Chapter 27 - Chapter 26

Merle and Ken are couple goals. Over a chicken pie filled with perfectly seasoned pulled chicken and soft vegetables, we get to know the older couple. They can't keep their hands off each other. Not in a salacious way. When they're not holding a fork, they're holding hands. He toys with her earring while he's talking. She leans into the crook of his arm, rests her head on his shoulder. They share an easy intimacy that's as tried and warm as a blanket you've had for years and still treasure.

"That was one of the best meals I've had in a long time," Siyabonga says, sitting back when the last morsel disappears from his plate. "And our chef is one of the best in Joburg."

Vuyelwa.

Ao. I've barely had time to process that they aren't together any more. A dozen questions batter my mind, and now isn't the time for answers to any of them. He doesn't owe me answers or an explanation. They were dating. Now they're not. It doesn't change a thing between us, but watching Merle and Ken, I can't help thinking of how Siyabonga and I used to be. Ironic that when we were younger we had this zeal for each other, and now we sit across from a couple twice our age whose love still burns hot, while ours lies in ashes.

"We have an excellent chef," Ken says. "But she's moving to Paris once this place shuts down."