Chapter 4

At Madelyn’s Homestead

Today was a big day — the lobola ceremony for Matilda was finally happening. Joy and celebration filled the Madelyn household. The yard buzzed with singing, laughter, and praises for the cattle that stood proudly in the kraal.

Matilda, dressed in a stunning white traditional dress, looked like a bride straight out of a fairytale. But behind her glowing appearance, she was hollow. Her heart wasn’t in it. There was no joy in her eyes — only quiet surrender. She had no choice. Her father had made up his mind long ago, and Madelyn was not a man anyone dared to oppose.

Inside, she had been helped into her wedding attire by Heizel and Aiza, while Amala remained locked in another room under strict orders from Madelyn.

The negotiations concluded successfully, and the final blessing was pronounced in Madelyn’s name — though Reign, the groom, was still away due to work. He had promised to return by the weekend to officially take his bride, Matilda.

Guest (cheerfully):

“Madelyn, this is a beautiful story for your family! And your cattle — truly impressive. We have no complaints!”

Madelyn (smiling with pride):

“I’m pleased to hear that, my friend. I’m just as happy. You’ve brought fine cattle. This is far beyond what I expected.”

Once the ceremony ended, Madelyn pulled Matilda aside for a final word.

Madelyn (cold and final):

“You’re no longer part of this household, Matilda. You don’t belong here anymore. Don’t ever come back thinking you still have a place. From this day forward, your home is with your husband. Do you understand?”

Matilda didn’t answer. Her gaze dropped to the ground. Tears threatened to spill, but she held them back. All she could think about was Amala, trapped in that room, denied even the dignity of saying goodbye.

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At the Powell Household

By the time Matilda arrived at the Powell home — her new home — the family was already waiting for her. Reign hadn’t arrived yet, delayed by work, but the warmth of the welcome she received from his relatives surprised her. There was laughter and affection, and a genuine feeling of unity. She was even given a new name: Luna

She was led into a quiet bedroom where she sat alone, soaking in the newness of everything around her. As she was wiping away silent tears, she heard footsteps approaching. A knock on the door followed.

Matilda (sniffing, quietly):

“Come in…”

Alise (a young relative, softly):

“Sister… are you okay?”

Matilda nodded, forcing a weak smile.

Alise:

“Brother Reign says he can’t get through to your phone, so he asked me to bring you this.”

Asakhe handed her a phone and stepped out.

Matilda stared at the device as it rang in her hand. She finally picked it up.

Reign (on the call):

“Baby…”

Silence from Matilda.

Reign:

“I’m sorry for being absent, my love. Work’s been overwhelming. And your phone’s been off — I was starting to worry. I just wanted to say—”

Matilda ended the call before he could finish. Her throat was tight. Her eyes welled up again.

All she could hear were her father’s words echoing in her head:

“You’ve left now, Matilda. You no longer have a place here. Your home is with the Powell family.”

She sobbed quietly, but no one could hear her. No one knew what this truly felt like.

As her chest heaved with suppressed pain, she noticed a large photo frame on the wall. It was of Amala and Reign — smiling, laughing, full of love. It was undeniable. The bond between them had been real.

Matilda approached the photo, reaching out to gently touch her sister’s image.

Matilda (through clenched teeth):

“I hate you, Father…”

She sank to the floor, holding the frame tightly to her chest.

Matilda (whispering):

“Sister… how are you wherever you are?”

Still clutching the photo, she crawled onto the bed and curled up with it, eventually drifting into a restless sleep.

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