"The past is like smoke...
It always finds a way to rise —
No matter how hard you try to hide the fire."
Hi guys, it's me again — Thandeka Zulu.
Well… soon to be Thandeka Ngcobo, if things keep heading the way they are.
Last time we spoke, I was in a car heading to Jozi — riding shotgun with Zakhele Ngcobo, the man
I thought I could trust, the man I thought I knew. Turns out, he's not just some self-made township
hustler. No — his family? One of the most powerful criminal clans in the city. The Ngcobos don't
just run Jozi… they own it.
I lied to my parents. I disappeared. I dragged my cousin Zizipho into my mess.
And now? She's fallen for her own knight in shining Benz — Steve Xulu.
Yep. That Xulu.
Everything was going according to plan… until it wasn't.
My father — Bab'Zulu — found out I was no longer in Cape Town.
My plan was airtight, full-proof, impossible to trace.
So how did he find me?
Someone hijacked my play.
Someone talked.
But that's not even what haunts me.
What really keeps me up at night is what he's trying to hide.
You see — my father has secrets.
Dark ones.
Secrets tied to my late brother's death.
The same death he buried in silence.
The same day he was paid to keep quiet.
And who paid him?
The Xulus.
Yeah, let that sink in.
My father — the same man who raised me to believe in honor and family —
was working under the Xulus, one of the most dangerous families in Joburg.
And now, I've come to find out...
He also worked under the Ngcobos.
So what really happened that night my brother died?
Was it just an accident…
Or was it a message?
Yesterday, my suspicions were confirmed.
And now everything is pointing toward Bab'Ngcobo being more than just a shareholder in this
empire.
He's not sitting at the table.
He is the table.
But what scares me most…
Is not Bab'Ngcobo.
It's Zak.
The man I love.
The man who's been honest… supportive… protective.
Or so it seems.
Is Zak part of this?
Was he involved in my brother's death?
Or is he as blind as I was… trapped in a family he never chose?
I don't know.
But what I do know is this —
I need a new plan.
A clean one.
One that doesn't involve Zak.
Because if he's innocent, I won't destroy him.
And if he's guilty…
Then God help me.
Because I won't stop until the truth is mine.
Even if it means losing everything.
Scene 1–8: The Surprise
"Back to the real world...
This is it.
I choose the truth.
I choose my brother.
And no, Dad — I'm not coming back to Bellville."
Morning – The Ngcobo Mansion, Balcony
Thandeka (voiceover):
Early morning.
Soft Jozi breeze.
But my heart is racing — it's now or never.
She wakes up, stretches, and walks barefoot to the balcony, where she finds Zak gazing over the
estate with a thoughtful face.
Thandeka:
Hey babe...
What are you doing out here all alone?
Zakhele (distracted):
Just... thinking about everything that happened yesterday.
Thandeka:
What about it?
Zakhele:
Your dad.
Have you made your decision?
Thandeka:
("Oh... that again.")
Yeah.
I've made it.
And if I stand out here any longer with you asking deep questions, I'll be late for my interview.
Zakhele (hugging her, smiling):
I'm glad you chose to stay.
(But his face changes. A flicker of yesterday's conversation with Bab'Ngcobo plays in his head.)
Thandeka:
Yini?
You were just smiling… now it looks like you're trying to convince yourself.
Zakhele:
No, I am happy.
But anyway — after your interview, let me take you out.
Best restaurant in Jozi. Just you and me.
Thandeka:
Zak... I'm not here to be spoiled.
I'm here to make my own success — like I planned.
Zakhele (teasing):
Okay, Miss Independent.
Go get ready.
Oh — and there's a surprise waiting for you downstairs.
Thandeka (raising an eyebrow):
A surprise?
Hmm... Okay, mysterious man.
Thandeka's Room
Thandeka (inner voice):
Aii guys, I have a man here...
His voice alone can make a woman melt.
That chest? That build?
I'm in love. Shit.
No — focus.
Mission first.
Downstairs – At the Front Door
Zak heads toward the garage. Bab'Ngcobo calls from the hallway.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Zak.
Zakhele:
Yes, Tyma?
Bab'Ngcobo:
I hope yesterday's conversation knocked some sense into you.
Zakhele:
I'm sorry if I've disappointed you.
But no — I won't let you use Thandeka for your dirty work.
Bab'Ngcobo (angry):
What's gotten into you?
Were you bewitched?
Zakhele:
No, Baba.
I love her.
Deal with it.
(He walks out, leaving the door swinging behind him. Smanga walks in from the kitchen.)
Smanga:
Tyma...
You know he'll never agree, right?
Bab'Ngcobo:
He's just like his mother...
Stubborn. Always trying to do what's "right."
Smanga:
Maybe it's time we let go of this plan and look for another way.
We don't have to sacrifice her.
Bab'Ngcobo:
There is no other way!
She's the key.
Smanga:
Are you going soft on me?
Bab'Ngcobo:
I'm being strategic.
Where's your mother now, Smanga?
Six feet under.
Soul never at peace.
He pauses, voice darker.
Bab'Ngcobo:
And who is Thandeka, really?
What if she's her father's little spy?
Smanga:
You're overthinking, Tyma.
Just… breathe.
(Meanwhile, at the front door — Zizipho is quietly eavesdropping. Her eyes widen in fear... until
Zak suddenly appears behind her.)
Front Door – Zizipho & Zak
Zizipho (startled):
What the f— Zak! Don't sneak up like that!
Zakhele:
You're the one frozen at my door like a statue.
Aren't we supposed to be prepping a surprise?
Zizipho:
Yeah, yeah... I was just... thinking how to make it perfect.
Wait — how did you know?
Zakhele:
Don't ask. I won't lie.
Zizipho (nervously):
Okay... whatever. Let's do this.
(Thinking: "Did I just hear what I think I heard? What are they planning to do to Thandeka?")
Kitchen – Thandeka Grabs Her Bag
She walks to the kitchen, takes a water bottle from the fridge, and finds Smanga and Bab'Ngcobo
seated at the table.
Thandeka:
Sanibonani. Ninjani?
Bab'Ngcobo (warmly):
Siyaphila, ndodakazi.
How did you sleep?
Thandeka:
Very well, Baba.
Thank you for welcoming me into your home.
Bab'Ngcobo:
You love my son.
That's all that matters to us.
Thandeka:
He actually said the same thing.
Anyway — time to head out.
Smanga:
Hamba kahle, ntokazi.
Garage – Surprise Gone Wrong
Thandeka walks into the garage... and stops dead in her tracks.
Thandeka:
Oh my God...
No ways.
A brand-new BMW X3 G01 stands glistening in the driveway.
Zizipho:
Zak's idea — not mine.
Thandeka:
We literally spoke about this minutes ago...
Zakhele (proudly):
It's your dream car, right?
Thandeka (emotional, but composed):
Yes…
But no.
Zakhele (confused):
What?
Thandeka:
This car costs nearly R957,000.
You bought it like it's bubblegum.
That money could've bought a home… or paid lobola.
Not a car to make me smile.
I'll catch a cab.
Zakhele:
Thandeka, wait—!
Thandeka:
No, Zak.
No.
She walks off, leaving him stunned.
Zizipho About to Leave
Zakhele (cold):
What were you listening to at my door?
Zizipho (defensive):
Askies?
Zakhele:
Don't play.
I saw you eavesdropping.
What did you hear?
Zizipho:
Nothing.
Zakhele (stern):
If you know what's good for you — tell the truth.
Zizipho (walking away):
Like I said.
I heard nothing.
She walks off.
Zak stands in silence — disturbed, paranoid, and unsure who to trust anymore.
Scene 2-8: The Interview
"Now is the time I set my plan in motion.
Someone's trying to sabotage me.
Whoever it is — you better be ready.
Because I'm not knocking on the devil's gate...
I'm kicking it down."
In the Uber — En Route to Interview
Thandeka (internal):
Zak, Zak, Zak...
That car you bought me — it was tempting.
But if a woman wants to eat money from a rich man, she must eat it smart.
Make him build you a house.
Put it in your name.
Open an investment account.
Don't flash with no X3 unless it earns interest.
Uber Driver (pulls up):
We've arrived, ma'am.
Thandeka:
Thank you. You were wonderful.
As the Uber — a black BMW — pulls off, she stares at it, almost haunted.
Thandeka (internal):
That car model...
That was Sipho's favorite.
And the driver — quiet, alert. Just like he was.
Okay... Braamfontein Police Station.
Let's see what secrets you're hiding.
Braamfontein Police Station
Thandeka (approaching front desk):
Hi. My name's Thandeka Zulu.
I'm here to see Detective Mokoena.
Officer at Desk (cold):
Never heard of you.
You need an appointment to see Det. Mokoena.
Thandeka:
No, he told me to come here.
Said I should mention my name and surname... Zulu.
The officer freezes. His eyes shift. He leans in.
Officer (whispers):
If you want to live, you better leave. Now.
Thandeka (stepping back):
Excuse me?
Officer:
Shhh... it's me. I'm Mokoena.
Front desk is a cover. Meet me here. (hands her a note)
Don't tell anyone. Go.
Thandeka (stunned, nods):
Okay.
WETS Varsity Interview Office
Thandeka (internal):
One weird encounter after another.
Now... focus. Nail the interview, get the job, move the mission.
Receptionist:
Welcome. Go straight in. They're expecting you.
Thandeka (enters):
Hi. My name is—
Spokesperson 1:
We know who you are, Miss Zulu. Please have a seat.
Thandeka (sits):
So… you're the ones who called me for the interview?
Spokesperson 1:
Yes. I'm Sam Ngcobo.
Spokesperson 2:
And I'm Wendy — his fiancée.
Thandeka (internal):
Just my luck. The Ngcobos again...
Zak, what the hell is this?
Thandeka (sharp):
Did Zak set this up?
Sam:
Not exactly.
We did consult Zak — but only because your CV was already here.
Thandeka:
That's impossible.
I never sent you my CV.
Wendy:
What do you mean? We received it. With your name and details.
Sam:
And Zak only advised us when we saw who you were.
Thandeka:
Well, someone sent it pretending to be me.
Wendy:
What about the interview?
Thandeka (standing):
Postpone it.
I have more pressing things to do.
She walks out — furious, confused, and betrayed.
Thandeka (internal):
Who sent my CV?
Why do I feel like someone's pulling strings around me?
Detective's cryptic warning.
My father finding out.
Now this?
Who's behind it all?
Phone Call – Zizipho
Thandeka (picks up):
Hello?
Zizipho:
Sisi, meet me at the café.
Thandeka:
I can't. I've got too much going on.
Zizipho:
It's about Bab'Ngcobo.
Thandeka:
What now?
Zizipho:
Just come. It's urgent.
Meanwhile – Ngcobo Household
Bab'Ngcobo:
Do you love her that much?
Zakhele:
Yes, Tyma. I do.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Then I'll call off the plan — only if you rejoin the family business.
Zakhele:
I swore to Ma I'd never go back.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Then choose.
Her... or your mother's ghost.
Zakhele (defeated):
Fine. I'm back.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Good. There's a shipment tomorrow.
Use the bakery van.
Cops are watching the taxis.
Zakhele:
Sho, no stress.
Phone rings – Steve.
Steve (on call):
We got the name behind the sim card.
Zakhele:
Who?
Steve:
Sipho Zulu.
Zakhele:
That's impossible. He's dead.
Steve:
Well... the "ghost" wants revenge.
At the Café – Zizipho & Thandeka
Thandeka:
You're late.
Zizipho:
I know. Just listen.
The Ngcobos — they're planning something.
Thandeka:
Like what?
Zizipho:
Maybe to kill you. Or send you to Nkaba.
Thandeka:
How would they even know about Nkaba?
Zizipho (guilty):
I may have… mentioned it.
Thandeka (fuming):
Zizipho!
Zizipho:
I didn't mean to! Just a little background... so they'd trust us.
Thandeka:
You told them everything, didn't you?
Zizipho:
Yes.
Thandeka:
So that's how Bab'Zulu found out I'm in Jozi.
Zizipho:
Wait — he knows?
Thandeka:
Yes.
Because of your big mouth.
Zizipho:
Why would Bab'Ngcobo contact your dad?
Thandeka:
Because there's something they're hiding.
A truth they're protecting.
They were talking about me, weren't they?
Zizipho:
Yes. Bab'Ngcobo and Smanga.
They called you a sacrifice.
He sounded serious.
Thandeka:
Then let them come.
I'm ready.
Zizipho (worried):
Thandeka, this is bigger than you.
This is a dangerous family.
Why did we come to Jozi, really?
Thandeka (calm):
To find the truth about my brother's death.
Zizipho:
What?!
Thandeka:
I believe the Zulus and the Ngcobos were both involved.
That night wasn't an accident.
Zizipho:
You're chasing ghosts.
You'll die for nothing.
Thandeka:
Then let me die knowing the truth.
Zizipho:
Are you using Zak?
Thandeka:
No. He's not involved.
Zizipho:
What if he is?
Thandeka:
He's not.
Zizipho:
You're digging your own grave.
And I won't be there when you bury yourself.
Thandeka:
I started this alone.
I'll finish it alone.
She gets up to leave.
Zizipho:
Please — think about this!
Thandeka (quietly):
I already have.
I choose to love Zak... and find the truth.
Zizipho Receives A Call – In the Bathroom
Zizipho:
Hello?
Voice (deep, stern):
Zizipho. It's Bab'Dladla.
Zizipho (tense):
Yes, Baba.
Bab'Dladla:
Bring Thandeka back to Bellville.
I'll reward you generously.
Zizipho:
No, Baba.
Bab'Dladla (angry):
What?
Zizipho:
I respect you.
But I won't betray her.
Bab'Dladla:
Then forget your success.
Forget everything.
Zizipho:
I love you, Baba...
But I'm staying.
Call ends. She breathes heavily.
Scene 3-8: Who Is a Liar?
Back at the Zulu Household
Ma'Zulu:
Baba, asikhulume kancane.
Bab'Zulu:
Okay.
Ma'Zulu:
uThandeka akabuyi — uyakwazi lokho, angisho?
Bab'Zulu:
Yebo Nkosikazi, ngiyakwazi. (His voice calm — but eyes stormy.)
Ma'Zulu:
So, what's the plan now?
Bab'Zulu:
Ngiyazibuza nami.
Thandeka going to Joburg has put everyone in danger.
Ma'Zulu:
Why would you say that?
Bab'Zulu:
There's a family in Jozi — powerful, feared, untouchable.
I made a deal with Nkaba: he gets Thandeka, and in return, he keeps that family out of Cape Town.
Ma'Zulu (shocked):
You sold our daughter to protect your beef with the Ngcobos?!
Angiyikholwa Mageba — you crossed the line!
Bab'Zulu (raising his voice):
That family took my firstborn from me!
At least with Nkaba, I knew Thandeka would be safe. The Ngcobos? They're poison.
Ma'Zulu:
And whose fault was that?
Why were you even dealing with them in the first place?
Bab'Zulu (dodging):
That's a story for another day.
Right now, we need to bring her back — for her own safety.
Ma'Zulu:
She deserves to find the truth — the one you've been hiding.
Bab'Zulu (sighs):
Eish... this thing just got too big.
At the Nkaba Household – Family Dinner
Nkaba:
Hello, family.
Mrs. Nkaba, Clement, Sihle:
Yebo Baba.
Clement:
How's work, dad?
Nkaba:
Smooth. We just need to shut down the highway to Bellville.
Clement:
Well, I've been deep in the Khumalo case. Looks like they've got solid evidence.
Nkaba:
So... what should we do?
If one of our own is arrested for murder, it makes the whole police force look dirty.
Clement:
As their advocate, it's my job to expose the truth — not protect reputations.
Mrs. Nkaba:
Can we talk about anything other than work, for once?
Clement:
Sorry, Ma. Just had to remind Dad he's about to get his ass kicked in court.
Nkaba:
Maybe you should get a wife instead.
Sihle (giggles):
A wife? For bhuti? That would be a miracle!
Clement:
And you — a 20-year-old — should stay out of grown-up convos.
Mrs. Nkaba:
She's not wrong, son.
Nkaba (serious):
I'm heading to meet Bab'Zulu. I want progress on the marriage agreement with Thandeka.
Mrs. Nkaba:
Do you think they'll cancel it?
Nkaba:
They can't.
Clement:
Where is Thandeka, anyway? Haven't seen her in days.
Nkaba (blunt):
No one knows right now.
Sihle:
She probably ran away — being married to Clement isn't exactly paradise.
Clement (glares):
Ma...
Mrs. Nkaba:
Sihle, enough.
Nkaba (getting up):
I'm out. Behave.
Nkaba's Car – Sitting in the Garage
(He checks the message again, hesitates, then dials the number.)
Ngcobo Office – Phone Rings
Bab'Ngcobo (picks up):
Finally.
Nkaba:
Who is this?
Bab'Ngcobo:
An old friend.
Don't tell me you've forgotten me, Nkaba.
Nkaba (voice drops):
...Ngcobo?
Bab'Ngcobo:
Good. You remember.
Listen carefully — I have Thandeka Zulu. She's with my son.
If you want her back in Cape Town, prepare my full immunity.
Nkaba:
That'll never happen.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Then forget you ever had a wedding planned.
Don't call this number again.
(He hangs up.)
Nkaba Calls Bab'Zulu Immediately
Zulu (answers):
Hello?
Nkaba:
We've got a serious problem.
Zulu:
What kind?
Nkaba:
Ngcobo.
Zulu (tenses up):
What about him?
Nkaba:
He has Thandeka.
Zulu:
What!?
Nkaba:
We need to meet. Now.
(Call ends. Cut to black.)
Scene 4-8: Det. Mokoena's Resolution
"Secrets get buried. But the truth always claws its way out."
INT. NEWTON HOTEL – RIVONIA, MORNINGSIDE – ROOM 132
[Thandeka stands outside the hotel room, heart pounding.]
Thandeka (inner monologue):
"Ngiyenzani lana? I came here chasing the truth… too late to turn back. Phambili, Thandeka –
finish this."
(She knocks. Door opens immediately. Det. Mokoena, tense and unshaven, drags her inside and
bolts the door shut.)
Det. Mokoena (panicked, whispering):
You weren't followed, right?
Thandeka:
What the hell is going on? You're starting to scare me now.
Det. Mokoena:
I had to make sure you were alone. Do you even realise how deep you are with the Ngcobo family?
Thandeka:
This again? What does Zak have to do with this?
Det. Mokoena:
Everything.
Your father. Your brother's death. The Ngcobos are involved.
Thandeka:
You mean my late brother.
Det. Mokoena (pauses):
No. Sipho Zulu might be alive.
Thandeka (backing away):
Don't do that. Don't lie to me.
Det. Mokoena:
I'm not lying. Why would I risk my life to lie to you?
Thandeka:
Maybe because you're just some front desk cop posing as a detective.
Det. Mokoena (tight smile):
Ouch. That was below the belt. I was a detective – until three days ago.
Thandeka (thinking):
Just before I arrived in Jozi…
Det. Mokoena (nodding):
Now you're catching on.
Thandeka (pacing):
Why would my brother fake his death? Why would he hide? Why keep quiet for so long?
Det. Mokoena:
Maybe to protect you.
Maybe to protect himself.
Or maybe he's part of something bigger than we all thought.
Thandeka:
You're just throwing theories. You don't have proof.
Det. Mokoena (coldly):
Then get it.
You said you came here for the truth. I'm giving you a lead. Follow it.
Thandeka:
And Zak? What about him?
Det. Mokoena:
That's what worries me.
If your brother is alive, and Zak's family is connected… what if Zak is in this too?
Thandeka (firmly):
He's not involved.
Det. Mokoena:
And what if he is? Would you betray him for the truth?
Thandeka:
I'd do what's right.
Det. Mokoena:
Even if it breaks your heart?
Thandeka:
Yes.
Det. Mokoena (sits, weary):
You're brave. But love doesn't survive in the Ngcobo world.
Everyone close to them disappears — one by one.
Ask Mbali Sibeko.
Thandeka (tense):
Who?
Det. Mokoena:
The last person who got close. The only reason your brother is alive.
Now go. Before they realise you're here.
Thandeka:
This isn't over, Mokoena.
Det. Mokoena:
I hope not.
And Thandeka? Be careful who you call "boyfriend."
INT. HOTEL LOBBY – LATER
(Thandeka walks out. Her Uber hasn't arrived yet. Across the parking lot, a black BMW i7 sits
quietly. She doesn't notice it.)
INNER MONOLOGUE (Thandeka):
"Mbali Sibeko… Sipho is alive… and Zak may be in this mess deeper than I thought."
(As she walks toward the curb, the hotel entrance door opens again behind her.)
CUT TO:
INT. ROOM 132 – MOMENTS LATER
(Knock on the door. "Room service.")
Det. Mokoena (opening the door, confused):
I didn't order anything–
SILENCED GUNSHOT – PFFFFT.
FADE TO BLACK.
Scene 5-8: Love Is Strange, Wouldn't You Say?
"When love starts feeling like a trap, it's time to check who's holding the keys."
INT. XULU MANSION – MORNING
The mansion gleams with polished aluminium and a cold, intimidating grandeur. Zizipho walks in
confidently, straight to the kitchen.
Zizipho:
Eish wena, you know how much I love food yaz.
Steve (smirking as he enters behind her):
Clearly. Must be why you keep showing up like you pay rent here.
Zizipho (grinning):
Shut up! So, what's cooking?
Steve:
My family's coming back today.
Zizipho:
Wait... what?!
As in... meet the parents vibes?
Steve:
Yeah. I want them to meet you.
Zizipho (stressed):
Steve, are you alright? You drunk or something?
Steve:
Relax. You're at home here. You're safe.
And... I meant it when I said I love you.
Tonight's dinner is on me. Just behave and breathe.
Zizipho (nervous):
I'm not ready for this housewife life, Steve. I still want to explore Jozi.
Steve (gets closer, voice low and intense):
You won't be a housewife. This place runs itself. I just want you. Alone.
(leans in, whispering)
I want to be inside you.
Zizipho (blushing but composed):
And I want chocolate cake. Filled with chocolate cream.
Steve (laughs):
Really?
Fine. Let's go to the mall before you start demanding pizza too.
Zizipho:
That's exactly what I want next!
INT. MALL OF AFRICA – AFTERNOON
The mall buzzes with energy. Zizipho is lit up with excitement.
Zizipho:
Okay, this place? This is giving!
But forget cake. I want pizza now.
Steve (laughs):
You're insane. All pizzas taste the same.
Zizipho:
Not when they come from Romans. Let's go!
(They enter Romans Pizza, order two XL cheese pizzas and sit down.)
Zizipho (looking serious):
Can I ask you something?
Steve:
Shoot.
Zizipho:
How long have you known the Ngcobos?
Steve (suspicious):
Since they arrived in Jozi. Why?
Zizipho:
Just curious.
Steve (eyeing her):
You sure there's nothing you wanna say?
Zizipho (smiling nervously):
Nothing.
("Why does he care so much?")
INT. MALL – MOMENTS LATER
Steve goes to check the order. Zizipho suddenly freezes—she spots a man heading into the bathroom.
Her heart races.
Zizipho (inner monologue):
"That can't be... was that Sipho?"
Without thinking, she bolts into the men's room.
Steve (turning and running after her):
Zizipho!!
INT. MEN'S BATHROOM
Zizipho bumps straight into a man, but it's not who she expected.
Zizipho:
Si... oh...
I'm sorry. I thought you were someone else.
Steve (arriving, tense):
You okay?
Guy:
No harm done.
The man walks out.
Steve (to Zizipho, voice sharp):
What the hell was that? You chased a stranger into the men's room?
Zizipho (shaken):
I thought it was... someone I used to know.
Someone... dead.
Steve (softening):
Who?
Zizipho (distant):
Forget it. Let's just go home.
Steve:
You're hiding something. What's going on?
Zizipho (firm):
I said drop it.
Steve (after a pause):
Fine. But one day, I'll expect the truth.
Let's go.
FADE OUT.
Scene Takeaway:
Zizipho is now fully entangled. Her suspicion around Sipho's "death" is growing. Steve
is charming but also starting to feel… too invested. There's something beneath the
surface, and she knows it.
Scene 6-6: The Ngcobo household — Lounge
(Present: Zakhele, Bab'Ngcobo, Smanga)
Bab'Ngcobo:
Nkaba called today, sounding interested in the offer we made before...
But I didn't agree to anything.
Look, we all know Thandeka is in love with Zakhele — futhi uyindodakazi yakwaZulu.
Ingane engakaze ithintwe, intombi nto. Siyabonga Mapholoba.
Zakhele:
Akusiyilutho baba.
Ngiyabonga nje ukuthi sowuqedile ngalendaba yakaNkaba, nokuthi wamukele uThandeka la
ekhaya.
Dankie, tyma.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Time to move on to the next meeting, uSipho?
Smanga:
My guys tracked the phone to its last location.
Bathole iphepha — linegama likaZak.
Zakhele:
Ukuhlanya manje lokhu.
Ubani lenja ebusy empilweni yami?
Smanga:
uSipho.
Zakhele:
uSipho ubhodile. He's dead...
This is just someone else using his identity, of course.
Bab'Ngcobo:
But it's possible... he may still be alive.
Zakhele:
Tyma?
Smanga:
Uqinisile ubaba.
How sure were you that he was dead?
Funny how the body was never found.
Zakhele:
Angazi. All I know... I saw him take his last breath — for five minutes straight.
(Thandeka enters the house quietly. Nobody hears the door. She pauses... listening from the hallway.)
Bab'Ngcobo:
Okay fine. Let's take it as Sipho is alive — what do we do about it?
Zakhele:
How do you find a ghost?
Smanga:
You don't.
It finds you.
Let's say he's back for revenge... what would he even gain?
You're dating his sister.
Bab'Ngcobo:
I need to make a call.
(Bab'Ngcobo stands up. Thandeka rushes upstairs to her bedroom. Smanga and Zak remain in the
lounge.)
Smanga:
Intokazi yakho beyise epolice station.
Zakhele:
Ini?
Smanga:
Angazi ukuthi kungani, but it seemed serious.
She went to see Detective Mokoena.
Zakhele:
Kanjani? Lomuntu bekumele ngabe use-interview nabo uSam.
Smanga:
Call Sam. Ask him.
(Zak picks up his phone, dials Sam... he answers.)
Zakhele:
Sure Sam, it's Zak.
Sam:
Yes, what's going on?
Zakhele:
How did the interview go?
Sam:
Splendid.
Zakhele:
What? Serious?
Sam:
I'm kidding.
It went horrible.
She found out you were involved and got really mad.
She even denied sending us her CV.
Zakhele:
Expected that she'd be mad...
But what do you mean she denied sending her CV?
Sam:
She just said it wasn't her... and stormed out.
Zakhele:
Thanks for letting me know.
Sam:
Any time.
(Zak ends the call.)
Zakhele:
Someone wanted Thandeka to come to Gauteng.
Question is... who the f*** is it?
And why is Det. Mokoena involved?
Smanga:
My men are already on it.
Scene: Upstairs — Thandeka's Bedroom
Thandeka (thinking):
Det. Mokoena was right... I'm stuck in something I don't understand.
How could Zak be involved in this?
He looked me in the eyes and pretended he loved me.
Fine. If he wants to play this game... let's play. Let's see who wins.
(She grabs her phone, calls Mokoena.)
Voicemail:
"Welcome to the voicemail of V. Mokoena..."
Thandeka:
What? He's not answering?
He never ignores my calls... What's going on?
Scene: Kitchen — Smanga receives a call
Smanga:
Hello?
Voice:
Boss, it's Stone.
Smanga:
Talk to me.
Stone:
We couldn't find him, boss.
Smanga:
How?
Stone:
There was blood there...
Seems like someone got there before we did.
Smanga:
Still not good enough.
We need to know who came in.
Before anyone else catches the smoke.
Stone:
Sure boss.
(Voiceover monologue — fade out)
Voice:
Being part of the Ngcobo family... it changes you.
Sometimes, you gotta sacrifice your own life... just to uncover the whole truth.
Nothing comes easy.
And nothing ever lasts.
End of Chapter Two