FORBIDDEN TIES

4.

Keeya Modise

This morning, I woke up with a joy I haven’t felt in years. The feeling started in my chest, a slow burn of excitement that grew with every passing second. Today isn’t just any day—today, I’m getting Enzokuhle discharged and signing the adoption papers to make her officially mine.

I spring out of bed, excited for what’s ahead. After my usual morning routine, I step into the shower, letting the warm water wash away any lingering doubts or fears. This is happening. After everything Enzo has been through, today marks the start of something beautiful—a new life for both of us.

Once I’m out, I quickly dry myself off and head to my wardrobe. Today, I want to look my best. Not just for the formalities at the hospital, but for Enzo. I choose a long-sleeved black bodycon dress that hugs me in all the right places. It's simple, but elegant, and perfect for the occasion. I pair it with my favorite pair of Air Force One kicks, a little touch of casual to balance out the formalities of the day. I’m ready.

By the time I get to Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, I’m practically buzzing with excitement. I walk through the familiar halls, smiling at the nurses and doctors who have become like family. Many of them stop to congratulate me, their faces lighting up when they hear the news. I can’t stop grinning—it’s as if the whole world is in sync with my happiness.

When I finally reach Enzo’s room, she’s sitting up in bed, looking much healthier than she did just a week ago. Her cheeks are fuller, her skin has a warm glow, and her eyes are brighter than ever. It’s hard to believe that just days ago, she was a pale, fragile shell of herself.

“Morning, my little sunshine,” I say, scooping her up into my arms.

Enzo giggles, her tiny hands reaching up to touch my face. Her laugh is infectious, and I find myself laughing along with her.

“Are you ready to go home, baby girl?” I ask her softly, even though I know she doesn’t fully understand the gravity of the situation.

She babbles something incoherent but nods her head anyway, her tiny face lighting up with excitement. My heart swells with love for this little girl who has already become such an important part of my life.

The paperwork takes longer than I expected, but I don’t mind. I sit with Enzo in my lap, signing document after document while the social worker goes over the final details of the adoption process. The moment I sign the last form, making Enzokuhle legally mine, I feel a surge of emotion I didn’t expect. Tears prick at the corners of my eyes, but I blink them away quickly.

“Congratulations, Keeya,” the social worker says with a warm smile. “You’re officially a mother now.”

Those words hit me like a ton of bricks. I’m a mother. Enzo is my daughter. It feels surreal, like a dream, but it’s real. I hug Enzo tightly, kissing the top of her head as I thank the social worker and say my goodbyes.

The drive home is peaceful. Enzo is strapped securely in her car seat, her eyes wide as she takes in the world outside the window. I can’t help but steal glances at her through the rearview mirror, marveling at how much has changed in such a short time. This is the start of something beautiful, and I’m determined to give her the life she deserves.

When we arrive home, Sibusisiwe is already waiting for us at the front door. Her face lights up when she sees us pull into the driveway. She rushes over to the car, practically bouncing with excitement.

“Welcome home, Enzokuhle!” she exclaims as she helps me unbuckle Enzo from her car seat.

Sibusisiwe takes her into her arms, holding her close as if she’s already part of the family. Which, in a way, she is. I smile at the sight of the two of them together, knowing that Enzo will be surrounded by so much love and care.

“I’ll bring in her things,” I say, grabbing the small suitcase and a few bags from the trunk.

The house feels different now. Warmer. More alive. Sibusisiwe takes Enzo inside, showing her the room we’ve prepared for her—bright, airy, filled with toys and stuffed animals. The joy on Enzo’s face is enough to make my heart melt.

After settling Enzo into her new home, I decide it’s time to head to the mall to pick up some essentials. I drop Enzo and Sibusisiwe off at home, making sure they have everything they need before heading out.

At Midrand Mall, I make my way through the aisles, carefully picking out the best baby foods and bath essentials. Enzo deserves the best, and I’m determined to give it to her. I pick up a few extra toys as well, because who can resist spoiling their baby girl?

After that, I stop at Woolworths to buy her some new clothes. I fill the cart with dresses, onesies, and little shoes that make my heart flutter. Each item I pick out feels like another step in this journey, a journey of love and motherhood.

By the time I’m done, my arms are full, and my wallet is a little lighter, but I couldn’t be happier. I decide to treat myself to a late lunch before heading home. Spur is calling my name, and after the day I’ve had, I deserve a good meal.

As I sit down and order my usual—steak and chips with a side of salad—I let out a contented sigh. The past week has been overwhelming, but in the best way possible. I think about Enzo, about how much my life has changed in such a short time. I’m no longer just Keeya Modise, pediatrician. I’m now Keeya Modise, mother. And that title feels better than I ever imagined.

As I’m halfway through my meal, I notice a tall figure approaching my table. I glance up and meet the gaze of a man—a very handsome man. He’s tall, dark-skinned, with broad shoulders and an easy smile that seems to light up his whole face. He looks about my age, maybe a few years older, and there’s a confidence about him that immediately catches my attention.

“Hi,” he says, his voice deep and smooth. “Mind if I join you for a moment?”

I’m caught off guard, but I nod, gesturing for him to take a seat across from me.

“I’m Mlungisi Khuzwayo,” he introduces himself with a smile. “I couldn’t help but notice you sitting here. You looked like you could use some company.”

I smile, feeling a bit flustered. “I’m Keeya Modise. Nice to meet you.”

He gives me a curious look. “Modise? As in Modise Giving Hands?”

I blink in surprise. “You know the orphanage?”

“I do,” he says, leaning back in his chair. “I actually do a bit of work with them through my company. Khuzwayo Logistics. We’ve donated supplies a few times.”

I feel a surge of warmth at the mention of my childhood home. “That’s amazing. Modise Giving Hands is like family to me. I grew up there.”

Mlungisi’s eyes widen in surprise. “No way. That’s incredible.”

We talk for a while, the conversation flowing easily as if we’ve known each other for years. He tells me about his business, Khuzwayo Logistics, and how he’s been working to expand the company over the past few years. He’s 32, just a few years older than me, and his passion for his work is infectious.

Before long, our conversation drifts to more personal topics. I tell him about Enzokuhle, about how I’ve just adopted her, and how much my life has changed. He listens intently, his dark eyes softening as I speak.

“That’s amazing, Keeya,” he says after a moment. “You’re doing something really special.”

I smile, feeling a blush rise to my cheeks. “Thank you. It feels right. Like this was always meant to be.”

As the conversation comes to a natural end, Mlungisi glances at his watch and stands up. “I’d love to keep talking, but I have a meeting to get to. Can I get your number? Maybe we can grab coffee sometime.”

I hesitate for a moment, but then I nod, pulling out my phone to exchange numbers. There’s something about him that feels genuine, and I find myself wanting to know more about him.

“Take care, Keeya,” he says with a smile before he leaves. “I’ll be in touch.”

As I watch him walk away, I can’t help but feel like this day just keeps getting better. I’ve officially become a mother, and now I’ve met someone who seems genuinely interested in getting to know me.

Life is changing in the most unexpected ways, but I’m ready for whatever comes next.