family , you are Malcom Ndlovu's eldest son's first ever wife !

The crowd erupts in excitement clapping their hands .

Mandla's uncle : where's that spear !? Bring it here !

The elder hands Mandla a traditional spear, symbolizing his new role as a husband and protector . He holds it proudly as Kgothatso receives a beautiful beaded necklace, symbolizing her new status as a wife.

The crowd cheers as they are both pronounced husband and wife, the sound of drums and singing reaching a fever pitch. The traditional feast begins, with tables groaning under the weight of delicious food.

Mandlawenkosi : won't you eat ?

Kgothatso : not a lot , I haven't had an appetite in days .

Mandlawenkosi : is that because you miss me ?

Kgothatso : yep , I miss you .

Mandlawenkosi : I'm all yours tonight .

She smiles ..

Kgothatso : atleast ..

Mandlawenkosi : are you ready to leave your family home and come to mine ?

Kgothatso : (sighs) yes .

Mandlawenkosi : are you sure ?

Kgothatso : it's gonna be hard but .. I'm ready . I know what all marriage is about and I don't want act surprised by anything .

Mandlawenkosi : that's my baby .

He kisses his cheek .

Mandlawenkosi : you look so beautiful , everything suits you .

Kgothatso : really ? I thought this skirt didn't .

Mandlawenkosi : you look absolutely gorgeous mkami .

She smiles ..

Later on , Kgothatso and Mandlawenkosi share their first dance as husband and wife . Their eyes not moving away from each other , their fingers intertwining . The village people singing for them and cheering ...

Kgothalo : I didn't know she'd learn how to dance .

Gosiame : that's our sister for you .

Kgothalo : and she's actually doing quite well , makes me a proud twin .

Kelebogile : you must be ..

Gogo Manzini groans lightly glancing at the both of them ..

Mpiyakhe : what's your problem ?

Gogo Manzini : n..no , not the child .

Mpiyakhe : oh hello ? I asked you a question .

Gogo Manzini : I must go and speak to the ancestors , that cannot happen .

Mpiyakhe glances at her confused as she walks off carrying her ancestral bones , he shakes his head and glances back at Mandlawenkosi and Kgothatso who are smiling at each other .