Divine and I were sitting in our spacious living room, snuggled up together, watching movies and enjoying some snacks and wine. But I could sense that something was off with Ronald. Physically, he was right beside me, but mentally, he seemed distant, lost in his own thoughts. It was clear that he was preoccupied with something.
I couldn't help but notice the unease in his eyes. We had always been open and honest with each other, so I could tell when he was hiding something. The air felt heavy with unspoken words, and it was starting to affect the atmosphere between us. I knew that whatever was bothering him, it was important for our relationship that he shared it with me.
As I rested my head on his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, I knew it was time for him to speak up. I wanted to be his wife, to share a future with him, but that required complete trust and transparency. I couldn't bear the thought of building our marriage on a foundation of secrets.
Ronald needed to confront his past with Tola before we could fully move forward. I understood the complexities and emotions tied to his previous relationship, especially now that he revealed they had children together. It was a heavy burden for him to carry, and I could see the pain in his eyes as he grappled with how to reveal this truth to me.
But I wanted him to know that I was there for him, ready to listen and support him through it all. I knew it wouldn't be easy, and I might feel hurt or betrayed initially, but keeping such a significant secret from me would only breed more resentment and distance between us.
I wanted Ronald to understand that I valued our relationship above all else. I didn't want him to fear my reaction or worry that I would feel abandoned again. I wanted us to face this together, as a team. The strength of our love could withstand the challenges and obstacles that lay before us.
So, as we sat there in silence, I gently lifted my head from his chest, looking into his eyes with a mix of concern and love. I softly spoke, "Ronald, my love, I sense that something is bothering you. Please know that I'm here for you, and I want us to be completely honest with each other. Whatever it is, we'll face it together. Trust in our love, and let's find a way forward, no matter how difficult it may seem."
I hoped my words would encourage him to open up, to share his fears and concerns, and ultimately, to find a resolution that would strengthen our bond rather than tear us apart.
*****
Ronald and I were sitting in our spacious living room, wrapped in each other's arms, enjoying a cozy movie night with snacks and wine. But despite the physical closeness, I could sense that something was amiss. Ronald's distant expression and lack of engagement made it clear that his mind was elsewhere. It worried me deeply because we had always prided ourselves on our open and honest communication.
As I laid my head on his chest, seeking comfort and closeness, I decided to address the elephant in the room. I couldn't ignore the fact that Ronald seemed preoccupied and distant, even though we were supposed to be enjoying our time together.
"Babe, is everything okay?" I asked, searching his eyes for answers.
His sudden shift in attention startled me as he snapped out of his thoughts. I couldn't help but notice his shocked reaction to my words.
"Wait, did I hear you correctly? What did you just say?" he asked, clearly taken aback.
I couldn't help but feel frustrated at his lack of response to my earlier discussions about our future. It seemed that only when I mentioned being pregnant did he truly pay attention. I wanted the truth from him, no matter how difficult it might be to hear.
"Ronnie," I said, my voice tinged with disappointment, "I've been talking about our future and expressing my feelings, but it feels like you haven't been fully present. I need you to be honest with me. What is going on with you?"
He apologized, acknowledging that he had a lot on his mind. I appreciated his honesty, but I also wanted him to understand the importance of open communication in our relationship.
"It's alright, I understand that you're going through something," I reassured him, sitting up and giving him my full attention.
I then decided to share my concerns with him. I mentioned my awareness of the tension between him and Tola, as well as the presence of another person who seemed to be pursuing him. I wanted him to realize that I knew more than he thought, and it was time for him to come clean about everything.
"Ronald, I'm giving you two minutes to tell me the truth," I firmly stated, my emotions welling up. "If you lie to me or keep things from me, I will walk out that door and never come back."
He began to explain that he was involved in some dangerous activities as part of a group of 25 individuals. He confessed to doing things that I wouldn't approve of, and that someone had been targeting him.
But before he could finish, I interrupted him, wanting to know what had happened to the chef and feeling a wave of sadness wash over me.
"What did you do to the chef?" I asked, tears streaming down my face.
His words became muddled as I raised my hand, signaling him to stop. The pain in my heart was unbearable. I had spent years searching for my father, only to discover that the man I loved was his enemy.
"All this time we've spent together, you've been hiding the truth from me," I said, my voice trembling with anguish. "Did you ever truly love me, or was I just a means to an end, a pawn in your plan to get to my father?"
As Ronald looked at me, unable to find the right words, I already knew the answer deep down.
"I don't need to hear any more," I declared, my voice quivering with hurt. I swiftly made my way upstairs, pulling my clothes from the walk-in closet and throwing them onto the floor.
Ronald followed me, pleading for me to listen, professing his love. But I couldn't bear it any longer. The foundation of trust we had built had crumbled, and it was time
for me to walk away.
"If you truly loved me, you would have been honest from the start," I said, tears streaming down my face. "I need some time alone. Please, don't follow me or try to find me. And stop claiming ownership over me. You don't control me."
I packed my bags, my vulnerability on full display, and struggled to gather my belongings. The house staff watched, concerned for my well-being. Musa, one of the employees, offered his assistance, understanding the pain I was going through.
"Thank you, Musa," I whispered, my voice barely audible.
He insisted on driving me to one of his hotels, providing a safe space for me to contemplate my next steps. I silently nodded, appreciating his concern and not wanting to discuss Ronald any further.
Musa informed Ronald of our decision, emphasizing that I needed time and space to process everything. With a heavy heart, I left the house, leaving behind the shattered remains of a relationship that once held so much promise.
As I entered our rented house, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the room. Ronald was seated on the couch, engrossed in a book, his presence a comforting anchor in the tranquil space.I couldn't contain my excitement as I approached him, a smile tugging at the corners of my lips. "Ron, you won't believe the incredible morning I had!"He looked up, his eyes meeting mine with curiosity. "Tell me all about it," he said, bookmarking his page and setting the book aside.Settling onto the couch beside him, I launched into the tale of my encounter with Neo—the shared connection, the laughter, the TikTok videos, and the heartfelt conversations that flowed effortlessly between us.Ron listened attentively, his expression a mix of interest and concern. "It sounds like you had a wonderful time," he remarked, a hint of a smile on his lips."Oh, it was more than wonderful," I gushed, remembering our morning filling me with joy. "Neo is amazing, Ron. We connected on many
**Time Gap: Several Years Later** The African savanna stretched before me, a vast and untamed tapestry of nature's beauty. The sun's warm embrace painted the landscape in hues of gold and amber, while the gentle breeze carried with it the symphony of nature's melodies—the rustling leaves, the distant calls of wildlife, and the soft murmur of a nearby stream. Seated on a blanket spread atop the earthy ground, I watched with a contented smile as our children explored the wilderness. Their excitement was palpable, infectious as they ventured into the unknown with the curiosity and wonder that only the African landscape could ignite. Our daughter's laughter filled the air as she playfully chased after a mischievous monkey, her eyes alight with youthful joy. Our son's voice joined the chorus as he pointed out the elephants bathing in a nearby watering hole, his face illuminated by the awe of discovery. A short distance away, Ronald worked with skilled efficiency at the grill, the aroma o
The aftermath of the confrontation with Uncle Ben weighs heavily on my mind. The tension in the air is palpable as Ronald, and I sit in our dimly lit living room, surrounded by the comfort of our home. Our children play nearby, blissfully unaware of the storm in our hearts.Ronald's face is a mask of determination, but I can see the flicker of doubt in his eyes. I know he's wrestling with the consequences of the heist, just as I am. We had thought we were invincible, that no one could touch us, but Uncle Ben's actions have shaken that belief."What are we going to do, Ronald?" I ask, my voice trembling with uncertainty. "We can't go on like this. Uncle Ben won't rest until he's taken revenge."Ronald sighs, running a hand through his dark hair. "I know, Dee. I know we've stirred up a hornet's nest, and we must be careful."As I watch our children play, my heart aches with worry. They are so young and innocent, and I fear our actions have put them in danger. We had thought we were prot
Uncle Ben's Point of ViewThe sun rises on a new day, but all I see is red. Anger consumes me as I wake up to the shocking discovery of the heist. My prized machinery, the very heart of my power within the mafia, is gone, replaced by a haunting note that warns of consequences. Ronald and Dee, once friends I thought I could trust, have crossed a line they can't come back from.As I read the words on the note repeatedly, my anger intensifies. "This is a reminder of the consequences of crossing Ronald." They've dared to challenge and humiliate me and will pay dearly for their treachery. The rage inside me threatens to explode like a volcano, but I must control it. I can't let my emotions cloud my judgment; I must plan this carefully.Strategic planning has become my sole focus. I know a confrontation with Ronald might be dangerous, and I can't afford to be reckless. I need to strike when he least expects it when he feels safe and secure.Gathering allies is my first step. I reach out to
The sun rises on a new day, casting a golden hue over the cityscape. As I step into the morning light, my mind races with the events of last night's party. The thrills of the celebration and the tension of Uncle Ben's unexpected appearance still linger in the air, and I can feel a storm brewing.I know I can't let Uncle Ben's intrusion go unpunished. My reputation in the mafia is at stake, and I can't afford to show weakness. I need to teach him a lesson he will never forget, something that will remind him of the consequences of crossing me.But as the excitement of the heist plans takes hold, I can't help but feel a tinge of unease. Dee senses my inner turmoil and places a comforting hand on my shoulder. "Ronald," she says softly, her voice steady, "I understand why we need to do this, but let's not lose sight of who we are. We're better than resorting to this kind of violence."Her words resonate with me, and doubt creeps into my mind for a moment. But I push it aside, reminding mys
The sun dipped below the horizon, glowing warmly over the vibrant decorations adorning the house. Guests began arriving at the much-anticipated South African heritage party, their eyes immediately drawn to the captivating tapestries and paintings that adorned the walls. Laughter and chatter filled the air as old friends reunited and new connections were forged. As the guests entered the kitchen, they were greeted by the enticing aromas that danced in the air. Ronald, beaming with pride, served platters of boerewors, marinated chicken, and tender lamb chops, each dish infused with the rich flavours of South African spices and cooking techniques. The guests couldn't help but marvel at the colourful array of dishes, engaging in enthusiastic discussions about their favourites and the unique tastes that defined South African cuisine. As everyone settled down at the beautifully arranged table, their eyes lingered on the African-inspired centrepieces and the traditional woven baskets fille