His Helper

27

The Saturday morning after Anele returned from the mountain, I decided to cook meaty bones with dumplings for everyone. Fortunately, I had risen early to cook outdoors using a fire. I was surprised to find some people still awake, engaged in conversation. One lady kindly offered to assist me with the cooking, and the collaboration proved beneficial as we both had substantial pots to prepare. My nephews were still getting a bath when Unathi went to serve food for the kids. As most people woke up and got outside, I took the opportunity to quickly clean up while waiting for the food to get ready.

Unathi took charge of making breakfast for the kids. Akhanani and Nelisa were already awake, joining us in the shade. Nelisa inquired about his brother, despite knowing he was away. He wanted to know more, and all I could say was, "Wait for your dad; he will tell you."

As the day progressed, many family members departed, with my sisters planning to leave the following day. We gathered in the kitchen, engaging in conversation while jointly preparing supper.

Sandra was making fun of the lady who gave me attitude the night before. She heard that I "snatched" my husband out of her claws and was surprised. When we asked how she knew, we were all shocked to learn that it was my mother-in-law who told her.

I suggested that we avoid that talk because I didn't want any drama. With Nomphelo still around, I didn't feel like discussing it. I wasn't sure what she was planning, but it was evident she didn't like the fact that I was married to her cousin.

Earlier that morning, she wanted to cook for Umkhwetha, and I didn't let her. When she pretended not to hear me, with a firm voice, I said, "Nomphelo, Sisi, I am responsible for cooking the meals for my son." I had had enough, and even though I wasn't harsh, I made it clear I was not in the mood for her and that I was just fed up.

If she truly wanted to help, she would have joined us in cooking for the guests. It was surprising that she sat and watched the community ladies do everything during the busy days. Even when I helped, she commented on it. I decided to avoid confrontation because I wanted to stay true to my values. As the saying goes, "Being humble comes from having respect for the Lord." While fasting, I aimed to avoid anything that might push me out of character. People may misconstrue humility, but we have our limits.

After Umkhwetha's supper, the night draped the village in slumber. I retreated to my bedroom around seven, aiming to conclude my fasting. Anele lingered in the rondavel with his parents, and other guests, while my sisters, Sandra, and some kids shared in the festivities. Most of the crowd dispersed late into the evening.

Amidst prayers and the Word of God, a call interrupted the quiet. Aunt Aubrey's voice echoed, initially making me fear an urgent matter. Instead, she updated me on the language app's inquiry—contacted due to my job application as I had listed her as a reference. Aunt Aubrey expressed concern, fearing I might leave the bakery for a full-time position. Seated on the floor, my Bible, journal, and pen at hand, I reassured her of my situation, explaining the need for extra income and my plan to work online part-time.

Unbeknownst to me, Anele had quietly entered the room and sat on the sofa. The realization hit me only after concluding the call with Aunt Aubrey. The shock of my husband overhearing the conversation left me feeling exposed, pondering the unforeseen consequences of my words.

The sofa stood adjacent to the bed, and it became apparent that Anele had quietly entered while I was immersed in prayer. His shoes and socks hinted that he intended to take a bath before bed.

Approaching him cautiously, I noticed anger in his eyes. My explanations seemed to hang in the air, as I hadn't discussed financial matters with him before. Despite expressing my intention to contribute to household expenses, Anele took charge of major financial responsibilities, insisting I could focus on groceries and other household items.

Attempting to justify my actions, I stammered, "I was going to tell you. I didn't want to bother you; I need to be able to do other things without asking you for money." Anele, holding his phone, signaled his full attention. His response was assertive, "Have you ever asked me for assistance? I know you are using your savings on household items, and I've been quiet, but it ends now."

Protesting, I shook my head, but he continued, "You refused to listen when I wanted us to discuss this before, and now we are doing it." The conversation delved into every aspect, with Anele working on his laptop and using Excel to crunch numbers. Ultimately, he reassured me that I didn't need to contribute unless I could afford it. Despite my insistence on independence, he affirmed that he was more than willing to take on the financial responsibilities. Anele's understanding stance softened my reluctance, and we laid everything on the table, with my dream of extending the business.

Anele extended his support, offering another debit card, but I declined. I wanted to carve out my path for the dream, just as I had with the bakery. Determined to build something substantial before involving him, I embraced the journey and decided to knock on doors that could open pathways for my dream. Knowing the importance of perseverance, I didn't want to overwhelm myself, especially with the responsibilities at the bakery.

Anele assured me of his unwavering support and urged me not to let stress take a toll. He prompted, "If it becomes too much, prioritize what's essential." Before concluding, he asked, "Do you love this online teaching?" I responded, "I'm giving it a try, and I also want to gain experience in case I decide to pursue teaching full-time one day." Understanding my passion for education, he nodded, realizing my aspirations to support book clubs in rural areas by providing access to storytelling books for every child.

As we settled into bed after our respective baths, Anele and I shared our ideas and plans for the future. Like any other married couple, communication was our key to resolving challenges. I prayed that we would continue this open dialogue. Anele discussed his vision of securing a larger space in six months, anticipating growth with new employees and potential partnerships from old associates. I was ready to support him in this venture, grateful for the time ahead. While thinking about the upcoming changes, I resolved to focus on my own goals at the beginning of the year, even though I had already started planning and sending out emails.

It was evident that my mother-in-law appreciated the way I handled Pheliswa. The fact that Pheliswa didn't even bother to show up, and the fact that she wasn't around for the kids amused her. I recalled Liyema's lack of interest in her, even when the others greeted her. Akhanani recognized her and exchanged greetings, but Nelisa seemed to have no recollection, perhaps due to not remembering her from his younger years.