*Title:* "The Heart is a Conqueror" (INHLIZIYO INGUMKHOHLISI)
*Chapter 1*
"Menzi, when you're near me, I feel complete. When the sun sets and I haven't seen you, I feel like I'm not living well. You've captured my heart, son of Moyo." Khethiwe said this while standing under a mango tree with her boyfriend, whom she loves dearly.
"My Khethiwe, you're the one I chose among all the girls. I don't have words to thank you enough; you're as precious as gold. You loved me when I had nothing, and you didn't care about my situation, which shows that your love is true. I wish we could live a good life together," Menzi replied, looking into his girlfriend's eyes.
"My love, don't belittle yourself because you don't have material things. You're a hero because you're working hard to take care of yourself despite having nothing," Khethiwe said, looking at her boyfriend with admiration.
"Thank you for your words; they give me hope that things will get better. But to be honest, I'm not happy because I'm just a herdsboy, and I want to live a better life," Menzi said.
"Khethiwe, I have hope that things will get better. Just be patient, work hard, and learn to save money," Khethiwe advised, looking at her boyfriend.
"What can I get you, my love?" Menzi asked, smiling.
"Hehe, bring me love," Khethiwe replied.
"I brought you this," Menzi said, pulling out a bag and showing her some gifts.
"Thank you so much, my love; you're the best," Khethiwe said, delighted.
"Don't thank me in, my queen," Menzi teased.
"I have something for you too, my king," Khethiwe said, pulling out a plastic bag.
"See, my love, I bought you some underwear; I hope it fits," Khethiwe said, handing Menzi the gift.
"I don't know what to say, my love, but I feel like I'm a burden to you. You always buy me food and other things; I fail to buy you even Vaseline," Menzi said, grateful.
"It's okay, my king. If you need anything, just let me know; I'm here for you. Now that I've finished my teaching course, I'll be working as a teacher, and I'll help you change your life because I know you want to stop herding cattle," Khethiwe said, bringing joy to both of them.
The story takes place in Filabusi, Jenda. Menzi came to this place as a young boy and lived with his uncle in Mazeya. He originated from Nkayi, Donsa, and was forced to live with his uncle after his parents passed away. However, his uncle didn't treat him well, so Menzi left and found work as a herdsboy with Mpala in Filabusi, Jenda.
The rumor is that Menzi's parents died of HIV/AIDS, and he was born with the virus. Despite this, Menzi and Khethiwe love each other dearly.
As they sat on a rock, Khethiwe said, "My love, I know you told me about your health status, and you want us to use protection, but I'm willing to take the risk because we're in this together."
"My love, I think we should continue using condoms," Menzi replied, stroking Khethiwe's hair.
"Menzi, I love you, and I'm committed to you. If I get infected, I'll take my medication, and I won't see it as a problem," Khethiwe said.
They chatted for a long time before Khethiwe said goodbye to Menzi as the sun began to set. Menzi then started gathering the cattle to head home.