SHATTERED DREAMS

CHAPTER FOUR

The sun shone brightly on the glass door of our estate , its rays piercing through the canopy of oak trees that lined the main road. I, Hlelolwenkosi, found myself seated in the back of a sleek black car, my eyes fixed on the passing scenery as we glided through the bustling streets. By my side, my assigned bodyguard, a tall and stoic man named Mthandeni, sat silently, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a watchful gaze.

"Where are we going today, Miss Hlelolwenkosi?" Mthandeni's deep voice broke the silence, his tone professional yet kind.

"I... I'm not sure," I replied, my voice laced with uncertainty. "I thought I'd just... walk around. See the town. It's been a while since I've had the chance to explore." I felt a pang of sadness as I spoke. This wasn't the life I had envisioned for myself.

Mthandeni nodded, his expression unreadable. "As you wish, Miss. I'll ensure your safety wherever we go."

I managed a small smile, grateful for his presence, even if it reminded me of my current predicament. Ever since the unexpected visit from Sbanisethu's family, my life had become a whirlwind of confusion and obligation. And now, being escorted around town like some sort of royalty was not helping my desire to blend in.

As we drove through the town square, I noticed the curious stares of the locals. Some whispered and pointed in my direction, their eyes filled with a mixture of awe and judgment. I sank deeper into my seat, wishing I could disappear.

"Don't mind them, Miss," Mthandeni said, sensing my discomfort. "They're just curious. You're not used to this attention, I presume?"

"No, not at all," I muttered. "I've always preferred to keep a low profile. But ever since I moved in with Sbanisethu, my life has been anything but private." I sighed, my mind drifting to the events of the previous evening.

"If you don't mind my asking, Miss, how are you holding up after your family's visit?" Mthandeni's question was gentle, as if he understood the weight of the situation.

"It's... a lot to process," I admitted. "His mother... she wants us to have a child. Can you believe it? I've barely had time to adjust to this new life, and now they're talking about heirs and family legacies." My voice cracked as I spoke, the emotions of the past few days bubbling to the surface.

Mthandeni remained silent, allowing me the space to gather my thoughts. I appreciated his respect for my privacy, even though I knew he was there to protect me.

"I just want to be free, Mthandeni," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "I never asked for any of this. I was happy with my life before. I had my studies, my friends, and my freedom. Now, I'm trapped in a world of expectations and traditions that I don't understand."

"I understand, Miss Hlelolwenkosi," he said, his voice carrying a hint of empathy. "It's a heavy burden to bear. But know that I'm here to support you, to ensure your safety and well-being."

His words offered a small measure of comfort, but my mind was already racing ahead to the evening's events.

As the car pulled up to a quaint café, I stepped out, the warm breeze caressing my face. Mthandeni followed closely, his eyes scanning the area for any potential threats.

"Thank you, Mthandeni," I said, feeling a surge of gratitude. "I'd like to sit here for a while, if that's alright. I could use some fresh air and a moment to myself."

"Of course, Miss. I'll be right over there, keeping an eye on things." He gestured to a nearby bench and took up a position, his keen eyes never resting.

I made my way to a table on the patio, the sound of laughter and clinking glasses filling the air. The café was bustling with patrons, each engrossed in their own conversations. I took a seat, feeling a sense of anonymity amidst the crowd.