admin BECOMING CHAPTER 3 CHULUMANCO MSUTU The whispers started like distant thunder, low and rumbling, rolling through the village paths before the storm hit. I felt them before I heard them. It was in the way aunties paused at their gates when I walked by, their eyes flicking to my waistline, then up to my face … Read more
BECOMING CHAPTER 2 CHULUMANCO MSUTU The afternoon sun slanted through the thin curtains, casting long shadows across our small living room. I sat on the edge of the bed, with my phone in my hands, the one with the cracked screen that still worked if you pressed hard enough. My heart was racing, not from … Read more
BECOMING CHAPTER 1 CHULUMANCO MSUTU The first thing I noticed when the tears slowed was how quiet it was. Not village-quiet, there were no roosters, no children shouting, no distant hum of a bakkie on the dirt road. Just the low, mechanical purr of an air conditioner I hadn’t even realised was on. The kind … Read more
BECOMING PROLOGUE CHULUMANCO MSUTU The heat was a living thing that Saturday. It crouched over Entabeni village, thick and wet, pressing against my skin until every breath felt borrowed. Inside our small house the air stood still; even the flies seemed too lazy to move. I sat on the low stool near the door, knees … Read more
THE RISE OF TUMELO CHAPTER 25 ITUMELENG As I arrive at his mother’s house, my heart is racing like a drum, but I know I have to stay strong – for Tumelo’s sake. I can tell he’s not thrilled to be here, and I’m worried his mother might sense his unease. I glance over at … Read more
THE RISE OF TUMELO CHAPTER 24 ZIBUYILE Before reading, Tap link & like my comment. If we reach 500+ likes I’ll add a bonus chapter. Vuyi’s trying to play it cool, but I can tell she’s excited about something. She’s wearing a silky dress that’s catching the sunlight, making her look like a mini-version of … Read more
THE RISE OF TUMELO CHAPTER 23 KHANYISA I’ve poured my heart and soul into building a life, a future – not just for myself, but for my kids. Growing up in a tough household, I knew I didn’t want that life for them. So, I worked my butt off since I was 21, grinding every … Read more
THE RISE OF TUMELO CHAPTER 22 Nthabiseng is jolted awake by the piercing sound of police sirens blazing outside the mansion, the shrill wail piercing through the darkness like a scream. She springs off the bed, her heart racing like a jackrabbit on steroids, and snatches her phone to check the time with trembling hands. … Read more
THE RISE OF TUMELO CHAPTER 21 NTHABISENG As I nervously step out of the Uber, the crunch of gravel beneath my feet echoes my racing heart. I hoist my luggage and make my way towards the imposing gate, a mix of anxiety and determination swirling in my stomach. The fading sunlight casts long shadows, making … Read more
THE RISE OF TUMELO CHAPTER 20 Tumelo sits on the highchair, his eyes fixed on Itu as she sets a steaming plate of breakfast in front of him. The aroma of scrambled eggs and toast fills the air, but he’s not hungry. He’s been off since morning, trying to keep his emotions in check, but … Read more