Upon Menzi's arrival, his father and siblings were already gathered outside the main house, seated in a loose circle, laughter drifting lazily through the yard.
Menzi parked the car right in front of them. Without hesitation, he stepped out, walked around to the back seat, and gently lifted Shlangu into his arms. The boy stirred but didn't protest, his small body still heavy with sleep.
Menzi headed toward the main house.
Before anyone could stand up to welcome them, his mother emerged from her garden, wiping her hands on her apron like she had been waiting for this exact moment.
She didn't even greet Menzi first.
