Mkhize's dream of becoming a football scout burned brighter with each passing day. By day, he taught high school students, but by night, he scouted for talented young players. His notebook was filled with names, positions, strengths, and weaknesses of potential stars.

Mkhize's past was marked by heartbreak and loss. His girlfriend left him for his wealthy brother, and his parents died in a car accident. Yet, he refused to give up on his dream. He had no UEFA license, no formal network, and no direct access to professional clubs. But he had an eye for talent and a passion for the game.

One day, Mkhize discovered Kabelo, a raw and talented young player. He mentored Kabelo, teaching him discipline, tactical awareness, and mental toughness. Kabelo's journey was a microcosm of the story's heart: raw talent must be honed with patience, guidance, and resilience.

As Mkhize's scouting efforts grew, so did his reputation. Local clubs took notice, and eventually, Kaizer Chiefs, one of Gauteng's top football clubs, recognized his talent and invited him to scout officially. This opportunity came with pressure, but Mkhize was determined to succeed.

Meanwhile, a young and ambitious coach named Naledi was rising through the ranks of South African football. She faced criticism for her bold strategies and coaching style, but she remained steadfast. Her path intersected with Mkhize's, and they formed an unspoken partnership: Mkhize discovered and nurtured raw talent, while Naledi refined, motivated, and prepared players to face the national stage.

Kabelo's final academy assessment arrived, and he faced a grueling match against older, more experienced players. With Mkhize's encouragement and tactical guidance, he began to shine. He intercepted key passes, orchestrated counterattacks, and scored a goal that earned the respect of scouts and coaches alike.

Simultaneously, Naledi led her squad to the Junior Nationals finals. Facing the defending champions, her team confronted both physical and strategic challenges. Naledi adapted, switching formations mid-game, motivating hesitant players, and exploiting weaknesses in the opposition. With minutes left on the clock, her team executed a flawless counterattack to score the winning goal.

Through these triumphs, Mkhize reflected on the journey that brought them all here. From heartbreak and tragedy to mentorship and triumph, his notebook became a chronicle of success. Every name recorded, every player nurtured, every risk taken represented a life changed and a dream realized.

The story concludes with Kabelo emerging as a rising star, disciplined, skilled, and confident. Naledi establishes herself as a respected national coach, and Mkhize becomes a mentor of legend, shaping futures and guiding dreams. The narrative ends on a powerful note, with a golden sunset over a bustling stadium, young players training under the guidance of mentors, and a world of opportunities waiting to be seized.

Even while he rested, the noise outside grew louder.


WhatsApp groups blew up with "Mkhize, come watch me, please."


One desperate coach even said: "If you don't show up, these boys won't get signed. You'll be the reason they're lost."


The guilt hit him hard, but he stayed in bed, staring at the ceiling.


He wasn't a machine. He wasn't Kaizer Chiefs itself. He was just a man with a notebook, a vision, and a tired heart.


Football had swallowed his life. No weekends, no breaks, no breathing space.


Lwazi: "You're not even eating, bhuti (brother) . You gave me a chance with Sundowns, but what about you? You're burning out."


Naledi: "You're always carrying others. But who carries you, Mkhize?"


Her words cut deep. Because no one carried him. No one asked if he was okay.


One Saturday, during a school tournament, the strict coach from earlier called him.


Coach: "Mkhize, I know you're resting, but listen   there's a boy here, 15 years old. He's different. If you don't come, someone else will steal him. Sundowns already sent a scout."


Mkhize closed his eyes. His body screamed rest. But the world screamed return.


He thought of the notebook boys. He thought of Sipho and Thabo. He thought of Lwazi.


And for a second, he wanted to get up. But then he whispered:


Mkhize: "Coach, I'm not ready. I need time. Don't put this on me."


Everyone thought he'd run to the field. But this time, Mkhize fought back   not against rivals, but against the world's pressure.


He told the Academy Director, "I'll return when I'm ready, not before."


The world didn't understand. People grew angry. Rumors spread. Some said he lost his touch. Others said Chiefs had dropped him.


But Naledi knew the truth. She told him:


Naledi: "Rest is part of the game. If you don't rest, you won't last. And I need you to last, Mkhize."


For the first time in months, Mkhize felt a strange peace.


He laughed with kids who played football for joy, not contracts.


He spent quiet evenings with Naledi, talking about life, not trials.


The tournaments raged. Scouts hunted. Players bled for chances.


Because even legends need to breathe before their next war.


Chapter 35 - chapter 35