Chapter 5

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UNKNOWN LOCATION

“Thank you for keeping your promise. You’re a man among men,” the stranger said with a booming voice, smacking a wad of money on the table in front of him. He had already counted it.

“As long as you keep fulfilling your promises,” he continued, “we’ll get along just fine. Otherwise… I may have to reconsider our arrangement, Madelyn.”

Madelyn (calm but cold):

“I will pay your money, Hlanganyani. But even if I don’t — don’t you ever dare come for my family. You deal with me.”

Hlanganyani (with a sly grin):

“Why are you getting worked up, my friend? I’m just after someone who can make me rich.”

Madelyn (disgusted):

“You’re drunk.”

Hlanganyani just laughed. His laughter, loud and mocking, scraped at Madelyn’s patience like broken glass. It was infuriating.

What was worse, Madelyn couldn’t even use a single cent from Matilda’s bride price. All of it had to go toward settling debts like this one. That reality gnawed at his pride. Without another word, he turned and left, abandoning the man and his smugness.

Still… a dark relief settled in Madelyn’s chest. Once he paid off Hlanganyani, he would be free — no more threats, no more dirty deeds. The man had become a poison in his life.

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Back at Home

When Madelyn got home, he found Heizel and Amala there. Amala got up and stormed out the moment he entered.

Heizel (disappointed):

“You see what you’ve done? You’ve broken that child. She resents you now.”

Madelyn (sighing):

“She’ll be fine, Heizel. She’s just shaken. Give her time.”

He sat down heavily, pressing a hand to his stomach.

Heizel (shaking her head):

“This house is falling apart, Madelyn. It’s crumbling right in front of us.”

Madelyn (with sarcasm):

“Is that so? So now it’s my fault because the money’s gone?”

Heizel:

“Don’t twist my words. I’m saying the foundation is cracked. It could collapse any day now.”

Madelyn (smirking):

“Is that the law according to Heizel now? That this house must collapse just because you say so?”

Heizel (firmly):

“Mthunzi… was that money really meant to pay off debts?”

Madelyn:

“If this house dies, so be it.”

Heizel (pleading):

“Madelyn , I’m trying to make you see reason. Look at this place — can’t you see it’s rotting?”

Madelyn (standing up):

“You want to talk law? Let me make something clear — this is my house. You’re no longer the woman of this home. I will not be told what to do by someone who isn’t even family anymore. This is mine now.”

Heizel (softly):

“Fine. I’ll be quiet.”

Madelyn (coldly):

“You should be. You people add stress where there’s already too much.”

He paused, then added with bitter irony,

“And now that the lobola is done, everyone’s asking about your side of the deal.”

He left her standing there, not waiting for an answer. She didn’t respond — she knew her brother too well. There was no use in arguing.

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At the Powell Household

It was the end of the week, and Reign was finally coming back. The Powell home buzzed with excitement. His family was eager to welcome him — and Matilda’s arrival was still fresh, bringing new energy to the household.

But for Matilda, the days had been hard. She hadn’t known peace since she arrived. Her nights ended in tears, and her mornings began with more of the same. Her heart felt like a stone inside her chest.

The Powell family was seated around the dining table, food already laid out and waiting.

The household was wealthy — comfort and abundance flowed freely.

Mama Powell:

“Where’s Alise? She’s late again. Aiza, go call her. Tell her the food is ready.”

Adella (rolling her eyes):

“Honestly, that woman. It’s only been a few days and she’s already showing her true colors. She’ll forget she’s a guest soon.”

Mama Powell (sharply):

“Silence, Adella. That’s your sister-in-law you’re speaking about. And if anyone here has no manners, it’s you. Don’t act like you’re better than everyone.”

Adella didn’t respond, but her face was tight with resentment. She hated being scolded — especially in front of others.

Just then, Alise and Matilda entered the room together.

They quietly took their seats at the table.

Mama Powell (gently):

“Are you alright, Matilda ?”

Matilda (forcing a smile):

“Yes, Mama.”

But even as she answered, it was clear something was wrong. Her smile was strained. Her eyes told a different story. Everyone at the table could see it — she wasn’t okay. But no one wanted to be the first to say it.

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