SHATTERED DREAMS

CHAPTER THIRTY-NINE

The drive up to the Khumalo mansion felt longer than usual, though I knew it was my own nerves stretching time. I kept replaying different scenarios in my mind—how I would explain this whole situation to my parents, how I would ask the questions burning in my chest. The truth about this supposed twin brother had shaken me to the core, and I wasn’t sure how to even begin the conversation.

Hlelo sat quietly beside me, Phiwo sleeping peacefully in her arms. I knew bringing them along had been a big decision, especially with Phiwokuhle being so little. My parents and Sthandile would probably question why we brought her, but leaving my family behind wasn’t an option. I needed their presence, their comfort.

“Mkami, everything will be fine,” Hlelo whispered, as though sensing my thoughts. Her hand gently squeezed mine, and for a brief moment, I felt a sliver of peace.

“I hope so, sthandwa sami,” I replied, giving her a small smile, though my stomach was still in knots.

As we approached the mansion gates, the familiar sight of home came into view—the sprawling gardens, the grand entrance, everything immaculate as always. But today, it felt different. Today, I wasn’t just the successful businessman coming home to visit. I was a man carrying a secret, a mystery that needed unraveling.

The gates opened, and the car slowly rolled up the long driveway. My heart was racing now. How was I going to bring this up? What if my parents didn’t know anything about this twin? What if they did?

We finally arrived, and I spotted my parents and Sthandile standing outside, waiting for us. Their faces lit up with surprise when they saw us step out of the car.

“Sbani! What are you doing here? And you brought Phiwo? She’s still so little to be traveling!” my mother exclaimed, rushing over to greet us. Her concern was evident, but so was the joy in her eyes.

“We had to come, Ma. There’s something important we need to discuss,” I replied, kissing her cheek.

My father stood nearby, watching us closely, while Sthandile bounced over with excitement. “Look at my niece! She’s grown so much already!” she cooed, taking Phiwo from Hlelo’s arms with ease.

I could feel the weight of my father’s gaze on me, knowing he was already picking up on the tension. He wasn’t one for idle chatter, and I could tell he sensed that this wasn’t just a casual family visit.

Once we were all inside, the warmth of the Khumalo mansion wrapped around us. It felt good to be home, but the unease in my chest hadn’t gone away. We gathered in the living room, and I noticed how relaxed everyone was, as if we weren’t on the brink of a serious conversation. My parents were overjoyed to see Phiwo, and my mother was already doting on her granddaughter.

The evening was nice—too nice, almost. Everyone was happy, laughing, and sharing stories, but I couldn’t shake the heavy thoughts clouding my mind. How was I going to start this conversation?

At one point, my father caught my eye, his brow furrowing slightly. He knew something was up, and I could see he was waiting for me to speak.

I cleared my throat, my voice feeling heavier than usual. “Baba, Ma, there’s something important I need to talk to you both about.”

Their attention immediately shifted, the lightheartedness of the evening dimming just slightly. “What is it, Mbulazi?” my mother asked, her tone shifting to one of concern.

I glanced at Hlelo, who gave me an encouraging nod. This was it. I had to face whatever truth was waiting for me here, but I didn’t know if I was ready.