THANDEKA (V.O.)
Wow... what a journey this has been — chasing truth, only to be chased by it.
Love, money, and power... all of it got in the way of my success. But I always believed — there are
three things that cannot be hidden from this world: the moon, the sun, and the truth.
Today proved that.
First, meeting with the detective.
Then, Zizipho telling me wild stories — that the Ngcobo family wants me gone.
That Zak... might be involved in my brother's death.
Now I don't even know what my next move is.
Even Detective Mokoena disappeared.
Just like that — AWOL. Ghosted.
Funny thing is, this trip to Jozi was supposed to be my Cinderella story.
I arrived with hope. With dreams. With my charming prince.
But Zak...
Zak wasn't an angel.
He was a well-dressed demon.
He made my life hell.
And now?
My father...
He's probably lost all respect for me. I didn't come home yesterday.
I bet he's disowned me by now.
I can't ask Zizipho for help either.
She told me she's out of it.
She's dating that Xulu guy — and honestly, he seems more involved than anyone else in this mess.
The Ngcobo family...
They're not just powerful — they're untouchable.
Bab'Ngcobo is like the godfather of Jozi.
I don't even know where his power ends.
Maybe he used to be a township landlord. Now?
He runs this entire city from the shadows.
Right now, life feels meaningless.
But I'm not giving up.
Not now.
Not when I'm this close to the truth.
I knew what I was getting myself into...
And I'll pay the price — but I'll fight while I do it.
THANDEKA (V.O.)
First, I need to get out of here. Escape. Go home.
The only place I might be safe is with Nkaba.
I never understood why Bab'Zulu said he was protecting me.
But now?
Now I get it.
Too late for regret.
Time to act. Time to move.
But I can't leave without Zizipho.
I hope she's still willing to go.
Because I can't survive another day under this roof.
Not with the Ngcobos.
NARRATOR (V.O.):
"Truth is like a curse. The moment you seek it, you're forced to witness painful sights. The world
reveals its cruel face — and you realise, as a human, you're just another object… disposable."
Scene 1 — Morning in Zak and Thandeka's Bedroom
(Zakhele wakes up and goes to the bathroom. Moments later, Thandeka stirs, reaching for her
phone on the nightstand.)
Thandeka (thinking):
This is confusing... why hasn't Det. Mokoena called or messaged me back?
Let me try again.
(She dials. Phone rings... voicemail.)
Voicemail:
"Welcome to the voicemail of V. Mokoena."
Thandeka (thinking):
What the hell is going on? I need to go check on him.
(Zak walks out of the bathroom and leans against the doorframe.)
Zakhele:
Thandeka... mind if I ask you a question?
Thandeka:
Sure, go ahead.
Zakhele:
Uyangithanda?
Thandeka:
What kind of question is that?
Zakhele:
Please... just answer it.
Thandeka:
Yes. I love you, Zak.
Zakhele:
Then why did you reject my gift? Why did you disappear from the interview?
Thandeka:
You know how proud I am, right? I don't do handouts.
Zakhele:
But it wasn't a handout. You sent the CV, and they came to me for advice.
Thandeka:
Still. I bet someone else was more qualified.
Zakhele:
But you were perfect for it.
Thandeka:
It doesn't matter anymore. I didn't even send my CV, and I'm sure they'll find someone better.
Zakhele:
What were you doing at the Braamfontein police station?
(Thandeka freezes — caught off guard.)
Thandeka:
Askies... what?
Zakhele:
You heard me.
Thandeka:
So now you're spying on me?
Zakhele:
No. I just want an answer.
Thandeka:
I went there about my CV.
Zakhele:
Your CV? That doesn't make sense.
Thandeka:
Someone used it, remember? I needed to find out who certified it.
Zakhele:
So... why the police station?
Thandeka:
Because that's where it was stamped. I thought maybe the officer on duty could tell me who brought
the documents in.
Zakhele:
And?
Thandeka:
He retired. Obviously.
Zakhele:
Why didn't you come to me first? Since when are you a detective?
Thandeka:
I didn't know I needed your permission to take control of my own life.
(Zakhele walks closer to her.)
Zakhele:
Jozi is a dangerous place, Thandeka. New faces? They're prey.
I'm just worried about you.
Thandeka:
Relax. I'm safe.
Zakhele:
So... what now? Since the interview flopped — what's your next move?
Thandeka:
I'm thinking of going back home.
(Zak freezes — clearly shaken.)
Zakhele:
I thought you wanted to stay...
Thandeka:
So did I.
Zakhele:
What happened?
Thandeka:
You happened.
I thought Jozi would give me a fresh start — independence.
Zakhele:
You can still have that.
Thandeka:
Not while I'm under the roof of one of the most powerful families in Jozi.
Right now? I'm basically a housewife.
Zakhele:
No, you're not.
Look... I don't want you to go back to Bellville. I know what that could mean — Nkaba, marriage...
Take the bakery instead. I'll give you full ownership.
Thandeka:
Another handout?
Zakhele:
No. A future. The bakery needs a manager. I trust you with it.
Just take it. Build your future.
Thandeka:
Give me the day to think about it.
Zakhele:
You've got the whole day.
Thandeka:
I need to meet Zizipho. Gotta shower.
Zakhele:
Cool. (He kisses her and leaves.)
(Thandeka heads to the bathroom. Zakhele walks downstairs to join Bab'Ngcobo and Smanga in the
office.)
In the Shower
Thandeka (thinking):
I'm so lost in my own head. I can't stop loving Zak. And even if he's involved… who's to say he was
part of it from the beginning?
Maybe he just played cover for a bigger plan. Still… that makes him guilty.
And where is Det. Mokoena when I need him the most?
Ngcobo Office: Zakhele, Bab'Ngcobo, Smanga
Bab'Ngcobo:
Madodana, lana sinenkinga enkulu.
Yesterday, I made a call to one of my high-level contacts at SAPS.
Smanga:
And? What did you find, tyma?
Bab'Ngcobo:
The case from 2019 — the missing truck, the recovered bodies...
Turns out, none of those bodies matched Sipho Zulu.
Zakhele:
So he's alive?
Bab'Ngcobo:
We don't know. Could be him... or a copycat.
Smanga:
Cha. It doesn't make sense. Why wait this long to show up?
And how's this connected to Mbali?
Zakhele:
Mbali worked with the police. She knew too much. We had to silence her.
Bab'Ngcobo:
So you think someone at the station is involved?
Zakhele:
Definitely.
Smanga:
Impossible.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Why?
Smanga:
We know Mbali was working with Victor Mokoena.
We killed her before she could send intel to him.
But now Mokoena's missing — he wasn't in his apartment.
That means someone else is involved — someone not police.
Someone who knows this family deeply.
Possibly related to Mbali.
Bab'Ngcobo:
We've made too many enemies.
Now we don't even know who's brave enough to strike.
Zakhele:
What about Sipho? His body?
Smanga:
If Sipho is alive... and that's a big if...
Then we're all in trouble.
Scene 2: Mokoena's Disappearance
Scene: Café — Thandeka & Zizipho sitting across each other
Zizipho:
Yoh sisi... yesterday was hectic with the Xulu family.
I had to meet Steve's whole crew — him and both of his brothers.
Thandeka:
Wait... he has two brothers?
Zizipho:
Yes — and shame, they were so welcoming.
I won't lie... based on how everything went? He could be the one.
Thandeka:
Not to bust your bubble, but remember — this is the second-most powerful family in Jozi.
What if they sacrifice their wives for money rituals?
Zizipho:
Hayi suka Thandeka! You're being dramatic.
If you must know — the eldest brother is married with two kids, and the youngest? A total charmer.
He's flying back to New York tomorrow for some business proposal.
Thandeka:
Lucky you.
You got a man with a decent family — while I have a father-in-law using me for his dark plans, and
a boyfriend involved in my brother's death.
Zizipho:
Wait... Zak is involved?
Thandeka:
Yes. I overheard them talking.
I'm still trying to understand if he knew everything or was just following orders.
Because I know he loves me... but why bring me here if he knew I'd find the truth?
Zizipho:
So how did you find out?
Thandeka:
I overheard them speaking about Sipho.
Funny enough, Det. Mokoena had warned me about this family — he even said Sipho might be
alive.
(Zizipho goes quiet)
Thandeka:
Wathula bo? That's not like you.
Zizipho:
I don't know if I was going crazy or maybe just hungry...
But I swear, I saw Sipho at Mall of Africa — yesterday.
Thandeka (shocked):
So Mokoena was right.
Zizipho:
Wait — who's this Mokoena you keep talking about?
Thandeka:
The police officer helping me with Sipho's case and the accident.
Zizipho (suddenly uneasy):
Okay... and that's my cue to go back to my man.
Thandeka:
Zizipho, please... ngiyacela sisi. I need your help.
Zizipho:
You could've just stayed quiet and focused on your man.
He's your anchor — and once you lose him, you'll lose everything you've worked for.
Thandeka:
He offered me the bakery.
Zizipho:
Well damn...
Look, I get you want the truth — but that bakery? That's your way in.
Use it. Get close to the family, and maybe... just maybe, you'll find the truth faster.
Thandeka:
Just one last favour... please.
Come with me to Braamfontein police station. I need to know what happened to Det. Mokoena.
Zizipho (reluctantly):
Okay.
But this is the last time you pull me into this.
Thandeka:
I promise.
Scene: The Ngcobo Household — Zak & Smanga in the lounge
Smanga:
So... what's your woman saying about this police station visit?
Zakhele:
She said she went to sort out her documents — apparently they were submitted without her
knowledge.
Smanga:
And you believe that?
Zakhele:
Of course. She's my woman. I trust her with my life.
Smanga:
Zak, vula amehlo. That girl is gonna bring us trouble.
I don't trust a single word.
Zakhele (firm):
That's your opinion.
But do me one favour — stay out of my business with Thandeka.
Smanga (warning tone):
Then she better behave...
Or she'll follow in her brother's footsteps.
Zakhele:
Is that a threat?
Smanga:
No. A warning.
Qaphela, mfo wami.
Zakhele:
It's funny... if it wasn't for your obsession with killing, we wouldn't be in this mess.
Smanga:
Uthini?
Zakhele:
You heard me.
Every time it's a Zulu name, you're the first to reach for a gun.
You make reckless decisions — and one day, they'll cost this family.
Smanga:
I'm protecting this family. Something you don't know how to do.
Zakhele:
No...
This family needs protection from itself.
Because the only thing that will destroy it — is secrets.
Smanga (serious):
Let's hope those secrets don't come out.
Because if they do? Everyone goes down.
Even your precious Thandeka's father.
Zakhele:
That won't happen.
Smanga:
Glad we're on the same page.
Don't forget — you need to move that shipment to Kimberley before sunset.
Zakhele:
I'll handle it.
Scene: Braamfontein Police Station — Front Desk
(Thandeka and Zizipho enter the station.)
Thandeka (to officer):
Hi. I'm here to find Det. Mokoena.
Police Officer:
Sorry ma'am. He hasn't come in today.
Thandeka:
Is he sick?
Police Officer:
Who are you to Det. Mokoena?
Thandeka:
We were working on a case. He was supposed to update me today.
Police Officer:
Are you a journalist?
Thandeka (thinking fast):
Yes. I'm a journalist.
Has anyone heard from him?
Police Officer:
No ma'am. He was called in on a case yesterday — but no one could reach him.
We checked his apartment... no sign of him.
Thandeka:
So... he's missing?
Police Officer:
Not officially. It hasn't been 24 hours.
Sorry, I can't help you further.
Thandeka:
Thanks anyway.
(She walks back to Zizipho.)
Thandeka:
He's not at the station.
Zizipho:
Okay. Are we done?
Thandeka:
Not yet. I want to check his apartment.
Zizipho (groaning):
I knew you'd drag me deeper. But fine. Let's go.
Scene: In the Uber — Zak calls
Thandeka:
Hello babe...
Zakhele:
Hey, you good?
Thandeka:
I'm okay. You?
Zakhele:
Just worried. You've been gone for hours.
Thandeka:
I'm with Zizipho. You know how she is with shopping.
(Zizipho throws her a death stare.)
Zakhele:
You should spoil yourselves. I can send cash now if you want?
Thandeka:
No need. I'm still thinking about your offer though.
Zakhele:
Okay. See you later. I love you.
Thandeka:
I love you too.
Scene: Newton Hotel — Reception Desk
Thandeka:
Hi. Remember me? I'm here to see Victor Mokoena.
Receptionist:
I'm sorry, you can't see him.
Thandeka:
Why not?
Zizipho (jumping in):
I'm his wife. This woman told me I'd find my husband here. Where is he?
Receptionist (quietly):
I'm sorry, Mrs. Mokoena...
There's blood in his apartment.
He may be badly hurt. Possibly... dead.
(Thandeka freezes in fear. Zizipho looks at her.)
Zizipho:
Thandeka... say something.
Receptionist:
Are you okay?
Thandeka:
Zizipho... asambe.
Zizipho:
Let's go.
Outside the Hotel
(Thandeka exhales deeply — then breaks down.)
Thandeka:
Fuuuuuck! I'm so STUPID!
Zizipho:
What's going on?
Thandeka:
It's Zak. They know I'm digging.
Now they're cleaning up every loose end.
Mokoena's dead because of me.
I was stupid for falling in love with him...
Zizipho:
Look, you still have a chance.
Take that bakery. Use it to your advantage.
Steve mentioned a shipment happening today. They're using the bakery truck.
Thandeka:
How do you know this?
Zizipho:
Doesn't matter.
What matters is we get proof — and we expose them.
Thandeka:
The cops won't help. They're everywhere. They killed one of their own.
Zizipho:
Then we don't go to the police.
We go public — media, cameras, exposure.
They think you're an ally. Use that. Get close. Get proof.
Thandeka:
Okay...
Let's do it.
Thandeka (V.O.):
That's when I made my decision.
To walk through hell, not run from it. To sacrifice whatever's left — and uncover the truth.
Even if it kills me.
No one else deserves to disappear because of this family.
Scene 3: Two-Faced to Be One, Not One to Be Trusted
Thandeka (V.O.):
Just when you think everything's under control... something shakes the table.
Now I'm trapped — following the rules of the Ngcobo family. How they move. How they fix their
problems. I still pray that Det. Mokoena is alive... because if he's really dead? That's on me.
Scene: Lobby — Zak and Thandeka sit together
Thandeka:
Hey, are you okay?
Zakhele:
Yeah. Just tired, that's all.
Thandeka:
I've made a decision about your offer.
Zakhele (anxious):
Okay...?
Thandeka:
I'm taking it. I'll join the family. I'll run the bakery.
Zakhele (surprised):
You're serious? But why now?
Thandeka:
Which makes more money — chasing dreams or running something that already exists? I choose
the bakery.
Zakhele:
Are you sure?
Thandeka:
Why are you doubting me?
Zakhele:
Ngiyazi... you're still healing from what happened to Sipho.
Thandeka:
What does that have to do with this?
Zakhele:
You were at the police station again — yesterday.
Thandeka:
Why does that bother you so much?
Unless… are you hiding something?
Zakhele:
What kind of question is that?
Thandeka:
The kind someone would ask... when an innocent man like Mokoena disappears.
Zakhele:
Okay, look — I get your suspicion. But my family are not monsters.
Yes, we knew Det. Mokoena... because he was investigating Sipho's case back in 2019.
Thandeka:
How do you even know about Sipho?
Zakhele (quickly):
Your father told us... that the body was never found.
Thandeka (cold):
Doesn't matter. We buried his soul.
Zakhele:
I'm glad you took the offer... but just know — it comes with deeper ties to this family.
Thandeka (thinking):
Okay... you're confessing fast. I didn't expect that.
What business are you talking about?
Zakhele (smiling):
Getting married to me.
(He laughs.)
Thandeka (irritated):
Userious? Khona manje?
Zakhele:
Just kidding.
But seriously — whoever made Mokoena disappear? It wasn't us.
There may be someone else working in the shadows... and they don't want you finding the truth.
Thandeka:
He's gone. So is the case.
There's no point in digging anymore.
Zakhele:
Did he give you any details before he vanished?
Thandeka:
Nothing.
Zakhele:
Alright... let me go grab the ownership documents. I'll be back.
Thandeka (V.O.):
So maybe Zak's not involved. He wouldn't be confronting me if he was. That means someone else is
clearing up the mess... who is it?
Scene: Old Building — Kimberly
(Det. Mokoena is tied to a chair, bruised and bleeding. A man in a black jacket pours water over
him.)
Mokoena (shocked):
What the hell?! What's going on?
Unknown Man:
Relax... you're safe. For now.
Mokoena:
Who are you?
Unknown Man (coldly):
You'll know in time.
Mokoena:
You shot me!
Unknown Man:
You deserved it.
Mokoena:
You kidnapped me!
Unknown Man:
No. You're dead... in five minutes.
Mokoena:
Who are you!?
Unknown Man:
Do you remember... Mbali?
Mokoena (shocked):
Mbali Sibeko?
(The man pulls off his cap — revealing a familiar face. Mokoena stares in guilt.)
Mokoena:
It's you...
Unknown Man:
She died because of you.
And now you'll pay the same price.
Mokoena:
No! I didn't kill her...
Unknown Man:
You didn't have to.
You were the gun. You just let someone else pull the trigger.
Mokoena:
I tried to stop it... I tried to expose them!
Unknown Man:
She was supposed to live another week.
Just like you.
(He pulls out a gun.)
Mokoena:
Wait! Don't — why kill me?
Unknown Man:
Because you involved Thandeka.
(Bang. Bang. Bang.)
(He walks into a nearby room — a wall covered in names and photos. He crosses out "Mokoena."
Below it: Zulu. Nkaba. Zakhele.)
Scene: Ngcobo Household — Zak, Smanga, Bab'Ngcobo
Zakhele:
Tyma. Smanga. I've made a decision.
Smanga:
Okay...?
Zakhele:
I gave Thandeka 30% ownership of the bakery.
Smanga (exploding):
What?! Uyadlala?
Zakhele:
No. I kept 20%. You and Tyma still own 25% each. She's now the majority shareholder.
Bab'Ngcobo (quiet):
...
Smanga:
Tyma, angeke uthi lutho?
Zakhele:
Why is this such a problem?
Bab'Ngcobo:
Are you sure, Zakhele?
Zakhele:
Yes, tyma. I'm sure.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Then it's your decision. I support you.
Smanga:
WHAT?! You're okay with this?
Bab'Ngcobo:
It's his choice.
Let's just hope it doesn't bite us later.
Zakhele:
It won't.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Now... can we talk about that shipment due today?
Scene: Xulu House — Thandeka picks up Zizipho
(Zizipho steps out in heels, a designer bag, and sunglasses.)
Thandeka:
Okay miss "bling & glam" — where do you get money for all this?
Zizipho (laughing):
Girl, I'm dating one of Jozi's richest men. He gave me money to spoil myself — and I didn't say no.
Thandeka:
I'm not judging. Just shocked.
Zizipho:
Speaking of offers — did you decide?
Thandeka:
You're looking at the new 30% owner of the Ngcobo bakery.
Zizipho:
Okay! And who owns the rest?
Thandeka:
Zak owns 20%, Bab'Ngcobo and Smanga hold 25% each.
I've still got to win their trust to pull this plan off.
Zizipho:
Let's talk over pizza. Somewhere safe.
Thandeka:
Eastgate has great Italian.
Zizipho:
Mall of Africa first. Then Eastgate.
Thandeka:
Deal.
Scene: Xulu Car Co. — Zak meets Steve in the boardroom
Zakhele:
Exe, how's home life with your new girl?
Steve:
Don't ask. She eats like a machine.
Zakhele:
At least she eats food — mine eats the truth.
Steve:
Still at it?
Zakhele:
I gave her 30%. I hope that's enough to buy her silence.
Steve:
She must really be into justice...
Zakhele:
She reminds me of my mom.
But I hope she lets this go.
Steve:
Only if it's not Sipho behind this. But the timing... feels calculated.
Zakhele:
You could swear me fetching Thandeka was my cursed moment.
Whoever's behind this — I swear, they'll wish they were never born.
Steve:
What if it is Sipho?
Zakhele:
Then we cross that bridge when we get there.
(Steve receives a call.)
Steve:
Hello?
Voice:
Boss, I tracked the burner phone. It pinged yesterday — location: Kimberly.
Steve:
You sure?
Voice:
Positive.
Steve:
Thanks. (hangs up)
Zakhele:
Bafo?
Steve:
Sipho's burner phone was active in Kimberly.
Zakhele:
Are you sure?!
Steve:
Let's call Smanga.
(Zak calls. Voicemail.)
Steve:
Let me try.
(Smanga picks up.)
Steve:
The shipment — is it gone?
Smanga:
Yes. Left 20 minutes ago. Why?
Steve:
Sipho's in Kimberly.
Smanga:
WHAT?
Steve:
Call back the driver.
Smanga:
Too late — he's probably on the highway.
Steve:
Then we head to Kimberly — now.
Smanga:
I'll meet you there.
(Zak and Steve rush out of the boardroom and speed off toward Kimberly.)
Scene 4: Mall of Africa — Outdoor Food Court
(Thandeka and Zizipho sit at a table, sipping drinks, eyes scanning the crowd.)
Thandeka:
Honestly sisi, mawubheka kahle — this could really work.
Or... we're just walking into the lion's den.
Zizipho:
It has to happen.
This is the only way you'll ever find the truth — and peace.
Thandeka:
We could just let it go, yaz. Forget this and go back home.
Zizipho:
Impossible. Not to be selfish, but... I finally found a man after so long.
Yes, his family — and the Ngcobos — are tied to Sipho's death.
But sisi, I can't go back to Bellville.
Thandeka:
I get it.
I'm stuck between loving Zak... and fighting for my brother's justice.
But honestly? Even if we find the truth, what can we do?
We'll just expose ourselves as enemies.
Zizipho:
So what now?
Thandeka:
The only way I stay safe... is to marry Zak.
Zizipho (shocked):
Are you being serious?
You think marrying into the Ngcobo family is a safe idea?
Thandeka:
You're sleeping with a monster too.
If I marry Zak, they'll trust me. Let me in. Let their secrets show.
Zizipho:
If you believe that'll help... then I support you.
(Zizipho takes a sip — suddenly chokes and coughs.)
Thandeka:
Yini?
Zizipho (whispers):
u-Clement. He's coming — from the MTN store. He's heading right here.
Thandeka:
What?!
Zizipho:
Shhh...
Clement walks up, grinning slightly
Clement:
Yaz, I had a feeling it was you.
Hello, Zizipho.
Hey, Thandeka.
Zizipho (awkward smile):
Clement... ubekwa yini eJozi?
(Thandeka stays quiet.)
Clement:
I came for business.
Didn't know you were here.
Funny — I thought it was odd seeing Bab'Zulu in Jozi too.
Thandeka (shocked):
Wait — ubaba ulana?
Clement:
Oh, so now you can talk.
I assumed you were ignoring me — you never returned my texts.
Thandeka:
There's been a lot going on.
Zizipho:
Okay guys — so... if Bab'Zulu is here, does that mean your dad is too?
Clement:
Yes.
We all came together — I was told we're here to help settle legal issues.
Now I see why.
Thandeka:
Clement... I'm sorry for ghosting you.
But your being here... it complicates things.
Clement:
Kusho ukuthini lokho?
Zizipho:
Well, you know Thandeka's always wanted to be a teacher, right?
Clement:
Yes.
Zizipho:
Well, your arrival could jeopardize that — and more.
Clement:
Look, we're not here for her.
I didn't even know she was in Jozi.
I'm here to claim something, that's all.
Thandeka:
Claim what?
Clement:
Client privacy. I can't say.
Anyway — it was good seeing you.
Hopefully you haven't found a man who'll break our agreement.
Thandeka:
What agreement?
Clement:
You were supposed to marry into my family.
Thandeka:
I didn't agree to that.
Clement:
What?
Zizipho (quickly):
She's taking a break. Wants freedom — before being tied down.
Clement:
Alright then. I'll head back to the hotel.
Thandeka:
Where's my father staying?
Clement:
Same place — Waterfall Apartments.
Thandeka:
Okay.
Clement:
I'll tell him you said hi.
Zizipho:
Hamba kahle.
(He walks off.)
After Clement leaves
Thandeka:
This just got worse.
If Bab'Zulu is here... we're in trouble.
Zizipho:
Let's hope it's not about you.
Thandeka:
Be real, Zizipho. Of course it's about me.
Indaba engizoyithini lena manje?
Scene: Kimberly — Outside Abandoned Building
(Steve and Zak arrive at the GPS ping location. Smanga's truck is nearby.)
Steve:
This place is abandoned... so this is where he's hiding?
Zakhele:
Do you have your gun?
Steve (pulls it out):
Always. What's the plan?
Zakhele:
We go in. Shoot to wound — not kill.
Steve:
Let's move.
(They sweep the building, floor by floor. On the top level, they find blood on a chair and ropes.)
Steve:
Igazi likabani leli?
Zakhele:
I don't know.
But this — this was a message.
Steve:
Let me call Smanga.
Zakhele:
You do it. He's still mad about the bakery shares.
Steve (calling Smanga):
Yo, is the shipment in?
Smanga (on phone):
Yebo. All secure. What about your side?
Steve:
Someone's been here. Blood on the floor. Rope.
Looks like they wanted us to find it.
Smanga:
Take care of your end — I'll handle mine.
(Steve hangs up.)
(Zak finds a side room and enters. A wall full of names and photos. Mokoena's name scratched out.)
Steve (following):
Zak...
Zakhele:
We need to go. Now.
(Steve's phone rings — Zizipho calling. He ignores it.)
Zakhele:
Who's that?
Steve:
Zizipho. I'll handle her later.
Zakhele:
Whoever this guy is...
He wants us to follow these clues.
It's like a game.
Steve:
Khululeka. Sizomthola.
And when we do?
We end it.
Zakhele (quietly):
I hate this.
Scene 5:Ask and You Shall Receive
Thandeka (V.O.):
My father once told me... love is a fairytale. Only the fortunate ever get to live in it.
But that's all it was — theory.
In truth, love and money never mix. They collide. Like water and oil. And in every relationship...
one of us is water, the other, oil.
Scene: Waterfall Apartments — Morning
(Nkaba and Bab'Zulu sit at the dining room table. Clement enters.)
Nkaba:
Zulu, are you sure this is going to work?
Bab'Zulu:
It has to work.
We're talking about the Ngcobo family. If we fail, we're all as good as dead.
Clement:
Morning, gents.
Nkaba:
Finally. What's the status on the paperwork?
Clement:
It's ready. All we need to do is serve the restraining clause.
But... who exactly are we filing against?
Zulu:
The Ngcobo family.
Clement:
Ah. Then we'll need to set a court date.
By the way... I saw Thandeka and Zizipho here in Jozi.
Nobody told me they were in town.
Nkaba:
Thandeka is the reason we're doing this.
Clement:
How? Why's she involved in drama with the Ngcobos?
Nkaba:
Boy, sometimes I wonder if you earned your law degree or borrowed my surname.
This clause breach is because of her.
She was taken by those boys — brought here without consent.
Clement:
Are you sure she was taken?
Because when I saw her... she didn't look like someone needing help.
Zulu:
That's still my daughter.
What kind of father would I be, letting wolves have her?
Clement:
If she testifies she came willingly... there is no case.
Zulu:
She will testify against them.
Clement:
You seem very sure.
I just hope this isn't a waste of time — or state resources.
Nkaba:
Just do your job. Let us handle the rest.
Scene: Ngcobo Bakery — Thandeka & Zak
Thandeka:
I'm so nervous.
We're really doing this?
Zakhele:
Yes.
It's time the staff knows who their new boss is.
You're the manager and the majority shareholder now.
They need to respect you.
Thandeka:
Let's do it then.
Zakhele (to Sfiso):
Call everyone — staff meeting now.
Sfiso:
Sure thing, boss.
(Staff gathers. Zak steps forward.)
Zakhele:
Okay guys, this won't take long.
This is Thandeka Zulu.
She's now your new manager — and the majority shareholder.
Any questions, ideas, issues... they go through her.
Respect her like you respected me.
Let's welcome her.
(Applause from the team.)
Thandeka:
Thanks everyone.
You don't have to fear me — we're all friends here.
Equal rights. No one is bigger than the other.
Staff Member 1:
We hope we'll work well together.
Thandeka:
We will. Now — back to baking. Customers need their cakes!
(Staff scatters back to work.)
Zakhele:
That wasn't so hard, was it?
Thandeka:
For you, maybe. I'm not used to all this.
Zakhele (smirking):
You did great.
How about lunch — my treat?
Anywhere you want.
Thandeka:
Surprise me.
Zakhele:
Madam, what you ask... you shall receive.
Thandeka (V.O.):
I wonder what kind of surprise he has planned. I've turned down so many of his gifts... but this time
felt different.
He's starting to break through.
Not with money — but with effort. With actions.
My heart's confused. Love is conquering my trust issues.
Goshhh... control yourself, Thandeka.
Scene: On the Road — Zak & Thandeka in the car
*(A black BMW idles at the corner. When Zak pulls out, it follows discreetly.)
Zak drives Thandeka through the city, eventually parking at OR Tambo Airport.*
Thandeka:
Okay... why are we at the airport?
Zakhele:
You said surprise me — so here we are.
Thandeka:
Zak. Be serious. Airport?
Zakhele:
Khululeka.
We're taking a flight.
Thandeka:
A flight!?
Zakhele:
We own a private jet.
Thandeka (shocked):
Wait... what?!
You didn't mention that.
Can I ask you something?
Zakhele:
Of course.
Thandeka:
How rich is your family?
Zakhele (laughs):
Rich enough to afford what we want.
Thandeka:
Even a jet?
Zakhele:
Even a jet.
Thandeka:
Besides the bakery, taxi rank, and XULU Motors... what else do you guys do?
Zakhele:
We're a diligent family.
If you really want to know... marry me.
Thandeka:
That's like asking me to swim with sharks.
Zakhele:
Just think about it.
When you're ready for the truth — I'll show you everything.
But for now... pick a place.
Thandeka:
I've always wanted to see Dubai.
Zakhele:
Then that's where we're going.
Thandeka:
What about your family? The businesses?
Zakhele:
They'll manage.
Let's just take a weekend trip — we'll be back Monday.
Thandeka:
Okay... let's do it.
Thandeka (V.O.):
Yah wow. This is how the Ngcobos live?
At least I get to breathe outside of South Africa for a while.
They must be crazy rich to live like this.
I just hope Zizipho will be okay.
This was her dream too.
Scene 6: A Knock at the Devil's Door
Scene: Xulu Household – Kitchen & Lounge
(Zizipho is prepping lunch. The smell of spice and sauce fills the air. Sbonelo walks in.)
Sbonelo:
Yoh — this smells amazing.
Zizipho (smiling):
Wait until you taste it.
Steve (entering):
Don't forget, you're mine — so I eat first.
Sbonelo (laughs):
Stop it, man. By the way, where's Zak?
We need to discuss those cars heading to Cuba.
Steve:
He left for Dubai with Thandeka.
Zizipho (shocked):
Ini?! No way.
Steve:
I'm serious.
Zizipho:
So she just left me behind?
Steve:
It's a couples' getaway, babe.
Sbonelo (teasing):
When are you two taking your getaway?
Steve:
Don't start, bhuti omdala.
Zizipho:
Yebo, mina ngifuna e-Dubai too!
Sbonelo (laughing):
Having a wife means keeping her happy, boy.
Steve:
Well then, you take her to Dubai!
Zizipho:
Ahh Steve...
Steve:
I'm a busy man. I don't have time for jets.
Sbonelo:
You're scared of flying, admit it.
Zizipho (surprised):
Wait — babe, are you scared of flights?
Steve (avoids):
Can we not? I just want to catch the news.
(He turns on the lounge TV. News anchor speaks.)
TV REPORTER:
"Today's tragedy — the death of Victor Mokoena.
His body was discovered in a valley in Kimberly.
A father of two, missing for three days, was found shot three times in the chest..."
Zizipho (gasps):
Wait — did I hear that right?
Sbonelo:
Yes. Did you know him?
Zizipho:
Thandeka did! I need to call her.
Steve (calm, strategic):
Wait babe, think first.
She's in Dubai — trying to escape all this.
Don't ruin her trip.
Zizipho:
Still... who would kill a cop? He had two children!
Sbonelo:
This is Jozi. People die here — sometimes for nothing.
Zizipho:
But still… it's cold.
Steve:
If he was investigating something dangerous...
Even being a cop couldn't save him.
Zizipho (softly):
But what was he doing in Kimberly?
(Steve goes quiet. He remembers the chair, the blood, the rope...)
Scene: Ngcobo Household – Dining Room
Smanga:
Tyma, did you see the news?
Victor Mokoena is dead. Three bullets to the chest.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Izindaba ezibuhlungu... but frankly, good riddance.
Smanga:
Tyma — this is weird.
Steve tracked that burner phone to Kimberly — same place Sipho "died".
Now Mokoena's body is found there?
Bab'Ngcobo (serious now):
You're saying it's all connected?
Smanga:
Yes.
And the person behind this knows everything — about Sipho… and Mbali too.
(Veronica enters.)
Veronica:
Sorry to interrupt — there are people here to see Bab'Ngcobo.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Me? I wasn't expecting anyone.
Smanga:
They said you. Not me.
Bab'Ngcobo:
Let them in. To the lounge.
Scene: Ngcobo Lounge — Moments Later
(Veronica escorts the visitors in. Bab'Ngcobo freezes — it's Bab'Zulu, Nkaba, and Clement.)
Bab'Ngcobo:
Nkaba... Zulu.
Didn't expect you two.
Zulu:
This isn't social, Ngcobo.
I want my daughter.
Smanga:
Your daughter? Which one?
Zulu (stern):
Ungajwayelani kabi mfana. You're just a boy.
Clement:
Gentlemen — let's keep this civil.
I'm Clement, attorney representing Bab'Zulu.
We're here for a clause violation:
A restraining order filed against your family was breached.
Smanga (defensive):
We didn't break any law!
Zulu:
You did.
You violated an order that forbade any Ngcobo from being near my family.
Bab'Ngcobo:
So this is the play?
Your ace in the hole?
Nkaba:
Give us Thandeka — and this all goes away.
Smanga:
She came willingly.
Zulu:
Ungakhulumi izinto ongenazo.
Bab'Ngcobo:
She wasn't forced. That's a fact.
Clement:
Then let her say that in court.
Where is she?
Smanga:
Oh, so you're the one supposed to marry her.
Nkaba:
Uphi uThandeka?
Bab'Ngcobo:
She's in Dubai. With Zak.
Zulu (furious):
Ungazokhuluma inyongo Ngcobo!
I want my daughter!
Smanga:
You come to our house and bring this noise?
Bab'Ngcobo (calm):
Smanga — relax.
They want legal? Let's go legal.
Clement:
If you don't produce her, we'll arrest you and hold you till she returns.
Smanga:
Angeke kwenzeke!
Nkaba:
I'm the Commissioner of SAPS.
I filed that order personally.
You broke every clause — I have the power to detain both of you.
Smanga:
Tyma...?
Bab'Ngcobo (to Veronica):
Call Patrick. Tell him to meet us at the police station.
Smanga (angry):
You're siding with them?
Bab'Ngcobo:
We'll wait for Zak and Thandeka.
Till then — we stay out of jail.
Let Patrick handle this.
Nkaba:
Wise move.
Men — take them.
(Cops escort Bab'Ngcobo and Smanga into the back of a police van. Nkaba locks eyes with Ngcobo
one last time.)
Nkaba (cold):
You made a mistake crossing me.
Bab'Ngcobo (walking past, smirking):
So did you.
(Doors slam. Engine starts. Scene fades.)
Scene 7: The Ngcobo Case
Scene: Police Station — Waiting Room
(Clement paces, visibly frustrated. Nkaba and Zulu are seated.)
Clement:
So we just gonna ignore the fact that Thandeka is in Dubai with her boyfriend while I'm here — in
the dark?
Nkaba:
Clement, lower your voice.
Clement:
Lower my voice?
She's never marrying me. This is a joke.
Zulu:
Relax, you're overreacting.
Clement (cold):
You're the last one I want advice from.
Nkaba (firm):
Clement. Enough!
Zulu (shifting tone):
There's something about Zak...
Something Thandeka will hate him for once she knows.
Clement:
What is it?
Zulu:
The truth about Sipho's death.
The real killer...
Clement:
...Zak.
Nkaba (nodding):
Exactly. Let's focus. We'll handle this.
Scene: Holding Cell — Bab'Ngcobo & Smanga
Smanga (angry):
Tyma, how could you let this happen? Jail? Really?
Bab'Ngcobo (calm):
Relax. This was always part of my plan.
Smanga:
You knew about the restraining order.
You still let this happen?
Bab'Ngcobo:
I needed to see who Thandeka would choose — her father or Zak.
Smanga:
And what if she chooses him?
Bab'Ngcobo:
Then she bridges the clause against herself. We walk free.
Smanga:
You're gambling our freedom on love?
Bab'Ngcobo:
Exactly. This is where we learn: Is love ever enough?
Scene: Ngcobo Household — Zak & Thandeka Return from Dubai
Zakhele (yelling):
Veronica!!
Thandeka:
Zak, calm down.
Zakhele:
Veronica!!
(Sam enters from the kitchen.)
Zakhele:
Sam? What are you doing here?
Sam:
Smanga asked me to wait. It's about Thandeka.
Thandeka:
Now what did I do?
Zakhele:
Where's Veronica?
Sam:
I sent her home.
Tyma was arrested. Restraining clause — from the Zulu family.
Zakhele:
Clause? What clause?
Sam:
A court order: No Ngcobo contacts Zulu family. Violated = arrest.
Filed by Commissioner Nkaba himself.
Zakhele (to Thandeka):
Did you know about this?
Thandeka (narrating):
Why is he looking at me like I started this fire?
Thandeka:
No, I swear. I knew nothing.
Sam:
Good. Then you need to go tell the court you came willingly.
Thandeka (thinking):
So this is it.
Is this my way out… or my way in?
Zakhele:
You sure?
Thandeka:
I'll do it.
Zakhele:
Let's talk privately.
(Sam leaves. Zak and Thandeka pause.)
Thandeka:
Your brother's so gentle... not.
Zakhele:
Don't mind him — he's just pissed Tyma got locked up.
Thandeka:
He was ready to chew my face off.
Zakhele:
What answer were you going to give?
Thandeka:
Honestly... I still don't know.
Zakhele:
But you want to help us, right?
Thandeka:
Zak — my family's involved too.
Zakhele:
But they're not behind bars.
Thandeka:
Did you just use that against me?
Zakhele:
I'm sorry. I just... we need you.
Thandeka:
I'll help.
But my family may never forgive me.
Scene: In the Car — On the Way to the Station
Sam:
Thandeka, can I ask something?
Thandeka:
Go ahead.
Sam:
Why did you really come to Jozi?
Thandeka:
I needed a new life — and Zak made it feel possible.
Sam:
What changed?
Thandeka:
Life happened.
Sam:
Today you choose your fate or your freedom.
Thandeka:
I already made my choice.
Scene: Police Station – Entrance
(They bump into Clement.)
Thandeka:
Clement?
Clement:
Glad you're back.
Zakhele:
Who's this clown?
Clement:
The guy who jailed your father.
Sam:
So it was you...
Clement:
Careful, boy.
Zakhele:
Or what?
Thandeka (thinking):
Everyone's on edge right now.
Clement:
Actually, Zak — you're the one we wanted.
Your dad took your place until you returned.
Sam:
What about Smanga?
Thandeka:
Wait — why Zak?
Clement:
He broke the clause.
He fetched you from Cape Town.
Zakhele:
I didn't force her!
She came willingly.
Clement (to Thandeka):
Is that true?
(Nkaba enters.)
Nkaba:
What's all this noise?
Thandeka:
Bab'Nkaba — I'm here to get Bab'Ngcobo and Smanga released.
Clement:
What?
Nkaba:
Can't do that.
Zakhele:
Why?!
Nkaba:
Don't raise your voice in my station.
Sam:
Why arrest all of them?
Nkaba:
Your father knew about the clause. Didn't warn you.
That makes him liable.
Thandeka:
If I testify I came willingly — you have no case.
Nkaba:
Your father wants to speak to you. Alone.
Scene: Interrogation Room — Zak & Lawyers
Zakhele:
You've got no case. She came willingly.
Nkaba:
That's not enough.
Clement:
We're offering you freedom.
Zakhele:
You've got nothing.
Clement:
Let's talk about the heist.
Zakhele:
What?
Nkaba:
The day Sipho died.
Scene: Private Room — Thandeka & Bab'Zulu
Thandeka:
Sawubona, Baba.
Zulu:
So this is how far you've fallen, huh?
Thandeka:
I didn't mean to disrespect you.
Zulu:
You chose him over me.
Thandeka:
You won't understand.
Zulu:
Make me understand.
Thandeka:
I love Zak.
Zulu:
Does he love you?
Thandeka:
Yes.
Zulu:
We'll see.
Scene: Back at Interrogation Room
Zakhele:
You're bluffing. You've got no witness.
Clement:
You paid him. Threatened him.
Nkaba:
It was your father who tied up the loose ends.
Clement:
Leave Thandeka. Let her go.
Zakhele:
No. I love her.
I'm not walking away.
(Patrick, the Ngcobo lawyer, walks in.)
Patrick:
That's enough.
My client's done talking. Release him — or we go to court.
Clement:
Not until Thandeka speaks.
Scene: Final Decision — Main Hallway
(Thandeka walks out. Meets Zak, Clement, and the others.)
Clement:
Thandeka — did you come willingly?
Are you here by choice?
Thandeka (thinking):
Let this decision heal everyone...
Zakhele:
Relax, man.
Thandeka:
I came willingly.
And I'm staying because I want to.
Patrick:
Release my clients. Now.
Nkaba (sighs):
Officer — let them go.
We're done.
(Bab'Ngcobo and Smanga are released. Zulu exits from the side room. He stares at Thandeka.)
Zulu (to Zak):
Treat her well.
Zakhele (nods silently):
...
(They all leave. In the distance, Zulu spots a BMW... the driver looks like Sipho.)
Zulu (shaken):
Ngabe ngiyahlanya...
That was Sipho.
[End of Chapter Three]